#MonthlyPicks | October’16 by Laurence Winston
BY Michael Gillen
Good Eats:
One might walk past 97-20 Rockaway Beach Blvd. without noticing Playland Grill, as it doesn’t stand out aesthetically, but those fortunate to stop and dine at this hidden Rockaway gem definitely won’t be disappointed. Located inside Playland Motel, this restaurant popped up after a lot of the carnage from Hurricane Sandy had been cleaned up in the Rockaways. Stop by for brunch and try my favorite dish on their menu: the chicken and waffles. It is absolutely delicious from the perfectly crispy chicken and fresh-cooked waffle, all the way down to the maple bourbon butter. Another great dish is the Devil’s Mess, scrambled organic eggs with tequila lime shrimp, jalapeños, spinach, mushrooms, guacamole, and local cheddar cheese.
Historic Feats:
I was introduced to The Afrikan Poetry Theatre (176-03 Jamaica Ave.) in 2014 after being invited to perform at a spoken word event there, but this historic Jamaica theatre and cultural center has served the community since 1976. The establishment became prominent after most of the tension and racial turmoil from the 1950’s and 1960’s had subsided significantly. Now it continues to serve the Southeast Queens community with great arts and cultural events that highlight the African-American heritage. It brings together local poets and artists performing jazz, funk, African rhythms and more. This year the intersection of Jamaica Avenue and 176th Street was co-named John Watusi Branch in honor of the poet and co-founder of the Afrikan Poetry Theatre.
Wander Streets:
I remember growing up in Astoria and walking from Astoria Boulevard to Steinway Street along 30th Avenue and passing nothing but local delis, small supermarkets, and miscellaneous mom-and-pop shops. Most of the folks I encountered were those from the area…Fast forward 20 or so years, and 30th Avenue has become a strip populated with so many eateries and bars. It’s hard to pick just one on any given day. Whether it’s indulging in a delicious breakfast while also being entertained at Queens Comfort to grabbing a mimosa and chowing down on some brunch at The Shady Lady, 30th Avenue is more than capable of providing you with thrills whatever the occasion.
Unique Treats:
Fall is here and winter is coming, but don’t put away those bathing suits yet. Queens has the biggest Korean spa resort in NYC, Spa Castle (131-10 11th Ave., College Point). A day pass at Spa Castle gives you access to a number of indoor and outdoor warm water pools as well as a variety of sauna/cold rooms. Drinks and food are also served at this relaxing resort. Keep this place in mind for year-round pool fun or the next time you plan a staycation.
Laurence Winston (known in the spoken word and poetry community as “Word Play”) works in law enforcement helping keep his native Queens safe.
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