The StreetWise blog today explores recreation in Astoria. People throughout the area say Astoria is home to many fantastic eateries, including the well-known La Guli on Ditmars Boulevard. Within the last five years hookah lounges on Steinway Street have also spread like wildfire, adding more depth to the nightlife in Astoria. However, what is the neighborhood without Bohemian Hall & Beer Garden? The last remaining authentic beer garden in New York City, having survived an era when the city was home to around 800, Bohemian Hall is a pinnacle to summertime recreation for not only Astoria but the five boroughs as well.
La Guli
This pastry shop located on 29th Street and Ditmars is one of the oldest establishments on the block. Owner Maria Notaro’s Grandfather opened La Guli in 1937 where it remained family-owned until 1994. However, the family bought it back approximately four years ago and has no intention of selling it.
“Astoria holds its own,” said Notaro in reference to how business is done in Astoria. La Guli is known for their cannolis, and let’s just say they lived up to the hype. In addition, a big attraction in the summer time is their gelato and Italian ices. Weekends are their busiest time year round.
The interior décor of La Guli is all original from when it opened, which gives you a classic feel and exposes the character and history of the block.
They’re open 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., Monday through Saturday, and Sunday 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Igloo Café
“They treat you like family,” said Anna Governali, a regular customer at the Igloo Café at 22-26 31st Street. This café in the middle of it all “brings in all types of customers,” according to owners Harry and John. Both owners were born and raised in Astoria and feel they know the people and the neighborhood very well.
Since it is summertime, the Igloo Café has an outdoor patio that is quite popular during the season. Governali cited this as her “home away from home” and recommended the wraps, especially the tuna salad.
Bohemian Hall & Beer Garden
Being one of the biggest recreational spots in Queens, let alone Astoria, Bohemian Hall & Beer Garden is more than just an outdoor drinking establishment. In fact it is owned by the Czech Society and is also host to a Czech restaurant and school.
Currently the oldest beer garden in New York, it is approaching its 100th anniversary, attracting patrons from all five boroughs. Its priority is to serve good quality beer and food with its outdoor grill. It is also one of few authentic beer gardens in the country.
Serving as a staple to the community on 24th Avenue off 31st Street, the Beer Garden also hosts performers during the week, with comedy on Tuesdays, jazz on Thursdays and blues on Saturdays.
Some of the trees on the premises are around 100 years old, which makes it “authentic and organic,” according to the manager. Before it opened to the public around 30 years ago, it was only open to members of the Czech Society.
Afghan Kebab House
Located on Steinway Street by 28th Avenue, this restaurant/hookah lounge has only been open three months. However, owner Ajman Qaderi cites that “we opened the door and everybody came back with friends.”
There are two portions to this place, with a dining area inside then a hookah patio out back. Parents are more than welcome to bring their kids. This is the fifth location for the Afghan Kebab House. When asked about this specific location, Ajmal said, “Astoria has some of the best night life in Queens.”
He also went on to mention that they have the best chef, which is more than reason enough to check out this new spot on Steinway Street.
