Seemor
Sala AstoriaB+Worth Trying
34-39 31st St, Astoria, NY 11106
· Spanish restaurant
· 4.7/5 Google (342 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout
Joyful Spanish tapas and paella with warm hospitality; expect smaller portions, occasional service delays, and an energetic scene.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Sala Astoria delivers solid neighborhood Spanish dining with strong food quality anchored by excellent paella and seafood preparations. Attentive service and attractive modern decor create an inviting atmosphere, but inconsistent execution—occasional tough octopus, under-seasoning, and variable pacing during busy service—prevents a higher grade. Worth visiting for the seafood-forward menu and lively vibe, though expect variable experiences depending on timing and kitchen focus.
Restaurant Summary
A cozy Spanish spot where the room feels warm and buzzing, servers are often genuinely attentive, and the bar hums on lively nights. One diner put it simply: "Seafood paella made us plan our next visit." Expect a neighborhood crowd and attractive modern decor. The cooking leans classic tapas and paella with a house touch—think octopus with mojo verde, crisp croquetas, and well-seared branzino. The culinary approach is elevated traditional: high-quality ingredients, clean flavors, and a few specials to keep things interesting. Portions run small for some items, and busy nights can stretch ticket times, but many find the value solid for the quality. Families do well here thanks to a friendly vibe and kid-approachable plates like patatas bravas, croquetas, grilled chicken, and churros mentioned in reviews. Paella is easy to share, though spice and garlic levels vary, so order accordingly for younger palates.
At a Glance
- Seafood paella, octopus, and branzino frequently praised
- Warm service with knowledgeable staff and a lively, stylish room
- Portions can feel small relative to price
- Service pacing slows at peak times; occasional bar-service lapses
- Parking is tough—use the nearby subway when possible
What Sets It Apart
- authentic_spanish_tapas_program
- paella_by_the_person
- neighborhood_events_and_showers
- occasional_flamenco_or_live_music
What People Love
- Rich, saffron-scented paella
- Tender octopus with mojo verde
- Crisp, creamy croquetas
- Genuine, proactive service touches
Points of Concern
- Portions run small on some tapas and pinchos
- Peak-hour waits for mains and paella can exceed 45 minutes
- Inconsistent seasoning reported in a minority of dishes
- Review patterns show mostly organic voices; limited formulaic praise noted but no systemic manipulation
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$45-62 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Start with Croquetas ($12-13) and Patatas Bravas ($12-13) to share
- Share Paella de Mariscos ($25 p.p.) as a centerpiece
- Seafood focus pairs well with Albariño; try Ventresca pincho ($15) as a luxe bite
- For lighter dining, combine Remolachas Asadas ($15) with Gambas ($19)
Perfect For
- Date night with tapas and sangria
- Friends sharing paella and small plates
- Celebrations and showers
- A relaxed bar meal with Spanish wines
Location Insights
Area: Bustling Astoria block mixing neighborhood staples and new openings; lively evening crowd with bars and restaurants.
Safety: Generally safe and busy; typical urban street activity with steady foot traffic.
Nearby: Near 36 Av N/W subway; surrounded by Greek eateries, bars, and shops; occasional live-music venues nearby.
AstoriaAstoria is known for its lively and eclectic dining environment, featuring a mix of traditional ethnic eateries, trendy cafes, and contemporary restaurants. The neighborhood has a friendly, community-oriented atmosphere with a blend of long-term residents and newcomers, making it a popular spot for casual dining and social gatherings.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday17:00–22:00
Tuesday17:00–22:00
Wednesday17:00–22:00
Thursday17:00–22:00
Friday16:00–23:00
Saturday12:00–23:00
Sunday12:00–21:30
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout
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