Seemor
Tootles & FrenchB+Worth Trying
36-15 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria, NY 11105
· Bistro, Restaurant, Traditional American restaurant
· 4.6/5 Google (340 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout
Creative Astoria bistro with strong cocktail and wine program, standout small plates, and inconsistent brunch service; worth it for drinks and snacks, dinner better than brunch.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Tootles & French delivers solid neighborhood bistro dining anchored by strong food quality and exceptional wine and cocktail expertise. However, inconsistent execution between dinner and brunch service and space constraints that create cramped seating prevent it from reaching higher territory. Dinner is the reliable choice; brunch requires patience.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels warm and bustling, a compact bistro where the bar glows with amari and bubbles and staff swap pairing notes with guests. One diner put it simply: "Service felt welcoming and the wine guidance was on point". On busy brunches and event nights, though, the energy can tip from lively to loud. The culinary approach leans creative bistro cooking: bone marrow, tartares, and coq au vin wings meet fresh pastas and a deep cocktail bench. It suits diners who enjoy thoughtful small plates and pairing-driven evenings more than traditional comfort fare. Dinner is the safer bet; brunch draws more mixed feedback on speed and seasoning. Families will find some kid-friendly options like chicken bites, fries, and sandwiches. One guest noted the team tailored dishes for young palates, but another felt unwelcome with a baby at the door. Portions skew moderate and flavors can be adventurous, so pick simpler items for picky eaters.
At a Glance
- Serious wine and cocktail program with tastings and flights
- Strong small plates like shishito peppers, bone marrow, and tartares
- Brunch service often delayed 45-80 minutes on busy days
- Space is tight; noise rises with live music
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- wine_tastings_program
- negroni_flight_menu
- creative_bistro_small_plates
- owner_presence_tableside
What People Love
- Owner and staff hospitality with genuine guidance
- Inventive cocktails and a full Negroni menu
- Shishito peppers and mushroom fettuccine
- Cozy, thoughtfully designed space
Points of Concern
- Brunch delays and mix-ups recur; plan extra time or choose dinner
- Seasoning complaints appear on some brunch items
- Music volume can be high during live sets
- Creative menu may not suit conservative palates
- Review patterns show signs of press-driven expectation spikes rather than manipulation
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$45-66 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Start with shishito peppers ($7) and bone marrow ($16) to share.
- Pair Wagyu tartare ($22) with bubbles for texture contrast.
- If sensitive to richness, split one creamy pasta and add a salad (mixed greens $16).
- Cocktails often $13-16; consider a flight for variety.
Perfect For
- Date night with wine pairings
- Girls night small plates and cocktails
- Solo bar dining with a tasting
- Birthday toast with bubbles
Location Insights
Area: Busy Astoria corridor with neighborhood foot traffic, casual-to-upscale dining and lively evening scene.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit commercial strip with steady foot traffic into late evening.
Nearby: Near bars, cafes, family-friendly spots and event venues; attracts locals and destination diners.
AstoriaAstoria is a lively, culturally rich neighborhood with a strong Greek heritage alongside many other ethnic influences. The dining scene is eclectic, featuring traditional Greek tavernas, modern cafes, and international eateries. The area is known for its casual, friendly atmosphere and a mix of long-term residents and newcomers attracted by its affordability and proximity to Manhattan.
Ditmars SteinwayDitmars Steinway is a sub-area within Astoria centered around Ditmars Boulevard, known for its bustling commercial strip with a variety of dining options, bars, and boutique shops. It has a vibrant street life and is popular for casual dining and nightlife, attracting a mix of locals and visitors.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday12:00–22:00
Tuesday12:00–22:00
Wednesday12:00–22:00
Thursday12:00–22:00
Friday12:00–00:00
Saturday11:00–15:00, 16:00–00:00
Sunday11:00–15:00, 16:00–22:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout
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