Regarded as the most diverse neighborhood in the entire country, Jackson Heights combines a worldly population with a strong neighborhood vibe. Reflecting its diversity is 37th Avenue which is truly a Main Street to the world. Within a few short blocks, you can snack on fresh hot Colombian buñuelos with your Thai coffee, treat yourself to an Indian mehndi design and pick up local produce from upstate New York at the farmer’s market. When it comes time to celebrate one of the many cultural events that take place in Jackson Heights, like the Diwali festival or the Queens Pride Parade, you can bet the whole community comes out to represent and support each other. The neighborhood is the site of America’s first planned garden community built in the 1910s and 20s, designed to be green, airy and opulent, often surrounding private gardens. These pre-war apartments have since been landmarked and now form the Jackson Heights Historic District.
Mexican & Colombian bakery with great tacos!
Located on the second floor of a building on a bustling block right off the subway, this is the kind of place you only find through word of mouth. The entryway is suspect, the space is small and packed, but somehow you’re excited to be there because you know the meal you are about to have will be worth it. Phayul specializes in homestyle Tibetan food like spicy beef Tsaksha, homemade steamed momos and hand-drawn noodle soups. Be warned, their sepen hot sauce is seriously addictive.
