VOL 5:8 JULY 2015 From the Welling Court Mural Project
an b Ur GREAT DISCOUNTS
at the best spots in Astoria, LIC, Sunnyside
t Ar Queens Beer Book p. 16
Lunch at Mu Ramen pg. 32
Healthier Ice Cream p. 42
Welling Court Mural Project pg. 46
BORO PARTY + FUNDRAISER SATURDAY, JULY 25TH SEE PAGE 51
2 | BOROMAG.COM | JULY 2015
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CONTENTS
Dear Western Queens, Though our borough has already celebrated our independence with a gorgeous display of fireworks over Astoria Park, we take this entire month to demonstrate our gratitude. I could not be more honored to call such a profoundly diverse neighborhood my home. Now, we are steps closer to equality for everyone in law, and hopefully one day in practice. I celebrate everything that makes each of us boldly unique. Our diversity is on colorful display in the urban art of the Welling Court Mural Project, to which we pay homage in this issue. We celebrate the creativity of local filmmakers and artists, and we sample exceptional pizzas from Rockaway Beach, as well as our own backyard. Artistry is everywhere, even in the dishes we savor. We are fortunate to be the home of Mu Ramen, and we take a look at some of their offerings now available at lunch. We even satiate our sweet tooth cravings with some healthier ice cream alternatives at Sweet Jane’s. As always, please share with us your own personal anecdotes, and send me any tips, comments, news or events to bhawks@boromag.com. We look forward to sharing many more stories with you in the months ahead. Make the most of this summer! Gratefully yours, Bradley Hawks
BRADLEY HAWKS editor-in-chief
The Filmmaker
FEATURES
18
Katch Astoria
FEATURES
6 EXPLORE YOUR BORO
44 VOLUNTEER
10 THE ARTS
46 THE ARTS
Whit’s End Pizza Damian Rivera
16 NIGHTLIFE
Queens Beer Book
18 THE ARTS
The Filmmaker
22 BODY & SOUL
Oak Point Health & Vitality
32 FOOD & DRINK Mu Ramen
36 FOOD & DRINK Katch Astoria
42 FOOD & DRINK
Sweet Jane’s Ice Cream
36
Central Astoria LDC Welling Court Mural Project
52 FOOD & DRINK Tufino Pizzeria
DEPARTMENTS
12 JULY 2015 EVENTS 25 BORO DEALS & DISCOUNTS PAGE
Exclusive savings, discounts and freebies for the month of July in Astoria, LIC and Sunnyside.
26 MAP IT DIRECTORY
Your go-to guide for Astoria, LIC and Sunnyside’s best shops, food, art, nightlife and more
28 MAP IT: ASTORIA, LIC & SUNNYSIDE MAP
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 © 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 | BOROMAG.COM | JULY 2015
LET’S GIVE THE SUN A LITTLE SOMETHING TO WORSHIP
waxcenter.com
FIRST WAX FREE* offer expires 8/27/15
LONG ISLAND CITY 718 482 9299
REGO PARK COMING SOON
4545 Center Boulevard
61-35 Junction Boulevard
© 2015 EWC *First-time guests only. Guests must reside in state where redeemed. Not valid for all services. Additional restrictions may apply. Visit waxcenter.com for complete details.
JULY 2015 | BOROMAG.COM | 5
8397_LongIslandCity_BoroMag_F.indd 1
6/19/15 1:51 PM
food & drink
out a rhythm “ Chewin' on my bubble gum
The sun is out and I want some. It’s not hard, not far to reach, We can hitch a ride to Rockaway Beach…
”
—Rockaway Beach, Ramones
What the #$@%?
If your ears are tender and your sensitivities err on the side of conservative, you may just want to skip to the next story. But if you can stomach a menu worded by a chef who swears like a sailor—because he is one—then you might be rewarded with one of the best pizzas around at Whit’s End on Rockaway Beach, named after chef and owner Whitney Aycock. Under the heading “Some of our Faults,” he confesses, “We say fuck a lot—really, a lot!” Soon after, you may notice menu items like a “Fuckin’ Good Burger” loaded with aged cheddar and hot pepper jelly, or the “Octo… Pussy” served with wild chickpeas, herbs and lemons. You can even order a char-kissed NY Strip for $40.
It’s a hole-in-the-wall place tucked between the Playland Hotel and a Chinese takeout shop. They don’t have a working telephone line, and the hours tend to change at the owner’s whim—though the Chinese cook next door confirms they typically open daily at 5 p.m. Imagine a Neapolitan brick oven decorated with rolling waves and topped with a mountain of baseball caps. Then surround that with a wooden bar lined with mismatched stools, on a yellow and white checkered floor, along a 6 | BOROMAG.COM | JULY 2015
window of broken sea shells, beneath posters of bikini pinups, all across from a worn brown leather couch and coffee table—and you’ve nailed the pizzeria’s ambiance. But unlike your older brother’s college dorm room, you won’t be ordering pizza from a generic dial-in delivery pizza chain. You might order a pizza loaded with hillbilly bacon, peaches, lemon and verbena. Or perhaps one topped with a tossed pile of mortadella and blistered peppers. Or maybe you will simply want a classic margherita—any pie maker’s true litmus test. Here, the tender crust blisters up around sweet and tangy tomatoes, with glistening basil leaves crisping over mounds of fior di latte. If you close your eyes and allow the smells to overtake you, you might find yourself in a pizzeria in Naples. Then open your eyes and ears again, and really take in the experience. Because this pizza is legitimate rock and roll. 97-14 Rockaway Beach Blvd. Rockaway Beach, NY 11693
JULY 2015 | BOROMAG.COM | 7
Open Houses Every Sunday Limited Homes Available For Sale
Pistilli Riverview East
19-19 24th Avenue, Astoria NY Edith Lopez 718.704.4773 Larry Greenberg 917.932.4829 www.191924ave.com
Pistilli The Grand Manor 45-02 Ditmars Blvd., Astoria, NY Edith Lopez 718.704.4773 Larry Greenberg 917.932.4829 www.4502ditmars.com
Built in 1925, the former Eagle Electric Building has
The history of the Pistilli Grand Manor is what distinguishes
been completely renovated and altered. This former
it from other condominiums in Astoria. Formerly The
manufacturing plant has been transformed from 125,000 square feet of raw commercial space into approximately 350,000 square feet of modern duplex lofts, duplex mezzanines, and both traditional and penthouse
Steinway Piano Company. With the Pistilli Grand Manor completely renovated, prospective residents will be able to choose from a large selection of beautiful units. The condominium complex has been specifically designed to meet the needs of its residents who are
apartments. Many units have terraces and balconies, and
looking for affordable, yet luxury and functional housing
residents will also enjoy private amenities such as a fitness
opportunities. In addition to the selection of condominium
center, laundry facilities, private reading and relaxation
units, the Pistilli Grand Manor also features approximately
quarters, and parking.
20,000 square feet of commercial space.
Open house 2-3:30pm
Open house 12-1:30pm
Call For A Private Viewing or Email Info@pistilli.com 8 | BOROMAG.COM | JULY 2015
DOMINIE’S ASTORIA
HAPPY HOUR / PIZZA / FULL BAR / LIVE MUSIC / GOOD TIMES
Join us every Sunday for Live Jazz 9pm-12am with Christian Coleman
DOMINIE’S
HAPPY HOUR SPECIALS Monday-Friday: 4pm-8pm Saturday & Sunday: 2pm-8pm All Beers ― $4 Well Drinks ― $4 Margherita Pizzas ― $5
Sun - Fri 4PM-4AM / Sat 2PM - 4AM
34-07 30th Avenue • Astoria, NY 11103 718-706-6531 • www.dominiesnyc.com
JULY 2015 | BOROMAG.COM | 9
THE ARTS
Artist N
at the Flea
ot all urban artork is painted on brick walls and warehouse garage doors. Sometimes, it comes from the mind of a visionary artist who sells his pieces at the local flea. Self-taught, Damian Rivera is rendering some whimsical creatures that might best be described as irreverent, playful, mischievous and even sweet. Available in prints or on buttons you can attach to your backpack or jacket, this is some pretty creative artwork we think you might want to check out. Swing by the flea (5-25 46th Ave., LIC) to peruse the latest paintings, or purchase a print online.
DamianRivera.storenvy.com instagram @damianrivera 10 | BOROMAG.COM | JULY 2015
EXPRESS SERVICE \\\\\\\\
$20
BLOWOUTS Redken Saloon Salon \\ redkensaloon.com 718-956-3366 | 36-17 30th Ave., Astoria NY 11103
HOLDING THE KEYS TO YOUR NEW HOME! Call Michele Today! 347-678-7662
WWW.BEAUDOINREALTY.COM
JULY 2015 | BOROMAG.COM | 11
JULY EVENTS 7/2 @ 9pm - midnight
Live Music: D.B. RiellyAmerican Roots Music
Find more events at www.BOROmag.com/Events
7/13 & 7/27 @ 7:30pm
7/16 @ 9pm - midnight
Space is limited, please reserve your spot in advance by calling 212-319-7000. There is a 24-hour cancellation policy $35 | includes skinny cocktails and light bites immediately following the session until 9:30 pm Z Hotel | 11-01 43rd Avenue, LIC www.zhotelny.com
FREE | RaR Bar - Rest-au-Rant 718-729-9009 | 30-01 35th Avenue (corner of 30th Street), LIC www.rarbarlic.com
Sunset Rooftop Yoga Series
FREE | RaR Bar - Rest-au-Rant 718-729-9009 | 30-01 35th Avenue (corner of 30th Street), LIC www.rarbarlic.com www.dbrielly.com
7/9 @ 9pm - midnight
Live Music: Beecher’s Fault
FREE | RaR Bar - Rest-au-Rant 718-729-9009 | 30-01 35th Avenue (corner of 30th Street), LIC www.rarbarlic.com www.beechersfault.com
7/6 @ 4pm - 2am
Beer & Bacon All Night Happy Hour
a happy hour dedicated to all things bacon FREE | RaR Bar - Rest-au-Rant 718-729-9009 | 30-01 35th Avenue (corner of 30th Street), LIC www.rarbarlic.com
7/15 @ 6pm – 8pm
The Art of Listening: A Musical Exploration
$10.00 | Queens Council of the Arts 37-11 35th Ave, Entrance on 37th Street, Astoria
7/16 @ 7:30pm – 9pm
Waterfront Concert Series 2015: Swing time Big Band FREE | Astoria Park Lawn Astoria Park, Astoria, NY 11105 Shore Boulevard between the Hell Gate Bridge and the pool
Live Music: Mickey Zetts and friends
7/21 @ 7PM
Woodbines Beer Events TROEGS CRAFT BREWERY & NARRAGANSETT FREE | Woodbines Beer 47-10 Vernon Boulevard
Waterfront Concert Series 2015: Michael Patrick’s Ring of Fire Band
FREE | Astoria Park Lawn Astoria Park, Astoria, NY 11105 Shore Boulevard between the Hell Gate Bridge and the pool
ONGOING ONGOING Every Tuesday @ 8:30
Trivia Tuesdays
Break Billiard 32-04 Broadway, LIC www.break-ny.com
Jazz Live
FREE
@ Dominies of Astoria 34-07 30th Ave • Astoria www.dominiesnyc.com
12 | BOROMAG.COM | JULY 2015
Queens Council of the Arts 37-11 35th Ave, Entrance on 37th Street, Astoria
7/29 @ 12pm – 8pm
Astoria Music NowNew World Queens fest
Astoria Park, Astoria, NY 11105 www.astoriamusicandarts.org/
7/25 @ 10am-6pm
7/23 @ 7:30pm – 9pm
Every Sunday and Monday @ 9pm-midnight Trample Man: Broc Hempel, Sam Trapchak and Christian Coleman
7/27 @ 7pm – 9pm
Tools for Attracting and Engaging Donors
Every Sunday @1–3
Live Music
Brunch Saturday and Sundays in July Break Billiard 32-04 Broadway, LIC www.break-ny.com
every Monday @ 1pm - 2am
All Night Happy Hour with Slider Specials
$3 sliders and tacos, $4 cans, $5 house wines, $2 off all drafts & more Tue-Fri Happy Hour 1pm - 7pm FREE | RaR Bar - Rest-au-Rant 718-729-9009 | 30-01 35th Avenue (corner of 30th Street), LIC www.rarbarlic.com
DAY AT LIC FLEA Get a FREE beer at the All-Queens Beer Garden plus we will be have giveaways
FREE | LIC FLEA
718-224-5863 | 5-25 46th Ave LICflea.com every Tuesday @ 10pm - 11pm
RaR Bar Comedy Show
Showtime Special: $30 bottle of wine and cheese plate FREE | RaR Bar - Rest-au-Rant 718-729-9009 | 30-01 35th Avenue (corner of 30th Street), LIC www.rarbarlic.com
every Wednesday @ 4pm - 2am
Wine Wednesdays: 20% off every bottle of wine
FREE | RaR Bar - Rest-au-Rant 718-729-9009 | 30-01 35th Avenue (corner of 30th Street), LIC www.rarbarlic.com
every Sunday @ 4pm - 2am
Sunday Tasting Menu
$10 BBQ and Draft, $40 2 tapas & bottle of wine, $55 4 tapas and a bottle of wine FREE | RaR Bar - Rest-au-Rant 718-729-9009 | 30-01 35th Avenue (corner of 30th Street), LIC www.rarbarlic.com
JULY 2015 | BOROMAG.COM | 13
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We’re not just building a new facility. We’re building a new future. Introducing the NEW Mount Sinai Queens
www.mshq.org 25-10 30TH AVENUE ASTORIA, NY 11102
JULY 2015 | BOROMAG.COM | 15
MSQ_May_Boro_043015.indd 1
4/30/15 11:54 AM
nightlife
Beer ―for a―
Buck The craft beer and brewery scene has recently exploded in Queens, and how on earth is a guy or gal supposed to know which beer to choose? Wouldn’t it be dreamy if someone offered a booklet of vouchers from local bars and beer halls—vouchers that would allow you to sample a beer of your choosing—for just one buck? The popular webmag Brokelyn has announced the launch of the first-ever Queens Beer Book, a craft beer bar and brewery discovery booklet offering 30 beers at 30 bars across the borough for just $30. The book is modeled after the successful Brooklyn Beer Books created by Brokelyn, and will be sold on Brokelyn. com as well as in the Lockwood Shop in Astoria, Queens. Neighborhoods in the inaugural Queens Beer Book, which expires Dec. 15, 2015, include Astoria and Long Island City, along with Ridgewood, Forest Hills, Kew Gardens, Glendale and Bayside. “The NYC craft beer scene has been growing like crazy, and Queens has been at the forefront of that growth. Five new breweries have opened their doors to Queens beer drinkers in the past three years alone, with two more on the way,” said Cat Wolinski, a NYC-based beer writer who curated the book for Brokelyn.
“Bars get new faces in the door all year long, while Beer Bookers get an enticement to try new places,” said Brokelyn founder Faye Penn. “The books are valid for six months, so people can take their time exploring.” The inaugural Queens Beer Book includes local breweries such as SingleCut BeerSmiths (Astoria), Finback Brewery (Glendale), Rockaway Brewing Co. (Long Island City) and the brand-new LIC Beer Project (Long Island City), along with notable craft beer venues such as Alewife (Long Island City), Crescent & Vine (Astoria), Sunswick 35/35 (Astoria) and the Queens Kickshaw (Astoria). The Queens Beer Book includes up-and-coming locations such as Astoria Beer and Brew, a boutique beer bar and homebrew shop in northwest Astoria; Bierleichen, a metalthemed German beer hall and restaurant in Ridgewood; Forest Hills Station House, a purveyor of unique craft beers, small-batch whiskeys and bar fare located near the Long Island Railroad station; and Judy and Punch, the latest New York-centric craft beer destination to join Astoria’s bustling 30th Avenue.
brokelyn.myshopify.com
“After the success of the Beer Books in Brooklyn, it was impossible to ignore Queens as our next step in connecting beer drinkers with local craft beer-centric businesses in their areas.” Besides highlighting and supporting the exploding craft beer community, the Beer Book serves as a roadmap to beer venues, breweries and beer-centric eateries. Beer Book holders can redeem their vouchers for one beer at each venue over the next six months, and are encouraged to bring friends, order additional food and drink, and share their experiences on social media with the #queensbeerbook hashtag.
16 | BOROMAG.COM | JULY 2015
Singlecut Tap Room
Quality Care And Compassion In a Neighborhood Setting
32-41R Steinway Street, Astoria Right by the R and M subway stop
718-728-2822
www.steinwaycourtvet.com info@ steinwaycourtvet.com Sans titre-1 1
20/04/15 12:46
JULY 2015 | BOROMAG.COM | 17
THE ARTS
Photo of Petros Georgiadis by Sarkis Delimelkon
The
Filmmaker Story By Thomas Caramanno
New York has produced some of cinema’s greatest filmmakers, including Martin Scorsese, Francis Ford Coppola and Spike Lee, to name a few—visionaries who pushed the boundaries of film with harrowing narratives set against the backdrop of the gritty, dilapidated streets of the Big Apple. Today, a young director and New York native hopes to follow in the footsteps of such legends, all while developing his own distinct style and building a reputation as an imaginative auteur. Petros Georgiadis, writer and director of the shorts “Running Out” and “The Paradox,” hopes to engender buzz on the film festival circuit next year with his first feature-length production, “Sever.” Grounded in themes of intimacy, adultery and the foibles of human relationships, the film tells of a wife coming to terms with her husband’s extramarital affair over the course of a weekend. In describing his inspiration for the material, Georgiadis claimed he did not understand duplicity in relationships, and yearned to enter the mind of an adulterer. Though sex and infidelity are potent themes for any filmmaker to explore, Georgiadis attempts to infuse such dark, somber subject matter with more lighthearted tones. He describes his artistic style as an amalgamation of “tragedy and comedy, because that’s what life is—in 24 hours, we go through a range of emotions and that’s what I try to bring into films.”
18 | BOROMAG.COM | JULY 2015
More than anything, it is the intricate fibers of life that Georgiadis hopes to capture with his work, and that includes creating a realistic portrayal of both the beautiful and unappealing aspects of the world. “I don’t like bullshit in my films, [like] ‘Transformers.’ I like to make films about real people,” he professed. Georgiadis specifically draws inspiration from filmmakers such as Spike Jonze and David O’Russell, whose quirky, idiosyncratic characters and story structures serve as a model for his own craft. In his shorts, both of which Georgiadis wrote in one day, he proves himself to be an adept, versatile storyteller, vacillating between romantic sentimentality in one and the depths of sexual and moral corruption in the other. “Running Out” investigates love and a marriage that transcends time and space, even in the afterlife. “The Paradox,” influenced by a poem written by Georgiadis’ friend Karina Vetrano, sheds light upon the prototypical battle between good and evil within the collective consciences of its two protagonists. “Running Out” was well received and lauded, being nominated for a multitude of awards at the Sparrow Film Project, a cinematic festival run by the Sparrow Tavern in Astoria. Georgiadis even took home the award for Best Director. Georgiadis, who was born in Greece but immigrated with his family to Astoria in 1997, dates his passion for film and entertainment to his time as a student at Long
Island City High School. Though he experimented with acting and participated in the school’s theater group, he was eventually drawn to film and enrolled in elective Art of Cinema classes for three subsequent years. The influence of Dr. Ronald Puch, one of his film teachers, resonates in particular. Georgiadis explained, “We would sit and dissect films all day, and that’s when my passion for storytelling developed.” He credits viewing movies in high school like “Psycho,” “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest” and “White Oleander” with solidifying his decision to pursue filmmaking upon graduation. Within the current cinematic landscape, Georgiadis feels that films today are overly generic and feature trite storylines juxtaposed with ostentatious special effects. “The artistry of storytelling is put second, and glitter is thrown all over the place,” he laments. He yearns to contribute new perspectives to storytelling on the big screen, and in doing so, wishes to shed further light on the human condition. But for now, Georgiadis is content
with simply being recognized as a local filmmaker within his own neighborhood. He excitedly proclaimed, “I want to get Astoria to say, ‘Hey, that guy’s a filmmaker!’” “Running Out” and “The Paradox” can be viewed on Georgiadis’s Vimeo account (https://vimeo.com/ petrosgeorgiadis). His feature, “Sever,” will tentatively be released in early 2016, and updates regarding this project are regularly posted on his Facebook page, Petros Georgiadis Films.
vimeo.com/ petrosgeorgiadiS Petros Georgiadis FilmS
r The Paradox
Running Out
20 | BOROMAG.COM | JULY 2015
GET BEHIND THE GATE
“Best outdoor space in Astoria” - Chef Nathaniel Felder
enjoy live music, happy hour & brunch in our backlot garden 32-14 36th street | astoria ny 11106 | 718.255.1947 info@astorroom.com | www.Astorroom.com JULY 2015 | BOROMAG.COM | 21
n
o
Sp
o
BODY & SOUL
ig h t l t
Holistic therapies for
Whole Body Wellness Story By Hayley Bridgwater
Nestled on the corner of 24th Avenue and 23rd Street in Astoria, Oak Point Health and Vitality Centre is an oasis of calm owned and operated by Dimitri Boules, LAc, LMT, CPT, and his wife Anna Louca Boules, LAc, LMT. Offering health services such as acupuncture, tui na, skin therapy, and holistic health counseling, Oak Point is a onestop shop for personal well-being. I was referred to Dimitri by a trusted friend (and consummate health and fitness professional) for some assistance with pain from a nagging athletic injury. I have long been a fan of both acupuncture and e-stim for injury rehabilitation, but had never experienced them together as a therapy modality. As it is for many, my schedule prohibits me from shutting things down completely, so my hope was that this would be the missing piece to my treatment puzzle. After meeting with him and experiencing his assessment and treatment protocol, I am happy to report progress with the calf. Hayley Bridgewater: Tell us about the origins of Oak Point Health and Vitality Centre. Dimitri Boules: My wife and I decided to pursue a career in natural medicine after some time working in the health and beauty industry. While in our previous careers, we both 22 | BOROMAG.COM | JULY 2015
noticed that true wellness requires a holistic approach, and in order to be well-rounded, we decided to study acupuncture and Oriental medicine. At Oak Point Health and Vitality Centre, we take a holistic approach in treating pain and internal medical conditions. We believe that our symptoms are simply the result of an underlying imbalance. By taking a step back and looking at the whole person, we are able to pinpoint the imbalances and treat the root cause that is [triggering our] symptoms, like hormonal acne, PMS, pain or any other medical condition. HB: Have alternative healing modalities always been a part of your life? DB: My wife, Anna, and I have always had an interest in natural medicine and holistic therapies. We are the type of people that would use natural remedies for ailments rather than taking a pill to mask the symptoms. In our family and with our friends, we were always the go-to people for questions about nutrition, fitness and health. HB: How would you describe your primary client base? DB: Our clientele ranges from 4- to 70-year-olds. We have a lot of young patients who are more interested
in using Oriental medicine and acupuncture to treat their conditions because they are tired of Western medical approaches or can’t afford them, or have tried everything and nothing has worked. The majority of our patients come in to get treated with either acupuncture or massage therapy for orthopedic or sports injuries. Many come for the treatment of infertility, stress, anti-aging, skin care, hormonal acne, digestive issues, seasonal allergies and other chronic conditions.
are not many places that offer the services that we do. A lot of our patients say that they are grateful that we are here in Astoria, and they do not have to go into Manhattan to get things like acupuncture, quality massage therapy services, natural anti-aging therapy and holistic medical services. One of the things that sets us apart is that we actually listen to the patient and take time to get to know them in order to help them get better.
HB: Share with us a little about your current staff. DB: We have two acupuncturists, a massage therapist and an office manager. We are in the process of hiring two more acupuncturists to meet the demand. Massage therapist Chouline has been a great addition to our wellness center, as she listens and tailors treatments to what the clients need. Acupuncturist Anna specializes in holistic anti-aging skin care, and uses acupuncture, herbal medicine, nutrition and esthetics to help her clients feel and look 10 years younger. I have a special interest in treating orthopedic and sports injuries. I integrate traditional and modern acupuncture in order to provide a speedy recovery and longlasting results. By combining traditional wisdom and modern science, the results we get are extraordinary.
HB: Where do you envision the business growing from where it is currently? DB: This is our third year in business, and as I mentioned earlier, we are in the process of hiring another two acupuncturists. We do foresee expanding and adding more locations around Queens and Manhattan.
HB: Do you feel like Astoria plays a definitive part in your business? DB: Absolutely. Our business is thriving because of Astorians. They are always looking for alternatives and ways to improve their well-being, whether it is an organic health food store, a yoga studio, a gym or an acupuncture office.
23-92 23rd St. Astoria, NY 11105 718-777-0620 www.oakpointhealth.com Services: Acupuncture, Massage Therapy, Kinesio Taping, Corrective Exercise, And Skin Care Therapy
HB: Do you feel that the business fills a need in western Queens? DB: I definitely do believe that we fill a need because there
For additional information on services, pricing and location:
Oak Point Health and Vitality Centre
JULY 2015 | BOROMAG.COM | 23
GORGEOUS SIXTH FLOOR CONDO AT LONG ISLAND CITY’S THE INDUSTRY
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24 | BOROMAG.COM | JULY 2015
Boro deals & discounts Be local and enjoy the below offers from some of Astoria and LIC’s best merchants. Offers available through July 31, 2015. Bring BORO or coupon below to redeem discount. Limited to 1 use per reader. Merchant restrictions may apply.
ASTORIA CLEANERS 10% OFF
FOR NEW CUSTOMERS ONLY!
One free coffee with breakfast or lunch
Monday - Friday 7am-3pm. Cannot be combined with any other offer, special or discount
15% OFF ORDERS OVER $100 LIMIT 1 PER CUSTOMER Promotions cannot be combined
A Redken Concept Salon $20 FOR A WALK IN BLOWDRY!
Spend $100 or more get $10 off with this ad.
20% OFF with this ad.
Learn to Drive
1/2 price on 5hr Class or Defensive Driving CourSE
HAPPY HOUR
FerrariDrivingSchool.com 718-278-6679
5-7PM • Tuesday - Sunday.
20% off one artwork purchased online or in the gallery (framing/shipping/tax not included. Promo code: ROBORO
25% off any service for new clients only.
Learn to Produce Music
1/2 price on any course - limited availability
Organic Food Store We SellNew Organic &Health Gluten Free Products
EnergeaNYC.com 929-296-9314
10% offWeall purchases Sell Organic with this ad. Expires 10/31/2015. & Gluten Free Products
10% off
NEW LUNCH SPECIAL MENU
all purchases with this AD Expires 8/31/2014
3553 32nd Street Long Island City, NY 11106 (Corner of 36th Avenue & 32nd Street)
SEE OUR AD ON PAGE 40
20% off 6718-204-2161 bottles of wine
Does not apply to on-sale items. Must present coupon. Cannot be combined with any other offer.
25% off all Homebrew supplies & equipment 21-76 21st St. Astoria, NY
Dominies
SEE OUR AD ON PAGE 9
Happy Hour Specials
Monday-Friday 4pm-8pm Saturday & Sunday 2pm-8pm
15% OFF one item.
Get 1 month FREE and FREE install! High-speed Internet and Digital TV starting at $34.99
All-Queens Beer Garden
Buy 2 Beers Get 1 FREE
5-25 46th Avenue, Long Island City Only valid for Saturdays and Sundays in July Must present original coupon. Limit 1 per person.
Follow Us For Great Deals Throughout The Month /BOROmag
@BOROmag JULY 2015 | BOROMAG.COM | 25
MAP IT DIRECTORY RESTAURANTS 2
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
AREPAS CAFE 718-937-3835 33-07 36th Ave (B,2) 2119 Broadway (B,1) www.arepascafe.com Astor room (C,2) 718-255-1947 34-12 36th St, Astoria www.astorroom.com
181
Hibino LIC (A,4) 10-70 Jackson Ave, LIC 718-392-5190 www.hibino-lic.com
91
S Prime Steak House (c,2) 718-707-0660 35-16 36th St, Astoria www.sprimenyc.com
27
Astoria Park Wine and Spirits (b,1) 28-07 24th Ave, Astoria www.astoriaparkwineandspirits.com
112
Il Bambino (C,2) 718-626-0087 34-08 31 Ave, Astoria www.ilbambinonyc.com
194
Sac’s Place Coal Oven Pizza (B,2) 718-204-5002 2541 Broadway, Astoria www.sacsplace.com
38
Astoria wine and spirits (C,2) 718-545-9463 3412 Broadway, Astoria www.astoriawines.com
13
leng thai (b,2) 718-956-7117 33-09 Broadway, Astoria www.lengthainewyork.com
25
Sage General Store (b,4) 718-361-0707 24-20 Jackson Ave, LIC www.sagegeneralstore.com
187
Grand Wine and Liquor (B,2) 718-728-2520 30-05 31st St, Astoria www.grandwl.com
14
LIC Market (B,4) 718-361-0013 21-52 44th Dr, LIC www.licmarket.com
28
Shi (a,4) 347-242-2450 4720 Center Blvd, LIC www.eatdrinkshi.com
40
LGC Wine & Liquors (B,1) 718-726-1555 43-20A Ditmars Blvd, Astoria
16
Linn (B,2) 718-204-0060 2913 Broadway, Astoria www.linnrestaurant.com
55
Skinny’s (a,4) 718-806-1068 47-05 Center Blvd, LIC
104
Apollo Gallery (C,2) 718-786-7590 34-10 36th Ave, Astoria
21
babyNOIR (B,1) 646-470-4728, 26-16 23rd Ave, Astoria www.babynoir.net
45
Belief (B,1) 718-721-4444 29-20b 23rd Ave, Astoria www.beliefnyc.com
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
52
Lockwood Shop (C,2) 718-626-6030 32-15 33rd St, Astoria www.lockwoodshop.com
51
Loveday 31 (B,2) 718-728-4057 3306 31st Ave, Astoria www.loveday31.com
193
Sofia’s Consignment Shop (B,2) 718-775-8455 32-02 34th Ave, Astoria www.sofiasconsignment.com
54
City Vet (A,4) 718-433-1334 45-44 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.cityvetnyc.com
LAS MARGARITAS Restaurant Lounge (C,2) 38-01 Broadway, Astoria 718-777-1707 www.lasmargaritasny.com
153
Snowdonia Pub (B,2) 34-55 32nd St, Astoria 347-730-5783 www.snowdoniapub.com
169
Maizal Restaurant (B,2) 718-406-9431 32-07 34th Avenue, Astoria www.maizalrestaurant.com
116
Sugar Freak (C,2) 718-726-5850 36-18 30th Ave, Astoria www.sugarfreak.com
170
Malagueta Restaurant (B,2) 718-937-4821 25-35 36th Avenue, Astoria www.malaguetany.com
123
Testaccio (a,4) 718-937-2900 47-30 Vernon Blvd., LIC www.testacciony.com
Basil Brick Oven (B,1) 718-204-1205 28-17 Astoria Blvd, Astoria www.basilbrickoven.com
18
Manducatis Rustica (A,4) 718-937-1312 46-3 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.manducatisrustica.com
31
Vesta (a,2) 718-545-5550 2102 30th Ave, Astoria www.vestavino.com
Bear (a,2) 917-396-4939 12-14 31st Ave, Astoria www.bearnyc.com
19
184
23
MexiBBQ (c,2) 718-626-0333 37-11 30th Ave, Astoria www.mexiqny.com
Via Vai (B1) 31-09 23rd Ave, Astoria 347-612-4334 Viavai-ny.com
Bowery Bay (A,1) 19-33 Ditmars Blvd 718-721-1933 www.bowerbaybar.com
3
Mezze Place (B,2) 718-777-2829 31-18 Broadway, Astoria www.mezzeplace.com
124
191
Vinte Vinosteria 718-278-8483 31-05 34th St, Astoria www.vitevinosteria.com
6
4
118
105
Bareburger (b,2) 718-777-7011 33-21 31st Ave, Astoria 718-204-7167 23-01 31 St, Astoria www.bareburger.com The Barn Restaurant, Bar & Lounge (a,2) 718-728-0305 30-09 21st Street, Astoria www.thebarnastoria.com
7
Bread Box Cafe (A,4) 718-389-9700 4711 11th St, LIC www.breadboxcafelic.com
5
Brick Cafe (B,2) 718-267-2735 30-95 33rd St, Astoria www.brickcafe.com
26
Burger Club (b,2) 718-777-7788 32-02 30th Ave, Astoria www.burger-club.com
125
133
148
182
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 Nosh Borough (B,1) 25-17 Astoria Blvd, Astoria 347-746-5542 noshborough.com OFF THE HOOK (B,1) 718-721-2112 28-08 34th Street, Astoria (one block from 30th A) www.offthehookastoria.com
29
william hallet (c,2) 718-269-3443 36-10 30th Ave, Astoria www.williamhallet.com
108
Winegasm Bar and Eatery (c,2) 718-932-3331 31-86 37th Rd, Astoria www.winegasmeatery.com
32
Yajai (b,2) 718-956-9559 33-16 30th Ave, Astoria www.yajaithaifood.com
Burger Garage (B,3) 718-392-0424 25-36 Jackson Ave, LIC www.theburgergarage.com
35
Butcher Bar (c,2) 718-606-8140 37-08 30th Ave, Astoria www.ButcherBar.com
20
Ornella Trattoria Italiana (B,1) 718-777-9477 29-17 23rd Ave, Astoria www.ornellatrattoria.com
87
Café Bar (C,2) 718-204-5273 32-90 36th St, Astoria www.cafebarastoria.com
61
Ovelia (B,2) 718-721-7217 34-01 30th Ave, Astoria www.ovelia-ny.com
138
10
Café via espresso (C,1) 718-545-3290 2409 Steinway St, Astoria www.cafeviaespressoastoria.com
22
Penthouse 808 (A,3) 718-289-6118 8-08 Queens Plaza South, LIC www.penthouse808rooftop.com
189
IL Fornaio Bakery (B,2) 29-14 30th Ave, Astoria 718-267-0052
117
Carioca Grill (B, 2) 718-606-1329 29-03 Broadway, Astoria
162
190
Ok café (B,1) 22-04 33rd St, Astoria 718-440-8789 www.okcafeastoria.com
9
Cavo (C,2) 718-721-1001 42-18 31st Ave, Astoria www.cavoastoria.com
PINK NORI (c,2) 718-685-2365 36-06 30th Ave, Astoria www.pinknori.com
37
Sweetleaf (A,4) 917-832-6726 10-93 Jackson Ave, LIC www.sweetleaflic.com
176
Crescent Grill (B,3) 718-729-4040 38-40 Crescent Street, 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
El Ay Si (A,4) 718-389-8781 47-38 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.elaysi.com
112
Fatty’s (B,1) 718-267-7071 2501 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria www.fattyscafenyc.com
26 | BOROMAG.COM | JULY 2015
109
Pita pan (c,2) 718-204-1633 37-15 30th Ave, Astoria www.pitapanny.com
69
Portalia Ristorante (b,2) 718-545-3500 35-03 Broadway, Astoria www.portalianyc.com
74
1
Queens Comfort (c,2) 718-728-2350 40-09 30th Ave, Astoria www.queenscomfort.com Queens Kickshaw (c,2) 718-777-0913 40-17 Broadway, Astoria www.thequeenskickshaw.com
183
RETRO PIZZA CAFE 41-02 Broadway, Astoria 347-612-4460 Fax: 347-813-4039
24
Rèst-âü-Ránt (B,2) 718-729-9009 30-01 35th Ave, Astoria www.rarbarlic.com
PETS
BAKERIES
8
150
SHOPS
115 33 34
139
60 bean coffee & tea (C,1) 347-987-3994 36-02 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria Astor Bake Shop (a,2) 718-606-8439 12-23 Astoria Blvd, Astoria www.astor-bakeshop.com 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
FOOD SHOPS
121
75
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 718-728-2828 www.offbroadwayflorist.com
44
Floresta (A,4) 917-612-4446 51-02 Vernon Blvd, LIC 4-85 47th Rd, LIC www.florestanyc.com/blog
137 47
NYC FARM CHIC Flowers www.nycfarmchicflowers.com
130
Petals and Roots (B,2) 718-267-1700 31-27 31st St, Astoria www.petalsandroots.com
39
Food Cellar (A,4) 718-606-9786 4-85 47th Rd, LIC www.foodcellarandco.com
179
Project Earth (B,2) 35-53 32nd St, LIC 718-204-2161
168
167
Yogurt La Crepe (B,1) 917-832-6930 29-02 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria www.yogurtlacrepe.com
Admiral lock and Key (C,2) 718-274-2491 37-17 Broadway, Astoria www.admirallockandkey.com
114
Ark locksmith 24/7 Service (c,2) 718-932-LOCK (5625) 30-10 37th st, Astoria www.Astorialocksmith.com
36
Astoria Bier & Cheese (C,2) 718-545-5588 34-14 Broadway, Astoria
SERVICES
WINES & SPIRITS 178
Astoria 35 Laundry & Fine Dry Cleaning (B,2) 3505 34th St, Astoria 718-392-9692 Astoria35laundry.com
MAP IT DIRECTORY 119
Astoria Center of Israel 718-278-2680 27-35 Crescent Street, Astoria www.astoriacenter.org
177
Astoria Cleaners (B,1) 28-19 Astoria Blvd, Astoria 718-545-0680 Astoriacleaners.com
129
Blue Bird Child Care 347-832-0103 25-58 48th St, Astoria www.bluebirdchildcareastoria.com
143
D&D Podiatry 718-545-0205 23-18 Broadway, Astoria www.ddpodiatry.com
77
Dr. Panagiotis Pagonis, M.D. (b,2) 718-278-0300 30-16 30th Ave, Astoria www.drpagonismd.com
173
e.c.g. debt settlement (B,1) 718-932-9300 29-15 Astoria Blvd, Astoria
161
energea (C,2) 929-296-9314 34-13 38th Street, LIC EnergeaNYC.com
90
FERRARI Driving School (c,2) 3232 Steinway Street 718-278-6679
56
Hero computer repair nyc 347-670-4376 Apple/Mac Computer Repair Specialist hero@iamhero.net | www.iamhero.net
180
Montessori Kids of LIC (B,3) 5 Court Square, LIC 347-746-5542 mklic.com m
57
MPN Law Firm (C,2) 718-777-0400 3403 Broadway, Ste. 200, Astoria www.mpnfirm.com
174
QNS COLLECTIVE (c,3) 718-280-5122 36-27 36th Street, 2 floor, Astoria www.qnscollective.com
59
RCN (A,3) Digital TV and High-Speed Internet Services 212-842-7981 33-16 Woodside Ave, LIC www.rcn.com/boromag
122
Tuck-It-Away Storage (B, 3) 718-519-8282 37-19 Crescent Street, Astoria www.tuckitaway.com
TATTOO SHOPS 147
Body Language Tattoo 347-808-0497 32-02 34th Ave, Astoria www.bltnyc.com
80 136
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
158
FAT CAT Tattoo (B,2) 718-267-1326 31-32 31st Street, LIC www.fatcattattoos.com
60
Tightan Gym 718-274-1606 31-21 31st St, Astoria www.tightan.com
67
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
164
151
HAPPY DaY NAIL SPA (B,2) 718-728-8886 31-35 31st St, Astoria
195
European Wax Center LIC (A,4) 718-482-9299 4545 Center Blvd, LIC www.europeanwaxcenter.com
81
Rejuvenate face and body (B,1) 718-626-4434 26-17 23rd Ave, Astoria www.Rejuvenatenyc.com
Gigi Salon (c,2) 718 -777-7755 34-17 30th Ave, Astoria www.gigistylingstudio.com
188
Shade Organic Spa and Salon 36-05 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria 718-278-7892
131
The Face & Body Shop 718-204-9390 40-21 23rd Ave, Astoria www.thefaceandbodyshop.com
72
Primp AND Tease SALON (a,4) 718-472-2001 5-02 50th Ave, LIC
46
RedkEn SALOON Salon (c,2) 718-956-3366 36-17 30th Ave, Astoria www.redkensalon.com
192
shade organic spa and salon (C,1) 36-05 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria 718-278-7892 shadebarspa.com
NIGHTLIFE/BARS 82
Bohemian Hall & Beer Garden (B,1) 718-274-4925 2919 24th Ave, Astoria www.bohemianhall.com
83
Break (B,2) 718-777-5400 3204 Broadway, Astoria www.break-ny.com
185
FITNESS
84
145
Katch Brewery & Grill (B,2) 718-777-2230 3119 Newtown Ave, Astoria, NY www.katchastoria.com
105
Beaudoin Realty Group (A,4) 718-505-9220 21-52 44th Drive, LIC www.beaudoinrealtor.com
30
douglas elliman (A,4) 917-386-6164 47-37 Vernon Blvd www.elliman.com
68
154
Astoria Complex (c,2) 34-38 38th St, LIC 718-729-7163 www.ascsports1.com
111
Mosaic Craft Beer & Wine Bar (B,1) 718-728-0708 25-19 24th Ave, Astoria www.mosaicastoria.com
43
Raven Head Public House (C,2) 718-777-7565 3804 Broadway, Astoria www.ravenheadpublichouse.com
Voice Music Studio (A,1) 23-11 21st Street Astoria, NY 11105 646-309-3429
42
88
Studio Sq. Beer Garden (C,3) 718-383-1001 35-33 36th St, Astoria www.studiosquarenyc.com
Crank Cycling Studio (a,4) 718-606-6309 4630 Center Blvd, LIC www.cranknyc.com
89
Sweet Afton (C,2) 718-777-2570 30-09 34th St, Astoria www.sweetaftonbar.com
76
CROSSFIT Dynamix Gym (C,1) 718-606-0381 36-05 20th Ave, Astoria www.dynamixgym.com
79
Tantra Lounge (b,2) 718-937-4574 35-50 31st St, Astoria www.tantraloungenyc.com
78
NEXUS NYC (C,3) 718-204-2091 36-58 37th St, LIC www.nexusnyc.com
79
PNT Fitness (A,4) 347-396-5809 10-68 Jackson Ave, LIC www.pntfitness.com
66
17
Z NYC Hotel (a,3) 212-319-7000 11-01 43rd Ave, LIC www.zhotelny.com
Socrates Sculpture Park (A,2) 718-626-1533 32-01 Vernon Blvd, Astoria www.socratessculpturepark.org
UNDERPENNY (A,4) 917-517-1492 10-13 50th Ave, LIC
Club Fitness (b,2) 718-545-0004 31-11 Broadway, Astoria www.clubfitnessny.com
Ravel (a,3) 718-289-6101 8-08 Queens Plaza South, LIC www.ravelhotel.com
97
99
Anthea Yoga & Healing Arts center (c,2) 718-606-0049 34-01 45th Street, Astoria www.antheacenter.com
ART 100
The Rock Health & Fitness Club (B,1) 718-204-1400 22-15 31st Street Astoria, NY 11105 www.therockhealthandfitness.com
128
156
Personalized Pilates (A,4) 347-563-3933 10-13 47th avenue, 2nd floor LIC
92
142
Sage Studios 347-927-2439 29-20 23rd Ave, 4th Floor, Astoria www.sagefit.com/astoria-home
113
166
SCULPTURECENTER (B,3) 718-361-1750 44-19 Purves St, LIC www.sculpure-center.org
Dominies of Astoria (C,2) 718-706-6531 34-07 30th Ave, Astoria www.dominiesnyc.com
120
134
110
86
Vespa Queens (b,3) 718-786-7772 37-43 Crescent Street, LIC www.vespaqueens.com
HOTELS
RoGallery.com (C,3) 800-888-1063 or 718-937-0901 47-15 36th St, LIC - by appointment www.rogallery.com
The Secret Theatre (B,3) 718-392-0722 44-02 23rd St, LIC www.secrettheatre.com
175
Four Points Sheraton (B,3) 718-786-8500 27-05 39th Ave, LIC, NY 11101 www.fourpoints.com
146
96
CKO Kickboxing (C, 1) 347-669-0494 40-06 Astoria Blvd, Astoria www.ckoastoria.com
Renaissance Event Hall (A,1) 718-274-4590 27-34 21st St, Astoria www.renaissanceeventhall.com
95
ReisStudios (A,3) “An international community of established & emerging artists” 718-570-3663 43-01 22nd St, LIC www.ReisStudios.com
Domaine Wine Bar (A,4) 718-784-2350 50-04 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.domainewinebar.com
Video Express (c,2) 718-626-0846 3408 30th Ave, Astoria
65
QUEENS COUNCIL ON THE ARTS (C,2) 347-505-3010 37-11 35th Ave, Astoria Entrance on 37th Street www.queenscouncilarts.org
85
63
64
149
the art house (c,2) 516-724-1562 31-06 35th St, Astoria www.gabrieleperici.com
58
EVENTS
Noguchi Museum (A,2) 718-204-7088 9-01 33rd Rd, Astoria www.noguchi.org
112
Vardiman Eyewear (c,2) 718-204-5037 34-18 Broadway, Astoria www.vardimaneyewear.com
FOUNDRY (a,3) 718-786-7776 42-38 9TH St, LIC www.thefoundry.info
94
Brick Bar (B,2) 718-267-2735 30-95 33rd St, Astoria www.brickcafe.com
Laughing Devil (a,4) 347-913-3845 4738 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.laughingdevil.com
165
Museum of the Moving Image (c,2) 718-784-0077 36-01 35th Ave, Astoria www.movingimage.us
Ten10 Studios (A,4) 917-449-9539 10-10 47th Rd, LIC www.ten10studios.com
62
157
93
98
BRIDAL BOUTIQUE The Cotton Bride (B,3) 718-729-9878 F: 718-729-9740 39-13 23rd Street, LIC www.thecottonbride.com
LIC School of Ballet (B,3) 718-781-1169 44-02 23rd St, Studio 216, LIC www.licsb.com
SPAS
BEAUTY Carl Clarke AesthetIques (B,2) 347-631-0922 32-12 Broadway, Astoria www.defineyourlook.com
71
127
Astoria fine arts dance (c,1) 718-247-0740 38-01 23rd Ave, Astoria www.asfa-dancestudio.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 Kaufman Astoria Studios (C,2) 718-706-5300 34-12 36th St, Astoria www.kaufmanastoria.com Laguardia Performing Arts Center (C,3) 718-482-5151 31-10 Thomson Ave, LIC www.laguardiaperformingarts.org
REAL ESTATE
101 140 141 103
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 Wells Fargo Home Mortgage (c,2) 718-310-4303 3501 30th Ave, Astoria www.wfhm.com
HEALTH & WELLNESS 172
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
102
Sussex Bank (b,1) 28-21 Astoria Blvd., Astoria 347-472-1727 www.sussexbank.com
BANKING
WANT YOUR BUSINESS LISTED IN OUR DIRECTORY? 718.224.5863 ext. 206 Email: ADS@BOROmag.com
JULY 2015 | BOROMAG.COM | 27
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FOOD & DRINK
Story & Images By BRADLEY HAWKS
Now that’s using your
noodle
At Mu Ramen, tables zigzag together in a communal Tetris board of reclaimed wood. I have arrived 10 minutes early just to guarantee my spot at the table. I have seen the crowds gathered along Jackson Avenue in the evenings as patrons patiently await a coveted seat.
A young woman opens the door and invites me in. Her name is Heidy He. Though she works the front of the house, she is also married to Joshua Smookler, the owner and Per Se-trained chef. “My birth name is Mu,” she says, “and Josh was sweet enough to name the restaurant after me—and it has several Zen connotations, as well.” Motorcycle helmets line the counter to the right, and tattooed chefs are vigorously prepping for the evening service. Though I am pleasantly surprised to have the dining room to myself, today is only the second day of lunch at this magnificent little noodle shop. They began as a pop-up at a nearby bagel shop, and then shuttered shortly after Pete Wells named them the best ramen in the city. Almost a year later, they opened their brick-and-mortar restaurant at its current location. (continued on page 34) JULY 2015 | BOROMAG.COM | 33
FOOD & DRINK
(continued from page 33) Heidy hands me a menu, and begins to explain some of the ramen and accompanying treats. “If I could only have one dish,” she volunteers, “it would probably be the clams.” And now the one dish that captivated me the least has piqued my curiosity. “This is from Josh,” she smiles as she places a wooden bowl in front of me. The dish is called U&I and is typically served at dinner, but I have been anxiously waiting to try it. “It’s a play on the spelling of uni,” explains Heidy, “but Josh thought calling it U&I might be more romantic. Try to get a little bit of everything in each bite.” The color of rainbow sherbert, this uni and ikura blend consists of warm sushi rice topped with cubes of spicy tuna, amber orbs of salmon roe, golden slivers of sea urchin, and a tiny cap of wasabi. The bowl is emptied in moments, and I sit smiling blissfully out the window. Next, the “Okonomiyaki” arrives, and it is Smookler’s playful take on the Japanese classic. Light-as-air silver dollar corn cakes are drizzled with a foie gras-kissed maple syrup, smoked trout, tobiko and microgreens. The bite-sized medallions are wickedly delicious, and the trout is almost like blue lump crabmeat. I find difficulty pacing myself. Juicy slabs of braised short ribs appear at lunchtime, and the duo of buns comes topped with white kimchi and spicy mayo. And then come the clams. Steamed with garlic, lemon zest, butter and spicy chorizo, the shells arrive drizzled with saffron aioli. After plunging one into the accompanying Vietnamese dipping sauce, I am forced to chuckle out loud. When a meal can muster an involuntary laugh, I know it is one I will recall for a long time. The dining room is slowly filling up around me, and I sit grinning obliviously, genuinely delighted with my meal. Sadly, I push aside the extra clams, a short rib bun, and half the okonomiyaki. I have to at least try the ramen—as it is the marquis dish. Soon, the Shoyu arrives, and I’ve requested
34 | BOROMAG.COM | JULY 2015
a nitamago (seasoned egg) to be added as a sort of cherry on top. Two slabs of roasted pork belly swim beneath a clear broth of chicken, along with menma, spinach, nori and scallions. The broth is decadently refreshing, and I eventually find myself slurping the final noodle into my mouth. Heidy arrives to see how I am enjoying everything, and I sigh in surrender, with a half a bowl of broth before me. “I tried,” I laugh. “You did a good job,” smiles Heidy, as she removes the bowl from the table. “Oh no,” I think to myself. “It was all your brilliantly talented husband.”
Mu Ramen
12-09 Jackson Ave, Long Island City, NY 11101 917-868-8903
Presents its
2015
Astoria Park WATERFRONT SERIES WATERFRONT CONCERTS 7/9 Ǧ The Cab Calloway Orchestra 7/16 Ǧ Swingtime Big Band 7/23 Ǧ Michael Patrick’s
Thursday Evenings at 7:30pm
Ring of Fire Band 7/30 Ǧ Piece of the Rock 8/6 Ǧ Dancin’ Machine 8/13 Ǧ Spitfire
MOVIES ON THE WATERFRONT
Monday Evenings at 8:30pm
7/27 Ǧ The Princess Bride 8/3 Ǧ Frozen
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LET’S MEET AT…
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Shore Blvd between the Hell Gate Bridge & Astoria Pool
JULY 2015 | BOROMAG.COM | 35 www.centralastoria.nyc · 718.728.7820 · info@centralastoria.nyc
FOOD & DRINK
A Real
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“This place can go from zero to 500 people just lack that,” explains Tino Tsutras, and he snaps his fingers. A manager at Katch Astoria, he knows the fickle demands of business very well. “Heading into year three, it is time to attack the food,” he laughs. But finding someone to helm that adventure has proven no easy task. “It has been a mission to find someone of exceptional quality who can maintain that at high volumes,” says Tsutras. It seems that the team finally found its match made in heaven when Andrew Wesisel joined the roster about six months ago. A third-generation chef, Weisel shares fascinating tales of the kitchen like old war stories. A seasoned graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, he has worked everywhere from the late Windows on the World to the Waldorf Astoria—even as Head Saucier at Tavern on the Green when it was in its prime.
dressed in a sweet hoisin glaze. Few things are better than wondrously prepared chicken that has been French cut and pan-fried, then covered in a demi glace of dried cherries. Items for sharing offer a delicious alternative to some of the classic meals. Crispy gyoza are perfect for a dunk in ponzu, while coconut shrimp are best enjoyed topped with a sweet mango chutney. Plump crab cakes are served with a classic remoulade, of course. Because the focus at Katch has always been on the beer, many of the menu items are universally recognizable. But what might “Katch” you by surprise is the excellence in which they have been prepared. Chocolate mousse and cheesecake tarts are a perfect ending to a meal. Or maybe you prefer peach sorbet served in an actual frozen peach, or a champagne flute of guava gelato with ribbons of mango puree.
Though beer accounts for over two-thirds of the sales at Katch, Weisel hopes to elevate the menu in popularity to match the 50 draft lines always on tap.
Whether you come for a drink or one of Chef Weisel’s creations, a seat at the bar or some fresh air on the enormous patio, one thing is for certain.
While that may seem like a tall order, you might want to slice into the Long Island duck blanketed in a reduction of lingonberries and Cassis, accompanied with a terrine of au gratin potatoes. Salmon is
This Katch just became an even better catch. 31-19 Newtown Ave., Astoria, NY 11102 718-777-2230 www.katchastoria.com JULY 2015 | BOROMAG.COM | 37
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JULY 2015 | BOROMAG.COM | 41
Sweet Jane's
Story & Image By bradley hawks
FOOD & DRINK
1984 was an incredible year. Sure, it was the year that Apple sold the first Macintosh PC to the public. Yes, Scott Hamilton took the gold in the Sarajevo Winter Olympics. But the real pinnacle of that year came when President Ronald Reagan declared July to be National Ice Cream Month. After all, what could be a more American treat? We all know the jingle from the Mister Softee truck, and who hasn’t dreamed of an ice cream birthday cake while growing up? Extra lunch money is hoarded by school kids everywhere just to buy a frozen treat. In the 1920s, even Ellis Island workers served bowls of ice cream to make immigrants feel more at home in their new land. So how do we celebrate the most basic pleasure of our childhood with gluten and dairy allergies, lactose intolerance, and our rising awareness of the dangers of sugar?
Watermelon flavors have pieces of real fruit. The Blueberry Lavendar, one of the most delicious, is made with a coconut base. “It doesn’t have to be bad to be good,” she says. “A whole fudgsicle is 115 calories.” And that fudgsicle was the catalyst for all of the creativity.
In Astoria, that answer is simple. Head over to 24th Avenue for something cool and decadent at Sweet Jane’s, where ice cream is even prepared without dairy, replacing it with alternative bases of cashew, almond, coconut or soy. Select flavors of ice cream and Italian ice are even prepared without sugar.
“I always wanted to create the best fudgsicle around,” explains Jane. “I was working for the MTA, and then I found WIBO.org, the workshop in business opportunities.” Soon thereafter, she found herself enrolled in Ice Cream University, and now the rest is history.
Founder Jane McGinn invited BORO to stop by to help make a custom ice cream cake and prepare some sugar-free Italian ice. As she scooped mounds of cashew mocha ice cream into a springform pan, she reflected on the birth of her love of the allAmerican dessert.
Jane also sells vegan fudge from Mister Sister, and fine truffles from LaRochelle Chocolates. “You no longer have to go very far to get good chocolates and healthier ice creams,” says Jane. And what’s not to love about that? Now, the ultimate American experience is right down the block.
“Growing up, we were five kids, and we went out for sundaes on Sundays,” laughs Jane. “I remember asking my grandmother what made her choose my grandfather,” she smiles. “You know what she said? ‘He learned to dance, and he took me out for ice cream.’ Now I get to watch families come in and pass on that love.” While classic flavors are certainly available and sundae toppings can cap any scoop, some of the most popular batches are born from her creativity. The Mango Lassi is velvety and sweet. The Cabernet is divine, and the Pear Ginger Riesling and
42 | BOROMAG.COM | JULY 2015
27-17 24th Ave., Astoria, NY 11102 347-848-0292 www.sweet-janes.com
Hellenic Grill House
www.ovelia-nyc.com
34-01 30th Ave., Astoria, NY 11103
JULY 2015 | BOROMAG.COM | 43
VOLUNTEER
Impact Astoria:
Central Astoria Local Development Coalition Story By Gabrielle C. Sherb
When I look at the art framed on my walls, I admire the quality of the craftsmanship. For the last few years, the talented artists at Astoria Art & Framing on 32nd Street and 30th Avenue have taken even the most modest of prints and turned them into masterpieces. The small businesses of Astoria and the people who own them make our neighborhoods so special. The champion and advocate of these businesses are the hands-on, hardworking leaders of the Central Astoria Local Development Coalition. The Central Astoria Local Development Coalition (Central Astoria LDC) was founded in 1979. Recognizing the need to improve the quality of life in the community, business owners banded together to provide resources and support one another. According to their mission statement, The Central Astoria LDC is a “not-for-profit community organization dedicated to preserving and enhancing the neighborhood of Astoria as a vibrant, affordable, harmonious and desirable community in which to live, work and do business.” The Central Astoria LDC consists of four key business districts and over 1,000 businesses along Broadway, 30th Avenue, 36th Avenue and Steinway Street. Through its technical assistance, resources and advocacy, the Central Astoria LDC keeps neighborhood businesses thriving and prosperous. “Astoria is a neighborhood where people know each other,” says Executive Director Marie Torniali. “[There is a real] sense of community.” To build on that sense of community, the Central Astoria LDC hosts diverse events, including concerts, fireworks, carnivals and street fairs. This spring the Central Astoria LDC hosted its first International Cultural Fest featuring the diverse cultures and traditions from residents of Astoria. Performances included music and dance from Bangladesh, Brazil, Ecuador, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Morocco, Romania, Spain and North Africa. “[We] were very happy to have the cultural festival,” Torniali says. “This new initiative by the Department of Cultural Affairs promotes immigrant culture.” In addition to its social and cultural events, the greatest services they provide are housing advocacy and social services. With Astoria’s popularity growing every day, providing affordable
44 | BOROMAG.COM | JULY 2015
housing to its residents and businesses owners becomes even more of a necessity, especially for senior citizens. Torniali says, “[We] assist seniors, low-income residents and small building landlords. De-regulation can ruin neighborhoods.” Torniali and her team invested in keeping Astoria the vibrant, diverse and welcoming community for businesses and residents that it is. “We try to focus on every facet of the community— residents, culture and immigrants—every facet of living, working and doing business in Astoria,” Torniali says. “[There are] so many community organizations that do a lot of great work—housing, culture, health services. It motivates you. I love this community and am lucky to live and work in the same neighborhood.”
Here are three easy ways you can work with Marie and the Central Astoria LDC to enhance our small businesses and the residents who own them: 1 If you see something, say something. The Central Astoria
LDC is there to help with any issue, big or small. From broken meters to excess garbage, reach out (but don’t forget to call 311 first to ensure they can track and follow up).
2 Volunteer with a Central Astoria LDC Event. Hand out
brochures, work an event, or just ask how you can help with the great events that go on throughout the year.
3 Spread the word. You don’t have to do it on your own.
The Central Astoria LDC can help. Their services are free.
To lend a hand and get involved, contact Marie at marie@centralastoria.nyc, call 718-728-7820, or visit http://centralastoria.org/, find the Central Astoria LDC on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/centralastoria or follow on Twitter @central_astoria.
JULY 2015 | BOROMAG.COM | 45
THE ARTS 46 | BOROMAG.COM | JULY 2015
A
STREET
Art
T
he visual arts possess a unique ability to unite women and men from profoundly diverse backgrounds. Transcending the barrier of language, painted imagery can bring people together in ways nothing else can. When those pieces of artwork are unbound by rules and convention, walls of brick and cinderblock become the canvas, asphalt and tile become the matte boards, and alleys and sky become the frames. When the gallery is uprooted from the confines of a museum and transferred to a public street, not only does the audience grow—it becomes an actual part of the living exhibit. Now in its sixth year, the Welling Court Mural Project brings together artists from the Welling Court neighborhood in Astoria with creative minds from around the world. The Welling Court Mural Project began in 2009 when Ad Hoc Art was invited by the Welling Court community to electrify the neighborhood with street art. The first year featured over 44 murals. This year, the collection has grown to more than 120 works of art presented by more than 80 artists. Ad Hoc Art was created by Garrison and Alison Buxton. According to the website, they are “dedicated to showing work that is often marginalized by the larger New York art scene. AHA highlights the areas of street art, pop surrealism, lowbrow, illustration, comic book, tattoo and printmaking, as well as the larger and extensive history of underground art, activism and graffiti. It is a vehicle for artists who are passionate, committed to their craft and challenging the boundaries of a ‘fine art’ isolated from society at large.” (continued on page 48) JULY 2015 | BOROMAG.COM | 47
THE ARTS
(continued from page 47)
Block off an afternoon this summer, and take an inspiring tour of this tremendous urban exhibit.
11-98 Welling Court (30th Avenue and 12th Street) www.adhocart.org 48 | BOROMAG.COM | JULY 2015
JULY 2015 | BOROMAG.COM | 49
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Features and benefits of My Community Interest Checking account: • Online Banking and Bill Pay with NYCB Online • Free unlimited check writing • Free ATM/Visa® check card • Earn points that lead to cash rewards every time you use your Visa® check card on qualifying transactions with our Rewards program1 PLUS, open a My Community Interest Checking account and get a promotional dining discount card.2 (See terms and conditions below)
myNYCB.com • (877) 786-6560
Even >more® Rewards and e-Ca$hback Rewards programs apply to consumers only and to qualified checking accounts. Restrictions apply. Please speak with a branch representative for further details. For consumer customers only. Promotional Dining Discount Card (“The Card”) has no cash value, is not redeemable for cash and may not be combined with credits from other Reward Cards. The Card contains a $100 dining discount to be redeemed online at www.DiningDough.com before use and may be used at participating restaurants. Valid for dine-in only unless otherwise stated. Unredeemed Cards are not valid toward purchase at restaurants. Minimum spend may be required in order to redeem a portion of the discount from the Card towards purchasing certificate(s) from participating restaurants. Limit of one (1) certificate per restaurant per visit. Other restrictions may apply on the restaurant-specific certificates, online merchant websites vary and are subject to change. One Card per household. While supplies last. The Bank is not responsible for Cards that are lost, stolen, destroyed or used without your permission. Visit www.DiningDough.com for complete terms and conditions and participating restaurants. Card design may vary. The Card will be provided at account opening during the promotional period of March 10, 2015 through April 21, 2015. This promotion only applies to new bank customers or existing customers that do not have a checking account. The minimum balance to open a My Community Interest Checking account and to obtain the bonus is $100. Account must be opened with funds not currently on deposit with the Bank. Offer may be withdrawn at the discretion of the bank at any time. The bank is not responsible for typographical errors.
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50 | BOROMAG.COM | JULY 2015
Don’t miss this
PARTY
When: Saturday, July 25 • 12pm - 4pm Rain date is Sunday, July 26
Where: LIC Flea & Food (Meet up at the Beer Garden) 5-25 46th Avenue, Long Island City, NY 11101
Entertainment:
Live Music and DJ • Cornhole Kayaking on the East River
Food & Drink:
All-Queens Beer Garden Over 40 Food Vendors Selling Unique American and Cultural Cuisine
What You’ll Need:
$10 for two raffle tickets at the entrance of the Flea $5 for each additional raffle ticket A FREE beer is included with each ticket purchased plus a chance to win awesome prizes
RSVP: Email Your Full Name To party@boromag.com
Benefiting: The Secret Theatre • www.secrettheatre.com For more information visit: LICFlea.com • boromag.com JULY 2015 | BOROMAG.COM | 51
FOOD & DRINK
Story & Images By BRADLEY HAWKS
True
Pizza “My great-grandfather came here from Tufino with my 4-year-old grandpa,” smiles Stephen Menna, explaining the restaurant’s name. “And those corks over there are sitting in a glass bowl that came from his meat shop in Brooklyn.”
52 | BOROMAG.COM | JULY 2015
At Tufino Pizzeria Napoletana, each pie has its own personal story—whether inspired by chef-owner Stephen Menna’s grandmother’s meatballs, his favorite festival as a kid, or the last name of his neighbor who suggested adding raisins to a prosciutto pie. “And this is a photo of Sophia Loren,” Menna continues. “Every pizzeria in Naples has a photo of her on display.” Tradition and history are every bit as important as the quality of the pizza.
That foundation sets the tone for entire production. An exceptional dough is gently hand-stretched like a dopey dwarf cap that falls loosely down the pizzaiolo's forearms as it twirls. A shallow layer of choice toppings is meticulously applied (Menna places mozzarella crumbles as if setting jewels in a crown). He then gently slides the pie into the flickering dome opposite the embers in indirect heat, and the flames and pie have a stare-down. The pie rises slowly as if posturing, then gently blisters in the heat, as charred bubbles of condensed flavor arise on the outer crust. And then just before the pie succumbs completely to the flames, Menna retrieves it at its most vulnerable stage, carefully checking its underside with a long wooden peel before sliding it onto a metal disc to serve steaming to the table. One specialty pie is layered with thin bricks of brie and sliced mushroom caps, then drizzled with truffle oil and crisscrossed with ribbons of prosciutto. A crab pizza is layered with hearty lumps of blue crab and then zigzagged with a lemon aioli. On the San Gennaro, the drizzle of a playfully spicy picante honey makes the pie particularly special. It's like what the street festival in Little Italy might taste like in a dream. “We have weekly specials (including several gluten free options)—I probably have around 40 different pies in my head right now,” smiles Menna—all of which will be browned to bubbling bronze beauty in a Stefano Ferrara wood-fired oven born from the volcanic ash of Mt. Vesuvius, an anniversary gift from Menna’s wife. Pizzas range from $9 to $16 per 12-inch personal pie. Daily specials also include a few pastas, salads, panini and crostini. (continued on page 54)
JULY 2015 | BOROMAG.COM | 53
FOOD & DRINK
(continued from page 53) Shaved pear is finished with sprigs of fresh tarragon. A fistful of ricotta is brightened with lemon zest and layered with shaved stalks of asparagus. Giant triangles of watermelon are drizzled with rich balsamic. Tender orbs of meatballs are slathered in a tangy, homemade sauce and baked with cheese. Storefront window art identifies the pizzeria as a “frigittoria,” which means they are also crisping up some fried treats—or “dolci fritti”—including jumbo arancini, prosciutto croquettes, and deep-fried calzones. Guests can even indulge in a cappellini cake—angel hair tossed with a blend of cheeses, rolled in bread crumbs, fried, and served with a moat of vodka sauce. You even enjoy a hot, crisped version of ravioli. Menna, who makes his own dough each morning, has every intention of making pizza as long as he can. "Detail is everything... and staying true to what I believe in," which is something he's been doing his whole life. "My dad and I have been making pizzas together since I was born." He pulls out his phone and shows me a video of his newborn son enjoying a meal. He shares the same name as the Stephens before him. Although it may be a while before he tries his first pie, he has one of the finest pizzas in the whole city awaiting him when he is ready. 36-08 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria, NY 11105 718-278-4800 www.tufinopizzeria.com 54 | BOROMAG.COM | JULY 2015
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56 | BOROMAG.COM | JULY 2015