VOL 1:3 FEBRUARY 2011 RESTAURANTS // SHOPPING // GREEN LIVING // NIGHTLIFE // ART // CULTURE // ENTERTAINMENT // NUTRITION //
at in the A be st st o LI ria spo C an ts d
FREE
DI GR SC E OU AT NT S
THE LOVE ISSUE
NEW FEBRUARY PROMOTIONS FROM OUR ADVERTISERS AND SUPPORTERS
Shop, eat and play locally and support our community. Enjoy the discounts below from some of Astoria and LIC’s best merchants. Sign up for the BORO newsletter at BOROMAG.COM to receive additional exclusive BORO Insider promotions all month long. Offers available through February 28, 2011. Limited to 1 use per reader. Merchant restrictions may apply.
10% off all wine purchases with this coupon.
1 FREE glass of wine or dessert with meal (redeemable Mon.-Thurs. Excludes Prix Fixe. Limited to select wines) with coupon.
1 FREE glass of wine or ½ off a cocktail with meal with this coupon.
CAFE VIA ESPRESSO 1 FREE dessert with your meal with this coupon.
1 FREE Dessert with any entrée with this coupon.
15 % off your order when dining in or taking out (excludes deliveries) with this coupon.
1 FREE drink with meal with this coupon.
1 Free glass of wine or dessert with your meal Sunday – Thursday with this coupon.
1 FREE drink on Monday or Tuesday with this coupon.
Receive 10% off with this coupon.
Take $10 OFF any product or service over $50 with this coupon (not to be combined with any other offer).
10% off for first-time clients with this coupon.
2 WEEKS, UNLIMITED CLASSES FOR JUST $40 (must email at least 3 hours before to sign up for desired classes).
First class FREE! 2nd and 3rd class half price with this coupon.
$49 for one month of unlimited classes (new students only) with this coupon.
15% off a single service with this coupon (not to be combined with any other offer).
15% off a single service with this coupon (not to be combined with any other offer).
Receive a FREE manicure with any facial with this coupon.
20% off complete pair of glasses with this coupon.
Save $40 on your Valentine flowers when you place order before 2-10-11. Two dozen roses for $100 ($140 Value) with this coupon.
Receive 15% off with this coupon.
20% off all merchandise with this coupon.
Ravel Hotel: 1 FREE drink at Penthouse808 with this coupon.
10% off all services for first-time clients with this coupon.
The BORO team. Visit BOROMAG.com to learn how to become a member and to join our newsletter.
4 FOOD
Dish to Dish. Local chefs and owners reveal the restaurants they love.
8 BODY & SOUL
Love Thyself. Five great spas you deserve to pamper yourself with.
18 NIGHTLIFE & ENTERTAINMENT
Love for Winter Nightlife. Six local bars to warm up to. 24 ART / FASHION
Spring 2011 Buyer’s Guide To Fashion. Astoria’s hottest
boutiques reveal their favorite items and looks for Spring 2011.
28 REAL ESTATE
10 GREEN LIVING
Cultivating Change From Astoria.
12 FEBRUARY EVENT LISTINGS 13 MAP IT DIRECTORY
Your Go-to Guide For Astoria and LIC’s best Shops, Food, Art, Nightlife and More.
14 MAP IT: ASTORIA & LIC MAP 22 ENTERTAINMENT
Cringe Worthy Pick-up Lines Overheard At Your Local Bars.
cover image: Robert F. Kennedy Bridge (Triborough) by daniel pando
Love At First Site. Three of the most beautiful residential buildings in Long Island City.
ADVERTISE IN BORO:
ads@boromag.com // 914.426.2939 // www.boromag.com/advertise
EDITOR AND PUBLISHER julian lesser // EDITOR john lee // COPY EDITOR norm elrod // CREATIVE DIRECTOR paul connolly ART DIRECTORS alt, philippe trinh // CONTRIBUTING DESIGNER alberto michieli // STAFF WRITERS daniel crown, jared killeen, christopher de la torre, rebecca mcnamara, suzanne sitelman, mickey z, bradley hawkes // 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. All materials Copyright © 2011 BORO / All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without permission of the publisher.
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DISH TO DISH LOCAL CHEFS AND OWNERS REVEAL THE RESTAURANTS THEY LOVE TO BRADLEY HAWKS
Story & images by Bradley Hawks Creator of Amuse * Bouche (www.bradleyhawks.com)
• ORNELLA TRATTORIA ITALIANA • Italian for “envelope,” the imbustata is a baked pasta parcel packed with roasted veal, chicken, wild mushrooms, spinach and a blend of soft cheeses, all sealed with a kiss of robust tomato sauce and even more cheese. With a father who ran his own flourmill in Salerno, chef-owner Giuseppe Viterale showcases an array of homemade pastas made from such unique flours as chickpea, chestnut and buckwheat. The intimate dining room, hand-painted like a charming Italian piazza – with street signs for each of the Viterale sons – will be offering a choice of pastas or risottos for just $10 on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings, along with Tuesday’s $10 steak nights during the month of February.
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I organized a game of foodie taste tag, asking a few restaurants to identify where they love to dine during the rare occasions they find time to step away from their own kitchens. To kick-off this edible flow chart, I snagged a table at the restaurant currently serving my favorite dish in Astoria, the imbustata at Ornella Trattoria.
• BRICK CAFÉ • Ornella Viterale, the namesake of Ornella Trattoria, then steered me to longtime neighborhood favorite Brick Café, where she loves the rotating selection of risotto. The low hum of conversation harmonizes with the aroma of garlic baked bread in a dining room lifted directly from a rustic Italian countryside bed and breakfast. Tonight, the creamy rice was jeweled with a confetti of sweet sausage, broccoli and tangy sundried tomatoes. But the real treat came when the chef invited me to sample a house favorite reserved for special occasions – to be featured on Valentine’s Day, of course. Foodies will flip head-over-feet when Chef Cupid shoots an arrow cloud of four cheeses (parmigiano, gorgonzola, ricotta and goat cheese) into homemade ravioli tossed with shitake mushrooms in a festive red beet pesto.
• IL BAMBINO • Without even a split second of hesitation, Brick Café owner Kristen Connolly and her staff sent me to the popular paninoteca Il Bambino, where my arm was twisted to try the truff le egg salad and shaved speck crostini. What’s not to love about drool-inducing toasted artisan bread piled with a dollop of creamy egg salad, a kiss of truffle oil and a paper thin slice of smoked prosciutto for just $5.50? An ideal date destination (the crostini come two to an order), diners can personalize tasting boards of handmade meats and cheeses paired with a carefully edited selection of international wines and craft beers. Spanish-style tapas are also offered. My favorite: a salad of fingerling potatoes gently tossed in truff le aioli with flakes of crunchy fried shallots, a drizzle of basil pesto and a blizzard of pecorino cheese shavings. continued on next page
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• BREAD BOX CAFÉ • For the next stop on my savory scavenger hunt, I hopped over a few streets to find the love in Long Island City. When it comes to classic Big Apple cuisine, it doesn’t get much more New York than a bagel and cream cheese. While newcomer Bread Box Café serves up a colorful variety of homemade bagels and spreads, it was the sandwiches that enticed me most. With the recent burger craze sweeping the borough, I just had to try the steakhouse chopped short rib burger with smoked onions and gruyere on a buttery grilled brioche roll from Tomkat Bakery, all served with homemade chips. The sandwich that won me over, however, was a deliciously sloppy mess you could only devour in front of a loved one. I ravenously dug into the BBQ pulled chicken, a juicy haystack of shredded poultry that drips a Nor’easter rainfall’s worth of sweet and smoky barbecue sauce with each bite. Like a cuddly bulldog, it’s an adorably ugly sandwich you simply cannot help but love.
18 PAGE
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BRICK CAFE
15 IL BAMBINO
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BREAD BOX CAFE
28 SHI RESTAURANT
22 ORNELLA TRATTORIA ITALIANA
• SHI RESTAURANT, LOUNGE, & BAR • After switching to my elastic waistband corduroys, the team at Bread Box Café directed me to Shi, where they regularly gather after work in the chandelier-studded lounge and dining room that offers breathtaking views of Manhattan. Here you can choose from an eclectic array of entrees and sushi or build a feast of delicious small plates called Palate Pleasers. Bacon makes everything better, and at Shi they wrap it around steamed shrimp balls before dropping them in the deep fryer. Scorned lovers might at least find culinary comfort in The Blues, a sushi roll filled with blue king crab and cucumber and gorgeously crowned with ruby red f lying fish eggs. But the must-try dish for any fusion fanatic is the Medusa, a salmon roll topped with fresh mozzarella, fried onions and a drizzle of savory eel sauce. Next stop…a long, sweet nap. In an economy that has seen fewer diners packing restaurants, it was refreshing to find chefs and owners enthusiastically supporting their neighboring eateries. But the next time I embark on a dining decathlon, I should probably pair it with a fitness flow chart of gyms and trainers who can recommend other sports clubs too… Visit BOROmag.com/food for more great restaurant reviews and recipes.
BODY + SOUL
“Love Thyself ” Story Suzanne Sitelman
Valentine’s Day is all about love. What better way to celebrate than with some much needed pampering? Astoria and LIC have long provided local residents with a wide selection of high quality spas, and many of these businesses give a little love back to their clientele with exclusive Valentine’s Day promotions. Whether you are romantically entangled or embracing singlehood, be sure to check out these five spas for some well-deserved T.L.C.
REJUVENATE FACE AND BODY With a conscious, holistic approach to beauty, Rejuvenate Spa offers clients a unique concept in skin care. By examining diet, exercise and overall health, as well as through careful skin and body analysis, Evelyn Gatzonis and her staff of expert beauty professionals craft specialized treatments that cater to the precise needs of each individual.
Rejuvenate Spa uses only natural, organic products that are both high in quality and cruelty-free. Moreover, customers are provided with a safe, non-toxic environment where they can receive the services, products and education needed to become completely rejuvenated – both inside and out!
THE FACE AND BODY SHOP One of the oldest spas and salons in Astoria, owner Evie Tsikkos attributes her longevity to one particular factor: the ability to provide her clients with individualized care using the most up-to-date equipment, products and treatments. Specifically, by utilizing modern technology – such as ultrasound – to both analyze and treat skin-related issues, the educated staff can determine a customer’s individual needs and provide the specialized services necessary to ensure the most effective skin care treatment.
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81 REJUVENATE FACE AND BODY
105 ANASA DAY SPA
108 THE FACE AND BODY SHOP
106 ANGEL SPA
107 EUPHORA SPA
Visit BOROmag.com/Astoria-spas for a comprehensive listing of all promotions and packages offered by your local spa.
Plus, at The Face And Body Shop, science truly meets beauty. Even the products are high tech; in fact, it’s the only spa in Astoria to offer a line of products from Klapp, a Swiss company that uses stem cell extracts from apples proven to help rejuvenate aging skin.
EUPHORA Step inside the modest exterior to be instantly transported to a chic, modern atmosphere that rivals the glamour of any high-priced Manhattan spa and hair salon. Euphora provides its patrons with a multi-floor, cheerfully appointed and spacious interior, complete with Jacuzzi and cooling pool, coral rock steam room, Russian sauna, regular sauna, private treatment rooms for both couples and singles and a well-stocked juice bar. From 9pm-2am, Thursday through Saturday, the spa is exclusively open to couples. With an extensive range of high quality services, Astoria/LIC residents no longer need to travel into Manhattan to enjoy a truly deluxe spa experience.
ANASA DAY SPA
pampering treatments is anything but reserved. Anasa is known for offering five-star services that range from an Ice Cream Sundae Pedicure (yummy!) to the Signature Honey Body Scrub, a service recently featured on a Japanese television talk show! Highlighted by the Queens Daily News in its 2010 “Best of the Boros: Beauty” article, this charming, family-owned business provides its loyal customers with a series of unique beauty treatments that make this spa a hidden gem.
ANGEL SPA As owner Rosie Boucos says, “We invite all that cross our path to escape their world as they enter ours.” As promised, it only takes a moment inside this Steinway gem to feel relaxed. The soft lighting, gold-colored walls and sweet smell of candles immediately provide patrons with an ambience of escape and relief. As Citysearch Editor Katie Heffernan explains, “This spa is a labor of love.” Perhaps that sentiment is due to Rosie’s spa philosophy: to nurture, educate and help customers restore health and vitality to their bodies, leaving them recharged, relaxed and radiant.
Located just a short walk from the 30th Avenue N/Q train stop, the atmosphere of Anasa Day Spa is one of modest elegance. And yet, reviews for this spa’s unique series of
GREAT FEBRUARY SPA PROMOTIONS REJUVENATE SPA Take $10 off any product or service over $50. THE FACE AND BODY SHOP Schedule any spa treatment in the month of February and receive a free eye treatment.
EUPHORA Champagne Extravaganza for two: $350 per couple (Reg. $450)
ANASA DAY SPA 15% off a single service.
ANGEL SPA Get a FREE manicure with any facial.
*Some restrictions may apply. Bring in your BORO Magazine to receive these great promotions.
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GREEN LIVING
CULTIVATING CHANGE FROM ASTORIA Story Daniel Crown Photo Amani Kidava
Founded by Astoria residents Alexi Panos and Tennille Amor, Everyday People Initiating Change – or E.P.I.C. – personifies love paid forward. Looking for a way to make a positive impact in Africa, the non-profit drilled their first clean-water well in the summer of 2006. Setting up base in Tanzania, they provided an impoverished village with safe, disease-free water they otherwise wouldn’t have had access to. Since then, Panos and Amor have returned every year, and the positive effects have been exponential. “We call it the Ripple Project,” Panos said, “because when you drop a well in a village and place it relatively close to most homes, it affects so many things.” According to Panos, E.P.I.C. generally locates its wells just outside of a village’s school, which usually doubles as a town’s central location. Doing so, she explains, improves the lives of those who use it in just about every conceivable way. The time saved from not having to walk long distances allows adult women to take jobs or create small businesses that can add a second income for a struggling family. Children are suddenly free from treacherous late night or early morning treks. Students are able to attend school more regularly. And of course, there are the massive health benefits of clean water. In short, the wells allow villagers the freedom to live their lives in any manner they see fit. Moreover, the residents of these villages tend to take what they’ve learned and pass it on to their neighbors. So while Panos and Amor plant the seed, it is the people of Tanzania that work to see it grow. “The biggest 10
differences we make in Tanzania are those we make with the individuals we meet,” Amor said. “And yes, while the drilling of the wells is the most important thing about our work, at the same time the relationships we make are what make the changes sustainable.” Fittingly enough, Panos believes these very same lessons could and should be applied back home. “People don’t realize or don’t want to realize that we [have] our own water crisis here in the United States,” she said. “We all waste water. Even (Amor) and I have a problem with this sometimes.” Amor agrees. Not unlike a well drilled deep in the heart of an African village, small preservations in the home can also generate wide-ranging effects. “It is never our goal to make anyone feel bad,” she said, “but if we are all a bit more conscious and take these little steps, maybe they will ripple outward and have an effect on the world at large.” To learn more about E.P.I.C or to make donations, please visit www.epicthemovement.org. Three Tips For Conserving Water 1. Avoid letting the water faucet run while you brush your teeth, wash your face or shave and save up to four gallons of water a minute! That’s 200 gallons a week for a family of four. 2. Shorten your shower by a minute or two and you’ll save up to 150 gallons per month. 3. Turn off the water while you wash your hair to save up to 150 gallons a month.
FEBRUARY EVENTS 2/5 @ 8PM (MUSIC) WALTZ-ASTORIA: Bryce Larson & Others
2/12 @ 12PM (MOVIE) GREATER ASTORIA HISTORICAL SOCIETY:
2/17 – 2/20, 2/23 – 2/27 @ 8PM (THEATER) THE SECRET THEATER: The Knight of the Burning Pestle
2/6 @ 6PM (SPORTS) SWEET AFTON: Super Ball Party + TV
2/13 & 2/27 12-5PM (SHOPPING) ASTORIA MARKET RE-OPENS
2/17 – 2/19, 2/24 – 2/26, 3/3 - 3/5 @ 8PM (THEATER) THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY: Second Language
$10 Drink Minimum 718-956-8742 I 23-14 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria www.waltz-astoria.com
$4 pints and $5 mixed drinks 718-777-2570 I 30-09 34th St, Astoria www.SweetAftonBar.com
2/7 @ 7PM (ART + MUSIC) EL AY SI: Live Music and Art Cocktail Party 718-389-8781 I 47-38 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.ElAySi.com
2/11 @ 8PM (MUSIC) WALTZ-ASTORIA: Pete O’Neill & Others
Screening of Gone with the Wind 718-278-0700 I 35-20 Broadway, 4th Fl, LIC www.astorialic.org
718-274-4925 I 2919 24TH AVE, ASTORIA www.AstoriaMarket.com
2/14 VALENTINE’S DAY (EVERYTHING!!!) Specials across the board!!! Brick, Blend, El Ay Si, DiWine, Rejuvenate Face and Body Spa, Floresta and much more. www.boromag.com/valentines-day
2/14-2/17 DINNER (FOOD) MEXIQ: BEER AND DINNER PAIRING
$10 Drink Minimum 718-956-8742 I 23-14 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria www.waltz-astoria.com
$48: 5 Courses of dinner and beer 718-626-0333 I 37-11 30th Ave, Astoria www.mexiqny.com
2/11 7-10PM (PARTY) PNT FITNESS: Grand Opening Party: Wine and
2/15 @ 7PM (MUSEUM) MUSEUM OF THE MOVING IMAGE: An
Prizes! 347-396-5809 I 10-68 Jackson Ave, LIC www.PNTfitness.com
General Admission: $18 718-392-0722 I 44-02 23rd St, LIC www.secrettheatre.com
General Admission: $15 718-482-7069 I 5-49 49th Ave, LIC www.chocolatefactorytheater.org
2/20 2 – 7PM (ART) JEFFREY LEDER GALLERY: Wilfredo Chiesa Opening 212-924-8944 I 1105 44th Rd, 3rd Fl, LIC www.jeffreyledergallery.com
2/23 7-10PM (MUSIC) MANDUCATIS RUSTICA: An Evening with Lew Soloff & Special Guest ( RSVP Required) 718-937-1312 I 46-33 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.manducatisrustica.com
Evening with Bill Cosby Live General Admission: $30 718-784-0077 I 36-01 35th Ave, Astoria www.movingimage.us
For a complete calendar of Astoria/LIC events visit BOROmag.com/events SUBMIT YOUR EVENT FOR FREE: Events@BOROmag.com
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MAP IT DIRECTORY FOOD
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RESTAURANTS 1
5 NAPKIN BURGER (C,2) (718) 433-2727 35-01 36th St, Astoria www.5napkinburger.com
2
ALIADA (B,2) (718) 932-2240 2919 Broadway, Astoria
3
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 BRICK CAFE (B,2) (718) 267-2735 30-95 33rd St, Astoria www.brickcafe.com BLEND (A,4) (718) 729-2800 47-04 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.blendlic.com BREAD BOX CAFE (A,4) (718) 389-9700 4711 11th St, LIC www.breadboxcafelic.com BUGATTI CAFE (C,2) (718) 626-1115 31-05 34th St, Astoria
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IL BAMBINO (C,2) (718) 626-0087 34-08 31st Ave, Astoria www.ilbambinonyc.com
29 VESTA (A,2)
LA PAPA (B,2) (718) 777-7879 2513 30th Ave, Astoria www.lapapaonline.com
30 WATER’S EDGE (A,4)
LIC MARKET (B,4) (718) 361-0013 21-52 44th Dr, LIC www.licmarket.com
31 WINEGASM (C,2)
LINN (B,2) (718) 204-0060
32 YAJAI (B,2)
(718) 932-3331 31-86 37th St, Astoria www.winegasmeatery.com (718) 956-9559 33-16 30th Ave, Astoria www.yajaithaifood.com
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LOCALE (B,2) (718) 729-9080 33-02 34th Ave, LIC www.localeastoria.com
BAKERIES & COFFEE SHOPS
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M. WELLS DINER (B,4) (718) 425-6917 21-17 49th Ave, LIC www.mwellsdiner.com
www.linnrestaurant.com
103 MANDUCATIS RUSTICA (A,4)
(718) 937-1932 46-3 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.manducatisrustica.com
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MEXIQ (C,2) (718) 626-0333 37-11 30th Ave, Astoria www.mexiqny.com ORNELLA TRATTORIA ITALIANA (B,1) (718) 777-9477 29-17 23rd Ave, Astoria www.ornellatrattoria.com
33 ASTOR BAKE SHOP (A,2)
(718) 606-8439
12-23 Astoria Blvd, Astoria
www.astor-bakeshop.com 34 BROOKLYN BAGEL & COFFEE
COMPANY (C,2) (718) 204-0141 35-05 Broadway, Astoria
35 BROOKLYN BAGEL & COFFEE
COMPANY (C,1) (718) 932-8280 35-09 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria
36 BROOKLYN BAGEL & COFFEE
COMPANY (C,2) (718) 777-1121 36-14 30th Ave, Astoria www.bkbagel.com
BURGER GARAGE (B,3) (718) 392-0424 25-36 Jackson Ave, LIC www.theburgergarage.com
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37 COMMUNITEA (A,4)
CAVO (C,2) (718) 721-1001 42-18 31st Ave, Astoria www.cavoastoria.com
MUNDO (B,2) (718) 777-2829 31-18 Broadway, Astoria www.mundoastoria.com
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POMME CAFE (C,2) (718) 545-4301 37-19 Broadway, Astoria www.pommecafeny.com
38 CREAM BAKERY (A,2)
(718) 545-3290 2409 Steinway St, Astoria www.cafeviaespressoastoria.com 25 SAGE GENERAL STORE (B,4) (718) 361-0707 12 CRESCENT AND VINE (B,1) 24-20 Jackson Ave, LIC (718) 204-4774 www.sagegeneralstore.com 2503 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria 26 SANFORDS RESTAURANT (B,2) 13 DIWINE (C,2) (718) 932-9569 (718) 777-1355 30-13 Broadway 41-15 31st Ave, Astoria Astoria www.diwineonline.com www.sanfordsnyc.com
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(718) 482-0033 401 44th Dr, LIC www.watersedgenyc.com
2913 Broadway, Astoria
104 CAFÉ VIA ESPRESSO (C,1)
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(718) 545-5550 2102 30th Ave, Astoria www.vestavino.com
EL AY SI (A,4) (718) 389-8781 47-38 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.elaysi.com
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FATTY’S (B,1) (718) 267-7071 2501 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria www.fattyscafenyc.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
(718) 729-7708 47-02 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.communitea.net (718) 545-3800 31-78 Steinway St, Astoria www.creambakeryny.com
39 CRANKY’S CAFE (A,4)
(347) 738-4921 48-19 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.crankyscafe.com
40 PARISI BAKERY (B,2)
(718) 728-5282 30-17 Broadway, Astoria www.parisibakeryastoria.com
41 SWEETLEAF (A,4)
(917) 832-6726 10-93 Jackson Ave, LIC www.sweetleaflic.com
FOOD SHOPS
43 FOOD CELLAR (A,4)
(718) 606-9786 4-85 47th Rd., LIC www.foodcellarandco.com
44 FRESH START (B,1)
(718) 204-7868 29-13 23rd Ave, Astoria www.fsorganic.com
45 NATURAL FRONTIER FOOD
MARKET (A,4) (718) 937-9399 12-01 Jasckson Ave, LIC www.naturalfrontiermarket.net
46 SAI ORGANICS (B,2)
(718) 278-1726 30-21 30th Avenue, Astoria www.saiorganics.com
47 VITALITY AND HEALTH ORGANIC
MARKET (C,2) (718) 777-8477 46-03 Broadway, Astoria
SHOPS
CLOTHING & GIFTS 48 BELIEF (B,1)
(718) 721-4444 29-20b 23rd Ave, Astoria www.beliefnyc.com
49 CANDY PLUM (C,2)
(718) 721-2299 3098 36th St, Astoria www.candyplum.com
50 CREATORS CO-OP (B,1)
(917) 751-8177 26-16 23rd Ave, Astoria www.creators-coop.com 51 ETHEREAL (A,4) (718) 482-8884 47-38 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.etherealnyc.com 52 INSIDE ASTORIA (C,1)
(718) 956-4000 37-20 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria
53 KrisTEES (B,1)
(718) 204-5031 2401 23rd Ave, Astoria www.kristeesny.com
54 LOVEDAY 31 (B,2)
(718) 728-4057 3306 31st Ave, Astoria www.loveday31.com
55 SITE (C,2)
(718) 626-6030 32-90 36th St, Astoria www.shopsiteonline.com
42 ASTORIA WINE AND SPIRITS (C,2)
(718) 545-9463 3412 Broadway, Astoria www.astoriawines.com
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MAP IT DIRECTORY FLORISTS 57
FLORESTA (A,4) (917) 612-4446 51-02 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.florestanyc.com/blog
HOTELS 69
PETS THE JUMPING BULLDOG: A 58 BOUTIQUE FOR CATS AND DOGS (B,1) 70 (718) 274-2510 28-10 23rd Ave, Astoria www.jumpingbulldog.com 59 KITTY AND DOGGIE LOUNGE: DAYCARE AND SPA (A,4) (347) 642-4022 48-18 Vernon Blvd, LIC
SERVICES 91
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ASTORIA’S BICYCLE REPAIRMAN (C,2) (718) 706-0450 40-21a 35th Ave, Astoria www.bikerepairman.com BUILD IT GREEN! (A,1) (718) 777-0132 3-17 26th Ave, Astoria www.bignyc.org
BODY + SOUL BEAUTY
ATHENA NAILS (B,2) (718) 278-4597 3111 30th Ave, Astoria
AND BODY (B,1) (718) 626-4434 26-17 23rd Ave, Astoria www.rejuvenatenyc.com
105 ANASA DAY SPA (B,2)
718-777-7720 31-09 Newtown Avenue, Ste. 409, Astoria www.anasadayspa.com
106 ANGEL SPA (C,2)
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GIGI SALON (C,2) (718) 777-7755 34-17 30th Ave, Astoria www.gigistylingstudio.com
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PRIMP AND TEASE SALON (A,4) (718) 472-2001 5-02 50th Ave, LIC
107 EUPHORA MEDI SPA & SALON
FITNESS + HEALTH
108 THE FACE AND BODY SHOP (C,1)
73
ASTORIA SKATE PARK (A,1) In Astoria Park at Hoyt Ave N. and 19th street
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HEART AND SOUL OF YOGA (C,2) (610) 585-8613
32-18 35th St, Basement, Astoria
(718) 267-6440 3284 Steinway Street, Astoria www.angelspa.com
(718) 204-9390 40-21 23rd Avenue, Astoria www.thefaceandbodyshop. com
NIGHTLIFE
MODERN SPACES (A,4) (718) 784-1110 10-63 Jackson Ave, LIC www.modernspacesnyc.com
K2 BOXING CLUB (C,3) (718) 361-5252 34-09 Queens Blvd, L.I.C. www.k2boxing.com
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83 BREAK (B,2)
ONDEMAND PRINTING (C,4) (718) 392-0500 30-02 48th Ave, LIC www.ondemandprinting.com
NEW YORK SPORTS CLUB (C,2) (718) 932-1400 2856 Steinway St, Astoria www.nysc.com
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SEEK FITNESS (B,1) (347) 924-9004 27-18 23rd Ave, Astoria www.seek-fitness.com
84 CANZ (C,2)
PNT FITNESS (A,4) (347) 396-5809 10-68 Jackson Ave, LIC www.pntfitness.com
85 DOMAINE WINE BAR (A,4)
RECYCLE-A-BIKE (A,4) Corner of 5th St and 46th Ave, LIC www.recycleabicycle.org
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SUPER NOVA TATTOOS (C,1) (718) 274-5712 37-12 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria 78 www.supernovatattoo.com VARDIMAN EYEWEAR (C,2) (718) 204-5037 34-18 Broadway, Astoria www.vardimaneyewear.com
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THE YOGA ROOM (C,2) (718) 274-0255 38-01 35th Ave, Astoria www.the-yoga-room.com
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THE YOGA ROOM (A,4) (718) 786-7962 10-14 47 Rd, LIC www.the-yoga-room.com
VIDEO EXPRESS (C,2) (718)626-0846 3408 30th Ave, Astoria
FOUNDRY (A,3) (718) 786-7776 42-38 9TH St, LIC www.thefoundry.info 16
YOGA AGORA (B,2) (718) 626-0680 33-02 Broadway, 2nd Fl, Astoria www.yogaagora.com
MIX CAFE AND LOUNGE (C,2) (347) 642-4840 40-17 30th Ave, Astoria www.mixcafelounge.com
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PENTHOUSE808 (A,3) (718) 289-6118 8-08 Queens Plaza South, LIC www.penthouse808rooftop.com
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RAPTURE LOUNGE (C,2) (718) 626-8044 34-27 28th Ave, Astoria www.rapturelounge.com
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THE SPARROW TAVERN (B,2) (718) 606-2260 24-01 29th St, Astoria www.thesparrowtavern.com
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STUDIO SQUARE BEER GARDEN (C,3) (718) 383-1001 35-33 36th St, Astoria www.studiosquarenyc.com
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SWEET AFTON (C,2) (718) 777-2570 30-09 34th St, Astoria www.sweetaftonbar.com
(718) 786-4558 (C,3) 3815 Northern Blvd, LIC www.euphoraciti.com
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www.heartandsoulofyoga.com
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81 REJUVENATE FACE
MARK ANDERSON (B,1) Certified Public Accountant (646) 961-1866 24-58 Crescent St, Astoria www.markandersontaxes.com
EVENT SPACES 68
RAVEL (A,3) (718) 289-6101 8-08 Queens Plaza South, LIC www.ravelhotel.com
SPAS
82 BOHEMIAN HALL & BEER
GARDEN (B,1) (718) 274-4925 2919 24th Ave, Astoria www.bohemianhall.com (718) 777-5400 3208 Broadway, Astoria www.break-ny.com (718) 545-2269 40-11 30th Ave, Astoria www.canzusa.com (718) 784-2350 50-04 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.domainewinebar.com
86 THE CREEK AND
THE CAVE (A,4) (718) 706-8783 10-93 Jackson Ave, LIC www.creeklic.com
87 DE JA VU (C,2)
(718) 267-8212 33-22 28 Ave, Astoria www.dejavunewyork.com
88 L.I.C. BAR (A,4)
(718) 786-5400 45-58 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.longislandcitybar.com
89 HELLS GATE SOCIAL (A,2)
(718) 204-8313 12-21 Astoria Blvd, Astoria www.hellgatesocial.com
THE ARTS 96
5 POINTZ (B,4) (317) 219-2685 45-46 Davis St, LIC www.5ptz.com
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KAUFMAN ASTORIA STUDIOS (C,2) (718) 706-5300 34-12 36th St, Astoria www.kaufmanastoria.com
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MOMA PS1 (B,4) (718) 784-2084 22-25 Jackson Ave, LIC www.ps1.org
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MUSEUM OF THE MOVING IMAGE (C,2) (718) 784-0077 36-01 35th Ave, Astoria www.movingimage.us
100 NOGUCHI MUSEUM (A,2)
(718) 204-7088 9-01 33rd Rd, Astoria www.noguchi.org
101 SOCRATES SCULPTURE PARK
(A,2) (718) 626-1533 32-01 Vernon Blvd, Astoria www.socratessculpturepark.org
102 UNDERPENNY (A,4)
(917) 517-1492 10-13 50th Ave, LIC
Want your business listed in our Map It Director y? Contact info@boromag.com to learn how.
NIGHTLIFE + ENTERTAINMENT
LOVE FOR WINTER
NIGHTLIFE
LIC Bar
Story by Jared Killeen Photo by Daniel Pando
In February, thoughts turn to the comforts of the bedroom. Evenings are spent beneath covers, needs quietly met by a favorite book, a warm lover, a long nap. It is the month of Valentine’s Day, after all, a time for happy romance and lazy ruminations. Why venture outside? Because outside is where you have fun. Outside is where you meet friends, where you eat and drink and dance. Outside are Astoria and Long Island City, two of the hottest neighborhoods in New York City. Here at BORO, we encourage you to shrug off your hermitry and button up your overcoat. Just because it’s winter doesn’t mean the local nightlife goes into hibernation. And to warm you up to the idea, may we suggest the following bars, each perfect for a crisp night out on the town.
DOMAINE WINE BAR Enter Domaine and you might feel like you’ve been transported to Paris. You wouldn’t be far off, either; many of the antique accoutrements in this LIC bar are actually imported from France. But even more impressive than the authentic zinc countertop is the wine list. Owners Pascal Ecriout and Robert Gonçalves have assembled a unique catalog, culling wines from obscure regions like Tauteval and Saint Mont. The result is a list of 40 distinct vintages, 18
many of which cannot be found anywhere else in Queens. Indeed, one of the chief pleasures of visiting Domaine is trying something new and delightful. Each week, Ecriout and Gonçalves select a different wine to showcase, often one made by a little-known producer. Moreover, the food menu is an affineur’s dream, complete with a cheese selection from Artisanal. Entertainment is also included – on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday nights, Domaine hosts live jazz acts, most of them LIC locals.
LIC BAR Yes, LIC Bar has earned the right to claim the neighborhood’s name as its own. You probably don’t know it, but this place has been around for nearly a century. Built in the 1920s and reopened seven years ago, LIC Bar is the premiere venue for live music in Long Island City, with performances from local and big-name bands on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday nights. Considerable crowds gather for headliners such as Gordon Gano, former singer for Violent Femmes. There are also talented bands from NYC playing everything from alt/country to jazz. In fact, so many indigenous rockers get their start playing beneath LIC’s century-old ceiling that the bar’s manager affectionately refers to the place as the “Rockwood of Queens.” Like
Break
any good arena, LIC Bar provides alcoholic refreshments, especially during happy hour, when domestic bottles and well-drinks are just $3. Sure beats listening to your iPod at home.
BREAK When temperatures get really, really low, and snow begins to gather on your doorstep like a pile of unread newspapers, it’s tempting to stay indoors. But before you hunker down, ask yourself this: Does your living room have fourteen pool tables, ten HD TVs and a beverage bar as long as a tennis court? Unless you’re Shaquille O’Neil, the answer is probably “no,” in which case you should head to Break. Here you’ll find hours’ worth of entertainment playing billiards, ping-pong and, of course, drinking beer. It’s like hanging out in an enormous rec room that also happens to serve delicious nachos and wings. Sound good? The exposed brick, vertiginously high ceilings and massive heating vents lend the space a cool industrial feel, and the friendly servers – who are happy to chat with you while you’re between air-hockey games – make you feel like you’re at home.
MIX CAFÉ AND LOUNGE Dancing in front of your bedroom mirror is okay, but getting down at Mix is better. This bar, popular among the LGBT community, has established itself as a neighborhood favorite, probably because there’s always something new going on. See, for instance, the introduction of “Blackout Fridays,” a rollicking mix of music, drink specials and hired go-go boys boogying for your entertainment. February
also marks the start of the Mix Factor Drag Queen performance series, during which local contestants dress up and strut their glittering stuff. All of this accompanies Mix’s typical line-up of events, a list that includes Monday Open Mic Night, Karaoke Madness on Tuesday and Wednesday and a Sunday brunch hosted by Sunday Morning Mimosa, a pair of improvisational drag queens who perform pop songs like “Bad Romance” over eggs and juice. So, why are you still in your pajamas?
SWEET AFTON “We welcome anyone who enjoys good company and friendly conversation,” says Mike Krawiec, the affable co-owner of Sweet Afton. Indeed, a visit to this beloved Astoria bar and restaurant confirms as much; look around, and you’ll see only happy faces. Perhaps everyone is pleased by the fact that much of Sweet Afton’s food and drink is produced locally. Try a cheeseburger – the meat comes from Pat la Freida Wholesale Meat in Manhattan, the bread from Rollo Mio right here in Queens, the cheese from Murray’s Cheese Shop and the pickles (if you choose to have them) from McClure’s Pickles in Brooklyn. Besides fresh food, Sweet Afton offers intriguing drinks, including the Spicy Cherry Margarita and the Red Lemonade (infused liquors are made in-house). Hearty winter travelers arriving for brunch can also thaw themselves with an Oatmeal Martini or an Applejack 75 before putting away a stack of fresh blueberry pancakes.
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Rapture
RAPTURE It’s easy to venture outside when you don’t feel like you’re leaving home. That’s the appeal of Rapture, a cozy bar in Astoria that resembles nothing more than a colorful den, replete with oversized sofas and coffee tables. Owner Roberto Mendoza says he has tried to make Rapture “feel like your second living room, someplace you can hang out with your friends.” But don’t get too comfortable – the drink menu is constantly changing. Mendoza likes to serve seasonal cocktails, and in the winter, they tend to get particularly festive. And just because it’s comfy doesn’t mean Rapture isn’t a party bar, either. On Tuesday night, check out the Shots, Drinks and Rock & Roll special (2for-1 house shots).
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85 DOMAINE WINE BAR
90 MIX
88 LIC BAR
95 SWEET AFTON
83 BREAK
92 RAPTURE
NIGHTLIFE
CRINGE WORTHY
PICKUP LINES OVERHEARD IN LOCAL BARS
Desiree at Ave Cafe
Story Rebecca McNamara Photo Daniel Pando
It’s a well-established fact: no matter the gender or sexual preference, people like to pick up their next spouse, significant other or simply their next trick at bars. So BORO did the dirty work on this ritual. We asked bartenders at Astoria and Long Island City hot spots what pick-up lines their customers have used on each other – or on them. In a few cases, the lines are the bartender’s own. Call these pick-up amateurs rude, bold, funny or awkward – but whatever you call them, watch what you say, since they may be on the bar stool next to you. Desiree Royer at Avenue Cafe Bar Goer: “Do you have any Greek in you? Would you like some?” April at Hell Gate Social Bar Goer: “So you like Star Wars?” April: “Maybe.” Bar Goer: “Come home with me and I will make you sound like Chewbaccca in bed.” Matt at Sweet Afton Bar Goer: “Fat penguin! I just wanted to say something to break the ice.” Sean at The Creek and the Cave Bar Goer: “You have beautiful eyes. I’d like to see the look in them when I find your G spot.” (He swears this has worked. Twice.) Travis at Mix Café + Lounge Bar Goer: “I’d really love to see you from the waist down later.” 22
Melissa at McCanns Bar Goer: “Do you want to go out?” Melissa: “No, I’m a lesbian.” Bar Goer: “Well, I have feminine features.” Gerald at The Quays Pub (Older) Bar Goer 1: “My name is__ and I’m on the Viagra.” John at The Quays Pub Bar Goer: “That’s a lovely dress you’re wearing. It would look a lot better crumbled up on my floor.” Zena at Broadway Station Bar Goer, after buying Zena a shot: “To my future ex-wife.” Gina at P.J. Leahy’s Bar Goer: “You’re not made of stone, but you rock.” Steve at Sweet Afton Bar Goer: “Hey, nice mustache.” Steve: “You put the ass in my ‘stache!”
$100 of FREE DRINKS!
Go to BOROmag.com/pickup-lines and submit your best pickup lines in the comments field. BORO will vote and reveal the winner in our March issue. Winner will receive a $100 gift certificate for drinks at a local bar.
ART / FASHION
SPRING
2011 BUYER’S GUIDE
LIC & ASTORIA’S HOTTEST BOUTIQUES REVEAL THEIR FAVORITE ITEMS FOR SPRING. Art Direction Philippe Trinh Photography Daniel Pando Styling Emily Plaskett Makeup Brittany Bolen Model Alexandra & Bianca Hair Primp and Tease
Alexandra wears recycled bouquet multi-chain necklace, Emily Jane; black sheer shredded dress, Erin Kleinberg. 24
krisTEES
OWNER / BUYER: KRISTIE FOSTER MAP IT
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Kristie Foster loves pairing unexpected looks together. Her customer is sophisticated with a touch of downtown. This eclectic Astoria boutique features many New York City designers such as Nicholas K, Ann Yee, Emily Jane, MelenStel and Gar-de. Local Astoria and LIC designers include L.J. Lambillotte, Queens 77, Asami Hotta and Pamela Kay. Gold luxe shag jacket, Rodebjer; blush block heart tank, Truth Collection; zebra stripe stretch pencil pant, Rodebjer; multi-chain geometric necklace, B-Side; multi-chain bracelet, Holy Harlot.
See more KrisTEES looks, complete with her favorite spring items and events at BOROmag.com.
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LOVEDAY 31 OWNER / BUYER: IVONA BILICIC MAP IT
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Ivona Bilicic’s vintage boutique in Astoria provides customers with high quality recycled fashions that have surpassed the test of time. Loveday 31 houses an assortment of hand-picked specialty items to satisfy all of your vintage cravings. Bianca wears vintage dress, accessories, and shoes all available at Loveday31. See more Lovedayday 31 looks at BOROmag.com. 26
ETHEREAL
OWNER / BUYER: ADRIANA RON MAP IT
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Adriana Ron’s Long Island City women’s boutique focuses on high-end trends at affordable prices. Her collection includes a wide variety of pieces, ranging from cutting edge local designers as well as hand picked west coast designers Lurex crop top, Do & Be; green leopard printed harem pants, Blank New York; gold necklace and bracelets, Fennimas; turban head band, Chi Chi shee shee by Cristina Sass. See more of Ethereal looks at www.BOROmag.com. 27
REAL ESTATE
1 Vernon Jackson / Photo Ari Burling
Industry / Photo Studio AMD
LOVE AT FIRST SITE Story Daniel Crown
Citing a speech in which the late Jacqueline Onassis celebrated Long Island City’s potential as the next Golden Coast, Silvercup Studios President Stuart Suna sees the neighborhood’s recent boom as the fruition of a long anticipated promise. Having lived in the area since 1980, he revels in having witnessed the neighborhood’s previously protracted growth accelerate considerably over the last five years. “You see a lot more real street life now,” Suna said. “Young families. Mothers pushing little kids in strollers. [Long Island City] has become a very safe, very habitable residential community.”
Combine this with the fact that the neighborhood is located one subway stop from Manhattan, and it’s no surprise that a number of luxury buildings have sprung to life over the last decade. In fact, a quick glance is all that’s needed to catch a glimpse of a shoreline dotted with beautiful, eye-popping architecture. To illustrate this point, we’ve compiled a quick list of what we consider to be three of the most beautiful residential buildings in the neighborhood, starting with Suna’s own pride and joy: the Industry.
THE INDUSTRY
Located just south of Silvercup Studios on 44th Drive, the Industry is sleek, modern and spacious. The beautifully landscaped roof-deck provides 360-degree views (including a beautiful panorama of Manhattan), perfect for gazing across the water or kicking your feet up to enjoy the summer sun. Each apartment unit comes complete with an Italian-inspired kitchen and top-of-the-line appliances, marrying convenience to a style that is at once contemporary and classically urban. According to Suna, New York City residents looking for the luxury lifestyle can find it at the Industry at a fraction of the cost of comparable buildings just across the river.
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Industry / Photo Studio AMD
“When you consider the quality of construction and the design,” he said, “and you put in the proximity to Midtown or the Financial District,[the Industry] really provides good access for half the price of most [luxury apartments] I know in Manhattan.”
L Haus / Photo Evan Joseph
1 VERNON JACKSON
When 1 Vernon Jackson first opened its doors in 2009, the building’s marketing team tagged it as “Long Island City’s architectural icon”. More than a year later, it’s hard to disagree. Highlighted by its tall, refulgent windows, the building’s interior is perpetually bathed in light. The building’s interesting location shapes its architecture from the ground up, with its angular form dictating everything from the floor plans to the scientific orchestration of the hallways. “Vernon Blvd. and Jackson Ave. intersect at an angle, which gives the building its unique Flatiron Building-esque shape,” said 1 Vernon Jackson representative Todd Hovanec. “The apartments feature 11-foot ceilings and incredible light, which work together to imbue a wonderful sense of space and volume.”
L HAUS
While L haus’ wide-open living spaces are perfectly suited to entertain visitors indoors, the building really raises the stakes with its 10,000-square-foot yard. The getaway amenity comes equipped with a rolling rock lawn, a water feature and a stone path and is topped off with a built-in grill and accompanying
wet bar. If that’s not enough, a spacious clubroom overlooks the yard, providing residents with yoga and media rooms. With its wide array of apartment units ranging from one to three bedrooms, L haus’ Vanessa Morin points out that the building lends itself perfectly to a myriad of potential residents. “L haus’ residences are built for every type of buyer, from first-time homebuyers to growing families,” Morin said. Make sure to check out future issues of BORO to keep up on Long Island City and Astoria’s rapidly evolving architectural and real estate scene!
Visit BOROmag.com/real-estate to see more pictures, details and get contact informations for these properties.
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