Wine Bar Beat - great vino in Forest Hills, Middle Village, and Bayside

Wine lovers looking for a glass of bold bordeaux, crisp champagne, or powerhouse pino to help unwind after a long week don’t have to leave the borough to find amazing deals on tasty varietals. We sussed out four fantastic places in Eastern Queens to get wined and dined in fabulous style.

Image source:  Danny Brown Wine Bar

Danny Brown is the borough’s only Michelin Star-rated restaurant, which means that in addition to excellent food by chef/proprietor Danny Brown, this Forest Hills gem also boasts a stunning selection of wines from across the globe including Germany, Portugal, New Zealand, Austria, Argentina, Australia and even South Africa. French, California and Spanish varieties dominate the expansive menu, which features options available by the bottle and the glass ($8-$10).

Whether you’re a serious oenophile in the mood for a splurge from DB’s special “reserve” menu, which includes extravagant and rare finds such as a Margaux Grand Cru Classé from Bordeaux, or just out for low-key night of tasty tapas and an affordable glass or two of refreshing Rioja Rosé, there really is something for everyone here. For the overall best value of the house, try one of seven well-appointed wine flights, which include three 3oz tastings to suit every palate and spectacular price points to match. 104-02 Metropolitan Ave., Forest Hills, NY 11375 (GMAP)

Small plates and big wines also dominate at Jack and Nellie’s, a cozy (and TV-free) upscale retreat from the bustling Austin Street bar scene, where those seeking a more casual vibe can imbibe and hang out with ease. 108-25 Ascan Ave., Forest Hills, NY 11375 (GMAP)

Image source: Uvarara Facebook page

Yep! You can find an authentic taste of Italy right in Middle Village. At Uvarara, a family-owned favorite that excels at serving up hearty portions of Italian cuisine almost as good as your Nonna’s. They have a stellar regional wine program and incredible ambiance that makes you feel like you’ve been instantly transported to a cozy country home in Caserta, Italy, from which the owners – the Ladicicco family – hail.

The food is the star here, but the outsized wine menu is given equal attention and care. New varietals and tasting events pop up with each season, which means a rotating selection of must-try wines year round. Even the casual wine aficionado will be blown away by the dark decor and rustic romance of Uvarara’s Euro wine cellar-inspired vibe that’s perfect for a special occasion. 79-28 Metropolitan Ave., Middle Village, NY 11379 (GMAP)

Image source: Fino Facebook page

If the wow factor of the super-modern decor, wall o’ wine and sexy, lounge-like atmosphere at Fino doesn’t impress you, give the terrific tapas and wine program at this Bayside hotspot in the heart of Bell Boulevard a chance. They also offer cheese and charcuterie plates, which go great with wine, as well as a full on entree menu. Leave room for dessert! 39-13 Bell Blvd., Bayside, NY 11361 (GMAP)