Queens Tribune

134-15 20th Ave., College Point
(718) 277-0222
HOURS: Mon-Thurs to 10:30 p.m., Fri & Sat to 11:30 p.m., Sun to 10 p.m.
PARKING: Lot at College Point Shopping Center
Credit Cards: All
Children’s Menu: Yes

I don’t know what it is that draws me to Boulder Creek. Perhaps it’s the wings, but I often go there for the burgers. Or the ribs – they’ve got really good ribs.

I know it’s a great place to sit down for a meal after a day of shopping in College Point, or if you’re just looking for a reasonably priced night out with the kids – or without.

The last time I was there, as the remnants of Tropical Storm Ernesto made their way into our area last weekend, we started with a Boulder Blossom and a bowl of McClure Pass Potato Soup.

I have to say, some Australian-themed steak house may have introduced the world to the idea of the flower-shaped, deep-fried onion, but these guys at Boulder Creek have really gotten it to work right. The petals are crispy, and don’t lose their coating on the first bite, and the center wasn’t filled with leftover batter, like some lesser-quality flower-inspired onion dishes can be.

The soup was just right. The wind was howling, and we got a momentary taste of what may be in store for us in the fall and winter that day, so a hearty soup with chunks of tender potato just hit the right spot.

Yes, I did go with a burger this time out – with cheese on my fries (like I would have at a diner in college) – but I wouldn’t exactly recommend it everywhere. The cheese-on-fries thing seems to lose its charm outside the diner.

My wife and daughter split the Grand Junction, which is a half rack of ribs and a flame grilled chicken breast, also served with fries (though she got it with creamed spinach, instead).

Regardless of splitting, it was a bit too much for them, but were able to take home the leftovers and make a mean chicken salad the next day.

The menu features a great range of steaks, chops, fish, chicken, salads and what the restaurant terms to be “lighter fare,” which includes their delicious-sounding grilled chicken focaccia, which is a grilled cutlet served on a focaccia roll with Romaine, provolone, red pepper and pesto mayo.

Drinks are served quickly, and in large mugs. There are also a number of regular “adult” drink specials and special cups for kids.

We keep coming back. It’s worth the trek to College Point from distant parts of Queens. And when you’ve been shopping, its’ a great place to kick back, eat a hearty meal and…enjoy!