Cavo is a food-lover’s dream. Situated in Astoria, this modern Greek eatery has an inventive, daring menu – inspiring foodies everywhere to expand their culinary horizons.
Cavo succeeds at fusing classic Greek ingredients within elegant, adventurous appetizers and savory entrees. The grilled octopus — charcoal grilled, drizzled in Greek extra virgin olive oil with a hint of lemon – is light and flavorful. If you’re searching for a classic appetizer, order the crab cakes. Jumbo lump crab meat, celery root, red pepper and lemon zest – the texture and the combination of flavors is delightful.
The menu at Cavo offers something for everyone, whether you prefer classic Greek cuisine or innovative chef’s specials. The chicken paillard presents grilled chicken cutlet with classic Greek salad. The diver scallops are brilliant. They are pan seared, complemented with an assortment of herb roasted potatoes, fennel and baby arugula, all drizzled with a pomegranate molasses. If you’re searching for something daring, order the olive oil poached Mediterranean tuna salad – pickled red onions, kalamata olives, celery root, fine herbs and toasted walnuts all tossed in a parsley basil vinaigrette. The combination of the pickled onions with the toasted walnuts presents a unique texture while not overpowering the quality of the tuna.
More classic Greek entrees are available such as moussaka and an impressive collection of fish including red snapper, Scottish salmon, and branzino, Mediterranean sea bass. Most of the fish dishes are served whole, pan seared, with an assortment of fresh herbs and Chef Rory’s signature ingredients including arugula, celery root and tomato. If you’re a meat eater, order the Colorado prime lamb chop combining rack of lamb, goat cheese macaroni and wilted baby arugula.
The dining room features deep mahogany wood, dim lighting, and sheer, intimate drapery. Everything from the stemware to the red, studded leather chairs to the lighting fixtures lined in crystal makes the dining experience at Cavo seem indulgent.
Cavo is known for its outdoor garden, available to patrons weather permitting. “Dining in Cavo’s outdoor garden is like traveling to Greece without a plane ticket,” the eatery promises. Complete with two waterfalls, a full bar and intricate landscaping, it is another reason to look forward to warmer months.
Cavo
42-18 31st Avenue, Astoria
718-721-1001
Hours: Tuesday to Thursday and Sunday, 5 p.m. to 2 a.m. Friday and Saturday 5 p.m. to 4 a.m.
Full Bar, Valet Parking, Dressy Attire
MORE DINING REVIEWS