La Bottega Astoria, Astoria

Though paninis are often a precursor to a selection of entrees on most menus, at La Bottega Astoria, they’re the main focus. The menu buckles under the weight of more than 60 different panini, which are categorized according to the type of meat (or lack thereof) grilled inside. The options are diverse: the Pescara is a savory heap of roasted turkey, broccoli rabe, Gaeta olives, and spicy artichoke sauce, and the Sienna is a light, caprese-type concoction with mozzarella, tomato, basil, and olive oil. There are also 25 different gourmet salads, including a bistecca e farro with roasted Angus steak, bacon, and barley. Of course, there is a succinct selection of chef’s specialty entrees, such as linguine with fresh clams and pan-seared salmon in a creamy mustard sauce.