Two newcomers to Long Island City's restaurant scene, Alobar and Casa Enrique, were named to Michelin's just-released New York City Bib Gourmands list — a compilation of dining establishments that serve two courses and a glass of wine or dessert for $40 or less. Michelin notes in their announcement, "Most importantly, these are restaurants that Michelin's esteemed inspectors would frequent themselves."

Considering both restaurants are open for less than a year, it is a great achievement to have already been named to this notable list. Alobar owner Jeff Blath says, "As we approach our one-year anniversary in November, we are honored to be on the Michelin Bib Gourmand list that is well-respected by industry professionals and consumers alike.” He went on to say, "It is validation of our concept and of our chef Ian Kapitan's culinary talents."

Casa Enrique is the latest restaurant from Cafe Henri/Bar Henry owners Winston & Carole Kulok, who state, "As the very 'new kid on the block' this is quite an honor.  This is also a testament to the quality and authenticity of the food of chef Cosme Aguilar, our corporate chef of the last 10 years."

The Michelin name is synonymous with quality and Michelin further explains the process behind the selection: "The Bib Gourmands in New York City are selected by Michelin's famously anonymous inspectors who dine across Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx, and Staten Island regularly. These local inspectors are trained to scrupulously apply the same time-tested methods used by Michelin inspectors for many decades throughout the world. This ensures a uniform, international standard of excellence. As a further guarantee of complete objectivity, Michelin inspectors pay all their bills in full."