My Astoria – Dancers Ashley Chandler and Amanda Webster

Welcome to another installation of our lightly treaded but much beloved column, My Astoria, where local Astorians tell us what makes Astoria special to them. This time we have two dancers—Ashley and Amanda—from the Patricia Kenny Dance Collection, a local modern dance company rooted in virtuosic and athletic movement. These proud Astoria residents were happy to share with us their view of the neighborhood. Thanks so much, Ashley and Amanda! -Meg

Amanda and I have called Astoria home for 3 years now. Living off 30th Avenue we have the pleasure of enjoying some of the most diverse restaurants and local spots Queens has to offer. We are roommates and dance for a local modern company, the Patricia Kenny Dance Collection. As dancers, we are inspired by the exciting energy and local creativity, fueled by the amazing eats Astoria has to offer. Naturally, there is no neighborhood we dance through more often…

Brooklyn Bagel: 30th Avenue

Sundays are spent in Astoria, and amongst our friends there is an unspoken rule—when we text “Breakfast?” it means Brooklyn Bagel. Over cold brewed iced coffee and hand rolled bagels we sit, laugh and catch up at the end of the week. Brooklyn Bagel, 36-14 30th Avenue

Yoga Agora: Broadway

Our days off often start in this quaint little spot located in a quiet loft above bustling Broadway. Yoga Agora offers wonderful classes and a space for the community to come together and practice in a beautiful atmosphere. The teachers here are local Astorians with a diverse background that give this small studio an eclectic class offering. Our favorite part of Yoga Agora is the awesome affordable price of $5! Yoga Agora, 33-02 Broadway

Lockwood: Broadway

We love the unique offerings at this lifestyle store located just off Broadway. Inspired by Astoria it features fun locally made goods situated in two neighboring stores, ‘Style’ & ‘Shop’. A great go to spot to discover local artisans and unique gifts. Lockwood, 32-15 33rd Street

Sweet Afton: 30th Avenue 


Sweet Afton is a gastropub just off 30th Avenue and was one of the first spots Amanda and I found upon moving to Astoria. It quickly became a favorite hangout where we could enjoy a drink with friends after a week of rehearsal and work. They serve up fun handcrafted cocktails and a mac and cheese to die for. Those who frequent here embody the eclectic mix Astoria has to offer; dancers, actors, and entrepreneurs alike can all be found enjoying one of their signature cocktails. Sweet Afton, 30-09 34th Street

Astoria Park

There is an undeniable sense of calm and grounding energy when you step in front of a body of water. Amanda and I often find ourselves at this spot in Astoria Park because of the stunning view and perspective we get of New York City.

You can see Amanda and Ashley in action during their upcoming performances with the Patricia Kenny Dance Collection, which presents their third annual Spring Season on March 28th at Queens Theatre, located in Flushing Meadows Park (tickets).