Caffe Torino — Restaurant in New York

Astoria certainly isn’t lacking in choices for coffee shops but it’s still nice to see when new ones pop up. With today’s soft opening, Caffe Torino, joins the list of great coffee spots in the neighborhood.

This coffee shop sits on the quiet corner of 42 Street and 34th Avenue; just a few blocks off the subway. They have a nice set up for outdoor seating that wraps around the corner. The décor inside features white marble floors, white shiplap walls, black framed windows, and gold accents. Not a very large space but it certainly feels serene and airy; a great place to sit and enjoy a cuppa.

Today was their trial run and only had limited items available. Drinks (hot and cold) and some pre-packaged pastries for today. Gelato will be offered some time next week, after their official grand opening.

I decided to get a cappuccino and a sugar waffle. It was perfect for today’s cold weather. I loved that they use Lavazza coffee; one of the top Italian coffee brands. The drink was strong and full of flavor. Smooth and not bitter; it tasted so lovely.

I will definitely be back but might wait until they’ve ironed out their menu. The coffee alone is worth the trip back but I am hoping they will also have better offerings of pastries.

Tip: wifi password is...

I live in the neighborhood and want to like this place since it’s conveniently located and has an ideal set up. However, every single time I’ve tried this place (more than 8 times), I’ve had unfavorable experiences. The coffee is terrible, the ice tea is a powdered Lipton mix, and the pastries taste and appear to be purchased in bulk from Costco or BJs. I always refrain from leaving bad reviews because I understand how harmful they can be for a business but hoping this is seen as a wake up call. I once ordered a “ginger lemonade”, it was on the menu and was forewarned by the barista that I should instead try the raspberry ice tea. I should have taken this as a sign because my drink was literally water with ginger and lemon simple syrup pumps. When I returned my drink the barista said, “I told you so”. I think a little more effort would go a long way for this coffee place. I’m no businessman but I think a few things they shouldn’t skimp out on is coffee,...

Wow is all I can say 😩😔😢 what a bad experiences today at this location. I spotted by before work to grab a few things and let me tell you what happened to me. The lady with the glasses was there alone I waited 8 mins before being attended. I asked for a PLAIN CROISSANT AND BLUE BERRY MUFFIN.

I PAID $13.22 when I saw my receipt I was charged a large cappuccino and a cheese danish!

I asked here “Hey and showed her my recipe you charge me a Large cappuccino and cheese danish. Her response was “ oh the MUFFIN IS $7. In my head I’m like no muffins in NYC COST $7 and she then said the croissant is made fresh didn’t even answer what I was telling her. Then said the croissants are made fresh but I order a plain nothing with a filling which I know if more expensive then a plain croissant. I was flabbergasted and hopeless at that point very disappointed and just walked out. 😔

P.s- the croissant was dry not so fresh like she...