The Paper
Best of Astoria 2017
Astoria Singles Club
a quarterly guide to astoria, queens
Represent Gift Guide
volume 03 | may 2017
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EDITOR’S NOTE
Contents
Hello friends! We think the third time’s the charm for The Paper, and we think the one in your hands—Volume III—is THE BEST, because it’s all about the Best of Astoria! We’re celebrating five years of announcing the best in the neighborhood, voted on by YOU, our readers. Every year there is always a fun debate—and a fair amount of people yelling at us on social media—about the results. That’s why we always also include personal favorites of ours, which often aren’t reflected in the final tallies. In this issue we’ve also asked Instagram friends and small business owners to tell us about their personal neighborhood favorites (page 22) and we have some great Pro Tips about many of this year’s nominees (page 9). One of the best features of the Best of Astoria is the new way to explore new places and meet new faces. With that in mind, if you’re looking to meet a new face to date, while keeping your love LOCAL, we’re super excited to bring you our very first Astoria Singles Club (page 18). We think these featured folks are awesome and, if you agree, make a move, and see if you create a love connection. Are you still committed to those New Year’s resolutions of getting healthy in 2017? It’s never too late to recommit, and let’s be real friends, summer is right around the corner (i.e. no more layers of clothing). Get your body summer ready with a killer workout from local fitness guru Jenna Tomasko (page 5). Tag your workout #WHAfit and share your workout pics with us! (Burpees, forever!) Finally, if you want to proclaim your love of Astoria and Queens, look no further than our Represent Gift Guide (page 15). It’s so easy to show off everything you love about the neighborhood with Queens gear ranging from shirts to art prints to locally made pet treats, we’ve got great ideas. We’re celebrating the Best of Astoria and we think our Paper team is the very best. Our advertisers, writers, photographers, designers, fact checkers, printers, and small business partners all contribute to make this possible. Thank you again to all the members of our Paper team. Don’t forget to share how you’re using The Paper with the hashtag #thepaperbywha. You can find our team all over the place with @weheartastoria. And, as always, we’d love to hear from you, so give us a shout at weheartastoria@gmail.com. Enjoy! Mackenzi & Emily
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Body by Astoria
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The Best of Astoria: 2017
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We Heart Astoria Pro Tips
Represent Gift Guide
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Astoria Singles Club
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Why we Heart Astoria
Best of Astor2ia 016
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Contributors
on the cover
FOUNDERS Mackenzi Farquer Emily Rios CONTRIBUTORS Anita Buffem Fuelgrannie Jenna Tomsko DESIGN Kristen Long Evangelia Mokos WRITERS Meg Cotner Mackenzi Farquer Lindsay Goyette Emily Rios PHOTOGRAPHY Cover photographer: Andrew Escoto
BUSINESSES
Want to know who’s behind the cover photography and design of each issue?
2017 Best of Astoria Nominees Gaijin HiFi Records Ovelia SingleCut Beersmiths Vintage
! s u w o ll fo
Queens based duo Kristen and Andrew of In Company Paper are the husband and wife team behind the creative of each issue. College sweethearts, they combine their passions of art and design and created a product line of greeting cards, wrapping paper, and other fun stationery products! www.incompany.co | @incompanypaper | @hellokristenlong | @andrewescoto
The #1 Paint & Sip Studio In Queens no experience necessary thepaintplaceny.com info@thepaintplace.com Astoria
31-21 31st Street 929-522-0086
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BODY BY ASTORIA
FIT by Astoria Welcome to the WHA WOD! The following workout combines weighted resistance training, plyometrics, and bodyweight movements to get the best results in the least amount of time. Go fast, keep your rest short, and have fun! Don’t forget to tag your workout #WHAfit to share your PRs, times, and fitspiration with other Astorians!
Dumbbell Push Press: Start standing tall with the weights resting on your shoulders and hands around the middle of the dumbbells. Staying as upright as possible, dip into a quarter squat, then simultaneously extend the hips and push with the arms. Finish with both arms locked out overhead, over the midline of the body. Your ears should be visible on either side of your arms.
Single Arm Dumbbell Overhead Lunge: Start standing tall with dumbbells in hands. With hands on dumbbells, drop to the floor so that the chest, stomach, and thighs are touching the ground. Jump back up and bring weights from the ground to overhead in one motion.
Front Squat: Start standing tall with the head of the dumbbells resting on shoulders and fingers around the center of the weight. Sit back to lower hips until the hip crease passes the top of the knee. Return to standing.
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BODY BY ASTORIA
Burpees: Start standing tall with feet hip width apart. Drop to the ground, placing palms on the floor and jumping out so the chest, stomach, and thighs touch the ground at the bottom. Jump feet back up, stand up tall and jump, lifting hands above the head.
Devil Press: Start standing tall with dumbbells in hands. With hands on dumbbells, drop to the floor so that the chest, stomach, and thighs are touching the ground. Jump back up and bring weights from the ground to overhead in one motion.
Dumbbell Snatch: Set up with the dumbbell in between your feet, hips pushed back, and chest over the dumbbell. Bring the dumbbell from the ground to overhead in one explosive motion, engaging the glutes on the way up in order to transfer power from your legs to your arm. Finish with the dumbbell locked out overhead, next to the ear.
r e n i a r your t Jenna Tomsko is an Astoria-based Crossfit coach and personal trainer. She is head coach and programmer at EVF Performance/Crossfit Upper East Side and does personal training out of Crossfit Dynamix. She also does individual coaching for high-level Crossfit and weightlifting athletes. She believes the best way to get stronger and fitter is through functional movement performed at high intensity. 6
[all night happy hour] monday [geeks who drink]
trivia every monday at 8pm
[$10 burger & beer]
every tuesday: 5pm to 11pm
[wine down wednesday]
$6 glasses / $25 bottles all night $2 off any food item: 5pm to 11pm
[industry night]
every thursday: 20% off aer 8pm for service industry professionals
[$20 prix fixe menu] every friday [live music] every sunday: 7pm to 9pm
[happy hour daily 5 to 8pm]
32-11 broadway in astoria, queens
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a s t o r i a
It’s our fifth annual Best of Astoria! The Best of Astoria is completely driven by you, our readers. Congratulations to all the nominees and especially to those who won. Make sure you check out all of these businesses and organizations and experience why the community voted them the best. FAVORITE BAKERY Winner: Martha's Country Bakery Runner Up: Parisi
FAVORITE ASTORIA RESTAURANT Winner: Il Bambino Runner Up: Milkflower
FAVORITE BAGEL SHOP Winner: Brooklyn Bagels Runner Up: Lots O Bagels
FAVORITE GREEK RESTAURANT Winner: Taverna Kyclades Runner Up: Bahari
FAVORITE BURGER JOINT Winner: Bareburger Runner Up: Petey's
FAVORITE MEXICAN RESTAURANT Winner: De Mole Runner Up: Mojave
FAVORITE PIZZERIA Winner: Milkflower Runner Up: Sac's Place
FAVORITE THAI RESTAURANT Winner: Pye Boat Noodle Runner Up: Enthaice
FAVORITE BOUTIQUE Winner: Lockwood Runner Up: The Brass Owl
FAVORITE VEGETARIAN/ VEGAN FRIENDLY RESTAURANT Winner: Seva Runner Up: The Queens Kickshaw
FAVORITE YOGA STUDIO Winner: Yoga Agora Runner Up: The Giving Tree
FAVORITE BRUNCH Winner: Queens Comfort Runner Up: Sanford's
FAVORITE GYM Winner: TIE! Blink Fitness and Club Fitness Runner Up: New York Sports Club
FAVORITE BAR Winner: Sweet Afton Runner Up: Diamond Dogs
FAVORITE HAIR SALON/STYLIST Winner: Gigi Salon Runner Up: Studio Nova
FAVORITE COFFEE SHOP/CAFE Winner: Gossip Coffee Runner Up: OK Cafe
FAVORITE PLACE TO EXPERIENCE THE ARTS Winner: Museum of the Moving Image (MOMI) Runner Up: Socrates Sculpture Park
FAVORITE WINE STORE Winner: Wine Stop Runner Up: Astoria Wine and Spirits
FAVORITE LOCAL INSTAGRAM ACCOUNT Winner: @astoryofastoria Runner Up: @ancientastoria
FAVORITE NATURAL FOODS STORE Winner: Greenbay Runner Up: Broadway Natural
FAVORITE NEW ARRIVAL (2016) Winner: Flattopps Runner Up: The Wolfhound
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BEST OF ASTORIA
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st A t r a He
FAVORITE ASTORIA RESTAURANT IL BAMBINO: There are a lot of Panini to choose from, but don’t miss the mozzarella, tomato, and basil panino. It’s the sandwich that first brought Il Bambino it’s well-deserved notoriety. Also try the green bean salad, which has been on the menu since the start (for good reasons.) THE POMEROY: This comfort food staple JUST introduced brunch, proof that their fried chicken should be enjoyed all day long. VESTA: Don’t miss their signature dessert, the Baby Jesus cake.
FAVORITE GREEK RESTAURANT MP TAVERNA: Try the smashed fries! They’ve got some of the best in Astoria. Also their octopus with chickpea salad is one of our favorite dishes in the neighborhood! ZENON TAVERNA: Their vegan dishes during Orthodox Lent are excellent.
FAVORITE MEXICAN RESTAURANT CHELA Y GARNACHA: Always (always) get the grilled cheese with your taco. It takes everything up a notch. DE MOLE: Vegetarians/vegans, don’t miss the Seitan Fajitas served with Tofu Sour Cream. MOJAVE: They have one of the best backyards in Astoria. TACUBA: Share the Piña Para La Niña—a skinny margarita served in a pineapple for two—with a friend.
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FAVORITE THAI RESTAURANT LENG THAI: The garden in the summertime feels like a dreamy green oasis.
FAVORITE VEGETARIAN/VEGAN FRIENDLY RESTAURANT BAREBURGER: Getting something besides a burger here may seem a bit blasphemous, but Bareburger’s salads and “chops” are seriously tasty and satisfying. (Especially the Wheatberry Chickpea Chop!) SEVA: The Saag Paneer and Vegetable Korma take vegetarian comfort food to another level. THE QUEENS KICKSHAW: Move beyond the grilled cheese and ciders that brought you there in the first place, and give TQK’s new cocktail menu a try. (They also have alcoholic slushies. Try the Frosé, which is a rosé slush.) THE THIRSTY KOALA: Lots of options for folks that are gluten free, including the really delicious corn fritters.
FAVORITE BRUNCH SANFORD’S: The earlier you arrive, the fewer crowds you’ll encounter! The most popular item? The Truffled Mac N Cheese. Get it. THE BONNIE: Brunch here is perfect for all occasions: visiting parents, friends with babies, and cocktail-heavy catch-ups. General manager and cocktail director Mike Di Tota, a graduate of the New York Botanical Garden School of Professional Horticulture (which is a real thing, and an awesome one), brings his green thumb to Astoria cocktail creations!
FAVORITE BAR DIAMOND DOGS: BYOF (Bring Your Own Food!) we suggest grabbing a pizza from Milkflower, which is conveniently located next door. (Well, not right next door, but close enough!) SWEET AFTON: The Ginger Baker and Sweet Tea Cocktails are neighborhood classics. Plus, Sweet Afton is one of the few bars in Astoria serving cask ale, a rare style in American bars. Recent cask ales on rotation at Sweet Afton have included selections like Troegs Nugget Nectar, Heavy Seas Alpha Effect, and Bronx Pale Ale. A true treat for beer lovers! THE BONNIE: Their backyard is a great place to spend some time in the summer. Stop in to spend time with bartender Zig Payton. He’s music obsessive and he’s always a great resource for a new artist to check out. Come sit at his bar and pick his brain!
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BEST OF ASTORIA
FAVORITE COFFEE SHOP/CAFE 60 BEANS: The Dossaints are a must OK CAFÉ: Try the Red Bean Latte. Creamy, sweet with a hint of spice, and it’s caffeine free!
FAVORITE WINE STORE ASTORIA PARK WINE & SPIRITS: Their Friday tastings are lovely!
FAVORITE NATURAL FOODS STORE GREENBAY: The “make your own” salads make for a great healthy lunch!
FAVORITE BAKERY LELI’S: Their Maltese pastries—Qassatat and Pastizzi— are unique and delicious PARISI: Two words—Cake. Pops.
FAVORITE BAGEL SHOP BROOKLYN BAGELS: Don’t let the name fool you, Brooklyn Bagel started here in Astoria. Break from the normal routine and give their weekly cream cheese specials a try. Past flavors have ranged from Girl Scout Cookies to Bacon Buffalo.
FAVORITE BURGER JOINT FLATTOPPS: Where else can you get a burger with raspberry jam, Cap’n Crunch–crusted bacon, and Gruyére cheese served on French Toast Brioche? Only at Flattopps. PETEY’S: The In & Out of Astoria, get the double cheeseburger; it’s the most popular item on the menu. They also make a mean grilled cheese. SWEET AFTON: Sure the burger is great, but the Fried Pickles shouldn’t be missed. They’re thick cut, spicy, with a shot of lip smacking dill. Be careful, though, they are REALLY HOT when they come out.
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BEST OF ASTORIA
FAVORITE PIZZERIA MILKFLOWER: The St. The Ghost pizza—with three different cheeses and burnt honey—is the closest thing to heaven you can eat! SAC’S PLACE: Pizza is king at Sac’s Place, but their pastas are also worth a special trip. (Especially paired with wine!)
FAVORITE BOUTIQUE THE BRASS OWL: Whether you’re looking for that perfect pair of flats, an eye-catching statement necklace, or a sweet-smelling candle, The Brass Owl’s got you covered. LOCKWOOD: Favorite place to buy gifts: onesies and books for kids, jewelry, mugs, picture frames, and cookbooks. The possibilities are endless. TOCA NYC STORE: Every antique and vintage item is hand picked and curated by Justin and Monica Toca at some of the best estate homes and barns from the Hudson Valley to Connecticut to the Hamptons. They also sell large furniture, from 100-Year-Old Victorian pieces to Mid-Century Modern ones.
FAVORITE YOGA STUDIO THE YOGA ROOM: A great space for any level of Yoga practitioner. Also a great spot for beginners to start a Yoga practice.
FAVORITE GYM SIMPLY FIT: Looking for a local cycling class? Simply Fit has a great cycling studio. Motivating instructors, fun music, and good—but challenging—classes for all fitness levels.
FAVORITE HAIR SALON/STYLIST
STUDIO NOVA: Stylist Nina is a hair whisper. Both Mackenzi and Emily are fans of her work.
FAVORITE PLACE TO EXPERIENCE THE ARTS Q.E.D.: The diversity of events at QED is unparalleled, and it’s also a fun place to just pop in for a beer to see what’s happening! SOCRATES SCULPTURE PARK: When the GrowNYC Greenmarket returns in early June, check out the art and pick up fresh fruit and vegetables. Win-win.
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BEST OF ASTORIA
FAVORITE LOCAL INSTAGRAM ACCOUNT @QUEENSEATS: They always have the deets on the best eats in Queens! Warning: don’t scroll through this page on an empty stomach. The eating adventures on this page will give you major FOMO.
FAVORITE NEW ARRIVAL (2016) GAIJIN: Special occasion-worthy sushi comes to 31st Ave. Treat yourself with their omakase menu; you deserve it. VITE BAR: This chic sister of Vite Vinosteria is focused on small plates and a selection of curated menu items from Vinosteria. The crostini are a solid choice while you sip a glass of wine.
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BEST OF ASTORIA
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represent
Gift
guide
Looking for ways to show off your admiration for Astoria? Do you have Queens pride? Then these gift items will help you proclaim why you think our neighborhood is the best. Support the community by shopping local, and don’t forget to show us the love on social media. Show off those local purchases with the hashtag #whagiftguide.
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1. Queens Pennant, $25 2. Astoria Pennant, $25 3. Knickerbocker MFG Chainstitched NY Wool and Cotton Twill Souvenir Cap, $62 4. Queens ’Til I Die Tee, $36 37-6 Ditmars Blvd, stoneworkstore.com
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Lockwood
1. Custom Queens/ New York Cards, $5 2. Someone In Astoria Loves Me Onesie, $24.95 32-15 33rd Street, lockwoodshop.com
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GIFT GUIDE
Astoria
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1. Astoria Prints from Local Artist Ashley King, $25 or $50 framed 28-07 Ditmars Blvd, insideastoria.biz
1. Love Bites: dehydrated chicken jerky treats for dogs, made right here in Astoria, $16 2. Scoby Snacks: Scoby—a live culture that Kombucha is made from—is added to peanut butter and bananas and out comes Scoby Snacks. Made by a local Astorian. Retails for $9 30-2 14th St, Long Island City, chateaulewoof.com
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1. Queens Knits N, W, R Subway* Coffee Cozies, $10 *Not pictured 7 train. 27-16 23rd Ave, qedastoria.com
1. Astoria Candles $28 Hellgate 2. Astoria, I Love You tote - $18 3. Bridge necklace - $55-$70 36-19 Ditmars Blvd, thebrassowl.com
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astoria
singlesclub
Welcome to the Astoria Singles Club!! We know that Astorians have immense neighborhood pride and love to keep things local. We thought it might be fun to try and help some fantastic singles make a love connection right here in the neighborhood. Thank you to everyone that applied, we wish we could feature ALL of you—seriously there are amazing people in Astoria. If you are interested in reaching out to any of our featured singles, we’ve included ways to contact them through their dating app profiles, or social media. But remember don’t be that person that ruins all the fun for everyone. Stay classy and don’t be weird in a bad way
chris w. I love exploring Astoria on foot so an ideal date would be grabbing a coffee, walking perhaps to Socrates or Astoria Park or up to Ditmars (I live on Broadway) and getting to know someone. We’d end things with a drink at a fun bar.
best date you’ve been on One of the best dates I’ve ever had was when I went to Il Bambino and enjoyed crostinis and wine under the stars (it was summer) in their backyard. I had only had their Paninis before and was blown away by the food, and the conversation made it even better. The atmosphere was perfect! @_cjwolff
hannah p. I’m new to New York, and love living in Astoria! By day I work at a local health department on Long Island, but after hours I’m a fun-loving free spirit who likes to try out new restaurants, go to concerts, and explore my city by foot.
astoria date idea I want to go to Pye Boat Noodle on Broadway, because I’ve never been before and would love to try a new restaurant with someone who also has never been there!
justin d. I’m a Midwestern heart living in New York City. Raised in Iowa, I’ve successfully managed to not let NYC beat the Midwestern charm and niceties out of me over the last 7 years. I’ve just finished my masters, and I currently work in marketing for a rather large nonprofit arts organization. Outside of the arts, I try to live an active lifestyle—I lost about 90(ish) pounds about five years ago and I strive to live a healthy life and be outside as much as possible; running, hiking, and yoga are my go-to’s. That said, I’m a total foodie and plan any trip around the food first. I love museums as a first date option—they’re active, you can learn about the person you’re with, and there’s always a conversation starter somewhere in the room. I’m ashamed to admit I’ve never been to THE MUSEUM OF THE MOVING IMAGE in the five years I’ve lived in Astoria. I think that going to MoMI followed by a casual dinner nearby—say, Milkflower or Il Bambino—would be a great date.
best date you’ve been on I didn’t realize I was on a date until I showed up at one of my friend’s house where he had a movie ready, he got all dressed up, and he brought out some food for us. I really enjoyed the surprise! @kweenvenus93 18
instagram: @wadedewey OkCupid: justinewade10
key:
interested in women
interested in men
ASTORIA SINGLES CLUB
maggie c. First generation Asian-American from Long Island, working in Astoria at Tea and Milk! I love having candid conversations with customers at work, it’s my favorite part of my job!
astoria date idea I’ve heard Mars is a good date spot, but I’ve never been inside. I’m too intimidated to try any of the fancy Greek places on Ditmars, but I’m down if my date knows how to order!
best date you’ve been on A run around the park and then a lap swim at the Astoria Pool! (With a Tinder date, actually!)
abby w.
josie o.
I’m generally a happy, social, upbeat, and grounded person. I love my job as a nurse, have a full life of great friends and family, love living in Astoria (for a second time), and I’m always down to explore the city further with the right partner.
I’ve lived in Astoria for about 2 years (love it here!) and work in Manhattan in marketing. Really tired of dating apps and would love to meet someone to explore Astoria with.
astoria date idea I love the food and chic yet relaxed atmosphere at Mars and think it would make a great date night spot.
best date you’ve been on Impromptu weekend getaway to New Orleans. @nogodznomasterz
OkCupid: HappieMaggie
astoria date idea I really want to try the new place on Ditmars, Vintage. Or, if we’re being fancy The Last Word since I haven’t been there either. Although if we’re talking a REAL date, like with actual food and not just cocktails… anyplace Italian. Extra points if he picks it himself.
best date you’ve been on Day drinking at a rooftop pool overlooking the ocean. It didn’t work out with the guy but that was one of the most unique/memorable dates even if it wasn’t full of chemistry. @missjosie727
matt m.
matt a.
james h.
One time, I tried to pay for a cab with a $15 Chili’s gift card. astoria date idea
Actor turned Beer & Bar guy— hosting a TV show—wish I was better at working from home and writing for WeHeartAstoria. best date you’ve been on
I’m a bit of a jokey guy who loves having conversations about books, board games, and the importance of libraries! P.S. I went to library school. astoria date idea
I’d want to go to The Strand, because I love the atmosphere (not to mention the brisket). Then we would walk to the Socrates Sculpture Park and check out the river views.
best date you’ve been on Well, it was just drinks and a trip to the movies… but the drinks were Texas sized frozen margaritas at Dallas BBQ and the movie was Jackie.
Sweet Afton—great food & drinks, cool atmosphere, easy to have an intimate conversation or a rollicking night—whichever way it goes. And I don’t work there. @beerpractice
Mokja! Quite possibly the most consistently amazing food in town.
best date you’ve been on Rock climbing in LIC followed by a cosmic scale-balancing burger instagram: @tca_holyship snapchat: @holy-ship
@mattycakes16 19
ASTORIA SINGLES CLUB
lynette p.
emily b.
chad c.
I’ve been living in Astoria for just over three years and love it. At the end of August 2016, I started my own PR firm, Lynette Nicole PR, while simultaneously training for my first marathon. In addition to working fulltime in public relations, I teach two Pilates classes a week in Tribeca and have a lifestyle blog. I enjoy having things to do and exploring, but don’t mind a night in every so often. When the weather is nice I love hanging out in Astoria Park. I’m really into traveling and love a good road trip.
I’m a thirty-something actor who just totally underwent a complete career change and quit my “survival job” to become a personal trainer. I’m a southern transplant but I have been in the city for a decade and Astoria for around 7. I enjoy working out (duh), the theater (double duh), and a fine glass of whiskey (neat). In my spare time (which is never) I enjoy reading and binge watching Netflix (right now it is Parenthood.) My favorite thing in the world is dark chocolate.
I just recently learned how to make empanadas. I don’t have any kids to my knowledge. When I first walk into a party, I play “X Gonna Give it to Ya” by DMX on the bluetooth speaker that I carry on me at all times. And I’m a Marketing Analyst. And I don’t drink soda.
astoria date idea
I’d be interested in going on a date to Vintage on Ditmars Blvd. It recently opened and the atmosphere appears to be cozy and welcoming. @Lynette_Nicole
astoria date idea
I think a fun bar would be a good start and once we have a buffer of some liquid courage maybe wander around a park (Socrates / Astoria) or museum (PS1 / Moving Image). @embattz
astoria date idea
The Ditty—chill environment with drinks. If the weather is good, picnic in Astoria park with drinks.
best date you’ve been on
We went to see a mindreading show where our minds were blown! Only to find out, that it was all set up when he showed up at same bar with the “volunteers” he chose during the show. @chadcisneros
audrey m.
lindsey m.
I’m a Cali girl at heart living here in “Actoria” as I pursue my theatre dreams. I’m kooky, klutzy, charismatically honest, and not jaded. ;) astoria date idea Honestly anywhere! I love trying new places in Astoria. best date you’ve been on Ooooo that’s a tough one… haven’ t been on many. Probably a movie and then Astoria Bier and Cheese talking the night away. It didn’t go anywhere, but was a great night!
West Coaster who relocated to NYC almost 4 years ago. I traded the sun for snow, the traffic for crowded subways, and awesome Mexican food for awesome brunches. I work as a graphic designer, always want to be outside or doing something active, blog on the side, and am consistently thinking about or planning my next trip—which is either a city adventure or in another state/country.” astoria date idea Going to a random class like oyster shucking, comedy at the Astor Room, happy hour and trivia at Snowdonia. Basically anything that is more unique than just dinner or drinks. I love doing random activities in my spare time, so why not on a date? best date you’ve been on Meeting up for a casual breakfast and then going axe throwing for a couple hours afterward.
@Anchors_a_Rae
@lindseymess
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ASTORIA SINGLES CLUB
divya p.
catherine b.
sean a.
I moved to Astoria from Philly less than a year ago and there’s no place in NYC I’d rather live! I work in public health research and in my free time I am an expert taco chef, a frequent museumgoer, and an avid watcher of 30 Rock. I’m making it a goal to explore a new neighborhood in NYC/a new place in Astoria at least once a week. Oh and here’s the basic dating related stuff: 34, female, straight.
I have a MBA in Marketing, currently work in digital advertising, and co-founded an events company. I enjoy traveling and trying new spots and new events. I am bubbly and outgoing, I love brunch and Hennessy, I change the color of my hair every two months. I have done lime green, royal blue, and (currently) ombre purple. I enjoy laughing a lot and hate scary movies. I thrive off of energy and exuding and reading people’s energy. I am biracial of West Indian and Italian decent and love experiencing different cultures. I am at that point in my life where I am looking for a companion for support who is understanding.
I’m a 25-year-old sex and dating writer at Elite Daily. I try to separate my work and dating life as much as I can, so no, even if you sleep with me, I won’t write about it (unless something crazy happens… then, we’ll talk). When I’m not deep in the editorial world, I’m a dancer and choreographer for DanceWorksNYC based right in Astoria. Plenty of videos available, upon request.
best date you’ve been on If the chemistry’s there, it doesn’t really matter what we’re doing! The best first date I ever had was a picnic on a summer evening at Rittenhouse Park in Philly; what made it great was the ease of conversation, the excellent guac my date brought, and the fantastic rotation of musicians, performance artists, and local characters (google “Philly Jesus”) keeping us entertained. @divs_pics
astoria date idea Queens Comfort because it is BYOB and I enjoy drinking and am curious to see my dates drink of choice, or Paint & Sip, or to do an activity. I am against the typical dinner date; it gets awkward, get me out the element with a fun physical activity or something more engaging. @Retrobarbie92
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Gastroteca is my absolute favorite restaurant, not only because of the delicious food but the overall vibe. It has such a relaxed feel, so combined with the great dishes and drinks, it’s easy to meet up with someone and have conversation. @seanybrams
WHY WE HEART ASTORIA
WHY WE HEART ASTORIA CONNIE from @fuelgrannie “One of my fav things to do on Planet Earth is eat and there is no better food to be found anywhere than in Queens: I would argue there’s no better sandwich (and a grilled cheese sandwich at that!) to be found than at sweet, welcoming Astoria Bier & Cheese with its stalwart sammie (and my longtime lover) Mr. Crispy. It’s grilled-to-snappable lace perfection at both the Broadway and Ditmars locations. A seat at the bar works best for me, and this sandwich of ham and Gruyère on oat pecan raisin bread is definitely part of a two-pint meal. So, I like to get crazy and switch up my choice of brews from the beautifully curated draught selection. Trust me: once is not enough.”
VINTAGE from owner Paul “Hands down Astoria Park has to be the best part of Astoria. It creates the perfect mixture of city and the ’burbs. You feel like you could stretch your arm over the river and touch the city, it’s so close, and yet it couldn’t be any different. It’s an oasis of calm directly off an island of chaos.”
OVELIA from Peter Giannakas “I love to fish out of the East River, whether under the Triboro bridge, by Costco, or even over on the Gantry Park pier. Of course, it’s catch and release. There’s a wide variety of species, but I typically go after striped bass and bluefish. There’s a great view and it’s quite relaxing. Great to be able to do something I love so much in the neighborhood I grew up in and love so much!”
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WHY WE HEART ASTORIA
GAIJIN from owner Jay Zheng “I’ve only been in the area for few months so haven’t had a chance to explore, but the one thing that I love the most about Astoria is its culture and diversity of people.”
SINGLECUT from General Manager Dan Bronson “The greatest thing in Astoria is when the ivy on the supports of the Hellgate Bridge blooms in the late spring. This intense, lush green covers the sandy concrete, and when the wind blows, it makes the most serene sound you’ve ever heard. I look forward to it every year.”
ANITA from Anita Buffem “Astoria is great, there’s always something new to be in love with. From Ornella to Sek’end Sun, I’m always obsessing over something. Right now, I’m finding it all too easy to drag myself in an early morning stupor straight from my boudoir to NYCBCH to wrap my lips around an iced soy marshmallow latte. Add a french toast bagel and Im in heaven Honey! Not to mention the guys behind the espresso bar, HELLO! God I love Astoria!”
HIFI RECORDS from owner Javi “As a Queens-native New Yorker residing in Astoria, the landmark that I am most proud of is our gem: Astoria Park. Always super lively with people from all over the neighborhood who come here for a stroll, a jog, to sunbathe, to play with their kids. There are plenty of amenities in the park as well: there’s the track, the playground, the bike trails, the pool, and the spacious greens to have a picnic, read a book, or just stock up on good ol’ vitamin D! Its location on the East River allows for beautiful views to the city, the Hell Gate Bridge, and many more photo ops. With spring here and the weather improving daily, you will be seeing me here as often as I can pull myself from the shop!”
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