LIC is on the verge of leaving its pub food and red sauce reputation behind. Saturday night I ate at Jora, the new Peruvian restaurant by the Pulaski Bridge, and while we do not do restaurant reviews here at LICtalk, I will say it is fantastic! The place was lively with a number of large groups and 90% filled to capacity. The food was excellent and very fresh, with something for everyone, and reasonably priced. The appetizers are big and can easily serve two, and the soups are a meal unto themselves. Finally, despite some previous grumblings in the comments section here about slow service, that seems to have been completely worked out despite the full house.
L’Inizio is fun! Who knew we needed another pizza place in LIC, but it’s a great addition to the neighborhood, as its bright open design livens up a previously desolate stretch at night. Plus its owner is a very welcoming presence and one look at the place and you know he clearly poured his heart and soul into every detail. Now it’s time to kick it up a notch and give this man a liquor license dammit!
So we get one old school place with a new twist(pizza), and a rarity executed perfectly(Peruvian). Next month we will be getting a similar pairing as Station LIC (pub food+) and Mu Ramen are expected to open. All this in a quiet month in LIC when even the owners of Tuk Tuk took an unprecedented1 week off. As if that is not enough, those looking to cook at home will be happy to know that the new supermarket in Gantry Landing on 50th Avenue is close to opening as well. Oh, and if you want to thank the man ruling over this culinary mecca, Jimmy Van Bramer is turning 45 and having a birthday party tonight at Shi from 7-10pm. All are welcome.
No news today, it’s late August in NYC. So re-read the above, and I’ll leave you with this overheard snippet from a 20-something woman to a 20-something man in front of Dunkin’ Donuts yesterday:
“I want LIC too, but I want to buy here.”
Long Island City 2014 Restaurant Round-Up – ok, if you really must have something additional to read, here’s my restaurant round-up from early February
- in the restaurant business [↩]
Adam says
August 19, 2014 at 9:50 amDo you know how close the supermarket on 50th will open?
Pooh says
August 20, 2014 at 10:18 amDon’t forget about Il Falco opening. Though being an Italian restaurant it is more of the old school variety.