"Kung Fu Xiao Long Bao, Flushing by QNS MADE. In Queensboro Hill of Flushing, Kung Fu XLB is a bus ride over from the 7 train. We know everyone has their preferences when it comes to their soup dumplings, or Xiaolongbao, but hands down, this place is our favorite. The restaurant is owned by a lovely couple who has another location in Manhattan called, The Bao. We prefer the one in Flushing because it's on a block with other hidden gems and this location feels like home. We recommend starting off with the cold appetizers-wood ear mushroom salad or wine chicken, and also trying a bowl of noodle soup. You won't be disappointed."

"Cafe de Cupping, Flushing by QNS MADE. Our go to coffee spot, a bit of a walk or bus ride away from the 7 train, but worth the trip if you're looking for a place to hang out with friends or do work. They always make the perfect cup of coffee and if you're looking for dessert be sure to try their honey toast topped with ice cream. They also have a range of teas and a red velvet latte that everyone raves about."

"New World Mall, Flushing by QNS MADE. New World Mall is known for their always busy food court downstairs with a wide range of cuisines to choose from, we suggest securing your seats first and then taking turns visiting all the stalls. Also, before leaving be sure to grab one of the best egg tarts at New Flushing Bakery situation by the supermarket inside the mall. On the first and upper levels you'll also find smaller shops to poke around as you walk off all the food you ate!"

"Prince Tea House, Flushing by QNS MADE. Tea houses and dessert shops are all the rage these days with the young people in Flushing, Queens. People are always looking for the next snack spot to hang out with their group of friends and this is it. Prince Tea House is a staple—from their cold "potted" teas to their Alice in Wonderland tea-ware. You must try their Green Tea Mille Crepes and if you're not into Green Tea we recommend the caramel version! It's a cute date night spot and be prepared to wait a bit for a seat during peak hours."

"Flushing Library, Flushing by QNS MADE. The Queens Library, Flushing branch, has an extensive international language collection and are open 7 days a week. The library is a grounding institution of Flushing, you can find people gathering for different reasons—campaigning, peaceful protesting (very much like a town square back in the day), and it's also a place to meet up with friends or sit and take a break from the bustle of the neighborhood."

"Kimganae, Flushing by QNS MADE. Who else can make a spicy bowl of ramen and rice cakes with American cheese slices? Kimganae is a no frills restaurant that serves traditional Korean comfort food with a twist. The staff here are the friendliest bunch — attentive and funny. We highly recommend cheese on everything and combing through their wide selection of kimbap and dukbokki. There's typically a wait during lunch and dinner, but they try to fit people in as much as possible, don't mind being elbow to elbow with strangers, it's worth a try."

"Yeh's Bakery, Flushing by QNS MADE. Yeh's is most known for their fluffy, light, and perfectly sweet Boston Creme pies amongst other baked goods. Everyone in the neighborhood has most likely grown up eating their delicious Fruit Cakes, just look for the pink box and the red twine. Yeh's bakery is still to this day a small, mom and pop gem that is tucked away in downtown Flushing, right by the New York Hospital. Oh, and remember to carry cash!"

"Kissena Park, Flushing by QNS MADE. Kissena Park is large enough to get away and clear your mind, but small enough to feel comforted by the families and friends who frequent the grounds. This park is filled with people of all ages, young and old-there are handball and basketball courts, swings, fitness and bike trails, a bocce court, Kissena Lake, and lots of grass to sit and have a quiet picnic/bbq."

"Lucia Pizza, Flushing by QNS MADE. Best plain slice in town? Lots of people will give us flack for such a bold statement. Lucia Pizza is a well-known pizza joint that everyone loves for their no frills Sicilian or plain slice pizza. According to a local, they even have the original cash register mounted on the walls. Lucia Pizza has been around as long as we have lived in Flushing—over 20 years. The guys here are super friendly and a plain slice has the perfect thin crust, just the right amount of tomato sauce (we don't like too much of it), cheese, and oil. Grab some napkins!"

"Citi Field, Flushing by QNS MADE. When it's baseball season you can not miss catching at least one game at Citi Field. The renovated stadium, replacing "Shea Stadium", is home to the NY Mets. You don't need seats behind home plate to have the best experience, you can walk around on all public levels, grab food and drinks while watching the game from all angles until taking your seats. The vibes you get just from being in the stadium surrounded by fans is an exciting and fun experience in and of itself!"

"CoCo Fresh Tea & Juice, Flushing by QNS MADE. From coast to coast, we've tried our fair share of bubble tea, but CoCo Fresh Tea & Juice is still the place we hit up when we are feening for a cold drink after a meal in Flushing. We always get the same thing, Milk Green Tea with 30% sugar and light ice. We skip the bubbles and go with grass jelly and sago (they also go by the name of white pearls). You can customize your sugar and ice levels to your liking, they have something for everyone."

"Lake Pavilion, Flushing by QNS MADE. When we say get here early during peak hours (around brunch time on weekends), we mean it! Once you get situated you can request which tea you want (we like doing half Chrysanthemum and half Pu-erh/Bo lay) and the ordering begins. The food gets wheeled out on traditional carts in small baskets and you get a stamp depending on the size of the dish. Our must haves at any dim sum restaurant are the rice noodle rolls, steamed dumplings, taro cake, and egg tart to finish it off."

"Busy Mall, Flushing by QNS MADE. Busy Mall carries a special place in our hearts. We grew up inside this mall (it used to be across the street from its current location) as our father owned a video game store here and all the locals knew who he was. This mall has gone through a ton of transformations and hard times, but it still survives today. You can get your watch fixed at Panda Time by Victor, your leather shoes repaired downstairs at Kim's, or a needle piercing by Sam at Sam's Silver Image. You can pick up some HK style clothing in petite sizes or nameplate jewelry ('90s throwback) or perhaps you need an accessory for your phone? No problem. Busy Mall is where it's at."

"Queens Botanical Garden, Flushing by QNS MADE. Queens Botanical Garden is 39 acres of plants, trees, and flowers, which was renovated in 2005 and 2007. You'll most likely witness a marriage take place under the white gazebo or a bridal party taking their wedding photographs here. We took a free bilingual composting class (Mandarin and English)—you could even become a New York City certified master composter. They host a variety of events year round like their Arbor Fest with a beer tent, kid games, and petting zoo (llamas are always a hit!). Find a nook within the garden to enjoy the sound of the birds and bees (they have a bee garden!)."

"Soho KTV, Flushing by QNS MADE. Soho KTV hasn't been around for long, KTV or karaoke spots tend to come and go pretty quickly around here, but we hope Soho KTV sticks around for awhile. A swanky karaoke spot with an up to date selection of top songs and real music videos, spacious neon private rooms and even a private bathroom. Snacks and drinks are included with the hourly rate. Call ahead to book a room to reserve a night of singing!"

"Ou Jiang Supermarket, Flushing by QNS MADE. You can't walk the streets of Flushing without passing by a Chinese supermarket. There's one on almost every block and with it usually comes with crowds of people. You'll have to push your way through and brave the crowds because you can't beat the prices and the variety of fruits, vegetables, and Asian snacks you can pick up at supermarkets in Flushing."

"Eddie's Sweet Shop, Forest Hills by Rachel Kaminetzky & Nicole David. Eddie’s Sweet Shop boasts 90-year-old architecture and antique interior decor. Marble counters and spinning stools, wooden cashbox, mosaic tiles, a candy display and a 75-year-old fridge adorn the shop. Ice cream, syrups, toppings, and whipped cream are all home made. Eddie’s brings you a taste of Americana and its vintage charm is something to savor."

"Forest Hills Station House, Forest Hills by Rachel Kaminetzky & Nicole David. This popular neighborhood bar offers a unique pub menu ranging from Short Rib Kimchi Empanadas, to Chicken and Waffles to Poutine!! The Station House boasts over 100 whiskeys to taste and a ton of craft beer with something new always on tap. They host weekly events including Tuesday Brewery Night, Whiskey Wednesday and a Thursday Cocktail Challenge."

"Nick's Pizza, Forest Hills by Rachel Kaminetzky & Nicole David. Founded in 1993, this family-owned pizzeria is famous for their cannolis, thin-crust pies, homemade sausages and meatballs. Nick’s Pizza is a neighborhood favorite, with its charming environment and decor and plenty of seating for small groups. Dine in or grab a pie to go. Many movies have been shot on location here!"

"Cheese of the World, Forest Hills by Rachel Kaminetzky & Nicole David. Check out this little shoppe’s huge selection of delicious cheese, with meats and crackers to pair! Don’t know about cheese yet? The fromager (that’s cheese merchant to you) will give you some advice and cut a piece to taste, to make sure that you choose the right cheese for you. Don’t wanna talk to the fromager? There are written descriptions on most of the cheese on display which are pretty damn accurate. Bam. You’re one of those cheese people now."

"Sakura Ya, Forest Hills by Rachel Kaminetzky & Nicole David. This little mart sells a huge array of Japanese groceries. They also carry prepared foods like seafood pancakes, fried crab, and sushi. You can also find some rare produce that you’d be hard-pressed to find in a standard grocery: Burdock Root to treat high blood pressure, anyone?"

"Oliloli, Forest Hills by Rachel Kaminetzky & Nicole David. Named after the owner’s son, Oliver, Oliloli (Ah-lee-lah-lee) hosts creative activities like paint-your-own pottery, glass fusing, as well as canvas, paper collage, and clay projects. The open studio attracts both children and adults with a promise for a good time and a momento to take home."

"Royal Collectibles, Forest Hills by Rachel Kaminetzky & Nicole David. Since 1992, Royal Collectibles has attracted collectors and enthusiasts to a huge selection of books, comics, cards, action figures and other exciting memorabilia, both new and old. Their merchandise is housed in two storefronts, just steps from each other, and categorized by Comics and Sports and Entertainment. Browse this shop and you’re sure to enjoy."

"La Boulangerie, Forest Hills by Rachel Kaminetzky & Nicole David. Their pastries are even better than they look! Best known for their heavenly baguettes, almond croissants and bread pudding, customers come for the quality of their baked goods. All preparation and baking is done in plain sight, with just a glass wall separating the kitchen from cafe so customers can see how the magic happens."

"Martha's Country Bakery, Forest Hills by Rachel Kaminetzky & Nicole David. With three locations set up throughout Queens, Martha’s in Forest Hills is the busiest. This bakery is known for the best Berry Napoleon and has customers lining up out of the door. They must have hundreds of different kinds of cakes and pastries, all made on premises - daily - around the clock! They’re always improving upon old recipes and creating new ones to add to the menu."

"Aigner Chocolates, Forest Hills by Rachel Kaminetzky & Nicole David. Pistachio marzipan, caramel, cherry cordials!! These are Aigner’s signature chocolates. This shop just celebrated its 85th anniversary with a grand reopening in August. All nuts are specially roasted and chocolates hand-made I Love Lucy style in copper kettles in their own chocolate factory on premises."

"Cinemart Cinemas, Forest Hills by Rachel Kaminetzky & Nicole David. Cinemart Cinemas is one of the few theaters that show independent and art-house films. Neon lights and dated decor bring you back into an authentic old-school vibe. Not to mention the prices - $6 for matinee and even a regular ticket is just $9. Great place for a movie day, and you can stop across the street to Eddie’s Sweet Shop after the show."

"Instant Replay, Forest Hills by Rachel Kaminetzky & Nicole David. This charming antique store has no signage but what a hidden gem! Thousands of vintage collectibles fill every crevice of the shop. From high-end designer bags, shoes and costume jewelry to hand painted trinkets, the prices range from $1-$2000. If you can find them… there are items tagged ‘free'! It’s a treasure hunt for everyone!"

"Dirty Pierres, Forest Hills by Rachel Kaminetzky & Nicole David. Originally a gourmet deli called Luciens, Dirty Pierres reopened in 1995 as a bar and then 1998 as a restaurant. It's cozy and friendly, the food is amazing - everything is home made - and the customer service is top notch. They are best known for their mussels and burgers, beer selection and sangria. Their motto is "Small bar, big drinks", as all drinks are served in pint glasses."

"Espresso 77, Jackson Heights by Diane Shaw. Husband and wife team — Afzal and Julie opened Espresso 77 in 2010 and it quickly became a part of the collective neighborhood’s daily routine. They offer all the usual variety of coffee beverages in addition to some signature non-caffeine drinks like the super refreshing Honey Mint Limonata. For breakfast they carry pastries from Cannelle’s and for lunch a variety of wraps, salads and sandwiches. In the evenings, enjoy live music and a small but concise selection of beer and wine. This winter E77 will be undergoing an expansion and renovation that will double the seating space, add beer and ice coffee on tap and allow more space to exhibit work from local artists. Yay!"

"El Rico Tinto, Jackson Heights by Diane Shaw. Though it says 'Bakery' on the awning, don't be fooled, this place is SO much more. El Rico Tinto serves Mexican and Colombian staples but with finessed details you don't usually see. Crunchy flautas arrive with a beautiful heap of fresh veg, queso fresco and an artful smattering of crema. Their carnitas and short rib tacos are some of the best in the neighborhood. If you're vegetarian, this is your spot. They have meatless versions of all their most popular menu items. Go for brunch and get the chilaquiles, fresh pastries and a fresh squeezed juice. It's run by two brothers, the warm-smiled Victor handles front of house while Fernando makes the deliciousness happen in the kitchen."

"Lockwood, Jackson Heights by Diane Shaw. The floor to ceiling walls at this lifestyle shop are lined with a frequently updated selection of candles, home goods, books and stationery items. Lockwood is the second outpost for Queen’s business owner Mackenzie Farquer, so in addition to a curated collection of jewelry and kids items, there is also a selection of locally-designed Queens-centric goods. Lockwood has something for everyone—you will have no problem finding a gift here for anyone on your list… including yourself!"

"Table Wine, Jackson Heights by Diane Shaw. In the heart of the neighborhood is Table Wine, everyone's favorite wine and spirits shop. Ernesto and his very knowledgable and friendly staff can direct you to something you'll no doubt love. But if you prefer to make your own educated decision, they've gone ahead and hand written tantalizingly helpful descriptions of each bottle in the store. The cozy shop offers a thoughtfully curated selection of wines, champagnes and spirits, and hosts weekly wine tastings. A section dedicated to local wines showcases bottles mostly from the North Fork. If there's a special small batch whisky you've been hunting for, chances are you'll find it here."

"Travers Park, Jackson Heights by Diane Shaw. In a neighborhood with limited green space and an abundant population of kids, Travers Park is a cherished and well-used resource. The park is equipped with a tot lot, a big kid playground, sprinklers in the hot months, 2 handball courts, a basketball court and a large open space that is used for everything from tennis and volleyball matches to tai chi and yoga classes. In recent years the area surrounding the park has expanded to include a weekend farmer’s market and the 78th Street Play Street that is also host to outdoor performances. Continued renovations and expansions are in the works to provide the growing community a top notch outdoor space."

"Juanitas Cafe, Jackson Heights by Diane Shaw. This Peruvian sandwich shop is your new favorite lunch spot. The well-decorated interior and quaint outdoor garden has a welcoming vibe, not unlike their other establishment, Pio Pio across the street. The menu is direct and to the point — seven made-to-order sandwich options, each one more tasty sounding than the next. You will not regret ordering the Lomo Saltado (stir fried beef and onions) or the Chicharron (crispy pork). Delish."

"Samudra, Jackson Heights by Diane Shaw. Even the most carnivorous of eaters won't miss the meat here. Samudra’s offers a great variety of satisfying Southern and Northern Indian specialties. They are known for their dosa’s of which they offer over 15 different types. Try both the paper dosa which is thin and crispy and the mysore dosa which is porous with a satisfying chew; both are served with a tasty coconut chutney and sambar. They also have a long list of perfectly spiced curries (okra and roasted eggplant to start), Mumbai chaats (like a flavor party in your mouth), and hard to find rice dishes (tamarind!) to explore. If you get overwhelmed by the options, the hospitable owner Jagdish Shetty (aka Jack) is always on hand to offer recommendations."

"Despaña, Jackson Heights by Diane Shaw. Despana began as a chorizo factory back in 1971 and now distributes gourmet Spanish ingredients around the world. The Jackson Heights location remains the original spot where the chorizo is still being made. The tiny storefront is deceptive considering the number of products they are able to stock. They carry a large assortment of Spanish cheeses, cured meats, olive oil, canned seafood including clams, baby squid, tuna, pickled peppers, olives, turron, paella rice, and of course saffron. Every Saturday, the owner, Marcos Intriago is there greeting customers, pouring wine and offering samples of aged meats, cheese and housemade specialties."

"Patel Brothers, Jackson Heights by Diane Shaw. This recently expanded Indian grocery store has been a staple in the neighborhood since it opened over 30 years ago. The piles of fresh produce, fragrant array of spices, and variety of grains, nuts and dried fruit bring the crowds every weekend. Not to worry if cooking is not your thing, their frozen food section is well stocked with ready-made Indian favorites."

"Appetitto, Jackson Heights by Diane Shaw. A cozy deli filled with the comforting Eastern European favorites you know and love—blintzes, pierogi, smoked salmon, a multitude of sausage options, rye bread and whatever else you care to discover. There's a changing roster of homey hot dishes like stuffed pepper and paprika chicken. And don't forget to grab a handful of cutely wrapped creamy chewy candies before you pay up."

"Addictive Boutique Winery, Jackson Heights by Diane Shaw. Located just off busy Northern Boulevard, Addictive Boutique Winery is a breath of fresh air offering an exciting selection of small production wines from around the globe. The shop was designed by wine enthusiast Francisco Diaz, who co-owns the bottle shop with his partner Patrick Duong. A chandelier made of recycled wine bottles hangs above the current staff picks. Check their site for upcoming events, which often include wine tastings and courses with sommeliers. Since opening in 2013 they have already expanded and are currently working on opening a tapas bar across the street."

"El Palacio de Los Cholados, Jackson Heights by Diane Shaw. Ignore the window display of assorted plastic dolls. Ignore the sterile entryway. Ignore the photoshopped banners of cartoon characters. There is nothing here worthy of your attention except for the cholados. And they are perfect. A Colombian concoction of ice cream, shaved ice, fresh pineapple, coconut, bananas and strawberries drizzled with fruit juice and condensed milk served in a to-go cup with a spoon and a straw. What else do you need really."

"Lemon Farm, Jackson Heights by Diane Shaw. This Turkish-owned corner store carries a fun array of fancier-than-average nibbles that would make for a great cocktail party. Small artisanal brands share the shelves with less familiar international brands. In addition to fresh fruit and vegetables, they have a good selection of olive oils, chocolates, and charcuterie as well as some more specialty items like fresh baklava, local Beecher’s cheese and bread deliveries from Amy’s and Pain D’avignon."

"Lety Bakery & Cafe, Jackson Heights by Diane Shaw. Octavio Herrera was a baker at Veniero’s for 21 years before opening his own bakery in Jackson Heights. Named after his wife, Lety’s has a devout old school neighborhood following. They continue to come for the buttery Italian cookies, the crispy, creamy lobster tails and the crazy moist carrot cake. Depending on the season, they also serve gelato and a great pumpkin cheesecake."

"Phayul, Jackson Heights by Diane Shaw. Located on the second floor of a building on a bustling block right off the subway, this is the kind of place you only find through word of mouth. The entryway is suspect, the space is small and packed, but somehow you’re excited to be there because you know the meal you are about to have will be worth it. Phayul specializes in homestyle Tibetan food like spicy beef Tsaksha, homemade steamed momos and hand-drawn noodle soups. Be warned, their sepen hot sauce is seriously addictive."

"La Gran Uruguaya Cafe, Jackson Heights by Diane Shaw. Uruguayans have a deep love for their baked goods, clear to see here at La Gran. In order to truly get how special this place is, you have to grab a seat and soak it in. Fútbol paraphernalia and yerba mate gourds of all shapes and sizes line the walls. Buzz of locals chatting while waiting in the ever-present line (no matter the time of day) fills the air along with the sweet, unmistakable smell of freshly baked pastries. The demand for their huge assortment of traditional Uruguayan desserts and bizcochos is so high, it's enough to keep two storefronts open and constantly bustling. La Nueva, their sister bakery, is just down the block and offers the same items. Snack on bizcochos salados (savory pastries), empanadas, sandwiches de miga (a perfect stack of crustless tea sandwiches) and dulce de leche-laden alfajores. Or go all out and order a postre chajá, an extreme creation of sponge cake and peaches covered in chards of merengue."

"UFC (Unidentified <br>Flying Chickens), Jackson Heights by Diane Shaw. At UFC, they specialize in Korean-style fried chicken. Significantly more delicate than American fried chicken, the skin is first fried to render off the fat then fried a second time to crisp before being added to sauce. Unlike some places that like to drench the chicken in sauce, at UFC they add just enough so that the flavor is vibrant without being cloying. The end result is light, crunchy and perfectly seasoned. Go with friends, order a heaping platter of wings and drums along with a side of slaw and pickled radish and wash it all down with one of their many beers on tap. Good times."

"Zabb Sake Bar, Jackson Heights by Diane Shaw. Located downstairs from Zabb Elee, in a cozy, bunker-like setting, chefs Palm Tangjantuk and Thanontuch "Up" Lajamnuay are concocting delicious Japanese bar food with flair. Their mentaiko pasta with bacon is like the best carbonara you will ever have. Fried items like chicken gizzards and baby octopus are cooked to perfection — light and crispy. Can’t go wrong with any of their inventive rolls. Add to that playful plating and a comprehensive sake menu and you have yourself the perfect date night."

"Zabb Sake Bar, Jackson Heights by Diane Shaw. Located downstairs from Zabb Elee, in a cozy, bunker-like setting, chefs Palm Tangjantuk and Thanontuch "Up" Lajamnuay are concocting delicious Japanese bar food with flair. Their mentaiko pasta with bacon is like the best carbonara you will ever have. Fried items like chicken gizzards and baby octopus are cooked to perfection — light and crispy. Can’t go wrong with any of their inventive rolls. Add to that playful plating and a comprehensive sake menu and you have yourself the perfect date night."

"Butala Emporium, Jackson Heights by Diane Shaw. This amazing shop is filled with Indian and Southeast Asian imports. Everything from bindi’s, henna kits and ayurveda books to incense, festival decor and traditional instruments can be found at Butala Emporium. Make sure to explore downstairs where there is a collection of carved wooden furniture, arts and handicrafts. A great place to learn and immerse yourself in the Indian way of life."

"Urubamba, Jackson Heights by Diane Shaw. Formerly known as Inti Raymi, Urubamba is one of New York’s oldest Peruvian restaurant. The dishes here are rustic and comforting and taste like they've been made with love. The extensive menu offers familiar favorites like ceviche, BBQ chicken and lomo saltado (Peruvian-style beef stir fry), as well as harder to find Peruvian dishes like anticuchos de corazon (grilled veal hearts), lamb stew in aji panca sauce, and tacu tacu. Wash it down with a pitcher of chicha morada or sangria."

"Arunee Thai, Jackson Heights by Diane Shaw. In a neighborhood brimming with great hole-in-the-wall Thai restaurants, Arunee stands out for its modern decor and spacious seating. They do a better-than-average version of your usual favorites like pad cee ew and tom kha gai. Sidle up to the bar for a drink after work or a quick bite."

"Cannelle Patisserie, Jackson Heights by Diane Shaw. Cannelle’s is located in an unassuming strip mall next to a nail salon and a drugstore that just happens to serve top notch French pastries and desserts. The chef partners, Jean-Claude Perennou and Gnanasampanthan Sabaratnam met while working at the Waldorf Astoria. Their onsite kitchen means that fresh-baked goodness is being brought out on the regular. The whole neighborhood lines up on weekend mornings, but their lunch options are just as dreamy — buttery quiches and sandwiches including a revelatory tuna and spicy guacamole sandwich on fig bread and a perfect butter and country ham on rustic baguette."

"GC Stationery, Jackson Heights by Diane Shaw. Though modestly sized, this place packs it in — rows and rows of every type of stationery item imaginable, from school essentials to professional grade art supplies. Poke around and you'll find kraft coin envelopes, Japanese calligraphy markers, a model eyeball, carbon-copy receipt pads and clothbound accounting books. It's a stationery nerd's dream! If by chance there's something you can't find, just ask the always helpful owner and he'll order it just for you."

"Pio Pio, Jackson Heights by Diane Shaw. Enjoy family-style portions of perfectly seasoned rotisserie chicken at this popular Peruvian chain. Start with the ceviche -- zippy and fresh. Move on to the gigantic Jalea seafood platter—fried to crispy goodness. The main event here is the chicken which is served with classic Peruvian sides of rice and beans, fried yuca and salchipapas. Enjoy it with a strong Pisco Sour and douse everything in their addictive aji verde sauce — a mix of cilantro, jalapeno, lime, garlic and mayonnaise. The cavernous space with floor to ceiling windows is great for large groups and watching the local nightlife. The owner of Pio Pio is steadily building an empire along this stretch of Northern Boulevard with Juanitas, Amaru Pisco Bar and Pio To Go."

"Kitchen 79, Jackson Heights by Diane Shaw. Kitchen 79 is a neighborhood go-to. The food never disappoints so feel free to order absolutely anything knowing you can't go wrong here. They offer the classics as well as some Southern dishes that you don't see as often. The sleek interiors include a curiously amazing wall sculpture that is worth a closer look. Co-owners Rudee and Thawatchai are welcoming, lovely hosts. If it's available ask them to seat you at the booth by the window. Their lunch menu gets you two courses for about 8 bucks. Some stand-out dishes include Geoy Nam-perfectly garlicky chicken broth soup with silky chicken dumplings and bok choy, or try one of their southern style curries, something you rarely find elsewhere."

"Gantry Plaza State Park, Long Island City by MSLK. Offering spectacular views of the Manhattan skyline, Gantry Plaza State Park delights visitors with its 12-acres of urban oasis. Located in the Hunter Point section of LIC, it gets its name from the two massive gantries once used to load and unload rail car floats and barges. Today, these vestiges of the past stand in sharp contrast to the sleek new steel and glass towers rising up all around. The park has immense green lawns, a playground, basketball courts, and even a fishing area. Perhaps the most recognizable icon of LIC is the Pepsi-Cola sign located at the north edge of the park, visible to all from the Manhattan's east side. With letters as high as 60 ft, this retro, massive, typographic supergraphic was constructed by Artkraft Strauss in 1936."

"LIC Landing, Long Island City by MSLK. A visual marvel, this 2000 sq-ft outdoor cafe serves up outstanding views of Manhattan along with locally-sourced offerings, craft beers, fine wines, and COFFEED's renowned specialty coffees and teas. A portion of profits are donated to the Hunters Point Parks Conservancy, a community group created to support the use and upkeep of the parks, green spaces and waterfront in Hunters Point, Queens."

"Kitchen Plus More, Long Island City by MSLK. Kitchen Plus More is a great shop for houseware and hardware — all under one roof. For LIC residents and visitors alike, this is a great inspiration to "keepin' it local" as opposed to running to Home Depot or Target."

"Tuk Tuk, Long Island City by MSLK. Tsk Tuk is an LIC institution for those seeking authentic, affordable Thai food. Named for the iconic, motorized 3-wheeled transportation common throughout Bangkok, Tuk Tuk is true to the Thai cuisine tradition — when they say a dish is spicy — THEY MEAN IT!"

"Socrates Sculpture Park, Long Island City by MSLK. In 1986, artist Mark di Suvero helped transform an abandoned landfill located right on the East River into a public park. This act of urban renewal has been a gift to LIC residents and visitors alike who are able to enjoy season-long outdoor sculptures, movie screenings, farmers markets on the weekend, and even free yoga. This tranquil place has been the site of numerous site-specific installations from artists around the world, helping to make this 4-acre site NYC's largest outdoor space dedicated to exhibiting sculpture."

"Shi, Long Island City by MSLK. Located directly behind LIC's iconic Pepsi-Cola sign, Shi offers a sophisticated and modern take on Japanese sushi and other asian delicacies. Housed in a modern new steel and glass high-rise the Hunters Point section of Long Island City, the mood is softened by a welcoming long hallway leading to a beautiful old wooden door. Once inside, you can sprawl out on the lounge- couches as you await your table in the grand dining area, or out in the lush garden."

"Matted, Long Island City by MSLK. One half frame shop, one half gift shop, and one half gallery. What's that you say? That doesn't add up? Well, that's the point of this most eclectic of LIC's shopping experiences. Embodying an "anything goes" spirit, one could spend hours sifting through this shop's many nooks and crannies for curios, gems, and gifts. Come here to buy art, or bring in your own art for professional framing from their two certified professional framers."

"The Creek & The Cave, Long Island City by MSLK. With all that has changed in LIC over the past decade, The Creek & The Cave encapsulates the area's amazing transformation. Once a simple dive bar and a quasi-Mexican restaurant famous for dishes like "the stoner's special," this has grown to become one of NYC's preeminent comedy venues. Still a great spot for California-style Mexican (sadly, no "Stoner Special"), the Creek offers many vegan choices, great margaritas and a fantastic outdoor space. There's a friendly cat there to boot, if that's your thing. If not, there are pinball machines to keep you occupied.Now for the comedy. There are over 150 live performances each month, and it's not unusual for stars like Louis C.K. or Jerry Seinfeld to drop by to try out new material. That's some seriously funny business."

"Woodbines Craft Kitchen, Long Island City by MSLK. Woodbines is a friendly, unpretentious gastropub in downtown LIC specializing in burgers & beer. With 12 craft brews on tap and 30 bottles, you'll surely find the one that best suits you. The menu is a familiar mix of traditional Irish and American bar food. We opted for the veggie burgers which came with a side dip of mild curry sauce — a nice touch slightly to the left of ordinary. Which is something we love. Happy Hour is every day, and there is a brunch menu on weekends."

"Casa Enrique, Long Island City by MSLK. Located in an unassuming, low-slung building off of the main drag of LIC's bustling downtown, Casa Enrique makes one thing clear: it is all about the food. Chef Cosme Aguilar leveraged his passion for cooking cuisine from his native Chiapas, Mexico into a true accomplishment: a Michelin Star rating. Dishes are presented in an unpretentious manner, emphasizing freshness and boldness of the key ingredients. Though there were only a few vegetarian options, everyone found something delicious and satisfying. Recommended dishes: Doña Blanca, Ensalada de Betabel con Jicama, Chile Relleno, and the Rajas con crema."

"MoMA PS1, Long Island City by MSLK. PS1 has been home to some of the world’s best contemporary art since the mid-seventies. The museum offers a wide range of exhibitions including painting, sculpture, installations and performance. In the summer, be sure to catch Warm Ups, an outdoor music series that takes place in the courtyard. But perhaps the most fascinating aspect of PS1 is the building itself, which retains the character of its past. As you walk the halls to discover exhibits behind closed doors, it can even feel haunted!"

"The Noguchi Museum, Long Island City by MSLK. This little-known gem is a showcase for the work of Isamu Noguchi, an acclaimed twentieth century sculptor. Housed within a 1920’s industrial building, Noguchi created the museum to culminate his career in 1985. There is a great sense of serenity within the building, making it the perfect setting to study Noguchi’s art. From stone slabs and organic marble forms, to furniture and landscape design, the range of work is astounding. Noguchi was a visionary, who cannot be defined by any singular style or discipline."

"LIC Flea & Food, Long Island City by MSLK. With a great vendor line up of food, crafts, antiques, and furniture, the LIC Flea is a worthy competitor of the popular Brooklyn flea markets. Aside from shopping, there are games such as ping-pong and oversized chess, as well as a seating area with amazing views of the Manhattan skyline. It’s exciting weekend fun for the whole family!"

"King of Falafel and Shawarma, Long Island City by MSLK. This middle-eastern food-truck is ten notches above the rest. There are few places in NYC that serve falafel, chicken and shawarma at this level of quality. But don’t just take our word for it. They are winners of the prestigious Vendy award (the Oscars of food) and have been reviewed by several prominent food critics. First-timers should get one of the mixed platters with all the toppings (lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, and turnips + white, hot, and tahini sauce)."

"Bun-Ker Vietnamese, Ridgewood by Young Jerks. Delicious Vietnamese food hidden in a mega-industrial area of Ridgewood. Not the easiest place to get to but that's part of the fun and the food is definitely worth the bike ride. Everything is great but get the vietnamese pancake and the short rib."

"Greater Ridgewood Historical Society, Ridgewood by Young Jerks. The Vander Ende-Onderdonk House is a museum and historical society in the oldest Dutch Colonial stone house in New York City. Eat it, other Dutch Colonial stone houses! They also host music festivals and other events on it's lovely expansive lawn."

"Paul's Hair Styles, Ridgewood by Young Jerks. Paul has been here since the 60s and if you can get him to warm up to you he'll talk to you at length about Ridgewood, Bushwick, and just about anything else."

"Ridgewood Pork Store, Ridgewood by Young Jerks. When they say pork store they mean it too. Save for a few specialty meats now and then, this place leans heavy on the pork the pork products. This place has a constantly rotating line-up of delicious house-made sausage and I love them all. Five stars. Would grill again."

"Buttah Bakery, Ridgewood by Young Jerks. Everything at Buttah is made fresh daily and if you time it right you can grab your favorite pastry when it's still warm. Standouts include the corn muffin, crumb cake, and the weekend only biscuits with honey butter. Also, everything else on the menu."

"Julia's, Ridgewood by Young Jerks. Wine bar with local beer, organic wine, cheese & charcuterie. Extremely low-key vibe and friendly waitstaff. Great brunch too."

"Topos Brookstore Cafe, Ridgewood by Young Jerks. A great used book store and cafe with an informed staff that is just as excited about the old paperback you're buying as you are. Refreshingly internet-free because, you know, books."

"Norma's Corner Shoppe, Ridgewood by Young Jerks. Neighborhood staple with solid breakfast sandwiches and friendly faces. Perfect spot for a late weekday breakfast."

"Parrots Coffee, Ridgewood by Young Jerks. Balkan & Mediterranean grocery with imported goods and hot dishes. Refillable olive oils and vinegars and plenty of foods you can bag up and pay by the pound. Great spot to stock up on your basics."

"Rudy's Pastry Shop, Ridgewood by Young Jerks. This famous Ridgewood pastry shop has updated it's menu in recent years with a some modern menu items and even some gluten-free choices. That is not why you are here though. You are here for the pineapple cake, the Napoleon, and the cheesecake. Don't you lie to me."

"Milk & Pull, Ridgewood by Young Jerks. Sister location of Bushwick staple coffee shop with solid coffee and good snacks. I walk here every Wednesday and share a bagel with my dog. It is a special, mystical ritual that we both treasure. Bless up for Bagel Wednesday."

"Knockdown Center, Ridgewood by Young Jerks. Art center and event space in a former glass factory. This place is huge. Check out their full calendar of dance parties, art openings, pop-ups, and other great events. Hopefully they get a liquor license soon."

"Cypress Inn Cafe, Ridgewood by Young Jerks. Decidedly unpretentious coffee shop with friendly staff, tasty sandwiches powerful coffee. Cypress Inn is probably the last place you can still get a good cup of coffee in New York for a dollar."

"Gottscheer Hall, Ridgewood by Young Jerks. This 90 year old German tap house is my favorite bar in New York City. The always welcoming Gotscheer has friendly bartenders, cheap beer, and a free jukebox loaded with Dad Rock. Good luck finding that anywhere else in the 5 boroughs."

"The Bad Old Days, Ridgewood by Young Jerks. Bad Old Days is a cute bar with a cozy living room vibe and a great drink menu. Comfy mismatched furniture, good bar food, and lots of hot drinks make this a perfect bar for the cold months."