BORO MAG

Photo by Angela Chatzis, angelachatzis.com

FEBRUARY 2019 VOL 9:2

BOROMAG.COM

HOW WE MET 7 Astoria Meet-Cutes Page 14

MAKE YOUR OWN PIZZA

AX-THROWING IN LIC

WHAT’S NEW ON DITMARS

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CONTENTS If you’re a hopeless romantic, you’ve picked up the right magazine: For the third year in a row, we’re bringing you stories of how local couples met here in western Queens. Read about seven couples’ meetcutes, from locking eyes at a New Year’s Eve party in Astoria to going on a 12-hour marathon first date at locations all around the neighborhood (page 14). We’re also sharing your Valentine’s Day (and Galentine’s Day) Instagrams (page 10).

If you’re looking for date ideas, try a pizza-making class at an Astoria pizzeria (page 20) or ax-throwing in Long Island City (page 32). You can test out new bars and eateries on Ditmars (page 38) and fine Greek dining on Broadway (page 42).

KATRINA MEDOFF To share news with us, email katrina@boromag. editor-in-chief com. You can also connect with us on Instagram (@boromagazine), Facebook (facebook.com/ boromag) and Twitter (@BOROMAG).

Wishing you a happy Valentine’s Day, Katrina Medoff

HOW WE MET

14

6 CLASSY & HIP

Street style in Astoria

10 LOVE FROM ASTORIA

Readers Instagrammed their Valentines

14 HOW WE MET

7 local meet-cutes

20 DIY PIE

Pizza-making at Macoletta

DIY PIE

32 AX-TREME SPORT

20

Ax-throwing in LIC

38 UP-TO-DATE DITMARS

New food & drinks on the boulevard

42 GET TO THE GREEK

DEPARTMENTS 12 FEBRUARY 2019 EVENTS 25 BORO DEALS & DISCOUNTS

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

Amylos Taverna on Broadway

26 MAP IT DIRECTORY

Your go-to guide for the best shops, food, art, nightlife and more in western Queens

28 MAP IT: WESTERN QUEENS

46 S OMETHING OLD, SOMETHING NEW Arts & tech in Astoria couple’s apartment

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Katrina Medoff // ART DIRECTOR Mickhail Kurov WRITERS Danielle Brody, Daniel Grogan, Allison Kridle, Claire Leaden, Katrina Medoff, Alejandra O’Connell-Domenech, Estelle Pyper, Marie Torio PHOTOGRAPHERS Marie Torio SALES REPRESENTATIVE Alan Gottlieb // PUBLISHED BY Joshua and Victoria Schneps All materials Copyright © 2015 BORO / All rights reserved. Opinions and claims made by advertisers are advertisers’ claims only. BORO Magazine accepts no responsibility for any claims made by advertisers.

BORO Magazine reserves the right to publish any images without providing photo/image credit. No part of this publication may be reproduced without permission of the publisher.

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FEBRUARY 2019

STREET STYLE

CLASSY and HIP

BY MARIE TORIO

@PHOTOSBYMARIETORIO

T Bridget (@bri_cali88) was taking her visiting friend on a tour of some local spots when I noticed her outfit. She said, “My style is trendy and classic. I like to stay on trend and keep an open mind. If something doesn’t work I stick to what I like.” Her puffer jacket and beanie were definitely on trend and functional to brave the weather. Her soft blue bucket bag added a nice stylish touch to her look as well.

Puspa Rajraut, a fashion designer visiting Astoria, impressed me with his coldweather outfit.

He says his style is “street chic.” I could not agree more. His colorful, wraparound scarf, crossbody bag, rolled-up jeans, chunky bangles and colorful striped socks … need I say more?!

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FEBRUARY 2019

he weather is crisp, but the fashion picks are hot this month. The looks I spotted on the streets of Astoria were classy with a common thread: they all seemed to have a hip twist.

In a sea of dark coats and boots, accessories like a bucket crossbody bag, a beautiful blue purse, a cute red beanie, sleek three-dimensional studs and chunky bangles caught my eye! As I walked around I noticed that people were getting creative with their warm ensembles, including a trendy oversized coat, a fur-trimmed hooded jacket, a funky colored wrap-around scarf, and notes of leather in sleeves and gloves.

Stephanie, a food service manager, was hanging out with friends on her day off.

She describes her style as being “trendy but minimalistic.” I loved her zipped-up booties, frayed jeans and plush velvety scarf. Don’t get me started on her cute geometric studs.

Her style is simple but fashion-forward at the same time.

Catherine, a retired Astoria resident, was feeling good after her chiropractor appointment.

She describes her style as being “classy,” and I loved how neat and put-together she was. Her peacoat, scarf, and leather gloves along with the pop of blue from her purse were so sophisticated, I just had to stop her.

Irina (@irishkin999) was out running errands when I bumped into her. She describes her fashion choices as “classic but stylish.” I was in love with her furtrimmed hood, the leather piping on her jacket and her cute booties.

FEBRUARY 2019 I BOROMAG.COM

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LOVE FROM

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ASTORIA

By KATRINA MEDOFF KATRINA@BOROMAG.COM @KATRINAMEDOFF

W @ craftylumberjacks

@ the_megs

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FEBRUARY 2019

@KATYA_M22

e wanted to celebrate love in western Queens, so we asked our readers to shout it from the rooftops — or at least share it with all of their followers on Instagram.

We asked you to tag us (@boromagazine) in your Valentine’s Day-themed pictures in Astoria, Long Island City and Sunnyside. You sent in everything from professional engagement photos taken in Queens locales to bundled-up winter shots with your special someone. Plus, two besties shared their Galentine’s Day tradition of taking a selfie in CVS. Here are some of our favorite submissions.

@ justjamm

@ foodstylistnewyorkcity

@ scottakramer

@ msmisy

@stephanierose57, photo by @nicolelagoe

@reggierydell

NEXT THEME: WEATHER OR NOT It’s been one crazy winter, with single-digit cold fronts and unexpectedly warm days. This month, tag @boromagazine in your Instagrams of winter in Astoria, Long Island City or Sunnyside. We want your shots of snow on Ditmars, a cozy day on the couch or the sun peeking through the clouds — anything to do with the month’s theme.

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FE B R U ARY 2 0 1 9 I B OR OM AG. C OM

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FEBRUARY EVENTS Find more events at www.BOROmag.com/Events WEDNESDAY, FEB. 13, 20 & 27 Event Title: Trivia Night Time: 7 p.m.

Location: Arcadia Bar & Kitchen Cost: Free Address: 12-21 Astoria Blvd., Astoria URL: arcadiabarlic.com THURSDAY, FEB. 14, 21 & 28 Event Title: Live Music Time: 7 p.m.

Location: Arcadia Bar & Kitchen Cost: Free Phone: 347-730-6181 Address: 12-21 Astoria Blvd., Astoria URL: arcadiabarlic.com FRIDAY, FEB. 15 Event Title: Movie R Dumb Presents Miami Connection Time: 11 p.m. to 1 a.m.

Location: Q.E.D. Cost: $10 Phone: 347-451-3873 Address: 27-16 23rd Ave., Queens URL: qedastoria.com SATURDAY, FEB. 16 Event Title: The Odd Rock Comedy Hour Time: 7:30 to 9 p.m.

Location: Q.E.D. Cost: $10 Phone: 347-451-3873 Address: 27-16 23rd Ave., Queens URL: qedastoria.com SATURDAY, FEB. 16 Event Title: NYRR Open Run: Astoria Park Time: 9 to 10 a.m.

Location: Astoria Park Cost: Free Phone: 212-360-3300 Address: 19th Street and Hoyt Avenue North, Astoria URL: nycgovparks.org

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TUESDAY, FEB. 26 Event Title: Feminist Reading Group Time: 7 to 8 p.m.

Location: Astoria Bookshop Cost: Free Phone: 718-278-2665 Address: 31-29 31st St., Astoria URL: astoriabookshop.com

SATURDAY, FEB. 16 Event Title: Last Showing of “Queen” Time: 2 p.m. and 8 p.m.

Location: Astoria Performing Arts Center Cost: $25 Phone:718-706-5750 Address: 21-12 30th Rd., Astoria URL: apacny.org

MONDAY, FEB. 18 Event Title: Swamp Thing Comedy Time: 10 p.m.

Location: The Creek and The Cave Cost: Free Phone: 917-806-6692 Address: 10-93 Jackson Ave., LIC URL: creeklic.com

SUNDAY, FEB. 17 Event Title: YA Book Club Time: 1 to 2 p.m.

Location: Astoria Bookshop Cost: Free Phone: 718-278-2665 Address: 31-29 31st St., Astoria URL: astoriabookshop.com

TUESDAY, FEB. 19 Event Title: Trivia Time: 7 to 9 p.m.

Location: Queen's Room Cost: Free Phone: 347-987-3994 Address: 3602 Ditmars Blvd., Astoria URL: queensroomnyc.com

THURSDAY, FEB. 28 Event Title: Special Delivery Time: 8 p.m.

Location: The Creek and The Cave Cost: $5 Phone: 718-706-8783 Address: 10-93 Jackson Ave., LIC URL: creeklic.com

SUNDAY, FEB. 24 Event Title: Astoria Social Cornhole Time: Noon to 3 p.m.

Location: Bohemian Hall and Beer Garden Cost: Free Phone: 718-274-4925 Address: 2919 24th Ave., Astoria URL: bohemianhall.com

SUNDAY, MARCH 3 Event Title: General Interest Book Club Time: 1 to 3 p.m.

Location: Astoria Bookshop Cost: Free Phone: 718-278-2665 Address: 31-29 31st St., Astoria URL: astoriabookshop.com

MONDAY, FEB. 25 Event Title: New Member Workshop Time: 6:45 to 9 p.m.

Location: The Secret Theatre Cost: Free Phone: 718-392-0722 Address: 44-02 23rd St., LIC URL: secrettheatre.com

MONDAY, MARCH 4 Event Title: The Lake Project 62 Time: 9 a.m. to sundown Location: Socrates Sculpture Park Cost: Free Phone: 718-956-1819 Address: 32 -01 Vernon Blvd., LIC URL: socratessculpturepark.com

SUNDAY, FEB. 17 Event Title: Creative Writing Workshop Time: 5 to 6:30 p.m.

Location: Astoria Bookshop Cost: $10 suggested contribution Phone: 718-278-2665 Address: 31-29 31st St., Astoria URL: astoriabookshop.com SUNDAY, FEB. 17 Event Title: Open Studio: Emily Wexler, Evergreen Time: 4 to 6 p.m.

Location: MoMA PS1 Cost: Free with museum admission Phone: 718-784-2084 Address: 22-25 Jackson Ave., LIC URL: moma.org

FEBRUARY 2019

FEBRUARY 2019 I BOROMAG.COM

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VA L E N T I N E ’ S D AY

LOCAL LOVE 7 Astoria HOW WE MET meet-cutes

BY ALLISON KRIDLE

Every year, in honor of Valentine’s Day, we share stories of local couples who both live in western Queens and met one another in the neighborhood.

Here are seven couples’ adorable “how we met” stories, from a meet-cute on karaoke night to a tween romance that turned into a marriage.

Brittany and Matthew Faucher

FEBRUARY 2019

FAVORITE LOCAL DATE SPOTS: JUNKO SUSHI ASTORIA PARK LIC BREWERY CRAWL

Photos courtesy of Brittany Faucher

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Photo by Emily Meade

There’s nothing like ringing in the New Year with a new bae. At least that’s probably how the Fauchers feel.

Brittany and Matt Faucher first locked eyes at a New Year’s Eve party in Astoria in 2011 and became fast friends.

“We actually didn’t even talk much [on New Year’s Eve] because I arrived very late after work when everyone had already been drinking for hours,” Brittany said. “It wasn’t until I saw Matt in a show in the city that I realized I liked him. Another girl in the show was flirting with him and I felt myself getting jealous and thinking to myself, ‘Oh no, I like Matt Faucher!’”

Matt turned up the romance in summer of 2012 when he confessed his feelings to Brittany on her birthday. She admitted she wanted to be more than friends as well.

The Astoria couple’s first date was in New Jersey at Brittany’s family’s beach house. He took her to The Boathouse restaurant, where he asked her to be his girlfriend. Matt proposed to Brittany at that very restaurant three years later, and the couple got married in Hartford, Connecticut.

“It was our dream to get married in New York, but we both come from very large families and just simply couldn’t afford it. But the wedding was beautiful and I wouldn’t change it for the world,” Brittany said.

Both Brittany and Matt are professional actors. Matt performs in “Beautiful" on Broadway and Brittany recently finished filming her second episode as a co-star on “Law & Order: SVU.”

s

Audrey Heyman and Jesse Goldin

Photos courtesy of Audrey Heyman

We’ve all heard of “love at first sight,” but what about “love at first song”?

Audrey Heyman and Jesse Goldin shared a moment at a karaoke night at Astoria Tavern one year ago with some help from Fiona Apple. As Heyman was standing in line to put in her song (“Criminal” by Apple), Goldin approached her and asked what song she was going to sing.

“I played it coy and told him he had to wait and see,” Heyman said.

“He stood at the front of the crowd while I sang, cheering along the whole time. His enthusiasm was so refreshing; he wasn’t trying to play it cool or hard to get. I even got a high-five from him afterwards, too.”

Goldin got her number. For their first date, they decided to go to Wolfhound on 30th Avenue, and after, Goldin suggested they go to the karaoke bar Shout! on Steinway.

“We didn’t realize that they were hosting a live musician that night, and we found ourselves singing along to all of his classic rock covers.

We knew every song,” Heyman said.

For Christmas, Heyman gifted Goldin Billy Joel tickets. They will be spending Valentine’s Day at Madison Square Garden, probably singing their hearts out.

FAVORITE LOCAL DATE SPOTS: SILENT DISCO AT BOHEMIAN BEER HALL MUSEUM OF THE MOVING IMAGE KARAOKE SPOTS IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD

FEBRUARY 2019 I BOROMAG.COM

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VA L E N T I N E ’ S D AY

Photos courtesy of Vyasa Tewari

Vyasa Tewari and Jason Autar Astoria couple Vyasa Tewari and Jason Autar started their first date with a bottle of red wine at the Kickshaw and ended 12 hours later at the Bel Aire Diner for a late-night snack.

“After we ate [at Kickshaw], we left and I walked Jason to the train since he had come to my neighborhood. When we got to to the train station, he didn’t want to leave so he said he’d walk me home. On the walk over we decided we wanted to continue the date,” Tewari said.

The lovebirds, who originally connected over their love for author Jhumpa Lahiri on a dating app, decided to hit up Sweet Afton and indulge in Gingerbakers, their favorite cocktail at the bar. They talked for hours but still didn’t want to end the night there. From there they went to Bel Aire Diner and wrapped up the night.

“When I saw Jason, I thought, ‘Wow, what a tall, handsome guy!’”

Tewari said.

“What I saw Vyasa, I thought, ‘Wow, she’s beautiful!’” Autar said.

Soon after they started dating, Autar moved into the neighborhood from the Bronx.

“Astoria represents a small portion of NYC’s melting pot. The neighborhood is multiculturally diverse, with various ethnicities well represented which is evident in the various cuisines and restaurants that dot the cityscape of Astoria,” Tewari said.

Tewari and Autar are engaged, and their wedding is set for July.

For Valentine’s Day, Tewari and Autar plan on grabbing Gingerbakers at Sweet Afton and eating dinner at Telly’s Taverna. Sounds like another lovely 12 hours to me.

FAVORITE LOCAL DATE SPOTS: BOHEMIAN HALL AND BEER GARDEN ASTORIA PARK TELLY’S TAVERNA WATAWA OPA SAN ARROY THAI KITCHEN TU CASA

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FEBRUARY 2019

Adam C. Banks and Megan Zimmerman

then hit up Crescent & Vine. We wandered to all the different markets like Parrot, Mediterranean Markets. He took me to Artopolis which looks and smells like heaven,” Zimmerman said. “Adam’s version is we met in the park and then made out. Then drank wine, [which] is true, too.”

They kept their relationship a secret for months because of the workplace, but five years later Banks proposed at Mombar on Zimmerman’s birthday.

The Astoria couple is currently working on their own food travel show called “Adam on Adventures,” among various cooking and TV-related projects.

Photos courtesy of Megan Zimmerman

Photos courtesy of Vyasa Tewari

As a huge fan of “The Office” and “Parks and Rec,” I am all about workplace romances. If you’re like me, then you’ll love this couple’s meet-cute.

Megan Zimmerman and Adam C. Banks crossed paths on the set of “Chef Roble and Co.,” a Bravo cooking show. Zimmerman was the show’s story PA (then associate story producer) and Banks was Chef Roble’s “right-hand man.”

“I thought, ‘Damn, who is this talented man? Did I find my own version of Anthony Bourdain with a twist?’” Zimmerman said.

One day on set Zimmerman and Banks found out they both lived in Astoria and bonded over their passion for the neighborhood’s diverse cuisine. That day, they split a car back to the neighborhood from work in Park Slope and Banks “charmed” Zimmerman into getting a drink with him at the now-closed BLVD Bar on Ditmars.

“Our first date was food adventures all over Astoria. [We] started at Astoria Park

FAVORITE LOCAL DATE SPOTS: MOMBAR VIA VAI DISTRICT SAIGON LET LOVE INN MOMA PS1 MUSEUM OF THE MOVING IMAGE

Crystal Peone and Corey Smith Photos courtesy of Crystal Peone

No one can resist a good ol’ rekindled romance — especially if it takes place in Astoria.

In 2012, Crystal Peone and Corey Smith met (with some initiation from a mutual friend) at Irish Rover and had a strong connection.

“Corey and I immediately had chemistry and hit it off through our love of ‘Arrested Development’ and dark humor. When I first saw him I remember thinking, ‘This guy is very cute and sweet!’ His smile was what initially hooked me,” Peone said. “Corey felt that it was effortless from the moment we met. He was excited to 'Get those digits' at the end of that night. We went on a few dates at that time but then life happened and we went our separate ways.”

Four years later, Peone and Smith’s paths crossed once again and the attraction and chemistry was even stronger. Peone explains it as “love at second sight.”

“When we ‘re-met’ in 2016 we were immediately attracted to each other, immediately comfortable, and both felt as though the other had grown up in very positive ways in the years since we'd seen each other,” Peone said.

After their second meeting, the couple’s first “real” date was at a Mets game and they have been an item ever since. In 2017 they moved in together in Astoria, and Smith proposed to Peone right in front of Irish Rover in 2018. They plan on saying “I do” in May 2020.

Peone and Smith plan on spending a cozy night at home with a home-cooked meal, red wine and “Game of Thrones” for Valentine’s Day.

FAVORITE LOCAL DATE SPOTS: IL BAMBINO OFF THE HOOK BLACKBIRDS PASSAGE BAR MUSEUM OF THE MOVING IMAGE PRINCE TEA HOUSE HI-FI RECORDS QUEENS COMFORT FEBRUARY 2019 I BOROMAG.COM

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VA L E N T I N E ’ S D AY

Kim and Anthony Petrone Ah, young love. Astoria natives Kim and Anthony Petrone first started dating at just 12 years old in 1999.

“Our first date was with a large group of both our friends at Byzantio [on 31st Street and Newtown Ave.], which is now Alma Bank,” Anthony said. “I remember that Kim and I were not yet official and my friends and I were jockeying to sit next to her at the cafe. In the end, I was lucky enough that she chose me.”

Kim remembers Anthony “smelling so good,” as well as his charm and wit — not to mention the unforgettable Kangol hat he was wearing.

“We fell in love with each other and Astoria.

Astoria has played an integral part in our relationship, allowing us to come together and explore our interests, have fun and still afford to live what we think is the good life,” Kim said.

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FEBRUARY 2019

Photos courtesy of Kim Petrone

FAVORITE LOCAL DATE SPOTS: NINO'S AQ MAR’S THE BONNIE SWEET AFTON QUEEN’S ROOM DIWINE TAVERNA KYCLADES QWNS CAFE UNCLE JACK’S VESTA

The couple got married in 2007 at Water’s Edge in Long Island City and celebrated with their guests at their first apartment, where they lived for 10 years.

“I love Kim dearly and with so much our time spent and many of our memories taking place in Astoria, I will forever view this lovely area in Queens as our true home,” Anthony said.

As of now, the Petrones are planning to spend Valentine’s Day at Gaijin, but Anthony says he’ll take Kim “wherever she wants to go.”

Photos by Angela Chatzis, angelachatzis.com

Stefanie Sintakis and Peter Douskalis first met at Avenue Cafe off 30th Avenue in 2009 when they got together with a mutual friend.

“For some reason I had a completely different idea of what he would look like in my mind, so when I saw him I was surprised, but in a good way,” Sintakis said. “I thought he was cute, and I felt like I knew him for a really long time. I was very comfortable with him, and we actually had a lot to talk about.”

Shortly after their initial meeting, they decided to keep the caffeine going at Flo Café. They enjoyed the sunny weather and took a seat outside.

“I technically didn't live in the city yet. I was still looking for apartments,” Douskalis said. “I had called Stef and asked if she wanted to go for the coffee and said I was around to look at apartments.

The truth is, I already started closing on the apartment and didn't really need to be in the city. I just wanted to see her.”

As they say, the rest is history: they tied the knot in 2012.

Sintakis and Douskalis plan on getting dinner in the city and possibly booking massages for Valentine’s Day.

Photo courtesy of Stephanie Sintakis

Stefanie Sintakis and Peter Douskalis

FAVORITE LOCAL DATE SPOTS: ASTORIA PARK EXPLORING THE NEIGHBORHOOD FEBRUARY 2019 I BOROMAG.COM

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FOOD + DRINK

DIY Pie

BY DANIELLE BRODY @DLB1022

On a Saturday morning in January, I rolled up my sleeves and took a seat at the curved marble counter at Macoletta, a new pizza spot on 24th Avenue. I was there to eat pizza, of course, but first, I would learn to make it.

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FEBRUARY 2019

M

y foodie sister and I joined two couples, who were also there for a pizza-making class led by owner Walid Idriss and his staff.

Although we all came from different backgrounds and neighborhoods, we had one thing in common—a love of the Italian classic.

Idriss, who opened Macoletta in June, told us his story as he guided us through the process from the kitchen, which is located directly behind the counter. It’s an open-concept space that allows all guests

to see the cooks in action and connects to Idriss’ journey to opening the restaurant.

He was born in Algeria and worked in finance for nearly a decade, and acknowledges that he isn’t who you’d expect as the owner. Yet he fell in love with making pizza and its ability to naturally gather the community.

“I love getting people together,” Idriss said. “Making pizza — that makes me happy. Instead of looking at the market, doing things I’m not interested in.”

When Idriss came to New York for school, he always worked in restaurants on the side to fund his education. As manager of Madison Bistro, he hired, then befriended the head of food and wine, Fabio Rebeschini, who is from Italy. Two years ago, Idriss temporarily left his job at a bank and went on a trip to visit Rebeschini there.

Idriss discovered his love of Neapolitan pizza, which hails from the south of the country. It is smaller than a standard pie and features a fluffy crust and simple, fresh ingredients. He traveled throughout Italy and worked in restaurants to master the skill.

“I was a humble student,” Idriss said.

“I worked for free. If you put in the time, people are willing to teach you.”

He worked in Rebeschini’s bakery in Camposampiero, called Macola, in addition to doing research on equipment and meeting pizzeria owners in preparation to open his Astoria eatery. Rebeschini

Photos by Danielle Brody/BORO

opened a smaller version next door called Macoletta, which is where Idriss’ own restaurant gets its name. Although the friends’ restaurants are thousands of miles away, they share a community-centric feel.

To help fund the venture, which Idriss said was three times more expensive than he expected, he turned to Kickstarter.

Most of the $20,000 he raised came from friends and family, but 20 percent came from strangers all over the world. He originally offered the pizza-making class as a perk to those who donated, but then decided to open it to the neighborhood. He is inspired and driven by the complex, yet simple process of making pizza, and enjoys spreading his knowledge.

“Pizza’s not a secret anymore,” he said.

“In Italy I was fascinated by how much people are willing to teach you.”

Even in the class itself, the group shared their own cooking experiences and got FEBRUARY 2019 I BOROMAG.COM

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FOOD + DRINK friendly over the nearly two hours we were there. My sister swapped cheese-making tips with a couple from Brooklyn, while the couple from Astoria asked Idriss about his dough recipe.

“Pizza’s the ultimate icebreaker,” said Corey Boudreau, who came with his girlfriend, Patricia Holliday. Holliday said the two live near Macoletta and she had enjoyed a meal there before with friends. They already make pizza at home, and came to learn more and enjoy a fun date experience, Holliday said, adding that she was surprised how simple the ingredients were.

Macoletta makes the dough with only Caputo flour, yeast, water, salt and olive oil, Idriss said. The fermentation process takes three days, which includes mixing

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FEBRUARY 2019

the ingredients, letting it rest for and hour, refrigerating it for 24 hours, kneading it on the second day and stretching it on the third day. This process accounts for its light texture.

Idriss is selective about everything else the restaurant serves. The cappuccino machine is specialized; he uses local Zibetto coffee; gelato is exclusively from nearby Gelato & Co.; beer and wine offerings are either local, like from Big aLICe Brewing, or imported from Italy. He serves Italian craft beer, La Birra Di Meni, which only produces 50,000 bottles each year.

We started pizza-making by stretching the dough on a small pile of flour and pushing the bubbles out to the crust. We

topped it lightly with homemade tomato sauce, basil and a few pieces of thick mozzarella. If left to my own devices, I would have drenched the dough in sauce and covered every spot with cheese, but the key ingredient in this class was simplicity. Staff also advised me to place the cheese on top of the greens to keep them from burning.

As Idriss guided us through the process, he answered our questions about how to make pizza at home. He suggested using fresh ingredients without preservatives.

In Astoria, he recommended products from Rosario’s on 31st Street. Although he doesn’t use sugar in his dough, he said it’s acceptable for home cooks who don’t have a specialized oven.

Idriss treated us to his best-sellers — the Diablo, which features honey and Calabrian chili; the Alberino, which has lamb sausage; and Cara pizza, a vegan option which only has vegetables, oil and balsamic reduction (and is named for his wife). We also tried out a new dessert pizza, a crispy, melt-in-your-mouth dough “sandwich” with warm pistachio Nutella in the middle and powdered sugar sprinkled on top. Suffice it to say, every variation of pizza was delicious — flavorful and fresh, yet light.

Idriss said Macoletta also recently started offering pastas — Alfredo and bolognese — and added salads, beet and burrata.

“We want to add more pasta, develop brunch,” Idriss said. “We like to master every step.”

We watched as Idriss glided the pizza peel under each dough and slid them into the Marana Forni brick oven, which is almost like a pottery wheel for pizza. The massive copper structure has a platform

inside that elevates and spins to cook pizza in minutes, which keeps it consistent, and is the only one of its kind in New York City.

It was shipped directly from Italy and “it’s the Ferrari of ovens,” Idriss said.

The pizzas came out one by one, and Idriss and his staff assessed them as they placed them along the counter. Mine had a perfectly puffed-up and crispy crust, round shape and just the right amount of toppings. As the least qualified student in the room, my pizza was crowned the

best in class — only because of the help I received from the Macoletta team. Like Idriss said from his own experience, anyone can learn to make pizza with the right support system.

Macoletta is located at 28-15 24th Ave. Visit macoletta.com for more information about the restaurant and class offerings.

Classes cost $50 and are capped at six students. Participants receive a takehome bag with flour, dough, sauce and mozzarella.

Photos courtesy of Macoletta

FEBRUARY 2019 I BOROMAG.COM

23

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MAP IT DIRECTORY RESTAURANTS

282

AMYLOS TAVERNA 718-215-0228 33-19 Broadway, Astoria www.amylos.com

241

BAREBURGER 718-777-7011 33-21 31st Ave. Astoria www.bareburger.com

242 243 82 8 35

BAREBURGER 718-204-7167 23-01 31st St., Astoria www.bareburger.com BAREBURGER 718-937-2273 49-19 Vernon Blvd., LIC www.bareburger.com BOHEMIAN HALL & BEER GARDEN (B,1) 718-274-4925 2919 24th Ave., Astoria www.bohemianhall.com BURGER GARAGE (B,3) 718-392-0424 25-36 Jackson Ave., LIC www.theburgergarage.com BUTCHER BAR (C,2) 718-606-8140 37-08 30th Ave., Astoria www.ButcherBar.com

238

BZ GRILL 718-932-7858 27-02 Astoria Blvd.

Astoria, NY 11102 www.bzgrill.com

271

CENTRO PIZZA & ITALIAN RESTAURANT 718-361-1965 47-23 Vernon Blvd., LIC www.centropizzabar.com

176

CRESCENT GRILL (B,3) 718-729-4040 38-40 Crescent St., LIC www.crescentgrill.com

11

DIWINE (C,2) 718-777-1355 41-15 31st Ave., Astoria www.diwineonline.com

159

DUTCH KILLS CENTRAAL (B,3) 718-606-8651 38-40 29th St., Long Island City www.dutchkillscentraal.com

12

FLO LOUNGE RESTAURANT (C,2) 718-204-6096 37-20 30th Ave., Astoria

231

6 181 249 112 248 13 125 220

18 191 133

FRESCO'S CANTINA 12-14 31st Avenue Astoria, NY 11106 347-808-7338 www.frescoscantina.com

148

235 150

20 45 61 22 245 74 239

194 183

MOJAVE RESTAURANT (B,1) 718-545-4100 22-36 31st St., Astoria www.mojaveny.com

MURASAKI 718-482-7088 46-44 Vernon Blvd., LIC www.murasakinyc.com OFF THE HOOK (B,1) 718-721-2112 28-08 34th St., 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 ORO RESTAURANT & LOUNGE 718-729-1801 41-17 Crescent Street, LIC www.orolicrestaurant.com OVELIA (B,2) 718-721-7217 34-01 30th Ave., Astoria www.ovelia-ny.com PENTHOUSE 808 (A,3) 718-289-6118 8-08 Queens Plaza South, LIC www.penthouse808rooftop.com Piatto Wood Fire Pizza 718-361-2751 1-50 50th Ave., LIC www.piattolic.com QUEENS COMFORT (C,2) 718-728-2350 40-09 30th Ave., Astoria www.queenscomfort.com QUEENS ROOM 347-987-3994 36-02 Ditmars Blvd., Astoria queensroomnyc.com RAVEN’S HEAD PUBLIC HOUSE 718-777-7565 38-04 Broadway, Astoria Www.ravensheadpublichouse.com RETRO PIZZA CAFE 347-612-4460 Fax: 347-813-4039 41-02 Broadway, Astoria

24

RÈST-ÂÜ-RÁNT (B,2) 718-729-9009 30-01 35th Ave., Astoria www.rarbarlic.com

194

SAC’S PLACE COAL OVEN PIZZA (B,2) 718-204-5002 2541 Broadway, Astoria www.sacsplace.com

184

200

32 14

VIA VAI (B1) 31-09 23rd Ave, Astoria 347-612-4334 viavai-ny.com

VICTORY GARDEN CAFÉ 718-274-2087 2169 Steinway St., Astoria www.victorysweetshop.com YAJAI (B,2) 718-956-9559 33-16 30th Ave., Astoria www.yajaithaifood.com ZENON TAVERNA 718-956-0133 34-10 31st Avenue Astoria, NY 11106 www.zenontaverna.com

40

NYC PET NANNY 25-74 36 St. Astoria NY 646-298-5301 www.nycpetnanny.com

182

HIGHER GROUNDS ASTORIA 25-11 Astoria Blvd., Astoria, NY 11102 www.highergroundsastoria.com IL FORNAIO BAKERY (B,2) 718-267-0052 29-14 30th Ave., Astoria OK CAFÉ (B,1) 718-440-8789 22-04 33rd St., Astoria www.okcafeastoria.com SWEETLEAF (A,4) 917-832-6726 10-93 Jackson Ave., LIC

230

NYC PET SERVICES 31-21 31St. Astoria, NY 11106 718-350-1635 www.nycpetservices.org

233

POOCHES SPORT & SPA 718-391-0800 47-31 Center Blvd.

Long Island City, NY www.poochesspa.com

75

STEINWAY COURT VET (C,2) 718-728-2822 32-41R Steinway St., Astoria www.steinwaycourtvet.com

37 234

SUGAR AND WATER 716-466-2030 29-14 23rd Avenue, Astoria, NY

234

PINK CANARY DESSERTS 718-729-1819 13-11 Jackson Ave., Long Island City www.pinkcanarydesserts.com

FOOD SHOPS

39

FOOD CELLAR (A,4) 718-606-9786 4-85 47th Rd., LIC www.foodcellarandco.com

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

31

64 64

GRAND WINE AND LIQUOR (B,2) 718-728-2520 30-05 31st St., Astoria www.grandwl.com

209

AVENUE CHEMISTS PHARMACY 718-545-1010 45-01 30th Ave., Astoria

65 65

129

BLUE BIRD CHILD CARE 347-832-0103 25-58 48th St., Astoria www.bluebirdchildcareastoria.com

45 45

SHOPS

SERVICES

143

ASTORIA BOOKSHOP (B,2) 718- 278-2665 31-29 31st St., Astoria www.astoriabookshop.com

186

THE BRASS OWL (C,1) 347-848-0905 36-19 Ditmars Blvd., Astoria www.thebrassowl.com

114

49

INSIDE ASTORIA (C,1) 718-956-4000 28-07 Ditmars Blvd., Astoria

77

50

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

51

122 282

ASTORIA CLEANERS (B,1) 718-545-0680 28-19 Astoria Blvd., Astoria astoriacleaners.com

WINES & SPIRITS

52

282 59

177

250

POKE WAVE 917-868-1084 35-07 Broadway, Astoria

59 174

ASTORIA WINE AND SPIRITS (C,2) 718-545-9463 3412 Broadway, Astoria www.astoriawines.com

IIL Falco 718-707-0009 21-50 44th Drive, LIC www.ilfalcolic.com

VESTA (A,2) 718-545-5550 2102 30th Ave, Astoria www.vestavino.com

206 206

ASTORIA CENTER OF ISRAEL 718-278-2680 27-35 Crescent St., Astoria www.astoriacenter.org

THE GRAND 718-806-1504 37-01 30th Ave, Astoria Info@thegrandastoria.com The Inkan 718-433-4171 45-02 23rd Street, LIC www.theinkanrestaurant.com

229

57 57

119

27

281

MEET THE MEAT 23-92 21st St., Astoria 917-832-7984 www.meetthemeat.net

NYC FARM CHIC FLOWERS

95 180

ASTORIA PARK WINE AND SPIRITS (B,1) 28-07 24th Ave., Astoria www.astoriaparkwineandspirits.com

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

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

47

196 95

175 157

ASTORIA BIER & CHEESE (C,2) 718-545-5588 34-14 Broadway, Astoria

The Thirsty Koala 718-626-5430 35-12 Ditmars Blvd., Astoria Australian dishes at this relaxed eatery features many gluten-free & veggie options. www.thethirstykoala.com

44 137

FLORESTA (A,4) 917-612-4446 51-02 Vernon Blvd., LIC 4-85 47th Rd., LIC

224 196

62 175

36

247

160

223 224

ASTORIA 35 LAUNDRY & FINE DRY CLEANING (B,2) 718-392-9692 3505 34th St., Astoria Astoria35laundry.com

THE BONNIE 718-274-2105 29-12 23rd Ave. Astoria www.thebonnie.com

MAIELLA 4610 Center Blvd., Long Island City 718-606-1770 www.maiellalic.com

FLORISTS OFF BROADWAY FLORIST (B,2) 718-728-2828 3204 31st St., Astoria

281

178

216

TRU ASTORIA 35-19 Ditmars Blvd. Astoria 646-878-6000 www.truastoria.com

56

ADMIRAL LOCK AND KEY (C,2) 718-274-2491 37-17 Broadway, Astoria www.admirallockandkey.com

YOGURT LA CREPE (B,1) 917-832-6930 29-02 Ditmars Blvd., Astoria www.yogurtlacrepe.com

T-SWIRL CREPE 917-832-6815 36-16 30th Ave, Astoria www.t-swirlcrepe.com

199

56

168

167

187

198

PETALS AND ROOTS (B,2) 718-267-1700 31-27 31st St., Astoria www.petalsandroots.com

FOOD CELLAR 718-606-1888 43-18 Crescent St., LIC www.foodcellarandco.com

THE LAST WORD 31-30 Ditmars Blvd., Astoria www.tlwastoria.com

90 198

130

195

38

90

223

BROOKLYN BAGEL & COFFEE COMPANY 718-777-1121 35-09 Ditmars Blvd., Astoria (C,1) 36-14 30th Ave., Astoria (C,2) 35-05 Broadway, Astoria (C,2) www.bkbagel.com

190

161

281

34 138 139

189

161

LIC VETERINARY CENTER (A,4) 718-383-8387 48-18 Vernon Blvd., LIC www.licvets.com MY DOG NEEDS A WALK 347-323-4549 23-12 29th St., Astoria www. mydogneedsawalk.com

227

LAS MARGARITAS RESTAURANT LOUNGE (C,2) 38-01 Broadway, Astoria 718-777-1707 www.lasmargaritasny.com

121

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

218

SKINNY’S (A,4) 718-806-1068 47-05 Center Blvd., LIC

219

54

BAKERIES

55

LENG THAI (B,2) 718-956-7117 33-09 Broadway, Astoria www.lengthainewyork.com

280

Central Park Pet Spa 718-204-2777 38-07 Ditmars Blvd., Astoria www.centralparkpetspa.nyc

Boulis Cafe 718-806-1014 30-15 31st Avenue, Astoria, NY 11106 www.cafeboulis.com

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

HIBINO LIC (A,4) 718-392-5190 10-70 Jackson Ave., LIC www.hibino-lic.com HIGHWATER 917-745-0407 34-20 Broadway, Astoria www.thehighwaternyc.com

201

272

28

GEORGE’S 718-255-1947 35-11 35th Avenue, Astoria, NY 11106 www.georges.nyc

PETS CHÂTEAU LE WOOF 718-626-WOOF 30-02 14th St., Astoria www.chateaulewoof.com

LOCKWOOD SHOP (C,2) 718-626-6030 32-15 33rd St., Astoria www.lockwoodshop.com LOVEDAY 31 (B,2) 718-728-4057 3306 31st Ave., Astoria www.loveday31.com

207

236

BOOKKEEPING & PAYROLL SERVICES SPARKLELINK 718-812-9616 3537 36th St., Astoria CRESCENT APOTHECARY (B,1) 718-777-1110 25-01 Ditmars Blvd., Astoria www.crescentapothecary.com DR. PANAGIOTIS PAGONIS, M.D. (B,2) 718-278-0300 30-16 30th Ave., Astoria www.drpagonismd.com GREATER ASTORIA HISTORICAL SOCIETY Quinn Building, 4th Floor 35-20 Broadway, Astoria www.astorialic.org

122 62

157

134 134 66 66 17 17

147

158 67

26

FEBRUARY 2019

161 161 90 90 198 198 56 56 281 281 223 223 224 224 196 196 95 95 180 57 57 206 206 59 174 282 59 122 282 122 62 62 175 175 157 157 64 64 65 65 45 45

NK

134 134 66 66 17 17

ENERGEA (C,2) 929-296-9314 34-13 38th St., LIC ENERGEA (C,2) EnergeaNYC.com 929-296-9314 34-13 38th St., LIC FERRARI DRIVING SCHOOL (C,2) EnergeaNYC.com 718-278-6679 3232 Steinway FERRARI DRIVINGSt. SCHOOL (C,2) 718-278-6679 GOTHAM LASIK St. 3232 Steinway 718-440-3131 30-80 21st St., Astoria GOTHAM LASIK www.gothamlasik.com 718-440-3131 30-80 21st St., Astoria HERO COMPUTER REPAIR NYC www.gothamlasik.com 347-670-4376 Apple/Mac Computer Repair Specialist HERO COMPUTER REPAIR NYC hero@iamhero.net | www.iamhero.net 347-670-4376 Apple/Mac Repair Specialist KENSINGTON Computer TRAVELER SERVICES hero@iamhero.net | www.iamhero.net 917-805-9859 KENSINGTON TRAVELER SERVICES 10-87 Jackson Ave, LIC www.travelkensington@aol.com 917-805-9859 10-87 Jackson Ave, LIC SAVIGNANO accountants & advisors www.travelkensington@aol.com 718-707-0955 47-46 Vernon Blvd., LIC SAVIGNANO accountants & advisors www.savignano-cpa.com 718-707-0955 718-707-0295 47-46 Vernon Blvd., LIC 41-18 Crescent St., LIC www.savignano-cpa.com www.savignano-cpa.com 718-707-0295 41-18 Crescent St., LIC THE LEARNING STATION MONTESSORI INC. (C,2) www.savignano-cpa.com 347-523-0906 31-32 47th St., Astoria THE LEARNING STATION MONTESSORI INC. (C,2) www.thelearningstationmontessorischool.com 347-523-0906 31-32 47th St., Astoria MATHNASIUM (C,1) www.thelearningstationmontessorischool.com 718-726-6284 43-32 Ditmars Blvd., Astoria MATHNASIUM (C,1) www.mathnasium.com/astoria 718-726-6284 43-32 Ditmars Blvd., MONTESSORI KIDS OF LICAstoria (B,3) www.mathnasium.com/astoria 347-746-5542 5 Court Square, LIC MPN LAW FIRM (C,2) mklic.com 718-777-0400 MPN FIRM (C,2) 3403LAW Broadway, Ste. 200, Astoria 718-777-0400 3403 Broadway, Ste. 200, Astoria MY DOG NEEDS A WALK 347-323-4549 MY DOG29th NEEDS WALK 23-12 St.,A Astoria 347-323-4549 www.mydogneedsawalk.com 23-12 29th St., Astoria www.mydogneedsawalk.com RCN (A,3) Digital TV and High-Speed Internet Services QNS COLLECTIVE (C,3) 212-842-7981 718-280-5122 33-16 Woodside Ave., LIC www.rcn.com/boromag www.qnscollective.com TAXTERMINAL.COM RCN (A,3) 718-672-7829 Digital TV and High-Speed Internet Services 10-11 46th Ave, 2nd Fl, LIC 212-842-7981 www.taxterminal.com 33-16 Woodside Ave., LIC www.rcn.com/boromag TUCK-IT-AWAY STORAGE (B, 3) TAXTERMINAL.COM 718-519-8282 718-672-7829 37-19 Crescent St., Astoria 10-11 46th Ave, 2nd Fl, LIC www.tuckitaway.com www.taxterminal.com TUCK-IT-AWAY STORAGE VARDIMAN EYEWEAR (C,2)(B, 3) 718-519-8282 718-204-5037 37-19 Astoria 34-18 Crescent Broadway,St., Astoria www.tuckitaway.com www.vardimaneyewear.com VARDIMAN EYEWEAR (C,2) VESPA QUEENS (B,3) 718-204-5037 718-786-7772 34-18 Broadway, Astoria 37-43 Crescent St., LIC www.vardimaneyewear.com www.vespaqueens.com VESPA QUEENS (B,3) 718-786-7772 VOICE MUSIC STUDIO (A,1) 37-43 Crescent St., LIC 646-309-3429 www.vespaqueens.com 23-11 21st St., Astoria VOICE MUSIC STUDIO (A,1) 646-309-3429 23-11 21st St., Astoria

EVENTS EVENTS

FOUNDRY (A,3) 718-786-7776 FOUNDRY (A,3)St., LIC 42-38 Ninth 718-786-7776 www.thefoundry.info 42-38 Ninth St., LIC RENAISSANCE EVENT HALL (A,1) www.thefoundry.info 718-274-4590 RENAISSANCE EVENT HALL (A,1) 27-34 21st St., Astoria 718-274-4590 www.renaissanceeventhall.com 27-34 21st St., Astoria www.renaissanceeventhall.com TEALICIOUS 718-278-8579 TEALICIOUS 38-01 23rd Ave., Astoria 718-278-8579 www.tealiciouscatering.com 38-01 23rd Ave., Astoria www.tealiciouscatering.com

HOTELS HOTELS FOUR POINTS SHERATON (B,3)

FOUR POINTS SHERATON (B,3) 718-786-8500 718-786-8500 27-05 39th 39th Ave., Ave., LIC, LIC, 27-05 www.fourpoints.com www.fourpoints.com RAVEL RAVEL (A,3) (A,3) 718-289-6101 718-289-6101 8-08 8-08 Queens Queens Plaza Plaza South, South, LIC LIC www.ravelhotel.com www.ravelhotel.com NYC HOTEL HOTEL (A,3) (A,3) ZZ NYC 212-319-7000 212-319-7000 11-01 43rd 43rd Ave., Ave., LIC LIC 11-01 www.zhotelny.com www.zhotelny.com

TATTOO SHOPS

147 158 67

BODY LANGUAGE TATTOO 347-808-0497 32-02 34th Ave., Astoria www.bltnyc.com FAT CAT TATTOO (B,2) 718-267-1326 31-32 31st St., LIC www.fatcattattoos.com SUPER NOVA TATTOOS (C,1) 718-274-5712 38-01 23rd Ave., Astoria www.supernovatattoo.com

164 164 251 251 195 195

71 71 131 131 226 72 72 46 46 192 192 212 212 185 185

276 276 275 275 278 278 279 279 154 154 120 120 42 42 165 165 76 76 250 166

BEAUTY BEAUTY

CARL CLARKE AESTHETIQUES (B,2) 347-631-0922 32-12 Broadway, Astoria (B,2) CARL CLARKE AESTHETIQUES 347-631-0922 32-12 Broadway, Astoria DOLLFACE 718-844-7874 31-13 23rd Ave, 2nd flr., Astoria DOLLFACE www.clubdollface.com 718-844-7874 31-13 23rdWAX Ave, 2nd flr., EUROPEAN CENTER LICAstoria (A,4) www.clubdollface.com 718-482-9299 4545 Center LICLIC (A,4) EUROPEAN WAXBlvd., CENTER www.europeanwaxcenter.com 718-482-9299 4545 Center Blvd., LIC GIGI SALON (C,2) www.europeanwaxcenter.com 718 -777-7755 34-17 30th(C,2) Ave., Astoria GIGI SALON www.gigistylingstudio.com 718 -777-7755 34-17 30th Ave.,SHOP Astoria THE FACE & BODY www.gigistylingstudio.com 718-204-9390 40-21 23rd Ave.,SHOP Astoria THE FACE & BODY www.thefaceandbodyshop.com 718-204-9390 40-21LADY 23rd Ave., Astoria LUXY www.thefaceandbodyshop.com 718-786-1880 10-17 Jackson Ave., LIC PRIMP AND TEASE SALON (A,4) www.luxyladysalon.com 718-472-2001 PRIMP AND Ave., TEASELIC SALON (A,4) 5-02 50th 718-472-2001 REDKEN SALOON 5-02 50th Ave.,SALON LIC (C,2) 718-956-3366 REDKEN SALOON SALON (C,2) 36-17 30th Ave., Astoria 718-956-3366 www.redkensalon.com 36-17 30th Ave., Astoria SHADE ORGANIC SPA AND SALON (C,1) www.redkensalon.com 718-278-7892 SHADE ORGANIC Blvd., SPA AND SALON (C,1) 36-05 Ditmars Astoria 718-278-7892 shadebarspa.com 36-05 Ditmars Blvd., Astoria STUDIO NOVA shadebarspa.com 718-392-4962 STUDIO NOVAAve., Astoria 37-01 36th 718-392-4962 www.studionovanyc.com 37-01 36th Ave., Astoria www.studionovanyc.com

BRIDAL BOUTIQUE THE COTTON BRIDEBOUTIQUE (B,3) BRIDAL 718-729-9878 Fax: 718-729-9740 THE COTTON (B,3) 39-13 23rd BRIDE St., LIC 718-729-9878 Fax: 718-729-9740 www.thecottonbride.com 39-13 23rd St., LIC www.thecottonbride.com

CHILDREN'S CHILDREN'S

GYM-AZING 347-455-3661 GYM-AZING 27-14 23rd Ave., Astoria 347-455-3661 www.Gym-azing.com 27-14 23rd Ave., Astoria PLAYDAY www.Gym-azing.com 844-PLAYDAY PLAYDAY 5-37 51st Ave., LIC 844-PLAYDAY Www.playdaynyc.com 5-37 51st Ave., LIC Www.playdaynyc.com

FERRY SERVICES ASTORIA FERRY SERVICES 3-10 Astoria Blvd ASTORIA Astoria, NY 11102 3-10 Astoria Blvd LONG ISLAND CITY Astoria, NY 11102 46th Ave and Center Blvd LONG LongISLAND Island CITY City, NY 10044 46th Ave and Center Blvd Long Island City, NY 10044

FITNESS FITNESS

ASTORIA COMPLEX (C,2) 718-729-7163 ASTORIA COMPLEX (C,2) 34-38 38th St., LIC 718-729-7163 www.ascsports1.com 34-38 38th St., LIC CKO KICKBOXING (C, 1) www.ascsports1.com 347-669-0494 CKO KICKBOXING (C, 1) Astoria 40-06 Astoria Blvd., 347-669-0494 www.ckoastoria.com 40-06 Astoria Blvd., Astoria CLUB FITNESS (B,2) www.ckoastoria.com 718-545-0004 CLUB (B,2) Astoria 31-11FITNESS Broadway, 718-545-0004 31-11 Broadway, Astoria CRANK CYCLING STUDIO (A,4) 718-606-6309 CRANK CYCLING STUDIO 4630 Center Blvd., LIC(A,4) 718-606-6309 www.cranknyc.com 4630 Center Blvd., LIC CROSSFIT DYNAMIX GYM (C,1) www.cranknyc.com 718-606-0381 CROSSFIT DYNAMIX GYM (C,1) 36-05 20th Ave., Astoria 718-606-0381 www.dynamixgym.com 36-05ny 20th Ave., Astoria lagree www.dynamixgym.com Megaformer Fitness Studio 917-396-4771 THE ROCK HEALTH & FITNESS CLUB (B,1) 718-204-1400 27-11 23rd Ave., Astoria 22-15 31st St., Astoria www.lagreeny.com

166 156

THE ROCK HEALTH & FITNESS PERSONALIZED PILATES (A,4) CLUB (B,1) 718-204-1400 347-563-3933 22-15 31st St., Astoria

142 156

SAGE STUDIOS PERSONALIZED PILATES (A,4) 347-927-2439 347-563-3933 29-20 23rd Ave., 4th Floor, Astoria

142 240

SAGE In STUDIOS Salsa Queens 347-927-2439 347-669-3589 29-20 Steinway 23rd Ave.,St., 4thAstoria Floor, Astoria 34-27 salsainqueens.com Salsa In Queens THE YOGA ROOM 347-669-3589 718-274-0255 34-27 Steinway Astoria 38-01 35th Ave.,St., Astoria (C,2) salsainqueens.com 718-786-7962 10-14 47th Rd., LIC (A,4) THE YOGA ROOM www.the-yoga-room.com 718-274-0255 38-01 35th Ave., Astoria (C,2) WORKOUT FACTORY 718-786-7962 5-25 47th Ave. LIC 10-14 47th Rd., LIC (A,4) www.the-yoga-room.com PILATESWORKS 10-91A Jackson WORKOUT FACTORYAve., LIC 5-25 47th Ave. LIC

240 80 80 225 79 225

232 79 73 232 73 151 81 81 188 188 33 33 43 83 83 84 84 197 197 85 85 86 86 145 145 222 222 111 111 203 203 88 88 89 89 214 214

UNLIMITED BODY NY 27-18 23RD Avenue Astoria, NY PILATESWORKS 917-650-4369 10-91A Jackson YOGA AGORA (B,2) Ave., LIC 718-626-0680 UNLIMITED BODY NY 33-02 2nd Fl., Astoria 27-18 Broadway, 23RD Avenue www.YogaAgora.com Astoria, NY 917-650-4369 YOGA AGORA (B,2) 718-626-0680 HAPPY DAY NAIL SPA (B,2) 33-02 Broadway, 2nd Fl., Astoria 718-728-8886 www.YogaAgora.com 31-35 31st St., Astoria REJUVENATE FACE AND BODY (B,1) 718-626-4434 26-17 23rd Ave., Astoria REJUVENATE FACE AND BODY (B,1) www.Rejuvenatenyc.com 718-626-4434 SHADE 23rd ORGANIC SPA AND SALON 26-17 Ave., Astoria 718-278-7892 www.Rejuvenatenyc.com 36-05 Ditmars Blvd., Astoria SHADE ORGANIC SPA AND SALON 718-278-7892 36-05 Ditmars Blvd., Astoria ARCADIA BAR & KITCHEN 347-730-6181 12-21 Astoria Blvd., Astoria www.arcadiabarlic.com ARCADIA BAR & KITCHEN 347-730-6181 BAROQUE (C,1) Blvd., Astoria 12-21 Astoria 718-274-2777 www.arcadiabarlic.com 19-44 Steinway St., Astoria www.baroquenyc.com BREAK (B,2) 718-777-5400 BREAK (B,2) 3204 Broadway, Astoria 718-777-5400 www.break-ny.com 3204 Broadway, Astoria www.break-ny.com BRICK BAR (B,2) 718-267-2735 BRICK BAR (B,2) 30-95 33rd St., Astoria 718-267-2735 www.brickcafe.com 30-95 33rd St., Astoria www.brickcafe.com THE BREWERY BAR & KITCHEN 718-777-8007 THE BREWERY BAR & KITCHEN 49-18 30th Ave., Astoria 718-777-8007 www.thebrewery.nyc 49-18 30th Ave., Astoria www.thebrewery.nyc DOMAINE WINE BAR (A,4) 718-784-2350 DOMAINE WINE BAR (A,4) 50-04 Vernon Blvd., LIC 718-784-2350 www.domainewinebar.com 50-04 Vernon Blvd., LIC www.domainewinebar.com DOMINIES OF ASTORIA (C,2) 718-706-6531 DOMINIES OF ASTORIA (C,2) 34-07 30th Ave., Astoria 718-706-6531 www.dominiesnyc.com 34-07 30th Ave., Astoria www.dominiesnyc.com KATCH BREWERY & GRILL (B,2) 718-777-2230 KATCH BREWERY & GRILL (B,2) 3119 Newtown Ave., Astoria 718-777-2230 www.katchastoria.com 3119 Newtown Ave., Astoria www.katchastoria.com LOCKED -ESCAPE ROOM NYC 718-274-9700 LOCKED -ESCAPE ROOM NYC 22-56 31st St., Astoria 718-274-9700 www.escapelocked.com 31st St., Astoria 22-56 www.escapelocked.com MOSAIC CRAFT BEER & WINE BAR (B,1) 718-728-0708 MOSAIC CRAFT BEER & WINE BAR (B,1) 25-19 24th Ave., Astoria 718-728-0708 www.mosaicastoria.com 25-19 24th Ave., Astoria www.mosaicastoria.com PASSAGE IRISH BAR AND KITCHEN 917-832-6680 PASSAGE IRISH BAR AND KITCHEN 40-11 30th Ave., Astoria 917-832-6680 www.passageastoria.com 40-11 30th Ave., Astoria www.passageastoria.com STUDIO SQ. BEER GARDEN (C,3) 718-383-1001 STUDIO SQ. BEER GARDEN (C,3) 35-33 36th St., Astoria 718-383-1001 www.studiosquarenyc.com 35-33 36th St., Astoria www.studiosquarenyc.com SWEET AFTON (C,2) 718-777-2570 SWEET AFTON (C,2) 30-09 34th St., Astoria 718-777-2570 www.sweetaftonbar.com 30-09 34th St., Astoria www.sweetaftonbar.com THE BEAST NEXT DOOR CAFÉ & BAR 718-482-7507 THE BEAST NEXT DOOR CAFÉ & BAR 42-51 27th Ave., LIC 718-482-7507 www.thebeastnextdoorcafebar.com 42-51 27th Ave., LIC www.thebeastnextdoorcafebar.com

SPAS SPAS

NIGHTLIFE/ NIGHTLIFE/

ART ART

100 100

ASTORIA ASTORIA FINE FINE ARTS ARTS DANCE DANCE (C,1) (C,1) 718-247-0740 718-247-0740 38-01 23rd 23rd Ave., Ave., Astoria Astoria 38-01 www.asfa-dancestudio.com www.asfa-dancestudio.com

128 128

ASTORIA PERFORMING PERFORMING ARTS ARTS CENTER CENTER @THE @THE GOOD GOOD ASTORIA SHEPHERD UNITED UNITED METHODIST METHODIST CHURCH CHURCH (C,2) (C,2) SHEPHERD 718-706-5750 718-706-5750 30-44 Crescent Crescent St. St. (@30th (@30th Road), Road), Astoria Astoria 30-44 www.apacny.org www.apacny.org

92 92 113 113 127 127 199 199 93 93

KAUFMAN ASTORIA ASTORIA STUDIOS STUDIOS (C,2) (C,2) KAUFMAN 718-706-5300 718-706-5300 34-12 36th 36th St., St., Astoria Astoria 34-12 www.kaufmanastoria.com www.kaufmanastoria.com LAGUARDIA PERFORMING PERFORMING ARTS ARTS CENTER CENTER (C,3) (C,3) LAGUARDIA 718-482-5151 718-482-5151 31-10 Thomson Thomson Ave., Ave., LIC LIC 31-10 www.laguardiaperformingarts.org www.laguardiaperformingarts.org LIC SCHOOL SCHOOL OF OF BALLET BALLET (B,3) (B,3) LIC 718-781-1169 718-781-1169 44-02 23rd 23rd St., St., Studio Studio 216, 216, LIC LIC 44-02 www.licsb.com www.licsb.com MOMA PS PS 11 MOMA 718-784-2084 718-784-2084 22-25 Jackson Jackson Ave., Ave., Long Long Island Island City City 22-25 www.momaps1.org www.momaps1.org MUSEUM OF OF THE THE MOVING MOVING IMAGE IMAGE (C,2) (C,2) MUSEUM 718-784-0077 718-784-0077 36-01 35th 35th Ave., Ave., Astoria Astoria 36-01 www.movingimage.us www.movingimage.us

94 94 237 237 149 149 215 215 146 146 110 110 273 273 97 97 98 98 112 112 217 217 99 99 96 96 217 217 105 105 30 30 101 140 101 136 140 141 136 103 141 103 250 284 246 246 135 135 274 274 221 221 104 104 102 102

NOGUCHI MUSEUM (A,2) 718-204-7088 9-01 33rd Rd., Astoria NOGUCHI MUSEUM (A,2) www.noguchi.org 718-204-7088 9-01 33rd Rd., Astoria OTTER HOUSE STUDIOS www.noguchi.org 718-786-5900 28-39 Review Ave. LIC OTTER HOUSE STUDIOS www.otterhousestudios.com 718-786-5900 28-39 Review LICARTS (C,2) QUEENS COUNCILAve. ON THE www.otterhousestudios.com 347-505-3010 37-11 Ave.,ONAstoria QUEENS35th COUNCIL THE ARTS (C,2) www.queenscouncilarts.org 347-505-3010 37-11 Q.E.D. 35th Ave., Astoria www.queenscouncilarts.org 347-451-3873 27-16 Q.E.D. 23rd Ave., Astoria www.Qedastoria.com 347-451-3873 27-16 23rd Ave., Astoria www.Qedastoria.com ROGALLERY.COM (C,3) 800-888-1063 or 718-937-0901 47-15 36th St., (C,3) LIC - by appointment ROGALLERY.COM www.rogallery.com 800-888-1063 or 718-937-0901 47-15 36th St., LIC - by appointment SCULPTURECENTER (B,3) www.rogallery.com 718-361-1750 44-19 Purves St., (B,3) LIC SCULPTURECENTER www.sculpure-center.org 718-361-1750 44-19 PurvesGENIUS St., LIC SELF-TAUGHT GALLERY www.sculpure-center.org 212-595-9533 47-29 32nd Pl., LIC GALLERY SELF-TAUGHT GENIUS www.folkartmuseum.org 212-595-9533 47-29 32nd Pl., LIC PARK (A,2) SOCRATES SCULPTURE www.folkartmuseum.org 718-626-1533 32-01 Vernon Blvd., PARK Astoria SOCRATES SCULPTURE (A,2) www.socratessculpturepark.org 718-626-1533 32-01 Vernon Blvd., TEN10 STUDIOS (A,4) Astoria www.socratessculpturepark.org 917-449-9539 10-10 47th Rd., LIC TEN10 STUDIOS (A,4) www.ten10studios.com 917-449-9539 10-10 Rd., LIC THE ART47th HOUSE (C,2) www.ten10studios.com 516-724-1562 31-06 St.,(C,2) Astoria THE ART35th HOUSE www.gabrieleperici.com 516-724-1562 31-06 35th St., Astoria THE PAINT PLACE www.gabrieleperici.com (NYC Painting Classes & Parties) 31-21 31st St Astoria, NY 11106 THE PAINT PLACE 929-522-0086 (NYC Painting Classes & Parties) www.thepaintplaceny.com 31-21 31st St Astoria, NY 11106 929-522-0086 SCULPTURE SPACE NYC (C,3) www.thepaintplaceny.com 718-806-1709 47-21 35thSPACE St., LIC SCULPTURE NYC (C,3) www.sculpturespacenyc.com 718-806-1709 47-21 35th THEATRE St., LIC (B,3) THE SECRET www.sculpturespacenyc.com 718-392-0722 44-02 23rd THEATRE St., LIC (B,3) THE SECRET www.secrettheatre.com 718-392-0722 44-02 23rd St., LIC www.secrettheatre.com

REAL ESTATE REAL ESTATE

AMORELLI REALTY 718-204-2828 3601 30thREALTY Ave., Astoria AMORELLI www.amorellirealty.com 718-204-2828 3601 30th Ave., Astoria BEAUDOIN REALTY GROUP (A,4) www.amorellirealty.com 718-505-9220 78-27 37th Ave. #5, Jackson BEAUDOIN REALTY GROUP (A,4) Heights www.beaudoinrealtor.com 718-505-9220 78-27 37th Ave. #5, Jackson Heights DOUGLAS ELLIMAN (A,4) www.beaudoinrealtor.com 917-386-6164 47-37 Vernon Blvd.

DOUGLAS ELLIMAN (A,4) www.elliman.com 917-386-6164 47-37 Vernon Blvd.

MODERN SPACES www.elliman.com 718-784-1110 10-63 Jackson MODERN SPACES Ave., LIC (A,4) 47-42 Vernon Blvd., LIC (A,4) 718-784-1110 29-20 Ave.,Ave., Astoria 10-63 23rd Jackson LIC (A,4) (A,4) www.modernspacesnyc.com 47-42 Vernon Blvd., LIC (A,4) 29-20 23rd Ave., Astoria (A,4) WELLS FARGO HOME MORTGAGE www.modernspacesnyc.com (C,2) 718-310-4303 3501 Ave., Astoria WELLS30th FARGO HOME MORTGAGE (C,2) www.wfhm.com 718-310-4303 3501 30th Ave., Astoria www.wfhm.com lagree ny MARKET TEAM AT COMPASS THE REAL Megaformer Fitness Studio 27-01 Queens Plaza North, 13th floor 27-11 23rd Ave., Long Island City, Astoria Queens, NY, 11101 www.lagreeny.com

HEALTH & WELLNESS HEALTH & WELLNESS

LIC Dental Associates 718-530-6539 LIC Dental 50-02 5thAssociates St., LIC 718-530-6539 www.licdentalassociates.com 50-02 5th St., LIC www.licdentalassociates.com MOUNT SINAI QUEENS (B,2) 24 Emergency Care MOUNT SINAI (B,2) Physician Primary CareQUEENS & Specialty 24 Emergency Care 718-932-1000 Primary Care & Specialty Physician 25-10 30th Ave., LIC 718-932-1000 NEWTOWN PHARMACY 25-10 30th Ave., LIC 718-728-9100 NEWTOWN PHARMACY 2804 31st St., Astoria 718-728-9100 2804 31stFAMILY St., Astoria STEINWAY DENTAL CENTER 718-728-3314 STEINWAY FAMILYSt.,Astoria DENTAL CENTER 32-50 Steinway 718-728-3314 www.alldentalneeds.com 32-50 Steinway St.,Astoria www.alldentalneeds.com

BANKING BANKING

QUONTIC BANK (B,2) 718-215-4000 31-05 Broadway, QUONTIC BANK (B,2)Astoria www.quonticbank.com 718-215-4000 31-05 Broadway, Astoria SUSSEX BANK (B,1) www.quonticbank.com 347-472-1727 28-21 Astoria Blvd., Astoria SUSSEX BANK (B,1) www.sussexbank.com 347-472-1727 28-21 Astoria Blvd., Astoria www.sussexbank.com

FEBRUARY 2019 I BOROMAG.COM

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31

MIND + BODY

Ax-Treme Sport

BY CLAIRE LEADEN @CLAIRELEADEN @CLAIRELEADEN

If frigid temperatures and short daylight hours are leaving you with a bit of cabin fever, a new activity in Long Island City may offer the perfect way to let out pent-up energy, de-stress and get in the spirit of the outdoors without actually being there.

T

ry embracing your inner lumberjack at Axes & Arrows, part of Indoor Extreme Sports on Van Dam Street in Long Island City, minutes from the 7 train. There’s no flannel required (just closed-toe shoes).

I had seen ax-throwing pop up on social media a few times in the past months, so I knew it was becoming a trendy activity. I didn’t know much though, except that where I had seen it taking place — in a bar with alcohol — seemed pretty dangerous to say the least. And, of course, that it made for good Instagram content. But I was still excited to try something completely and utterly new to me, in a setting that was made specifically for it.

Indoor Extreme Sports has been in Long Island City for more than 10 years, offering

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FEBRUARY 2019

t

Photos courtesy of Axes & Arrows

the likes of laser tag, paintball, archery and one of their claims to fame, “archery tag,” which involves shooting foam-tipped arrows at people on the opposite team similar to dodgeball, making for a “Hunger Games”like experience.

When ax-throwing started coming on the scene, the sports complex knew they had to look into it. Their Axes & Arrows spin-off, offering both ax-throwing and new archery games, was added to the business this past November.

“We like to stay innovative as much as possible,” co-owner Chris Fermoselle said. “Our customers come to us for an extreme time, so we want to make sure we can always introduce something new for them every couple of months to hold up to that standard.

“Over the past year, we saw within the family entertainment industry that ax-throwing was making a comeback in an entirely new way.

We knew we had to have it in our facility!”

Fermoselle was initially introduced to archery through the tag game at the facility. The one that is part of the new Axes & Arrows concept is more like a game of darts, with slightly different arrows that allow discs to stick to a target when you shoot at it with the arrow. He was introduced to ax-throwing the same way.

“Never threw an ax in my life before. I don’t think most people have,” he said, laughing.

“So for me to be able to start and actually practice here within my facility is what got me into the sport.”

FEBRUARY 2019 I BOROMAG.COM

33

MIND + BODY

When I first arrived at Indoor Extreme Sports, I was actually more nervous then I thought I would be. The facility has all of the other sports I mentioned, but Axes & Arrows is in a separate room, decorated to look like a homey log cabin or ski lodge. It had dark paneling, comfy leather chairs and couches with furs, and Edisonbulb lighting. It made for a nice atmosphere, almost like you were getting away for a winter weekend activity.

As our great instructor, another Chris, started showing us the ropes, I paid careful attention and mimicked his throwing movements off on the side. There is just some instinctual response that makes it feel wrong when you pick up a sharp object only to bring it over your head and catapult it forward. I think this is a pretty typical response when you say you’re going “ax-throwing” to most people, and even Fermoselle agreed initially.

“At first, I was even skeptical about bringing this experience here to my facility due to safety concerns,” he explained. “However with our research and dedication to being able to bring this experience to our customers, we saw that it’s actually one of the most safe experiences as of now when done right.

“Our ‘ax-perts’ will give you a complete 15-minute orientation rundown on all of our safety guidelines, and how to actually throw an ax the proper way without hurting yourself or anyone around you.”

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FEBRUARY 2019

The second game we played was like basketball’s “21,” except that in ax-throwing, the goal was to hit the correct target numbers to get to 23 exactly. The other team took the lead there. The last game involved more careful aiming — which the instructor also taught us how to do — with each team having to hit ring number one, then two, then three, etc., staying in chronological order, until they hit both “skill shots” — dots located in the corner of the target which the instructor said were mostly only hit by luck.

We took a truce there, and moved on to archery, which was fun because you felt like you had a lot more control of where the arrows landed. Everyone channeled their inner Katniss and we ended up keeping score individually.

Overall, everyone had a blast and it was a really fun, unique activity, perfect for the long winter months. The cost is $25/player for a 1 hour and 15 minute session, and you can get a private range for six players or more (12 players max). Learn more at axesandarrows.com.

AXES & ARROWS INDOOR EXTREME SPORTS LIC 47-11 VAN DAM ST., LIC AXESANDARROWS.COM 718-361-9152

Photos by Stephen DiPietro

Our instructor explained everything carefully and gave us a lot of feedback as we threw, whether we needed to step up closer, throw slower or aim higher. It was surprising to learn that it wasn’t really about the power of the throw, but more about technique and accuracy. A lot of people initially just go up and chuck the ax forward, but you’ll have no hope of hitting the target that way.

Instead, you hold the ax over your head, low enough that the back edge is touching your back, and then step forward with your prominent leg and swing it over your head, throwing forward from your elbows.

My very first throw I actually hit the target and my ax stuck — which was pretty crazy, and prompted my group to think I had some kind of ax-throwing background I was keeping secret. I didn’t, which was a quickly proven as we moved on.

After a couple of practice rounds we moved to games — which brings out everyone’s competitive streak. This was where I kind of regressed since I do not do well under pressure. The target rings each represent a certain amount of points: the outermost ring was one point, going in until you reach the bullseye, which is five. We split into teams and went two at a time. The first game was just a battle for the most points (my team won, though admittedly my partner really carried the team).

FEBRUARY 2019 I BOROMAG.COM

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FOOD + DRINK

UP-TO-DATE

DITMARS

BY DANIEL GROGAN

It can be tough keeping up with the ever-changing roster of restaurants and bars in Astoria, especially on the always boppin’ Ditmars Boulevard, one of the most popular areas for food and drink in all of Queens. This month, we’re highlighting three new businesses that have cropped up on the boulevard: a fast-casual Mediterranean eatery, a biker bar, and a Latin American kitchen and bar. There’s something for everyone, so bundle up and head out into the cold to check out one of these fresh new spots in the neighborhood.

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FEBRUARY 2019

CimCim CimCim, also known as sesame, is an ancient spice which lends its full-bodied flavor to many popular dishes of Mediterranean origin. When developing plans for his restaurant, Omar Motair wanted to, above all, “bring the flavors of his homeland in Egypt to his new hometown of Astoria,” so he could think of no better name than that of the primary spice he would be incorporating into his dishes.

The eatery, which opened on Jan. 10, serves up “Mediterranean food with a modern New York City twist,” in a fast-casual environment. And it isn’t just food that gets the Mediterranean treatment at CimCim:

“Beyond exploring delicious recipes of the Mediterranean, CimCim also looks to inspire our customers by encouraging elements of the Mediterranean lifestyle,” Motair said. “Beyond eating well, we know the importance of bonding with loved ones over a meal, laughing often, keeping things simple, and taking time to relax and enjoy life.”

While Motair aims to provide a sense of comfort and community to his customers, he also understands the importance of convenience in the big city, hence the counter service model. Patrons can order from a selection of their wraps, sandwich-

es, salads, soups and sweets, or build their meal from the pita up, as is typical of many fast-casual restaurants.

Whether you decide to enjoy your meal at CimCim or take your order to go, Motair hopes that his guests leave having tasted and felt what it means to be Mediterranean.

“We hope to provide our guests with a friendly, positive experience, and a space to relax even for a few minutes on a busy New York City day. Our dishes are packed with flavor and full of color, the same feeling we hope to provide to customers walking through our doors.”

CIMCIM 3308 DITMARS BLVD., ASTORIA CIMCIMKITCHEN.COM 718-545-2200

Photo by Jini Sachse

Photos by Alyssa Buono

FEBRUARY 2019 I BOROMAG.COM

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FOOD + DRINK

NYMF Bar

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cious popcorn) and drinks are poured with a heavy hand. Classic rock and old-school hip-hop blare from the speakers and beautiful motorcycles sit beside the curb outside.

At the same time, however, it was important to Joseph that the community knows that NYMF isn’t just a biker bar.

“Listen, man: the bar welcomes everybody. Nobody judges anyone here. The last thing I want is for people to go, ‘Oh there’s that biker bar that disrupts the neighborhood.’”

Whether you ride a motorcycle or mass transit, stop by NYMF Bar, bring your own food or have some of their fresh popcorn, buy a Hard Rider NYC shirt, and go back in time for a couple of drinks.

NYMF BAR 31-17 DITMARS BLVD., ASTORIA HTTP://WWW. SHOPHARDRIDERNYC.COM/

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Photos by Frank Rinaldi Jr.

Since its opening in November 2018, NYMF Bar has provided locals with something that owner Frank Joseph believed was missing from Astoria.

“I grew up loving classic rock and heavy metal … man, a lot of places in Astoria have that chi-chi vibe to it,” Joseph said. “Drinks are way overpriced. I thought, where’s the local watering hole where you can just have a good time, let your hair down and have a beer and a shot.

And so far, it seems like the neighborhood is really digging it.”

NYMF, or New York Motorcycle Foundry, was born out of Joseph’s love for motorcycle culture. His clothing brand, Hard Rider NYC Apparel, embodies this culture; heavy emphasis is placed on community pride and a rock ’n’ roll lifestyle, two things which Joseph is passionate about. So when Joseph was presented with the opportunity to open a bar, he knew right away what kind of place he wanted to run.

The place is straight out of the ’70s in the best way possible. No food is served (aside from deli-

Acento Latin Kitchen and Bar When choosing the name for their restaurant, owners Maria Ramirez and Ricardo Gomez put as much thought into it as they do everything else about their business. “‘Acento’ signifies many things for us.

For starters, ‘Acento’ references the accents that come from across all of Latin America,” Ramirez said. “It marks a difference which plays on the fusion aspect of our menu. Additionally, an accent in Spanish signifies a need to place emphasis on a syllable in a word. Here at Acento we place an emphasis on quality and service. And lastly Acento is also indicative of the sazon we have that gives our food its standout flavor.”

Opened on Jan. 7, Acento Latin Kitchen and Bar serves up “elevated homestyle Latin American fusion,” in the words of Ramirez. Some of the most popular dishes from the restaurant’s eclectic menu have been the bandeja paisa, the ropa vieja, tostones with guacamole and chicharron, and the coconut shrimp, but everything that Acento serves up has received rave reviews thus far.

“So far the response has been very positive. It seems that we have really filled a need here on Ditmars, and the community has welcomed us with open arms,” Ramirez said.

And it isn’t just the food that the community has been loving, but the atmosphere as well. Family photos of the owners line the walls of the warm interior, both in

honor of the parents who worked tirelessly to provide Gomez and Ramirez with this opportunity and in the hopes that it will make patrons feel like they might be eating a delicious meal at their very own grandmother’s house, “because we all know our abuelitas wanted to make sure we were full,” Ramirez said.

More than anything, Ramirez and Gomez hope to continue providing customers with this sense of comfort.

“We are really just aiming to provide our customers a space where they can come relax, enjoy a cocktail and try some food that can take them away from it all, even if just for half an hour,” Ramirez said. “We really hope that all the elements from design, music, service and food come together to make that happen.”

FEBRUARY 2019 I BOROMAG.COM

Photos courtesy of Acento Latin Kitchen and Bar

ACENTO LATIN KITCHEN AND BAR 33-06 DITMARS BLVD., ASTORIA ACENTOLATINKITCHEN.COM 718-440-9435

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FOOD +DRINK

Get to the Greek Latest addition to the Astoria restaurant scene offers a finer side to Greek dining

BY ALEJANDRA O'CONNELL-DOMENECH

Amylos Taverna, a new Greek-inspired restaurant at 33-19 Broadway in Astoria, opened its doors to customers on Jan. 7.

I

n a neighborhood famous for its small Greek eateries, Amylos aims to prove that Greek food and fine dining go hand-in-hand.

“There is a presentation. There is an art. There is a thought,” said Martha Arvanitis, co-owner of Amylos Taverna, about the design and cuisine of the restaurant. Amylos’ modern rustic chandeliers, marble backlit bar and mix of stone walls and wood floors create an atmosphere similar to that of many Financial District spots.

The menu — featuring dishes like lobster moussaka — is meant to elevate traditional Greek favorites. According to Arvanitis, even though the restaurant has only just opened, some customers have said that it has brought “New York City to Astoria.”

“Not any [Greek] restaurant has tried to do that,” Arvanitis said.

Amylos is located a block away from Arvanitis’ other business, Omonia Café, and is currently located in the building that once housed Uncle George’s Greek Tavern, which permanently closed in 2013.

Uncle George’s generated a large amount of foot traffic on Broadway, and according to Arvanitis, the popularity of the restaurant with the Greek and Greek-American community played a large part in Omonia Café’s success.

“People would first go to George’s for diner and then to Omonia for their coffee and cake,” Arvanitis said. When George’s closed, he said, Broadway became less bustling.

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FEBRUARY 2019

The Greek fried cheese dish, Saganaki, is served with a side of tomato jam at Amylos Taverna.

Arvanitis hopes to bring back those prodigal customers to Broadway and new customers who might not consider the street their first choice for fine dining.

A total of 150 people can be seated in the roomy one-floor restaurant which is open from 5 to 11 p.m. on weekdays and 11:30 p.m. on weekends. Brunch service is offered from noon to 4 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.

Spinach pie salad is one of the creative takes on a Greek classic at Amylos Taverna.

AMYLOS TAVERNA 33-19 BROADWAY, ASTORIA AMYLOS.COM 718-215-0228

Photos courtesy of Anna Christina Arvanitis

FEBRUARY 2019 I BOROMAG.COM

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By ESTELLE PYPER @ESTIE_PYPER @ESTIEPYPER

Jessen Jurado and Caroline Voagen Nelson’s home on 44th Street in Astoria is a combination of vintage and modern. It’s equal parts his and hers, and their styles perfectly complement one another.

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T

he couple met in 2012 when Nelson, an artist, had a solo show at a venue in Brooklyn. On the last day, Jurado, who was the resident curator of the space at the time, arrived to prep for the next event.

“I asked my friend, ‘What artist is responsible for this work? It’s great, I’d like to meet them,’” Jurado remembered.

They got to talking and the rest is history.

Now, seven years later, the postcard from Nelson’s show is one of the first things you see when you enter their apartment.

The whole space is filled with memories like this, at the same time highlighting their individual passions.

The couple has lived in Astoria for over three years, but Jurado was born and raised in Queens. He used to work in the publishing

FEBRUARY 2019

industry and now works in tech. Nelson, originally from North Carolina, went to art school in Chicago and has been in New York for 11 years working as a visual artist and teacher.

Nelson’s work is displayed throughout the apartment. When Jurado saw most of it in storage before they moved in together, he asked Nelson, “Why don’t we put your art on the walls?

We should decorate the walls with your work.”

Her displayed art is primarily photography-based collages, and everything has a story. In their living room, it’s hard to miss “Accretion,” a piece of hers from 2007 about the gentrification of Chicago. It’s beautiful, fluid and monochrome, and everything else in the room seems to tie into it.

“I think this one had to be hung first,” Nelson said. “It’s such a large piece and we can’t have direct sunlight on it.”

Photos by Estelle Pyper

thing New When decorating the rest of their living room, they knew one thing for sure: “We need to have a TV but we don’t want it to be the center of the room,” Nelson said.

“We didn’t really want it to be like a shrine, like you walk in and the TV’s the first thing you see,” Jurado said. “We do use it a lot so we wanted it to be present, but not the center of attention.”

They worked on “hiding in plain sight” – placing their modest TV off-center and low to the ground, surrounding it with black and white pictures.

“That’s why we have all those frames around it with the same color and scheme, so [the TV] becomes yet another frame,” Jurado explained.

It works: the TV easily becomes a part of the greater decoration of the wall. The FEBRUARY 2019 I BOROMAG.COM

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INTERIOR DESIGN

frames that surround it include more of Nelson’s work, photographs of the two of them and friends, two posters of shows that Jurado curated and random Polaroid triptychs.

“So you don’t notice, ‘Oh, it’s a TV area,’” Nelson said. “Rather, a collage where it’s my art and snapshots and his events.”

A stack of records sits next to the TV. The one on display is fittingly black and white: a crossword puzzle design by one of their friends.

“It’s really important that when we collaged all these different elements that they had ‘like’ factors,” Nelson said. “Everything had to be black and white, pretty much.”

Even their gaming consoles match. Jurado put white “skins” over the black devices, so they’re camouflaged. Jurado’s black electric guitar hangs by the TV, while an acoustic one hangs on the other side of the window.

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FEBRUARY 2019

A challenge they faced and conquered was organization. “We’re kind of collectors and we love media, movies and games, so how do we organize those things in a way that doesn’t feel heavy, but feels light?” Nelson said.

“Like it doesn’t feel like you’re walking into a movie rental store,” Jurado added.

Walk straight through to their shared work space and the media-love becomes more obvious. One corner of the space is filled with Jurado’s collection of video games spanning four decades.

“I never intended it to be a collection; it just sort of happened,” Jurado said. “I just bought new games and never got rid of the old ones, and I have some sort of attachment to all of it.

Each one has a story.”

Among the stacks are smaller collections of VHS tapes and DVDs, old Gameboys and Atari, all surrounding an old square Sony TV.

The rest of the room is occupied by desks, Nelson’s stop-motion animation station, and shelves of organized craft and tool storage.

The couple loves thrift shopping and rarely pays full price for anything. Most of their furniture is either hand-me-downs, Craigslist items or street finds they refurbish.

One of the more impressive pieces is a vintage radio console straight out of 1957. It was

FE B R U ARY 2 0 1 9 I B OR OM AG. C OM

49

INTERIOR DESIGN

a lucky street find that they’ve brilliantly refurbished. “We stained the top and the front and the sides and then changed out the electronics,” Jurado said. Now it’s completely functioning as a record player and speaker system that hooks up to a laptop.

A Craigslist clock radio sits atop the player, too – Nelson’s touch. “I’m a big fan of mid-century modern interior design, so I always like to add more pieces,” she said.

On the wall leading out of the living room hangs a Pong Clock – it’s a digital clock of the ‘70s game “Pong” that Jurado coded (from a design available online) to change the time when a player scores a point.

Displayed in a glass case in the front room is an impressive camera collection. “Whenever we go on vacation we’ll take one, load it with film and develop them,” Jurado said. There’s even a 1997 Gameboy Camera in there.

They’ve used the vertical organization in the kitchen to make the most of the space, displaying colorful pots and pans. But the table in there isn’t going anywhere.

“The construction is not as good as I’d like,” Jurado said, “but it’s the first thing we did together and we made it ourselves. Very proud.”

As two very resourceful people, they’ve built a functional and creative home in a neighborhood they’ve fallen in love with.

“Something I love about Astoria is that I can stay here all weekend,” Nelson said.

“And everything that’s been in our neighborhood keeps improving.”

“Having lived here all my life, Queens feels like home to me, but it does change,” Jurado said. “It’s like you’re looking at it with fresh eyes, and it’s different but it always feels like home.”

Photos by Estelle Pyper

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