a new establishment called kween is set to open in astoria, bringing a vibrant new space to the neighborhood's social landscape. operated by pedro alvarado, the lounge is undergoing a significant renovation to create a distinct atmosphere.
the interior is being transformed with a deep blue color scheme, a dedicated dj booth, and an expanded seating area achieved by removing a wall.
the envisioned aesthetic for kween is one of opulence and comfort, featuring elements like a throne, a crown-shaped chandelier, plush seating arrangements, a photo booth, and a fireplace.
alvarado intends to cultivate a lively party environment by scheduling a variety of weekend events, including karaoke nights, dj sets, trivia competitions, and drag brunches. the lounge will also offer daily happy hour specials, capitalizing on the significant foot traffic along its prominent avenue location.
kween is designed to accommodate approximately 60 patrons indoors, with an additional outdoor seating area at the front capable of hosting around 15 guests.
the establishment will place a strong emphasis on its cocktail offerings, supplementing these with a selection of commercial and craft beers. alvarado, who possesses expertise in crafting numerous cocktails, plans to feature some of his personal favorites on the menu.
a food menu will be introduced on june 10th, coinciding with the grand opening.
while the specifics are still being finalized, patrons can anticipate a fusion of american, european, and latin american cuisines. anticipated dishes include waffles, chicken, sliders, and empanadas. ordering will be facilitated through a qr code system, allowing customers to place orders via their mobile devices, with staff delivering the selections.
in support of the lgbtq+ community, kween is slated to host a range of events.
alvarado is diligently working to ensure the venue is fully operational for the pride month celebrations in june. he has received guidance from the operators of icon and albatross, two recognized gay bars, and previously managed albatross for two years.
understanding the nuances of astoria's queer scene
while the opening of kween signifies a new hub for the lgbtq+ community, the question of whether astoria is inherently a "gay neighborhood" is complex.
neighborhoods often evolve and develop diverse populations, and the presence of lgbtq+-friendly establishments contributes to a more inclusive atmosphere without defining the entire area solely by one demographic.
queens, in general, is recognized as one of new york city's most diverse boroughs, and this diversity is reflected in its burgeoning queer nightlife.
the queens pride parade and multicultural festival, held annually in jackson heights, is a testament to the significant lgbtq+ presence and activism within the borough. established to enhance the visibility of the lgbtq+ community in queens, it promotes pride and visibility in a family-friendly setting.
queens also hosts the largest transgender hub in the western hemisphere, further underscoring its importance as a center for queer life and support.
new york city, as a whole, boasts some of the world's most concentrated queer populations, offering a wealth of resources and community spaces. the city's commitment to inclusivity means that many areas, including those in queens, are generally welcoming and supportive of lgbtq+ individuals.
astoria's appeal and accessibility
astoria, specifically, is noted for its proximity to manhattan, offering a relatively short commute.
it's characterized by its low-rise residences, traditional greek tavernas, and numerous cafes, providing a distinct neighborhood feel. this combination of accessibility and local charm makes it an attractive option for various residents.
when considering residential choices within queens, it's important to note that some neighborhoods offer more direct access to the vibrant lgbtq+ event scene and nightlife than others.
while queens offers a broad spectrum of safe and affordable neighborhoods, individual preferences for proximity to specific cultural hubs or nightlife districts will influence the ideal location.
exploring other lgbtq+-friendly enclaves in queens
beyond astoria, other neighborhoods in queens offer unique characteristics and contribute to the borough's overall appeal for the lgbtq+ community and its allies.
long island city: a burgeoning urban center
long island city, situated in western queens, has undergone a significant transformation from its industrial past to a dynamic residential and cultural hub.
it provides convenient access to manhattan, making it a popular choice for young professionals and families seeking city proximity with a slightly more subdued atmosphere. the area features a growing number of luxury apartments and trendy businesses, alongside a retained artistic spirit evident in its galleries, museums, and cultural institutions like the museum of the moving image, the socrates sculpture park, and the noguchi museum.
glendale: a tranquil community
glendale, located in west-central queens near ridgewood and middle village, offers a peaceful, family-friendly environment with a distinct small-town feel while remaining close to urban amenities.
it's a primarily residential area with many single-family homes and low-rise apartment buildings, fostering a close-knit community that often organizes local events. the abundance of green spaces, including the expansive forest park, provides residents with recreational opportunities like hiking trails and sports fields.
woodside: accessible and diverse
woodside, also in western queens, provides a calm setting with convenient transport links to other parts of the city.
housing prices, while on the rise, remain relatively more affordable compared to other city areas, attracting increasing interest. the neighborhood possesses a vintage charm and a diverse culinary scene, complemented by a robust public transportation network.
woodside offers a variety of housing options, from single-family homes to multi-family dwellings, catering to different lifestyles.
community support and resources
the lgbtq+ community in queens is supported by various organizations dedicated to fostering inclusive and safe environments.
the lgbt network: fostering safe spaces
the lgbt network is a non-profit organization committed to providing safe and welcoming spaces for lgbtq+ individuals, their families, and support systems throughout queens and long island.
with a mission to cultivate inclusive environments, the organization operates four community centers, including the dedicated queens lgbtq+ center. since 2005, the lgbt network has been a vocal advocate for social change, creating environments where lgbtq+ individuals can live, learn, work, play, and express their faith freely.
the network relies on the generosity of donors, volunteers, and community partners to sustain its vital work.
the queens lgbtq+ center: empowerment and advocacy
the queens lgbtq+ center focuses on empowering and celebrating lgbtq+ identities while actively addressing issues such as heterosexism, homophobia, and transphobia.
the center also works to combat health disparities and provides essential care for underserved populations. through educational initiatives and community-building efforts, the center strives to create a supportive and accepting atmosphere for all individuals within the lgbtq+ community.