BORO Magazine September Issue 2012

VOL 2:10 SEPTEMBER 2012

ASTORIA // LIC // SUNNYSIDE

CREATE // CULTIVATE // INSPIRE

TRAVEL + EXPLORATION

RAISERM D N U F + Y T P T. 19TH 7 ORO PAR

B

Y SEP A D S E N D WE details. e 6 for

THE QUEENS CRAWL pg. 14

GLOBAL CUISINES OF WESTERN QUEENS pg. 28

24 HOURS IN QUEENS pg. 36

sid LI ts e C,

CULINARY ROAD TRIPS pg. 8

DI GR S E at C O AT in the A b UN s e Su tor st TS nn ia sp o y ,

See pag

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FOOD

We often forget how lucky we are to live in one of the most connected places in the world. Whether we want to make a quick trip downtown, head out to the country or dash away to the other side of the globe, NYC offers everything we need to launch our next adventure. The options are nearly endless, and with planes, trains, Zipcars, subways, cabs and bike lanes at our disposal, any trip is possible.

So get out there and take advantage of it! This issue of BORO is all about exploring Western Queens and beyond, so read on for a head start.

JULIAN LESSER

editor-in-chief

GLOBAL KITCHENS

8

FEATURES 6 PARTY FOR A CAUSE Western Queens Compost Initiative teams with BORO to throw another great fundraiser party at Break!

8 CULINARY ROAD TRIPS Three restaurants worth the trip out of the BORO.

14 THE QUEENS CRAWL An itinerary for a night to remember.

28 GLOBAL CUISINES OF WESTERN QUEENS Travel the globe without leaving the BORO.

32 JET BLUE MOVES IN Travel giant shares favorite local spots.

36 24 HOURS IN QUEENS Non-stop full day in Western Queens.

38 EXPLORE MARTIAL ARTS Astoria’s Tightan Gym earns the first Xtreme Couture MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) Affiliate. Now go register to kick some butt!

24 HOURS IN QUEENS

36

DEPARTMENTS 19 MAP IT DIRECTORY Your Go-to Guide For Astoria, LIC and Sunnyside’s best shops, food, art, nightlife and More.

20 MAP IT: ASTORIA, LIC & SUNNYSIDE MAP 24 SEPTEMBER 2012 EVENTS 40 DISCOUNTS & PROMO PAGE Exclusive savings, discounts and freebies for the month of September in Astoria, LIC and Sunnyside.

COVER: TAG YOUR QUEENS INSTAGRAM PICS WITH #BOROMAG AND LOOK FOR YOUR PHOTOS IN ONE OF OUR FUTURE ISSUES! Cover design by Emma Cason-Pratt.

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 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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GREEN LIVING

FUNDRAISER

PARTY for Western Queens Compost initiative Story DANIEL CROWN

O

n Wednesday, September 19, Break Bar & Billiards will play host to BORO Magazine’s Party + Fundraiser benefitting the Western Queens Compost Initiative (WQCI).

WQCI works to increase infrastructure for, acceptance of, and participation in composting in Western Queens. With the support of the NYC Compost Project Local Organics Recovery Program, North Star Fund’s Greening Western Queens Fund, and Build It Green!NYC the group will expand its number of drop-off sites throughout Western Queens. In the past, WQCI drop-off sites have been hosted at farmers markets, community gardens, and at CSA’s. The BORO fundraiser will help kick start a new site for Astoria at a highly trafficked, publicly accessible, convenient location: The Broadway N/Q Subway Station.

DON’T MISS THIS

BORO PARTY! WHEN

SEPTEMBER 19TH, 2012, 7-10 P.M.

WHERE Break Bar & Billiards, 32-04-B Broadway, Astoria

ENTERTAINMENT FREE access to Break Bar & Billiards’ many games and tables.

Admission is a two-raffle ticket minimum – $5 each – at the door. A free drink is included with each ticket, so the more you drink, the better chance you’ll have to win one of many prizes from local establishments, including Astor Bake Shop, Astor Room, Astoria Park Wine and Spirits, Baby Noir, Brooklyn Bagel & Coffee Company, Design For You, Floresta, Laughing Devil, Leng Thai, LinDon Habes, MexiBBQ, Noguchi Museum, Ovelia, PNT Fitness, RCN, Redken Saloon, SITE, Sugar Freak, Sweet Afton, Ten10 Studio, Thymari, Tightan Gym and Ultimate Fitness Queens.

FREE food provided by Sugar Freak, Thymari, Queens Comfort and Ornella Trattoria.

While you’re waiting to find out whether you’ll be bringing home any swag, you’ll also be able to enjoy Break Bar & Billiards’ numerous entertainment options. Among other attractions, the bar features air hockey, pool, ping-pong and foosball tables, along with an assortment of arcade games.

The Western Queens Compost Initiative.

And if that’s not enough, some of Western Queen’s hottest restaurants will be providing delicious food throughout the evening. Come! Drink! Eat! Play! Win!

RSVP to party@BOROmag.com.

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WHAT YOU’LL NEED $10 for two raffle tickets at the door (Cash only) Additional raffle tickets $5 Each.

A FREE drink is included with each ticket purchased.

BENEFITING

Visit www.BOROmag.com/Compost-Party-2012 for more information about the event and the Western Queens Compost Initiative.

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Culinary Road Trips Story + Photos BRADLEY HAWKS

T

o explore the less-reviewed, specialty culinary finds outside of Manhattan, the choice is obvious: a quick train ride to Queens. But for those who call this ethnic playground home, where can you go for a short excursion beyond the borough? This month, BORO visits three unique, non-urban, culinary destinations just a short train, bus or car ride away.

City Island Lobster House

An Island Getaway in the Bronx?

Located just off I-95 at the western end of the Long Island Sound, near the mouth of the main shipping channel into New York, sits a one square mile culinary gem known as City Island, the largest (and only one currently inhabited) of the Pelham Islands at the northeastern tip of the Bronx.

With water within a few minutes’ walk from anywhere on the island, this floating patch of NYC is focused mainly around City Island Avenue, which is speckled with markets, shops, galleries, antique stores, a community theater and over two dozen seafood restaurants.

With eateries in this fishing village ranging from fast food to dessert shops, tapas restaurants to formal dining, the traffic pileup on City Island Avenue can sometimes crawl to a snail’s pace. Thank goodness one of the island’s best seafood restaurants sits right at the entrance to the island: City Island Lobster House, with its neon red glowing lobster sign beaconing an iconic welcome to the island. “I grew up around here, starting work as a bus boy, working my way up to finally owning this place,” proudly smiles chefproprietor Sam Chernin, who can be seen laughing with regulars and welcoming newcomers all throughout dinner service.

The restaurant unfolds like a labyrinth, the front room and lobster tanks leading past the kitchen to the velvetboothed Hemmingway Room, beyond which lies a long mahogany bar leading to a grass thatched roof outdoor bar, and finally a dining terrace overlooking a marina and the Long Island Sound. Many of the dishes are intended for sharing, so be cautious not to over order. Complimentary sides include a platter of cold antipasti for the table, long baguettes covered with butter and shaved garlic cloves, addictive rolls of blueberry cornbread and heaping bowls of linguini marinara. The Lobster House Crab & Lobster Feast includes two 1¼ pound Maine lobsters, snow crab leg clusters, Dungeness crabs and boiled prawns, with several other combinations boasting the whole encyclopedia of shellfish in every preparation imaginable. While lobster may be the headliner here, be sure to add a side of broiled diver sea scallops – they’re some of the most plump and delicious on City Island and beyond. Be sure to stick around for the ice cream cake roll and glass of amaretto on the house, too.

Lobster House is 30 minutes north of the city by car/taxi, or reachable via the BX29 bus through MTA.

City Island Lobster House

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Lobster House | 691 Bridge St, City Island 718-885-1459 | www.cilobsterhouse.com

Before Albany, There Was…

Boitson’s

Kingston, a sweet Victorian town nestled in the Hudson River Valley, was actually the first capital of New York in 1777 before being burned by the British that same year in the battle of Saratoga. With many of the buildings maintaining their original colonial charm, Kingston today is home to several bed and breakfasts, restaurants, specialty shops and one of the most highly regarded artist communities in the country.

While Kingston boasts several points of interest worth exploring, few share a story as unique as Boitson’s Restaurant on Front Street, an old time main street thoroughfare. Ultimately, Boitson’s is a longtime dream realized through the power of an unlikely friendship between a Brooklyn landlord and his tenant. When Maria Philippis (the tenant) discovered she was a beneficiary of her landlord “Al” Boitson’s estate, the gift was enough to fund the creation of a restaurant named in his honor.

Boitson’s

Still the same spunky and loving Long Island gal that won Boitson’s friendship over the years, Maria hops from table to table delivering cocktails, serving entrees and generally making sure each guest feels at home. Now with a back porch that spans twice the width of the actual restaurant, locals and travelers share chilled seafood towers and cocktails under the backdrop of the Catskill Mountains on the horizon.

The menu captures the charm of Kingston with the sophistication of New York City. A mozzarella caprese salad becomes transcendent with grilled peaches, the charred marks intensified with crystallized nectar. Pasta specials rotate weekly, including hollow bucatini pasta straws tossed in a delicate pesto cream with sweet figs. Fried pickle spears achieve an unprecedented crunch with a wonderfully crisp cornmeal batter. Classics like fried chicken with mashed potatoes and green beans are executed simply and deliciously – an all-American plate that somehow tastes better when enjoyed on a back porch overlooking the mountains. It’s the kind of gem you feel lucky to stumble upon the first time, and it’s reason enough to return to Kingston regularly.

Boitson’s

Kingston is reachable by an express hour-and-a-half bus ride on Trailways from Port Authority.

Boitson’s Restaurant | 47 N. Front St, Kingston 845-339-2333 | www.boitsons.com

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Blue Hill

Heigh-Ho, the Dairy-Oh Near legendary Sleepy Hollow in Pocantico Hills – just a short drive from New York City –sits the Stone Barns Center for Food & Agriculture. The working farm is perhaps best known as the home to Blue Hill at Stone Barns, arguably one of the most popular restaurants not only in New York, but the country. Housed in the Rockefeller Estate at Stone Barns, Blue Hill specializes in seasonal cuisine sourced primarily from the surrounding fields and pastures under the direction of Chef Dan Barber. Sound like the set up for a great episode of Top Chef ? It was.

With tasting menus beginning at an $88 four-course Sunday lunch to a 12-course Farmer’s Feast with wine pairing for $358, the dining experience undoubtedly falls under the category of special occasion – or even bucket list.

But for those less willing to drop several Benjamins for a meal who still believe in the slow food movement, the Stone Barns Center is an absolute must-visit.

Blue Hill

More casual (but no less delicious) selections are offered at the Blue Hill Café, where guests can purchase gourmet sandwiches or sleeves of chocolate chunk cookies to enjoy on a picnic table. Daily farm tours are available, but some of the best deals are the weekend classes, seminars and workshops that rarely cost more than $20. Join a guide and collect eggs, or lend a hand in the green house and learn to make popsicles from fresh fruit and herbs. A Farmers Market is also open from 1 to 4 p.m. Fridays through Sundays. A full calendar of events is available on the website, along with tickets, and include the upcoming Harvest Fest on October 6, featuring hay rides, workshops, live music and food from some of the city’s top vendors.

Stone Barns can be reached within about an hour by taking Metro North to Tarrytown, followed by a ten-minute cab ride to the farm.

Blue Hill

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Stone Barns Center for Food & Agriculture 630 Bedford Rd, Pocantico Hills | 914-366-6200 www.stonebarnscenter.org | www.bluehillfarm.com

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NIGHTLIFE

Sunswick 35/35

THE QUEENS CRAWL

It won’t be long until winter is upon us, which means it’s prime time to explore the neighborhood before the cold sends you into hibernation. We’ve put together the perfect Queens bar crawl so that the next time you spend a night out, you can try something a bit different from your familiar watering hole. Walk, stumble or crawl your way through this list for a guaranteed fun and adventurous night!

HEW TAYLOR Story MATT

The Gaslight Though this is a great locals’ spot all night long, it’s well worth getting to The Gaslight early if possible, making it an ideal first stop on the crawl.

Until 9 PM every day, $10 buys you three drinks.

This Irish bar also allows you to bring your own food to accompany your beer inside or in the popular backyard. Beware: Cheap drinks plus the nearby White Castle can prove hazardous!

The Gaslight | 43-17 Queens Blvd, Sunnyside | 718-729-9900

Courtyard Ale House Courtyard Ale House features 24 craft beers and also offers growlers so you can bring the brew home with you. You can enjoy your beer, wine or cocktail while watching sports on the televisions inside or head to the patio to sip and get the most out of the fall weather. Courtyard also features live music on Thursdays and Sundays.

Courtyard Ale House | 40-18 Queens Blvd, Sunnyside | 718-729-4601 www.courtyardalehouse.com The Gaslight

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Alewife Queens

Sweet Afton Sweet Afton is well known not only for its beers, wines and high-end cocktails, but also for making arguably the best mac and cheese in the neighborhood. Favorites include the Dirty Pickle Martini – a must-have for pickle lovers – and the Rye Root Beer, made with rye whiskey, vanilla and homemade root beer.

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

Crescent & Vine This cozy bar on a quiet stretch of Ditmars has an impressive wine and beer selection, as well as delectable meat and cheese platters. Jazz nights help cultivate an intimate mood that makes Crescent & Vine perfect for a date or a night with close friends.

Crescent & Vine | 25-03 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria 718-204-4774

Alewife Queens When this bar opened last fall, beer drinkers in Western Queens rejoiced. Today, it continues to serve excellent drafts with great service. Unless you are a beer buff, many of the names on the taps will likely be unfamiliar, but trying new things is part of the Alewife philosophy. The friendly staff is always more than happy to assist you in finding a beer you love.

Alewife Queens | 5-14 51st Ave, LIC 718-937-7494 | www.alewifequeens.com

Metro Food Bar & Lounge Metro Food Bar & Lounge may be in a somewhat odd location, but you aren’t going to want to leave once you’re there – which is great, since it’s the final stop on this crawl!

Along with beer, expertly crafted cocktails and some of the borough’s best sangria, Metro also features a raved-about menu with items ranging from grilled cheese with shredded short ribs to lobster spaghetti.

Metro Food Bar & Lounge | 26-50 BQE West, Woodside | 718-638-7669 | www.metrobarlounge.com

Lounge 47 This lounge has a retro look and atmosphere and a variety of drinks to make anyone happy. Wine, beer, sake and cocktails, including the Açai Reviver (Açai liqueur, St. Germaine, orange juice and Prosecco) and the neighborhood tribute Long Island City Iced Tea, are complemented by a popular tapas style menu.

Lounge 47 | 47-10 Vernon Blvd, LIC 718-937-2044 | www.lounge47.com

Mad Donkey This rowdy sports bar has a variety of beers on tap, hot wings that are legendary in the neighborhood, a good happy hour and nightly specials. If you’re feeling brave – though perhaps foolish is the better word – try the Fish Bowl, a concoction of different kinds of rum, fruit juices, 7UP and even Swedish Fish in – you guessed it – a fish bowl.

Mad Donkey | 32-07 36th Ave, Astoria 718-204-2070 | www.maddonkeyny.com

Sunswick 35/35 A beer lover’s paradise, Sunswick has 25 taps that change regularly. The knowledgeable bar staff is eager to help find the perfect brew for novices and beer connoisseurs alike.

Additionally, the kitchen serves up food that is of much higher quality than standard pub fare.

Sunswick 35/35 | 35-02 35th St, Astoria 718-752-0620 | www.sunswick3535bar.com

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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

16

86

3

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

34

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

33-20 31st Ave, Astoria www.aroma31ny.com

91

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

METRO FOOD BAR AND LOUNGE (C,2) (718) 638-7669 26-50 BQE West, Woodside www.metrobarlounge.com

40

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

19

AVENUE CAFE (C,2) (718) 278-6967 35-27 30th Ave, Astoria www.avenuecafenyc.com

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

37

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

ASTORIA PARK WINE AND SPIRITS (B,1) 28-07 24th Ave, Astoria www.astoriaparkwineandspirits.com

21

MUNDO (B,2) (718) 777-2829 31-18 Broadway, Astoria www.mundoastoria.com

38

ASTORIA WINE AND SPIRITS (C,2) (718) 545-9463 3412 Broadway, Astoria www.astoriawines.com

PENTHOUSE808 (A,3) (718) 289-6118 8-08 Queens Plaza South, LIC www.penthouse808rooftop.com

39

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

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

5

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

22

7

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

PAN (C,2) 109 PITA (718) 204-1633

26

BURGER CLUB (B,2) (718) 777-7788 32-02 30th Ave, Astoria www.burger-club.com

69

8

BURGER GARAGE (B,3) (718) 392-0424 25-36 Jackson Ave, LIC www.theburgergarage.com

PORTALIA RISTORANTE (B,2) (718) 545-3500 35-03 Broadway, Astoria www.portalianyc.com

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BUTCHER BAR (C,2) (718) 606-8140 37-08 30th Ave, Astoria www.ButcherBar.com

QUEENS COMFORT (C,2) 718-728-2350 40-09 30th Ave, Astoria www.queenscomfort.com

1

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

QUEENS KICKSHAW (C,2) (718) 777-0913 40-17 Broadway, Astoria www.thequeenskickshaw.com

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

RÈST-ÂÜ-RÁNT (B,2) (718) 729-9009 30-01 35th Ave, Astoria www.rarbarlic.com

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CAFÉ VIA ESPRESSO (C,1) (718) 545-3290 2409 Steinway St, Astoria www.cafeviaespressoastoria.com

SAGE GENERAL STORE (B,4) (718) 361-0707 24-20 Jackson Ave, LIC www.sagegeneralstore.com

DINER 24/7 @ Z HOTEL (A,3) (212) 319-7000 11-01 43rd Ave, LIC www.zhotelny.com

FOOD SHOPS 27

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

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

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

26-16 23rd Ave, Astoria www.babynoir.net

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

31 (B,2) 49 LOVEDAY (718) 728-4057

3306 31st Ave, Astoria www.loveday31.com

(C,2) 50 SITE (718) 626-6030

35-11 34th Ave, Astoria www.sitenyc.com

(C,2) 106 STUDIO34 (718) 728-2495

32-90 34th Ave, Astoria

PETS VET (A,4) 51 CITY (718) 433-1334

45-44 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.cityvetnyc.com

COURT VET (C,2) 52 STEINWAY (718) 728-2822

32-14R Steinway, Astoria www.steinwaycourtvet.com

FLORISTS SHOPS

37-15 30th Ave, Astoria www.pitapanny.com

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(B,1) 45 BABYNOIR (646) 470-4728

BAKERIES

18

31 (B,2) 105 AROMA (718) 777-5557

6

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

104

APOLLO GALLERY (C,2) (718) 786-7590 34-10 36th Ave, Astoria

44

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

(A,4) 54 FLORESTA (917) 612-4446

51-02 Vernon Blvd, LIC 4-85 47th Rd, LIC www.florestanyc.com/blog

SUGAR FREAK (C,2)

11

DIWINE (C,2) (718) 777-1355 41-15 31st Ave, Astoria www.diwineonline.com

12

EL AY SI (A,4) (718) 389-8781 47-38 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.elaysi.com

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THYMARI (B,2) (718) 204-2280 32-07 34th Ave, Astoria www.thymari.com

13

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

31

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

14

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

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

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L’ARTISTE (C,2) (646) 309-7504 42-20 31st Ave, Astoria www.lartisterestaurant.com

BAR AND EATERY (C,2) 108 WINEGASM (718) 932-3331

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

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

726-5850 116 (718) 36-18 30th Ave, Astoria www.sugarfreak.com

31-86 37th Rd, Astoria www.winegasmeatery.com

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

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SERVICES ARK LOCKSMITH 24/7 SERVICE (C,2)

114 (718) 932-LOCK (5625) 30-10 37th st, Astoria www.Astorialocksmith.com

PRIMP AND TEASE SALON (A,4)

72 (718) 472-2001

5-02 50th Ave, LIC

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REDKEN SALOON (C,2)

46 (718) 956-3366

36-17 30th Ave, Astoria www.redkensaloon.com

30-16 30th Ave, Astoria www.drpagonismd.com HERO COMPUTER REPAIR NYC

56 Apple/Mac Computer Repair Specialist 347-670-4376 hero@iamhero.net | www.iamhero.net MPN LAW FIRM (C,2)

57 (718) 777-0400

3403 Broadway, Ste. 200, Astoria www.mpnfirm.com RCN (A,3)

59 Digital TV and High-Speed Internet Services 33-16 Woodside Ave, LIC (212) 842-7981 www.rcn.com/boromag VARDIMAN EYEWEAR (C,2)

62 (718) 204-5037

34-18 Broadway, Astoria www.vardimaneyewear.com VIDEO EXPRESS (C,2)

63 (718)626-0846

3408 30th Ave, Astoria

FITNESS

FOUNDRY (A,3)

64 (718) 786-7776

42-38 9TH St, LIC www.thefoundry.info THE RENAISSANCE EVENT HALL (A,1)

65 (718) 274-4590

27-34 21st St, Astoria www.renaissanceofastoria.com

31-11 Broadway, Astoria www.clubfitnessny.com

RAVEL (A,3)

8-08 Queens Plaza South, LIC www.ravelhotel.com Z NYC HOTEL (A,3)

17 (212) 319-7000

11-01 43rd Ave, LIC www.zhotelny.com

TATTOO SHOPS SUPER NOVA TATTOOS (C,1)

67 (718) 274-5712

38-01 23rd Ave, Astoria www.supernovatattoo.com

BEAUTY 71 GIGI SALON (C,2)

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

89

CROSSFIT DYNAMIX GYM (C,1)

76 (718) 606-0381

36-05 20th Ave, Astoria www.dynamixgym.com

70

SEEK FITNESS (B,1)

78 (347) 924-9004

PNT FITNESS (A,4)

79 (347) 396-5809

10-68 Jackson Ave, LIC www.pntfitness.com

60 (718) 274-1606

31-21 31st St, Astoria www.tightan.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

90

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 DOMAINE WINE BAR (A,4)

(718) 784-2350 50-04 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.domainewinebar.com

22 | BOROMAG.COM | SEPTEMBER 2012

98

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

99

TANTRA LOUNGE (B,2) (718) 937-4574 35-50 31st St, Astoria www.Tantraloungenyc.com

THE SECRET THEATRE (B,3) (718) 392-0722 4402 23rd St, LIC www.secrettheatre.com SOCRATES SCULPTURE PARK (A,2) (718) 626-1533 32-01 Vernon Blvd, Astoria www.socratessculpturepark.org TEN10 STUDIOS (A,4) (646) 271-5353 10-10 47th Rd, LIC www.ten10studios.com UNDERPENNY (A,4) (917) 517-1492 10-13 50th Ave, LIC

REAL ESTATE BEAUDOIN REALTY GROUP (A,4)

105 (718) 505-9220

21-54 45th Ave, LIC www.beaudoinrealtor.com EXO ASTORIA (A,1) (888) 870-0384 26-34 21rst Street, Astoria www.exoastoria.com

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

75

THE ART HOUSE (C,2)

101 (718) 784-1110

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

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

107 (212) 247-7800

57th St and 7th Ave, NY www.carnegiehall.org FLUSHING TOWN HALL

102 (718) 463-7700 x 222

137-35 Northern Blvd, Flushing www.flushingtownhall.org

92

KAUFMAN ASTORIA STUDIOS (C,2) (718) 706-5300 34-12 36th St, Astoria www.kaufmanastoria.com LAGUARDIA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER (C,3)

113 (718) 482-5151

31-10 Thomson Ave, LIC www.laguardiaperformingarts.org

93

82 (718) 274-4925

2919 24th Ave, Astoria www.bohemianhall.com

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

100 (718) 247-0740

NIGHTLIFE / BARS BOHEMIAN HALL & BEER GARDEN (B,1)

97

31-06 35th St, Astoria www.gabrieleperici.com

81 (718) 626-4434

26-17 23rd Ave, Astoria www.Rejuvenatenyc.com

RAVEN HEAD PUBLIC HOUSE (C,2) (718) 777-7565 3804 Broadway, Astoria www.ravenheadpublichouse.com

112 (516) 724-1562

SPAS REJUVENATE FACE AND BODY (B,1)

96

ART

27-18 23rd Ave, Astoria www.seek-fitness.com

HOTELS 66 (718) 289-6101

88

CLUB FITNESS (B,2)

TIGHTAN GYM

EVENTS

43

ANTHEA YOGA&HEALING ARTS

42 (718) 545-0004

MOSAIC CAFE AND LOUNGE (B,1)

44-19 Purves St, LIC www.sculpure-center.org

25-19 24th Ave, Astoria www.mosaicnyc.net

58 CENTER (C,2)

(718) 606-0049 34-01 45th Street, Astoria www.antheacenter.com

110 (718) 361-1750

111 (718) 728-0708

DR. PANAGIOTIS PAGONIS, M.D. (B,2)

77 (718) 278-0300

SCULPTURECENTER (B,3)

LAUGHING DEVIL (A,4) (347) 913-3845 4738 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.laughingdevil.com

94

95

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

GET YOUR BUSINESS LISTED! Want your business listed in our directory?

Call: (914) 426-2939 Email: ADS@BOROmag.com

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

SEPTEMBER 2012 | BOROMAG.COM | 23

FOOD

SEPTEMBER EVENTS 9/6 @ 8PM (NIGHTLIFE+ENTERTAINMENT)

9/9 @ 12PM (EDUCATION)

9/15 @ 1PM (EDUCATION)

$15 | Laughing Devil Comedy Club 347-91-DEVIL | 47-38 Vernon Blvd, LIC

$15/MEMBERS; $20/NONMEMBERS | Greater Astoria Historical Society 718-278-0700 TO RSVP | 35-20 Broadway, 4th Floor, LIC

FREE | Greater Astoria Historical Society 718-278-0700 | 35-20 Broadway, 4th Floor, LIC

AFTER SCHOOL SPECIAL www.laughingdevil.com

9/6 8PM-11PM (NIGHTLIFE+ENTERTAINMENT)

LIVE MUSIC: EUPHONIOUS BANG

DUMBO-FORGOTTEN NY WALKING TOUR

HISTORY ROUNDTABLE – “PRIDE OF THE YANKEES” FILM www.astorialic.org

www.astorialic.org

9/15 5PM-7PM (ART)

OPENING RECEPTION: A DISAGREEABLE OBJECT

FREE | Raven’s Head Public House 718-777-7565 | 28-04 Broadway, Astoria

FREE | SculptureCenter 718-361-1750 | 44-19 Purves St, LIC

www.ravensheadpublichouse.com

www.sculpture-center.org

9/6 6PM-11PM (FASHION)

KRISTEES CELEBRATES FASHION’S NIGHT OUT

9/18 7PM-9PM (ART)

www.kristeesny.com

FREE | SculptureCenter 718-361-1750 | 44-19 Purves St, LIC

SC TALKS: HAND SCULPTURE

FREE | KrisTEES 718-204-5031 | 24-01 23rd Ave, Astoria

www.sculpture-center.org

9/6 6PM-11PM (FASHION)

FASHION’S NIGHT OUT – ASTORIA

9/9 @ 2PM (FILM)

FREE | Veslo 718-728-0549 | 32-11 Broadway, Astoria

SEE IT BIG! “BEN-HUR”

9/6 9PM-12AM (NIGHTLIFE+ENTERTAINMENT)

www.movingimage.us

www.designforyou.biz + www.astoriamarket.com

LIVE MUSIC: VINTAGE PEEPLE

FREE | Rest-Au-Rant 718-729-90009 | 30-01 35th Ave, LIC www.rarbarlic.com

9/7 5:30PM-8PM (ART)

FIRST FRIDAYS: SUMMER IN THE GARDEN FREE | The Noguchi Museum 718-204-7088 | 32-37 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.noguchi.org

$12; $9/STUDENTS+SENIORS; FREE/ MEMBERS | Museum of the Moving Image 718-777-6800 | 36-01 35th Ave, Astoria

$10 | BREAK 32-04B, 30th Ave, Astoria

www.BOROmag.com/Compost-party-2012

MUSIC IN THE GARDEN WITH GYAN RILEY

FREE W/MUSEUM ADMISSION | The Noguchi Museum 718-204-7088 | 32-37 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.noguchi.org

9/13 6PM-9PMPM (SHOPPING)

WONDERTHREADS POP-UP SHOP

FREE | SITE 718-626-6030 | 35-11 34th Ave, Astoria

FREE | The Queens Kickshaw 718-777-0913 | 40-17 Broadway, Astoria

9/13 9PM-12AM (NIGHTLIFE+ENTERTAINMENT)

www.thequeenskickshaw.com

BORO PARTY + FUNDRAISER

9/9 @ 3PM (ART+MUSIC)

9/7 9PM-11:30PM (NIGHTLIFE+ENTERTAINMENT)

LIVE MUSIC: JOSH DEUTSCH’S PANNONIA

9/19 7PM-10PM (NIGHTLIFE)

www.sitenyc.com

LIVE MUSIC: D.B. REILLY-AMERICAN ROOTS MUSIC FREE | Rest-Au-Rant 718-729-90009 | 30-01 35th Ave, LIC www.rarbarlic.com

9/20 ALL DAY (FOOD+DRINK)

BAREBURGER DITMARS 1-YEAR ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

FOOD+DRINK SPECIALS ALL DAY | Bareburger Ditmars 718-204-7167 | 23-01 31st Ave, Astoria www.bareburger.com

9/20 7:30PM-9:30PM (NIGHTLIFE+ENTERTAINMENT)

BOUNDLESS TALES READING SERIES: 1 YEAR OLD! FREE | Waltz Astoria 23-14 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria

www.boundlesstales.blogspot.com

9/14 4PM-5PM (FAMILY)

KIDS DRUM CIRCLE

$5 PER CHILD | babyNOIR 646-470-4728 | 26-16 23rd Ave, Astoria 9/8 12PM-5PM (COMMUNITY)

THE LIC BLOCK PARTY

FREE | Put On By SculptureCenter Purves Street At Jackson Ave and 43rd Ave & SculptureCenter, LIC www.sculpturecenter.org

9/8 8PM-11PM (NIGHTLIFE+ENTERTAINMENT)

CINEMAFORCE RESIDENT EVIL PARTY

FREE | Raven’s Head Public House 718-777-7565 | 28-04 Broadway, Astoria www.ravensheadpublichouse.com

9/9 10:30AM-12PM (BODY+SOUL)

OUTDOOR BOOTCAMP

$25 | PNT Group Fitness & Cycling 347-396-5809 | 10-68 Jackson Ave, LIC www.pntfitness.com

24 | BOROMAG.COM | SEPTEMBER 2012

www.babynoir.net

9/14 @ 8PM (FILM)

CINEMA 16: ‘EXTREME EXPLORATIONS’

$15; $9/MEMBERS | Museum of the Moving Image 718-777-6800 | 36-01 35th Ave, Astoria www.movingimage.us

9/14 @ 8PM (NIGHTLIFE+ENTERTAINMENT)

LAUGHING DEVIL PRESENTS

$20 | Laughing Devil Comedy Club 347-91-DEVIL | 47-38 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.laughingdevil.com

9/20 9PM-12AM (NIGHTLIFE+ENTERTAINMENT)

LIVE MUSIC: KAGERO-JAPANESE GYPSY ROCK FREE | Rest-Au-Rant 718-729-90009 | 30-01 35th Ave, LIC www.rarbarlic.com

9/21 9PM-11:30PM (NIGHTLIFE+ENTERTAINMENT)

LIVE MUSIC: BRIAN ADLER’S ‘HELIUM’

FREE | The Queens Kickshaw 718-777-0913 | 40-17 Broadway, Astoria www.thequeenskickshaw.com

9/22 @ 10AM (FILM)

THE FALL MAMAS EXPO

$12; $9/STUDENTS; $6/KIDS; FREE/MEMBERS | Museum of the Moving Image 718-777-6800 | 36-01 35th Ave, Astoria www.movingimage.us

9/14 9PM-11:30PM (NIGHTLIFE+ENTERTAINMENT)

LIVE MUSIC: SNEHASISH MOZUMDER AND SOM FREE | The Queens Kickshaw 718-777-0913 | 40-17 Broadway, Astoria www.thequeenskickshaw.com

MORE EVENTS ON PAGE 26

SEPTEMBER 2012 | BOROMAG.COM | 25

FOOD

SEPTEMBER EVENTS

ONGOING

FRIDAYS @7PM (THEATRE)

THE HOUSE

$5 | The Secret Theatre 718-392-0722 | 44-02 23rd St, LIC www.secrettheatre.com

FRIDAYS @10:30PM (THEATRE)

IMPROVIUS MAXIMUS

$10 | The Secret Theatre 718-392-0722 | 44-02 23rd St, LIC www.secrettheatre.com

9/22 @ 7PM (MUSIC)

EFTERKLANG @ THE WORDLESS MUSIC ORCHESTRA

FRIDAYS+SATURDAYS 8PM-4AM (NIGHTLIFE+ENTERTAINMENT)

www.metmuseum.org

$25-$35 | Z Hotel 212-319-7000 | 11-01 43rd Ave, LIC ww w.zhotelny.com

$25 | The Metropolitan Museum Of Art 212-570-3949 | 1000 Fifth Ave, NYC 9/23 5PM-7PM (ART)

SMALL WORKS NYC

FREE | Jeffrey Leder Gallery 917-767-1734 | 21-37 45th Rd, LIC www.jeffreyledergallery.com

9/23 @ 8PM (NIGHTLIFE+ENTERTAINMENT)

SUNDAY LAUGHTER

$10 | Laughing Devil Comedy Club 347-91-DEVIL | 47-38 Vernon Blvd, LIC

LIVE DJ’S FROM AROUND THE WORLD ON THE Z HOTEL ROOFTOP MONDAYS @ 7:30PM (NIGHTLIFE+ENTERTAINMENT)

www.ravensheadpublichouse.com

EVERY SATURDAY 1:30PM-3:30PM (COMEDY DRAG BRUNCH) $10 Unlimited drinks for 2 hours | AROMA31 718-777-5557 | 33-20 31st Ave, Astoria

TUESDAYS @ 7PM (NIGHTLIFE+ENTERTAINMENT)

SUNDAYS 9AM-12PM (FOOD+DRINK)

FREE | Raven’s Head Public House 718-777-7565 | 28-04 Broadway, Astoria

FREE | The Queens Kickshaw 718-777-0913 | 40-17 Broadway, Astoria

COMEDY NIGHT

FREE | Raven’s Head Public House 718-777-7565 | 28-04 Broadway, Astoria

www.aroma31ny.com

www.laughingdevil.com

TRIVIA NIGHT W/HOST JARED HORNBECK

HELLGATE FARM STAND

9/26 @ 8:30PM (NIGHTLIFE+ENTERTAINMENT)

www.ravensheadpublichouse.com

www.thequeenskickshaw.com

NYC MACO SHOWCASE

$10 | Laughing Devil Comedy Club 347-91-DEVIL | 47-38 Vernon Blvd, LIC

TUESDAYS 7PM-9PM (BODY+SOUL)

www.laughingdevil.com

COMMUNITY NIGHT-HALF PRICE CLASSES

9/28 6:30PM-7:30PM (BODY+SOUL)

$12| PNT Group Fitness & Cycling 347-396-5809 | 10-68 Jackson Ave, LIC www.pntfitness.com

$22 | PNT Group Fitness & Cycling 347-396-5809 | 10-68 Jackson Ave, LIC

TUESDAYS 9PM-11PM (NIGHTLIFE+ENTERTAINMENT)

WORKOUT & WINE

www.pntfitness.com

WHINE+CHEESE COMEDY SHOW

9/28 9PM-11:30PM (NIGHTLIFE+ENTERTAINMENT)

FREE | Rest-Au-Rant 718-729-90009 | 30-01 35th Ave, LIC

FREE | The Queens Kickshaw 718-777-0913 | 40-17 Broadway, Astoria

WEDNESDAYS @ 8PM (NIGHTLIFE+ENTERTAINMENT)

LIVE MUSIC: SIX DEADLY VENOMS www.thequeenskickshaw.com

9/29 @ 12PM (EDUCATION)

WALKING TOUR: MARINE PARKWAY-GIL HODGES MEMORIAL BRIDGE

$15/MEMBERS; $20/NONMEMBERS | Greater Astoria Historical Society 718-278-0700 | 35-20 Broadway, 4th Floor, LIC www.astorialic.org

9/29 @ 3PM (FILM)

www.rarbarlic.com

DOUBLE FEATURE CLASSIC MOVIE NIGHT

FREE | Raven’s Head Public House 718-777-7565 | 28-04 Broadway, Astoria www.ravensheadpublichouse.com

WEDNESDAYS @ 8:30PM (MOVIE NIGHT) FREE | EL AY SI 718-389-8781 | 47-38 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.elaysi.com

THURSDAYS @ 10:30PM (NIGHTLIFE+ENTERTAINMENT)

DEVIL SCIENCE THEATER 3K

$5 | Laughing Devil Comedy Club 347-91-DEVIL | 47-38 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.laughingdevil.com

FIRST CAMERAMAN: DOCUMENTING THE OBAMA PRESIDENCY IN REAL TIME $12; $9/STUDENTS+SENIORS; FREE FOR MEMBERS | Museum of the Moving Image 718-777-6800 | 36-01 35th Ave, Astoria www.movingimage.us

9/30 10:30AM-12PM (BODY+SOUL)

OUTDOOR BOOTCAMP

$25 | PNT Group Fitness & Cycling 347-396-5809 | 10-68 Jackson Ave, LIC www.pntfitness.com

26 | BOROMAG.COM | SEPTEMBER 2012

SUNDAYS 3PM-12AM (NIGHTLIFE+ENTERTAINMENT)

‘SUNDAZE’: LIVE DJ’S FROM AROUND THE WORLD ON THE Z HOTEL ROOFTOP $10-$20 | Z Hotel 212-319-7000 | 11-01 43rd Ave, LIC www.zhotelny.com

Find more September events at www.BOROmag.com/Events

SEPTEMBER 2012 | BOROMAG.COM | 27

FOOD

HinoMaru

Sugar Freak

Story + Photos BRADLEY HAWKS

GLOBAL CUISINES OF WESTERN QUEENS

Toss a dart at a map blindfolded, and chances are no matter where it sticks, the pinpointed culinary style is just a station or two away on the N, Q, R or 7 trains. From the American South to the Pacific Rim, read on for a lineup of five great Queens restaurants serving up tasty topographic treats.

28 | BOROMAG.COM | SEPTEMBER 2012

HINOMARU HinoMaru may have opened as Astoria’s only ramen den, but Chef Koji Miyamoto has rapidly transformed this noodle shop into a showcase of Japanese street foods, pub fare and small plates. Leaving sushi to its next-door neighborhood favorite, the recently expanded Watawa, HinoMaru focuses on practically everything else. Regional ramen bowls remain a constant, but daily chalkboard specials and a brand new tapas-style menu nearly triple the savory selection. From noodles in a creamy parmesan with shaved sea urchin, to cold noodles jeweled with medallions of fresh seafood and tiny dollops of yuzu jelly that becomes a citrusy glaze as it’s stirred in, the menu is one of the most refreshing and distinctly authentic in the neighborhood. Fluffy steamed buns are filled with braised pork belly, soft shell crab or tempura prawns. Takoyaki (“octopus balls”) are served piping hot, including seafood-stuffed zeppole drizzled with oyster sauce and sprinkled with bonito flakes that dance in the steam. Whether you grab a seat in front or at a communal table in the back room, a stool at the noodle bar or in the backyard graffiti garden, this is one of Astoria’s newcomers you certainly won’t want to miss.

HinoMaru Ramen | 33-18 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria 718-777-0228 | hinomaruramen.com

ATM Homemade Falafel Restaurant

SUGAR FREAK

ATM HOMEMADE FALAFEL RESTAURANT

When Sugar Freak’s Michelle Addeo tells you she serves homestyle Louisiana cooking, she isn’t playing around.

The chef-baker-owner recently even brought her mom up from N’Awlins and into the Astoria kitchen just to test and tweak some of the recipes. New dishes like popcorn alligator is served with “cuppa cuppa sauce,” a surprisingly addictive blend of jelly and mustard for dipping the golden gator nuggets. Salted caramel pudding comes from an old childhood recipe in Highlights magazine. “My mom used to cook from a Betty Crocker cookbook, and over time, the recipes just gradually became her own,” explains Addeo.

Recipes like a cinnamon-and-sugar buttermilk battered fried chicken, the kind that wins awards (just one of the varieties offered; another is drizzled with cherry pepper vinaigrette).

Beignets, a New Orleans icon, are fried throughout meal service to ensure freshness and served with an intoxicating bowl of pureed bananas foster cream sauce with live rum for dunking. A house chicken sandwich comes loaded with mac-and-cheese (on the sandwich!), alongside all the classics like muffuletta, crawfish etoufee, gumbo, jambalaya, po’ boys (try the cola-braised pulled pork) and mac-and-cheese (available with crawfish). If you think you know the menu, think again. There’s a new team in the kitchen, and they mean some serious business.

After running the Asian food court at Stony Brook University for nearly two decades, it only seemed natural to Arun “Andy” Kumar to sprinkle some of the ethnic varieties into his menu at ATM Restaurant. Sneeze and you could easily miss his narrow homemade falafel shop on the corner of Broadway and 36th Street. But for what amounts to one of the tiniest eateries in the neighborhood (Kumar is currently scouting a larger space), the menu showcases the cuisine of 12 different cultures, ranging from Lebanese and Indian to Korean and Nepalese. “If you trust me, I will choose a delicious lunch for you,” offers the charming Kumar, aided by two talented grill cooks who execute a carefully choreographed dance around one another in the tight kitchen. The menu reflects many of the recipes from the University, as well as a few of his wife Raju Vishwanathan’s secret recipes (her spicy mango chutney is playfully fiery and tangy). After all, where else can you enjoy momo (Nepalese dumplings), bonchon chicken (doublecooked Korean style), Thai satay with peanut sauce and Delhi pani puri (crispy hollow pastry puffs stuffed with potato, chickpeas and tamarind chili) all under the same roof ? Most of the plates are under seven bucks, and if you can’t snag one of the three high-top tables, ATM Restaurant also delivers.

Sugar Freak | 36-18 30th Ave, Astoria 718-726-5850 | sugarfreak.com

ATM Homemade Falafel Restaurant 36-18 Broadway, Astoria | 718-545-0034 SEPTEMBER 2012 | BOROMAG.COM | 29

FOOD

Five Star Punjabi Diner

SriPraPhai

FIVE STAR PUNJABI DINER

SRIPRAPHAI

Just off the corner of the grandiose Five Star Banquet Hall, tucked amidst an industrial block of buildings, is a concrete stairway and second set of doors leading to the Banquet Hall’s sidekick, Five Star Diner – one of Long Island City’s favorite hidden secrets. At first glance, it’s a time warp to a sleepy 60’s diner with a floating wooden barn top as a sneeze-guard over a buffet loaded with aluminum foil-tented chafing dishes. But at closer inspection, it’s one of the neighborhood’s best lunch deals. From noon to 4 p.m. weekdays, $10 not only gets you unlimited access to a rotating buffet selection of Indian favorites like aloo gobi, tikka masala and various pakora, but moments after sitting a basket of naan bread arrives at the table, prepared fresh to order, and is replenished as often as you like. Ask nicely, and they’ll even throw in a complimentary dessert, like the gulab jaman – warm, cheesy pastry puffs in a pool of rosewater honey, like caramel-kissed donut holes to counteract the tandoori spices. It’s no-frills and self-service at its most basic, but for bottomless, tasty Indian fare, what’s not to love about a hidden buffet?

Hungry customers spill from the sardine-can-packed entryway onto the sidewalk holding tiny yellow post-it notes with scribbles on each one. Over the doorway, a light board flashes the winning numbers ready to be seated – groups ranging from Asian families to Manhattanites seeking the “best Thai food in the city,” to camera-toting bloggers and large foodie tour groups. When SriPraPhai opened 15 years ago, it could seat about a fifth of its present capacity. The expanded space now includes a floral-canopied backyard garden with a fountain, as well as a spiral-bound menu of well over a hundred dishes, several of which are also available in a vegetarian variation. Even with photographs accompanying each dish (listed in both Thai and loose English translations), choosing what to order can be beyond daunting. One of the most celebrated favorites is the Chinese watercress salad – the greens are battered, deepfried and served with a confetti of shrimp, calamari, chicken, crushed peanuts and cashews tossed in a sweet chili sauce.

The noodle and rice dishes are all delicious, but save room for one of the eclectic pre-made desserts in the display cooler by the entrance. From jelly filled with rehydrated basil seeds to pinched sugary egg yolks and taro custard, be sure to grab a treat for the ride home.

Five Star Punjabi Diner | 13-15 43rd Ave, LIC 718-784-7444

30 | BOROMAG.COM | SEPTEMBER 2012

SriPraPhai | 64-13 39th Ave, Woodside 718-899-9599 | sripraphairestaurant.com

SEPTEMBER 2012 | BOROMAG.COM | 31

EXPLORE YOUR BORO

E U L TB

JE

O

ST E V O

O R O HE B M

T

OR

HEW

TAYL

TT y MA

Stor

W

hen we talk about exploration, we tend to envision somewhere exotic and entirely unfamiliar. Though NYC is inexhaustible and always has something new and exciting to offer, many of us get caught up in our day-to-day routines and forget that we live in a city that is rife with opportunities for discovery and unpredictable encounters.

With summer behind us, it’s likely that there are fewer possibilities for travel on the immediate horizon.

That being said, this is still a perfect opportunity to reinvigorate yourself and explore your own city, particularly Western Queens, which is far less documented than Manhattan and thus better suited for new discoveries.

JetBlue, a business that specializes in sending people off to explore, recently made LIC its home with corporate headquarters in Queens Plaza. Just last month they built the large sign on top of their rooftop to enhance the skyline in this area.

With that in mind, BORO spoke to Allison Steinberg, Spokesperson for JetBlue, about the ways the company and its employees see Western Queens as a haven for exploration.

Q: Do you think Western Queens has the potential to be a destination for travel?

A: With the diverse options for dining, art and cultural events, as well as its proximity to Manhattan, Western Queens is absolutely a destination that no visitor should 32 | BOROMAG.COM | SEPTEMBER 2012

miss out on! The rich history in Western Queens as a transfer point for goods and people, places like the Gantry and the Crab House in Long Island City, and Steinway Piano and the Astoria Mansions are all worthy stops for someone visiting New York. Plus, we may be biased, but the promenade in Long Island City offers unmatched views of the Manhattan skyline. There are affordable options for staying in the neighborhood, including new hotels and even a hostel popping up, offering visitors ample choices.

Q: What are JetBlue employees’ favorite local spots to eat or hang out?

A: With close to 1,000 crewmembers, we represent the full spectrum of tastes and enjoy a variety of local haunts. The cafeteria located in our building and Mama’s Food Truck parked right outside our building, are a couple of convenient favorites that offer a variety of breakfast and lunch options. The food truck lot has also been a favorite foodie lunch spot, and Burger Garage and Sage General Store are just a short walk away from our office with plenty of delicious lunch options.

We’ve also partnered with Long Island Partnership to offer all our local crewmembers at our support center with a LIC Perks card, which offers discounts at participating local retail, restaurants, entertainment, health and wellness services, real estate and more.

In addition, as a company, we’re invested in the local community beyond flight operations and partner with a variety of organizations. In the Long Island City area, JetBlue sponsors the Taste of Long Island City, the Socrates Sculpture Center Gala, LIC Partnership Annual Luncheon and Trade Show, Long Island City Business Development Corporate Executive Breakfast and initiatives of the East River Development Alliance.

As part of the Long Island City Cool Roofs Program, JetBlue Crewmembers have painted the roof of the Community Environmental Center in June 2010.

Q: Is there anything challenging about having your business in LIC? A: The only challenge is having too many options!

Q: What is your favorite thing about Western Queens?

A: It’s thrilling to witness and be a part of all the positive change we’re seeing in the neighborhood. JetBlue was born and raised in Queens and our growth story matches that of Western Queens. The rich history of the neighborhood combined with its current cultural diversity and growth make it an exciting and enriching time to be in Long Island City.

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MEAGHAN TRAINOR Story

HOURS IN WESTERN QUEENS

Whether you’re looking to explore the arts, outdoors, or just the limits of your own liver, this full-day itinerary features some of the best destinations Western Queens has to offer. Along the route, don’t hesitate to pop in to any place that catches your eye: with the variety and quality of dining and entertainment options, you never know when you’ll discover your own destinations!

EXPLORE YOUR BORO

Queens Comfort

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BRUNCH AT QUEEN’S COMFORT Kick off your day at Queen’s Comfort, where the most important meal of the day comes the way mama used to make it: fried and usually involving bacon. BYOB. Queen’s Comfort | 40-09 30th Ave, Astoria | 718-728-2350 www.queenscomfort.com

PICNIC AT SOCRATES SCULPTURE PARK On Saturdays, you can pick up your picnic fare at the Greenmarket. Don’t miss the interactive Curtain and the EAF12 exhibition, opening September 9, which will showcase new works by Emerging Artist Fellowship recipients.

Socrates Sculpture Park 32-01 Vernon Boulevard, LIC 718-956-1819 www.socratessculpturepark.org

VOLUNTEERING IN ASTORIA PARK Urban living makes green spaces an essential refuge for residents—but what have you done for your park lately? Get involved with the ongoing beautification efforts, including New York Cares meet-ups and shore cleanup. For more information, e-mail Joseph.Block@parks.nyc.gov.

Astoria Park |21 Hoyt Ave N, Astoria |718-626-8620 www.nycgovparks.org/parks/ AstoriaPark

SECONDHAND SHOPPING With a bewildering assortment of furniture, china, accessories and antiques, Changes is a prime spot for adventurous shoppers willing to dig for hidden treasures. Manager Maria Teresa Taussi describes it as the most up-scale of the three local stores that Hour Children, an organization which provides assistance for incarcerated women and their families, runs. And don’t miss Apollo Gallery on 36th Avenue. The store includes portraits, dining sets and cabinets dating back to 1800. Mention BORO and get a special discount!

Changes | 25-09 36th Ave, Astoria | 718-482-9677 www.hourchildren.org

Noguchi Museum

NOGUCHI MUSEUM The museum features an extensive collection of Noguchi’s stone sculptures, metalwork, and furniture housed in a space that itself becomes an integral part of the viewing experience. The garden is a must-sit.

Noguchi Museum | 9-01 33rd Rd, LIC | 718.204.7088 www.noguchi.org

Apollo Gallery | 34-10 36th Ave, Astoria | 718-786-7590

5 POINTZ Nothing exemplifies the LIC aesthetic quite as well as this staggering outdoor graffiti exhibit: industrial space made vibrant by an influx of creative energy.

Check this out while you can: the property owner has announced plans to replace the much-loved museum with residential buildings next year.

5 Pointz | 45-46 Davis St. LIC 317-219-2685 | www.5ptz.com

Roosevelt Island

M55 ART Continue the 2D leg of your local art tour at m55 Art. While PS1 tends to get most of the attention, there are a number of smaller galleries in the area worth checking out. m55 Art | 44-02 23rd St, LIC 718-729-2988 | www.m55art.org

BIKING AROUND ROOSEVELT ISLAND Grab your bike (or rent one at LIC Bicycles for $7/hour), head over the Roosevelt Island Bridge, and follow the three and a half mile bike path around the circumference of the island while taking in the city views.

LIC Bicycles | 25-11 Queens Plaza LIC | 718-472-4537 www.longislandcitybikes. wordpress.com

DINNER AT QUAINT

Apollo Gallery

ASTORIA BOWL With a $10 all-you-can-bowl deal 3 nights a week, it’s time to remind yourself how much fun bowling can be. And there’s no shame in using bumpers… especially after a few drinks.

Astoria Bowl | 1945 49th St, Astoria | 718-274-1910 www.astoriabowl.com

DOMINIE’S HOEK The new Astoria outpost retains the laid-back charm and $5 shot-andbeer special of the LIC original, but bartender Allie explains, “We kept the same model, but adjusted it for the nuances of the area: more Rolling Rock, less PBR.” Dominie’s Hoek 34-07 30th Ave, Astoria

El Rey del Taco

LATE NIGHT SNACK AT EL REY DEL TACO

“We’re trying to create a friendly, casual experience,” says owner Tim Chen, and with the kitchen producing fresh, tasty dishes, they succeed and then some. Chen picked the name because restaurants described as “quaint” always seemed to get positive reviews; this Sunnyside gem continues the trend.

End your 30th Ave. mini-crawl with a snack from this food truck whose burritos, quesadillas, and $1.50 mini tacos (with meat choices ranging from tongue to perennial favorite spicy chicken) always draw a crowd.

El Rey del Taco | 3301 30th Ave, Astoria | 347-754-2966

Quaint | 46-10 Skillman Ave, Sunnyside | 917-779-9220 www.quaintnyc.com Sweet Afton

AFTER-DINNER DRINKS AT LIC BAR With beer from $3 and live music 4 nights a week, LIC Bar is a great place to unwind with friends… and its warm atmosphere and communal seating options may encourage you to make a few new ones. The patio is the perfect spot to savor those Indian summer evenings.

LIC Bar | 45-58 Vernon Blvd, LIC 718-786-5400 www.longislandcitybar.com

NIGHTCAP AT SWEET AFTON Reflect on the day’s events over a signature cocktail (or three) at this neighborhood staple. Something about this trendy bar seems to inspire interesting conversation, so let it flow.

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

TIME TO CALL IT A NIGHT...WHO KNOWS WHAT ADVENTURES AWAIT TOMORROW!

Visit www.BOROmag.com for more Western Queens local spots.

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BODY+SOUL

EXPLORE MARTIAL ARTS AT

TIGHTAN GYM

Tightan gym owner, Jon Gallo, training Joy Enriquez.

Story MATTHEW TAYLOR

W

hen it comes to physical fitness and wellness, there’s the standard gym membership that everyone tries, the yoga studios that continue to flourish and even the old go-to standby of jogging. But if you’re ready to try something new and exciting with your workout routine, there’s no better place to do so than Astoria’s Tightan Gym. On July 1, Tightan earned the distinction of being the first Xtreme Couture MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) Affiliate.

Xtreme Couture is designed by MMA icon Randy Couture, who has six separate UFC title reigns, and utilizes methods and tactics from multiple martial arts practices. According to Jon Gallo, the gym’s owner, Tightan is “taking over 20 years of fighting experience and hard-learned mistakes and wrapping it up into a streamlined curriculum that anyone can learn.”

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Photos PHILIPPE TRINH

Tightan’s instructors are well equipped to teach a comprehensive roster of classes. In fact, Randy Couture’s own team flew to New York to certify the staff and ensure they were prepared to provide the highest quality of service.

According to Gallo, the three-month process was “well worth the work.”

Though Tightan offers training up to a professional level, there’s no reason for a curious novice to be intimidated.

The gym even asks for beginners’ likes and dislikes so that trainers can cater to individuals’ wants and needs. As Gallo says, “everyone can join in on the fun.”

“We have a phenomenal cardio kickboxing program which appeals to everyone, especially the ladies and gentlemen who are weekend warriors,” he adds. “Cardio kickboxing would be my recommendation for any new beginner [looking] to get a taste of what MMA is like.”

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

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BORO DEALS & DISCOUNTS Be local and enjoy the below offers from some of Astoria and LIC’s best merchants.

Offers available through September 30, 2012. 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.

nights.

1 HALF-PRICED bottle of wine per table Tues.

1/2 OFF any individual dessert with this BORO.

1 FREE glass of wine with meal

10% OFF when you spend $100 or more.

1 FREE drink with food order (wine, draft beer, or well drinks).

1 FREE Glass of Wine or Dessert with meal.

$39.99 for limited Digital TV + High

Redeemable mon-thurs.

Speed Internet.

1 FREE day pass, limited to first time clients/

Complimentary Blowout for first time

$15 OFF your next visit, when you mention

one per person.

color clients (tues-thurs).

this ad.

$10 OFF haircuts and color.

15% OFF entire purchase.

$129 for six weeks of fitness classes.

20% OFF growlers. (Select beers)

1 COMPLIMENTARY glass of wine with your meal. Redeemable Mon-Thurs.

10% OFF any wine purchase.

$49 unlimited classes for 1 month. Offer valid

FREE GIFT Spend $30 or more at one of our

1 FREE class for new clients with BORO

to new customers only.

locations to receive a gift. 1 Mercury glass votive candle holder with oil candle included.

Limited to select wines.

This coupon can’t be combined with any other promotion.

1 FREE Signature Cocktail with your meal.