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Restaurants in Long Island City that Locals Love, Featuring Cítrico Café

  • Writer: Citrico Cafe
    Citrico Cafe
  • Oct 9
  • 3 min read

Restaurants in Long Island City, Where Flavor and Community Meet

Long Island City has quickly become one of Queens’ most exciting dining destinations. Once known mainly for its industrial past, LIC now blends art, culture, and an ever-growing food scene that draws locals from across New York City. Whether it’s a cozy brunch spot, a creative cocktail bar, or a lively dinner place, restaurants in Long Island City have a little something for everyone.

Just a few minutes from the LIC waterfront, Cítrico Café brings the energy of Astoria into this evolving neighborhood, a place where friends meet for dinner, cocktails, and a night filled with music and good vibes.


People dancing in a lively indoor setting, surrounded by others seated at tables. Warm lighting. A shirt reads "One Piece." Joyful mood.
Guests enjoying dinner and cocktails at Cítrico Café near Long Island City Queens.

A Mix of Local and International Flavors

The beauty of Long Island City’s restaurant scene lies in its diversity. You can find everything from artisanal coffee shops to family-run eateries and fine dining with skyline views. Still, the most memorable places are those that make you feel like part of the neighborhood.

That’s where Cítrico Café shines. Although technically in Astoria, it’s just minutes away from LIC and perfectly embodies the spirit of Queens dining, colorful, authentic, and full of life. Guests come for its warm atmosphere, vibrant music, and fresh take on Mexican fusion cuisine.


Musician quartet in an indoor setting; saxophone, keyboard, and percussion played. Warm lighting, patterned walls, and decor visible.
Cítrico Café interior with modern Mexican design and warm lighting.

What Makes Cítrico Café Stand Out

Cítrico Café isn’t just about food; it’s about moments. From brunch to dinner, each visit feels like stepping into a lively gathering.If you stop by on a Saturday or Sunday between 11 AM and 3 PM, you’ll find their famous bottomless brunch, complete with margaritas, mimosas, and live DJ sets that keep the energy high.

During the week, their Happy Hour is one of the best near Long Island City, a place where locals unwind with $8 margaritas, $7 frozen drinks, and great music after work. And when the weekend rolls in, Cítrico transforms into a nighttime hub, with DJs and guests celebrating birthdays, gatherings, and spontaneous nights out.

For those looking for something new, their mocktails have also become a hit, creative, refreshing, and full of flavor for guests who prefer non-alcoholic options but still want the same experience.


Two women enjoy a meal at a cozy restaurant. One has a tattoo on her back. Warm lighting, patterned floor, and a relaxed setting.
Friends enjoying mocktails at Cítrico Café, a popular restaurant near Long Island City.

A Short Walk from LIC’s Hottest Spots

Whether you’re spending the afternoon near Gantry Plaza State Park or exploring the art galleries and rooftops of LIC, Cítrico Café is just a quick ride away, and worth every minute. The restaurant’s design mixes modern touches with cozy details, creating the perfect setting for both casual dinners and special occasions.

It’s the kind of place where you walk in for one drink and end up staying for the music, the laughter, and maybe another round of tacos or mezcalitas.


People socializing at a lively bar, smiling and holding drinks. Warm lighting, decorative plants, and a patterned wall create a cozy ambiance.
Mexican fusion vibes at Cítrico Café in Astoria Queens.

Why Long Island City and Astoria Make the Perfect Pair

What makes dining in Queens unique is how connected its neighborhoods are. LIC offers the sleek, modern feel of new restaurants and rooftops, while Astoria keeps its charm with authentic flavors and vibrant local culture. Together, they represent the best of what New York dining should be: real people, real food, and an atmosphere that feels like home.

So when people search for restaurants in Long Island City, they often end up in Astoria, discovering places like Cítrico Café, where the boundaries between good food and good times disappear.


Woman with red hair prepares drinks at a bar, surrounded by shelves of liquor bottles. The scene is warmly lit, creating a cozy atmosphere.
Bartender crafting mezcal cocktails during happy hour at Cítrico Café.

Visit Cítrico Café, The Flavors of Queens Await

If you’re exploring LIC or looking for your next dinner spot, make time for a visit to Cítrico Café. With flavorful dishes, signature cocktails, and a welcoming team, it’s become a local favorite for a reason. Whether you’re coming for brunch, dinner, or a late-night drink, there’s always something happening, and always a reason to come back.

📍 Location: 32-90 36th Street, Long Island City, NY 11106⏰ Hours:

  • Monday to Friday: 4 PM – 1 AM

  • Saturday & Sunday Brunch: 11 AM – 3 PM

  • Dinner Service until Midnight


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