Author: jmilitello

Long Island City salon joins national registry of trans-affirming spaces

July 11, 2025 By Jessica Militello Ellee Salon, a recently opened hair salon on Vernon Boulevard in Long Island City, has been officially added to Strands for Trans, a national database of trans-affirming barbershops and salons that foster inclusive and welcoming environments. The salon, which opened its doors to the Western Queens community on May… Read more »

Take flight: iFLY Indoor Skydiving officially opens in Long Island City July 19

July 8, 2025 By Jessica Militello Get ready to take flight with the official grand opening of iFLY Indoor Skydiving on Saturday, July 19. The event will feature an array of family-friendly activities to welcome Western Queens to the gravity-defying facility. The new space, located at 10-20 Borden Ave., in Long Island City, is the… Read more »

Step into 1980s Japan at 56709, LIC’s newest vintage vinyl bar

July 3, 2025 By Jessica Militello A new bar in Long Island City is transporting guests straight into the neon glow of 1980s Japan—one vinyl record and cocktail at a time. 56709, the latest concept from the team behind 929 LIC, quietly opened on June 12 in a reimagined speakeasy tucked behind Gulp, the Taiwanese… Read more »

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 »