I recently organized a night out in Astoria with a bunch of friends. We debated where to go, but ultimately decided on a place we’d never been to before: The Grand Cafe Lounge.

It’s a few blocks from the subway, and it was a bit cold when we trudged there. When we got in the door, I was happy to find the place was exactly what I was looking for. A lounge that looked nice, but not pretentious. Lively, but not crowded or loud. We had a nice long table reserved for our gathering.

The menu has a pretty sizable selection of alcohol, coffees, and food (meals, snacks, and desserts). I ordered a Bellini, which I’d never had before. Very tasty. We all picked on Mozzarella sticks, while we waited for our meals and the rest of the crowd.

One by one, everyone arrived. A nice mix of college friends, co-workers, and old roommates. My vegetable quesadilla came and it was equally delicious. I already had drank a couple Baileys on ice, when the waiter came around with a tray of shots for the whole table on the house. We asked the waiter what they were and he shrugged. But they were tasty!

Everyone enjoyed the place (and the free shots). Definitely a good place for a grand night out.