Astoria, a laid-back neighborhood in Queens, has its fair share of small businesses that make this borough so special. Whether it be a family-owned restaurant, trendy boutique, or quaint coffee shop, there are so many businesses to explore.
Whether you’re venturing out of Manhattan for the day or planning on moving to Astoria, you’re going to want to get familiar with all of the best local businesses. With so many amazing spots on every corner, it’s hard to pick favorites, but we’ll start with our top five (in no particular order.)
Lockwood
Lockwood is a boutique that sells unique decor, stationery, clothing, gifts for kids, and lifestyle goods that are all sourced locally by the store’s team. With a focus on local makers and up-and-coming brands, this shop has items that are perfect for gifting to others or yourself. Lockwood’s goal is for shoppers to feel at home once they enter the store, which makes shopping there an enjoyable experience from when you walk in to when you’re handed your receipt.
Sweet Afton
A lively Irish pub, Sweet Afton, serves craft beers, tasty cocktails, and has a kitchen that’s open until 1 am. When you’re not trying the items on their “late-night menu,” try their brunch menu. Offering a boozy brunch from 10 am to 4 pm on Saturday and Sunday, Sweet Afton has great dishes and drinks, like a unique brunch punch. All of their food is locally sourced, sustainable, and incredibly delicious.
Petals & Roots
Petals & Roots is a woman-owned floral shop that sells flower arrangements and plants. Whether you’re looking for a centerpiece for your Friendsgiving dinner or you need customized floral arrangements for your wedding next year, Petals & Roots is the best place for anything flowers. Besides arrangements, this floral shop also sells home decor items like candles, vases, and pots — making it a great place to shop if you’re looking to redecorate your space.
Mad Donkey
A neighborhood bar that offers 14 different craft beers on tap, Mad Donkey is a quality spot that you’ll definitely want to check out. Besides tasty beer, Mad Donkey is known for huge burgers, wings, live music, and their signature drink, the “Donkey Bowl,” a 64-ounce rum drink. If you can finish two of them, your photo will be added to their ceiling of fame.
Astoria Coffee
Astoria Coffee is a laid-back coffee shop that’s great for a quick espresso run or a study session with chai. Featuring coffee roasters from all over the world, wine, beer, and fresh pastries from local producers, this cafe has it all. Astoria Coffee is open until 8 pm — which makes it the perfect place for a midday pick me up or glass of wine after work.
Make New York City your home
While we love these five local businesses, there are so many more to discover on every block. Grab a coffee, head to a boutique, go out for dinner, and then come home and enjoy the rest of your night at one of our New York City homes.
When you make the move to New York City, the best of Astoria is just a short subway ride away from your apartment. Explore our homes today.