It’s a Saturday and you and your roommates are bored out of your wits. There’s nothing that excites any of you on Netflix, and the day just calls for some outdoors.
Guess what? Only a short ride subway away from the most New York City neighborhoods, Long Island City has enough and more in store for all your exploratory needs. So head out for a hearty brunch and a stroll, or explore hidden gems to your must-experience list for 2021!
Historically called Dutch Kills, Long Island City is experiencing quite the dramatic renewal process — which includes rezoning as well. Moreover, Long Island City is known for its centralized location and its manufacturing and industrial influences. Alot of it’s glory comes from it served as an integral point between Queen’s road networks in the 19th century. This was meant for the construction of the Queensboro Bridge connecting Manhattan.
Here’s everything you and your roommates needs to satiate your explorers’ curiosity and add to your list of must-do things in Long Island City!
Start with a wholesome Mex-brunch at Casa Enrique.
?5-48 49th Ave, Long Island City, NY
Casa Enrique is known to keep things super simple with their Mexican cuisine. Especially if you’re looking to avoid any frills or extras that’ll take your attention away from the beauty of traditional home-cooked meals, straight from Chiapas, Mexico.
Chef Cosme Aquilar’s menu consists of classics like guacamole, ceviche, and a variety of enchiladas and tacos. But it’s the fresh and seasonal ingredients that really pack a punch. Some even argue this is the best Mexican food you’re going to find in Long Island. If that doesn’t make your list of ‘must-do things with your roommates,’ what does?
Looking for more ways to have affordable fun in New York City? Here’s everything you can do with your roommates in New York City, on a budget!
Grab a read and then some at Book Culture LIC.
?26-09 Jackson Ave, Long Island City, NY
Book culture has retained its spot as a staple in different Manhattan neighborhoods — and now it provides a cozy refuge in Long Island as well!
Indeed, this is the spot to take your roommates and yourself! You’ll find this store smack between the Court Square and Queens Plaza subway stations. This new spot boasts of all the latest releases, a series of entertaining events that can be found here and an array of recommendations by the staff!
Experience live art at MoMA PS1
?22-25 Jackson Ave, Long Island City, NY
Let’s just call MoMA PS1 the hip young sister of the world-renowned MoMA in midtown Manhattan, which identifies as more of an “exhibition space,” as opposed to an “institution of collections.”
MoMA PS1 showcases experimental and contemporary art, usually utilizing interactive elements like sound, video, light, and more. VW Sunday Sessions allow visitors to experience and participate in live art. Also, throughout the summer its popular Warm Up Series hosts live electronic music concerts, taking place within some type of artistic installation.
Grab a late lunch at Tuk Tuk ?
?49-06 Vernon Blvd, Long Island City, NY
Inspired by the three-wheeled motor rickshaws found across Thailand along with many other Southeast Asian countries, Tuk Tuk is the perfect spot for Thai food in Long Island.
You’ll find classics like Pad Thai and Tom Yum Soup. The more traditional Thai street food dishes like Mee-Kiew-Hang and Kaw-Moo-Dang will surprise you! Above all, you find yourself and roommates craving on a Saturday spent out!
Or a slurp on the richest broth at Tamashii Ramen
?47-36 Vernon Blvd, Long Island City, New York
You’ll find a few Tamashii Ramen locations in Queens. And you shouldn’t miss out on this one if you’re in Long Island. Additionally, The expansive menu that Tamashii boasts of, consists of some rich broths made fresh daily. Including chicken, five different vegetables, simmered for a whole 14 hours!
A whole colony of seafood and medicinal herbs are added to balance the flavor. And they offer nutritional elements! Above all, their popular bowls include the Miso Ramen (soybean-flavored ramen)! Along with, the Shio Ramen (made with mineral salt), and Shoyu Ramen (made with soy sauce). In conclusion if you’re the kind that doesn’t shy away from spice, try the Tan-Tan Men! It’s esssentially a hot sesame flavored ramen.
Immerse yourself in Donna Drimer’s collection at Matted LIC
?46-36 Vernon Blvd, Long Island City, NY
Get yourself and your roommates shopping for some eclectic pieces at this part art gallery, part framing service, part gift shop.
Moreover, If you’re a regular shopper, there’s no way you don’t know of Matted. They have art shows on rotation throughout the year — so be prepared to be floored by unique pieces from local artists and photographers (in custom frames of course.)
Or pick up a quirky gift for a friend from the wide selection of one-of-a-kind items, hand-selected by shop owner Donna Drimer.
Wonder what it’s like to live in Long Island? Here’s something else from us that might help you!
Need some more Roomi in your life? Have your pick from Roomi’s endless recommendations crafted to your needs. Doesn’t matter if you’re looking for a room to call home, a couch to call your bed or a mate to share these with! Download the app here — and get surfin’
