boro magazine august 2012

ASTORIA // LIC // SUNNYSIDE CREATE // CULTIVATE // INSPIRE

AUGU

ST 2

012

VO

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09

WESTERN QUEENS:

Th e New Bohemia

pg. 6

BITES OF WISDOM:

Advice from local

successful restaurateurs

pg. 8

ARTIST

ABUNDANT:

4 Fresh Local Artists

pg. 22

SPOTLIGHT ON

ACTORS:

Lights, Camera, Action

pg. 26

at the b

est sp

ots

in Astoria

, LIC

,

Sunnysi

deGREA

T

DISCOUNTS

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2 | BOROMAG.COM | AUGUST 2012


AUGUST 2012 | BOROMAG.COM | 3



EDITOR-IN-CHIEF AND PUBLISHER julian lesser // CREATIVE DIRECTOR philippe trinh // EDITOR john lee // COPY EDITOR norm elrod ART DIRECTORS paul connolly, alt // GRAPHIC DESIGNERS alberto michieli, emma cason-pratt, sydney auerbach // STAFF WRITERS bradley hawks, ben mims, daniel crown, lillian shaw, rebecca mcnamara, matthew taylor, brett jones // STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS javier ibañez, daniel pando, jesse winter // SALES AND MARKETING nadine auerbach // WEBMASTER janmichael guzman // DISTRIBUTION MANAGER sadee brathwaiteONLINE EDITORIAL COORDINATOR matthew taylor // CREATED AND PUBLISHED BY JKL Projects Inc

ADVERTISE IN [email protected] // 914.426.2939www.BOROmag.com/advertise

BORO HOURS: Mon-Fri 10AM-5PM

*This magazine is made from FSC paper, printed with soy ink and 100% recyclable. Please recycle after use.BORO Magazine published by JKL Projects. All materials Copyright © 2012 BORO / All rights reserved. Opinions and claims made by advertisersare advertisers’ claims only. BORO Magazine accepts no responsibility for any claims made by advertisers. BORO Magazine reserves the right topublish any images without providing photo/image credit. No part of this publication may be reproduced without permission of the publisher.

6 WESTERN QUEENS: THE NEW BOHEMIA Are we fi nally growing out of those awkward teenage years?

8 BITES OF WISDOM Advice from local successful restaurateurs

22 ARTIST ABUNDANT 4 fresh local artist

26 SPOTLIGHT ON ACTORS Lights, camera, action

28 MUSICIANS WELCOME Talent rings true

12 AUGUST 2012 EVENTS15 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 MAP32 DISCOUNTS & PROMO PAGE Exclusive savings, discounts and freebies for the month of

August in Astoria, LIC and Sunnyside.

FEATURES DEPARTMENTS

COVER:Design by Emma Cason-Pratt.

/ BOROmag @BOROmag

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Story JULIAN LESSER

Western QueensAs the New Bohemia

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Could Western Queens be next?

You could make the argument that we’re already there.

Are we the Village in its prime? Maybe, maybe not. What is for certain, however, is that there are few places in NYC that can rival Western Queens in terms of opportunity and hospitality for artists of all kinds, be they fl edgling novelists, working graphic designers or well-seasoned sculptors.

It’s hard not to immediately envision Greenwich Village in the 1950’s and 1960’s when thinking about New York City’s quintessential bohemian neighborhood.

Fifty years worth of folklore has etched the images of beatniks and troubadours permanently into our psyches, and because of this, the Village of the mid-20th century has long served as the iconic sanctuary for the original American counterculture.

“It was to Greenwich Village that people like me went,” artist Suzan Rotolo wrote in her 2008 memoir about life in the Village during the 1960’s. “People who knew in their souls that they didn’t belong where they came from.”

During the Village’s peak, residents like Rotolo probably assumed the neighborhood would never change. Modern bohemians know better. Th e truth is that NYC’s cultural epicenter is forever on the move. SoHo, TriBeCa, Williamsburg, Greenpoint, Bushwick – they’ve all had their turn as the capital of NYC’s artistic scene.

Our neighborhood off ers all three of the key factors required to attract and retain inventive people: aff ordable rent, abundant workspace and like-minded neighbors. Ask any longtime resident of Astoria or Long Island City and they’ll quickly tell you that these boons have drawn countless creative types to the area in recent years. Painters, musicians, writers and comedians all continue to fl ock to our neighborhood at an unprecedented rate.

And where people live, they play.

As our borough has evolved over the last decade, we’ve seen a deluge of new entertainment and exhibition venues open, including but not limited to: comedy clubs, galleries, classical theaters, movie studios and performance-friendly coff ee houses.

Still, you can’t help but see the writing on the wall. If we’ve learned anything from our bohemian predecessors, it’s that these things tend to peter out just as soon as they’re noticed. No doubt our time as a bohemian sanctuary will prove every bit as temporary as those that have come and gone before us.

Fortunately for those of us that already live here, we seem to be in just the right place at just the right time. And for artists, there’s never been a better time to live in Western Queens.

Visit www.BOROmag.com for more stories about

new developments in Western Queens.


William Hallet William Hallet

Story + Photos BRADLEY HAWKS

Bites of Wisdom


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Opening a restaurant in New York is no

easy feat, let alone launching one that

becomes a success and maybe even one day a

neighborhood cornerstone. Th at’s why we went

to the experts, interviewing three successful

local restaurants for their perspective on what

it takes to make it in Western Queens.

William Hallet & Hell Gate Social George Rallis, Chef-Owner

William Hallet unifi es the talents of two already successful chefs of popular neighborhood joints. Now celebrating its fi rst birthday, as well as the introduction of a new outdoor seating area, the restaurant is a can’t miss local staple, especially on “Meat Market Mondays,” where you can bring your own choice cuts from the International Meat Market next door to be prepared and served with sides and a drink for just $15.

Both you and your business partner already had successful

locations before William Hallet. How was this venture

diff erent from Hell Gate Social or Bistro 33?

For me, it’s diff erent because at HGS it was more about the bar scene and backyard and less the food, while here we try to make the food the main focus with the bar scene being a close second. When it comes to Gary, he had to adjust to the food working with the bar scene as opposed to the food being the focal point as it is at Bistro 33.

What makes your patrons unique?

We get a steady stream of restaurant industry people in here, since we have dinner to midnight every night and a late night menu until 4 a.m. Late night at Hallet off ers not only food but also a great place to enjoy drinks, good music and a chill crowd. I would say our clientele is [primarily] late 20’s to mid 30’s who work in the industry and also in theater and fi lm, both on stage and behind the stage.

Your brunch is continually evolving. How critical is brunch

service to the success of a new restaurant in Astoria?

It’s just as important as lunch and dinner. But you need to be innovative when you do brunch, because anyone can poach an egg and throw it on top of Canadian bacon. You need to give people something they won’t fi nd at another place, and serve it with a great cup of coff ee or excellent Bloody Mary.

How is collaborating with another chef-owner diff erent from

steering the ship independently?

It’s diff erent due to the fact that you have someone to bounce ideas off of and can come up with something diff erent than you originally intended to. Although there is the occasional disagreement, it ultimately leads to better ideas.

What advice would you give a new restaurant owner looking

to open a business in Astoria?

It’s not easy; you need to fi nd a niche, with something that no one else is doing and knock it out of the park.

William Hallet | 36-10 30th Ave, Astoria718-269-3443 | www.williamhallet.comHell Gate Social | 12-21 Astoria Blvd. LIC.718-204-8313 | www.hellgatesocial.com


Brick Café

Brick Café

Brick Café


Brick CaféZoran Matkovic, General Manager

Brick Café has been serving 31st Ave. in Astoria long before it started blossoming as one of the major culinary arteries in the neighborhood. As one of the few longtime favorites in the area – and featuring one of the largest sidewalk cafes – we decided to ask General Manager Zoran Matkovic about Brick’s recipe for success, and how it stays relevant.

How has the changing culinary scene on 31st Ave.

impacted Brick Café?

When Brick opened 13 years ago, it was the only restaurant of its kind in the neighborhood. Th e recent changes on 31st Ave. have helped us even further defi ne our menu and what we have to off er to our patrons.

How would you describe your patrons?

Our patrons are from Queens, mostly Astoria, many with families outside of Astoria who they bring to Brick when they visit, especially for holidays.

How important are elements such as décor and design

to a restaurant’s success?

Th ey are vital to a restaurant’s success because they add to the overall atmosphere. With every seasonal change and holiday we add decorations and decor pieces to emphasize the spirit of the upcoming season or holiday.

With the introduction of a talented new chef, how do

you keep longtime regulars happy, yet also allow him

the freedom to put his own stamp on the menu?

We’ve designed a new menu that we hope entices new people, but we did keep some fan favorites on the menu for our longtime customers. Chef Th omas Gloster has brought a lot of new dishes and fl are to the menu, but he also knows it’s important to cook to your audience and not your ego. His culinary freedom can best be displayed on the daily specials, which always change with seasonal ingredients.

What advice would you give a new restaurant owner

looking to open a business in Astoria?

You should have a good feeling for the area. Astoria is culturally diverse and very unique. Th e menu and design of the restaurant has to fi t the demand of the patrons in the area and have its own unique twist.

Brick Cafe | 30-95 33rd St, Astoria718-267-2735 | www.brickcafe.com



Salt & Fat Salt & Fat

Visit www.BOROmag.com/food for more stories

about food in Western Queens.

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Salt & FatChef-Owner, Daniel Yi

Having grown up in Sunnyside, Chef Daniel Yi knows the neighborhood isn’t necessarily known for its culinary scene. But with the introduction of Salt & Fat, one of the fi rst local restaurants to emphasize innovation, Yi is helping usher in a defi nite change on the food front.

What was the inspiration for such a great name?

Even though salt and fat are associated with unhealthy eating, they aren’t necessarily bad or unhealthy ingredients. Th ey are actually the backbone of anything and everything that is tasty and delicious. Yes, we do have salty and fatty things on the menu, but we also have many light and refreshing items, and I think that really surprises some of the guests.

You have experience cooking in some very successful New

York establishments. What is the biggest diff erent about being

the actual owner?

When I was just a chef, I was completely focused on the food and only the food. Now I have to take care of the bullshit stuff that comes with being an owner: paperwork, errands, telephone calls, emails – boring stuff . I am a control freak, so my biggest challenge was giving up some control to my staff . I am thankful to have such a strong and devoted crew.

How would you describe the culinary scene in Sunnyside?

It’s still in its early stages. I feel there is a ton of potential in the neighborhood for a thriving food scene. I know the residents are open to it. Because of the diverse background in Sunnyside, the audience is defi nitely there; it just hasn’t grown to its full potential yet.

Your menu is constantly evolving, with several favorites

enduring. What’s one of the newer dishes you think guests

should give a chance?

Because we are constantly trying to create new dishes all the time, I wish my guests would come with an open mind and order things they wouldn’t normally order. I know our guests can’t like everything they try, but as long as they can appreciate what we are trying to do, that’s all that matters for me.

What advice would you give a new restaurant owner looking

to open a business in Sunnyside?

Th e best advice I can give to a new restaurant owner is to be true to your craft and cook with integrity. When it becomes only about making a profi t, then the restaurant will fail.

Salt & Fat | 41-16 Queens Blvd, Sunnyside718-443-3702 | www.saltandfatny.com



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AUGUST EVENTS8/19 @ 8:30AM (BODY+SOUL)FREE YOGA IN THE PARKFREE | Anthea Yoga & Healing Arts Center718-606-0049 | Astoria Park-Great Lawn Areawww.antheacenter.com

8/22 @ 6PM (NIGHTLIFE+ENTERTAINMENT)KARAOKE FAMILY NIGHTFREE ENTRY; $5 DRINK SPECIALS | Manducatis Rustica718-937-1312 | 46-35 Vernon Blvd, LICwww.manducatisrustica.com

8/23 9PM-12AM (MUSIC)LIVE MUSIC-BEECHER’S FAULTFREE | Rest-Au-Rant718-729-90009 | 30-01 35th Ave, LICwww.rarbarlic.com

8/24 9PM-11:30PM (MUSIC)LIVE MUSIC-BABY SODAFREE | The Queens Kickshaw718-777-0913 | 40-17 Broadway, Astoriawww.thequeenskickshaw.com

8/25 1-4PM (BODY+SOUL)LEARN FROM THE PROS: MIXED MARTIAL ARTS SEMINARFREE | Tightan Gym718-274-1606 | 31-21 31st St, Astoriawww.tightan.com

8/25+8/26 @ 6PM (FILM)SEE IT BIG! BLUE VELVET$12; $9/SENIORS/STUDENTS; FREE/MEMBERS | Museum of the Moving Image718-777-6800 | 36-01 35th Ave, Astoriawww.movingimage.us

8/26 10:30AM-12PM (BODY+SOUL)OUTDOOR BOOTCAHMP$25 | PNT Group Fitness & Cycling347-396-5809 | 10-68 Jackson Ave, LICwww.pntfitness.com

8/26 @ 8PM (NIGHTLIFE+ENTERTAINMENT)SHE-DEVILS$20| Laughing Devil Comedy Club347-91-DEVIL | 47-38 Vernon Blvd, LICwww.laughingdevil.com

8/31 @ 7PM (FILM)SEE IT BIG! DOCTOR ZHIVAGO$12; $9/SENIORS/STUDENTS; FREE/MEMBERS | Museum of the Moving Image718-777-6800 | 36-01 35th Ave, Astoriawww.movingimage.us

8/30 9PM-12AM (MUSIC)LIVE MUSIC-HIRO SUZUKI’S BLUES BANDFREE | Rest-Au-Rant718-729-90009 | 30-01 35th Ave, LICwww.rarbarlic.com

8/11 1PM-8PM (FASHION)REBEL CHIC NYC JEWELRY TRUNK SHOW & CRUEL SUMMER SALEFREE | Loveday 31718-728-4057 | 33-06 31st Ave, Astoriawww.loveday31.com

8/12 10:30AM-12PM (BODY+SOUL)OUTDOOR BOOTCAMP$25 | PNT Group Fitness & Cycling347-396-5809 | 10-68 Jackson Ave, LICwww.pntfitness.com

8/12 @ 3PM (MUSIC)SECOND SUNDAY: MUSIC IN THE GARDEN FEATURING ANDY AKIHOFREE W/MUSEUM ADMISSION | The Noguchi Museum718-204-7088 | 32-37 Vernon Blvd, LICwww.noguchi.org

8/12 @ 8PM (NIGHTLIFE+ENTERTAINMENT)SITCOMS BLOW$15 | Laughing Devil Comedy Club347-91-DEVIL | 47-38 Vernon Blvd, LICwww.laughingdevil.com

8/16 7-10PM (FOOD)4TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONFREE | Food Cellar & Co. Market718-606-9786 | 4-85 47th Rd, LICwww.foodcellarandco.com

8/16 9PM-12AM (MUSIC)LIVE MUSIC-JULIE CORBALISFREE | Rest-Au-Rant718-729-90009 | 30-01 35th Ave, LICwww.rarbarlic.com

8/17 6:30PM-7:30PM (BODY+SOUL)WORKOUT & WINE$22 | PNT Group Fitness & Cycling347-396-5809 | 10-68 Jackson Ave, LICwww.pntfitness.com

8/17 @ 7PM (NIGHTLIFE+ENTERTAINMENT)JAZZ NIGHTFREE ENTRY | Manducatis Rustica718-937-1312 | 46-35 Vernon Blvd, LICwww.manducatisrustica.com

8/17 @ 7PM (FILM)SEE IT BIG! TAXI DRIVER$12; $9/SENIORS/STUDENTS; FREE/MEMBERS | Museum of the Moving Image718-777-6800 | 36-01 35th Ave, Astoriawww.movingimage.us

8/17 9PM-11:30PM (MUSIC)LIVE MUSIC-SCONE KALB BERNARD TRIOFREE | The Queens Kickshaw718-777-0913 | 40-17 Broadway, Astoriawww.thequeenskickshaw.com

8/18 @ 5PM (FILM)FIST AND SWORD: WARRIORS OF THE RAINBOW: SEEDIQ BALE$12; $9/SENIORS/STUDENTS; FREE/MEMBERS | Museum of the Moving Image718-777-6800 | 36-01 35th Ave, Astoriawww.movingimage.us

8/3 5:30PM-8PM (MUSEUM)FIRST FRIDAYS: SUMMER IN THE GARDENFREE | The Noguchi Museum718-204-7088 | 32-37 Vernon Blvd, LICwww.noguchi.org

8/3 9PM-11:30PM (MUSIC)LIVE MUSIC-SEAN NOWELL TRIO FREE | The Queens Kickshaw718-777-0913 | 40-17 Broadway, Astoriawww.thequeenskickshaw.com

8/3 @ 10PM (NIGHTLIFE+ENTERTAINMENT)BRAZILIAN PARTYFREE | Monika’s Café Bar718-204-5273 | 32-90 36th St, Astoriawww.cafebarastoria.com

8/5 12PM-4PM (SHOPPING)SUMMER LUVIN POP-UP SHOPFREE | Design For You32-04b Broadway, Astoriawww.designforyou.biz

8/5 @ 5PM (THEATRE)HIP TO HIP THEATRE’S “HAMLET”FREE | Socrates Sculpture Park32-05 Vernon Blvd, LICwww.facebook.com/HipToHipTheatre

8/6 4PM-2AM (FOOD+DRINK)BEER & BACON ALL NIGHT HAPPY HOURFREE | Rest-Au-Rant718-729-90009 | 30-01 35th Ave, LICwww.rarbarlic.com

8/8 @ 8PM (NIGHTLIFE+ENTERTAINMENT)THE BIG THING$10 | Laughing Devil Comedy Club347-91-DEVIL | 47-38 Vernon Blvd, LICwww.laughingdevil.com

8/9 @ 6PM (NIGHTLIFE+ENTERTAINMENT)FLAMENCO NIGHTFREE ENTRY; $25 PRE-FIX MENU INCLUDING 1 COCKTAIL | Manducatis Rustica718-937-1312 | 46-35 Vernon Blvd, LICwww.manducatisrustica.com

8/10 6PM-8:30PM (DRINK)AMAZING AUSTRALIA WINE TASTINGFREE | Astoria Park Wine & Spirits718-606-1142 | 28-07 24th Ave, Astoriawww.astoriaparkwineandspirits.com

8/10 @ 7PM (FILM)SPECIAL PREVIEW SCREENING OF COMPLIANCE W/DIRECTOR CRAIG SOBEL IN PERSON$15; $9/MEMBERS | Museum of the Moving Image718-777-6800 | 36-01 35th Ave, Astoriawww.movingimage.us

8/10 @ 7:30PM (THEATRE)HIP TO HIP THEATRE’S “THE COMEDY OF ERRORS”FREE | Sunnyside Gardens Park48-21 39th Ave, Sunnysidewww.facebook.com/HipToHipTheatre

8/10 @ 9PM (NIGHTLIFE+ENTERTAINMENT)GYPSY MUSIC NIGHTFREE | Monika’s Café Bar718-204-5273 | 32-90 36th St, Astoriawww.cafebarastoria.com

8/11 @ 12PM (EDUCATION)INWOOD PARK WALKING TOUR$15/MEMBERS; $20/NONMEMBERS | Greater Astoria Historical Society718-278-0700 | Meet at Dyckman/200 St Station.www.astorialic.org



AUGUST EVENTS

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

8/31 9PM-11:30PM (MUSIC)LIVE MUSIC-SIX DEADLY VENOMSFREE | The Queens Kickshaw718-777-0913 | 40-17 Broadway, Astoriawww.thequeenskickshaw.com

ONGOING8/3-8/5 (FILM)RURAL ROUTE FILM FESTIVAL$12; $9/SENIORS/STUDENTS; FREE/MEMBERS | Museum of the Moving Image718-777-6800 | 36-01 35th Ave, Astoriawww.movingimage.us

8/5, 8/12, 8/19, 8/26 9AM-12PM (FOOD)HELLGATE FARM STANDFREE | The Queens Kickshaw718-777-0913 | 40-17 Broadway, Astoriawww.thequeenskickshaw.com

8/5, 8/12, & 8/19 (FAMILY)ASTORIA PARK SHORE FESTFREE | Build It Green!NYCwww.greenshoresnyc.org

EVERY MONDAY NIGHT (NIGHTLIFE+ENTERTAINMENT)RAINBOW MONDAYSNO COVER | Winegasm Bar & Eatery718-932-3331| 31-86 37th St, Astoriawww.winegasmeatery.com

EVERY TUESDAY @ 7PM (NIGHLIFE+ENTERTAINMENT)TRIVIA NIGHT WITH HOST JARED HORNBECKFREE | Raven’s Head Public House718-777-7565 | 28-04 Broadway, Astoriawww.ravensheadpublichouse.com

EVERY TUESDAY 7PM-9PM (BODY+SOUL)COMMUNITY NIGHT: HALF-PRICE CLASSES$12 | PNT Group Fitness & Cycling347-396-5809 | 10-68 Jackson Ave, LICwww.pntfitness.com

EVERY TUESDAY @ 8:30PM (NIGHTLIFE+ENTERTAINTMENT)TRIVIA NIGHTFREE | Break Bar & Billiards718-777-5400 | 32-04 Broadway, Astoriawww.break-ny.com

EVERY TUESDAY 9PM-11PM (COMEDY)WHINE & CHEESE COMEDY SHOWFREE | Rest-Au-Rant718-729-90009 | 30-01 35th Ave, LICwww.rarbarlic.com

EVERY WEDNESDAY @ 8PM (NIGHTLIFE+ENTERTAINMENT)MOVIE NIGHTFREE | Raven’s Head Public House718-777-7565 | 28-04 Broadway, Astoriawww.ravensheadpublichouse.com

EVERY THURSDAY @9PM (NIGHTLIFE+ENTERTAINMENT)LIVE JAM @ WINEGASMNO COVER | Winegasm Bar & Eatery718-932-3331| 31-86 37th St, Astoriawww.winegasmeatery.com

EVERY FRIDAY @7PM (THEATRE)THE HOUSE$5 | The Secret Theatre718-392-0722 | 44-02 23rd St, LICwww.secrettheatre.com

EVERY SUNDAY @7PM (THEATRE)IMPROVIUS MAXIMUS$10 | The Secret Theatre718-392-0722 | 44-02 23rd St, LICwww.secrettheatre.com


AUGUST 2012 | BOROMAG.COM | 15Continued on page 18

LOCALE (B,2)(718) 729-908033-02 34th Ave, LICwww.localeastoria.com

MANDUCATIS RUSTICA (A,4)(718) 937-131246-3 Vernon Blvd, LICwww.manducatisrustica.com

METRO FOOD BAR AND LOUNGE (C,2)(718) 638-766926-50 BQE West, Woodsidewww.metrobarlounge.com

MEXIQ (C,2)(718) 626-033337-11 30th Ave, Astoriawww.mexiqny.com

ORNELLA TRATTORIA ITALIANA (B,1)(718) 777-947729-17 23rd Ave, Astoriawww.ornellatrattoria.com

OVELIA (B,2)(718) 721-721734-01 30th Ave, Astoriawww.ovelia-ny.com

MUNDO (B,2)(718) 777-282931-18 Broadway, Astoria www.mundoastoria.com

PENTHOUSE808 (A,3)(718) 289-61188-08 Queens Plaza South, LICwww.penthouse808rooftop.com

PITA PAN (C,2)(718) 204-163337-15 30th Ave, Astoria www.pitapanny.com

PORTALIA RISTORANTE (B,2)(718) 545-350035-03 Broadway, Astoriawww.portalianyc.com

QUEENS COMFORT (C,2)718-728-235040-09 30th Ave, Astoriawww.queenscomfort.com

QUEENS KICKSHAW (C,2)(718) 777-091340-17 Broadway, Astoria www.thequeenskickshaw.com

RÈST-ÂÜ-RÁNT (B,2)(718) 729-900930-01 35th Ave, Astoriawww.rarbarlic.com

SAGE GENERAL STORE (B,4)(718) 361-070724-20 Jackson Ave, LICwww.sagegeneralstore.com

SHI (A,4)(347) 242-24504720 Center Blvd, LICwww.eatdrinkshi.com

SKINNY’S (A,4)718-806-106847-05 Center Blvd, LIC

SUGAR FREAK (C,2)(718) 726-585036-18 30th Ave, Astoriawww.sugarfreak.com

THYMARI (B,2)(718) 204-228032-07 34th Ave, Astoriawww.thymari.com

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

WILLIAM HALLET (C,2)(718) 269-344336-10 30th Ave, Astoriawww.williamhallet.com

WINEGASM BAR AND EATERY (C,2)(718) 932-333131-86 37th Rd, Astoria www.winegasmeatery.com

YAJAI (B,2)(718) 956-955933-16 30th Ave, Astoria www.yajaithaifood.com

BAKERIES

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

BROOKLYN BAGEL & COFFEE COMPANY (C,2)(718) 777-112136-14 30th Ave, Astoriawww.bkbagel.com(C,1) 35-09 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria(C,2) 35-05 Broadway, Astoria

MALU (A,4)(718) 729-625812-09 Jackson Ave, LICwww.amomandpopshop.com

SWEETLEAF (A,4)(917) 832-672610-93 Jackson Ave, LICwww.sweetleafl ic.com

FOOD SHOPS

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

ASTORIA WINE AND SPIRITS (C,2)(718) 545-94633412 Broadway, Astoriawww.astoriawines.com

FOOD CELLAR (A,4)(718) 606-97864-85 47th Rd., LICwww.foodcellarandco.com

SHOPS

APOLLO GALLERY (C,2)(718) 786-759034-10 36th Ave, Astoria

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

BABYNOIR (B,1)(646) 470-472826-16 23rd Ave, Astoriawww.babynoir.net

INSIDE ASTORIA (C,1) (718) 956-4000 28-07 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria

RESTAURANTSALEWIFE (A,4)(718) 937-74945-14 51st Ave, LICwww.alewifequeens.com

ALIADA (B,2)(718) 932-224029-19 Broadway, Astoria

ASTOR ROOM (C,2)(718) 255-194734-12 36th St, Astoriawww.astorroom.com

AVENUE CAFE (C,2) (718) 278-6967 35-27 30th Ave, Astoriawww.avenuecafenyc.com

BAREBURGER (B,2)(718) 777-701133-21 31st Ave, Astoria(718) 204-716723-01 31 St, Astoriawww.bareburger.com

BEAR (A,2)(917) 396-493912-14 31st Ave, Astoriawww.bearnyc.com

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

BREAD BOX CAFE (A,4)(718) 389-97004711 11th St, LICwww.breadboxcafelic.com

BURGER CLUB (B,2)(718) 777-778832-02 30th Ave, Astoriawww.burger-club.com

BURGER GARAGE (B,3)(718) 392-042425-36 Jackson Ave, LICwww.theburgergarage.com

BUTCHER BAR (C,2)(718) 606-814037-08 30th Ave, Astoriawww.ButcherBar.com

CAVO (C,2) (718) 721-100142-18 31st Ave, Astoriawww.cavoastoria.com

CAFÉ BAR (C,2)(718) 204-527332-90 36th St, Astoriawww.cafebarastoria.com

CAFÉ VIA ESPRESSO (C,1)(718) 545-32902409 Steinway St, Astoriawww.cafeviaespressoastoria.com

DINER 24/7 @ Z HOTEL (A,3)(212) 319-7000 11-01 43rd Ave, LICwww.zhotelny.com

DIWINE (C,2)(718) 777-135541-15 31st Ave, Astoria www.diwineonline.com

EL AY SI (A,4)(718) 389-878147-38 Vernon Blvd, LICwww.elaysi.com

FATTY’S (B,1)(718) 267-70712501 Ditmars Blvd, Astoriawww.fattyscafenyc.com

IL BAMBINO (C,2)(718) 626-008734-08 31 Ave, Astoria www.ilbambinonyc.com

L’ARTISTE (C,2)(646) 309-7504 42-20 31st Ave, Astoriawww.lartisterestaurant.com

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

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

LINN (B,2) (718) 204-00602913 Broadway, Astoria www.linnrestaurant.com

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KRISTEES (B,1)(718) 204-5031 2401 23rd Ave, Astoriawww.kristeesny.com

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

SITE (C,2)(718) 626-603035-11 34th Ave, Astoriawww.sitenyc.com

STUDIO34 (C,2)(718) 728-249532-90 34th Ave, Astoria

PETS

CITY VET (A,4)(718) 433-133445-44 Vernon Blvd, LICwww.cityvetnyc.com

STEINWAY COURT VET (C,2)(718) 728-282232-14R Steinway, Astoriawww.steinwaycourtvet.com

FLORISTS

FLORESTA (A,4) (917) 612-4446 51-02 Vernon Blvd, LIC 4-85 47th Rd, LIC www.fl orestanyc.com/blog

MAP IT DIRECTORY


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BREAK (B,2)(718) 777-54003204 Broadway, Astoriawww.break-ny.com

BRICK BAR (B,2)(718) 267-2735 30-95 33rd St, Astoriawww.brickcafe.com

DOMAINE WINE BAR (A,4)(718) 784-235050-04 Vernon Blvd, LICwww.domainewinebar.com

LAUGHING DEVIL (A,4)(347) 913-38454738 Vernon Blvd, LICwww.laughingdevil.com MOSAIC CAFE AND LOUNGE (B,1)(718) 728-0708 25-19 24th Ave, Astoriawww.mosaicnyc.net

RAVEN HEAD PUBLIC HOUSE (C,2)(718) 777-75653804 Broadway, Astoria www.ravenheadpublichouse.com

STUDIO SQ. BEER GARDEN (C,3)(718) 383-100135-33 36th St, Astoria www.studiosquarenyc.com

SWEET AFTON (C,2)(718) 777-257030-09 34th St, Astoria www.sweetaftonbar.com

TANTRA LOUNGE (B,2)(718) 937-457435-50 31st St, Astoria www.Tantraloungenyc.com

ART

5 POINTZ (B,4)(317) 219-268545-46 Davis St, LICwww.5ptz.com

THE ART HOUSE (C,2)(516) 724-156231-06 35th St, Astoriawww.gabrieleperici.com

ASTORIA FINE ARTS DANCE (C,1)(718) 247-074038-01 23rd Ave, Astoriawww.asfa-dancestudio.com

CARNEGIE HALL(212) 247-780057th St and 7th Ave, NYwww.carnegiehall.org

FLUSHING TOWN HALL(718) 463-7700 x 222 137-35 Northern Blvd, Flushing www.fl ushingtownhall.org

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

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

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

SERVICES

ARK LOCKSMITH 24/7 SERVICE (C,2)(718) 932-LOCK (5625)30-10 37th st, Astoria www.Astorialocksmith.com

CATS EYE PROMOS (A,2)(718) 956-860028-14 14th St, Astoriawww.catseyepromos.com HERO COMPUTER REPAIR NYCApple/Mac Computer Repair [email protected] | www.iamhero.net

IOBY(IN OUR BACKYARDS)(917) 464-451541 East 11th St, 3rd Floor NYwww.ioby.org

MPN LAW FIRM (C,2)(718) 777-04003403 Broadway, Ste. 200, Astoriawww.mpnfi rm.com

RCN (A,3)Digital TV and High-Speed Internet Services33-16 Woodside Ave, LIC(212) 842-7981www.rcn.com/boromag

VARDIMAN EYEWEAR (C,2)(718) 204-503734-18 Broadway, Astoria www.vardimaneyewear.com

VIDEO EXPRESS (C,2)(718)626-08463408 30th Ave, Astoria

EVENTS

FOUNDRY (A,3)(718) 786-777642-38 9TH St, LICwww.thefoundry.info

THE RENAISSANCE EVENT HALL (A,1)(718) 274-459027-34 21st St, Astoriawww.renaissanceofastoria.com

HOTELS

RAVEL (A,3)(718) 289-6101 8-08 Queens Plaza South, LICwww.ravelhotel.com

Z NYC HOTEL (A,3)(212) 319-7000 11-01 43rd Ave, LICwww.zhotelny.com

TATTOO SHOPS

SUPER NOVA TATTOOS (C,1)(718) 274-5712 38-01 23rd Ave, Astoriawww.supernovatattoo.com

BEAUTY

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)(718) 956-336636-17 30th Ave, Astoriawww.redkensaloon.com

FITNESS

ANTHEA YOGA&HEALING ARTS CENTER (C,2)(718) 606-004934-01 45th Street, Astoriawww.antheacenter.com CLUB FITNESS (B,2)(718) 545-000431-11 Broadway, Astoriawww.clubfi tnessny.com

CROSSFIT DYNAMIX GYM (C,1)(718) 606-038136-05 20th Ave, Astoriawww.dynamixgym.com

HEART AND SOUL OF YOGA (C,2)(718) 932-2567At 35th St. and Broadway, Astoriawww.heartandsoulofyoga.com

SEEK FITNESS (B,1)(347) 924-900427-18 23rd Ave, Astoriawww.seek-fi tness.com

PNT FITNESS (A,4)(347) 396-580910-68 Jackson Ave, LICwww.pntfi tness.com

TIGHTAN GYM(718) 274-160631-21 31st St, Astoriawww.tightan.com

YOGA AGORA (B,2)(718) 626-068033-02 Broadway, 2nd Fl, Astoriawww.YogaAgora.com

THE YOGA ROOM (C,2)(718) 274-025538-01 35th Ave, Astoria (718) 786-7962 (A,4)10-14 47th Rd, LICwww.the-yoga-room.com

SPAS

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

NIGHTLIFE / BARS

BOHEMIAN HALL & BEER GARDEN (B,1) (718) 274-49252919 24th Ave, Astoria www.bohemianhall.com

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) 570-366343-01 22nd St, LICwww.ReisStudios.com

SCULPTURECENTER (B,3)(718) 361-175044-19 Purves St, LICwww.sculpure-center.org

THE SECRET THEATRE (B,3)(718) 392-07224402 23rd St, LICwww.secrettheatre.com

SOCRATES SCULPTURE PARK (A,2) (718) 626-1533 32-01 Vernon Blvd, Astoriawww.socratessculpturepark.org

TEN10 STUDIOS (A,4)(646) 271-535310-10 47th Rd, LICwww.ten10studios.com

UNDERPENNY (A,4) (917) 517-149210-13 50th Ave, LIC

REAL ESTATEEXO ASTORIA (A,1)(888) 870-0384 26-34 21rst Street, Astoriawww.exoastoria.com

MODERN SPACES (A,4)(718) 784-1110 10-63 Jackson Ave, LIC 47-42 Vernon Blvd, LIC29-20 23rd Ave, Astoriawww.modernspacesnyc.com

WELLS FARGO HOME MORTGAGE (C,2) (718) 310-43033501 30th Ave, Astoriawww.wfhm.com

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GET YOUR BUSINESS LISTED!

Want your business listed in our directory?Call: (914) 426-2939

Email: [email protected]



Reach your homebuying goalsW hether you’re buying your first home, a second home or refinancing your current home, Wells Fargo Home Mortgage has the products and programs to help you reach your homebuying goals.

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2012 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. NMLSR ID 399801. AS622384 4/12-7/12

As a home mortgage consultant with Wells Fargo Home Mortgage, one of the nation’s leading retail mortgage lenders, I will work to help you find a home financing program to meet your needs.


ARTISTABUNDANT

Story DANIEL CROWN

With aff ordable rents, an amenable community and gallery/studio space readily available at local institutions, Western Queens radiates an artistic energy that’s attracting right-brained virtuosos from all around the world.

To celebrate this creative spirit, we’ve decided to highlight four local artists who perfectly represent the borough’s inner-bohemia. Th eir expertise and backgrounds may vary, but there’s one thing they all have in common: None of them would want to live and work anywhere else but Western Queens.

WILLIAM GARRETT & BETH WILLIAMSHaving been married for nearly 20 years, artists William Garrett and Beth Williams long ago adopted the same diligent and reverential attitude toward art. But their work itself couldn’t be any more diff erent.

William, originally a photographer, produces what he describes as “photo grids on steel sheets, abstract transparencies on industrial light boxes and photo movement grids using digital frames.” Beth mainly works

with recycled materials, using everyday objects, such as shopping bags and toilet paper wrappings, to construct full fi gurative forms.

With two artists in one household, it’s easy to imagine space being at a premium. But according to William, one of the biggest benefi ts of living in Long Island City is the availability of large, aff ordable places to live and work. Most notably, the Garretts have a studio in their home, which allows the couple to create art whenever the mood strikes them.

When the time comes to display said art, the LIC community provides ample support, both in terms of space and friendly advice.

“Having venues in the community to show art, like Jesse Winter’s Ten10 studios, and events like the Long Island City Arts Open, have given [our] work an outlet and an audience,” says William. “Th e community is full of artist neighbors and friends that share advice and technique, encouraging new work and innovation.”

William Garrett | www.williamgarrettart.webs.com Beth Williams Garrett |www.bethwilliamsgarrettart.webs.com

William Garrett

Beth Williams Sharon Florin Johnny Coughlin


AR

T


JOHNNY COUGHLIN (JOHNNY JACKPOT) Queens resident Johnny Jackpot has had a good run of late. Working mostly in pen and ink, his artwork is all but ubiquitous in Ralph Lauren retail stores, and his illustrations have been featured in News Day, Bloomberg and Th e Daily News, among other publications.

Having attended school in Queens from kindergarten through high school, it took a while for the charms of his hometown to set in. Like most lifelong New Yorkers, his perspective on the city was a bit skewed until he got out for a few years.

“It wasn’t until I enlisted in the Marine Corps and lived far from New York,” he says, “that I came to realize (especially through cinema and television) how much of the world was focused on the place where I grew up.”

STUDIO: 43-03 55th Street, Woodside, NY 11377718-578-9171 | Email: [email protected]

SHARON FLORIN For more than 30 years, artist Sharon Florin has spent her work week painting stunning urban landscapes – many of them of them depicting Long Island City, where she has worked in the same studio since 1980.

According to Florin, her inspiration comes from the constantly evolving New York skyline. Th e architecture in the city is constantly in fl ux, she says, making the act of capturing the defi ning aesthetic of any given year infi nitely more important. For a perfect example of how quickly neighborhoods can change, she points to LIC, which she has watched transform nearly overnight.

“I’ve been documenting the neighborhood over the years in my paintings, as it was and as it is,” she says. “Th e ‘small town’ feel of the neighborhood and the artists living and working here greatly add to the character of this part of NYC.”

Email: [email protected]

Christina Prudenti

CHRISTINA PRUDENTI If you’ve frequented any one of Western Queens’ many local retailers in recent months, there’s a good chance you’ve run into the work of Long Island City resident Christina Prudenti. Highlighted by a series of Queens-inspired graphic t-shirts, her clothing line, queens77, has become a mainstay on neighborhood clothing racks.

According to Prudenti, the link between her work and the community is inescapable. Th roughout all of the stress of starting her own business, Queens has always had her back.

“Art is everywhere in Long Island City because we have a community that welcomes and supports it,” she says. “I quit a job with paid vacations and health benefi ts in order to focus on building a business where I would be able to do what I love. I don’t know that I could have done this without the support and love from my borough!”

www.queens77.comEMAIL: [email protected]



Even at fi rst glance, Western Queens stands out as a welcoming haven for actors in the city. From LIC’s Silvercup Studios, where

30 Rock is fi lmed and legendary shows such as Th e Sopranos completed their run, to Kaufman Astoria Studios, which is currently trying to get authorization for an outdoor studio lot, to Th e Secret Th eatre, which off ers quality live theater and courses, spaces to fi lm and television abound.

It should come as no surprise, then, that we share our neighborhood with some very successful actors. BORO caught up with three of them to discuss their recent achievements and what makes Western Queens so attractive to the artistically inclined.

SPOTLIGHT ON

ACTORS

THESPIAN HANGOUT SPOTSTh e actors also shared their favorite spots for gathering with fellow actors. Bohemian Hall & Beer Garden, Astoria’s renowned hangout space, is attractive for its ability to accommodate large groups and for performance spaces both outside and in the dining hall. Just across the street from the beer garden, Th e Sparrow Tavern off ers quality food and drinks and often serves as a meeting place for actors. And lastly, Th e Astor Room, with its décor and atmosphere reminiscent of early cinema, is an actors’ favorite for ambience alone.

Bohemian Hall & Beer Garden29-19 24th Ave, Astoria

718-274-4925 | www.bohemianhall.com

The Sparrow Tavern24-01 29th St, Astoria

718-606-2260 | www.thesparrowtavern.com

The Astor Room34-12 36th St, Astoria

718-255-1947 | www.astorroom.com

Story MATTHEW TAYLOR

Joe Jung


AC

TO

RS


Joe JungJoe Jung is the artistic director of Project: Th eater, a

nonprofi t group that aims to create innovative, relevant theater. Most notably, Project: Th eater puts on “Our Bar,” a monthly show that takes place in Manhattan and features actors crafting and performing scenes that could plausibly take place in that very bar. Th e uniqueness of each show – including the lack of a “fourth wall” between the audience and the performers and, of course, the element of drinking – have made this show extremely popular.

Jung is also active in the community of Astoria, where he lives. He acted in the fi rst episode of CASTERS, a web series that takes place in Astoria. In addition, one of Jung’s career highlights was performing in the Broadway production of “Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson.” To learn more or contact Jung, visit www.joejung.com.

Haus Of MimosaHaus of Mimosa is the hilarious musical show created

by and starring Astoria residents Travis Barr and Steven Incammicia, who play Miss Anita M. Buff em and Gina Marie Rittale, respectively. Th e characters are both born and bred in Astoria, and the neighborhood has a visible infl uence on the show.

Th e show originated from Barr and Incammicia’s podcast, called “Sunday Morning Mimosa,” which featured a variety of characters. Fans expressed particular interest in Anita, a former JC Penny model who is “rich, beautiful, and over the top,” as Barr puts it, and Gina, more of an “everywoman” who works multiple jobs and has two children.

Barr and Incammicia then wrote a live show with these characters, which they began performing at cabarets and theaters such as the Daryl Roth Th eater near Union Square and SugarFreak.

Today, Haus of Mimosa performs at private events, including birthday parties, baby showers, bachelor/bachelorette parties and bridal events. Th eir Tupperware and Passion parties are particularly popular, as hosts do not have to pay a performance fee. Th ey are also currently doing a weekly show during Saturday brunch from 1-3 p.m. at Traffi c in Hell’s Kitchen.

www.TheHausofMimosa.com | Traffic | 701 9th Ave, NYC | 212-837-2702 | www.trafficbarnyc.com

Phillip Chorba before and after being transformed with make-up and prosthetics

Ralph Meitzler

Sunday Morning Mimosa

Ralph Meitzler Ralph Meitzler is currently just outside of Cooperstown, NY, shooting an independent feature fi lm with Walza Productions. Th e fi lm, which follows two men falling in love, focuses greatly on change, a central theme in Meitzler’s life lately as well.

Meitzler was a bartender at Mix, Astoria’s fl agship LGBT bar, before it shut

down. At that same time, Meitzler went through drastic relationship and personal changes. In refl ection, Meitzler has put together a one-man cabaret entitled, “I Believe,” which he will be performing at Th e Laurie Beechman Th eatre on August 8 at 9:30 p.m. Th e hour-long performance is described as “a musical journey of refl ection, self-discovery and acceptance.”

Meitzler has also acted in Broadway’s “Rock Of Ages” for six months and currently performs in the show about once a week as a swing for various roles.

Laurie Beechman Theatre | 407 W 42nd St, NYC | 212-695-6909 | $10 Tickets + Food/Drink Minimum

Phillip Chorba Phillip Chorba, a fi ve-year resident of Astoria, is currently

fi nishing work on “Th e Silver Linings Playbook,” a major international feature fi lm whose cast includes such big names as Bradley Cooper, Julia Stiles and Robert DeNiro. Th e fi lm is a comedy based on a novel by Matthew Quick about a former teacher re-adjusting to life after a stint in a mental institution. Chorba has also been busy shooting the pilot for a show called “Moral Focus,” and a commercial he did for LG washers and dryers is set to begin showing on various websites this month.

Chorba, who attributes much of his success to his work at Th e Studio-East Actor’s Arena, has also had roles on Th e Onion News Network and in a local production of the comedic “Th e Complete Works Of William Shakespeare (Abridged)” at Th e Bohemian Hall & Beer Garden.




MUSICIANS WELCOME

Story MATTHEW TAYLOR

A s a city where innovation is

celebrated and venues of all sorts

abound, NYC has long been a sought-after

destination for musicians. And while

Western Queens does not yet have its

equivalent of Carnegie Hall, Th e Bowery

Ballroom or Th e Knitting Factory, it does

boast the distinct sense of community that

many other NYC venues lack, especially

as artists are increasingly priced out of

the neighborhoods where they perform.

With that in mind, we talked to three

successful local musicians about their careers

and favorite music-friendly spots in the

neighborhood.

LAURENCE WOODSON

Laurence Woodson, a guitarist, singer/songwriter and drummer, happened upon LIC rather fortuitously. After launching an Inc. 500 company in Washington, DC, he began to miss being a musician and returned to NYC, where he had previously earned degrees from NYU and been signed to MCA Records.

“I returned to New York with my dog, a camper van, a guitar and a dream,” Woodson says. He soon found an apartment in LIC, a neighborhood that he previously knew nothing about and has now fallen in love with.

Woodson, who has toured with Deep Purple and opened for groups such as Toots & Th e Maytals, now uses his music and business acumen to do good works and build the community around him. He does this primarily through his nonprofi t project NOWHERE (NOW HERE) a mobile café and performance venue. Woodson, along with fellow musicians and others who want to donate resources – such as food or even smoothie preparation skills – go to public spaces, set up picnic tables and sound equipment, and off er free food and music to anyone who passes by. Woodson plans to have a NOWHERE (NOW HERE) event in Astoria Park in the coming months. For more information, visit www. nowhere-now-here.com, and contact Laurence at laurence@nowhere-

now-here.com or 202-489-3321 if you’d like to be involved.

MU

SIC



DJ NIQUESince he began DJing 12 years ago, Astoria resident DJ Nique has honed in on a

specifi c expression of his art. “I want to do conceptual mixes,” he explains. “Soundtracks to diff erent situations. I want to take the craft to a level where it has never been.”

Today, Nique is making a conscious eff ort to do fewer sets at bars and clubs and instead DJs at places such as sporting or in-store events. He hopes to eventually DJ fi tness and spinning classes, and is focusing on original mash-ups and remixes.

In May, Nique performed at the Field Day festival in Buff alo, NY, where Munchi, one of his idols, headlined. Nique also currently has a residency at Banc Café on 3rd Avenue in Manhattan. Learn more about him at www.djnique.net.

MEGHAN IVEY

Meghan Ivey, a wine distributor living in Astoria, recently began to rediscover her calling as a jazz singer. One Monday night, as she was walking down 30th Ave with a friend, she “heard a trombone and trumpet blasting from across the street.” Upon investigating, they found themselves inside Astoria’s Dominie’s Hoek, a bar that opened after the LIC original proved to be quite popular. Ivey requested that the band play the jazz

standard, “I Can’t Give You Anything But Love,” and her friend convinced her to get on stage and sing with them. Since then, she has been a regular performer at Dominie’s Monday Night Jazz.

Ivey’s résumé as a singer is impressive: She used to sing with Th e Brian Setzer Orchestra, performed at such prominent Los Angeles venues as Th e Hollywood Palladium and Th e Orpheum Th eatre, and is even featured in the fi lm “Th e 13th Floor” as a singer. Her current project? To bring her two passions together: “I’m always looking for ways to marry wine and jazz,” Ivey says.

THE SPOTSLIC Bar was one of the fi rst names

to come up when discussing music in Western Queens, thanks to its casual atmosphere, outdoor performances and the bar’s enthusiasm for booking local musicians. Waltz-Astoria, an artsy coff ee/wine bar with open mic nights and annual singer/songwriter contests, is another favorite place to gather, collaborate and perform. Rest-Au-Rant and Th e Queens Kickshaw are also ideal for catching live music and meeting with fellow musicians, as they each feature weekly shows (Th ursdays and Fridays, respectively). Studio Square also off ers shows from DJs and other musicians in the beer garden. Th e Roots have even played there, most recently in July.

LIC Bar45-58 Vernon Blvd, LIC718-786-5400 | www.licbar.com

Waltz-Astoria23-14 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria718-956-8742www.waltz-astoria.com

Rest-Au-Rant30-01 35th Ave, LIC718-729-9009 | www.rarbarlic.com

The Queens Kickshaw40-17 Broadway, Astoria718-777-0913www.thequeenskickshaw.com

Studio Square35-33 36th St, LIC718-383-1001www.studiosquarenyc.com

MU

SIC


Be local and enjoy the below offers from some of Astoria and LIC’s best merchants. Offers available through August 31, 2012. Bring BORO or coupon below to redeem discount.

Limited to 1 use per reader. Merchant restrictions may apply.

BORO DEALS & DISCOUNTS

1 FREE DRINK and comedy show with meal

on Tuesday nights 9PM-Closing.

1 HALF-PRICED bottle of wine per table Tues.

nights.

1 FREE Signature Cocktail with your meal.

WINEGASM1 FREE glass of wine with your meal. 1 FREE glass of wine with meal 10% OFF when you spend $100 or more.

1 FREE drink with food order (wine, draft beer,

or well drinks).

1 FREE Glass of Wine or Dessert with meal.

Redeemable mon-thurs.

Excludes prix fi xe. Limited to select wines.

$39.99 for limited Digital TV + High

Speed Internet.

1 FREE day pass, limited to fi rst time clients/

one per person.

Complimentary Blowout for fi rst time

color clients (tues-thurs).

$15 OFF your next visit, when you mention

this ad.

$10 OFF haircuts and color. 15% OFF entire purchase. $129 for six weeks of fi tness classes.

20% OFF growlers. (Select beers) 15% OFF your next visit. 10% OFF any wine purchase.

34-10 36 AVE, ASTORIA NY 11106 | (718) 786-7590

ANTIQUES, COLLECTABLES, FURNITURE, FINE ARTS, JEWELRY...

MON-SAT 10:30 AM – 7:30 PM


boro magazine august 2012

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