Bm022014

VOL 4:3 FEBRUARY 2014

ASTORIA // LIC // SUNNYSIDE

CREATE // CULTIVATE // INSPIRE

love train

Join the

GREAT DISCOUNTS

at the best spots in Astoria, LIC, Sunnyside

Active Valentine Ideas pg. 6

Italian Love Story pg. 14

Love Thy Neighbor With Cookies pg. 26

Tough Love pg. 38

2 | BOROMAG.COM | FEBRUARY 2014

A GREAT CUP FOR LESS. WAKE UP AND SMELL THE COFFEE. VASSILAROS & SONS WAS FOUNDED ON A PROMISE TO SERVE NEW YORK CITY WITH A BETTER, HONESTLY PRICED CUP OF COFFEE. THREE GENERATIONS LATER, WE’RE STILL GOING STRONG. VASSILAROSCOFFEE.COM

AVAILABLE AT TITAN FOODS AND BROOKLYN BAGEL & COFFEE COMPANY FEBRUARY 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 3

Dear Western Queens,

JOSHUA SCHNEPS

publisher

There is nothing like love to warm us up in the frigid month of February. With Valentine’s Day comes love in the air, but it can also add some stress when you have to figure out what to do for all the loved ones in your life. Whether it’s your significant other, mother, sister and/or friends planning where to eat, shop, pick up a gift and maybe a nice bottle of wine can get overwhelming. But not to worry as we have some great ideas for you in this issue that you can find right here in Astoria. We couldn’t bring you a Valentine’s issue without sharing a love story, especially one that was love at first sight! So check it out and know that romance could be a slip on the ice away for you.

Beyond Valentine’s Day we’re sharing the amazing people that live and work right here in your own backyard. From business owners to artists including comedians, musicians, actors, a photographer and more. The talent around us is inspiring.

No issue of BORO is complete without introducing you to cuisine that makes your mouth water.

So digest this issue and enjoy.

Best, Josh

8 Active Valentine’s Dates

FEATURES

6

Green Gallows

FEATURES

6 BODY & SOUL

36 THE ARTS

14 CHARACTERS

38 ENTERTAINMENT

8 Active Valentine’s Dates Italian Love Story

Photo Show by Lizabeth Nieves Tough Love

DEPARTMENTS

22 FOOD & DRINK Pachanga Patterson

24 FOOD & DRINK Off the Hook

26 CHARACTERS

Single Girl Cookies

28 FOOD & DRINK Hell Gate Tiki

29 ENTERTAINMENT Grape Dutches of York

32 THE ARTS

Green Gallows Interview

12 FEBRUARY 2014 EVENTS 17 BORO DEALS & DISCOUNTS PAGE

Exclusive savings, discounts and freebies for the month of February 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

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 | FEBRUARY 2014

32

PHOTO BY LAGUARDIA PHOTOGRAPHY STUDENT YOUNG KYU PARK ‘10

TAKE CHARGE OF YOUR FUTURE Apply for Spring 2014 through Direct Admission at LaGuardia!

The LaGuardia Community College Admissions Office will be open for Direct Admission for the Spring 2014 semester. Appointments are available in December 2013.

To learn more and register for your Direct Admit appointment now, visit

www.laguardia.edu/directadmit LaGuardia Community College 31-10 Thomson Avenue Long Island City, NY 11101 (718) 482-5000 www.laguardia.edu

FEBRUARY 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 5

BODY & SOUL

Dynamic Date Ideas for a Heart Pumping Valentine’s Day

W

hether you have a long time H AY Valentine, are starting L up something new, or even heading out with a large group of friends, these top notch Queens-based establishments provide many fun and active date ideas to suit your personality. Any of these lively activities can be paired with the area’s well-known spectacular food finds, and make this February holiday one for the books. by

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B

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WAT E

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6 | BOROMAG.COM | FEBRUARY 2014

Energetic & Sporty As a passionate hockey fan, the existence of a large public ice rink close by is always in the back of my head when looking for date night options in Western Queens. Affordable, suitable for beginners and pros alike, a night on the ice is a good time for everyone.

Sunnyside’s City Ice Pavilion is a great location to throw on some skates and get your body moving. There are plenty of classes available, but my suggestion for ‘couple time’ would be to try Open Ice skating sessions—or should you be more athletically inclined, bring your gear to the Stick and Puck Sessions, and channel your inner hockey legend. (Let’s Go Rangers!)

City Ice Pavilion is located close to the 33rd St stop on the 7 train at 47-32 32nd Place. Detailed information on pricing, schedule, and rentals can be found at cityicepavilion.com or by calling 718.706.6667.

Cold temperatures not your thing? Maybe you are eager for Spring Training to start, and would rather spend your Valentine’s Day in a cage? I’m talking about a batting cage, of course…

At Astoria Sports Complex (34-38 38th Street), you can rent time in batting cages or fielding tunnels. This state of the art facility has a full range of pitches and speeds available, and automatic ball return.

Who doesn’t like to hit things? Come in ready to swing.

ping

Slightly off the beaten path, but well worth the trip, Queens Archery could have you warming up for a different kind of ‘Hunger Games’.

Located on 39th Avenue and 171st street in Flushing, this unique archery range offers open shooting for the experienced, and a free lesson with equipment rental for those new to Cupid’s weapon of choice.

Rates are very reasonable at $12 per hour per person for open shooting, and $20 per hour per person with equipment rental (which includes an instructional lesson).

Queens Archery is open for business on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 5pm to 11pm, Friday from 6pm to 11pm, Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 5pm, and is closed on Monday.

The batting cages are accessible Monday through Friday 3pm-10pm, Saturday 10am10pm, and Sunday 10am-8pm. Rentals can be arranged in 15 minute increments; 15 minutes for $15, 30 minutes for $25, and 60 minutes for $45.

For more information/reservations, visit ascsports1.com or call 718.729.7163

Adventurous & Feisty Is your special someone a bit of a wild one? Looking for something somewhat out of the box to provoke that playful edge?

For more information on location and reservations, call 718.461.1756 or visit bigapplearchery.com Want to kick it up a little more? Try something completely unique to our area? Stoke that competitive fire and quicken your breath at Long Island City’s own Indoor Extreme Sports.

IES is the home of NYC’s only indoor paintball/re-ball center, host to three different laser tag venues, and is now the first place in New York to experience Archery Tag. Think dodge ball with foam tipped arrows.

Indoor Extreme Sports is located at 47-11 Van Dam Street off the 33rd and Rawson station stop of the 7 train. Hours of operation are Tuesday through Thursday from 1 PM to 11 PM, Friday from 1 PM to 1 AM, Saturday

from 10 AM to 1 AM, and Sunday from 10 AM to 8 PM. Pricing varies based on the sport and the venue chosen. More information can be found at indoorextremesports.com , by calling 718.361.9152, or by checking out their Facebook page.

Laid Back & Social Traditional bar games more your style?

Would you prefer to take some time to chat up your date? Could variation be your icebreaker?

If options are your thing, look no further than Break Bar & Billards at 32-04 Broadway in the heart of Astoria. You could fill an entire night without having to leave this entertainment venue.

Break offers billiards, ping-pong, darts, air hockey, vintage arcade games, baseball, and hoops. If your sweetheart isn’t feeling one activity, just move onto the next.

If you find yourself hungry, or in need of a drink to ease the mood, there’s also a full food menu and full service bar.

Break is open Monday through Thursday from 4 PM to 2 AM, Friday from 4 PM to 4 AM, Saturday from 12 PM to 4 AM, and Sunday from 12 PM to 2 AM. Like to stick to the old tried and true favorites?

If you’re looking for a place to pace your evening, but want to indulge in a little good natured rivalry, the Upper Ditmars staple, Astoria Bowl, is your place.

FEBRUARY 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 7

BODY & SOUL

Island City’s BrickHouse Ceramic Arts Center offers private pottery throwing instruction for a date night to remember.

Chill and nostalgic, bowling a few games is an easy, no pressure way to start your night.

Who doesn’t know how to bowl?

Astoria Bowl is located off the beaten path, but can be accessed by the Q101 or Q69 bus.

(Or jump in a cab, it’s Valentine’s Day!) Hours and rates for open bowling vary by the day. For up to the date information, visit astoriabowl.com, call 718-274-1910, or visit their Facebook page

Relaxed & Hands On Perhaps you are looking to wind down your Valentine’s Day while connecting to your date in a visceral way. If you are searching for an intimate, artistic and centering experience, I have two ideas that are sure to make an impression.

Want to get your hands dirty? Ever imagine yourself having your very own ‘Ghost’ moment a la Demi Moore and Patrick Swayze? In addition to many different ceramic arts classes and workshops, Long 8 | BOROMAG.COM | FEBRUARY 2014

A minimum of 2 hours is required for private instruction, and costs $200 for 2 people.

If you are already a registered student at BrickHouse, your discounted rate for the 2 hr private instruction is $90 for 2 people.

A 50% deposit is required upon registration, with balance due at start of instruction. 48 hours cancellation notice is needed for a full refund.

Additional information can be found at www.brickhouseny.com or by calling 718.784.4907 Last but certainly not least, (and my personal favorite idea) the inspiring staff at Astoria/ LIC’s The Yoga Room, are offering a special Valentine’s Thai Yoga Massage Workshop.

According to the website, “Thai Yoga Massage combines massage, acupressure, twisting, stretching and meditation to create a wholeness of body, mind and spirit in both the giver and the receiver. You will be guided through giving and receiving a healing and relaxing Thai Yoga Massage sequence while cultivating non-verbal communication tools based on breath, touch, and open-hearted listening.”

This sounds like bliss. And no previous experience is necessary to participate.

The workshop is being offered at both locations: Astoria Studio Saturday, February 15th from 3-5:30pm LIC Studio Saturday, February 22nd from 3-5:30pm The cost is $40 per person if you register before February 12th, and $45 per person after that date.

Reservations are required (there is a 12 couple max) and can be made through their website @ www.the-yoga-room.com.

Additional information can be obtained by contacting: The Yoga Room Astoria 38-01 35th Avenue 2nd floor 718.274.0255 The Yoga Room LIC 10-14 47th Road 718.786.7962 Whoever said working out and going out can’t be killed by the same stone? Try one of these activities to start of the relationship right.

Western Queens is full of pair activities that will work your heart as you ‘work’ your heart.

Our love, in flowers.

for wedding inquiries, please contact us at:

event @ florestanyc.com 347 642 8108 51-02 vernon blvd. long island city, ny 11101

florestanyc.com FEBRUARY 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 9

Every 36 seconds,

heart disease takes another life.* How can you fight back? A smart way is to take advantage of the free heart healthy events offered throughout February by Mount Sinai Queens. Learn everything you need to know about heart disease at our free event “Go Red For Women at Mount Sinai Queens.” Celebrate a heart healthy lifestyle at one of our most popular events “Eat Heartily with Chef Rocco Sacramone.” Learn CPR from the EMTs of the New York City fire department. And come to one of our free blood pressure screenings. It’s fast, easy, and it could save your life. See our website for dates, times, and locations. www.mshq.org/events.

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

Go Red For Women at Mount Sinai Queens: A Heart Health Panel Discussion Thursday, February 6, 6:30 pm

Riccardo’s By The Bridge 21-01 24th Avenue, Long Island City, 11102

Eat Heartily with Chef Rocco Sacramone Wednesday, February 26, 6:30 pm Central Sushi Bar and Lounge 20-30 Steinway Street, (Between 20th Avenue and 20th Road), Astoria, 11105

* American Heart Association 10 | BOROMAG.COM | FEBRUARY 2014

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FEBRUARY EVENTS 2/3 @ 4pm - close (FOOD+DRINK)

Beer & Bacon All Night Happy Hour

An all night bacon and beer fest FREE | Rest-au-Rant 718-729-9009 | 30-01 35th Avenue at 30th Street corner of 30th Street and 35th Avenue, LIC www.rarbarlic.com

2/6 @ 9pm - midnight (MUSIC)

Live Music Thursdays - D.B. Rielly - American Roots Music 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, LIC www.rarbarlic.com

2/8 @ 1pm (MUSIC)

THE BEATLES ON THE ED SULLIVAN SHOW – Looking back 50 years A retrospective of the Beatles and that memorable Sunday night on February 9, 1964 – the night when the 60s started.

Pop culture, baby boomers and the country changed forever.

FREE GAHS members, $10 to the public | Greater Astoria Historical Society 718-278-0700 | 35-20 Broadway, 4th Floor, LIC www.astorialic.org

2/9 @ 3-4pm (ART)

Conservation Case Studies

In conversation with The Noguchi Museum’s curators, collection manager, and researchers, Leslie Gat, Principle Objects Conservator of Art Conservation Group, will present a combination of pending, in progress, and recently completed conservation and reconstruction projects Included with admission | The Noguchi Museum 718-204-7088 | 9-01 33rd Road, LIC www.noguchi.org/programs/public

2/13 @ 9pm - midnight (MUSIC)

Live Music Thursdays - Matt Turk & Gary Schreiner 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, LIC www.rarbarlic.com

2/14 @ 4pm - close (FOOD+DRINK)

Find more events at www.BOROmag.com/Events

Every Sunday & WednesdaY @ 6pm-12am (DRINK) Happy Hour: 6pm-9pm Z NYC Hotel ROOFTOP (rain in Lounge) 212-319-7000 |11-01 43rd Avenue, LIC 11101

EVERY WEDNESDAY @ 5pm-7pm (FOOD+DRINK)

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

www.Penthouse808rooftop.com

www.zhotelny.com

HAPPY HOUR

HALF-PRICE SUSHI+SAKE ALL NIGHT! Penthouse808 Asian Bistro Rooftop Located at The Ravel Hotel 718-289-6118 | 8-08 Queens Plaza South, LIC

All night happy hour with slider specials

every Wednesday @ 4pm - close (DRINK SPECIALS)

www.rarbarlic.com

www.rarbarlic.com

FREE | Rest-au-Rant 718-729-9009 | 30-01 35th Avenue at 30th Street corner of 30th Street and 35th Avenue, LIC Every Monday Night @ 9pm-11pm (MUSIC)

Music Mondays

FREE | Sweet Afton 718-777-2570 | 30-09 34th Street, Astoria www.sweetaftonbar.com

Every Tuesday @ 8:30PM (ENTERTAINMENT)

Trivia Night at Break

FREE | Break Bar & Billiards 718-777-5400 | 3204 Broadway, Astoria 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, LIC

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, LIC 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

EVERY THURSDAY @ 5pm-7pm (DRINK SPECIAL)

VINO THURSDAYS!

Half Price Wine Bottles from our list Penthouse808 Asian Bistro Rooftop Located at The Ravel Hotel 718-289-6118 | 8-08 Queens Plaza South, LIC www.Penthouse808rooftop.com

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

www.rarbarlic.com

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

the last Tuesday of every month (FOOD+DRINK)

www.zhotelny.com

beer dinner

Customized delicious dinner courses paired with beer flights.

Different breweries will be featured each time.

Snowdonia 347-730-5783 | 34-55 32nd Street, Astoria www.snowdoniapub.com

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

MonDAY-SatURDAY @ 4pm-7pm (DRINK SPECIALS)

Happy Hour

Portalia Ristorante-Bar-Lounge 718-545-3500 | 35-03 Broadway, Astoria portalianyc.com

Valentine’s Day Dinner

Indulge in a 5 course shareable menu for two.

Reservations required.

Rest-au-Rant 718-729-9009 | 30-01 35th Avenue at 30th Street corner of 30th Street and 35th Avenue, LIC Check our website for details www.rarbarlic.com

2/20 @ 9pm - midnight (MUSIC)

Live Music Thursdays - Aaron LaVigne

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, LIC www.rarbarlic.com

2/27 @ 9pm - midnight (MUSIC)

Live Music Thursdays - Joe Jung & Cedric Lamar

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, LIC www.rarbarlic.com

ONGOING

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, LIC www.rarbarlic.com

Sundays @ 6pm (NIGHTLIFE + ENTERTAINMENT)

Ravel Rooftop Sundays

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

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

12 | BOROMAG.COM | FEBRUARY 2014

weekly programming at Static Lounge during the month of February

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CHARACTERS

amore Now THAT’S

For our Valentine’s Day issue, we asked Ornella Viterale to share the story of how she met the love of her life, Giuseppe Viterale. Giuseppe and Ornella are the charismatic, charming, and all around lovable owners of Ornella Trattoria Italiana in Astoria.

Giuseppe is also the chef, and their sons are often the servers.

Story Ornella Viterale

As I was walking back from the store, I fell on a sheet of ice. Here comes this man with a scruffy beard to help me up. I honestly took one look at him, and fell in love. I knew he wasn’t from my neighborhood, and realized he didn’t speak English. I said, ‘thank you’, and he left.

I would never talk to my father about boys, but I figured he’d know who the man was. I told my father that I thought I had met the man that I’d marry. With the straightest of faces, my father told me I was insane, and told me to get lost.

A few weeks later, I noticed the same man again, but talking to my best friend’s mother, Santina. I knew now I had it in the bag! I telephoned Santina, and asked her how she knew the man. She said he was here visiting with another friend from Italy. His name was Giuseppe.

I told her I wanted to meet him, and she said she’d take care of it.

A week later, Santina called and told me I needed to return her typewriter that I had borrowed—but to make sure that I looked hot.

I was so incredibly happy that I got myself all ready—made sure my shirt was extra tight (wink wink)—and showed up at Santina’s house. And there was Giuseppe, with his friend, Vito, having espresso.

We were formally introduced, and we made lots of conversation. At the end of the evening, we said goodnight, and I went home. He didn’t ask for my number, but I had assumed he would ask Santina for it.

14 | BOROMAG.COM | FEBRUARY 2014

A week went by, and I was at work when suddenly I got a call from him. From that night on, Giuseppe would pick me up in front of Rockefeller Center every night after work. I introduced him to my parents, and they fell in love with him.

We went to the Valentine’s dance as a couple, and that Sunday he surprised me with a phone call from his parents from Italy. I realized he was serious about us.

One night at the movies, we went to see Moonstruck. And during the part where Cher is proposed to, he looked at me and repeated, in Italian, “Will you marry me?” No ring. No flowers. No anything except his words. And because I loved him I didn’t care about anything else.

I told my parents we wanted to get married, and we didn’t want to wait a year or two. They thought I was crazy. But I knew I wanted this man to be the one I woke up to every morning, and someone I could see myself growing old with.

So in a nutshell, we met in January of 1988. Giuseppe’s vacation to America became a permanent move, and we got married in October of that same year. 25 years later, we have four amazing sons. There have been many ups and downs. But here we are, still waking up together. And hoping to grow as old as possible together.

Ornella Trattoria Italiana is located at 29-17 23rd Ave. You can visit their website at www.ornellatrattoria.com.

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FREE FEBRUARY HAPPY HOUR

It has been too brutally cold and we all need to get our alcohol levels up. So…. for all of February, Sage General Store is running FREE HAPPY HOUR DRINKS FROM 5:00 – 6:00 pm Includes our new cocktail menu inspired by American’s greatest drinking writers (obviously Hemingway and Capote, plus a few surprises). American wine and craft beer are also included.

FREE. YES. FREE. ONE HOUR.

TUESDAY THROUGH SATURDAY.

When you order any appetizer or entrée. Come get your buzz on, sit at the bar getting warm by the wood-burning fire and revel in free HAPPY HOUR every night Tuesday – Saturday 5:00 – 6:00 pm

CHEF CHRIS AWAITS YOUR PALATE NEW EXECUTIVE CHEF: Chris Rauber, a master of the wood oven, has worked under celebrity chefs Marcus Samuelsson and Pichet Ong. His expansive culinary education, Italian roots, and love of American regional cooking bring new dishes like this hearty Lamb Shank Lasagna to Sage General Store. Other dishes to try on the winter menu: the short rib pizza, skate schnitzel with pickled red cabbage, balsamic braised Brussels sprouts with bacon, whole wood-oven roasted fish (caught from local waters)

24-20 Jackson Avenue •

L o n g I s l a n d C i t y, N Y 1 1 1 0 1

• 718.361.0707

FEBRUARY 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 15

SPRING 2014

g n i t c A

CLASSES

FOR KIDS & ADULTS

A unique place for Actors

to explore and enjoy the craft of acting.

BEGIN MARCH 25, 2014 ENROLL NOW! CLASSES www.RisingCityArts.com * (718) 986-0967 We serve children and adults of all ages with high quality, innovative theater and acting-based classes, workshops and in-school residencies taught by some of New York’s finest Acting Teachers.

Please visit our website for more details & to register!

ALL Classes are held at Broadway Dance of Astoria (right off the N/Q!)

16 | BOROMAG.COM | FEBRUARY 2014

free wine tastings every friday from 6:00-8:30 ask about our member rewards club www.astoriaparkwineandspirits.com 28-07 24th Ave., Astoria, NY 718-606-1142

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

Offers available through February 28, 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

Ask for Vassilaros at any Brooklyn Bagel location and get a free cup of coffee with this coupon.

Save 15% on orders

1 month Unlimited Zumba 50% Off

$10 off with a combo hair cut & color

$79.99 for Digital TV + TiVo +

High Speed Internet OR $34.99 for High Speed Internet

by February 12

HAPPY HOUR EVERY DAY

new members only for the month of February

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

Valentine’s Day Dinner $55 per person (excluding tax & gratuity)

DURING FEBRUARY FROM 5 to 6 PM

10% OFF

any wine purchase

15% OFF

FREE HAPPY HOUR - Tues-Sat

any purchase

OFF THE HOOK

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

20% OFF FOOD

FEBRUARY ONLY! WITH AD

Save $40 on your Valentine’s Day Flowers-2 dozen roses for $100

Free Glass of Wine

weekend brunch special

8 Day Pass to UFC GYM Astoria

with Entree

*$25 OFF DINNER

Spend $50 or more on dinner and get *$25 off your bill! BORO MAG exclusive deal *must mention code #bm25450 with reservations

Saturday & Sunday: 11am-3pm

when you place your order by 2/10/14

3 CLASSES & STARTER GLOVES $19.99* First time guests only. 3 classes expire 10 days after 1st class is taken. Expires 2/28/14

A $160 VALUE. Ends February 28th.

20% OFF

any fine artwork, excluding framing

Follow Us For Great Deals Throughout The Month /BOROmag

@BOROmag FEBRUARY 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 17

MAP IT DIRECTORY RESTAURANTS 115

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105

23

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

86

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

18

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

19

MexiBBQ (c,2) 718-626-0333 37-11 30th Ave, Astoria www.mexiqny.com

3

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

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

133

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

148

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

150

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

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

109

Pita pan (c,2) 718-204-1633 37-15 30th Ave, Astoria www.pitapanny.com

69

Portalia Ristorante (b,2) 718-545-3500 35-03 Broadway, Astoria www.portalianyc.com

8

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

35

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

74

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

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

24

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

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

BAKERIES 33 34

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

Sweetleaf (A,4) 917-832-6726 10-93 Jackson Ave, LIC www.sweetleaflic.com

61

117

32

Yajai (b,2) 718-956-9559 33-16 30th Ave, Astoria www.yajaithaifood.com

37

5

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

108

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

Malu (A,4) 718-729-6258 12-09 Jackson Ave, LIC www.amomandpopshop.com

Ornella Trattoria Italiana (B,1) 718-777-9477 29-17 23rd Ave, Astoria www.ornellatrattoria.com

10

44

40

20

87

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

OFF THE HOOK (B,1) 718-721-2112 28-08 34th Ave, Astoria (one block from 30th A) www.offthehookastoria.com

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

26

29

75

138

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

31

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

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

7

124

30

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

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

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

12

El Ay Si (A,4) 718-389-8781 47-38 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.elaysi.com

55

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

112

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

153

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

116

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

54

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

125

112

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

13

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

18 | BOROMAG.COM | FEBRUARY 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

SERVICES

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

EVENTS

HOTELS

MAP IT DIRECTORY TATTOO SHOPS

SPAS

147

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

151

67

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

81

158

painless steel Tattoo (c,1) 718-267-8114 21-40 41st St, Astoria www.astoriatattoo.com

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

82

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

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

83

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

131

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

84

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

72

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

85

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

46

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

145

Katch Brewery & Grill (B,2) 718-777-2230 3119 Newtown Ave, Astoria, NY www.katchastoria.com

68

Laughing Devil (a,4) 347-913-3845 4738 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.laughingdevil.com

71

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

120

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

42

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

76

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

79

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

142

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

78

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

126

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

111 43

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

89

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

79

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

90

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

100

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

ART

128

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

718-786-7962 10-14 47th Rd, LIC (A,4) www.the-yoga-room.com

102

Flushing Town Hall 718-463-7700 x222 137-35 Northern Blvd, Flushing www.flushingtownhall.org

60

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

92

Kaufman Astoria Studios (C,2) 718-706-5300 34-12 36th St, Astoria www.kaufmanastoria.com

73

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

113

156

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

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

80 136

The Yoga Room 718-274-0255 38-01 35th Ave, Astoria (C,2)

96

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

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

99

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

95

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

105

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

146

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

140

110

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

97

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

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

149

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

NIGHTLIFE/BARS

BEAUTY

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

94

REAL ESTATE

101

141

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

ADVERTISE IN

BORO Currently selling packages for 2014!

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

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

FEBRUARY 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 19

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FOOD & DRINK

Grilled Octopus

A new party at

Pachanga Patterson

Story + Photos BRADLEY HAWKS

Peyton Powell recently took over as Executive Chef in the kitchen at Astoria’s Pachanga Patterson, the Mexican third of the restaurant trio that also includes Vesta in Astoria and Venturo in Sunnyside.

Previously the executive sous chef at Casa Mono since 2009, Powell also worked at DB Bistro Moderne, as well as Daniel.

Powell met the owners of Pachanga by eating at Vesta, and seeing them around Astoria where he has been living for the last four years. “I loved what they were doing in the neighborhood, and wanted to be a part of it,” explains the chef.

Previously, Pachanga focused on serving ‘family meals’ through the vehicle of Mexican recipes. A family meal, in the restaurant industry, is a staff meal served before a shift. Tacos were stuffed with duck, for example. And while the duck tacos remain, the theme has moved from fusion to classic Mexican.

“What I’m trying to do at Pachanga is not strictly Oaxacan,” says Powell, “even though it’s my favorite region of Mexico, foodwise. I want to incorporate traditional Mexican flavors and ingredients influenced by my background, in a local, seasonal, and comfortable environment.”

The result is some of the most delicious Mexican food in the entire city. Which comes as no surprise from a chef of such a background at a restaurant with owners who know how to run a successful business.

A surprisingly light queso fundido arrives in a shallow clay dish, studded with hen of the woods mushrooms, tiny diced cubes of butternut squash, and pumpkin seeds.

Quacamole is served in the classic style, or can be ordered jazzed up with pomegranate seeds, queso fresco, and chipotle pepper oil, making it sweet and spicy.

If you order the Fideos con Mariscos, do not plan on sharing even a single bite, as these head-on prawns are sweet and tender, swimming with mussels in a pot of broken capellini stewed with cactus paddles in a habanero aioli. From the land, never has pork belly been executed to such deliciousness, glazed with tamarind and served with chicharrones and tangerines.

Pachanga can loosely be translated into ‘street party’, which means there are plenty of unique cocktails to sip. Drinks range from a Coriander en Fuego to a Cactus Cooler, made from organic prickly pear puree, blended with tequila blanco.

From appetizers to dessert, Pachanga

Chef Peyton Powell

Patterson is hitting it out of the park.

Chef Powell is dishing out some pretty remarkable dishes worthy of at least a visit, if not two… or twenty. If only all Mexican food could taste this fantastic.

33-17 31st Ave Astoria, NY 11106 (718) 554-0525 pachangapatterson.com

Cactus Cooler

Red Snapper Aguachile

Grilled Octopus

Bone Marrow with Pepper Jam

Tamarind Glazed Pork Belly

Fideos con Mariscos

Queso Fundido

Cochinita Pibil Taco

FOOD & DRINK

Story + Photos Bradley hawks

Three longtime friends began brewing the idea of a specialty seafood shack right here in Astoria several years ago. Their notion was to build and create everything, thinking as if they were the customer. While they would provide unique and superbly executed dishes along with a cozy and cute atmosphere lovingly designed to reflect a seafood shack in a New England coastal town, they would be also enjoying themselves, having fun and hanging out with the customers.

In other words, they wanted to create a place where you are not simply going to have a nice meal in a good restaurant.

Instead you would feel as though you are going to your friends’—who just so happen to have a very cute place, with lobster traps as lampshades and a swing made from nautical chains—and those friends will keep you company while you enjoy their fantastic culinary creations. Thus, off the Hook was born.

“Glenn is our source of inspiration when it comes to new dishes and ideas. And I can tell you that when it comes to combining ingredients and ideas, he’s the Special One,” explains Bes Levonja, who owns the restaurant along with Iglent ‘Glenn’ Fezjulla and Dritan Xhuke.

On my most recent visit, I joined eight friends as we tackled the brunch menu for two hours, beginning with a lobster macaroni and cheese, shrimp cocktail, and some grilled oysters Florentine.

“From our experience so far, it is really hard to look at the menu and not fall in love with the Lobster Benedict,” explains Bes. “However, that is a dish that doesn’t need recommendation. So I’d favor the idea of Steak ‘n Eggs or maybe that French Toast,” he smiles.

Normally, the French toast is served with caramelized apples.

But this time around, we were given the chance to know the real Glenn, who tried one of his spontaneous ideas. For our party, he decided to convert one of their homemade desserts,

24 | BOROMAG.COM | FEBRUARY 2014

Baked Apples, into the topping for the French Toast. My friends had practically licked the plate clean before I could even stab my first bite.

But Off the Hook also recently just introduced a new dinner menu, featuring a few exciting dishes like a Shrimp Mofongo, Lobster Caesar Salad, and Grilled Quail. And dinner is every bit as fantastic as brunch.

With a full bar, they offer a wide range of cocktails, as well.

And their panna cotta and chocolate cake are decadently drizzled with a homemade raspberry coulis that perfectly cuts the richness.

If you want an authentic seafood shack, with quality recipes and ingredients, you really needn’t look any further. Check out Off the Hook, because that is precisely what it is.

Off the Hook 28-08 34th St., Astoria, NY 11103 Dinner daily from 5 p.m. 718-721-2112

Now Open 7 Days Mon- 1/2 price bottle of wine • Tues- 1/2 Complimentary Dessert with Entree Wed- 1/2 price Appetizers *Happy Hour 4pm-7pm Monday thru Sat Beer $4/ Wine $5/ Cocktails $6/ Appetizers $8 cannot be combined with other specials Brunch Saturday and Sunday $18 Feb Special-2 select drinks, Entree, and coffee or Unlimited select drink for $15 with an entree Enjoy $3 Mimosas, Champagne, Bellini and Bloody Mary.

Sunday night Prix Fixe 3 course meal for $24.95 *Must bring in ad

we specialize in homemade pasta 35-03 Broadway Astoria, ny 11106 718-545-3500

www.portaliaNYC.com

/PortaliaNYC

FEBRUARY 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 25

CHARACTERS

e v o L

THY NEIGHBOR Just because she likes to see people smile. And these aren’t just any cookies.

They are made from her mom’s secret chocolate chip recipe.

Heitmann shares her cookies with total strangers, and it is something she has been doing for just over one whole year.

It all started last January, when Renee decided to bake a plate of cookies for Sorriso Italian Deli on 30th Avenue in Astoria, where she is a regular customer.

The response led to a eureka moment for Heitmann. She was thanked for the delicious cookies, but even more so for thinking of the staff at the deli, who rarely receives tangible forms of gratitude, if at all.

“This idea had the potential to be bigger than one place or one person.”

R

-Renee Heitmann

enee Heitmann doesn’t make much money at all. As a professional singer, church gigs and vocal coaching don’t exactly provide an income that will set her for a carefree future. But that doesn’t keep her from baking cookies for strangers.

26 | BOROMAG.COM | FEBRUARY 2014

“This idea had the potential to be bigger than one place or one person,” Heitmann explained during her Tedx talk in Utica last October. And so she realized there would have to be some parameters for it to really soar.

The cookie drops would have to be consistent, even weekly. They would need to be delivered on actual plates. And the business from where the empty plate was recovered would be responsible for determining the next recipient.

And so that is precisely what Heitmann began doing. Each week, she brings a

plate of her homemade cookies to a different business in Astoria, whether it’s sunny, snowing, or sleeting.

Heitmann’s journies have taken her to police precincts, firehouses, delis, and every kind of place imaginable. She always returns a few days later to get her plate. The actual ceramic plate lets the recipients know they are not disposable.

It also lets them know the cookies are safe to eat.

Across the board, this random act of kindness wins people over. And Heitmann pays for the ingredients out of her pocket. You can donate on her website, of course. “But I mostly only get donations from my mom,” laughs the benevolent baker. She estimates that she probably spent about $2,000 this past year just making chocolate chip cookies.

Heitmann hopes that people who learn about her will stop and ask, ‘What can I do for my neighbor, and how can I give back to my community? How can we each use our own unique talents to help others?’ She quotes Gandhi, saying she is just trying to be the change she wants to see in the world.

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FOOD & DRINK

Passes the Tiki Torch ef-owner

w ch sslund, ne Jeremy O e Tiki at G l el H of

Interview + Image Lizabeth Nieves

The torch of ownership at Hell Gate Social has been passed on to Jeremy Osslund, who also takes on the role of chef. The space will keep the Hell Gate name, but has transitioned from ‘Social’ to ‘Tiki’. Lizabeth Nieves sat down with Osslund to discuss the reincarnation of Hell Gate Tiki.

I

started my first restaurant when I was 5 years old in my backyard. I would make scrambled eggs with toast and cheese, and serve them to my friends before I got on the bus. My mom thought it was funny, so she let me do it.

I started off washing dishes and bussing at a small restaurant in Arizona when I was 13. I went to culinary school when I was 16. I knew I wanted to do something in the restaurant industry. I just didn’t know what. I probably should have gone to business school.

After graduating from culinary school at 19, I worked in a hotel for the room service division, and decided that I wanted to work face to face with people. I transferred to the nightclub in the hotel. It was one of the hottest bars in

28 | BOROMAG.COM | FEBRUARY 2014

Chicago, called the J Bar, in the James Hotel.

This company trained me from the ground up.

At 21 I moved to NYC and transferred one of their restaurants.

I got tired of Brooklyn and moved to Astoria.

I got involved with Hell Gate because the previous owners wanted to get out of the game. They had owned it for 8 years. They were looking for somebody to take it over. Part of the draw for us was that Hell Gate had been an institution in Astoria for so long. I wanted to work in Astoria as part of a larger goal of invigorating Astoria—especially the West side of Astoria. This was the perfect jumping off point. This is why I didn’t change the name.

The name itself is part of preserving the history.

My inspiration for the menu is pacific coastal surf snack. I want to offer food that has your Cantonese American favorites with a Polynesian twist. All the recipes come from my mind. I’m kind of wearing every hat. I think in the future we have a lot of moments for expansion. I don’t always see myself running the kitchen and the bar.

We are looking for the laid back attitude of the surf bar, with the Polynesian and Pacific inspiration for the drinks and the food.

Although it’s called Hell Gate Tiki, we think of it as a surf lodge with a pacific twist.

Spring and summer should be exciting. We want to do some work in the backyard and bring in some tents and make it have more of a tropical feeling. Right now we are focusing on a monthly burlesque show that’s been a great success. We do a lot of Pig Roasts, and we have a hot sauce expo February 10th, where all local bartenders can compete, and then the winners go to the NYC Hot Sauce expo and compete on a national level. All of our events are designed to bring the community into the restaurant. We will be doing what I believe is Astoria’s first whiskey festival, and we are planning on doing Astoria’s first beer festival as well.

The idea behind all our events is not to take ourself so seriously, but to deliver a quality experience. I think Hell Gate had a long history of community based events in the past. Even though there is a change in the culture we are going to have, I don’t think that it changes what a bar like this stands for in the community. As a stepping stone for me, it really needs to be more community based. It’s all about trying to grow and support locally, and that’s why Astoria is the place—because it already has it in its bones.

Hell Gate Tiki 12-21 Astoria Blvd., Astoria, NY 11102 www.hellgatetiki.com

For the love of

a laugh The Grape Dutches of York are an award-winning sketch comedy group based in Astoria.

This month, we sit down with their founder, Daniel Florio, to get the inside scoop on how they came about, what they’ve done, and what their plans are for the future.

BORO: When did you get started in comedy?

Daniel Florio: I started doing stand up in high school, but stopped when I got to college. Once I finished and moved to Astoria I rededicated myself to making comedy, studying at UCB and the PIT, and starting the Dutches.

BORO: What inspired you to start Grape Dutches?

DF: I love comedy and was always trying to make it myself growing up.

My best friend and I were always using his Dad’s camcorder to make sketches. When I moved to Astoria in 2008 I started auditioning like everyone else, but still had a desire to make my own things. So I got a few of my funny friends together and we just started making sketches again with a camcorder. Eventually we started learning and striving to make it look better and more professional, putting in our own money to buy a camera, lights, and sound equipment.

BORO: How many members are involved?

DF: There are roughly 10 members of the group, but we also have a few regular people we like to work with if schedules align. Basically if you’re creative, funny, and easy to work with we want to do something with you.

BORO: How many videos have you produced?

DF: We’ve produced 2 seasons of shorts in the last 2 years along with the individual sketches we’re making for our monthly residency at Sketch Block in St. Marks. We really came together in a more professional sense first for the web-series we filmed in 2011. It was called “Recession Whores” and was about two roommates who lose their jobs in the Recession, so they resort to becoming gigolos thru the Internet. Through that experience we first met and cast people who later become part of the group.

BORO: Do you always film in Astoria/Queens?

DF: We tend to film the majority of our stuff in Queens: Astoria, LIC, Elmhurst. A lot of the Dutches live in Astoria, so we’re constantly using our apartments, rooftops, hallways, etc. Queens has such a beautiful look, whenever we shoot outside our production quality doubles by just being surrounded by it.

BORO: What inspires your concepts?

DF: The concepts for our sketches usually come from some twisted place in the corner of my brain. I’m curious in trying different styles of genres and tropes too. We’ll parody summer movies with a “Where’s Waldo” trailer, or try to make a silent film as close to the 1900’s as possible, but set in modern times. We constantly want to test our abilities and challenge ourselves.

BORO: Who are your favorite comedians?

DF: We all grew up watching SNL, The State, Kids in the Hall, and Mr. Show. I personally grew up loving Andy Kaufman, and I think that those influences definitely helped shape what we do as a group.

BORO: Where can we see your work?

DF: We are currently working on a live sketch show that will include filmed elements as well as a 4-D experience. Hopefully we can get that going in the upcoming months. We’re currently still in the writing stage. We also completed the newest sketch for our show at Sketch Block at the Under St. Marks Theater. We do a new one every month, and the show is the 2nd Wednesday each month. We also have a show in Williamsburg we do that is a tribute to movies and their tropes followed by a movie following that month’s theme at Videology. You can find all of our stuff at our webpage www.grapedutches.com, as well as YouTube and Funny or Die. Also you can ‘LIKE” us on Facebook and follow us on twitter @grapedutches.

FEBRUARY 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 29

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THE ARTS

Interview + Photos

Lizabeth Nieves

The

Green Gallows Band Adam Steiner: I started playing

music in the suburbs of Detroit, Michigan. I got a guitar from my parents when I was 10 years old. It wasn’t until in my mid-twenties when I wanted to play more of my own music. I thought it would satisfy me more.

Cara Cooley: I started playing music

while doing musical theater growing up.

When Adam started writing music, I jumped on the bandwagon—and it was so much fun.

32 | BOROMAG.COM | FEBRUARY 2014

Sean Ryan Donnelly: I started

playing classical violin when I was 11 years old, and started playing guitar when I was 15.

I grew up in a very musical household. My father is a professional bluegrass musician. I play guitar and banjo.

Blake Smith: I started playing harmonica in high school. When I got to college, I met a country singer named Wakey Smith. I became best friends with

his son, and joined that band, and have been doing it ever since.

AS: Green Gallows got started initially a year ago this time. We had a couple ideas.

We had them on paper. Life got in the way, and jobs got in the way, and finally in August of 2013 we decided to put all our time, energy, and heart into it. It just came from a lot of music I had written over the years, and from wanting to create something

n s

from the ground up. It’s so important nowadays.

A foundation of success is creating your own entity.

We are just finishing up our new EP coming out, and it’s called Wanted. That will be our first fullfledged recording. We have 5 tunes on there. We are going to shop that around, and go on a small tour in the Midwest in February. We try to play in New York at least 3 times a week. We play open mics, we play gigs, and we play anywhere.

Everything is coming from playing. The more we play, the more we hear things are happening.

AS: My early influences are Frank Sinatra and Elvis. As I got older, it’s more like the country folk rock that’s out there. I love Shovels and Rope, I love the Lone Bellow (which is a Brooklyn Band). I love Mumford and Sons, of course. The Mowgli’s and Aretha Franklin are favorites too.

CC: My influences are pretty much the same.

The Mowgli’s, Lone Bellow, the Lumineers.

SD: I grew up with a lot of Irish folk and

bluegrass, and a lot of classic rock. I’m more into new grass, blue grass and alt[ernative] country.

Ryan Young, from Trample by Turtles, is one of my bigger influences.

The Green Gallows are a folk rock/ indie music group from Astoria. The members are Cara Cooley, Adam Steiner, Sean Ryan Donnelly, and Blake Smith.

BS: Growing up in Texas, country music was all we listened to, and my dad was a country music DJ. For harmonica, Norton Buffalo, Sunny Terry, Charlie McCoy and Orange Blossom Special—the first time I heard it—I was like, ‘Oh that’s music!’ I love Drive By Truckers. I’m still a sucker for pop country.

BS: I got involved with the Green Gallows

at a showcase called Whiskey Wednesdays at Over the Eight in Brooklyn. I opened for the band. The first time I heard them play, I was drunkenly chomping at the bit at the side of the stage with my harmonica in hand. “Can I jump on?” I played one song and it went great, and the rest was history.

CC: And he brings the lady fans…

SD: We do have a sound that’s very

different. Especially in New York. I feel

like if we were in a city that had more folk, country, and bluegrass it might be easier.

Especially coming from Astoria where it’s more metal and indie rock. We don’t exactly fit in. We have a crazy amount of support from Astoria and the city. It’s kind of a cool thing to be a part of a burgeoning genre.

AS: I think everybody is reverting to good music. Is alt country the next big deal of music? Who is to say if it’s the next big thing--or just something.

AS: In the next year we would like to see Green Gallows without day jobs…

CC: And touring...

Check out the Green Gallows at www.facebook.com/thegreengallows and www.youtube.com/user/thegreengallows FEBRUARY 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 33

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THE ARTS

Interview BRAdley hawks

Images Lizabeth Nieves

Bradley Hawks: How do you find/determine the subjects for your portraits?

Lizabeth Nieves: I find my subjects through friends and recommendations—I try to keep my ear out for anyone doing anything interesting and creative. I already have a list for 2014.

BH: When did you start taking photographs?

LN: I started taking photographs about three years ago

BH: Do you have a favorite camera?

LN: I have a Fuji digital rangefinder that I love, and an old Olympus film camera

BH:Your images are almost like memories, evoking a sense of nostalgia. What do you hope people feel when they see your images?

LN: My goal when photographing someone is to show an aspect of them that is not posed, and beautiful. To me, there is a beauty in every face, and that is all the more apparent when someone lets their guard down. I want you to feel like you really know the person just from the photo.

BH: Can you describe a typical interaction with a subject just before the shot is snapped?

LN: I usually chat them up to get them to relax; it depends on how uncomfortable they are in front of the camera. Sometimes I only have a few minutes, and those have been great, but the most rewarding moment is when they trust me to do my thing and the guard comes down.

BH: It seems as if your subjects all have you into their homes for your shoots. What is the most awkward moment you have had on a shoot?

LN: I prefer to shoot someone in their home. They are usually more relaxed and comfortable in front of the camera if it’s in their space. The only awkward moments I have had are maybe just in the beginning of being in a stranger’s home. It’s a bit what I imagine a blind date to be like—some awkward conversation until you find a common ground. I can usually gauge within a few moments what I’m working with.

36 | BOROMAG.COM | FEBRUARY 2014

Lizabeth Nieves has been photographing and conducting interviews with local emerging artists for BORO for the past six months. In February, however, she will be holding her own show, entitled The Everyday Creative, at Astoria Park Wine and Spirits from February 6th through April 3rd. We decided to flip things around, and ask her a few questions, as one of our very own artists.

BH:How many portraits will be a part of ‘The Everyday Creative’?

LN: Between 12-15. There are 25 completed interviews and portraits from the series in 2013, so I will have a book with all of them at the show.

BH:When and where can we see the portraits?

LN: The show will be at Astoria Park Wine

and Spirits, 28-07 24th Avenue starting on February 6th.

BH: How long will it run?

LN: It runs February 6th thru April 3rd.

BH: When is the opening party?

LN: The opening will be Friday, February 7th, from 6:30 pm- 8:00 pm.

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ENTERTAINMENT

A new web series called Tough Love, which is written by two Astorians, has been gathering some exciting momentum. Written by Steven Bell, the series features a glimpse into the lives of Steven and his best friend, Blaire Wendel. BORO checked in to learn a little bit more about the show.

publisher my damn channel actor/writer/producer steven bell actor/producer blaire wendel actor/writer/producer nick douglas director of photography brendan swift editor/sound designer cody ball gaffer michael lamarra boom operator francesco chen boom operator/ assistant camera operator brandon pro

BORO: How did you meet?

Blaire: Steven and I met our senior year of high school when we both auditioned for an acting scholarship at West Virginia University, seven years ago. We have been best friends since.

38 | BOROMAG.COM | FEBRUARY 2014

BORO: When did you realize you should make a web series?

Blaire: We were going on a ton of auditions for student films and independent theater, where the writing wasn’t the best, or the project just wasn’t something that excited us. We wanted to create something fun, funny and something we felt passionate about.

Steven: I met with a filmmaker friend at NYU, and we decided to collaborate on a project I would write. I started writing real life moments that Blaire and I have shared together, and a few months later we had the first season of Tough Love BORO: How close are the characters to the real Blaire and Steven?

Blaire: The characters are definitely heightened versions of both of us. Each episode is based loosely on real life situations, but I’m not quite that crazy and Steven is not quite that up tight.

Steven: The characters are just us. Blaire is a train wreck and sort of a lesbian, and I’m the most uptight homosexual in New York City. For some reason this comedic combination just works. The plot is a mix of heightened real life experiences and also fictional situations based loosely on moments or archetypes we’ve found in the city.

BORO: You are gaining a lot of momentum. Can you talk about how you got picked up by the Damn Channel...

Steven: I took my first class at Upright Citizens Brigade this year, and befriended a guy named Nick Douglas. He is the current editor of the Slacktory channels on MDC (My Damn Channel) on YouTube. He became a big fan of Tough Love, and saw an opportunity to take the show to the next level. The second season of Tough Love will be released on Slacktory, and will reach a much larger audience.

BORO: How many episodes are in season 1?

Blaire: There are 8 episodes in Season 1.

BORO: When will season 2 be released?

Steven: It will be premiering sometime in February. You can watch both seasons 1 and 2 at watchtoughlove.com BORO: Any bloopers you can share?

Steven: We have a ton of clips of me giving directions to the crew in between my acting takes. It’s really embarrassing to watch myself as an actor in the scene, and then suddenly break away to tell the DP that we are running behind schedule BORO: What audience do you hope to reach?

Blaire: There are a lot of universal themes in the content we are creating that people can relate to. But, we hope to reach more of the LGBTQ Community with this new season.

FEBRUARY 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 39

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