BORO MAG

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The World's Fare is coming www.theworldsfare.nyc

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APRIL 2018

VOL 8:4

BOROMAG.COM

APRIL 2018 VOL 8:4

100+ Food Vendors

from around the world

80+ Craft Beers

IN THE INTERNATIONAL BEER GARDEN

Live Cultural Music • Art Installations AND MORE

Buy Tickets at THEWORLDSFARE.NYC

APRIL 2018 VOL 8:4

BOROMAG.COM

QUEENS Caffeine Photo by Amber Cayee

Page 30

EMBROIDERY HELPS DISADVANTAGED WOMEN

ASTORIA YOGA TEACHER'S RETREAT

UNIQUE COOKIES FROM LIC

Page 14

Page 20

Page 36

HOMEMADE PALEO MEALS

Page APRIL 2018 I BO R O M48 AG.COM

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APRIL 2018

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CONTENTS It’s finally spring, and western Queens residents are coming out of hibernation to explore their neighborhoods. This month, we’re highlighting local entrepreneurs and businesses that make this area so special. An Astoria woman teams up with her mother in the Philippines for Bordahan Embroidery, an online business that empowers disadvantaged women (page 14). A local yoga instructor is bringing Astoria residents and others on yoga retreats both near and far (page 20). An LIC woman bakes and sells deliciously unique treats (page 36). You’ve seen the work of this Astoria interior designer at Gigi Salon and DiWine; now, take a peek into KATRINA MEDOFF her own apartment (page 42). And a trainer at editor-in-chief Astoria’s CrossFit Dynamix created a homecooked paleo meal delivery company (page 48).

We also put a spotlight on five local coffee shops — we hope we’ll inspire you to try out a new spot (page 30).

If you’d like to share any news with us, email katrina@boromag.com. You can also connect with us on Instagram (@boromagazine), Facebook (facebook. com/boromag) and Twitter (@BOROMAG).

Wishing you a sunny spring, Katrina Medoff

COOKIE QUEEN

36

6 L AID-BACK WEEKEND Street style in Astoria

10 F LOWER POWER

Readers Instagrammed spring photos

14 E MPOWERING EMBROIDERY

Astoria business helps women in Philippines

20 O M OUT, ASTORIA

Yoga retreat to upstate NY

30 Q UEENS CAFFEINE

Five local coffee shops

PALEO WITH LOVE

36 C OOKIE QUEEN

Creative sweets from LIC

48

40 WORLD’S FARE

Try food from around the globe

42 A COLLECTION OF CULTURES

DEPARTMENTS 12 APRIL 2018 EVENTS

24 MAP IT DIRECTORY

23 BORO DEALS & DISCOUNTS

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

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

26 MAP IT: WESTERN QUEENS

Astoria interior designer’s apartment

48 P ALEO WITH LOVE

Homemade paleo meals by local trainer

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Katrina Medoff // ART DIRECTOR Mickhail Kurov WRITERS Danielle Brody, Allison Kridle, Katrina Medoff, Suzanne Monteverdi, Cameron Norsworthy, Estelle Pyper, Lizz Schumer, Marie Torio PHOTOGRAPHERS Marie Torio SALES REPRESENTATIVE Graziella Zerilli // 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.

4

APRIL 2018

APRIL 2018 I BOROMAG.COM

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STREET STYLE

LAID-BACK WEEKEND

BY MARIE TORIO

@PHOTOSBYMARIETORIO

n the Sunday I set out to take photos of stylish Astorians, the snow had melted away and the sun was shining bright.

Locals took advantage of one of the first spring-like days, opting for lighter outerwear than we’ve seen for months.

As western Queens residents and visitors set out for a day of brunching and browsing local shops, I noticed that many people were sporting relaxed styles. Everyone gave these laid-back looks their own personal touch, with rolled-up jeans, motorcycle jackets, hoodies, textures, coats and accessories like hats, sunnies and bags. Take a look at some of the fashion that stood out to me.

O

Mee-Lai, who was visiting Astoria, said she has a “free-spirited” style. I loved her cozy coat paired with her black and white outfit and sneakers. Her look was relaxed with a stylish flare.

Ashley, who was visiting Sugar Freak with friends, described her style as “whatever feels good for the day.”

I loved her bright sneakers and jacket. Definitely felt like a ray of sunshine when I saw her.

William (@williamsasek) is a hairdresser visiting Astoria. He had just finished brunching at Sugar Freak and was getting some books at Astoria Bookshop. His hoodie, leather jacket and bright sneakers worked for a relaxed Sunday.

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APRIL 2018

Jonathan is a bartender who was also visiting Astoria for brunch. His bomber jacket, jeans and Converse gave him the perfect laid-back vibe for a Sunday with friends.

Jimmy (@penny2020) was visiting Astoria for brunch at Sanfords.

He works in film production and said his style is “Brooklyn chic.” His hat, coat and sneakers made his ensemble effortlessly stylish and comfortable.

Astoria resident Lisa is an art director for an advertising firm. I spotted her waiting to grab food at Sek’end Sun. She describes her style as “comfortable and functional.” I was in love with her gorgeous bag!

Chris, a bartender, was enjoying the day with friends and defines his style as “casual.” His black button-down shirt, jeans and sneakers are the essentials for a casual weekend look.

APRIL 2018 I BOROMAG.COM

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I N S TA I M A G E S

@ astoriamylife

FLOWER POWER

By KATRINA MEDOFF

KATRINA@BOROMAG.COM @KATRINAMEDOFF @KATYA_M22

W

inter was seemingly never-ending this year, with a new snowstorm walloping western Queens each time warmer weather snuck through. That’s why we’re so grateful that spring is finally here, gracing Astoria’s streets with blossoms and pastels. We asked our readers to tag us (@boromagazine) in

their best photos of spring in Astoria, Long Island City and

@ hangthedj

@ hostedwithlove

10

APRIL 2018

Sunnyside. Here are some of our favorite shots.

@ hkandersen @ soosiesawyer

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NEXT THEME: TATTOOS

@ barre3lic

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@ sushmita__xo @ shourjya.mookerjee

For the May issue, we’re asking you to tag @boromagazine in your photos of tattoos in Astoria, Long Island City or Sunnyside.

We’re looking for shots in a local tattoo parlor, close-ups of your ink, your kid sporting a temporary tattoo — anything to do with the month’s theme.

APRIL 2018 I BOROMAG.COM

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APRIL EVENTS Find more events at www.BOROmag.com/Events SUNDAY, APRIL 15 Event Title: Spring Performance Festival Time: Noon to 6 p.m.

Location: MoMa PS1 Cost: Free with museum admission Phone: 718-784-2084 Address: 22-25 Jackson Ave., LIC URL: momaps1.org MONDAY, APRIL 16 Event Title: America’s Sweethearts Time: 8:30 to 10 p.m.

Location: Q.E.D. Cost: Free Phone: 347-451-3873 Address: 27-16 23rd Ave., Astoria URL: qedastoria.com

FRIDAY, APRIL 20 Event Title: Open Mic Night Time: 5 p.m.

Location: Q.E.D. Cost: Free Phone: 347-451-3873 Address: 27-16 23rd Ave., Astoria URL: qedastoria.com

TUESDAY, APRIL 17 Event Title: The Dump: A Goddamn Storytelling Show Time: 8 p.m.

Location: The Creek and Cave Cost: Free Phone: 718-706-8783 Address: 10-93 Jackson Ave., LIC URL: creeklic.com TUESDAY, APRIL 17 Event Title: I’m Not From Here Stand Up Comedy Show Time: 10 p.m.

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

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THURSDAY, APRIL 19 Event Title: Book Club for Adults in Spanish Time: 6 to 7:30 p.m.

Location: Broadway Queens Library Cost: Free Phone: 718-721-2462 Address: 40-20 Broadway, Astoria URL: queenslibrary.org

SATURDAY, APRIL 21 Event Title: Starry Night Paint Class Time: 8 to 10 p.m.

Location: The Paint Place Cost: $45 Phone: 929-522-0086 Address: 31-21 31st St., Astoria URL: thepaintplaceny.com WEDNESDAY, APRIL 25 Event Title: Teen Book Club Time: 3:30 to 4 p.m.

Location: Broadway Queens Library Cost: Free Phone: 718-721-2462 Address: 40-20 Broadway, Astoria URL: queenslibrary.org

APRIL 2018

FRIDAY, APRIL 27 AND SATURDAY, APRIL 28 Event Title: Theorizing the Web 2018 Conference Time: All Day Location: Museum of the Moving Image Cost: Registration pay-whatyou-wish Phone: 718-777-6800 Address: 36-01 35th Ave., Astoria URL: movingimage.us SATURDAY, APRIL 28 Event Title: Hashtag Comedy Time: 9:30 to 11 p.m.

Location: Q.E.D. Cost: $10 Phone: 347-451-3873 Address: 27-16 23rd Ave., Astoria URL: qedastoria.com SUNDAY, APRIL 29 Event Title: Starting Over in America: John Frankenheimer’s “Seconds” Time: 6:30 p.m.

Location: Museum of the Moving Image Cost: $15; $11 for seniors and students; $7 ages 3-17; free for children under age 3 Phone: 718-777-6800 Address: 36-01 35th Ave., Astoria URL: movingimage.us

WEDNESDAY, MAY 2 Event Title: Salsa Beginner Class - Drop In Time: 6 to 7:30 p.m.

Location: Salsa in Queens Dance Studio Cost: $20 Phone: 347-669-3589 Address: 34-27 Steinway St., Astoria URL: salsainqueens.com SATURDAY, MAY 5 Event Title: Shiny Angles in Angular Time Time: 8 p.m.

Location: Chocolate Factory Theater Cost: $20 Phone: 718-482-7069 Address: 5-49 49th Ave., LIC URL: chocolatefactorytheater.org SUNDAY, MAY 6 Event Title: Greece Painting Class Time: 5 to 7 p.m.

Location: The Paint Place Cost: $45 Phone: 929-522-0086 Address: 31-21 31st St., Astoria URL: thepaintplaceny.com

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APRIL 2018 I BOROMAG.COM

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A R T S + E N T E R TA I N M E N T

Empowering

EMBROIDERY

By ALLISON KRIDLE

For some people, shopping can feel like a therapy session.

It feels good to put your hard-earned money toward something you love or to find the perfect gift. That’s all well and good, but imagine buying a lovely, handcrafted product that you know was sustainably made, with a portion of your money going to a good cause like fair wages for women and their children. We’re here to tell you that this charitable shopping experience exists, and it’s closer than you think.

J

oanna Choi, the 35-year-old coowner of the online shop Bordahan Embroidery (bordahanembroidery.com), runs her business from Astoria while her mother, Ludia Kim, leads production of the crafts in the Philippines. The mother-daughter team provides fair wages to disadvantaged women who hand-embroider the goods featured on the site.

“Empowering women [is] so important because it really can have a lasting impact on not just the lives of the women, but in the lives of their children and their families,” Choi said. “The effect that empowered women can have on the lives of those around them is something really special, and something we’re super passionate about.”

Bordahan has an eclectic array of handmade creations including tote bags, framed embroidery, kiss lock floral purses, decorative throw pillows, bookmarks, embroidered fabric wall calendars and jewelry. The shop is organized by price

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APRIL 2018

point and even includes categories such as Hostess Gifts, Sorority Corner, Travel Gifts and a Wedding Collection.

Choi and Kim first started selling their goods in October of 2015, after Kim (who was a florist by trade) retired in the Philippines and saw a need for jobs and industry in the Manila community.

She taught herself how to embroider and passed on the craft to the Philippine women she employs — four or five women

in total, depending on the volume of orders they receive. The two business owners create designs together, and Kim brings trunks full of merchandise to Choi in Astoria whenever she visits.

“Every item is handcrafted in the Philippines, and when my mom comes to visit annually, she brings me suitcases full of product. [She gets] so excited to show me what the team of ladies have made, that she sometimes forgets to pack clothes for herself during her trips to New York,” Choi said.

Not only does Bordahan benefit women and their families abroad, but

Choi and Kim also spread goodwill to women in need in New York as well. The thread-savvy women designed a New York pouch, and they contribute a portion of the proceeds from this product to the charity Women In Need (WIN), which houses and provides programs and services for homeless women and their children.

Similar to the New York pouch, the mother-daughter duo also created a California bag to help out the victims of the wildfires in Sonoma and Napa by donating a portion of the sales to the American Red Cross.

“It made sense to spread our core mission of helping women to my home as well,” Choi said. “It’s not much, but knowing that a portion of our sales go toward the Red Cross (for the California bag) or for WIN (for the NYC bag), it means a lot to be able to contribute toward causes closer to home.”

The curation of products for specific causes certainly helps draw attention to prominent issues, but Choi and Kim APRIL 2018 I BOROMAG.COM

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A R T S + E N T E R TA I N M E N T

Photos courtesy of Bordahan Embroidery realize that there are some predicaments that will always be present, like schoolchildren not being able to afford supplies or tuition. During each holiday season and at the beginning of each school year, the business owners donate a portion of their proceeds to children in need of school supplies and scholarships.

“There are about four students that we sponsor annually for their school tuition, all through recommendations [from] elders in the community,” Choi said. “There isn't currently a formalized application process — it’s more, ‘Hey, there's a child who can't afford school; can you help them?’”

At first glance, Bordahan may seem like a normal, meticulously crafted embroidery shop, but Choi and Kim made it about something much greater. Through their generosity and care for the communities they work in, they’ve embedded their story and goodwill in their beautiful products’ thread, weaving together women’s empowerment, safety of children and the overall well-being of others.

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APRIL 2018

Photos courtesy of Bordahan Embroidery

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MIND + BODY

Photo by Grant Henry

OM OUT, ASTORIA

By KATRINA MEDOFF KATRINA@BOROMAG.COM @KATRINAMEDOFF @KATYA_M22

Photo by Marco Giannavola

A

storia yoga instructor Randi Cerini is helping locals break out of their comfort zones and get a new perspective on life with Om Tribe, a yoga retreat company she co-founded along with Brooklyn resident Erica Chen.

Cerini and Chen launched Om Tribe in July 2017. Since then, they’ve completed their first retreat — an impressive undertaking in which they took 10 participants to Guatemala for eight days. They have also held their first workshop to raise money for a charitable cause, and they teach Om Tribe classes locally to keep their community together between retreats.

Now, Om Tribe is planning a second retreat, and this one’s a little closer to home: it’ll take place from May 18 to 20 in the Catskills at Mountain House 668, an eight-bedroom home that sits on 5 acres and includes an in-

door hot tub, a large kitchen, a deck, a fire pit and a pond for swimming.

“You won’t be roughing it that weekend,” said Cerini, who teaches at Yoga Agora (3302 Broadway, Astoria) as well as at studios in Manhattan and for private clients. “It’s just a beautiful space with lots of rooms to come together and play music between yoga sessions and just reflect, hang out and bond in our down time.”

During the three-day retreat this May, there will be at least four, 75-minute yoga sessions as well as meditations and a guided hike.

Om Tribe hired a chef for the weekend, so all meals will be taken care of. Cerini said that the town, Windham, is “super cute as well if people want to explore at night,” with a wine bar, gift shops and more.

The trip costs $650, including everything but transportation, and Om Tribe is hoping to plan carpools.

“We’re trying to make it as affordable as possible, but it’s also going to be quite luxurious,” Cerini said.

There’s a reason Om Tribe is planning a wide variety of trips, from the eight-day retreat to Guatemala ($1,350-$1,650, not including airfare) to a weekend upstate: Cerini and Chen strive to make their community as inclusive as possible.

“I thought it would be nice to have a balance as we grow our company to have international travel options for people who really want to step out of their comfort zone and have some adventure, and then have something that’s a little more local, a little more familiar, that would target different potential students and customers with different economic abilities to join our tribe,” Cerini said.

In the future, “We would like to continue doing these retreats three to four times a year, connecting [with retreat participants] locally [and] raising money for [causes]. We’re hoping

Photo by Jennie Lyutskan

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APRIL 2018

EXPLORE YOUR BORO

Photo by Grant Henry Photos by Bob Din and Erica Chen

Photo by Marco Giannavola

to start making really big trips, like Thailand, maybe, in 2019 — really exploring the globe and bringing people together,” Cerini said.

“Big travel yoga plans.”

Om Tribe retreats are available to “all levels of yogi,” and Cerini said that on their first retreat to Guatemala, most students were “somewhere in the beginner to intermediate level.” The bulk of students come from Yoga Agora, where Cerini teaches, and Yoga Vita in Manhattan, where Chen teaches.

Cerini and Chen, who met four years ago when they were training to become yoga teachers, had both moved to New York to pursue dance. After dealing with tendonitis in her feet, which made dancing difficult, Cerini got back into movement through yoga — and realized that yoga was helping her tendonitis.

“I kind of made a rash decision and was like, I think I could teach this and be really happy doing it, helping other people with whatever they’re going through: physical,

mental, emotional issues,” Cerini said, “and that I’ll be having this physical, movementbased lifestyle that I was hoping for — just not exactly in the way I had pictured.”

Cerini has lived in Astoria for six and a half years and has been teaching at Yoga Agora for two and a half years.

“The Astoria yoga community changed my life,” she said. “Yoga Agora is the warmest community I’ve ever entered into. It’s just this place where people come when they’re having a hard time. People come when they’re having a good time, but they always feel like, ‘Oh my gosh, my life is horrible right now. I have to get to Yoga Agora.’ And then they leave and [they tell me], ‘Thank you so much for being here. My life instantly feels better.’

No joke, I probably hear that every other day.”

She said that going to Yoga Agora lifts her mood, too: “Even as a teacher, I still have bad days, and as soon as I walk up the stairs and enter

the studio, I immediately feel calm for some reason, and I’ve never been able to say that about any other place that I’ve worked in my life. The students, the teachers, the owner: everyone who for some reason connects to this place and wants to keep coming back has this vibe; people are real.”

Plus, teaching in the neighborhood solidified her feelings for Astoria: “I was already in love with Astoria, but now Astoria is my life.”

Visit omtribeyogaretreats.com for more information.

Photos by Derek Shannon

APRIL 2018 I BOROMAG.COM

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ASTORIA DOG www.LIC-CPA.com WALKING www.savignano-cpa.com bestaccountantinlic.com 20% OFF 41-18 Crescent St. PLEASE CALL FIRST WEEK LIC, NY 11101 OR VISIT US 718.707.0295OF SERVICE FOR FREE (F) 718.707.0259

CONSULTATION

WWW.NYCPETNANNY.COM

LOCKED - ESCAPE ROOMS NYC

22-56 31st Street, 2nd floor Astoria, NY 11105 (718) 274-9700 10% OFF www.escapelocked.com CODE: “Gift Cards also available for purchase BORO10 at www.escapelocked.com

FOR NEW LIC INDIVIDUAL CLIENTS 718-707-0955 / 718-707-0295 OBTP# B13696 ©2015 HRB Tax Group, Inc. WWW.HRBLOCK.COM HRBLOCK.COM

DOES YOUR DOG NEED A WALK? Drea Montali Professional Organizer and Closet Stylist SIGN-UP FOR 4 WALKS & GET 1 FREE WALKING ASTORIA AND SUNNYSIDE Complimentary hour with 4 hours of WE DO CAT SITTING TOO! organizing.

WWW.MYDOGNEEDSAWALK.COM WWW.DREAMONTALI.COM

(646) 339-8346

20% OFF EACH SEAT The Paint Place NYC Premier Paint and Sip studio

31-21 31st St. Astoria www.thepaintplaceny.com 929-522-0086

347.323.4549 NEW CLIENTS ONLY

20 PERCENT OFF ONE ARTWORK PURCHASE

(not including any framing/shipping costs) limit one per customer.

ROGALLERY.COM - fine artworks & auctions

Piatto Lunch Specials NEAPOLITAN PIZZA $9.00 10” PIE / $11.00 16” PIE 718-361-2751 www.piattolic.com

ADVERTISE IN BORO ads@BOROmag.com 718.224.5863 www.BOROmag.com/advertise

APRIL 2018 I BOROMAG.COM

23

MAP IT DIRECTORY RESTAURANTS

6

ASTOR ROOM (C,2) 718-255-1947 34-12 36th St., Astoria www.astorroom.com

241

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

242

BAREBURGER 718-204-7167 23-01 31st St., Astoria www.bareburger.com

243

82

7

8 35

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 BREAD BOX CAFE (A,4) 718-389-9700 4711 11th St., LIC www.breadboxcafelic.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

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 12

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

181

HIBINO LIC (A,4) 718-392-5190 10-70 Jackson Ave., LIC www.hibino-lic.com

249

HIGHWATER 917-745-0407 34-20 Broadway, Astoria www.thehighwaternyc.com

112

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

248

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

13

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

125

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

220

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

133

148

MURASAKI 718-482-7088 46-44 Vernon Blvd., LIC www.murasakinyc.com

182

NOSH BOROUGH (B,1) 347-746-5542 25-17 Astoria Blvd., Astoria noshborough.com

150

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

20 45 61 22 245 74 74

194 194

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

RÈST-ÂÜ-RÁNT (B,2) 718-729-9009 30-01 35th Ave., Astoria www.rarbarlic.com SAC’S PLACE COAL OVEN PIZZA (B,2) 718-204-5002 2541 Broadway, Astoria www.sacsplace.com SAC’S PLACE COAL OVEN PIZZA (B,2) 718-204-5002 2541 Broadway, Astoria www.sacsplace.com

244

SALT & BONE 917-832-7822 32-07 30th Ave., Astoria www.saltandbone.com

28

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

55

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

227

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

216

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

250

The Inkan 718-433-4171 45-02 23rd Street, LIC www.theinkanrestaurant.com

18

199

24

PENTHOUSE 808 (A,3) 718-289-6118 8-08 Queens Plaza South, LIC www.penthouse808rooftop.com

RETRO PIZZA CAFE 347-612-4460 Fax: 347-813-4039 41-02 Broadway, Astoria

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

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

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

183

170

3

ORO RESTAURANT & LOUNGE 718-729-1801 41-17 Crescent Street, LIC www.orolicrestaurant.com

QUEENS ROOM 347-987-3994 36-02 Ditmars Blvd., Astoria queensroomnyc.com

24

247

229

31

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

184

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

200

VICTORY GARDEN CAFÉ 718-274-2087 2169 Steinway St., Astoria www.victorysweetshop.com

THE LAST WORD 31-30 Ditmars Blvd., Astoria www.tlwastoria.com TRU ASTORIA 35-19 Ditmars Blvd. Astoria 646-878-6000 www.truastoria.com 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 POKE WAVE 917-868-1084 35-07 Broadway, Astoria

APRIL 2018

52

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

161

51

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

90

228

NOMAD CYCLE LLC 718-786-5600 36-58 37th St. Astoria www.nomadcycle.com

PETS

WILLIAM HALLET (C,2) 718-269-3443 36-10 30th Ave., Astoria www.williamhallet.com

201

32

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

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

54

14

ZENON TAVERNA 718-956-0133 34-10 31st Avenue Astoria, NY 11106 www.zenontaverna.com

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

29

ORNELLA TRATTORIA ITALIANA (B,1) 718-777-9477 29-17 23rd Ave., Astoria www.ornellatrattoria.com

239

219

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

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

235

MALAGUETA RESTAURANT (B,2) 718-937-4821 25-35 36th Ave., Astoria www.malaguetany.com

191

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

ASTOR BAKE SHOP (A,2) 718-606-8439 12-23 Astoria Blvd., Astoria www.astor-bakeshop.com

34 138 139

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

189

IL FORNAIO BAKERY (B,2) 718-267-0052 29-14 30th Ave., Astoria

190

OK CAFÉ (B,1) 718-440-8789 22-04 33rd St., Astoria www.okcafeastoria.com

37

SWEETLEAF (A,4) 917-832-6726 10-93 Jackson Ave., LIC

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

195

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

211

MET FRESH AND ORGANIC SUPERMARKET Located in the heart of Astoria on 34-14 Steinway St.

167

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

WINES & SPIRITS 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

187

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

SHOPS 143 21

ASTORIA BOOKSHOP (B,2) 718- 278-2665 31-29 31st St., Astoria www.astoriabookshop.com BABYNOIR (B,1) 646-470-4728 26-16 23rd Ave., Astoria www.babynoir.net

186

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

49

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

50

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

56

223

224

LIC VETERINARY CENTER (A,4) 718-383-8387 48-18 Vernon Blvd., LIC www.licvets.com

196

218

MY DOG NEEDS A WALK 347-323-4549 23-12 29th St., Astoria www. mydogneedsawalk.com

95

40

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

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

121

BAKERIES 33

198

FLORISTS 160

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

44 137

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

47

NYC FARM CHIC FLOWERS

130

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

SERVICES

180 57

206

174 59

122 62

175

157

168

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

64

178

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

65

119

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

177

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

209

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

129

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

207 114 77

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

45

134 66 17

147

K

161 90 198 56 223 224

ENERGEA (C,2) 929-296-9314 34-13 38th St., LIC EnergeaNYC.com FERRARI DRIVING SCHOOL (C,2) 718-278-6679 3232 Steinway St. GOTHAM LASIK 718-440-3131 30-80 21st St., Astoria www.gothamlasik.com HERO COMPUTER REPAIR NYC 347-670-4376 Apple/Mac Computer Repair Specialist hero@iamhero.net | www.iamhero.net SAVIGNANO accountants & advisors 718-707-0955 47-46 Vernon Blvd., LIC www.savignano-cpa.com 718-707-0295 41-18 Crescent St., LIC www.savignano-cpa.com

196

THE LEARNING STATION MONTESSORI INC. (C,2) 347-523-0906 31-32 47th St., Astoria www.thelearningstationmontessorischool.com

95

MATHNASIUM (C,1) 718-726-6284 43-32 Ditmars Blvd., Astoria www.mathnasium.com/astoria

180 57

MONTESSORI KIDS OF LIC (B,3) 347-746-5542 5 Court Square, LIC mklic.com MPN LAW FIRM (C,2) 718-777-0400 3403 Broadway, Ste. 200, Astoria

206

MY DOG NEEDS A WALK 347-323-4549 23-12 29th St., Astoria www.mydogneedsawalk.com

174

QNS COLLECTIVE (C,3) 718-280-5122

158 67

59

122 62

TUCK-IT-AWAY STORAGE (B, 3) 718-519-8282 37-19 Crescent St., Astoria www.tuckitaway.com

232

UNLIMITED BODY NY 27-18 23RD Avenue Astoria, NY 917-650-4369

93

MUSEUM OF THE MOVING IMAGE (C,2) 718-784-0077 36-01 35th Ave., Astoria www.movingimage.us

SUPER NOVA TATTOOS (C,1) 718-274-5712 38-01 23rd Ave., Astoria www.supernovatattoo.com

73

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

94

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

237

OTTER HOUSE STUDIOS 718-786-5900 28-39 Review Ave. LIC www.otterhousestudios.com

149

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

215

Q.E.D. 347-451-3873 27-16 23rd Ave., Astoria www.Qedastoria.com

146

ROGALLERY.COM (C,3) 800-888-1063 or 718-937-0901 47-15 36th St., LIC - by appointment www.rogallery.com

110

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

BEAUTY 164

151

251

DOLLFACE 718-844-7874 31-13 23rd Ave, 2nd flr., Astoria www.clubdollface.com

81

195

EUROPEAN WAX CENTER LIC (A,4) 718-482-9299 4545 Center Blvd., LIC www.europeanwaxcenter.com

THE FACE & BODY SHOP 718-204-9390 40-21 23rd Ave., Astoria www.thefaceandbodyshop.com

83

97

226

LUXY LADY 718-786-1880 10-17 Jackson Ave., LIC www.luxyladysalon.com

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

84

98

72

PRIMP AND TEASE SALON (A,4) 718-472-2001 5-02 50th Ave., LIC

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

SOCRATES SCULPTURE PARK (A,2) 718-626-1533 32-01 Vernon Blvd., Astoria www.socratessculpturepark.org

197

112

46

REDKEN SALOON SALON (C,2) 718-956-3366 36-17 30th Ave., Astoria www.redkensalon.com

THE BREWERY BAR & KITCHEN 718-777-8007 49-18 30th Ave., Astoria www.thebrewery.nyc

TEN10 STUDIOS (A,4) 917-449-9539 10-10 47th Rd., LIC www.ten10studios.com

85

SHADE ORGANIC SPA AND SALON (C,1) 718-278-7892 36-05 Ditmars Blvd., Astoria shadebarspa.com

217

192

DOMAINE WINE BAR (A,4) 718-784-2350 50-04 Vernon Blvd., LIC www.domainewinebar.com

THE ART HOUSE (C,2) 516-724-1562 31-06 35th St., Astoria www.gabrieleperici.com

86

212

STUDIO NOVA 718-392-4962 37-01 36th Ave., Astoria www.studionovanyc.com

DOMINIES OF ASTORIA (C,2) 718-706-6531 34-07 30th Ave., Astoria www.dominiesnyc.com

THE PAINT PLACE (NYC Painting Classes & Parties) 31-21 31st St Astoria, NY 11106 929-522-0086 www.thepaintplaceny.com

99

145

KATCH BREWERY & GRILL (B,2) 718-777-2230 3119 Newtown Ave., Astoria www.katchastoria.com

SCULPTURE SPACE NYC (C,3) 718-806-1709 47-21 35th St., LIC www.sculpturespacenyc.com

96

222

LOCKED -ESCAPE ROOM NYC 718-274-9700 22-56 31st St., Astoria www.escapelocked.com

THE SECRET THEATRE (B,3) 718-392-0722 44-02 23rd St., LIC www.secrettheatre.com

111

MOSAIC CRAFT BEER & WINE BAR (B,1) 718-728-0708 25-19 24th Ave., Astoria www.mosaicastoria.com

203

PASSAGE IRISH BAR AND KITCHEN 917-832-6680 40-11 30th Ave., Astoria www.passageastoria.com

BRIDAL BOUTIQUE 185

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

FITNESS ASTORIA COMPLEX (C,2) 718-729-7163 34-38 38th St., LIC www.ascsports1.com

157

VOICE MUSIC STUDIO (A,1) 646-309-3429 23-11 21st St., Astoria

120

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

EVENTS

45

TEALICIOUS 718-278-8579 38-01 23rd Ave., Astoria www.tealiciouscatering.com

HOTELS 134 66 17

CLUB FITNESS (B,2) 718-545-0004 31-11 Broadway, Astoria

165

CRANK CYCLING STUDIO (A,4) 718-606-6309 4630 Center Blvd., LIC www.cranknyc.com

76

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

166

THE ROCK HEALTH & FITNESS CLUB (B,1) 718-204-1400 22-15 31st St., Astoria

156

PERSONALIZED PILATES (A,4) 347-563-3933

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

142

SAGE STUDIOS 347-927-2439 29-20 23rd Ave., 4th Floor, Astoria

240

Salsa In Queens 347-669-3589 34-27 Steinway St., Astoria salsainqueens.com

TATTOO SHOPS

147

42

FOUR POINTS SHERATON (B,3) 718-786-8500 27-05 39th Ave., LIC, www.fourpoints.com

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

BODY LANGUAGE TATTOO 347-808-0497 32-02 34th Ave., Astoria www.bltnyc.com

NIGHTLIFE/BARS

131

154

RENAISSANCE EVENT HALL (A,1) 718-274-4590 27-34 21st St., Astoria www.renaissanceeventhall.com

SHADE ORGANIC SPA AND SALON 718-278-7892 36-05 Ditmars Blvd., Astoria

BAROQUE (C,1) 718-274-2777 19-44 Steinway St., Astoria www.baroquenyc.com

175

65

REJUVENATE FACE AND BODY (B,1) 718-626-4434 26-17 23rd Ave., Astoria www.Rejuvenatenyc.com

43

VESPA QUEENS (B,3) 718-786-7772 37-43 Crescent St., LIC www.vespaqueens.com

FOUNDRY (A,3) 718-786-7776 42-38 Ninth St., LIC www.thefoundry.info

188

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

GIGI SALON (C,2) 718 -777-7755 34-17 30th Ave., Astoria www.gigistylingstudio.com

71

VARDIMAN EYEWEAR (C,2) 718-204-5037 34-18 Broadway, Astoria www.vardimaneyewear.com

64

SPAS

CARL CLARKE AESTHETIQUES (B,2) 347-631-0922 32-12 Broadway, Astoria

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

FAT CAT TATTOO (B,2) 718-267-1326 31-32 31st St., LIC www.fatcattattoos.com

80

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

225

WORKOUT FACTORY 5-25 47th Ave. LIC

79

PILATESWORKS 10-91A Jackson Ave., LIC

88

STUDIO SQ. BEER GARDEN (C,3) 718-383-1001 35-33 36th St., Astoria www.studiosquarenyc.com

89

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

REAL ESTATE 217 105 30

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

101 140 136 141 103

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

214

THE BEAST NEXT DOOR CAFÉ & BAR 718-482-7507 42-51 27th Ave., LIC www.thebeastnextdoorcafebar.com

100

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

246

128

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

LIC Dental Associates 718-530-6539 50-02 5th St., LIC www.licdentalassociates.com

135

KAUFMAN ASTORIA STUDIOS (C,2) 718-706-5300 34-12 36th St., Astoria www.kaufmanastoria.com

MOUNT SINAI QUEENS (B,2) 24 Emergency Care Primary Care & Specialty Physician 718-932-1000 25-10 30th Ave., LIC

221

ART

92 113 127 199

WELLS FARGO HOME MORTGAGE (C,2) 718-310-4303 3501 30th Ave., Astoria www.wfhm.com

HEALTH & WELLNESS

LAGUARDIA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER (C,3) 718-482-5151 31-10 Thomson Ave., LIC www.laguardiaperformingarts.org LIC SCHOOL OF BALLET (B,3) 718-781-1169 44-02 23rd St., Studio 216, LIC www.licsb.com MOMA PS 1 718-784-2084 22-25 Jackson Ave., Long Island City www.momaps1.org

STEINWAY FAMILY DENTAL CENTER 718-728-3314 32-50 Steinway St.,Astoria www.alldentalneeds.com

BANKING

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QUONTIC BANK (B,2) 718-215-4000 31-05 Broadway, Astoria www.quonticbank.com

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SUSSEX BANK (B,1) 347-472-1727 28-21 Astoria Blvd., Astoria www.sussexbank.com

APRIL 2018 I BOROMAG.COM

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We’re We’re eager eager to to share share our our insights insights with with you. you. We’ll We’ll eliminate eliminate the the clutter clutter and and find find you you that that distinctive distinctive apartment—one apartment—one that that you you will will be be delighted delighted to to call call home. home.

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SUNDAY, APRIL 29th, 2018 12:00 pm - 5:00 pm

THE STREET FAIR ON STEINWAY STREET (between Broadway & 31st Avenue, staging area mid-block) This program is supported, in part, by public funds from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership with the

www.centralastoria.nyc - 718.728.7820 - info@centralastoria.nyc

N. S. S.

APRIL 2018 I BOROMAG.COM

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FOOD + DRINK

Queens Caffeine

By LIZZ SCHUMER @ESCHUMER

@LIZZSCHUMER

Freelancers and coffee addicts alike know the importance of a good coffee shop. The best ones come with a perfect balance of high-quality brew, something to nosh on and a comfortable, welcoming place to enjoy them. With the continued popularity of third-wave coffee — that is, those who consider coffee an art in itself — Astoria residents have a range of excellent options. I packed up my laptop, threw on my best beanie, and set off to raise my blood-caffeine levels in some of the most unique environs Astoria has to offer.

Artsy French influence: Madame Sousou Cafe 718-710-6577 31-05 33RD ST., ASTORIA WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/ MADAMESOUSOUNY

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APRIL 2018

Photos via Instagram/@madamesousoucafe

The first thing you’ll notice when you enter Madame Sousou Cafe is the whimsical painting on one wall. Or maybe it’s the collection of mismatched plates decorating another, or the way the place feels like a warm hug from an eccentric aunt. Serving fairly standard coffee, espresso and tea options, the tiny counter pumps out an excellent cuppa.

The real star here comes on the plate. Don’t miss the flaky-crusted quiche and savory soups, which are all crafted in-house daily.

While Madame Sousou prides itself on its carrot cake with cream cheese frosting and just the right amount of spice, you can’t go wrong with any of the options. Pull a tractor stool up to the window for some people-watching or settle in to a spot at the communal table. This small, cozy cafe will quickly feel just like home.

e Spacious and streamlined: Kinship Coffee 646-468-7149 30-05 AND 32-14 STEINWAY ST., ASTORIA WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/KINSHIPCOFFEE

With two locations just a stone’s throw away from each other, you have options at Kinship Coffee. The smaller, original location at 30-05 can fill up quickly, although its large, round table makes visitors feel like they’re lounging in someone’s chic, Nordic-style kitchen. If it gets too cramped, head down to the much more spacious 32-14 location. There, a large communal table and plenty of booth seating welcome freelancers and coffee aficionados with soft, recessed lighting and a

soundtrack loud enough to drown out any sensitive conversation.

The menu includes healthy, hip and hearty standards like avocado toast and grain bowls, as well as house-baked sweet treats. Stumptown coffee and tea options include the basics, as well as a few adventurous forays. I especially loved the maple cold brew. Real maple syrup and a little cream balances out Kinship’s bracingly bitter cold brew for a drink that’s eye-opener and dessert all in one.

Photos via Instagram/@kinshipcoffee

Photos via Instagram/@madamesousoucafe APRIL 2018 I BOROMAG.COM

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FOOD + DRINK

Classic third-wave: Astoria Coffee 30-04 30TH ST., ASTORIA WWW.ASTORIACOFFEENY.COM Astoria Coffee started as a wholebean delivery service that transitioned into a gathering place to geek out about coffee. The sun-drenched space features the de rigeur blonde wood, white brick walls and metal stools, but Astoria Coffee brightens things up by painting

those stools a sunny yellow and accenting the space with local art. The space isn’t large, but high ceilings make it feel airy and unfailingly friendly service welcomes each and every patron.

Serving a rotating cast of roasters, this place caters to coffee nerds. Check back regularly for new arrivals, or take home a bag of beans. While food is limited to a small case of sweet and savory baked goods, what it does offer stands up well.

And if you’re the type who likes to wear her heart on her sleeve, Astoria Coffee also offers swag that proclaims your love of your borough and bean, all in one.

APRIL 2018

Photos by Liz Wick

Photos by Sam Ortiz

32

Old meets new: Gossip Coffee 718-440-8792 37-04 30TH AVE., ASTORIA WWW.GOSSIPCOFFEE.COM Gossip Coffee’s red and white tiled floors, red leather chairs, formica tables and sweeping counter feel both retro and fresh. I could spend an hour checking out the tchotchkes lining the walls, and I’m counting the days until it gets warm enough to enjoy a cold brew on

the back patio. With enough space to camp out without someone staring over your shoulder, Gossip is great for just that.

Coffee director Billy Brogan selects all of the beans for Gossip’s Maspeth, Queens, roastery. It doesn’t get much fresher than that.

As such, a regular pour-over is the pro move here. Don’t leave without a bag of beans and a doughnut (or a dozen). Gordon Ramsey declared chef Scottish Francis the “doughnut king” on “MasterChef” season 5, and Francis has been earning that designation ever since.

Flavors change seasonally, but you really can’t go wrong with any of them.

Photos via Instagram/@gossipcoffee

Photos by Liz Wick APRIL 2018 I BOROMAG.COM

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FOOD + DRINK

Cozy and creative: OK Cafe Astoria 718-440-8789 22-04 33RD ST., ASTORIA WWW.OKCAFEASTORIA.COM

Photos by Amber Cayee

I promised myself I wouldn’t make a “more than OK” pun, but that might have disappointed owners Predrag and Giselle Grncarski, and we can’t have that. This tiny cafe right off Ditmars Boulevard epitomizes cozy, with about 10 seats, 15 if you squeeze. Be conscientious about the 45-minute seating limit and screen-free weekends. The cafe feels like it’s smiling at you from all sides, with warm fixtures and quirky furnishings.

The innovative menu includes unusual concoctions using Counter Culture Coffee. Those include the signature Magic 8 Ball chicory cold brew, London Fog, and maple almond lattes. Try the coffee soda pop, an addictive blend of coffee, orange and sparkling water that brings out the floral, citrus notes. Food features the usual pastry suspects, but the baked empanadas consistently hit the spot. Rotating flavors give you an excuse to stop in whenever their sandwich board hits the sidewalk. And trust me, you’ll want to.

Photos by Rodrigo Fredes

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APRIL 2018

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FOOD + DRINK

the Bar

Cookie QUEEN

By CAMERON NORSWORTHY

S

can the Queen B. Sweets Instagram account (@queenbsweetsny) and you’ll find spherical cookies, rainbow sweets and raunchy, pop-cultural captions that fully articulate how delicious the treats really are. These desserts are addictive, and loyal Q.B.S. followers can’t help but do as the account suggests and “order now, Venmo later.” You’ve likely seen her stuff at shops and gyms around Queens. But who, exactly, is the “Queen B.”?

Long Island City local Joia Aliperti founded her cookie business by happy accident. While attending Manhattan

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APRIL 2018

Photos via Instagram/@queenbsweetsny

College, she took baking classes, giving her friends the goods every few days.

“People started going nuts for it,” Aliperti remembered, “and asked if they could buy them.” Aliperti never intended to turn it into a business, but the demand escalated. In 2013 Q.B.S. officially turned on its ovens, but profits were never the focus — people were.

To Aliperti, the namesake “Q.B.S.” still feels like a bit of an inside joke.

“I’m a huge pop culture addict,” she explained. “Movies, TV, celebs — I love it all.” Not only is she the queen of pop culture, but she’s also the “Queen B.” of eating her sweets. “If you can’t get high on your own supply, how do you expect other people to, right?” she joked.

“Anyone that knows me knows I’m good to slam two to four times the amount of sweets to a normal person.” Who’s up for some friendly, cookie-eating competition?

The Queen shares more of her comedic personality on Instagram, giving the sweets a voice of their own.

Her head teems with movie quotes, and she captions her cookies accordingly.

Under a photo of handmade mini pop tarts spilling out of a red plastic cup, the caption reads, “Fill it up again! Fill it up again! Once it hits your lips, it's so good!” (“Old School,” anyone?)

Silly captions feed into Aliperti’s overall goal as a baker.

“The power of food is insane,” she said.

“It shapes the entire experience of social events.” This connection between sweets and socializing has revealed itself in her friendships, as her friends’ enthusiasm APRIL 2018 I BOROMAG.COM

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FOOD + DRINK

helped her to launch this passion project.

From the very start, Aliperti has always had one primary goal: to make sweets that “give people so much joy when they choose to indulge.”

So which sweet would the Queen recommend for initial indulging? The Oreo sea salt cookie is a “game changer,” she insisted. The original iteration of this cookie, called the “Origi-nelly,” is her best seller. In its first form, it’s made with chocolate chips and M&Ms, so adding Oreo into the mix is next level.

Whether filled with chocolate chips or covered in sprinkles, Aliperti’s signature

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APRIL 2018

cookie is a crowd pleaser. In addition to the spherical shape, a few other, um, recognizable images emerge in Aliperti’s sweets. Some are NSFW, but are pretty perfect for a bachelorette soirée.

Formulating these cookies, she admitted, “was a real ‘B’ for about a year.”

“I thought I was making them the same every batch,” she recalled, “but some fell flat.” This literally led her to tears, but taught her a vital lesson. Aliperti learned to be exact about her ingredients — egg size, butter temperature and specific flour brands have made all the difference.

Photos courtesy of Joia Aliperti

For an indulgent treat, try the double chocolate “Brow-nay-nays,” or the “Blackout Barbies” — cocoa-packed and made with walnuts and cranberries.

Looking for a dessert on the lighter side? Oatmeal, coconut, walnuts, raisins, chocolate chips and cinnamon “Kitchen Sink” cookies might be for you. Can’t decide? Might be best to order a dozen of each.

To taste some of the joy for yourself, throw @queenbsweetsny a follow on Instagram and DM her an order. All of her sweets menus are available on her profile (along with those gut-busting captions, too).

APRIL 2018 I BOROMAG.COM

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EXPLORE YOUR BORO

‘THE WORLD'S FARE' in Flushing brings Queens cuisine from around the world

BY SUZANNE MONTEVERDI

APRIL 2018

and celebrate ethnic and cultural diversity," World's Fare President and Organizer Joshua Schneps said. "The festival embraces everything great about New York City, its people and its food." Schneps is also publisher of BORO. Along with giving Queens residents a taste of the world, The World's Fare will also be giving back to those in need. One dollar of each ticket sold will be donated to the Melting Pot Foundation USA, a nonprofit organization founded by Chef Meyer committed to providing healthy cuisine throughout

A scene from the 1964 World’s Fair

local neighborhoods and training the next generation of culinary artists.

Special VIP tickets will also be sold to experience a food tour at the festival with Meyer and Seetoh.

The World's Fare will run from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on both April 28 and 29. Purchase tickets or learn more about the event on theworldsfare.nyc. Those interested in vending at the festival can apply to do so on the same website. Citi Field is located near the 7 train and Long Island Rail Road.

AP Photo/Bill Cotter

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Photo via Wikimedia Commons/Groupe Canam

M

@SMONT76

ore than 50 years after millions descended on Flushing Meadows Corona Park for the beloved 1964-65 World's Fair, Queens will once again celebrate its dazzling global food scene with a 21st-century 'Fare.'

"The World's Fare" will take place on April 28 and 29 in the parking lot outside of Citi Field, home of the New York Mets. The event re-imagines the iconic 1964 event and brings food, drink, art and music from over 100 countries to the "World's Borough."

Participating restaurants and food vendors will be curated by an all-star team of chefs and culinary advocates, including Singaporean food expert KF Seetoh, journalist and culinary historian Jessica Harris and renowned Danish chef Claus Meyer, who called the affair the "culinary event of the year."

"The World's Fare is an opportunity to sample some of the finest flavors the world has to offer, all in one venue," Meyer said. "This is a unique opportunity: one that not only reflects the incredible diversity of Queens, but is rooted in the passion of the many peoples who have traveled from across the globe to call this great borough home."

The family-friendly event will take place in the shadow of the neighborhood's iconic landmarks and structures, including the New York State Pavilion and Unisphere.

The festival will also feature an international beer garden, which will showcase 80 craft beers from 45 breweries. Tickets are available online now at theworldsfare.nyc.

Liza Mosquito de Guia, who will be the lead curator for the festival, said the group of tastemakers are looking to gather affordable and unique selections that will "create wonder in bite-sized pieces."

"When it comes to passion, diversity and creativity in food, there is nothing like New York City," de Guia said.

Other event curators include Queens food writer Joe DiStefano, Zagat Senior Editor Kelly Dobkin and The Gastronauts founder Curtiss Calleo.

"Our political climate has never called for a greater opportunity to embrace

Photo via Wikimedia Commons/Groupe Canam

AP Photo/Bill Cotter

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APRIL 2018 I BOROMAG.COM

INTERIOR DESIGN

A Collection of Cultures

BY ESTELLE PYPER @ESTIE_PYPER @ESTIEPYPER

Nadine Homann beamed with a wide, inviting smile when she greeted me at the entryway to her second-floor apartment on 36th Street in Astoria. Originally from Germany, Homann has made Astoria her home for over 15 years now — and she still lives in her very first apartment.

O

nce she completed her thesis on interior architecture and furniture design back in Europe, Homann made the move to work with a large commercial architecture firm on Wall Street. She only knew one person in the city, but she was drawn by its energy.

“It’s a melting pot of everything,” she said about New York and Astoria, specifically. “I guess that’s probably why I liked it.”

Over the years she has worked at a handful of successful firms, taking on

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high-profile clients such as Goldman Sachs, Deloitte & Touche and CNN. But in the commercial world, Homann felt she couldn’t express her love for personalizing a space, so she started her own company, NH Design Studios. Her company specializes in residential interior design, decorating high-end apartments for locals in New York City and homes in the Hamptons.

“My passion is to visualize other people’s dreams,” Homann said. “I’m here to inspire.

That’s always been my passion.”

Photos courtesy of Nadine Homann

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INTERIOR DESIGN

Gigi Salon

Photos courtesy of Nadine Homann

Her designs have a sleek and elegant feel, and she takes care to find pieces that are timeless. But the designer doesn’t claim to have one singular “style.” “I really feel that every client is so unique; it needs to fit to them,” Homann said.

When working with clients, she’ll first talk to them in depth about their lifestyle and wish list, then draw from the conversation to bring a vision to life.

But some of her first projects were close to home: Astoria's own Gigi Salon (34-17 30th Ave.) and romantic wine bar DiWine (41-15 31st Ave.).

“Gigi Salon was my baby,” the designer said. “But both of them are very interesting design-wise. Both of these projects were really recycled, ‘reimagined’ projects.”

Homann’s designs for each space contain elements of recycled materials — like repurposed wood or abandoned items leftover from demolitions. Gigi Salon even donates their hair clippings to Clean Wave, a company that recycles clippings to help soak up major oil spills.

Homann’s own apartment represents her diverse background and passion for charity. Stepping into her APRIL 2018 I BOROMAG.COM

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Photos by Estelle Pyper

APRIL 2018

46 INTERIOR DESIGN

DiWine

Photos courtesy of Nadine Homann

well-lit home feels like entering a museum.

Colorful artwork hangs on almost every wall, and knickknacks from her travels rest on tables and shelves. Her home reflects the “melting pot” quality of New York that drew her here in the first place.

The first thing guests see is a large circular rug in the entryway. Homann, while not religious, is very spiritual and finds symbolism in many things. The circle symbolizes unity and makes for a peaceful entrance. A knee-high Buddha statue sits beside it, surrounded by two plants and a tall mirror — simple and calming.

Turn the corner and the living space is long, packed with interesting art and furniture. On the day I visited, there were tall, pink tulips in a vase on the white living room table – fitting, since it was International Women’s Day, as she reminded me. They also effortlessly complemented the pink, blue and grey abstract art on the wall above.

“Art, as you can see, is my happy place,” Homann said. “I have it everywhere. Some people are scared of art; they don’t know what to do with it. There’s nothing to do; just look at it!”

A 3-D piece hangs on a wall nearby. It’s constructed from reels of photo film rolled up into beautiful designs. “This one’s about all the stories we have that we don’t expose,” Homann explained.

Perhaps the most striking element is a collection of statues and relics from her and her husband’s travels. Her husband, Tarun, is from India, so the couple travels often to visit family and to feed their wanderlust. There are collections of Buddhas, candles, beads and even a statue that once belonged to Homann’s grandmother.

On the far left of the display there are rows of beakers filled with water. This honors a charity Homann and her husband set up when they married in 2010 called “Gift of Water,” a project aimed at creating safe water sources in villages throughout East India.

In lieu of gifts at their 2010 wedding in Germany, they asked guests to donate to this newly established fund.

“Everyone had to travel, it’s a lot of expenses, and I don’t need another toaster. I just want people to be there to have a good time,” Homann said. “So I told my husband — I had just come back from a polio vaccination trip in India — ‘We have to do something with

water.’” And Gift of Water was born and still continues to this day.

So far, they’ve successfully established 14 wells — represented by the 14 beakers on display in their apartment— and the couple visits often to check up on the villages.

Turn away from the impressive display and you’ll spot event more mementos from their travels: a tall wooden African statue, a pipe and more art. An indoor plant stands tall in the corner — it’s hard to miss as it looks like it’s been pulled from the jungle, but it somehow ties the room together.

Along with art, light is also very important to Homann. While the spacious windows offer ample natural light, Homann has had to improvise with the light fixtures as only a skilled interior designer could. There are three large lights on the ceiling in the living room, all beginning from the same solo fixture in the middle of the ceiling, swooping out like tentacles to hit all areas of the room.

The space is truly a designer’s dream, combining her signature sleek style with personal mementos.

“My home is like all my inspiration,” Homann said with a smile.

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MIND + BODY

PALEO

With Love

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BY DANIELLE BRODY @DLB1022

Chef, trainer and Astoria resident Ryan Brown not only gives CrossFit members a workout of the day, but he also serves them a meal of the day.

B

rown, who has a background as a professional chef and currently works as a coach at CrossFit Dynamix (36-5 20th Ave., Astoria), combined his two careers when he started Paleo With Love, a home-cooked meal delivery company, last year. The concept started in a gym where Brown was working, and has expanded mostly through word of mouth in the CrossFit community APRIL 2018 I BOROMAG.COM

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from Astoria’s Dynamix to five gyms in three boroughs.

Meals come in containers with the company’s signature logo of two nuzzling bears on the front. His dishes like Kona pulled pork with roasted squash and kale tomatillo, Italian squash spaghetti bake and blueberry “cheesecake” are all made without sugar, dairy, beans or grains, which are prohibited on a paleo diet.

The paleo diet is pre-agricultural, meaning it emphasizes healthy meats, fruits, vegetables and fats. No processed foods are allowed either.

Because of these restrictions, Brown’s meals are missing a lot of ingredients people love — but Brown said people crave his food and he has built a loyal following.

“I pay attention to the quality of the batches [I cook],” Brown said. “It’s not just throwing a carb, a fat and protein in the box.”

Sticking to a paleo diet and doing CrossFit helped Brown transform his own life when he was working as a chef in Florida. At about 28, he was out of shape and overweight.

“People don't trust a skinny chef,” Brown said.

A doctor told him he had 90 days to make a change, or he'd need to go on medication.

Within a month of doing CrossFit and eating on a paleo diet, Brown lost 20 pounds.

When he returned to the doctor, his cholesterol had gone down and his triglycerides had increased. His doctor told him he could be in a commercial on how to make a healthy change.

Once he moved to New York with his wife, he worked at The Capital Grille on Wall Street and the now-defunct Ouest. There,

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the long hours of working took a toll on his health. Eventually, he quit his job, and put his CrossFit training certification to use, coaching at a gym in Brooklyn.

Given his background, he was able to offer nutrition counseling to his clients. At home, Brown was still cooking. He made creative, tasty recipes even within the limits of the paleo diet.

He tested recipes on his fellow coaches, who started paying him to bring them home-cooked, paleo lunches. Then members caught on and wanted to try, too.

From there, the idea behind Paleo With Love was born.

In August 2016, he gauged interested from CrossFit members in his network and decided to start the business. With the help of a coworker, he created a website, then sent an email with a menu and started taking orders in January 2017.

He didn’t have the capital to open a brickand-mortar storefront, so he uses a shared kitchen at an entrepreneur space in Long Island City, which also offers counseling and resources to small businesses. There, he cooks twice a week with the help of up to three staff members, and fulfills orders the same day so the food is fresh. Brown delivers some meals himself on his way home, and delivery services take care of the rest.

Brown uses ingredients from local providers and he uses organic produce and natural, antibiotic-free, grass-fed meats.

Clients can sign up for 18 meals a month for $200, and individual meals cost $10 to $13, around the same price as lunch in Manhattan, Brown said.

The menu changes twice a week. In March, some of the options were Tika honey chicken with red kale and roasted vegetables; beef chili with cashews and spinach and sweet potato; and chicken mushroom cauliflower risotto with pancetta and sundried tomatoes.

The inspiration for meals comes from ingredients that are in season, farmers markets and client feedback, Brown said.

The food is also available in five gyms: CrossFit Dynamix, CrossFit Bell, CrossFit 718, CrossFit SoBro and CrossFit Queens. Brown said the business now has 250 clients, which is up 50 percent from last year. He said new customers are joining weekly. At first, most of his clients came from the gyms, but now half are home delivery clients.

He said positive client feedback keeps him going. One woman said she doesn’t have to cook anymore, and can spend more time with kids. Another client claimed they tried to make some of his dishes, but they didn’t come out as well as Brown’s.

Brown wants to continue to be a part of the community and grow by 30 percent in the next year. His long-term goal is to open a physical location with a show kitchen, classes and a hot bar to take out food.

For now, he said one of his main challenges are growing pains. The more the business expands, the more costs there are, and the more there is to do. Brown said it was big risk to take this on 100 percent.

“There’s a fear of not being able to make it,” Brown said. “But helping others drives me.”

PALEOWITHLOVE.COM INSTAGRAM: @PALEOWITHLOVE FACEBOOK: PALEO WITH LOVE

Photos: @hai_intensit

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