Astorian Weekend Edition 02.08.07

Welcome to the first weekend in August! I'm amazed how time flies - seems like just yesterday we were ringing in the new year. It's going to be a hot weekend - great for staying inside in the a/c or hanging outside, whichever you are prone to doing. On Thursday, stop by Tell Astorya Cafe (37-05 28th Ave). Sign up at 7pm, show starts at 8pm for 2 hours. You have 8 minutes to show off your talent! If open-miking isn't for you, head to Waltz (23-14 Ditmars Boulevard) for some great Brazilian music in the form of Sambasaurus ($2 Cover, $7 Drink Minimum). Stephanie Wremble will be there Friday night, too ($10 Cover, $7 Drink Minimum). Thursday night also brings us the Waterfront Concert Series - the Marvelettes are performing this week at Astoria Park. Bring a blanket, some food, and friends and enjoy one of NYC's best city parks.

On Friday, you are invited to an opening reception of a group show at LIC's The Space. The show, "1s ad 3s", features artists Eileen Cohen, Adrienne Dowd, Chris Harris, Cristian Pietrapiana, Brandon Schreck, Aleks Zelenina, Jaya Lamba, and Kristy Schopper. The opening reception is from 7-9pm at their gallery, 25-17 41st Ave in LIC.

Saturday of course, bring us Warm Up at PS 1. This week's lineup: Psychic TV and Flaming Fire. DJs include Cool Gypsy Bogdan (Turntable Lab), In Flagranti (Codek Records), plus Ned Rothenberg. Warm Up goes from 3-9pm, and you can head to Water Taxi Beach afterwards for some dogs (meat and soy!) and fries, and views of the East River and Manhattan. If you want to stay cool, for years people have gone to the movies, and you can too at Astoria's own MOMI. Gone are the horror films and now they're showing a bunch of films from the Nixon Era. I'm sure they will be thought-provoking gems.

On Sunday, consider participating in Bike New York's Savvy Cyclist Workshop. Here, you can hone your cycling skills with instructor, Emilia Crotty. She will show you how to do basic bicycle maintenance and repair as well as teach important traffic skills. It's an all day affair, going from 9-5. Meet at the Recycle-A-Bicycle training center, corner of 46th Avenue and 5th Street. Everyone must bring a bike and helmet. Registration is required. Call 212-932-2300x131 or email emiliac@bikenewyork.org for more information.

Also on Sunday is the last Pub Quiz at the Irish Rover for this season. So, if you have been meaning to partake in the Quiz for a while, this would be the night for you! The Irish Rover is on 28th Ave and 38th Street. They pour a great Harp, by the way. Best I've had in the area. That same night,, Socrates Sculpture Park (32-01 Vernon Blvd) presents an evening of outdoor video at 7pm. This is part of the L.I.C., NYC Video project. You can also catch a Czech film that night at the Beer Garden. Holiday Makers (Účastníci zájezdu) is this week's screening.

And on this hot weekend, just over the Pulaski Bridge in Greenpoint (97 Commercial Street, and yes, I know it's not in Queens, but it's close enough!), is the northern location of the Brooklyn Ice Cream Company. It's as good as the stuff in Dumbo - I recommend their chocolate chocolate chip. Of course, you could always hit up Oleput (Ditmars and 33rd), which also has fab ice cream.

More fun, here.

Alba's Pizza

I've been eating at Alba's Pizza for a couple years now, mainly because it's so convenient, being up the street and all. I was there this weekend and learned they have a new takeout menu! They've increased their pasta offerings, for one thing, and the menu itself looks more inviting in its layout. While I was there this weekend, I tried their Grandma slice. I have extremely high standards for Grandma slices, having eaten many of them from the wonderful Via Pizza in Stony Brook. Well, Alba's makes theirs a bit differently than what I'm used to, but the flavors were fantastic! My boyfriend and I liked it so much we had two slices! Highly recommended.

They also will make pizza with a whole wheat crust, which is great in this age of heightened awareness of whole grains. They also serve whole wheat spaghetti - also a great option. I haven't had any of their pasta dishes, so I'm looking forward to trying them.

By the way, you can order pizza from them online, here. They accept credit cards, which is a plus.

Alba's Pizza
36-20 Ditmars Blvd
Astoria, New York

Photo credit: Alba's Pizza

Le Petit Prince Bakery Closed???

I've been hearing rumors that Le Petit Prince bakery might be closed. Apparently people have seen ovens and baking equipment heading out of the bakery, and the space has been shuttered for a while now. So sad! It was a great bakery! Different from anything else in the area and certainly delicious. JIA friend Zora expresses her feelings about the situation here.

I still have hopes that their closing is only temporary, and that they are just upgrading their equipment.

If anyone has any other info, post it here!

Harry & the Potters Redux

Remember when we didn't know how it all ended? Well, if you want to reminisce about those days, Sooz took some bitchin pics of the Harry & The Potters show, weekend before last at the Beer Garden. For a look in the pensieve click here (pics) or here (videos).

Opening Reception for Emerging Artists Exhibit at Subdivision in LIC

Subdivision art. in LIC is the home of an emerging artists exhibit running from July 28 to September 15. Artists exhibiting include:

• Brendan Carroll
• Leidy Churchman
• Ann Flaherty
• Rubens Ghenov
• Andrea Moreau
• René Smith
• Rachael Wren
• Mika Yokobori
• Elizabeth Zans

There's an opening reception tomorrow night from 6-9pm, too; what I've seen on the website looks pretty good. So, if you're in the mood to see some new art, this is the event for you! By the way, here is a flickr set of some of the images from the show (thanks to the artblog for that pointer).

Subdivision art.
48-18 Vernon Blvd
Long Island City, NY

Astorian Weekend Edition 26.07.07

It's the big one- I mean come on, 4 days of fair food!?!?!?! Thu - Sun., occupying 23rd Ave. from 35th to mid 37th Streets and 36th St from 23rd Ave. to under the Amtrak overpass is the St. Irene Chrysovalantou Annual Street Fair.

Hellgate Road Runners meet 4 days/week for group runs at the track in Astoria Park. 7:30pm Thursday nights go for a "group run" or if you want to "go the distance"- stop by the Astoria Park Field House at 9am on Saturday for a long distance run.

Not only are there burgers galore to be had on Saturday, but Grandmaster Flash will be entertaining the masses at Water Taxi Beach. Get a $13.50 ticket and enjoy 3 original burgers :) I've got my tickets already so stay tuned for picks next week!

Ever heard of the Saw Players? Maybe not, but in the past- i'm sure a few of us have ran across the Saw Lady Natalia Paruz on our way somewhere or other. On Saturday at 2pm at the Quinn Memorial Building (35-20 Broadway, 4th floor), Natalia along with a "Chorus of Saws" will be performing and discussing different types of music. It's $10 at the door, but where else can you get the inside scoop on playing hardware from veteran sawists?

The 3rd Official Astoria Pug Meetup takes place this Sunday, July 29, 2007 at 11:00am. They will be meeting at Astoria Park (23rd Ave and 19th St.) There seems to be quite a few pugs and owners in Astoria that are itching to make friends. If only I had a one of those adorable little guys!

Ali and his Kabab Cafe in the NY Times

If you haven't seen it already, head on over to the NY Times to read Peter Meehan's review of Kabab Cafe, with Ali featured prominently. Reminds me that I need to get over there soon!

• Pita With a Generous Helping of Quirkiness

Astoria Profile

about.com has revised their profile of Astoria - check it out! And be sure to add your two cents as to whether or not you think new development is good for the neighborhood.

Brunch at Bistro 33

Latest news from wonderful neighborhood eatery Bistro 33: their outdoor seating is set up and they are offering brunch! From 11am-4pm every weekend, you can head over for a delicious meal - here are some of the things on their brunch menu:

• Cajun omelet - crawfish, andouille sausage, red peppers, green onion
• Apple Brie Omelet
• Quiche Lorraine
• Blueberry Pancakes
• Truffled Eggs and Salmon
• Sushi Brunch (bagel roll [salmon, cream cheese, cucumber] & spicy tuna roll)

Not to mention mimosas, bloody marys, and of course, coffee. Yum!

Mastercard and Visa are now accepted, which is pretty convenient. So, check 'em out! Bistro 33 is on the corner of Ditmars and 21st Street in Astoria.

Buffalo in Astoria

Well, that would be buffalo burgers. While I was at Family Corner, a tiny little diner in the Ditmars neighborhood, this past weekend I noticed they had buffalo burgers on the menu. You can get the burger by itself ($4) or deluxe ($5.50). I am intrigued.

Loved their eggs over medium - so tasty! And the iced coffee isn't half bad.

Family Corner
21-02 31st Street
Astoria

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.

Harry Potter in Astoria

If you're like me, then you're oscillating between twittering anticipation and desperate fear for the fated moment this Friday at midnight when we can all find out what really happens to Harry Potter.

Well, Astorian Harry Potter fans can unite in their suffering on Thursday as we welcome Harry & the Potters, the original wizard rock band, to the Beer Garden. The Harrys will be accompanied by Draco & the Malfoys and the Hungarian Horntails.

I, for one, will be going dressed up as Ginny Weasley. Ah...those green eyes...

New Parks Policy for Bicycles

Bicyclists locking their bikes to trees and their metal fences, beware! According to Streetsblog, Parks and Recreation Department agents are clipping locks and seizing bicycles that they deem "illegally parked". This practice was first caught in Forest Hills Park, but according to a city employee, this is new policy for all 5 boroughs. According to a Streetsblog tipster:

I went to the Parks Department in Flushing Meadows Corona Park where the truck full of confiscated bicycles sat to get the scoop. Here, Captain Kenneth Brown informed me that today began a citywide campaign involving the City Parks and Recreation Department. This time all bikes chained to city trees or to the metal fencing around those trees will be seized in neighborhoods throughout the 5 boroughs. Bikes are then taken by truck to the nearest Parks Department Headquarters where they are held for 2-3 days before being sent to a depot in Long Island. In order to retrieve your bicycle, you must pay a $50 summons - that is if you can find it.
According to the Captain Brown, bicycles are only considered to be parked "legally" to bicycle racks.

I agree with one of the commenters that locking the bike to the tree can be harmful to the tree, but locking the bike to a fence, shouldn't. And the city really should provide more bike racks.

conEveryone

Get your shirt today!

Time-Matter-Energy from the Bronx produces shirts with this graphic, "in honor" of the 2003 and 2006 blackouts, and the impending blackouts coming. He says people come up to him when he's wearing it and totally agree with it. $20 and sizes range from Small to XXLarge. Check it out!

Astorian Weekend Edition 12.07.07

After work Thursday night unwind at Waltz-Astoria (23-14 Ditmars) with some Brazilian jazz. Anthony Lanni will be there to entertain you. It's also a good excuse to see the remodeling they've done.

PeeWee's get to play tennis! On Thursday take your 5-7 year-olds (9:30-10:15 a.m.) or your 8-15 year-olds (10:30-noon) to Astoria Park for free time on the court, now through August 14th. They've also got track and field options too -- check City Parks Foundation.

Site (35-11 34th Ave) is having a "Friday the 13th" sale all day long...all pillows, dishes, and all ART is 13% off on the "unlucky" day!

There's a new community garden getting off the ground that needs our help! The Two Coves Garden at the Goodwill Triangle (30th Ave & Astoria Blvd) is open every Saturday. This Saturday, though, expect there to be planting, weeding, building raised garden beds, and more! Stop over with your dirty-able clothes (11 a.m.-2 p.m.) and get your green thumb going. For more info email twocovesgarden@yahoo.com or call 718-706-8044.

Saturday enjoy the not-so-muggy weather and take a walk and explore the places you haven't gotten to! Go hit up our old stand by Kabab Cafe and enjoy the air conditioning! Ali is back in full force.

Take a cruise up Newton Creek and check out the digs from another angle. Sunday morning enjoy the cruise while you learn about bridges, neighborhoods, and industry from Greenpoint to Maspeth. Sponsored by the Brooklyn Center for the Urban Environment. Call right away to book ahead and pre-pay the $50/40 fee - 718-788-8500.

Remember: give your extra beer money to these guys over at Team MTA so they can have a mighty fine summer racing around the world in the name of Astorians everywhere!

Summer Sale at Kristees

Just got an email from Kristies, the lovely little clothing boutique on 23rd Avenue and 24th Street (it's right there on the northeast corner), and thought I'd pass on the message to all of you:

Summer Sale Started
This week kicks off the start of KrisTees Summer Sale. There is up to 60% OFF of Select Items! So, if you are looking for another sundress to keep you cool, new tees for vacation, or just something new for an occasion or for the weekend, stop in and take a look...

New Delivery of KrisTees T-Shirts
Yes, my second delivery of tees have arrived... lily printed tees, tie printed racerback long tanks, and sunglass tanks. Very fun and great for layering!

I Just Rated the 7!

So, my current temp job has me making the transfer between the N and the 7 at QB Plaza, so I feel fine about answering the questions on the MTA's report card, which has been handed out to 7 train riders. But bummer - I never received a copy of the card. However... after reading the post on the Gothamist, I found I could do it online! Rate the 7 here!

Briggs & Costa Opening Soon!

Almost impossible to find on the Internet, Briggs & Costa is located in LIC; I originally heard about them on the QueensWest board, and most recently there is a posting about them on LongIslandCityNYC. Initially simply an interior design company, they are branching out and opening a storefront! Located on Vernon Blvd between Purple Pumpkin and Lounge 47, they will have fun lighting, furniture (some imported), household goods, candles, art. Eric says it "feels like Dumbo". They get props on QueensWest, too, "They (meaning Briggs and Costa) are both really creative, talented, and experienced. I think their store is going to be really fun too." Yay!

I don't know exactly when they will open full time to the public, but the paper that covered the window is down. Right now they are open by appointment only.

Thanks to Eric for the tip!

Briggs & Costa
47-12 Vernon blvd
LIC 11101
718-392-1102

Make Sure Your JIA is the Real Thing

Who is this Sara?

Joeyinastoria v2?
I was adding things to my google reader today and came upon this gem.
Who said imitation is the best form of flattery?
I just think its plain weird...

us :)
them :(
what do you know about this, anyone?

Talk about the New Gourmet Market in LIC

A little while back, I posted about a new gourmet market coming to LIC, a project by the Manducati's people. Over on Queens West, they've been discussing the possibility of a wine shop, but that doesn't seem to be a potential reality. But, there are already enough wine shops in LIC. Anyway, if you'd like to read the thread, go here.

And apparently Manducati's is a pretty awesome restaurant as well. I need to go soon.

Kabab Cafe Finally Re-opening!

Via JIA friend Zora on Chowhound:

Straight from the horse's mouth: the long dry spell is over! Ali will be back in the kitchen [today]. (I think the super-auspicious date is a coincidence?)

He has done some major revamping of his kitchen, due to perpetual hassle from the fire-code people, so expect some new stuff on the menu.

This is great news! I've had some terrific meals there and look forward to returning for more. Kabob Cafe is on Steinway near exotic 25th Avenue.

Photo credit: flooz!

Beer Garden Today

While walking past the Beer Garden this morning, I noticed a sign saying "Beer Garden open at 3pm this coming Friday". I'm guessing someone put that sign up mid-week. Anyway, looks like the BG is open at 3pm today! Those of you with summer hours, or just have a free afternoon, check it out! The kielbasa is particularly good these days, too.

Astorian Weekend Edition 05.07.07

Hope everyone had a great Independence Day yesterday! I know the Macy's fireworks had some rain to contend with but I hope that didn't dampen anyone's spirits. I went to the beach and skipped the light display (but caught the Grucci show in Astoria Park last Friday). This week's end should have some nice weather mixed in with some thunderstorms - a typical summer in the east. This weekend (Saturday) also brings us 07-07-07. Cool! After Saturday, check out the flickr group called 07-07-07. People will be taking lots of pictures on that day, chronicling their lives. I'll be submitting a few myself.

Also on Saturday, Last Resort is having a rooftop party at 4pm their space... and there will be grilling involved, just bring your own grill-friendly food and/or a drink to share. At 9pm that night, they're having a rock show ($4 cover), including A Fistful of Dynamite, Suburban Riot, OUCH, and Blanketstatementstein. You can find Last Resort at 8-63 Astoria Blvd.

Hellgate Social, a great spot in western Astoria (12-21 Astoria Blvd), is active this week's end - Thursday through Sunday brings all sorts of live music, DJing, and a CD release party. No sign of a movie this Sunday, though (last week's showing of Dr. Strangelove was pretty awesome).

On Saturday, Waltz-Astoria is also holding a big bash at the beautiful Grand Ballroom upstairs at the Moose Lodge (did you know we had one?). There will be music, video-art, a funny guy emcee, and beer and wine to drink. The Lodge is at 41st and Broadway (down by Steinway). Get your $15 tickets at info@waltz-astoria.com.

Also, Thursday begins adult lap swim at Astoria Pool, too. You can swim in the mornings from 7-8:30am or in the evenings, 7-8:30pm. I hope to do some of the evening swims, myself. Lap swimming goes until August 31 this summer. After you swim, you can head over to a number of places in the area: Agnanti (Ditmars and 19th) and Bistro 33 (21st and Ditmars) come to mind, or you can walk a bit further and find yourself at the Beer Garden or Sparrow (across the street from the BG). Their burger sounds like a great ending to a nice swim. Head to Oleput (Ditmars and 33rd Street) after that for a shake or a float. Yummmm!

And remember Warm Up is this weekend. It's always a lot of fun at this event at PS1. You'll get a chance to hear some DJs and live music, dance, dance, dance, then head to Water Taxi Beach for Beach Party afterwards. Warm Up starts at 3pm and goes for 6 hours, until 9pm, and Water Taxi Beach will be all geared up by 9!

More fun, here.

Fireworks Photo Credit: Lia Pelosi

This just in...

[Insert beeping news theme music here]. This just in: Joey in Astoria makes the New York Times blogroll. You heard it here first, folks. (Unless you saw it there first in which case you may have seen it before me.) I heard they posted us because they got so much traffic when we linked to them a couple weeks ago. Okay, that's utter nonsense. They obviously posted us because Astoria rocks.

Thanks writers, readers and all Astorians!

- Joey

PS. Happy 4th of July!

Water Taxi Beach - Awesome!

I still haven't been there, but I read lots of good press about the Water Taxi Beach in LIC. Metroblogging in NYC has a nice writeup about the WTB this week. Nice pix, too! If you plan to go in the next day or so (hello July 4!), take note of this message on their homepage:

On July 4th starting at 3pm there is an all-day concert in our parking lot; NO Parking is available. Access to the beach on July 4th is by Ticket ONLY and is SOLD OUT. Access to the Patti Fund for Children w/ Cancer event in the parking lot is for a suggested donation of $10 and is first come first served.

They're also having post-WarmUp parties Saturday nights, which they call "Beach Party" this year. This night they feature In Flagranti from Brooklyn. From what I can tell they are DJs... I think.

BZ Grill...finally!

I've been wanting to try this place out for awhile now.
Located a little off the beaten path on Astoria Blvd, you can grab what I think is the best pork in Queens... maybe NYC! The BZ Grill is a small but comfortable little greek grill spot on the corner of 27th St. They offer all your favorite bites along with some incredible sounding newcomers like Chicken Bacon Souvlaki and Bifteki (a greek burger STUFFED with cheese)- both and sandwiches and platters. The prices are really really sweet for the amount of delicious food you are getting. The most expensive thing on the menu is the Mix Grill for $14.95 and that serves two! It's also good for those of us that can't make up our minds... chicken, pork, bifteki gemisto, seftalia and loukaniko- that's right, all of that for under $15.

You also can't go wrong with the Mixed spreads for $7.50. You get this heaping plate full of Tzatziki, Kopanisti, Eggplant Salad and the BZ Grill sauce which it turns out is homemade mayo and mustard. It's accompanied by warm fresh pitas, you may need a second helping to get through the plate of dips, I'm telling you its huge. There were 3 of us and we barely put a dent in it.

My personal favorite was the Pork Gyro. Can't beat it. This huge mountain of juicy goodness is $4.60 and worth every penny. It comes with your traditional fixins- lettuce, tomatoes, onions and tzatziki (like we didn't get enough in the dip plate!). If you still have room, order the fries- crunchy and fresh :)

There are slim pickins if you want to accompany your meal with beer, I couldn't even recall which they had but it was only 2 or 3 different ones. Along they ledge of the counter though they displayed about 10 bottles of wine that you can purchase by the glass for around $4.50.

So now you know :)

BZ Greek Grill
27-02 Astoria Blvd.
718-932-7858
Delivery 11am-11pm 7days
Take out Menu Here

The Race is on!

Astoria has a team in the Mongol Rally. Check it out, insanity!

These guys get props from me for sure for even attempting this crazy race. They start the trek July 21st so get in on the fundraising action anytime before then at some of our favorite bars- The Irish Rover Sunday the 8th (37-18 28th Ave), The Quays (4502 30th Ave) and the Glen Oaks Friday the 6th (36-16 3oth Avenue).

Team MTA has just purchased their lovely chariot (a 17yr old VW Polo) and are just about ready to take off.

Check in on the website to keep up with their progress and to donate to their charities Mercy Corps and Send a Cow (gotta love it!)

Be safe racers, Astoria supports you!

Exciting LIC Food News

From Eric at Long Island City:

So the Manducatis family is back, this time they are about to open up a high end gourmet market right Vernon Blvd, its about 5000sqft and will have everything from cheeses, to olives, breads, wine and even gelato…

Not sure exactly where on Vernon, but I'm guessing its further into LIC. But the news is very exciting!

Astoria That Was..

Over on astorians, they're having an interesting conversation entitled Vanished Astoria, about Astoria that once was. It's been fun reading.

More Around Town

Bistro 33 got their liquor license, huzzah! This is not an easy feat, as we saw in the case of Crescent and Wine's struggle. Anyway, Bistro 33 now offers a full selection of beer, wine, sake and cocktails. I hear the sushi is pretty fabulous, so it's great to be able to have sake with it. Also they will be accepting credit cards soon, within the week. I've heard rave reviews of the place, so I look forward eating there soon.

Kristees, a lovely boutique clothing shop on 23rd Avenue and 24th Street is hosting a wine & cheese party this Friday evening! This is in celebration of July 4 coming early to Astoria, with big band music and fireworks in Astoria Park on that same night, as flooz mentions below. So, on your way to the park, stop in KrisTees - they would love to see you!

I've also been reading some good reviews of Valverde, a new Italian restaurant at 36th Ave and Steinway. Looks like they were a catering company before, and now are branching out to a regular restaurant. I hope to stop by before too long.

More on Astoria Park Pool

While running down by Astoria Park today, I saw the pool all filled up! It was cool to see the change. I also saw a flyer/poster taped to one of the lamppost announcing swim lessons for kids at the pool! Lessons are for children 1.5-14 years of age. You can register for them at the pool. And, along with the early bird lap swimming from 7-8:30am, there's going to be "night owl" swimming from 7-8:30pm. Both sessions are M-F and go from July 5-August 31. More about lap swimming, here, and swim programs, here.

Astorian Weekend Edition 28.06.07

PitaPan (37-15 30th Ave) is back and I'm happy. Thursday don't bother cooking, but grab a yummy Power Meal for under $10 and walk away a happy camper. Word is they are building up the neighboring two spaces for a three-story foodie haven...with rooftop dining!
~That's the happy crew in the pic.

Thursdays and Fridays enjoy live jazz at Island Cafe Bar (35-15 36th St). Haven't tried them yet? Well, here's your chance to enjoy some music while you dine.

Friday night fly solo or take a certain someone with a sweet tooth maybe for a late dessert @ Oleput. Get your fill of pies and shakes and candy! Be glad you don't have to get up for work after that sugar rush.

The AstoriaPool opens on Friday with a bang (11 a.m.-3 p.m., 4 p.m.-7 p.m.). Swim and frolic all day then at 7:30 p.m. celebrate 25 years of Waterfront Concerts. There will be Big Band with The Tommy Dorsey Orchestra then a spectacular Grucci fireworks display out on the lawn between the Hellgate bridge and the pool.

Sunday is The Astoria Race at Belmont. It's pretty close and there's a bus or two you can hop on for the sake of a day at the races!

Oh and this just in from our friend Annie - street food prices going up! The "kabob dude" on 31st Ave and Steinway in front of the Gap has a sign declaring Street Souvlaki prices are going up... just like the rent!

Oh God, Power Outages

None here in Astoria/LIC, and hoping it will stay that way. Some subway lines are down, or with spotty service. Hope you all that are commuting home from the east side will have not too much of a horrid commute. And that the N/W will cooperate.

Chatter, here and here.

Crazies on CB1

As some of you know, I write for outerb.com, a website that focuses on Queens real estate. Today I wrote an OpEd called "Idiots in the News", regarding the proposal by those on CB1 to build a municipal parking structure over the Grand Central Parkway between 35th and 37th Streets and Astoria Blvds North and South. This supposedly would accommodate all those suburban drivers that would invade Astoria/LIC if congestion pricing came to be. I can't remember hearing a dumber idea, at least not in a long time. Ugh.

Hellgate CSA

The Hellgate CSA had its fourth week of distribution today, which included the first week of the fruit share. We've had some great stuff come through, and today's share didn't disappoint: cherries, apples, savory, sorrel, chives, red mustard, lettuce, tarragon, snap peas, and beets. Here are some pretty pictures of today's haul:


Beets

Savory, sorrel, chives

Cherries

Peas

Red mustard

Around Town

Boy is it a hot day! It's been steamy all morning, and I've been outside, so it's nice to be home in the a/c before I have to head out in a bit. One way I've found to beat the heat is to drink lots of liquids, preferably cold ones. I've got the water on to heat up for tea, which I prepare in a very large mason jar. Three tea bags seems to be enough, I let it steep then put it in the fridge. Keeps me hydrated with some variety, as drinking just plain water gets a little boring for me all the time. I'm going to brew some "Thai Delight", an herbal tea I discovered via my housemate. It tastes a bit like thai iced tea when you put milk/soy in it.

While walking home, I discovered that Alba's Pizza (37th Street and Ditmars) serves pizza with a whole wheat crust by request. The other place in town that does that is Pizza Palace (31st and Ditmars), but there's been chatter that their pizza has really gone downhill. Plus they are truly annoying with that whole "freedom fries" crap. WTF???

Oleput (Ditmars and 32nd) is a fantastic new sweet shop in town. It's the brainchild of the guys behind Sparrow, my favorite bar in town. They sell Mary's Dairy ice cream, and make it into wonderful shakes ($4.50). They have the most magical pies in NY, Briermere pies, as well as baked goods from Tomcat bakery. They also have some homemade stuff. More delicious offerings of the savory sort are coming as well. Sooz and I checked it out last week and we both said thumbs up! Stay tuned for more talk about it, plus more pictures!

Stamatis has been working on their new building across the street from their current one (23rd Ave between 31st and 29th streets) for many months, and it's finally looking like an actual restaurant! I've peeked in while walking by and it looks really nice. Am looking forward to checking it out when it opens.

More to come!

Beer Special at Sunswick

Was at Sunswick today to get a bite and catch some of the Yankee game (first few innings were painful to watch), and saw that they are having a beer-centric event - Lagunitas Night. On Monday they'll be serving various Lagunitas beer, including their IPA and PILS. $4 pints all night - worth checking out. Their food is pretty tasty, too; I'm partial to their chicken quesadilla. Oh, and they've got Young's Chocolate Stout on tap right now, too!

Yum Yum

Was just in the Trade Fair on Ditmars and they are selling "honey pecans" by the deli (where the olives and feta are). Can I just say, YUMMMM??? Man, they are good - by themselves, in a salad. I don't know if the other Trade Fairs are carrying them, but it's really worth checking out because are tasty!

Weekend Edition Update!

Just a heads up to all your teachers and school administrators - the Beer Garden is having a Teacher Appreciation Party TODAY. They open at 3pm, it's free admission, and the BBQ will be open (I don't think that's free, though). Everyone is welcome, though, but if you have a teacher friend, consider bringing them over and buying them a drink.

Astorian Weekend Edition 21.06.07

This is the week of the Summer Solstice, and what better way to celebrate the longest day of the year but at Socrates Sculpture Park! Their Summer Solstice Celebration happens on Thursday (the day of the actual Solstice), June 21, 5pm to sunset (around 9pm). There will be lots of activities - artmaking workshops, live music to listen to (salsa and Andean), face painting, and great food provided by local restaurants. Be assured, there will be something for everyone. I'll be there enjoying the time with friends. I'm especially looking forward to seeing the fabulous sunset over Manhattan. What a great way to welcome in summer!

Now, I've talked about ice cream before, but there are some new contenders in the Ditmars area. Martha's Bakery, on the corner of 37th Street and Ditmars, until recently sold a scoop of gelato for a little over $3.00. However, the new nut shop just next door to them, is now offering Hershey's ice cream for $2.50 a scoop. So, Martha's has lowered their prices to $1.75 a scoop. Fabulous! Also, there's been talk about ice cream being offered at the new sweet shop - called Oleput (that's Tupelo backwards) opening up (Ditmars and 32nd Street). Plus, La Guli (Ditmars between 31st and 29th Streets) makes darn good gelato for just $2.00 a scoop. So, get your ice cream on this weekend!

This weekend also brings us the Opening Day Celebration at PS1. From noon-6pm on Sunday there will be a wide variety of exhibitions by an inter-generational selection of artists. Warm-Up is coming soon, too!

Looking for love? There's a singles meetup at the Museum of the Moving Image this Friday! Admission is free on Fridays from 4-8pm; the meetup starts at 6:45pm. The AMMI is showing more horror films this weekend, too, including The Hills Have Eyes and The Host. And on the subject of movies, the Water Taxi Beach presents the second part of their Food Film Festival. On Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings, they are showing a selection of shorts on the subject of food. There will be hot dogs, sausages, and chicken, plus a hot dog eating contest on Thursday night. The films are free; they recommend you buy some of the food in advance, though..

And while it's not Astoria-based, I want to mention the Mermaid Parade happening this Saturday. Since Astroland got sold, people are anticipating this parade, on its 25th anniversary, to be the last one. Check it out if you can!

More fun, here.

Did i miss this?

Walking along Ditmars last week i saw this place looking shuttered.
Is it new or is it on its way out? I don't walk the block much but i could have sworn this wasn't there very long ago.

Any info my well informed friends? I love me some sushi and other then JJ's over on 31st ave and Watawa on Ditmars, we are still alittle lacking in "good" japanese.

~p.s. for takeout i am in love with the fun rolls at Kumo

Astorian Weekend Edition 14.06.07

Get involved with local issues at the Friends of Gantry Neighborhood Parks in Hunters Point. You don't have to be a member, just the desire to pitch in. Meet at Citylights (4-74 48th Ave and 5th St) in the 3rd Floor Activity Room at 7pm.- ppssst, thats kind LIC over there but eh, same hood.

Jazz away your Friday night at Go Wasabi (29-11 Ditmars Blvd) with some live piano action. 7:30pm-10pm enjoy some sushi with your tunes.

Local mainstay McCann's (36-15 Ditmars Boulevard) s having the first of its summer trips to Atlantic City on Saturday. Fun and friends await you, and for a mere $55 you get the full trip, some breakfast chow, movies on the bus, and refreshments on the way. If you still want to get your party on after getting back in, enjoy the one hour open bar back at McCann's. $20 and a phone call (718-278-2621) reserves your seat.

Astoria Waterfront folks bring health awareness to Astoria Park at 10 a.m. on Saturday with workshops, classes, walks, and clinics for all. There will be reps from the Transportation Alternatives of Western Queens Committee there, too. This event is hosted by the Astoria Park Alliance. Enjoy the great outdoors!

Spend Sunday with dad for Father's Day and grab a Gyro Mania (28-53 36st St.) quick meal that will only put you back $10 for a platter of fries, salad and choice of protein, before heading over to the Museum of the Moving Image (35th Ave @ 36th St) to partake in their summer of gory movies with The Devil's Rejects @ 6:30 p.m. This super awesome scarefest will be preceded by Bambi Meets Godzilla for a chuckle.

pic of chicken souvlaki platter from my dinner on monday.

Astorian Weekend Edition 07.06.07

Lots going on this weekend! First, Water Taxi Beach is having a Vegan Dinner event Saturday evening. Food will be locally grown and wines organic, with a cooking demonstration and lecture (the lecture is free). Be sure to buy your tickets ahead of time, here. It looks fabulous and I'm sure it will be an occasion to remember.

Tonight, head over to Hell Gate Social for Astoria's own Nuerotics. They're doing 2 sets, one at 9:30pm and one at 10:30pm, and it's totally free. Be sure to check out HGS's tasty Hellgate Lemonade, my favorite cocktail in the place. Another well-loved Astoria musician, Richard McGraw, is also performing this weekend. He'll be at Domaine's Hoek (48-17 Vernon Blvd) on Saturday at 8pm.

Saturday evening at Astoria Park the Astoria Symphony presents a free outdoor concert, featuring a lot of great popular classics. The concert starts at 6pm, and at 7pm a free jazz concert featuring the Jacob Varmus Quartet will follow at the Beer Garden (no cover, no charge)! On the other end of the musical spectrum, Sunday at 3pm the Noguchi Museum presents the Kioku Group, which performs traditional Asian folk music combined with western improvisation and sensibilities. You'll hear Japanese taiko, Korean gongs and Filipino kulintang along with saxophone and live electronics.

Sunday also brings us a variety of outdoor, community based activities. At 10:30 that morning, stop in at Gantry Park for its Ninth Anniversary Celebration (complete free breakfast!). Festivities will be out on the pier. It should be a beautiful day for it, too! Later that day you can take a waterfront bike tour from Gantry, which runs from 5-8pm (call 718.706.8044 for registration). It will also be a nice day for spending time at Socrates, which has tai chi from 11am-12pm. LIC Boathouse also sponsors free canoe and kayak paddles at Hallets Cove, every Sunday this summer from 1-5pm.

Finally, I recommend you get yourself over to the San Antonio Bakery #2 for one of their fantastic Chilean hot dogs. We've talked about them before, and not that it's summer, it's time for hot dogs! Was just over there this past weekend they are as good as ever. They have fun, new display cases, which make the baked goods look better than ever. Also, as I came back from my run on Saturday, looking passed the jacknifed big-rig on the corner of 24th Ave and 29th Street, I spied outdoor seating at Sparrow! They have great beer, great, food, and eating it outside is a fantastic addition. I also had a slice of pizza at nearby La Vita Mia, and it was pretty darn tasty. They play the Yankee games on their TV, which is a definite plus.

More fun, here.

Photo credit (Water Taxi Beach): Streetsblog
Photo credit (Gantry): about.com

Backyard at Fresh Start

The other day I stopped in at Fresh Start to buy cat food, and took a gander at their backyard space. It's a nice space, though I can do without the color scheme; I'm willing to look past it, though. Here are a couple of shots I took:


Personally, I love the wicker. And I hope to spend some time in it soon. Their food is pretty good, as are their juices. It's awesome to have them in the neighborhood!

Water Taxi Goes Vegan

If you've got a soft spot for chickens and cows, then you are all too aware that - while Astoria's menu is pretty diverse - it's a bit light on vegan fare. Well, no news here about that. But for one time only, Water Taxi Beach in LIC will be having a special vegan extravaganza with self-described "underground chef Matteo" This Saturday. (I never understood that. Cooking underground sounds a little gross to me, and I mean, are you a chef or not, dude?)

But regardless, the menu sounds quite tasty and if you can stand the oddly kitty-litter-esque sand, you can sit outside and enjoy the view of all the overpriced apartments in Manhattan that you could be living in, but aren't. (Unless you live in City Lights. Then you're out of luck. But the food will probably still taste good.) All while savoring Thyme-Scented Cashew Cheese Ravioli with Micro Greens. Of course.

Deets at the Water Taxi Beach Blog.

Muppets on the Subway

Maybe I saw an "R" whizzing by in the background of this most excellent clip first posted by fellow Astorian blogger and sometimes JIA guest-writer Annie Yanger. In fact, Sesame Street is filmed in our very own Kaufman-Astoria Studios.

Muppets Ride the Subway


What better way to start off the week, right? Thanks, Annie!

Astorian Weekend Edition 31.05.07

Start the weekend early tonight with Criminoso @ Hell Gate Social (12-21 Astoria Blvd). Perk up your ears with a blend of jazz, Brazilian, and electronic music. Get there by 9pm and save your money for drinks- no cover!

Need a job? Want to stay local? Love organic goodness? Well here's your big chance. Sai's Organics is opening up a newer all encompassing location and they are looking for some pretty permanent employees. This place rocks, and the new space looks to be even cooler incorporating the Health Food Store with a Wellness Center.
Email your resumes to syed@saiorganics.com or fax them to 718.777.8536. I'd say- stop in and do some shopping while you drop it off in person even!

Saturday night, support local musician Richard McGraw and I assure you, you won't be disappointed! Ok, so the show is in Brooklyn (Laila Lounge- 113 N 7th St, Williamsburg 9pm), but geesh- its not that hard to get over there :) It's free too!

Astorian Weekend Edition 24.05.07

This Weekend brings us Memorial Day. And while it's not in Astoria or LIC, you might consider heading east on Monday to Douglaston-Little Neck for their Memorial Day parade. This event is considered to be the largest Memorial Day parade in the country. And it's their 80th year! It starts at 2pm, rain or shine.

A little closer to home, this Saturday and Sunday the Beer Garden holds their annual Czech and Slovak Festival. This is their 25th year with this event. They'll have plenty of Czech beer, wine, food, and dancing to celebrate the culture, and to bring in the "official" start to summer. Admission is $10. And on the topic of annual openings, Water Taxi Beach officially opens this weekend. They'll have their complete menu available, including beer, tropical drinks, hotdogs and Motz burgers. Sunday the 27th, they'll have TurnTables on The Hudson, $5 after 8pm.

Local boutique Candy Plum is having a Memorial Day sale! 10% off all weekend, Friday-Sunday. And, if you mention Myspace, you'll get a free gift!

Also on Saturday at 3pm, the Broadway branch of the Queens Public Library presents a Memorial Day concert. The Medical Support Teams of the 319th Statue of Liberty Army Band will play jazz, pop, and classical, among other styles. All ages are welcome. Later that night, adults can head to Waltz for their monthly wine talk with Kevin Rose. $25 gets you wine, cheeses, and music.

There are also some great outdoor activities this weekend. Goodwill Triangle in western Astoria invites you to join them for gardening. On Sunday, the LIC Boathouse provides free kayak and canoe rides from 1-5pm at Socrates' Hallets Cove. More information, here.

Look what i'm doing tonight!

Eating!!!!

oh the excitement...i'm not eating all day in antipication of this. don't worry-i have my camera ;)

Get your Art on :)

Tomorrow night (Weds. 23rd) at the new Tell Astorya Cafe (37-05 28th Ave), there will be a get together of craft/art minded people hoping to get a sort of creative outlet going in the neighborhood, a la Craft Mafia.

There is a thread on Astorians.com you can check in on to keep up with the planning of get togethers, but for now- clear your schedule and break out the supplies tomorrow night at around 7pm.

There is no reason that Brooklyn & Manhattan get to have all the cool fun artsy happenings darn it! We've got the creatives here so why not do something about it? With the weather getting better and better, isn't it better to be out meeting peeps and having fun while doing the things you love most? Knit, draw, paint, write- you name it, there's a place for you.
The agenda for Weds? Discussions about workshops, places to host meetings and events and more.

Join the collective!!!! It's a movement!!!!!

More for the weekend!

Sorry I flaked on these extra events for the weekend- i was consumed by food stuffs!
This may be the all time busiest/eventful weekend to date, something for everyone for sure ;) Go be outside and do good things.

Saturday you've got all of these locations to participate in It's My Park! Day. Most are from 10am to 1pm but check the website for additional info.

•Athens Square (PS 17) - PS 234
•Dutch Kills Playground (PS 112) - Dutch Kills Civic Association
•Queensbridge Park - Friends of Queensbridge Park/ Friends of Gantry Neighborhood Parks
•Two Coves Garden (Goodwill Triangle) - Friends of Two Coves Garden, Astoria-LIC Waterfront Parks Alliance, Rainey Park Group, Astoria Park Alliance, Boy Scouts
•Gordon Triangle - Friends of Gantry Neighborhood Parks

Sunday there is a Hunters Point Walking Tour! For 2 hours starting at 11am take a stroll around the Vernon Blvd. area of LIC...it's free too. Maps and historical information will be provided.
RSVP to info@entephoto.com if you would like to attend and to learn of meeting point, or for more information.

Astorian Weekend Edition 17.05.07

Free Candy? Heck yeah! Friday at Waltz, enjoy the operatic stylings of the City Beat Opera.
Fill your ears with great standards and cabaret pieces for the low low cover of $5 and fill your belly with sweet sweet candy (and the other delicous treats they have for sale too.)

Saturday feel the love and join Marriage Equality New York for the Wedding March. They are going over the Brooklyn Bridge from Manhattan's Foley Square. You may ask yourself so what does Astoria have to do with this? Well quite a few Astorians are involved and some will even be performing (Candy Samples and the Gender Offenders) at the rally afterwards! The festivities start at 11 a.m. in Foley Square: head out there and support our peeps!

Just the other day, Meg filled us in on all the ice creammy goodness in Astoria, but actually since then, another great option popped up. Freeze Peach is now carrying tea based ice creams! For $3.75 you get a a pretty large cup filled with your choice of butterfly sencha, espresso honey, black currant. Flavors vary but those are the inaugural batch. Just another great reason to stop in, can you tell we love the place?


Holy crepes!
We'd like to welcome Cafe Triskell to the nabe. You may recognize the place as the old Lil Bistro 33, such a cute space just had to be used again! Chef Philippe Fallait has his crepes going on, I must say :) I ordered the hearty Broceliande (chicken, grilled veggies and goat cheese) and sampled the Benodet (mushrooms, swiss and herb butter). They were both phenomal! The banana and homemade chocolate crepe was also a hit. The prices range from $4 to around $9 and there are also soups, salads and sandwiches. This really is a great little gem we've been gifted, stop in and give them a taste. Merci Chef Philippe!

my other pics from the cafe here

*Edit for the Crescent and Vine Party info

Hot off the MySpace press:

Hey kids!

Crescent & Vine is now open!
The opening party has been moved to NEXT Wednesday so be sure and be there!

We are however open so still feel free to stop by and have a lil drinky with us...but pencil in NEXT WEDNESDAY for some good times for the official opening!

If your lookin for some more fun tonight come have a drink with us then head over to Sparrow...their throwin a lil Pajama party tonight!

and now you know... STAY DRY OUT THERE!

Come one come all

So there has been talk coming out of the Fatty's (25-01 Ditmars) camp for some time now on a new wine bar opening up next door to them. Well it seems like the day has finally come. Crescent and Vine invites all of us to head over there tomorrow night Weds May 16 for their grand bash. Here's what they had to say:

Hey guys...
In case you didnt hear, C & V is now officially open!
Its beautiful inside, european beer and wine, right next door to Fattys...please come and check it out and join us for a devine wine or draft beer!
We are having the official opening tomorrow night (wed) around 8 or 9ish...sierra beer sponsering so come down and have a wee swallie with us!

Good times!

Here's to new Astorian ventures!

Saturday night BBQ...of sorts

Want to be outside tomorrow night, head over to Last Resort Art Space (8-63 Astoria Blvd, 2nd floor) May 12th for a Rooftop BBQ around 6pm (with karazy kinds of musical entertainment starting at 9pm)

If you bring your favorite vittles and or drink then you bypass the $5 cover, if you don't have time to cook or stop at the bodega then come prepared to fork over 5 beans.
If this kind of art event floats your boat, sign up for their monthly events calendar here.


I have high hopes of making it out to this shindig!

Mystery Mansion

Apparently, there's an old mansion on 47th Street just south of the BQE. It was built in 1830, but suffered some damage in the 90s due to vandalism. It sits on landmarked land, so there's less of a chance it'll be razed. If you know anything about the mansion, contact Liz Goff at the Queens Gazette (see article). Looks beautiful in the picture!

Get Your (free) Yoga On at Socrates

JIA friend Jayme forwarded me this:

Date: Wed, 9 May 2007
From: Monique Schubert

Greetings Friends!

Calling all yogis and yoginis, students, serious practitioners and spiritual seekers! It's that time again - time for yoga in the park!

Yoga classes at Socrates Sculpture Park are starting this Saturday!! Classes will be running from May 12 - September 29 this year!! Still meeting from 11-12noon.

For more info about the park, including directions and a calendar of all the amazing events going on this summer go to:

http://www.socratessculpturepark.org/

Hope to see you all there!!
OM Shanti,

Monique

Astorian Weekend Editon 10.05.07

This Sunday is Mother's Day!
Take the mom in your life to brunch this weekend. Some places are holding special Mother's Day brunches, including Mundo and Koliba, while places like 718, Fatty's and Brick always have nice brunch. Two other options might be the Beer Garden or its neighbor across the street, Sparrow. In any case, you'll find good eating in Astoria.

Apart from Mother's Day, there are plenty of other ways to spend time in Astoria and LIC. On Thursday, MeatSpace Gallery presents Submerged, with a reception with the artists from 6-9pm. The show contains artwork that has the power of water to engulf, embrace, support, and surround us; the gallery is located on the edge of the water.

On Friday, consider attending Waltz's beer tasting event. At 9pm you can try 5 different beers, with snacks, for $12. Should be a nice, mellow time.

After brunch with mom, find your way to the Noguchi Museum. At 3pm on Sunday, there will be a talk about the LIC cultural life: "Contemporary Long Island City sculptors will gather to discuss their experiences creating in this unique artists' community and how artists have served as the catalyst for the (re)development of LIC as a cultural destination."

And, while the weather is good, the Water Taxi Beach will be open! On the subject of fun and sun and summer joys, Martha's Bakery (Ditmars and 37th Street) has their gelato up and running. I'm glad it's back, even though they raised the prices ($3.25 for a single scoop). They have about 8 flavors, from hazelnut to mint chip to strawberry.

More fun, here.

Ice Cream in Astoria

So, it's getting warmer, which means (screams?) ICE CREAM to me. I love the stuff. Ice cream and gelato and sorbet and sherbet and frozen yogurt, I love. it. all. The other day I made some ice cream and it was a great success; I'll make more, too. But sometimes I just like to go out for it. I'm sure you do too.

The other night I was down at Martha's Bakery (37th And Ditmars) scoping out their gelato offerings. Right now they have a lot less of a selection of flavors than they did last year, but the flavors they do have are just great - hazelnut, mint chip, dulce de leche, strawberry, lemon ice, to name a handful. It runs about $3.25 a scoop. Yow. Kind of pricey, but it was worth it when I wanted it.

La Guli Bakery up the street (Ditmars and 29th) also has gelato in classic flavors (I love the La Guli Chocolate, which has caramel in it). I haven't been down there to price it, but it usually runs around a couple dollars for a scoop. I also like their hazelnut gelato, and they have delicious italian ices. Terrizi Pastry Shop (30th Ave near 36th Street) also has gelato, which is supposed to be very good.

JIA friend Zora told flooz and me the other day about the presence of Ciao Bella gelato in the neighborhood, sold by the scoop. This is exciting! You can get it at the New Town Coffee House on 31st Street just north of 30th Ave. It's a mere $1.95 a scoop. She also passed on some news that I had already been given, about ice cream coming to a new sweet shop opening up on Ditmars. But the new bit of info is that the ice cream will be made by a local NYC company (I'll withold the name for now). I've been guaranteed that it's really good!

As far as more mass-produced stuff, there are plenty of Baskin Robbins in town. Cold Stone Creamery is on Broadway. Igloo on 31st Street near the Ditmars train station serves Sedutto ice cream and that weird All-Star Burger is set to have Hershey's Ice Cream available, but who knows if they will stick around, what with the awful McDonalds just a few doors down. Oh, and I can't not mention Uncle Louie G's ice cream, on 38th Street right off of Broadway.

And if all else fails, there's always Mister Softee!

News from Fresh Start

The other day I was at Fresh Start, the natural foods/organic grocery over on 23rd Ave between 31st and 29th (right between delicious Michael Angelo's and the nice people at Omega Wines), and as I was in the back getting cat food (Wellness - my kitty loves it!), I saw a door open...to a backyard patio! They are finally opening the outdoor/garden space they had talked about soon after opening a year and a half of so. It looks really nice. It's a space where you can take your prepared foods and and drink sit back and eat. They also want to make it available to community groups looking for a space in which to meet. I think it's going to be a really nice addition to the area.

Also, the owner told me that they are going to make the changeover to environmentally serving products soon (the order has already been placed). That means instead of plastic cups and straws, they will be made of corn, similar to what Freeze Peach uses. Also, they are going to provide biodegradable cutlery, and I guess maybe serving containers.

Big thumbs up!

Water Taxi Beach Open This Weekend!

The fabulous sandy beach at Water Taxi Beach is open this weekend due to the awesome weather predicted. From the guys themselves:

The beach is coming together for the 2007 season. Although we officially open on Friday of Memorial Day Weekend, weather permitting we will be open every Sat & Sunday in May.

Since the weather looks good for this weekend, we are expecting to open Saturday at Noon (Sunday's at 1pm).

Until Memorial Day Weekend, we will be serving ONLY Beef Dogs and Beer.

Excellent! Looks like its time to make a visit there...

[Photo from Streetsblog]

Astorian Weekend Edition 03.05.07

So in keeping with my nerd-centric post last week, I have found another gem- a fantasy/sci fi book club that so far, is all female! Unbelievable I know, but true. They meet up on Thursday nights and have kept it up for the past 2 years. Locations are always changing with the Beer Garden as a constant fall back spot.
* In all fairness, I did find another book club that is co-ed, the choice is yours!

Friday give yourself a treat by strolling down Ditmars to Forno Italia (43-19 Ditmars Blvd.) I don't know why it has taken so long for me to find this place, but hot diggity dog- the pizza ROCKS!!! Brick oven deliciousness :) One little itty bitty request though, more sauce! GO, EAT... please let me know what you think too because in my opinion this is the second (with a good shot of becoming the...) best pizza in Astoria- number one being Michael Angelo's (29-11 23rd Ave.)
~that's my quatro staggione pizza right there from Forno.

Break out your bike this Saturday for Green Queens: Estuary Wading & Cycling Adventure. From 10am to 1pm, start at Start at Gantry Plaza State Park (48th Ave. & the East River) and ride the proposed Queens East River Greenway and be one with nature. They will be touring all sorts of places, even Build It Green! Fear not, it won't run you ragged, the whole thing should clock in at around 5 miles in 3 hours.

Right after the ride, drain your water bottle, while learning about our impact on H2O resources at the Water Quality Workshop. The folks of the New York Soil & Water Conservation District and Partnerships for Parks will be doing the schooling.

Sunny Sundays are meant to be spent outside. Here's what to do this week! Socrates Sculpture Park (@ Vernon Blvd. and Broadway) is opening a new show L.I.C., NYC all about local artists, including Andrea Christens, Anne Deleprot, James Johnson, Isamu Noguchi, Rachel Stevens, and Nicole Tschampel. Catch it until August 5, 2007.

Solar in Astoria

"Who wouldn't be happy getting a lower bill from Con Ed?"

I know the answer to that question....Everyone!

Frank Adamick of Astoria (he's down on 23rd Ave near Astoria Park) has installed solar panels on his roof. Get this:

Adamick - whose solar roof went online in December 2002 - has found that, on sunny days, it generates more electricity than his home needs. Con Ed is required to buy the extra juice from him.

How awesome is that?!?!?

Read more here: Something new under the sun [Daily News]

And love that picture of the park in the distance!

5 Boroughs Ice Cream Founders

Scott and Kim Myles, founders of local 5 Boroughs Ice Cream, live right here in Astoria (we've mentioned them before)! They also use biscotti and baklava made in Astoria (Rose and Joes and Victory Sweet Shop, respectively) for their ice cream. Gothamist has a nice interview with Scott Myles, here. Check it out!

Mmm...ice cream...

Our space is your space

We've finally joined the rest of the world as we know it and joined the wondeful world of Myspace! We're still getting our act together over there but fear not, your trusty neighborhood bloggers will work it all out :)

Another day, another outlet to connect with the masses.


This is us- http://www.myspace.com/joeyinastoria
Bookmark us, read us, friend us, love us - Astoria, we love you ;)

Early editions-coming soon!

Starting this Thursday, we will be giving you folks an extra day to plan your weekends!


Look for the JIA Weekend Edition one day earlier :)

Happy Birthday JIA!

Aw, crap. I totally just missed our 2-year birthday.

Thank you readers and oh-so-amazing writers for all the fun!

Here's a link to our 5th-ever post. Just to be silly...
Where to Shoot Pool in Astoria - April 2005
(One of the places mentioned in this post is closed now, as you may well know.)

Cheers,
Joey