I haven’t spent a whole summer in the City yet, but I don’t see why Astoria wouldn’t be New York’s go-to summer spot. For your exploration are beer gardens galore and hookah bars in Little Egypt. Plus, the greatest Irish bar I’ve ever stepped foot into is in the area. I won’t give up the name of it, but it’s very small, dark. The books on the back shelf are real and I’d assume hand-picked by patrons and staff. The restroom is down a steep narrow stairwell, with – if I recall correctly after a Guinness or four – has a padded wall at the bottom of the steps, just in case. The aged booths are intimate and the walls pop-out in the summer for a wonderful open-air feel. As the nights get warmer, I am more and more eager to trek up to 30th Ave. in Queens.
An important thing to remember about Little Egypt is that, just like in Egypt itself, alcohol is prohibited. From the vantage point of a sidewalk patio, not a single liquor store can be seen. The adherence to culture and tradition combined with the entrepreneurship and coercion of storeowners is impressive and serves as a reminder that while you’re having your leisure time, others are working hard. While they offer sodas, teas, coffee and specialty beverages, plan ahead and make a hookah lounge your last stop of the night. That, or sneak in a fifth of spiced rum.
Arabian Nihiiights
As for the beer gardens, they open while it’s still light out for a reason; day-drinking.
BierGarten
Location: Make your way to 30th and Steinway and wander from there.
