So much for my parting words about nothing happening in LIC in my absence. To start with, the Empire State Building showed off its new lighting system New Years Eve by beaming a kaleidoscopic strobe light over its crown. Then, you would think it were Spring with all the new restaurants blossoming locally, as it was only three weeks ago when I wrote “Restaurant Bonanza” about the places coming soon. First off, Chickpea, the hummus/falafel chain, has just opened an outlet by Queensboro Plaza. How’s that for something much needed in the neighborhood? Next up, LIC is getting cupcakes, as Brooklyn Cupcake is opening soon, sharing space in the Uncle Louis G’s ice cream hole-in-the-wall on 48th Avenue. Given the demographics in Hunters Point, that ought to be like selling heroin to junkies. Finally, three updates on restaurants about to open, re-open, and close.
1) OpenDoor, which I wrote in the fall would be opening in October, then wrote in December will open by years end, is now looking to open by the end of January.
2) The Waterfront Crabhouse, which sustained massive damage due to Sandy, is expected to open again in February.
3) Lounge 47 on Vernon Boulevard is rumored to be closing by month’s end
Ay Caramba! In reading those three items, all I can think is ‘I’m glad I didn’t go into the restaurant business!’ But I am ecstatic about all the new things happening here, and will give you my New Years prediction: 2013 will be the Year of Long Island City!
Chickpea Website – call 718-440-9646 and order up a shawarma today!
Sandy Changes Hunters Point Library Plans – oh jeez, does this change mean a delay?
7-Train Service Suspension For Next 13 Weekends – yeah we told you about this weeks ago and all the “railing” in the world is not going halt it. Only one politician in NYC can alter this and his name starts w/ Mike. Thus, it’s a fact of life if you live in Hunters Point, always has been.
East River Ferry In LIC Here To Stay – does anyone from LIC actually use the ferry regularly?
Ally says
January 2, 2013 at 8:16 pmI was wondering what the deal with the Uncle Louis G spot was during the winter, and whether they were paying rent on it. I guess they were.
CL says
January 2, 2013 at 9:56 pmA cupcake place in Uncle Louie G’s, what a great idea!
Mikey from Queens says
January 3, 2013 at 11:07 pmUncle Louie’s G Spot? Yikes! I don’t ever wanna go there …or even think about it.