INSIDE PICNIC VIBES LITTLE NEW EATERIES

SEPTEMBER 2021 | ISSUE 13 | ASTORIA & SURROUNDING NEIGHBORHOODS

Where to grab a bite in Astoria after hours?

4 EDITORIAL PUBLISHER’S LETTER PUBLISHER SONIA MYLONAS You’ll Remember A September sure toremember. thepage to haveaSeptemberyou’llbe on turning but where’s thefuningivingitallawayhere? Keep you canhelpsupporttheirdebut. aims tobeAstoria’s veryfirstlesbianbarandhow communities. We’ve gotthe insidescooponwhat joining forces todoso-ournightlifeandLGBTQ+ local communitiesare growing aswell,and even the menu,guests,andshowup.Iknow, right? set-up andbreakdown. Allyouhavetodoischoose centerpieces, candles,younameit),andeventhe supplies (glassware, silverware, pillows,tables, outdoor diningservice,inwhichtheyprovide the given picnicstheultimateglow-upwiththeirelevated lay outablanket”picnic.Onelocalbusinesshas not talkingaboutyourstandard “packacoolerand choose from, wecan’t blameyou.However, we’re say, apicnicvibe.Withsomanyamazing parksto perhaps youerrmore onthesideofcasual,let’s menu (!)andboastsaMichelinstarrating.Or Japanese additionwhichconsistsofa7-course excited tointroduce youtotheneighborhood’s latest cheesecake -uh,yesplease. late-night eats.4amceviche,2amburger, 1amfried won’t gohungrywithourlistofAstoria’s greatest the besteats.Nomatterwhichyouidentifywith, perhaps you’re anightowlinstead)catchsomeof Sonia Mylonas A We’ve gotplentymore foryouthis month,reader, We are alsothrilledtoannouncethattwoofour For thosewhoprefer standard dinnerhour, we’re depending on the kind of night you had, depending onthekindofnightyouhad, the worm.Here inAstoria,earlybirds (or, s thesayinggoes,earlybird catches SHARE ADVERTISE EDITORIAL DESIGN [email protected] Stories -ScoopsTipsPics advertiser orany reply toanysuchadvertisement. by thepublication orrecording placedby the liabilities, anddamagesresulting from orcaused its employeesharmlessfrom allcost,expenses, agrees toholdGIVEMEASTORIAMAGAZINEand is theopinionofadvertiser. Theadvertiser advertorial information.Allinformation published replies. GiveMeAstoriaisnotresponsible for assumes allliabilityforthecontentofand prior topublicationforplacement.Theadvertiser week ofpublication.Adpositionmustbepaid reported toGiveMeAstoriaMagazinewithinone the spaceoccupiedbyerror. Errors mustbe for anyerror inadvertisingbeyondthecostof Magazine. Thepublisherswillnotberesponsible without priorpermissionofGiveMeAstoria No suchadoranypartthereof maybereproduced Give MeAstoriaMagazineispublishedmonthly. By GiveMeAstoriaMagazine. Entire contentscopyright2020 718.255.1333 [email protected] CONTRIBUTORS Kate Fry-Editor Eleni Louca-ArtDirector Vincent Velotta -Writer Shirley Roberts-Writer Melissa Goldberg -Writer Jason Antos-Writer Eirene Archolekas -Writer Athena Efter-Writer André Beganski-Writer @givemeastoria CONTENTS

KAISEKI 16 AT KŌYŌ 22

TIME TO HIT THE S(N)ACK TOP 7 PLACES TO GET LATE NIGHT EATS OCK BL E H T 32 N O LIGHTS, S

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6 EDITOR’S PICK

Snowdonia: Welsh, What Are You Waiting For? 8 SCENES MADE OF DREAMS Put the Pop in Your Picnic with VibeNic 10 HELLO, SELO 12 CURBSIDE CANVAS PROJECT Bringing Color to the Neighborhood One Sidewalk at a Time 28 FEEL GOOD, TASTE GOOD 34 The Best Wellness Spots in Astoria 38 HOME SWEET HOME (ALMOST) Astoria to Welcome Queens’ First Lesbian Bar 40 GIVE ME SPRING PHOTOGRAPHY CONTEST WINNER SHARE STORIES - SCOOPS - TIPS - PICS 42 LITTLE MALTA 44 HOW LUCKY WE WERE TO HAVE LIVED The Crossroads of the Past and the Present [email protected] 46 THINGS TO DO THIS MONTH EDITOR’S PICK EDITOR’S 6

Snowdonia Welsh, What Are You Waiting For? By Kate Fry Cockle Fritters (Old Bay and chive-spiced clam cakes with house-made remoulade), or Laverbread and ere at GMA, we love our trailblazers, our Bacon (seaweed and oatmeal “breadsticks” served “firsts,” our “can’t get it anywhere else’s”. We with pork belly and lemon). also love our comfort food - that undeniable, Next, we’ve got equally jaw-dropping classics with H“just what I needed” heartiness. On that note, we’d a Welsh twist like Shepard’s Pie, Glamorgan’s and like to introduce you to NYC’s first and only Welsh Mash (vegetarian), Wurst Platters, and Shrimp and Kitchen & Bar: Snowdonia. Cauliflower Grits, to name a few. “Snowdonia...is a mountainous region in Northern If you thought we covered the bases, think again. Wales. Named after this beautiful area, [they] are Snowdonia is also home to an additionally extensive an authentic restaurant in the Welsh tradition of selection of “Monster Sandwiches,” “byrgyrs,” “dogs, the ‘loca’” that fuses inventive cuisine and quality wursts and other comforts.” regional craft beers.” Nothing completes a meal like the above like a It’s hard to know where to begin when it comes refreshing craft beer or mixed drink, all while sitting to this unique menu. Start yourself off with a pot in Snowdonia’s quaint outdoor dining area on the of mussels in Welsh broth, Rarebit (Welsh classic corner of 35th Avenue and 32nd Street. Keep up cheese and beer topping on toasted baguettes with with their latest offerings by following them on

Photo @snowdonianyc spicy bacon, pickled red onions, and olive tapenade), @snowdonianyc. Mwynhau eich hun (enjoy yourself)!.

32-01 35th Ave. | 347.730.5783 | @snowdonianyc

“You can now picnic in style, with proper silverware, porcelain plates, real drinking glasses, and cloth napkins, while someone else hauls it all for you to your desired location, complete Photos @vibenic._ with pillows, lanterns, blankets, tables, and tents.”

SCENESPUT THE POP IN YOUR PICNIC MADE WITH VIBENIC OF DREAMS By Athena Efter blankets, tables, and tents. VibeNic will transform your picnic into a romantic table for two, a tea party for five, e all know there are some backyard divas out or a birthday bash for eight. You choose your guests there when it comes to going all out on the and your theme, and they will choose the patterns green, so we’ve upped the outdoor game. and fabrics according to your color preference and WWe went from camping to glamping, and now we are style vibe - completely customized to suit your needs. turning an ordinary picnic into an elegant, luxurious They work every occasion and setting, from birthdays experience worthy of your inner green goddess. to anniversaries, backyards to driveways, beaches to Monique Powell and Nicola Herrera, inspired by a parks, and any other spot you might dream up. Not new concept for outdoor vibing, decided to put their sure where to bring your outdoor flair? If you want creative minds together to form VibeNic: a luxury that special place with lots of sky blues that turn into picnic service where they supply the gear and you just tangerine sunsets over cityscape views, they will help

BUSINESS worry about the food, taking a big load off your plate. you choose the ideal spot. They know where to set

8 You can now picnic in style, with proper silverware, the scene in and out of NYC. Cat nap on the green, porcelain plates, real drinking glasses, and cloth anyone? If you want a little more shade and privacy, napkins, while someone else hauls it all for you to add on a cozy little teepee for you and your boo. And your desired location, complete with pillows, lanterns, what’s a proper tablescape in the landscape without VIBENIC

a fresh bouquet of colorful flowers, or a charcuterie scrape the wax off with it. Make that a porcelain plate, SCENES MADE boardOF for nibbling pre-feast? DREAMS Keep the rest of the food please, and leave all the plastic out of it. The struggle on ice, and the early birds happy, with a little cheese is real when you try to cut up that grilled skirt steak or and prosciutto on the table while waiting for those grandma’s famous buttermilk fried chicken without a fashionably late butterflies to arrive. They will provide proper place setting. My lap is not the placeholder I these, and a growing list of add-ons, that make every had in mind. Hook me up with a table; I’m not taking detail of your picnic a lavish experience by laying on my bedroom set or kitchen counter on the subway the ambience. Don’t worry - you can leave your white with me. VibeNic will work out all the details, so you gloves at home and bring your baseball mitt instead can sit back and relax, welcome your guests, and by adding fun activities that suit your gaming style. have a good time, riverside, parkside, or oceanside. VibeNic will also bring the Jenga, the Twister, and VibeNic will be there, on location, rolling out the green backyard bocce set. After a couple of mimosas, you carpet for your grand entrance right onto a picnic set can happily leave the lawn bowling game behind. fit for a “scene queen.” So what are you waiting for? VibeNic’s luxury picnic service will give you and your Summer is almost over and fall is around the corner, guests the VIP treatment, plus it’s environmentally and so is Astoria Park. Pick up the bubbly and bring friendly. Who wants to be loading up that drippy, runny some pop to your picnic with VibeNic. potato salad on fancy styrofoam or wax-coated paper To check out their work and book this amazing plates anyway? I prefer the real deal in my flatware service yourself, shoot them a message on Instagram that won’t puncture a fork mark through my plate or at @vibenic._. Hello, Selo

10 FOOD & DRINK T 33-05 Broadway |718.932.0101 |@selonyc By ShirleyRoberts off yourmeal.Make your reservation today! inspired domaca kafaare anabsolutemust-try tofinish the princeskrofne (cream puffs)withacupof Turkish- shows inSelo’s outstanding pastacreations. Fordessert, to it,dueitsproximity tothecountry, andittruly cream sauce.Croatian food hassomeItalianelements gnocchi, bakedtoperfectionand loaded withshrimpand crispy potatoesontheside,andtheirhomemadeIstrian are karadjordjeva, afriedandrolled wienerschnitzelwith time forthemainevent.Two oftheirmostpopular entrees cut itopen.Onceyou’vefinishedthistastysensation,it’s a gooeycheesethatcomespouringoutthesecondyou their monasterypeppers,whichare friedandstuffedwith blend offlavors,spices,andtextures. Asastarter, try Croation roots withSerbiandishes,yieldinganamazing celebratory occasion!Theownerproudly combineshis look nofurtherwhenplanningyournextdatenightor and traditional,upbeatlivemusiconSaturday nights. If youhaven’t triedthisnewgemofarestaurant, then Croatian andSerbiancuisine, extensivewinelist, the eyesandtastebudswithitsoutstanding Europeanhis newEastern restaurant isatreat for

Photo@selonyc

SELO Photo Shirley Roberts Shirley Photo Agata Landa is a top producing agent at Capri Jet Realty who specializes in the sale of residential, commercial and mixed-use buildings. There is no deal that is too difficult for her because creating solutions is her forte.

43-07 31ST AVENUE ASTORIA, NY 11103 BRICK 8 FAMILY BUILDING WITH FULL BASEMENT & BACKYARD! $2,488,888 CALL FOR FULL SET UP AND OPEN HOUSE DETAILS!

ASTORIA’S HOTTEST AGENT

LICENSEDAGATA REAL ESTATELANDA SALES PERSON 914-255-7284 [email protected] CURBSIDE CANVAS PROJECT ART 12 Curbside Canvas Project Bringing Color to the Neighborhood One Sidewalk at a Time

By Kate Fry passing. Restaurants that had managed to stay open were attempting to be resourceful and offer outdoor seating, t goes without saying that 2020 was one of, if not the though most of the structures Tsapalas saw were made most difficult year we’ve all had to face. In addition to the of blank plywood. “Coming from a restaurant family, I overarching, self-explanatory damage that COVID brought clearly [understood that] those restaurants did not have the Ion, one facet of everyday life was hit particularly hard: the bandwidth, resources, manpower, or vision to do anything restaurant industry. With countless local businesses forced more. That’s when the lightbulb went off,” he says. to limit their capacity, change their venue entirely, or shut “And so the NEIGHBORHOOD CURBSIDE CANVAS down indefinitely, restaurant owners across the city did PROJECT was born: a volunteer, neighborhood-recovery their best to adapt and survive, and one NYC resident was effort to drive interest, energy, foot traffic and business determined to do his part. back to these establishments and give local artists a public Tribeca native, Bill Tsapalas, comes from a family forum.” background of both restaurants and the arts. One day in Needless to say, Tsapalas hit the ground running. After August of 2020, while riding his bike through SoHo, his reaching out to any and all connections he had, including heart ached for all of the boarded up storefronts he was local blog, Tribeca Citizen, restaurant association, The Photo curbsidecanvas.com

“At some future moment, I know I’ll be able to look back and say I stepped up to help two industries I love, the neighborhood I love, and the city I love, during this most difficult period in history.”

Taste of Tribeca, neighborhood art gallery, One Art Space, If you haven’t seen their artwork yet, what are you waiting and friends and neighbors alike, the project truly took off. for? Go to any one of the above locations and join Tsapalas A GoFundMe campaign yielded enough donations for in achieving his ultimate goal of supporting local businesses, Tsapalas to buy art supplies for 20 volunteer, local artists inspiring a sense of community, and encouraging your who managed to paint murals for 13 Tribeca restaurants neighbors’ artistic expression. “It’s all been a wild, fun, throughout the month of September. nourishing and unexpected ride,” he says. “I just happened As news of Curbside Canvas gained momentum, so did to have the right background, skillset inclination, and the the locations (or canvases) in which they produced their art. right time to act on it. At some future moment, I know I’ll You’ve probably admired their work by now at several of our be able to look back and say I stepped up to help two local favorites, including Oliver’s Astoria, Halsey’s, Mom’s industries I love, the neighborhood I love, and the city I love, Kitchen & Bar, Big Alice Brewing, Maggie Mae’s, and Zenon during this most difficult period in history.” Taverna. Today, they have “an army of over 100 artists, 50 of If you’re an artist looking to contribute or a restaurant [whom] have lent their creativity to murals for 50 restaurants owner looking to add a splash of color to your curbside, across ten NYC neighborhoods, [with] two currently in the learn more at curbsidecanvas.com and follow them on works.” Instagram at @curbsidecanvas. EVA’S HELADO ARTESANAL ADVERTORIAL 14

Churn Up the Cream with Eva’s Helado By Athena Efter hat happens when two unusual, and highly through her affinity for exploring different cultures in a compatible textures and flavors come together? global culinary world, and to combine those global flavors You get the wholesome creamy goodness of with the traditions of ice cream making at McConnell’s. Wsweet cream blended together with Mexican vanilla and Her goal was to create a line of super premium pints churro swirls to indulge your sweet tooth with a panache that take an American tradition to a multicultural level: of Latin flavor. “I’ve always enjoyed putting our spin on classic flavors California-based McConnell’s Family Dairy has for McConnell’s and brought this sensibility to the flavor been crafting fine ice cream for 70 years, using local process for Eva’s as well. Through research on Latinx ingredients like Central Coast grass-grazed milk and culinary traditions and flavor profiles, as well as honing cream, eggs from organically fed, cage-free chickens, and in on the flavors we wanted to launch, we put our spin pure cane sugar. Three simple ingredients are the base on Dulce de Leche, Horchata, Mango, Strawberries for this dense, velvety, and consistently smooth texture and Vanilla. We deconstructed a traditional alfajor for that has now churned into Eva’s Helado. There are no Chocolate Caramel Swirl. This will be our approach to stabilizers, fillers or preservatives. What sets Eva’s apart every new flavor from Eva’s.” is that everything is made from scratch, like home-baked New Yorkers can now look forward to the arrival of cookie crumbles and jams that turn an ordinary ice cream “West Cold” delicacies, straight from the Left Coast, like into an artisanal, hand-crafted experience. McConnell’s Café Con Donuts made with coffee ice cream and chunks recently installed state-of-the-art freezers and ice cream- of cinnamon-spiked donuts, plus Horchata & Churro making equipment to continue whipping up the finest ice Swirl, a sweet cream infused with cinnamon and paired cream, using only pure and natural ingredients. with a swirl of churro batter. These, and an array of other Born and raised in Sweden, Chef and Restaurateur “exciting, Latin-inspired flavors,” can be found in the Eva Ein was inspired to create her new line of ice cream freezers of local NYC supermarkets this fall. Laser Hair Removal | Badass Brows | Voluminous Lashes

By appointment only. Text us or book online. 718.844.7874 | linktr.ee/Clubdollface | @clubdollface NOW HIRING LASH ARTIST! REACH OUT IF YOU’VE GOT WHAT IT TAKES TO JOIN THE TEAM.

31-13 23rd Avenue, 2nd Floor, Astoria, NY 11105 @sweetaftonbar 30-09 34thSt.|718.777.2570 to tryit. town. Iguessyou’lljusthave burger, saidtobethebestin the mainenticementistheir pickles andbuffalowings,but classic bargrublikefried can getyourhandsonsome after hours.‘Til1am,you to talkaboutwhattheyserve for brunch.But,we’re here toast andfrench toaststicks unironically servesavocado feel toanestablishmentthat brings acertainold-fashioned stretched across theceiling woodenbeams and worn exposed brick,adim-litbar, This placeisjustplaincool: justice, butwe’lldoourbest. popular neighborhoodjoint No words canreally dothis Sweet Afton 16 FOOD & DRINK Top 7 PlacestoGetLateNightEats By Vincent Velotta

Photo @sweetaftonbar Photo LATE NIGHT EATS

Crave Astoria

As with any Astorian write-up, Greek is on the menu. Crave offers a pretty complete set of options at great prices - and of course, a kitchen that’s open well into the night (12:45am weekdays and 1:45am weekends). Athenian Baked Potato $6.95? Lamb gyro sandwich for $7.95? Fried cheesecake for $6.75?! What else could you ask for?

28-55 36th St. 718.726.4976 @crave_astoria Photo @crave_astoria

Brik Astoria Trendy, stylish, and absolutely popping on some nights, Brik is a Steinway Street location that’s a must-visit if you haven’t already, and it’s not hard to see why. The place boasts an ultra clean, modern look with their walls lined with screens and a sleek fluorescent bar. An extensive American menu awaits alongside some very intriguing options such as the Jalapeno Cilantro Chicken Croquettes and the Brik Burger (with feta cheese, grilled tomatoes, and Greek slaw). The kitchen stays open until 2am, Thursday-Sunday and 1am the rest of the week.

3216 Steinway St. 718.267.2745 Photo @brik_astoria @brik_astoria 18 FOOD & DRINK Photo @omoniacafe 30-11 30thAve. |718.777.5366 those someplentiful servings! platters. Andboyohboy, are huarache, andamixofclassic to quesadillas,tostadas, Mexican cuisinefrom chalupas Athens servesthegauntletof Open from 9am-4am(wow), hunger,morning forthatmatter). late-night hunger(oranearly prices foranyonewitha Mexican dishesataffordable Bar provides alengthylistof online, AthensGrillandSports a hostofcriticalacclaim An under-the-radar pickwith and SportsBar Athens Grill Photo Athens Grill&SportsBar/Yelp @omoniacafe 718.274.6650 32-20 Broadway dedicated tosweets. out theiradjacentstorefront that’s you getthere earlyenough,check kitchen closesat12:30am,andif inside. Order yourfoodbefore the near-panoramic viewsfrom the pandemic-era street cabana tothe Astoria staple,from theirthoughtful, there’s toomuch toloveaboutthe goods andpastriesinthearea, the largestselectionofbaked a textbookformenuandperhaps decors intheneighborhood.With of thebetterindoororoutdoor Omonia ifyou’re lookingfor one Take yourlatenightcravingsto Omonia Cafe LATE NIGHT EATS

Oven.Grill Chill Lounge

If your late night cravings (and by late night we mean 1am) desire Peruvian cuisine, look no further than this Broadway eatery. With a chill atmosphere and classics like Ceviche Mixto (fresh seafood marinated in lemon or lime juice) and Lomo/Pollo Salteado (traditional stir fry over french fries and rice), there are few places better than this one.

42-12 Broadway | 917.832.7880 @chillastoria

Photo @chillastoria

Zeus Kitchen If your late-night shenanigans include pondering upon the many escapades of the Greek gods, you might want to take your appreciation of their

Photo @zeuskitchen mythology here. Zeus Kitchen, open 7 days per week from 4PM to 3AM, has a little bit of everything on their menu from arepas to their own take on Fettuccine Alfredo. But the best feature of their menu might be the "Between the Buns" section, which offers sandwiches aptly named after some of the Greek mythological figures such as the Poseidon (god of the sea), which is a Po' Boy sandwich with crispy fried shrimp, Cajun Tartar sauce, coleslaw, and a french baguette. Let’s just hope they don’t serve anything named after Prometheus.

27-24 21st St. | 718-606-1904 @zeuskitchen SACCO & FILLAS THE COVID VACCINE AND ALL THAT’S IN BETWEEN

By Athena Efter pregnancy or a religious belief, practice, or observance, do not get vaccinated for COVID-19, unless providing e know what’s on your mind. While vaccine an accommodation would pose an undue hardship on protection from COVID-19 has become widely the operation of the employer’s business. For example, accessible and sensible, many New Yorkers are a reasonable accommodation may include requiring an Wstill hesitant to get vaccinated. With indoor venues now unvaccinated employee (i) to wear a face covering while requiring proof of vaccinations, what does all this mean at work, (ii) maintain social distance from coworkers for you if you are not vaccinated? In our monthly catch- or non-employees, (iii) to work a modified shift, (iv) to up, Legal Counsel Elias Fillas of Sacco and Fillas LLP, get periodic tests for COVID-19, or (v) be given the GMA addresses your concerns. opportunity to telework. GMA: To what extent does an employer or university GMA: NYC has become the first state to ban have the right to expel an employee or student for not unvaccinated people from indoor dining, gyms, and being vaccinated? entertainment venues. Is this legal? EF: If the employer has a reasonable belief that the EF: Currently, yes, unless and until the ban is challenged unvaccinated employee will pose a “direct threat” to the in the courts and the courts rule that the ban is illegal or health or safety of other employees in the workplace, unconstitutional. the employer may terminate the employee. Also, similar GMA: How does it affect the fourteenth amendment and reasoning applies to schools, as schools may require its Due Process clause when it comes to our civil rights? vaccination as a condition to enrollment. EF: The very basic definition of “civil rights” is the GMA: Is our legal system fully prepared to address any guarantee of equal protection under the law regardless of consequences to freedom of bodily choice and other race, religion, or other personal characteristics. There is civil rights that could potentially become violated through no federal or state law which requires or mandates that this mandate? an individual be vaccinated. Thus, there is no deprivation EF: Yes, as our legal system has been addressing of “life, liberty or property” under the 14th Amendment. issues of similar nature for over a hundred years. For Are unvaccinated people being denied equal protection? example, in 1905, the Supreme Court, in Jacobson No. Any ban prohibiting unvaccinated people from indoor v. Massachusetts, ruled that states are permitted to dining, gyms, and entertainment venue is not based on require people to be vaccinated against smallpox; this race, religion or personal characteristics. decision paved the way for schools to require proof of GMA: Can a mandatory vaccination law on the state vaccinations from students. Also, with the reach of social level lead to a requirement on the federal level? media and coverage, we now see how widespread EF: While federal law generally trumps state law, federal movements are with respect to issues such as civil rights equal employment opportunity laws do not prohibit and gender diversity. employers from requiring vaccines and this varies from GMA: Given a lot of the controversy and inconsistencies state to state. surrounding the virus and the vaccine’s effectiveness, Specifically, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity especially now with the new delta variant, is it justifiable laws do not prevent an employer from requiring to legally mandate entry into indoor venues, and other all employees physically entering the workplace venues as decided by the state, for a virus that’s still

ADVERTORIAL to be vaccinated for COVID-19; however, in some mutating and a vaccine that is still not 100% FDA fully circumstances, Title VII and the ADA require an employer approved or proven in long-term effectiveness? 20 to provide reasonable accommodations for employees EF: It’s an opinion-based response, but the actions are who, because of a disability (covered by ADA), justified to ensure public safety. $10 HAPPY HOUR MONDAY-FRIDAY FROM 3PM-6PM BAR AREA ONLY CHOICE OF THE FOLLOWING WOOD OVEN PIZZA MARGHERITA BIANCA PEPPERONI ARUGULA SCAGILE GIARDINO 718.721.6500 79-16 21st Ave. East Elmhurst @piu_bella_pizza piubellapizza.com 22 FOOD & DRINK Kaiseki atKōyō H robata grilla lacartefare. In2018,heand histeam his menuaround traditional omakasediningand of Manhattan,Chef-OwnerJayZheng centered choose atall.Enter:Kōyō. don’t havetochoosejustone-infact,youdon’t what aboutkaiseki:adiningexperience where you tempura, andotherformsofJapanese cuisine,but probably already familiarwithsushi,sashimi, 37-12 31st Ave. |929.328.2890 |koyonewyork.com | @koyonewyork By KateFry Originally knownasGaijinandoperating out miss hotspotintheneighborhood.You’re here tointroduce youtoyetanothercan’t- ey GMAfam!Ascontinuallypromised, we’re down tobusiness. ChefZhengisproud toinvite experience.” create aKaiseki-inspired, multi-sensorydining [using] ingredients at[eachseason’s peak]to offering a“strongborn, focusonseasonality and season approaches. Andthus,Kōyō’s menuwas the changingofmapletree leavesasanew term “Kōyō”means“autumnfoliage,”specifically, leave themselvesinthehandsofchef.The translates to,“Ileaveituptoyou.”AKA,guests Astoria withwhatistodayknownasKōyō. decided tohoneinontheirspecialtyandgrace Now thatyou’ve got somebackground, let’s get In Japaneseculture, theterm“omakase”directly KAISEKI AT KŌYŌ

“In Japanese culture, the term ‘omakase’ directly translates to, “I leave it up to you.” AKA, guests leave themselves in the hands of the chef.”

you to a seven-course, Michelin star-rated tasting menu, during which your mind will be blown by delicacies like Sakizuke, Hassun, Suimono, Yakimono, Gohan, Nigiri, and Mizumono. Kōyō offers supplemental add-ons as well and of course, no Japanese meal is complete without sake. Zheng teamed up with Wing Yee of World Sake Importers to curate the finest and rarest of sakes to accompany your equally rare dishes. Kōyō provides outdoor seating fully equipped with roofing, heaters, and coolers so you can dine in any weather. Or, if you feel like really “wowing” your friends and family, opt for the Chef’s Counter indoors that can accommodate up to six guests (additional indoor dining, up to seven). Take-out and delivery options are also available, so in reality, there’s nothing stopping you from giving Kōyō a try. If you’re anything like me, you were sold at not having to make the decision of what to eat. 24 MENTIONS Stylish Sweet, Savory, [email protected] 30-10 SteinwaySt.|@taco_tumba reservations [email protected]. the towniswelcometocontactthemfor a group offriendsorjustanightouton looking foraswankydinnerspottohost celebrations andprivateevents.Anyone is aplushspaceforrefined birthday Mena’s exquisitemenu.Taco Tumba flour tortillasfrom executivechefRolando freshly andfresh handmadebluecorn expert mixologiststocomplimentthe fresh limejuice,andagave,craftedby Taco Tumba are allmadewithfresh fruits, at itssleekmezcalbar. Thecocktailsat the segueintomixologytakingplace carefully curatedplaylistquicklybecomes artworks, andrightdowntothesounds;a between itsdishes,wallpaperand City throughout thetiniestofdetails vibe, Taco Tumba showcasesMexico decorated withatastefullyunderstated in aspeakeasyatmosphere. Elegantly tapas withtraditionalMexicanflavors restaurant servinggourmettacosand Taco Tumba: ahigh-endMexican Owners William&Lorena Albapresent Taco Tumba @artroomhairspa 31-08 30th Ave. |917.745.0456 Don’t justtakeour word forit-goseeyourself! your hairlooking asradiantandlivelyever. treatments, theteamoveratArtRoom willhave more. From haircuts,tocoloring, tohairspa Hair Spaishere toremedy allofthe above and may belookingalittlerough. Luckily, ArtRoom by thetimefallcomes,it’s safetosayourhair products weusetofightoffthesummer humidity, Between lightexposure, chlorine,the countless often comesataprice:sundamagetoourhair. getting thatpicture-perfect tan,unfortunately, that While oneofthemajorbenefitssummeris Art RoomHairSpa MENTIONS We’ve Got It All

King Souvlaki Another Greek can’t-miss, King Souvlaki continues to dominate the food truck scene. Their locations are growing by the day, having now upgraded from food truck favorite to established restaurant in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn! They’re having no trouble keeping up with the demand for their savory goodness including their variety of family- sized specials, pitas and heroes galore and even salads for those trying to maintain that summer bod. You can find King Souvlaki’s Queens food trucks at the corner of 31st Street and 31st Avenue, Steinway and Ditmars, and Northern Boulevard and Bell Boulevard in Bayside. Don’t forget - they cater, too, and will come to you!

31st St. & 31st Ave. | 347.384.0217 @kingsouvlaki | kingsouvlakinyc.com

Tea & Milk We’re sure you’ve heard of the bubble tea craze by now. If you still haven’t hopped on the bandwagon, we strongly encourage you to do so at Tea and Milk, one of the first businesses of its kind since 2015, and we guarantee you won’t look back. This month, they’re proud to announce the arrival of their Rose Peach Tea which tastes as refreshing as it sounds and is here for a limited time only! They even have brand new outdoor seating as well, and nothing says “summer” like a freshly made iced tea while soaking up the sun.

32-02 34th Ave. | 917.294.0450 | @teaandmilkny MENTIONS

The Lingerie Shoppe @AstoriasSecret A Uniquely Sexy Speak Easy September is full of love with special live performances all month long! Burlesque, drag, erotic poetry, lingerie fashion shows and of course killer karaoke! Ladies, show up in lace or lingerie and enjoy happy hour specials all night long! Reserve your party either indoors or outdoors in their Secret Backyard Sanctuary. Check them out and book your reservation online at AstoriasSecret.com and follow them on Instagram @AstoriasSecret.

MENTIONS 28-53 Steinway St. Thursday - Sunday 26 Follow for Show times @AstoriasSecret AstoriasSecret.com

Tamalli As if you even needed another reason to buy tamales from Tamalli, here’s an offer you truly can’t refuse. Throughout the month of September, Tamalli will be teaming up with local non-profits Team for Kids and Rising New York Road Runners to help bring free running and fitness programs to young students across the country. 10% of all sales profits will be donated to the cause in an effort to fuel the campaign, led by local delivery drivers, Luis and Pedro, to help physical activity and well-being reach countless youth. To place your order and not only have the tamale of a lifetime but be a part of this incredible movement, reach out to them directly on Instagram at @tamalli_. Ralph’s Famous Italian Ices of Astoria Even in a world where food supplies/ingredients are cut short due to a pandemic, Ralph’s is still managing to bring it home with a robust 44 flavors! And not your everyday flavors either. We’re talking passion fruit, jelly ring, pina colada, crazy coconut, chocolate graham marsh, and more. Why melt in this heat on your couch at home when you can have one of these amazing scoops melt in your mouth? Summer’s almost over so close it out the right way at Ralph’s! Gift Box You already know Gift Box Astoria came through 3002 30th St. to equip you with the perfect summer necessities, 917.396.1100 so it’s no surprise that they’re ready as ever to lead @ralphsastoriany you into our next season. Drop by the store and ralphsices.com give “back to school” a whole new meaning with their unique variety of school supplies ranging from notebooks, to bags, to stationery. For all you music loving, environmentally-friendly folks out there, it would be a crime to miss out on their coolest feature yet: handmade products from recycled vinyl records. That’s right - records that were “once played, loved and shared” now taking on the form of journals, ornaments, book ends, coasters, and more.

25-11 Broadway Ave. | 718.440.3411 | @giftboxastoria

Souvlaki Lady You have missed her lately as she took a mini hiatus (we all deserve a little summer vacation at some point), but the Souvlaki Lady is back and better than ever. From the most flavorful meat skewers, to family platters, to pita creations like the original Souvlaki Lady, the Astoria and the Ditmars Boulevard, the possibilities are truly endless at this local, Greek gem. The business is making its official return on September 7 - mark your calendars!

33rd St & Ditmars Blvd. | 917.750.3748 | @souvlakilady Feel Good, Taste Good The Best Wellness Spots in Astoria

By André Beganski

hether you’ve just left the gym at the crack of dawn or you’re rolling out of bed sometime around noon, a Wsmoothie can be the perfect way to put some extra pep in your step while enjoying something natural and fresh. There are numerous wellness spots and eateries in Astoria that prepare food for people who prioritize their health and fitness - we’re talking about some of the best juices, shots, smoothies, and drinks you can find that bridge the gap between tasty and healthy.

Fitrition is a popular and well-known destination for smoothies and açai bowls, located at 30-09 Steinway St. near multiple gyms and fitness centers. They have a full juice bar that features a wide range of all-natural ingredients and take-away food offerings labeled with breakdowns of nutritional macros. They also offer a wheatgrass shot that is vibrant in taste and color, packing the equivalent of a two-and-a-half-pound salad down into just a few flavorful ounces. Other shots like the Cold Killer and the Fat Burner are just as potent, featuring a blend of ginger, lemon, and Photo @fitrition_nyc spices like cayenne pepper or cinnamon. Fitrition 30-09 Steinway St. | 718.440.9268 | @fitritionjuicebar

But, if you’re not on Steinway, don’t sweat it and try The Hydrator at Create, located at 29-21 Ditmars Blvd., less than a block away from the closest subway station. The Hydrator is a premium juice made from watermelon, cucumber, lemon, coconut and is garnished with a pinch of sea salt; perfect for beating the heat. They also have a detox juice which helps the body FOOD & DRINK “naturally rid itself of unwanted toxins” and is made from celery, 28 spinach, apple, carrot, and parsley.

Photo @createfoodsnyc Create 36-03 30th Ave. | 718.204.0333 @createfoodsnyc FEEL GOOD, TASTE GOOD

Healthy Me 30-08 37th St. | 718.274.8500 | Healthymeny.com

For fitness enthusiasts and self- proclaimed gym rats, there’s Healthy Me, which not only has rejuvenating smoothies and hearty meals made from organic ingredients, but also offers a ten percent discount to all gym members. Located at 30-08 37th St., they have stand-out menu options that are packed with protein like their Popeye Power Smoothie and Protein Power Toast, which both contain almond butter among other ingredients. And for people with dietary restrictions, there’s plenty of options at Healthy Me as well, like Bulletproof Coffee, which is highly sought after by people who are on a Keto diet. They also offer other foods that are gluten-free and vegan like Aussie Bites. At 99 cents a piece, they combine dried apricots with rolled oats, sunflower seeds, fried coconut, honey, and raisins into a snack that is sure to please anyone. Photo @healthymeny

Fusion Juice Bar 34-02 36th Ave. | 347.738.4024 @fusionjuicebar_

Finally, when it comes to pre- packaged juices for those seeking grab-and-go options Fusion Juice Bar is king in Queens. They have multiple locations throughout Astoria and make fresh drinks like Hulk Juice, which is a blend of celery, kale, spinach, green apples, and cucumber. Their “Raw Remedies” are also out-of- this-world, offering a natural aid to those with diabetes, hypertension, and low blood pressure. Pressed to impress, they are arguably one of the best ways to indulge in something sweet while keeping Photo @fusionjuicebar your body healthy and satisfied. STRAND PHARMACY ADVERTORIAL 30

Forming genuine connections with whoever walks through the door little over five years ago, two “We know what it’s like to work Strand Pharmacy brothers found themselves hard, what it’s like to struggle, just 2501 Broadway working at a local pharmacy like everyone else. We try to make Open Mon-Fri, 9am-7pm asA a means to get by. That “means people’s lives easier,” explains Saturday 10am-4pm to an end” mentality quickly Artur. And that’s exactly what you Closed Sunday shifted to passion in no time, can expect upon entering the leading one brother, Michael, to go store. These brothers show up to IN ADDITION TO HEALTH CARE, ahead and purchase one of, if not work every day with the intention STRAND PHARMACY OFFERS A the oldest, pharmacies in Astoria: of helping people. “No matter what NUMBER OF OTHER SERVICES AS Strand Pharmacy. With the help issue you have in life,” they will WELL, INCLUDING: of his brother, Artur, this local give their absolute best in trying to business continues its 100+-year help you find the remedy - whether • Eye vision tests for DMV legacy as a genuine Astoria staple. that be taking the time to find and • UPS package drop-off/pick-up The previous owner had already order a new product or working • Money orders/MoneyGram developed loyal relationships with with their patients’ budgets so services his customers, with some being they can afford the care they need. • Lottery • OTC networking card pharmacy regulars for 40, 50, Upon walking into those doors, • Faxing/printing and 60 years. After buying the you will always be treated like a • Notary services business five years ago, those member of the family, whether • Reading Glasses seeds continue to grow while new it’s to fill a prescription, ask a • Local Delivery ones are planted. question, or just say hello. • Accepts most insurance plans

PRINTING FAX & COPY PASSPORT PHOTO SURGICAL SUPPLIES BILL PAYMENTS NOTARY VISION EXAMS OPTICAL DEPARTMENT NY LOTTO SAME DAY DELIVERY SERVICE GREETING CARDS

FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL 718.721.3650 accepted

the wallsofbacklotwhere areplica ofParishadbeenerected. Astoria Studiobacklot.Theneighborhoodcanbeseenbeyond The filming of the World War I drama, The Battle of Paris, in 1929 on the Courtesy QueensHistoricalSociety 32 HISTORY G By JasonD.Antos arcade theater, or “nickelodeon,” on 14thStreet in named AdolphZukor. Heinvestedina penny Jewishimmigrant began withaHungarian-born developing filmindustry oftheearly20thcentury revolution andinnovationinthestudioQueens.” its restrictions. There was awonderfulsenseof who’re alltryingtogetawayfrom Hollywoodand place wasfulloffree spirits,defectors,refugees, It wascertainlynotanotherHollywood. The new studioinAstoriatheborough ofQueens. day wedrove across theQueensboro Bridgetothe 1980 autobiography, SwansononSwanson:“Every One ofthebiggestnamesinnewly said ofmakingmoviesinQueensher famous forclassicslikeSunsetBoulevard, loria Swanson,starofthesilentscreen and here between 1920 and 1933, including the first two distance from Manhattan’s theater district. in 1909,thenew complex wasnowonlyashort thanks totheQueensboro Bridge,whichopened Queens wouldhavebeenisolated andrural,but of Queens.Traditionally, alocation anywhere in in Astoria,thecheaperandroomier confines films. In1920,theybuilttheirstudio complex Film Companytoproduce anddistributefull-length business andwentontoformtheFamousPlayers Frohman, becamebignamesinthepennyarcade yet. Andthepeoplelovedeverysecondofit. moving images;there were noreal plots,nostars Rolodex-type spool.Thesemachinesshowedsilent adialthatquicklyadvancedphotographs ona turn Manhattan. Through aviewfinder, patrons would Both feature-length andshortfilmswere filmed By 1912,Zukorteamedupwithhispartner, David KAUFMAN ASTORIA STUDIOS Kaufman Astoria Studios as seen today. Photo Jason D. Antos

“Through a viewfinder, patrons would turn a dial that quickly advanced photographs on a Rolodex-type spool. These machines Marx Brothers films, Cocoanuts Lumet filmed The Wiz here, (1929) and Animal Crackers showed silent moving the first feature film to use the (1930). Some of the greats in images; there were no studio in years. In 1978, the six silent films and early talkies even real plots, no stars yet. contributing buildings that made worked here, including Rudolf up the studio were placed on Valentino, W.C. Fields, Dorothy And the people loved the National Register of Historic Gish and Gloria Swanson. More every second of it.” Places, and in 1982, real estate than 130 short and feature-length developer George Kaufman films were shot and produced leased the studio and renamed here at the studios, now called either Astoria Studios it Kaufman Astoria Studios. By the 1980s, film and or Paramount Studios, before all film production for television production returned with classic films like Paramount was relocated to California in 1932. Hair (1978), Goodfellas (1990), Carlito’s Way (1993), In 1942, the United States Army Signal Corps Moonstruck (1987), Glengarry Glen Ross (1992), The took over the studio for the making of training and Verdict (1982), as well as many public television shows indoctrination films for the war effort, and later for including Sesame Street and Where in the World is propaganda purposes. Officially, the facility was Carmen Sandiego?. Other classic TV programs like known as the Signal Corps Photographic Center, and The Cosby Show and Law and Order have also called later, the Army Pictorial Center (APC). In 1977, Sidney Kaufman “home.” NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK 34 FOOD & DRINK fast andwe’re here tokeepyouintheloop.Are youwithme? Who’s joiningtheneighborhood?Restaurantsare movingin By ShirleyRoberts 3310 Broadway |718.255.1772 |@cocotea.eastcoast they’re happytohelpyounarrow itdown. super friendlyandifyou’re in needofsuggestions, sweet potatoandtaro tapioca. Thewholestaffis for theirQQMilkTea, whichistoppedoffwithcolorful you wantsomethingabitmore Instagram-worthy, go the sameingredients plusan additionofgrassjelly!If tea withbubblesandpudding)3Guys,whichhas appealing. Theirmostpopulardrinksare 2Ladies(milk and alongwithbeingdelicious,they’re visually hit. Theirdairy-free bubblemilk issuitableforeveryone This istheir17th(!)location,soyoualready knowit’s a COCO BUBBLETEA Photo @badhabitsastoria 32-03 Broadway |@badhabitsastoria me atsushi!Are youintriguedyet? lovers whowant theirfairshare ofshrimp.They had creations are unique,filling,and perfectforseafood a wholeplantainstuffedwithshrimp! Theirsushi in therawbar, makesure totastetheirLaYola, Dominican sushiexperience!Inaddition toindulging We’re particularlyexcited forthisone:aunique ASTORIA HABITS BAD Photo @cocotea.eastcoast NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK

DUCHESS COOKIES Cookies with a twist. Most are shaped like flowers with a delicious filling inside, but the real show- stopper is their $1,000 cookie. Yup, you read that right. Maybe take your vacation savings and Photo Cookies @duchesscookiesnyc instead, order one of their golden-covered, red velvet cookies filled with Ruby chocolate ganache. On the opposite side of the spectrum, you can also try their very reasonably priced Mocha Caramel Macchiato or Pistachio White Chocolate cookie - just as delicious and won’t break the bank! 36-11 Ditmars Blvd. | @duchesscookiesnyc KUNG FU TEA We can never have enough bubble tea in our lives, so here we have another awesome Asian tea spot that’s sure to become a new favorite of ours. It all started with the Kung Fu Milk Tea, their signature drink, but if you want to be adventurous, you can try any of their punches, slushies, or seasonal drinks, which include their Purple Yam Latte, as well as their Mango and Strawberry-flavored Cream drinks: a delicious swirl with a creamy milk cap. They are the largest tea brand in the US and quality is key to their long-lasting success. 30-10 34th St. | 917.396.1734 | @kungfuteausa

Photo Tea @kungfuteausa KYURAMEN These expert chefs know ramen. Originating in Flushing in 2014, Kyuramen is known for some of the best ramen in the city. You can choose your broth (pork, chicken, veggie) and level of spice, and we guarantee no matter what you go with, you won’t be disappointed. Their pork roast is unforgettable and worth a cheat day anytime, and we can’t forget their Japanese curry. LIC location opening soon - stay tuned! Photo @kyuramen.offical @kyuramen.official NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK

MILK AND CREAM CEREAL BAR Now, this is beyond fun to take pictures of as well as to chow down. It combines your favorite ice cream flavor with a cereal topping of your choice! Or, trust the experts and go with any one of their signature specials, like the Chocolate Smore’s Galore or Cookie Crisp Carnival. Every creation is to die (or to melt) for. 25-88 Steinway St. | @milkandcreambar

Photo @milkandcreambar

SOTTO Photo Oysters @sotto_la_luna_ny LA LUNA This pizza and pasta bar will be located inside Astoria’s International Food Hall and is sure to become the next sought-after Italian restaurant for foodies. It will incorporate flavors of the Puglia and Milan region and even host a gelateria/ café section for your after- dinner needs. They will serve homemade pasta, artisanal pizza, and tapa-style appetizers. The best part? The kitchen will FOOD & DRINK be in the center of the restaurant

36 and you can watch the chefs cook their masterpieces right in front of you! 34-39 31st St. @sotto_la_luna_ny

Photo Adrien Childress 38 COMMUNITY Q at TheseAre TheGoodOldDays,andthat’s three years, which iscurrently heldevery Sunday predominantly queeropen-micnightforthepast as queercommunity. Dauschhasbeenhostinga involved inboththeAstoriacommunity aswell Astoria foroveradecadeandhave beenheavily exactly that. performer andaspiringentrepreneur changing lesbian bar?! even remotely possiblethatQueensdoesn’t havea and celebrated.Withthatbeingsaid,howisit ASTORIA TOWELCOMEQUEENS’FIRST LESBIANBAR Home Sweet By MelissaGoldberg Originally from Indiana,they’velivedin Enter: Kristin“Dave”Dausch;apowerhouse culture, languages,andcuisinerepresented places onEarth,withawidearrayofpeople, ueens isarguably oneofthemostdiverse the communitytogether andhighlightingqueer-led their monthlypop-ups, geared towards bringing but they’vehadincredible andsupportat turnout $21,000 indonationsthrough theirGoFundMe, . Notonlyhavetheyreceived over platform whichhasalready madeheadlinesacross Manhattan. Cubbyhole andHenriettaHudson whichare bothin the third lesbianbarinallofNewYork City, joining Lesbian Barishopingtoaddthatfamilyandbe to ahandfulofqueerbarsandbusinesses,Dave’s communities.” AlthoughAstoriaisalready home where wecanmakeadifference in real timeinour and betogether…[there] needstobemore hubs [need] aspacetobevulnerable,makemusic space forAstoria’s LGBTQ+community:“People where theyrealized theneighborhood’s needfora In lateJune,theylaunchedtheirfundraising QUEENS’ FIRST LESBIAN BAR

Photo Adrien Childress

businesses. “People are coming out of everywhere to school in Astoria, in our community.” It’s evident and offering up their skills because it takes a village,” that what sets Dave’s Lesbian Bar is their genuine shared Dausch. The first pop-up in late July outside commitment to the community as well as weaving Heart of Gold welcomed over 700 people throughout the mutual aid component into all facets of the the day (on the open streets as remaining covid- initiative. “If you have a skill that you want to share, conscious is key) where guests could get undercuts come talk to us. Slide into our DMs, we want to hear and tattoos while enjoying live music. “It blew me from our community about what they need.” away. It was the best day of my life so far until our Although covid brings a level of uncertainty as to next pop-up! It’s scary to the debut date of the bar, take a leap like this and us Dausch is exhilarated seeing the community on about the future and that day was enough for us “It blew me away. It was the what this community can to [know] it’s worth every best day of my life so far until achieve together. When risk.” our next pop-up! It’s scary asked why the bar will They just hosted their be in Astoria, “I’m not second pop-up on Saturday, to take a leap like this and going to be behind the August 28, outside Diamond us seeing the community on bar where I couldn’t tell Dogs in which Dausch that day was enough for us to you where to go get good added more elements to the food afterwards! This lineup including comedians, [know] it’s worth every risk.” is home, this is where I a queer craft fair as well as became the queer adult a back-to-school fundraiser drive in collaboration that I am today.” They’ll continue hosting monthly with Astoria Mutual Aid. In order to attend, people pop-ups until the bar opens, with the next one on were encouraged to bring in school supplies such as Sunday, September 26 (location TBD). Check out backpacks and three-ring binders. Dausch shares @daveslesbianbar for the latest info and don’t hesitate that, “It’s not really about raising money for the bar; to reach out to [email protected] for any we’re investing in the community. Buy your stuff from and all inquiries! You can also donate and help fuel queers and bring something to help the kids go back their cause at gofundme.com/f/daves-lesbian-bar. SPRING PHOTOGRAPHY WINNER CONTEST 40

arissa moved to Astoria in 2019 and loves the sense of community and the food here, noting that Cshe's "never run out of places to eat." She has an academic background in Congratulations, Carissa! film photography but enjoys standard photography in her free time. Carissa Give Me Spring is particularly interested in street photography and has a history of taking pictures of buildings, cars, etc., however, Photography she was inspired by flower pedals she passed while taking a walk during covid; "you appreciate nature more due to the lockdown." Check out Carissa's other Contest Winner work on her Instagram @filmzcarz. GET THE PICTURE YET?

Stay tuned for details about our LIVE MUSIC @burger_village_astoria 40-17 Broadway, Astoria NY 11103 929.296.9700 42 COMMUNITY Little Malta N By Eirene Archolekas thus, Astoriabecame hometoaMaltesecommunity. averaged 350,000 citizensover122square miles. And between 1950and 1970;massiveforanationthat As aresult, closeto10,000MaltesecameAmerica emigration whenitagreed topayforpassagetheUS. encouraged After WW2,theMaltesegovernment and othermajorcitieslikeSanFrancisco andChicago. 1919, first settling in , then , then NYC the heelsofclosingRoyal BritishDockyard in 18th century. AfterWW1, asurge ofimmigrantscameat legacy ofthecommunityinneighborhood. was renamed “MaltaSquare” tocommemoratethe opened in1982.In2008,thestreet infront oftheCenter the gatheringplaceforculturalcommunitysinceit Maltese cross atthefootof RFKBridgehasbeen an unassuming,brickbuildingcrested withthered their stamponourhistory. Infact,theMalteseCenter, was “LittleMalta,”thankstoMalteseAmericanswhoput not realize isthatbefore Astoriawas“LittleAthens,”it succeeding waveofmigration,whatmostpeoplemay has adaptedandslightlychangeditsidentitywitheach Malta itself, nicknamedthe “mousethatroars,” isan The MaltesehavebeenemigratingtotheUSsince and now, Whiletheneighborhood Midwesterners. enclave ofGreeks, Italians,Brazilians,Colombians, ew Yorkers typicallyknowAstoriaasanethnic staple dish inMalteseculture. Infact, the rabbitstew have BBQandspaghetti withrabbit,”rabbitbeinga field outsideLaGuardia Airport:“Afterthat,we would from allover QueenstoplaysocceronSundays ina cramped apartments.Heremembers theMaltesecoming chance toowntheirsinglefamily homesinsteadof attracted toAstoriaforitssenseofcommunity andthe lived on23rd Street and 1stAvenue nearBethIsrael, called “TheGreat SeigeofMalta”byElGreco. whose portraitcanbefoundthere inapieceofartwork physical features canbetraced toanillustriousancestor stands inthecapitalofMalta,Valletta. Heclaimshis to EgyptandMountSciberras,thehillwhere acitadel of yourhistory,” hesays. Hecantracehisownhistory are aMaltese,youare auniquehumanbeingbecause estate agentintheneighborhoodfor45years.“Onceyou parents movedtoAstoriainthe 1950s,hasbeenareal mixed withItalianandFrench. Italian, butitsroots are actuallyArabicfrom theLevant settled there. Malteseheritage isoftenconfusedwith Mediterranean sinceancienttimeswhenPhoenicians three islands,Maltahasheldastrategicpostinthe the CrusadesandinWW2.Atcrosscurrents ofthe shipwreck ofSt.Paulandthepivotalpartitplayedin Gozo, andComino,are famousfortheirgrottos: the archipelago ofsevenislands,butitsmainthree, Malta,

Scibberas explainsthatNYC’s firstMalteseimmigrants Long-time Astoriaresident Charles Scibberas,whose Photos @themaltesecenter Photos LITTLE MALTA cooked at the Maltese Center on special occasions, The Maltese Center is open on weekends and “stuffat tal-Fennek,” is one of the oldest Maltese recipes welcomes any and all visitors. If the kitchen is open, you in existence, dating back to Phoenician times. According can get pastizzi and various other great fare. September to Scibberas, the Maltese found it easy to fit in with 8th is National Malta Day and there are traditional dances the other Mediterranean cultures that made up Astoria and other festivities planned, so be sure to stay tuned! because of the shared value in keeping close family ties. For more information, check out the website: While many Maltese have taken the path www.themaltesecenter.com toward upward mobility that their hard work has garnered them by moving out of Astoria and into the suburbs, there are still vestiges of the Maltese community among “Scibberas explains that NYC’s us. There was Joe Galea, famous for the Maltese Bakery first Maltese immigrants lived on on 36th Avenue, who employed hundreds of workers. There used to be a Maltese-American Friendship Society 23rd Street and 1st Avenue near on 45th Street between Broadway and 31st Avenue and Beth Israel, attracted to Astoria even a Maltese auto repair shop on 34th Avenue and for its sense of community and the 42nd Street. Today, besides the Maltese Center, there still stands chance to own their own single Leli’s Bakery on 30th Avenue. Sometimes mistaken for family homes instead of cramped Italian, bakery owner Emanuel Darmine, now in his 70s, apartments. He remembers the continues to keep Maltese staples on his shelves; there’s Maltese coming from all over the pastizzi, a flaky pastry dough covering several fillings, some savory, some sweet; the pezili pastizzi with a filling Queens to play soccer on Sundays of meat and peas; the more popular juben filled with in a field outside LaGuardia ricotta; and the spinach and feta pastizzi. And we can’t Airport: ‘After that, we would forget the Atalasa or molasses ring, a sweet that dates back to the Arab/Phoenician traders that’s filled with have BBQ and spaghetti with dates and semolina. rabbit,’ rabbit being a staple dish in Maltese culture.” AlterWork Studios |30-0935th Ave. |@alterworkstudios HAVE LIVED WE WERE TO HOW LUCKY The Crossroads ofthePastandPresent 44 ART O directed [email protected] Additional inquiriescanbe Come payheravisitthismonth and betranscendedbyhervision. exhibits previously showninNYC,Tempe, Arizona,andPacora,Colombia. prints. HerLICexhibitwillbejoining herimpressive roster offellowart AlterWork Studiofrom September 10-28andconsistof12newchromogenic mediums isnothingshortofgenius,andwillbefeatured atLIC’s veryown imagines] whatstoryexistsjustoutsideofthevisibleframe.” the pastandpresent. Activatingalargersystemofcollectivememory, [she to “passtheimagebetweendigitalandanalogprocesses, andinoutof her ownoronesshepurchases online,re-photographs themandmanages Stemming from thatsentiment,shethengathersvintagephotos,bethem grandfather tellastoryaboutsomeonewe’dnevermet,”Alsipexplains. images; we’vealllookedatoldsnapshotsandlistenedtoourmother or throughnot onlyexperienceemotion,butajourney time. her exhibition,Howluckyweweretohavelived,inwhichsheinvitesyou this isanexhibityousimplycan’t miss. Dear artenthusiastsofAstoria, By KateFry Alsip’s abilitytointersectimagesfrom day yearspastwithmodern “How luckywewere tohavelivedisanexercise inhowweconnectwith all. LocalartistDianaAlsiphastakenthatgoalonestepfurtherwith something; joy, sadness,curiosity, confusion-ultimately, anythingat ne ofthemainintentionsartworkistomakeobserverfeel HOW LUCKY WE WERE TO HAVE LIVED

Photos Diana Alsip THINGS TO DO

A List for You to Remember in September Things to Do This Month By Vincent Velotta

Scheduled Film Releases: QED Socrates Sculpture Park Regal UA Kaufman Astoria The Laughter Times comedy show Celebrate Socrates: 35th Anniversary The Eyes of Tammy Faye, Dear Evan Every Thursday, 7:30pm Benefit Party Thursday, September Hanson, Malignant, Venom: Let There 23rd, 7pm-10pm Be Carnage, and more. Be sure to QED Tickets available online help our movie theater, Regal UA End of the Line comedy show and Kaufman Astoria, get back on its feet! open mic Socrates Sculpture Park Every Friday, 11pm Field Guide: Seeds Museum of the Moving Image Gather and learn about seeds, make An Act of Seeing: Katch Astoria a seed bank for Socrates, and create Barry Jenkins’s The Gaze LGBTQ Latin Night a seed bank for yourself A showing of the titular film as well as DJ Lena and DJ Melly Saturday, September 11th, behind-the-scenes content pertaining Mel host 11am-1pm Free registration to the development of the project Saturday, September 18th, Runs until October 31 9pm-3am Socrates Sculpture Park Field Guide: Seeing Fall

TO DO TO Museum of the Moving Image The Noguchi Museum A workshop that weaves art-making See It Big: 70mm! Free First Friday and plant identification together 46 A selection of film screenings Take advantage of free admission Saturday, September 18th, by directors Stanley Kubrick to the museum on the first Friday 11am-1pm Free registration and David Lean of the month Runs until September 10 Friday, September 3rd, 11am-6pm Socrates Sculpture Park Field Guide: Prepare for Winter Athens Square Park The Noguchi Museum Work with Kim Calichio of The Pop-up, in-person performance Open call for artist banners Connected Chef to preserve featuring 2021 Queensboro Dance The Queens Council on the Arts and the plants grown by Field Guide Festival companies Sunday, Asian American Arts Alliance invites workshop participants by drying, September 12th, 6pm emerging artists based in Queens and canning, pickling, and making teas self-identifying Asian American and out of them Saturday, September Astoria Park Pacific Islanders to submit designs for 25th, 11am-1pm Free registration Training Day stand-up comedy show the museum’s three outdoor banners hosted by Waters and Arevalo by September 24th Arcadia Bar and Grill Every Wednesday, Disney Movie Trivia 7pm at pool entrance Wednesday, September 8th, 7:30pm ith the world finally making its way back to normalcy, everyone's welcoming new beginnings. Nothing says "fresh start" like a brand new, beautiful apartment (you know, not the one you quarantined in). At No. 41, they guarantee that "no Wmatter where you are moving from, [they] will make you feel at home." And here's how: 1. Located in the heart of the wonderfully diverse LIC and ten minutes from Manhattan 2. Studio, 1-bedroom, & 2-bedroom units available 2. Communal laundry room (say goodbye to multiple trips down the street) 3. Recreation room & gym 4. Rooftop patio 5. Tenant storage room & bicycle storage 6. Modern design/architecture with the highest quality flooring & countertops

For more information, reach out to [email protected], the leading real estate agency in the area. Your new home awaits you.

CONTACT INFO: New York Space Finders, Luca DiCiero Exclusive Agent.

CONTACT NUMBER: 3272 41ST ST, ASTORIA NY 11103

Mobile: 347-242-0353 Office: 718-440-8162 Email: [email protected]