Long-time Jackson Heights resident Alfonso Quiroz has worked at Con Edison for 16 years. The Democratic District Leader in the 39th Assembly District is also on Queens Theatre’s board of trustees. Here are some things he loves about the world’s most delicious borough.
Great Eats
In Queens, there’s no shortage of excellent dining spots, but nestled within the diverse culinary landscape lies a hidden gem that has swiftly become my top pick, inconspicuously situated within a mini mall in East Elmhurst.
Enter Bistro Eloise, an outstanding French eatery tucked between a Farm Country Grocery store and a quaint coffee shop. Despite its unassuming location, this spot demands attention. Sporting a relaxed ambiance, it offers a menu brimming with classic bistro fare. Among my favorites is the Bouillabaisse, a quintessential French seafood soup boasting a delightfully intricate broth. For dessert, the Île Flottante never fails to impress—a sublime confection of “floating islands” adrift in a sea of crème anglaise, a timeless French indulgence.
Yet, what truly sets Bistro Eloise apart is its exceptional service. Each server exudes an authentic charm reminiscent of the French countryside, complete with genuine French accents. It’s an experience that transcends mere dining; it’s a journey to a truly special place.
Historic Feats
Amid the lively energy of Elmhurst, it can be challenging to fully grasp the rich and intricate history that defines this remarkable neighborhood. Established in 1652 by Dutch settlers, Elmhurst stands as a testament to ethnic diversity within Queens, predominantly comprising multi-family homes, co-ops, and apartment buildings. Originally known as Middleburgh, it transitioned to New Towne (and later, Newtown) in 1662, ultimately becoming part of New York City in 1898. The neighborhood’s development surged throughout the 20th century, fueled by the influx of business owners and immigrant families from various corners of the city.
My attention was drawn to the Janta House at 88-28 43rd Ave. through my work with local residents engaged in the Elmhurst History & Cemeteries Preservation Society. This led me to produce a short documentary shedding light on the home’s significance. The residence, once inhabited by a Polish-American couple, served as a sanctuary for artists, scholars, and civic leaders fleeing the post-World War II Iron Curtain. Walentyna Janta-Połczyńska, who had served as a secretary to Poland’s prime minister during WWII, played a pivotal role in translating crucial reports into English, shedding light on the atrocities of the Nazi occupation, and exposing the Holocaust to the global community. Meanwhile, her husband, Aleksander, a poet, writer, and journalist, escaped Nazi captivity before meeting her in Buffalo and settling in Elmhurst.
Despite efforts to preserve its legacy, the city rejected landmark status for the Janta House in 2022, leading to its demolition shortly thereafter. This serves as a poignant reminder of the imperative to recognize and safeguard the historical significance of architectural treasures, lest they vanish from our collective memory.
Unique Treats
Lety’s Bakery in Jackson Heights is an ideal spot for an early morning coffee or a late-night sugar craving. The delightful pecan tarts boast a soft pie crust filled with a luscious brown sugar pecan filling. The creamy Italian cheesecake is a true indulgence, offering a perfect balance of creamy texture and vibrant citrusy flavors. With a few tables available, it’s also a cozy setting to enjoy a chat with neighbors.
Wander Streets
Prior to the pandemic, I organized monthly LGBTQ+ dinner parties called “Out Jackson Heights.” On the last Friday of the month, we ventured to a different restaurant in Jackson Heights, followed by a spirited bar crawl to the numerous gay bars in the immediate vicinity—all conveniently linked by vibrant Roosevelt Avenue. Among my personal favorites are Hombres Lounge and Viva La Heights. Yet, the true essence of the experience lay in traversing the bustling street life amid the clamor of the overhead 7 train.
While tourists may flock to Central Park or Times Square for a taste of New York City, there’s no place that encapsulates the Big Apple’s essence quite like it. Here, amid bustling Roosevelt Avenue, people can truly immerse themselves in the city’s DNA and comprehend its origins. Everything one could possibly need is readily available — from open-air fruit stands to Latin American bakeries — and even street vendors and food trucks peddling tacos, tamales, and tortas.
Initially, the sheer diversity of languages and the multitude of wares for sale might seem overwhelming. However, once you attune yourself to the area’s frenzied rhythm, it becomes hypnotic. Much like the city itself, Roosevelt Avenue pulsates with an intoxicating blend of cultural exchange and commerce. It may appear chaotic and at times unrefined, yet for those who know where to look, it harbors a certain magic.