Right over the East River into Queens, only a few stops from Times Square on the 7 train (or the “International Express”), you can find one of the fastest developing neighborhood in the biggest borough in New York City. From old factories and a Pepsi Cola bottling factory, this neighborhood has become a gorgeous retreat from the city with an incredible waterfront, easy ferry access and an incredible variety of restaurants.
In its final phase of development, the waterfront area has become a one stop community with an incredible view of the Manhattan Skyline complete with its own shopping, restaurants and a public school. Some locals have even begun to call the area “The Queens Riviera”- separating it from “Hunter’s Point” At Gantry Plaza State Park (named for the industrial structures still standing which used to unload cargo from ships and transfer them to waiting trains) you’ll find some of the best views of the Manhattan skyline. You can stroll along the piers, go fishing, run your dog in the dog park, sunbath on one of their many lounge chairs or grab a bite to eat from the many food trucks that park in the Plaza.
What to Eat:
If you head back towards the train on Vernon Blvd. you’ll find a mix of restaurants as diverse as the borough itself, which is saying something considering Queens is the most ethnically diverse county in the United States. From about 51st Ave. to 47th Ave. you’ll find the street lined with restaurants, bars, and small shops. From French Louisiana cuisine to doughnuts to Thai food, you’ll never run out of variety.
If you head back towards the train on Vernon Blvd. you’ll find a mix of restaurants as diverse as the borough itself, which is saying something considering Queens is the most ethnically diverse county in the United States. From about 51st Ave. to 47th Ave. you’ll find the street lined with restaurants, bars, and small shops. From French Louisiana cuisine to doughnuts to Thai food, you’ll never run out of variety.