Seemor
Forno SicilianoB+Worth Trying
43-19 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria, NY 11105
· Italian restaurant
· 4.4/5 Google (360 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Neighborhood Sicilian spot with standout brick-oven pizza, beloved bread, and dependable classics, though service and value can be inconsistent and fees add up.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Forno Siciliano delivers solid neighborhood Italian dining anchored by strong food quality—brick-oven pizza, house bread, and classic pastas earn consistent praise. However, inconsistent execution and variable service speed prevent a higher grade, while extra fees and portion concerns temper value perception. It's a worthwhile local favorite for families and repeat diners seeking familiar comfort, but lacks the distinction to compete with the area's premier dining destinations.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels quaint and welcoming, the kind of neighborhood place where warm, toasty bread lands first and sets the tone. Service swings from friendly and familial to occasionally stretched, but the vibe stays easygoing. A diner summed it up: "Come for comforting Italian in a spot that feels local." Cooking leans classic Sicilian-Italian rather than flashy, with thin, brick-oven pies, rich carbonara, and seafood pastas. When the kitchen is on song, flavors pop and the bread and pizza do the heavy lifting; on off nights, portions and seasoning feel modest for the price. It suits diners who want familiar comfort over theatrics. Families do well here thanks to kid-friendly staples like margherita pizza, lasagna, chicken parm, and simple pastas. Thin-crust pies are lighter than typical New York slices, so plan accordingly. No formal kids menu mentioned, but servers often suggest swaps; note possible surcharges for substitutions.
At a Glance
- Brick-oven pizza and warm house bread are consistent crowd-pleasers
- Classic pastas (carbonara, ravioli) win frequent praise
- Extra fees (credit card surcharge, pricey water, substitution charges) surprise some diners
- Service speed and hospitality fluctuate by night
- Portions feel small for price to some, especially thin-crust pies
What Sets It Apart
- brick_oven_tradition
- beloved_house_bread
- kid_friendly_classics
What People Love
- Warm, seasoned bread right away
- Crispy thin-crust pizza from the brick oven
- Rich, comforting carbonara
- Friendly, familial atmosphere on good nights
- Reliable neighborhood vibe
Points of Concern
- Credit card surcharge (~4%) and high sparkling water price caught several diners off guard
- Service pacing inconsistencies: delays in seating, bread, and checks on busy nights
- Portion-value mismatch reported for some pizzas and specials
- Review patterns show signs of normal variance; a few short rants and glowing blurbs without detail reduce clarity
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$42-58 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Share a $12-16 antipasto, choose a $20-22 pasta, and split a 16-inch pizza for better value
- Seafood mains and veal ($26-30) suit splurges; confirm specials pricing
Perfect For
- Low-key family dinner on Ditmars
- Sharing pizza and antipasti with friends
- Casual date night with classic Italian
- Neighborhood takeout when you want thin-crust pie
Location Insights
Area: Lively Astoria corridor with mix of families and young professionals; casual dining culture and late-night energy.
Safety: Generally safe, well-trafficked avenue with steady footfall and good lighting.
Nearby: Surrounded by cafes, bakeries, bars, and shops; close to residential side streets and transit on Ditmars.
AstoriaAstoria is known for its lively dining scene featuring authentic Mediterranean, Greek, and Italian eateries alongside trendy cafes and bars. The neighborhood has a friendly, community-oriented atmosphere with a blend of traditional and modern influences, attracting both locals and visitors seeking quality ethnic food in a casual setting.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday12:00–22:00
Tuesday12:00–22:00
Wednesday12:00–22:00
Thursday12:00–22:00
Friday12:00–22:00
Saturday13:00–22:00
Sunday13:00–22:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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