VOL 2:09 AUGUST 2012
BITES OF WISDOM: Advice from local successful restaurateurs pg. 8
ARTIST ABUNDANT: 4 Fresh Local Artists pg. 22
SPOTLIGHT ON ACTORS: Lights, Camera, Action pg. 26
sid LI ts e C,
WESTERN QUEENS: The New Bohemia pg. 6
CREATE // CULTIVATE // INSPIRE
DI GR S E at C O AT in the A b UN s e Su tor st TS nn ia sp o y ,
ASTORIA // LIC // SUNNYSIDE
2 | BOROMAG.COM | AUGUST 2012
AUGUST 2012 | BOROMAG.COM | 3
FOOD
FEATURES 6 WESTERN QUEENS: THE NEW BOHEMIA Are we finally growing out of those awkward teenage years?
8 BITES OF WISDOM Advice from local successful restaurateurs
22 ARTIST ABUNDANT 4 fresh local artist
26 SPOTLIGHT ON ACTORS Lights, camera, action
28 MUSICIANS WELCOME Talent rings true
DEPARTMENTS 12 AUGUST 2012 EVENTS 15 MAP IT DIRECTORY Your Go-to Guide For Astoria, LIC and Sunnyside’s best shops, food, art, nightlife and More.
16 MAP IT: ASTORIA, LIC & SUNNYSIDE MAP 32 DISCOUNTS & PROMO PAGE Exclusive savings, discounts and freebies for the month of August in Astoria, LIC and Sunnyside.
COVER: Design by Emma Cason-Pratt.
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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 AND PUBLISHED 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.
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AUGUST 2012 | BOROMAG.COM | 5
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
Western Queens
As the New Bohemia Story JULIAN LESSER
I
t’s hard not to immediately envision Greenwich Village in the 1950’s and 1960’s when thinking about New York City’s quintessential bohemian neighborhood. Fifty years worth of folklore has etched the images of beatniks and troubadours permanently into our psyches, and because of this, the Village of the mid-20th century has long served as the iconic sanctuary for the original American counterculture. “It was to Greenwich Village that people like me went,” artist Suzan Rotolo wrote in her 2008 memoir about life in the Village during the 1960’s. “People who knew in their souls that they didn’t belong where they came from.”
During the Village’s peak, residents like Rotolo probably assumed the neighborhood would never change. Modern bohemians know better. The truth is that NYC’s cultural epicenter is forever on the move. SoHo, TriBeCa, Williamsburg, Greenpoint, Bushwick – they’ve all had their turn as the capital of NYC’s artistic scene.
Could Western Queens be next? You could make the argument that we’re already there. Are we the Village in its prime? Maybe, maybe not. What is for certain, however, is that there are few places in NYC that can rival Western Queens in terms of opportunity and hospitality for artists of all kinds, be they fledgling novelists, working graphic designers or wellseasoned sculptors. 6 | BOROMAG.COM | AUGUST 2012
Our neighborhood offers all three of the key factors required to attract and retain inventive people: affordable rent, abundant workspace and like-minded neighbors. Ask any longtime resident of Astoria or Long Island City and they’ll quickly tell you that these boons have drawn countless creative types to the area in recent years. Painters, musicians, writers and comedians all continue to flock to our neighborhood at an unprecedented rate. And where people live, they play. As our borough has evolved over the last decade, we’ve seen a deluge of new entertainment and exhibition venues open, including but not limited to: comedy clubs, galleries, classical theaters, movie studios and performance-friendly coffee houses. Still, you can’t help but see the writing on the wall. If we’ve learned anything from our bohemian predecessors, it’s that these things tend to peter out just as soon as they’re noticed. No doubt our time as a bohemian sanctuary will prove every bit as temporary as those that have come and gone before us. Fortunately for those of us that already live here, we seem to be in just the right place at just the right time. And for artists, there’s never been a better time to live in Western Queens.
Visit www.BOROmag.com for more stories about new developments in Western Queens.
AUGUST 2012 | BOROMAG.COM | 7
FOOD
William Hallet
William Hallet
Bites of Wisdom Story + Photos BRADLEY HAWKS
Opening a restaurant in New York is no easy feat, let alone launching one that becomes a success and maybe even one day a neighborhood cornerstone. That’s why we went to the experts, interviewing three successful local restaurants for their perspective on what it takes to make it in Western Queens. William Hallet & Hell Gate Social George Rallis, Chef-Owner
William Hallet unifies the talents of two already successful chefs of popular neighborhood joints. Now celebrating its first birthday, as well as the introduction of a new outdoor seating area, the restaurant is a can’t miss local staple, especially on “Meat Market Mondays,” where you can bring your own choice cuts from the International Meat Market next door to be prepared and served with sides and a drink for just $15. Both you and your business partner already had successful locations before William Hallet. How was this venture different from Hell Gate Social or Bistro 33? For me, it’s different because at HGS it was more about the bar scene and backyard and less the food, while here we try to make the food the main focus with the bar scene being a close second. When it comes to Gary, he had to adjust to the food working with the bar scene as opposed to the food being the focal point as it is at Bistro 33. 8 | BOROMAG.COM | AUGUST 2012
What makes your patrons unique? We get a steady stream of restaurant industry people in here, since we have dinner to midnight every night and a late night menu until 4 a.m. Late night at Hallet offers not only food but also a great place to enjoy drinks, good music and a chill crowd. I would say our clientele is [primarily] late 20’s to mid 30’s who work in the industry and also in theater and film, both on stage and behind the stage. Your brunch is continually evolving. How critical is brunch service to the success of a new restaurant in Astoria? It’s just as important as lunch and dinner. But you need to be innovative when you do brunch, because anyone can poach an egg and throw it on top of Canadian bacon. You need to give people something they won’t find at another place, and serve it with a great cup of coffee or excellent Bloody Mary. How is collaborating with another chef-owner different from steering the ship independently? It’s different due to the fact that you have someone to bounce ideas off of and can come up with something different than you originally intended to. Although there is the occasional disagreement, it ultimately leads to better ideas. What advice would you give a new restaurant owner looking to open a business in Astoria? It’s not easy; you need to find a niche, with something that no one else is doing and knock it out of the park. William Hallet | 36-10 30th Ave, Astoria 718-269-3443 | www.williamhallet.com Hell Gate Social | 12-21 Astoria Blvd. LIC. 718-204-8313 | www.hellgatesocial.com
Brick Café
Brick Café Zoran Matkovic, General Manager
Brick Café has been serving 31st Ave. in Astoria long before it started blossoming as one of the major culinary arteries in the neighborhood. As one of the few longtime favorites in the area – and featuring one of the largest sidewalk cafes – we decided to ask General Manager Zoran Matkovic about Brick’s recipe for success, and how it stays relevant. How has the changing culinary scene on 31st Ave. impacted Brick Café? When Brick opened 13 years ago, it was the only restaurant of its kind in the neighborhood. The recent changes on 31st Ave. have helped us even further define our menu and what we have to offer to our patrons. How would you describe your patrons? Our patrons are from Queens, mostly Astoria, many with families outside of Astoria who they bring to Brick when they visit, especially for holidays. How important are elements such as décor and design to a restaurant’s success? They are vital to a restaurant’s success because they add to the overall atmosphere. With every seasonal change and holiday we add decorations and decor pieces to emphasize the spirit of the upcoming season or holiday. With the introduction of a talented new chef, how do you keep longtime regulars happy, yet also allow him the freedom to put his own stamp on the menu?
Brick Café
Brick Café
We’ve designed a new menu that we hope entices new people, but we did keep some fan favorites on the menu for our longtime customers. Chef Thomas Gloster has brought a lot of new dishes and flare to the menu, but he also knows it’s important to cook to your audience and not your ego. His culinary freedom can best be displayed on the daily specials, which always change with seasonal ingredients. What advice would you give a new restaurant owner looking to open a business in Astoria? You should have a good feeling for the area. Astoria is culturally diverse and very unique. The menu and design of the restaurant has to fit the demand of the patrons in the area and have its own unique twist. Brick Cafe | 30-95 33rd St, Astoria 718-267-2735 | www.brickcafe.com AUGUST 2012 | BOROMAG.COM | 9
FOOD
Salt & Fat
Salt & Fat Chef-Owner, Daniel Yi
Having grown up in Sunnyside, Chef Daniel Yi knows the neighborhood isn’t necessarily known for its culinary scene. But with the introduction of Salt & Fat, one of the first local restaurants to emphasize innovation, Yi is helping usher in a definite change on the food front. What was the inspiration for such a great name? Even though salt and fat are associated with unhealthy eating, they aren’t necessarily bad or unhealthy ingredients. They are actually the backbone of anything and everything that is tasty and delicious. Yes, we do have salty and fatty things on the menu, but we also have many light and refreshing items, and I think that really surprises some of the guests. You have experience cooking in some very successful New York establishments. What is the biggest different about being the actual owner? When I was just a chef, I was completely focused on the food and only the food. Now I have to take care of the bullshit stuff that comes with being an owner: paperwork, errands, telephone calls, emails – boring stuff. I am a control freak, so my biggest challenge was giving up some control to my staff. I am thankful to have such a strong and devoted crew. 10 | BOROMAG.COM | AUGUST 2012
Salt & Fat
How would you describe the culinary scene in Sunnyside? It’s still in its early stages. I feel there is a ton of potential in the neighborhood for a thriving food scene. I know the residents are open to it. Because of the diverse background in Sunnyside, the audience is definitely there; it just hasn’t grown to its full potential yet. Your menu is constantly evolving, with several favorites enduring. What’s one of the newer dishes you think guests should give a chance? Because we are constantly trying to create new dishes all the time, I wish my guests would come with an open mind and order things they wouldn’t normally order. I know our guests can’t like everything they try, but as long as they can appreciate what we are trying to do, that’s all that matters for me. What advice would you give a new restaurant owner looking to open a business in Sunnyside? The best advice I can give to a new restaurant owner is to be true to your craft and cook with integrity. When it becomes only about making a profit, then the restaurant will fail. Salt & Fat | 41-16 Queens Blvd, Sunnyside 718-443-3702 | www.saltandfatny.com
Visit www.BOROmag.com/food for more stories about food in Western Queens.
AUGUST 2012 | BOROMAG.COM | 11
FOOD
AUGUST EVENTS 8/3 5:30PM-8PM (MUSEUM)
FIRST FRIDAYS: SUMMER IN THE GARDEN FREE | The Noguchi Museum 718-204-7088 | 32-37 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.noguchi.org
8/3 9PM-11:30PM (MUSIC)
8/11 1PM-8PM (FASHION)
REBEL CHIC NYC JEWELRY TRUNK SHOW & CRUEL SUMMER SALE FREE | Loveday 31 718-728-4057 | 33-06 31st Ave, Astoria www.loveday31.com
8/19 @ 8:30AM (BODY+SOUL)
FREE YOGA IN THE PARK
FREE | Anthea Yoga & Healing Arts Center 718-606-0049 | Astoria Park-Great Lawn Area www.antheacenter.com
8/22 @ 6PM (NIGHTLIFE+ENTERTAINMENT)
LIVE MUSIC-SEAN NOWELL TRIO
8/12 10:30AM-12PM (BODY+SOUL)
www.thequeenskickshaw.com
$25 | PNT Group Fitness & Cycling 347-396-5809 | 10-68 Jackson Ave, LIC
FREE ENTRY; $5 DRINK SPECIALS | Manducatis Rustica 718-937-1312 | 46-35 Vernon Blvd, LIC
BRAZILIAN PARTY
8/12 @ 3PM (MUSIC)
8/23 9PM-12AM (MUSIC)
www.cafebarastoria.com
FREE W/MUSEUM ADMISSION | The Noguchi Museum 718-204-7088 | 32-37 Vernon Blvd, LIC
FREE | The Queens Kickshaw 718-777-0913 | 40-17 Broadway, Astoria 8/3 @ 10PM (NIGHTLIFE+ENTERTAINMENT) FREE | Monika’s Café Bar 718-204-5273 | 32-90 36th St, Astoria 8/5 12PM-4PM (SHOPPING)
SUMMER LUVIN POP-UP SHOP FREE | Design For You 32-04b Broadway, Astoria www.designforyou.biz
8/5 @ 5PM (THEATRE)
HIP TO HIP THEATRE’S “HAMLET” FREE | Socrates Sculpture Park 32-05 Vernon Blvd, LIC
www.facebook.com/HipToHipTheatre
8/6 4PM-2AM (FOOD+DRINK)
BEER & BACON ALL NIGHT HAPPY HOUR FREE | Rest-Au-Rant 718-729-90009 | 30-01 35th Ave, LIC www.rarbarlic.com
8/8 @ 8PM (NIGHTLIFE+ENTERTAINMENT)
THE BIG THING
$10 | Laughing Devil Comedy Club 347-91-DEVIL | 47-38 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.laughingdevil.com
8/9 @ 6PM (NIGHTLIFE+ENTERTAINMENT)
FLAMENCO NIGHT
FREE ENTRY; $25 PRE-FIX MENU INCLUDING 1 COCKTAIL | Manducatis Rustica 718-937-1312 | 46-35 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.manducatisrustica.com
8/10 6PM-8:30PM (DRINK)
AMAZING AUSTRALIA WINE TASTING
OUTDOOR BOOTCAMP www.pntfitness.com
SECOND SUNDAY: MUSIC IN THE GARDEN FEATURING ANDY AKIHO
KARAOKE FAMILY NIGHT
www.manducatisrustica.com
LIVE MUSIC-BEECHER’S FAULT
FREE | Rest-Au-Rant 718-729-90009 | 30-01 35th Ave, LIC www.rarbarlic.com
www.noguchi.org
8/24 9PM-11:30PM (MUSIC)
8/12 @ 8PM (NIGHTLIFE+ENTERTAINMENT)
SITCOMS BLOW
FREE | The Queens Kickshaw 718-777-0913 | 40-17 Broadway, Astoria
www.laughingdevil.com
8/25 1-4PM (BODY+SOUL)
$15 | Laughing Devil Comedy Club 347-91-DEVIL | 47-38 Vernon Blvd, LIC
LIVE MUSIC-BABY SODA
www.thequeenskickshaw.com
8/16 7-10PM (FOOD)
LEARN FROM THE PROS: MIXED MARTIAL ARTS SEMINAR
FREE | Food Cellar & Co. Market 718-606-9786 | 4-85 47th Rd, LIC
www.tightan.com
4TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION www.foodcellarandco.com
8/16 9PM-12AM (MUSIC)
LIVE MUSIC-JULIE CORBALIS
FREE | Rest-Au-Rant 718-729-90009 | 30-01 35th Ave, LIC www.rarbarlic.com
FREE | Tightan Gym 718-274-1606 | 31-21 31st St, Astoria 8/25+8/26 @ 6PM (FILM)
SEE IT BIG! BLUE VELVET
$12; $9/SENIORS/STUDENTS; FREE/MEMBERS | Museum of the Moving Image 718-777-6800 | 36-01 35th Ave, Astoria www.movingimage.us
8/17 6:30PM-7:30PM (BODY+SOUL)
WORKOUT & WINE
$22 | PNT Group Fitness & Cycling 347-396-5809 | 10-68 Jackson Ave, LIC www.pntfitness.com
8/17 @ 7PM (NIGHTLIFE+ENTERTAINMENT)
JAZZ NIGHT
FREE ENTRY | Manducatis Rustica 718-937-1312 | 46-35 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.manducatisrustica.com
FREE | Astoria Park Wine & Spirits 718-606-1142 | 28-07 24th Ave, Astoria www.astoriaparkwineandspirits.com
8/10 @ 7PM (FILM)
SPECIAL PREVIEW SCREENING OF COMPLIANCE W/DIRECTOR CRAIG SOBEL IN PERSON $15; $9/MEMBERS | Museum of the Moving Image 718-777-6800 | 36-01 35th Ave, Astoria
8/26 10:30AM-12PM (BODY+SOUL)
OUTDOOR BOOTCAHMP
$25 | PNT Group Fitness & Cycling 347-396-5809 | 10-68 Jackson Ave, LIC
www.movingimage.us
8/10 @ 7:30PM (THEATRE)
HIP TO HIP THEATRE’S “THE COMEDY OF ERRORS” FREE | Sunnyside Gardens Park 48-21 39th Ave, Sunnyside
www.facebook.com/HipToHipTheatre
8/10 @ 9PM (NIGHTLIFE+ENTERTAINMENT)
GYPSY MUSIC NIGHT
FREE | Monika’s Café Bar 718-204-5273 | 32-90 36th St, Astoria www.cafebarastoria.com
8/11 @ 12PM (EDUCATION)
INWOOD PARK WALKING TOUR
$15/MEMBERS; $20/NONMEMBERS | Greater Astoria Historical Society 718-278-0700 | Meet at Dyckman/200 St Station. www.astorialic.org
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8/17 @ 7PM (FILM)
SEE IT BIG! TAXI DRIVER
$12; $9/SENIORS/STUDENTS; FREE/MEMBERS | Museum of the Moving Image 718-777-6800 | 36-01 35th Ave, Astoria www.movingimage.us
www.pntfitness.com
8/26 @ 8PM (NIGHTLIFE+ENTERTAINMENT)
SHE-DEVILS
$20| Laughing Devil Comedy Club 347-91-DEVIL | 47-38 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.laughingdevil.com
8/17 9PM-11:30PM (MUSIC)
8/31 @ 7PM (FILM)
FREE | The Queens Kickshaw 718-777-0913 | 40-17 Broadway, Astoria
$12; $9/SENIORS/STUDENTS; FREE/MEMBERS | Museum of the Moving Image 718-777-6800 | 36-01 35th Ave, Astoria
LIVE MUSIC-SCONE KALB BERNARD TRIO www.thequeenskickshaw.com
8/18 @ 5PM (FILM)
FIST AND SWORD: WARRIORS OF THE RAINBOW: SEEDIQ BALE
$12; $9/SENIORS/STUDENTS; FREE/MEMBERS | Museum of the Moving Image 718-777-6800 | 36-01 35th Ave, Astoria www.movingimage.us
SEE IT BIG! DOCTOR ZHIVAGO
www.movingimage.us
8/30 9PM-12AM (MUSIC)
LIVE MUSIC-HIRO SUZUKI’S BLUES BAND FREE | Rest-Au-Rant 718-729-90009 | 30-01 35th Ave, LIC www.rarbarlic.com
AUGUST EVENTS LIVE MUSIC-SIX DEADLY VENOMS
EVERY MONDAY NIGHT (NIGHTLIFE+ENTERTAINMENT)
EVERY THURSDAY @9PM (NIGHTLIFE+ENTERTAINMENT)
www.thequeenskickshaw.com
NO COVER | Winegasm Bar & Eatery 718-932-3331| 31-86 37th St, Astoria
NO COVER | Winegasm Bar & Eatery 718-932-3331| 31-86 37th St, Astoria
ONGOING
EVERY TUESDAY @ 7PM (NIGHLIFE+ENTERTAINMENT)
8/31 9PM-11:30PM (MUSIC)
FREE | The Queens Kickshaw 718-777-0913 | 40-17 Broadway, Astoria
8/3-8/5 (FILM)
RURAL ROUTE FILM FESTIVAL
$12; $9/SENIORS/STUDENTS; FREE/MEMBERS | Museum of the Moving Image 718-777-6800 | 36-01 35th Ave, Astoria www.movingimage.us
8/5, 8/12, 8/19, 8/26 9AM-12PM (FOOD)
HELLGATE FARM STAND
FREE | The Queens Kickshaw 718-777-0913 | 40-17 Broadway, Astoria www.thequeenskickshaw.com
RAINBOW MONDAYS
www.winegasmeatery.com
TRIVIA NIGHT WITH HOST JARED HORNBECK FREE | Raven’s Head Public House 718-777-7565 | 28-04 Broadway, Astoria www.ravensheadpublichouse.com
EVERY TUESDAY 7PM-9PM (BODY+SOUL)
COMMUNITY NIGHT: HALF-PRICE CLASSES $12 | PNT Group Fitness & Cycling 347-396-5809 | 10-68 Jackson Ave, LIC www.pntfitness.com
EVERY TUESDAY @ 8:30PM (NIGHTLIFE+ENTERTAINTMENT)
TRIVIA NIGHT
FREE | Break Bar & Billiards 718-777-5400 | 32-04 Broadway, Astoria
LIVE JAM @ WINEGASM
www.winegasmeatery.com
EVERY FRIDAY @7PM (THEATRE)
THE HOUSE
$5 | The Secret Theatre 718-392-0722 | 44-02 23rd St, LIC www.secrettheatre.com
EVERY SUNDAY @7PM (THEATRE)
IMPROVIUS MAXIMUS
$10 | The Secret Theatre 718-392-0722 | 44-02 23rd St, LIC www.secrettheatre.com
Find more August events at www.BOROmag.com/Events
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
8/5, 8/12, & 8/19 (FAMILY)
ASTORIA PARK SHORE FEST FREE | Build It Green!NYC www.greenshoresnyc.org
EVERY WEDNESDAY @ 8PM (NIGHTLIFE+ENTERTAINMENT)
MOVIE NIGHT
FREE | Raven’s Head Public House 718-777-7565 | 28-04 Broadway, Astoria www.ravensheadpublichouse.com
AUGUST 2012 | BOROMAG.COM | 13
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MAP IT DIRECTORY RESTAURANTS 116
ALEWIFE (A,4) (718) 937-7494 5-14 51st Ave, LIC www.alewifequeens.com
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 (718) 204-7167 23-01 31 St, Astoria www.bareburger.com
86
18
91
19
20
LOCALE (B,2) (718) 729-9080 33-02 34th Ave, LIC www.localeastoria.com
34
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
MANDUCATIS RUSTICA (A,4) (718) 937-1312 46-3 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.manducatisrustica.com
40
METRO FOOD BAR AND LOUNGE (C,2) (718) 638-7669 26-50 BQE West, Woodside www.metrobarlounge.com
MALU (A,4) (718) 729-6258 12-09 Jackson Ave, LIC www.amomandpopshop.com
37
SWEETLEAF (A,4) (917) 832-6726 10-93 Jackson Ave, LIC www.sweetleaflic.com
MEXIQ (C,2) (718) 626-0333 37-11 30th Ave, Astoria www.mexiqny.com ORNELLA TRATTORIA ITALIANA (B,1) (718) 777-9477 29-17 23rd Ave, Astoria www.ornellatrattoria.com
39
5
BRICK CAFE (B,2) (718) 267-2735 30-95 33rd St, Astoria www.brickcafe.com
22
7
BREAD BOX CAFE (A,4) (718) 389-9700 4711 11th St, LIC www.breadboxcafelic.com
PENTHOUSE808 (A,3) (718) 289-6118 8-08 Queens Plaza South, LIC www.penthouse808rooftop.com
PAN (C,2) 109 PITA (718) 204-1633
26
BURGER CLUB (B,2) (718) 777-7788 32-02 30th Ave, Astoria www.burger-club.com
69
8
BURGER GARAGE (B,3) (718) 392-0424 25-36 Jackson Ave, LIC www.theburgergarage.com
PORTALIA RISTORANTE (B,2) (718) 545-3500 35-03 Broadway, Astoria www.portalianyc.com
74
45
BUTCHER BAR (C,2) (718) 606-8140 37-08 30th Ave, Astoria www.ButcherBar.com
QUEENS COMFORT (C,2) 718-728-2350 40-09 30th Ave, Astoria www.queenscomfort.com
BABYNOIR (B,1) (646) 470-4728 26-16 23rd Ave, Astoria www.babynoir.net
1
47
INSIDE ASTORIA (C,1) (718) 956-4000 28-07 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria
9
CAVO (C,2) (718) 721-1001 42-18 31st Ave, Astoria www.cavoastoria.com
QUEENS KICKSHAW (C,2) (718) 777-0913 40-17 Broadway, Astoria www.thequeenskickshaw.com
24
87
CAFÉ BAR (C,2) (718) 204-5273 32-90 36th St, Astoria www.cafebarastoria.com
RÈST-ÂÜ-RÁNT (B,2) (718) 729-9009 30-01 35th Ave, Astoria www.rarbarlic.com
25
10
CAFÉ VIA ESPRESSO (C,1) (718) 545-3290 2409 Steinway St, Astoria www.cafeviaespressoastoria.com
SAGE GENERAL STORE (B,4) (718) 361-0707 24-20 Jackson Ave, LIC www.sagegeneralstore.com
SKINNY’S (A,4) 718-806-1068 47-05 Center Blvd, LIC
FOOD CELLAR (A,4) (718) 606-9786 4-85 47th Rd., LIC www.foodcellarandco.com
SHOPS
37-15 30th Ave, Astoria www.pitapanny.com
55
(C,2) 106 STUDIO34 (718) 728-2495
PETS
COURT VET (C,2) 52 STEINWAY (718) 728-2822
MUNDO (B,2) (718) 777-2829 31-18 Broadway, Astoria www.mundoastoria.com
DINER 24/7 @ Z HOTEL (A,3) (212) 319-7000 11-01 43rd Ave, LIC www.zhotelny.com
35-11 34th Ave, Astoria www.sitenyc.com
ASTORIA WINE AND SPIRITS (C,2) (718) 545-9463 3412 Broadway, Astoria www.astoriawines.com
21
17
(C,2) 50 SITE (718) 626-6030
VET (A,4) 51 CITY (718) 433-1334
BEAR (A,2) (917) 396-4939 12-14 31st Ave, Astoria www.bearnyc.com
SHI (A,4) (347) 242-2450 4720 Center Blvd, LIC www.eatdrinkshi.com
3306 31st Ave, Astoria www.loveday31.com
ASTORIA PARK WINE AND SPIRITS (B,1) 28-07 24th Ave, Astoria www.astoriaparkwineandspirits.com
38
28
31 (B,2) 49 LOVEDAY (718) 728-4057
27
OVELIA (B,2) (718) 721-7217 34-01 30th Ave, Astoria www.ovelia-ny.com
35
2401 23rd Ave, Astoria www.kristeesny.com
32-90 34th Ave, Astoria
FOOD SHOPS
61
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(B,1) 48 KRISTEES (718) 204-5031
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APOLLO GALLERY (C,2) (718) 786-7590 34-10 36th Ave, Astoria
44
BELIEF (B,1) (718) 721-4444 29-20b 23rd Ave, Astoria www.beliefnyc.com
45-44 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.cityvetnyc.com
32-14R Steinway, Astoria www.steinwaycourtvet.com
FLORISTS (A,4) 54 FLORESTA (917) 612-4446
51-02 Vernon Blvd, LIC 4-85 47th Rd, LIC www.florestanyc.com/blog
SUGAR FREAK (C,2)
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
30
THYMARI (B,2) (718) 204-2280 32-07 34th Ave, Astoria www.thymari.com
13
FATTY’S (B,1) (718) 267-7071 2501 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria www.fattyscafenyc.com
31
VESTA (A,2) (718) 545-5550 2102 30th Ave, Astoria www.vestavino.com
14
IL BAMBINO (C,2) (718) 626-0087 34-08 31 Ave, Astoria www.ilbambinonyc.com
29
WILLIAM HALLET (C,2) (718) 269-3443 36-10 30th Ave, Astoria www.williamhallet.com
36
L’ARTISTE (C,2) (646) 309-7504 42-20 31st Ave, Astoria www.lartisterestaurant.com
BAR AND EATERY (C,2) 117 WINEGASM (718) 932-3331
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LENG THAI (B,2) (718) 956-7117 33-09 Broadway, Astoria www.lengthainewyork.com
32
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LIC MARKET (B,4) (718) 361-0013 21-52 44th Dr, LIC www.licmarket.com
16
LINN (B,2) (718) 204-0060 2913 Broadway, Astoria www.linnrestaurant.com
726-5850 116 (718) 36-18 30th Ave, Astoria www.sugarfreak.com
31-86 37th Rd, Astoria www.winegasmeatery.com
YAJAI (B,2) (718) 956-9559 33-16 30th Ave, Astoria www.yajaithaifood.com
BAKERIES 33
ASTOR BAKE SHOP (A,2) (718) 606-8439 12-23 Astoria Blvd, Astoria www.astor-bakeshop.com
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SERVICES ARK LOCKSMITH 24/7 SERVICE (C,2)
114 (718) 932-LOCK (5625) 30-10 37th st, Astoria www.Astorialocksmith.com CATS EYE PROMOS (A,2)
41 (718) 956-8600
28-14 14th St, Astoria www.catseyepromos.com HERO COMPUTER REPAIR NYC
56 Apple/Mac Computer Repair Specialist
BEAUTY GIGI SALON (C,2)
71 (718) 777-7755
34-17 30th Ave, Astoria www.gigistylingstudio.com
5-02 50th Ave, LIC REDKEN SALOON (C,2) 36-17 30th Ave, Astoria www.redkensaloon.com
IOBY(IN OUR BACKYARDS)
FITNESS
41 East 11th St, 3rd Floor NY www.ioby.org
58
3403 Broadway, Ste. 200, Astoria www.mpnfirm.com RCN (A,3)
59 Digital TV and High-Speed Internet Services 33-16 Woodside Ave, LIC (212) 842-7981 www.rcn.com/boromag VARDIMAN EYEWEAR (C,2)
63
VIDEO EXPRESS (C,2) (718)626-0846 3408 30th Ave, Astoria
31-11 Broadway, Astoria www.clubfitnessny.com
36-05 20th Ave, Astoria www.dynamixgym.com
THE RENAISSANCE EVENT HALL (A,1)
At 35th St. and Broadway, Astoria www.heartandsoulofyoga.com
PNT FITNESS (A,4) 10-68 Jackson Ave, LIC www.pntfitness.com TIGHTAN GYM
60 (718) 274-1606
31-21 31st St, Astoria www.tightan.com YOGA AGORA (B,2)
73 (718) 626-0680
33-02 Broadway, 2nd Fl, Astoria www.YogaAgora.com
HOTELS RAVEL (A,3)
THE YOGA ROOM (C,2)
80 (718) 274-0255
38-01 35th Ave, Astoria (718) 786-7962 (A,4) 10-14 47th Rd, LIC www.the-yoga-room.com
8-08 Queens Plaza South, LIC www.ravelhotel.com Z NYC HOTEL (A,3)
17 (212) 319-7000
11-01 43rd Ave, LIC www.zhotelny.com
TATTOO SHOPS
88
89
70
SEEK FITNESS (B,1) (347) 924-9004 27-18 23rd Ave, Astoria www.seek-fitness.com
79 (347) 396-5809
27-34 21st St, Astoria www.renaissanceofastoria.com
66 (718) 289-6101
43
HEART AND SOUL OF YOGA (C,2)
77 (718) 932-2567
42-38 9TH St, LIC www.thefoundry.info
65 (718) 274-4590
111
CROSSFIT DYNAMIX GYM (C,1)
76 (718) 606-0381
78
FOUNDRY (A,3)
68
CLUB FITNESS (B,2)
EVENTS 64 (718) 786-7776
ANTHEA YOGA&HEALING ARTS CENTER (C,2) (718) 606-0049 34-01 45th Street, Astoria www.antheacenter.com
42 (718) 545-0004
62 (718) 204-5037
34-18 Broadway, Astoria www.vardimaneyewear.com
85
46 (718) 956-3366
119 (917) 464-4515
MPN LAW FIRM (C,2)
84
PRIMP AND TEASE SALON (A,4)
72 (718) 472-2001
347-670-4376 hero@iamhero.net | www.iamhero.net
57 (718) 777-0400
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SUPER NOVA TATTOOS (C,1)
67 (718) 274-5712
38-01 23rd Ave, Astoria www.supernovatattoo.com
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NOGUCHI MUSEUM (A,2) (718) 204-7088 9-01 33rd Rd, Astoria www.noguchi.org REISSTUDIOS (A,3) “An international community of established and emerging artists” (718) 570-3663 43-01 22nd St, LIC www.ReisStudios.com
DOMAINE WINE BAR (A,4) (718) 784-2350 50-04 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.domainewinebar.com
110 (718) 361-1750
LAUGHING DEVIL (A,4) (347) 913-3845 4738 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.laughingdevil.com
96
MOSAIC CAFE AND LOUNGE (B,1) (718) 728-0708 25-19 24th Ave, Astoria www.mosaicnyc.net
97
RAVEN HEAD PUBLIC HOUSE (C,2) (718) 777-7565 3804 Broadway, Astoria www.ravenheadpublichouse.com
98
STUDIO SQ. BEER GARDEN (C,3) (718) 383-1001 35-33 36th St, Astoria www.studiosquarenyc.com
99
SCULPTURECENTER (B,3) 44-19 Purves St, LIC www.sculpure-center.org
SWEET AFTON (C,2) (718) 777-2570 30-09 34th St, Astoria www.sweetaftonbar.com TANTRA LOUNGE (B,2) (718) 937-4574 35-50 31st St, Astoria www.Tantraloungenyc.com
5 POINTZ (B,4) (317) 219-2685 45-46 Davis St, LIC www.5ptz.com THE ART HOUSE (C,2)
112 (516) 724-1562
31-06 35th St, Astoria www.gabrieleperici.com
THE SECRET THEATRE (B,3) (718) 392-0722 4402 23rd St, LIC www.secrettheatre.com SOCRATES SCULPTURE PARK (A,2) (718) 626-1533 32-01 Vernon Blvd, Astoria www.socratessculpturepark.org TEN10 STUDIOS (A,4) (646) 271-5353 10-10 47th Rd, LIC www.ten10studios.com UNDERPENNY (A,4) (917) 517-1492 10-13 50th Ave, LIC
REAL ESTATE 75
EXO ASTORIA (A,1) (888) 870-0384 26-34 21rst Street, Astoria www.exoastoria.com MODERN SPACES (A,4)
101 (718) 784-1110
10-63 Jackson Ave, LIC 47-42 Vernon Blvd, LIC 29-20 23rd Ave, Astoria www.modernspacesnyc.com WELLS FARGO HOME MORTGAGE (C,2)
103 (718) 310-4303
3501 30th Ave, Astoria www.wfhm.com
ASTORIA FINE ARTS DANCE (C,1)
100 (718) 247-0740
38-01 23rd Ave, Astoria www.asfa-dancestudio.com CARNEGIE HALL
107 (212) 247-7800
57th St and 7th Ave, NY www.carnegiehall.org FLUSHING TOWN HALL
102 (718) 463-7700 x 222
137-35 Northern Blvd, Flushing www.flushingtownhall.org
92
KAUFMAN ASTORIA STUDIOS (C,2) (718) 706-5300 34-12 36th St, Astoria www.kaufmanastoria.com
GET YOUR BUSINESS LISTED!
LAGUARDIA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
113 (C,3)
(718) 482-5151 31-10 Thomson Ave, LIC www.laguardiaperformingarts.org
NIGHTLIFE / BARS BOHEMIAN HALL & BEER GARDEN (B,1) (718) 274-4925 2919 24th Ave, Astoria www.bohemianhall.com
BRICK BAR (B,2) (718) 267-2735 30-95 33rd St, Astoria www.brickcafe.com
ART
SPAS REJUVENATE FACE AND BODY (B,1) (718) 626-4434 26-17 23rd Ave, Astoria www.Rejuvenatenyc.com
BREAK (B,2) (718) 777-5400 3204 Broadway, Astoria www.break-ny.com
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MUSEUM OF THE MOVING IMAGE (C,2) (718) 784-0077 36-01 35th Ave, Astoria www.movingimage.us
Want your business listed in our directory? Call: (914) 426-2939 Email: ADS@BOROmag.com
AUGUST 2012 | BOROMAG.COM | 19
Reach your homebuying goals W hether you’re buying your first home, a second home or refinancing your current home, Wells Fargo Home Mortgage has the products and programs to help you reach your homebuying goals. t Wide selection of conventional and government loans t Fixed and Adjustable Rate Mortgages (ARMs)
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Contact us for a complimentary consultation. Matthew Adessa
Home Mortgage Consultant Office: (718) 310-4303 Cell: (718) 809-0353 matthew.adessa@wellsfargo.com www.wfhm.com/matthew-adessa NMLSR ID 150138
Paul Papoutsakis
Home Mortgage Consultant Office: (718) 310-4314 Cell: (917) 374-9976 Paul.Papoutsakis@wellsfargo.com www.wfhm.com/paul-papoutsakis NMLSR ID 86741
Wells Fargo Home Mortgage is a division of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. 2012 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. NMLSR ID 399801. AS622384 4/12-7/12 20 | BOROMAG.COM | AUGUST 2012
AUGUST 2012 | BOROMAG.COM | 21
ART
ARTIST ABUNDANT William Garrett
Beth Williams
Sharon Florin
Johnny Coughlin
Story DANIEL CROWN
With affordable rents, an amenable community and gallery/ studio space readily available at local institutions, Western Queens radiates an artistic energy that’s attracting rightbrained virtuosos from all around the world. To celebrate this creative spirit, we’ve decided to highlight four local artists who perfectly represent the borough’s inner-bohemia. Their expertise and backgrounds may vary, but there’s one thing they all have in common: None of them would want to live and work anywhere else but Western Queens.
with recycled materials, using everyday objects, such as shopping bags and toilet paper wrappings, to construct full figurative forms. With two artists in one household, it’s easy to imagine space being at a premium. But according to William, one of the biggest benefits of living in Long Island City is the availability of large, affordable places to live and work. Most notably, the Garretts have a studio in their home, which allows the couple to create art whenever the mood strikes them.
WILLIAM GARRETT & BETH WILLIAMS
When the time comes to display said art, the LIC community provides ample support, both in terms of space and friendly advice.
Having been married for nearly 20 years, artists William Garrett and Beth Williams long ago adopted the same diligent and reverential attitude toward art. But their work itself couldn’t be any more different.
“Having venues in the community to show art, like Jesse Winter’s Ten10 studios, and events like the Long Island City Arts Open, have given [our] work an outlet and an audience,” says William. “The community is full of artist neighbors and friends that share advice and technique, encouraging new work and innovation.”
William, originally a photographer, produces what he describes as “photo grids on steel sheets, abstract transparencies on industrial light boxes and photo movement grids using digital frames.” Beth mainly works 22 | BOROMAG.COM | AUGUST 2012
William Garrett | www.williamgarrettart.webs.com Beth Williams Garrett | www.bethwilliamsgarrettart.webs.com
CHRISTINA PRUDENTI If you’ve frequented any one of Western Queens’ many local retailers in recent months, there’s a good chance you’ve run into the work of Long Island City resident Christina Prudenti. Highlighted by a series of Queens-inspired graphic t-shirts, her clothing line, queens77, has become a mainstay on neighborhood clothing racks. According to Prudenti, the link between her work and the community is inescapable. Throughout all of the stress of starting her own business, Queens has always had her back. “Art is everywhere in Long Island City because we have a community that welcomes and supports it,” she says. “I quit a job with paid vacations and health benefits in order to focus on building a business where I would be able to do what I love. I don’t know that I could have done this without the support and love from my borough!” www.queens77.com EMAIL: christina@q77nyc.com Christina Prudenti
SHARON FLORIN For more than 30 years, artist Sharon Florin has spent her work week painting stunning urban landscapes – many of them of them depicting Long Island City, where she has worked in the same studio since 1980. According to Florin, her inspiration comes from the constantly evolving New York skyline. The architecture in the city is constantly in flux, she says, making the act of capturing the defining aesthetic of any given year infinitely more important. For a perfect example of how quickly neighborhoods can change, she points to LIC, which she has watched transform nearly overnight. “I’ve been documenting the neighborhood over the years in my paintings, as it was and as it is,” she says. “The ‘small town’ feel of the neighborhood and the artists living and working here greatly add to the character of this part of NYC.” Email: sjfstudio@aol.com 718-786-9896 www.sharonflorin.com
JOHNNY COUGHLIN (JOHNNY JACKPOT) Queens resident Johnny Jackpot has had a good run of late. Working mostly in pen and ink, his artwork is all but ubiquitous in Ralph Lauren retail stores, and his illustrations have been featured in News Day, Bloomberg and The Daily News, among other publications. Having attended school in Queens from kindergarten through high school, it took a while for the charms of his hometown to set in. Like most lifelong New Yorkers, his perspective on the city was a bit skewed until he got out for a few years. “It wasn’t until I enlisted in the Marine Corps and lived far from New York,” he says, “that I came to realize (especially through cinema and television) how much of the world was focused on the place where I grew up.” STUDIO: 43-03 55th Street, Woodside, NY 11377 718-578-9171 | Email: johnnyjackpot@yahoo.com
AUGUST 2012 | BOROMAG.COM | 23
24 | BOROMAG.COM | AUGUST 2012
AUGUST 2012 | BOROMAG.COM | 25
ACTORS
SPOTLIGHT ON
ACTORS
Joe Jung
HEW TAYLOR Story MATT
THESPIAN HANGOUT SPOTS ven at first glance, Western Queens stands out as a welcoming haven for actors in the city. From LIC’s Silvercup Studios, where 30 Rock is filmed and legendary shows such as The Sopranos completed their run, to Kaufman Astoria Studios, which is currently trying to get authorization for an outdoor studio lot, to The Secret Theatre, which offers quality live theater and courses, spaces to film and television abound.
E
It should come as no surprise, then, that we share our neighborhood with some very successful actors. BORO caught up with three of them to discuss their recent achievements and what makes Western Queens so attractive to the artistically inclined. 26 | BOROMAG.COM | AUGUST 2012
The actors also shared their favorite spots for gathering with fellow actors. Bohemian Hall & Beer Garden, Astoria’s renowned hangout space, is attractive for its ability to accommodate large groups and for performance spaces both outside and in the dining hall. Just across the street from the beer garden, The Sparrow Tavern offers quality food and drinks and often serves as a meeting place for actors. And lastly, The Astor Room, with its décor and atmosphere reminiscent of early cinema, is an actors’ favorite for ambience alone. Bohemian Hall & Beer Garden 29-19 24th Ave, Astoria 718-274-4925 | www.bohemianhall.com The Sparrow Tavern 24-01 29th St, Astoria 718-606-2260 | www.thesparrowtavern.com The Astor Room 34-12 36th St, Astoria 718-255-1947 | www.astorroom.com
Phillip Chorba before and after being transformed with make-up and prosthetics
Sunday Morning Mimosa
Phillip Chorba
Haus Of Mimosa
Phillip Chorba, a five-year resident of Astoria, is currently finishing work on “The Silver Linings Playbook,” a major international feature film whose cast includes such big names as Bradley Cooper, Julia Stiles and Robert DeNiro. The film is a comedy based on a novel by Matthew Quick about a former teacher re-adjusting to life after a stint in a mental institution. Chorba has also been busy shooting the pilot for a show called “Moral Focus,” and a commercial he did for LG washers and dryers is set to begin showing on various websites this month.
Haus of Mimosa is the hilarious musical show created by and starring Astoria residents Travis Barr and Steven Incammicia, who play Miss Anita M. Buffem and Gina Marie Rittale, respectively. The characters are both born and bred in Astoria, and the neighborhood has a visible influence on the show.
Chorba, who attributes much of his success to his work at The Studio-East Actor’s Arena, has also had roles on The Onion News Network and in a local production of the comedic “The Complete Works Of William Shakespeare (Abridged)” at The Bohemian Hall & Beer Garden.
Ralph Meitzler Ralph Meitzler is currently just outside of Cooperstown, NY, shooting an independent feature film with Walza Productions. The film, which follows two men falling in love, focuses greatly on change, a central theme in Meitzler’s life lately as well. Meitzler was a bartender at Mix, Astoria’s flagship LGBT bar, before it shut down. At that same time, Meitzler went through drastic relationship and personal changes. In reflection, Meitzler has put together a one-man cabaret entitled, “I Believe,” which he will be performing at The Laurie Beechman Theatre on August 8 at 9:30 p.m. The hour-long performance is described as “a musical journey of reflection, self-discovery and acceptance.” Ralph Meitzler
Meitzler has also acted in Broadway’s “Rock Of Ages” for six months and currently performs in the show about once a week as a swing for various roles. Laurie Beechman Theatre | 407 W 42nd St, NYC | 212-695-6909 | $10 Tickets + Food/Drink Minimum
The show originated from Barr and Incammicia’s podcast, called “Sunday Morning Mimosa,” which featured a variety of characters. Fans expressed particular interest in Anita, a former JC Penny model who is “rich, beautiful, and over the top,” as Barr puts it, and Gina, more of an “everywoman” who works multiple jobs and has two children. Barr and Incammicia then wrote a live show with these characters, which they began performing at cabarets and theaters such as the Daryl Roth Theater near Union Square and SugarFreak. Today, Haus of Mimosa performs at private events, including birthday parties, baby showers, bachelor/ bachelorette parties and bridal events. Their Tupperware and Passion parties are particularly popular, as hosts do not have to pay a performance fee. They are also currently doing a weekly show during Saturday brunch from 1-3 p.m. at Traffic in Hell’s Kitchen. www.TheHausofMimosa.com | Traffic | 701 9th Ave, NYC | 212-837-2702 | www.trafficbarnyc.com
Joe Jung Joe Jung is the artistic director of Project: Theater, a nonprofit group that aims to create innovative, relevant theater. Most notably, Project: Theater puts on “Our Bar,” a monthly show that takes place in Manhattan and features actors crafting and performing scenes that could plausibly take place in that very bar. The uniqueness of each show – including the lack of a “fourth wall” between the audience and the performers and, of course, the element of drinking – have made this show extremely popular. Jung is also active in the community of Astoria, where he lives. He acted in the first episode of CASTERS, a web series that takes place in Astoria. In addition, one of Jung’s career highlights was performing in the Broadway production of “Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson.” To learn more or contact Jung, visit www.joejung.com. AUGUST 2012 | BOROMAG.COM | 27
MUSIC
A
MUSICIANS
WELCOME Story MATTHEW TAYLOR
s a city where innovation is celebrated and venues of all sorts abound, NYC has long been a sought-after destination for musicians. And while Western Queens does not yet have its equivalent of Carnegie Hall, The Bowery Ballroom or The Knitting Factory, it does boast the distinct sense of community that many other NYC venues lack, especially as artists are increasingly priced out of the neighborhoods where they perform. With that in mind, we talked to three successful local musicians about their careers and favorite music-friendly spots in the neighborhood.
LAURENCE WOODSON Laurence Woodson, a guitarist, singer/ songwriter and drummer, happened upon LIC rather fortuitously. After launching an Inc. 500 company in Washington, DC, he began to miss being a musician and returned to NYC, where he had previously earned degrees from NYU and been signed to MCA Records. “I returned to New York with my dog, a camper van, a guitar and a dream,” Woodson says. He soon found an apartment in LIC, a neighborhood that he previously knew nothing about and has now fallen in love with.
28 | BOROMAG.COM | AUGUST 2012
Woodson, who has toured with Deep Purple and opened for groups such as Toots & The Maytals, now uses his music and business acumen to do good works and build the community around him. He does this primarily through his nonprofit project NOWHERE (NOW HERE) a mobile café and performance venue. Woodson, along with fellow musicians and others who want to donate resources – such as food or even smoothie preparation skills – go to public spaces, set up picnic tables and sound equipment, and offer free food and music to anyone who passes by. Woodson plans to have a NOWHERE (NOW HERE) event in Astoria Park in the coming months. For more information, visit www.nowhere-now-here.com, and contact Laurence at laurence@nowherenow-here.com or 202-489-3321 if you’d like to be involved.
AUGUST 2012 | BOROMAG.COM | 29
MUSIC
MEGHAN IVEY Meghan Ivey, a wine distributor living in Astoria, recently began to rediscover her calling as a jazz singer. One Monday night, as she was walking down 30th Ave with a friend, she “heard a trombone and trumpet blasting from across the street.” Upon investigating, they found themselves inside Astoria’s Dominie’s Hoek, a bar that opened after the LIC original proved to be quite popular. Ivey requested that the band play the jazz
standard, “I Can’t Give You Anything But Love,” and her friend convinced her to get on stage and sing with them. Since then, she has been a regular performer at Dominie’s Monday Night Jazz. Ivey’s résumé as a singer is impressive: She used to sing with The Brian Setzer Orchestra, performed at such prominent Los Angeles venues as The Hollywood Palladium and The Orpheum Theatre, and is even featured in the film “The 13th Floor” as a singer. Her current project? To bring her two passions together: “I’m always looking for ways to marry wine and jazz,” Ivey says.
DJ NIQUE Since he began DJing 12 years ago, Astoria resident DJ Nique has honed in on a specific expression of his art. “I want to do conceptual mixes,” he explains. “Soundtracks to different situations. I want to take the craft to a level where it has never been.” Today, Nique is making a conscious effort to do fewer sets at bars and clubs and instead DJs at places such as sporting or in-store events. He hopes to eventually DJ fitness and spinning classes, and is focusing on original mash-ups and remixes. In May, Nique performed at the Field Day festival in Buffalo, NY, where Munchi, one of his idols, headlined. Nique also currently has a residency at Banc Café on 3rd Avenue in Manhattan. Learn more about him at www.djnique.net.
THE SPOTS LIC Bar was one of the first names to come up when discussing music in Western Queens, thanks to its casual atmosphere, outdoor performances and the bar’s enthusiasm for booking local musicians. Waltz-Astoria, an artsy coffee/ wine bar with open mic nights and annual singer/songwriter contests, is another favorite place to gather, collaborate and perform. Rest-Au-Rant and The Queens Kickshaw are also ideal for catching live music and meeting with fellow musicians, as they each feature weekly shows (Thursdays and Fridays, respectively). Studio Square also offers shows from DJs and other musicians in the beer garden. The Roots have even played there, most recently in July. LIC Bar 45-58 Vernon Blvd, LIC 718-786-5400 | www.licbar.com Waltz-Astoria 23-14 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria 718-956-8742 www.waltz-astoria.com Rest-Au-Rant 30-01 35th Ave, LIC 718-729-9009 | www.rarbarlic.com The Queens Kickshaw 40-17 Broadway, Astoria 718-777-0913 www.thequeenskickshaw.com
30 | BOROMAG.COM | AUGUST 2012
Studio Square 35-33 36th St, LIC 718-383-1001 www.studiosquarenyc.com
AUGUST 2012 | BOROMAG.COM | 31
BORO DEALS & DISCOUNTS Be local and enjoy the below offers from some of Astoria and LIC’s best merchants. Offers available through August 31, 2012. Bring BORO or coupon below to redeem discount. Limited to 1 use per reader. Merchant restrictions may apply.
1 FREE DRINK and comedy show with meal on Tuesday nights 9PM-Closing.
1 HALF-PRICED bottle of wine per table Tues.
1 FREE Signature Cocktail with your meal.
nights.
WINEGASM 1 FREE glass of wine with your meal.
1 FREE glass of wine with meal
10% OFF when you spend $100 or more.
1 FREE drink with food order (wine, draft beer, or well drinks).
1 FREE Glass of Wine or Dessert with meal.
$39.99 for limited Digital TV + High
Redeemable mon-thurs.
Speed Internet.
Excludes prix fixe. Limited to select wines.
1 FREE day pass, limited to first time clients/
Complimentary Blowout for first time
$15 OFF your next visit, when you mention
one per person.
color clients (tues-thurs).
this ad.
$10 OFF haircuts and color.
15% OFF entire purchase.
$129 for six weeks of fitness classes.
20% OFF growlers. (Select beers)
15% OFF your next visit.
10% OFF any wine purchase.
#21..1 )#..'4; ANTIQUES, COLLECTABLES, FURNITURE, FINE ARTS, JEWELRY...
MON-SAT 10:30 AM – 7:30 PM 34-10 36 AVE, ASTORIA NY 11106 | (718) 786-7590