BORO MAG 072014 by Julian Lesser

VOL 4:8 JuLY 2014

ASTORIA // LIC // SUNNYSIDE

CREATE // CULTIVATE // INSPIRE

Summer in Queens

GREAT DISCOUNTS

at the best spots in Astoria, LIC, Sunnyside

Hitch a ride to Rockaway pg 6

Free Summer Events pg 8

New Patios pg 22

Training without a gym pg 32

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2 | BOROMAG.COM | JULY 2014

JULY 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 3

Dear Western Queens, Summer is in full swing, and you don’t have to travel to get away from it all. Besides not having to travel, free is pretty good. So in this issue, we give you tips on places to go and things to do for no cost. Astoria has a great view of the East River, but Rockaway and its beaches have come a long way since being devastated by Hurricane Sandy. Some great destinations await there, and we’re not going to just give you places the hipsters are taking over. In each issue, it brings us great pride to highlight local people making a difference. This issue is no different, and we have such a diverse group of success stories--from a fashion designer to a magazine fashion director, to bloggers, to restaurateurs, and more. These are the people shaping our neighborhood and making a difference. We look forward to hearing from you, our readers. So whether it’s by email or social media @boromag we want your comments, tips, story suggestions, local news, and events.

JOSHUA SCHNEPS

Enjoy the start of summer! Josh

publisher

New Patios

FEATURES

6 EXPLORE YOUR BORO

Female Fitness Force

FEATURES

40 FOOD & DRINK

Hitch a ride to Rockaway

Crescent Grill

Free Events

Nosh Borough

8 EXPLORE YOUR BORO 10 FOOD & DRINK Portalia

14 CHARACTERS

Argy Koutsothanasis

18 THE ARTS

Bolivares Nueva York

22 FOOD & DRINK New Patios

24 SHOPS

Fat Cat Tattoos

42 FOOD & DRINK 46 REAL ESTATE

The Story on Rent

52 BLOGS

We Heart We Heart Astoria

DEPARTMENTS

12 JULY 2014 EVENTS 25 BORO DEALS & DISCOUNTS PAGE

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

32 BODY & SOUL

26 MAP IT DIRECTORY

36 NIGHTLIFE & ENTERTAINMENT

28 MAP IT: ASTORIA, LIC & SUNNYSIDE MAP

Female Fitness Force Bad Buka

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

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, lizabeth nieves SALES REPRESENTATIVE graziella zerilli // 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.

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S:6”

S:8”

day care & preschool, from crayon to pencil, freeing your child s’ potential. Now Accepting: Summer program / Fall enrollment Montessori Kids of LIC www.mklic.com info@mklic.com 347 · 746 · 5542 5 Court Square Long Island City JULY 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 5

EXPLORE YOUR BORO

Hitch a Ride to

STORY + PHOTOS

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Lizabeth Nieves

the Icee next door for your way home, and stop at the DiCosmos ice stand at 95-19 Rockaway Blvd. In business for 98 years, DiCosmos creates the freshest ice and sorbets you have ever had. Try the coconut, or be adventurous and sample the avocado sorbet (www.dicosmos. com). And for the pizza aficionado, Roberta’s has opened up a spot across the street from Rockaway Taco, but is only serving Fridays through Sundays for the moment. A livelier experience can be had 10 blocks away at Rippers at 86th Street (www.86badvibes. com). Ignore the hipsters, head straight to the drinks-only line, and grab one. I’ve seen a mix of every stereotype here, and this with a cold beer in hand makes for perfect peoplewatching. The food line is long, and consists of burgers, smoothies and burritos. Come for the cheap drinks ($3 Narragansetts) and soak up the environment, and even live music at times.

lifetime ago, a man I knew took me out to Rockaway Beach to spend a romantic weekend at his beach bungalow. It seemed like a hidden paradise, a 30-minute ride to a rustic beach enclave that was once the chosen getaway for New York’s middle class. There weren’t any hip restaurants to eat at or local bars to go to then, just a pack your own food and bring your beers to the beach type of experience. Times have really changed on the peninsula. For anyone looking forward to a beach day in NYC, Rockaway has become the spot to check out. Accessible to all by bus, ferry, and train, leave your cooler at home and have an urban adventure. The Q53 (taken from Woodside) will leave you out front of Rockaway Taco and

close to the 96th Street beach hub. Each of the beach hubs located at 86th, 96th, and 116th have plenty of edible options to experience. There is a reason that there is always a line outside of Rockaway Taco. The food is that delicious. The lines move quickly, and it’s the perfect first stop before getting on the beach a block away. The fish taco is enfamous, and the fresh juices are the perfect compliment to the meal. Rockaway Taco is located at 95-19 Rockaway Beach Blvd. Save

On the other side of the 96th street hub, check out Caracas on 106th Street. They offer fresh Venezuelan fare that includes empanadas, arepas, and plantains. Cocktails are aplenty here, as well. Try the frozen sangria or the passion fruit mimosa at 106-01 Shore Front Parkway (www. c a r ac a s a re p a b a r. c om / rockaway.php). There are plenty of other places to stop and eat at before and after you soak up the sun. Keep in mind that almost everywhere is cash only. Rockaway is expanding so quickly that I expect there to be many more options to enjoy in the future.

JULY 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 7

explore your boro

E E R F r Events

e m m Su  The Museum of the Moving Image (36-01 35

th Avenue) offers free admission on Fridays from 4 – 8 p.m. It is the country’s only museum dedicated to the art, history, technique, and technology of the moving image in all its forms.

 First Fridays of each month are free at the Noguchi

Museum (9 - 01 33rd Rd.) One of the present special exhibits features 65-five sculptures, works on paper, and design objects—many that have never been on view in the Museum before—and explores how the simplicity of form in Noguchi’s work simultaneously links it to both the ancient past and the distant future.

 Visit Socrates Sculpture Park to catch a summer film

on Wednesdays, try yoga on Saturdays or tai chi on Sundays, explore the Saturday Farmers Market, or take part in new free sunset paddling on July 10, you can enjoy a recital from the Metropolitan Opera, or witness Shakespeare in the Park early in August. The park is located at the end of Broadway at 32-01 Vernon Blvd. www.SocratesSculpturePark.org

 Take a dip and enjoy swimming in Astoria Park from now

through September 1st. The hours are daily from 11 to 3 p.m., and then again from 4 to 7 p.m. If you wish to participate in early bird or night owl adult lap swimming, you can register at www.nycgovparks.org/reg/lap-swim. Be sure to bring swimming trunks with a liner, a combination lock, and a white t-shirt if you wish to wear something in the pool. Leave any electronics at home.

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In the month that we celebrate our freedom as a nation, we figured it would be a great idea to celebrate many of the opportunities in our neighborhood that are also free. Check out this list of ideas that won’t cost you a cent, but could definitely make your life a little bit richer.

 Visit one of the free beaches in Queens, at Rockaway, Jacob Riis, Fort Tilden, and Breezy Point Tip.

 Explore! Simply hop off your usual train or bus just one stop

early, and wander the restaurants, parks, stores, and architecture of your neighborhood. With a borough that changes as rapidly as ours, you just might be surprised by what you discover.

 Visit one of the flea markets. The Astoria Flea Market (35-23

35th Ave.) has been extended through Labor Day on Sundays, and LIC (5-25 46th Ave.) on Saturdays is the place to be. While there is plenty of food, art, and fashion to purchase, a stroll just to window shop and socialize between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. won’t cost you a dime.

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JULY 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 9

FOOD & DRINK

The

American Dream

STORY + PHOTOS BRADLEY HAWKS

Antonio Trindade has one of the most gentle smiles I have ever seen. While his skin glows with energy and health, his chocolate eyes are heavy with his intricate story, and he speaks with a truth I instantly feel I can believe. There is a peace about the way he talks, his gestures, and his every movement. The heaviness in his eyes is not necessarily one of sadness, but more of awareness. And of gratitude for the life that came from a childhood in Portugal that poised him for a difficult journey. At a young age, his mother fell in love with a neighbor and moved away, leaving Antonio with his father. And when his father passed due to liver complications, the young Antonio found himself alone at only 5 years of age. He was raised in an orphanage for the next 12 years, although he did eventually find his mom. “I must have tried to knock on her door so many times,” he recalls. “I can still see that cobblestone street, and hear her voice ring, ‘Just a minute!’ from somewhere inside before I would run away down the street.” When he turned 21, he met a man from Newark who suggested he move his life to the states. So he left his bartending job in Portugal and hopped the pond. But once he landed and called the man from Jersey who had invited him to come, there was no answer. But Antonio was here, and determined to create a better life. Fast forward a few decades to present-day Astoria, and Antonio is now in his third year of business owning Portalia. The name is a blend, as well as a tribute to his heritage in Portugal and Italia. “The name was my son, Lorenzo’s idea, and some day I would love to introduce some of my Portuguese dishes as specials,” smiles the father of three with his two sons standing not too far behind him. His daughter, Tatiana, is not working at the restaurant this particular afternoon. It is a handsome family, and judging from the laughter, a very happy one. “I am very hands-on,” explains Antonio, who can often be seen bussing tables. He also hand-selects his ingredients from the market, “which are

10 | BOROMAG.COM | JULY 2014

never frozen,” he explains twice for emphasis. He even grows his own herbs in the front window running along the patio. “I guess I would say my style of cooking is northern Italian,” he continues, “with lots of marinating in wine, garlic, rosemary, and mint.” A charcuterie tray arrives with peppered cured meats and tissue-paperthin prosciutto, a glistening mosaic of olives, tiny bricks of aged parmesan and asiago, and marinated bell peppers in orange and red. Bread service includes thinly sliced loaves of cranberry walnut bread that lay across warm pieces of peasant bread. The basket is presented with a bowl of homemade marinara that has been blended with fresh herbs and a mild goat cheese, and we begin to dip the bread repeatedly. Most of the pastas are homemade, and we dive into a bowl of bucatini—long, thin pasta tubes that have been tossed in quail eggs, guanciale, parmesan, and black pepper to create one of the most savory carbonaras I have enjoyed. For dessert, a simple chalice filled with fresh berries and topped with a sabayon that is light as air genuinely hits the spot. The meal was fantastic, but not as heavy as I had thought it might have been. “You cannot sacrifice quality,” Antonio explains. And health is also a priority, as he is also a personal trainer on the side. “Maybe some day I will move and open my own farm-to-table restaurant, and maybe even go on a date,” he laughs. “But right now, my biggest pride are my kids,” who he was also left to raise by himself. His persistence, faith, and winning demeanor have made a lasting impression on me. Whenever he can, he likes to donate to the school down the street. “I wouldn’t be where I am if it weren’t for a lot of great people helping me along the way.” Portalia 35-03 Broadway, Astoria, NY 11106 718-545-3500 www.portalianyc.com

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JULY EVENTS

Find more events at www.BOROmag.com/Events 7/10 @ 9pm - midnight (MUSIC)

Live Music Thursdays: Jessy Tomsko

FREE | RaR bar/Rest-au-Rant 718-729-9009 | corner of 30th Street & 35th Avenue www.rarbarlic.com www.jessytomsko.com

7/13 @ 3pm - 4pm (ART)

Artists at Noguchi | Bang on a Can Music Series featuring Bang on Ja-Pan

7/10 @ 9PM

An 80’s & 90s ROCK SHOW featuring

Lavender Steel live at Shillelagh Tavern 718-728-9028 | 47-22 30th Ave, Astoria www.lavendersteelmusic.com

7/1-7/31 @ 11:30am-3:00pm (FOOD + DRINK)

Bear’s Summer Dumpling House

$7-$14 | Bear Summer Dumpling House 917-396-4939 | 12-14 31 Avenue, LIC

This summer for the fourth year, The Noguchi Museum partners once again with Bang on a Can to present an innovative performance series held in the Museum’s celebrated sculpture garden. On July 13, Music in the Garden will present a concert specially curated by Bang on Can including music by contemporary Japanese composers Dai Fujikura, Toru Takemitsu and Somei Satoh. The music will be performed by flutists Kelli Kathmann and Jessica Schmitz, and singer Daisy Press, all alumni of the Bang on a Can Summer Music Festival at MASS MoCA. Bang on a Can is dedicated to making music new. Since its first Marathon concert in 1987, Bang on a Can has been creating an international community dedicated to innovative music, wherever it is found. For more information, visit www.bangonacan.org $10 (included in the cost of admission) | The Noguchi Museum 718-204-7088 | 9-01 33rd Road, LIC www.noguchi.org/programs

Summertime spa & beauty soiree

Live Music Thursdays: The Astorians

www.sunnysideshines.org

www.rarbarlic.com

7/13 @ 3pm

4th Annual pie eating contest (ENTERTAINMENT)

FREE | Astor Bake Shop 718-606-8439 | 12-23 Astoria Blvd www.astor-bakeshop.com

7/7 @ 4pm - midnight (FOOD + DRINK)

Music Mondays

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

every Tuesday @ 9pm - 11pm (COMEDY

RaR bar comedy show

Showtime Special: $30 for a bottle of red or white and a cheese plate FREE | RaR bar/Rest-au-Rant 718-729-9009 | corner of 30th Street & 35th Avenue 7/17 @ 9pm - midnight (MUSIC)

Live Music Thursdays: Curtis Eller’s American Circus

every Wednesday @ 4pm - midnight (FOOD + DRINK)

7/18 @ 6PM – 8PM (HEALTH + FITNESS)

www.rarbarlic.com

www.rarbarlic.com www.curtiseller.com

HEALTHY HOUR | OPEN HOUSE

Want to learn easy self-care techniques to melt away workweek tension, improve posture and feel better? Free demos by Astoria based massage, acupuncture and fitness professionals to help you transition into the weekend. Demos at 6:30pm and 7:30pm. Refreshments will be served. FREE | Active Outlook Massage 646-283-4657 | 32-12 Broadway, 2nd floor, Astoria www.activeoutlookmassage.com

7/18 @ 7PM (FILM)

www.rarbarlic.com

The popular podcast “The Soundtrack Series” returns to the Museum with stories told by host Dana Rossi, Selena Coppeck,

12 | BOROMAG.COM | JULY 2014

www.rarbarlic.com http://rarbarcomedy.tumblr.com/

FREE | RaR bar/Rest-au-Rant 718-729-9009 | corner of 30th Street & 35th Avenue

Beer & Bacon All Night Happy Hour

FREE | RaR bar/Rest-au-Rant 718-729-9009 | corner of 30th Street & 35th Avenue

All Night Happy Hour

Every Monday Night @ 9pm-11pm (MUSIC)

2001: A Space Odyssey in 70mm

www.noguchi.org/programs

every Monday @ 4pm - midnight (HAPPY HOUR)

www.rarbarlic.com

7/5 & 7/6 @ 3PM and 6:30pm (FILM)

On July 6 and August 3, friends and neighbors are invited to visit the Museum for free admission and a variety of programs. Open Studio will take place from 11:00am to 3:00pm. A free public tour offered at 2:00pm, and from 4:00pm to 5:00pm, there will be a special Center of Attention conversation focusing on a single work of art. Free | The Noguchi Museum 718-204-7088 | 9-01 33rd Road, LIC

ONGOING

$2 OFF all drafts & $4 house red or white wine FREE | RaR bar/Rest-au-Rant 718-729-9009 | corner of 30th Street & 35th Avenue

www.noguchi.org/programs

Community Day

7/24 @ 9pm - midnight (MUSIC)

Free craft-making festival for kids of all ages FRee | 46th Street under the Sunnyside arch (at Queens Blvd) 718-606-1800

FREE | RaR bar/Rest-au-Rant 718-729-9009 | corner of 30th Street & 35th Avenue

7/6 @ 11am-6pm (ART)

http://www.movingimage.us/exhibitions/2014/07/19/detail/whats-up-docthe-animation-art-of-chuck-jones/

Sunnyside Summer Strolls: Children’s Arts & Crafts Fair

7/3 @ 9pm - midnight (MUSIC)

http://www.movingimage.us/visit/calendar/2014/07/05/detail/2001-aspace-odyssey-in-70mm

A new Smithsonian exhibition that explores the work of legendary animation director who made some of the most enduringly popular cartoons of all time, featuring characters including Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, Wile E. Coyote, and the Road Runner. The Museum’s presentation, accompanied by a screening series and education programs, kicks off a thirteen-city tour. The exhibition is a partnership between the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service, The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, the Chuck Jones Center for Creativity, and Museum of the Moving Image. $12 adults / $9 seniors & students / $6 children 3-12. Free for members | Museum of the Moving Image 718-777-6888 | 36-01 35 Avenue, Astoria

7/26 @ 1pm – 6pm (ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT)

www.rejuvenatenyc.com

Join us this Independence Day weekend for ultra-rare 70mm screenings of the ultimate space trip: Stanley Kubrick’s celebrated big-screen epic 2001: A Space Odyssey (1968). You have four chances this weekend, plus the film screens again on Saturday, July 12 at 3:30pm $12 (included with Museum admission) | Museum Of The Moving Image 718-777-6888 | 36-01 35 Avenue, Astoria

What’s Up, Doc? The Animation Art of Chuck Jones

www.rarbarlic.com www.dbrielly.com

FREE | Rejuvenate Face And Body 718-626-4434 | 26-17 23rd Avenue

On the first Friday of every month, admission is free and public tours led in English and Japanese are available at 2:00pm. July’s film selection will be Tadao Ando - From Emptiness to Infinity by Director Mathias Frick (German with subtitles) This documentary portrays one of the world’s most renowned architects - Tadao Ando, the Japanese Master of Minimalism. His award-winning brutalist architecture creates a spectacular connection between Japanese tradition and contemporary modernism. The film introduces Andos’s world-famous buildings and accompanies him and his work as he shares his sources of inspiration and motivation. Free | The Noguchi Museum 718-204-7088 | 9-01 33rd Road, LIC

7/19 (on view through January 19, 2015) during Museum hours (ART)

FREE | RaR bar/Rest-au-Rant 718-729-9009 | corner of 30th Street & 35th Avenue

7/2 @ 5-8PM (SPA + BEAUTY)

Free First Friday

http://www.movingimage.us/visit/calendar/2014/07/18/detail/thesoundtrack-series-dirty-dancing-2

Live Music Thursdays: D.B. Rielly - American Roots Music

www.bearnyc.com/dumplinghouse

7/4 @ 5-8pm (ART)

and James Bewley before a screening of Dirty Dancing (1987). $12 | Museum of the Moving Image 718-777-6888 | 36-01 35 Avenue, Astoria

The Soundtrack Series: Dirty Dancing

Wine Wednesdays

20% OFF every bottle of wine FREE | RaR bar/Rest-au-Rant 718-729-9009 | corner of 30th Street & 35th Avenue Every Thursday All Day (WEDDING PLANNING)

Wedding Trail Thursday’s

Free wedding consult. Please call for appointment. Thursdays in July. Advise for your special Day. FREE | Redken Saloon Salon 718-956-3366 | 36-17 30th Ave, Astoria redkensaloon.com

Every Sunday @ 11 am – 4 pm (ENTERTAINMENT)

Suite Sunday Rooftop Jazz Brunch

FREE | Penthouse808 @ Ravel Hotel 718-289-6118 | 8-08 Queens Plaza S, LIC www.facebook.com/penthouse808

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

CHARACTERS

The following excerpt is from an interview with Argy Koutsothanasis, Fashion Director at Fitness Magazine.

FITNESS & Fashion STORY + PHOTO

“I grew up in Woodside. I was born in Astoria. When I was 2 years old, my parents sent me to Greece to live with my grandparents—and then they forgot to pick me up for five years. Five years later I showed up, and there were these two people they claimed were my sisters. I was like, okay, I guess… “Being Greek, we would spend every weekend in Astoria in the Greek grocery stores, and do the Feta shopping—which is really important. I never left Queens after that. I went to Queens College. My family moved to Whitestone when I was 16. For me, it’s choking me or something living there. I like apartment buildings. I like to know that there is someone around. Noise doesn’t bother me. I like life being around. I love that we live in a city that doesn’t sleep. “I studied English lit[erature] and did my masters in creative writing and poetry. I thought about writing, but it’s tough. Getting into a place where I can start writing is very challenging for me. I would like to publish something, and I still write for myself. I studied poetry and I like the precision of poetry. Writing is tough. I love it, but I don’t think it’s something I can earn a living at. “After college, I started working full time as a tour operator, planning other people’s vacations. That wasn’t so much fun. I was at the travel company a few years, and someone at work advised me, “Write a really great letter to someone you love in fashion, and see if they will talk to you.” I thought that was a great idea, and instead of writing a letter, I thought, let me make a magazine. I wanted to work at a plus magazine at the time called Mode, because I thought that would be a great place to work. If you think about it, a plus-size magazine espouses loving yourself. I was heavier back then, and I didn’t think I would get a job at Vogue or Marie Claire.

Lizabeth Nieves

“So I then stalked the editor of Mode magazine at a Macy’s event, and gave [the magazine] to her. Of course I didn’t hear back from them. A month later, I decided to call her directly, and the [human resources] department called me back. They had a paid internship available. I was 26 at this point. I felt like I was really behind, so I felt like I really had to push myself. “The environment there was the opposite of what I expected. It was all these fat women who had been rejected in the mainstream magazine world, who were so angry and bitter. They were the nastiest group of women I’d ever encountered. I lasted two months there. “A stylist then told me about a gig with Golf Magazine for Women. I wound up getting this great gig where I freelanced for six weeks, and then had two weeks off. It was amazing. They ended up keeping me. Then they hired a new fashion director. I genuinely had the best experience with the new director a human being could have. At this point, I was a freelance stylist contributing. I worked with him for three years before he left, and I became the fashion director. Then the magazine shut down. “I heard about an opportunity for Fitness magazine to cover a maternity leave. My time ended with them in January as a freelancer. The woman came back, and wound up resigning right away, and they offered the position to me. “Going to Fitness magazine was great. It transformed who I am as a person. They are an incredible group of people. It’s really lovely to work with such talented people who work hard, but don’t forget to live their lives. I have been at Fitness six years this September.”

For more of Argy’s work check out her website at www.argystyle.com

14 | BOROMAG.COM | JULY 2014

JULY 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 15

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THE ARTS

salud, dinero y amor STORY + PHOTOS

Bradley Hawks

Salud, Dinero y Amor. It means health, money, and love. And it is the motto of Bolivares, the clothing line by Lucho Bolivar, an Astoria-born fashion designer who began creating his versatile style of knitwear in 2006. “My partner at the time and I had purchased a silkscreen press, and began experimenting with what it meant to make silkscreen tees,” he explains. “And I quickly realized that wasn’t exactly what I wanted to do,” he laughs.

premium. “When I went [to Peru] it was beautiful and really stood apart for me, and so that’s where I pulled my inspiration.”

Rather than call it quits and fold, Lucho simply packed his bags and went traveling for inspiration. “I was in South America when I realized that I have a real affinity for sweaters. Without saying much, they say just enough.” He also admires that the knits and textures of sweaters have a casual side to them, though they are more valued than a mere T-shirt. After settling on knitwear, it was simply a matter of collecting sights and sounds that would soon inspire his initial line.

And they truly do. From warm, thick cardigans in bright turquoise and sapphire to thin pullovers that subtly mix emerald and goldenrod, to bright red knit shorts and street-savvy hoodies, my eye is momentarily fixated on nearly every piece as it is pulled from the shelf and placed before me on the conference table.

“At that point I brought in Alexis, who was working at Ralph Lauren, and has been my friend since I was eighteen.” A stunning woman with golden-kissed mocha hair pulled back into a loose ponytail peeks around from behind her computer and grins as Lucho talks about her. “For me, it was simply about bringing in concepts that were stylish, yet effortless,” he continues. We are sitting in his design studio in a large renovated warehouse in Long Island City. The four staff members gazing at their computers with furrowed brows are testimony alone to Bolivares’s fairly speedy success. So are the shelves of scullies, sweaters, and sweats lining the walls. Lucho pulls down colorful blankets, flags, and streams of cloth as he shows me just some of his sources of inspiration, almost all from Latin America. While his style is definitely relaxed, it is of an undeniable quality. Bolivares uses Peruvian cotton, which comes at a

18 | BOROMAG.COM | JULY 2014

He also acknowledges that he is really drawn to blends of bright, bold colors, as well as a combination of textures. Unlike simply cutting and sewing a garment, knitting allows a seamless control of textures and blends of various hues. “Each of my pieces has a life of its own.”

It is also made apparent the diverse seasonality of knitwear. Each style boasts a different thickness, with several designs clearly intended for the winter, while remarkably thin versions make several shorts and tops ideal summer wear, especially as an added evening layer at dusk. While a brick-and-mortar store is in the planning stages, the Bolivares brand is presently available through e-commerce on his website. The site also includes something he calls The Chronicle, which is a blog that documents his various sources of inspiration, much like a bulletin board or Pinterest page. “It’s about travel and people-watching, and all of my senses bottle up and then pour out through my designs.” Rather than simply call each unique style a cardigan or pullover, they receive their own names. Each piece is like a part of his family tree of the people in his life and those he encounters. And while many of the names are obviously Latin, the clothing is a collection of pieces any man would be honored to wear.

51-02 21st Street Long Island City, NY 11101 (718) 389-6983 www.bolivares.com

Opening this summer

Corner of 36th street and Ditmars Blvd. @60beans JULY 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 19

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FOOD & DRINK

POP BAR Pops Up The space located at 12-21 Astoria Boulevard has been seeking a permanent identity over the course of the past few months, as Astorians have seen it pass from Hell Gate Social, to Hell Gate Tiki, and now a third manifestation within about a yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time. If last nightâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s preview was any indication, it seems to us like the space has finally found its perfect fit under the ownership of Jeremy Osslund. The new concept, POP BAR, is like stepping into a 5 Pointz painting, with a whimsical cocktail list and playful menu of bar bites. Surrounded by graffiti caricatures and Jap-anime courtesy of two former 5 Pointz artists, guests choose bar from a list that contains a New York Sour (Knob Creek with fresh lemon, a splash of simple syrup, and a floater of red wine) and a White Negroni (Brooklyn gin, lillet, white vermouth, and grapefruit zest). Nibbles range from sriracha-kissed ground duck sloppy joes to cold sesame noodles tossed in crushed peanuts and a creamy peanut sauce. And just beyond the vibrantly painted interior, the backyard reveals a spacious seating area surrounded by stacked white-washed crates and neon patio furniture, which will become a viewing area for '90s sitcoms and a variety of movies throughout the summer,. There openingnight guests enjoyed episodes of the Astoria-filmed Netflix hit series, "Orange is the New Black."

POP BAR

12-21 Astoria Blvd, Astoria www.thepopbar.com 718.204.8313

22 | BOROMAG.COM | JULY 2014

The backyard patio at Pop Bar

Tiki Tots and Sesame Noodles at POP BAR

New York Sour

The patio at M Wells Steakhouse

Last week Hugue Dufour and Sarah Obraitis entertained an intimate opening of the space outside their famous hidden steakhouse. As cab drivers dropped off guests, you could hear them exclaiming, “but this is an auto body shop, not a restaurant…” Meanwhile those arriving by foot double-glanced at their phones to check the address for the eleventh time. Indeed the space remains disguised from the street, save for a few decorative lights visible over the wooden fence. But step beyond the sidewalk and you will quickly pass through into the Narnia of this Quebecois chef and his effervescent wife. Dine in the open air next to an earthen grill where the chef cooks up smoked bites to order, ranging from lush bowls of toasted radishes, cauliflower, and assorted squash with aioli for dunking, to tomato and cheese tartines, crab-caked wedges of cornbread, and whole lobster tails while sipping on smart blends of Pastis and plump blueberries. Whether you come for a nosh before your steak and any one of the brilliantly creative sides, or simply step outside following dinner for a relaxed digestif, this secluded courtyard is one of the neighborhood’s most relaxing outdoor oases.

M. Wells Steakhouse

43-15 Crescent St., LIC www.magasinwells.com 718-786-9060

Al Fresco at M. Wells Steakhouse

BBQ Boar's Ribs

Solomon Gundy at M. Wells Steakhouse JULY 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 23

SHOPS

As the electronic needle rapidly drills at the skin, tiny beads of blood momentarily blend with the ink, reminding me of how permanent— and spiritual—the process of getting a tattoo can be. Some plan their art for weeks, months, even years. And some take the leap on a whim. “The first one is always the biggest one,” smiles Beans without looking up from his work.

“I took over the business in ’94,” he explains, “and we have been in this spot for almost 10 years.” He was born and raised in Astoria, and couldn’t imagine a life anywhere else.

Beans is one of the tattoo artists at Fat Cat Tattoos, and he is presently focused on the bicep of one of his clients, whose skin is being dramatically altered from the light caramel epidermis to a rather ferocious growling lion in grayscale and shiny red from the punctured skin. And while the photograph Beans is replicating glows in vibrant colors from the iPad resting at his work station, there is almost more life in the feline he is drawing in black and white on this young man’s arm. The face is almost pulsing, and Beans periodically wipes away tiny garnet droplets of blood.

Formerly, the business was at Steinway and 20th Avenue—until tattoos were legalized again in New York City in 1997. “After that, we moved up Ditmars to one of the landmark Astoria record shops, Underground Sound. All my friends’ bands were playing in the store all of the time, and it was the best spot to be for us.” They stayed there for about five years, and then finally noticed a habit was forming. “Every five years we would find a dead space, open up shop, and stores would pop up around us. Then all of a sudden our rent would go up like two thousand dollars. We would always be out front playing hacky sack or soccer, and I was always painting in the backyard, while friends’ bands were coming in and out—and the landlords would always want us gone.”

Few things are as intimidating as the freshly bleeding face of an enraged lion, and yet there is an unbreakable calm between the artist and his subject. Hypnotized, I simply watch the scene unfold for nearly 30 minutes before Kevin Q and I step away to talk.

They moved again to 23rd Avenue across from Telly’s Taverna into a space that was about 450 square feet. Sure enough, when lease renewal rolled around, they found themselves being asked for $1200 more. He claims he finally got really lucky with his current

24 | BOROMAG.COM | JULY 2014

landlord, with whom he has negotiated a lease for another 10 years. And beyond the remarkably clean space inside, they share a concrete walled backyard with one neighbor, with whom they often throw barbecues on holidays and special occasions. “When we first moved in, there was nothing here,” he recalls. Since they opened, the opposite side of the street has been developed into a building that houses the florist Petals and Roots as well as the Astoria Bookshop. “Even the souvlaki guy went from the cart to a truck,” he laughs. “I like that we are always just a little bit off the beaten path,” he explains with a grin, asserting that it all fits with the mysticism associated with tattoos. “I like that you have to search us out and we aren’t just on Steinway in the middle of a busy block.” The location also prevents random drunken passersby. “People who come find us are mostly serious, and that makes it fun for us, too.”

FAT CAT TATTOOS NYC

info@fatcattattoos.com (718) 267-1326 Fat Cat Tattoos 31-32 31st street Long island City, NY 11106 Open Monday through Saturday from 2PM – 10PM

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@BOROmag JULY 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 25

MAP IT DIRECTORY RESTAURANTS 115

alewife (a,4) 718-937-7494 5-14 51st Ave, LIC www.alewifequeens.com Aliada (b,2) 718-932-2240 29-19 Broadway, Astoria

144

alobar restaurant 347-752-6000 46-42 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.alobarnyc.com

163

Antika Pizzeria & Restaurant (c,2) 718-545-0555 36-08 30th Ave, Astoria www.antikapizzeria .com

129 130 6

112

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

AREPAS CAFE 718-937-3835 33-07 36th Ave (B,2) 2119 Broadway (B,1) www.arepascafe.com

169

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

Maizal Restaurant (B,2) 718-406-9431 32-07 34th Avenue, Astoria www.maizalrestaurant.com

170

Malagueta Restaurant (B,2) 718-937-4821 25-35 36th Avenue, Astoria www.malaguetany.com

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

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

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

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

105

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

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

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

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

148

124

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

150

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

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

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

117

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

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

159

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

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

112

125

Fatty’s (B,1) 718-267-7071 2501 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria www.fattyscafenyc.com Honoo Grill & Noodle 33-06 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria 718-606-0653 www.honoo33.com

26 | BOROMAG.COM | JULY 2014

133

Michael’s Cafe (B,3) (located inside Four Points Sheraton) 347-536-3633 27-05 39th Ave, LIC www.michaelscafeny.com Mojave Restaurant (B,1) 718-545-4100 22-36 31st Street, Astoria www.mojaveny.com OFF THE HOOK (B,1) 718-721-2112 28-08 34th Street, Astoria (one block from 30th A) www.offthehookastoria.com

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

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

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

162

PINK NORI (c,2) 718-685-2365 36-06 30th Ave, Astoria www.pinknori.com

109

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

153 118

116 123

31 29

Snowdonia Pub (B,2) 34-55 32nd St, Astoria, NY 11106 347-730-5783 www.snowdoniapub.com Stove Restaurant and Bar (C, 1) 718-956-0372 45-17 28th Ave, Astoria www.stoveastoria.com Sugar Freak (C,2) 718-726-5850 36-18 30th Ave, Astoria www.sugarfreak.com Testaccio (a,4) 718-937-2900 47-30 Vernon Blvd., LIC www.testacciony.com

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

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

PETS 54

BAKERIES

139

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

william hallet (c,2) 718-269-3443 36-10 30th Ave, Astoria www.williamhallet.com

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

121

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

138

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

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

108

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

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

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

FOOD SHOPS

City Vet (A,4) 718-433-1334 45-44 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.cityvetnyc.com LIC Veterinary Center (A,4) 718-383-8387 48-18 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.licvets.com Steinway Court Vet (c,2) 718-728-2822 32-41R Steinway St, Astoria www.steinwaycourtvet.com

FLORISTS 160

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

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

168

Allinones Services (B,1) 718-267-5090 25-40 27th Street, Astoria www.allinoneservices.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

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

SERVICES

161

ADEGA WINE & SPIRITS (B,1) 718-545-2525 31-25 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria www.adegawineandspirits.com

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

Astoria Park Wine and Spirits (b,1) 28-07 24th Ave, Astoria www.astoriaparkwineandspirits.com

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

Astoria wine and spirits (C,2) 718-545-9463 3412 Broadway, Astoria www.astoriawines.com

173

e.c.g. debt settlement (B,1) 718-932-9300 29-15 Astoria Blvd, Astoria

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

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

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

167

Yogurt La Crepe (B,1) 917-832-6930 29-02 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria www.yogurtlacrepe.com

143

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

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

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

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

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

SHOPS 104

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

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

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

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

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

MAP IT DIRECTORY 62

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

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

157

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

165

Crank Cycling Studio (a,4) 718-606-6309 4630 Center Blvd Long Island City, NY www.cranknyc.com

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

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

166

The Rock Health & Fitness Club (B,1) 718-204-1400 22-15 31st Street Astoria, NY 11105 www.therockhealthandfitness.com

EVENTS 64

FOUNDRY (a,3) 718-786-7776 42-38 9TH St, LIC www.thefoundry.info Renaissance Event Hall (A,1) 718-274-4590 27-34 21st St, Astoria www.renaissanceeventhall.com

142

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

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

110

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

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

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

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

ART 90

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

112

100

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

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

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

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

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

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

134

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

126

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

107

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

105

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

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

102

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

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

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

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

101

113

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

141

127

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

HOTELS

TATTOO SHOPS 147

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

158

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

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

BEAUTY 164

Carl Clarke AesthetIques (B,2) 347-631-0922 32-12 Broadway, Astoria www.defineyourlook.com

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

131

The Face & Body Shop 718-204-9390 40-21 23rd Ave, Astoria www.thefaceandbodyshop.com

Primp AND Tease SALON (a,4) 718-472-2001 5-02 50th Ave, LIC RedkEn SALOON Salon (c,2) 718-956-3366 36-17 30th Ave, Astoria www.redkensalon.com

FITNESS 58

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

154

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

120

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

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

136

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

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

156

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

SPAS 151

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

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

NIGHTLIFE/BARS 82

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

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

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

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

145

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

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

111

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

Raven Head Public House (C,2) 718-777-7565 3804 Broadway, Astoria www.ravenheadpublichouse.com

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

128

149

REAL ESTATE

140

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

103

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

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

172

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

Active Outlook Massage Therapy (B,2) 646-283-4657 32-12 Broadway, Astoria www.activeoutlookmassage.com

135

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

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

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

146

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

HEALTH & WELLNESS

WANT YOUR BUSINESS LISTED IN OUR DIRECTORY? 718.224.5863 ext. 206 Email: ADS@BOROmag.com

JULY 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 27

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SUITESUNDAY

BRUNCH O U T DO O R • R O O F TO P • C LI MATE CO N TR O LLE D

Starting at 11am till 4pm Featuring Live Jazz With

Dandy Wellington & His Band AND

Mimosas, Bellinis & Bloody Marys RESERVATIONS: 718.289.6118

8-08 QUEENS PLAZA SOUTH • LONG ISLAND CITY, 11101 PENTHOUSE808ROOFTOP.COMJULY • RAVELHOTEL.COM 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 31

BODY & SOUL

Barbara Serbes and Hayley Bridgewater

Bringing It To You:

Female Fitness Force By Hayley Bridgewater

I have always been impressed with the ability for the small business owner to find a need and fill it, especially here in western Queens. We live in a community of fearless and passionate entrepreneurs ready to grab their spot in the business landscape. This is especially true of our fitness community. Now I will admit, I am a gym girl. The environment focuses me, challenges me, and generally pumps me up. But I do realize that there are people who want fitness to be a part of their routine, but abhor going to a fitness facility, studio, or even for a run in the park. If this sounds like you, if your comfort zone is in your home, rooftop, or backyard, the Female Fitness Force could be your perfect fit. Led by Barbara “B” Serbes, the Female Fitness Force is a team of 12 independent trainers and a health coach with various specialties, including yoga and [ilates. All trainers are fully certified, insured and have CPR certifications. In addition to spending some time working out with me, their lovely and exuberant leader, B, shared with me the inspiration behind the FFF and her hopes for the future.

32 | BOROMAG.COM | JULY 2014

How was fitness introduced into your life? My fitness background dates back to my childhood. I grew up on a horse farm in New Jersey, which my brother and I turned into a sports complex, complete with basketball and sand volleyball courts. I played competitive softball for 12 years, and received a softball scholarship to Philadelphia University. I was a cheerleader from second grade through my senior year of college, and also have 12 years of dance training. My background in dance, cheerleading, and sports really shaped my adult life and the way that I carry myself. Things like discipline, body alignment, how my muscles work, and the importance of core strength, posture, practice, and teamwork. As captain of both my softball teams and my cheerleading squads, I developed special talents and tools that are essential for leading a team, which are coming in handy as I lead the Female Fitness Force into the future. What led you to establish this type of business? How long have you been operating? I became a personal trainer after dabbling in the fashion industry, where I was a Licensing Manager at Tommy Hilfiger. It soon became clear to me that sitting in a cubicle wasn’t what this dancer/athlete was supposed to be doing. I began dancing and performing for various entertainment companies and singing in a number of bands. It was during that time that

BODY & SOUL

Barbara Serbes and Hayley Bridgewater

Bringing It To You:

Female Fitness Force By Hayley Bridgewater

32 | BOROMAG.COM | JULY 2014

I decided to become a certified personal trainer to supplement my income between performance gigs. It seemed a natural progression and something I would be great at. I had no idea I would become so successful so fast. Within a year, I had 10 long-term clients and sometimes see six clients a day. It became clear in a session with one particular client, Ruxandra Giumanca, that I had to expand. I started delegating my overflow clients to my dancer friends who were personal trainers, and Ruxandra and I decided to build up my business together. Her business operations and accounting background coupled with my marketing and leadership experiences became a great combination. We then asked my long-time friend and co-dancer at On the Move Entertainment, Christina, to join us as well. Christina had just received her yoga certification, and was ready for a new phase in life. We formed the Female Fitness Force LLC in February of this year, and have already grown into quite a force. Do you find that western Queens is receptive to in-home personal training? Very much so! I find that once people realize they don’t have to go to a gym, they have a new outlook on reaching their health and fitness goals. We help them find a style and a trainer that’s right for them, and then we make sure they reach their goals. We don’t show up for an hour and leave. We coach our clients through their lives. I’m always texting and emailing with my clients, asking what they had for lunch, how many drinks they had at the party, how did the dress fit? We become part of their decision-making process. It truly is like having a friend come over to exercise with you and help you decide what’s for dinner. What do you think makes you unique in the Astoria fitness community? One of the great things about Astoria is that there are so many great health clubs, yoga studios, and fitness classes. We focus on coaching the men and women who don’t want to go to the gym. They don’t like people watching them do Zumba. They don’t want the men in the ‘guy area’ watching them do weighted squats. The women don’t want to have to tie a sweatshirt around their waists. Also, people are busy. If you only have four hours between the time you get home from work and bedtime, going to the gym is usually the thing that gets cut from the list. Because we come to you, you can literally fit everything in. You can stir your soup that’s cooking on the stove during your water breaks. You can write a to-do list while we take a quick breather. Believe it or not, I’m actually one of those people who, despite my love for fitness, hates going to the gym. I just don’t want people watching me exercise. I’m too self-conscious. We want people to know that it’s totally okay if you don’t like going to the gym. There are many ways to stay fit right at home, and that’s what we show you. For more information on B and her talented team of women: Female Fitness Force LLC Femalefitnessforce.com 844-FFFORCE • Info@femalefitnessforce.com Owners: Barbara Serbes, Founder & President Ruxandra Giumanca, Director, Business Operations & Finance Christina Morales D’Arce, Project Manager

How do you see your business developing and growing? Our growth strategy includes building a force in a variety of cities across the United States. We also are in the midst of filming a variety of free YouTube videos so people can work out with us, and learn some health tips right from home. They are quite entertaining and informative. By the end of this year, we will also be releasing a very affordable and entertaining Pilates video series that will be available to purchase through our website.

Japanese Fusion Cuisine • Sushi and Full Bar

@pinknori @pinknoriastoria /pinknori Find us on

Japanese Cocktails

36-06 30th Ave Astoria • 718-685-2365 HOURS: 11:30am to 11pm Mon through Thursday 11:30am to 12am on Fri and Sat and 12pm to 11pm on Sunday.

34 | BOROMAG.COM | JULY 2014

• Hair & Face Treatments • Nail Care • Waxing • Massage

718-777-1554

www.mintsalonspany.com 3003 Newtown Ave. Astoria, NY 11102

Frozen Yogurt, Sweet & Savory Crêpes

29-02 Ditmars Boulevard, Astoria NY • 917-832-6930 www.yogurtlacrepe.com

SPECIALS any size

Bubble Tea

from opening hour to 4 PM 7/31/14.

7/31/14.

JULY 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 35

NIGHTLIFE & ENTERTAINMENT

Band of

Carla Bosnjak, Chris Lovrin, Slavko Bosnjak, and Diana Lovrin

Gypsies

The Beer Garden is packed. Boisterous twenty-somethings behind the Bohemian Hall pound pilsners, while thirty and fortysomethings chase after their gravel-kicking kids who end up cackling in their fathers’ arms as they make involuntary trips back to communal tables. The wait staff runs around, delivering fresh pitchers topped with clouds of suds, and swiftly jotting down food orders. Everyone is happy. And the band— Bad Buka—hasn’t even taken the stage yet. Around 8 p.m., the large lean-to-like structure at the far side of the wooden dance floor gradually becomes crowded with people and instruments. Charlie Schmid tap-taps his snare and kick-kicks his bass drum for the sound guy. John Sully, another percussionist, mimics Schmid with his various playthings, while John Carlson tests his trumpet and Ben Backus thuds his bass. Chris Lovrin and Cooper Gorrie tune their guitars—though Cooper will later show off his bass-playing and horn-blowing skills too—and, always on the left, Kari Bethke guides a bow over her violin. Fauxhawked Carla and Diana, sisters of Chris, give their mics a check, and finally, Slavko Bosnjak—who is tall, Christ-like, and sporting a patterned handkerchief across his forehead—takes his center mic, and through a heavy Croatian accent, says, “Hello, Hello!” as more of a greeting than a volume check.

36 | BOROMAG.COM | JULY 2014

The dance floor is now populated only sparsely. These are the people who have come to see Bad Buka perform, some rocking the band’s signature black tees with white, block lettering spelling out the group’s name twice for emphasis. Meanwhile, the rest of the house sits at the rustic tables growing nervous at the thought of their fluid conversations coming to a screeching halt with the presence of a mediocre bar band. What they don’t realize is they’re about to be turned into fans, and their kids will too, because Bad Buka are seasoned performers armed with a tractor-beam aura, powered by their upbeat, unique Balkan punk tunes, and their message of love and friendship. But this ten-piece band of gypsies didn’t end up

together without an incredible, serendipitous story paving the way. In 1999’s Croatian tourist season, Slavko was living in his native country, on the island of Lošinj, selling knick-knacks out of the back of a van he also called home. He was 24 years old, had served in the nation’s army, seeing action in two conflicts, including their war for independence. He was a wanderer with no real direction—a literal gypsy. “I wasn’t really thinking about what I was going to do with my life,” he says. “I was just enjoying myself. I never thought about marriage and a family.” Slavko went into town with a friend one

evening to peruse the pubs, happening upon Carla Lovrin, a 20 year old, raised in Astoria, who’d moved to her parents’ native Croatia with her family five years prior. She was out with girlfriends that night, toasting to the single life, repeatedly referring to men as amoebas. Slavko was taken by her anyway, and, luckily for him, his friend knew her a bit. They won a place at the girls’ table. “But I didn’t think she’d ever take me seriously,” Slavko says. He was right. “The skinny stranger was a fast-talking charmer who used slang I’d never heard before. How annoying,” Carla wrote me in an email. “I disliked him right away.” So when they said their goodnights, Slavko presumed he’d never see her again. The next morning, he woke up feeling compelled to find her, already keen to the idea he had found the woman he wanted to marry. And it wasn’t long after he tracked her down that he told her as much. “He was persistent,” Carla wrote. “After a week of hardcore BS and charming he let it all go and was genuine, honest, and intelligent. I was shocked.” They were soon inseparable. During that same time period in Astoria, Carla’s brother, Chris, was living at a friend’s home. He made the jump to Croatia with the rest of his family in 1995 when he was seventeen, but moved back to his personal homeland after six months, partially because he didn’t speak Croatian well—and also because he wanted to finish school. In need of money, he took a variety of jobs, notably painting gypsies’ apartments. The painting provided frequent work for him since his fortune-telling clients avoided paying rents by pulling off latenight moves, switching apartments with other clans in on the scam. Chris finally began studying massage therapy after years of jumping from job to job. “It dawned on me one day that I just wanted to help people,” he says. So once his sister, Carla, moved back to New York with Slavko, her new husband, in 2003, another of Chris’ dreams—that of playing music—began to become a reality. In New York, Carla pursued performance and Slavko worked in construction. Chris had once found Croatia a challenging place to live, and Slavko felt the same way about

America because he didn’t know any English. But he and Chris were able to “speak the language of music,” as Carla put it, and they started jamming together in Carla and Slavko’s kitchen. By 2004, Chris was nearing the completion of his massage therapy coursework, and was wondering how he would come up with the tens of thousands of dollars needed to open his own business. “On the day of my graduation, I was driving around, thinking about how much money I’d need,” he remembers. “Then I got into a car accident, and eighteen months later I received my settlement check—which was the exact amount I needed to open my center. My lawyer told me it was a gift.” Chris has been doing massage therapy in Bayside ever since, and a few years ago, his sisters, Carla and Diana—who returned to New York with the rest of the Lovrin family in 2001—opened a yoga studio next door to his business. In 2007, Carla volunteered her husband and brother to perform at a theater where she worked. Reluctantly, Chris and Slavko took the gig, playing the three ethnic Balkan songs they’d written. But a talent manager who’d been looking to find an act just like them offered to book shows on their behalf. With time and synchronicity—as Chris calls it—the band has grown in numbers and popularity. Chris and Slavko have met the numerous members who’ve come and gone through friends and by just being in the music scene. As little sisters do, Carla and Diana bugged Chris to let them into the band. He caved a couple years ago. “I love that it has become a family band,” Carla wrote. “We’re all up on stage, celebrating together. We’ve come a long way.” By the time the stilt walker appears in a Bad Buka T-shirt halfway through their set at the Beer Garden, she’s dancing among dozens of people who’ve gotten up from their tables, some with their kids, to more closely experience the bad noise—that’s the band’s name translated from Croatian—while mingling and drinking with the longer-tenured fans, seamlessly, unaware that all this music, dancing, and love would’ve never happened if not for one fateful night out for some beers. To get their new album and find out about upcoming shows, check out Bad Buka’s website: www.BadBuka.com

LIC Vet Center is a full service animal hospital with compassionate veterinarians, board certified specialists, and a caring staff providing the latest in cutting edge technology. We are proud to be part of Long Island City Community.

• Complete Medical Exams • Wellness and Vaccination Programs • Ultrasonography • Nutritional Guidance • Cardiology

• Acupuncture • Digital Radiology (x-ray) • Medical Baths and Grooming • In-house laboratory • Surgeries and Orthopedics • Pain management and control • Dentistry and Digital Dental Radiology

Dr. Keith Manning | Dr. Erin Kulick

38 | BOROMAG.COM | JULY 2014

RETRO PIZZA CAFE In the heart of Astoria

41-02 Broadway, NY 11103 PH: 347-612-4460 • Fax: 347-813-4039

THE FACE & BODY SHOP

The one stop spa for all your beauty needs

“Come as you are, and leave FABulouS” SERVICES Spa Packages • Skin Care Hair Removal • Body Treatments Hair Services • Little Diva Spa Parties Hands and Feet • Make-Up Application Special Occasions • Metro Male

40-21 23rd Avenue

718-204-9390

www.thefaceandbodyshop.com

AUTHENTIC THAI AND ASIAN CUISINE

WEEKEND BRUNCH SPECIAL Sat & Sun 11am-3pm Includes entrée & 3 FREE DRInKS

Outdoor Seating Available 33-09 broadway, astoria I 718.956.7117 | www.lengthai.com JULY 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 39

FOOD & DRINK

Chocolate Pistachio Dome

Lobster Mac & Cheese

A Master Class in Hospitality STORY + PHOTOS BRADLEY HAWKS

The walls of the restaurant beyond the white gallery are covered in reclaimed wood with headlights dangling from the ceiling above the bar that is lined with candy apple red vintage bucket stools. And from the wooden beams adorning the walls, murals from a local artist are carefully displayed throughout the room. After all, the restaurant has its own curator. I stifle a chuckle at the timing of the song playing overhead. It’s Belinda Carlisle’s “Heaven is a Place on Earth.” “Welcome to Crescent Grill,” greets the hostess with a sincere, kind smile. Her uncles, brothers Dan and Shaun Dougherty, share ownership of the restaurant, and they both greet me soon thereafter. As a couple enters just behind me, Dan greets them by name. Shocked, the young woman replies with an enthusiastic, “now that is impressive.” “We want everybody to enjoy the food, and just because it is fresh and organic doesn’t mean it needs to be over-the-moon expensive,” says Shaun of his menu. “And we don’t buy from anyone unless I have visited their farm and witnessed their practices firsthand.” As he finishes the last sentence, his iPhone buzzes with a text message from one of the farms. “It’s just a text from John at Cascuns about my order this week,” he explains. He also grinds his own meat and sources his own cheese.

His asparagus appetizer features a log cabin of green spears over pickled maitake mushrooms, with a creamy egg that has been poached over low heat, that gently breaks over crunchy Serrano ham. A risotto of crisp English peas is studded with tender shreds of duck confit, bound together with Parmigiano Reggiano. Entrees include butter-poached lobster, coconut curried diver sea scallops, and a phenomenal $29 prix fixe menu that includes options like a rustic strozzapreti pasta with summer squash and fresh mozzarella. One of the most exceptional bites I tasted is the sublime Magret duck resting on a bed of spring garlic, baby turnips, fiddlehead ferns, and an addictive strawberry paint smeared in a teardrop across the plate. “We can still offer fiddleheads, even though their season just ended,” explains the chef. “I always pickle my seasonal vegetables near the end, so we can make them last a little longer—and everyone will be calling me soon to borrow some.”

Dan and Shaun Dougherty

Dan was the first brother to make the move to New York City from Pennsylvania in 1982, fresh from college. Shaun laughs as he recalls his first visit to Studio 54 when he was just 12 years old visiting his brother with his family. “I was in my Catholic letter jacket, but my sister was just 9 at the time—and between her bandana and leg warmers she looked like a tiny Olivia Newton John.” Shaun, too, fell in love with New York, and eventually moved out to join his brother. “I have always thought that this city is exactly what this country is meant to be—so many ethnicities and religions living—for the most part—in peace.” The journey for the brothers has not been without its challenges, but they now have a liquor license and an executive chef besides Shaun. “It was hard to step back and let someone else take over,” admits Shaun, “but our chef does a killer job.” Almost literally. Milton Enriquez grew up by Kaufman Astoria Studios. “I love cooking New American cuisine,” explains the chef, “because it allows the use of 40 | BOROMAG.COM | JULY 2014

global ingredients and loads of creativity.” When the chef isn’t wrestling with ingredients in the kitchen, he can most likely be caught in a cage fight with the MMA.

“Simplicity makes good things,” smiles the chef as I am presented with dessert. A pistachio wafer has been placed atop a silicon mold filled with pistachio mousse. Once the mousse has set, it is flipped onto a plate, and the dome is coated with dark chocolate and crushed sicilian pistachios, then adorned with a candied vanilla bean, miniature cubes of amaretto gelee, and a quenelle of pistachio ice cream. The mousse is more velvety than any I have tasted, and I literally go nuts over the dessert. The desserts are courtesy of the pastry chef, Blanca Castro, and I will definitely return for more. As if the evening had not already surpassed all expectations, I was met at the door by a car waiting to take me home. Crescent Grill actually offers its own complimentary shuttle service if you live within their pickup zone. From door to door and back again, it is one of the most enjoyable evenings I have spent in Astoria. Crescent Grill is now near the top of places I would highly recommend.

Crescent Grill 38-40 Crescent St. 718.729.4040 www.CrescentGrill.com

No need to Travel to Brazil , The Best Brazilian and Continental Cuisine is Right HERE!

Nosh Borough is the newest addition to the Astoria dining landscape.

Brazilian Restaurant

Come to Malagueta and enjoy a great meal! • Fresh Fish Daily • Open For Lunch • Daily Dinner Specials • Parties And Catering

•Roasted Meats •Platters •Wafcos •Pot Pies •Salads•Desserts & more

25-17 Astoria Blvd., Astoria, NY 11102 25-35 36th Avenue • Astoria • NY 11106 718.937.4821 • www.malaguetany.com

347-813-4677

www.noshborough.com

Ramen/Noodle House and Japanese Restaurant Brunch • Lunch • Dinner

Extended Happy Hour 4 pm-7pm and 9:30 Till Close OFF THE

Free Delivery - Minimum $15.00 • PICKUP Available

34-05 30th Ave, Astoria, NY • 718.806.1677

OFF THE HOOK

HOOK

RAW BAR SEAFOOD DRINKS & MORE

28-08 34th St • Astoria, NY 11103

718-721-2112

www.OFFTHEHOOKASTORIA.com

JULY 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 41

FOOD & DRINK

The burger with caramelized bacon jam also comes banh mi style

Nosh Borough

Chocolate Peanut Butter Tart

Jinhee Park and Johney Han recently got engaged, and then they decided to open Nosh Borough. “When we can make this restaurant work, we will set a date and make our marriage work,” laughs Jinhee. “For right now,” her fiancé interrupts, “we are just trying to do great slow food cooking — served fast.” Their brisket is smoked for 12 to 13 hours, and they brine their chicken for two days in a special sugar and salt solution. Burgers are a house blend of brisket, ground chuck, and sirloin — and they knock ‘em out of the park. If their first month is any indication, this sweet little shop on Astoria Boulevard between 21st and 31st Streets is poised to score a grand slam, with an inventive all-star menu that changes monthly.

The chicken wafco comes in a scallion waffle

25-17 Astoria Blvd. Astoria, NY 11102 (347) 813-4677 www.NoshBorough.com

Cheddar-havarti mac and cheese

Mango Cheesecake

French fries with sausage gravy and pico de gallo

42 | BOROMAG.COM | JULY 2014

JULY 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 43

Long Island City School of Ballet

EXPRESS SERVICE \\\\\\\\

$20

BLOWOUTS Redken Saloon Salon \\ redkensaloon.com 718-956-3366 | 36-17 30th Ave., Astoria NY 11103

Zend Avesta Pilates Ballet Pre Ballet Pre Dance Parent and 2â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Sports Dance

Jazz Tap Imagine Dance Studio Rental Birthday Parties Adult classes

an Astoria Pilates Studio

Want to get in shape and look great while exercising in a comfortable environment? For more more information: For information: 718-781-1169 licballet@gmail.com 718-781-1169 info@licsb.com Register online at www.licsb.com LICSB 44-02 23rd Street Studio 216 LIC, NY 11101 44 | BOROMAG.COM | JULY 2014

23-31 27th St. Astoria, NY

(646) 543-3251

www.zendavestapilates.com

Friends of Hunters Point Library invite you to visit your

Saturday Library Center Boulevard at 48th Avenue in Hunters Point

Visit the Mobile Library to borrow/ return Queens Library materials, use the computers, speak with a librarian, get a free Queens Library card.

Every Saturday, 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Visit the Pop-Up Library on the plaza at Gantry to read and relax. Enjoy reading-related programs and activities for children.

Admission is free. www.queenslibrary.org Queens Library is an independent, not-for-profit corporation and is not affiliated with any other library system. JULY 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 45

REA L ESTATE

A Rent Evaluation of

Western Queens BY Austin Christopher Bradley

Due to the high population and low inventory of Manhattanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rental market, Queens has become the second most sought after borough for living, just behind Brooklyn. Most neighborhoods in Queens offer easy access to transportation via buses and subways, a thriving nightlife, and neighborhood characteristics that many Manhattan neighborhoods are lacking. As humans of New York, we are inherently on a constant search for a deal. We want the best cup of coffee for the lowest price. We want the BIGGEST sandwichâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;for the lowest price. Most importantly, we want the most space for the lowest price. We dug deep and researched hard to find the numbers needed to make an educated decision on getting the best value for a new apartment in Western Queens. Here is a breakdown of the present costs of our five nearest neighborhoods.

5. Long Island City Long Island City offers great views and a quiet city life that cannot be experienced much anywhere in the city. The neighborhood has a limited assortment of types of apartments, being that the majority available offer highend luxury living.

Price Per Square Foot:

Almost anyone can, and will, tell you that finding a home in Manhattan has become ridiculous. From sketchy brokers, to the infamous bait-and-switch game, to high rents, and low expectations, New Yorkers have been gradually coming to terms with the fact that living in Manhattan just might not be in the cards for them. The outer boroughs have become the city hot spots, and incomers and locals alike are fleeing to the lower rents that they offer. 46 | BOROMAG.COM | JULY 2014

- Neighborhood Average: $44 - Studio: $52 - 1 Bedroom: $45 - 2 Bedroom: $41

Square Footage:

- Neighborhood Average: 740 - Studio: 521 - 1 Bedroom: 700 - 2 Bedroom: 1,084

Average Rent:

- Neighborhood Average: $2,720 - Studio: $2,640 - 1 Bedroom: $2,835 - 2 Bedroom: $3,697

4. ASTORIA Astoria has quickly become known as a neighborhood of incredible and diverse food offerings. This neighborhood is most definitely a melting pot of age demographics and cultural backgrounds.

Price Per Square Foot:

- Neighborhood Average: $35 - Studio: $35 - 1 Bedroom: $34 - 2 Bedroom: $36

Square Footage:

- Neighborhood Average: 750 - Studio: 550 - 1 Bedroom: 680 - 2 Bedroom: 850

Average Rent:

- Neighborhood Average: $2,200 - Studio: $1,700 - 1 Bedroom: $1,950 - 2 Bedroom: $2,350

3. SUNNYSIDE Sunnyside is another neighborhood that can be described as quiet. The area has betterthan-average school rankings, and sits just a 20 minute ride on the 7 train from Times Square. Even though it is light on the restaurant and nightlife side of things, it is a quick commute to Astoria where you can find top notch grub.

Price Per Square Foot:

- Neighborhood Average: $32 - Studio: $38

- 1 Bedroom: $30 - 2 Bedroom: $32

Square Footage:

- Neighborhood Average: 710 - Studio: 460 - 1 Bedroom: 720 - 2 Bedroom: 825

Average Rent:

- Neighborhood Average: $1,875 - Studio: $1,500 - 1 Bedroom: $1,850 - 2 Bedroom: $2,100

Average Rent:

- Neighborhood Average: $1,700 - Studio: $1,400 - 1 Bedroom: $1,700 - 2 Bedroom: $2,125

As you have probably noticed, if you are looking to save on rent, LIC is not for youâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;unless you are looking for a luxury deal. Astoria was once a neighborhood where you could catch an awesome deal, but due to the recent popularity of the neighborhood, it is becoming a more pricey pocket of the Queens landscape. Sunnyside

is trailing behind Astoria in the categories of apartment price and size, and is poised to be neck-and-neck within the next few years. Both Woodside and Jackson Heights have a strong sense of community and historic value. Shopping for apartments in these areas will not break your bank. As the city population grows, so will the demand for apartment housing in these Queens neighborhoods. But no matter where you call home, western Queens is one of the more affordable neighborhoods with a thriving diversity.

2. WOODSIDE Woodside is a thriving neighborhood with low crime rates, great schools, and inspiring cultural diversity. While still not as nightlife happy as neighborhoods like Astoria, Woodside does have a broader selection than its close neighbor, Sunnyside.

Price Per Square Foot:

- Neighborhood Average: $31 - Studio: $30 - 1 Bedroom: $27 - 2 Bedroom: $36

Square Footage:

- Neighborhood Average: 830 - Studio: 400 - 1 Bedroom: 700 - 2 Bedroom: 835

Average Rent:

- Neighborhood Average: $1,850 - Studio: $1,250 - 1 Bedroom: $1,650 - 2 Bedroom: $2,100

1. JACKSON HEIGHTS Jackson Heights has a large selection of older housing options. Most of these co-ops in the historic district offer private gardens. Jackson Heights does have a vibrant nightlife scene, and has several trains that run through the neighborhood.

Price Per Square Foot:

- Neighborhood Average: $29 - Studio: $48 - 1 Bedroom: $24 - 2 Bedroom: $29

Square Footage:

- Neighborhood Average: 900 - Studio: 350 - 1 Bedroom: 900 - 2 Bedroom: 900 JULY 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 47

CREATE COLAB CULTURE

COWORK & MEET SPACE Become a member of Queens’ first coworking space. Join our community of creative independents, technologists, entrepreneurs, writers and startups.

Join us for a free work day

Schedule online: qnscollective.com/boro

36-27 36th Street 2nd Floor, Astoria (718) 280-5122 Facebook / Google+ / Instagram / Twitter / @qnscollective

1 VERNON JACKSON

1017 JACKSON AVE. LONG ISLAND CITY, NY

Price: $725,000 3 rooms / 1 bed / 1 bath / Condo in Hunters Point FOR MORE INFORMATION: WWW.LMNSREALTY.COM

For more information about this listing and many others in LIC, Manhattan and Brooklyn, please contact us. OLGA STATZ, J.D., LLM | LUMINOUS INTERNATIONAL, LLC (646) 515-6548 • 41 MADISON AVE. 31ST FL NY, NY 10010 • WWW.LMNSREALTY.COM

48 | BOROMAG.COM | JULY 2014

JULY 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 49

www.ovelia-nyc.com

718-721-7217

Arepas Grill

La casa de le Vinotinto

21-19 Broadway, Astoria, NY 11106 Delivery 718-355-9686

www.arepasgrillnyc.com VISIT OUR OTHER LOCATION:

33-07 36th Avenue, Astoria, NY 11106 | 718-937-3835

www.arepasnyc.com

Catering Available

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

Zagat Rated

718-878-3829 50 | BOROMAG.COM | JULY 2014

Summer Session

in our New Campus

Call to register today

MARK YOUR CALENDAR! 8 17 14 health

EXPO

beauty and financial A perfect event for the entire family.

Sunday, August 17, 2014 11am-4pm New YORK HALL OF SCIeNCe (nysci) 47-01 111tH St, CORONA, NY 11368 Free ADmission* with your paid admission to the museum Adults (ages 18 & older): $11 Children (ages 2 – 17): $8 Senior Citizens (age 62 & older): $8

A day for anyone looking for information on how to stay financially fit, look good, feel good and how to be prepared for the future. Everything from health insurance options, healthy eating for your kids, how to lose weight, beauty tips, health screenings, investment tips, saving for college to long-term care insurance and senior living.

PresentInG sPOnsOrs:

At the Expo you will: • Discover our community’s best local resources • Meet & speak one-on-one with local experts • Visit and shop exhibitor tables • View and participate in a variety of demonstrations • Receive tons of fabulous giveaways and chances to wIN great prizes. Prizes given away every hour. • Enjoy all the wonderful exhibits and activites at the nysci

Free gooDY bAg* SPONSOReD BY:

* while supplies last

QueensCourier.com

To sponsor, exhibiT or ATTenD cAll 718.224.5863 exT. 201 regisTer AT www.queenscourier.com/heAlTh-expo

JULY 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 51

BLOGS

We heart

In recent years, blogs have become increasingly vital sources of information, especially when it comes to hyperlocal news, scoops, and events. After all, when a New Yorker wakes up, they aren’t necessarily scurrying in a housecoat to grab the morning paper from the stoop anymore. No, people are sleepily glancing at their smart phones, tablets, and laptops, and then clicking on their favorite bookmarks to get the inside scoop before they even get out of bed. For anyone living in Western Queens, one of the most comprehensive and insightful sources of information is WeHeartAstoria.com.

BORO: How many sister websites have launched in the We Heart family? Judith: We’ve recently launched We Heart LIC, We Heart Sunnyside, and have plans to expand to other burgeoning Queens neighborhoods. Our goal is to spread local, relevant and interesting information to other Queens neighborhoods in the future, servicing curious residents and visitors.

Check out the heat map of where to eat on Eater.com, and you will likely see them quoted there. Ask most business owners how they like to spread news on their events, and you will most likely hear a mention of Mackenzi Farquer (owner of the Lockwood Shop and member of Community Board 1), Judith Klein Rich (author of the food blog Fooditka.com), or Meg Cotner (author of the Food Lovers’ Guide to Queens) somewhere in the mix. At Christmastime, their giveaways are unparalleled. Their annual “best of ” vote is one of the most celebrated and coveted in the neighborhood. So of course we had to check in with these Astoriasavvy gals to find out just what makes them tick.

BORO: What is one of your favorite underrated locations in Astoria?

BORO: If readers want to provide tips and get involved, what can they do? Meg: The best thing is to email us at weheartastoria@gmail.com.

Judith: I love Koliba Slovak Restaurant—it reminds me of home, Othello Deli, and Ukus Grill—the grilled kebabs and the shopska salata are to die for. Mackenzi: I love De Mole. No one ever talks about it, and I don’t know why. Meg: A couple of things. Ralph Demarco Park, for one. It doesn’t get nearly the attention that Astoria Park does, despite that they are neighbors, and the walk along the water from Ditmars to 20th Ave is so nice. I am also a big fan of Bangkok Tasty, a Thai restaurant that makes some really delicious dishes. I love their Spicy Duck Salad, which is nice and light yet packed full of flavor. They use kaffir lime leaf in it, which I love, and don’t always find at a lot of local Thai restaurants. There is an earthiness to the dishes that are spicier, too, which is a definite plus for me.

BORO: On what date did you start? Judith: We published our first post on March 15, 2010. BORO: How do the three of you know one another? Mackenzi: Meg and Judith had been writing for a great local blog, Joey in Astoria, for awhile when I stumbled upon them. I was running SITE and getting lots of insider info just being at the shop, and reached out to see if they wanted another writer for the website. When Joey moved to Vermont we took it as a sign and launched our own blog. The whole process felt so organic—in the beginning nothing was overly planned; it all just sort of happened. BORO: How many people are now on staff? Meg: There are the three of us, and last year we added one additional staff member, Emily Rios, who is our business development/sales director. BORO: What does your blog offer that you feel you do really well? Mackenzi: We LOVE to be the first to break news; it’s what gives us our high. Being able to make deep connections in the community is what we do best. When business owners come to us to share their big news, it really makes me feel good about what we’re doing with the blog. I think our ability to bring fresh news really makes us a trusted voice in the neighborhood, and I’m always grateful for that.

52 | BOROMAG.COM | JULY 2014

BORO: What is your favorite holiday in Astoria, and why? Judith: I love the fireworks in Astoria Park, which happen a few days before the 4th of July. It feels like a special event just for our community that lets us get in on the action ahead of time, and I think that’s pretty awesome. Meg: Well, probably the Summer Solstice because all the daylight feels luxurious, and Socrates Sculpture Park always does a great event to celebrate this change of seasons. I am also a big fan of World Cup season in Astoria—I don’t think there’s a better neighborhood in which to watch it because of the broad variety of global communities here. The enthusiasm for the matches is amazing here, and the energy is contagious. WeHeartAstoria.com WeHeartLIC.com WeHeartSunnyside.com

211-19 26th Ave | Bayside NY 11360 1-877-ALICIAS | ALICIASJEWELERS.COM C H A R R I O L U S A . C O m | FA CEBOOK. C O m /CHARRIOLUSA

JULY 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 53

LIC

FLEA &

FOOD

UPCOMING SPECIAL EVENTS Jazz Festival • Scavenger Hunt Corn Hole Tournament • Food Extravaganza Visit our Facebook page for details

EVERY SATURDAY 10AM - 6PM

5-25 46th Avenue, Long Island City, NY 11101 Corner of 5th Street & 46th Avenue Walking distance from the East River Ferry and the 7, G, E & M trains

Food • Antiques • Art • Fashion • Collectibles • Fun ASTORIA

FLEA &

FOOD AT

LIGHTS, CAMERA... FLEA EVERY SUNDAY 10AM - 6PM

34-12 36th Street, Astoria Enter Through Studios Gate At 35th Avenue & 36th Street By train: M, R Steinway Street Stop, N, Q 36th Avenue Stop

LICFlea.com 54 | BOROMAG.COM | JULY 2014

@licflea @astoriaflea

JULY 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 55

Unique Cuisine

Fantastic Margaritas

MEXICAN CUISINE • TEQUILA BAR GUACAMOLE MADE FRESH TO ORDER

MAIZAL

HAPPY HOUR $5 All Day sun-thurs 4-7pm Fri & sat

32-07 34th Avenue | AstoriA, nY 11106 | 718-406-9431 www.maizalrestaurant.com

56 | BOROMAG.COM | JULY 2014