Introducing Art House Astoria

A really nice organization with a wonderful mission just opened up in Astoria - "to provide quality arts programs to the Astoria community at an affordable price." They offer music and arts classes, both private and group sessions given by qualified NYC based instructors.

Founded by Micah and Jane Burgess, an enthusiastic husband and wife team who are both musical artists - his credentials are in the Jazz Guitar and she specializes in vocal performance - Art House Astoria has something for everyone, from electric bass to drums/percussion, painting, drawing and even creative writing. They've been holding open houses in the last two weeks, so if you're interested in enrolling, contact them soon, as classes start on September 28th.

23-35 Broadway, Astoria NY 11106
347.738.4148
info@arthouseastoria.org
www.arthouseastoria.org

Dutch Kills - An Interesting and Acquired Taste

After a long lead-up to the highly-anticipated Dutch Kills bar in LIC, I finally paid them a visit last week and liked what I experienced.

Atmosphere:
The bar is located in a semi-shady area on Jackson Avenue and there's absolutely nothing worthy of mentioning around it--however, as soon as you step in, you feel transported into another world.

Dark brown wooden furnishings deck the place from wall to wall and table to table. It's a bit dark and narrow as you step in and walk towards the bar, but once you get there, a charming, nostalgic vibe prevails. There's an old fashioned cash register and a grand piano in the back with saw-dust on the floor. And the best part is that all the barmen are dressed in vintage uniforms of high-waisted pants, suspenders and in some cases bowties. They're super nice and accommodating to your every need. I asked my barman to custom make my drink, and he happily obliged, fixing up the best classic daiquiri (pictured above) that I've had in a long time.

Drinks:
Dutch Kills features themed cocktails named after Queens neighborhoods such as "The Steinway" "Flushing" and even "Astoria." Beers and traditional spirits are served as well, embellished with unique little touches. For example, a scotch on the rocks was served with a huge chunk of solid ice. It made for good presentation and was fun for swooshing around the glass.

Costs:
Prices are on the expensive side for Queens and range between $7-$9 (beers are $7, signature cocktails and custom drinks are $9).

Overall, I do think it's worth a visit, as it is so different from the rest. Plus, did I mention that the barmen are skillful and cute?

Dutch Kills Bar - 27-24 Jackson Avenue, Long Island City, NY 11101
718.383.2724
E/V/G/R Train to Queens Plaza
www.dutchkillsbar.com

Dutch Kills Finally Opens Friday

Image by www.urbandaddy.com

This is what I hope to be the last work-in-progress update on LIC's Dutch Kills bar--it's finally opening this Friday according to an article that I read on Urban Daddy. The feel of this place is characterized as a "1980's neighborhood saloon, with dark, coffered mahogany walls and ceilings, white tile floors and antique cash registers." Sounds snazzy. Live music is also part of the deal and their back room piano will be put to good use. I'm certainly intrigued and will be checking it out next week. More details to come but if you're dying to go there, know that it'll finally be open this Friday.

Dutch Kills Bar - 27-24 Jackson Avenue, Long Island City, NY 11101
718.383.2724
E/V/G/R Train to Queens Plaza
www.dutchkillsbar.com

Miami Comes to LIC

Image by nymag.com

I read the following blurb in New York Magazine's Grub Street today. Apparently, there's a new, upscale rooftop bar/lounge opening up in Long Island City this May. It looks absolutely gorgeous and very Miami-esque. I can't wait to check it out along with the boutique hotel, the Ravel in which it'll be housed. Look out Manhattan, LIC just stepped it up another notch. Here's the article...

If there’s one thing we love, it’s new rooftop boîtes, and we’re happy to unveil our first of the season. In May, Long Island City boutique hotel (yes, there is one) the Ravel will soft-open its 6,500-square-foot roof deck. There’ll be cabanas, frozen drinks, unparalleled views of the Queensboro Bridge, and a menu of “gourmet” fish tacos, mini-burritos, and lamb sliders (which we can’t help but refer to as lamburginis, like North Square does), all under a retractable roof. The Ravel’s owner, Ravi Patel, tells us he’s going for a Miami theme, with live D.J.'s spinning till 1 a.m. Converted trolley cars will pick up partyers from nearby subway stations. As if all this weren’t enough, a smaller roof deck will serve as an outdoor movie theater. LIC, baby!

The Rooftop at the Ravel Hotel
8-08 Queens Plaza South, Long Island City NY 11101
718.289.6101
www.ravelhotel.com

Akti Will Open Soon

We've been waiting patiently (ok maybe impatiently) for this new Greek eatery to open. I called them yesterday and found out that their doors will open this Friday. Pop-in and check 'em out.

Akti is the sister restaurant of Table 30. It will offer authentic Greek lunch and dinner specialties. A review will come soon...

Akti: Corner of 35th Street and 30th Avenue. 718.721.3530.

Vue Cafe Comes to Astoria

I had the pleasure of dining at the brand-spankin' new Vue Cafe. Opening just a week ago and located on 12th Street and 31st Avenue, it's on the border of Astoria and Long Island City in a quiet residential neighborhood. The restaurant is situated on the ground floor of an upscale condominium building--talk about convenience for residents.

The atmosphere is modern but not pretentious--simple tables, good functional flatware and yes the walls are a bit glitzy but they give Vue attitude and its own voice. The space is intimate and an upscale touch is felt but not so much that you'd feel awkward dressed in comfortable garb.

Chef Randall Benjamin offers up an eclectic menu, focusing on hearty meat and seafood dishes. My fiancee and I shared the sweet and sour spare ribs, topped with sweet pickled onions and red peppers. The dish was also accompanied by cheesy jalapeno poppers, which were our favorite--crispy on the outside and silky smooth on the inside; they were a fun indulgence for both the eyes and the palate. Our entrees also didn't disappoint--mine was the lamb with zucchini croquettes, tzatziki and pita and my fiancee enjoyed a hearty steak. While he had to send it back because it was slightly undercooked, the staff was gracious, returning the steak cooked perfectly, satisfying him to the point where he cleaned his plate.

The service is friendly, attentive and eager to please--they are still very new so you could feel them on their toes, giving you that "special touch." Cost-wise, it's moderate and comparable to 30th Avenue prices. Some of the entrees might be a little more expensive ($22 for lamb chops and $25 for steak) but the quality of the food is good. Take a walk over there, especially on a weekend to unwind from a busy week.

Vue Cafe: 12-14 31st Avenue, Astoria, NY 11106. 718.726.4400

From the Upper West, to LIC...

Jacques-Imo's looks to be on its way to the nabe!
I have heard great things about the restaurant in its previous incarnation but never got to trek up there for a visit. I'm keeping my eyes peeled for the opening :)

Upper West Side: New Orleans transplant Jacques-Imo's is playing the blues: "it's official," emails a tipster, "the attached (above) says 'lost lease' but this place has looked dead for some weeks." Something of some sort will live on in the Mecca that is Long Island City, however, so there's that.
Eater filled me in here