VOL 3:3 FEBRUARY 2013
Nurture Your Inner Book Worm, pg. 26
LI ots e C,
Pick The Perfect Flowers, pg. 24
id
Where To Get Your Queens Caffeine Fix, pg. 20
ys
Date Spots: The Stomach Is The Way To The Heart, pg. 6
CREATE // CULTIVATE // INSPIRE
DI GR SC E at OU AT in the A b NT Su stor est nn ia sp S ,
ASTORIA // LIC // SUNNYSIDE
2 | BOROMAG.COM | FEBRUARY 2013
MANHAT TAN
BORO DEALS & DISCOUNTS Be local and enjoy the below offers from some of Astoria and LIC’s best merchants. Offers available through February 28, 2013. Bring BORO or coupon below to redeem discount. Limited to 1 use per reader. Merchant restrictions may apply.
1 FREE DRINK and comedy show with meal on Tuesday nights 9PM-Closing.
ONE FREE CLASS for new clients only.
1 FREE SIGNATURE COCKTAIL
Use promo code LICFREE
with your meal.
1 FREE GLASS OF WINE with your meal.
20% OFF dinner entrees.
10% OFF when you spend $100 or more.
10% OFF your purchase. Excluding bottled beer and on premise food consumption.
$15 OFF your next visit, mention this ad.
$79.99 for Digital TV + TiVo + High Speed Internet. OR $34.99 for High Speed
WINEGASM
Internet.
20% OFF Valentine’s Day Special on orders placed before 2/12. Coupon Code BOROVAL
$59.99 reduced monthly rate and one-time
15% off your group dinner bill $60+.
setup fee of $29.99. The 1st 100 customers receive free gloves and T-shirt!!
Individual’s dinners will be honored over $30. Tue - Thurs *Excludes major holidays.
$10 OFF haircuts and color.
15% OFF entire purchase.
15% OFF your entire purchase. ADVERTISE IN BORO Currently selling packages for 2013! ads@BOROmag.com
10% OFF any wine purchase.
1 FREE glass of house wine with your meal.
718.866.8089
www.BOROmag.com/advertise
FEBRUARY 2013 | BOROMAG.COM | 3
Dear Western Queens, I would like to thank everyone who has welcomed me so kindly into my new role as Editor-in-Chief. I am very excited for the future of BORO and BOROmag.com, and will constantly be looking for ways to evolve as a fun and inspirational neighborhood guide. I feel fortunate to be working with a tightly knit and talented staff, focusing on the neighborhood we love. Speaking of love, that’s the theme of the February issue! We feature some prime date spots for those of you with a Valentine, but we also look at love in the broader sense: the borough’s passion for literature, the stories behind two local flower shops, and BORO fans who are enamored with their neighborhood. If you’re interested in having your voice or art featured in an upcoming issue or online, be sure to Like us on Facebook so you can see how to participate.
MATTHEW TAYLOR editor-in-chief
I hope this issue keeps you warm and fuzzy through these cold February days!
Romantic Date Spots
FEATURES 6 FOOD Date Spots: If the stomach is the way to the heart…
20 EXPLORE YOUR BORO Where to get your Queens caffeine fix
24 PICK THE PERFECT FLOWERS Bouquet suggestions for a special Valentine’s Day.
26 EXPLORE YOUR BORO Lit love to nurture your inner book worm.
30 WHY WE+YOU LOVE QUEENS What do you love most about living in Western Queens?
6
Pick the Perfect Flowers
24
DEPARTMENTS 12 FEBRUARY 2013 EVENTS 15 MAP IT DIRECTORY Your Go-to Guide For Astoria, LIC and Sunnyside’s best shops, food, art, nightlife and More.
16 MAP IT: ASTORIA, LIC & SUNNYSIDE MAP 32 DISCOUNTS & PROMO PAGE Exclusive savings, discounts and freebies for the month of February in Astoria, LIC and Sunnyside. 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 BORO HOURS: Mon-Fri 10AM-5PM
/ BOROmag
@BOROmag
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF matthew taylor // CREATIVE DIRECTOR emma cason-pratt // EDITOR john lee // ART DIRECTOR philippe trinh COPY EDITOR norm elrod // GRAPHIC DESIGNERS emma cason-pratt, matt starch // STAFF WRITERS bradley hawks, ben mims, daniel crown, lillian shaw, matthew taylor, brett jones, meaghan trainor // STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS javier ibañez, daniel pando, bradley hawks WEBMASTER janmichael guzman // ONLINE EDITORIAL COORDINATOR matthew taylor // CREATED AND PUBLISHED BY BORO Magazine *This magazine is made from FSC ® certified 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 | FEBRUARY 2013
FEBRUARY 2013 | BOROMAG.COM | 5
FOOD
Burrata with oven-baked focaccia at Manducatis Rustica
DATE SPOTS If the stomach is the way to the heart… Story + Photos BRADLEY HAWKS
Finding that just right Valentine’s Day restaurant calls for more than just a stellar kitchen; it begs the perfect ambiance, elevated air of intimacy, and perhaps even something that strays from the usual routine. With that in mind, read on for 10 local, unique, and romantic suggestions, where Cupid has exquisitely skewered everything from setting to menu to service – and in some cases, actual hearts. Manducatis Rustica 46-35 Vernon Blvd, Long Island City 718-937-1312 | www.manducatisrustica.com
“Did you know that asparagus can significantly impact orgasm?” coyly smiles Gianna Cerbone of Manducatis Rustica in Long Island City. Part chef and owner, part unofficial social mayor of the neighborhood, part writer and part local celebrity, Cerbone plans to serve a “very special Valentine’s Day menu full of aphrodisiacs.” Cerbone is also known as “Mamma Gianna” for the way she deliciously delivers wit, wisdom and some of the best gelato in the city – unconventional flavors evoke “the last sip of a glass of chocolate milk” or a “citrus-kissed sea breeze.” Be prepared to blush while she boldly explains the menu and the benefits of certain ingredients to stamina and libido. The Valentine’s menu will not be officially revealed until just a few days prior (depending on what is crisp and fresh in the local market). Those with less lusty appetites will find equal pleasure in Cerbone’s pasta and pizza specials, which include monolithic meatballs in a sweet tomato sauce. 6 | BOROMAG.COM | FEBRUARY 2013
Monolithic meatballs in a sweet tomato sauce at Manducatis Rustica
Ham, swiss, & egg on buckwheat crepe at Cafe Triskell
Thymari’s caramelized peach with lime whipped yogurt cream and thyme.
Cafe Triskell’s lemon-sugar crepe with a shot glass of mixed berry compote
Café Triskell
Thymari
33-04 36th Ave, Astoria | 718-472-0612 www.cafetriskell.com
32-07 34th Ave, Astoria | 718-204-2880 www.thymari.com
There’s nothing quite like pancakes for dinner, especially when those pancakes are Café Triskell’s tissue-paper-thin buckwheat crepes, painstakingly prepared in the culinary tradition of Brittany in France. Triskell is one of those inconspicuous thin windows between more prominent buildings—you can stroll by a hundred times without taking notice. But once you pass through the tiny doorway, you’re transported to a secluded and rustic French café with one cook, one server, and just a handful of tables – and your impression of 36th Ave. will never be the same. Daily specials are scribed on a chalkboard and the café’s Facebook page (Tip: The pot pie is unrivaled in comfort, and order anything with bay scallops). Chef Phillippe Fallait, a pastry chef by training, showcases both savory and sweet crepes on the permanent menu. Dessert here is a must, along with a giant mug of cider. The lemon and sugar crepe is sublime, and a plain crepe with a shot glass of Fallait’s signature banana fudge jam will leave your lips sweet for a French after-dinner kiss.
A love affair with Astoria’s food scene would be incomplete without an appreciation of the neighborhood’s rich Greek tradition, an ethnic imprint visible in the names of the local parks and some of the longest-thriving restaurants. Bringing classic Greek tradition into a contemporary light comes Thymari, meaning “thyme,” which runs wild in the Greek countryside. Settle into a casual, pillow-backed seat in the front café, or at a table in the dramatically lit back dining room, where over 20 Greek wines are beautifully displayed climbing a staircase to the ceiling. Feta saganaki is elevated here, encrusted in sesame seeds with a ribbon of wild berry compote. Named after a goddess of the sea, the Thalassinon orzo is studded with thyme-kissed medallions of shrimp and mussels in a rich tomato reduction. Finish the evening with a sweet wine, a baklava martini, or a stemless glass of amaretto and walnut sauce-capped panna cotta. FEBRUARY 2013 | BOROMAG.COM | 7
FOOD
Baked salmon tornado with sundried tomato, spinach, ver jus, and whipped mashed potatoes.
Stove
Irish-born Chef-Owner Declan Cass serves Great Britain-inspired dishes
45-17 28th Ave, Astoria | 718-956-0372 www.stoveastoria.com
One of Astoria’s best-kept secrets is Stove, where Irishborn Chef-Owner Declan Cass serves Great Britaininspired dishes – the fish ‘n chips are a textbook rendition – alongside inventive New American cuisine, ultimately offering something for everyone. The narrow, flickeringsconce-lit restaurant is just enough off the beaten path to feel secluded and special, yet within walking distance of Steinway’s thoroughfare and just one block from the 46th St stop on the Q18. Thanks to a recent revamp of the menu, Stove classics like the grilled Angus shell steak with creamy peppercorn and honey-glazed five-spiced ribs are now joined by a mesquite BBQ butter pork loin haystacked with frizzled onions and a trout almondine with beurre noisette. The Downton Abbey set will want to stick around for proper English desserts like a sherry trifle or homemade apple pie blanketed with a sweet ribbon of crème anglaise. Honey five-spiced ribs with ginger, cabbage, and carrot salad
8 | BOROMAG.COM | FEBRUARY 2013
Beet salad at Stove
Pan-fried trout almondine with beurre noisette
FEBRUARY 2013 | BOROMAG.COM | 9
FOOD
DiWine
Tufino Pizzeria Napoletana
LIC Market
Café Henri
DiWine 41-15 31st Ave, Astoria | 718-777-1355 www.diwineonline.com
From drape-partitioned booths and pillow-harnessed banquettes to a wine guillotine, DiWine is always a sexy destination and offers a $55 3-course prix fixe for V-Day. Pair morsels from the brick oven – a new lobster pizza with sherry cream and asparagus steals the show – with a selection of over 20 wines ($8 for a glass; $32 per any bottle).
LIC Market 21-52 44th Dr, Long Island City | 718-361-0013 www.licmarket.com
For those hearts seeking a market-driven, seasonal, and locally sourced meal in a charmingly provincial dining room that unfolds just beyond a quaint mini-country store, there is no need to search further than LIC Market. The menu evolves daily and features everything from shredded brisket to spaghetti with rabbit ragout and dandelion greens, with truffles frequently headlining in various forms.
Café Henri
Biang!
Bear
Tufino Pizzeria Napoletana 36-08 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria | 718-278-4800 www.tufinopizzeria.com
This is the pizzeria that love built, the wood-fired oven named for pizzaiolo Stephen Menna’s wife (and co-owner) Maria. Tufino turns out sensational Neapolitan pies in a variety of unique topping combinations – one has pistachios, another is sweetened with honey picante, for example – but be certain to share some of the dolcetti fritti (or “fried treats”) to start.
Biang! 41-10 Main St, Flushing | 718-888-7713 www.biang-nyc.com
Couples craving a little spice and adventure should take the 7 train to Flushing for a Western Chinese dinner at Biang! From their famous hand-stretched noodles (the restaurant’s name mimics the slap against the cutting board) to cumin-kissed skewers of chicken hearts and even a “spicy and tingly lamb face salad,” this place is the real deal – and super-affordable.
10-10 50th Ave, Long Island City | 718-383-9315
Seek solace from the town square where Vernon and Jackson merge just beyond the front doors of Café Henri, one of Long Island City’s sweet, window-lit French cafés. From herb-spruced croque madame to classic coq au vin to croissant pudding laced with ribbons of Callebaut chocolate, the service and food here is deliciously French, sans the pretense. 10 | BOROMAG.COM | FEBRUARY 2013
Bear Restaurant 12-14 31st Ave, Long Island City | 917-396-4939 www.bearnyc.com
For that guaranteed wow factor, book a reservation for the Chef ’s tasting menu at Bear. At Long Island City’s nouveau European restaurant, Chef Natasha Pogrebinsky has crafted a breathtaking menu, where each memorable bite is as beautiful as it is delicious. Less ambitious diners can build a meal of small bites that are equally spectacular.
FEBRUARY 2013 | BOROMAG.COM | 11
FEBRUARY EVENTS 2/1 9PM-11:30PM (MUSIC)
LIVE MUSIC: TANGO MEDITERRANEO
FREE | The Queens Kickshaw 718-777-0913 | 40-17 Broadway, Astoria www.thequeenskickshaw.com
2/4 4PM-12AM (FOOD+DRINK)
2/9 @ 9PM (NIGHTLIFE+ENTERTAINMENT)
GOODBYE HORSES DRAG PARTY-$250 CASH PRIZE FOR BEST COSTUMES FREE | Skinny’s Cantina 718-806-1068 | 47-05 Center Blvd, LIC www.skinnyscantina.com
2/15 9PM-11:30PM (FOOD+DRINK)
VALENTINE’S DAY DINNER
SEE MENU | The Queens Kickshaw 718-777-0913 | 40-17 Broadway, Astoria www.thequeenskickshaw.com
2/15 @ 1:30PM (EDUCATION)
BEER & BACON ALL-NIGHT HAPPY HOUR
2/9 @ 10:30PM (THEATRE)
RESUME WORKSHOP
www.rarbarlic.com
$10 | The Secret Theatre 718-392-0722 | 44-02 23rd St, LIC
www.queenslibrary.org
FREE | Rest-Au-Rant 718-729-9009 | 30-01 35th Ave, LIC
QUEER NOT COOL: A GAY-FRIENDLY VARIETY SHOW
2/7 7PM-9PM (SHOPPING)
www.secrettheatre.com
SHOP FOR YOUR SWEETHEART WITH SWEETS & CHAMPAGNE
2/10 12PM-6PM (ART)
FREE | Queens Library, LIC Branch 718-752-3700 | 37-44 21st St, LIC 2/15 9PM-11:30PM (MUSIC)
SAN FAUSTINO DAY & LIVE MUSIC: THE TIPSY OXCART
FREE | LIC Living 718-361-5650 | 5-35 51st Ave, LIC
ASTORIA MARKET’S PRE-VALENTINE’S DAY SHOPPING EVENT
FREE | The Queens Kickshaw 718-777-0913 | 40-17 Broadway, Astoria
2/7 9PM-12AM (MUSIC)
www.astoriamarket.com
2/15 @ 10:30PM (NIGHTLIFE + ENTERTAINMENT)
www.licliving.com
LIVE MUSIC: MARC DAINES’ MINI VAN
FREE | Bohemian Hall & Beer Garden 29-19 24th Ave, Astoria
www.thequeenskickshaw.com
FREE | Rest-Au-Rant 718-729-9009 | 30-01 35th Ave, LIC
2/10 5PM-7PM (ART)
F&*@! VALENTINE’S DAY! www.laughingdevil.com
2/8 6PM-8:30PM (FOOD+DRINK)
FREE | Jeffrey Leder Gallery 917-767-1734 | 21-37 45th Rd, LIC www.jeffreyledergallery.com
www.rarbarlic.com
SPIRITS & COCKTAIL TASTING
INTERNATIONAL PAINTING II
FREE | Astoria Park Wine & Spirits 718-606-1142 | 28-07 24th Ave, Astoria
2/13 6PM-8PM (FOOD+DRINK)
2/8 @ 8PM (THEATER)
www.sitenyc.com
www.astoriaparkwineandspirits.com
“GONE TOMORO”: A NEW MUSICAL
FREE-EMAIL BOXOFFICE@APACNY.ORG | Astoria Performing Arts Center 718-706-5750 | 30-44 Crescent St, Astoria www.apacny.org
2/8 @ 8PM (MUSIC)
FOOD LOVERS’ GUIDE TO QUEENS FOOD PARTY FREE | SITE NYC 718-626-6030 | 35-11 34th Ave, Astoria 2/13 6PM-10PM (SHOPPING)
QUEEN OF HEARTS POP UP MARKET
FREE | Veslo 917-658-3065 | 32-11 Broadway, Astoria www.designforyou.biz
ACOUSTIC SPOTLIGHT WITH JAMES BONDY
2/14 5PM-12AM (FOOD+DRINK)
www.thymari.com
SEE WEBSITE FOR V-DAY MENU | Rest-AuRant 718-729-9009 | 30-01 35th Ave, LIC
FREE | Thymari 718-204-2880 | 32-07 34th Ave, Astoria 2/8 9PM-11:30PM (MUSIC)
LIVE MUSIC: HOMESICK HOUND DOGS
FREE | The Queens Kickshaw 718-777-0913 | 40-17 Broadway, Astoria
VALENTINE’S DINNER W/LIVE MUSIC: DEEANNE GORMAN’S CABARET
www.rarbarlic.com
$30 | Laughing Devil Comedy Club 347-91-DEVIL | 47-38 Vernon Blvd, LIC 2/15 @ 8PM (MUSIC)
AMY RIVARD - CLASSIC JAZZ
FREE | Thymari 718-204-2880 | 32-07 34th Ave, Astoria www.thymari.com
2/16 11AM-12PM & 12:30PM-1:30PM (FOOD+DRINK)
‘BABY LOVES SALSA’ PERFORMS AT BRUNCHSPECIAL KIDS’ MENU! FREE | Skinny’s Cantina 718-806-1068 | 47-05 Center Blvd, LIC www.skinnyscantina.com
2/17 6PM-8PM (MUSIC)
COSI FAN TUTTE: MOZART’S COMIC OPERA $10 | Church Of The Redeemer 30-14 Crescent St, Astoria ww w.redeemerconcerts.org
2/21 4PM-5PM (ARTS+CRAFTS)
KIDS’ CROCHET CLASS-AGES 8+
$20 | babyNOIR 646-470-4728 | 26-16 23rd Ave, Astoria
www.thequeenskickshaw.com
2/9 11AM-1PM & 3PM-5PM (ART)
www.babynoir.net
FREE W/ADMISSION | The Noguchi Museum 718-204-7088 | 32-37 Vernon Blvd, Astoria
2/21 7PM-CLOSE (FOOD+DRINK)
ARTIST IN RESIDENCE-PAUL DISCOE
$5 PINT NIGHT FEATURING TOMMYKNOCKER OAK AGED BUTT HEAD BOCK
www.noguchi.org
$5 PINTS | 5 Napkin Burger 212-433-2727 | 35-01 36th St, Astoria www.5napkinburger.com
2/14 5:30PM-9PM (FOOD+DRINK)
3-COURSE VALENTINE’S DAY PRIX FIX W/ COMPLIMENTARY CHAMPAGNE
$24.95/PERSON | Astor Bake Shop 718-606-8439 | 12-23 Astoria Blvd, Astoria 2/9 1PM-3PM (FAMILY)
FIRST ANNIVERSARY FESTIVAL
FREE | babyNOIR 646-470-4728 | 26-16 23rd Ave, Astoria
www.astor-bakeshop.com
2/14 6:45PM-9:30PM (BODY+SOUL)
www.babynoir.net
CYCLE VIRGIN, SINGLES SWEAT SHOP, & COUPLES CYCLE PARTY
2/9 @ 8PM & 10:30PM (NIGHTLIFE+ENTERTAINMENT)
www.pntfitness.com
COLLIN MOULTON PERFORMS
$20 | Laughing Devil Comedy Club 347-91-DEVIL | 47-38 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.laughingdevil.com
12 | BOROMAG.COM | FEBRUARY 2013
$22/CLASS | PNT Fitness 10-68 Jackson Ave 2nd Floor, LIC 2/14 7PM-11PM (FOOD+DRINK)
$5 PINT NIGHT: SAM ADAMS CHERRY CHOCOLATE BOCK $5 PINTS | 5 Napkin Burger 212-433-2727 | 35-01 36th St, Astoria ww w.5napkinburger.com
2/21 @ 8PM (DANCE)
VALERIE GREEN/DANCE ENTROPY PRESENTS “SKIMMING THE SURFACE” $15 ADVANCE/$20 DOOR | Green Space 37-24 24th St, LIC ww w.danceentropy.org 2/22 @ 6:30PM (BODY+SOUL)
WORKOUT & WINE
$22/CLASS | PNT Fitness 10-68 Jackson Ave 2nd Floor, LIC www.pntfitness.com
FEBRUARY EVENTS
2/22 @ 8PM (MUSIC)
2/24 3PM-5PM (FAMILY)
TUESDAYS @ 10:30AM (FAMILY)
FREE | Thymari 718-204-2880 | 32-07 34th Ave, Astoria
$5/PERSON | Astoria Center of Israel 718-278-2680 | 27-35 Crescent St, Astoria
FREE | babyNOIR 646-470-4728 | 26-16 23rd Ave, Astoria ww w.babynoir.net
AMY RIVARD - CLASSIC JAZZ www.thymari.com
2/22 @ 8PM & 10:30PM (NIGHTLIFE+ENTERTAINMENT)
CARMEN LYNCH & THE STARS OF SHE-DEVILS $20 | Laughing Devil Comedy Club 347-91-DEVIL | 47-38 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.laughingdevil.com
2/22 9PM-11:30PM (MUSIC)
LIVE MUSIC: SIX DEADLY VENOMS
FREE | The Queens Kickshaw 718-777-0913 | 40-17 Broadway, Astoria www.thequeenskickshaw.com
FAMILY PURIM CELEBRATION www.astoriacenter.org
2/28 6:30PM-9:30PM (EVENT PLANNING)
WEEKLY RHYTHM & STORY TIME
WOW THE BRIDE SHOW
TUESDAYS 9PM-11PM (NIGHTLIFE+ENTERTAINMENT)
www.wowthebride.eventbrite.com
FREE | Rest-Au-Rant 718-729-9009 | 30-01 35th Ave, LIC
FREE | Renaissance Event Hall 718-274-4590 | 27-34 21st St, LIC 2/28 7PM-9PM (SHOPPING)
WHINE+CHEESE COMEDY SHOW www.rarbarlic.com
SPRING PREVIEW
FRIDAYS @ 10PM (THEATER)
www.licliving.com
$10 | The Secret Theatre 718-392-0722 | 44-02 23rd St, LIC
FREE | LIC Living 718-361-5650 | 5-35 51st Ave, LIC 2/28 7PM-11PM (FOOD+DRINK)
$5 PINT NIGHT: SAM ADAMS GRUMPY MONK $5 PINTS | 5 Napkin Burger 212-433-2727 | 35-01 36th St, Astoria ww w.5napkinburger.com
IMPROVIUS MAXIMUS
www.secrettheatre.com
Find more February events at www.BOROmag.com/Events
ONGOING 2/2-2/24, WEEKENDS (FILM)
L.A. REBELLION: CREATING A NEW BLACK CINEMA
FREE W/MUSEUM ADMISSION | Museum Of The Moving Image 718-777-6888 | 36-01 35th Ave, Astoria www.movingimage.us
2/23 @ 3PM (MOVIE)
SCREENING OF PUI CHAN: KUNG FU PIONEER
FREE W/MUSEUM ADMISSION | Museum Of The Moving Image 718-777-6888 | 36-01 35th Ave, Astoria www.movingimage.us
MONDAYS 9PM-11PM (NIGHTLIFE+ENTERTAINMENT)
MUSIC MONDAYS
FREE | Sweet Afton 718-777-2570 | 30-09 34th St, Astoria w ww.sweetaftonbar.com
FEBRUARY 2013 | BOROMAG.COM | 13
14 | BOROMAG.COM | FEBRUARY 2013
MAP IT DIRECTORY RESTAURANTS
18
ALEWIFE (A,4)
115 (718) 937-7494
5-14 51st Ave, LIC www.alewifequeens.com
2 6
4
ALIADA (B,2) (718) 932-2240 29-19 Broadway, Astoria ASTOR ROOM (C,2) (718) 255-1947 34-12 36th St, Astoria www.astorroom.com BAREBURGER (B,2) (718) 777-7011 33-21 31st Ave, Astoria (718) 204-7167 23-01 31 St, Astoria www.bareburger.com BASIL BRICK OVEN (B,1)
105 (718) 204-1205
28-17 Astoria Blvd, Astoria www.basilbrickoven.com
23
5
7
26
8
35
9
87
10
BEAR (A,2) (917) 396-4939 12-14 31st Ave, Astoria www.bearnyc.com BRICK CAFE (B,2) (718) 267-2735 30-95 33rd St, Astoria www.brickcafe.com BREAD BOX CAFE (A,4) (718) 389-9700 4711 11th St, LIC www.breadboxcafelic.com BURGER CLUB (B,2) (718) 777-7788 32-02 30th Ave, Astoria www.burger-club.com BURGER GARAGE (B,3) (718) 392-0424 25-36 Jackson Ave, LIC www.theburgergarage.com BUTCHER BAR (C,2) (718) 606-8140 37-08 30th Ave, Astoria www.ButcherBar.com CAVO (C,2) (718) 721-1001 42-18 31st Ave, Astoria www.cavoastoria.com CAFÉ BAR (C,2) (718) 204-5273 32-90 36th St, Astoria www.cafebarastoria.com CAFÉ VIA ESPRESSO (C,1) (718) 545-3290 2409 Steinway St, Astoria www.cafeviaespressoastoria.com CARIOCA GRILL (B, 2)
117 (718) 606-1329
19
3
11
12
13
14
53
15
16
86
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 IL BAMBINO (C,2) (718) 626-0087 34-08 31 Ave, Astoria www.ilbambinonyc.com LENG THAI (B,2) (718) 956-7117 33-09 Broadway, Astoria www.lengthainewyork.com LIC MARKET (B,4) (718) 361-0013 21-52 44th Dr, LIC www.licmarket.com
MEXIBBQ (C,2) (718) 626-0333 37-11 30th Ave, Astoria www.mexiqny.com
40
MEZZE PLACE (B,2) (718) 777-2829 31-18 Broadway, Astoria www.mezzeplace.com
37
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
22
PENTHOUSE808 (A,3) (718) 289-6118 8-08 Queens Plaza South, LIC www.penthouse808rooftop.com
27 38
37-15 30th Ave, Astoria www.pitapanny.com
69
PORTALIA RISTORANTE (B,2) (718) 545-3500 35-03 Broadway, Astoria www.portalianyc.com
74
QUEENS COMFORT (C,2) 718-728-2350 40-09 30th Ave, Astoria www.queenscomfort.com
1
39
RÈST-ÂÜ-RÁNT (B,2) (718) 729-9009 30-01 35th Ave, Astoria www.rarbarlic.com
91
S PRIME STEAK HOUSE (C,2) (718) 707-0660 35-16 36th St, Astoria www.sprimenyc.com
25
SAGE GENERAL STORE (B,4) (718) 361-0707 24-20 Jackson Ave, LIC www.sagegeneralstore.com
28
SHI (A,4) (347) 242-2450 4720 Center Blvd, LIC www.eatdrinkshi.com
55
SKINNY’S (A,4) 718-806-1068 47-05 Center Blvd, LIC
ASTORIA (C,1) 47 INSIDE (718) 956-4000
28-07 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria
(B,1) 48 KRISTEES (718) 204-5031
2401 23rd Ave, Astoria www.kristeesny.com
MALU (A,4) (718) 729-6258 12-09 Jackson Ave, LIC www.amomandpopshop.com
LIVING (A,4) 21 LIC: (718) 361-5650
SWEETLEAF (A,4) (917) 832-6726 10-93 Jackson Ave, LIC www.sweetleaflic.com
31 (B,2) 49 LOVEDAY (718) 728-4057
535 51st Ave. LIC www.licliving.com
3306 31st Ave, Astoria www.loveday31.com
(C,2) 50 SITE (718) 626-6030
35-11 34th Ave, Astoria www.sitenyc.com
ASTORIA BIER & CHEESE (C,2) (718) 545-5588 34-14 Broadway, Astoria ASTORIA PARK WINE AND SPIRITS (B,1) 28-07 24th Ave, Astoria www.astoriaparkwineandspirits.com ASTORIA WINE AND SPIRITS (C,2) (718) 545-9463 3412 Broadway, Astoria www.astoriawines.com FOOD CELLAR (A,4) (718) 606-9786 4-85 47th Rd., LIC www.foodcellarandco.com
PETS 51
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
45
BABYNOIR (B,1) (646) 470-4728 26-16 23rd Ave, Astoria www.babynoir.net
CITY VET (A,4) (718) 433-1334 45-44 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.cityvetnyc.com
COURT VET (C,2) 52 STEINWAY (718) 728-2822
32-14R Steinway, Astoria www.steinwaycourtvet.com
FLORISTS
SHOPS
QUEENS KICKSHAW (C,2) (718) 777-0913 40-17 Broadway, Astoria www.thequeenskickshaw.com
24
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
FOOD SHOPS 36
PAN (C,2) 109 PITA (718) 204-1633
54
FLORESTA (A,4) (917) 612-4446 51-02 Vernon Blvd, LIC 4-85 47th Rd, LIC www.florestanyc.com/blog
FARM CHIC FLOWERS 75 NYC www.nycfarmchicflowers.com AND ROOTS (B,2) 121 PETALS (718) 267- 1700 31-27 31st St, Astoria www.petalsandroots.com
RESTAURANT AND BAR (C, 1) 118 STOVE (718) 956-0372 45-17 28th Ave, Astoria www.stoveastoria.com
FREAK (C,2) 116 SUGAR (718) 726-5850
36-18 30th Ave, Astoria www.sugarfreak.com
30
THYMARI (B,2) (718) 204-2280 32-07 34th Ave, Astoria www.thymari.com
31
VESTA (A,2) (718) 545-5550 2102 30th Ave, Astoria www.vestavino.com
29
WILLIAM HALLET (C,2) (718) 269-3443 36-10 30th Ave, Astoria www.williamhallet.com
BAR AND EATERY (C,2) 108 WINEGASM (718) 932-3331 31-86 37th Rd, Astoria www.winegasmeatery.com
32
YAJAI (B,2) (718) 956-9559 33-16 30th Ave, Astoria www.yajaithaifood.com
33
ASTOR BAKE SHOP (A,2) (718) 606-8439 12-23 Astoria Blvd, Astoria www.astor-bakeshop.com
LINN (B,2) (718) 204-0060 2913 Broadway, Astoria www.linnrestaurant.com LOCALE (B,2) (718) 729-9080 33-02 34th Ave, LIC www.localeastoria.com
34
20
29-03 Broadway, Astoria DIWINE (C,2) (718) 777-1355 41-15 31st Ave, Astoria www.diwineonline.com
MANDUCATIS RUSTICA (A,4) (718) 937-1312 46-3 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.manducatisrustica.com
BAKERIES
Continued on page 18
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SERVICES
CKO KICKBOXING (C, 1)
120 (347) 669-0494
40-06 Astoria Blvd, Astoria www.ckoastoria.com
ARK LOCKSMITH 24/7 SERVICE (C,2)
114 (718) 932-LOCK (5625) 30-10 37th st, Astoria www.Astorialocksmith.com
CLUB FITNESS (B,2)
42 (718) 545-0004
31-11 Broadway, Astoria www.clubfitnessny.com
ASTORIA CENTER OF ISRAEL
119 (718) 278-2680
27-35 Crescent Street, Astoria www.astoriacenter.org
CROSSFIT DYNAMIX GYM (C,1)
76 (718) 606-0381
36-05 20th Ave, Astoria www.dynamixgym.com
DR. PANAGIOTIS PAGONIS, M.D. (B,2)
77 (718) 278-0300
30-16 30th Ave, Astoria www.drpagonismd.com
56
HERO COMPUTER REPAIR NYC Apple/Mac Computer Repair Specialist 347-670-4376 hero@iamhero.net | www.iamhero.net
SEEK FITNESS (B,1)
78 (347) 924-9004
27-18 23rd Ave, Astoria www.seek-fitness.com PNT FITNESS (A,4)
79 (347) 396-5809
10-68 Jackson Ave, LIC www.pntfitness.com
MPN LAW FIRM (C,2)
57 (718) 777-0400
3403 Broadway, Ste. 200, Astoria www.mpnfirm.com
TIGHTAN GYM
60 (718) 274-1606
31-21 31st St, Astoria www.tightan.com
RCN (A,3)
59 Digital TV and High-Speed Internet Services 33-16 Woodside Ave, LIC (212) 842-7981 www.rcn.com/boromag
62
VARDIMAN EYEWEAR (C,2) (718) 204-5037 34-18 Broadway, Astoria www.vardimaneyewear.com
YOGA AGORA (B,2)
73 (718) 626-0680
33-02 Broadway, 2nd Fl, Astoria www.YogaAgora.com THE YOGA ROOM (C,2)
80 (718) 274-0255
38-01 35th Ave, Astoria (718) 786-7962 (A,4) 10-14 47th Rd, LIC www.the-yoga-room.com
VIDEO EXPRESS (C,2)
63 (718)626-0846
3408 30th Ave, Astoria
EVENTS
81
FOUNDRY (A,3)
REJUVENATE FACE AND BODY (B,1) (718) 626-4434 26-17 23rd Ave, Astoria www.Rejuvenatenyc.com
42-38 9TH St, LIC www.thefoundry.info
NIGHTLIFE / BARS
THE RENAISSANCE EVENT HALL (A,1)
65 (718) 274-4590
HOTELS 66
RAVEL (A,3) (718) 289-6101 8-08 Queens Plaza South, LIC www.ravelhotel.com
BOHEMIAN HALL & BEER GARDEN (B,1)
82 (718) 274-4925
2919 24th Ave, Astoria www.bohemianhall.com
83 BREAK (B,2)
(718) 777-5400 3204 Broadway, Astoria www.break-ny.com BRICK BAR (B,2)
84 (718) 267-2735
30-95 33rd St, Astoria www.brickcafe.com
Z NYC HOTEL (A,3)
17 (212) 319-7000
11-01 43rd Ave, LIC www.zhotelny.com
TATTOO SHOPS
DOMAINE WINE BAR (A,4)
85 (718) 784-2350
50-04 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.domainewinebar.com LAUGHING DEVIL (A,4)
68 (347) 913-3845
4738 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.laughingdevil.com
SUPER NOVA TATTOOS (C,1)
67 (718) 274-5712
38-01 23rd Ave, Astoria www.supernovatattoo.com
BEAUTY 71
72
GIGI SALON (C,2) (718) 777-7755 34-17 30th Ave, Astoria www.gigistylingstudio.com PRIMP AND TEASE SALON (A,4) (718) 472-2001 5-02 50th Ave, LIC REDKEN SALOON (C,2)
MOSAIC CAFE AND LOUNGE (B,1)
111 (718) 728-0708
25-19 24th Ave, Astoria www.mosaicnyc.net RAVEN HEAD PUBLIC HOUSE (C,2)
43 (718) 777-7565
3804 Broadway, Astoria www.ravenheadpublichouse.com STUDIO SQ. BEER GARDEN (C,3)
88 (718) 383-1001
35-33 36th St, Astoria www.studiosquarenyc.com SWEET AFTON (C,2)
89 (718) 777-2570
30-09 34th St, Astoria www.sweetaftonbar.com
46 (718) 956-3366
36-17 30th Ave, Astoria www.redkensaloon.com
TANTRA LOUNGE (B,2)
70 (718) 937-4574
35-50 31st St, Astoria www.Tantraloungenyc.com
FITNESS
ART
ANTHEA YOGA&HEALING ARTS
58 CENTER (C,2)
(718) 606-0049 34-01 45th Street, Astoria www.antheacenter.com
31-06 35th St, Astoria www.gabrieleperici.com ASTORIA FINE ARTS DANCE (C,1)
100 (718) 247-0740
38-01 23rd Ave, Astoria www.asfa-dancestudio.com CARNEGIE HALL
107 (212) 247-7800
57th St and 7th Ave, NY www.carnegiehall.org
90
5 POINTZ (B,4) (317) 219-2685 45-46 Davis St, LIC www.5ptz.com
18 | BOROMAG.COM | FEBRUARY 2013
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FLUSHING TOWN HALL
137-35 Northern Blvd, Flushing www.flushingtownhall.org
92
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BEAUDOIN REALTY GROUP (A,4) (718) 505-9220 21-54 45th Ave, LIC www.beaudoinrealtor.com
LAGUARDIA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER (C,3)
101 (718) 784-1110
MUSEUM OF THE MOVING IMAGE (C,2) (718) 784-0077 36-01 35th Ave, Astoria www.movingimage.us NOGUCHI MUSEUM (A,2) (718) 204-7088 9-01 33rd Rd, Astoria www.noguchi.org REISSTUDIOS (A,3) “An international community of established and emerging artists” (718) 570-3663 43-01 22nd St, LIC www.ReisStudios.com SCULPTURECENTER (B,3)
110 (718) 361-1750
44-19 Purves St, LIC www.sculpure-center.org
96
UNDERPENNY (A,4) (917) 517-1492 10-13 50th Ave, LIC
105
31-10 Thomson Ave, LIC www.laguardiaperformingarts.org
94
TEN10 STUDIOS (A,4) (917) 449-9539 10-10 47th Rd, LIC www.ten10studios.com
KAUFMAN ASTORIA STUDIOS (C,2) (718) 706-5300 34-12 36th St, Astoria www.kaufmanastoria.com
113 (718) 482-5151
93
SOCRATES SCULPTURE PARK (A,2) (718) 626-1533 32-01 Vernon Blvd, Astoria www.socratessculpturepark.org
REAL ESTATE
102 (718) 463-7700 x 222
SPAS
64 (718) 786-7776
27-34 21st St, Astoria www.renaissanceofastoria.com
THE ART HOUSE (C,2)
112 (516) 724-1562
THE SECRET THEATRE (B,3) (718) 392-0722 4402 23rd St, LIC www.secrettheatre.com
MODERN SPACES (A,4) 10-63 Jackson Ave, LIC 47-42 Vernon Blvd, LIC 29-20 23rd Ave, Astoria www.modernspacesnyc.com WELLS FARGO HOME MORTGAGE (C,2)
103 (718) 310-4303
3501 30th Ave, Astoria www.wfhm.com
GET YOUR BUSINESS LISTED! Want your business listed in our directory? Call: (718) 866-8089 Email: ADS@BOROmag.com
FEBRUARY 2013 | BOROMAG.COM | 19
DRINKING
QUEENS COFFEE FIX Story DANIEL CROWN
There was a time, not too many years ago, when gourmet coffeehouses were considered far too bohemian for the blue-collar sensibility of Western Queens. Oh, how times have changed. Not only are coffeehouses now ubiquitous in our neighborhood, but they’re also helping redefine the centuries-old café business. Here’s a list of just a few that are drawing citywide accolades for their trailblazing efforts:
THE QUEENS KICKSHAW
SWEETLEAF
40-17 BROADWAY, ASTORIA | 718-777-0913 WWW.THEQUEENSKICKSHAW.COM
10-93 JACKSON AVENUE, LIC | 917-832-6726 WWW.SWEETLEAFLIC.COM
There’s an old adage in the New York City restaurant scene: “Successful businesses do one thing and do it well.” Don’t tell that to The Queens Kickshaw. The Kickshaw began as a coffee purist’s haven in 2010. In 2011, they added micro-brewed beer. A year and a half later, they’re equally renowned for their gourmet grilled-cheese sandwiches. Such versatility hasn’t gone unnoticed. Citing the Kickshaw’s diverse menu, the Village Voice recently named the café the best coffee house in NYC. 20 | BOROMAG.COM | FEBRUARY 2013
It’s a testimony to the quality of SweetLeaf ’s coffee that its accolades are too numerous to list in a few paragraphs. The praise the NYC media has heaped upon the coffee house in recent years reads like a novel-length love letter. In 2010, The New York Times named SweetLeaf one of the city’s top 30 coffee bars. Soon after, Time Out New York placed them on a similar list, while The New York Daily News deemed their cappuccino the best in Queens. More important than its panoply of acclaim – SweetLeaf makes a fine cup of coffee. One of the best in NYC.
COMMUNITEA 47-02 VERNON BLVD, LIC | 718-729-7708 WWW.COMMUNITEA.NET
TRIPLE SHOT WORLD ATLAS CAFE 27-06 QUEENS PLAZA SOUTH, LIC | 646-872-4085
Widely known by Gossip Girl fans as “the place where Vanessa works,” Communitea offers customers much more than a chance to reenact scenes from their favorite post-millennial teen drama. Communitea conducts an Afternoon Tea Service every day between 3-6 p.m. The meal features a three-tiered serving platter, including a choice of any one of 40 teapots from around the world, a home-baked scone and a dessert of the day. They also offer a wide array of gourmet coffees, espressos, mochas and lattes – all of which can be enjoyed amid lots of table space and free Wi-Fi.
The new Queens Plaza is a sight to behold. Thanks in large part to an influx of huge corporate and governmental jobs, what was once an industrial ghost town is now drawing comparisons to the busiest sectors of Manhattan. With the increase in foot traffic, it was inevitable that a line of small cafes and eateries would soon follow. Lucky for those working in the area, the Triple Shot World Atlas transcends proximal convenience. Their scientific approach to brewing coffee has turned more than a few heads in recent months, as has the revolving menu of gourmet soups.
BROOKLYN BAGEL & COFFEE CO. 35-05 BROADWAY, ASTORIA | 718-204-0141 35-09 DITMARS, ASTORIA | 718-932-8280 36-14 30TH AVE, ASTORIA | 718-777-1121 WWW.BKBAGEL.COM
In NYC, bagels and coffee go hand-in-hand. Few do the combination better than Brooklyn Bagel. Since its fi rst location opened in Astoria 10 years ago, Brooklyn Bagel has been the source for a quick and high-quality commuter’s breakfast on route to the N and Q trains. Not that they’re resting on their laurels. Th is year they added a killer Sumatra roast coffee – a traditional Indonesian blend that dates back to the days of the 18th-century Dutch East India Company.
AGNANTI CAFE 19-23 DITMARS BLVD, ASTORIA | 718-606-1391
For years, the Agnanti Restaurant on Ditmars Boulevard has provided one of the most diverse, most affordable Mediterranean menus in all of Western Queens. Their new cafe, which opened last summer, is well on its way to becoming just as essential. Besides offering a small but great list of light breakfast and lunch options, they also sell an arsenal of wickedly strong eastern European beverages. The Greek iced-coffee – known in Greece as a “frappe” –packs enough punch to send even the most acclimated coffee nerd into a frenetic, hyperactive tizzy. FEBRUARY 2013 | BOROMAG.COM | 21
22 | BOROMAG.COM | FEBRUARY 2013
FEBRUARY 2013 | BOROMAG.COM | 23
EXPLORE YOUR BORO
Brighten The Day WITH A
BOUQUET Story MEAGHAN TRAINOR
Whether you’re looking to say “ be mine,” or just “thanks for being you,” there’s never a bad time to brighten someone’s day with a bouquet. Two of Western Queens’ most cutting-edge flower shops gave us their recommendations for letting all of your favorite people know how much they mean to you this Valentine’s Day.
Petals & Roots
PETALS & ROOTS 31-27 31ST ST., ASTORIA | 718.267.1700 PETALSANDROOTSNY.COM
“He’s so detail-oriented – I love him!” Alex Avdoulos recalls gushing to her mom about her now-husband, Peter Avdoulos, during their courtship. Their families were from the same area of Greece, and Peter remembers pining for Alex as a 14-year-old “scrawny little geek” when they both spent a summer there. A decade later, they met up for a friendly outing on a whim, and “it was love at fi rst sight,” she says. He counters: “I was an awkward mess.” But Alex was particularly wooed by the care that he put into home repairs, and by the fact that he was the fi rst guy to buy her flowers – a bouquet she remembers vividly. A few years later they married, and in December they became coowners of Petals & Roots. The “Roots” of the name refers to the fact that both of their parents worked in the flower industry. (“Petals” also has special significance – can you figure it out?) 24 | BOROMAG.COM | FEBRUARY 2013
While their fi rst-generation immigrant parents saw it as a business, for Alex and Peter it’s a lifestyle, a perspective he describes as “our luxury because of what our parents did [for us].” Seeing their two-and-a-half year old son Lucas in the shop gives Peter, who grew up in Astoria, the sense of things coming full circle. The pair of perfectionists wanted to give Petals & Roots a polished look in order to instill confidence in their customers, aiming for a boutique feel without being intimidating or overpriced. The understated elegance of the showroom allows the carefully selected arrangements to speak for themselves. “We love traditional elements, but we’re young and enjoy the contemporary twist,” says Alex, who studied art. They riff off one another’s ideas, and aren’t afraid to be playful with colors and textures. And their trust in each other’s taste and work ethic is instrumental to their success. “Sometimes we belabor things,” says Peter. “I wouldn’t say obsessive…” “I would say obsessive,” Alex cuts in. Peter settles on “constructive compulsive disorder.” The difference? “We enjoy it.”
FLORESTA 51-02 VERNON BLVD., LIC | 347.642.8108 FLORESTNYC.COM
Juan Carlo Bermudez didn’t pick the ideal time to try his hand at the family business (his grandfather was an orchid grower, his father a flower exporter). The recession had just begun, and though he knew luxury goods would be a tougher sell in a weak economy, Bermudez wasn’t deterred. And when his window displays for a now-defunct clothing boutique started generating buzz, he began searching for a space where his business could flourish. By March 2010, he had transformed the “cubby hole” he found into a vibrant oasis, brimming with plant life and smelling like heaven. “Flowers are like wine, like meat; there are different levels of quality,” he says. “I use A+.” He ensures his blooms are super-fresh by ordering them directly from the farms that grow them and makes sure they stay hydrated at all points of the process; he even guarantees the flowers you bring home from fLorEsta will stay in “perfect condition” for at least a week. He also sets himself apart from the pack with unique flowers and fi llers. He has a few pet plant peeves, namely carnations and baby’s breath. “They are not allowed to be here,” he says, adding, “they need a green card.”
fLorEsta
But Bermudez isn’t content to rest on his laurels. He also sells organic candles at his studio, provides arrangements for local restaurants and is a fi xture at the LIC supermarket Food Cellar. And he’s looking to expand further in the near future, so stay tuned. “I’m not afraid to do something different,” he says. “I’m a florist for happiness.”
V-DAY FLOWERS CHEAT SHEET Recommended by...
PETALS & ROOTS
FLORESTA
FOR ROMANTIC LOVE
Red roses: “Red roses are timeless and recognized as the symbol of love and passion.”
Assorted red roses, freedom roses, black magic and baccara roses, dark berries: “Red represents love and beauty.”
FOR PLATONIC LOVE
Mango calla lilies: “Mango Callas are perfect for that friend who appreciates the nontraditional.”
Circus roses, blue hydrangea, green hydrangea, green cabbage, orange spray roses, crespidia, yellow spray roses: “A range of flowers, and the color yellow, represent enthusiasm and gladness.”
FOR FAMILIAL LOVE
Hydrangea, tulips, peonies, roses and lilies: “A delicate arrangement of pastel hues reminds us to think of mom.”
Pink antique hydrangea, amnesia roses, pink calla lilies, purple lisianthus, blue curiosa roses: “Light colors represent admiration and gratitude.” FEBRUARY 2013 | BOROMAG.COM | 25
EXPLORE YOUR BORO
QUEENS LOVES TO READ Story MATTHEW TAYLOR
NYC is arguably America’s literary hub. Classic works and contemporary novels alike use the city as their setting. Streets teem with aspiring and accomplished poets, playwrights and novelists. And annual events – whether it’s the Brooklyn Book Festival or community readings in local cafes – ensure the written word stays very much relevant and vibrant. It’s no different in Western Queens, often praised for its arts scene. This month, BORO delivers the scoop on everything you need to know when it comes to stories and poems in Queens.
26 | BOROMAG.COM | FEBRUARY 2013
Waltz-Astoria
Newtown Literary Journal www.newtownliterary.org
Boundless Tales Reading Series at Waltz-Astoria 23-14 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria www.boundlesstales.blogspot.com
Boundless Tales hosts a reading on the third Thursday of every month – February 21 at 8 PM this time around – at Waltz-Astoria, a coffee/wine bar and favorite local hangout for creative types. Aida Zilelian, a short story writer and novelist who started Boundless Tales in September 2011, sees the series as an alternative to the majority of NYC readings, which “more often than not exclusively cater to established writers.” These monthly gatherings instead offer a venue and engaged audience for “emerging writers or writers who are underrepresented.” As with many less mainstream readings, the works you hear at Boundless Tales are incredibly diverse and unique, ranging from fiction/nonfiction to poetry and plays. Interested in sharing your own work? Head to boundlesstales.blogspot.com for submission guidelines.
The inaugural issue of this semi-annual literary journal focusing on Queens-based writing came out in Fall 2012. The launch party, hosted by Boundless Tales, was standing room only – a testament to the appreciation for a lit journal by and for our borough. Tim Fredrick, editor of Newtown Literary, says that the idea for the journal began when he was meeting up with other local writers seeking a community. He discovered “how much good writing is coming out of Queens but isn’t associated with…the borough.” Fredrick wanted a journal to provide “a permanent record that could extend beyond one night [readings] and beyond the boundaries of the borough.” As the first issue illustrated, writers in Queens are as diverse as the borough itself. As Fredrick says, “There is no Queens ‘aesthetic’ when it comes to the writing and poetry. It varies as much as the people here vary.” To order your copy of Newtown Literary’s first issue (available in both print and electronic formats) visit newtownliterary.org. And if you want to see your own work in the May 2013 issue, the submission deadline is February 28 (see guidelines on the website).
Oh, Bernice! Reading Series at Café Marlene 41-11 49th St, Sunnyside | www.ohbernice.com
The Oh, Bernice! Reading Series evolved from the 12-person writers’ collective of the same name. In January 2012, the group, which workshops its members’ writing monthly, began to host readings in the basement of Café Marlene on the third Saturday of each month. Tyler Rivenbark, series organizer and resident playwright, says, “Oh, Bernice! is built on the idea of cross genre collaboration. We have poets, non-fiction and fiction prose, humor, music [and] plays.” Readings have featured Grammy Award winners, Guggenheim fellows, Obie Award nominees, and more. Overall, Oh, Bernice! challenges the stereotypical notions of what a literary event looks like. According to Rivenbark, “We’re still new and experimenting with what’s possible within the quarters of a reading series.” Catch the next reading on Saturday, February 16 at 7:30 PM!
Café Marlene FEBRUARY 2013 | BOROMAG.COM | 27
EXPLORE YOUR BORO FOOD
Lexi Beach co-owner of The Astoria Bookshop
Four of The Astoria Bookshop’s February recommendations – in the theme of love – to tide you over until their store opens. For more books and news, visit www.astoriabookshop.com.
Hikikomori and the Rental Sister
By Jeff Backhaus
Photo by NY Daily News
Queens resident Jeff Backhaus’s first novel is a wistful story about two people trying to find their way in the world after personal tragedies. In the process, they find each other, but it’s not a traditional romance in any way. It’s lovely, sad, and strangely sweet. A Tale of Two Cities
By Charles Dickens
The Astoria Bookshop www.astoriabookshop.com
The Astoria Bookshop has yet to finalize a location and open its doors, but Lexi Beach and Connie Rourke, the entrepreneurs and passionate readers behind the shop, have already generated significant buzz in the neighborhood. While some of this can be attributed to predictable excitement about a much-needed independent bookstore in Astoria, the work that Beach and Rourke have done to demonstrate their commitment to the literary community in our neighborhood plays an even more significant role. The Astoria Bookshop has hosted two of its own author events, featuring successful writers from the borough at local businesses SITE and Bohemian Hall & Beer Garden. This emphasis on cultivating spaces and events for readers and writers is, according to Beach, “as much a part of our store philosophy as it is a part of our business plan.” The shop will host events such as children’s story hours, author readings, book club meetings, and writer’s groups. Beach and Rourke are optimistic about opening a bookshop in Astoria. Beach says they have seen “good evidence that residents are supportive of these small business ventures, [and] the community’s response has been wonderful and enthusiastic.” Both women share a lifelong love for reading, thanks in large part to their families. Rourke says, “I get a lot of joy out of suggesting titles in every genre, especially paranormal fiction, romance, and even a few of the classics I read in high school.” 28 | BOROMAG.COM | FEBRUARY 2013
The rejuvenating love between father and daughter. The tender love between a newly wed husband and wife. The unrequited love of a would-be suitor. The fanatical, blood thirsty love of country. It doesn’t matter what type of love story you’re searching for – this book has it all. The Geometry of Pasta
By Caz Hildebrand and Jacob Kenedy This unusual cookbook is comprised solely of recipes for pasta dishes, organized by noodle type. The idea is that certain shapes and sauces are made for each other – think linguine with clams, baked ziti or the less common campanelle with mackerel, tomato and rosemary. Written on the Body
By Jeanette Winterson The set-up of this love story would feel like a gimmick if Winterson weren’t such a brilliant writer. The novel is told in the first person, and the gender of the narrator is never revealed. It’s a fable of romance, sex, jealousy and tragedy – all the elements of the best kind of human drama.
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LOVE
WHY YOU
LOVE QUEENS Story MATTHEW TAYLOR
W
e often hear from our readers how much they love living in Western Queens – maybe it’s a kind word from someone perusing BORO at a favorite restaurant or while waiting for the train, or perhaps it’s a comment on a Facebook post. This month, we dug a little deeper to ask readers a simple question: “What do you love most about living in Western Queens?” Leith McMenamin, Student: Long Island City is my favorite neighborhood in New York City. I love it because I can get my favorite coffee at Sweetleaf and a delicious mimosa-heavy brunch at Dominies Hoek. The cultural diversity here means that we have some of the most interesting restaurants in the city. Luckily, Gantry Plaza State Park is pretty enough that I want to work off all that delicious food! Ran Craycraft, Founder and Blogger at whyleaveastoria.com: This place has a way of consuming you – in a good way. Astoria was my seventh city as an adult and even though I wasn’t a familiar face on the block, the neighborhood instantly gave me a chance. I love that Astoria has an open-door policy and we constantly evolve as a community, every day becoming an even better place to live. Heather Park, Director Digital Media NARS Cosmetics: There’s still this incredible quality of realness about Astoria that I cherish. It’s old and new worlds living together; an incredible diversity of cultures, countries and cuisines that co-exist in an authentic, harmonious community. Also, people here are pleasant and polite, not pretentious – a refreshing rarity.
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Emma Cason-Pratt, Graphic Designer: Queens has a good mix of the old and new. Old families, who have raised generations here, foster a sense of safety and community that you just don’t get in the other boroughs. New restaurants, shops and nightlife make Queens a destination for those who want Manhattanquality for an affordable price. Plus, it’s a quick ride into the city or to the airport.
Christine Haber, Local Queens Artist: I’ve been living in Astoria for the past fifteen years. I love it here so much that I started silk screening the I HEART ASTORIA t-shirts. I also work locally at Sweet Afton. Living and working in Astoria is so great because of the people and community. Astoria has so much to offer, you never have to leave. Megan Siefert, Hair Stylist: I love the restaurants, old and new. The way restaurants challenge themselves and reinvent food is exciting and so convenient! The vintage shops and Steinway Street shopping makes it enjoyable to go shopping and not be bombarded with crowds. Astoria Park challenges me to get fit and stay healthy while the pool gives me a chance to cool off and relax over the hot summers. Every day I have the pleasure of walking through Sunnyside Gardens to get to work. Jean McClean, Bookkeeper: I love Western Queens for the diversity of restaurants. Where else can you have Italian, Mexican, sushi, Indian or any other type of ethnic food you can think of, all within walking distance or a short bus/subway ride away?
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