Once upon a time people left PS 1 and went back to the subway instead of finding something to eat in the neighborhood. But Long Island City’s Hunters Point has come a long way.
Rapidly shifting from industrial to residential, the neighborhood has seen a variety of great restaurants emerge in recent years to meet the culinary demands of the growing population. Several quiet restaurants offer outdoor seating, perfect for a summer lunch in the shade and to cool off after dancing on a Saturday afternoon at PS1’s ultra-modern patio warm-up party. Here are some popular neighborhood spots favored by Long Island City locals, all good for refueling after feast on your eyes (and ears) at PS 1’s contemporary art exhibits.
The Creek & Cave
The Creek & Cave is a cold Mexican grill with a full bar, billiards room, and a spacious patio and outdoor lounge. Their kitchen serves up delicious Tex-Mex, with made-to-order tacos and burritos and plenty of vegetarian options, like the delicious tofu and grilled spinach burrito. For a light snack, I recommend the flautas – grilled chicken and cheddar-jack cheese wrapped in a browned flour tortilla and served with a sour cream garnish.
Happy hour runs from 3-7 p.m., and the drink menu includes a long list of Mexican beers and killer margaritas made with fresh orange, pineapple, and pomegranate juice. This is the place to come after the PS1 Warm Up, when the restaurant hosts an after party with live music and free PBR for anyone still wearing their entrance bracelet.
- The Creek & Cave, 10-93 Jackson Ave, Long Island City, New York
Living room 47
Lounge 47 is an elegant local gathering place with a creative menu of internationally influenced dishes and bar food. For lighter meals, try the wasabi-filled eggs or share the rip & dip, a variety of delicious spreads made from chickpeas, smoked aubergines, feta cheese, chives, and cucumber yogurt served with spiced olives and grilled flatbread. . Their Herb Lamb Sandwich is a perfect choice for lunch; served on rustic bread with roasted peppers, aubergines and a cucumber yogurt sauce.
The restaurant’s zenlike pebble garden is a great spot for a cool drink on a summer afternoon, with happy hour from 3-7 p.m. Try the bar’s signature Long Island City Iced Tea, a peach-flavored twist on the traditional favorite, or a tall glass of Alan’s Hard Lemonade, made with fresh lemonade, lemon absolute, fresh lime juice, and sour mix.
- Lounge 47 , 47-10 Vernon Blvd, Long Island City, Nueva York
Court Square Diner
The Court Square Diner has been around for 63 years and serves traditional meals at very affordable prices. Open 24/7 and located just steps from the Court Square # 7 subway station, it’s a great place to stop for a quick bite – the service is fast and friendly. Their huge triple-decker sandwiches are a great lunch option. The kitchen also makes an exceptional gyro sandwich with a side of flavorful tzatziki sauce.
- Court Square Diner , 45-30 23rd St, Long Island City, Nueva York
