Long Island City resident Frank Ottomanelli runs the F. Ottomanelli by the Water concession in Hunter’s Point South Park and the F. Ottomanelli’s Burgers & Belgian Fries butcher shop/restaurant in Woodside. He’s also spearheading an effort to construct a community mural. Here are some things he loves about his home borough.
Great Eats
The food at Park Side (107-01 Corona Ave.) is on point every time. Plus, they give you large portions and real value for what you pay. I also love the ambience. In short, it’s just a fantastic Italian restaurant.
Speaking of fantastic Italian restaurants, Manneta’s (Jackson Ave.) also serves authentic cuisine that’s simply awesome. The owners, who are from the Old Country, are wonderful people who offer a great dining experience.
Wander Streets
The waterline in Hunter’s Point South Park is the most beautiful place to walk that I could ever imagine. And while you’re there, swing by for a burger at F. Ottomanelli by the Water. We make them fresh every day along with the Otto Chicken, chili, hot dogs, and other items. I invite everybody to come down and have fun. It’s a great place to get away.
Unique Treats
I’d say that the view of Midtown Manhattan’s skyline from Long Island City is like nothing in the world. I can’t think of anything more unique.
Historic Feats
Forest Park has an interesting history with a golf course, abandoned train tracks, and horse riding. It’s also a really nice place for long walks in nature through what is called “knob and kettle” terrain, thanks in large part to a glacier that passed through about 20,000 years ago. Despite a few years of lumbering and a chestnut blight in 1912, the park is filled with healthy, natural-growth, 150-year-old trees (hickories, black cherries, dogwoods) that create canopies.
Images: Frank Ottomanelli