Culture Guide: Flushing Town Hall
New Orleans might be the birthplace of jazz but Queens is its home. Countless legends–Louis Armstrong, Ella Fitzgerald, Count Basie and Dizzie Gillespie–lived in the borough at some point in their storied careers. Jazz is alive and kicking at Flushing Town Hall, a dynamic cultural venue with in-residence musicians and artists. Built in 1862 and designated a landmark in 1967, FTH presents high-quality, award-winning performances and visual arts programs, including theater, classical and world music, dance, puppetry arts, exhibitions and family programs with interactive workshops. Visitors can step into a stunning 308-seat concert hall and theater, gallery, gift shop and classroom, and explore a tranquil garden that hosts everything from drum circles to yoga classes.
INSIDE SCOOP!
In the 1840s, legendary showman P.T. Barnum was the hall’s impresario and Tom Thumb (aka General Tom Thumb the Dwarf) was its star performer.
In 1898, Flushing Town Hall became a courthouse complete with jail cells, one of which has been repurposed as a backstage dressing room.
GETTING THERE!
SUBWAY 7 Train to Main Street–Flushing
TRAIN LIRR to Flushing–Main Street
Find out more about the borough’s attractions at ItsInQueens.com.
RESTAURANTS: A Few of Our Faves
For some of the best soup dumplings in New York, look no farther than this storied Shanghainese restaurant, serving not only steamed buns but a variety of dim sum that includes stuffed scallion pancakes and fresh pickles.
This is one of many local shops specializing in handpulled noodles in sauce or broth. They are also known for their lamb. Don’t skip Lanzhou noodles!
Familiar Italian-American fare as well as brunch are served at this unexpected little restaurant in the heart of New York’s biggest Chinatown. Family-owned and family-oriented, the extensive menu in addition to a full bar is sure to include something for everyone.
Looking to recharge yourself and your phone? This is your place. Serving traditional espresso drinks and pastries in addition to bubble tea and a selection of East Asian desserts. The interior is comfortable and well-designed, Moon Café has just the space for a calm, cool chill.
Everything about Downtown Flushing’s lone Irish pub is a blast from the past, from its decor to its dirt-cheap drafts and well drinks. While they have no kitchen, outside food is welcome, so feel free to pair a Guinness with some lamb skewers from the Uyghur cart right outside.
Stop by for drinks and some Taiwanese small plates at this chic lounge on the top floor of the Hyatt Place Hotel. Stellar views and cocktails infused with flavors like lychee, rose and jackfruit continue to attract locals and visitors alike.
Click here for more on area restaurants.
Flushing Town Hall | @flushing_town_hall
Nan Xiang Xiao Long Bao
DunHuang Lanzhou Noodle
Magna
Moon Café
Kelly’s Pub
Leaf Bar & Lounge
