Author: jmilitello

Get your K-Pop Fix! Korea Fest heats up LIC this Sunday

June 12, 2025 By Jessica Militello K-culture takes center stage in LIC this weekend. Korea Fest is bringing the best of Korean food, music, and traditions back to Western Queens this Sunday, June 15, with an all-day celebration at Culture Lab LIC. The free event runs from 12 to 9 p.m. and promises a full… Read more »

Amateur and pro fighters headline RFC Kickboxing event in Long Island City

June 5, 2025 By Jessica Militello On Friday, May 30, RFC Promotions brought high-octane action to Long Island City with its K-Series Kickboxing event at the Melrose Ballroom. The showcase featured a stacked lineup of both amateur and professional fighters, from neighborhood gyms to international talent, all competing in front of a packed crowd and… Read more »

Serafina opens first Queens location in Long Island City after years of anticipation

June 4, 2025 By Jessica Militello Serafina, the Italian restaurant chain known for its upscale yet inviting atmosphere, has officially opened its first Queens location in Long Island City—fulfilling a long-anticipated arrival in the neighborhood. The new outpost, located at 28-40 Jackson Ave., opened its doors on May 23, bringing Serafina’s signature Italian cuisine and… 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 »

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 »

Asian-inspired ice cream shop Soft Swerve opens in Long Island City food hall

May 20, 2025 By Jessica Militello The unofficial start of summer just got a little sweeter—and cooler—with the grand opening of Soft Swerve in Long Island City. The popular New York-based, Asian-inspired ice cream brand officially opened its doors on Friday, May 16, inside the JACX&CO food hall, located at 24-17 Jackson Ave. To celebrate,… Read more »