VOL 3:2 JANUARY 2013
Mix up your local bar scene, pg. 24
New brunch at The Queens Kickshaw, pg. 30
I ts e C,
Beer in the New Year, pg. 20
sid
Western Queens, the edible playscape, pg. 6
CREATE // CULTIVATE // INSPIRE
DI GR SC E at AT in the O U A b s e N Su tor st TS nn ia sp y ,L o
ASTORIA // LIC // SUNNYSIDE
2 | BOROMAG.COM | JANUARY 2013
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Dear Western Queens, Happy New Year! In this month’s issue we’re covering all things NEW! Our neighborhood is a continuously developing hot spot for restaurants, nightlife, art and inspiration. Check out all the NEW things we’ve uncovered in this issue. I’m excited to announce, beginning February 2013, Matthew Taylor will be our new EditorIn-Chief. Matthew has worked hand-in-hand with me over a year consistently improving our publication. While this is my last issue as editor-in-chief, I will remain BORO’s founder, publisher and CEO - staying involved in the day to day operations. I’ll be shifting my focus to the growth and expansion of BORO, generating new partnerships and exploring new initiatives to support Western Queens.
JULIAN LESSER
editor-in-chief
Wishing you a wonderful 2013 - fi lled with excitement and inspiration.
Don’t Be Left Dry This Winter
20
FEATURES 6 FOOD New year, new noshes. Yum!
20 DRINK Beer in the New Year.
24 EXPLORE YOUR BORO Three new local businesses worth checking out.
26 NIGHTLIFE Try these local watering holes for a pleasant wintery mix.
30 KICKING IT UP A NOTCH Egg-centric New Brunch at The Queens Kickshaw.
New Brunch at The Queens Kickshaw
30
DEPARTMENTS 12 JANUARY 2013 EVENTS 15 MAP IT DIRECTORY Your Go-to Guide For Astoria, LIC and Sunnyside’s best shops, food, art, nightlife and More.
16 MAP IT: ASTORIA, LIC & SUNNYSIDE MAP 32 DISCOUNTS & PROMO PAGE Exclusive savings, discounts and freebies for the month of January in Astoria, LIC and Sunnyside. Cover illustration by Emma Cason-Pratt REMEMBER TO TAG YOUR QUEENS INSTAGRAM PICS WITH #BOROMAG AND LOOK FOR YOUR PHOTOS IN ONE OF OUR FUTURE ISSUES!
ADVERTISE IN BORO ads@BOROmag.com // 914.426.2939 www.BOROmag.com/advertise BORO HOURS: Mon-Fri 10AM-5PM
/ BOROmag
@BOROmag
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF AND PUBLISHER julian lesser // CREATIVE DIRECTOR philippe trinh // EDITOR john lee // COPY EDITOR norm elrod ART DIRECTORS paul connolly, alt // GRAPHIC DESIGNERS alberto michieli, emma cason-pratt, sydney auerbach // STAFF WRITERS bradley hawks, ben mims, daniel crown, lillian shaw, rebecca mcnamara, matthew taylor, brett jones, meaghan trainor // STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS javier ibañez, daniel pando, jesse winter // SALES AND MARKETING nadine auerbach // WEBMASTER janmichael guzman // DISTRIBUTION MANAGER sadee brathwaite ONLINE EDITORIAL COORDINATOR matthew taylor // CREATED AND PUBLISHED BY JKL Projects Inc *This magazine is made from FSC ® certified paper, printed with soy ink and 100% recyclable. Please recycle after use. BORO Magazine published by JKL Projects. All materials Copyright © 2012 BORO / All rights reserved. Opinions and claims made by advertisers are advertisers’ claims only. BORO Magazine accepts no responsibility for any claims made by advertisers. BORO Magazine reserves the right to publish any images without providing photo/image credit. No part of this publication may be reproduced without permission of the publisher.
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FOOD
NEW NOSHES FOR THE NEW YEAR Story + Photos BRADLEY HAWKS
As Western Queens enters the New Year, the culinary momentum it has built appears unlikely to slow down anytime soon. In fact, the edible playscape continues to broaden, with newcomers bringing flavors from as far as Australia and Vietnam, Texas and Italy. Read on for a roundup of a few of the noteworthy recently opened kitchens certain to make their mark in the coming year.
The Thirsty Koala
Lamb Lollies at The Thirsty Koala
Quench your Aussie cravings What do you get when you cross an NYPD Fire Chief, a Greek mixologist and an Aussie financial adviser? Answer: the dream combination for one of Astoria’s most highly anticipated openings, and its first Australian restaurant: The Thirsty Koala. As Katherine Fuchs, the former-fire-chiefturned-Executive-Chef, explains: “There are only maybe a handful of Australian restaurants in the city, and none really in Queens.” Fuchs is joined by Astoria native Alex Styponias, who runs the front of the house, and Christine Chellos, who offers financial and tech wisdom. “She’s also the authenticity,” adds Fuchs.
The Thirsty Koala boomerang
Other than the blonde onyx bordering the lower walls – which was already there – the team of three mates has entirely renovated the space formerly occupied by the Asian-Indian fusion restaurant, Spiced. The new incarnation showcases authentic aboriginal artifacts, including a didgeridoo and boomerangs displayed amongst new backlit pinewood planked walls and reclaimed wooden tables with industrial pipes for legs. According to Fuchs, the menu features “dishes that are familiar, but with an Australian flare,” which she describes as an international mix of influences, including British and Asian notes. Featured items include lamb lollies, crostis (crostini), jaffles (Australian pressed sandwiches) and boomerang tacos. Meat for the barbie will be sourced directly from Australia, seafood from Hunts Point and a few cheeses will be made by Fuchs in-house. Down Under desserts (pavlova and lamingtons) and beer (Fosters and Coopers on tap), wine (from Oz and New Zealand) and Aussie-themed cocktails round out the experience. The Thirsty Koala | 35-12 Ditmars Blvd., Astoria
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The Thirsty Koala
The Strand’s indoor luxury picnic area, with communal wooden tables
The Strand’s Bloody Mary
The Strand Astoria Smokehouse makes its Blockbuster Debut When the Blockbuster Video disappeared from Broadway last year, Astorians watched curiously as the space gradually transformed into what appeared to be an indoor luxury picnic area, with communal wooden tables and bourbon casks behind a bar that stretched half a city block. Just over a year later, The Strand Smokehouse opened its doors to eager patrons ready to embrace a new beer hall and BBQ mecca. Situated on a portion of Broadway formerly known as “The Strand,” the new smokehouse is named in honor of an old cinema that closed during the 80s. Patrons are greeted by a host and guided to communal wooden tables loaded with emptied whiskey bottles serving as water jugs, along with a myriad of homemade sauces and spices with which to accentuate meats. A rotating selection of smoked entrees are ordered by the half-pound or
Brunch biscuits and sausage gravy over grits at The Strand
Thirsty? Check out the bourbon casks behind the Strand’s bar
pound from the front bar and piled onto paper-lined-trays alongside southern sides like yams, stuffing, mac and cheese – even andouille shrimp stew. Beer and seasonal cocktails are sipped from mason jars. Brunch service offers actual table service with a wait staff that serves up a breakfast menu that includes a drool-worthy rendition of biscuits and sausage gravy over grits. The only thing drowning the overhead song of banter and camaraderie is the bluegrass, country and rock music played on a small stage, with changing artist sets at night. How on earth did owner Tommy Vasilis so quickly draw up a roster? What curious Astorians couldn’t see over the past year were the over 40 subterranean music studios beneath the space, often utilized by local bands for rehearsal. Also behind the scenes: food is prepared next door at Bakeway, which just so happens to share the same owner. The Strand Smokehouse | 25-27 Broadway, Astoria 718-545-2120 JANUARY 2013 | BOROMAG.COM | 7
FOOD
A new kind of
Spice serves up tasty Thai cuisine at reasonable prices
Spice
You may think you know Spice Thai from its several locations in Manhattan. The Long Island City version, however, aims to steer in a more authentic direction, according to management. Steamed buns stuffed with homemade lemongrass sausage appear as specials, and dumplings range in shape, size, filling and preparation. Guests should be warned to clearly indicate their desired heat intensity, as authentic renditions live up to the restaurant’s name. Despite the decided effort to serve true Thai, the menu remains user-friendly and accessible to newcomers. Pad See Ew, for instance, is simply called “Broad Black Noodle with Beef ” on the lunch menu, though it features the traditional pappardelle-like rice noodles sautéed in garlic and soy sauce with egg, Chinese broccoli and thinly sliced strips of tender beef. But don’t let the simple names fool you. Fried Vietnamese Rice arrives in a sticky and delicious dome, studded with tiny cubes of smoked pork belly. And best of all, Spice serves up tasty Thai cuisine at reasonable outer borough prices.
Steamed buns at Spice
Spice | 47-45 Vernon Blvd, LIC 718-392-7888 | www.spicethainyc.com
Cyclo
Just what LIC has been looking pho
Various Vietnamese dishes at Cyclo
Long Island City may boast Japanese, Chinese, Thai and a handful of other delicious Asian restaurants, but what the ever-evolving waterfront scene has lacked is a spot for a savory bowl of pho or a crunchy and tangy banh mi. Filling the void – not just in LIC, but for most of Western Queens – comes Cyclo, the Vietnamese sister restaurant to the popular Thai eatery Tuk Tuk. Named in honor of Tuk Tuk’s original chef, Hoang Lieng, original Vietnamese recipes serve as the inspiration for Cyclo’s diverse menu. Flaky baguettes are loaded with Vietnamese ham, ground pork, pate, cilantro, carrots, daikon and sriracha. Oxtail broth arrives steaming with savory noodles, spices and a myriad of veggies. Fantastic lunch specials ranging from $6.50 to $7.50 include soup or salad along with a choice of entrée. Dinner plates run the gamut from shrimp and corn fritters to clay pot rice dishes and vermicelli noodle salads.
Cyclo’s bubble tea
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Inside Cyclo
Cyclo | 5-51 47th Ave, LIC | 718-786-8309 www.cyclolic.com
JANUARY 2013 | BOROMAG.COM | 9
FOOD
Other Newcomers Worth a Nibble From provolone-stuffed meatballs to Old Fashioned Grandma Style square pies, Antika Pizzeria is dishing out some of 30th Ave’s tastiest Italian-American cuisine. 36-08 30th Ave, Astoria | 718-545-0555 www.antikapizzeria.com
Antika Pizzeria
The dramatically renovated space at the former location of Mix Lounge, La Bottega features one of the most diverse sandwich menus in the area, alongside Italian bistro favorites like bruschetta, linguine with clams, salmon with white wine and gelato. 40-17 30th Ave, Astoria | 718-728-8620 www.labottegaastoria.com
From the same Bronx bakery factory that supplies Crumbs, Starbucks and Dean & Deluca – just to name a few – comes Leli’s Bakery, where you can watch Leli himself prepare treats ranging from gourmet cupcakes and rainbow cookies to Maltese pizzas and artisan breads. 35-14 30th Ave, Astoria | 718-626-8090
La Bottega
Leli’s Bakery
Mezze Place gracefully and swiftly took over the former Mundo space, leaving a nod to the prior owners in both ambiance and menu, but successfully bringing a deliciously fresh approach to Mediterranean cuisine. 31-18 Broadway, Astoria | 718-777-2829 www.mezzeplace.com
Mezze Place
Chef Hugue Dufour and wife Sarah Obraitis have done it again with their sophomore eatery, M. Wells Dinette. Designed like a classroom in MoMA’s P.S. 1, old favorites from the former diner – including hearty meat pies and foie gras – are joined by bold new creations like rabbit terrines and inventive crudo for an experience that still packs ‘em in from all corners of the city. 22-25 Jackson Ave, LIC | 718-786-1800
A true family operation inspired by a grandmother’s recipes – and cooked personally by her each day! – Seoul Fusion Eatery offers everything Korean, from bibimbap and spicy rice cakes to bulgogi burgers and ramen. 24-06 34th Ave, Astoria | 718-433-3003 www.seoulfusioneatery.com
M. Wells Dinette
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Seoul Fusion Eatery
A sweet little Asian café, Tapioca Story offers an array of bubble teas with tapioca pearls and lychee jelly cubes, along with a selection of homemade dumplings, steamed buns and cookies. 27-22 30th Ave, Astoria
JANUARY 2013 | BOROMAG.COM | 11
JANUARY EVENTS 1/3 9PM-12AM (MUSIC)
1/16 @ 6PM (FOOD+DRINK)
FREE | Rest-Au-Rant 718-729-9009 | 30-01 35th Ave, LIC
$195/TICKET (INCLUDES TAX & GRATUITY) | S Prime Steakhouse 718-707-0660 | 35-15 36th St, LIC
LIVE MUSIC: MARC DAINES’ MINI VAN www.rarbarlic.com
1/4 @ 8PM (MUSIC)
S PRIME INAUGURAL STAGS’ LEAP WINE DINNER
www.sprimenyc.com
LIVE MUSIC: ACOUSTIC SPOTLIGHT WITH JAMES BONDY
ONGOING 1/11-1/13 12PM-7PM (SHOPPING)
NEW YEAR’S CLEARANCE SALE
FREE | SITE NYC 718-626-6030 | 35-11 34th Ave, Astoria www.sitenyc.com
FREE | Thymari 718-204-2880 | 32-07 34th Ave, Astoria www.thymari.com
1/4 9PM-11:30PM (MUSIC)
LIVE MUSIC: BRIAN ADLER’S HELIUM
FREE | The Queens Kickshaw 718-777-0913 | 40-17 Broadway, Astoria www.thequeenskickshaw.com
1/7 4PM-CLOSE (FOOD+DRINK)
BEER & BACON ALL NIGHT HAPPY HOUR FREE | Rest-Au-Rant 718-729-9009 | 30-01 35th Ave, LIC www.rarbarlic.com
1/9 @ 8PM (NIGHTLIFE+ENTERTAINMENT)
THE BIG THING
$10 | Laughing Devil Comedy Club 347-91-DEVIL | 47-38 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.laughingdevil.com
1/10 9PM-12AM (MUSIC)
LIVE MUSIC: AARON SHORT
FREE | Rest-Au-Rant 718-729-9009 | 30-01 35th Ave, LIC www.rarbarlic.com
1/11 @ 8PM (MUSIC)
LIVE MUSIC: AMY RIVARD-CLASSIC JAZZ
FREE | Thymari 718-204-2880 | 32-07 34th Ave, Astoria www.thymari.com
1/11 9PM-11:30PM (MUSIC)
LIVE MUSIC: HOMESICK HOUND DOGS
FREE | The Queens Kickshaw 718-777-0913 | 40-17 Broadway, Astoria www.thequeenskickshaw.com
1/12 (SHOPPING)
NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTION: FLOWERS DELIVERED MONTHLY FOR ONE YEAR
20% OFF W/COUPON CODE BORO12MO | NYC Farm Chic Flowers 718-644-2446 www.nycfarmchicflowers.com
1/13 3PM-5PM (FAMILY)
INDOOR CARNIVAL
$10/FIRST CHILD & $5/EACH ADDITIONAL | Astoria Center of Israel 718-278-2680 | 27-35 Crescent St, Astoria www.astoriacenter.org
1/13 5PM-7PM (ART)
OPENING RECEPTION FOR WINTER EXHIBITIONS FREE | SculptureCenter 718-361-1750 | 44-19 Purves St, LIC www.sculpture-center.org
1/13 @ 8PM (NIGHTLIFE+ENTERTAINMENT)
QUEENS VS BROOKLYN
$15 | Laughing Devil Comedy Club 347-91-DEVIL | 47-38 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.laughingdevil.com
1/15 6PM-8PM (ARTS+CRAFTS)
BASIC SEWING CLASS: LET’S MAKE A SKIRT! (2 SESSION CLASS) $75 | babyNOIR 646-470-4728 | 26-16 23rd Ave, Astoria www.babynoir.net
1/17 7PM-9PM (SHOPPING)
‘NEW YEAR, NEW WALLS’ ART EXHIBIT FEATURING MIC BOEKELMANN FREE | LIC Living 718-361-5650 | 5-35 51st Ave, LIC www.licliving.com
1/17 9PM-12AM (MUSIC)
LIVE MUSIC: JOE JUNG & CEDRIC LEMAR FREE | Rest-Au-Rant 718-729-9009 | 30-01 35th Ave, LIC www.rarbarlic.com
1/18 @ 8PM (MUSIC)
LIVE MUSIC: STEPHANIE JOINER & TONY LEE RAMOS-AMERICAN SONG BOOK FREE | Thymari 718-204-2880 | 32-07 34th Ave, Astoria www.thymari.com
1/19 3PM-4PM (FAMILY)
KIDS DRUM CIRCLE
$5 PER CHILD| babyNOIR 646-470-4728 | 26-16 23rd Ave, Astoria www.babynoir.net
MUSIC MONDAYS
FREE | Sweet Afton 718-777-2570 | 30-09 34th St, Astoria www.sweetaftonbar.com
MON-FRI 4PM-8PM (NIGHTLIFE+ENTERTAINMENT)
HAPPY HOUR: FREE POOL, $3 BEERS, $5 DRINKS, TWO-FOR-ONE SELECT APPS FREE | Break Bar & Billiards 718-777-5400 | 32-04 Broadway, Astoria www.break-ny.com
1/24 7PM-10PM (FOOD)
TUESDAYS @ 8:30PM (NIGHTLIFE+ENTERTAINMENT)
FREE | Food Cellar & Co. Market 718-606-9786 | 4-85 47th Rd, LIC
FREE | Break Bar & Billiards 718-777-5400 | 32-04 Broadway, Astoria
WINTER FOOD TASTING
STUMP TRIVIA
www.foodcellarco.com
www.break-ny.com
1/24 9PM-12AM (MUSIC)
TUESDAYS 9PM-11PM (NIGHTLIFE+ENTERTAINMENT)
LIVE MUSIC: SHAI BACHAR
FREE | Rest-Au-Rant 718-729-9009 | 30-01 35th Ave, LIC www.rarbarlic.com
1/25 @ 8PM (MUSIC)
LIVE MUSIC: AMY RIVARD-CLASSIC JAZZ
FREE | Thymari 718-204-2880 | 32-07 34th Ave, Astoria www.thymari.com
WHINE+CHEESE COMEDY SHOW
FREE | Rest-Au-Rant 718-729-9009 | 30-01 35th Ave, LIC www.rarbarlic.com
FRI-SUN UNTIL 1/20, 12PM-6PM (ART)
WINTER SHOW
FREE | Jeffrey Leder Gallery 917-767-1734 | 21-37 45th Rd, LIC www.jeffreyledergallery.com
1/25 9PM-11:30PM (MUSIC)
LIVE MUSIC: SIX DEADLY VENOMS
FREE | The Queens Kickshaw 718-777-0913 | 40-17 Broadway, Astoria www.thequeenskickshaw.com
1/27 @ 8PM (NIGHTLIFE+ENTERTAINMENT)
SHE-DEVILS
$15 | Laughing Devil Comedy Club 347-91-DEVIL | 47-38 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.laughingdevil.com
1/31 9PM-12AM (MUSIC)
LIVE MUSIC: HIRO SUZUKI’S BLUES BAND FREE | Rest-Au-Rant 718-729-9009 | 30-01 35th Ave, LIC www.rarbarlic.com
12 | BOROMAG.COM | JANUARY 2013
MONDAYS 9PM-11PM (NIGHTLIFE+ENTERTAINMENT)
Find more January events at www.BOROmag.com/Events
HAPPY HOUR 5–7PM TUESDAY–SUNDAY 2 for 1 Classic Cocktails $1 Oysters JSHZZPJ JVJR[HPSZ KYHM[ ILLYZ HTLYPJHU TLU\
YH^ IHY ^HYT H[TVZWOLYL
36th St. & 35th Ave. H[ /PZ[VYPJ 2H\MTHU (Z[VYPH :[\KPVZ 718-255-1947 www HZ[VYYVVT JVT
JANUARY 2013 | BOROMAG.COM | 13
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MAP IT DIRECTORY RESTAURANTS 115
2
ALEWIFE (A,4) (718) 937-7494 5-14 51st Ave, LIC www.alewifequeens.com ALIADA (B,2) (718) 932-2240 29-19 Broadway, Astoria
86
18
19
31 (B,2) 105 AROMA (718) 777-5557
6
LOCALE (B,2) (718) 729-9080 33-02 34th Ave, LIC www.localeastoria.com
34
MANDUCATIS RUSTICA (A,4) (718) 937-1312 46-3 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.manducatisrustica.com
40
MEXIBBQ (C,2) (718) 626-0333 37-11 30th Ave, Astoria www.mexiqny.com
37
33-20 31st Ave, Astoria www.aroma31ny.com
20
ASTOR ROOM (C,2) (718) 255-1947 34-12 36th St, Astoria www.astorroom.com
ORNELLA TRATTORIA ITALIANA (B,1) (718) 777-9477 29-17 23rd Ave, Astoria www.ornellatrattoria.com
61
OVELIA (B,2) (718) 721-7217 34-01 30th Ave, Astoria www.ovelia-ny.com
3
AVENUE CAFE (C,2) (718) 278-6967 35-27 30th Ave, Astoria www.avenuecafenyc.com
4
BAREBURGER (B,2) (718) 777-7011 33-21 31st Ave, Astoria (718) 204-7167 23-01 31 St, Astoria www.bareburger.com
22
PAN (C,2) 109 PITA (718) 204-1633
BEAR (A,2) (917) 396-4939 12-14 31st Ave, Astoria www.bearnyc.com
69
5
BRICK CAFE (B,2) (718) 267-2735 30-95 33rd St, Astoria www.brickcafe.com
PORTALIA RISTORANTE (B,2) (718) 545-3500 35-03 Broadway, Astoria www.portalianyc.com
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BREAD BOX CAFE (A,4) (718) 389-9700 4711 11th St, LIC www.breadboxcafelic.com
QUEENS COMFORT (C,2) 718-728-2350 40-09 30th Ave, Astoria www.queenscomfort.com
1
26
BURGER CLUB (B,2) (718) 777-7788 32-02 30th Ave, Astoria www.burger-club.com
24
8
BURGER GARAGE (B,3) (718) 392-0424 25-36 Jackson Ave, LIC www.theburgergarage.com
RÈST-ÂÜ-RÁNT (B,2) (718) 729-9009 30-01 35th Ave, Astoria www.rarbarlic.com
91
35
BUTCHER BAR (C,2) (718) 606-8140 37-08 30th Ave, Astoria www.ButcherBar.com
S PRIME STEAK HOUSE (C,2) (718) 707-0660 35-16 36th Ave, Astoria www.sprimenyc.com
25
9
CAVO (C,2) (718) 721-1001 42-18 31st Ave, Astoria www.cavoastoria.com
SAGE GENERAL STORE (B,4) (718) 361-0707 24-20 Jackson Ave, LIC www.sagegeneralstore.com
28
87
CAFÉ BAR (C,2) (718) 204-5273 32-90 36th St, Astoria www.cafebarastoria.com
SHI (A,4) (347) 242-2450 4720 Center Blvd, LIC www.eatdrinkshi.com
55
SKINNY’S (A,4) 718-806-1068 47-05 Center Blvd, LIC
10
CAFÉ VIA ESPRESSO (C,1) (718) 545-3290 2409 Steinway St, Astoria www.cafeviaespressoastoria.com
29-03 Broadway, Astoria
38
37-15 30th Ave, Astoria www.pitapanny.com
23
GRILL (B, 2) 117 CARIOCA (718) 606-1329
27
39
ASTORIA (C,1) 47 INSIDE (718) 956-4000
28-07 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria
(B,1) 48 KRISTEES (718) 204-5031
2401 23rd Ave, Astoria www.kristeesny.com
MALU (A,4) (718) 729-6258 12-09 Jackson Ave, LIC www.amomandpopshop.com
LIVING (A,4) 21 LIC: (718) 361-5650
SWEETLEAF (A,4) (917) 832-6726 10-93 Jackson Ave, LIC www.sweetleaflic.com
31 (B,2) 49 LOVEDAY (718) 728-4057
FOOD SHOPS 36
PENTHOUSE808 (A,3) (718) 289-6118 8-08 Queens Plaza South, LIC www.penthouse808rooftop.com
BROOKLYN BAGEL & COFFEE COMPANY (C,2) (718) 777-1121 36-14 30th Ave, Astoria www.bkbagel.com (C,1) 35-09 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria (C,2) 35-05 Broadway, Astoria
535 51st Ave. LIC www.licliving.com
3306 31st Ave, Astoria www.loveday31.com
(C,2) 50 SITE (718) 626-6030
35-11 34th Ave, Astoria www.sitenyc.com
ASTORIA BIER & CHEESE (C,2) (718) 545-5588 34-14 Broadway, Astoria ASTORIA PARK WINE AND SPIRITS (B,1) 28-07 24th Ave, Astoria www.astoriaparkwineandspirits.com ASTORIA WINE AND SPIRITS (C,2) (718) 545-9463 3412 Broadway, Astoria www.astoriawines.com FOOD CELLAR (A,4) (718) 606-9786 4-85 47th Rd., LIC www.foodcellarandco.com
PETS 51
COURT VET (C,2) 52 STEINWAY (718) 728-2822
32-14R Steinway, Astoria www.steinwaycourtvet.com
FLORISTS
SHOPS GALLERY (C,2) 104 APOLLO (718) 786-7590
QUEENS KICKSHAW (C,2) (718) 777-0913 40-17 Broadway, Astoria www.thequeenskickshaw.com
34-10 36th Ave, Astoria
44
BELIEF (B,1) (718) 721-4444 29-20b 23rd Ave, Astoria www.beliefnyc.com
45
BABYNOIR (B,1) (646) 470-4728 26-16 23rd Ave, Astoria www.babynoir.net
CITY VET (A,4) (718) 433-1334 45-44 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.cityvetnyc.com
54
FLORESTA (A,4) (917) 612-4446 51-02 Vernon Blvd, LIC 4-85 47th Rd, LIC www.florestanyc.com/blog
FARM CHIC FLOWERS 75 NYC www.nycfarmchicflowers.com AND ROOTS (B,2) 121 PETALS (718) 267- 1700 31-27 31st St, Astoria www.petalsandroots.com
RESTAURANT AND BAR (C, 1) 118 STOVE (718) 956-0372 45-17 28th Ave, Astoria www.stoveastoria.com
FREAK (C,2) 116 SUGAR (718) 726-5850
36-18 30th Ave, Astoria www.sugarfreak.com
11
DIWINE (C,2) (718) 777-1355 41-15 31st Ave, Astoria www.diwineonline.com
30
12
EL AY SI (A,4) (718) 389-8781 47-38 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.elaysi.com
THYMARI (B,2) (718) 204-2280 32-07 34th Ave, Astoria www.thymari.com
31
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FATTY’S (B,1) (718) 267-7071 2501 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria www.fattyscafenyc.com
VESTA (A,2) (718) 545-5550 2102 30th Ave, Astoria www.vestavino.com
29
14
IL BAMBINO (C,2) (718) 626-0087 34-08 31 Ave, Astoria www.ilbambinonyc.com
WILLIAM HALLET (C,2) (718) 269-3443 36-10 30th Ave, Astoria www.williamhallet.com
BAR AND EATERY (C,2) 108 WINEGASM (718) 932-3331
53
LENG THAI (B,2) (718) 956-7117 33-09 Broadway, Astoria www.lengthainewyork.com
32
15
LIC MARKET (B,4) (718) 361-0013 21-52 44th Dr, LIC www.licmarket.com
YAJAI (B,2) (718) 956-9559 33-16 30th Ave, Astoria www.yajaithaifood.com
16
LINN (B,2) (718) 204-0060 2913 Broadway, Astoria www.linnrestaurant.com
33
ASTOR BAKE SHOP (A,2) (718) 606-8439 12-23 Astoria Blvd, Astoria www.astor-bakeshop.com
31-86 37th Rd, Astoria www.winegasmeatery.com
BAKERIES
Continued on page 18
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A
94
33
23
65
31
119
48
111
13
117 16
45
81
2
78
B
24
27
70
44
20
77
82
47
42
121
60
4
83
30
5
84
32
86
73
53
105 49
26
4
63
104
92
6
87
69 34
112
50
38 36 62
57
14
89
61 71 103 3
46
19 109
91 88
93
108
114
29 34 116 35
ASTORIA
34
76
80
43
100
67
C
52
1
74
10
120
11 9
58
59
118
2
1
4
3
28
22
64
51
A
55 39
54
66
85
21
115
72
12 68 101
18
17
54
99
98 80
101
7
79
37
95
40
15 105
96
90
113
B
LONG ISLAND CITY
25
8
110
C
4
3
SERVICES
CKO KICKBOXING (C, 1)
120 (347) 669-0494
40-06 Astoria Blvd, Astoria www.ckoastoria.com
ARK LOCKSMITH 24/7 SERVICE (C,2)
114 (718) 932-LOCK (5625) 30-10 37th st, Astoria www.Astorialocksmith.com
CLUB FITNESS (B,2)
42 (718) 545-0004
31-11 Broadway, Astoria www.clubfitnessny.com
ASTORIA CENTER OF ISRAEL
119 (718) 278-2680
27-35 Crescent Street, Astoria www.astoriacenter.org
CROSSFIT DYNAMIX GYM (C,1)
76 (718) 606-0381
36-05 20th Ave, Astoria www.dynamixgym.com
DR. PANAGIOTIS PAGONIS, M.D. (B,2)
77 (718) 278-0300
30-16 30th Ave, Astoria www.drpagonismd.com
56
HERO COMPUTER REPAIR NYC Apple/Mac Computer Repair Specialist 347-670-4376 hero@iamhero.net | www.iamhero.net
SEEK FITNESS (B,1)
78 (347) 924-9004
27-18 23rd Ave, Astoria www.seek-fitness.com PNT FITNESS (A,4)
79 (347) 396-5809
10-68 Jackson Ave, LIC www.pntfitness.com
MPN LAW FIRM (C,2)
57 (718) 777-0400
3403 Broadway, Ste. 200, Astoria www.mpnfirm.com
TIGHTAN GYM
60 (718) 274-1606
31-21 31st St, Astoria www.tightan.com
RCN (A,3)
59 Digital TV and High-Speed Internet Services 33-16 Woodside Ave, LIC (212) 842-7981 www.rcn.com/boromag
62
VARDIMAN EYEWEAR (C,2) (718) 204-5037 34-18 Broadway, Astoria www.vardimaneyewear.com
YOGA AGORA (B,2)
73 (718) 626-0680
33-02 Broadway, 2nd Fl, Astoria www.YogaAgora.com THE YOGA ROOM (C,2)
80 (718) 274-0255
38-01 35th Ave, Astoria (718) 786-7962 (A,4) 10-14 47th Rd, LIC www.the-yoga-room.com
VIDEO EXPRESS (C,2)
63 (718)626-0846
3408 30th Ave, Astoria
EVENTS
81
FOUNDRY (A,3)
42-38 9TH St, LIC www.thefoundry.info THE RENAISSANCE EVENT HALL (A,1)
HOTELS 66
BOHEMIAN HALL & BEER GARDEN (B,1)
82 (718) 274-4925
2919 24th Ave, Astoria www.bohemianhall.com
83 BREAK (B,2)
(718) 777-5400 3204 Broadway, Astoria www.break-ny.com BRICK BAR (B,2)
84 (718) 267-2735
30-95 33rd St, Astoria www.brickcafe.com
Z NYC HOTEL (A,3)
17 (212) 319-7000
11-01 43rd Ave, LIC www.zhotelny.com
TATTOO SHOPS
DOMAINE WINE BAR (A,4)
85 (718) 784-2350
50-04 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.domainewinebar.com LAUGHING DEVIL (A,4)
68 (347) 913-3845
4738 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.laughingdevil.com
SUPER NOVA TATTOOS (C,1)
67 (718) 274-5712
38-01 23rd Ave, Astoria www.supernovatattoo.com
BEAUTY 71
72
GIGI SALON (C,2) (718) 777-7755 34-17 30th Ave, Astoria www.gigistylingstudio.com PRIMP AND TEASE SALON (A,4) (718) 472-2001 5-02 50th Ave, LIC REDKEN SALOON (C,2)
MOSAIC CAFE AND LOUNGE (B,1)
111 (718) 728-0708
25-19 24th Ave, Astoria www.mosaicnyc.net RAVEN HEAD PUBLIC HOUSE (C,2)
43 (718) 777-7565
3804 Broadway, Astoria www.ravenheadpublichouse.com STUDIO SQ. BEER GARDEN (C,3)
88 (718) 383-1001
35-33 36th St, Astoria www.studiosquarenyc.com SWEET AFTON (C,2)
89 (718) 777-2570
30-09 34th St, Astoria www.sweetaftonbar.com
46 (718) 956-3366
36-17 30th Ave, Astoria www.redkensaloon.com
TANTRA LOUNGE (B,2)
70 (718) 937-4574
35-50 31st St, Astoria www.Tantraloungenyc.com
FITNESS
ART
ANTHEA YOGA&HEALING ARTS
58 CENTER (C,2)
(718) 606-0049 34-01 45th Street, Astoria www.antheacenter.com
REJUVENATE FACE AND BODY (B,1) (718) 626-4434 26-17 23rd Ave, Astoria www.Rejuvenatenyc.com
NIGHTLIFE / BARS
65 (718) 274-4590
RAVEL (A,3) (718) 289-6101 8-08 Queens Plaza South, LIC www.ravelhotel.com
31-06 35th St, Astoria www.gabrieleperici.com ASTORIA FINE ARTS DANCE (C,1)
100 (718) 247-0740
38-01 23rd Ave, Astoria www.asfa-dancestudio.com CARNEGIE HALL
107 (212) 247-7800
57th St and 7th Ave, NY www.carnegiehall.org
90
18 | BOROMAG.COM | JANUARY 2013
5 POINTZ (B,4) (317) 219-2685 45-46 Davis St, LIC www.5ptz.com
97
98
99
FLUSHING TOWN HALL
137-35 Northern Blvd, Flushing www.flushingtownhall.org
92
95
BEAUDOIN REALTY GROUP (A,4) (718) 505-9220 21-54 45th Ave, LIC www.beaudoinrealtor.com
LAGUARDIA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER (C,3)
101 (718) 784-1110
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 REISSTUDIOS (A,3) “An international community of established and emerging artists” (718) 570-3663 43-01 22nd St, LIC www.ReisStudios.com SCULPTURECENTER (B,3)
110 (718) 361-1750
44-19 Purves St, LIC www.sculpure-center.org
96
UNDERPENNY (A,4) (917) 517-1492 10-13 50th Ave, LIC
105
31-10 Thomson Ave, LIC www.laguardiaperformingarts.org
94
TEN10 STUDIOS (A,4) (917) 449-9539 10-10 47th Rd, LIC www.ten10studios.com
KAUFMAN ASTORIA STUDIOS (C,2) (718) 706-5300 34-12 36th St, Astoria www.kaufmanastoria.com
113 (718) 482-5151
93
SOCRATES SCULPTURE PARK (A,2) (718) 626-1533 32-01 Vernon Blvd, Astoria www.socratessculpturepark.org
REAL ESTATE
102 (718) 463-7700 x 222
SPAS
64 (718) 786-7776
27-34 21st St, Astoria www.renaissanceofastoria.com
THE ART HOUSE (C,2)
112 (516) 724-1562
THE SECRET THEATRE (B,3) (718) 392-0722 4402 23rd St, LIC www.secrettheatre.com
MODERN SPACES (A,4) 10-63 Jackson Ave, LIC 47-42 Vernon Blvd, LIC 29-20 23rd Ave, Astoria www.modernspacesnyc.com WELLS FARGO HOME MORTGAGE (C,2)
103 (718) 310-4303
3501 30th Ave, Astoria www.wfhm.com
GET YOUR BUSINESS LISTED! Want your business listed in our directory? Call: (914) 426-2939 Email: ADS@BOROmag.com
JANUARY 2013 | BOROMAG.COM | 19
DRINK
BEER IN THE
NEW YEAR Story MATTHEW TAYLOR
is renowned worldwide as one of the best cities for experiences both cultural and culinary, but we still have some catching up to do on the craft beer scene. Despite many fine establishments that feature artisanal brews, the city doesn’t yet contend with places like Colorado, the Pacific Northwest or Vermont when it comes to breweries and emphasis on local beer. Fortunately, Western Queens is at the forefront of changing the status quo.
NYC
Th is month, BORO looks at four of the newest and most exciting additions to the local beer scene, places where you can try local brews and even bring them home in growlers fi lled from the tap – the way beer is meant to be appreciated. So whether you’re a hophead, swear by stouts or need some guidance along the way, there’s something here for you!
SingleCut Beersmiths
Astoria Bier & Cheese
Food Cellar & Co.
20 | BOROMAG.COM | JANUARY 2013
Rockaway Brewing Co.
ASTORIA BIER & CHEESE
SINGLECUT BEERSMITHS
718-545-5588 | 34-14 BROADWAY, ASTORIA
718-606-0788 | 19-33 37TH ST, ASTORIA WWW.SINGLECUTBEER.COM
Th is recently opened and incredibly inviting shop/ hangout shares ownership with its neighbor, Astoria Wine & Spirits. Bier & Cheese is a treasure trove for aficionados of artisanal goods, including pickles, meats and, of course, cheese — and the beer selection is no exception. Jacob Berg, Beer Manager, says his goal is “to have beers on tap that are not available in a bottle anywhere.” As such, drafts at Bier & Cheese rotate seasonally. During the winter, be on the lookout for specialty releases, winter ales, barleywines and beer from Astoria’s own new brewery, SingleCut. Customers are welcome to enjoy pints of draft beers as well as beer fl ights (four 5 oz. samples). Cheese pairings are also available. For those who want to enjoy quality beer at home, Bier & Cheese offers growlers in two sizes: 32 oz. and 64 oz. Refi lls of a 64 oz. growler cost anywhere from $16-$24, depending on your beer of choice. And while the tap offers fantastic options, don’t neglect the bottles and cans, either. You can find unique and rare picks in this section, including selections from breweries that only bottle in large format (comparable in size to a bottle of wine). Berg makes an effort to promote small, high-quality labels, and the attentiveness shows in the beer you drink.
FOOD CELLAR & CO. 718-606-9786 | 4-85 47TH RD, LIC WWW.FOODCELLARANDCO.COM
In November, this LIC store made grocery shopping far more enticing by creating a growler fi ll-up station with delicious local craft beer. The wall of taps is as aesthetically pleasing as the brews themselves; the wood is recycled from an old barn in Pennsylvania. Food Cellar’s taps exclusively feature beers made within the five boroughs. Ovidio Teja, General Manager, says, “My dream is to have at least one beer from each borough at all times.” Current selections include beers from Sixpoint, Brooklyn Brewery and Alphabet City Brewery. Growlers are available in 32 oz. and 64 oz. sizes. Also of note is the tablet at Food Cellar’s growler fi lling station, which features an app that shows the best cheeses in the store to pair with your beer. The app also includes recommendations for meats and desserts.
Brian Dwyer, Assistant Brewer at Astoria’s new brewery, SingleCut Beersmiths, envisions the place as “a community center for craft beer enthusiasts.” The brewers here pride themselves on mastering the details that lead to the best possible final product. The attention to detail is noticeable; the crew even sought out rum barrels for aging particular beers. As a result, the brews from these barrels have what Dwyer describes as a distinct “spicy, caramel flavor” you can’t get from the bourbon barrels found in most other breweries. While SingleCut is best for those bringing beer home in a growler (they are currently unable to offer more than 3 oz. tasting portions on site), they do have a performance space, complete with a stage and full sound system, for those who want to hang out at the brewery. Music ought to be a large factor in the SingleCut experience; after all, their beers – and even the name of the brewery itself – are all based on types of guitars or legendary guitarists! Hours are Thursday/Friday 5-8 p.m. and Saturday 12-7 p.m.
ROCKAWAY BREWING CO. 5-01 46TH AVE, LIC | WWW.ROCKAWAYBREWCO.COM
Don’t be misled by the name. Although Rockaway Brewing Co got its start over the summer by supplying beer to boardwalk concessions in the Rockaways, their brewing headquarters and recently opened growler annex are near the water in LIC. Stop by Thursday/Friday from 4-8 p.m. or Saturday from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. to check out the brewery and hear great records spinning while you fi ll your growler with Rockaway’s ESB or the new Black Gold Stout, just in time for the winter months.
CLASSIC BORO FAVORITES Don’t forget our old neighborhood favorites. Fill up your growler at one of MexiBBQ’s many taps, or stop by The Queens Kickshaw to get a growler full of cold-brewed iced coffee, cider or a specialty from Astoria’s own alcoholpositive kombucha brewery, Beyond Kombucha. MexiBBQ | 718-626-0333 | 37-11 30TH AVE, ASTORIA | WWW.MEXIBBQ.COM The Queens Kickshaw | 718-777-0913 | 40-17 BROADWAY, ASTORIA | WWW.THEQUEENSKICKSHAW.COM
JANUARY 2013 | BOROMAG.COM | 21
22 | BOROMAG.COM | JANUARY 2013
Reach your homebuying goals W hether you’re buying your first home, a second home or refinancing your current home, Wells Fargo Home Mortgage has the products and programs to help you reach your homebuying goals. t Wide selection of conventional and government loans t Fixed and Adjustable Rate Mortgages (ARMs)
t New construction and renovation financing t PriorityB uyer preapprovals
As a home mortgage consultant with Wells Fargo Home Mortgage, one of the nation’s leading retail mortgage lenders, I will work to help you find a home financing program to meet your needs.
Contact us for a complimentary consultation. Matthew Adessa
Home Mortgage Consultant Office: (718) 310-4303 Cell: (718) 809-0353 matthew.adessa@wellsfargo.com www.wfhm.com/matthew-adessa NMLSR ID 150138
Paul Papoutsakis
Home Mortgage Consultant Office: (718) 310-4314 Cell: (917) 374-9976 Paul.Papoutsakis@wellsfargo.com www.wfhm.com/paul-papoutsakis NMLSR ID 86741
Wells Fargo Home Mortgage is a division of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. 2012 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. NMLSR ID 399801. AS622384 4/12-7/12 JANUARY 2013 | BOROMAG.COM | 23
EXPLORE YOUR BORO
LIC: Living storefront
WHAT’S IN STORE FOR 2013?
CHECK OUT THESE 3 NEWLY OPENED BUSINESSES IN YOUR BORO!
Story MEAGHAN TRAINOR
LIC: LIVING 535 51 AVE., LIC | 718.361.5650 | LICLIVING.COM
Co-owners Rebekah Witzke and Jillian Tangen conceived LIC: living as a lifestyle store with a little something for everyone. “On a selfish level, I wanted something like this to exist in the neighborhood,” says Witzke, whose passion for retail dates back to childhood, when she held impromptu toy sales at the edge of her driveway. 24 | BOROMAG.COM | JANUARY 2013
After some setbacks caused by Hurricane Sandy, the shop, which features an eclectic selection of home goods, toys and clothing, opened its doors in November 2012. With items ranging from cute corkscrews to unique party dresses, LIC: living focuses on fi nding the best items from smaller, independent brands – “things you can’t fi nd on Amazon,” says Tangen – that appeal to the families and young professionals in the area. So whether you’re looking for something to entertain the kids, a last-minute hostess gift or something stylish for your apartment or wardrobe, chances are LIC: living will have something that catches your eye.
PIN UP QUEENS
NYC Farm Chic Flowers
22-03 ASTORIA BLVD., ASTORIA 347.746.8711 | PINUPQUEENSNYC.COM
“Th is is grassroots, baby. We’re vintage pioneers in a weird part of town.” So says Jessica Fechner, co-owner of the new vintage clothing shop Pin Up Queens. The off-the-beaten-path space was a fi xer-upper, but she and co-owner Giana Stanigar saw its’ potential in spite of the carpeted walls – and a skylight sealed the deal. By the time it opened in September 2012, the space had been transformed into a stylish showroom fit to match the glamour of its merchandise. Both Fechner and Stanigar have been in the fashion business for some time, but are now excited by the possibilities opened up by their brick-and-mortar store. “I like having that sense of community,” says Stanigar, referring to the support network of other local businesses, as well as their ability to work closely with customers to find exactly what they’re looking for. Fechner, whose background is in fashion design, offers alterations to make sure the pieces fit just so, and the two are creating a customer wishlist to keep in mind as they scour the country finding beautiful dresses, shoes, coats and accessories dating from the Victorian to Reagan Eras.
NYC FARM CHIC FLOWERS NYCFARMCHICFLOWERS.COM
By the time LIC-based online flower company NYC Farm Chic Flowers opened in July 2012, owner Debbie Demarse had already found success in other businesses, ranging from the tech industry to yoga. With her entrepreneurial savvy, floristry degree and a lifelong passion for the product, she was well-equipped to make a new business bloom, but she wanted this particular business to do things a bit differently.
Pin Up Queens
Specifically, appalled that about 80 percent of flowers sold in this country are imported from abroad, Demarse decided to use only domestically grown plants. The reasons were many: decrease the environmental impact of transporting flowers, avoid harmful chemicals outlawed in the US, and support American farmers. NYC Farm Chic Flowers also sets itself apart by streamlining the selection process, offering one daily arrangement in three different sizes, all of which come in recyclable vessels made in the USA. Demarse describes her philosophy of using seasonal products grown locally as “farm-to-vase” and believes it resonates with socially conscious consumers.
Pin Up Queens
“Using local flowers for our tables, rather than imports, and making use of the flowers that grow nearby [supports] our local and domestic economy, as well as our environment,” she says.
JANUARY 2013 | BOROMAG.COM | 25
NIGHTLIFE
NEW
NIGHTLIFE Story MATTHEW TAYLOR
We all have our favorite watering holes, but one of the unique joys of NYC is the ability to always find something new—the knowledge that all sorts of undiscovered friends and stories could be on the other side of that door you’ve walked past so many times. There’s no better time to push yourself into uncharted territory than right at the beginning of a new year—check out what some of our favorite establishments have to offer in 2013 and spice up your nightlife!
Hell Gate Social
LIC Bar
Hell Gate Social
LIC Bar
718-204-8313 | 12-21 Astoria Blvd, Astoria
718-786-5400 | 45-58 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.licbar.com
Suzy Forster, Events Coordinator at Hell Gate, says that one of the most unique elements of this local hangout is the way it “fuses arts, music and performance all together.” For example, the wildly popular burlesque parties – Saturday, January 26 is the next one – include live music by Blank Baby and the Adults. And from Thursday night open mics to the DJs and live bands that perform year-round, there’s always a reason why most people who walk through Hell Gate’s doors soon become part of the tightly knit community. Hell Gate also recently updated its food menu, adding vegan and vegetarian options such as tofu sliders, veggie terrine and goat cheese balls with pistachio. Old favorites, most notably the Turkish Dates (dates stuffed with Manchego cheese and wrapped in bacon with a balsamic reduction) still remain. Winter drink specials and tap beers are also constantly changing – be sure to try the homemade hot cider during cold months. 26 | BOROMAG.COM | JANUARY 2013
Hurricane Sandy took its toll on LIC Bar. Flooding damaged and destroyed a great deal of its equipment and rendered the bar powerless and out of business for three weeks. Thanks to the generosity of the community and people who have loaned or donated equipment (the rock band The Who even arranged to have free sound gear sent in the storm’s aftermath!), LIC Bar is back up and kicking. Wednesdays and Saturdays-Mondays feature live music with no cover – Monday shows even include a free buffet dinner courtesy of Parnell’s Restaurant. On January 12 at 10:30 p.m., check out Astoria’s own Luxe, a five-piece band that plays classic hits from a variety of genres. LIC Bar also even occasionally hosts daytime music shows for the whole family to enjoy on weekends. “The staff takes great pleasure in providing entertainment,” says Gus Rodriguez, LIC Bar’s Event Coordinator. To learn more, check out the bar’s online calendar or follow them on Facebook.
Rest-Au-Rant
Rest-Au-Rant Alewife Queens
Alewife Queens 718-937-7494 | 5-14 51st Ave, LIC www.alewifequeens.com
Alewife has established itself as a destination for beer enthusiasts citywide. The bar regularly offers brews that only the most dedicated connoisseurs have heard of, but the knowledgeable and enthusiastic staff makes sure everyone – from novices to pros – has something they enjoy in their glass. January is Local Beer Month at Alewife, featuring drafts from breweries within the five boroughs, as well as upstate New York. To sweeten the deal, there’s also a menu of local Farmer’s Market produce to pair with your beer.
718-729-9009 | 30-01 35th Ave, Astoria www.rarbarlic.com
LIC’s Rest-Au-Rant is a great place for quality food and drink at any time, but it’s especially enticing for those who like to have fun on weeknights. The first Monday of every month –January 7, this time around – is Beer & Bacon Happy Hour from 4 p.m. to 2 a.m., meaning you get great deals on quality beers and all kinds of menu items featuring bacon! On Thursdays, check out live music with no cover at 9 p.m. (see the website for the calendar and a list of bands). Tuesdays, also beginning at 9 p.m., is Whine & Cheese Comedy Night, so grab your drink of choice, pair it with some cheese (the menu recommends pairings for beers and wines) and get ready to laugh!
Winegasm
Sweet Afton
Winegasm
Sweet Afton
718-932-3331 | 31-86 37th St, Astoria www.winegasmeatery.com
718-777-2570 | 30-09 34th St, Astoria www.sweetaftonbar.com
As its name suggests, Winegasm boasts a wine list that makes it worth your while to visit, but that’s not all. Stop by for what sommelier/mixologist Dean Tomic calls this bar and restaurant’s “VERY happy hour” – seven days a week from 5 to 7 p.m. and midnight to 1 a.m. Drinks are 2-for-1, and it’s the perfect time to taste Winegasm’s winter cocktails. Favorites include the signature Pumpkin Spice Martini and the homemade mulled wine, served hot and spiced.
Sweet Afton, a local favorite praised for food and drink alike, recently debuted new cocktails and a new brunch menu, available Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Even if you stick with old favorites like gin and tonics or rum and tonics, you’ll still get a unique twist that shows Sweet Afton’s dedication to the neighborhood: these drinks now feature the locally-made Haber’s Tonic. JANUARY 2013 | BOROMAG.COM | 27
28 | BOROMAG.COM | JANUARY 2013
JANUARY 2013 | BOROMAG.COM | 29
THE ART OF BREAKFAST
EGG-CENTRIC
NEW BRUNCH Story + Photos
BRADLEY HAWKS
O
pen for just over a year, The Queens Kickshaw has already garnered “Best Of ” titles from a slew of top publications. Whether it’s for their gourmet grilled cheese, tantalizing mac ‘n’ cheese, pour-over coffees or hard ciders, the accolades keep rolling in from every direction. So what could husband-wife owners Ben Sandler and Jennifer Lim possibly do to crank it to the next level? Launch a killer, one-of-a-kind, “egg-centric” brunch, of course. Previously, the only sunrise menu offering was a toasted brioche with egg, ricotta, thyme and maple hot sauce. Though it remains on the weekday menu – accompanying such grilled cheese favorites as the Gouda (with guava jam, pickled jalapenos and black bean hummus) – the new brunch menu will be served alongside an edited version of the regular menu on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. “We have wanted to do this for a very long time,” smiles Sandler, “a brunch menu of standard and exotic egg dishes with a twist.” “We’ve been working on this off and on since September, really,” adds Chef Youngsun Lee, whose credits include substantial kitchen time at the original Momofuku Noodle Bar, CraftBar, Blue Fin and two of his own endeavors: the Kimchi Taco Truck and Persimmon in the East Village. With flavors juxtaposing Lee’s Korean heritage (he immigrated to Flushing at age 12) and culinary training, guests can expect playful, inventive and quite sophisticated dishes on the new brunch menu – all the while maintaining a harmony with everything else that is TQK. Egg-citing dishes range from Japanese-style chilled poached eggs with miso butter and mustard seed “caviar” to scotch quail eggs in pankocrusted sweet potato, as well as a brioche French toast with hard cider pear compote and spicy cheese crisp. 718-777-0913 | 40-17 Broadway, LIC, thequeenskickshaw.com 30 | BOROMAG.COM | JANUARY 2013
JANUARY 2013 | BOROMAG.COM | 31
BORO DEALS & DISCOUNTS Be local and enjoy the below offers from some of Astoria and LIC’s best merchants. Offers available through January 31, 2013. Bring BORO or coupon below to redeem discount. Limited to 1 use per reader. Merchant restrictions may apply.
1 FREE DRINK and comedy show with meal on Tuesday nights 9PM-Closing.
20% OFF your entire purchase.
1 FREE Signature Cocktail with your meal.
1 FREE glass of wine with your meal.
20% OFF dinner entrees.
10% OFF when you spend $100 or more.
10% OFF your purchase. Excluding bottled beer and on premise food consumption.
1 FREE Glass of Wine or Dessert with meal.
$79.99 for Digital TV + TiVo + High Speed Internet. OR $34.99 for High Speed
WINEGASM
Redeemable mon-thurs.
Limited to select wines. This coupon can’t be combined with any other promotion.
Internet.
$59.99 reduced monthly rate and one-time
15% off your group dinner bill $60+.
BOROJAN
setup fee of $29.99. The 1st 100 customers receive free gloves and T-shirt!!
Individual’s dinners will be honored over $30. Tue - Thurs *Excludes major holidays.
$10 OFF haircuts and color.
15% OFF entire purchase.
15% OFF you entire purchase.
$10 OFF Entire Purchase. Coupon Code
ADVERTISE IN BORO Currently selling packages for 2013!
10% OFF any wine purchase.
$15 OFF your next visit, mention this ad.
ads@BOROmag.com // 914.426.2939
www.BOROmag.com/advertise