May BORO mag

VOL 1:6 may 2011 battle of the beer gardens // best outdoor dining // lic arts open and more...

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BOROMAG.COM | MAY 2011

April Showers bring May Flowers!

Yeah, yeah, yeah – more importantly, May is when we kick down our doors, remember why we live in this incredible city and take advantage of amazing weather and endless activities. This issue of BORO is all about jump-starting your summer and getting you outside. Whether it’s dining under the stars, running over the Queensboro Bridge or just chilling in the park, we’ve got you covered. Read on for over 100 suggestions of can’t-miss activities – everything from art and yoga to kayaking and beyond!

JULIAN LESSER editor-in-chief

Remember, Astoria/LIC is your playground, so get out there!

BORO LAUNCH PARTY AT THE FOUNDRY ON MARCH 24, 2011

Thanks to the communities of Astoria and LIC. Everyone got together to celebrate local business, diversity and BORO and raised $2,500 for the local non-profit E.P.I.C. 1

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1) Philippe Trinh(BORO Magazine), Emily Plaskett(BORO Magazine) and Noelle Bingham & Heather. 2) Alexi Panos(E.P.I.C.), NYC Councilman Peter Vallone Jr, Tennille Amor(E.P.I.C.).

3) Nadine Lesser (BORO Magazine) and Ava Lesser(BORO Magazine). 4) Mackenzi Farquer(SITE), Julian Lesser(BORO Magazine) and Ivona Bilicic(Loveday31). 5) Sarah Mathews. 6) Carina Fuller, Kim, Andrea, AnhLinh Trinh(BORO Magazine). 7) Peter Vallone Jr and Julian Lesser. 8) Janette and Nycki (Primp & Tease Salon). 9) Alexandra Ausman, Melissa Cacha (DOUGH&BATTER), Kristie Foster (KrisTEES). 10) Thomas Matzner and Reve Vodka Team. 11) Kristen Connolly and Brick Café Team. 12) Raymond Grijalvo and Seek Fitness Team.

BORO/CITY HARVEST FUNDRAISER AT BREAK ON APRIL 13, 2011

BORO along with the LIC and Astoria community raised $2,375 for City Harvests Skip Lunch Fight Hunger Campaign. Special thanks to Break, MexiQ and all the raffle providers.

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1) Louie Paloubis (Break Bar and Billiards). 2 & 3) BORO readers kicken-it. 4) Holly Sugrue. 5) Emma Cason-Pratt (BORO Magazine). 6,7 & 8) BORO readers and Raffle Winners!

MAY 2011 | BOROMAG.COM | 1

BEST OUTDOOR DINING SPOTS

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FOOD

Will that table be indoors or out?

Best outdoor dining spots.

BODY & SOUL

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BATTLE OF THE BEER GARDENS

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NIGHTLIFE

Battle of the beer gardens.

13

MAP IT DIRECTORY

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GREEN LIVING

Need even more incentive to bask in the sunshine?

10 outdoor activities in the hood.

MAY EVENT LISTINGS

View from above. Walking the bridges of Queens.

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Your Go-to Guide For Astoria and LIC’s best Shops, Food, Art, Nightlife and More.

MAP IT: ASTORIA & LIC MAP MAY DISCOUNTS & PROMO PAGE

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

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ART

Long Island City: Art Capital of Queens.

Cover: Design by emma cason-pratt.

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REAL ESTATE

Status Update: LIC Waterfront ADVERTISE IN BORO:

ads@boromag.com // 914.426.2939 // www.boromag.com/advertise

editor-in-chief and publisher julian lesser // editor john lee // copy editor norm elrod // creative director paul connolly art directors alt, philippe trinh // contributing designerS alberto michieli, emma cason-pratt, sydney auerbach staff writers daniel crown, jared killeen, rebecca mcnamara, suzanne sitelman, mickey z, bradley hawks staff photographers javier ibañez, alex marshall, daniel pando // sales and marketing nadine auerbach webmaster janmichael guzman Editorial Coordinator sadee brathwaite *This magazine is made from FSC paper, printed with soy ink and 100% recyclable. Printed in LIC, New York. Please recycle after use.

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All materials Copyright © 2011 BORO / All rights reserved.

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

MAY 2011 | BOROMAG.COM | 3

Story and Photos Bradley Hawks

“Will that table BE

indoors or out?”

FOOD

4 | BOROMAG.COM | MAY 2011

Cavo: North Atlantic Salmon with spinach vegetable cous cous, sauteed asparagus, beurre blanc sauce (top). Chillean Sea Bass pan seared with braised artichokes and basil pesto sauce (bottom).

cavo’s outdoor garden

In the heart of Astoria, 30th Avenue awakens from hibernation like a blossoming cherry tree at the first sign of sustained warmth.

Sidewalks dwindle from four lanes to two as the restaurants unfurl into outdoor cafes, and patio furniture magically reappears from hiding.

Dining outdoors can be traced back to, well, that infamous forbidden fruit salad in the Garden of Eden. Though hunting feasts and picnics have been around for centuries, it wasn’t until 1891 that America saw its first sidewalk dining space at the Vienna Café in Manhattan. Ever since then, New Yorkers have developed an affinity for noshing outdoors, even if threatening conditions require awnings and umbrellas (or even misters or heat lamps).

Cavo

Astoria is famous for its numerous al fresco options, but no place achieves the festive, simply beautiful Greek outdoor ambience quite like neighborhood cornerstone Cavo. Aptly named, the majestic space is cavernous with several intimate corners to retreat to – perfect for sipping Cavo’s sangria (both red and white served by the pitcher) and enjoying a colorful array of small plates (such as charcoal-grilled octopus and the phyllo-wrapped shrimp drizzled with Cretan honey mustard).

The theatrical main dining room extends two levels upwards, with elegant high-backed leather booths, glistening chandeliers and a tapestry of rich fabrics draped in every direction from the ceiling.

Diners can savor dishes prepared with classic Greek ingredients and executed with contemporary twists: Ravioli is transformed with four Greek cheeses and a feta white truffle sauce, while Black Angus short ribs are braised for four hours and served on a bed of polenta.

While the interior transports you to a glamorous Greek restaurant/ lounge, complete with belly dancing shows on the weekends, the true vacation paradise awaits in the unparalleled sunken garden – 4,000 sq. ft of blossoming trees, towering mosaic walls and cascading 15-feet tall waterfalls. Whether sharing hors d’oeuvres and cocktails with friends or indulging in the full dining experience, Cavo’s garden is a modern Greek getaway without the airfare (they even offer free valet parking!).

Continued on p. 6

MAY 2011 | BOROMAG.COM | 5

Avenue Cafe

Avenue Café

For a more casual, though no less energetic end of the spectrum, try Avenue Café, one of 30th Avenue’s quintessential Greek restaurants, with an enormous L-shaped sidewalk patio that wraps around the entire building. Truly an all-day destination, breakfast diners can enjoy blueberry pancakes and lountza and halloumi frittatas. After noon, locals relax and sip on frappes, lattes and freddos, escaping the business of the day to lose themselves in conversation.

Beyond sunset, the trademark golden glow radiates from geometric patterns on the wall, illuminating one of the most recognizable corners in Astoria, while laughter rises from jampacked tables late into the evening. And though the menu offers delicious versions of classic Greek meze and paninis, don’t leave without trying the pizza – the buttery, bruschetta-like crust is one of the tastiest around.

veSLO

Spring means getting outside for sports and family gatherings, and few restaurants so beautifully exemplify a love for both as the team at 3-month-old newcomer Veslo. The walls read like a Croatian Soccer Hall of Fame, documenting the family’s teams from as far back as 1947 in Croatia to this year’s Division 1 Champions in New York.

“Customers come and recognize their fathers and grandfathers,” explains Nicole Rosini, daughter of owners David and Mirela Rosini. “It’s so important when you come to a new place – that sense of family.”

VESLO

6 | BOROMAG.COM | MAY 2011

Chef Boris sizzles up Croatian and Mediterranean family favorites like goulash and cevapcici, and after the games end for viewing in the bar and dinner service concludes, tables are pushed aside on the weekends for a late-night Euro-dance club.

The intimate back patio offers full dining tables, as well as lounge furniture surrounding a brick fireplace for a charming open-air evening with a family-away-from-home.

Continued on p. 8

MAY 2011 | BOROMAG.COM | 7

POMME CAFÉ

Pomme Café burst onto the scene as one of Astoria’s most popular new French bistros, but this spring it spreads its wings to offer a patisserie and creperie in the store neighboring the main dining space. A long bench running the span of the building is polkadotted with plush pillows, creating one of the most relaxing al fresco experiences in the neighborhood.

Enjoy a croque monsieur and crock of cheese-capped onion soup, and also be sure to explore the myriad of savory and sweet crepes and pastries. Adding je ne sais quoi to an American classic, this month introduces Pomme’s new foie gras burger, with French decadence at a fraction of the cost of its Manhattan counterparts ($18 compared to $175 in the city…sans the gold leafing).

Because “there’s a real demand for delicious gluten-free and dairy free options,” owner Alex Stavrinoudis is also introducing a sidewalk cart featuring twelve Italian gelatos, some of which will cater to special dietary needs – serving both diners and pedestrian traffic alike – just in case walking and eating is more your style.

POMME CAFÉ

HONORABLE MENTIONS Bareburger You can’t beat a pistachio milkshake and the onion ring-stacked bareburger supreme when the walls disappear and the dining room spills onto the sidewalk for the summer.

Brick Grab a front row seat for the sunset during the weekdays

from 5-7PM with the dinner prix fixe—three courses for just $25.

LIC Bar Choose from a small selection of panini before grabbing some suds and jamming to local musicians, or reclining out back under the weeping willows.

Ravel (Penthouse 808) Romantic Asian bistro and cocktail lounge, with a convertible rooftop for open air dining where you can almost reach out and touch the Manhattan skyline.

Shi What could be better than a sashimi wrap, Cointreau

prawns, or sake-infused sea bass, while practically dining on the East River overlooking the city.

LA VUELTA Team up with friends to tackle a table of delectable Latin appetizers, or sip a sangria under the tamarind sunset on the bi-level backyard patio.

MAP IT Top: Brick, Ravel (Penthouse808), Bareburger.

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CAVO (C,2)

23 POMME cafÉ (c,2)

8 | BOROMAG.COM | MAY 2011

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avenue cafÉ (C,2)

30 VESLO (B,2)

MAY 2011 | BOROMAG.COM | 9

may 2011 events 5/5 7PM-1AM (NIGHTLIFE) FREE: Tequila BOOM BOOM Party Tequila BOOM BOOM & Corona Light Drink Specials Veslo 718-728-0549 I 32-11 Broadway, Astoria 5/6 5-10PM (SHOPPING)

FREE: For Momma – An Evening of Shopping Aurora Gallery 347-288-6870 I 35-18 37th St, LIC www.TheAuroraGallery.com

5/6, 5/7, 5/12 @ 7:30PM (THEATER)

Into The Woods

LaGuardia Performing Arts Center (The Little Theater) $5 each Ticket 718-482-5151 I 31-10 Thomson Ave, LIC

5/7 2-6PM (SHOPPING) FREE: The Art of Shopping KrisTEES 718-204-5031 I 24-01 23rd Ave @ 24th street, Astoria www.kristeesny.com

5/14 – 5/22 ALL DAY (ART) FREE: LIC ARTS OPEN See article on page 24 5/15 1-3PM (REAL ESTATE)

FREE: OPEN HOUSE “EDGE 31” Wells Fargo 917-972-0793 I 23-32 31st Dr., Astoria

5/17 8AM - 4PM (EDUCATION)

EPA RRP- Lead Safety Initial Training

TSC Training Academy 718-389-2103 I 36-06 43rd Ave, LIC $285– Receive 10% discount by bringing in a coupon www.tscta.com

5/19 9PM-12AM (MUSIC) FREE: Julie Corbalis rest-au-rant, 718-729-9009 I 30-01 35th Ave, LIC www.rarbarlic.com

5/7 @ 1PM (MOVIES) FREE: SPECIAL SCREENINGS Episode 5 - New York: A Documentary Greater Astoria Historical Society 718-278-0700 I 35-20 Broadway, 4th Fl, LIC www.astorialic.org

5/8 @ 7PM (MUSIC)

Haydn Festival

Astoria Symphony 917-460-4289 I St. Joseph’s Church, 30th Ave and 43rd St, Astoria www.AstoriaMusic.org

5/9-5/13 9AM-3:30PM (EDUCATION)

30 Hour OSHA Construction Safety Outreach Training

TSA Training Academy 718-389-2103 I 36-06 43rd Ave, LIC $595– Receive 10% discount by bringing in a coupon www.tscta.com

5/12 9PM-12AM (MUSIC)

FREE: Aaron LaVigne rest-au-rant 718-729-9009 I 30-01 35th Ave, LIC www.rarbarlic.com

5/13 10-11PM (NIGHTLIFE)

FREE: Cuervo Tequila Promo SHI Restaurant & Lounge 347-242-2450 I 4720 Center Blvd, LIC www.shilic.com

5/3, 5/10, 5/17, 5/24, 5/31 6-8PM (ARTS)

Beginner’s Draping & Sewing Class (5 sessions) Creators’ Co-op $250.00 646-470-472826-16 I 23rd Ave, Astoria www.creators-coop.com

5/14 @ 8:30PM (MUSIC)

FREE: Misa Ogasawara Trio Domaine Wine Bar 718-784-2350 I 50-04 Vernon Blvd www.domainewinebar.com

10 | BOROMAG.COM | APRIL MAY 2011 2011

Human Comedy

Astoria Performing Arts Center $18/Adults, $12/Students, Seniors 866-811-4111 I Good Shepherd United Methodist Church.

30-44 Crescent St, Astoria www.apacny.org

5/4, 5/11, 5/18, 5/25 @8PM (MUSIC) FREE: Live Original Music Brick Cafe (in the lounge) 718-267-2735 I 30-95 33rd St. Astoria www.brickcafe.com

5/7 @ 8PM (NIGHTLIFE)

FREE: Saturday House Sessions El Ay Si Restaurant 718.389.8781 I 47-38 Vernon Blvd. www.ElAySi.com

5/5-5/21 – Thurs & Fri @ 8pm.

Sat @ 2PM & 8PM (THEATER)

5/21 9am-4:30PM (BODY & SOUL)

Bikram Yoga Seminar with Jim Kallet Bikram Yoga Astoria $100.00 718-777-9642 I 32-03 Steinway, 4th Fl www.Bikramyogaqueensny.com

5/8, 5/15, 5/22, 5/29 @ 7:30PM (MUSIC) FREE: DJANGO’S TIGER - GYPSY JAZZ Domaine Wine Bar 718-784-2350 I 50-04 Vernon Blvd www.domainewinebar.com 5/2, 5/9, 5/16, 5/23, 5/30 @ 9PM (MUSIC)

FREE: Long Island City Jazz Alliance Jam Session Domaine Wine Bar 718-784-2350 I 50-04 Vernon Blvd www.domainewinebar.com

5/26 @7PM (BODY & SOUL)

RUN-A-PALOOZA

PNT Fitness $275 – 7 week running course.

347-396-5809 I 10-68 Jackson Ave, LIC www.PNTFitness.com

5/26 9PM-12AM (MUSIC) FREE: the Yes Team rest-au-rant 718-729-9009 I 30-01 35th Ave, LIC www.rarbarlic.com 5/26 @ 9PM (MUSIC)

FREE: Avalon Jazz band Domaine Wine Bar 718-784-2350 I 50-04 Vernon Blvd www.domainewinebar.com

on-going events...

5/6, 5/13, 5/20, 5/27 @ 9:30PM (NIGHTLIFE) FREE: Live Belly Dancing Show Cavo Restaurant & Lounge (serving dinner from 5pm-1am) 718-721-1001 I 42-18 31st Ave, Astoria www.cavoastoria.com

Life Drawing Workshops

5/22-10/9 Sat & Sun 1-5PM (BODY & SOUL) FREE: Kayaking Socrates Sculpture Park Beach at Hallets Cove Long Island City Community Boathouse www.socratessculpturepark.org

5/1, 5/15, 5/29 12-5PM (SHOPPING)

5/7-9/25 Sat 9:30-10:30AM & 11-12PM (BODY & SOUL) FREE: The Yoga Park Socrates Sculpture Park www.socratessculpturepark.org

5/4, 5/11, 5/18, 5/25 6-8PM (ARTS) Creators’ Co-op $8.00 646-470-472826-16 I 23rd Ave, Astoria www.creators-coop.com FREE: Astoria Market @ Bohemian Hall 29-19 24th Ave, Astoria www.astoriamarket.com

MAY 2011 | BOROMAG.COM | 11

12 | BOROMAG.COM | MAY 2011

map it directory food

RESTAURANT 1

5 Napkin Burger (c,2) (718) 433-2727 35-01 36th St, Astoria www.5napkinburger.com

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Aliada (b,2) (718) 932-2240 2919 Broadway, Astoria

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Avenue Cafe (c,2) (718) 278-6967 35-27 30th Ave, Astoria www.avenuecafenyc.com

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

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

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

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

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

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El Ay Si (A,4) (718) 389-8781 47-38 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.elaysi.com Fatty’s (B,1) (718) 267-7071 2501 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria www.fattyscafenyc.com

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

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

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

Astoria (C,2) 35-05 Broadway Astoria

Ornella Trattoria Italiana (B,1) (718) 777-9477 29-17 23rd Ave, Astoria 35 Communitea (A,4) www.ornellatrattoria.com (718) 729-7708 47-02 Vernon Blvd, LIC Mundo (b,2) www.communitea.net (718) 777-2829 31-18 Broadway, Astoria 36 Cranky’s Cafe (A,4) www.mundoastoria.com (347) 738-4921 48-19 Vernon Blvd, LIC Penthouse808 (A,3) www.crankyscafe.com (718) 289-6118 8-08 Queens Plaza South, 37 Sweetleaf (A,4) LIC (917) 832-6726 www.penthouse808rooftop.com 10-93 Jackson Ave, LIC www.sweetleaflic.com Pomme Cafe (c,2) (718) 545-4301 food 37-19 Broadway, Astoria shops www.pommecafeny.com 38 Astoria wine and spirits Rest-au-ant (B,2) (C,2) (718) 729-9009 (718) 545-9463 30-01 35th Ave, Astoria 3412 Broadway, Astoria www.rarbarlic.com www.astoriawines.com

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

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Sanfords Restaurant (b,2) 40 Fresh Start (B,1) (718) 932-9569 (718) 204-7868 30-13 Broadway Astoria 29-13 23rd Ave, Astoria www.sanfordsnyc.com www.fsorganic.com

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Seva (c,2) (718) 626-4440 30-07 34th St, Astoria www.sevaindianrestaurant.com Shi (a,4) (347) 242-2450 4720 Center Blvd, LIC www.eatdrinkshi.com

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Time Café (C,2) (718) 606-0500 44-18 Broadway, Astoria www.timecafeny.com

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Veslo (b,2) 718-728-0549 32-11 Broadway, Astoria www.veslonyc.com

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Creators Co-Op (B,1) (917) 751-8177 26-16 23rd Ave, Astoria www.creators-coop.com

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Ethereal (A,4) (718) 482-8884 47-38 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.etherealnyc.com

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Inside Astoria (C,1) (718) 956-4000 37-20 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria

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KrisTEES (B,1) (718) 204-5031 2401 23rd Ave, Astoria www.kristeesny.com

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

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Site (C,2) (718) 626-6030 32-90 36th St, Astoria www.shopsiteonline.com

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

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LIC Dog House (a,4) (718) 389-3647 45-44 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.licdoghouse.com

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Jumping Bulldog: a boutique for Cats and Dogs (b,1) (718) 274-2510 28-10 23rd Ave, Astoria www.jumpingbulldog.com

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

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Natural Frontier Market (A,4) (718) 937-9399 12-01 Jasckson Ave, LIC www.naturalfrontiermarket.net

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Organic At Your Door www.OrganicAtYourDoor.com

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Vitality and Health Organic Market (C,2) (718) 777-8477 46-03 Broadway, Astoria

shops 44

pets

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

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bakeries

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Blend (A,4) (718) 729-2800 47-04 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.blendlic.com

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Manducatis Rustica (A,4) (718) 937-1932 46-3 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.manducatisrustica.com

food

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

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

M. WELLS DINER (B,4) (718) 425-6917 21-17 49th Ave, LIC www.mwellsdiner.com

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

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

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

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

Vesta (a,2) (718) 545-5550 2102 30th Ave, Astoria www.vestavino.com continued on next page 16

florests

services

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Dur America (C,2) (718) 626-0700 34-11 Broadway, Astoria www.duramerica.com

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Hero computer repair nyc Apple/Mac Computer Repair Specialist (253) 222-2855 aaron@herocomputerrepairnyc.com www.HeroComputerRepairNYC.com

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

MAY 2011 | BOROMAG.COM | 13

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map it directory 58

OnDEMAND PRINTING (c,4) (718) 392-0500 30-02 48th Ave, LIC www.ondemandprinting.com

nightlife / bars

beauty 70 Carl Clarke Aesthetiques

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(c,2) (347) 631-0922 31-24 Steinway St, Astoria www.carlclarkeaesthetiques.com

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

RCN Digital TV and High-Speed Internet Services (866) 540-5534 83 Break (B,2) 71 Gigi Salon (c,2) (718) 777-5400 www.rcn.com/boromag (718) 777-7755 3204 Broadway, Astoria 34-17 30th Ave, Astoria www.break-ny.com 60 Showroom by C (b,3) www.gigistylingstudio.com (917) 658-3065 Brick Bar (B,2) 4 Court Square, LIC 84 72 Primp AND Tease SALON (a,4) (718) 267-2735 www.showroombyc.com (718) 472-2001 30-95 33rd St, Astoria 5-02 50th Ave, LIC www.brickcafe.com Stephanie Reinish 61 Photography (347) 455-0949 85 Domaine Wine Bar (A,4) fitness (718) 784-2350 www.stephaniereinish.com 50-04 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.domainewinebar.com 62 Vardiman Eyewear (c,2) 105 The Art of Fitness (718) 204-5037 (718)687-9140 34-18 Broadway, Astoria 86 Mix Cafe and Lounge (C,2) 32-32 Steinway St 3rd fl, (347) 642-4840 www.vardimaneyewear.com Astoria 40-17 30th Ave, Astoria Pilatesinastoria.com www.mixcafelounge.com 63 Video Express (c,2) 73 (718)626-0846 Astoria Sports Complex (c,2) 3408 30th Ave, Astoria 87 Rapture Lounge (C,2) (718) 729-7163 (718) 626-8044 34-38 38th St, Astoria 34-27 28th Ave, Astoria www.ascsports1.com www.rapturelounge.com events spaces 59

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

74 Bikram Yoga Astoria Studio

88 Studio Sq. Beer (718) 777-9642 Garden (C,3) 32-03 Steinway, 4th Fl, (718) 383-1001 Astoria 35-33 36th St, Astoria www.BikramYogaQueensNY.com www.studiosquarenyc.com

The Renaissance Event Hall 75 Crank Studio (718) 274-4590 (718) 606-6309 27-34 21st St, Astoria 4630 Center Blvd, LIC www.renaissanceofastoria.com www.CrankNYC.com

events spaces

76 Dynamix Gym

89

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

(718) 606-0381 the arts 20-61 Steinway, Astoria Ravel (a,3) (718) 289-6101 77 NEW YORK SPORTS CLUB (c,2) 90 5 Pointz (B,4) (317) 219-2685 8-08 Queens Plaza South, LIC (718) 932-1400 45-46 Davis St, LIC www.ravelhotel.com 2856 Steinway St, Astoria www.5ptz.com www.nysc.com 91 The Aurora Gallery tattoo shops 78 Seek Fitness (B,1) (347) 288-6870 (347) 924-9004 35-18 37th St, LIC 67 Super Nova Tattoos (c,1) 27-18 23rd Ave, Astoria www.theauroragallery.com (718) 274-5712 www.seek-fitness.com 37-12 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria Kaufman Astoria Studios www.supernovatattoo.com 92 79 PNT Fitness (A,4) (C,2)(718) 706-5300 (347) 396-5809 34-12 36th St, Astoria 68 Painless Steel Tattoo 10-68 Jackson Ave, LIC www.kaufmanastoria.com (718) 267-8114 www.pntfitness.com 23-15 Steinway, Astoria www.astoriatattoo.com 93 Museum of the Moving 80 The Yoga Room (C,2) Image (C,2) (718) 274-0255 (718) 784-0077 38-01 35th Ave, Astoria 36-01 35th Ave, Astoria training / educ. www.the-yoga-room.com www.movingimage.us 69 TSC Training Academy (c,3) (718) 389-2103 94 Noguchi MuseuM (A,2) spas (718) 204-7088 36-06 43rd Ave, LIC 9-01 33rd Rd, Astoria www.tscta.com 81 Rejuvenate face and body www.noguchi.org (B,1) (718) 626-4434 95 ReisStudios (A,3) 26-17 23rd Ave, Astoria “An international www.Rejuvenatenyc.com community of established and emerging artists” (718) 570-3663 43-01 22nd St, LIC www.ReisStudios.com 66

16 | BOROMAG.COM | MAY 2011

96

The Secret Theatre (B,3) (718) 392-0722 4402 23rd St, LIC www.secrettheatre.com

Socrates Sculpture Park (A,2) (718) 626-1533 97 32-01 Vernon Blvd, Astoria www.socratessculpturepark.org

98

Ten10 Studios (A,4) (646) 271-5353 10-10 47th Rd, LIC www.ten10studios.com

UNDERPENNY (A,4) (917) 517-1492 99 10-13 50th Ave, LIC

real estate 100 Eastcoast (a,4)

(718) 606-9440 4720 Center Blvd, LIC www.eastcoastlic.com

101 Modern Spaces (a,4)

(718) 784-1110 10-63 Jackson Ave, LIC www.modernspacesnyc.com

102 The View (a,4)

(877) 542-7778 4630 Center Blvd, LIC www.livingtheview.com

103 Wells Fargo Home Mortgage

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

104 The Yard (a,4)

718.786.1063 2-26 51st Ave, LIC www.TheYardLIC.com

get your business listed!

Want your business listed in our directory?

Contact ads@boromag.com to learn how.

MAY 2011 | BOROMAG.COM | 17

BODY + SOUL

VIEW FROM ABOVE WALKING THE BRIDGES OF QUEENS Story Daniel Crown Photos Daniel Pando

With spring weather finally granting Astoria and Long Island City a reprieve from the claustrophobic thralls of winter, it’s the perfect time to get out of the house and take a stroll across two of New York City’s most iconic architectural fixtures.

The Robert F. Kennedy Bridge – more often referred to by its original name, the Triboro Bridge – as well as the Ed Koch Queensboro Bridge, offer Astoria and LIC residents easy access to two of the city’s greatest aesthetic and historical achievements.

“Both bridges, in many respects, represent the finest of New York City,” said Bob Singleton, Executive Director of the Greater Astoria Historical Society. “They were built by people that came from all around the world. I can only imagine that when they were finished and took a step back and looked at their bridges, that they all became Americans of one temper and spirit.”

Opened in July of 1936, the RFK spans a total of 2,780 feet, connecting Queens, Manhattan and the Bronx via Randall’s Island and Wards Island. The footpath separating Astoria from Randall’s Island makes for a solid half-hour hike, dropping potential day-trippers into a mostly quiet park area that is perfect for a mid-week getaway.

Queensboro Bridge (Ed Koch)

“We did have input with the Queensboro Bridge name change,” Vallone said. “But for some reason certain elected officials acted in direct opposition to the wishes of their constituency.” While Vallone admires Koch’s contributions to the city, he points out the moral quagmire involved with renaming a bridge after someone who’s still alive.

“I’m sure some of the people who were supporting this were looking with one eye towards future endorsements by a very popular ex-mayor,” Vallone said. As to whether or not the names will stick, Singleton believes it’s still up in the air.

“It’s kind of hit or miss whether the names stay,” he said. “[Mayor] LaGuardia wanted to call Sixth Avenue the ‘Avenue of Americas’ and that didn’t work. Just because somebody passes a bill that says ‘this is the new name’ [doesn’t make the change permanent]; it still really depends on whether the public accepts it or not.”

In the end, whatever you choose to call them, Singleton believes both bridges provide a perfect encapsulation of New York City in the summer. As evidence, he cites a quote from F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic The Great Gatsby: “The city seen from the Queensboro Bridge is always the city seen for the first time, in its first wild promise of all the mystery and beauty in the world.”

The Queensboro Bridge is decidedly more urban in its aesthetic, but the walk from Long Island City to the Upper East Side of Manhattan does provide a breathtaking view of the city as it looms over the East River.

The combination of neighborhood pride and iconic views has not been enough to maintain a hundred years’ worth of tradition; both bridges have been renamed in recent years. In 2008, the Triboro bridge was re-donned after the late Senator from New York – Robert “Bobby” Kennedy – while the Queensboro bridge took on the moniker of famed former NYC Mayor Ed Koch in December of 2010.

According to District 22 Council Member Peter Vallone Jr., the Triboro Bridge was renamed without an iota of input from the local Queens government. The Queensboro Bridge was brought up to a vote in the City Council, where it passed easily with the support from certain local representatives, despite a sizable public uproar.

18 | BOROMAG.COM | MAY 2011

Triboro Bridge (RFK Bridge)

MAY 2011 | BOROMAG.COM | 19

GREEN LIVING

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Bike: May is National Bike Month, and luckily there’s no 6. shortage of designated cycling lanes in the neighborhood.

For an especially peaceful route – with a stellar water view – Hallets Cove: Enthusiastic kayakers need not venture to 1.

Manhattan for quality time on the water. On May 22, the Long Island City Community Boathouse, Partnership for Parks

and Socrates Sculpture Park will start hosting the aquatically inclined at Hallets Cove for free kayak rides. www.licboathouse.org Astoria Park: It’s hard enough to keep away from 2.

Astoria Park in the coldest months, and it’s all the more magical as the temperature rises. Snag a permit and hit the

tennis courts for an afternoon of doubles before picnicking on the grass.

Outdoor Fitness: Kick off the weekend with an 3. endorphin rush at Socrates Sculpture Park. The Park will be relaunching its free outdoor fitness classes by the

waterfront Saturdays and Sundays starting May 7. Choose from Kripalu Yoga, the Brazilian martial art Capoeira, corestrengthening Pilates and the relaxing Taoist Tai Chi. www. socratessculpturepark.org

Great View: No need to fret over the demise of the 4. original Water Taxi Beach; the same stellar views of the Manhattan skyline can be found at the modern, 12-acre Gantry Plaza State Park, all from the comfort of a curvy chaise lounge.

AIDS Walk: On May 15, the masses will convene at 5.

Central Park, site of the annual AIDS Walk New York.

Want to partake? Consider joining the Out Astoria team.

check out Shore Boulevard’s quiet, residential stretch from Astoria Park to the power plant.

Cinco de Mayo: Walk through cavernous Mojave straight 7. to the tropical-inspired garden out back, where umbrellashaded tables will be packed with fellow revelers toasting the holiday with jalapeno-infused Tequila cocktails and pitchers of sangria. www.mojaveny.com Basketball: Wander into Hoyt Park, a small patch of 8. tranquility, adjacent to the bustle of the Astoria Boulevard subway station. You’ll enjoy the decidedly old New York feel

when you’re shooting hoops with neighborhood kids while M60 buses glide by in the background.

Hellgate Road Runners: Instead of solo laps around 9. the track, join the Hellgate Road Runners for competitive group runs. Focusing on hills, speed and long distance, the group meets four times a week in Astoria Park. www.hrronline.org

. Kickball in the Park: There’s nothing like a classic 10 game of kickball to elicit memories of high school gym class. Relive your glory years and slide into home base with a

relaxed Astoria kickball game. Players convene in Astoria Park near the Hell Gate Bridge on Sundays from 2 p.m. – 6 p.m.

And afterwards, stick around for beers al fresco at Hell Gate Social.

www.outastoria.com

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20 | BOROMAG.COM | MAY 2011

MAY 2011 | BOROMAG.COM | 21

NIGHTLIFE

Battle of the

Beer GardenS Bohemian Hall and Beer Garden

Story Rebecca McNamara Photo Daniel Pando

If you live in Astoria, you’re probably familiar with the never-ending debate over which local beer garden is the best: Bohemian Hall and Beer Garden, the 100-yearold classic, or Studio Square, the newer, hip joint that boasts sangria on tap and outdoor fire pits.

Resolving this question is no easy task, so we’re laying out the facts – now, YOU decide.

DRINKS

Bohemian Hall’s garden sells a hefty half-liter mug of draft beer for $5 and a pitcher for $15. Beers from around the world include the Czech Republic and Slovakia’s Pilsner Urquell, the original Pilsner, as well as U.S. staples.

Studio Square’s draft beer prices ring in at $7 for a half-liter, $13 for a liter and $18 for a pitcher. There’s also spiked tea, sangria and lemonade on tap. And rest assured, both beer gardens have a full bar for all you liquor drinkers.

ATMOSPHERE

Bohemian Hall’s Czech Republic–style garden is basic: a lot of picnic tables and, aside from certain event nights, the rest is up to you. Studio Square is a sleekly designed garden with picnic tables, along with fire pits, late-night music and a no hat policy.

The garden @ Studio Square FOOD

Bohemian Hall’s menu focuses on its Czech and Slovak roots with traditional fare like potato pancakes and schnitzel. Prices range around $9 for a starter and $15 for an entrée. Studio Square’s German-American menu offers five varieties of all-beef wieners, a jumbo Bavarian pretzel and, in the summer, a sushi menu. Small plates are mostly $6 each, while entrees circle the $10 range.

WHAT THEY SAY

BORO brought the debate right into the gardens to see what representatives from each locale think. “This is the typical one,” said Jitka Kottkova, Event Manager at Bohemian Hall and Beer Garden, noting that the venue strives to stay true to its Czech Republic roots, something other beer gardens can’t match.

On the other hand, Studio Square stakes its claim to providing patrons with a more comprehensive experience. “Studio Square NYC is far more than a ‘beer garden,’” says Pete Mason, Studio Square’s EVP of Sales and Marketing there. “Studio Square NYC provides New York residents – not just Astoria residents – with an event and entertainment destination unparalleled anywhere in the metro area.”

So which beer garden do you like best?

Visit boromag.com/astoria-beer-garden to let us know what you think!

MAP IT 83 Bohemian Hall and Beer Garden (b,1)

22 | BOROMAG.COM | MAY 2011

courtesy of Studio Square

vs

89 Studio Square

MAY 2011 | BOROMAG.COM | 23

LONG ISLAND CITY:

Story Jared Killeen Photos Courtesy of LIC Arts Open

ART CAPITAL OF QUEENS

ART

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24 | BOROMAG.COM | MAY 2011

Ask Richard Mazda why he decided to organize the LIC Arts Open (LICAO) Festival, and you might get a funny look.

To Mazda, the decision to put together a week-long exhibition of LIC- and Astoria-based painters, musicians and actors made perfect sense: Queens, like Manhattan and Brooklyn, is a borough teeming with talent, and it’s about time the artists were properly recognized. “It’s clear that Queens is packed with as many interesting people as DUMBO and Williamsburg,” said Mazda, LICAO’s Director.

The first annual LIC Arts Open, which runs from May 14th – 22nd, is thus a open call to the local community. The Festival will include one of NYC’s largest open-studio tours (May 21-22), along with special exhibitions and shows curated

by Jeffrey Leder and Michael Rodriguez. And Mazda, who organized the events with LICAO Chair Karen Dimit, says he doesn’t want to limit the festival to just visual arts.

“There have always been two days of open studios [in Queens] in May, but a lot of artists were frustrated that their work wasn’t being represented,” Mazda explained. “We wanted to expand and create a whole new festival [that incorporated] all media.”

To this end, Mazda and Dimit have developed the most inclusive itinerary possible. They’ve invited musicians, dancers and actors to join the LICAO and have engaged outside celebrities to promote the event. There will be musical performances by Emmy Award winner J. Walter Hawkes and Pat Irwin (formerly of the B-52s); a slew of improv shows starring Astoria comedians; and dance performances by the Octavia Cup Dance Theatre, Forward Motion Theatre, Insight Dance and students from the LIC School of Ballet.

“We’ve been amazed by the community support and hunger for this kind of event,” said Dimit. “The LICAO has gotten a lot bigger than we expected.”

Indeed, the organizers have had to re-adjust their expectations accordingly, recruiting local politicians and businesses to help accommodate the festival’s swelling ranks. Now, everyone is getting involved.

For example, many local restaurants have jumped onboard and will help cater the event. Look for victuals from M. Wells, LIC Market, Jassi’s, Da Gianni’s, Manducatis Rustica, Breadbox Cafe and Sage General Store. There will also be an Edible Arts LIC exhibition at Ten10 Studios, with photographs of indigenous culinary fare.

Even Jimmy Van Bramer, a Queens councilman, is lending a hand. Van Bramer will preside over an art contest for Queens K-12 students, awarding prizes for the best depictions of the Queensboro Bridge.

For LIC and Astoria, the LICAO has become an inspiring example of a community coming together to celebrate its artists. “There has never been anything like this in LIC,” said Mazda.

LIC arts open MAP it 1 Reis Gallery

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2 Secret Theatre

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jeffrey leder Gallery

3 Ten10 Studios

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LIC Arts center

4 m55 Gallery

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matted Lic

Metropolitan Bldg

LIC ARTS OPEN EVENTS May 14th – 22nd

Main Events: Opening Party Reis Gallery; Art on Business, Fundraiser. 5/14 at 5pm Open Studios Visit hundreds of artists/studios throughout LIC. 5/21 & 5/22 from 12-6pm Street Festival 22nd Street between 43rd & 44th Avenues. 5/21 from 12-6pm Closing Party The Secret Theatre. 5/22 from 6-10pm

4

Art: The Industry Art Show at The Industry, curated by Jeffrey Leder. All week.

(Opening 5/17 from 5-9pm) “Heads & Grids”, Beth Williams & William Garrett at Ten10studios 5/14 & 5/15 from 12-7pm “Under the Influence.” New paintings by Ed Rath at M55 Art. All Week.

“Re-examining Sculptures: The Plasticity of Clay and Rigidity of Plastic.”

E. Yang and S. Kenney at the LIC Art Center. All Week.

Fran Kaufman Jazz Photos at The Secret Theatre Gallery. All week.

(Opening 5/14 at 3pm) LaGuardia College Alumni Exhibition, curated by Michael Rodriguez, at the Experimental Gallery at Reis Studios. All week. (Opening 5/20 5-9pm) “We Are Familia” art and environment exhibit at The Yard. All week.

LIC Group Show at The Yard. All week.

LIC Photography Group Show at Modern Spaces. All week.

Orly Shiv sculptures and paintings at Art of Health. All week.

Children’s Queensboro Bridge Art Contest exhibition at LIC Art Center.

All week. (Awards: Presented by Councilman Van Bramer 5/21 at 3pm)

1 Julia Griffin “Koi” 2 The Secret Theatre 3 Fran Kaufman “Cyrus Chestnut” 4 Karen Dimit’s Open Studio 5 Elinore Schnurr “Sunday Morning Drinks”

LIC arts open MAP it

5

“Made in LIC” at Jeffrey Leder Gallery. All week.

(Opening 5/15 from 5-7pm) “Edible Art: LIC” Jesse Winter at Ten10studios 5/21 & 5/22 1-5pm (Opening 5/20 from 6-9pm)

Theater/Dance: Insight Dance at The Secret Theatre. 5/15 at 12pm

1 5 6

2

LIC Academy of Music Spring Student Recital w/ special guests at The Secret Theatre. 5/15 at 3pm

4

Octavia Cup Dance Theatre at Metropolitan Bldg. 5/17th at 8pm

7

Queens Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream at The Secret Theatre. 5/18, 5/19, 5/20, 5/21 at 8pm Revision Series, Forward Motion Theatre at Attic Studios. 5/19 at 8pm

Walking Tours

with Jack Eichenbaum, Queens Borough Historian: 8 3

Daylight Loft Bldgs in LIC. 5/14 at 1pm LIC shoreline to the Noguchi Museum. 5/15 from 1-3pm Queensboro Plaza to Waterfront at Sunset 5/18 from 6-8pm LIC Studio Strolls 5/21& 5/22 from 2-4pm MAY 2011 | BOROMAG.COM | 25

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Wells Fargo Home Mortgage is a division of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. © 2011 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. NMLSR ID 399801. AS622384 4/11-7/11 MAY 2011 | BOROMAG.COM | 27

REAL ESTATE

City lights

Primp & Tease food cellar

EAST COAST The view

Avalon

SHI crank

crab house

LIC WATERFRONt Story Jared Killeen Photo Daniel Pando

From 4720 Center Boulevard, one of the premier addresses of Long Island City’s burgeoning waterfront, it’s a breathtaking sight: a cinematic view of Manhattan. But what do Manhattanites see when they gaze back across the river?

Over the last decade, the borough of Queens has forged its own impressive skyline. The waterfront, once dotted with factories, has been remade by pioneering real estate developers who have wrought a modern day monument to luxury condominiums.

One of the most successful developers is TF Cornerstone.

They’ve already built The View, an elegant 18-story tower, and according to Scott Walsh, TF Cornerstone’s Director of Sales and Marketing, the company is now developing four more buildings. Plans also include a new, state-of-the-art school – perfect for the neighborhood’s growing population – and a library, designed by Steven Holl Architects.

Several other key players are also contributing to the emerging LIC skyline. Rockrose has made its mark with its colossal 4705 Center Boulevard building, while Avalon has Riverview North. And the recently completed One Vernon Jackson – built

by Times Square Construction & Development – is already drawing much attention for its daring architecture.

28 | BOROMAG.COM | MAY 2011

The revitalization of New York’s waterfront by big developers comes as excellent news for the Bloomberg administration. In March, Mayor Bloomberg announced “Vision 2020,” a $3.3 billion plan to reintroduce residents and tourists to the city’s waterfront.

For starters, the city would like to redesign LIC’s crumbling public-access pier at 44th Drive. Bloomberg also intends to create a new five-acre park, featuring concession stands and public ferry access, at Hunter’s Point South. There has even been talk of constructing as many as five thousand new housing units in the area, sixty percent of which would be affordable to middle-income families.

Phipps Houses, Related Companies and Monadnock Construction have already been selected to complete Phase I construction of this project. Over the coming years, they will construct 900 housing units and roughly 20,000 square feet of new retail space.

Ambitious goals, to be sure, but one thing is certain: Both independent developers and city officials have big plans for Long Island City.

And the skyline has never looked grander.

boro deals & discounts

Be local and enjoy the below offers from some of Astoria and LIC’s best merchants. Offers available through

May 31, 2011. Bring BORO or coupon below to redeem discount. Limited to 1 use per reader. Merchant restrictions may apply.

10% OFF

1 FREE Glass of Wine or Dessert

1 FREE Glass of Wine or Dessert

1 FREE dessert with your meal

1FREE glass of wine or 1/2 off cocktail with meal

1 FREE Glass of Wine or Dessert

CAFE VIA ESPRESSO 10% OFF

15% OFF your order (excludes deliveries)

15% OFF lunch or dinner (mon-thurs)

1 FREE Glass of Wine or Dessert with

1 FREE Glass of Wine or Dessert

$39 Intro Special: 1 month

20% OFF entire purchase

$100 OFF two regions treated with Dysport ® / Botox ®

10% OFF entire purchase

Complimentary Blowout for first

$67 for 14 day Fat Flush program

FREE GYM PASS

15% OFF event space rental

10 Guests FREE at your Event

10% OFF discount for courses that cost $400 or more.

15% OFF all hourly legal fees

10% OFF any daycare package deal

50% OFF spa treatment when you bring

10% OFF all packages

10% OFF for new clients

$67.54 for the perfect bundle

lunch entree

10% OFF entire purchase

10% OFF wedding flower service

15% OFF any training session or 1/2 off 1 boxing session

time color clients (tues-thurs)

a friend

unlimited classes