Queens is largely bereft of tiki bars, so pretty much any monstrous, parasol-topped or coconut-shelled drink that makes a menu appearance anywhere in the borough is usually welcome. In the case of the Astor Room at the Kaufman Astoria Studios, the drinks are for the most part classic and dressed-up, with names like Fairbanks and Valentino that reflect the old Hollywood lore that imbues the space. But starting next week, the bar will host tiki nights on Tuesdays in its back room. Owner Christopher Vlacich says the whole thing started out with a sarcastic comment a couple of weeks ago and “has gotten legs quickly.”
The Astor Room is calling its own private tiki bar the Lono Lounge. Lono is the tiki god of rain, plants, and music. Queens has plenty of the first two, so the third will be supplied by the Fisherman Tiki Trio. The lounge will be open from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m., with music starting at 9 p.m. A limited menu of tropical cocktails runs from $12 to $14, with bar food at $8 to $12. There’s no cover, but with room for only 30 people each night, reservations are strongly recommended.
The Lono Lounge at The Astor Room
Potables
Mai Tai
Singapore Sling
Planter’s Punch
Test Pilot
Navy Grog
Comestibles
Crab Rangoon
White Sport Coat & a Pink Crustacean
(coconut-fried shrimp with a sweet and spicy pink sauce)
Chicken Satay
Hawaiian BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders
Conch Fritters
The Astor Room, 34–12 36th St., Astoria; 718-255-1947
Earlier: First Look at the Astor Room, Now Open in the Kaufman Astoria Studios
Related: M. Wells Goes Tiki, Sorta