Happy Easter and Passover! And I am happy to bring you this terrific news. Those who have been living in Forest Hills for several years will be thrilled to learn that Old Vienna Cafe is making a surprise return to Forest Hills after a multi-year absence. The much-beloved restaurant, which was formerly in the location where Banter is, near the Midway Movie Theater, will not only be returning but will be located in the enormous former New York & Co. space on Austin St.
Yes, this Eastern European, Iron-Curtain-themed restaurant will be returning in the coming weeks! Here, to refresh your memory is my actual review of it from way back in 2011, before it disastrously closed its doors after Forest Hillers decided Soviet-style prices, like $10 for a bottle of Coca-Cola, just didn't appeal to them very much.
Yes, this Eastern European, Iron-Curtain-themed restaurant will be returning in the coming weeks! Here, to refresh your memory is my actual review of it from way back in 2011, before it disastrously closed its doors after Forest Hillers decided Soviet-style prices, like $10 for a bottle of Coca-Cola, just didn't appeal to them very much.
Early Impressions: Old Vienna Cafe
I stopped by the Old Vienna Cafe on its opening night Saturday. I really liked this very original and unique new restaurant. You really get the feel you are visiting a restaurant in Vienna or Eastern Europe, from the table in the center loaded with small pastries, to the accordion player serenading you, to the decorative chandelier. It all makes for a very cool place to relax and unwind with friends. Oh, and did I mention the coffee and cake are delicious?
The menu includes a variety of small plates and sandwiches such as a cheese platter, and assorted tea sandwiches; entrees like mixed grill kebabs, bratwurst and weiner schnetzeil; salads; wines and imported beer; teas and coffees, and a variety of desserts like fruit tarts, vienna cheesecake and creme brulee.
Also, though the atmosphere in Old Vienna Cafe is very relaxed and fun, I would characterize this as a fairly upscale restaurant. The prices can be a bit steep ($8 for the slice of cake in the photo below, $23 for weiner schnetziel, $5 for a cappuccino and $8 for some of the beers.) But, hey, you get to listen to a fabulous accordion player as you soak up the Eastern European vibe. So I guess you're paying some for the unique atmosphere. I only tried their dessert and coffee, which were really good, so can't vouch for the entrees or appetizers.
Here are some pics I snapped. I will scan and upload their entire takeout menu soon.
The menu includes a variety of small plates and sandwiches such as a cheese platter, and assorted tea sandwiches; entrees like mixed grill kebabs, bratwurst and weiner schnetzeil; salads; wines and imported beer; teas and coffees, and a variety of desserts like fruit tarts, vienna cheesecake and creme brulee.
Also, though the atmosphere in Old Vienna Cafe is very relaxed and fun, I would characterize this as a fairly upscale restaurant. The prices can be a bit steep ($8 for the slice of cake in the photo below, $23 for weiner schnetziel, $5 for a cappuccino and $8 for some of the beers.) But, hey, you get to listen to a fabulous accordion player as you soak up the Eastern European vibe. So I guess you're paying some for the unique atmosphere. I only tried their dessert and coffee, which were really good, so can't vouch for the entrees or appetizers.
Here are some pics I snapped. I will scan and upload their entire takeout menu soon.
Haha. But actually this wouldn't be the worst use for the NY&Co space? Like, I would NOT be that disappointed if this happened, lol.
ReplyDeleteHa. This is great. You did good.
ReplyDeleteOne of the worst restaurants ever in Forest Hills. Nothing more need be said. Belated Happy April Fool’s Day to you.
ReplyDeleteSaw this coming a mile away. If it was true, it would actually be good news as the new places popping up are not nearly as good as Old Vienna was!
ReplyDeleteThey had a horrible menu .
ReplyDeleteI haven't lived here that long, so...was this place actually a real Fohi restaurant? It looks insane...but kind of rad, too. :)
ReplyDeleteHahahaha. April Fools!!!
ReplyDeleteLooks like Banter is up for sale: https://www.agorafy.com/listing/225447/108-20-Queens-Boulevard-Retail-for-Sublease-Ground
ReplyDeleteI genuinely felt pangs of sorrow when it closed. You knew going in there that the place was a labour of love -- however incompetently executed. A dream died with that place.
ReplyDelete