A beloved NYC neighborhood restaurant was shocked to discover it had been named best in the country.
Tootles & French was named the Best New Restaurant by USA Today, an honor announced just days ago.
The eatery was recognized for its “carefully curated selection of wines” which pair with the “refined dishes and elegant ambiance” to allow guests a “sophisticated dining experience.”
Tootles & French was the only Queens nominee and topped the list of 20 contenders from across the country chosen by a panel of food and travel experts and voted on by readers.
The wine bar and restaurant — which boasts being “by Astorians for Astorians” — was opened by Chad Goldsmith just over a year ago.
The team was beyond excited to learn of their win.
“Are you kidding me?” Vanessa Massas, who co-owns the restaurant alongside Goldsmith, told the Astoria Post.
“I don’t even know what to say. It means the world to me. This is a huge deal, especially after COVID and what the hospitality industry has been going through.”
It is located at 36-15 Ditmars Blvd. — “in the heart of Astoria.”
“[Ditmars Boulevard] has a lot of culture, a lot of great things going for it, and we’re just so happy to be a part of it,” Massas said.
The restaurant team said they’ve already welcomed customers drawn in by their mention on the shortlist.
After their nomination, Goldsmith was “really proud” and honored to earn his neighborhood national recognition.
“We’re a strong community, and any excuse we have to show that is always going to be great,” Goldsmith said. “I think a lot of people just really want to see Queens win and see Astoria win.”