Bm042014

VOL 4:5 APRIL 2014

ASTORIA // LIC // SUNNYSIDE

CREATE // CULTIVATE // INSPIRE

Season Change of

GREAT DISCOUNTS

at the best spots in Astoria, LIC, Sunnyside

5 Great Asian Buns pg 6

Tattoo artist Cristian Zink pg 26

Steinway Mansion pg 28

Getting Back On Track pg 32

LIC FLEA RETURNS! APRIL 5th & 6th

See pg 22

2 | BOROMAG.COM | APRIL 2014

All-Star 2013 2teams2_Aspire 8/27/13 3:10 PM Page 1

e r Befor e v E n a th inners W d r a w Y NSF A N U C e Mor

M

ore than 20 outstanding CUNY students in 2013 won National Science Foundation awards of $126,000 each for graduate study in the sciences. No other University system in the Northeast won more.

1-800-CUNY-YES cuny.edu/allstars

APRIL 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 3

JOSHUA SCHNEPS

publisher

Dear Western Queens, With the neighborhoods we serve full of entrepreneurs many bring together the family to operate their businesses. You can be sure that when family is involved they bring in passion and dedication. How do I know? Because I have been working with my mother for over 12 years!

As always we bring you stories and images that make your mouth water and hopefully run to make a reservation. At the same time we have profiled the Giannakas brothers who operate the Greek restaurant and bar Ovelia alongside their mother and father.

We all know Astoria is a great place to live, but how about living in the 27 room Steinway Mansion? A home like that built in 1858 has a lot of history and we fill you in on the details.

I’m expanding my family of flea markets this season as well. I hope you will come to enjoy LIC Flea & Food, now open on Saturdays and Sundays and starting May 4 Astoria Flea & Food at Kaufman Studios will open for 8 consecutive Sundays. You can enter the lot through the big iron gates on 35th Avenue and 36th Street.

I look forward to seeing you there and hopefully in warmer weather.

Josh

Flea Market Season Is Here

FEATURES

6 FOOD

5 Great Asian Buns

8 CHARACTERS Blonde Ambition

14 FOOD

Notes From Marketa’s Kitchen

22 EXPLORE YOUR BORO Flea Market Season Is Here

24 FOOD

Ovelia Changes It Up

26 THE ARTS

Tattoo Artist Cristian Zink

28 EXPLORE YOUR BORO Steinway Mansion

32 BODY & SOUL

Getting Back On Track

22

Getting Back On Track

FEATURES

36 THE ARTS

Sean Basil McGiver

38 THE ARTS

Art At The New Bao Shoppe

DEPARTMENTS

12 APRIL 2014 EVENTS 17 BORO DEALS & DISCOUNTS PAGE

Exclusive savings, discounts and freebies for the month of April 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, lizabeth nieves // 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 | APRIL 2014

32

Michele Beaudoin with Gigi & Pepi Call Michele Today!

347-678-7662

WWW.BEAUDOINREALTY.COM APRIL 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 5

FOOD The Bao Shoppe

On a

roll with these buns STORY + IMAGES

Perhaps one of the most delicious and affordable Asian contributions to the culinary scene is the steamed bun. Sort of like an Eastern version of a slider, these fluffy little clouds are typically made with rice flour, steamed, and then stuffed with any combination of toppings imaginable. In Astoria, alone, there are several droolworthy versions of these PacMan-shaped nibbles available, and all for under five bucks. That’s not too shabby for a miniature sandwich that showcases some of the most exquisite meats and seafood a chef can prepare. Take at look at five of the best versions we have found.

At the Bao Shoppe , Astoria’s newest stop for steamed buns, you can order these bad boys topped with smoked brisket

6 | BOROMAG.COM | APRIL 2014

Bradley HAWKS

and slaw, with a side of French fries and curry sauce, or fries loaded with a smoked meat of your choice and a stack of kimchi. One of our favorite buns is the Colonel Bao. The chef brines the chicken overnight, deep fries it, and serves it with coleslaw and a fresh pickle for $3.50. It might be the best fried chicken in the neighborhood, and you cannot beat the price. Buns also come loaded with pork belly, bulgogi, and crispy tofu. Rumor has it they might be serving crawfish and meatloaf on buns as specials in the next few months.

The Bao Shoppe, 30-66 Steinway St., Astoria, NY 11103

The Pun Sai Moo at Leng are the Thai cousins of the steamed bun. While an order of these is $8, you do get two buns on a bed

of slaw, and these guys are pretty hefty. They come filled with wonderfully fatty cuts of pork belly, which is balanced with a tangy pickle, crispy slaw, and a spicy hoisin sauce that is not too unlike a sriracha barbecue.

Leng Thai, 33-09 Broadway, Astoria, NY 11106

The Japanese buns at HinoMaru Ramen are called Niku Man, and

they are some of our favorites, mainly because you can order them stuffed with soft shell crab, shrimp tempura, a miraculously tender slice of marinated pork, or a light salad made with kani. The buns range from around 5 to 6 bucks. But depending on the meat, some come two to an order, which makes these about $2.50 a piece. Throw

s

HinoMaru Ramen Leng Thai

in all of the other Japanese tapas available, and you can build yourself a pretty fantastic Japanese smorgasbord without breaking the bank.

HinoMaru Ramen, 33-18 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria, NY 11105

Tamashii Ramen

The pork buns at Ramen Okidoki are just $3.75 a pop, and

might win the award for cutest little buns on the planet. The tender medallions of pork are served with a cucumber slice, scallions, and with a special Okidoki sauce that is available spicy or mild. They also serve fantastic versions of onigiri, which are steamed rice balls stuffed with fried kimchi, pickled plums, grilled roast beef, spicy tuna, or crabmeat for just $3.50 a piece.

Ramen Okidoki, 34-05 30th Ave, Astoria, NY 11103

Tamashii Ramen serves

some of the most beautiful buns in the neighborhood. The focus here is on high quality pieces of pork and shrimp, and the techniques used to prepare them-the tempura is flawlessly crisp. The sauce on these buns won’t ignite your palate, but just add subtle hints of miso and soy to delicately accompany the meat. They are $6.50, and arrive two to an order. Your server will allow you to mix and match, so get yourself one of each bun, like a Japanese surf ‘n turf. Check out the specials, too, because Tamashii serves one of the only versions of okonomiyaki in Western Queens, like a seafood pancake covered in bonito flakes.

TamashIi Ramen, 29-05 Broadway, Astoria, NY 11106

Ramen Okidoki APRIL 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 7

CHARACTERS

Story + Photos Lizabeth Nieves

The quest for the perfect hair stylist in New York City can be even harder than finding the right apartment. We will settle for the imperfect home but beware the wrath of a haircut too short or highlights that bare comparisons to Pony Boy Curtis on the lam.

With hopes of feeling like warmer weather was on its way, I decided to go blonder—or what is technically called “Bronde”—a shade of hair that’s a combination of brunette and blonde. My preference was to keep it local, and after much research on the interwebs, I booked an appointment with Athena at Studio 31 (32-07 31st Avenue, Astoria).

Born and raised in Astoria, owner Athena Papadopoulos is very passionate about bringing more blonde’s into the world. “Passionate about blondes! Yes. It started at Christies in Bayside. She had a special technique of micro-slicing foils, which added three dimensional highlights. That sparked my interest in just focusing on blondes. It boosted my confidence that I could handle any blonde, any tone, without damaging the hair. It was a science.”

When asked what influences the shade of blonde a client winds up with, Athena replied, “I consider everything with a person when making them blonde. Their style, their fashion, down to what they are wearing, what they do for a living, and their ability to maintain a level of blonde.”

Easing into a lighter shade of pale takes patience and vision, Papadopoulos explains. “For someone wanting to go blonde, I would tell them to step into it. Not to dive into it. As the season gets warmer, you can start with a few highlights and eventually wind up with a full

8 | BOROMAG.COM | APRIL 2014

head. A few times I have had to talk people out of what they want, but it’s easier for me when you know. When they have that picture in their hand and they say make me like that, it’s so much easier.”

One thing that clients can be sure of is that “Going blonde is an addiction,” she says. “it’s definitely a lifestyle with its maintenance, and it’s a way of life. I think there is something to say about the phrase that blondes have more fun. I can’t remember the last time I wasn’t a blonde.

I tried going brunette for four hours and felt very down.”

The entire staff has a minimum of fifteen years’ experience each, and they are up on all the new trends. Classes are taken every two to three months to ensure that.

What to expect in the world of hair for 2014? Papadopoulos muses, “Ombre is still the hottest trend; we can’t get rid of it. A lot of people are going blonde. Everything is coming back a little retro. Platinum blonde from the 80’s is big. Styles are getting more angular. Color isn’t natural anymore. It’s ok for it to look fake.”

Studio 31 is open four days a week from Wednesday thru Saturday, with hours from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and, will stay open later until 9:30 or 10 p.m. by appointment. Please keep in mind that it is cash only.

Studio 31 32-07 31st Ave Astoria, NY 11106 (718) 545-2342

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APRIL EVENTS

Find more events at www.BOROmag.com/Events

4/3 @ 9pm - midnight (MUSIC)

4/13 @ 2:30-4:30PM (LECTURE)

5/22 @ 2:30-4:30PM (LECTURE)

FREE I Rest-au-Rant 718-729-9009 I 30-01 35th avenue (corner of 30th street)

$8 | As a pre-programming event for our next exhibition and to help mark the 75th anniversary of the Bronx-Whitestone Bridge, Mary Hedge, Archivist for MTA Bridges & Tunnels, and one of the bridge engineers will be discussing the unique aspects of the bridge, its ultra sleek design and the many measures that have been taken since the year after it opened to make it more wind resistant.

(718) 939-0647 I 143-35 37th Ave

$8 | Join World’s Fair Historian Pierre Montiel for his second lecture at QHS which will cover the World’s Fairs held in Flushing, NY. His interest in the Fairs goes back to when he was a 12 yearold boy visiting the 1964-1965 Fair on a weekly basis and fondly remembers the Belgium Waffles.

(718) 939-0647 I 143-35 37th Ave

Live Music Thursdays - Beecher’s Fault www.rarbarlic.com

4/4 @ 7PM-9PM (ART))

Queens Artists Slam at 3rd Space!

$5 I Come join us as young emerging Queens artists across a range of disciplines come together to share new work and works-in-progress as diverse as our borough itself.

These multidisciplinary performance artists will explore the boundaries of poetry, comedy, sculpture, video art and music.

RSVP @ queenscouncilarts.org/queens-variety-slam/ (347) 505-3015 I 37-11 35th Ave, Entrance on 37th Street Astoria, 11101 www.queenscouncilarts.org/queens-variety-slam/ drosa@queenscouncilarts.org

Bronx-Whitestone Bridge Anniversary Lecture

5/30 @ 5-7PM (MUSIC)

4/23 @ 8-9:30am (BREAKFAST)

$20 I The Astoria Symphony Orchestra and Astoria Symphony Choir join forces to present Germanic masterpieces and dichotomies. Classical vs. Romantic. Choral vs. Orchestral.

Mendelssohn va. Wagner.

FELIX MENDELSSOHN | selected chorales RICHARD WAGNER | Siefried Idyll W. A. MOZART | Mass in C minor (917) 300-8695 I Our Lady of Mount Carmel Institute 23-20 Newtown Avenue, Astoria, 11102

LIC Partnership Annual Real Estate Breakfast

$50 for Partnership Members, $75 for Non-Members The Learning Center at ConEd www.icpartnership.org/events/2014-lic-real-estate-breakfast

4/24 @ 9pm - midnight (MUSIC)

Free GAHS members $5 to the public I This is the 50th Anniversary of the 1964/1965 New York World‘s Fair, which was the third major world‘s fair to be held in New York City.

718-278-0700 I Greater Astoria Historical Society, 35-20 Broadway, 4th Floor, LIC

FREE I Rest-au-Rant 718-729-9009 I 30-01 35th avenue (corner of 30th street)

4/7 @ 4pm - midnight (HAPPY HOUR)

Beer & Bacon All Night Happy Hour

FREE I An all night happy hour featuring all things bacon paired with beer 718-729-9009 I Rest-au-Rant 30-01 35th avenue (corner of 30th street) www.rarbarlic.com

4/10 @ 9pm - midnight (MUSIC)

Live Music Thursdays - Brazilian Night with Marcos Vigio FREE I Rest-au-Rant 718-729-9009 I 30-01 35th avenue (corner of 30th street) www.rarbarlic.com

4/11 @ 6:30-10pm (LECTURE)

Queens Council on the Arts presents The Art of Ghost Dumplings!

$75 I Find out what happens when the Chinese Hungry Ghost festival and a Rockaway Beach block party falls under the same full moon!

Hoong Yee Lee Krakauer, QCAs’ Executive Director & children’s book author/illustrator shows artwork from her newest children’s book, The Hungry Ghost.

(347) 505-3013 I 37-11 35th Avenue, Entrance on 37th Street Astoria, 11101 www.queenscouncilarts.org/the-moveable-feast-book-launch/ drosa@queenscouncilarts.org www.astorialic.org

4/12 @ 2pm (BOOK LAUNCH)

SC Conversations: Neomaterialism

FREE I SculptureCenter is pleased to present the New York City book launch of Neomaterialism (Sternberg Press, 2013).

Following the ideas presented in his new book, Joshua Simon’s talk will engage with notions of the commodity, the general intellect, debt, labor, subjectivity, thingness, the dialect of material and dialectical materialism.

Joshua Simon is director and chief curator at MoBY - Museums of Bat Yam. He is co-founding editor of Maayan Magazine for literature, poetry and ideas, Maarvon (Western) - New Film Magazine, and The New & Bad Art Magazine, all based in Tel Aviv-Jaffa. Recent exhibitions include ReCoCo - Life Under Representational Regimes (co-curated with Siri Peyer), and Goods (co-curated with Liz Hagag). Simon is a 2011-2013 fellow at the Vera List Center for Art and Politics, The New School, New York, and a PhD candidate at the Curatorial/Knowledge program at Goldsmiths College, University of London. He is the editor of Solution 196-213: United States of Palestine-Israel (Sternberg Press, 2011), and author of Neomaterialism (Sternberg Press, 2013).

Travel support generously provided by Israel’s Office of Cultural Affairs.

718-361-1750 I SculptureCenter, 44-19 Purves Street www.sculpture-center.org

4/13 @ 3 to 4pm (ART)

Visions of Tomorrow: Art and Commerce at the 1939 World’s Fair

Cost Included with Admission 718-204-7088 I The Noguchi Museum, 9-01 33rd Road, LIC www.noguchi.org/programs

12 | BOROMAG.COM | APRIL 2014

www.queenshistoricalsociety.org kmooney@queenshistoricalsociety.org

www.queenshistoricalsociety.org kmooney@queenshistoricalsociety.org

4/7 @ 7PM (WORLD’S FAIR)

THE 1964-1965 NEW YORK WORLD’S FAIR

History and Highlights of a World’s Fair

Live Music Thursdays - The Idiot Brigade www.rarbarlic.com

4/25 @ 7-11PM (BEER FEST)

Five Boro Craft Beer Fest

33 craft Breweries will be pouring over 100 beers being served.

All boros represented. Vendors from Smorgasburg will be catering the event and Stolen Rhodes will be performing. Also some home brewers will be pouring their craft beer. All at Studio Square. Proceeds will be going to a local charity. $85 | Studio Square 702-659-4998 | 35-37 36th St, LIC fiveborocraftbeerfest.com

4/26 @ 11:00 am (WALKING TOUR)

ASTORIA PARK AND POOL - GAHS Walking Tour

GAHS members $15; $20 for the public I Captain Adriaen Block was the first European to sail the East River 400 years ago this month. Tour will touch upon geology, facts and trivia, anecdotes, and tales as we enjoy waterfront vistas. The tour will also discuss 100 years of Astoria Park. Start: The main Gate, Socrates Sculpture Park, located at the corner of Broadway and Vernon Blvd. End: north end of Ralph DeMarco Park at 20th Avenue. 3 hours 718-278-0700 I www.astorialic.org 4/27 @ 2:30-4:30PM (WORKSHOP)

Gus Schumacher: Farming in Flushing

$8 | An authority on all things food, Gus Schumacher’s family has been in the farming industry since his great-grandfather emigrated in 1848 from Germany to New York and rented some land in the city. His grandfather, Fred Schumacher, was born on their farm in 1865 and then moved the family’s farm in 1888 to Flushing, where they farmed in Queens County until 1968.

(718) 939-0647 I 143-35 37th Ave www.queenshistoricalsociety.org kmooney@queenshistoricalsociety.org

4/29 (FOOD+DRINK)

Flights & Bites Beer Dinner with Ithaca Beer Co. Snowdonia Astoria’s Authentic Gastropub 718-347-730-5783 | 34-55 32nd street, Astoria ny www.snowdoniapub.com

5/8 @ 2:30-4:30PM (WORKSHOP)

Genealogy Workshop

$8 | QHS is happy to welcome back Wilhelmena Rhodes Kelley and the Daughters of the American Revolution for another genealogy discussion and workshop. The Queens chapter of D.A.R. is one of the first in the organization’s history that was started by a black woman: Wilhelmena Rhodes Kelly.

(718) 939-0647 I 134-35 37th Ave www.queenshistoricalsociety.org kmooney@queenshistoricalsociety.org

5/12 @ noon (WALKING TOUR)

WORLD’S FAIR TOUR OF FLUSHING MEADOWS – A Forgotten NY Walking Tour

GAHS members $15; $20 for the public I Join Forgotten NY‘s Kevin Walsh and GAHS’ Rich Melnick in exploring the remnants of two World‘s Fairs, 1939-1940 and 1964-1965, in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, including the place where Pope Paul VI preached, the remains of a swimming amphitheater, and a time capsule not to be opened till 6964. Start Location: Meet on boardwalk leading to Flushing Meadows Park south of Willets Point station, #7 train. 3 hours 718-278-0700 I www.astorialic.org

Astoria Symphony Orchestra & Choir - Dichotomies

www.astoriamusic.org I info@astoriamusic.org

ONGOING

Every Tuesday @ 9pm - 11 pm (COMEDY)

Whine & Cheese Comedy Show

FREE I Showtime special: $30 for a bottle of house red or white wine and a cheese plate Rest-au-Rant 718-729-9009 I 30-01 35th avenue (corner of 30th street) www.rarbarlic.com

Every Monday @ 4pm - midnight (HAPPY HOUR)

All Night Happy Hour

FREE I $4 select drafts and house wines Rest-au-Rant 718-729-9009 I 30-01 35th avenue (corner of 30th street) www.rarbarlic.com

Happy Hour Daily (Monday - Sunday) in the Lounge from Noon - 8 pm (HAPPY HOUR)

Various DJ’s: Mixed Format

FREE I Tuesdays: Half Price Bottles of Wine (Select Wines), Every Saturday: Trending Saturdays from 10pm-4am.

Z Hotel 212-319-7000 (Call for Reservations) I 11-01 43rd Avenue, LIC, 11101

COME VISIT US

LIC FLEA &

FOOD

Every Saturday & Sunday 5-25 46th Ave•LIC

Corner of 5th St & 46th Ave

LICFlea.com @licflea

Justin H says “The service and food are a cut above anything else in the neighborhood” Open 7 Days — We nOW Deliver

Happy Hour 4pm-7pm Monday thru Saturday Beer $4/Wine $5/Cocktails $6/Appetizers $8

Weekend Brunch from 11-4pm (Choice of) $18 Brunch special, 2 select alcoholic drinks, entree, coffee/tea or 2 hr Unlimited Select Drinks $15 with an entree or Enjoy $3 Champagne, Bellini, Mimosas and Bloody Mary.

35-03 Broadway | Astoria, NY 11106 | 718-545-3500 | www.portaliaNYC.com APRIL 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 13 /PortaliaNYC

FOOD Last week, Marketa started serving lunch, so of course we had to swing by and sample some of the newest items on the menu. From fried chicken with habanero-elderflower butter to a colossal meatball hero, and even a crisp and classic version of a nicoise salad, these recipes are pretty wonderful, utilizing some impressive techniques you just don’t see all over Western Queens. This month, we thought we’d share some of Chef Yair Lenchner’s personal notes to provide some insight into how Marketa makes its magic so worth masticating. Chef Lenchner comes to Marketa via Milkflower and The Mark by Jean Georges, among others.

Fried Chicken

All natural free range, organic, happy FreeBird (brand name, google them, they are really great farmers doing great things for poultry) chicken, brined for 24 hours and then soaked in buttermilk at least 12 hours. It is then dredged in seasoned flour: ancho chili powder, cayenne, and smoked paprika, then fried at a low temperature to maintain the light color on the crispy skinned outside and the juiciness outside. It is served with a buttermilk corn and cheddar biscuit, mustard cole slaw, and habanero-elderflower butter, all of which of course is done in house with fresh and never frozen products, as with the rest of our menu. We make ALL our sauces here, from basic mayonnaise, to all our hot sauces—including Sriracha—rather than buying it.

Salmon Fresh, never frozen salmon filet (6 oz. at lunch, 8 oz. at dinner) is slow-roasted, and served with a spring onion vinaigrette made by sweating spring onions, scallions, lime peel, and thai chili, before pureeing it with guar gum, agar (both all natural vegetable based gelling agents/ thickeners), champagne vinegar, lime juice and fermented jalapeno paste. The dish is garnished with a spring vegetable medley of sugar snaps, snow peas, garden peas, asparagus batons, and fingerling potatoes cooked in rosemary, thyme, and garlic. It is finished with Maldon sea salt (large pyramid shaped salt crystals from Northern England) and our herb blend of celery leaves, parsley leaves, chive batons, and microgreens. This is one of

14 | BOROMAG.COM | APRIL 2014

my favorite plates on our new menu, and it is inspired by elements I learned at Jean Georges, adapted to a Queens restaurant.

Chef Yair Lenchner

Meatball Hero My now (semi)famous meatballs— thanks to their success at Milkflower— have finally made their way onto our menu. In addition to the spaghetti and meatballs, and the often-specialed meatball appetizer, we have also added a meatball hero to our lunch menu. It is the same hand-chosen blend of beef, and fatty pork, ricotta, parmesan milk and bread crumbs, served in my roasted garlic tomato sauce, dripping with melted fontina cheese, and topped with fresh basil and buttermilk fried onions.

Salad Nicoise A classic, ours isn’t much different— other than the fact we use a salmon filet instead of tuna, resting in a bed of haricot vert, red onion, hard boiled egg, bell peppers, nicoise olives, and red bliss potatoes. It is a welcome array of spring vegetables on a light salad, dressed in a lemon-dijon vinaigrette

Beef Tartar All natural, black angus sirloin, hand cut to order, mixed with a spicy mustard sauce, also inspired by The Mark by Jean Georges’ tartar, (which by the way is f@#$ing bomb), and topped with fresh basil and a quail egg yolk and served with a toasted baguette.

The mix has raw egg yolk, whole grain mustard, shallots, cornichons, chipotles, and olive oil—another refreshing new dish for the spring.

Marketa 37-17 30th Ave, Astoria, NY 11103 (347) 813-4437

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3204 31st Street, Astoria, NY 11106 • 718-728-2828 • offbroadwayflorist.com • offbroadwayfloralevents.com 16 | BOROMAG.COM | APRIL 2014

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

Offers available through April 30, 2014. Bring BORO or coupon below to redeem discount.

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ONE FREE CLASS

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

for new clients only.

Use Promo Code: LICFREE

FREE Mimosa, Beer, Glass of Wine or Bloody Mary

15% DISCOUNT

present this coupon during weekend brunch

1 month Unlimited Zumba 50% Off

new members only for the month of April

HAPPY HOUR

4-7PM • Tuesday - Sunday

$10 off with a combo hair cut & color

$79.99 for Digital TV + TiVo +

High Speed Internet OR $34.99 for High Speed Internet

for the month of April

HAPPY HOUR EVERY DAY

10% OFF

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

any wine purchase

$39 FOR 3 WEEKS OF UNLIMITED YOGA/PILATES MAT CLASSES

15% OFF

*Offer valid for new TYR students only (with NYS Resident Status). Expires 5/31/14.

any purchase

OFF THE HOOK

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

20% OFF FOOD

APRIL ONLY! WITH AD

3 CLASSES & STARTER GLOVES $19.99* First time guests only. 3 classes expire 10 days after 1st class is taken. Expires 4/30/14

Come Celebrate Easter Sunday with us on Sunday April 20th Free Glass of Wine 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

weekend brunch special Saturday & Sunday: 11am-3pm

ADVERTISE IN BORO

cuban

grill

steak

house

All entrees will be accompanied with a Complimentary glass of Champagne, Bellini or Mimosa

Currently selling packages for 2014!

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

20% OFF

any fine artwork, excluding framing

Follow Us For Great Deals Throughout The Month /BOROmag

@BOROmag APRIL 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 17

MAP IT DIRECTORY RESTAURANTS 115

2 144 129 130 6

4

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

13

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

14

LIC Market (B,4) 718-361-0013 21-52 44th Dr, LIC www.licmarket.com

30

16

Linn (B,2) 718-204-0060 2913 Broadway, Astoria www.linnrestaurant.com

31

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

108

19

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

32

3

Mezze Place (B,2) 718-777-2829 31-18 Broadway, Astoria www.mezzeplace.com Michael’s Cafe (B,3) (located inside Four Points Sheraton) 347-536-3633 27-05 39th Ave, LIC www.michaelscafeny.com

105

23

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

148

7

Bread Box Cafe (A,4) 718-389-9700 4711 11th St, LIC www.breadboxcafelic.com

150

5

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

20

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

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

61

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

26

8

35

Burger Club (b,2) 718-777-7788 32-02 30th Ave, Astoria www.burger-club.com

159

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

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

69

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

74

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

1

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

24

10

11

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

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

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

9

22

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

109

87

117

133

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

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

Carioca Grill (B, 2) 718-606-1329 29-03 Broadway, Astoria Cavo (C,2) 718-721-1001 42-18 31st Ave, Astoria www.cavoastoria.com DiWine (C,2) 718-777-1355 41-15 31st Ave, Astoria www.diwineonline.com DUTCH KILLS CENTRAAL (B,3) 718-606-8651 38-40 29th St, Long Island City www.dutchkillscentraal.com

12

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

112

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

125

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

112

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

18 | BOROMAG.COM | APRIL 2014

29

86

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

124

123

Testaccio (a,4) 718-937-2900 47-30 Vernon Blvd., LIC www.testacciony.com THYMARI (b,2) 718-204-2280 32-07 34th Ave, Astoria www.thymari.com

34 138 139

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

75

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

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 Winegasm Bar and Eatery (c,2) 718-932-3331 31-86 37th Rd, Astoria www.winegasmeatery.com Yajai (b,2) 718-956-9559 33-16 30th Ave, Astoria www.yajaithaifood.com

BAKERIES 33

121

FLORISTS 160

Off Broadway Florist (B,2) 3204 31st St Astoria, NY 11106-2643 718-728-2828 www.offbroadwayflorist.com

44

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

137 47

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

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

40

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

37

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

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

FOOD SHOPS

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

SHOPS 104

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

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

21

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

62

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

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

63

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

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

157

25

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

50

28

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

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

64

55

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

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

65

153

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

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

118

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

116

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

PETS 54

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

EVENTS

HOTELS

ty

MAP IT DIRECTORY 17

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

156

TATTOO SHOPS 147

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

158

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

67

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

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

SPAS

127

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

112

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

93

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

96

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

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

99

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

105

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

151

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

94

81

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

149

NIGHTLIFE/BARS

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

82

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

95

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

83

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

146

71

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

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

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

110

131

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

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

97

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

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

98

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

68

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

111

Mosaic Cafe and Lounge (B,1) 718-728-0708 25-19 24th Ave, Astoria www.mosaicnyc.net

43

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

BEAUTY

72

46

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

89

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

42

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

79

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

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

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

80 136 60

73

The Yoga Room 718-274-0255 38-01 35th Ave, Astoria (C,2) 718-786-7962 10-14 47th Rd, LIC (A,4) www.the-yoga-room.com Tightan Gym 718-274-1606 31-21 31st St, Astoria www.tightan.com Yoga Agora (B,2) 718-626-0680 33-02 Broadway, 2nd Fl, Astoria www.YogaAgora.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

102

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

92

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

113

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

REAL ESTATE

101 140 141

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

COME VISIT US STARTING APRIL 5 & 6 Every Saturday & Sunday

LIC FLEA &

FOOD

5-25 46th Ave•LIC

Corner of 5th St & 46th Ave

LICFlea.com @licflea

APRIL 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 19

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EXPLORE YOUR BORO

LIC

FLEA &

FOOD

RETURNS APRIL 5th & 6th Photos bRADLEY HAWKS

The popular Long Island City flea market LIC Flea & Food will celebrate its 2014 grand opening on Saturday, April 5 and Sunday, April 6 in the same spot as last year: an outdoor lot by the waterfront at Fifth Street and 46th Avenue.

Items for sale at the market include collectibles, antiques, arts and crafts, fashion and more, along with a greatly expanded selection of food and drinks.

Along with many LIC Flea favorites, new faces are being introduced this season, bringing visitors a wide array of foods and other items.

Kathy Baer, owner of Jewel Dripped, will be selling handcrafted jewelry made out of

22 | BOROMAG.COM | APRIL 2014

quality metals, gemstones and vintage beads.

“I’m excited to have more face-to-face contact with people and see their reactions to my things,” said Baer, who primarily sells her items on www.Etsy.com. “It would just be fun to hang out in the street with real people and feed off their energy and try out new ideas.”

Among the new food vendors is Mediterranean restaurant Trakia, which is located at 38-14 30th Ave. in Astoria. This vendor will serve organic personal pizzas made on site in a portable brick oven, created for the LIC Flea.

“It’s going to be a great exposure for us,” said Ajdin Dracic, manager at Trakia. The restaurant is looking to combine different

toppings on the pies to bring unique combinations of flavors. “It’s perfect for the target audience we are chasing and we want to get reactions from people with the crazy combinations.”

Another food vendor is Mamak Malaysia, which will be selling traditional Malaysian food with homemade twists to each plate.

“Since we are new and we are a unique Malaysian restaurant, I just want to go out and introduce our restaurant and my food,” said Nani Yusof Hughie, owner and executive chef of Mamak Malaysia. “It will give an opportunity for me and for those people to know us and for us to know our customers. We want to be part of the LIC Flea family.”

Other new vendors include Kimchi Smoke, Robicelli’s, Sara Jenny Fries, King of Falafel & Shawarma, Grateful Bread Company, Vintage-Dealers Choice Jewelry and Nyan Soaps.

During the opening weekend, the New York Cosmos soccer team, which will start its season against Atlanta on April 13 at Hofstra University’s Shuart Stadium, will be on site to bring activities for kids and families.

LIC Flea & Food will run every Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Applications are still being accepted for the new season by registering online at www. licflea.com.

APRIL 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 23

FOOD

It’s All

Greek

TO ME

Story + Photos Bradley Hawks

The Giannakas brothers are the powerhouse duo who have been running one of the most innovative and original Greek restaurants in Astoria for the better part of the past decade.

The two men work alongside their mother and father, and the harmony is borderline tangible.

Chris runs the front of the house with effortless charisma and charm, while Chef Pete orchestrates delectable and creative spins on traditional Greek dishes. They certainly have lemon potatoes, skewered meats, and plenty of fresh seafood—even a raw bar. Or try their Rock n’ Ribs Wednesdays, featuring a barbecue smorgasboard. But the real magic is found hidden throughout the Greek menu in the recipes often masked with the most deceptively simple names.

“I was inspired a lot by our childhood home,” Pete explains. It was his mother’s cupboard that suggested the marriage of java and skirt steak on the Greek Coffee Steak. The beef is dusted with Greek coffee, and served with a skillet of fresh mushrooms and halloumi poutine. It is a little Hawaiian, a little Canadian, a little Greek, and 100% Ovelia.

An old favorite, the Lambourghini Burger, has been replaced with a Saganaki Burger.

24 | BOROMAG.COM | APRIL 2014

Chef Pete Giannakas

spread, all stacked on a bun of Turkish pide bread.

Another Ovelia signature is the Parea—a Greek word referring to a group of friends.

What better comrades than a carving board loaded with pork souvlaki, chicken breast, monastiraki bifteki, grilled links of loukaniko, steaming pita triangles, and french fries sprinkled with oregano.

Easter in the Greek community is one of the most revered holidays of the year, and Ovelia certainly plans on celebrating it with several specials—possibly even a whole grilled lamb prepared outside.

Regardless of what comes from the kitchen, they always offer a broad range carefully edited international wines and liquors, featuring an impressive selection directly from Greece.

“Everyone started doing pretzel rolls,” laughs Chef Pete, “and so I knew it was time to do something different.” The new burger features a patty of chopped veal, cucumber, fried kefalograviera, and a creamy slathering of Greek yogurt tahini

At Ovelia, the best thing you could possibly say is, “it’s all Greek to me.”

Ovelia Psistaria & Bar 34-01 30th Avenue, Astoria 718-721-7217 www.ovelia-nyc.com

www.ovelia-nyc.com

WHEN?

Every Tuesday at 11am WHERE? PNT Fitness, 10-68 Jackson Ave WHAT?

718-721-7217

Offering the 1st ‘Baby & Me’ class where you’ll get a great cardio & strength training workout!

Little ones from 8 weeks old through walking age with their caretakers are invited to 45 minutes of fun for baby, while the adults entertain them by working up a sweat with cardio and strength training. All you need to bring to “Baby and Me” is baby, a fun attitude, and a blanket or swaddle for your little one.

SIGN UP NOW • www.PNTFITNESS.com (use code: TAKE5OFF for $5 off 1st class!)

Greek Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten Free and Organic Fare 34-01 30th ave. Astoria, NY 11103

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718-267-8114

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ADVERTISE IN BORO MAGAZINE

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

Kids Classes: Ballet • Jazz • Capoeira Greek Dance • Music Together

Specialty Parties: Spa Party • Zumba Party Yoga Party • Capoeira Party Petting Zoo • Magic Show

Currently selling packages for 2014!

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

27-14 23rd Ave., Astoria, NY 11105 347-455-3661 • info@gym-azing.com • www.gym-azing.com APRIL 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 25

THE ARTS

o t g n i t t the ge

point

I’m from Romania, and I have been in New York almost 13 years. I met some friends who were living in Astoria, and they invited me to live with them. I really liked Astoria. I found places to work and live.

I started drawing when I was three years old.

Then when I was ten, my parent’s friends realized that I was very good with drawings and paintings, and told my parents to send me to an art school, which they did. I finished the art high school and then went to the art academy for six years. I started with graphic design, and in the end wound up studying set and costume design for theaters. In the meantime I was painting.

I went through many influences. From Egon Schiele to Lucien Freud, and then I went back to Caravaggio and Vermeer. I went through many artists. I am still impressed by all kinds of artists, but I don’t think they influence me anymore.

I am influenced now by my days, the weather—I don’t know exactly—my kids or even the amount of coffee that I am drinking.

26 | BOROMAG.COM | APRIL 2014

I have always been working on art, even when I was waiting on tables. Then waiting on tables wears you out, and I decided to do something that was more appropriate to what I wanted to do. I started doing tattoos. I did an apprenticeship at Supernova in Astoria.

The Queens Ink came about when my good friend Evan Roumeliotis decided to open a

tattoo shop. He likes to open things, to build things. It’s his tattoo shop, and I am running it for him. It’s not typical in the tattoo business, for the shop not to be owned by a tattoo artist. We decided to open up a shop that doesn’t look like a typical tattoo shop. We decided to build this as if it were an old shop that went through many stages over the years, at least a couple of hundred years. The idea and the image of Queens Ink were created by Evan.

The tattoo shop will have been open two years in August. I have some of my old clients, and a lot of new ones from the neighborhood in Astoria. The neighborhood is amazing, they are all friends— people from Sparrow, they BBQ together! I have never seen this anywhere else in New York City.

It’s always good not to have your own boss, even if the boss is a good boss. As an artist I have always worked like that—you create your own schedule.

I always tell clients that I’m going to alter the idea that they come in with—that I’m going to make it my version of their idea. We do only custom designs. People cannot choose from generic books here; they can choose from our designs.

If you are happy with your life, you are good wherever you are. I am very happy. I have time to paint, I love what I am doing, and I can pay my bills. I don’t have to work a daytime job to pay the bills to do whatever I like. So, I’m really happy. http://www.thequeensink.com 2401 29th Street, Astoria NY 11102 (718) 204-7600

Cristian Zink is a Tattoo Artist

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Zagat Rated APRIL 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 27

EXPLORE YOUR BORO

The Scientist, the Pioneer, and the Tailor:

OF THE STEINWAY MANSION STORY

“Slow and Steady”, as the written direction says at the top, left-hand corner of the sheet music. The “G” chord on the piano begins and quarter notes draw you in for two full measures, unwavering in the solidarity of the consistent keystrokes. Immediately recognizable and undeniably iconic, the lyrics to Billy Joel’s hit song, “She’s Got a Way About Her”, begin and reacquaints us with the familiar puzzle of this important piece of American music culture.

Billy Joel, Judy Collins, and Rufus Wainwright are just a few artists who use and have written many of their chart-topping songs on a Steinway & Sons piano. Steinway & Sons was founded in 1853 by German immigrant Henry Engelhard Steinway in a Manhattan loft on Varick Street. Henry and his sons, C. F. Theodore, Charles, Henry Jr., William, and Albert, developed the modern piano. Their factory was located on Park and East 53rd.

Due to the increasingly violent draft riots that New York experienced in the 1860s, labor disputes, and the need to expand, the Steinway & Sons owners and staff moved to Astoria where Steinway Village was built.

Henry’s son, William, officiated the move and expansion and settled the family just a few months before the patriarch's death in 1871. Steinway Village had its own foundries,

28 | BOROMAG.COM | APRIL 2014

Austin Christopher Bradley

factory, post office, parks and housing for employees. Within 20 years, there were more than 7,000 people living in what was known as the Steinway Settlement.

However, the (arguably) most exciting piece of real estate that the Steinway family acquired is the house now known as The Steinway Mansion.

The 27-room mansion was built in 1858

by Benjamin Pike, Jr. Pike was an award winning optician. Two of his silver medals were for superior air pumps and one was for galvanic battery and apparatus. He also won two diplomas at the American Institute Fairs - one for his electromagnetic machine and the other for his mathematical instruments.

The Pike Mansion was one of the first two mansions built in Astoria and is now the last standing with any historical significance.

After Benjamin’s death in 1864, his widow sold the mansion to William Steinway. The mansion stayed in the Steinway family for nearly half a century before the property

sold in 1926 to an Armenian immigrant named Jack Halberian. Jack first spotted the grand estate in 1914 as a teenager in Astoria.

Having just arrived from Turkey, he was impressed and vowed to own it one day.

After amassing savings from a tailoring business during World War I, Jack Halberian bought the mansion and a small plot of land around it at an auction for $45,000. As his childhood dream home, Jack was steadfast in maintaining the property. Being a tailor and in the midst of some of the hardest times in history, Jack had to rent out rooms to afford to keep the estate during the Great Depression. The Halberian family made it through the depression and remained in the mansion for several decades. Jack Halberian passed away in 1964.

In 1967, after the demolition of the historic Penn Station, NYC passed landmark laws to protect historical local sites. The Steinway Mansion was one of the first landmarks protected by the new laws.

After Jack’s wife left the property in the 1970’s, his son Michael took over caretaker responsibilities for the estate. As a retired owner of a Manhattan restaurant, Michael was financially unstable under the weights of property taxes and upkeep. He first considered selling in 1993.

might be used, and paid for, by the community.

In 2010, Michael Halberian officially put the house on the market. The initial asking price for the home was $5 million. After several price fluctuations, the latest asking price was $1.9 million for divided plots.

Though the area has fallen on hard times and the property is but a glimpse of what it once stood as and stood for, the walls that the Pikes built still stand around the home that the Halberians kept in the community that the Steinways birthed.

Before Michael’s death in late 2010, he wished for ownership to be passed on to someone who wished to ensure that the mansion survive and be rejuvenated. In 1993 he expressed hopes that he can either find an organization like the Queens Historical Society to maintain the mansion as a museum or someone who is willing to protect it as he had. Unfortunately for Michael and the community, those wishes never became a reality.

Michael died still under the weight of the responsibility of maintaining his father’s dream home. He died in that home, just like his father before him. Before his death, he was meeting regularly with city councilmen to figure out how the property

The property which includes among other things, five bedrooms, a grotto, a tower, a pub, a billiard room, a sauna, and a hot tub flanked by lion, has recently come under contract with a private buyer. Although the closing of the estate may be soon

Michael was unable to bring himself to sell the home that his family had maintained for so long and would not end up listing the home for another seventeen years. Today, 90 years after the head Halberian purchased the home, the property stands weathered and somewhat of a neighborhood mystery.

approaching, preservations group “Friends of Steinway Mansion” are still trying to acquire the property to make it accessible to the public as a museum and learning center.

The Steinway Mansion sits at 18-33 41st Street (between 19th Avenue and Berrian Boulevard). The estate boasts some of the only greenery in the now industrialized area near Laguardia Airport.

Much like the final lyrics of Billy Joel’s song written on the Steinway & Sons piano, anyone who ever owned the mansion proved to be unable to live without it. Pike, Steinway, and both Halberians all died in the mysterious home in Astoria, Queens.

“She’s got a way about her, I don’t know what it is, but I know that I can’t live without her anyway.”

The song and the history of this home fade to silence with the same note that they started on.

APRIL 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 29

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30 | BOROMAG.COM | APRIL 2014

WELCOME TO MADERA CUBAN GRILL

Cuba… omance! Join Us for Brunch Land of R Here in Long

cuban

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Come Celebrate Easter Sunday, April 20th At Madera Bringing all the flavors, and excitement of Cuba to you.

All entrees will be accompanied with a Complimentary glass of Champagne, Bellini or Mimosa Our famous Regular Menu served We are taking your reservations now!

Dinner Hours Monday 5-10 PM Tuesday-Thursday & Sunday 3-10 pm Friday & Saturday 3-11 pm

Mondays we open at 5pm Open For LUNCH 11 AM – 3 PM • Tuesday – Friday Open For BRUNCH SATURDAY & SUNDAY 11 TO 3 PM

47-29 Vernon Blvd., LIC 11101 • 718-606-1236/718-606-1924 www.maderacubangrill.com

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28-08 34th St • Astoria, NY 11103

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APRIL 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 31

BODY & SOUL

Story Hayley Bridgewater

Spring is finally here. Although it does not always appear nice enough to do so, people are starting to move their workouts outdoors. I don’t know about you, but just a tiny peek of the sun will have me rushing out the door to take advantage of a relatively temperate day. I am convinced that once we get a genuine taste of some true Spring weather, the crowds will be out to greet it en mass. Already the bike lanes are filling up, the fields and courts adjacent to the playgrounds and parks are seeing more use, and most certainly, a great number of runners have returned to the streets.

32 | BOROMAG.COM | APRIL 2014

Photo Bradley Hawks

Every year, about this time, I have the same thought. If only that were me...if only I had it in me to start a running program and stick with it. Although I am quite active, and engage in several different kinds of training and hobby sports, I have a deep, dark secret. I am a terrible runner.Truly. I love to sprint, but ask me to run for distance and you›ll get a sideways look and a headshake every time. Everything may start out ok, but pass three miles and my knees, hips and ankles are cursing my name.

I know that I am not alone. I have talked to numerous people who desire the ability to

take off for a «zen-ed out» couple of hours, hair in the wind and legs flying, pushing past the concerns of the day. So what is holding me back? Could it be a shortage of motivation? Lack of confidence in proper mechanics? Fear of injury? All of the above?

It is true, running can often be a very solo affair. Western Queens certainly has many options for scenic running routes, paths, and tracks any time you want to head out the door. But what if you prefer some guidance? Imagine that you might do

the members of the HRR participate in many racing events throughout the city and are very involved in local community events.

better in a group setting and with some help from those in the know? Many people, myself included, tend to perform a little better with some “teammates” to encourage and push us along.

In this neck of the woods, the ultimate running resource—the “teammates” that you are looking for—are the members of Hellgate Road Runners.

Chances are if you visit Astoria Park on any given day, there are bound to be at least a couple of members getting their daily work in.

Hellgate Road Runners (HRR) was founded in Astoria, Queens by a group of running friends in February of 1996.

Named after the beloved, beautiful, historic bridge spanning over the East River and Astoria Park, the club was formed to promote fun and safety in competitive running.

In April of the same year, Hellgate Road Runners became a member of the Road Runners Club of America (RRCA) as a not-for-profit organization. An active chapter of the New York Road Runners,

This is no ordinary, “let’s get together and run a bit” group. Led by their President and Coach, Jared Mestre, the Hellgate Road Runners are devoted to helping all levels and abilities of runners.

They have a varied schedule of types of runs throughout the week to ensure the development of a well-rounded runner.

An example of their scheduled weekly runs can be found below:

Monday Evenings at 7:30pm -- Hill Workouts The club members meet at Shore Boulevard at the bottom of the field between the Astoria Park Swimming Pool and the Hellgate Bridge. The workout hill is 200 meters high and levels off for approximately 75 meters before the decent.

Wednesday Evenings at 7:30pm -Speed Work.

Runners meet at The Astoria Park Track.

Speed not your thing? No need for apprehension, runners will be split up into groups based on ability. All workouts utilize both a mile warm up and mile cool down. Track workouts consist of repetitions of 400m, 880m, 1200m, 1600m, and an occasional 5000m thrown in the mix.

Thursday Evenings at 7:30pm-Weekly Group Run. Meeting at the Astoria Park Field House, this roughly 10K run will start and finish within Astoria Park.

Saturday Morning -- Long Distance Runs take place at 9am October through May and 8am June through September.

Group members meet at the Astoria Park Field House. Course and distance for long distance groups runs will be determined ahead of time

Interested in joining? Or picking up more information? Have any specific questions?

Hellgate Road Runners 14-41 31st Drive Astoria, NY 11106 (718) 721-7844 hrronline.org APRIL 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 33

34 | BOROMAG.COM | APRIL 2014

"WHEN YOU FLY A 3200 HP RACE PLANE, YOU DEMAND THE WORLD’S BEST CHRONOGRAPH."

CHRONOMAT

BREI TL I NG .C O M APRIL 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 35

THE ARTS

Sean Basil McGiver is an Emerging Digital Manipulation Artist, and is currently showing his work at 163 Charles St. Gallery, NYC until June 29th.  He has put together this pop up gallery and is promoting the art through social networking. He resides in Long Island City. You can visit seanbasilmcgiver.com for a sampling of more of his work.

Beautiful Regrets

Sean Basil McGiver Holy Grail

Tanya 2 of 2

36 | BOROMAG.COM | APRIL 2014

LIC “The way we do it at home, is the way we do it here”

Call C Larry o hef Laura, rM your E ama to make aster Reserv Sunday ations

Featured on Food Networks New Series “Restaurant Divided” Rated #1 on Tripadvisor 5 months in a row Mama’s signature Italian Cheesecake featured on the Food Network

• Drink Specials Daily • Family Owned & Operated • Look out for our New Menu • Check out our new “Happy 4 Hours” Bar Menu from 3PM-7PM all for Under $10.00 44-29 Vernon Blvd, Lond Isand City (Located in the Wyndham Garden Hotel, Side Entrance) Mia Famiglia LIC

718-606-0043

@miafamiglialic

APRIL 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 37

THE ARTS

Pollock Jelly by Paulie Nassar

Mary J. Blige by Ralph Serrano

Art at the Bao Shoppe BORO: How did you meet the owner(s) of the Bao Shoppe?

Peter Yip: I met Johnny through a good friend, Qi Wang, who knows about what I do in the art field.

BORO: How many artists are featured in the current exhibition?

PY: Eleven BORO: Will you be the curator for all of the art for the Bao Shoppe?

PY: With the Bao Shoppe just opening, we have some adjusting to do before any commitment is made.

BORO: If so, how often will it rotate?

PY: If so, I’d like to rotate every month, to give the artists a proper amount of exposure.

BORO: Who are the artists included in this first show, and how did you meet?

PY: I met these brilliant artists/entrepreneurs through gallery shows, live painting events, networking through friends, and collaborating on events.

Alexander Reynoso, Christopher Xydas, Erien Astronaut Ed Medina, Jose De Olio, Joshua Hernandez, Skize1, Cozmik, Jonathan Rodriguez, Paulie Nassar, Peter W. Yip, Ralph Serrano BORO: Would you be open to serving as the curator for a show featuring local, Queens-based artists?

38 | BOROMAG.COM | APRIL 2014

PY: Yes, I would be open to being the curator or co-curator for a show to feature local, Queens-based artists to connect with their community.

BORO: If local, Queens-based artists, would like to have some of their work considered, what should they do?

PY: All questions and requests should be directed to me at www.peterwyip.com BORO: How would you describe live painting to someone with no frame of reference?

PY: Live painting is creating your art on the spot.

BORO: Are all of the pieces in the current show a product of live painting?

PY: Half of the pieces at the Bao Shoppe were live painted.

BORO: Would you consider hosting live painting events anywhere in Astoria if a venue became available?

PY: Anything is possible. It all depends on the venue.

Whitney Houston by Alexander Reynoso

APRIL 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 39

Stop In And Try Our New

ANTIKA

Menu

Pizzeria & Restaurant

36-08 30th Avenue • Astoria • 718.545.0555 • www.antikapizzeria.com

40 | BOROMAG.COM | APRIL 2014