VOL 2:05 APRIL 2012
ASTORIA // LIC // SUNNYSIDE
CREATE // CULTIVATE // INSPIRE
LIKE EGGS? Make No Yolk About These Dishes! pg. 6
SPRING CLEANING How To Avoid the Big Black Bag pg. 10
THRIFT & ANTIQUE 12 Shops You Can’t Miss pg. 26
SITE 5 YEAR PARTY Join The Party 4/19 From 6-9PM pg. 30
at in the A b s e Su tor st s nn ia, po ys LI ts id C e ,
BEFORE & AFTER ISSUE
FROM THE EDITOR Dear Western Queens,
ATTENTION: BORO Party This Month on April 11th @ Break. See details on next page!!! There will be lot’s of food, drink and games! A warm THANK YOU to all of our sponsors! This month’s issue is themed “Before and After” inspired by Spring, a time when everything changes and anything is possible. We explore change in public spaces, journeys of second-hand goods and the dynamic uses of a single cooking ingredient. •Check out the SITE 5 Year Anniversary Party on 4/19, sponsored by BORO. •Get your tickets for the Queens Taste on May 1st! I’m a Taste Master (AKA Judge).
JULIAN LESSER editor-in-chief
PS. Keep sending us your ideas and opinions!
EMAIL: info@BOROmag.com
FEATURES
DEPARTMENTS
5 CITY HARVEST
12 APRIL 2012 EVENTS
6 FOOD
15 MAP IT DIRECTORY
BORO Party April 11th at BREAK! Make No Yolk About These Dishes
10 SPRING CLEANING
Your Go-to Guide For Astoria and LIC’s best shops, food, art, nightlife and More.
How To Avoid the Big Black Bag
16 MAP IT: ASTORIA & LIC MAP
22 DOWNTOWN RENEWAL
32 DISCOUNTS & PROMO PAGE
Renaissance of Queen’s Plaza
26 YOUR GUIDE TO GET THIRFTY!
Exclusive savings, discounts and freebies for the month of April in Astoria, LIC and Sunnyside.
Best Thirft and Antique Stores in Queens
30 CELEBRATE SITE’S BIRTHDAY IN STYLE! SITE owner, Mackenzi Farquer, tells us exactly what it takes to put together a successful business.
COVER: Photo by Philippe Trinh. Cover features an antique quarter repeater valued at $14,500 that owner of Second Best Thrift Shoppe, located on Astoria Blvd., plans to put on auction.
ADVERTISE IN BORO / BOROmag
@BOROmag
ads@BOROmag.com // 914.426.2939 www.BOROmag.com/advertise BORO HOURS: Mon-Fri 10AM-5PM
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF AND PUBLISHER julian lesser CREATIVE DIRECTOR philippe trinh // EDITOR john lee // COPY EDITOR norm elrod ART DIRECTORS paul connolly, alt // GRAPHIC DESIGNERS alberto michieli, emma cason-pratt, sydney auerbach STAFF WRITERS bradley hawks, ben mims, daniel crown, lillian shaw, rebecca mcnamara, matthew taylor, brett jones // STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS javier ibañez, daniel pando, jesse winter // SALES AND MARKETING nadine auerbach // WEBMASTER janmichael guzman DISTRIBUTION MANAGER sadee brathwaite ONLINE EDITORIAL COORDINATOR matthew taylor // CREATED BY JKL Projects Inc
*This magazine is made from FSC paper, printed with soy ink and 100% recyclable. Please recycle after use. BORO Magazine published by JKL Projects. All materials Copyright © 2012 BORO / All rights reserved. Opinions and claims made by advertisers are advertisers’ claims only. BORO Magazine accepts no responsibility for any claims made by advertisers. BORO Magazine reserves the right to publish any images without providing photo/image credit. No part of this publication may be reproduced without permission of the publisher.
4 | BOROMAG.COM | APRIL 2012
FOOD
MAKE NO YOLK
ABOUT THESE DISHES Story + Photos BRADLEY HAWKS
W
hen it comes to the age-old question of the chicken and the egg, perhaps it’s time to replace “Which came first?” with “What’s most versatile?” An egg, after all, can eventually hatch into a chick, be whipped into a meringue, kneaded into a dough, simmered into a sauce, frothed into foam, scrambled, baked, poached or boiled – a rather miraculous culinary before-and-after story. So grab a basket as we embark on the ultimate egg hunt, highlighting local dishes that illuminate how a simple yolk and white in a fragile shell can transform into dramatically different – yet equally mouth-watering – morsels that resemble little of their original form.
MEXIQ Nachos and eggs might not be the first two you’d pair up for Hollywood Week on American Idol, but after trying The Hangover Cure at MexiQ, your tune might change. Crunchy salsa-simmered chilaquiles harmonize with shredded chicken, chorizo and two fried eggs for a brunch powerhouse. MexiQ | 37-11 30th Ave, Astoria | (718) 626-0333 www.mexiqny.com
HARISSA CAFÉ The Brik at Harissa Café is a crunchy golden phyllo pocket stuffed with tuna, capers, parmesan, parsley and soft-cooked egg. This classic Tunisian pastry is traditionally prepared by the mother-of-the-bride-to-be, whereupon consuming it (without spilling any yolk), the groom receives her family’s blessing. Harissa Café | 34-05 30th Ave, Astoria | (718) 545-9595 www.harissacafe.com
PORTALIA Bucatini carbonara is a decadent showcase for the egg’s duality, used first to make long, hollow pasta tubes. Then, a quail egg is tossed with parmesan and cracked peppercorn to create a luxurious cream sauce studded with bits of sautéed onion and savory guanciale. Portalia | 35-03 Broadway, Astoria (718) 545-3500 www.portalianyc.com
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BRICK CAFÉ Thomas Gloster, the new chef at Brick Café, breathes fresh life into the brunch menu with a glorious egg-within-an-egg spin on an everything-but-the-kitchen-sink omelet: a breakfast terrine of baked eggs with a mosaic of polenta, hard-boiled egg, prosciutto ribbons, smoked-salmon-wrapped asparagus, a drizzle of chive oil and shaved black winter truffles. Brick Café | 30-95 33rd St, Astoria (718) 267-2735 www.brickcafe.com
LIC MARKET The sophisticated dining space at LIC Market serves breakfast daily, and it’s no crime to order an egg on top of anything, from the roasted chicken to the slow-cooked pork over basmati rice. In the morning hours, Bullseye Eggs are a tasty way to go, with 7-grain bread framing the golden culprit. LIC Market | 21-52 44th Dr, LIC | (718) 262-0013 | www.licmarket.com
THE DOG & DUCK The Pavlova, a meringue-based dessert named after a Russian ballet dancer, appears as a surprising grand finale at this quaint Irish pub. Sugary whipped egg whites are baked into a crunchy-coated, chewy-centered disk, capped with vanilla ice cream and spiraled with a maypole of whipped cream. This sweet mountain is then finished with tart mixed berry compote. The Dog & Duck | 45-20 Skillman Ave, Sunnyside (718) 406-9048
BEAR At Bear, a cheese-crusted brulée-torched farm egg is the proverbial cherry on a savory sundae of woodland mushrooms stewed with roasted onions, garlic, thyme, rosemary and baby potatoes.
Bear Bar & Restaurant | 12-14 31st Ave, LIC (917) 396-4939 www.bearnyc.com
Visit www.BOROmag.com/eggsin-Queens for the extended story and more photos. APRIL 2012 | BOROMAG.COM | 7
EATS
GREEN LIVING
HOW TO AVOID THE BIG BL ACK BAG Of all the herculean chores of sorting, rearranging and rubbishing, perhaps the hardest of spring cleaning tasks is figuring out what to do with all the items that are too dingy to sell, but too in-shape to throw away?
Story DANIEL CROWN
1. STOOP IT In a Season Five episode of How I Met Your Mother, the show’s narrator, Ted, refers to the stoop of his Manhattan apartment building as “The Bermuda Triangle.” Why? Well, as he describes it, “It’s the place stuff goes to disappear.” It’s not just his apartment, though; you can do it, too. In fact, the process of stoop-gifting involves just three easy steps: Put your box of unwanted junk out on your stoop; Put up a sign with the letters F-R-E-E on it; Sit back and watch as your crap disappears in ten minutes flat.
2. TEXTILE RECYCLING Chances are you have at least one item hanging in your closet that’s so obscene in its heinousness, not even Goodwill would give it a second look. Thankfully, there’s Grow NYC. They collect said atrocities on Sundays between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m. at the Jackson Heights Greenmarket on 34th Avenue (betwixt 77th and 78th Streets). Stuff they’ll take off your hands? Clean and dry clothing, paired shoes, bedding, linens, hats and handbags, among other items. www.grownyc.org/clothing 10 | BOROMAG.COM | APRIL 2012
3. FREECYCLE.COM / CRAIGSLIST’S FREE SECTION Even if an item somehow manages to miraculously escape from “The Bermuda Triangle,” you still have a few options left. Sites like Freecycle (www.freecycle.org) and Craigslist (www.newyork.craigslist.org) are perfect last resorts for the straggling items you just can’t find a home for. This ranges from large items like sofas and refrigerators to smaller things like teapots and toasters.
4. GOODWILL The most obvious choice of all, Goodwill is much more than a willing receptacle for all of your unwanted stuff. If you want to make any donations, drop by 32-36 Steinway, just south of Broadway. Cool fact: In 2010 alone, Goodwill gave jobs to 3,270 New Yorkers living with various disabilities. Goodwill | 3236 Steinway St, Astoria | (718) 932-0418 www.goodwillny.com
Visit www.BOROmag.com/green-living for more ideas on how to be a better urban environmentalist.
APRIL 2012 | BOROMAG.COM | 11
APRIL EVENTS 4/11 4/19
4/11 7PM-10PM (NIGHTLIFE)
4/19 6PM-9PM (NIGHTLIFE+SHOPPING)
5/1
5/1 6PM-9PM (FOOD+DRINK)
BORO CITY HARVEST PARTY
SITE TURNS 5!
QUEENS TASTE 2012
4/5 7PM-9PM (ARTS+CRAFTS)
4/13 6PM-8:30PM (FOOD+DRINK)
4/21 @ 1PM (EDUCATION)
FREE | Break 718-777-5400 | 32-04 Broadway, Astoria www.break-ny.com
MAD SKILLS: LEARN TO MAKE A KAWAII AMIGURUMI GNOME $50 | SITE 718-626-6030 | 35-11 34th Ave, Astoria www.sitenyc.com 4/5 9PM-12AM (MUSIC)
GYPSY JAZZ
FREE | Rest-Au-Rant 718-729-90009 | 30-01 35th Ave, LIC www.rarbarlic.com
FREE | SITE 718-626-6030 | 35-11 34th Ave, Astoria www.sitenyc.com
ITALIAN WINE TASTING
FREE | Astoria Park Wine & Spirits 718-606-1142 | 28-07 24th Ave, Astoria www.astoriaparkwineandspirits.com 4/14 ALL DAY (BODY+SOUL)
OPEN HOUSE FOR NEW STUDENTS
FREE | Heart and Soul of Yoga 718-932-2567 | 32-18 35th St, Astoria www.heartandsoulofyoga.com 4/14 @ 1PM (FILM)
MISSION ON MARS
“A NIGHT TO REMEMBER” FILM ABOUT THE TITANIC DISASTER
4/9 6:30PM-8:30PM (ARTS+CRAFTS)
4/15 4PM-7PM (ART)
4/6 9PM-11:30PM (MUSIC) FREE | The Queens Kickshaw 718-777-0913 | 40-17 Broadway, Astoria www.thequeenskickshaw.com
BEGINNERS CROCHET: BASIC SCARF PART 2 FREE | babyNOIR 646-470-4728 | 26-16 23rd Ave, Astoria www.babynoir.net 4/10 7PM-9PM (ARTS+CRAFTS)
MAD SKILLS: MAKE A NEON PLANT HANGERCOMPLETE WITH PLANTS! $50 | SITE 718-626-6030 | 35-11 34th Ave, Astoria www.sitenyc.com 4/10 8PM-9:30PM (BODY+SOUL)
TRATAK MEDITATION
FREE | Ramakrishnananda Yoga and Meditation Center 888-474-1218 | 20-29 38th St, Astoria www.ramakrishnananda.com 4/12 6PM-8PM (EDUCATION)
“RAISE $300-$1,000 FOR YOUR PROJECT” COURSE $5 | ioby HQ 917-464-4515 x 3 | 41 E 11th St, NYC www.ioby.org 4/12 7PM-9PM (ARTS+CRAFTS)
MAD SKILLS: STAMPS & STATIONARY CLASS $50 | SITE 718-626-6030 | 35-11 34th Ave, Astoria www.sitenyc.com 4/12 9PM-12AM (MUSIC)
JAMES BONDY’S ACOUSTIC SPOTLIGHT FREE | Rest-Au-Rant 718-729-90009 | 30-01 35th Ave, LIC www.rarbarlic.com
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FREE | Greater Astoria Historical Society 718-278-0700 | 35-20 Broadway, 4th Floor, LIC www.astorialic.org
SOLO SHOWS: DEMETRIOUS MANOUSEL & DONNA LEVINSTONE FREE | Jeffrey Leder Gallery 917-767-1734 | 21-37 45th Rd, LIC www.jeffreyledergallery.com 4/18 8PM-9:30PM (BODY+SOUL)
PRANAYAMA MEDITATION
FREE | Ramakrishnananda Yoga and Meditation Center 888-474-1218 | 20-29 38th St, Astoria www.ramakrishnananda.com 4/19 5PM-9PM (SHOPPING)
SPRING FLING SHOPPING PARTY
FREE | KrisTEES 718-204-5031 | 24-01 23rd Ave, Astoria www.kristeesny.com 4/19 7PM-10PM (FOOD+DRINK)
ANNUAL SPRING TASTING EVENT FREE | Foodcellar & Co. Market 718-606-9786 | 4-85 47th Rd, LIC www.foodcellarandco.com 4/19 9PM-12AM (MUSIC)
$92.50-$400 | Caesars Club at Citi Field 718-263-0546 | 120-01 Roosevelt Ave, Corona www.queenstaste.eventbrite.com
HISTORY ROUNDTABLE-40TH ANNIVERSARY OF NIXON’S VISIT TO CHINA
$5 (FREE TO MEMBERS) | GREATER ASTORIA HISTORICAL SOCIETY 718-278-0700 | 35-20 Broadway, 4th Floor, LIC www.astorialic.org 4/22 1PM-3PM (ARTS+CRAFTS)
BEGINNERS CROCHET: BRACELET PART 1 FREE | babyNOIR 646-470-4728 | 26-16 23rd Ave, Astoria www.babynoir.net 4/22 5PM-7PM (ART)
OPENING RECEPTION FOR BILL BOLINGER: THE RETROSPECTIVE FREE | SculptureCenter 718-361-1750 | 44-19 Purves St, LIC www.sculpture-center.org 4/23 8PM-9:30PM (BODY+SOUL)
KUNDALINI YOGA
$19 | Ramakrishnananda Yoga and Meditation Center | 888-474-1218 | 20-29 38th St, Astoria www.ramakrishnananda.com 4/24 7PM-9PM (ARTS+CRAFTS)
MAD SKILLS: MAKE A NEON PLANT HANGERCOMPLETE WITH PLANTS! $50 | SITE 718-626-6030 | 35-11 34th Ave, Astoria www.sitenyc.com 4/26 @ 7PM (FOOD+DRINK)
WHISKY TASTING
FREE | Manducatis Rustica 718-937-1312 | 46-33 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.manducatisrustica.com 4/26 9PM-12AM (MUSIC)
ANTIQUE POP DUO
FREE | Rest-Au-Rant 718-729-90009 | 30-01 35th Ave, LIC www.rarbarlic.com
EVANESCENT
4/27 9PM-4AM (ENTERTAINMENT)
4/20 9PM-11:30PM (MUSIC)
$40 ADVANCE/$50 DOOR | Central Lounge 718-726-1600 | 20-30 Steinway St, Astoria www.carnivaloflove.org
FREE | Rest-Au-Rant 718-729-90009 | 30-01 35th Ave, LIC www.rarbarlic.com
FREEMAN DRE AND THE KITCHEN PARTY FREE | The Queens Kickshaw 718-777-0913 | 40-17 Broadway, Astoria www.thequeenskickshaw.com
CARNIVAL OF LOVE FUNDRAISER TO BENEFIT CHILDREN W/AUTISM & SPECIAL NEEDS
4/27 9PM-11:30PM (MUSIC)
JOSH DEUTSCH’S PANNONIA
FREE | The Queens Kickshaw 718-777-0913 | 40-17 Broadway, Astoria www.thequeenskickshaw.com
APRIL EVENTS 4/28 10AM-5:30PM (EXPLORE)
EVERY SUNDAY @ 8PM (ART)
$39 | Jack Eichenbaum www.geognyc.com
FREE | Winegasm Bar & Eatery 718-932-3331 | 31-86 37th St, Astoria www.winegasmeatery.com
THE WORLD OF THE #7 TRAIN
ONGOING 4/2, 4/5-4/7, 4/9, 4/12-4/14 @ 8PM (THEATER)
BLAST RADIUS
$18/$15 FOR STUDENTS/SENIORS | The Secret Theater 718-392-0722 | 44-02 23rd St, LIC www.gideonth.com 4/7 & 4/13 @ 8:30PM (NIGHTLIFE)
FREE GRAND MARNIER TASTING W/ OUR SHOT GIRL FREE | Skinny’s Cantina 718-806-1068 | 47-05 Center Blvd, LIC www.skinnyscantina.com
4/11, 4/18, 4/25 8PM-9PM (FOOD+DRINK)
HOMEBREWING 101: INTRO TO THE COMMERCIAL AND HOMEBREWING
$15 | The Queens Kickshaw 718-777-0913 | 40-17 Broadway, Astoria www.thequeenskickshaw.com 4/27-4/31 @ 8PM (THEATER)
DEINDE
$15 OPENING NIGHT/$18 GENERAL | The Secret Theater 718-392-0722 | 44-02 23rd St, LIC www.fluxtheatre.org
“THE ARTISTS VINE” SUNDAY SALON NIGHT
EVERY TUESDAY 10:30AM-11AM (FAMILY)
STORY & RHYTHM TIME
FREE | babyNOIR 646-470-4728 | 26-16 23rd Ave, Astoria www.babynoir.net EVERY TUESDAY NIGHT (FOOD+DRINK)
DISCO TACO TUESDAYS W/$3 TACOS FREE | Skinny’s Cantina 718-806-1068 | 47-05 Center Blvd, LIC www.skinnyscantina.com
EVERY TUESDAY 8:30PM-11:30PM (NIGHTLIFE)
STUMP TRIVIA
FREE | Break 718-777-5400 | 32-04 Broadway, Astoria www.break-ny.com EVERY TUESDAY 9PM-11PM (COMEDY)
WHINE & CHEESE COMEDY SHOW
FREE | Rest-Au-Rant 718-729-90009 | 30-01 35th Ave, LIC www.rarbarlic.com EVERY WEDNESDAY @ 7:30PM (NIGHTLIFE)
SKINNY’S SEXY SALSA WEDNESDAYS FREE | Skinny’s Cantina 718-806-1068 | 47-05 Center Blvd, LIC www.skinnyscantina.com
EVERY THURSDAY 9PM-12AM (MUSIC)
LIVE JAM @ WGM
FREE | Winegasm Bar & Eatery 718-932-3331 | 31-86 37th St, Astoria www.winegasmeatery.com EVERY SATURDAY 9PM-3AM (NIGHTLIFE)
SATURDAY NIGHT DJ PARTIES
FREE | Z NYC Hotel 212-319-7000 | 11-01 43rd Ave, LIC www.zhotelny.com
Find more April events at www.BOROmag.com/Events
APRIL 2012 | BOROMAG.COM | 13
14 | BOROMAG.COM | APRIL 2012
MAP IT DIRECTORY RESTAURANTS 2
ALIADA (B,2) (718) 932-2240 29-19 Broadway, Astoria
6
ASTOR ROOM (C,2) (718) 255-1947 34-12 36th St, Astoria www.astorroom.com
3
AVENUE CAFE (C,2) (718) 278-6967 35-27 30th Ave, Astoria www.avenuecafenyc.com
4
BAREBURGER (B,2) (718) 777-7011 33-21 31st Ave, Astoria www.bareburger.com
23
BEAR (A,2) (917) 396-4939 12-14 31st Ave, Astoria www.bearnyc.com
5
BRICK CAFE (B,2) (718) 267-2735 30-95 33rd St, Astoria www.brickcafe.com
7 26
BREAD BOX CAFE (A,4) (718) 389-9700 4711 11th St, LIC www.breadboxcafelic.com BURGER CLUB (B,2) (718) 777-7788 32-02 30th Ave, Astoria www.burger-club.com
8
BURGER GARAGE (B,3) (718) 392-0424 25-36 Jackson Ave, LIC www.theburgergarage.com
35
BUTCHER BAR (C,2) (718) 606-8140 37-08 30th Ave, Astoria www.ButcherBar.com
9
CAVO (C,2) (718) 721-1001 42-18 31st Ave, Astoria www.cavoastoria.com
10
CAFÉ VIA ESPRESSO (C,1) (718) 545-3290 2409 Steinway St, Astoria www.cafeviaespressoastoria.com
17
DINER 24/7 @ Z HOTEL (A,3) (212) 319-7000 11-01 43rd Ave, LIC www.zhotelny.com
11
DIWINE (C,2) (718) 777-1355 41-15 31st Ave, Astoria www.diwineonline.com
12
EL AY SI (A,4) (718) 389-8781 47-38 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.elaysi.com
13
FATTY’S (B,1) (718) 267-7071 2501 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria www.fattyscafenyc.com
14
IL BAMBINO (C,2) (718) 626-0087 34-08 31 Ave, Astoria www.ilbambinonyc.com
36
L’ARTISTE (C,2) (646) 309-7504 42-20 31st Ave, Astoria www.lartisterestaurant.com
LENG THAI (B,2) (718) 956-7117 33-09 Broadway, Astoria www.lengthainewyork.com
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LIC MARKET (B,4) (718) 361-0013 21-52 44th Dr, LIC www.licmarket.com
(A,4) 108 TOURNESOL (718) 472 4355
16
LINN (B,2) (718) 204-0060 2913 Broadway, Astoria www.linnrestaurant.com
30
VESLO (B,2) 718-728-0549 32-11 Broadway, Astoria www.veslonyc.com
728-4057 49 (718) 3306 31st Ave, Astoria
86
LOCALE (718) 729-9080 33-02 34th Ave, LIC www.localeastoria.com
31
VESTA (A,2) (718) 545-5550 2102 30th Ave, Astoria www.vestavino.com
626-6030 50 (718) 35-11 34th Ave, Astoria
53
TIME CAFÉ (C,2) (718) 606-0500 44-18 Broadway, Astoria www.timecafeny.com
(718) 786-5200 34-55 32nd St, Astoria www.lucassteakhouse.com
18
MANDUCATIS RUSTICA (A,4) (718) 937-1312 46-3 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.manducatisrustica.com
19
MEXIQ (C,2) (718) 626-0333 37-11 30th Ave, Astoria www.mexiqny.com
32
YAJAI (B,2) (718) 956-9559 33-16 30th Ave, Astoria www.yajaithaifood.com
BAKERIES
ORNELLA TRATTORIA ITALIANA (B,1) (718) 777-9477 29-17 23rd Ave, Astoria www.ornellatrattoria.com
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OVELIA (B,2) (718) 721-7217 34-01 30th Ave, Astoria www.ovelia-ny.com
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MUNDO (B,2) (718) 777-2829 31-18 Broadway, Astoria www.mundoastoria.com
BROOKLYN BAGEL & COFFEE COMPANY (C,2) (718) 777-1121 36-14 30th Ave, Astoria www.bkbagel.com (C,1) 35-09 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria (C,2) 35-05 Broadway, Astoria
40
PENTHOUSE808 (A,3) (718) 289-6118 8-08 Queens Plaza South, LIC www.penthouse808rooftop.com
MALU (A,4) (718) 729-6258 12-09 Jackson Ave, LIC www.amomandpopshop.com
37
109 PITA PAN (C,2)
(718) 204-1633 37-15 30th Ave, Astoria www.pitapanny.com QUEENS KICKSHAW (C,2) (718) 777-0913 40-17 Broadway, Astoria www.thequeenskickshaw.com RÈST-ÂÜ-RÁNT (B,2) (718) 729-9009 30-01 35th Ave, Astoria www.rarbarlic.com
25
SAGE GENERAL STORE (B,4) (718) 361-0707 24-20 Jackson Ave, LIC www.sagegeneralstore.com
28
SHI (A,4) (347) 242-2450 4720 Center Blvd, LIC www.eatdrinkshi.com
55
SKINNY’S (A,4) 718-806-1068 47-05 Center Blvd, LIC
SWEETLEAF (A,4) (917) 832-6726 10-93 Jackson Ave, LIC www.sweetleaflic.com
FOOD SHOPS 27
ASTORIA PARK WINE AND SPIRITS (B,1) 28-07 24th Ave, Astoria www.astoriaparkwineandspirits.com
38
ASTORIA WINE AND SPIRITS (C,2) (718) 545-9463 3412 Broadway, Astoria www.astoriawines.com
39
FOOD CELLAR (A,4) (718) 606-9786 4-85 47th Rd., LIC www.foodcellarandco.com
SHOPS 44
BELIEF (B,1) (718) 721-4444 29-20b 23rd Ave, Astoria www.beliefnyc.com
45
BABYNOIR (B,1) (646) 470-4728 26-16 23rd Ave, Astoria www.babynoir.net
116 SUGAR FREAK (C,2)
(718) 726-5850 36-18 30th Ave, Astoria www.sugarfreak.com
LOVEDAY 31 (B,2)
www.loveday31.com SITE (C,2)
www.sitenyc.com
PETS
31-86 37th Rd, Astoria www.winegasmeatery.com
20
24
2401 23rd Ave, Astoria www.kristeesny.com
BAR AND EATERY (C,2) 117 WINEGASM (718) 932-3331
ASTOR BAKE SHOP (A,2) (718) 606-8439 12-23 Astoria Blvd, Astoria www.astor-bakeshop.com
1
28-07 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria
(B,1) 48 KRISTEES (718) 204-5031
50-12 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.tournesolnyc.com
118 LUCAS
22
ASTORIA (C,1) 47 INSIDE (718) 956-4000
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CITY VET (A,4) (718) 433-1334 45-44 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.cityvetnyc.com LIC DOG HOUSE (A,4)
389-3647 52 (718) 45-44 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.licdoghouse.com
FLORISTS (A,4) 54 FLORESTA (917) 612-4446
51-02 Vernon Blvd, LIC 4-85 47th Rd, LIC www.florestanyc.com/blog
INTERIOR DESIGN 46
SYLC, INC (B,2) (917) 951-5916 31-28 29th St, Astoria
SERVICES
LOCKSMITH 24/7 SERVICE (C,2) 114 ARK (718) 932-LOCK (5625) 30-10 37th street, Astoria www.Astorialocksmith.com
COMPUTER REPAIR NYC 56 HERO Apple/Mac Computer Repair Specialist 347-670-4376 hero@iamhero.net | www.iamhero.net
OUR BACKYARDS) 119 IOBY(IN (917) 464-4515
41 East 11th Street, 3rd Floor NY www.ioby.org
LAW FIRM (C,2) 57 MPN (718) 777-0400
3403 Broadway, Ste. 200, Astoria www.mpnfirm.com
(A,3) 59 RCN Digital TV and High-Speed Internet Services 33-16 Woodside Ave, LIC (212) 842-7981 www.rcn.com/boromag
BY C (B,3) 60 SHOWROOM (917) 658-3065
4 Court Square, LIC www.showroombyc.com
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16 2
45
81
B
16
27
44
20
70
82
47
21
42
34
118
83
30
26
86
73
53
49
5
84
32
4
63
77
38 62
57
14
89
92
50
34
112
61 71 103 3
87
6 88
91
93
117
115
114
34 116
ASTORIA
41
35
19 109
76
80
43
100
67
105
C
74
1
10
68
106
9 36
59
29
2
1
4
3
28
75
22
52
51
A
55 39
64
54
66
104
54
108
85
116
72
101
12
18
17
99
98 80
101
7
79
37
95
40
15
96
90
8
110
113
B
LONG ISLAND CITY
25
60
58
69
C
4
3
MAP IT DIRECTORY LUTHERAN CHURCH (C,2) 115 TRINITY 718) 278-0036
AND TEASE SALON (A,4) 72 PRIMP (718) 472-2001
31-18 37th Street, Astoria www.trinitylic.org
5-02 50th Ave, LIC
62 VARDIMAN EYEWEAR (C,2)
FITNESS
(718) 204-5037 34-18 Broadway, Astoria www.vardimaneyewear.com
YOGA ASTORIA STUDIO (C,2) 74 BIKRAM (718) 777-9642
63 VIDEO EXPRESS (C,2)
32-03 Steinway, 4th Fl, Astoria www.BikramYogaQueensNY.com
(718)626-0846 3408 30th Ave, Astoria
FITNESS (B,2) 42 CLUB (718) 545-0004
EVENTS
31-11 Broadway, Astoria www.clubfitnessny.com
64 FOUNDRY (A,3)
STUDIO (A,4) 75 CRANK (718) 606-6309
41 PERFECTLY PLANNED EVENTS ART AND FASHION (B,1)
GYM (C,1) 76 DYNAMIX (718) 606-0381
65 THE RENAISSANCE EVENT HALL (A,1)
AND SOUL OF YOGA (C,2) 77 HEART (718) 932-2567
(718) 786-7776 42-38 9TH St, LIC www.thefoundry.info
4630 Center Blvd, LIC www.CrankNYC.com 36-05 20th Ave, Astoria www.dynamixgym.com
(917) 558-7658 21-37 33rd St, Astoria www.pplannedevents.com
At 35th St. and Broadway, Astoria www.heartandsoulofyoga.com
(718) 274-4590 27-34 21st St, Astoria www.renaissanceofastoria.com
FITNESS (B,1) 78 SEEK (347) 924-9004
27-18 23rd Ave, Astoria www.seek-fitness.com
HOTELS 58 HOLIDAY INN (B,3)
FITNESS (A,4) 79 PNT (347) 396-5809
66 RAVEL (A,3)
105 RAMAKRISHNANANDA YOGA AND MEDITATION CENTER
17 Z NYC HOTEL (A,3)
73 YOGA AGORA (B,2)
(718) 707-3700 39-05 29th St, LIC www.holidayinnmanhattanview.com (718) 289-6101 8-08 Queens Plaza South, LIC www.ravelhotel.com
10-68 Jackson Ave, LIC www.pntfitness.com
1(888) 474-1218 20-29 38th Street, Astoria www.ramakrishnananda.com
80 THE YOGA ROOM (C,2)
(718) 274-0255 38-01 35th Ave, Astoria (718) 786-7962 (A,4) 10-14 47th Rd, LIC www.the-yoga-room.com
TATTOO SHOPS 67 SUPER NOVA TATTOOS (C,1) (718) 274-5712 38-01 23rd Ave, Astoria www.supernovatattoo.com
SPAS
68 PAINLESS STEEL TATTOO (C,1) (718) 267-8114 23-15 Steinway, Astoria www.astoriatattoo.com
81 REJUVENATE FACE AND BODY (B,1) (718) 626-4434 26-17 23rd Ave, Astoria www.Rejuvenatenyc.com
TRAINING (718) 389-2103 36-06 43rd Ave, LIC www.tscta.com
BEAUTY
BOHEMIAN HALL & BEER GARDEN (B,1)
PERFORMING ARTS CENTER 113 LAGUARDIA (C,3)
83
BREAK (B,2)
93
84
BRICK BAR (B,2)
94
NOGUCHI MUSEUM (A,2)
85
DOMAINE WINE BAR (A,4)
95
REISSTUDIOS (A,3)
NIGHTLIFE / BARS 116 ALEWIFE (A,4)
(718) 937-7494 5-14 51st Ave, LIC www.alewifequeens.com
106 BLACKBIRDS (C,2)
71 GIGI SALON (C,2)
(718) 777-7755 34-17 30th Ave, Astoria www.gigistylingstudio.com
18 | BOROMAG.COM | APRIL 2012
(718) 943-6899 41-19 30th Ave, Astoria www.blackbirdsbar.com
(718) 274-4925 2919 24th Ave, Astoria www.bohemianhall.com
(718) 777-5400 3204 Broadway, Astoria www.break-ny.com (718) 267-2735 30-95 33rd St, Astoria www.brickcafe.com (718) 784-2350 50-04 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.domainewinebar.com
CAFE AND LOUNGE (B,1) 111 MOSAIC (718) 728-0708 25-19 24th Ave, Astoria www.mosaicnyc.net
87 43 88 89 70
(718) 626-0680 33-02 Broadway, 2nd Fl, Astoria www.YogaAgora.com
(212) 319-7000 11-01 43rd Ave, LIC www.zhotelny.com
69 TSC TRAINING ACADEMY (C,3)
82
TANTRA LOUNGE (B,2 ) (718) 937-4574 35-50 31st St, Astoria www.Tantraloungenyc.com
ART 90
5 POINTZ (B,4)
(317) 219-2685 45-46 Davis St, LIC www.5ptz.com
ART HOUSE (C,2) 112 THE (516) 724-1562 31-06 35th St, Astoria www.gabrieleperici.com
FINE ARTS DANCE (C,1) 100 ASTORIA (718) 247-0740 38-01 23rd Ave, Astoria www.asfa-dancestudio.com
91
“An international community of established and emerging artists” (718) 570-3663 43-01 22nd St, LIC www.ReisStudios.com
THE SECRET THEATRE (B,3)
97
SOCRATES SCULPTURE PARK (A,2)
98
TEN10 STUDIOS (A,4)
99
UNDERPENNY (A,4)
SWEET AFTON (C,2 )
(718) 777-2570 30-09 34th St, Astoria www.sweetaftonbar.com
(718) 204-7088 9-01 33rd Rd, Astoria www.noguchi.org
96
STUDIO SQ. BEER GARDEN (C,3) (718) 383-1001 35-33 36th St, Astoria www.studiosquarenyc.com
(718) 784-0077 36-01 35th Ave, Astoria www.movingimage.us
44-19 Purves St, LIC www.sculpure-center.org
RAVEN HEAD PUBLIC HOUSE (C,2) (718) 777-7565 3804 Broadway, Astoria www.ravenheadpublichouse.com
MUSEUM OF THE MOVING IMAGE (C,2)
(B,3) 110 SCULPTURECENTER (718) 361-1750
RAPTURE LOUNGE (C,2) (718) 626-8044 34-27 28th Ave, Astoria www.rapturelounge.com
(718) 482-5151 31-10 Thomson Ave, LIC www.laguardiaperformingarts.org
(718) 392-0722 4402 23rd St, LIC www.secrettheatre.com
(718) 626-1533 32-01 Vernon Blvd, Astoria www.socratessculpturepark.org (646) 271-5353 10-10 47th Rd, LIC www.ten10studios.com
(917) 517-1492 10-13 50th Ave, LIC
REAL ESTATE SPACES (A,4 ) 101 MODERN (718) 784-1110
10-63 Jackson Ave, LIC 47-42 Vernon Blvd, LIC 29-20 23rd Ave, Astoria www.modernspacesnyc.com
FARGO HOME MORTGAGE (C,2) 103 WELLS (718) 310-4303 3501 30th Ave, Astoria www.wfhm.com
YARD (A,4) 104 THE 718.786.1063
2-26 51st Ave, LIC www.TheYardLIC.com
THE AURORA GALLERY (C,2) (347) 288-6870 35-18 37th St, LIC www.theauroragallery.com
HALL 107 CARNEGIE (212) 247-7800
57th St and 7th Avenue, NY www.carnegiehall.org
TOWN HALL 102 FLUSHING (718) 463-7700 x 222
GET YOUR BUSINESS LISTED!
92
Want your business listed in our directory?
137-35 Northern Blvd, Flushing www.flushingtownhall.org
KAUFMAN ASTORIA STUDIOS (C,2) (718) 706-5300 34-12 36th St, Astoria www.kaufmanastoria.com
Email: ADS@BOROmag.com
APRIL 2012 | BOROMAG.COM | 19
EATS
APRIL 2012 | BOROMAG.COM | 21
EXPLORE YOUR BORO
RENAISSANCE OF QUEEN’S PLAZA
D
Story DANIEL CROWN
on’t look now, but Long Island City’s Queens Plaza, long known as an industrial ghost town, might just be on the verge of a full-blown renaissance. Thanks in large part to an $80 million earmark in stimulus funds allocated to the Plaza in 2009, the area has received a veritable facelift in recent years. Among the highlights: a slew of new neighborhood amenities, including bike paths, plant-lined medians and a soon-toopen 1.5 acre park. According to Dana Frankel of the Long Island City Partnership (LICP), these windfalls have been a long time coming. “My impression is that people have been waiting for the area to take off for a while,” she says. “It’s a much warmer place than it used to be.” Constructed in 1909, Queens Plaza was originally intended to connect Queens Boulevard with the Queensboro Bridge. Since the early 1920s, though, the surrounding area has been mostly used for industrial purposes. According to Frankel, this has imparted upon the plaza a certain level of aesthetical coldness. “For a long time, the plaza did not have the 24/7 presence of people,” she says. “I think if you weren’t familiar with the area, it could have been a bit underwhelming.” According to Erin Piscopink, also from the LICP, the area’s turnaround began in 2001 when the NYC government decided to rezone the Plaza and parts of Jackson Avenue into the city’s fourth Central Business District. This designation allowed for the construction of high-rises and other business-friendly infrastructure, which immediately began to draw the eye of companies from all over the five boroughs. As a result, Queen’s Plaza has enticed numerous companies and governmental agencies to move in over the last ten years, including the Department of Health, CUNY Law School, Citibank and most recently, JetBlue, which settled into LIC in mid-March. In a memo released shortly after the decision, JetBlue CEO Dave Barger described the LIC area as “an exciting neighborhood filled with new development and potential.” Much of this potential, as Barger describes it, is a direct result of the area’s recent residential boom. While the properties popping up across the LIC waterfront have gotten the lion’s share of press, Queens Plaza has quietly attracted a number of noteworthy developers as well. 22 | BOROMAG.COM | APRIL 2012
AFTER
Rockrose Development plans to erect multiple residential buildings near the Plaza over the next few years – a total of nearly 1,700 apartments. The first, a $275 million behemoth located at 43-10 Crescent Street, will hold 709 units, and is scheduled to open sometime next year. Likewise, Heatherwood Communities has also purchased four residential tracts, the first of which is scheduled to open sometime in 2013. Combine these residential hotspots with the Plaza’s rapidly growing business sector and it won’t be long until Queens Plaza becomes the borough’s first true downtown district, according to Piscopink. “We’re on the ground floor,” she says, “but we’re definitely headed in that direction.” Long Island City Partnership | 27-01 Queens Plaza North 9th Floor, LIC | 718.786.5300 ext. 21 www.licpartnership.org
two Photographs above Queens Plaza upon breaking ground for new traffic pattern and park. Photo credit: long island city partnership
BEFORE
Above the brand new 1.5 acre park in the heart of queens plaza will provide a safe haven for residents and local employees of the area. Photo credit: long island city partnership Below Queens Plaza before raised subway tracks. Photo credit: long island city partnership
Photographs above queens plaza before and after. traffic patterns, bike lanes and pedestrian crossings have all been altered to create a cleaner/kinder environment. PHOTO credit: New York City Department of City Planning
APRIL 2012 | BOROMAG.COM | 23
NIGHTLIFE
24 | BOROMAG.COM | APRIL 2012
NIGHTLIFE
APRIL 2012 | BOROMAG.COM | 25
GREEN LIVING
QUEENSTHRIFT&ANTIQUEGUIDE
SECOND HAND GEMS “Thrift store”
is often used as an umbrella term for businesses that sell secondhand/vintage/antique items. But these shops can be as different from one another as a hole-in-the-wall food stand is from a Michelin-rated restaurant. While they all share an undeniable appeal, these western Queens shops vary dramatically in atmosphere, price and inventory. This guide will help discerning collectors and penny-pinchers alike! Story MATTHEW TAYLOR
THE SECOND BEST 30-07 Astoria Blvd, Astoria | 718-204-8844
If this is second best, the reigning champion must have done a lot to outdo owner Maria Corrente. Her inventory has included buffalo heads and life-size unicorn figurines during her 11 years of business. Current items include a $3,000 globe signed by its creator, Neil Blanck, and a quarter repeater valued at $14,500 that Corrente plans to put on auction.
The Second Best Thrift Shop
NOOK N’ CRANNIE
29-18 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria | 718-204-8399 | www.nookcrannie.com
When you buy antique furniture from this nonprofit shop, your money benefits Betel of America, a NYC-based organization offering a full-time residential program for people with drug and alcohol problems. Nook n’ Crannie carries a range of great vintage finds, from old library card catalogues to ornate lamps.
Nook n’ Crannie
THE FURNITURE MARKET 22-08 Astoria Blvd, Astoria | 718-545-3935
The Furniture Market
26 | BOROMAG.COM | APRIL 2012
The majority of its clients are prop masters and set designers in the film/theatre industry. But this large space, which includes a basement, has plenty to offer for people looking to furnish their homes as well. High-end dining room tables and armoires as well as more eccentric items — such as a model swordfish hanging from the ceiling — make browsing here a sure delight.
APOLLO GALLERY
34-10 36th Ave, Astoria | 718-786-7590
Owner Merita Bega says that the most difficult part of her job is selling items that she loves so much. Her passion shows when she shares her wealth of knowledge about the rare, collectible antiques she has acquired from auctions, galleries and estate sales. The store includes portraits, dining sets and cabinets dating back to 1800.
MORE LOCAL SPOTS BELLE D’EPOQUE VINTAGE 48-06 Skillman Ave, Sunnyside 917-215-0537 | www.belledepoque.com
Belle D’Epoque features fine beauty products (and smells great!) at discounted prices as well as vintage furniture.
BROADWAY THRIFT SHOP 41-14 Broadway, Astoria | 718-721-8524
This small space, run on donations, offers regular sales and discounts.
BUILD IT GREEN! NYC 3-17 26th Ave, Astoria | 718-777-0132 www.bignyc.org
Apollo Gallery
This nonprofit is known for salvaging, reusing and being creative with used materials and furniture. Good for the environment and your wallet.
CHANGES 25-09 36th Ave, Astoria | 718-482-9677 www.hourchildren.com
This antique shop is owned by the LIC-based Hour Children, which focuses on care for children with incarcerated mothers. It carries a great selection of furniture. Hour Children also runs a thrift shop and a clothing store nearby.
GOODNESS GRACIOUS THRIFT SHOPPE 30-13 30th Ave, Astoria | 718-777-0494
Scavenger hunt for clothing… there are gems in this shop! Proceeds go to the Romanian Church’s charity, helping the homeless.
JUST THINGS Stray Vintage
47-28 Vernon Blvd, LIC | 917-558-4869 www.justthingslic.com
STRAY VINTAGE
This 30-year-old staple has a selection that ranges from chic to delightfully quirky. Items are consistently well priced.
Dan and Tara Glasser combined an appreciation for vintage items with a desire to support local artists when they opened Stray in 2006. One example: an antique winepress sits near a local jewelry maker’s recent creations — earrings and tie clips made out of typewriter keys. As Tara explained, “We only sell items that we wouldn’t mind being stuck with for the rest of our lives.”
LOVEDAY 31 VINTAGE
48-09 Skillman Ave, Sunnyside | 718-779-7795 | strayvintage.wordpress.com
33-06 31st Ave, Astoria | 718-728-4057 www.loveday31.com
This women’s clothing boutique is full of wellpriced vintage items. Unlike most thrift shops, there is no junk to sort through here — every item is an exciting find! APRIL 2012 | BOROMAG.COM | 27
HEALTH, FITNESS & BEAUTY
28 | BOROMAG.COM | APRIL 2012
HEALTH, FITNESS & BEAUTY
APRIL 2012 | BOROMAG.COM | 29
SHOPS
MARK YOUR CALENDAR! THURSDAY, APRIL 19 FROM 6-9PM
CELEBRATE SITE’S
BIRTHDAY IN STYLE! BORO will be sponsoring a 5th anniversary party for SITE, an Astoria boutique specializing in colorful, handmade items that make for great gifts and home décor, on Thursday, April 19 from 6-9 p.m. We’ve got all the ingredients for a great birthday bash: a DJ, drinks, locally made snacks, a special photo booth and 20% discounts on goodies. With the event right around the corner, we sat down with SITE owner Mackenzi Farquer to find out exactly what it takes to put together a successful local business. Story by MATTHEW TAYLOR
interview with MACKENZI FARQUER
BORO: What are three key things a new business needs? MACKENZI: A solid marketing plan, boundless enthusiasm for the business idea and flexibility. More than anything, opening a business means lots of stress, little money and no free time in the beginning. Do whatever you can in advance to make those factors more manageable. You’re going to need a rock solid support structure! BORO: What was your biggest lesson as a young entrepreneur? MACKENZI: The biggest lesson most businesses will learn is “change or die.” Customers, trends and neighborhoods all change, and if you don’t change with them, you’ll fall behind. Had I not learned to incorporate items that weren’t in my initial concept for SITE, I would have lost out on some amazing customers and artists whom I now love and adore. 30 | BOROMAG.COM | APRIL 2012
BORO: What are customer needs unique to our area that business owners should be aware of ? MACKENZI: The community needs more of everything! Astoria is a thriving, vibrant neighborhood, but we’re lacking so much still. Where are our indie bookstores, well-designed clothing stores and veggie cafés? The more we change and grow, the more amazing people will want to move into and work in our community. BORO: What does a niche business need to do to be successful? MACKENZI: A niche business needs to know its audience. As I planned my shop in 2006, I could see that Astoria was changing and that it would make a great home for my indie-shopping concept. So, ask around, walk the neighborhood and talk to residents before you open. I would sit for hours at Café Bar and watch the activity on 34th Ave. before I decided it would make a great home for SITE. SITE | 35-11 34th Avenue, Astoria | 718-626-6030 www.sitenyc.com
BORO DEALS & DISCOUNTS Be local and enjoy the below offers from some of Astoria and LIC’s best merchants. Offers available through April 30, 2012. Bring BORO or coupon below to redeem discount. Limited to 1 use per reader. Merchant restrictions may apply.
FREE Churros Dessert with meal.
1 FREE Glass of wine or dessert with your
1 FREE DRINK and comedy show with
10% OFF your bill with this ad.
15% OFF your next visit..
1 FREE Signature Cocktail with your meal.
meal (sun-thurs).
meal on Tuesday nights 9PM-Closing.
WINEGASM 1 FREE glass of wine with your meal.
$20 OFF any 6 foot natural heroe sandwich. $79.99 for the RCN bundle package
(Digital TV and High-Speed internet).
LOCALE 10% OFF all wine purchases with this coupon.
1 FREE Glass of Wine or Dessert with meal. Redeemable mon-thurs. Limited to select wines.
Excludes prix fixe.
1 COMPLIMENTARY glass of wine with your meal. Redeemable mon-thurs.
FREE dance or fitness class for new students
Complimentary Blowout for first
15% OFF entire purchase.
$39 Intro Special: 1 month unlimited
2 weeks unlimited classes for $40.
Start the 12 week Body Transformation Program for just $97 down. off your first month.
Save $5 on select winter concerts.
15% OFF all hourly legal fees.
1 FREE Class for new students only.
$49 for 1 month unlimited yoga and pilates
Want to learn more about advertising? Call us at (914) 426-2939.
with ad @ Astoria Fine Arts Dance.
classes.
Call 212-570-3949 and mention BORO.
classes. Offer only available to New students.
time color clients (tues-thurs).
SAVE $52