Toodles and French on Ditmars Boulevard in Astoria has been named USA Today's Best New Restaurant. This recognition highlights exceptional dining and local community support.

Local Dining at Its Finest

Toodles and French stands out not only for its unique seasonal menu but also for its vision of inclusive dining. The restaurant prioritizes sourcing local ingredients and wines from underrepresented groups, which adds a rich cultural layer to the experience. This dedication supports community efforts and ensures a fresh and authentic dining experience for patrons.

Surprising Recognition from USA Today

The owners of Toodles and French, Chad Goldsmith and Vanessa Masses, were caught off guard by the prestigious accolade. Just over a year after opening, their restaurant was recognized as USA Today’s Best New Restaurant. This unexpected honor underscores the impact of strong community support and the owners’ remarkable journey in the competitive food scene.

Building Community Through Culinary Excellence

The overwhelming support from the local community has played a pivotal role in Toodles and French's success. Customers and nearby businesses rallied during the voting process, showcasing the importance of community in the restaurant's rise to national fame. This journey not only highlights culinary talent but also emphasizes the relationship between local enterprises and their patrons.

A little over a year since its opening, Toodles and French has achieved national recognition as USA Today’s Best New Restaurant. This Astoria gem, owned by Chad Goldsmith and Vanessa Masses, offers an eclectic menu featuring seasonal dishes with a distinct Mexican flair. What’s more remarkable is their commitment to supporting underrepresented wine makers, showcasing a selection of wines that reflect diversity in the industry. Despite their sudden rise to fame, the owners admit they were completely taken by surprise when they received the nomination. ‘We thought it was so funny; we didn’t see it coming,’ said Masses. The restaurant's recent accolade has brought a surge of new customers, with the local community rallying together to help them during the voting process. Regular patrons and other businesses pitched in to support Toodles and French, creating a tight-knit community feel. Bryan, a regular customer, shared, ‘Food was banging, and Chad really made us feel at home.’ This highlights the restaurant’s philosophy of community engagement and customer relationships. Within a short span, Toodles and French not only secured a spot in the culinary spotlight but also strengthened its ties with the Astoria community. New customers flock to the restaurant, as the owners embrace their growing popularity, saying, ‘We felt like this small little thing, and now we’re like a big, big thing.’ The story of Toodles and French celebrates both culinary excellence and the vibrant local community that nurtures it.