BORO MAG

VOL 5:12 NOVEMBER 2015 Cover image by Jean-Marie Guyaux

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GREAT DISCOUNTS

at the best spots in Astoria, LIC, Sunnyside

Meet model Zach Miko Page 6

Gaga's chef opens restaurant Page 18

Noguchi Museum's anniversary Page 42

The great seafood catch Page 22

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CONTENTS

BRADLEY HAWKS editor-in-chief

Dear western Queens, Halloween has come and gone, and the Christmas lights are already hung above Steinway. The seasons have yet to fully commit to winter, but change is always coming. One year from now, we will be electing a new president of the United States.

Reflecting on the things that are more permanent and steady, vivid iconography comes to mind.

This month we look at geological icons like the Berlin Wall, and how weather and time collaborate with human artistry for the 30th anniversary of the Noguchi Museum.

Lady GaGa paid Astoria a visit to celebrate the opening of The Pomeroy, led by her longtime friend and tour chef—so we drop in to check out that hot new menu. But what could be more iconic in this neighborhood than Greek seafood? So, we also sail by a delicious catch located on the border of Astoria and Long Island City.

Local celebrity Zach Miko is making big waves in the world of body positivity. Visual artist JeanMarie Guyaux stuns us with his collection of images all devoted to the notion of icons and how they change and fade over time. Our beloved LIC Flea finds an exciting new home for the winter.

As always, please share with us your own personal anecdotes, and send me any tips, comments, news or events to bhawks@boromag.com. Stay warm, and get out there and enjoy this incredible weather.

Gratefully yours, Bradley Hawks

Noguchi’s 30th Anniversary

42

Crescent Farm to Table

FEATURES 6

BODY + SOUL Zach Miko

FEATURES 46 CHARACTERS

Gigi Dzidzovic

10 CHARACTERS

50 EXPLORE YOUR BORO

18 FOOD + DRINK

52 FOOD + DRINK

Aravella Simotas GaGastronomy at The Pomeroy

22 FOOD + DRINK

Astoria Seafood

32 REAL ESTATE

Supply & Demand

34 THE ARTS

Icons by Jean-Marie Guyaux

42 THE ARTS

Noguchi’s 30th Anniversary

52

Happy Trails

Crescent Farm to Table

DEPARTMENTS

12 NOVEMBER 2015 EVENTS 25 BORO DEALS & DISCOUNTS PAGE

Exclusive savings, discounts and freebies for the month of October 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 I BOROMAG.COM I NOVEMBER 2015

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Culinary sophistication meets great service and hospitality at Astoria’s premier destination.

With international cuisine influenced from Europe, Asian, and here at home in the U.S., Flo Lounge Restaurant caters to even the most demanding palate. The restaurant’s decor combine with ambience and great outdoor seating will take you away to another world, but at the same time Flo still retains its New York attitude.

We are dedicated to the success of your special event and will go the extra mile to make sure everything is absolutely perfect. Our variety of expansive catering options, signature cocktails, and attentive staff will ensure that your next event is enjoyed by all guests in attendance.

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19-44 Steinway Street Astoria, NY 11105 Contact Asif Mirza 646-715-5699 asif@baroquenyc.com NOVEMBER 2015 | BOROMAG.COM | 5

l

ike most men, Zach Miko wasn’t exactly aiming at the spot where he currently finds himself—a modeling campaign with Target, an interview on “Good Morning America,” offers for elite modeling contracts, and more than 50 articles about him published in just under a month. How did life so rapidly turn on a dime for this 6 ½-foot-tall gentle giant? Yes, he bears a ruggedly masculine and handsome all-American face. Yes, his wife is breathtakingly beautiful and uproariously hilarious, as well. The idea of becoming one of America’s first big and tall male models was never exactly a goal of Miko’s—but hey, he’ll definitely take it.

Image by Masha Korovkina

“I definitely consider myself an actor first,” Miko says. His eyes are sincere, and he speaks with a refreshing humility and graciousness. “The modeling came completely accidentally. Apparently Target was looking for a big and tall guy. A friend of my manager posted something on Facebook, and my manager gave me a call asking what size I am.” He gave her the measurements—and was given an offer an hour after the test shoot.

“I am also a writer,” Miko says, “mostly of scripts… screenwriting. The guys from ‘It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia’ are my idols. My dream has always been to write and star in my own show. So modeling was never actually the goal.”

Miko is beyond grateful, however, for the opportunity that came along thanks to Target. “The fact that I am able to now talk about body positivity and inclusiveness and people actually now listen to me is something I never expected.” Miko admits to having body issues for his entire life. “I was a really chubby little kid. And that always sticks with you. So no matter how anyone else ever phrased it, I always saw myself as a fat, disgusting person.

Middle school really stuck with me.”

All of that started to change when a 6 I BOROMAG.COM I NOVEMBER 2015

director told him that it’s okay to be the big guy. “I always see Chris Helmsworth playing Thor,” Miko says, “and the industry convinces you that you do have to look like that to work. Even with the few exceptions, those guys still have to play ‘the big guy’ to work. They never get to just be someone in the group—everything is tailored to draw attention to their size.”

Image by Love In Theory NYC

BODY & SOUL

Story by Bradley Hawks

When asked about role models, Miko says, “One of my idols is John Goodman, but he had to put in 35 years of a career to be considered a great actor and not just the big guy.”

When asked his thoughts on the stigma associated with size, his answer is simple.

“As a society we are conditioned to think

Images by Love In Theory NYC

pretty face

that fat is an insult and skinny is a compliment, which is just ridiculous. They are both just adjectives. If I were alive in the Middle Ages, I’d be ruling a village somewhere,” he laughs. “But somehow we have become so much about image. It’s always looks first, and any casting director will tell you that.”

It is a topic about which Miko is rather passionate. “It’s almost always like a panicked conversation,” he says. “So I’ve been pushing myself as much as I can, because I know this success could just be a flash in the pan. So I really want to keep this conversation going as long as possible.”

While it looks like his modeling career may potentially open doorways to other opportunities, Miko isn’t planning on gathering his eggs into one basket. He is currently working on a comedy pilot starring himself and friend Karen Bray as The

Dreamstalks—a jaded duo of children’s musicians who sing witty, yet brutal lyrics about the cold hard truths of life and lost opportunities. The series is being produced

by Bruth Media, an Astoria-based artist collective that also functions as a high quality media lab—for which Miko also serves as the associate sound producer.

Whether in an ad campaign, shining on the small screen, or collaborating with fellow writers, I have a feeling we have only begun to meet the gigantic talent that is known as Zach Miko. Who says the best things in life come in small packages?

Image by Target

Image by Masha Korovkina

More than just a

www.thedreamstalks.com www.bruthmedia.com NOVEMBER 2015 I BOROMAG.COM I 7

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characters

Impact Astoria: State Assemblywoman

Aravella Simotas

By Gabrielle C. Sherb

Many of these residents, who came to Astoria in the 1970s, are now aging and are part of what makes the community feel like a large neighborhood. Simotas feels strongly that these residents need to have the services that will allow them to live well and be acknowledged for their dedication to the preservation of the communities. With all the changes that are happening in Astoria, it is critically important for Simotas that these important people are not forgotten.

“Ed Baber, the president of the Men’s Taminent Democratic Club, [associates] Astoria with an important acronym,” Simotas says. “A Small Town Of Really Important Americans.”

Simotas sits on many important committees of the New York State Assembly and chairs the Task Force on Women’s Issues. She is a member of the Women’s Legislative Caucus, and serves in the areas of consumer affairs, banking and more.

She is especially proud of her role as part of the dynamic team that represents western Queens (including Michael Gianarias, Jose Peralta and Costa Constantinides), which works at all levels of government to ensure the executive office and Governor Cuomo are aware of the needs of its residents.

The state Assembly makes important decisions on how taxpayer money is spent and where the resources get allocated.

With New York State making advances and facing new challenges, it is public servants like Aravella Simotas who are

There are 43 women who make up the leadership of the New York State Assembly. One of these women is Aravella Simotas—not only representing Astoria, but serving in partnership with her fellow elected officials to ensure the best quality of life and opportunity for the residents of western Queens.

Assemblywoman Simotas, a lifelong resident of Astoria, represents the 36th District, which stretches all the way from 35th Avenue to La Guardia Airport. In 2010, she became the first Greek American to be elected in her district.

Assemblywoman Simotas is proud of her history in Astoria. As the daughter of small business owners, she is committed to the maintenance of the quality of life for all residents, young and old.

She sees tremendous opportunity for Astoria as a place where families can grow and prosper.

As a mother herself, Assemblywoman Simotas is invested in the quality of schools and the safety of children. She is one of the leading legislators Assemblywoman Aravella Simotas and her daughter, Eleni who is opposed to adult establishments in the dedicated and committed to the long-term success of Astoria 36th District. In 2012, Simotas led the opposition to a bikini and western Queens. bar (which was to be known as Racks) opening on 19-26 “My favorite part of representing [the 36th District] is the Steinway St., which was next to a playground and middle people,” Simotas says. “At any given point if there is an issue school. As she said in a 2012 interview with the NY Daily I can invite a constituency and active group to Albany … any News, “We do not want an adult establishment in this area. time I need someone to back me up, place one phone call, and We should be welcoming businesses that promote family have strong community represent.” values, not establishments that would damage the character of Assemblywoman Simotas is always here to answer your our neighborhood.”The establishment did not open, and since questions and make sure your voice is heard. You can reach her then she has continued to be a champion defending these at her district office 718-545-3889, email her at simotasa@ issues for families and residents. assembly.state.ny.us or find her on Facebook at www.facebook.

In addition to the young and new families that she hopes com/SimotasNY. to protect, she is also committed to Astoria’s senior residents.

10 I BOROMAG.COM I NOVEMBER 2015

TS in us GH e sit HEI venu i V N O hA KS 37t C JA 77-13 at

NOVEMBER 2015 | BOROMAG.COM | 11

NOVEMBER EVENTS 11/7b @ 1pm to 4pm

The Bloody Mary & Oyster Feast

Mellrose Ballroom 36-08 33rd St, Astoria, NY 11106 http://www.whyleaveastoria.com/ events/the-bloody-mary-oysterfeast RSVP for The Bloody Mary & Oyster Feast 11/5th through 21st @ 8pm on Thu, Fri & Sat and a matinee on SAT @ 2pm

Carefully Taught - A World Premiere by Cheryl L. Davis Astoria Performing Arts Center 30-44 Crescent St (@ 30th Road) Good Shepherd United Methodist Church http://www.apacny.org/ Sat 11/07 3pm

Ladies’ Open Mic & Clothing Swap QED: A Place to Show & Tell, 27-16 23rd Ave, Astoria 11/12 @ 7:30 - 9PM

Talk Therapy Stories

Cost: $5 QED Astoria 27-16 23rd Avenue Astoria, NY 11105 http://qedastoria.com/collections/ shows/products/talk-therapystories-8 11/14 @ 9PM - 10PM

End of the Line Comedy

Cost: $5 QED Astoria 27-16 23rd Avenue Astoria, NY 11105 http://qedastoria.com/collections/ shows/products/end-of-the-linecomedy-10 11/24 @9:00 - 10:30PM

Explosion of Everything!

Cost: $5 QED Astoria 27-16 23rd Avenue Astoria, NY 11105 http://qedastoria.com/collections/ shows/products/11-24-2015-br9-00-10-30pm-br-explosion-ofeverything

12/01 @ 7:30 - 9:30PM

The Big Quiz Thing

Cost: Only $8 in advance, $10 at the door QED Astoria 27-16 23rd Avenue Astoria, NY 11105 http://qedastoria.com/collections/ shows/products/the-big-quizthing-4 Learn more at BigQuizThing.com Date: November 10, 2015 Time: 6:00pm to 10:00pm

Cider Week - Nine Pin Cider and Cheese Pairing

Cost: Astoria Bier and Cheese 35-11 Ditmars Boulevard Astoria, NY 11105 http://ciderweeknyc.com/events/ Date: November 12, 2015 Time: 8:00pm

Show - Michelle Ellsworth: Clytigation Cost: $18 The Chocolate Factory 5-49 49th Avenue Long Island City, NY 11101 http://www.americantowns. com/ny/longislandcity/events/ show-michelle-ellsworthclytigation-2015-11-12

What: Storytelling Show The Astoria Bookshop - 31-29 31st street, Astoria, NY 11106 Broadway NQ stop Tuesday 11/10 7:00PM

What: Author reading Love Her, Love Her Not: The Hillary Paradox The Astoria Bookshop - 31-29 31st street, Astoria, NY 11106 Broadway NQ stop Wednesday 11/11 7:00PM Local authors Anne Born and Joanne Bamberger

What: Boundless Tales Reading Series

The Astoria Bookshop - 31-29 31st street, Astoria, NY 11106 Broadway NQ stop Thursday 11/12 6:00PM Readers - Joanne Chin, Ruth

12 I BOROMAG.COM I NOVEMBER 2015

Find more events at www.BOROmag.com/Events Danon, Tony Paterniti and RIch Watson; hosted by Aida Zilelian, local author of The Legacy of Lost Things

What: Poetry Book Club - A Beautiful Marsupial Afternoon: New (Soma)Tics

by Caconrad The Astoria Bookshop - 31-29 31st street, Astoria, NY 11106 Broadway NQ stop Tuesday 11/17 6:30PM

What: Poetry Reading

The Astoria Bookshop - 31-29 31st street, Astoria, NY 11106 Broadway NQ stop Thursday 11/19 6:00PM Queens Poet Laureates Maria Lisella and Paolo Javier

What: Enchanted Goddess Reading Group The Astoria Bookshop - 31-29 31st street, Astoria, NY 11106 Broadway NQ stop Friday 11/20 6:00PM

What: Oh, Bernice! Reading Series

The Astoria Bookshop - 31-29 31st street, Astoria, NY 11106 Broadway NQ stop Saturday 11/21 7:00PM Readers - Catherine Lacey (author of Nobody is Ever Missing), Jee Leong Koh (author of Steep Tea), and Jenna Telesca; hosted by Brian Kim

What: Bookshop Book Club - Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel The Astoria Bookshop - 31-29 31st street, Astoria, NY 11106 Broadway NQ stop Sunday 11/22 1:00PM

What: Meditation Book Club Discussion - The Happiness Hypothesis by Jonathan Haidt The Astoria Bookshop - 31-29 31st street, Astoria, NY 11106 Broadway NQ stop Sunday 11/22 5:00PM

ONGOING ThursdayS @ 7pm – 11pm

Tuesdays @ 8:30

Studio Square | 35-33 36th St., LIC

Break Billiard | 32-04 Broadway, LIC www.break-ny.com

Rock Roll Karaoke

MondayS @ 1pm - 2am

All Night Happy Hour

with Slider Specials $3 sliders and tacos, $4 cans, $5 house wines, $2 off all drafts & more Free | RaR Bar - Rest-au-Rant 718-729-9009 | 30-01 35th Avenue (corner of 30th St), LIC www.rarbarlic.com TuesdayS @ 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 St), LIC www.rarbarlic.com

Trivia Tuesdays

WednesdayS @ 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 St), LIC www.rarbarlic.com SundayS @ 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 St), LIC www.rarbarlic.com

Valid only for new residential RCN customers or customers that have not had RCN’s service within the last 60 days. Offer expires on October 31, 2015. All rates subject to applicable equipment charges, surcharges, taxes, franchise fees, and other government imposed charges and fees and are not included in the price. Certain services available at an additional rate. Price is a promotional rate for months 1-12 and distinct price increases exist for months 13-24 and 25-36. Please visit our website, rcn.com, for more information on RCN’s 3-year price structure for the package you are purchasing as well as what services and equipment are included. Additional fees may apply for services, equipment and installation outside of those specified as part of the package.

Certain services, including but not limited to, High Definition channels and TiVo, may require compatible equipment available at an additional monthly charge. Programming, channel locations and packaging subject to change. ©2015 Home Box Office, Inc. All rights reserved. HBO® and related channels and service marks are the property of Home Box Office, Inc. SHOWTIME and related marks are trademarks of Showtime Networks Inc., a CBS company. Starz and related marks are trademarks of Starz® Entertainment, LLC. All names, logos, images and service marks are property of their respective owners. All sales subject to credit check. For additional terms and conditions, visit the Policies & Disclaimers page at rcn.com.

No substitutions. Internet speeds NOVEMBER 2015 | BOROMAG.COM | 13 may vary and are not guaranteed. Other restrictions may apply. Not all services available in all areas. Next day installation is not guaranteed. ©2015 RCN Telecom Services of New York, LP. All rights reserved.

14 | BOROMAG.COM | NOVEMBER 2015

Soon, all 2 million Queens residents will have something else to boast about.

Introducing the NEW Mount Sinai Queens Opening in 2016

www.mshq.org 25-10 30TH AVENUE ASTORIA, NY 11102

NOVEMBER 2015 | BOROMAG.COM | 15 MSQ_TwoMillion_Boro_102715.indd 1

10/27/15 6:18 PM

HOLDING THE KEYS TO YOUR NEW HOME! Call Michele Today!

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OPENING HOURS Mon-Fri: 9am-7pm Saturday: 9am-5pm Sunday: Closed

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ALL INSURANCES ACCEPTED

Medicaid & Medicare Accepted!

Services: Prescriptions, Injections, Blood pressure Products: Vitamins, Natural hair and sun care, OTC medicine & More 25-01 Ditmars Ditmars Boulevard, Boulevard, Astoria Astoria •• info@crescentapothecary.com www.crescentapothecary.com •• Tel: Tel: 718 718-777-1110 25-01 777 11105 16 | BOROMAG.COM | NOVEMBER 2015

The Bohemian Hall and Beer Garden is a year round venue that serves up much more than just beer. We have a wide selection of authentic Czech and Slovak cuisine as well as American favorites. Our venue offers spaces of all sizes to host and cater all of your event needs. With weekday board game nights and live indoor music, there is always something to do at The Bohemian Hall and Beer Garden! Check our website at www.BohemianHall.com for event information and updates.

NOVEMBER 2015 | BOROMAG.COM | 17

Food & DRINK

GaGastronomy O

n Oct. 7, Twitter exploded with the landing of one of the world’s most uniquely talented singers and actresses right in the heart of Astoria, Queens. While images of Lady Gaga were retweeted and shared across every corner of social media, the reason behind her appearance is the real reason we took notice and reached out for a closer look.

The Pomeroy is a new neighborhood restaurant in Astoria under the brilliant direction of Bo O’Connor—who was most recently the personal chef for

18 I BOROMAG.COM I NOVEMBER 2015

A seasonal cocktail menu features twists on the classics, like the PomSidecar with cognac, fresh pineapple and lemon juice, and a cherry—or the Ditmars Blvd., with whiskey, honey, fresh lemon juice, smoked lemon peel and rosemary.

In step with O’Connor’s vision, British designer Benjamin Kay of Adorn Designs reinvented the food-centric London gastropub in a uniquely New York way in his design of The Pomeroy. The relaxed, sun-filled, 50-seat room features high ceilings and warm, wood-paneled walls with cream bead boards and moldings.

childhood friend Lady Gaga on her world tour.

O’Connor’s menu features seasonal and fun new American fare that includes snacks such as frickles (fried pickles) with yogurt dill dip and arancini (rice balls) with porcini and Fontina Val D’Aosta. Small plates range from deep-fried mozzarella triangles to a mound of mashed avocado crowned grapefruit wedges, chili, lemon zest and a bird’s nest of pea shoots accompanied by toast points.

Knockout entrees include an exquisitely juicy fried half or whole chicken accompanied with honey carrot and jalapeño dipping sauces, a skirt steak with herb chimuchurri, or a luxurious mound of red wine and chipotle braised short ribs.

Desserts like the insanely addictive brown butter pecan bars round out the menu, and you won’t want to stop before diving into a rich boat of banana bread pudding blanketed in dark chocolate.

The space has simple, hand-crafted tables alongside vintage green porcelain and white tin lighting from the 1940s, all salvaged from an old factory in Massachusetts. Bringing the space to life are classic mirrors, original hand-drawn illustrations, and vintage photographs from many classic American design periods.

The 16-seat bar features hard white pine repurposed from an old bowling alley.

Whether you are a Gypsy, an Americano, or you were Born This Way, you can relax your Poker Face and Just Dance over to Ditmars. The Pomeroy is serving up some crazy good food in a cozy new atmosphere that is sort of making us go Gaga.

The Pomeroy NYC Open for dinner Tuesday through Sunday at 5 p.m.

36-12 Ditmars Blvd., Astoria, NY 11105 718-721-1579 www.ThePomeroyNYC.com

NOVEMBER 2015 I BOROMAG.COM I 19

NOMAD

CYCLE

MORE THAN JUST A BIKE SHOP: • HI G H QUA L IT Y BI C YC L E S E RV IC E A N D RE PA IR • A FIN E S ELE CT IO N O F PA R T S A N D AC CESSO RIE S • DO - IT-YO U RSE LF R E PA I R WO R K S TATIO N S • ONE - O N - O N E A N D G RO UP ME C H A N I C S TRA IN IN G • B E SPO K E CU S T O M B IK E S A N D R E S T O RAT IO N S • B IK E- RELAT E D E V E N T S AN D G AT H E R ING S

WWW.NOMADCYCLE.COM 47-10 AUSTELL PLACE, LONG ISLAND CITY

20 | BOROMAG.COM | NOVEMBER 2015

2nd – 12th Grades

Math Help

Math Enrichment

Test Prep

Homework Help

We make math make sense.

Enroll now and build your math skills like never before!

Call now to schedule a

www.mathnasium.com/Astoria

FREE TRIAL & ASSESSMENT Mathnasium of Astoria (718) 726-6284 43-32 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria, NY 11105

NOVEMBER 2015 | BOROMAG.COM | 21

FOOD & DRINK

Story and Photos By Bradley Hawks

e

ven on a weekday afternoon, the atmosphere can simmer rapidly to boiling without a moment’s notice. At its core, Astoria Seafood is everything Astoria has become known for over the years.

Diners from every culture gather beneath a ceiling of a sky blue ventilation system arranged like an enormous fish hook, with wall murals of the Greek islands painted along the periphery. A group of tables are numbered one to 12, and the cashier or waitress will point you to one after you’ve weighed your seafood and chosen your sides.

“Everything here is market price,” explains owner Spyro Christakos, who opened the restaurant in 1993. “It was mostly just a fish market for a long time, and then we started serving a basic fish ‘n chips menu.” A few years ago, however, they began putting out plastic bags so customers could simply grab their sea treasures to take home, or hand them over on a silver platter to have them prepared for dining there.

There is a hot station with several tempting options—there were stuffed lobster tails on one occasion—which include one main seafood selection accompanied by two sides for just $10 at lunchtime. Or you can sort through the rows and rows of iced

fresh red snapper, swordfish, salmon, scallops, lobster, enormous prawns, mussels, clams and every other type of fish imaginable.

Men in heavy black butcher aprons shuffle in and out of the kitchen and grumble, laugh and holler in Greek, while a spirited woman with blue eyeliner weaves between tables. It can be intimidating, confusing and time consuming.

Come with friends and a bottle of wine (it’s BYOB), bring patience, good spirits and an empty stomach, and you will probably enjoy some of the freshest, most delicious seafood you have ever tasted. They will prepare it any way you ask, but grilled 22 I BOROMAG.COM I NOVEMBER 2015

Under the

Sea with a sprinkling of oregano and rich slathering of butter is the best way to savor a fresh lobster tail and plump scallops.

There is a jar for tipping right next to the plastic silverware, napkins and ramekins of tartar and cocktail sauce. At such reasonable prices for such a unique experience, you can throw a little extra to these hard workers. But don’t tell too many people about it. I sort of like that still feels like a neighborhood secret.

37-10 33rd St., Long Island City, NY 11101 718-392-2680

a NOVEMBER 2015 I BOROMAG.COM I 23

The Learning Station

The Learning Station

Montessori Inc.

Montessori Inc.

Infants, toddlers and school age

Infants, toddlers and school age

NOW ENROLLING!

NOW ENROLLING!

• Montessori preschool: 18 months - 4 years old • Afterschool program: School pick-up and homework help • Tutoring: One on one and small group • Classes: Dance, Music, Art, Languages, and Little Lady Program (sewing, baking, knitting, etiquette) • Flexible Part Time and Full Time enrollment options

• Montessori preschool: 18 months - 4 years old • Afterschool program: School pick-up and Reserve your child’s spot today! homework help Call toOne schedule tour: 347-523-0906 • Tutoring: on one aand small group tlsmontessori.com • thelearningstationastoria@gmail.com • 31-32 47th St. 1st Fl. Astoria • Classes: Dance, Music, Art, Languages, and Little LadyMontessori Program (sewing, baking, knitting, etiquette) Inc. • Flexible Part Time and FullStation Time enrollment options Reserve your child’s spot today! rs and schoolThe age Learning

earning Station

OLLING!

Montessori Inc.

Call to schedule a tour: 347-523-0906

Infants, ol: 18 months - 4 years old toddlers and school age NOW ENROLLING! m: School pick-up and

tlsmontessori.com • thelearningstationastoria@gmail.com • 31-32 47th St. 1st Fl. Astoria

• Montessori preschool: 18 months - 4 years old • Afterschool program: School pick-up and e and small group homework help One on one and small group sic, Art, Languages,• Tutoring: and Little Dance, Music, Art, Languages, and Little ng, baking, knitting,• Classes: etiquette) Lady Program (sewing, baking, knitting, etiquette) Reserve your child’s spot today! nd Full Time enrollment options • Flexible Part Time and Full Time enrollment options Reserve your child’s spot today!

to schedule a tour: 347-523-0906 to schedule a Call tour: 347-523-0906 tlsmontessori.com • thelearningstationastoria@gmail.com • 31-32 47th St. 1st Fl. Astoria

• thelearningstationastoria@gmail.com • 31-32 47th St. 1st Fl. Astoria

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 24 | BOROMAG.COM | NOVEMBER 2015 Sans titre-1 1

20/04/15 12:46

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

Offers available through October 31, 2015. Bring BORO or coupon below to redeem discount.

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@BOROmag NOVEMBER 2015 I BOROMAG.COM I 25

MAP IT DIRECTORY RESTAURANTS

112

144

alobar restaurant (A,4) 347-752-6000 46-42 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.alobarnyc.com

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

13

163

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

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

14

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

16

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

129 130

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

6

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

4

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

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

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

55

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

143

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

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

125

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

The Barn Restaurant, Bar & Lounge (a,2) 718-728-0305 30-09 21st Street, Astoria www.thebarnastoria.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

105

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

23

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

19

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

184

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

Vinte Vinosteria 718-278-8483 31-05 34th St, Astoria www.vitevinosteria.com

118

191

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

8

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

87

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

10

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

9

Cavo (C,2) 718-721-1001 42-18 31st Ave, Astoria www.cavoastoria.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

112

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

12

181

133

148

182

150

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

29

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

108

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

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

32

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

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

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

BAKERIES 115

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

20

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

61

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

22

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

37

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

69

Portalia Ristorante (b,2) 718-545-3500 35-03 Broadway, Astoria www.portalianyc.com Queens Comfort (c,2) 718-728-2350 40-09 30th Ave, Astoria www.queenscomfort.com

39

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

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

74

1

183

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

Flo Lounge Restaurant (C,2) 718-204-6096 37-20 30th Ave, Astoria www.flocafeny.com

24

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

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

26 | BOROMAG.COM I NOVEMBER 2015 I

33

SHOPS

PETS

121

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

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

75

189

IL Fornaio Bakery (B,2) 29-14 30th Ave, Astoria 718-267-0052

160

190

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

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

34 138 139

FLORISTS

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

179

Project Earth (B,2) 35-53 32nd St, LIC 718-204-2161

168

Admiral lock and Key (C,2) 718-274-2491 37-17 Broadway, Astoria www.admirallockandkey.com

167

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

178

FOOD SHOPS

SERVICES

WINES & SPIRITS 36 27

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

Astoria 35 Laundry & Fine Dry Cleaning (B,2) 3505 34th St, Astoria 718-392-9692 Astoria35laundry.com

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

MAP IT DIRECTORY TATTOO SHOPS

80

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

93

Museum of the Moving Image (c,2) 718-784-0077 36-01 35th Ave, Astoria www.movingimage.us Noguchi Museum (A,2) 718-204-7088 9-01 33rd Rd, Astoria www.noguchi.org

718-781-1169 44-02 23rd St, Studio 216, LIC www.licsb.com

129

Blue Bird Child Care 347-832-0103 25-58 48th St, Astoria www.bluebirdchildcareastoria.com

147

114

Crescent Apothecary (B,1) 718-777-1110 25-01 Ditmars Blvd., Astoria www.crescentapothecary.com

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

158

60

Tightan Gym 718-274-1606 31-21 31st St, Astoria www.tightan.com

94

77

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

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

67

73

149

173

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

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

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

161

energea (C,2) 929-296-9314 34-13 38th Street, LIC EnergeaNYC.com

164

151

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

90

FERRARI Driving School (c,2) 3232 Steinway Street 718-278-6679

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

195

81

56

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

European Wax Center LIC (A,4) 718-482-9299 4545 Center Blvd, LIC www.europeanwaxcenter.com

71

196

The Learning Station Montessori Inc. (c,2) 347-523-0906 31-32 47th Street, Astoria www.thelearningstationmontessorischool.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

95

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

72

Primp AND Tease SALON (a,4) 718-472-2001 5-02 50th Ave, LIC

180

Montessori Kids of LIC (B,3) 347-746-5542 5 Court Square, LIC mklic.com

46

RedkEn SALOON Salon (c,2) 718-956-3366 36-17 30th Ave, Astoria www.redkensalon.com

57

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

192

shade organic spa and salon (C,1) 36-05 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria 718-278-7892 shadebarspa.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

62

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

136

SPAS

BEAUTY

154

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

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

110

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

188

Shade Organic Spa and Salon 36-05 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria 718-278-7892

97

43

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

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

84

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

85

NIGHTLIFE/BARS

112

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

99

SCULPTURE SPACE NYC (c,3) 47-21 35th Street, LIC 718-806-1709 /www.sculpturespacenyc.com/contact

96

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

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

105

86

Dominies of Astoria (C,2) 718-706-6531 34-07 30th Ave, Astoria www.dominiesnyc.com

Beaudoin Realty Group (A,4) 718-505-9220 21-52 44th Drive, LIC www.beaudoinrealtor.com

30

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

145

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

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

101

Astoria Complex (c,2) 34-38 38th St, LIC 718-729-7163 www.ascsports1.com

68

THE STANDING ROOM (a,4) 718-433-4970 4738 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.standingroomlic.com

141

111

Mosaic Craft Beer & Wine Bar (B,1) 718-728-0708 25-19 24th Ave, Astoria www.mosaicastoria.com Studio Sq. Beer Garden (C,3) 718-383-1001 35-33 36th St, Astoria www.studiosquarenyc.com

The Cotton Bride (B,3) 718-729-9878 F: 718-729-9740 39-13 23rd Street, LIC www.thecottonbride.com

63

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

120

175

Vespa Queens (b,3) 718-786-7772 37-43 Crescent Street, LIC www.vespaqueens.com

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

42

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

88

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

100

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

157

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

64

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

65

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

165

EVENTS

HOTELS 134

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

66

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

17

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

79

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

REAL ESTATE

140

103

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

113 127

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 LIC School of Ballet (B,3)

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

Gotham Lasik 30-80 21st St, Astoria, NY 11102 (718) 440-3131 http://www.gothamlasik.com/

135

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

104

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

102

Sussex Bank (b,1) 28-21 Astoria Blvd., Astoria 347-472-1727 www.sussexbank.com

ART

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

166

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

FITNESS 58

146

98

BRIDAL BOUTIQUE 185

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

BANKING

WANT YOUR BUSINESS LISTED IN OUR DIRECTORY?

718.224.5863 ext. 206 Email: ADS@BOROmag.com

NOVEMBER 2015 I BOROMAG.COM I 27

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Long island city

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3

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NOVEMBER 2015 | BOROMAG.COM | 31

real estate

L

uxury and convenience are within reach. The Craigslist ad for a completely renovated apartment in Astoria said so. The unit was just steps from the N/Q subway stop, had a laundry room and was situated on a quiet block off of Ditmars Boulevard. Yet the primary selling point that drove Jennifer, a claims agent for a Manhattan insurance agency, to request a viewing was the price—$1400.

But after contacting the broker, Jennifer was told that the ad had incorrectly listed the rent, which was in fact $1,900, and that the landlord required a security deposit as well as first and last month’s rent. This was in addition to the broker’s fee, which meant that Jennifer, who spent the past two years sharing a small apartment in Woodside with several roommates, would need to produce a whopping $7,600 to live on her own.

“I was totally appalled, not just because the ad was wrong, but the price was insane,” she said. “Who has that kind of cash laying around?”

For Jennifer and many other urbanites seeking housing in some of Queens’ most trendy neighborhoods, including Astoria, Sunnyside and Long Island City, luxury and convenience are not merely out of reach. They are simply unfeasible.

Over the past decade, rents have drastically increased in many areas of Queens as the demand for apartments in close proximity to Manhattan has proliferated.

According to 2012 data compiled by The Daily News, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment was $1,600 in Astoria and $2,400 in Long Island City.

32 I BOROMAG.COM I NOVEMBER 2015

Supply and Demand Story by Thomas Caramanno

But as Jennifer’s story suggests, rents have continued climbing in the last three years alone, resulting in many residents being priced out of their own neighborhoods.

“What happened was all the people who couldn’t afford Manhattan started coming to Brooklyn and Queens,” said Paul, a real estate agent affiliated with Douglas Elliman. “And even now, those same people can’t afford Brooklyn and expensive areas like Long Island City, so they’re migrating over to Woodside and upper Astoria.” Paul even noted an uptick in the price of studio apartments, which are currently fetching between $1600 to $1700.

James, an actor who originally hails from Long Island, had also experienced immense difficulty affording the apartment he shares with a friend off 30th Avenue.

“We got the place four years ago and it was manageable, but the landlord just told us the rent is going up after our current lease expires,” he recalled.

James said that he would have no choice but to move back in with his parents.

“Living back out on the island is far from ideal, and the commute to the city is much larger,” James said, “but it is what it is.”

Indeed, current market rate rents not only serve as a barrier to millennials and young professionals, but to older Astoria residents as well, some of whom have spent their entire lives living in the area. “[For] what I pay now down here, I wouldn’t even be able to get a box in Astoria,” noted Michelle, referring to her recently purchased home in South Carolina. A lifelong resident of Astoria, Michelle and her husband

found they outgrew their modest two-bedroom apartment once they had children, but were unable to afford to rent or purchase a house in the neighborhood.

“We were amazed how little you get, when you see what’s out there,” Michelle said. Following a yearlong search, she and her husband decided to look out of state and discovered that the South offered more space at an affordable price. “My kids are in good schools and we aren’t cramped up anymore,” Michelle said. “It was well worth it.”

While the quest for an affordable apartment has proven cumbersome for tenants, Astoria landlords have largely reaped the benefits of the neighborhood’s gentrification. Spiro, an owner of a three-family home, finds it easier to rent his apartments. “I used to worry about not finding tenants,” he said. “But the second I list [an apartment], I have a million phone calls and emails—it’s wild.”

When discussing rents, Spiro’s belief is that although Astorians pay top dollar for spaces, the end justifies the means. “Some people might complain that they’re paying too much, but you pay for what you get. And here, you get to live in a place that’s close to Manhattan and you can walk everywhere,” he explained.

Paul shares Spiro’s view, and predicts the housing market will only continue to boom. He also described his vision of what is to come: “I think you’ll start seeing people moving deeper into Queens for sure,” he explained. “But the bottom line is this is where people want to be, and as long as people keep paying top dollar, landlords will feel entitled to keep demanding it.”

NOVEMBER 2015 I BOROMAG.COM I 33

THE ARTS 34 I BOROMAG.COM I NOVEMBER 2015

Icons J

ean-Marie Guyaux is a freelance photographer who studied at the School of Visual Arts and the New School of Social Research prior to launching a prolific career that runs the gamut of photography from fashion to celebrity.

Born in Belgium but now living in Astoria, Guyaux transplanted his studio from Manhattan to Long Island City in 2010. He has primarily focused his photography on projects reflecting his social and political interests. Within the past four years, his work has been exhibited in more than 30 galleries spanning both coasts of the U.S. as well as overseas in Bologna and Barcelona.

As of late, the visual artist has discovered the fascinating domain of the manipulated pixels (continued on pag 36) NOVEMBER 2015 I BOROMAG.COM I 35

THE ARTS

and entered the world of new media art. His digital prints find their birth in the raw data of a personal file. The few thousand pixels of the original image are then subverted to such transformation that the initial content only serves as a construct to an entirely new physicality. The underlying data of the original is manipulated and distorted via graphic and music software to reappear as a new layer of pixels—creating a psychedelic tableau suitable for reproduction.

“A subject born as a representation becomes an abstraction, leading to a visual experience of new wonders,” explains Guyaux. “The resulting body of work is a kaleidoscope of symbolic, and at times abstract, images as well as an acerbic commentary about how violence reflects on some pillars of American society.”

In this issue, Guyaux shares with us a selection of images from his series entitled “Icons.” www.jmguyaux.com

36 I BOROMAG.COM I NOVEMBER 2015

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THE ARTS

Noguchi

Rocks Story & images by Bradley Hawks

"Postcards were the old Instagram," says Dakin Hart.

These multicolor orbs are giant river rocks and moons created by Toshiko Takaezu. Each one is hollow and encases a smaller ceramic rock, creating chilling reverberations when the sculptures are moved.

42I BOROMAG.COM I NOVEMBER 2015

I

n celebration of its 30th anniversary, the Noguchi Museum will feature the works of 30 artists. From now through Jan. 10, guests can enjoy a groundbreaking exhibit that features nearly 50 works by a collection of some of the most renowned, visionary and award-winning artists. “One of the greatest things about the past few weeks has been having living artists back in the museum,� explained Museum Director Jenny Dixon, reflecting on the preparation of the exhibit.

The recently renovated sculpture garden and open-air entrance gallery are some of the most stunning parts of the two-story museum, featuring 10 galleries that occupy nearly 27,000 square feet of a renovated industrial building in Long Island City near Socrates Sculpture Park. It was the first museum in America to be founded by a living artist to show his own work.

For the special exhibit, one of the second-floor galleries actually serves as a satellite for the Department

Water slowly drips from the swinging pendulum, eroding the stone beneath.

NOVEMBER 2015 I BOROMAG.COM I 43

THE ARTS

of Asian Art at the Metropolitan Museum of Art—and it’s the only space where visitors can experience those sculptures without the obstruction of the glass showcases employed in the Manhattan displays.

One of America’s most acclaimed artists, Noguchi represented a blend of Eastern and Western philosophies.

“He was known for taking a very zen idea,” says Senior Curator Dakin Hart, “and then executing it with Roman stone and Italian workers.”

Witnessing Noguchi’s work being illuminated by the synonymous endeavors of contemporary artists only highlights the beauty of his profound take on the world.

A bench for reflection in the sculpture garden

“Returning to the most simple concepts can lead to the most profound revelations,” Dixon says.

“Noguchi was interested in stone not primarily because it can be shaped, but because it is, literally and figuratively, the raw material of civilization,” Hart says. “Almost every culture that has used rock—and that is almost every culture in human history—has developed a culture of stone.”

It is a lot to ponder. One room displays pieces of the Berlin Wall juxtaposed with portions of the fortification wall in Jerusalem. These are stones, which existed long before we were here, were manipulated for cultural significance and will continue to exist and change long after we are gone.

9-01 33rd Rd., Long Island City, NY 11106 718-204-7088 www.noguchi.org

44 I BOROMAG.COM I NOVEMBER 2015

The oxidization of this copper rectangular prism perpetually morphs this sculpture's appearance, illuminating the reciprocity between art and natural elements.

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characters

Gigi Dzidzovic

Gigi

I could write a book,” Gigi Dzidzovic says. “No, I could probably write two.” In truth, the brilliantly talented and modest artist could most likely fill an entire bookshelf with fascinating tales of his journey from Eastern Europe to New York City and the salons and restaurants he has opened along the way. With his newest endeavor, Blu on Park, getting ready to open later this month in Manhattan as a Gatsby-esque steak and seafood house echoing the style of the 1920s, it seemed like the perfect time to touch base on his eponymous salon on 30th Avenue, as well as his romantic date spot and gourmet pizza oven, DiWine Restaurant and Wine Bar. 46 I BOROMAG.COM I NOVEMBER 2015

Gigi Salon & Styling Studio One of the greatest facets of this spectacular studio is that I can simply flip open my laptop, fill out a few fields, and in most cases, have my hair cut that very same day. I always feel safe choosing “any stylist” as an option, and trust that whoever cuts my hair will give me something I can wear proudly. Hair is one of the first things someone can see, and says a lot about who you are. Are you tidy, clean, adventurous, artistic, conservative, traditional, brave or daring?

I have been going to Gigi now for the better part of five years, and have had 10 different stylists—each one making me feel like a rock star. I absolutely love the cuts, am enriched by the conversation, and when I return, someone's face always lights up to see me. The salon is a place that helps make Astoria truly feel like my home.

It's a salon of men and women who are extremely confident in their talents, listen very carefully to what their customers want and then deliver precisely what the customer needs. It's a studio of artists who actually love and care about the work they produce, as well as the client who will wear that work out into the world.

I have always marveled at how the salon manifests a green ideology in everything from energy to waste management, sending hair clippings to be used in the cleanup of our oceans.

As an Aveda salon, employees regularly engage in continued education, from on-site seminars to courses at the Aveda Institute in Manhattan.

“You can see from the moment they take someone’s hair into their hands that they see something from outside of this world—something the average person doesn’t even think

NOVEMBER 2015 I BOROMAG.COM I 47

characters

about,” studio manager Miki Bodlovic says. “They each have a ridiculous amount of passion.”

While Gigi personally serves clients in the salon, he also styles models for high fashion events and photo shoots. After leaving the studio, you will always feel like a professional spent time artistically designing a personal look just for you.

Gigi Salon & Styling Studio 34-17 30th Ave., Astoria, NY 11103 718-777-7755 www.salonspagigi.com

DiWine Restaurant and Wine Bar From drape-partitioned booths and pillow-harnessed banquettes to a wine guillotine, DiWine is always a sexy destination. Pair morsels from the brick oven—like the lobster pizza with sherry cream and asparagus—with a selection of more than 20 wines offered at $9 for a glass or $32 per bottle. Beyond inspired cocktails and martinis to a carefully edited beer and wine selection, you will want to return again and again to share small plates and tapas like the gorgonzola fondue, sample charcuterie and cheese, or indulge in heartier fare like an oven-roasted filet mignon.

DiWine 41-15 31st Ave., Astoria 11103 718-777-1355 www.diwineonline.com

48 I BOROMAG.COM I NOVEMBER 2015

NOVEMBER 2015 | BOROMAG.COM | 49

explore your boro

“In the end we only regret the chances that we don’t take. I do what I want and I hike to feel free!”

Katherine Espino, Glendale native

T y p p Ha

emperatures are dropping, crowds are scurrying to find pumpkin spice flavored goodies, and the winter boots, hats and scarves are making their first appearances. Though the crisp air and grey skies might tempt the masses to prematurely indulge in winter’s hibernation, a great many New Yorkers are gearing up for the fall hiking season.

Catskills, the Taconics, Harriman State Park, Bear Mountain, or even the Palisades. All are easy day trips, but one of the most popular and breathtaking areas to view the fall colors while getting a great workout is just around the bend in the Hudson Highlands. Not only are there numerous trails and climbs, they are served by the Metro-North train systems. The Peekskill and Cold Spring stations will bring you quite close to the trailheads and introduce you to some charming local businesses as well.

As city dwellers, we are accustomed to stuffing as much as possible into our days. The pace of our city can leave us itching for wide, open spaces, fresh air, the sights and sounds of nature, and an opportunity to get out and stretch those arms and legs. Due to the extensive variation in length and intensity of trails in our area, hiking is truly a pastime for everyone. In Queens, we are fortunate to be a little more than an hour away from some of the most beautiful mountain trails on the East Coast, with many of them accessible by public transportation.

As you plan your hiking trip, I would like to stress that preparation is key. It can be the difference between an excursion that is inspiring and one that ends up catastrophic.

Many of the Hudson Valley hikes will not require much in the way of fancy equipment, but it is good to have an idea of what to expect, as well as what necessities to bring to make your trail experience memorable and safe.

As nature itself can throw twists, turns and detours onto the trails, it is smart to research up-to-date information on local hiking areas.

So where to go? Depending on the day, mood, and transportation options, you might try the

Be aware of personal restrictions and physical capabilities. Sure, you can go out and attempt to learn while you are on the ground, however, you may find yourself lost and waiting for the rangers to find you. Packing lists, maps, pictures, hiking reviews and emergency tips are at your fingertips if you know where to look.

Story By HAYLEY BRIDGEWATER

T

Mohonk Preser ve Minnewaska State Park Preserve 50 I BOROMAG.COM I NOVEMBER 2015

y Trails “There’s always a great sense of accomplishment after each hike. No matter how many times you may travel the same trail, the journey will always be different. Nature has a way of making each hike unique. The flowers may bloom one day, the leaves may fall the next, the waterfall may be intense, Breakneck Ridge and the uneven grounds allow your feet to feel a new experience. The sense of accomplishment doesn’t just come once, it pours out after each mile, with increase in elevation, and abundantly when you reach the top of the mountain. That is my favorite part! There’s so much peace up there. Lastly, the greatest part is sharing that moment with those who took the journey with you. It’s a beautiful moment to share the bliss, the courage and the strength that got us all up there.”

Allison Rivera, East Elmhurst native “Hiking is so much fun! You get to work out for free with your friends and enjoy nature and the fine views it has to offer. It’s nice to leave the hustle and bustle of the city and spend the day in a serene and relaxing environment. In addition, I love that there are different levels of hikes ranging from the more experienced hiker to the novice just getting started. There is something for everyone to enjoy.”

Pauline Kakkos, Astoria native

Mohonk Pre

serve

Two comprehensive and well-maintained sites to consult are as follows: New York New Jersey Trail Conference - www.nynjtc.org Mike Todd’s Hiking Blog – www.hikethehudsonvalley.com I check both of these sites before every hike and note GPS coordinates, trail changes due to weather, and events happening in the area. Hope to see you all on the trails. And remember, leave only footprints and take only memories.

NOVEMBER 2015 I BOROMAG.COM I 51

FOOD & DRINK

Hudson Valley grassfed ribeye, short rib barley, smoked parsley root, confit baby leeks, leek espuma and beef jus

8313 Confit pork cheeks, housemade curry pappardelle, roasted beech mushrooms, swiss chard and Vermont raclette 52 I BOROMAG.COM I NOVEMBER 2015

8280 Hudson Valley foie gras, roasted young pumpkin, honeycrisp apples, squash puree, apple butter, housemade gingerbread and daikon vinaigrette

Crescent Farm to Table Story & Images

By Bradley Hawks

Brothers Dan and Shaun Dougherty have accomplished precisely what most restaurant owners might only attempt—reinventing their concept while maintaining, perhaps even surpassing, the level of quality for which they have become lauded.

Nestled just a few blocks from the mouth of the 59th Street Bridge, Crescent Grill is hoping to grow in a few simple yet substantial ways.

Perhaps the most significant change is a slight shift in the name. No longer merely a grill, the restaurant is now being known as Crescent Farm to Table, honoring the philosophies on which the menu was developed.

Under the direction of Executive Chef Kenneth Corrow, this farm-to-table restaurant has adopted a menu that features slightly more sophisticated recipes while maintaining familiarity and accessibility. BORO was offered a preview tasting to sample some of the offerings, which will also include

an expansion of hours to being open seven days a week.

For everything else, the images can speak for themselves. And don’t forget—Crescent will still pick you up at your home or apartment and return you afterward if you live nearby. That’s a level of hospitality that can’t be beat.

38-40 Crescent St., Long Island City, NY 11101 718-729-4040 www.CrescentGrill.com NOVEMBER 2015 I BOROMAG.COM I 53

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