Weekend Edition 03.12.09

Don't forget, tonight is Shine 2009 at KrisTEES, from 5-10. This special event is a unique collaboration by various artists to celebrate the energy of the holidays and the spirit of Fashion. Inspired by the movie “Where the Wild Things Are,” this evening will be magical with plenty to see and lots of beautiful holiday items. KrisTEES, 24-01 23rd Avenue at 24th street (718.204.5031).

Love Karaoke? Then check out Thursday night Karaoke at WunderBar! Drink specials and singing, what more could you want? How about a dedicated Karaoke bar right here in Astoria. Forget singing in public, bring a few friends and sing the night away in the soon-to-open Karaoke Shout’s private rooms. The website says opening in December, fingers crossed that’s soon! WunderBar, 37-10 11th Street. Karaoke Shout, 32-46 Steinway Street.

Need a break from all the holiday hustle? Why not check out the newly re-opened Fisher Landau Center for Arts? Currently they are displaying two unique exhibitions, including one on figures and portraits. Fisher Landau Center for the Arts, 38-27 30th Street (718.937.0727). Or, take advantage of this warm December we’re having by strolling through Socrates Sculpture Park, which is open year round! Socrates Sculpture Park, 32-01 Vernon Boulevard.

Did you see that BareBurger is now offering bunch? This organic eatery has quickly become a popular go-to spot for Astorians with their delicious and healthy burger alternatives and classics like shakes and fries. Brunch is a mix of egg dishes, yogurts, and yummy multigrain pancakes and French toast. BareBurger, 33 - 21 31st Avenue, (718.777.7011).

{Fog picture by Astoria4U on Flickr}

Halloween Harvest Festival at Socrates

On Saturday, October 17, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Socrates Sculpture Park will hold their annual Halloween Harvest Festival.  It's a free event, held rain or shine.  Hopefully it will shine that day!  Following the Festival, stick around for a special outdoor performance of The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, produced by the Red Door Theater Company. More from Socrates:

The 2009 Festival theme is glam rock! See a live concert by New York's own, Audra Rox and become the rock star of your dreams with the help of Socrates Sculpture Park artistsMartin Basher, Pilar Conde, Lars Fisk, McKendree Key, Zak Kitnick, Samara Kupferberg, and Athena Preston (all costume making materials will be provided and will be free of charge); join a Giant Instrument Jam with Freestyle Arts Association; get glamorous with Transformation! Facepainting by Agostino Arts; try harvest foods from Sage General Store; picnic in the Park; or just watch the fun! and become the rock star of your dreams with the help of Socrates Sculpture Park artists

Back by popular demand, Socrates will also host its 6th annual Canine Costume Contest at 1pm (registration at front gate). Visitors can enter their dogs and win fabulous prizes for being the cutest, scariest, best dressed or most rocked-out pooch. Dr. Jules Adams from City Vet will also judge the contest. along with BARC Shelter, who will also offer information about adopting a pet.

At 2pm, The Red Door Theatre Company will present a special outdoor performance of the The Legend of Sleepy Hollow. Chrysten Peddie has adapted this classic Halloween tale by Washington Irving for the Company's 3rd year with Socrates' Halloween Harvest Festival. Come see Ichabod Crane, Katrina Van Tassel, and Brom Van Brunt, as they tell the story of the Headless Horseman of Sleepy Hollow. A blanket or lawn chair is recommended. The performance is free of charge.

Astorian Weekend Edition 25.06.09

I can hardly believe that it's going to be a hot, sunny weekend. There are tons of fun indoor--and outdoor--goings-on to enjoy:

Shop for some cool art this Friday at Socrates Sculpture Park’s Makers Market Preview from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. Unique products such as ceramics, glassware, jewelry, furniture and even motorcycles will be on sale. The price of a ticket is $50, which includes cocktails and hors d’oeuvres—plus it’s tax deductible. 32-01 Vernon Blvd (at Broadway), LIC. 718.956.1819

Visit Bistro 33 on Saturday for dinner when they’ll showcase French Onion Pork Chops, (pictured above) the winning dish of Monday’s Best Dish Battle competition. Mike Szczepanski, the creator of this entree did a great job—now it’s time to check out Chef Gary’s spin on it. 19-33 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria. 718.721.1933

Love to dance? Check out Dancing in the Park this Saturday from 3 p.m. – 6 p.m. in Astoria Park. The event, organized by Martinez Dance Studios will feature salsa dancing. RSVP to 718.932.4344 or info@martinezdancestudios.com.

Get involved in a wonderful cause this weekend by attending the Fourth Annual Relay for Life, helping to fight cancer. The event starts on Saturday at 6:00 p.m. in Astoria Park and continues throughout the night with festivities such as live music, karaoke and relay races. A $10 donation per person will get you into the event. For more information, contact Taliah Duchatelier at 718.263.2225 ext 5511, Astoria.relay@cancer.org or www.relayforlife.org/Astoria.

Are you a wine connoisseur? Visit LIC’s wine store, Vine this Saturday for a tasting of wines from Long Island’s North Fork region. The tasting will run from 2:00 p.m. – 8 p.m. with experienced North Fork wine experts on-hand from Bouke wines and from Paumanok Vineyards. 12-09 Jackson Avenue, LIC. 718.433.2611

Astorian Weekend Edition 04.06.09

Thursday evening, stop by Kristees for their trunk show featuring NYC based designer duo Peter Valcarcel & Arianna Ward. And on the subject of Astoria clothing boutiques, did you know that Mimi's Closet has re-opened as Mimi's Market?

On Saturday, come celebrate 100 years of the Queensboro Bridge at Queensbridge Park (Vernon Blvd & 41st Avenue). From 1-6 p.m. there will be cultural and recreational activities along the waterfront. All events are free!

Also on Saturday, Socrates Sculpture Park presents the 2nd annual LIC Bike Parade. Working in collaboration with a variety of community groups, children and families are invited to celebrate LIC and the 100th birthday of the Queensboro Bridge, with bike decorating workshops, free bike helmet fittings and giveaways with the DOT-Traffic Safety Division, riding safety tips, and bike repairs. The parade begins at 2 p.m. and lasts about an hour, with a special performance by the Sunnyside Drum Corp, cyclists from Circus Amok and City Reliquary's Civic Riders Bicycle Club. Workshops are from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The Queens Art Express continues on this weekend, with events at the LaGuardia Performing Arts Center (31-10 Thompson Avenue), Green Space (37-24 24th St. #301), and at the 33rd Street/Rawson 7 train stop. What is the Queens Art Express? It is "a multi-day multi-venue art extravaganza that will take place on three weekends in Spring 2009 (between May 30 - June 14) in the City’s most diverse borough. Emphasizing each venue’s unique show and accessibility by environmentally-friendly transportation, Queens Art Express features exhibitions, performances, and special events clustered around the No. 7 train."

While I was at the recent Dish du Jour food event (meatball battle!), I had a couple of things that I really liked: the meatballs from Vesta, and a passionfruit mousse cake at Artopolis. Both highly recommended!

Photo credit: NYC: Queensboro Bridge by wallyg on flickr, via a Creative Commons license.

Astorian Mother's Day Weekend Edition - 07.05.09

Pictured above - Lamb Biryani from Seva.

Mother’s Day is this Sunday and as luck has it, it’s supposed to be warm and sunny. Take Mom out for a stroll around the ‘hood or to the park, eat delicious grub and maybe even taste some wine.

Still looking for a gift for Mom? Check out SITE Design for their unique tchotchkies. I especially like the LiLa Vintage Silver necklace, which could be a nice gift for a hip Mom. Also know that every second Saturday of each month (starting this Saturday), SITE offers a local artists showcase, a sidewalk sale and a party with cupcakes. 35-11 34th Ave, Astoria. 718.626.6030.

Treat Mom to a delicious Indian lunch—or dinner. Seva offers a cozy, intimate atmosphere that’s very much a family vibe. They’ve added new scrumptious dishes to their menu such as the Eggplant Chat (fried eggplant, which is out of this world), Soy Mirch Masala (vegan friendly dish), Lamb meatballs and so much more. Prices are super reasonable. 30-07 34^th Street, Astoria. 718.626.4440

Bistro Les Minots is having an all-day Mother’s Day prix-fixe (from 11am – 10pm) for $29.95, featuring classic French dishes. They will also serve their regular brunch (priced as usual) from 11am – 4:30pm if you prefer that instead. I’ve been reminded that their sangria is supposed to be as good as their secret spiced wine. Hmm…47-16 30^th Avenue, Astoria. 718.606.2535

Toast to Mom this weekend and take her to Astoria’s new wine bar, 24. Open in the evenings, I’d suggest coming here after dinner and maybe enjoying a glass of vino and dessert. It’s located on a quiet, residential block and might be a nice way to unwind. Corner of 26^th Street and 24^th Avenue, Astoria.

Since the weather will be nice and sunny on Sunday, take a stroll around Astoria Park or even Socrates Sculpture Park. If you go to the latter, know that their "State Fair" exhibition starts this Sunday--it promises to be a fun, cultural experience. Astoria Park - 19-00 Hoyt Avenue North, Astoria. Socrates Sculpture Park - 32-01 Vernon Blvd, Long Island City. 718.956.1819

Kite Making Workshop

For a number of years Socrates Sculpture Park and the Noguchi Museum team up to present a kite making workshop and flying event. It's hands on at Socrates and is open to kids of all ages. It's especially great for families - everyone gets to make something out in the fresh air. Recycled paper is used, which is extra cool. So, get your creative juices flowing by creating, decorating, and flying your very own kite!

No need to register beforehand, but it is a popular event, so come early! The workshop will be held rain or shine in the education area at Socrates.

KITE FLIGHT: PAPER PLAY
Seventh Annual Kite Making Workshop
Sunday, April 26, 2009 / 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. (rain or shine)
FREE EVENT: The workshop is free and all materials are provided.

Image courtesy of Socrates Sculpture Park.

Event: Media Intersection: Where Sculpture and Painting Collide

This just came through my inbox, from Socrates Sculpture Park:


Media Intersection: Where Sculpture and Painting Collide
Tuesday, October 21
6:30 -8:30 p.m.
Club 21
30-09 21st Street
Astoria, NY

free admission / open to all ages
cash bar / live music to follow

Join us for an informal conversation between two of New York Foundation of the Arts' 2008 Fellows in Painting, Shaun El C. Leonardo and Omar Chacon, and Socrates Sculpture Park's 2008 Emerging Artist Fellow Chelsea Beck. The work of EAF08 artist Rajkamal Kahlon will also be presented. These artists integrate sculpture and painting into their works, with varying emphasis. The discussion will position Shaun and Omar as painters who incorporate sculptural elements, alongside Chelsea and Raj as sculptors who employ painterly strategies in their works.

The evening will begin at 6:30 p.m. with a 10 minute presentation by each of the artists, moderated by Socrates Sculpture Park Studio Manager Lars Fisk, followed by an open conversation with the audience.

Shaun El C. Leonardo and Omar Chacon are 2008 Artist Fellowship recipients of the New York Foundation for the Arts (NYFA). This presentation is co-sponsored by Artists & Audiences Exchange,a public program of NYFA.

Image: Omar Chacon, Entronización del Sancocho, 2007; Acrylic on canvas; 42" x 54" x 1/4"

Astorian Weekend Edition 11.09.08

September 11 is probably the most serious day in America's recent history. This year we will note the 7th anniversary of the attacks on that day. At 6:30 p.m. there will be a performance at Socrates Sculpture Park by The Little Opera Theatre of NY of The Bohemians. This will include the complete first act of Puccini's La Boheme (in English). The performance is part of The September Concert, which was established on the first anniversary of 9/11 in an effort to spread peace through music. Music will happen throughout the day as well, in various locations in Astoria.

The following night there will also be a candlelight ceremony in Astoria Heights. Organized by the United Community Civic Association/Port Authority of NY & NJ, this annual candlelight ceremony will take place at the memorial grove in McManus Memorial Park (81st St and Grand Central Pkwy) at 7:30 p.m.

Saturday night head to Waltz-Astoria (23-14 Ditmars Blvd) to see the Josh Irving Quartet (Josh Irving - Saxophones; George Dulin - Piano; Danny Zanker - Bass; Greg Ritchie - Drums). Music starts at 9 p.m. and there's a $10 cover

On Sunday, Hellgate Social (12-21 Astoria Blvd) continues their Sunday Night Cinema with The Adventures of Baron Munchausen. Directed by Monty Python animator Terry Gilliam; look for Robin Williams playing the Moon King and Uma Thurman as Botticelli's inspiration for Venus. Movie starts at 8:30 p.m.

Just a food note: I've been enjoying the house-made fresh mozzarella at Rosario's Deli, right there on 31st Street under the elevated train (22-55 31st St). It's particularly delicious in a salad with tomatoes and basil (you can get both across the street at the produce market). Each ball is around $5. I understand the sandwiches are great, too. They are closed on Sundays.

Astorian Weekend Edition 19.06.08

Happy Solstice Weekend! According to my sources, the Summer Solstice officially occurs on Friday, June 20, 2008 at 7:59 p.m. EDT. One of the best solstice events I've been to is at Socrates Sculpture Park, which means it's local... and free! It's a great event for the entire family. This year's event is on Saturday, and there will be music, art, face painting, and more! Festivities start at 5 p.m.

As reported earlier this week, a great summer meal can be had at Mundo (31-18 Broadway #E). I loved the cherry soup, and my other two fave items are the carrot dip and Red Sonja. The warm semolina helva is phenomenal - I've not had anything like it.

One of the things I like to drink in the summer is fresh juice. Both Igloo (22-11 31st St) and Soho (22-26 31st St) have impressed me with their fresh juices. I'm partial to the carrot-apple-orange at Soho and the carrot-apple at Igloo. Igloo also has smoothies with Tasti-D-Lite. The juice and smoothies are particularly good after a nice workout, too.

There's stuff going on at PS1 (22-25 Jackson Ave, LIC), too! That Was Then...This Is Now starts on Sunday, inspired by artistic and socio-political climate of the late 1960s. The installation "PF1 (Public Farm One)" should be ready for harvesting this Sunday as well.

Astorian Weekend Edition 05.06.08

Start off the weekend this Thursday with a party at Bistro (19-33 Ditmars). Enjoy some free food and you'll find yourself coming back to try more of their goods.
If you didn't get full enough and want to continue the partying, it's Jueves Loco (Crazy Thursday) at Mojave (22-36 31st St.) You get a free margarita with dinner and a side of tequila tastings and live music!

There are baubles, shoes, and bags galore at the newly expanded Prima Donna (29-24 Ditmars). Great prices and very cute, girly stuff, I even picked up a pair of back-in-fashion roman sandals for under $25. Another shoe option is the new Payless under the Ditmars stop. It's oh-so-fresh-and-clean and easy access if you are running out and need some quick and cheap sandals.

A great free option for your summer Saturdays -- now through September -- is Capoeira in the Park at Socrates (Broadway at Vernon Blvd.) I must say I've been intrigued by this Brazilian-style martial art/dance for years and might have a go myself! Classes are taught by Professor Abará and designed for all experience levels.

Do good by hanging out all night long at the park: show your love and
appreciation in honoring cancer survivors and their care givers at the American Cancer Society's Astoria Park Relay For Life (Astoria Park Running Track, 19th Street and Shore Blvd.) The event supports cancer research, education, advocacy, and patient and family services. Get to the park at 5 p.m. on Saturday to register and get ready for a full evening.

It's time for another craft fair, Arts & Crafts Market #10 takes place on Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. You'll find original paintings, jewelry, photos, soaps, crochet, and children's clothing, among many more unique, hand-crafted items. There are going to be several prizes throughout the day too, yay! Find it all at the Queensview Houses (Building #7 on 33rd Rd, Building #14 on 34th Ave. - Bet. 21st St. and Crescent)

Astorian Weekend Edition 29.05.08

This weekend, take the opportunity to get to know your community a little bit better by attending some walking tours. Richard Melnick (of the Greater Astoria Historical Society), leads the Borden Avenue Bridge Walking Tour (Saturday, May 31st, 1-2:30 p.m., Hunters Point Avenue #7 train) and Astoria/LIC Waterfront Parks Walking Tour (Sunday, June 1st, 11 a.m. - 2p.m., Queensbridge Park).

On Thursday, check out the inaugural Queens Green Drinks. According to Helen Ho, the organizer, "it's an informal social gathering/networking event for folks that are environmentally minded. Come and meet some of the other like-minded folks in and around Queens. If we're lucky (which is likely) we'll cross pollinate make new friends, catch up with old ones, and maybe even sprout an idea or three." The event is hosted by the Transportation Alternatives Queens Committee, and takes place at The Irish Rover, 37-18 28th Avenue from 6 p.m - 9 p.m. More info: helen@queensgreendrinks.org

Stop by Socrates Sculpture Park to participate in their Saturday Sculpture Workshop. This weekend is To the Rescue! with Shaun Leonardo. Using fabric, paint and recycled materials, participants construct their own superhero costume complete with a discussion on special powers and how to be a great hero. The event is 12-3 p.m rain or shine.

This past week I checked out Zabb Thai on 30th Avenue. One thing that really stuck out as totally delicious was the Tom Ka Gai soup. I couldn't stop thinking about it all day! I'd go back for sure. 34-11 30th Ave. I've been hearing good things about Seva, a new Indian place in the old Meghna space. Apparently the Green Chili Chicken is very good. 30-07 34th Street.

Enjoy the weekend!

Astorian Weekend Edition 22.05.08

Looking forward to Memorial Day weekend? We are! The weather is looking sunny and warm and that means plenty of fun outdoor activities in the 'hood, such as…

This Saturday, May 24th, get in touch with your creative side—build a recyclable kite at Socrates Sculpture Park, using old shopping bags. This workshop is lead by artists, Miwa Koizumi and Marco Scoffier, starting at noon.

Not into recyclable art? You can also stop at Socrates Sculpture Park for a Saturday workout session. Choose between Yoga, Pilates, Tai Chi or Capoeira (Brazilian martial arts). Most classes last for one hour. Socrates Sculpture Park - 32-01 Vernon Blvd. 718.956.1819

Looking for something cultural to do after the park? Visit the Noguchi Museum, directly across the street. It's a neat little museum (as in literally, small), which focuses on Japanese modern sculpture and design. If you're interested in a free tour, make sure to arrive by 2p. The Noguchi Museum - 9-01 33rd Road (at Vernon Boulevard). 718. 204.7088

Brunch it up, Astoria style and finish off with something sweet. Try 718 for their spectacular prix-fix brunch. It's a bit of a splurge for $22 but the quality of the food is worth it. If you skipped dessert at brunch, walk a couple of blocks down to Ditmars and 29th Street and visit La Guli Pastry Shop—their cannoli kiss is to die for. 718 – 35-01 Ditmars Blvd. 718.204.5553. La Guli - 29-15 Ditmars Blvd. 718.728.5612

Enjoy some nice, cold "bruha" at The Bohemian Hall and Beer Garden but beware of the holiday weekend crowds—they'll be enormous so the earlier you get there, the better. Interested in working at the Beer Garden? Click here. Bohemian Hall and Beer Garden - 29-19 24th Avenue. 718.274.4925.

Can't get into the Beer Garden because of the crowds? Visit The Sparrow across the street, a local neighborhood bar owned by the same people who ran Tupelo and also the ice-creamery, Oleput. They have great beer on tap and a fun, laid-back atmosphere. The Sparrow – 24-01 29th Street. 718.606.2260.

Astorian Weekend Edition 08.05.08

Well, it's been so nice this week, finally warming up. Thought it will be less terrific this weekend than during the week, don't let that deter you from going out and having fun.

One way to bring some light to your weekend is a meal at Akti. Everything there shines! I ate there for the second time last weekend and it was fab. Had a lovely salad with feta, peppers, tomatoes, cukes, and onions, dressed with a light and simple mixture of oil and vinegar. The feta was some of the best I've had, I must say. Their fish croquettes are awesome too, and the whole fish is also wonderful - we had the red snapper. They serve a Cypriot beer that is light and delicious. I don't think you can go wrong with anything here. Akti Seafood Restaurant is at 34-19 30th Avenue, Astoria, NY 11103. 718.721.3530.

New wine bar Winegasm is doing a happy hour - thisThursday, Friday and Saturday from 5-7 p.m. get 2 for 1 cocktails and a $15 pitcher of delicious summer sangria. I love sangria, so this looks particularly awesome. Winegasm is at 31-86 37th Street, Astoria, NY 11103. 718.932.3331.

There are a number of outdoor events happening this Saturday. First, the Savvy Cyclist presents their intro to cycling program for new cyclists. Saturday the 10th from 9-5 p.m. Registration and deposit required. Recycle-A-Bicycle training center is at the corner of 46 Avenue and 5th Street.

Next, Socrates Sculpture Park presents the first annual LIC Bike Parade in partnership with a whole host of great local and community organizations. It's free and perfect for the entire family. Lots and lots of stuff going on in conjunction with this event, so check out the bikenewyork.org website for additional information. It will happen rain or shine; registration is at 11:30 a.m., workshops from 12-3 p.m. and the parade is from 3-4 p.m. Socrates Sculpture Park is at Broadway and Vernon Boulevard. 718.956.1819.

Last, the Friends of Queensbridge Park are holding their annual Mother's Day Dance fund-raiser to benefit the summer program. 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. at the Jacob A. Riis Neighborhood Settlement House, 10-25 41st Avenue in Long Island City. Tickets are $15. Contact karen.overton@parks.nyc.gov to purchase a ticket.

Build It Green! along with the Office of Recycling Outreach and Education is also holding an event on Saturday from 11-4 p.m.: Stop 'N Swap! From their release:

Our block will be closed off for the whole day! 26th Ave between 3rd and 4th Street in Astoria, Queens right in front of the BIG!NYC warehouse. Bring things you want to get rid of for the free swap! You can also just bring yourself and take things for free! As always the warehouse will be open with all our great deals!

WHAT TO BRING: Items that are no longer useful to you, but can be reused by others. Clothes, dishes, books, dvds, cds, stuff your mom gave you for Xmas. You don't need to bring anything to take anything (though a tote bag might help). Bring friends and family too!

WHAT NOT TO BRING: No furniture/large items, drugs/medications, weapons/dangerous objects, adult movies/magazines or pets/pethair covered items.

Build It Green! is located at 3-17 26th Ave. in Astoria.

This Sunday is Mother's Day. Our own Foodista has some suggestions on where to take mom on her special day.

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