This is my second post in a series on Greek restaurants in Astoria ^[1]. In the 1960’s, an influx of Greeks immigrated to this neighborhood, setting up some of the tastiest restaurants in New York (read more ^[2]).

Mezzo Mezzo ^[3] is a slightly upscale Mediterranean restaurant located on Ditmars Blvd. The decor is all wood and rustic, oddly more like a lodge than a Greek restaurant. A two-level restaurant, Mezzo Mezzo has outdoor seating available in warm weather. The large menu includes a range of seafood, pasta, and delicious Greek appetizers. I, of course, go for the haloumi (Cypriot grilled goat cheese), which may possibly be the best at this establishment.

While the place fills up on the weekends (particularly in warm weather), you don’t normally have to wait long for a seat. On Friday and Saturday nights, bellydancers occasionally perform. I went one Saturday night and was quite impressed at the talented dancer’s performance. She moved so fluidly and her face was so expressive. She made direct eye contact with me, and the other women there, with a glance that seemed to acknowledge some secret feminine power that we all share.

While you can find cheaper, good Greek food in the neighborhood, Mezzo Mezzo’s definitely worth a visit, if you’re in the mood for something a bit more upscale. Or for some good haloumi and the bellydancing.