MAY 2013

VOL 3:6 MAY 2013

ASTORIA // LIC // SUNNYSIDE

CREATE // CULTIVATE // INSPIRE

WHAT INSPIRES YOU?

Chef inspirations, pg. 6

Street Fashion, pg. 16

Music Festival, pg. 32

Blood Brothers, pg. 38

GREAT DISCOUNTS

at the best spots in Astoria, LIC, Sunnyside

Britt Wallace

2 | BOROMAG.COM | MAY 2013

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

Offers available through May 30, 2013. Bring BORO or coupon below to redeem discount.

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ADVERTISE IN BORO Follow Us For Great Deals Throughout The Month 10% OFF any wine purchase./BOROmag

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ads@BOROmag.com // 914.426.2939 // www.BOROmag.com/advertise MAY 2013 | BOROMAG.COM | 3

Dear Western Queens, I am so proud to be the new owner and co-publisher of BORO Magazine. I can assure you that we will continue to bring you all that you have come to expect, value and deserve from both BORO Magazine and BOROMag.com! We are dedicated to providing the best of Astoria, LIC and Sunnyside with each issue.

I hope you will send in your feedback, ideas and suggestions to me and follow us throughout the month at BOROmag.com, @boromag on twitter and on facebook.

JOSHUA SCHNEPS

publisher

We hope this issue’s focus on local residents inspires you and happy mother’s day to all the moms out there!

See you next month.

Josh josh@boromag.com

Bites Of Inspiration

6

Blood Brothers

FEATURES 6 FOOD

Bites Of Inspiration

14 SHOPS

Mother’s Day At Raising Astoria

16 FASHION Street Seen

24 FOOD

Honoo Grill

28 FOOD

Cinco de Mayo

32 ARTS

Music Festival

36 FOOD

Queens Kickshaw

DEPARTMENTS 3

DISCOUNTS & PROMO PAGE

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

12 MAY 2013 EVENTS 18 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 REMEMBER TO TAG YOUR QUEENS INSTAGRAM PICS WITH #BOROMAG AND LOOK FOR YOUR PHOTOS IN ONE OF OUR FUTURE ISSUES!

ADVERTISE IN BORO ads@BOROmag.com // 718.866.8089 www.BOROmag.com/advertise

38 THEATRE

Blood Brothers at APAC / BOROmag

@BOROmag

EDITOR bradley hawks // ART DIRECTOR jennifer decio // GRAPHIC DESIGNERS gary zero, nirmal singh STAFF WRITERS bradley hawks, ben mims, daniel crown, lillian shaw, brett jones, meaghan trainor // STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS javier ibañez, daniel pando, bradley hawks ONLINE EDITORIAL COORDINATOR bradley hawks // PUBLISHED BY Joshua & Victoria Schneps *This magazine is made from FSC paper, printed with soy ink and 100% recyclable. Please recycle after use.

All materials Copyright © 2013 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 | MAY 2013

38

0

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GRAND OPENING SPECIAL

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LIVE BIGGER.

MAY 2013 | BOROMAG.COM | 5

FOOD

BITES OF INSPIRATION The chefs and owners of eight popular neighborhood restaurants share the inspiration behind some of their most creative dishes…

Butcher’s Platter

“Growing up in Austin, Texas smoked BBQ is in our blood. Every Saturday night my parents would get mesquite and hickory burning in our 8 foot backyard smoker (that my dad had welded together) and tend to its fire overnight. On Sunday afternoon, right after church, we had us a good ol’ time. We wanted to offer a “Meatopia” of our favorite meats and the BUTCHER’S PLATTER was born—a sampler of burnt end brisket, pork belly, and ribs topped with mac and cheese and bacon-string beans. Just like Momma’s Sunday BBQ!” ORLANDO SANCHEZ, EXECUTIVE CHEF, BUTCHER BAR, 37-08 30TH AVE, ASTORIA, (718) 606-8140, BUTCHERBAR.COM

“I like to add a twist, a touch of new, modern ingredients to make regular sushi become more fun—and sushi of such high quality and f lavor doesn’t need any soy sauce. On our ‘NEW STYLE’ SUSHI SAMPLER , you have (f ive pieces): the Indonesian-style salmon with blowtorched lemon zest; yellowtail with jalapeno, Dijon, and yuzu zest; bonito marinated and grilled, sprinkled with mint, black pepper, and

6 | BOROMAG.COM | MAY 2013

‘New Style’ Sushi Sampler

Himalayan rock salt; white tuna with deep-fried pearl onion and yuzu miso; tuna topped with whipped tofu puree and yogurt, and a drizzle of lime soy.”

PHIL CHEN, EXECUTIVE CHEF, JJ’S ASIAN FUSION, 37-05 31ST AVE, ASTORIA, (718) 626-8888, WWW.JJSFUSION.COM

word for envelope. A pasta sheet tightly wrapped around a filling of chicken, veal, mascarpone, mushrooms, and spinach, baked in a creamy tomato sauce and encrusted in parmesan cheese.

GIUSEPPE VITERALE, OWNER & EXECUTIVE CHEF, ORNELLA TRATTORIA, 29-17 23RD AVE, ASTORIA, (718) 777-9477, ORNELLATRATTORIA.COM

Foie Gras

“Growing up I used to love canned mandarin oranges, they were my sh**. Growing up as a linecook I fell in love with foie gras the first time I had it. I figured why not take some of my fondest food memories growing up and compose it into a dish—and the FOIE GRAS dish at Salt & Fat was born.” Shaved snowflakes of Hudson Valley foie gras over a mound of cinnamon dusted mandarin oranges with bacon brittle.

DANIEL YI, EXECUTIVE CHEF & OWNER, SALT & FAT, 41-16 QUEENS BLVD, SUNNYSIDE, (718) 433-3702, WWW.SALTANDFATNY.COM Imbustata

Ice Cream Trio

For the Holy Trinity ICE CREAM TRIO, “we started with house-made cinnamon ice cream for the Apple Crisp Dessert. We totally fell in love and decided to create something with a textured flavor profile. Hence, the chocolate chip pretzel ice cream. After a few seconds of pondering what could possible top that, we knew the missing element would be Baby Jesus (cake)!

I have this ridiculous weakness for ice cream and freak out when they are texturally exciting. Molly del Monte, Chef de Cuisine of Vesta, delivered the best possible balance when she made the chocolate chip pretzel—sweet, creamy and SALTY!” MICHELLE VIDO, EXECUTIVE CHEF OF VESTA, 21-02 30TH AVE, ASTORIA, 718-545-5550, VESTAVINO.COM

Giuseppe Viterale wanted “a pasta with structure and character like a slow-cooked meat, where the combination of ingredients is perfectly amalgamated.”

The result was the IMBUSTATA, inspired by the Italian

“I discovered CANDIED BACON about 10 years ago through the late, great chef, Edna Lewis. The idea that you could so completely transform salty, fatty, cured bacon by just adding brown sugar to it in the cooking process seemed like one of the most magical cooking techniques EVER. I used it a lot for bitter salads, (who doesn’t love eating chicory if you put a little candied bacon on it!??!) and even added it to the frosting of my Lane Cake recipe in the book I co authored, Forking Fantastic! Put The Party Back in Dinner Party. A couple of years ago I saw a picture of my friend and Unique Eats co-contributor Lee Ann Wong at an event making Pork Belly Lollipops. My first thought was, “what a great idea!” My second was....” Girl! You

MAY 2013 | BOROMAG.COM | 7

FOOD

When I decided to open the pizzeria it was one of the first things I thought about putting on a pie!” It also gets a drizzle of picante honey adding an extra special kick.

STEPHEN MENNA, OWNER & MASTER PIZZAIOLO, TUFINO PIZZERIA NAPOLETANA, 36-08 DITMARS BLVD, ASTORIA, (718) 278-4800, WWW.TUFINOPIZZERIA.COM

gotta CANDY that shizzle!” I literally went to the butcher, got some slab bacon, came home and made lollipops to see if I was right. Given the looks on peoples’ faces when they see it and taste it, I think I am onto something.”

“My mom and sister are the inspiration behind the CRISPY BBQ TOFU SANDWICH with siu haau sauce and asian slaw. From 5th grade until my senior year of high school, I was a full-blown vegetarian. Following in my footsteps, my younger sister, Montana—not a full blown vegetarian, she eats poultry—and I would share a vegetarian version of what my mother would cook for dinner. My mom would actually cook two dinners: one with meat, one without, and still does whenever Montana eats at home! My mom was always very creative when cooking with meat substitutes like tofu and eggplant. She and Montana are the reason I have to come up with unique substitutions for meat sandwiches.

TAMARA REYNOLDS, HOSTESS OF THE SUNDAY NIGHT DINNER, COOKING CHANNEL UNIQUE EATS CONTRIBUTOR, AND PARTNER OF THE VAN ALST TRAVELING FEAST, WWW.VANALSTKITCHEN.COM

DONNIE D’ALESSIO, OWNER & CHEF, QUEENS COMFORT 40-09 30TH AVE, ASTORIA, (718) 728-2350, QUEENSCOMFORT.BLOGSPOT.COM

Candied Bacon

San Gennaro Pizza

“My inspiration for the SAN GENNARO PIZZA comes from a feast in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. The sausage and pepper hero I would eat every summer growing up there would make my mouth water.

8 | BOROMAG.COM | MAY 2013

Crispy BBQ Tofu Sandwich

Weddings & Events • Floral Arrangements & Gifts Lobby & Reception • Orchids • Sympathy Indoor & Outdoor Plants • Fruit & Gourmet Baskets

Make her day with a bouquet from Petals & Roots

12-23 Astoria Blvd.

Astoria, New York 11102

www.astor-bakeshop.com

Weddings & Events • Floral Arrangements & Gifts Lobby & Reception • Orchids • Sympathy Indoor & Outdoor Plants • Fruit & Gourmet Baskets Enliven your next celebration with the artful floral design of Petals & Roots. For intimate gatherings or large-scale events, we draw inspiration from working intently to infuse a client’s personal sensibility with refined craftsmanship.

Contact us for a complimentary consultation. *Same day delivery available anywhere, 7 days a week.

31-27 31st Street, Astoria, NY 11106 | (718) 267- 1700 www.petalsandroots.com / petalsandroots

A neighborhood bakery-cafe located in beautiful Old-Astoria.

Serving breakfast, lunch, brunch and dinner. Beer & Wine

Place Your Order Today For Mother’s Day.

31-27 31st Street, Astoria, NY 11106 | (718) 267- 1700 www.petalsandroots.com / petalsandroots

The only interdisciplinary arts camp in queens

LongIslandCityArtscamp

LICAC

Art Dance music theatre

classes conducted by

www.LICSB.com Call for Registration (718)781-1169 www.licsb.com/arts_camp_registration

long island city school of Ballet Long Island City Academy of music the secret Theatre Academy of Dramatic Arts

July 8th - 25th 9am-2pm Mon-Thur ages 3-13 *Early Drop off 8am

extra charge applies

MAY 2013 | BOROMAG.COM | 9

Assorted dishes at The Shady Lady.

"WHEN YOU FLY A 3200 HP RACE PLANE, YOU DEMAND THE WORLD’S BEST CHRONOGRAPH."

CHRONOMAT

BRE I TL I NG .C O M

free wine tastings every friday from 6:00-8:30 ask about our member rewards club www.astoriaparkwineandspirits.com 28-07 24th Ave., Astoria, NY 718-606-1142

MAY 2013 | BOROMAG.COM | 11

MAY EVENTS

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

5/2 @ 9PM – MIDNIGHT (MUSIC)

5/8 @ 6PM (ART)

5/30 6PM- ON! (FOOD+DRINK+MUSIC)

FREE I Rèst-âü-Ránt 718.729.9009 I 30-01 35th ave. (corner of 30th St), LIC

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

Free Admission, Donations welcome, all proceeds to ALI FORNEY CENTER I Studio Square NYC 718- 383-1001 I 35-33 36th St., LIC

LIVE MUSIC W/ EVANESCENT WITH BLISS BLOOD AND AL STREET www.rarbarlic.com

BETTER HOME EXHIBITION/PUBLICATION LAUNCH www.sculpture-center.org

5/2 - 5/5 AND 5/9 - 5/12 (THEATER)

5/9 @ 9PM-MIDNIGHT (MUSIC)

$15 online $18 @ door I Secret Theater 917-509-0252 I 4402 23rd St, LIC

FREE I Rèst-âü-Ránt 718-729-9009 I 30-01 35th ave. (corner of 30th St), LIC

ROMEO AND JULIET ON STAGE http://titantheatrecompany.com/

5/31 @ 8PM (MUSIC)

www.rarbarlic.com

FREE I Thymari - Greek Cuisine 718- 204-2880 I 3207 34 Avenue, Astoria

5/ 9 @ 7-9PM (TRUNK SHOW+ ACCESSORIES)

$6 I LAUGHING DEVIL COMEDY CLUB 347-91-DEVIL I 47-38 Vernon Blvd, LIC

FREE I LIC LIVING 718-381-5650 I 535 51st Ave, LIC

www.laughingdevil.com

MOTHER’S DAY SHOPPING + MOM’S NIGHT OUT FEATURING HUDSON + STELLA JEWELRY TRUNK SHOW www.licliving.com/events

5/3 @ 8PM (MUSIC)

5/10 @ 8PM (MUSIC)

FREE I Thymari - Greek Cuisine 718-204-2880 I 3207 34 Avenue, Astoria

FREE I Thymari - Greek Cuisine 718- 204-2880 I 3207 34 Avenue, Astoria

ACOUSTIC SPOTLIGHT WITH JAMES BONDY www.thymari.com

ACOUSTIC SPOTLIGHT WITH JAMES BONDY www.thymari.com

6/2 @ 5PM (MUSIC)

THE RUINS OF ATHENS WITH THE ASTORIA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA AND SYMPHONIC CHOIr

$15 Students, $20 Adults (in advance). $20 Students, $25 Adults @ door.

St. Joseph’s Catholic Church 917-300-8695 I 43-19 30th Ave @ 43rd St., Astoria

ALEX BERGER

www.astoriachoir.com

www.thymari.com

ONGOING

5/3 6PM-8:30PM

5/11 12PM-6PM (FAMILY)

FREE I Astoria Park Wine & Spirits 718-606-1142 I 28-07 24th Ave, Astoria

FREE I babyNOIR Boutique 646-470-4728 I 26-16 23rd Ave, Astoria

CINCO DE MAYO TEQUILA TASTING

www.studiosquarenycbeergarden.com

LIVE MUSIC W/ HIRO SUZUKI’S BLUES BAND

5/2 @ 10:30PM (COMEDY+FILM)

DEVIL SCIENCE THEATER 3K (COMEDIANS HECKLING CULT FILMS) PRESENTS: 5 FINGERS OF DEATH

3RD ANNUAL PRE-PRIDE PARTY

TRAIN DAY

www.babynoir.net

EVERY THURSDAY IN MAY

5/ 3 5-8PM

5/11 @ 11AM - 12PM & 12:30 -1:30PM (FOOD+DRINK+MUSIC)

FREE I The Noguchi Museum 718-204-7088 I 9-01 33rd Road, LIC

FREE I Skinny’s Cantina RESERVATIONS RECOMMENDED 718-806-1068 I 4705 Center Blvd, LIC

Sunnyside Shines & sunnyside’s boulevard bars Special deals and discounts at local bars, restaurants, salons and retailers

www.astoriaparkwineandspirits.com

MAY FIRST FRIDAY

www.noguchi.org/programs

BABY LOVES SALSA BRUNCH AT SKINNY’S CANTINA

HOPPIN THURSDAYS

Visit www.sunnysideshines.org for participating businesses and deals

www.sknnyscantina.com

TUESDAYS @ 8:30PM (NIGHTLIFE+ENTERTAINMENT)

CINCO DE MAYO WEEEKEND

5/12 @ 3:00PM

BOOK TALK: THEATER OF ARCHITECTURE, BY HUGH HARDY

Free I Break Bar & Billiards 718-777-5400 I 32-04 Broadway, Astoria

www.sknnyscantina.com

$10/adults $5/seniors & students I The Noguchi Museum 718-204-7088 I 9-01 33rd Road, LIC www.noguchi.org/programs

TUESDAYS @ 7PM (NIGHTLIFE+ENTERTAINMENT)

10X10 AMERICAN PHOTOBOOKS

5/16 @9 PM – MIDNIGHT (MUSIC)

FREE I Z NYC Hotel 212-319-7000 I11-01 43rd Ave.

http://www.10x10photobooks.org/

FREE I Rèst-âü-Ránt 718.729.9009 I 30-01 35th ave. (corner of 30th St), LIC www.rarbarlic.com

5/3-5/5 ALL DAY (FOOD+DRINK) FREE I Skinny’s Cantina 718-806-1068 I 4705 Center Blvd, LIC 5/3- 5/5 @ 12PM-8PM (ART)

FREE ITen10 Studios 914-316-3603 I10-10 47th Road, LIC 5/4 @ 10AM-1PM (FAMILY)

I LOVE MY PARK DAY

FREE I GANTRY PLAZA STATE PARK 917- 660- 7081 I Meet @ 49th Ave & Center Blvd. http://www.ptny.org/ilovemypark/ 5/4 @ 11AM-4PM (FOOD +DRINK)

BRUNCH SERVICE DEBUT (EVERY SATURDAY AND SUNDAY) Rèst-âü-Ránt 718.729.9009 I 30-01 35th ave. (corner of 30th St), LIC www.rarbarlic.com

5/4 STARTING @ 1PM (FOOD+DRINK+MUSIC+SPORTS)

LIVE MUSIC W/ D.B. RIELLY-AMERICAN ROOTS MUSIC

$10 for one BBQ entree and Draft Rèst-âü-Ránt 718.729.9009 I 30-01 35th Ave. (corner of 30th St), LIC

LIC ART OPEN RECEPTION FOR TONY VACCARO & PAUL STIPKOVICH Free I Manducatis Rustica 718-937-1312 I 46-33 Vernon Blvd, LIC http://www.manducatisrustica.com/

“SMOKE” EVENT. WHISKY, CIGAR

www.studiosquarenycbeergarden.com

5/19 11AM-6PM

www.noguchi.org/programs

Free I The Noguchi Museum 718-204-7088 I 9-01 33rd Road www.noguchi.org/programs

5/21 @ 7PM (ART)

www.babynoir.net

FREE I SculptureCenter 718-361-1750 I 44-19 Purves Street

SC CONVERSATIONS: CRAIG WILLSE www.sculpture-center.org

FAMILY PROGRAM: OPEN STUDIO

5/23 @ 9 PM - MIDNIGHT (MUSIC)

www.noguchi.org/programs

FREE I Rèst-âü-Ránt 718-729-9009 I 30-01 35th Ave. (corner of 30th St), LIC

$10 per family, up to 4 people I The Noguchi Museum 718-204-7088 I 9-01 33rd Road, LIC 5/5 @ 1PM-6PM (FOOD+DRINK+MUSIC)

LIVE MUSIC W/ MARC DAINES’ MINI VAN www.rarbarlic.com

CINCO DE MAYO CELEBRATION

5/24 @ 8PM (MUSIC)

www.studiosquarenycbeergarden.com

FREE I Thymari - Greek Cuisine 718- 204-2880 I 3207 34 Avenue, Astoria

FREE Admission, $29 food & drink I Studio Square NYC 718- 383-1001 I 35-33 36th St, LIC 5/6 6PM-10PM (FUNDRAISER)

AMY RIVARD, ACCOMPANIED BY LAGAN MEDLAND www.thymari.com

LIC ARTS OPEN GARDEN PARTY

5/28 @ 7PM (FOOD+DRINK)

http://licartsopen.org/fundraisers/

$70pp I Skinny’s Cantina 718-806-1068 I 4705 Center Blvd

$100 I The Landmark Residence Of Orestes Gonzalez, Photographer 21-40 45th Ave, LIC

12 | BOROMAG.COM | MAY 2013

www.rarbarlic.com

BBQ SUNDAYS

www.rarbarlic.com

5/2 - 5/18 I THU & FRI @ 8PM | SAT @ 2PM & 8PM (MUSIC)

BLOOD BROTHERS MUSICAL

General $18 | Student/Seniors $12 718- 706-5750 I Good Shepherd United Methodist Church, 30-44 Crescent Street @ 30th Rd., www.apacny.org

COMMUNITY DAY

JAPANESE CHILDREN’S DAY

5/5 @ 11AM-1PM

WHINE & CHEESE COMEDY SHOW

SUNDAYS I ALL DAY (FOOD+DRINK)

OPEN STUDIO: COLOR EDUCATION PROGRAM

FREE I babyNOIR Boutique 646-470-4728 I 26-16 23rd Ave, Astoria

TUESDAYS @ 9PM (COMEDY)

5/ 17 5-7PM (ART)

www.studiosquarenycbeergarden.com

5/5 1PM-3PM (FAMILY)

http://www.zhotelny.com/game-night/

www.ten10studios.com

$110 via Event Brite BBQ I Studio Square NYC 718- 383-1001 I 35-33 36th St., LIC

$10 for families w/ up to 4 members I Noguchi Museaum 718-204-7088 I 32-37 Vernon Blvd, Astoria

GAME NIGHT / KARAOKE IN THE Z LOUNGE

FREE I Rèst-âü-Ránt 718.729.9009 I30-01 35th ave (corner of 30th street), LIC

Free I Ten10 Studios 917.449.9539 I 10-10 47th Rd

5/18 @ 1PM-5PM (FOOD+DRINK+MUSIC)

5/ 5 11AM-1PM (ART)

www.break-ny.com

FAMILY: A THEMATIC GROUP EXHIBITION

5/17 @ 6:30-10PM (ART)

DERBY DAY

FREE Admission, $25 food & drink I Studio Square NYC 718- 383-1001 I 35-33 36th St. LIC

TRIVIA NIGHT

DON JULIO TEQUILA TASTING www.sknnyscantina.com

DATE: 05/17 TIME: 6:30-10pm EVENT TITLE: FAMILY: a thematic group exhibition COST:FREE LOCATION: Ten10 Studios PHONE: 917.449.9539 ADDRESS: 10-10 47th Rd URL:www. ten10studios.com OTHER: Painting, Pottery, Sculpture, Alternative Photography

MAY 2013 | BOROMAG.COM | 13

SHOPS

MOTHER’S DAY EVERY DAY AT

RAISING ASTORIA As May 12th rapidly approaches, shopping for new mothers and newborns, in particular, can be challenging. Children’s clothing can be rather pricey, and quite ephemeral. That oh-so-precious pair of overalls or that sweet pair of shoes have the lifespan of a fruit fly, as children outgrow clothing at an excessively rapid pace.

The solution? It might very well be worth your while to plan a trip to Raising Astoria, a resourceful baby and maternity boutique on 23rd Ave. 0wners Kimberly Montini and Laurie Nicholson first met as members of a Meetup group for expecting parents. Little did they know that an organized brunch would lay the foundation for a friendship that would—within just one year of both women giving birth to their daughters—blossom into a brand new store and service for the community.

The two moms-to-be had initially noticed a gap in the area for affordable toys, other than from the neighborhood pharmacy. “We want to constantly bring in toys that are innovative and good for development,” explains Montini. Also expanded to a consignment store, Raising Astoria is 1/3 new toys and products, 1/3 gently used clothing, and 1/3 classes and services. “One aspect of the store cannot function without the other,” says Montini.

14 | BOROMAG.COM | MAY 2013

The front half of the store serves as a retail space, with racks upon racks of practically unworn children’s clothing (generally up to five years old) and a selection of toys and maternity products.

Behind the counter is the doorway to a vibrantly decorated party room, which doubles as a classroom and rental space. Weekly classes include Baby Yoga, CPR training, movement classes, art classes, sing-a-longs, and even discussion groups (a calendar is posted on the website).

“Expecting parents meet here, just like we did,” smiles Montini, who loves seeing new parents network, scheduling playdates, and planning birthday parties. “Raising Astoria is for everyone. We have a lot of dads, too. And every kind of parent is welcome.”

Raising Astoria, 26-11 23rd Ave, Astoria, (718) 440-9444, www.raisingastoria.com

Our love, in flowers.

floral design weddings

events

weekly services workshops

51 -02 ve rn o n bl vd . l o n g i s l a n d c i t y, n y 11101 i n f o @ f l o re s t a n yc . c o m 347 642 8108

florestanyc.com

T

A

MAY 2013 | BOROMAG.COM | 15

FASHION

STREET

SEEN Story + Photos SCOTTY EMRICH

Born and raised in Astoria, Scotty Emrich is the creator and author of NYSEE.org, a blog devoted to the city’s fashion. The manager of a clothing, jewelry, and lifestyle boutique in Chelsea, Scotty has stitched a career in visual merchandising and styling over the past ten years. For the ‘inspiration’ issue, we asked Scotty to take to the streets to capture and comment on some of the most inspired looks and styles currently on the 30th Avenue pedestrian runway.

► CHRIS

CHRIS, 37, OWNER & GENERAL MANAGER OF THE SHADY LADY

Appearing effortlessly put together in a plaid shirt, ripped jeans, old-school Adidas kicks and a vintage belt portraying 80’s rock stars’ faces, The Shady Lady owner had this to say about what fashion means to him: “Your clothes are your daily chance to truly be unique and be yourself. Clothing can change your attitude for the day, and how you feel—and allow you to see how other people are feeling as well.

You’ll know how someone’s feeling that particular day just by how they might be dressed.”

GRACE, 21, ART STUDENT

Carrying branches off to create her next art project, this NYU student talked about her eclectic hand-me-down style and how it all comes together:

► GRACE 16 | BOROMAG.COM | MAY 2013

“If I do look at fashion blogs, I look at The Sartorialist… and I just go around the East Village a lot. I sometimes get things from The Bargain Stop (on 30th Ave). Fashion is resource. You can turn the cheapest things into really good garments if you try hard and match it up right.”

JARED, 25, BARTENDER

A bartender in Hells Kitchen, Jared was candid about his feelings on fashion and what it means to him. In a printed button down, mustard skinny jeans, a military style jacket with metal screws on the epaulets, he had plenty to share:

«Fashion, to me, is emotion. I think one’s fashion should support how they feel about themselves… because it only supports the confidence and beauty they have inside. In terms of my inspiration, we are very blessed to live in a city that is so fashion-conscious.

That’s why I love that my style is everchanging, because I draw inspiration not only from my own personal creativity, but from the beautiful people of New York.»

► JARED

JOHNNY, 29, RETAIL

In monochromatic cargo pants, slick zip up sweater and designer aviators, it would be hard to miss this confident man strolling down the street: “Fashion is a reflection of who you are and how you feel. I love clothing and dressing up, it allows me to be a chameleon.”

► JOHNNY

BRIANA, 20, FASHION STUDENT

In edgy coated jeans and vintage concert tee, Briana’s effortlessly cool style leapt off the sidewalk.

“I really find inspiration kind of in everything. It could be something like even a car—just the way to put colors together, different pieces, textures…”

► BRIANA

MAY 2013 | BOROMAG.COM | 17

MAP IT DIRECTORY 19

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

5-14 51st Ave, LIC www.alewifequeens.com

3

ALIADA (B,2) (718) 932-2240 29-19 Broadway, Astoria

MEZZE PLACE (B,2) (718) 777-2829 31-18 Broadway, Astoria www.mezzeplace.com

20

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

ORNELLA TRATTORIA ITALIANA (B,1) (718) 777-9477 29-17 23rd Ave, Astoria www.ornellatrattoria.com

61

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

RESTAURANTS (A,4) 115 ALEWIFE (718) 937-7494

2 6

4

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

BRICK OVEN (B,1) 105 BASIL (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

22

PENTHOUSE808 (A,3) (718) 289-6118 8-08 Queens Plaza South, LIC www.penthouse808rooftop.com PITA PAN (C,2)

BAKERIES 33

34

40

37

109 (718) 204-1633

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

69

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

38

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

24

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

39

8

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

91

S PRIME STEAK HOUSE (C,2) (718) 707-0660 35-16 36th St, Astoria www.sprimenyc.com

35

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

25

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

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

28

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

87

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

55

SKINNY’S (A,4) 718-806-1068 47-05 Center Blvd, LIC

10

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

GRILL (B, 2) 117 CARIOCA (718) 606-1329

STOVE RESTAURANT AND BAR (C, 1)

118 (718) 956-0372

45-17 28th Ave, Astoria www.stoveastoria.com SUGAR FREAK (C,2)

116 (718) 726-5850

36-18 30th Ave, Astoria www.sugarfreak.com

29-03 Broadway, Astoria DIWINE (C,2) (718) 777-1355 41-15 31st Ave, Astoria www.diwineonline.com

123 (718) 937-2900

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

30

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

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

31

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

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

29

53

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

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

108 (718) 932-3331

15

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

32

16

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

124 31-5 34th St

86

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

11

12

13

14

18

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

18 | BOROMAG.COM | MAY 2013

TESTACCIO (A,4)

47-30 Vernon Blvd., LIC www.testacciony.com

WINEGASM BAR AND EATERY (C,2) 31-86 37th Rd, Astoria www.winegasmeatery.com YAJAI (B,2) (718) 956-9559 33-16 30th Ave, Astoria www.yajaithaifood.com BUGATTI CAFÉ Astoria, NY 11106 (718) 626-1115

125

125 HONOO GRILL & NOODLE 33-06 Ditmars Blvd Astoria, NY 11105 (718) 606-0653 www.honoo33.com

MALU (A,4) (718) 729-6258 12-09 Jackson Ave, LIC www.amomandpopshop.com SWEETLEAF (A,4) (917) 832-6726 10-93 Jackson Ave, LIC www.sweetleaflic.com

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

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

9

204-5031 48 (718) 2401 23rd Ave, Astoria

27

1

26

BROOKLYN BAGEL & COFFEE COMPANY (718) 777-1121 36-14 30th Ave, Astoria www.bkbagel.com (C,1) 35-09 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria (C,1) 36-14 30th Ave, Astoria (C,2) 35-05 Broadway, Astoria

36

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

7

INSIDE ASTORIA (C,1)

47 (718) 956-4000

28-07 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria KRISTEES (B,1)

www.kristeesny.com LIC: LIVING (A,4)

21 (718) 361-5650

535 51st Ave. LIC www.licliving.com LOVEDAY 31 (B,2)

49 (718) 728-4057

3306 31st Ave, Astoria www.loveday31.com SITE (C,2)

626-6030 50 (718) 35-11 34th Ave, Astoria www.sitenyc.com

FOOD SHOPS

74

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

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

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

ASTORIA BIER & CHEESE (C,2) (718) 545-5588 34-14 Broadway, Astoria

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

5

BABYNOIR (B,1)

45 (646) 470-4728,

ASTORIA WINE AND SPIRITS (C,2) (718) 545-9463 3412 Broadway, Astoria www.astoriawines.com FOOD CELLAR (A,4) (718) 606-9786 4-85 47th Rd., LIC www.foodcellarandco.com

SHOPS GALLERY (C,2) 104 APOLLO (718) 786-7590

34-10 36th Ave, Astoria

44

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

PETS 51

CITY VET (A,4) (718) 433-1334 45-44 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.cityvetnyc.com STEINWAY COURT VET (C,2)

52 (718) 728-2822

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

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

54 51-02 Vernon Blvd, LIC 4-85 47th Rd, LIC www.florestanyc.com/blog

75 NYC FARM CHIC FLOWERS

www.nycfarmchicflowers.com PETALS AND ROOTS (B,2)

121 (718) 267- 1700

31-27 31st St, Astoria www.petalsandroots.com

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

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

FITNESS ANTHEA YOGA&HEALING ARTS

(C,2) 58 CENTER (718) 606-0049

27-35 Crescent Street, Astoria www.astoriacenter.org

30-16 30th Ave, Astoria www.drpagonismd.com

347-670-4376 hero@iamhero.net | www.iamhero.net

www.ckoastoria.com

CLUB FITNESS (B,2)

42 (718) 545-0004

3403 Broadway, Ste. 200, Astoria www.mpnfirm.com RCN (A,3) Digital TV and High-Speed Internet

59 Services

33-16 Woodside Ave, LIC (212) 842-7981 www.rcn.com/boromag TUCK-IT-AWAY STORAGE (B, 3)

519-8282 122 (718) 37-19 Crescent Street, Astoria

CROSSFIT DYNAMIX GYM (C,1)

606-0381 76 (718) 36-05 20th Ave, Astoria SEEK FITNESS (B,1)

78 (347) 924-9004

PNT FITNESS (A,4)

62

VIDEO EXPRESS (C,2)

63 (718)626-0846

3408 30th Ave, Astoria

73

126

RAVEL (A,3)

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

319-7000 17 (212) 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

72

PRIMP AND TEASE SALON (A,4) (718) 472-2001 5-02 50th Ave, LIC

46

REDKEN SALOON (C,2) (718) 956-3366 36-17 30th Ave, Astoria www.redkensaloon.com

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

92

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

THE YOGA ROOM (C,2) (718) 274-0255

113

LAGUARDIA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER (C,3) (718) 482-5151 31-10 Thomson Ave, LIC www.laguardiaperformingarts.org

SIMPLY FIT 37-16 Astoria Blvd Astoria, NY 11103 (347) 639-0489 www.simplyfitastoria.com

81

REJUVENATE FACE AND BODY (B,1) (718) 626-4434 26-17 23rd Ave, Astoria www.Rejuvenatenyc.com

82

BOHEMIAN HALL & BEER GARDEN (B,1) (718) 274-4925 2919 24th Ave, Astoria www.bohemianhall.com

THE RENAISSANCE EVENT HALL (A,1) (718) 274-4590 27-34 21st St, Astoria www.renaissanceofastoria.com

66 (718) 289-6101

102

SPAS

FOUNDRY (A,3)

64 (718) 786-7776

HOTELS

57th St and 7th Ave, NY www.carnegiehall.org FLUSHING TOWN HALL (718) 463-7700 x 222 137-35 Northern Blvd, Flushing www.flushingtownhall.org

(718) 786-7962 (A,4) 10-14 47th Rd, LIC www.the-yoga-room.com

www.sculpure-center.org

96

97 98

99

93

MUSEUM OF THE MOVING IMAGE (C,2) (718) 784-0077 36-01 35th Ave, Astoria www.movingimage.us

94

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

95

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

THE SECRET THEATRE (B,3) (718) 392-0722 44-02 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) (917) 449-9539 10-10 47th Rd, LIC www.ten10studios.com UNDERPENNY (A,4) (917) 517-1492 10-13 50th Ave, LIC LIC SCHOOL OF BALLET

127 44-02 23rd st. Studio 216 LIC, NY. 11101 www.licsb.com

CARNEGIE HALL

107 (212) 247-7800

80 38-01 35th Ave, Astoria

EVENTS

65

38-01 23rd Ave, Astoria www.asfa-dancestudio.com

www.tightan.com

BLUE BIRD CHILD CARE 25-58 48th St

42-38 9TH St, LIC www.thefoundry.info

ASTORIA FINE ARTS DANCE (C,1)

100 (718) 247-0740

60 31-21 31st St, Astoria

129 Astoria, NY 11103

(347) 832-0103 www.bluebirdchildcareastoria.com

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

10-68 Jackson Ave, LIC www.pntfitness.com TIGHTAN GYM (718) 274-1606

SCULPTURECENTER (B,3)

361-1750 110 (718) 44-19 Purves St, LIC

THE ART HOUSE (C,2)

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

79 (347) 396-5809

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

112 (516) 724-1562

www.dynamixgym.com

www.tuckitaway.com

VARDIMAN EYEWEAR (C,2) (718) 204-5037 34-18 Broadway, Astoria www.vardimaneyewear.com

90

31-11 Broadway, Astoria www.clubfitnessny.com

MPN LAW FIRM (C,2)

57 (718) 777-0400

ART

CKO KICKBOXING (C, 1)

HERO COMPUTER REPAIR NYC

56 Apple/Mac Computer Repair Specialist

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

669-0494 120 (347) 40-06 Astoria Blvd, Astoria

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

77 (718) 278-0300

79

34-01 45th Street, Astoria www.antheacenter.com

ASTORIA CENTER OF ISRAEL

119 (718) 278-2680

89

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

ASTORIA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER @ KAUFMAN ASTORIA STUDIOS

128 34 12 36th Street, Ste. 1/232, MB 40 Astoria, NY 11106 Phone: 718-706-5750 www.apacny.org

REAL ESTATE 105

BEAUDOIN REALTY GROUP (A,4) (718) 505-9220 21-54 45th Ave, LIC www.beaudoinrealtor.com MODERN SPACES (A,4) (718) 784-1110

101 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

NIGHTLIFE / BARS

BREAK (B,2)

777-5400 83 (718) 3204 Broadway, Astoria www.break-ny.com BRICK BAR (B,2) (718) 267-2735

84 30-95 33rd St, Astoria www.brickcafe.com

DOMAINE WINE BAR (A,4)

784-2350 85 (718) 50-04 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.domainewinebar.com LAUGHING DEVIL (A,4)

68 (347) 913-3845

4738 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.laughingdevil.com MOSAIC CAFE AND LOUNGE (B,1)

728-0708 111 (718) 25-19 24th Ave, Astoria www.mosaicnyc.net

RAVEN HEAD PUBLIC HOUSE (C,2)

43 (718) 777-7565

3804 Broadway, Astoria www.ravenheadpublichouse.com STUDIO SQ. BEER GARDEN (C,3)

88 (718) 383-1001

35-33 36th St, Astoria www.studiosquarenyc.com

MAY 2013 | BOROMAG.COM | 19

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A

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MAP IT

A

21

85

17

115

72

12 68 101

123

18

23

54

65

99

98 80

31

101

7

79

37

95

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15 105

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90

119

48

25

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70

44

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42

60

4

34

30

3

83

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86

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5

84

32

63

113

104

92

6

128

87

69 34

112

50

38 36 62

57

14

89

61 71 103

B

19 109

88

91

93

108

114

29 34 116 35

46

127

ASTORIA

125

76

LONG ISLAND CITY

105

111

13

B

C

80

43

100

67

C

52

1

74

10

120

11 9

58

59

118

129

4

3

2

1

22 | BOROMAG.COM | MAY 2013

Cafe Bagel www.cafe-bugatti.com

3105 34th St. Astoria, NY 11106

718.626.1115

Now serving single-origin Guatemala iced coffee.

Two for $25 FREE Unlimited Sangria

STOVE

CLASSIC EUROPEAN FARE

Beautifully Ma de - Simply Delicious

®

Come check out Stove's NEW SUMMER MENU, and our lovely back garden - a little oasis in Astoria!

45-17 28th Avenue • Astoria (One block off 30th Ave, between 45th & 46th Street)

718-956-0372 • www.stoveastoria.com PLEASE CALL FOR RESERVATIONS

www.bkbagel.com brooklynbagelandcoffeecompany

@bkbagel

MAY 2013 | BOROMAG.COM | 23

FOOD

A CHILDHOOD DREAM BECOMES A HONOO REALITY Story + Photos BRADLEY HAWKS

W

hen nine-year-old Samuel Lu’s family moved from China, they ended up next door to 10-year-old Ben Lam’s family in Flushing. A lifelong friendship bloomed during good old-fashioned rounds of hoops after school. Lu’s father was a chef at a five-star restaurant in China’s Guanzhong region. While the two boys played basketball, they dreamt of one day opening their own restaurant together. Two decades later, that dream became the inspiration for Honoo Grill & Noodle, which opened its doors in Ditmars in January.

24 | BOROMAG.COM | MAY 2013

The name of Astoria’s newest pan-Asian restaurant is the Japanese word for flame. Honoo brings together Lu and Lam’s favorite dishes from the diverse continent. The duo serves several Japanese-style street foods, Chinese entrees and even Thai, Malaysian and Korean plates, all with a western twist. The twist is “in the sauces we use and in the presentation,” Lu explained.

The plate of three fried wonton tacos stuffed with braised beef and peppers provides a tasty introduction to all the fusion. The seafood wontons are also standouts, hand-stuffed with white fish and shrimp and served with a sweet Thai chili sauce. Other traditional street foods include fried takoyaki as well as a broad selection of yakitori (flame-kissed meat skewers).

With kebabs ranging from just $2 to $7, they are ideal for mixing and matching as a full meal or simply adding to another entree or noodle dish. Try the herbed beef short ribs, spicy cumin lamb or a family recipe of tare-glazed chicken skewers. The cumin seasoning, a house favorite, crystallizes on the sweet and juicy bite-sized meat.

The Honoo Special Noodle soup is also exceptional. It has a creamy pork broth made from boiling actual pork bones overnight. The process releases marrow and deep flavors into the soup. Take a moment to savor the egg that crowns the bowl of soup like a cherry on a sundae. After being soft-boiled, the egg is pickled in soy sauce and secret seasonings overnight, cut in half and finally stirred into the piping hot broth. The main ingredient, cha-shu pork, is seared and caramelized to seal in flavor and then slow-roasted for several hours to make it exceptionally tender. The sum of all the components is an intensely flavorful bowl of comfort soup.

Entrees of note are the bone-in lemongrass pork chops, sweet and spicy glazed jumbo tiger prawns and a grilled chicken breast with Thai basil pesto that’s laced with mint, cilantro and jalapeno.

Lu and Lam listen to their patrons for ideas on how to develop the menu. They recently added a sushi bar near the rear of the dining room.

“Guests were coming in for Japanese cuisine and expecting sushi. We had so many requests, it just seemed like something natural to do.”

The menu now features ten house special rolls alongside a full selection of traditional rolls, sushi and sashimi.

The best approach is dining with friends so you can share some tacos, cumin skewers, the special soup and an entree or special roll.

One favorite is the magical roll, which has mango and spicy tuna topped with eel, sweet shrimp, avocado and wasabi mayo. Wash it down with sake or a Japanese brew. For lunch, build any combo of skewers with a salad and miso soup for $9. All beers are just $3 from 3-6 p.m. on weekdays.

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

MAY 2013 | BOROMAG.COM | 25

Vino Vinoz zCzech Czech

Vino zz Czech Czech Vino Now available in Exclusive importers of Moravian wine

Exclusive importers of Moravian wine Available the Boro at: wine Exclusive importers of inMoravian Exclusive importers Astoria of ParkMoravian Wine & Spirits wine

Available in the Boro at: Astoria

your BORO

(718) 606-1142 the Boro Available at: Astoria ParkinWine & Spirits Bohemian Hall & in Beer Available the Boro at: Astoria Garden Astoria Park Wine & Spirits (718) 606-1142 Astoria Astoria Wine &Astoria Spirits (718) Park 274-4925

(718)Hall 606-1142 Astoria Bohemian & Beer

Koliba Restaurant (718) 606-1142

Garden Astoria

Bohemian Beer Astoria (718) 626-0430Hall &

Garden Bohemian Hall & Beer (718) 274-4925 Garden Astoria Table Wine JacksonKoliba Heights Astoria (718)Restaurant 274-4925 info@czechwineimports.com (718) 478-9463 www.vinozczech.com (718) 274-4925 Astoria (860) 469-0649 Koliba (718)Restaurant 626-0430 Koliba Restaurant Astoria We will be hosting a tasting at the (718)Table 626-0430 Astoria Wine (718) 626-0430 Bohemian Hall &Imports, BeerInc., Garden onCT Imported by Czech Wine Colebrook, Jackson Heights info@czechwineimports.com Distributed in NY by MHW, Ltd. Wine (718)Table 478-9463 May 25th (4-7pm) and 26th (1-4pm) www.vinozczech.com Jackson TableHeights Wine info@czechwineimports.com (860) 469-0649 Jackson Heights (718) 478-9463 info@czechwineimports.com www.vinozczech.com (718) 478-9463 www.vinozczech.com (860) 469-0649 (860) 469-0649 Imported by Czech Wine Imports, Inc., Colebrook, CT Distributed in NY by MHW, Ltd. Imported by Czech Wine Imports, Inc., Colebrook, CT Distributed NY byWine MHW, Ltd. Inc., Colebrook, CT Imported byinCzech Imports, Distributed in NY by MHW, Ltd.

The

CANDY BAR

COMING SOON

CANDY * TOYS * BALLOONS * CARDS GIFT BASKETS & ALL THINGS FUN 19-31 Ditmars Boulevard, Astoria NY, 11105

718-956-6706

26 | BOROMAG.COM | MAY 2013

carioca grill Brazilian BBQ Buffet

29-03 Broadway, Astoria, NY 11106 | Tel: 718-606-1329

www.cariocagrillnyc.com

10-68 Jackson Ave, LIC 11101 | www.PNTfitness.com | 347-396-5809

Grill, Sushi & Noodle

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FOOD

Empanada, taco, and huaraches combo at Homemade Taqueria

CINCO DE MY-OH-MY! Story BRADLEY HAWKS

Whether or not you celebrate Cinco de Mayo with a salt-kissed citrusy margarita on the rocks and a plate of tacos, the Mexican holiday of heritage and pride serves as an unofficial start of spring, inspiring the first fiestas of warm weather. To prove you need not travel to Jackson Heights or Corona for an authentic and inexpensive taco, empanada, or tamale, here is a trio of fairly well-kept secrets that should satiate your cravings without putting a dent in your wallet.

Spicy pork taco at Homemade Taqueria

28 | BOROMAG.COM | MAY 2013

Spinach and cheese empanada at Homemade Taqueria

!

HOMEMADE TAQUERIA

45-09 34th Ave, Astoria (718) 255-1349 www.homemadetaqueria.com The brightly colored storefront and interior are reminiscent of a west coast burrito joint, but the menu is as authentic as it gets. Contrary to popular belief, homemade tortillas aren’t exclusive to Corona. Here, they are handmade daily, as well as the huaraches—arguably the most delicious in the area. Whether ordering tacos, a homemade spinachcheese empanada, or huevos rancheros, take advantage of the complimentary ‘fixins bar’ at the counter, where you can add your own pico de gallo, cilantro, radishes, salsas, and even refried beans and cactus. Freshly squeezed juices and Mexican style milkshakes round out the beverage menu.

ATHENS GRILL

(30-11 30th Ave, Astoria (718) 777-5366 Do not be fooled by the name. This joint may be owned by Greeks, but it is 100% Mexican operated. Open from 9am to 4am daily, they offer everything from a full Mexican breakfast menu to enormous quesadillas stuffed with Chihuahua cheese, chilaquiles, and nearly twenty different tacos (3 for $6). The al pastor (pork in guajillo sauce) torta on a fluffy roll is quite addictive. Several aguas frescas, juices, Mexican sodas, and tequilas round out the menu.

If you call for delivery, be ready to order in Spanish. These guys are friendly to all guests, but Spanish is the only language spoken here.

LOS MOLJACETE

Homemade empanadas at Home Taqueria

Cheese quesadilla at Athens Grill

Spicy Pork cemitas at Molcajete

25-22 30th Ave, Astoria (718) 726-4180 This storefront may look primarily like a bakery, as schoolchildren line up each afternoon with silver trays and tongs to select assorted pan dulce (Mexican sweet bread).

But take a gander past the bakery showcases and empanada warmers to discover a small dining room, which then leads to an enormous bakery. Ask for a full menu, and savor everything from tamales steamed to order, to sesame cemitas with fresh papalo, to full specialty plates like the plato hidalgo, with goat barbecue, deep fried pork, red enchilada, and rice and beans.

Sweet rolls at Molcajete

Tacos with grilled cactus at El Athens

MAY 2013 | BOROMAG.COM | 29

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MAY 2013 | BOROMAG.COM | 31

ARTS

2nd Annual

Queens New Music Festival

This May 16 – 19 Random Access Music will be hosting its second annual Queens New Music Festival located at The Secret Theatre in Long Island City. The festival was created to showcase new works by composers and performers living in, performing in, or creating works about Queens. BORO sat down with two of the participating artists: Random Access Founder, Allen Schulz—whose composition, A Dance of Shadows for Cello and Piano will be performed Saturday evening, as well as Daniel Neer—both the lyricist and vocalist for Saturday’s performance of Brooklyn Queens Expressway, which explores the life in Brooklyn and Queens through snapshots of New Yorkers’ everyday modes of transportation.

Allen Shulz Founder, Random Access Music

BORO: As a musician, what inspires you personally and musically about Queens?

Schulz: As a composer, I’m fascinated by the rich history of music in Queens—Bartok, Armstrong, Simon and Garfunkel, The Ramones, 50 cent, Nicki Minaj, Russell Simmons, Tony Bennett...

The diverse cross-section of cultures and ethnicities also inspires me. I try to listen to all of the music I can.

And I find new ideas from all of it.

BORO: How would you describe the music scene in Queens?

Schulz: The music scene in Queens is diverse and rich. BUT, it’s also rather impoverished. The number of performers, composers, and songwriters who live here is vast.

But the number of performance venues is quite small. There is no central space like BAM in Brooklyn. One of the great problems in organizing the QNMF was that we needed a mediumsized space that had a piano. By offering new music, we’re hoping to lure a few folks across the river and start the process of building a larger music community here in Queens.

BORO: What was the original inspiration behind Random Access Music (RAM)?

32 | BOROMAG.COM | MAY 2013

Schulz: The inspiration behind RAM Daniel Neer was that a group of my colleagues Singing Actor & and I all wanted to have more Lyricist performances of our music.

Traditionally, the process is that BORO: What inspired a performer or an ensemble you to become a part of will commission a composer the Queens New Music to write a piece…but the costs, Festival? both financial and artistic, are Neer: My association with PHOTO CREDIT: enormous. So, my idea was TED GORODETZKY the Queens New Music to throw out the old model and Festival began last year, which make the relationship between was the Festival’s inaugural year. I composers and performers more submitted a recital of new music collaborative. A group of composers based on the theme of Narcissus could pool their financial resources and was thrilled to be accepted. In to hire the ensemble and rent the November 2012 I was approached venue; the composers could spread

by Eleanor Taylor, the Artistic the artistic burden of creating by Director for Two Sides Sounding, each writing a new work. The asking if I would be interested in collaborating ensemble gets 5 or 6 collaborating on a submission for new works, forms new relationships this year’s festival. with composers they might not know, and gets to perform to new audiences made up of the larger BORO: What was the inspiration behind community that supports all the BQE? composers. The RAM composers Neer: I have had a long fascination with have one performance spot in this city planning, urban renewal and year’s festival, with spots devoted the development of cities in the to other carefully selected artistic 20th century, with special attention collectives. to the amazing legacies of city planner Robert Moses and the MANTRA community activist Jane Jacobs.

PERCUSSION Both were powerful visionaries of their day, with seemingly polarizing viewpoints on the mere definition of cities themselves. Yet, in spite of their many differing views, they both loved New York City. When Eleanor Taylor contacted me with the idea of collaborating, and told me her theme was Brooklyn,

Queens and transit in the city, the idea clicked that perhaps it was time to write a piece about Robert Moses and Jane Jacobs using the BrooklynQueens Expressway as a conduit for their respective views on how New York City should be re-shaped and re-imagined for the latter half of the 20th century and beyond.

BORO: What advice would you give to young artists hoping to sculpt a career path similar to yours?

Neer: Young folks who are interested in performing and writing should pursue it with total unapologetic determination, and remember that although there will always be people who try to discourage their efforts (and those people will definitely be around), they should always ignore the naysayers and carry on towards their goals. Also, I would suggest finding good mentors and teachers who will act as your “team” to assist you in the development of your work, and guide you to remaining on the path of improvement.

DANIEL NEER, MILA HENRY, & ELEANOR TAYLOR PHOTO CREDIT: TED GORODETZKY

The Queens New Music Festival will be held May 16 – 19. A full schedule of performances is available at queensnewmusicfestival.org, and $20 tickets can be purchased at www.brownpapertickets.com (all-access passes also for sale for $50, or day passes for $30). All performances will be at The Secret Theatre Main Stage, 44-02 23rd St, Long Island City, (718) 392-0722.

FACE THE MUSIC

PATRICK CASTILLO

PERIAPSIS MUSIC AND DANCE

MAY 2013 | BOROMAG.COM | 33

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FOOD TORTILLA MANICOTTA WITH KABOCHA ‘WHIZ’

BIBIMBAP WITH QUAIL EGGS

THE QUEENS KICKSHAW DOES IT AGAIN

BEET PASTA ALFREDO

Story + Photos BRADLEY HAWKS HARD CIDER FONTINA ARANCINI

KIMCHI LASAGNA

KIMCHI CONSOMMÉ DUMPLINGS

When The Queens Kickshaw first opened its doors on Broadway just two years ago, their fancy toasted cheese sandwiches and pourover coffees instantly percolated raving fans from all five boroughs.

When they introduced craft beer, cider, meade, and wines along with fruit-and-spice infused vinegar cordial sodas, the fans enthusiastically toasted their glasses. And when Chef Youngsun Lee joined the team, introducing his outrageously inventive “eggcentric” brunch, the sidewalk outside TQK will never be the same again on the weekends. But husband and wife power team Ben Sandler and Jennifer Lim just seem to always have something new 36 | BOROMAG.COM | MAY 2013

(and addictive) up their sleeves, so it comes as no surprise that they are wowing the neighborhood, yet again—this time, with the introduction of Chef Lee’s dinner entrees (many of which showcase sophisticated Korean influences), which debuted on the menu just this past week. We’ll let the images speak for themselves, but here is just a small sampling of what is sure to be one of the most droolworthy new menus introduced this season.

THE QUEENS KICKSHAW, 40-17 BROADWAY, ASTORIA, (718) 777-0913, WWW.THEQUEENSKICKSHAW.COM

MAY 2013 | BOROMAG.COM | 37

THEATRE

BLOOD

BROTHERS

OPENS IN ASTORIA

Just in time for Mother’s Day comes the Astoria Performing Arts Center’s production of Blood Brothers, by Willy Russell. The musical tale about twin brothers, separated at birth, who grow up friends unaware of their connection, played over 10,000 performances in London’s West End, and won the 1983 Olivier Award for Best New Musical.

We checked in with APAC Executive Director, Taryn Sacramone, and APAC Creative Director, Tom Wojtunik, who is also directing the current production.

BORO: What are the main themes in Blood Brothers?

Tom: Nature vs. nurture; class, and its effect on our opportunities in life; allowing yourself to experience love in a doomed situation; the maddening effects of envy. You know, light stuff.

CAST IN REHEARSAL

BORO: To what type of audience will Blood Brothers appeal?

Tom: If you are a fan of musicals, you will love this show. If you don’t really like musicals, but you like plays, I’m willing to bet you will love this show. And if you aren’t a fan of Blood Brothers, I’d love to try and change your mind with our production.

BORO: Using the church allows you to reinterpret the space for each show. How did that collaboration come about?

Taryn: Tom actually noticed that the Church had a proscenium stage in a gym and approached the very arts-friendly pastor at the time, a woman named Bette Sohm. She welcomed APAC with open arms, and we’ve been very happy here for 5 years now. The space itself is very flexible. We have turned the challenge of not having a proper theater space into an asset - we use that flexibility to serve each individual show BORO: What are some of the benefits of being an Astoria-based arts organization?

Taryn: Because our ticket prices are affordable, it is accessible to theaterlovers who may not be able to afford Broadway tickets. Our programming ranges from edgy new works to family friendly revivals, so we are able to attract a broad audience over the course of a season. I love the moment just before a show starts, when I look at the diverse audience and know that they’ll have common memories.

Performances of Blood Brothers run May 2 – 18 at Good Shepherd United Methodist Church (30-44 Crescent Street, Astoria). Visit www. apacny.org to purchase $18 tickets or to contribute to the center, or call (888) 596-1027.

38 | BOROMAG.COM | MAY 2013

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