Aperitif Bistro Lounge & Wine Bar, Bayside, NYC

Disclaimer: I was invited as a guest to this establishment for a complimentary meal. All opinions expressed in this post are my own

Aperitif Bistro is a great new spot in Bayside offering a menu of French bistro classics along with a really charming lounge & wine bar.

Owned by Peter Oktas and Julio Velasquez, who have a successful sister restaurant in Rockville Center, Aperitif brings to Bell Boulevard a unique destination with chic bar area offering bar eats and a spacious sit down area spanning two floors.

I was recently invited in for a press review where we were treated to multiple dishes that represent the repertoire of what Aperitif offers. We sampled eats from across the menu starting with a nicely done plate of “Pistachio Nut Crusted Scallops”. The scallops were really fresh and sat on a bed of apple parsnip puree and was garnished with spinach and a horseradish beet emulsion.

I had to try the crepes – which is any Bistro classic. I have to say that the chicken and spinach filling was really tasty but the crepes themselves were disappointing as they were burned and not light and airy. The fries though were fantastic – some of the best I’ve tried in the neighborhood! Makes me curious about the “Steak Frites” which is something I would definitely try the next time around.

For dessert my favorite was the “Dark Chocolate Mousse” which was served over crumbled oreo with fresh whipped cream and fresh berries. This was a really well executed mousse which went so well with the fresh berries.

I think one of my favorite parts of Aperitif bistro is the bar area. Its a beautifully done space, serving really good drinks, wines, beers on tap and more and is a perfect place to hang out at for pre dinner cocktails or even for the whole evening.

I can see the folks of Bayside really taking to Aperitif Bistro Lounge & Wine Bar – the service is wonderful, it has a classic menu and there’s a real warm feel to the place.

Here is some of what we ate: