Bm012014

VOL 4:2 JANUARY 2014

HAPPY happy NEWnew year YEAR ASTORIA // LIC // SUNNYSIDE

GREAT DISCOUNTS

at the best spots in Astoria, LIC, Sunnyside

Best Bites of 2013 Page 6

Flushing's Coffee Roaster Page 26

CREATE // CULTIVATE // INSPIRE

Fresh Juices of Queens Page 28

Take a Spin Class Page 36

ASTORIA’S PREMIER REAL ESTATE TEAM

Steve Lelekidis

Gregory Kyroglou

Ted Kokkoris

Dina Bitis

Vincent Yee

Cristina Candio

Timothy Reilly

Dave Diedrich

Eli Kamitsis

718.777.2232

MODERN SPACES ASTORIA 29-20 23RD AVENUE, ASTORIA

Condos • Rentals • New Development Investments • Multi-Family Homes

WWW.MODERNSPACESNYC.COM Follow us on Twitter @ModernSpacesNYC

MODERN SPACES VERNON 47-42 VERNON BOULEVARD LONG ISLAND CITY 718-784-1110

MODERN SPACES BROOKLYN 135 KENT AVENUE WILLIAMSBURG 718-576-3229

2 | BOROMAG.COM | JANUARY 2014

Contact Us: Info@ModernSpacesNYC.com

MODERN SPACES ASTORIA 29-20 23RD AVENUE ASTORIA 718-777-2232

Like us on Facebook ModernSpacesNYC

MODERN SPACES JACKSON 10-63 JACKSON AVENUE LONG ISLAND CITY 718-784-1110

MODERN SPACES CHELSEA 220 WEST 16TH STREET MANHATTAN 212-366-4040

JOY

GOOD HEALTH

2014 LOVE

PEACE

Bagel

速

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

FROM YOUR FRIENDS AT BROOKLYN BAGEL & COFFEE COMPANY.

www.bkbagel.com Follow Brooklyn Bagel & Coffee Company on facebook and twitter for daily promotions and more JANUARY 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 3

Dear Western Queens,

One of the things that makes Astoria fantastic is all the investment made by entrepreneurs in opening up new restaurants, stores, cultural institutions and even movie studios! Over the past year so many fantastic businesses have flourished in and around Astoria. These business owners are a large part of what makes it such a great place to work and live.

It’s our goal to inform our readers about these businesses so that you can take advantage of them, support the local community and most importantly...enjoy! In this month’s issue we have highlighted both the new, Marketa, and some of the best in businesses that have been serving the neighborhood for years in our annual Best Bites issue.

Hopefully you can build a list of places in your own backyard to make the most of in the year ahead, especially if your new year’s resolution is to eat well!

Wishing everyone a great 2014, Josh josh@boromag.com

JOSHUA SCHNEPS

publisher

Vassilaros & Sons

FEATURES

6 FOOD

2013 Best Bites

14 BODY & SOUL Resolutions

22 FOOD

Woodbines

24 FOOD

Marketa is Open

26 EXPLORE YOUR BORO Vassilaros

28 SHOPS

Juice in Queens

32 THE ARTS

Interview with Katrin Hier

36 BODY & SOUL

26

Starting A New Cycle

DEPARTMENTS

12 JANUARY 2014 EVENTS 17 BORO DEALS & DISCOUNTS PAGE

Exclusive savings, discounts and freebies for the month of January in Astoria, LIC and Sunnyside.

18 MAP IT DIRECTORY

Your go-to guide for Astoria, LIC and Sunnyside’s best shops, food, art, nightlife and more

20 MAP IT: ASTORIA, LIC & SUNNYSIDE MAP REMEMBER TO Tag your queens instagram pics with #boromag AND look for your photos in one of our future issues!

advertise in boro ads@BOROmag.com // 718.224.5863 ext. 206 www.BOROmag.com/advertise / BOROmag

@BOROmag

Starting A New Cycle

editoR-IN-CHIEF bradley hawks // art director jennifer decio // graphic designerS stephen reina, nirmal singh staff writers bradley hawks, ben mims, daniel crown, lillian shaw, hayley bridgewater, brett jones, meaghan trainor // staff photographers javier ibañez, daniel pando, bradley hawks online editorial coordinator bradley hawks // Published by joshua & victoria schneps All materials Copyright © 2014 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 | JANUARY 2014

36

FREE 8 DAY PASS

MUST BRING IN TO REDEEM OFFER OFFER EXPIRES JANUARY 31 2014.

ASTORIA 34-05 STEINWAY ST., ASTORIA, NY 11101 718.729.5269 UFCGYM.COM/ASTORIA JANUARY 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 5

BoroMagAd_FullPg.indd 1

1/3/14 12:47 PM

FOOD

of 2013 Story + Photos BRADLEY HAWKS

This year, the home of CitiField, the US Open, and both New York City Airports, has truly begun to be noticed for its culinary chops—from food stands at the LIC Flea winning Vendy Awards, to some of the city’s best Vietnamese at Bunker, to the opening of a steakhouse wuzzled with a catamaran workshop at M. Wells. Queens has always been heralded as one of, if not the most diverse counties in the country. In 2013 it introduced some pretty delicious bites, proving that Brooklyn and Manhattan have some competition. This year, I had over 200 meals in restaurants in Queens alone. Of the meals I have been so lucky to enjoy, here are a few of the dishes from our corner of the borough that stand out as some of my very favorites—in no particular order.

Hinomaru

Queens Comfort

Short Rib Mac and Cheese from Queens Comfort 40-09 30th Avenue • Astoria This particular version has braised short ribs shredded into a blanket of blended cheese, topped with a stack of fried onion strings. It’s a whole meal for three, and I am a little in awe that I never get tired of it.

6 | BOROMAG.COM | JANUARY 2014

Uni Ramen from HinoMaru

33-18 Ditmars Boulevard • Astoria Besides the regional ramen dishes—which are superb—I just cannot stop ordering this bed of ramen swimming in parmesan cream sauce, and topped with glistening slivers of sea urchin, making it a decadent, yet surprisingly light entrée loaded with flavors of the ocean.

Tufino Pizzeria

Pachenga Patterson

Pollack Tacos from Pachanga Patterson 33-17 31st Avenue • Astoria

Ancho-battered with a thin batter and juicy, tender white fish beneath, these are some addictive tacos. The citrus habanero and red onions are tangy and hot, but just enough to make you squirm and then bite right back in again.

Capellini Cake from Tufino Pizzeria

36-08 Ditmars Boulevard • Astoria It is just what it sounds like. Capellini pasta, cacciocavallo cheese, fresh ricotta, breaded & lightly fried to perfection. Two come in an order, and I always swear to take one home—but it never makes it out of the restaurant.

The Thirsty Koala

ru

Salt And Fat

Kakadu Crosti from The Thirsty Koala 35-12 Ditmars Boulevard • Astoria

The chef here makes her own goat cheese daily, and then spreads it on giant toast points with kakadu. What the @#$! is kakadu? Australian plums that are sweet and a little tart, which also come topped with shreds of prosciutto, olive tapenade, shallots, and balsamic glaze. Salty, sweet, sour, hot, cold, crispy, moist, tender, and downright fantastic.

Shaved Hudson Valley Foie Gras from Salt and Fat

41-16 Queens Boulevard • Sunnyside Those fluffy tan snowflakes are actually shaved Hudson Valley foie gras, rendered light and feathery, cloaking a heaping mound of cinnamon-dusted mandarin orange segments which explode like sweet, tangy bursts of fresh orange juice over paper-thin stained-glass tiles of bacon brittle.

JANUARY 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 7

FOOD

JJ's Asian Fusion

The Queens Kickshaw

Shumai from JJ’s Asian Fusion

Snowdonia

37-05 31st Avenue • Astoria

They start with a meatball made of tender chicken and crabmeat, then take the wonton wrapper and shred it into short strands, into which the meatballs are rolled. After steaming, they look like little koosh balls of pasta, but taste like absolute heaven.

Il Bambino

Skate and Eggs from Snowdonia 34-55 32nd Street • Astoria

One of the greatest surprises of 2013 for me was actually this sandwich. I have never had a fish sandwich with such an explosive crunch give way to such delicious, tender, fish. Add the salty caper mayo and tangy beer pickles, and it is one of most incredible sandwiches I have ever tasted.

Solomon Gundy from M. Wells Steakhouse

43-15 Crescent Street • Long Island City

Panna Cotta from Il Bambino

Pickled smelt lay across potato waffles with crème fraiche, smothered in salty golden orbs of trout roe. It really is a simple dish, executed to perfection. And definitely one of the dishes I remembered most fondly.

34-08 31st Avenue • Astoria

It isn’t even on the menu or website, and yet when I walk into the restaurant, it’s all I can think about. This insanely creamy coconut panna cotta sits in a pool of strawberry sauce, surrounded by chocolate coated cereal clusters, and it makes me very, very, very happy.

Kimchi from The Queens Kickshaw 40-17 Broadway • Astoria

This sandwich is so outrageous it is brilliant. Spicy fermented cabbage is layered with extra sharp cheddar, charred scallions, and slaw served on chocolate bread. It’s spicy and sweet, and brilliantly combines national dishes of Korea and America.

8 | BOROMAG.COM | JANUARY 2014

M. Wells Steakhouse

“DO YOU THINK THIS CITY RUNS ON LOVE AND TRUST? YEAH, RIGHT. IT RUNS ON COFFEE.

THREE

FOR

VASSILAROS

HAS

GENERATIONS,

BEEN

THE

MOST

AUTHENTIC CUP OF NEW YORK CITY COFFEE AROUND. SERIOUSLY. IT’S A MIRACLE IN A CUP. DON’T EVEN THINK ABOUT GETTING ME STARTED ON THAT OVERPRICED,

ARTISANAL

CRAP.

THE

NEXT TIME YOU WALK INTO YOUR LOCAL COFFEE SHOP, FIND OUT IF THEY’RE SERVING VASSILAROS. IF THEY’RE NOT, JUST GO ONLINE AND GET IT YOURSELF.” – LEWIS BLACK

AVAILABLE AT TITAN FOODS AND BROOKLYN BAGEL & COFFEE COMPANY JANUARY 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 9

Why Sage?

Q Brought to you by the company voted best personal training in Queens!

Q Unique classes use a mix of Kettleball, TRX, Rowing, Skiing and Bodyweight Exercise to reach every fitness goal.

Want to get in shape ONCE AND FOR ALL? SAGE is now in Astoria!

Take control of your body and prepare yourself for a one of a kind fat burning experience.

REGISTER NOW FOR YOUR FREE TRIAL www.sagefit.com

SAGE STUDIOS ASTORIA

29-20 23rd Avenue, 4th Floor, Astoria, NY 11105 Phone: 718-767-2659 | Email: astoria@sagefit.com www.facebook.com/sagefit

ONCE AND FOR ALL? w in Astoria!

f for a one of a kind fat burning experience.

YOUR FREE TRIAL acebook.com/sagefit

10 | BOROMAG.COM | JANUARY 2014

Q Small classes of ten allows for personal attention at affordable rates.

Q Experience our specialty class “Liquid Kettleball” which teaches fluidity in motion. It’s Yoga and Pilates meets IRON. Q Free nutritional counseling.

JANUARY 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 11

JANUARY EVENTS

Find more events at www.BOROmag.com/Events

1/12 @ 3PM-4PM (ART)

1/18 @ 11pm (MUSIC)

1/26 @ 5pm (ENTERTAINMENT)

Included with admission | The Noguchi Museum 718-204-7088 | 9-01 33rd Road, Long Island City, NY 11106

LIC Bar | 45-58 Vernon Boulevard, LIC

LIC Bar | 45-58 Vernon Boulevard, LIC

Building an Exhibition: Isamu Noguchi and Qi Baishi: Beijing 1930

Big City Folk present The Jasper Lewis Duo

Big City Folk Presents The Sunday Social

1/20 @ 7pm (MUSIC)

1/26 @ 8pm (COMEDY)

LIC Bar | 45-58 Vernon Boulevard, LIC

Laughing Devil Comedy Club 4738 Vernon Boulevard, LIC

1/22 @ 7PM (MUSIC)

1/27 @ 8pm (MUSIC)

Mac Wellman w/ Steve Mellor – Muazzez

$65 | The Metropolitan Museum of Art 212-570-3792 | 1000 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10028

LIC Bar | 45-58 Vernon Boulevard, LIC

1/15 @ 8pm (MUSIC)

1/22 @ 8pm (MUSIC)

LIC Bar 45-58 Vernon Boulevard, LIC

LIC Bar | 45-58 Vernon Boulevard, LIC

1/30 @ 8pm (COMEDY)

1/23 @ 9pm - midnight (MUSIC)

Laughing Devil Comedy Club 4738 Vernon Boulevard, LIC

www.noguchi.org/programs/public

Jo Williamson, Jeanne Marie Boes, Sara Galas, Matthew Snow Band

1/13 @ 8pm (MUSIC)

Christian Coleman Quartet, Morning Bound, Matthew Snow Band LIC Bar | 45-58 Vernon Boulevard, LIC

The Hilliard Ensemble

1/15 @ 8pm (MUSIC)

The Chocolate Factory Theatre 5-49 49th Avenue | Long Island City, NY 11101

www.metmuseum.org/events/programs/concerts-and-performances/ hilliard-ensemble.aspx?eid=4189

Keith Everett and the Orange Morris, Daniel King, King County Ramblers LIC Bar | 45-58 Vernon Boulevard, LIC

1/16 @ 9pm - midnight (NIGHTLIFE + ENTERTAINMENT)

Live Music Thursdays - JD Patch

Neil Cavanagh, Harrison Roach, Jack Adams Live Music Thursdays Evanescent: Bliss Blood & Al Street

She-Devils Comedy Show

Aaron Irwin Group, Mika Mimura, Matthew Snow Band 1/29 @ 8pm (MUSIC)

Eric Neher, Nicole Lund Band, Ugly Bug Ballroom Band

The Big Thing

Featuring original music by local upcoming artists FREE | Rest-au-Rant 718-729-9009 | 30-01 35th Avenue at 30th Street corner of 30th Street and 35th Avenue, L.I.C.

1/31 @ 7:30pm (PERFORMING ARTS)

www.rarbarlic.com

The Secret Theatre 44-02 23rd Street, LIC

1/18 @ 9AM-3PM (FITNESS)

1/25 @ 11 AM (FITNESS)

1/31 @ 8pm (DANCE)

Special Classes, Discounts, Live DJ, Free Private Training Free to attend | UFC GYM ASTORIA 718-729-5269 | 34-05 Steinway Street, Astoria, NY

FREE | Tightan Gym - Astoria, NY 718-274-1606 | 31-21 61st Astoria, NY

Thalia Spanish Theater 4117 Greenpoint Ave Sunnyside, NY 11104

Featuring original music by local upcoming artists FREE | Rest-au-Rant 718-729-9009 | 30-01 35th Avenue at 30th Street corner of 30th Street and 35th Avenue, L.I.C. www.rarbarlic.com

UFC GYM Astoria Grand Opening

www.ufcgym.com/astoria

The Tightan experience: Your journey to a new body starts here. www.tigtan.com

PRE-GAME SUPER PAMPERING DAY AT REDKEN

John Schmitt

Holocenter Vault Gallery

#THEBIGGAME REDKEN SALOON SALON 718-956-3366 | 36-17 30th Ave, Astoria

LIC Bar 45-58 Vernon Boulevard, LIC

Holocenter | 29-27 41st Avenue, LIC

NEW

“Game Room”

TANGO 5 Senses

2/2 ALL DAY (BEAUTY)

1/25 @ 11pm (MUSIC)

1/18 @ 2pm (ARTS)

The Secret Theatre and Queens Secret Improv Club present A Fullish Deck

ONGOING

Every Saturday in January @ 9pm closing (NIGHTLIFE + ENTERTAINMENT)

DJ Saturdays

Contact Hotel For Cost | Z NYC Hotel 212-319-7000 | 11-01 43rd Ave., LIC, NY www.zhotelny.com Every Wednesday & Sunday @ 6pm-12am

Happy Hour: 6pm-9pm (DRINK)

Z NYC Hotel ROOFTOP (rain in Lounge) 212-319-7000 |11-01 43rd Avenue, LIC 11101 www.zhotelny.com

Birthday Parties Include: Invitations Theme Decoration Bounce House Face painting Bubble machine Dancing & Activities Pizza & Juice

Kids Classes:

Every Friday & Saturday @ 6pm-TBD Happy Hour: 6pm-9pm (NIGHTLIFE + ENTERTAINMENT)

Ballet • Jazz • Capoeira Greek Dance • Music Together

Friday & Saturday’s live DJ’s starting at 9pm (Friday house music Saturday top 40 music)

Specialty Parties:

www.zhotelny.com

Spa Party • Zumba Party Yoga Party • Capoeira Party Petting Zoo • Magic Show

Z NYC Hotel ROOFTOP (rain in Lounge) 212-319-7000 |11-01 43rd Avenue, LIC 11101 Every Thursday @ 7pm – 11pm (NIGHTLIFE + ENTERTAINMENT)

Live Music Every Thursday in our Z Lounge (specialty drinks and amazing food) FREE | Z NYC Hotel 212-319-7000 | 11-01 43rd Ave., LIC, NY www.zhotelny.com Sundays @ 6pm (NIGHTLIFE + ENTERTAINMENT)

Ravel Rooftop Sundays

27-14 23 Ave., Astoria, NY 11105 347-455-3661 • info@gym-azing.com • www.gym-azing.com rd

12 | BOROMAG.COM | JANUARY 2014

Table Reservations Recommended 718-289-610 8-08 Queens Plaza South, LIC, NY 11101

www.facebook.com/pages/RAVEL-Sundays • Email: sundays@ravelhotel.com

Every Monday Night @ pm-11pm

Music Mondays

(NIGHTLIFE + ENTERTAINMENT) FREE | Sweet Afton 718-777-2570 | 0-09 34th St, Astoria NY 11103 www.sweetaftonbar.com

every Monday @ 4pm - close (FOOD+DRINK)

All night happy hour with slider specials FREE | Rest-au-Rant 718-729-9009 | 30-01 35th Avenue at 30th Street corner of 30th Street and 35th Avenue, L.I.C. www.rarbarlic.com

every Tuesday @ 9pm - 11pm (NIGHTLIFE + ENTERTAINMENT)

Whine & Cheese Comedy Show

SHOWTIME SPECIAL: $30 for a bottle of wine & cheese plate FREE | Rest-au-Rant 718-729-9009 | 30-01 35th Avenue at 30th Street corner of 30th Street and 35th Avenue, L.I.C. www.rarbarlic.com

every Wednesday @ 4pm - close (DRINK)

20% off all bottles of wine

FREE | Rest-au-Rant 718-729-9009 | 30-01 35th Avenue at 30th Street corner of 30th Street and 35th Avenue, L.I.C. www.rarbarlic.com

every Sunday @ 4pm - close (FOOD+DRINK)

Sunday Tasting Menu

Sunday is the day to try RaR: $40 bottle of wine & 2 tapas, $55 bottle of wine & 4 tapas, $10 draft & BBQ FREE | Rest-au-Rant 718-729-9009 | 30-01 35th Avenue at 30th Street corner of 30th Street and 35th Avenue, L.I.C. www.rarbarlic.com

Ja nu ar y

MounT Sinai QueenS

Free Health & Wellness Events

.

Prescription for a Healthy You!

Yoga for the Fabulous 50s and Beyond!

.

Meets Tuesdays beginning January 14th

Session #1 | 11 am Session #2 | 12 noon Marisa Bonfanti, Certified Yoga Instructor Sign up for one class or many. Sign up today!

Registration needed.

George T. Douris Tower, 27-40 Hoyt Avenue South, 2nd Floor Exercise Room, Astoria, 11102

Wednesday, 11:30 am James Melis, MD, Family Medicine | Discover why baseline health screenings and positive lifestyle choices are a powerful prescription for staying in good health.

Broadway Library, 40-20 Broadway, Long Island City, 11103

Breast Health Screening and Education

Prana Yoga for Busy People

Susan Ingraham, Certified Prana Yoga Instructor Space is limited. Registration needed.

Sign up for one class or many.

George T. Douris Tower, 27-40 Hoyt Avenue South, 2nd Floor Exercise Room, Astoria, 11102

Get Moving with Joint Replacement Friday, 10:30 am

Edward Yang, MD | Join us for this discussion of the newest medical and surgical options to get you up and moving again.

JVL-Dimotsis-Vallone Senior Center, 27-40 Hoyt Avenue South, 1st floor, Astoria, 11102

Become a NutritionSmart Shopper Tuesday, 11 am

Monika Saigal, RD | Discover little-known but affordable seasonal shopping secrets to boost nutrients and energy levels, which can easily be incorporated into daily and weekly shopping lists.

Long Island City YMCA, 32-23 Queens Boulevard, Long Island City, 11101

Wednesday, 5 – 7 pm

George Tsioulias, MD, PhD | Comprehensive clinical breast exams and mammograms for women 40 years of age and older. No charge to eligible patients. Presented with support from The Louis and Rachel Rudin Foundation, Inc., with educational support provided by SHAREing & CAREing. By Appointment Only. Call 718-808-7727.

Mount Sinai Queens, Family Health Associates, 31-60 21st Street, Astoria, 11106

Visit mshq.org/events for information on Yoga Classes and Blood Pressure Screenings.

Call 718-267-4333 to register for events and screenings.

JanuaRY 2014

Meets Tuesdays beginning January 14th, 6:30 pm

S M T W T F S 5 12 19 26

1 2 6 7 8 9 13 14 15 16 20 21 22 23 27 28 29 30

3 10 17 24 31

4 11 18 25

For a physician referral, call 800-YOUR-MDS or visit www.mshq.org/FAD JANUARY 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 13

BODY & SOUL

New Year

for the

LIVE, LOVE, BRUNCH Open For DinNER 7 days a week starting at 5pm Open for brunch saturday & sunday starting at 11am www.marketaastoria.com • 347-813-4437 37-17 30th Avenue, Astoria NY 11103 JANUARY 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 15

WINTER SCHEDULE THURSDAY-SUNDAY 5PM-MIDNIGHT

COMING SOON 2014 28,000 SQUARE FOOT EXPANSION INDOOR / OUTDOOR SPACE REFLECTING POOL 30 ADDITIONAL GUEST ROOMS SPECIAL EVENT & CATERING SPACES

FIND US ON

16 | BOROMAG.COM | JANUARY 2014

8-08 QUEENS PLAZA SOUTH • LIC • NY 11101 RAVELHOTEL.COM • PENTHOUSE808ROOFTOP.COM

Boro deals & discounts Be local and enjoy the below offers from some of Astoria and LIC’s best merchants.

Offers available through January 31, 2014. Bring BORO or coupon below to redeem discount.

Limited to 1 use per reader. Merchant restrictions may apply.

1 FREE DRINK

ONE FREE CLASS

and comedy show with meal on Tuesday nights 9PM - Closing

for new clients only.

Use Promo Code: LICFREE

1 FREE GLASS OF SANGRIA ONEentrée.

FREE Monday GLASS OF SANGRIA w entree with - Friday 7PM until close

REGISTER NOW FOR YOUR FREE TRIAL

Mon-Fri from 7pm Til close.

TWO WEEK Fit Pass for $40

for the month of January

$10 off with a combo hair cut & color

$79.99 for Digital TV + TiVo +

High Speed Internet OR $34.99 for High Speed Internet

HAPPY HOUR EVERY DAY

10% OFF

half price cocktails & select appetizers from 5:30pm-7:30pm

any wine purchase

The

mango chiropractic

CANDY BAR

Complimentary Consult and 2 Visits

Must bring original coupon / One per customer

15% OFF

Free Draft beer w/purchase of an entree Industry night: Sunday-Thursday

JANUARY ONLY! WITH AD

20% OFF FOOD

1 Free SANGRITA

$125 gift certificate purchased, receive $35

weekend brunch special

8 Day Pass to UFC GYM Astoria

$5.00 OFF (min. purchase $20.00)

any purchase

OFF THE HOOK

towards any treatment. January Only Voice Lessons By Acclaimed Soprano

Olga Xanthopoulou First Voice Lesson FREE With any purchase of sessions

Saturday & Sunday: 11am-3pm

with dinner

ADVERTISE IN BORO

A $160 VALUE. Ends January 31st.

Currently selling packages for 2014!

ads@BOROmag.com 718.224.5863 www.BOROmag.com/advertise

20% OFF

any fine artwork, excluding framing

Follow Us For Great Deals Throughout The Month /BOROmag

@BOROmag JANUARY 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 17

MAP IT DIRECTORY RESTAURANTS 115

2 144 129 130 6

alewife (a,4) 718-937-7494 5-14 51st Ave, LIC www.alewifequeens.com Aliada (b,2) 718-932-2240 29-19 Broadway, Astoria alobar restaurant 347-752-6000 46-42 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.alobarnyc.com AREPAS CAFE 718-937-3835 33-07 36th Ave (B,2) 2119 Broadway (B,1) www.arepascafe.com Astor room (C,2) 718-255-1947 34-12 36th St, Astoria www.astorroom.com

14

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

Manducatis Rustica (A,4) 718-937-1312 46-3 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.manducatisrustica.com

108

Winegasm Bar and Eatery (c,2) 718-932-3331 31-86 37th Rd, Astoria www.winegasmeatery.com

19

MexiBBQ (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

3

Mezze Place (B,2) 718-777-2829 31-18 Broadway, Astoria www.mezzeplace.com

148

23

Bear (a,2) 917-396-4939 12-14 31st Ave, Astoria www.bearnyc.com

150

26

8

35

Michael’s Cafe (B,3) (located inside Four Points Sheraton) 347-536-3633 27-05 39th Ave, LIC www.michaelscafeny.com

40

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

Brick Cafe (B,2) 718-267-2735 30-95 33rd St, Astoria www.brickcafe.com

61

Bugatti Café 31-5 34th St, Astoria 718-626-1115 www.bugatticafe.com

Ovelia (B,2) 718-721-7217 34-01 30th Ave, Astoria www.ovelia-ny.com

22

Penthouse808 (A,3) 718-289-6118 8-08 Queens Plaza South, LIC www.penthouse808rooftop.com

Butcher Bar (c,2) 718-606-8140 37-08 30th Ave, Astoria www.ButcherBar.com

87

Café Bar (C,2) 718-204-5273 32-90 36th St, Astoria www.cafebarastoria.com

10

Café via espresso (C,1) 718-545-3290 2409 Steinway St, Astoria www.cafeviaespressoastoria.com

117

Carioca Grill (B, 2) 718-606-1329 29-03 Broadway, Astoria

9

Cavo (C,2) 718-721-1001 42-18 31st Ave, Astoria www.cavoastoria.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

69

34

Brooklyn Bagel & Coffee Company 718-777-1121 36-14 30th Ave, Astoria 35-09 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria (C,1) 36-14 30th Ave, Astoria (C,2) 35-05 Broadway, Astoria (C,2) www.bkbagel.com

OFF THE HOOK (B,1) 718-721-2112 28-08 34th Ave, Astoria (one block from 30th A) www.offthehookastoria.com Ornella Trattoria Italiana (B,1) 718-777-9477 29-17 23rd Ave, Astoria www.ornellatrattoria.com

Burger Garage (B,3) 718-392-0424 25-36 Jackson Ave, LIC www.theburgergarage.com

33

138

20

109

BAKERIES Astor Bake Shop (a,2) 718-606-8439 12-23 Astoria Blvd, Astoria www.astor-bakeshop.com

Mojave Restaurant (B,1) 718-545-4100 22-36 31st Street, Astoria www.mojaveny.com

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

44

18

Basil Brick Oven (B,1) 718-204-1205 28-17 Astoria Blvd, Astoria www.basilbrickoven.com

124

Vesta (a,2) 718-545-5550 2102 30th Ave, Astoria www.vestavino.com william hallet (c,2) 718-269-3443 36-10 30th Ave, Astoria www.williamhallet.com

29

105

5

75

Locale (b,2) 718-729-9080 33-02 34th Ave, LIC www.localeastoria.com

133

7

31

THYMARI (b,2) 718-204-2280 32-07 34th Ave, Astoria www.thymari.com

86

Bareburger (b,2) 718-777-7011 33-21 31st Ave, Astoria 718-204-7167 23-01 31 St, Astoria www.bareburger.com

4

30

Pita pan (c,2) 718-204-1633 37-15 30th Ave, Astoria www.pitapanny.com Portalia Ristorante (b,2) 718-545-3500 35-03 Broadway, Astoria www.portalianyc.com

74

Queens Comfort (c,2) 718-728-2350 40-09 30th Ave, Astoria www.queenscomfort.com

1

Queens Kickshaw (c,2) 718-777-0913 40-17 Broadway, Astoria www.thequeenskickshaw.com

139

FOOD SHOPS 36

Astoria Bier & Cheese (C,2) 718-545-5588 34-14 Broadway, Astoria

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 104

Apollo Gallery (C,2) 718-786-7590 34-10 36th Ave, Astoria

24

Rèst-âü-Ránt (B,2) 718-729-9009 30-01 35th Ave, Astoria www.rarbarlic.com

21

babyNOIR (B,1) 646-470-4728, 26-16 23rd Ave, Astoria www.babynoir.net

91

S Prime Steak House (c,2) 718-707-0660 35-16 36th St, Astoria www.sprimenyc.com

45

Belief (B,1) 718-721-4444 29-20b 23rd Ave, Astoria www.beliefnyc.com

25

Sage General Store (b,4) 718-361-0707 24-20 Jackson Ave, LIC www.sagegeneralstore.com

49

Inside Astoria (C,1) 718-956-4000 28-07 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria

28

Shi (a,4) 347-242-2450 4720 Center Blvd, LIC www.eatdrinkshi.com

50

LIC: living (A,4) 718- 361-5650 535 51st Ave, LIC www.licliving.com

55

Skinny’s (a,4) 718-806-1068 47-05 Center Blvd, LIC

52

Lockwood Shop (C,2) 718-626-6030 32-15 33rd St, Astoria www.lockwoodshop.com

51

Loveday 31 (B,2) 718-728-4057 3306 31st Ave, Astoria www.loveday31.com

112

Fatty’s (B,1) 718-267-7071 2501 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria www.fattyscafenyc.com

153

125

Honoo Grill & Noodle 33-06 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria 718-606-0653 www.honoo33.com

Snowdonia Pub (B,2) 34-55 32nd St, Astoria, NY 11106 347-730-5783 www.snowdoniapub.com

118

Stove Restaurant and Bar (C, 1) 718-956-0372 45-17 28th Ave, Astoria www.stoveastoria.com

112

Il Bambino (C,2) 718-626-0087 34-08 31 Ave, Astoria www.ilbambinonyc.com

116

54

City Vet (A,4) 718-433-1334 45-44 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.cityvetnyc.com

leng thai (b,2) 718-956-7117 33-09 Broadway, Astoria www.lengthainewyork.com

Sugar Freak (C,2) 718-726-5850 36-18 30th Ave, Astoria www.sugarfreak.com

123

Testaccio (a,4) 718-937-2900 47-30 Vernon Blvd., LIC www.testacciony.com

121

LIC VET CENTER (A,4) 718-255-6514 48-18 Vernon Blvd, Long Island City www.longislandcityvet.com

13

18 | BOROMAG.COM | JANUARY 2014

PETS

Steinway Court Vet (c,2) 718-728-2822 32-41R Steinway St, Astoria www.steinwaycourtvet.com

FLORISTS 137 47

Floresta (A,4) 917-612-4446 51-02 Vernon Blvd, LIC 4-85 47th Rd, LIC www.florestanyc.com/blog NYC FARM CHIC Flowers www.nycfarmchicflowers.com

130

Petals and Roots (B,2) 718-267- 1700 31-27 31st St, Astoria www.petalsandroots.com

114

Ark locksmith 24/7 Service (c,2) 718-932-LOCK (5625) 30-10 37th st, Astoria www.Astorialocksmith.com

119

Astoria Center of Israel 718-278-2680 27-35 Crescent Street, Astoria www.astoriacenter.org

129

Blue Bird Child Care 347-832-0103 25-58 48th St, Astoria www.bluebirdchildcareastoria.com

77

Dr. Panagiotis Pagonis, M.D. (b,2) 718-278-0300 30-16 30th Ave, Astoria www.drpagonismd.com

56

Hero computer repair nyc 347-670-4376 Apple/Mac Computer Repair Specialist hero@iamhero.net | www.iamhero.net

143

lockwood shop 718-626-6030 3215 33rd St, Astoria www.lockwoodshop.com

57

MPN Law Firm (C,2) 718-777-0400 3403 Broadway, Ste. 200, Astoria www.mpnfirm.com

59

RCN (A,3) Digital TV and High-Speed Internet Services 212-842-7981 33-16 Woodside Ave, LIC www.rcn.com/boromag

122

Tuck-It-Away Storage (B, 3) 718-519-8282 37-19 Crescent Street, Astoria www.tuckitaway.com

62

Vardiman Eyewear (c,2) 718-204-5037 34-18 Broadway, Astoria www.vardimaneyewear.com

63

Video Express (c,2) 718-626-0846 3408 30th Ave, Astoria

157

Voice Music Studio (A,1) 23-11 21st Street Astoria, NY 11105 646-309-3429

64

FOUNDRY (a,3) 718-786-7776 42-38 9TH St, LIC www.thefoundry.info

65

The Renaissance Event Hall (A,1) 718-274-4590 27-34 21st St, Astoria www.renaissanceofastoria.com

134

Four Points Sheraton (B,3) 718-786-8500 27-05 39th Ave, LIC, NY 11101 www.fourpoints.com

66

Ravel (a,3) 718-289-6101 8-08 Queens Plaza South, LIC www.ravelhotel.com

17

Z NYC Hotel (a,3) 212-319-7000 11-01 43rd Ave, LIC www.zhotelny.com

SERVICES

EVENTS

HOTELS

MAP IT DIRECTORY TATTOO SHOPS 147

Body Language Tattoo 347-808-0497 32-02 34th Ave, Astoria www.bltnyc.com

67

Super Nova Tattoos (c,1) 718-274-5712 38-01 23rd Ave, Astoria www.supernovatattoo.com

BEAUTY 71

Gigi Salon (c,2) 718 -777-7755 34-17 30th Ave, Astoria www.gigistylingstudio.com

131

MIX STYLE Hair Salon (c,1) 718-274 2153 22-05 35th Street, Astoria

72

Primp AND Tease SALON (a,4) 718-472-2001 5-02 50th Ave, LIC

46

RedkEn SALOON Salon (c,2) 718-956-3366 36-17 30th Ave, Astoria www.redkensalon.com

FITNESS 58

Anthea Yoga & Healing Arts center (c,2) 718-606-0049 34-01 45th Street, Astoria www.antheacenter.com

154

Astoria Complex (c,2) 34-38 38th St, Long Island City, NY 11101 718-729-7163 www.ascsports1.com

81

Rejuvenate face and body (B,1) 718-626-4434 26-17 23rd Ave, Astoria www.Rejuvenatenyc.com

NIGHTLIFE/BARS 82

Bohemian Hall & Beer Garden (B,1) 718-274-4925 2919 24th Ave, Astoria www.bohemianhall.com

83

Break (B,2) 718-777-5400 3204 Broadway, Astoria www.break-ny.com

84

Brick Bar (B,2) 718-267-2735 30-95 33rd St, Astoria www.brickcafe.com

85

Domaine Wine Bar (A,4) 718-784-2350 50-04 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.domainewinebar.com

145

68

111 43

Katch Brewery & Grill (B,2) 718-777-2230 3119 Newtown Ave, Astoria, NY www.katchastoria.com Laughing Devil (a,4) 347-913-3845 4738 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.laughingdevil.com Mosaic Cafe and Lounge (B,1) 718-728-0708 25-19 24th Ave, Astoria www.mosaicnyc.net Raven Head Public House (C,2) 718-777-7565 3804 Broadway, Astoria www.ravenheadpublichouse.com

88

Studio Sq. Beer Garden (C,3) 718-383-1001 35-33 36th St, Astoria www.studiosquarenyc.com

120

CKO Kickboxing (C, 1) 347-669-0494 40-06 Astoria Blvd, Astoria www.ckoastoria.com

89

42

Club Fitness (b,2) 718-545-0004 31-11 Broadway, Astoria www.clubfitnessny.com

Sweet Afton (C,2) 718-777-2570 30-09 34th St, Astoria www.sweetaftonbar.com

79

76

CROSSFIT Dynamix Gym (C,1) 718-606-0381 36-05 20th Ave, Astoria www.dynamixgym.com

Tantra Lounge (b,2) 718-937-4574 35-50 31st St, Astoria www.tantraloungenyc.com

79

PNT Fitness (A,4) 347-396-5809 10-68 Jackson Ave, LIC www.pntfitness.com

90

5 Pointz (B,4) 317-219-2685 45-46 Davis St, LIC www.5ptz.com

Sage Studios 347-927-2439 29-20 23rd Ave, 4th Floor, Astoria www.sagefit.com/astoria-home

100

Astoria fine arts dance (c,1) 718-247-0740 38-01 23rd Ave, Astoria www.asfa-dancestudio.com

78

Seek Fitness (B,1) 347-924-9004 27-18 23rd Ave, Astoria www.seek-fitness.com

128

126

Simply Fit 347-639-0489 37-16 Astoria Blvd, Astoria www.simplyfitastoria.com

142

80 136

The Yoga Room 718-274-0255 38-01 35th Ave, Astoria (C,2) 718-786-7962 10-14 47th Rd, LIC (A,4) www.the-yoga-room.com

60

Tightan Gym 718-274-1606 31-21 31st St, Astoria www.tightan.com

73

Yoga Agora (B,2) 718-626-0680 33-02 Broadway, 2nd Fl, Astoria www.YogaAgora.com

156

UFC Gym (C,2) 34-05 Steinway Street Astoria, NY 11101 718-729-5269 www.ufcgym.com/astoria

SPAS 151

HAPPY DaY NAIL SPA (B,2) 718-728-8886 31-35 31st St, Astoria

149

QUEENS COUNCIL ON THE ARTS (C,2) 347-505-3010 37-11 35th Ave, Astoria Entrance on 37th Street www.queenscouncilarts.org

96

The Secret Theatre (B,3) 718-392-0722 44-02 23rd St, LIC www.secrettheatre.com

99

UNDERPENNY (A,4) 917-517-1492 10-13 50th Ave, LIC

105

Beaudoin Realty Group (A,4) 718-505-9220 21-54 45th Ave, LIC www.beaudoinrealtor.com3

95

ReisStudios (A,3) “An international community of established & emerging artists” 718-570-3663 43-01 22nd St, LIC www.ReisStudios.com

146

RoGallery.com (C,3) 800-888-1063 or 718-937-0901 47-15 36th Street - LIC, NY www.rogallery.com

110

SCULPTURECENTER (B,3) 718-361-1750 44-19 Purves St, LIC www.sculpure-center.org

101

97

Socrates Sculpture Park (A,2) 718-626-1533 32-01 Vernon Blvd, Astoria www.socratessculpturepark.org

141

98

Ten10 Studios (A,4) 917-449-9539 10-10 47th Rd, LIC www.ten10studios.com

112

the art house (c,2) 516-724-1562 31-06 35th St, Astoria www.gabrieleperici.com

REAL ESTATE

140

Modern Spaces 718-784-1110 10-63 Jackson Ave, LIC (a,4) 47-42 Vernon Blvd, LIC (a,4) 29-20 23rd Ave, Astoria (a,4) www.modernspacesnyc.com

103

Wells Fargo Home Mortgage (c,2) 718-310-4303 3501 30th Ave, Astoria www.wfhm.com

135

Mount Sinai Queens (B,2) 24 Emergency Care Primary Care & Specialty Physician 718-932-1000 25-10 30th Ave, LIC

HEALTH & WELLNESS

GET YOUR BUSINESS LISTED! WANT YOUR BUSINESS LISTED IN OUR DIRECTORY?

718.224.5863 ext. 206

Email: ads@BOROmag.com

ART

Astoria Performing Arts Center @The Good Shepherd United Methodist Church (c,2) 718-706-5750 30-44 Crescent Street (@30th Road) Astoria NY 11102 www.apacny.org

107

Carnegie Hall 212-247-7800 57th St and 7th Ave, NY www.carnegiehall.org

102

Flushing Town Hall 718-463-7700 x222 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

113

Laguardia Performing Arts Center (C,3) 718-482-5151 31-10 Thomson Ave, LIC www.laguardiaperformingarts.org

127

LIC School of Ballet (B,3) 718-781-1169 44-02 23rd St, Studio 216, LIC www.licsb.com

93

Museum of the Moving Image (c,2) 718-784-0077 36-01 35th Ave, Astoria www.movingimage.us

94

Noguchi Museum (A,2) 718-204-7088 9-01 33rd Rd, Astoria www.noguchi.org

SUPERNOVA TATTOO & PIERCING 718.274.5712 38-01 23rd Ave Astoria, NY

SUPERNOVATATTOO.COM JANUARY 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 19

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FOOD

One door closes and another opens Story + Photos BRADLEY HAWKS

When Lounge 47 closed on Vernon Boulevard, I have to admit I was extremely sad. One of the chefs had been the owner of a bar on the street where I live, which closed last year and became a panini shop, and another contributing chef— Julie Powell—had written a book that became a movie that inspired my own career—as well as the lives of many others I know. But that is all a part of what happens when you write about restaurants for a while. A place that held special memories and conversations will disappear in the blink of an eye if you aren’t watching carefully. And that is how it seemed to me with Lounge 47. One day I was sipping a coffee with Julie Powell, discussing her career and her friendship with Joss Whedon, and the next time I drove by, a new sign read, Woodbines.

and see what was going on, I was instantly reminded of something I have always known.

When one door closes, another opens.

It took me a moment to be able to enter Woodbines without any previous opinion. I know that the new owners had not personally pushed my friends out the door—it just seemed like I needed to at least grieve for a minute, anyway. But when I did decide to stop in

Lamb nachos headline for appetizers, and the lunchtime Woodbines burger is stacked with a blanket of Irish cheddar, thick smoked bacon, and a mound of Irish slaw. It is disastrously messy, so plan on forking up every bite that falls to the plate.

22 | BOROMAG.COM | JANUARY 2014

Woodbines is an absolutely fantastic addition to the Vernon Boulevard corridor in Long Island City. Serving pub-style Irish dishes alongside American favorites, they really showcase a few plates of note—with some pretty solid drinks, as well.

The Scotch egg arrives halved, and drizzled with spicy mustard for just $5—the same price as a handful of their snacks, which also include jerk chicken, fried pickles, and miniature sausages wrapped in a flaky pastry crust that come five to an order.

s

Of course they serve shepherd’s pie and lamb meatloaf (with honey ginger ketchup), but their pride and joy are the fish & chips, battered an India Pale Ale. For lunch on weekdays, you can get a cheeseburger, chicken Caesar salad, or chicken sandwich for just ten bucks that comes with a soft drink or mug of coffee.

Be sure to check out the drink list, which features growlers and around eight different whiskey flights, fourteen canned beers, and two pages of bottled beers, ciders, and cocktails like the Old Woody -- Woodford Reserve with orange bitters, sugar, muddled orange and cherry, and served with a large ice cube.

But the best part is that the staff seems to be the same kind of folks I love anywhere I go.

The bartender, Daniel, runs a sketch comedy group based out of Astoria, and managed to serve me with a perfect balance of humor and sincerity. Those are the things you can’t put a price tag on. And since I am addicted to those little sausage rolls and scotch eggs, it looks like I may have a new favorite place to add to my list.

Woodbines Craft Kitchen 47-10 Vernon Boulevard Long Island City, NY 11101 (718) 361-8488 www.woodbinesnyc.com JANUARY 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 23

FOOD

Marketa comes to the Market The French toast is a row of the most divine, deep fried brioche cubes on the planet, sitting in a puddle of caramel sauce and orange maple butter, crowned with sweetly bronzed bananas. The croque seniorita is a cheeky spin on the croque madame, replacing ham and gruyere with Serrano ham and manchego cheese on toast point pedestals for exquisite sous vide eggs, where the whites look as if they’ve been gently draped over the golden yolk. And the short rib hash is some of the juiciest, most tender cubes of short rib around, braised in apple cider and roasted to perfection. From a plump, crispy crab cake topped with a sous vide poached egg and béarnaise, to a frisee salad with maple glazed bits of smoked berkshire bacon, this ain’t your basic pancake breakast. The team behind Marketa means some business, and this definitely isn’t their first time at bat.

Last month, the groups behind Butcher Bar and Central Sushi Lounge united forces for the opening of Marketa—a restaurant that somehow blends a gastropub, sidewalk café, rooftop garden, backyard patio, and late night

24 | BOROMAG.COM | JANUARY 2014

Yair Lenchner

Carlos Pico

lounge under one multilevel roof. The main dining room seats 100 guests, with a staircase ascending two stories to a private dining room for 30 guests, which is adjacent to a rooftop patio and garden. The backyard features a fire pit and additional seating for 30, with a wraparound sidewalk café providing several more. Dinner service will be from 5PM to midnight with a late night menu continuing until 2AM. Weekend brunch is Saturday and Sunday at 11AM. In the kitchen, Carlos Pico of La Morina teams up with Yair Lenchner—formerly of Milkflower, Jean-Georges, and The Mark—to

develop a diverse menu marked with many Spanish influences. There’s a truffle grilled cheese spread with duck pate, deep-fried deviled eggs with sriracha, passion fruit pork belly with mint and grapefruit, and a burger with bacon jam, gruyere, and a fried egg.

It is one of the best new patties in the neighborhood, beyond doubt. Lenchner will also be introducing some new toasts, like an eggplant parm with romesco, which join the croque seniorita.

Entrees range from $13 to $21, with most snacks between $5 and $10, including boards of charcuterie and cheese. A full bar will feature cocktails, an international wine selection, and around 20 craft beers.

“We are envisioning something like an Astoria social—sort of a Manhattan gastropub meets with an Astoria lounge,” explains Lenchner.

“There is something for everyone.”

37-17 30th Ave, Astoria, NY 11103 (347) 813-4437 www.MarketaAstoria.com

Now Open for

BRUNCH 4 Bloody Mary

$

and Mimosas

JANUARY & FEBRUARY Off the Hook Days $1 Oyster Mondays (All Night Long Dollar Blue Points)

$1 Clam Tuesdays (All Night Long Dollar Little Necks)

Mussels Wednesdays $15/person All You Can Eat Steamed Mussels

OFF THE HOOK

Dozen Oyster Sundays

RAW BAR & GRILL

2 Dozens House Oysters get a Bonus 3rd

28-08 34 Street, Astoria, NY, 11103 (one block from 30th Ave)

718•721•2112

www.offthehookastoria.com CELEBRATE VALENTINE’S DAY FEB. 14TH ™COME CALL FOR DETAILS OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE!

We are Fine Dining but Casual!

We are now accepting reservations for private or corporate functions.

Complimentrary Valet Parking HAPPY HOUR DAILY 4 - 8PM ENJOY OUR FRIDAY & SATURDAY Friday & Saturday Evenings.

LOBSTER SPECIALS Buon appetito!

NEW

AT TESTACCIO! OUR GOURMET BRUNCH INCLUDES YOUR CHOICE OF A COMPLIMENTRY MIMOSA OR BLOODY MARY

Join our VIP Club Today

47-30 Vernon Boulevard, Long Island City, NY 11101 718.937.2900 • F: 718.937.2908 • www.testacciony.com

JANUARY 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 25

EXPLORE YOUR BORO

John Vassilaros

Percolating

the American Dream Story + Photos Bradley Hawks

The American dream may seem like a fable more often than not, but when you live in New York City, you run into manifestations of the dream coming true—perhaps more than anywhere else in the country. This is the story of one such dream, and the fruits of a man’s labor being reaped daily, right here in Queens.

Few things scream ‘New York City’ the way a cup of coffee does, especially when it is full of premium java roasted for three generations by one family. Based locally in Queens, Vassilaros & Sons’ loyal customers serve about five million cups of coffee every single week in the New York Metropolitan area including several locations in Astoria. If you haven’t heard of them, that’s because they don’t often advertise. But they have been running a wildly successful coffee business since 1918, based solely on social relationships.

And they have been serving coffee to the city years before both the Chrysler and Empire State buildings were completed.

What began with the original John Vassilaros, riding the subway while carrying 40-pound bags of fresh coffee on his shoulders to reach customers 26 | BOROMAG.COM | JANUARY 2014

throughout Brooklyn and Manhattan, has now grown to over 3,000 accounts in the tri-state area—selling primarily to restaurants and businesses where coffee is extremely important. “If our coffee isn’t good, there are six places next door,” smiles today’s John Vassilaros, grandson of the original. “And a great blend of coffee beans is way better than the best single batch of one bean,” he explains as he walks through the factory, gesturing to piles of raw beans from Colombia, Guatemala, Brazil, and Costa Rica. Every day, he checks the blend and readjusts to make sure he is only sending out the finest grinds to his customers. The sight is something nothing short of spectacular. Vassilaros’s small office is just a few steps from a door that leads into a 25,000-square-foot plant where employees have been crafting seasonal coffee blends for more than 50 years.

Walking through—maneuvering around delivery trucks, forklifts, and towering roasters—employees smile and say hello as John passes by. The whole building smells of coffee, breakfast, a morning ride to work, a second wind, an overnight study session, and loads of hope and determination.

While the company also offers hazelnut, french vanilla, a dark roast, and espresso, their classic blend maintains the vast majority of sales.

The team at Vassilaros & Sons is also known for giving back to the community.

Last Thanksgiving, they teamed with Brooklyn Bagel and delivered a truck of bagels and fresh coffee to the Far Rockaways to bring a smile to the storm victims.

If you can’t find their coffee at your favorite restaurant or diner, and you don’t want to have to travel at all? You can order from their website, where a one pound pillow bag of their classic blend is available for just $6. Now that seems like a pretty minimal cost for several fresh-brewed cups of the American dream. You will also find a video there of the hilarious Lewis Black who says that Vassilaros is his personal favorite coffee. It’s worth checking out!

Vassilaros & Sons 29-05 120TH STREET FLUSHING, NY 11354 718-886-4140 www.vassilaroscoffee.com

NYC’s FUTURE IS ....

QUEENS

“We treat you like family!”

Quality Care And Compassion In a Neighborhood Setting

32-14R Steinway Street, Astoria Right by the R and M subway stop

718-728-2822

www.steinwaycourtvet.com info@ steinwaycourtvet.com

H E A LT H

|

FITNESS

|

SERVING THE NEEDS OF REAL ESTATE BUYERS & SELLERS THROUGHOUT QUEENS & EXCEEDING EXPECTATIONS FOR OVER 20 YEARS!

718-505-9220

www.beaudoinrealty.com Offices in Jackson Heights & Long Island City

LIFEST YLE

WILL YOU BE 1 OF THE 10?

BE 1 OF THE 10 TO BE PERSONALLY COACHED IN YOUR HEALTH, FITNESS AND NUTRITION LEARN LIFE CHANGING NUTRITION SECRETS TO KEEP THE BODY YOU TRAINED FOR. LEARN THE BEST TRAINING STRATEGIES TO KEEP YOU AT YOUR BEST. LEARN HOW ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE WHEN YOU SET YOUR MIND TO IT. SCHEDULE YOUR COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATION TODAY!

To your Success in Health & Fitness, - Raymond Grijalvo CONTACT US TODAY TO GET STARTED

27-18 23RD AVE | ASTORIA, NY 11105 347.924.9004 | www.seek-fitness.com JANUARY 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 27

SHOPS

Juicing Queens: Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Blends Story + Photos meg cotner

Now that we’re at the start of the 2014, the season of resolutions is upon us. Knowing that one of them is often to eat healthier, we thought we’d help you out by showing you a few places where you can get a delicious glass of fresh juice and smoothies!

Fresh Start Market

This popular natural foods market offers, along with its wide selection of grocery items, a number of freshly prepared foods, including fresh juice. All the fruits and vegetables they use in the juices are 100% organic, so there are no worries about harmful chemicals in your juice. They offer a whole menu of fruit and vegetable combinations that will no doubt appeal to a variety of tastes.

Popular juices on the fruit side are the Cowboy, made with blueberry, banana, peach, apple; and the Cowgirl, made with banana, mango, strawberry, acai, and orange juice. On the vegetable side, the Imaginarium is also much beloved, made with ginger, beet, parsley, orange, celery, carrot, and flax seed oil (high in omega-3s).

Fresh Start’s staff will also make you a juice made entirely from green vegetables, as well as wheatgrass shots. They’ve recently rearranged the store so you can easily watch them making your glass of juice!

Fresh Start Market, 29-13 23rd Ave, Astoria, NY 11105, (718) 204-7868, www.fsorganic.com

Go Natural Health Food

This popular natural foods store in Sunnyside packs a lot in its small space, including an organic juice station behind the counter. They’ll happily make you juices, smoothies, and shakes, either from their menu or a combination you come up with. Fresh carrot juice is a solid choice (also good mixed with apple), but the Vegetable Mix is their most popular juice. It starts with green vegetables, and you’re free to add any other vegetables they have to that.

28 | BOROMAG.COM | JANUARY 2014

As is the case at most juice bars, the Green Juice is a favorite drink, too. It includes some kale and/or chard, but also green things like apples, cucumber, parsley, and celery. They also offer wheat grass shots, and more recently they’ve been preparing ginger-cayenne shots, which pack a serious and awesome punch. It’s spicy but incredibly warming, and the cayenne is good for increasing metabolism. All vegetables and fruits are 100% organic.

They also have a smoothie menu sporting combinations like a Banana Colada and Berries and More. Shakes are also offered, containing protein powder, maca, and spirutein. In your smoothie, you have a range of milk options, too — whole, skim, almond, and soy.

Go Natural Health Food, 45-03 Queens Blvd, Sunnyside, NY 11104, (718) 482-0008

Igloo

Part diner, part ice cream parlor, and also part juice bar, Igloo delivers big time on the fresh

juice, whether its one of their predetermined combinations of fruits and/or vegetables, or something you come up with on your own. It’s easy to choose one of their combinations, since so many of them are well designed. Carrot figures prominently in a lot of their vegetable juices, which is mixed with everything from the classic apple all the way to more elaborate combinations like carrot, beet, and parsley. Fruit juices feature fresh orange juice as a base, mixed with everything from pineapple to pear.

You can also devise your own combinations of fruits and/or vegetables, as per the Juice Bar sign hanging on the wall behind the counter. Popular additions are ginger, protein powder, as well as wheatgrass, which can also be ordered by the shot. A green smoothie, made with vegetables like kale, chard, cucumber, and parsley, is also available and is one of Igloo’s most popular juices.

They also make a number of smoothies, either with just ice or with Tasti-D-Lite. Particularly

popular is the Last Mango in Paris (mango, peach, pineapple, honey, vanilla frozen yogurt) and the pomegranate-blueberry-strawberry smoothie with ice.

Aside from the juice bar, Vitality also makes their own cold pressed juices. These juices are made by pressing the fruit and/or vegetables, extracting the juice without heat, unlike the centrifugal extractors most of us are used to seeing. When there is no heat involved, the enzymes are unaffected, offering what is believed to be a healthier, more nutritious product. Also, a little goes a long way, as they are quite potent in all the right ways. Two of the most popular are the Super Cleanser (cucumber, kiwi, avocado, lemon, green apple, chlorophyll) and the Immune Boost (orange, Echinacea, Goldenseal, and B12).

Igloo, 22-26 31st St, Astoria, NY 11105, (718) 726-7700

Vitality Health & Natural Market

This natural foods market on Broadway, popular with many Astorians, is open 24 hours a day, and that includes their juice bar. It is not an unusual sight to see someone stumble inside in the middle of the night and order fresh juice or a smoothie.

At the juice bar, single juices (orange, apple, carrot, grapefruit) are available, as well as combinations, such as the very popular Mixed Green Juice. Green smoothies are also a big draw, containing a mix of romaine, spinach, and kale, along with apple, banana, blueberries, goji

berries, and strawberries. When it comes to your choice of milk, you can choose among whole milk, skim, or soy — all organic. All fruits and vegetables are 100% organic, too.

Vitality is proud of their juices — only available as grab and go, as it takes quite a bit more time to extract juice this way — and is the only place we know of in Astoria that offers this kind of juice.

Vitality Health & Natural Market, 46-03 Broadway, Astoria, NY 11103, (718) 606-0725 JANUARY 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 29

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THE ARTS

An Interview By Lizabeth Nieves

Hier is an actress, comedian and aspiring novelist.

"I think the first time I realized I was funny was when I was pretty young. My dad was a businessman that would have his coworkers and clients over. I would make appearances and make little cracks and make the adults laugh. In a way it was different than – oh look how cute she is, it was actually witty and observant.

I think a lot of the wit came from my father.

My dad and my granddad were always the life of the party; they were outspoken, loud, and silly. I’ve always been in tune 32 | BOROMAG.COM | JANUARY 2014

and in touch with the absurdities of life, I remember feeling that strongly as a child.

When I was 12, I went to school in Europe and decided right away that what I wanted to do was act. I tried out for a play and subsequently was cast as the lead, and then every play after that I was cast as the star.

After high school, I went right into Drama School in New York. After graduating from AMDA, right away I started auditioning and doing tons of off off Broadway all over the place for years.

I started doing stand-up comedy in 20092010. The acting was happening but not as frequently because I was in day job land, which is what you have to do to survive here.

I also wasn’t auditioning as stringently as I used to. I joined a sketch group and started writing my own jokes and doing stand-up at open mics.

I don’t think there’s anybody you can’t make fun of. I truly believe that. There are people I won’t make fun of, but I believe you can make fun of everyone. The more people

The

Comedian

ist. deny they should be made fun of; the more you can because they are being ridiculous.

Everybody needs to have that part of them that allows for that.

In some ways doing stand up in NYC is pretty phenomenal, and in a lot of ways it’s pretty terrible. Depending on the night it can be really supportive, and you have other female comedians in the room. There’s this strange attitude towards us as women as these alien drop ins who are different, so that the white male comics are the default. That’s

the mindset of the comedy world. That can be kind of depressing. There is the attitude that women are less funny, and frankly if you think that, you have a terrible sense of humor.

My influences comedically? I like the old gals a lot. Joan Rivers, I can do a killer Joan Rivers. I was always influenced by strong, powerful, vivacious figures. Carol Burnett, Carol Channing, Lucille Ball. More recently I like bawdy women. For too long we have been too quiet so I like that we won’t shut up.

I decided to write a book about drinking... my experiences with alcohol had developed in a way that ended up being dangerous.

At the point I’m at now it turned into something sinister. I always used alcohol as a way to avoid problems and also as a way to figure things out. It got to a point where I was blacking out more and more and ending up in the hospital. It scared me and I had to make the decision to survive.

There are certainly books written by women about alcoholism, but there is a lack of books about women in the middle of her life. Women in the prime of their life, artistic women… I feel like I have a unique story. I think this could really help women.

We don’t talk about women having serious issues and blacking out and almost losing their good job. I also think we need to do it with a little bit of humor; the book is going to be about that. It’s really a book about searching, really a book about a woman figuring out who she is rather than who she should be.

My advice to anyone wanting to be an actress, comedian or writer in NYC? I would say, don’t do it. Stay where you are, it’s much easier. Keep your feet planted and to focus better on what you want. I really think finding people who you trust is huge—forming a network that is safe. Being alone in this city is really hard."

34 | BOROMAG.COM | JANUARY 2014

More Than Just Your Neighborhood Banker.

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BODY & SOUL

Starting a

new cycle Story HAYLEY BRIDGEWATER

Love to spin? Want to add powerful cardio to your existing workout schedule? Need to augment your cycling training with an indoor option?

Climb on, clip in, and get ready for the newest ride to hit Astoria! The latest fitness studio in Western Queens is Simply Cycle Astoria, a boutique spinning studio for cycle crazed masses.

The Space

Conveniently located on Steinway between 30th Ave and Broadway, Simply Cycle’s 2nd floor studio is easily accessible, and centrally placed in Astoria’s busy 30th Avenue corridor. Street parking is available, and municipal lots can be found within 2 blocks.

Just look for the green and white awning.

Sleek and modern, yet retaining the charm 36 | BOROMAG.COM | JANUARY 2014

of Astoria, the sundrenched studio features floor-to-ceiling windows facing the street, accented with exposed brick walls and dark hardwood floors. It houses 21 Spinner Pro cycles, a state of the art sound system, and a contemporary lighting package. Lockers are available for

storage during class, and water is available for purchase.

The Schedule

Whether you are an early riser, an after-work exerciser, or a weekend warrior, Simply Cycle will have a class for you. (continued on page 38)

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BODY & SOUL

(continued from page 36)

Founder Lisa Eskenazi

With seven dynamic instructors on the books, you have a great choice of diverse styles, blood pumping playlists, and energetic rides for your week.

Due to the popularity of cycling classes, class registration is required. Walk-ins will be available if space permits. For the ultimate convenience, registration for classes is arranged through the online portal on Simply Cycle's website. Class registrations close online 5 hrs before the start of class.

If you do not arrive on time to class, or fail to call to advise of late arrival, your seat will be given away to walk-ins. No-shows or late cancellations will be deducted from your account.

The preliminary schedule is listed below.

The schedule will continue to grow as demand increases.

Hayley Bridgewater

The team at Simply Cycle Astoria is aiming to provide high energy, motivating and challenging Spin® classes of the finest quality. They have joined forces with Mad Dogg Athletics, the leaders in indoor cycling, to guarantee the most effective workout and positive experience.

Monday 7pm & 8pm Tuesday 6am, 7am, 7pm, & 8pm Thursday 6am, 7am, 7pm, & 8pm Friday 6am, 7am & 7pm Saturday 9am, 10am, & 11am Sunday 10am, 11am, &12pm

Each class at SCA involves a 45 minute heart pumping ride. The classes appeal to all ages and fitness levels. Complimentary towel service will be provided for each ride.

The Specifics

Simply Cycle Astoria was conceived and founded by Lisa Eskenazi, the owner of Simply Fit, which is also located in Astoria.

With Simply Cycle, Eskenazi has carefully handpicked a band of instructors with both the credentials and charisma to lead exciting, challenging, and invigorating courses.

Each Spinner® Pro bike, is equipped with an adjustable resistance knob which allows each student to select her/his own level of intensity. Simply Cycle Astoria does not rent cycling shoes at this time, but each bike is affixed with dual sided pedals with straps for regular sneakers and SPD® compatible cycle shoes.

“Even though I will not be personally teaching courses, I am extremely excited about the people I have found to lead at Simply Cycle,” she explains.

Pricing

Tired of trekking into Manhattan and paying inflated fees for your ride? Simply Cycle Astoria offers reasonable prices for single classes and multiple ride packages.

Individual class $22 with a 1 month expiration Multiple Ride Packs 10 for $210 ($21 per class) 3 month expiration 20 for $400 ($20 per class) 6 month expiration 40 for $760 ($19 per class) 12 month expiration 50 for $900 ($18 per class) 12 month expiration You must register in advance online. Walkins are welcome if space is available. No returns, exchanges or sharing of packages.

Further information for Simply Cycle Astoria can be found at: Simply Cycle Astoria 30-69 Steinway St, 2nd Floor, Astoria, NY 11103 718-806-1962 SimplyCycleAstoria.com

www.facebook.com/simplycycleastoria

SimplyCycleA 38 | BOROMAG.COM | JANUARY 2014

JANUARY 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 39

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40 | BOROMAG.COM | JANUARY 2014