Halloween in Astoria

Halloween is almost upon us! There are a number of events going on in the neighborhood, and here's what we know so far. All events start the evening of Halloween proper, October 31.  If you know of any additional partays, please post in the comments!

Halloween at Sweet Afton

after dark and into the night...
30-09 34th Street
Astoria
Best Costume Grande Prize:  all you can eat & drink evening for two at Sweet Afton.
[website]

Halloween Masquerade at Domaine Bar A Vins

5:30 p.m. to 4:30 a.m.
50-04 Vernon Boulevard
Long Island City
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You are spookily invited to Domaine Wine Bar Masquerade Bash on Saturday, November 31st....come drink, dance, haunt and bite with us...

Hell Gate Social Halloween Bash

7:00 p.m. to 4:00 a.m.
12-21 Astoria Boulevard
Astoria
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The fun starts off w/ DJ Belladonna spinning the scariest grooves this side of the Mississippi. She will then hand off the reigns to the Two Bloody Tampons who will continue the mayhem. And let's not forget the Costume Contest.... and all the fun games we have planned (scary movie clip contest, mummy wrap contest, and Mad Libs).

Why Leave Astoria?! Halloween Party at Bohemian Hall and Beer Garden

8:00 p.m.
29-19 24th Avenue
Astoria
[RSVP]
WLA?! is putting together the biggest outdoor Halloween party in Queens as we again invade Bohemian Hall and Beer Garden. There will be live bands, drink specials, prizes for best costumes, Halloween games, a DJ, and most importantly, a beer garden!

Halloween Extravaganza at The Creek LIC

8:00 p.m. to 4:00 a.m.
10-93 Jackson Avenue
Long Island City
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Come support Promethean Theatre Company as we celebrate Halloween with drink specials, tarot cards, live music, beer pong and lots more! Don't forget to come dressed in your favorite costume (contest!) to compete for cool prizes. $10.00 donation ($15.00 if you don't have a costume).

Halloween Party at Rèst Âü Ránt

9:00 p.m. to 4:00 a.m.
30-01 35th Avenue
Astoria
[Facebook]
Join us for our 2nd annual Halloween Party! We will have party favors, food, and drink specials, and best costume prizes!

The Zombie Stomp Social at Shillelagh Tavern

9:00 p.m.
47-22 30th Avenue
Astoria
[astorians]
Don’t miss this ferociously ghoulish party at Shillelagh in Astoria. AM&A presents games and a costume contest with a cash prize!! $10 cover.

Halloween Masquerade Ball at Ovelia Psistaria Bar

11:00 p.m. to 4:20 a.m.
34-01 30th Avenue
Astoria
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Enjoy Halloween festivities in an intimate venue with good friends, music, drinks and costumes!

Astorian Weekend Edition 17.09.09

Although the weather is dreary now, we’re looking at a lovely, sunny weekend ahead—a perfect opportunity to be up and about in the nabe.

Start your Friday night with a Happy Hour at Mezzo Mezzo with cheap drinks ($4-$6), a free buffet and hookah for $12. They’ll be running this promotion every 3^rd Friday of the month. 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. And if the buffet isn’t enough, you can also take advantage of their $12.95 four-course prix-fixe. Monday – Friday, 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. (last seating is at 6:30p.m.) 31-29 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria. 718.278.0444

One of my favorite pet shops in the nabe, The Jumping Bulldog has officially opened its second location for doggie daycare and they’re available on weekends. Check them out if you’re looking for a nice, fun and safe place for your pet to play and interact with other dogs. 26-11 23^rd Avenue, Astoria. 917.576.7380

Meg and I had the pleasure to dine at the Balkh Shish Kabab House and I highly recommend it. Everything is super affordable (under $15 and mostly under $10) and so delicious. I urge you to try their fried pumpkin turnovers, scallion filled dumplings and the lamb kebab (pictured above). Baklava and pistachio custard should not be missed as a sweet finish. 23-10 31^st Street, Astoria. 718.721.5020

Enjoy more yummy sweets at Ovelia, as they roll out new dessert items this week such as the strawberry banana crepe, “spoon sweets” served with Greek yogurt and delicious donut-like “loukomades” topped with Nutella or orange marmalade. They also have two new cocktails on the specials menu, so make sure to ask for them. 34-01 30^th Avenue, Astoria. 718.721.7217

Two weeks ago, I told you about the amazing burek that I had at Djerdan. Meg also found them sold at Parrot Coffee Market on Ditmars Blvd in the frozen section. She praised them, saying how delicious and convenient they are to make. Check Parrot out this weekend and maybe you can discover other new treats you’ve never tried before. 31-12 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria. 718.545.7920

Astorian Weekend Edition 03.09.09

Labor Day weekend is here, and that means we get an extra day to relax and enjoy the fun that Astoria and LIC bring.

Saturday is the last day to enjoy P.S.1 MOMA’s Warm Up series so get yourself there and prepare to dance to the beats of DJ Spun, The Glenn Branch Ensemble, Lee Douglas, Justin Vandervolgen and others. 22-25 Jackson Avenue, Long Island City. 718.784.2084

Speaking of more outdoor activity, you could toast to a fruitful summer at a beer garden of your choice. The original, Bohemian Hall & Beer Garden (29-19 24^th Avenue, Astoria. 718.274.4925) serves hearty pitchers of brew and Eastern European grub. Or…if you prefer something more modern, try Studio Square (35-33 36^th Street, Long Island City. 718.383.1001) with its extensive domestic and international beer selection—and even sangria on tap. They’ll remain open late-night on Monday, so if you have an extra day off, you can party until 4a.m.

Now on to eating...

Enjoy the all-day Brazilian buffet at Point Brazil (38-01 31st Avenue, Astoria. 718.278.1934). They have a separate offering for breakfast and then a combined one for lunch and dinner. Prices are ultra low at $4.99-$5.99/lb so you could fill up here and then head to a cafe on 30th Avenue for coffee or a cocktail. Here are some suggestions: Grand Cafe (37-01 30th Avenue, Astoria. 718.777.7321), Avenue Cafe (35-27 30th Avenue, Astoria. 718.278.6967), Flo Cafe (37-20 30th Avenue, Astoria. 718.204.6069), Ovelia (34-01 30th Avenue, Astoria. 718.721.7217)

A hidden treasure that I tried last weekend is Djerdan Serbian cuisine. They have the most amazing burek (pictured above) - which is a pastry filled with a choice of meat, cheese or spinach. Their grilled meats and traditional specialties such as goulash and stuffed peppers bring me back to my mom's kitchen. Simply amazing and very affordable. All entrees are under $15 and most are in the $10 range (34-04A 31st Avenue, Astoria. 718.721.2694).

Greek Gods Get a Shout-Out

Logo by tastingtable.com

Today's Tasting Table e-blast, (amongst many other things) made feel feel proud to be an Astorian. Featuring the top three Greek eateries in the 'hood, the e-blast spotlighted some of our local faves such as Ovelia, Elias Corner and Lefkos Pirgos. While I don't agree that Lefkos is the most fabulous dessert place--preferring Artopolis myself--it was nice to see a variety of modern and traditional Greek establishments get a shout-out.

Read up, enjoy and visit these "Greek Gods," as Tasting Table calls them.

Astorian Weekend Edition 09.07.09

We've finally hit summer! There's nothing better than chillin' at a fabulous outdoor venue in the sun, whether a cafe, a bar, a beer garden or a new park.

Join the Drinking Liberally group this Friday at 7:30 p.m. at the Bohemian Hall & Beer Garden for some good-natured fun and potent brew. They’ll meet outside where you can spot them, sporting their black t-shirts with a blue bottle logo. Cheers! 29-19 24^th Avenue, Astoria. 718.274.4925

If you’re in the mood to check out a new beer establishment, visit the Studio Square Beer Garden. They’ve made some changes in the menu, now also serving sushi and festive homemade cupcakes, which are perfect if celebrating a birthday. They even supply candles—how thoughtful! Tip – get their as early as you can, as this place gets packed after 8 p.m. 35-33 36^th Street, Astoria. 718.383.1001

Looking for a delicious summery brunch? I recently tried Vesta’s offering and loved it! Besides the scrumptious whole-wheat French Toast with apricot preserves and the Hangover Pizza, I enjoyed the summery white grapefruit sorbet (pictured above). It’s paired with fresh fruit and is simply to die for. 21-02 30^th Avenue, Astoria. 718.545.5550

Another great brunch option is Ovelia, featuring tasty Greek omelets and interesting alternatives such as the Tiropita Toast. They were recently the runner up in DCA’s 4^th Annual Sidewalk Café Mix Off with their signature drink, The Sikatini. Made with dried figs and Metaxa, this refreshing concoction should not be missed. 34-01 30^th Avenue, Astoria. 718.721.7217

Gantry State Park in LIC is the perfect way to spend a warm afternoon. In the words of an enthusiastic resident, "it’s simply delightful. They have wooden lounge chairs, hammocks, lots of grass and even a cool concession stand, which will open soon.” Sounds like a winner to me! 474 48^th Avenue, Long Island City. 718.786.6385

Astorian Weekend Edition 05.03.09

The Beer Garden (29-19 24th Ave) continues its Thursday night jazz performances. Music starts at 6 p.m., most likely downstairs in the restaurant (once it warms up, it'll no doubt be outside in the garden). Come by and enjoy some music with a stein of beer and some kielbasa.

If you've got some time on Friday afternoon, Rejuvenate Spa (26–17 23rd Ave) has something for you. They offer a 30 minute lunch massage special on Fridays (and Mondays) from 12:00 - 2:30 p.m. Choose Swedish massage or reflexology for only $40. Rejuvenate sets itself apart from other spas by using only organic products and a holistic approach to skin and body care. They can be contacted at 718-626-4434.

On Friday night at 8:30 p.m., the American Bolero Dance Company presents Tablao Flamenco in Astoria. They'll present a variety of Spanish dance styles, with emphasis in Andalusian Flamenco and Spanish classical dances, performed by various local and international artists. Dancing takes place at the Auditorium Centro Espanol (41-01 Broadway, 2nd Floor). Adults $20; Children under twelve $15; call (718) 392-8888 or (917) 288-7996 for tickets.

On Saturday, Hellgate Social showcases DJ Belladonna starting at 10 p.m, spinning a whole host of musical styles. Astoria-based rapper HOPS comes on at 11 p.m. Stop by for some hot beats and cool Hell Gate Lemonade. 12-21 Astoria Blvd.

Sunday brings us Time Out for Hunger, a fundraiser for the Food Bank for New York City. Three Astoria restaurants are participating: 718 (35-01 Ditmars Blvd), Ovelia (34-01 30th Ave), and Bistro 33 (19-33 Ditmars Blvd). Eat at any of these places on Sunday and they will donate 10% of the profits to the Food Bank. A worthy cause, for sure.

Lastly, head over to Rosario's (22-55 31st St) for some great fresh mozzarella (see picture above). I had some the other day and it was delicious. They make it fresh there every day (except Sunday when they're closed). Super yum!

Photo credit: (cc) Meg Cotner

Astorian Weekend Edition 15.01.09

Although the weather outside is nippy, there are still plenty of fun happs in Astoria and LIC--especially in LIC this weekend.

Visit LIC Bar this Sunday from 5pm - 8pm for an eclectic music showcase hosted by award-winning Irish songwriter, Niall Connolly. The evening promises a plethora of new music talent from NYC and beyond. And if you can't make it on Sunday, go on Monday for another music showcase from 8pm - 11pm, featuring Egyptian, Brazilian and other "rowdy jazzsters." 45-58 Vernon Blvd, LIC. 718.786.5400

The Sage General Store in LIC is now offering weekend brunch from 11am - 4pm so check them out. Their brunch dishes peaked my interest, as I spied handmade pizzas, drunken baked French toast and Artisanal grilled cheese on the menu. 24-20 Jackson Avenue, LIC. 718.361.0707

Take this long weekend to scope out, LIC's covert and sought-after bar, Dutch Kills. Owned by the same company that runs Milk & Honey--an exclusive appointment or referral only Manhattan and London bar--this spot is sure to give you a unique experience (if it's open that is--it's all a big mystery). 27-24 Jackson Avenue, LIC.

A loyal reader suggested trying Just Arthur's, the old-school Italian joint on Steinway. He mentions that their specials are always good and that the "Pasta a la John" shouldn't be missed. 22-08 Steinway Street, Astoria. 718.728.7288

And don't forget to take advantage of Ovelia's Recession special (pictured above), as they'll be serving lunch all day and even extend happy hour until 10pm. Enjoy their scrumptious mezes and stiff cocktails at reasonable prices. 34-01 30th Avenue. 718.721.7217

Astorian Weekend *New Year's Edition* - 01.01.09

Happy New Year Astoria!

We hope that you had a fun and eventful evening last night. And while you're probably still recuperating from last night's celebrations, we wanted to bring you the latest and greatest happenings for this New Year's weekend.

There's a new Greek taverna in town, which replaced the old Anna's Corner and the more recent Athens Taverna. The new eatery is called Psitopolio Ta Vlahika and it offers pretty much the same type of cuisine as its predecessors but at more competitive prices. They've refurbished the space so it looks brand spankin' new. 31-01 23rd Avenue, Astoria. 718.545.4000

Enjoy a lovely brunch at some of our Astorian favorites:

Ovelia - For $10 - $13 you'll get a hefty brunch entree with a coffee and a morning cocktail. One of my favorites here is the tiropita toast, which is a flat bread made with feta cheese. 34-01 30th Avenue, Astoria. 718.721.7217

You can never go wrong with Grand Cafe's $11.50 brunch special (pictured above), which includes adorable little breakfast muffins, coffee served with a delicious pirouette cookie, a morning cocktail and an entree. 37-01 30th Avenue, Astoria. 718.777.7321

And don't forget to check out our latest brunch favorite, Vesta. Meg provides a great recap of their dishes here. Personally, I can't wait to try their hangover pizza! 21-02 30th Avenue, Astoria. 718.545.5550

Another fun activity for this weekend is shopping--especially on Ditmars.

Check out Inside Astoria for their 50% holiday sale, where you can get cool holiday cards and funky home items. 37-20 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria. 718.956.4000. Nook n' Crannie also offers unique, gently used vintage furniture. 29-18 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria. 718.204.8399. Or get some fun jewelry on sale at Mimi's Closet . 21-10 31st Street, Astoria. 718.726.0971.

Funky Gifts for Mom (and More) a la Astoria

Image by: www.sitedesignnyc.com

Still don't know what to get Mom for Mother's Day? Go local! Support Astoria's businesses while treating Mom to something that she won't find anywhere else.

SITE Design - Funky design store with a mix of vintage and modern goodies. The prices are reasonable and you'll find lots of creative gifts for Mom. Suggestions include:

Bangle Jewelry or Ring Box - This is some cool jewelry storing device--it's made out of recycled bangle bracelets, giving it a vintagey, high-end look ($45).

Botanical Totes - Trendy eco bags that are sure to make a fashion statement. Use them for groceries, shopping or just your everyday needs ($16.95 each)

Retro Oven Mitts - Want Mom to bake in style? Get her these funky oven mitts, which come in four quirky designs: pear, owl, poppy peacocks or a flock of birds ($15 each).

Message Plants and Herb Kits (shown above) - These adorable little bean or herb plants have a message written right on the leaves--what a concept?! The herb kits come in basil, thyme or rosemary ($14.95 each).

Site Design: 35-11 34th Avenue, Astoria, NY 11106. 718.626.6030

Activities with Mom:

1. Take her to Astoria Park. Although it might not be sunny, it will be warm so you can have a picnic with Mom. Bring delicious homemade sandwiches too and enjoy some one-on-one time with mama.
   
2. Take her to brunch. It's true that a lot of restaurants are having expensive prix-fix specials, but these cafes are offering their yummy brunch menu as usual: Ovelia Psistaria ($10 - $13 brunch) - 34-01 30th Ave. 718.721.7217. Grand Cafe ($11 brunch): 37-01 30th Avenue. 718.777.7321. Brick Cafe (brunch and dinner menu): 30-95 33rd Street. 718.267.2735
   
3. Take her to a spa. Astoria has some fabulous up-and-coming spas that are serious competition for Manhattan relaxeries. My favorite is Spa Hydra, which gives amazing massages and their amenities are state of the art (especially the showers)! 35-11 36th Street. 718.267.7991. SPAce Salon is also a cool option in the Ditmars area. They give 8 different types of massages and various facials at a fair price. 29-09 Ditmars Blvd. 718.726.4477.

Happy Mother's Day Astoria!

Astorian Weekend Edition 01.05.08

Start your weekend with some luxurious grub—sample Ovelia's new Happy Hour menu item, the Kobe Beef slider. If you can't make happy hour, you can enjoy this decadent burger for lunch. Ovelia Psistaria 34-01 30th Avenue. 718.721.7217.

As the weather gets nicer, Astoria's sidewalk cafes open up. One that we're particularly excited about is Mundo. This intimate café, serving eclectic cuisine from around the world has recently celebrated its 3rd birthday. Take a walk over there and try their fresh sangria or their amazing carrot dip. Mundo 31-18 Broadway. 718.777.2829

Heading to Astoria Park this weekend? Check out the newly opened burger-joint/Greek snack counter, Kafene right across the street. They boast five different types of burgers, an all-day breakfast menu as well as healthy snack options like Euro toast and fresh fruit smoothies. Kafene 23-08 Hoyt Avenue South. 718.274.6525

Waste Not, Want Not!? We're talking about recycling and about a cool group exhibition at Socrates Park by the same name. Learn about the goals, realities and practices of recycling at this fun event featuring artists and various craftsmen (and women). Sunday, May 4th 2-6p at Socrates Sculpture Park. 32-01 Vernon Blvd. 718.956.1819

Hit up Harry's Water Taxi Beach this Saturday or Sunday for some good beats. Victor Franco spins on Saturday from 3p-1a, FREE. On Sunday, enjoy the music of Chus, Quentin Harris, Joi Cardwell (Live Performance), Merritt, Steve Travolta, Vinyl Life and Dean K, 1p-10p. Tickets available at the door. Water Taxi Beach 2nd Street and Borden Ave.

And finally, ring in Cinco de Mayo early! Join ARROW Community Center for a Mexican shindig with music, arts & crafts and other fun stuff. Saturday, May 3rd from noon – 4p. ARROW Community Center 35-30 35th Street. 718.349.3408

Drink Up Astoria!

Support the Tap Project--a campaign that recognizes clean and available tap water in our communities and helps UNICEF distribute clean water to children around the globe.

Some of Astoria's best eateries are participating. Visit these places between now and March 22nd, donate $1 for your tap water (normally free) and you'll help provide clean water to those who need it most.

Ovelia Psistaria - Fun place for traditional and modern Greek cuisine--and a great brunch option. 34-01 30th Avenue, Astoria, NY 11103. 718.721.7217

Sanford's Restaurant - Astoria's landmark diner--has been in the 'hood for over 75 years!
30-13 Broadway, Astoria NY 11106. 718.932.9569

Chocolate Spoon Coffee House - A new cafe/bakery in Astoria--known for serving drinks in amazingly oversized mugs. 37-03 31st Avenue, Astoria, NY 11103. 718.204.0780

JJ's Asian Fusion - A neighbor of the Chocolate Spoon, you'll find tasty sushi and other eclectic Asian grub. 37-05 31st Avenue, Astoria NY 11103. 718.626.8888

Locale - Trendy cafe/bar, serving Italian dinner specialties and various brunch options. 33-02 34th Avenue, Astoria, NY 11106. 718.729.9080

Give to a great cause and experience some of Astoria's best restaurants. Happy drinking!

Astorian Weekend Edition 19.07.07

Even the week's end starts out rainy, we should have a beautiful weekend. On Saturday, there are a couple of Trunk Sales going on. The Trunk Sale put on by the Astoria Craft Collective will have jewelry, accessories, and clothing. It will be at the patio on the corner of 29th Street and 35th Avenue, 11am-5pm, plus there will be refreshments! It goes on rain or shine, but it looks like a dry Saturday. Candy Plum (30-98 36th Street) has a lot of t-shirts to offer with a 10% discount. 1-3pm and they'll have sweets and snacks. If you can't make it to either of the Trunk Sales, you might consider the Blooming Company at another time, a cute little boutique on 31st Street between 23rd Ave and Ditmars.

There's always plenty of music happening in Astoria, and this weekend is no different. Stop by Waltz on Thursday for Samba music, performed by Anthony Lanni and friends ($2 cover and a $7 drink minimum). Check out their newly renovated digs, too. Hellgate Social that same night presents indie punk rock in the form of The Johns. HGS also has a movie planned for Sunday around 9pm.

Time Cafe (44-18 Broadway) this weekend has live jazz during brunch on Sunday. Hear the Jacob Varmus Quartet from 12-3 while you enjoy some tasty food. And if you were thinking of heading to Sparrow (across from the Beer Garden) for brunch at 10:30am, you might want to reconsider - I tried eating there last Sunday at 11am and they were still closed! Best bet - check them out at noon. I also hear Ovelia (34-01 30th Avenue) makes a superb frappe.

Head to the AMMI for more horror films, including 1970s classic Carrie and 21st century Japanese film Itchi the Killer. Warm Up at PS1 is Saturday from 3pm-9pm, and particularly interesting sounding that afternoon is Eric Singer's LEMUR (League of Electronic Musical Urban Robots)

More fun, here.