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December 17, 2017 at 10:39 pm
I think it is really cool that you guys included a list of famous residents of Astoria in your guide. I honestly had no idea that Tony Bennett had lived there, even though his song “I Left My Heart in San Francisco” is one I really enjoy listening to. It also didn’t really occur to me that Astoria, despite being a richly populated neighbourhood, was not really a part of what people thought of as New York City until the construction of the Queensboro bridge in 1909, which connected it to Midtown Manhattan.
One fascinating aspect of Astoria to me is the relatively-recent influx of Middle- Eastern immigrants to the area, who bring with them their culture, food, and past-times. I’ve admittedly never heard Steinway Street referred to as Little Egypt before, but it’s an extremely fitting nickname, now that I look back on my experiences there.
I’ve actually had the experience of touring Steinway and Sons Piano Factory, and it was a fascinating experience, so it was really pleasant to see the factory mentioned as an attraction in your guide. I really wish the tours were more accessible, as I’d love to visit again. Reading your guide also reminded me of how much I can’t wait to spend more time in the Sculpture park when the weather gets warm again, as I love doing the yoga and tai chi classes offered there.
In terms of an attraction not mentioned in your guide, Mombar is a very well-known Egyptian/ Arab restaurant on Steinway street, and has a really beautiful, unique, welcoming interior and great food that is praised for being truly similar to traditional middle-eastern cuisine.
December 22, 2017 at 10:43 am
I have never been to Astoria, but after reading your Urban Arts and Culture Guide, it seems like a place that I would like to check out for myself. I thought the points of interests were insightful and helpful to me for when I get a chance to go. You really highlighted the important places that any tourist should go and see. I thought it was fascinating to learn about how the Socrates Sculpture Park is the largest outdoor art museum in New York City and that there is actually a Museum of the Moving Image. I would also be interested in going to Astoria Park to relax and see what the largest pool in New York City looks like. After doing some research, I found an attraction that might be interesting to mention. In Astoria, there is actually a comedy club called Q.E.D where people can take classes and enjoy some comedy. People can take classes on stand-up comedy, swing dancing and crochet.