Yes, a strange title for those of you that are familiar with the Astoria hot-spot, Hell Gate Social, but it’s coming! Chef George, of the ‘Brothers Three’ that run the only place in Astoria that plays good music (yes, I am one of their DJ’s so I might be a bit biased – there’s no Raggaeton at Hell Gate!) will soon be serving up sandwiches. This way you won’t feel the need to have a Crave Case delivered after a few beers with bourbon on the side – making the joint smell like death.
I had the opportunity to sample a free tasting at Hell Gate this evening where George, surly as ever, was behind the bar – only this time he wasn’t pouring drinks (does he ever?) Instead, he was whipping up some surprisingly tasty bites.
The first was thinly sliced Roast Beef rubbed with fresh rosemary, thyme, and oregano. It was topped with caramelized red onions and a horseradish cream cheese. It had a nice tang to it and you could taste the freshness of the herbs that the roast was prepared with (though I think the oregano is overkill). The horseradish cream cheese was a welcome change – adding some fat and flavor without the usual oily mess. The onions added just the right sweetness.
Second, was the clear winner. Roast Pork (read some of my other posts and you’ll see how I personally feel about pork) with pickled veggies, thai-chili aioli, and fresh cilantro. The pork had just enough fat on it and the veggies were sweet and crisp. The aioli added just enough heat to the mix but he could have been more generous with the cilantro. This just might be Astoria’s answer to its lack of Banh Mi!
The final sandwich just so happens to fit into last place when compared to the other two. It was Turkey with bacon, avocado, and Chermoula – a Moroccan marinade. Perhaps the turkey should have actually marinated in the Chermoula. Really, it was a good sandwich but I didn’t get too much of those Moroccan spices and the turkey was a bit dry. Still, it certainly beats any of the other local late-night fare.
Being that I DJ at Hell Gate Social, I’m very excited for them to get this off the ground because it’s tough to get out of the booth long enough to get any sort of food. now I can just have George bring one of his sandwiches too me! Hey, don’t worry George – I’m a paying customer.
Speaking of paying – George says you’ll be able to get a solid, full sized sandwich for $6 or $7! That ain’t bad at all. And keep in mind that he’s actually making it all from scratch – from the roast beef to the pickled veggies. The menu will be available in a week or two so don’t miss out. Finally – he’s good for something!
Hell Gate Social
21-12 Astoria Blvd.
Find out how to get there by clicking here!
