Queens Comfort

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So, I’d been hearing a lot about this place for a number of months. And, as it usually happens with my schedule, and the intricate  formula that is, “it’ll take me X amount of time to get there + my schedule is Y = damn, I’m not going to make it”, I haven’t been able to go. Until now! Ok, let me clarify, I went, but “Y” informed me that I didn’t have a lot of time, so, I got some treats to-go from Queens Comfort in Astoria, Queens.

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Now, this unassuming restaurant always has a healthy wait during brunch, which, is when my schedule allowed me to make it over. So, you know they’re doing something right. I’ve promised myself that I will make it back for a proper sit-down meal, because the menu looks awesome. But, in the meantime, I got my fix with a couple baked goods from their resident baker, dubbed the Donut Diva. And, the name is very fitting, since, she knows how to make a delicious treat. First, I had the cookie of that day (often a different flavor, or rotating flavors, so, check their social media, or, just be a sport, since, it’s probably going to be awesome no matter what flavor it is), which was Snickerdoodle Rolo. I’d like to consider myself somewhat of a cookie connoisseur, I’ve eaten a ton and know what I like, and, well, what I know I’ll be staying away from. This cookie, was legit. Generously sized, it really has the perfect combination that I love of a slightly crisp outside and edges, and a soft, almost under-baked center, making it soft, chewy, and melts in your mouth. The flavors were great, and you get these awesome bites with gooey caramel from the Rolo candies. Even though it’s a cookie, with candy inside, it’s not too sweet, which, makes it all too easy to house the entire thing. But, what are you saving it for anyway?

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Then, I had to get a donut from the Donut Diva (because, what the hell sense would it make if I didn’t?). Now, the donuts are primarily only available on the weekends, which, even though I knew about the brunch lines, I had to go for the donut. And, just like the cookies, there’s likely to be a different flavor each time. So, you just have to be up for the adventure, or, check Instagram to see what’s on tap before you go. When I went, they had Candy Corn Marshmallow. Now, I’m a candy person, so, I love candy corn, but I realize it’s one of those polarizing candies. Luckily for me, it’s all positive. The cake donut itself is also generous in size, and had the candy corn within the donut’s batter itself. The cake is great, it’s a little crisp on the outside, nice and golden, and tastes just like a griddle cake. Then, there was a marshmallow-esc glaze on the outside, giving it a nice delicate compliment to the donut and candy corn. And, one of the best parts is the waste-free zone. I hate waste, and apparently these guys understand, so each donut is complete with its own donut hole on top. Adorable. And, somewhat of a bonus dessert. Again, like the cookie, while the donut looks intense, it’s not overly sweet, also allowing me to stuff the entire thing in my face and not feeling a gross sugar rush. 

The Shorts:
Name: Queens Comfort
Location: 40-09 30th Avenue, Queens
The Long and The Short: Would I go back? Definitely. I mean, I need to go for a meal there, but, even if that’s not in the cards, the donuts and cookies are worth a trip back.
Would I recommend it? Yes. If you’re lucky enough to carve out some time for brunch, get there early and beat the big wait. If not, they’re open for lunch and dinner during the week as well.

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Donut Bar

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Mandatory stop on any trip for me, is a donut (doughnut, potay-to/potah-to) shop. So, when I was in San Diego, I went downtown to visit the Insta-famous Donut Bar.

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Ok, so, I went on Sunday morning. Whoops. It was also Easter. Double whoops. Not that that’s a bad thing, but, the line was definitely in place. But, it’s the only day I could make it there, so, I sucked it up and realized that some of the donuts I’ve been seeing pictures of, might not be available, and sold out. I was right. However, there were still some beautiful looking donuts there, ready for me to take them and shove them in my face. 

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First, I got The Homer, because, I mean, look at it. It’s huge and bright, and pretty, and just makes you happy and think of Homer Simpson. If you’re into simpler sweets flavors, this one has your name all DOH!-ver it (wink). The dough has a perfect balance of denseness, but still light and doughy. How do you achieve that? Magic? Unicorn poo? Fairy dust? I don’t know, but I’ll let Donut Bar handle those logistics. Although the icing glaze was pink, it’s sweet and deliciousness was done with a neutral sugary flavor. I’m just glad it wasn’t that artificial strawberry flavor that some other places do. 

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Then, I also got their Mexican Hot Chocolate. I really enjoyed this one. You have the same yeast dough, but this one topped with a rich, chocolate glaze, sprinkled with some pepper for a touch of heat. 

The Shorts:
Name: Donut Bar
Location: 631 B Street, San Diego
The Long and Short: Would I go back? Definitely. But, next time, I’ll get there on a weekday, and on the earlier side. I’ve got a lot more flavors to tackle.
Would I recommend it? For sure. These donuts are large and in charge, just the way I like them. Definitely plan to go close to when the open at 8am so you’ll get first dibs at all the flavors, because they will sell out.