Bohemian Burger Bliss
Corner Bistro
47-18 Vernon Blvd., LIC
(718) 606-6500
HOURS: Mon.-Thurs. noon to 2 a.m.; Fri.-Sat. noon to 3 p.m.; Sun. 11:30 a.m. to 1 a.m.
CREDIT CARD: Yes, all major
DELIVERY: Yes
For more than five decades, Corner Bistro has been the go-to Bohemian burger bar that locals have come to love and enjoy in the uber trendy West Greenwich Village.
As of March, however, the one-of-a-kind eatery has branched out and now welcomes borough-dwelling foodies in Queens.
Owned and operated in Long Island City, Corner Bistro’s second location not only matches its forefather in Manhattan with identical menu offerings, but also manages to sneak in a few inventive items of its own.
After sampling the locale’s offerings earlier this week, both Managing Editor Steven J. Ferrari and I can not stop raving about it.
On a chilly pre-winter day, Steve and I thought it would be fitting to try none other than the Bistro’s meaty chili.
Though our meal started with the savory side dish, we opted for two completely different options – a bowl of chili and crackers for me and the 8-ounce Chili Burger for Steve.
Expertly prepared, the chili was seasoned and spiced to perfection. According to LIC owner Don McKnight, it is known to be a favorite seller at the Bistro, and after one taste, it is easy to see why.
For another set of sides, we dined on onion rings and two kinds of fries, a sweet potato option and the traditional French variety.
All three items did not disappoint. The rings were crisp at first bite, and both versions of fresh-cut fries proved to outweigh the restaurant’s competitors.
Finishing my bowl of chili, I grew jealous of Steve’s burger and decided to over-indulge with one of my own.
The Bistro Burger I ordered satisfied my stomach and need for greed. It came stocked to the buns with seasoned meat, onions, pickles, lettuce, cheese and bacon.
While I had known the portion was a bit too big for me to finish in one sitting, I could see why it was known as Corner Bistro’s signature dish. It was cooked to perfection.
If burgers aren’t your thing, the restaurant also offers a delicious chicken club wrap and inventive salads in a house or chunky chicken option, all unique to the Long Island City location.
Diners who enjoy beverages of the alcoholic variety will be delighted to know that just like the Manhattan location, Corner Bistro in LIC also boasts the same great beer menu, with the famous McSorley’s Ale on tap.
For the kids, a menu of traditional grilled cheese sandwiches and kids’ burgers will keep the little ones happy.
Already planning to return for brunch, Steve and I recommend you stop by Corner Bistro in Long Island City. We could not be happier they came to Queens.
- Megan Montalvo