Local Queens Date Spots: L.I.C. Edition

Long Island City (LIC) has been transformed over the past decade from an industrial park to a revitalized, trendy neighborhood. With this came many luxury buildings, bars, events, and restaurants. So of course some of these are definite date spots. Here are my recommendations:

Shi

Shi is Sushi with a view. The restaurant is placed in the perfect spot in LIC, right on the water with a spectacular view of the NYC skyline. You usually have to pay for a view like this but not here. The prices are on par with your usual Sushi joint with regular rolls from $4-$6 dollars and specialty rolls hitting no more than $14. if your into Shrimp Tempura and Spicy Tuna try The Shrimpy roll, its a definitely winner! For those that aren't Sushi fans they also offer Chinese-American plates. If you happen to go on a comfortable summer night ask for a table outside or in the back where you'll get a better view.

El Aye Si

Roughly translated to English, El Aye Si means The Oh Yes in Spanish (and yes i know its also a way to phonetically spell out LIC). Don't mistake this for a Latin joint, they pride themselves on serving "Multi-cultural Comfort Food". You can find dishes that range from Southern Fried Chicken to Mexican and Irish dishes. They also carry a good selection of reasonably priced wine and cocktails. The decor is made up of re-purposed wood and salvaged materials, along with candle light sets the perfect mood for a date.

Blend

Last but not least is Blend, Latin Fusion  restaurant has a cool sleek vibe. They serve dishes from all over Latin America. I recommend the Ropa Vieja and the Mofongo with Braised Beef. Definitely try to get there before the end of their happy hour where they offer 99% of their cocktails for about $4.

Gantry Plaza


Walk off your dinner by strolling down to Gantry Plaza State Park which is located on Center Blvd between 46th Rd and 50th Ave. This park was created in conjunction with the luxury high-rise condos that have changed the face of Long Island City. It was built around the 2 resorted industrial Gantries that were used to receive and unload rail car floats and barges. Take in the views from the modern industrial park while you wait to make your move.