Where to Eat in Astoria: Discover Cítrico Café’s Modern Mexican Flavors

You’ve been walking through Astoria for hours—checking out murals, stopping at little shops, and taking in that unmistakable Queens energy. Everyone talks about Astoria as one of NYC’s most vibrant neighborhoods, and now you get why. But after exploring for a while, one thing becomes clear: you’re starving. Not just any kind of hungry—you want something flavorful, exciting, and satisfying.

So, like most people do, you pull out your phone and search: where to eat in Astoria. That’s when you find it—Cítrico Café.

The Perfect Spot to Discover When Wondering Where to Eat in Astoria.

Cítrico Café isn’t just another restaurant—it’s the kind of place that feels like a local secret, tucked away in plain sight. Located on a busy stretch of Astoria, this modern Mexican spot stands out for all the right reasons. Think high ceilings, warm woods, infused agave cocktails, and a menu that fuses creativity with tradition.

You walk in and immediately get it. The design is clean but inviting, with a cool Latin vibe. The music playing is upbeat—maybe a salsa band or something house-y with percussion. The staff greets you like you’ve been there before. You haven’t, but you already know you’ll be back.

The Menu: Mexican with Depth and Style

You sit down and take a look at the menu. Your eyes bounce between tacos, small plates, and brunch dishes. Everything sounds fresh, intentional, and full of flavor.

You start with the guacamole with charred pineapple, a playful twist on a classic. Sweet, smoky, creamy—it wakes your palate up instantly.

Then comes the birria tacos. Slow-cooked meat, soft tortillas, spicy salsa, and a hot consommé on the side. Dipping the tacos into that rich broth feels like unlocking a hidden flavor code.

Someone next to you is having the tuna tiradito, and it looks amazing. You order it too. Thin slices of sushi-grade tuna, bathed in citrus and chile oil, topped with fresh herbs. It’s delicate, refreshing, and surprisingly addictive.

Infused Cocktails That Hit Different

You ask about the drinks, and the bartender tells you everything is made in-house—from the infused tequilas to the smoky mezcal blends. You try a hibiscus mezcal margarita, which is floral, tart, and just a little spicy. Then maybe a tamarind mezcal if you're in the mood for something earthy and bold.

They even offer mezcal flights if you want to taste and learn. It’s the kind of bar that feels elevated without being intimidating.

Brunch, DJs, and the Cítrico Experience

If you visit on a weekend, the energy is turned up a notch. Cítrico Café is known for its brunch with DJs, where the food stays center stage but the vibe feels like a mini celebration. Think chilaquiles with carnitas, French toast with mezcal syrup, and flan with burnt caramel—all served while local DJs spin smooth Latin beats.

But even on a quiet weekday, the space has personality. People come to catch up with friends, sip something strong at the bar, or just enjoy a quiet meal solo.

Why It Belongs on Your Astoria Map

When people ask where to eat in Astoria, they’re usually looking for something memorable—food that tastes like someone cares, drinks that have a story, and a setting that feels like NYC but also like somewhere else entirely.

That’s what makes Cítrico Café special. It’s not trying too hard. It just gets it right: flavor, ambiance, community, culture. Whether you're into tacos, tiradito, brunch, or mezcal, you’ll find something to love—and someone you’ll want to bring back with you.

So the next time you're in Queens and wondering where to eat in Astoria, let Cítrico Café be the answer.