Author: jmilitello

Astoria Pool opens June 27th, kicking off outdoor swim season

June 2, 2025 By Jessica Militello Summer in Astoria doesn’t truly begin until the Astoria Pool opens—and this year, the beloved public pool will welcome swimmers back on Friday, June 27, as New York City’s outdoor pool season officially kicks off. Located at 19th Street and 23rd Drive, the sprawling Olympic-sized pool has long been… Read more »

Alterworks Studio opens expanded creative space in Long Island City

May 26, 2025 By Jessica Militello After years of growth in Astoria, Alterworks Studio has officially relocated to a larger, light-filled venue in Long Island City, opening its doors to artists and community members with a grand gala on Saturday, May 3. Now located at 40-20 22nd St., the expanded studio offers more space, equipment,… Read more »

LIC dispensary to host infused mocktail competition with local bars on June 5

  May 23, 2025 By Jessica Militello If you’re more into Mary Jane than Bloody Mary, then you’ll want to mark your calendar for the neighborhood’s first-ever Infused Mocktail Battle Royale—hosted by Trends LIC dispensary and featuring some of Long Island City’s most beloved bars. Set to take place on Thursday, June 5, from 6–9… Read more »

Black Seed Bagel opens first Queens location in Long Island City

May 23, 2025 By Jessica Militello There’s nothing quite like a fresh-baked bagel straight from the oven—and now Long Island City residents can enjoy that experience any time of day with the arrival of Black Seed Bagels, the latest addition to the neighborhood’s food scene. Located at 5-18 50th Ave., the new shop officially opened… Read more »

Adorable pet parade in Astoria raises awareness for animal welfare campaign

May 22, 2025 By Jessica Militello On Saturday, May 17, Chateau Le Woof partnered with animal welfare nonprofit FarmKind to host a heartwarming pet parade and costume contest aimed at raising awareness for the organization’s new campaign, Pledge Kindness, which advocates for compassion toward all animals—whether pets, farmed, lab-raised, or wild. The event, held at… Read more »

New bites and brews in Astoria and LIC: The latest in Queens dining

May 22, 2025 By Jessica Militello and Shane O’Brien There is always something new to taste, try, or toast to in Astoria and LIC. These neighborhoods continues to thrive as a culinary destination, with new restaurants, cafés, bakeries and markets opening at a steady clip. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic Italian sandwich,… Read more »

Haraz Coffee House brings upscale Yemeni café culture to Steinway Street in Astoria

May 21, 2025 By Jessica Militello A new addition to Steinway Street in Astoria is offering more than just coffee—it’s providing a sophisticated, alcohol-free gathering space deeply rooted in Yemeni culture. Haraz Coffee House, located at 25-43 Steinway St., opened its doors in March and has already made a name for itself with its upscale… Read more »