Category: bar-restaurants

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 »

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 »

Where to watch the Knicks in Western Queens during the Eastern Conference Finals

May. 21, 2025 By jmilitello May 21, 2025 By Jessica Militello Queens is turning blue and orange as the New York Knicks head into the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time in nearly 25 years. From packed watch parties to social media buzz and team jerseys flooding the streets, excitement is in full…

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

May. 21, 2025 By jmilitello 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…

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 »

Chick-fil-A to open in Woodside on May 8, replacing former Burger King near BQE

May. 5, 2025 By Czarinna Andres May 5, 2025 By Czarinna Andres A new Chick-fil-A restaurant is set to open Thursday, May 8, at the northeast corner of Northern Boulevard and 68th Street in Woodside. The space, previously occupied by Burger King, will bring approximately 70 new jobs and a $25,000 donation to fight…

New Tropical Smoothie Cafe opens in Sunnyside, bringing healthy options to Queens Boulevard

Tropical Smoothie Cafe hosts ribbon-cutting at new Sunnyside location during Friday's grand opening. Photo courtesy of Sunnyside Shines.

Apr. 29, 2025 By sobrien April 29, 2025 By Shane O’Brien Looking for your next smoothie fix? Tropical Smoothie Cafe has officially opened in Sunnyside. The fast-casual chain, known for its healthy smoothies and fruit bowls, opened its doors at 39-11 Queens Blvd. and celebrated its grand opening on Friday, April 25. The new…

OKI Japanese Restaurant, a Sunnyside staple for 25 years, to close at end of April

Apr. 28, 2025 By Czarinna Andres April 28, 2025 By Maxwell Murray OKI Japanese Restaurant, a beloved Sunnyside staple known for its cozy atmosphere and traditional Japanese fare, will permanently close its doors on April 30 after 25 years in business. The restaurant, located at 45-11 Queens Blvd., announced the closure with a handwritten…

Queens Cup cocktail competition returns to The Bonnie for 15th annual showdown

Apr. 25, 2025 By sobrien April 25, 2025 By Shane O’Brien The 15th-annual Queens Cup cocktail-making competition will return to the Bonnie in Astoria next month, bringing nine Queens bars together for an evening of craft cocktails inspired by some of the most popular video games of all time. Queens Cup Arcade: Ready Round…