Boro082014

VOL 4:9 AUGUST 2014

CREATE // CULTIVATE // INSPIRE

Sun and Ocean Struggle by Fernando Aguirre on display at Maizal

ASTORIA // LIC // SUNNYSIDE

GREAT DISCOUNTS

at the best spots in Astoria, LIC, Sunnyside

Restaurant Makeovers pg 6

Best Empanadas pg 22

Bootcamp In The Park pg 36

LIC Reimagined pg 42

LIC FLEA - SATURDAYS • ASTORIA FLEA - SUNDAYS

2 | BOROMAG.COM | AUGUST 2014

AUGUST 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 3

Dear Western Queens,

JOSHUA SCHNEPS

Where has the summer gone? Time certainly is not standing still. This summer has been a thrill for me with the kicking off the first season of Astoria Flea at Kaufman Studios.

It has been a great experience watching the community come out by the thousands to support the local vendors selling everything from antiques to pickles. If you haven’t been I hope you will join us on the remaining Sundays in August. Come September the Flea will be going back to Long Island City on Sundays where it currently operates every Saturday.

A new addition to the flea has been the outdoor seating and live music provided by The Astor Room. They just recently completed a renovation and re-grand opening. If you needed another excuse to come out, you now have one!

The month of August brings a ton of other events to the neighborhood including activities along the waterfront of Astoria Park. Now is the time to get out and enjoy the summer season while it lasts!

Josh

publisher

Roosevelt Island

32

Astoria Bookshop

FEATURES 6 FOOD & DRINK

Restaurant Version 2.0

14 FOOD & DRINK

Holy Mole at Maizal

18 CHARACTERS The Writer

FEATURES 46 FOOD & DRINK

Via Vai

52 SHOPS

Astoria Bookshop

DEPARTMENTS

Empanadas

12 AUGUST 2014 EVENTS 25 BORO DEALS & DISCOUNTS PAGE

Roosevelt Island

26 MAP IT DIRECTORY

Bootcamp in the Park

28 MAP IT: ASTORIA, LIC & SUNNYSIDE MAP

22 FOOD & DRINK 32 EXPLORE YOUR BORO 36 BODY & SOUL 42 REAL ESTATE

52

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

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

TF Cornerstone

editoR-IN-CHIEF bradley hawks // art director jennifer decio // graphic designerS stephen reina, nirmal singh staff writers bradley hawks, ben mims, daniel crown, lillian shaw, hayley bridgewater, brett jones, meaghan trainor, lizabeth nieves // staff photographers javier ibañez, daniel pando, bradley hawks, lizabeth nieves SALES REPRESENTATIVE graziella zerilli // online editorial coordinator bradley hawks // Published by joshua & victoria schneps All materials Copyright © 2014 BORO / All rights reserved. Opinions and claims made by advertisers are advertisers’ claims only. BORO Magazine accepts no responsibility for any claims made by advertisers. BORO Magazine reserves the right to publish any images without providing photo/image credit.

No part of this publication may be reproduced without permission of the publisher.

4 | BOROMAG.COM | AUGUST 2014

S:6”

S:8”

day care & preschool, from crayon to pencil, freeing your child s’ potential.

Now Accepting: Summer program / Fall enrollment Montessori Kids of LIC www.mklic.com info@mklic.com 347 · 746 · 5542 5 Court Square Long Island City AUGUST 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 5

FOOD & DRINK

Version 2.0 O

nce you have made it through your first few years of simply being open, keeping your menu fresh is one of the greatest challenges facing any restaurant. How do you maintain the balance between tried and true favorites, along with something new, innovative, and exciting for the regular who wants to branch out? This month, we visit three restaurants that have recently updated their menus to wondrous effect.

Tufino Pizzeria Napoletana

36-08 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria, NYÂ 11105

As the owner and pizzaiolo of one of Astoria’s only Neapolitan pizzerias, Stephen Menna has a healthy share of competition. There are over seventy pizza joints in Astoria alone, and nearly fifty more in Long Island City and Sunnyside.

But we feel confident no one comes close in the blend of creativity, technique, and simple good old-fashioned ingredients baked in the style of Naples. His dough takes at least two days to prepare, resulting in a flawlessly airy crust, and wait until you see some of the final pies and tempting fried treats. They fry croquettes, ravioli, pasta cakes, grapefruit-sized balls of mozzarella, and even the calzones. Tufino has upped its game, and we are in amore.

The Grape Expectations pie is dressed in Gorgonzola with sweet red grapes, piquant capicola, and a drizzle of honey picante.

6 | BOROMAG.COM | AUGUST 2014

Pizza Vesuvio is a volcanic pie erupting with ricotta, fior di latte, ham, black pepper, & pecorino

Ribbons of pappardelle in a sweet sausage ragout with pecorino shavings In the Pizza Stella, each arm of the star is stuffed with a different filling: prosciutto, sausage, ricotta, mushrooms, and artichokes.

0

The Queens Kickshaw 40-17 Broadway, Astoria, NY 11103

New Executive Chef, Kenji Hurlburt–who hails from such esteemed kitchens as The National, Rouge Tomate, and Gotham Bar & Grill–has created a mouthwatering summer menu featuring seasonal favorites, ranging from juicy watermelon and plump berries to crisp legumes, sweet yellow corn, and earthy huitlacoche. Even the gnocchi is presented in fluffy clouds so light and plump it is as if they are simply raining vegetables fresh from the garden. In fact, the whole menu is a storm of bright flavors that will thrill existing fans, and endear newcomers.

Warm queso dip and Nixtamal tortilla chips

Summer watermelon salad with feta and kalamata olives, chilled gazpacho with a dollop of avocado, and a zesty kale salad with lemon marmalade

Toasted gruyere with caramelized onions, cornichon, & pickled red onion

Summer vegetable pot pie

(continued on page 8)

AUGUST 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 7

FOOD & DRINK

Bear Restaurant 12-14 31st Ave, Long Island City, NY 11106

Natasha Pogrebinsky is always keeping it fresh at Bear, her nouveau-European Russian restaurant tucked just a few blocks from the beach on 31st Ave. “We want people to feel they can come in flip-flops if they want to,” she laughs, explaining why the summer menu takes a slightly more casual approach than the Swarovsky crystal lighting might imply.

For the warm months, guests at Bear can enjoy a pop-up dumpling stand, rich with classic pierogies in blended vinegars, as well as gorgeous amber potstickers glistening in a ginger glaze with salty orbs of salmon roe. Can’t choose just one from the list of seven dumplings? $50 will allow you to choose any five menu items for a personally tailored tasting.

An assortment of sides for the dumplings

Creamy cool borscht

Dumplings and caviar

Classic pierogies

8 | BOROMAG.COM | AUGUST 2014

575 MADISON AVENUE, NY, NY 10022. 212.891.7000 | © 2014 DOUGLAS ELLIMAN REAL ESTATE.

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY.

S A L E S | R E N TA L S | R E L O C AT I O N | N E W D E V E L O P M E N T S | R E TA I L | M O R T G A G E | P R O P E R T Y M A N A G E M E N T | T I T L E I N S U R A N C E

HOW MANY WAYS CAN THE LARGEST NETWORK WORK HARDER FOR YOU?

As the largest regional and global network of real estate experts, Douglas Elliman has a way of understanding your home and what makes it unique. From buying and selling to appraisals, mortgage financing and rentals, top experts on AskElliman.com offer timely answers to today’s questions about all things real estate. With a powerful combination of talent and technology, we have the experience, insight and access to guide you skillfully from beginning to end. Put the power of Elliman to work for you.

AUGUST 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 9

FOOD & DRINK

I’m ready for my closeup Chef Nathaniel Felder

Filet mignon with cauliflower puree and roasted vegetables

This month the Astor Room lifted the curtain not only on a new chef and new menu, but also on a new outdoor dining area with live music. Under the direction of chef Nathaniel Felder, formerly of Manhattan hot spots Catch and Lavo, the new menu celebrates classic American cuisine and features a signature cocktail list that pays homage to the Astor Room’s cinematic heritage. Under the glow of the iconic Kaufman Astoria Studios gate, guests can relax in a new outdoor dining area shrouded in palms within the Studio’s backlot. The outdoor area features live music, from jazz to blues to pop.

We sat down with Mark Atkocaitis, General Manager of the Astor Room, to discuss the updated space. Atkocaitis describes it as “a bit of South Beach meets Astoria. A small corner where one can lose themselves in the great food, warm breeze, and tantalizing live music. I would describe the new menu as Nate Felder’s rendition of classic American food with seasonal delights, such as a chilled lobster and gazpacho soup. We are very happy to have Chef Felder on board with his outstanding menu. Along with our new chef and new menu we are happy to show off our new touches to the main dining room. A new floor and new ceilings better represent the feel of the room in its hey day, as the dining commissary to such early cinema stars as Rudolf Valentino, Mary Pickford, Glory Swanson, and Douglas Fairbanks. The Astor Room is ready to put its best foot forward and let Astoria come on in and take a trip back in time.”

The Astor Room 34-12 36th St, Astoria, NY 11106

10 | BOROMAG.COM | AUGUST 2014

Ice cream parfait

Spicy tomato and shrimp flatbread

The patio begins just beyond the gates at 36th street and 35th Ave

Celebrate Your Beauty This Summer $250 OFF $100 OFF

2 syringes of Restylane or Pelane and 2 regions treated with Dysport® (Botox)

Call us at 347-631-0922 or visit defineyourlook.com for free consultation and be on the way to a new you

Not valid with other offers. Limited time offer. While supplies last. Present ad to redeem offer.

Carl L. R. Clarke AP, RPA-C NYS LICENSED AESTHETIC MEDICAL PROVIDER

32-12 Broadway, Astoria, NY• 347-631-0922

Michele Beaudoin Michele with GigiBeaudoin & Pepi Michele with GigiBeaudoin & Pepi with Gigi & Pepi Call Michele Today!

Call Michele Today!

347-678-7662 Call Michele Today!

347-678-7662 21-50 44th Dr.,2nd Fl., 347-678-7662 LIC, NY 11101

WWW.BEAUDOINREALTY.COM WWW.BEAUDOINREALTY.COM WWW.BEAUDOINREALTY.COM

AUGUST 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 11

AUGUST EVENTS

Find more events at www.BOROmag.com/Events

8/3 @ 11am-6pm

Community Day

Friends and neighbors are invited to visit the Museum for free admission and a variety of programs. Open Studio will take place from 11:00am to 3:00pm. A free public tour offered at 2:00pm, and from 4:00pm to 5:00pm, there will be a special Center of Attention conversation focusing on a single work of art.

FREE | The Noguchi Museum 718-204-7088 | 9-01 33rd Road, LIC www.noguchi.org/programs

8/4 @ 4pm - midnight

Beer & Bacon All Night Happy Hour

FREE | R’a’Rbar - Rest-au-Rant 718-729-9009 | Red Building on the corner of 30th St and 35th Ave www.rarbarlic.com

8/7 @ 9pm - midnight

Live Music: Shai Bachar

FREE | R’a’Rbar - Rest-au-Rant 718-729-9009 | Red Building on the corner of 30th St and 35th Ave www.rarbarlic.com www.shaibachar.com

Astoria Park Events 8/4 @ 8:30PM-10PM

8/10 @ 3PM-4PM

Artists at Noguchi Bang on a Can Music Series featuring JACK Quartet

For more information, visit www.bangonacan.org Cost: Included in the cost of admission ($10) The Noguchi Museum 718-204-7088 | 9-01 33rd Road, LIC www.noguchi.org/programs

8/11 @ 12PM-1:30PM

Astoria Fine Art Dance’s Summer Jazz

Join us as Kira Lyn Yee teaches a different style of jazz each Monday for the month of August. Class will start with a technique-based warm-up, focusing on proper placement and strength, and then dancers will have the opportunity to learn choreography. Come ready to express yourself and be challenged in a supportive environment! $15 | AFADance 718-274-0740 | 38-01 23rd Avenue, Astoria

http://clients.mindbodyonline.com/ws.asp?studioid=9344&stype=-8&sTG =23&sVT=12&sView=day&sTrn=100000155&sDate=8/4/2014

$15, drop-in // $45, all four weeks.

8/12 @ 4PM-6PM

The ULTIMATE Summer Wellness Workshop

Come join us as AFADance hosts a wellness workshop taught

by Registered Dietitian, Colleen McCarthy, and our Pilates/ Yoga instructor, Andrea Dusel-Foil. A combination of Yoga, Pilates, Tennis Ball Therapy, and Dietary information will get your feeling and looking your healthiest! $30 | AFADance 718-274-0740 | 38-01 23rd Avenue, Astoria August 12th - August 14th $30 per day // $75 for all three days 8/14 @ 9pm - midnight

Live Music: The Yes Team

FREE | R’a’Rbar - Rest-au-Rant 718-729-9009 | Red Building on the corner of 30th St and 35th Ave www.rarbarlic.com

8/18 & 8/25 @ 12PM-1:30PM

Astoria Fine Arts Dance’s Summer Jazz Workshop

Join us as Kira Lyn Yee teaches a different style of jazz each Monday for the month of August. Class will start with a technique-based warm-up, focusing on proper placement and strength, and then dancers will have the opportunity to learn choreography. Come ready to express yourself and be challenged in a supportive environment! $15 | AFADance 718-274-0740 | 38-01 23rd Avenue, Astoria $15, drop-in // $45, all four weeks.

12 | BOROMAG.COM | AUGUST 2014

Central Astoria Movies on the Waterfront: Despicable Me 2 Astoria Park Lawn (in Astoria Park)

8/14 @ 7:30pm-9pm

Waterfront Concert Series 2014 Presents The Regulars Astoria Park Lawn (in Astoria Park)

Category: Film, Kids, Free Summer Movies, WaterfrontFree!

Category: Concerts, Free Summer Concerts, WaterfrontFree!

8/5 @ 7PM-8PM

8/18 @ 8:30PM-10PM

Shape Up NYC: Functional Training Astoria Park Track (in Astoria Park)

Category: Fitness, Outdoor FitnessFree!

8/7 @ 7:30pm-9pm

Central Astoria Movies on the Waterfront: Dirty Dancing Astoria Park Lawn (in Astoria Park)

Category: Film, Free Summer Movies, WaterfrontFree!

Waterfront Concert Series 2014 Presents Michael Patrick’s Ring of Fire

8/19 @ 7PM-8PM

Category: Concerts, Free Summer Concerts, WaterfrontFree!

Category: Fitness, Outdoor FitnessFree!

8/11 @ 8:30PM-10PM

8/25 @ 8:30PM-10PM

Astoria Park Lawn (in Astoria Park)

Central Astoria Movies on the Waterfront: T he Wizard of Oz Astoria Park Lawn (in Astoria Park)

Shape Up NYC: Functional Training Astoria Park Track (in Astoria Park)

Central Astoria Movies on the Waterfront: Finding Nemo Astoria Park Lawn (in Astoria Park)

Category: Film, Kids, Free Summer Movies, WaterfrontFree!

Category: Film, Kids, Free Summer Movies, WaterfrontFree!

8/12 @ 7PM-8PM

8/26 @ 7PM-8PM

Shape Up NYC: Functional Training Astoria Park Track (in Astoria Park)

Category: Fitness, Outdoor FitnessFree!

Shape Up NYC: Functional Training Astoria Park Track (in Astoria Park)

Category: Fitness, Outdoor FitnessFree!

8/28 @ 9pm - midnight

every Wednesday @ 4pm-2am

FREE | R’a’Rbar - Rest-au-Rant 718-729-9009 | Red Building on the corner of 30th St and 35th Ave

FREE | R’a’Rbar - Rest-au-Rant 718-729-9009 | Red Building on the corner of 30th Street and 35th Avenue

Live Music: Curtis Eller’s American Circus www.rarbarlic.com www.curtiseller.com

20 % off all bottles of wine

www.rarbarlic.com

EVERY WEDNESDAY @ 8PM-11PM

Ladies Night at Woodbines

ONGOING

$5 drink specials and $15 select bottles of wine FREE | Woodbines 718-361-8488 | 4710 Vernon Blvd., LIC WoodbinesLIC.com

Every Monday @ 4pm-midnight

every Saturday & Sunday @ 11am - 4pm

$4 house wines and $2 off all drafts FREE | R’a’Rbar - Rest-au-Rant 718-729-9009 | Red Building on the corner of 30th St and 35th Ave

FREE | R’a’Rbar - Rest-au-Rant 718-729-9009 | Red Building on the corner of 30th St and 35th Ave

All Night Happy Hour

www.rarbarlic.com

Every Tuesday @ 9pm-11pm

R’a’Rbar Comedy Show

$30 for a bottle of house wine and a cheese plate FREE | R’a’Rbar - Rest-au-Rant 718-729-9009 | Red Building on the corner of 30th St and 35th Ave www.rarbarlic.com

BRUNCH - Free cocktail with every entree www.rarbarlic.com

every Sunday @ 4pm - 12am

Sunday Tasting Menu

$40-2 tapas and a wine bottle, $55-4 tapas and a wine bottle, $10-draft &BBQ FREE | R’a’Rbar - Rest-au-Rant 718-729-9009 | Red Building on the corner of 30th St and 35th Ave www.rarbarlic.com

AUGUST 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 13

FOOD & DRINK

Holy Mole Leo Zelaya shaking a margarita

In the heart of Puebla, just southeast of Mexico City, sits the industrial town of Atlixco, Mexico where a fifty-something-year-old-woman is carefully preparing a puree that will soon journey across the continent. With the assistance of her mother and her son, Juana Reyes lovingly blends thirteen different peppers, ripe peaches, some plantain, crumbles in a few cookies, and then adds a dusting of crushed walnuts and almonds. Once finished, the concoction is carefully shipped across the border and makes its way to Astoria, where Chef Wilmer Santos will transform the puree one final time. He cautiously adds clarified chicken stock, a secret blend of spiced dark chocolate, and some cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove to create Maizal’s now famous mole.

The complicated, somewhat magical sauce is best served over an enchilada stuffed with spicy shredded pork, onions, tomatoes, and peppers covered with a blanket of melted Oaxacan white cheese. The flavors unfold in your mouth as smoky and sweet with a kiss of Poblano, a unique pleasure at each and every bite.

That is the magic of Maizal. That, and the love of the family that runs it. The chef ’s brother, Leo Zelaya, manages the front of the house and the bar, where he makes a variety of bitters homemade as gourmet finishing touches on the tequila-based cocktail list—though a few surprises add contrast, like the Berry Lemoncito with vodka poured over muddled limes and berries. The chef ’s young son giggles as he squeezes the lemonade in exchange for warm cinnamon-dusted churros.

It is the same teamwork that brought them huge success in Staten Island, and encouraged them to

14 | BOROMAG.COM | AUGUST 2014

Plantain stuffed with chili shrimp and avocado Wilmer Santos, Diego Santos, and Leo Zelaya

open a second location in Astoria. And that is the kind of family tradition we can support with all our heart—and then enjoy a frozen margarita, some stuffed sweet plantains, and a bowl of guacamole made tableside— all before savoring that beautiful mole.

Maizal Mexican Cuisine & Tequila Bar 32-07 34th Ave, Astoria, NY 11106 718-406-9431

Mole Poblano

42-18 31st Ave., Astoria, NY

718.721.1001 www.cavoastoria.com

FREE

Valet Parking

CAVO Astoria Named one of the in New York State

Hottest Restaurants

New York is known for having top notch restaurants that are impossible to get into. OpenTable.com recently released its list of the top 100 Hot Spot Restaurants in America.

The list is based on more than 5 million restaurant reviews submitted

by OpenTable diners for more than 15,000 restaurants in the U.S. AUGUST 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 15

16 | BOROMAG.COM | AUGUST 2014

There is life after stroke.

If you’re living with the effects of a stroke or caring for someone who Meet: is, it’s easy to feel alone and overwhelmed. Which is why you should Tuesdays join our new Support Group for Stroke Survivors and Caregivers. at 5 PM With the help and encouragement of caring professionals August 12 and interaction with other survivors and their caregivers, September16 we strive to help you increase your independence and October 21 enhance your quality of life.

Facilitators: Ingrid Hardin, LMSW | Nadia Murphy, LMSW | Tara Roche, RN

For more information please call Tara Roche, Stroke Coordinator at 718-808-7589 or email tara.roche@mountsinai.org MSQ_Stroke_Support_August_Boro_072814.indd 1

November 18 December 16

Where: 23-34 30th Avenue 6th floor Conference Room Astoria, NY 11102

www.mshq.org

AUGUST 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 17

7/15/14 4:47 PM

CHARACTERS

Alia Akkam is a writer and the editor of Edible Queens

The

Writer Interview & Photo Lizabeth Nieves

I read a lot as a child. I think that’s pretty much all I did. I learned how to read really young, and it created an escape for me. I was a very sheltered child, and reading created these other worlds for me. When we started writing creative writing in elementary school it was very natural. It just came to me.

I have always wanted to write. I can’t picture myself doing anything else. It has been a part of my identity ever since I was 6 or 7. The teachers and the other kids would know Alia is the writer. That overtook my persona and it just carried through.

I always knew that words were going to be a part of my life, and now that I have done it twelve years professionally, I feel like if this was taken away from me I don’t know what else I would do as I don’t have any other skills.

I had really great English teachers, and they were always encouraging of my talent and encouraged me to go on and pursue some sort of career with words.

I still ultimately would love to publish fiction.

In the meantime, journalism happened and I got so busy with that, that’s sort of trumped the fiction right now.

I graduated college early, and started working in public relations for two years because that involved a lot of writing. Then I realized how much I hated that. Then I just started freelance writing.

This was before all the blogs started, so it was less competitive and it was easier to get work. I came in at a great time and forged an identity and a reputation. This was in 2002.

18 | BOROMAG.COM | AUGUST 2014

I have followed the changes with all the blogs, and ‘everybody is a writer now.’ I have seen it change, and I feel very lucky to have gotten in at that time. If I was graduating college now and wanting to be a writer, it would be very intimidating.

I’m a full time freelance writer now, so I cover a variety of things, from food, to cocktails, to wine, to hotels and to design.

I feel like my whole life is just words, I’m constantly on the computer. If I’m not writing I don’t know what to do with myself sometimes.

With my blog the Qnote, I think I was a bit too early for it. I don’t think the borough was ready for a site that sophisticated at the time. I think I was maybe a bit too early when I did it; my biggest challenge was getting people to care about Queens. It did get me really entrenched with Queens, and so it was logical for me to become the editor of Edible Queens.

2015 will bring about two books. The first book will be a project with these two awesome bartenders, The Tippling Brothers, and that is a cocktail book primarily about Mexican cocktails. I have my own book coming out that is an everything you would want to know about cocktails guide.

I was born in Queens, in Rego Park. My mother grew up here. When I first graduated from college I went to Brooklyn, then I went to Queens, then I went to Brooklyn, and I just kept shuffling back and forth. This last time I really liked Astoria.

This time around it’s been six years. Just seeing the difference between what I saw in 2002 and what I see now is completely different.

My favorite food places in Astoria are Sparrow for brunch, I’m really happy with the addition of MP Taverna, and I love the gelato at La Guli’s. I really like the new menu at Pachanga Patterson.

To get a cocktail, I’d go to Long Island City for that. I go to Dutch Kills.

I think that’s the best bar in Queens.

– a concept of quality and excellent food, in a space where people come together to enjoy the feel of real Italy in Astoria.

31-09 23rd Ave • Astoria • 347-612-4334 • ViaVai-NY.com

AUGUST 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 19

Justin H says “The service and food are a cut above anything else in the neighborhood” Open 7 Days — We nOW Deliver

Happy Hour 4pm-7pm Monday thru Saturday Beer $4/Wine $5/Cocktails $6/Appetizers $8

Weekend Brunch from 11-4pm (Choice of) $18 Brunch special, 2 select alcoholic drinks, entree, coffee/tea or 2 hr Unlimited Select Drinks $15 with an entree or Enjoy $3 Champagne, Bellini, Mimosas and Bloody Mary.

20 35-03 | BOROMAG.COM | AUGUST 2014 Broadway | Astoria,

NY 11106 | 718-545-3500 | www.portaliaNYC.com

/PortaliaNYC

Crescent Grill

New American

Restaurant

Our Philosophy We are a farm-to-table restaurant.

At Crescent Grill, we are proud to partner with local farms, businesses and artists.

Lounge

Gallery

Hours of Operation Dinner: Wed - Fri: 5p - 11p Sat - Sun: 6p - 11p

Happy Hour: Weekdays from 5p - 7p

We support local artists.

Enjoy half price taps and lounge food!

The works of local and renowned artists line the walls of our gallery. We are heavily involved with the local artist community and invest in the local art culture.

Brunch: Sat - Sun: 11a - 4p

We offer FREE local transportation.

As a courtesy to our guests, we offer free round trip transportation in one of Crescent Grill’s privately owned passenger vehicles. Visit Crescentgrill. com to view pickup locations within our shuttle zone or simply call us to reserve your ride.

Crescentgrill.com | 38-40 Crescent Street, LIC NY 11101 | 718.729.4040 AUGUST 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 21

s

d a

E m p a

n a

FOOD & DRINK

H

umans have been filling pastries with berries, bacon, cheddar, chocolate, and any of a hundred stuffable ingredients for centuries. Consider pierogi, gyoza, shumai, calzones, turnovers, pot pies, streudel, pigs-in-a-blanket, brik, bourek, cannoli, cream horns, éclairs, kolaches, samosas, pain au chocolat, ravioli, profiteroles, and yes—even cronuts. But of all of the steamy pockets of tasty temptations, one stands out as the most diverse, versatile, accessible, and affordable— the empanada. Believed to have originated in Spain, these pastry pouches are named from the word empanar, which means to coat with bread. But beyond that definition of a warm filling baked in a flour or corn crust, interpretation is thrown to the wind. So here are some of the tastiest options we have enjoyed in Western Queens.

22 | BOROMAG.COM | AUGUST 2014

Blend

Jessy's

(see page 24) PaodeQueijo

AUGUST 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 23

FOOD & DRINK

Jalisco's QueensComfort

Pao&ChaCha

Fatty's

Marketa

Fatty’s Café

3 Moon Empanadas arrive 3 to an order, wrapped in a flaky pastry crust and available in beef, cheese, or chorizo. If you ask nicely, they might mix it up and serve you one of each.

45-17 28th Ave, Astoria • www.fattysastoria.com

Blend The empanadas at blend are prepared in a thick corn crust that is crispy on the outside but gives way to a soft center. Fourteen bucks will get you all five of them: chicken, braised beef, 4-cheese blend, chorizo, and spinach and cheese.

47-04 Vernon Blvd., LIC • www.blendnewyorkcity.com

Queens Comfort

Always breaking convention, these guys fill their flaky pastries with truffles and beef, braised kale, sweet potato and cheddar, and roasted pork and apple slaw, and serve them with truffle honey or chipotle aioli. Two come in a basket for $8, but don’t plan on sharing.

40-09 30th Ave, Astoria • www.queenscomfort.com

Pao & Cha Cha

Venezuelan and Chinese harmonize beautifully through the vehicle of stuffed pastries. These folks serve dumplings, but they also prepare a solid set of empanadas. The PAO salsa is a tart and tangy tropical fruit compote, and really makes these pockets perk up.

23-03 Astoria Blvd., Astoria

Pao de Queijo

This Brazilian pastry and burger stand is one of Astoria’s best-kept secrets. With over fifteen pastry pockets on the menu, guests can enjoy chicken custard pies, hearts of palm rolls, with Brazilian beef, ham, chicken, and cream cheese as fillings.

31-90 30th St, Astoria • www.paodequeijonyc.com

24 | BOROMAG.COM | AUGUST 2014

Jalisco’s Empanadas & Tacos

With the average empanada running $2 to $2.50 you can make quite a feast at this little shop. The menu is broken down into classic empanadas like chorizo and chicken, but you can also get them stuffed with cheeseburger, hot dogs, or broccoli and cheddar. They serve a whole list of dessert empanadas as well, with cheesecake, caramel, and pie filling.

25-08 34th Ave, Astoria • www.gotempanadaslongislandcity.com

Jessy’s Pastries

You can taste the love as Jessy Nahmias bakes empanadas in the style she watched her grandmothers in Peru prepare from scratch. The crust is exceptional, flaky, buttery, and delicious—filled with everything from buffalo chicken to cauliflower curry or mac & cheese. Available at LIC & Astoria Fleas, but check the website for all market locations. www.jessyspastries.com

Marketa

The chef ’s selection rotates, but we say order them with the sampler, which arrives with chicken drumsticks and chorizo croquettes. The empanadas stuffed with shredded beef will leave you begging for more.

37-17 30th Ave, Astoria

San Antonio Bakery II

You should always order the completo hot dog with pebre here, but don’t miss out on their homemade flaky Peruvian pastries as an addition—which are some of the best around.

36-20 Astoria Blvd N, Astoria

Arepas Café

We still love the original Arepas Café tucked on 36th Ave. Before diving into one of the best arepas in town, order the mini platter of starters, including 3 mini empanadas. You can even order them stuffed with shark.

33-07 36th Ave, Astoria • www.arepascafe.com

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

Offers available through July 31, 2014. Bring BORO or coupon below to redeem discount.

Limited to 1 use per reader. Merchant restrictions may apply.

1 FREE DRINK

RETRO PIZZA CAFE 10% off with coupon orders CAN BE TAKEN by fax

$20 OFF WALK IN BLOWDRY!

TUESDAY – THURSDAY FREE GLASS OF WINE WITH DINNER

15% Off Unlimited and Desk Memberships

$79.99 for Digital TV + TiVo +

HAPPY HOUR

5-7PM • Tuesday - Sunday.

50% OFF your first package Cycling shoes & bottled water included

NewOrganic Organic&Health Food Store We Sell Gluten Free Products

$39 FOR 3 WEEKS OF UNLIMITED YOGA/PILATES MAT CLASSES

and comedy show with meal on Tuesday nights 9PM - Closing.

Must bring coupon. Expires 8/31/2014

10% off purchases Weall Sell Organic with&this ad. Expires 8/31/2014.

Gluten Free Products

10% off Grill Crescent Half price tap beer, half price lounge menu, drink specials, and the free shuttle.

Our Philosophy

with this ad

15% OFF one item.

OFF THE HOOK

3553 32nd Street Long Island City, NY 11106

25% OFF 1st area Botox Treatment 50% OFF 1 laser hair removal session

20% OFF FOOD

JULY ONLY! WITH AD.

Gallery

Lounge

$0 initiation

*Offer valid for new TYR students only (with NYS Resident Status). Expires 7/31/14.

happy hour every wedNESDAY, (Corner of 36th Avenue & 32nd Street) thursDAY, and Friday.

718-204-2161

Restaurant

High Speed Internet OR $34.99 for High Speed Internet

when you sign up in August.

all purchases with this AD Expires 8/31/2014

New American

A Redken Concept Salon

ASTORIA CLEANERS 10% off

for new customers

Hours of Operation Dinner: Wed - Fri: 5p - 11p Sat - Sun: 6p - 11p

We are a farm-to-table restaurant.

Free Glass of Wine

At Crescent Grill, we are proud to partner with local farms, businesses and artists.

with Entree.

Happy Hour: Weekdays from 5p - 7p

We support local artists.

Enjoy half price taps and lounge food!

Brunch: Sat - Sun: 11a - 4p

Up to $300 Off Selected Models

We offer FREE local transportation.

Come see our discounted line of New and Pre-driven Vespa’s!

orders over $100.00

Saturday & Sunday: 11am-3pm.

The works of local and renowned artists line the walls of our gallery. We are heavily involved with the local artist community and invest in the local art culture.

As a courtesy to our guests, we offer free round trip transportation in one of Crescent Grill’s privately owned passenger vehicles. Visit Crescentgrill. com to view pickup locations within our shuttle zone or simply call us to reserve your ride.

15% off

weekend brunch special

$10 off 60 or 90 minute massage One per client. Applies to regular listed rates.

Cannot be combined with other offers. By appt only.

Promotions cannot be combined

Ladies Night Every Thursday 8-11pm Purchase 2 Cocktails & Receive one FREE Appetizer and One FREE Entrée. Indoor Dining Only.

Follow Us For Great Deals Throughout The Month

Crescentgrill.com | 38-40 Crescent Street, LIC NY 11101 | 718.729.4040

/BOROmag

@BOROmag AUGUST 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 25

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

144

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

163

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

129 130

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

6

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

4

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

105

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

23

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

7

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

5

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

181

Hibino LIC (A,4) 10-70 Jackson Ave, LIC 718-392-5190 www.hibino-lic.com

183

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

125

Honoo Grill & Noodle 33-06 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria 718-606-0653 www.honoo33.com

24

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

112

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

91

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

13

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

25

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

14

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

28

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

16

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

55

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

153

86

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

169

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

170

18

Malagueta Restaurant (B,2) 718-937-4821 25-35 36th Avenue, Astoria www.malaguetany.com Manducatis Rustica (A,4) 718-937-1312 46-3 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.manducatisrustica.com

19

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

3

Mezze Place (B,2) 718-777-2829 31-18 Broadway, Astoria www.mezzeplace.com Michael’s Cafe (B,3) (located inside Four Points Sheraton) 347-536-3633 27-05 39th Ave, LIC www.michaelscafeny.com

124

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

26

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

148

8

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

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

182

Butcher Bar (c,2) 718-606-8140 37-08 30th Ave, Astoria www.ButcherBar.com

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

150

35

133

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

87

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

10

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

117

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

9

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

22

176

Crescent Grill (B,3) 718-729-4040 38-40 Crescent Street, LIC www.crescentgrill.com

162

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

11

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

109

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

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

69

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

12

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

74

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

112

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

1

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

159

26 | BOROMAG.COM | AUGUST 2014

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

118

39

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

179

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

167

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

104

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

21

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

Snowdonia Pub (B,2) 34-55 32nd St, Astoria 347-730-5783 www.snowdoniapub.com

45

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

Stove Restaurant and Bar (C, 1) 718-956-0372 45-17 28th Ave, Astoria www.stoveastoria.com

49

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

50

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

52

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

51

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

54

City Vet (A,4) 718-433-1334 45-44 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.cityvetnyc.com

116

Sugar Freak (C,2) 718-726-5850 36-18 30th Ave, Astoria www.sugarfreak.com

123

Testaccio (a,4) 718-937-2900 47-30 Vernon Blvd., LIC www.testacciony.com

31

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

184

Via Vai (B1) 31-09 23rd Ave, Astoria 347-612-4334 Viavai-ny.com

29

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

108

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

32

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

BAKERIES 33 34 138 139

Astor Bake Shop (a,2) 718-606-8439 12-23 Astoria Blvd, Astoria www.astor-bakeshop.com Brooklyn Bagel & Coffee Company 718-777-1121 36-14 30th Ave, Astoria 35-09 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria (C,1) 36-14 30th Ave, Astoria (C,2) 35-05 Broadway, Astoria (C,2) www.bkbagel.com

40

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

37

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

FOOD SHOPS 161

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

36

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

27

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

38

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

SHOPS

PETS

121

75

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

FLORISTS 160

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

44

Floresta (A,4) 917-612-4446 51-02 Vernon Blvd, LIC 4-85 47th Rd, LIC www.florestanyc.com/blog

137 47

NYC FARM CHIC Flowers www.nycfarmchicflowers.com

130

Petals and Roots (B,2) 718-267-1700 31-27 31st St, Astoria www.petalsandroots.com

168

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

114

Ark locksmith 24/7 Service (c,2) 718-932-LOCK (5625) 30-10 37th st, Astoria www.Astorialocksmith.com

SERVICES

178

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

119

Astoria Center of Israel 718-278-2680 27-35 Crescent Street, Astoria www.astoriacenter.org

177

Astoria Cleaners (B,1) 28-19 Astoria Blvd, Astoria 718-545-0680 Astoriacleaners.com

MAP IT DIRECTORY 129

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

77

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

164

173

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

71

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

131

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

56

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

143

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

180

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

57

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

FITNESS

149

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

145

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

68

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

111

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

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

43

42

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

88

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

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

89

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

79

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

175

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

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

76

79

166

142

CROSSFIT Dynamix Gym (C,1) 718-606-0381 36-05 20th Ave, Astoria www.dynamixgym.com PNT Fitness (A,4) 347-396-5809 10-68 Jackson Ave, LIC www.pntfitness.com The Rock Health & Fitness Club (B,1) 718-204-1400 22-15 31st Street Astoria, NY 11105 www.therockhealthandfitness.com Sage Studios 347-927-2439 29-20 23rd Ave, 4th Floor, Astoria www.sagefit.com/astoria-home

78

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

134

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

126

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

66

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

80

17

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

HOTELS

TATTOO SHOPS 147

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

158

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

67

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

136

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

60

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

73

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

156

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

151

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

SPAS

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

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

120

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

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

83

Tuck-It-Away Storage (B, 3) 718-519-8282 37-19 Crescent Street, Astoria www.tuckitaway.com

165

93

94

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

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

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

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

154

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

65

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

127

82

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

63

64

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

NIGHTLIFE/BARS

RCN (A,3) Digital TV and High-Speed Internet Services 212-842-7981 33-16 Woodside Ave, LIC www.rcn.com/boromag

59

157

46

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

58

QNS COLLECTIVE (c,3) 718-280-5122 36-27 36th Street, 2 floor, Astoria www.qnscollective.com

62

72

81

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

174

122

BEAUTY

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

90

100

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

128

95

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

146

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

110

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

97

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

98

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

112

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

96

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

99

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

105

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

30

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

REAL ESTATE

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

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

101 140

Astoria Performing Arts Center @The Good Shepherd United Methodist Church (c,2) 718-706-5750 30-44 Crescent Street (@30th Road) Astoria NY 11102 www.apacny.org

141

107

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

102

Flushing Town Hall 718-463-7700 x222 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

113

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

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

103

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

172

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

135

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

HEALTH & WELLNESS

WANT YOUR BUSINESS LISTED IN OUR DIRECTORY? 718.224.5863 ext. 206 Email: ADS@BOROmag.com AUGUST 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 27

4

3

2

1

28

165

H

97

64

33

137

51

94

A

55 39

54

66

22

map it

A

17

50 44 21 54 115

72

85

30 121

68

12 140

123

144 18

23

65

99

7

79

181

37

95

101

98 136

31

157

40

15 105

96

127

142

90

176

175

122

183

128

135

119

182

45

81

132 25

139

8 180

167

77

82

20

70

151

158

160

110

24

2

27

47

4

179

125 34 161

143

83

169 147

3

164 172

26

129

86

52

4

53

63

112

113

104

178

62

6

H

92

87

34

29

174

88

91

93

108

138 114

B

149

67

C

C

80

75

43

100

154

19 109 34 116 35

71 103 162 163 46

57 139 69

14

89

38 36

124

73

49

5

84

32

61

150

127

Astoria

134

166

153

42

60

130

145

141

148

76

Long island city

134

170

78

130 117 16

177

168 105 173

111

13

B

156

1

74

120 10

146

131

11 9

58

59

118

129

4

3

2

1

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

646.283.4657

32-12 Broadway Astoria

Come to Malagueta and enjoy a great meal!

• Fresh Fish Daily • Open For Lunch • Daily Dinner Specials • Parties And Catering 25-35 36th Avenue • Astoria • NY 11106 718.937.4821 • www.malaguetany.com

• Sports • Medical • • Therapeutic • Pregnancy • activeoutlookmassage.com

Arepas Grill

La casa de le Vinotinto

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

www.arepasgrillnyc.com

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

VISIT OUR OTHER LOCATION:

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

www.arepasnyc.com

Catering Available

Zagat Rated 30 | BOROMAG.COM | AUGUST 2014

Free Delivery - Minimum $15.00 • PICKUP Available

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

We’re new.

We’re different.

We’re Luminous.

Whether you’re looking to buy, rent or sell, we have a streamlined process that matches your needs perfectly.

Whatever your wish list, we will aim to exceed your expectations.

The choice is clear.

Call Today

212.203.2016 41 Madison Avenue 31st Floor New York, NY 10010 lmnsrealty.com todd@lmnsrealty.com EQUAL HOUSING

OPPORTUNITY

AUGUST 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 31

EXPLORE YOUR BORO

STORY + PHOTOS

Lizabeth Nieves

Riding over the 59th street Bridge, it is hard to miss Roosevelt Island. The sight of the small pox hospital in ruins has captured my imagination since I was a child. Situated between Manhattan and Queens, Roosevelt Island is a mere two miles long and eight hundred feet wide. It is also the ultimate day trip for the urban explorer.

The island was originally named Minnehanonck by the Lenape, and has gone through many name changes, including Hog Island, Blackwell’s Island, and Welfare Island.

It was re-named Roosevelt Island in 1971 after Franklin D. Roosevelt.

32 | BOROMAG.COM | AUGUST 2014

The first step in visiting the island is to take the tram from Manhattan, located on 60th street and 2nd Ave. Cruising along the Queensboro Bridge at seventeen miles per hour, the 3 minute ride is simultaneously slightly terrifying yet beautiful.

Once you step off the tram, walk toward the center of the island and stop by the Blackwell House.

The house, built for James Blackwell in 1796, is the sole surviving building on Roosevelt Island which dates from the period when the island was still privately held property. The Blackwell family owned the island until 1828, when it was sold to the City of New York.

The Blackwell House was one of the few farmhouses in New York dating from the years immediately after the Revolutionary War. Head south, and stroll through the tree-lined sidewalks, enjoying the stunning views of Manhattan. To your left lies the Renwick Ruins, which originated as a small pox hospital. It was built by James Renwick, who also designed St. Patrick’s Cathedral.

There are many stories of the remains of the hospital being haunted. Currently, it is under renovation so that it may be open to the public.

Past the hospital is the FDR Freedoms Park. It is the last work of the late Louis I. Kahn, one of the iconic architects of the 20th century. Kahn passed away in 1974, and the

park wasn’t completed until 2012. He was carrying the finished designs when he passed away in a men’s room at Penn Station. The park is named after the powerful speech that Roosevelt gave, where he looked forward to a world founded upon four human freedoms: freedom of speech and expression, freedom of worship, freedom from want, and freedom from fear. Kahn brought together a stunning garden and open air space that leads you to the bust of Roosevelt at the Southern tip of the island.

The northern tip of the island has two places worth visiting: the Lighthouse and

the Octagon (formerly an insane asylum). In 1834 the Octagon opened as a beautifully designed island retreat

by Alexander Jackson Davis. Davis’s design for the building’s signature 5-story octagonal rotunda incorporated stately bluegray stone quarried on the island. In 1841 when the insane asylum opened, the Octagon housed the main area. In 1842, Charles Dickens visited the insane asylum, and was quoted as saying “everything had a lounging, listless, madhouse air, which was very painful.” Today, the Octagon building has been restored to a huge apartment complex that runs partially on solar power.

The Lighthouse is on the most northern end of the Island. Legend has it that the lighthouse was built by an Asylum inmate.

Roosevelt Island is a historical journey of New York City unlike any other. The beautiful views momentarily distract you from the haunted feeling that lingers throughout the island despite all the renovations. It is the perfect day trip for photography, history, and supernatural buffs—an irresistible combination impossible to beat.

AUGUST 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 33

AUTHENTIC THAI AND ASIAN CUISINE

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

Outdoor Seating Available 33-09 broadway, astoria I 718.956.7117 | www.lengthai.com

New Pa$tient Special 125

ensive Includes Comprehl Cancer Exam, X-Rays, Ora fessional Pro Screening and a Cleaning Healthy Mouth

34 | BOROMAG.COM | AUGUST 2014

WE CAN HELP YOU REMOVE

3 LATE PAYMENTS 3 REVIEW YOUR 3 TAX LEINS DEBT SITUATION 3 BANKRUPTCIES 3 CREATE A BUDGET 3 FIND DEBT SOLUTIONS 3 JUDGEMENTS 3 BECOME DEBT FREE 3 COLLECTIONS REDUCE Your Debt 3 INQUIRIES up to 80% 3 INACCURACIES MONTHLY Payments 3 FORECLOSURES as low as $250 3 REPOSSESSION 3 CHARGE OFFS Be DEBT FREE in a 3 IDENTITY THEFT little as 12 months 3 AND MUCH MORE

FREE CONSULTATION

BUSINESS LOANS

WEEKEND BRUNCH SPECIAL

WE CAN HELP YOU BECOME DEBT FREE

718-932-9300 www.ecgdebtsettlement.com

29-15 Astoria Blvd., Astoria, NY 11102

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

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

25-17 Astoria Blvd., Astoria, NY 11102

347-813-4677

www.noshborough.com

Frozen Yogurt, Sweet & Savory Crêpes

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

SPECIALS any size

Bubble Tea from

opening hour to 4 PM 8/31/14.

8/31/14.

8/31/14.

8/31/14.

AUGUST 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 35

BODY & SOUL

Get Out

Get Moving

Get Fit Fitness First Bootcamp in Astoria Park

S

By Hayley Bridgewater

ummer is in high gear and like many around Western Queens, this time of year has me searching for any reason to be outdoors. Though my stories usually lead me to stateof-the-art gyms, beautiful studios, and slick training facilities, this issue finds me in one of my favorite parks, participating in one of my favorite formats, with two of my favorite people.

I am a total bootcamp devotee.

I love being around groups of people, the variety of exercises, the quickly moving circuits, the camaraderie, and of course, the occasional competition. Though I do like to keep a regimented gym schedule, bootcamps have been my go-to in the warm months to keep me lean, push my endurance, and blow off steam. So when my regular bootcamp in Central Park was canceled this year, I was crushed. Sometimes a girl just needs the grass under her feet, the wind in her hair, and someone yelling at her to sprint.

I know that I am a very lucky girl. My job at BORO allows me to workout and network with incredible fitness professionals throughout Queens, and when I began asking around to find a replacement bootcamp, I have to say, I was a bit tickled and relieved that I didn’t have to look any further than my own trainer.

Full Disclosure: I rarely write about activities that are part of my regular schedule. However, if I am to take Mark Twain’s “Write what you know” in an extremely literal sense, this would be the opportunity.

I trust and believe in these guys, am consistently challenged, and have a blast while participating. I have met some fantastic people, pushed myself, laughed a lot, and all within a park that I love. The Fitness First family has quickly become a fixture in my Saturday morning routine.

36 | BOROMAG.COM | AUGUST 2014

Interested in joining?

Fitness First Bootcamps are located in Astoria Park on Saturday mornings at 10am during the warm months.

Led by Joe Gambino and Frank Duffy, fitness professionals born, raised, and working in Western Queens, the bootcamps were constructed to fill a growing need. “We realized that many people enjoy working out outdoors after being cooped up all winter,” explains Joe. “We wanted to introduce a fun and interesting way to help the community reach their fitness goals. Thus far, we have been received quite well. Everyone who has experienced bootcamp firsthand has kind words for us, and we continue to add members to the Fitness First family.”

Is Bootcamp right for you?

Constructed to address participants of all abilities, the guys aim to provide an enjoyable and safe atmosphere while advancing overall levels of physical fitness. “Almost all of the circuits are timed, so you can go at your own pace within that time,” Joe assures. “There is no lagging behind, and we teach modifications for anything that is too intense. Progressions and regressions are a key component to what we do. Not everyone has the same needs. Being able to adjust on the go is crucial. Participants should expect to see improvements in endurance, strength, and general body composition.”

The Guys

Joe Gambino is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) holding a degree in Exercise Science and Nutrition from Queens College. He holds Kettlebell Certification from Kettlebell Concepts and is currently pursuing a Doctorate of Physical Therapy at Touro College. Joe has worked for seven years as a Personal Trainer at The Matrix Fitness Club, and has served as an Assistant Strength Coach for Queens College, training volleyball, water polo, lacrosse,

t

baseball, softball, and men and women’s basketball teams. He has completed Strength and Conditioning internships at St. John’s with the Red Storm’s basketball program.

With an athletic background in competitive track & field, football, baseball, and basketball, Joe has great insight into motivation strategies and results-oriented programming for seasoned athletes as well as the “average Joe”. In his down time, he loves warm summer days, hugs, and repetitively lifting heavy weights for fun.

Frank Duffy is a Certified Personal Trainer through the National Strength & Conditioning Association (NSCA) and is currently pursuing his Bachelor’s degree from CUNY Queens College in Exercise Science & Nutrition. Frank works as a Personal Trainer at The Matrix Fitness Club in Astoria, where he completed a summer-long internship in 2013. During his time at Queens College, he has completed internships with notable Strength & Conditioning Coaches Yuki Miyazawa (Head Strength Coach at St. Francis College) and Pat Trainor (Head Strength Coach with the San Diego Padres Single-A affiliate). During these stints, Frank worked hands-on with the baseball, lacrosse, and soccer programs.

Competitive sports have always been a part of Frank’s life. He has an extensive background in basketball and baseball, and played Div. II College baseball at Queens College. Frank has found his true calling, helping individuals achieve unprecedented levels of performance.

He believes everyone has the ability to become “stronger every day” – physically, mentally, and emotionally. He also really digs country music.

Interested in more information?

For specific questions and bootcamp details (cost, meet up location, etc.), please consult the Fitness First email and social media sites below.

Email: FitnessFirst.TrainingSystems@gmail.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/FitnessFirstTrainingSystems Instagram: F1tness_F1rst Blog: www.joegambino.wordpress.com

AUGUST 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 37

Astoria 35 Laundry & Fine Dry Cleaning

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

Fantastic Wash & Fold Service

FOR ONLY .75 CENTS A POUND 3505 34th St. Astoria, NY 11105

718-392-9692

Follow us on facebook, twitter, and yelp to see our promotion… the more you click the more you earn..

718-777-1554

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

Zend Avesta Pilates an Astoria Pilates Studio

New Organic Health Food Store We Sell Organic & Gluten Free Products

10% off

all purchases with this AD Expires 8/31/2014

3553 32nd Street Long Island City, NY 11106 (Corner of 36th Avenue & 32nd Street)

718-204-2161

38 | BOROMAG.COM | AUGUST 2014

Want to get in shape and look great while exercising in a comfortable environment?

23-31 27th St. Astoria, NY

(646) 543-3251

www.zendavestapilates.com

www.ovelia-nyc.com

718-721-7217

New revamped Menu coming soon...

Inspired by Off The Hook’s Rum Vault!!!

OFF THE

34-01 30th ave. Astoria, NY 11103

OFF THE HOOK

Greek Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten Free and Organic Fare

HOOK

RAW BAR SEAFOOD DRINKS & MORE

28-08 34th St • Astoria, NY 11103

718-721-2112

www.OFFTHEHOOKASTORIA.com

AUGUST 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 39

BUSINESS SHIRTS LAUNDERED

1.25

$

ON HANGERS $1.50 BOXED (reg.$1.95)

• WITH $25.00 OF DRY CLEANING • CANNOT BE COMBINED WITH OTHER OFFERS. SHIRTS MUST BE WASHABLE AND MACHINE PRESSABLE (SIZE LIMIT) • INCLUDES PICK UP & DELIVERY • MAXIMUM 10 SHIRTS • MUST BE PRE PAID • OFFER EXPIRES 9/30/14

(5) FOR (4)

20% OFF

SALE

• WINTER CLOTHES • TABLE CLOTHS

Bring in five (5) similar items and pay only for four (4)

• NAPKINS • LINENS

• MUST BE PRE PAID

• HOUSE HOLDS

• DRY CLEAN ONLY

• PRE PAID

• NO SAME DAY OR NEXT DAY SPECIALS

• OFFER EXPIRES 9/30/14

• CANNOT BE COMBINED WITH OTHER OFFERS

• CANNOT BE COMBINED

ALL WEDDING GOWNS 00 .

5

$ 27

• INSURED • FREE (3) extra pieces • MUST BE PRE PAID • ALL WEDDING GOWNS CLEANED AND HEIRLOOMED IN A SEE THRU BOX

• FREE PICKUP AND DELIVERY OFFER EXPIRES 9/30/14

PACKARD SQUARE CLEANERS

• ORGANIC CLEANING-• ECO-FRIENDLY WET• CLEANING-COUTURE QUALITY CLEANING

BONDED APARTMENT CLEANING

15% OFF ON SECOND APARTMENT CLEANING IF BOOKED AND PAID IN ADVANCE

Call: 1.866.475.7147 or 1.718.433.0400 41-32 CRESCENT STREET, L.I.C. N.Y.11101 • WWW.PACKARDSQUARECLEANERS.COM

40 | BOROMAG.COM | AUGUST 2014

AUGUST 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 41

REA L ESTATE

The sky

is the limit

The rooftop amenity deck includes elevated volleyball and tennis courts

42 | BOROMAG.COM | AUGUST 2014

t

cludes s courts

Can you recall just ten years ago when the Long Island City waterfront was still a remarkably blank canvas? It is difficult to cross the Queensboro Bridge and imagine a time before the shiny cluster of high rises and gorgeous waterfront parks blended with the dock of the East River Ferry and the iconic neon glow from the Pepsi billboard that shines like a beacon for those returning home to Western Queens.

balance that connects the new properties with the already active and dynamic Vernon Boulevard.”

The residentially-lined Center Boulevard has become the main thoroughfare connecting the LIC waterfront with the rest of the borough.

Made up of entirely new construction, this area along Center Boulevard includes 12 Sweetleaf Espresso & Cocktail Bar acres of landscaped green, “I find myself in awe of it,” reminisces Sofia Estevez, Executive Vice waterfront parks, a new public K-8 elementary school, library, retail President of TF Cornerstone, the firm responsible for much of the and other services. The waterfront is also home to the LIC Flea & development of the Long Island City waterfront. “Tom [Elghanayan] is Food and is in walking distance to numerous restaurants, shops and a visionary,” she explains of one of the company’s principals. “I remember cultural activities. With residential buildings that tout unmatched when this all started, standing at the Pepsi bottling plant, and you could amenities and a four-minute subway ride from Midtown Manhattan, see him standing there on the roof, and he could just see all of it.”

LIC has re-defined what it means to live in New York City.

That was just 2003, and only one decade later the company is celebrating the finished transformation of the former bottling site into a residential urban oasis. Upon completion, this neighborhood within a neighborhood will total 2,615 rental units, 184 condominiums and be home to more than 6,000 people.

“It’s a huge success because the residents really enjoy living there,” Estevez explains. While the TF Cornerstone properties have literally added a new city within the city, the company knows that a vibrant community was already in existence before they arrived. “I believe it is a great

And whether you choose to live in one of the new buildings or to simply visit, all members of the community have benefited from the arrival of the new restaurants and retail, which include Shi, Blue Streak Wine & Spirits, Crank Cycling, Sweatleaf Espresso & Cocktail Bar, Blend on the Water, Mimi & Mo maternity store, New York Kids Club, a European Wax Center, I Love Kickboxing, and several more on the way.

Change is inevitable, and sometimes good, even great. TF Cornerstone has quite literally painted the neighborhood a stunning new skyline.

AUGUST 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 43

Astoria & LIC’s premier choice of pick up & delivery of Fine dry cleaning & wash & fold services

28-19 Astoria Blvd.

AstoriaCleaners.com ASTORIA CLEANERS

Minimum pick up $20 for Astoria and $40 for L.I.C.

To Schedule A Pick-Up, Use Our Website AstoriaCleaners.com

or call 718-545-0680

10% OFF for new customers 15% OFF orders over $100.00 Promotion cannot be combined

Doctor Order a Lab Test?

Choose your neighborhood lab for fast, friendly service.

• •

Most insurances covered Walk-ins welcome Astoria Patient Service Center 32-72 Steinway St., Suite 503 Queens, New York 11103 Mon-Thur: 7:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Saturday: 7:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. www.sunriselab.com

44 | BOROMAG.COM | AUGUST 2014

>More Great Banking ®

Right In Your Neighborhood.

We’re the local community bank that always gives you >more®! >MORE® ATMS >MORE® Branch Locations >MORE® Banking Hours

>MORE® Sunday Banking >MORE® Convenience >MORE® Business Banking

For more information, call (877) 786-6560 or visit myNYCB.com

©2014 New York Community Bank- Member FDIC

Equal Opportunity Lender

AUGUST 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 45

FOOD & DRINK

Via Vai = Go Street Astoria is a funny place where just a single block of pavement can house a realtor, an optometrist, a Greek cafĂŠ full of desserts and colorful cookies to dunk in coffee, a Czech restaurant full of schnitzel and pilsner, a pasta shop with ravioli to go, and a burger shop where you can order everything from ostrich to elk.

23rd Avenue just east of the 31st Street subway line has slowly evolved into a unique dining destination, within just a few blocks proximity of another handful of eateries also well worth a visit.

The newest transformation is at the space formerly occupied by the 23rd Ave Delicatessen. Where soft drink refrigerators once stood, there sits a counter with a shiny new espresso machine and a brick pizza oven. Diners step through the open entryway to gather at rustic reclaimed wooden tables constructed of seventy-five-year-old mahogany imported from Italy.

Chef-Owner Antonio Morichini brought with him much more than just wooden tables, however. His new restaurant is a testament to his native town of Rome, as made clear through such dishes as a simple aglio e olio with bucatini tossed in garlic oil and pecorino romano, or the maiale, an organic filet of pork tenderloin prepared saltimbocca-style with with white wine, prosciutto, and sage. The dishes are made with love, and subtle ornamentation will leave a lasting impression, from the beautiful delicate blossoms of artichokes to carefully rolled slices of melon. The flavors are fresh and clean. A wafer-thin crust snaps at each bite, topped with everything from fig marmalade to eggplant, guanciale, or pecorino. A warm chocolate cake kissed with tart raspberries is one of the finest desserts on the street, baked to order. Visit the website for the full menu, but enjoy these images of some of the dishes we have enjoyed so far.

Welcome to Astoria, Via Vai. Via Vai 31-09 23rd Ave., Astoria (347) 612-4334 www.viavai-ny.com

46 | BOROMAG.COM | AUGUST 2014

i Chef-Owner Antonio Morichini

AUGUST 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 47

OVER

150 classes per week Astoria

INTRO SPECIAL

REFORMER INTRO SPECIAL

38-01 35th Ave 718.274.0255

39

$

99

$

LIC

for 3 weeks of unlimited yoga/Pilates mat classes*

10-14 47th Rd 718.786.7962

for 2 private apparatus sessions*

www.yogaroomnyc.com *Offer valid for new TYR students only (with NYS resident status). Expires Expires 7/31/14.

8/31/14

MAIN STREET RADIOLOGY TEL: (718) 428-1500 • FAX: (718) 428-2475 • www.mainstreetradiology.com

OFFICIAL RADIOLOGISTS OF THE NEW YORK COSMOS! Main Street Radiology’s State of the Art Facilities Should Be Your Only Choice For Digital Imaging.

Serving The Community For Over 13 Years!

OPENING OCTOBER 2014

Full Imaging Center in Western Queens!!

72-06 Northern Blvd. Jackson Heights, NY 11372 BAYSIDE (32 AVE)

32-25 Francis Lewis Blvd., Bayside, NY 11358

BAYSIDE (NORTHERN BLVD.) 44-01 Francis Lewis Blvd., Bayside, NY 11361

48 | BOROMAG.COM | AUGUST 2014

DOWNTOWN FLUSHING 136-25 37th Ave. Flushing, NY 11354

• Neuroradiology • Musculoskeletal • Mammography/ Women’s Imaging • Cross Section Body Imaging • Nuclear Medicine/PET • Magnetic Resonance Imaging • Interventional Radiology

Long Island City School of Ballet

Quality Care And Compassion In a Neighborhood Setting

32-41R Steinway Street, Astoria Right by the R and M subway stop

718-728-2822

www.steinwaycourtvet.com info@ steinwaycourtvet.com

COWORK & MEET SPACE

Now in Queens

36-27 36th St, Astoria (718) 280-5122

qnscollective.com Receive 15% Off in the month of August

Ballet Pre Ballet Pre Dance Parent and 2’s Sports Dance

Jazz Tap Imagine Dance Studio Rental Birthday Parties Adult classes

For more more information: For information: 718-781-1169 718-781-1169licballet@gmail.com info@licsb.com Register online at www.licsb.com LICSB 44-02 23rd Street Studio 216 LIC, NY 11101 AUGUST 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 49

50 | BOROMAG.COM | AUGUST 2014

Friends of Hunters Point Library invite you to visit your

Saturday Library Center Boulevard at 48th Avenue in Hunters Point

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

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

Visit the Pop-Up Library on the plaza at Gantry to read and relax.

Enjoy reading-related programs and activities for children.

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

AUGUST 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 51

SHOPS

Astoria Bookshop One Year In STORY michael stahl

It’s late morning on a Wednesday, a time of the week when not many customers are expected at Astoria Bookshop, and the most ideal time for an interview. Still, Lexi Beach, the owner, manager, and sole employee of the store, is tensely tapping computer keys, taking care of business. There’s always something to do.

I ask Lexi how the experience has been thus far, nearly one year after opening the shop. She sighs, and says, “‘Overwhelming’ is the word.” She lets out a little laugh and elaborates, “All I can think of is my experience of meeting so many customers who are so excited about having a bookstore to call their own, and who have been so instantly supportive.”

Indeed, Astoria was so starved for a bookstore that—more than two years ago—when Lexi set up Twitter and Facebook accounts for one that was really just a concept, dozens of locals posted offers to help out.

Then, last summer, after finally procuring a space on 31st street and 31st avenue, people came through, painting walls, positioning bookcases, and unpacking books. “I never would’ve opened as soon as I did without their help,” Lexi insists, thus proving her beliefs about the business of books true. “A bookstore is a different kind of retail. It is a place to gather and to have a community,” she explains. “That’s what I’d always hoped Astoria Bookshop would be.”

She goes on to explain that a bookstore has to do more to survive today than ever before. “You have to give people a reason to walk through the door besides books for sale,” she says. “Anybody can buy a book anywhere,” and these days it doesn’t have to be at an actual store. So, Lexi was sure to completely saturate the calendar with attractive events: Tuesday morning’s children’s story time, regular book club meetings, meditation meet ups, creative writing workshops, two poetry reading series, a monthly storytelling event, and author readings featuring published, Queens-based writers. Those gatherings in particular have repeatedly caused cramped

52 | BOROMAG.COM | AUGUST 2014

conditions in the store, evidence that the “Support-Local-Everything” mindset is preeminent among residents here.

In fact, the year’s biggest selling title at the Astoria Bookshop, “Don1, the King From Queens: The Life and Photos of a NYC Transit Graffiti Master,” sold a hundred copies the night the author, Louie Gasparro, showed up to sign copies of the book. Though he didn’t read anything— the book is a collection of street art photos—Gasparro’s presence alone was enough to draw roughly three hundred visitors to the store. “I still don’t know how we fit that many people in here,” Lexi says.

Organizing these gatherings takes up a lot of Lexi’s time, not to mention the tasks of ordering books, stacking shelves, paying bills, and everything else that goes into running a business. But she still reads, usually advanced copies of texts. “That’s my job!” she says with another laugh.

Lexi tells me to look forward to the release of Lev Grossman’s “The Magician’s Land,” partially because one of the opening lines of the novel reads, “It didn’t matter where you were, if you were in a room full of books, you were at least halfway home.” Lexi knows there are many people who feel that same way, and that the quote perfectly summarizes why “bookstores are always going be relevant.”

Then, the clock strikes noon and there’s a bit of a lunchtime rush as about ten people walk in. Lexi greets them with a pleasant hello, and I excuse myself, letting her get on with another busy day at the Astoria Bookshop.

Astoria Bookshop 31-29 31st St, Astoria, NY 11106 (718) 278-2665 www.AstoriaBookshop.com Tuesday – Sunday 11AM to 7PM

Advertising copyright © 2013 A’LOR International LTD. CHARRIOL® is a registered trademark of the Philippe Charriol Group.

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

AUGUST 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 53

FLEE TO THE FLEAS Food • Antiques • Art • Fashion • Collectibles • Fun EVERY SATURDAY 10AM - 6PM

LIC

EVERY SUNDAY 10AM - 6PM

ONTH LEFT 1 MASTORIA

FLEA &

FLEA &

FOOD

5-25 46th Ave., Long Island City Corner of 5th Street & 46th Avenue

34-12 36th Street, Astoria Enter Through Studios Gate At 35th Avenue & 36th Street

FOOD

Walking distance from the East River Ferry and the 7, G, E & M trains

@licflea

AT

By train: M, R Steinway Street Stop N, Q 36th Avenue Stop

@astoriaflea

LICFlea.com 54 | BOROMAG.COM | AUGUST 2014

AUGUST 2014 | BOROMAG.COM | 55

Unique Cuisine

Fantastic Margaritas

MEXICAN CUISINE • TEQUILA BAR GUACAMOLE MADE FRESH TO ORDER

MAIZAL

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

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

56 | BOROMAG.COM | AUGUST 2014