Astoria

Astoria

Astoria was named after the famous New York local businessman John Jacob Astor, in an attempt to coax him into investing in the area. (Fun fact: he only ended up putting up $500!) Astoria has long been a bustling place. Long ago it was a getaway for wealthy Manhattan resident, but eventually became a more working and middle class area and is changing yet again to a neighborhood where young adults rent and buy their first homes. Part of the northern part of the neighborhood, still called Steinway, was founded as a village for workers at the piano makers factory, still in operation. Part of the draw of Astoria is its proximity to Midtown via subway, bike or ferry, of course, but also the great bars and restaurants. It’s great to come here for Greek food as there is still a considerable Greek-American population. Excellent cuisine from all over the world is found here. It’s very pleasant to roam around here and look at the sometimes questionable– yet always fascinating– architecture and remodeling choices on the old homes. Astoria is often where buyers from other boroughs first dip their toes into Queens. It’s filled with an eclectic housing stock ranging from multi families to rental buildings to fancy condos. There are a few pre-war co-ops mixed in, as well as people from all over the world. But then again so is Queens. Also the views of the Manhattan waterfront are not to be missed. 20 minutes to Midtown via train or ferry! And the bike lanes to Manhattan are well-kept!