The Changing Tastes, Sounds & Looks Of Dandana

By sonia Posted: May 13, 2016

There’s something stirring on Broadway.

42-21 Broadway – to be exact – and it’s looking good.

Dandana is the name, you may have heard of it?

The Middle Eastern hookah lounge has graced Broadway for over 10 years – becoming a much loved hangout for locals who enjoy quality Middle Eastern cuisine and hookahs – and now it’s in for a change.

In March of this year, Dandana saw new owners Valerie, Kevin (Bartender turned Manager of Dandana over the past 3 years) and Behcet stepping in, with new ideas.

Taking on the role of decorator and organizer extraordinaire, Valerie – who has a flare for the fabulous, being an actress/singer and all around maker of beautiful things – will be turning the usually dark and secluded lounge into a fusion of creativity, colors and cuisine.

Instilling the restaurant with her own unique flare, she hopes to make it more than just another Middle Eastern lounge.

So what’s the plan you ask? Well, they’re starting with Brunch!

Every Sunday, patrons can enjoy some delicious brunch specials, cooked traditionally and mouth wateringly to perfection – including unlimited Mimosas or Bloody Marys for $12!

Also once a month, Live Jazz will grace Broadway with its eclectic and soothing sounds as the doors and windows fly open for the summer. Starting on the 15^th of May, from 11AM till 4PM, Astorians will get to enjoy the outdoor café seating, delicious cuisine, and sway with the sounds of the talented Jordan Piper and special guest Adam Cote. (Brunch served 11am-4pm, Live Jazz plays 12-330pm)

But that’s not all, May 25^th Actoria will finally find a new home at Dandana, as Josh Bardier brings his troops along for some fantastic performances.

The new ideas are set to not only open up the lounge, but also a side of Broadway that’s usually a little quieter and secluded from the rest.

There’s also renovation on the horizon for this Astoria classic. A lover of all things old and unique, Valerie has begun reusing antiques and interesting Astoria themed objects, with ideas for more open spaces and outdoor arrangements.

Dandana is a place that’s set to have a bit of everything. From its well known Belly Dance Show Friday & Saturday Nights and fantastic bar scene with unusually home cooked goodness, to Jazz and Cabaret, Dandana definitely has its own voice that is starting to stand out among the many copy paste cafés and restaurants strewn about town.

Bit by bit Valerie and the gang are turning this Astoria staple into an amalgamation of Middle Eastern, traditional, antique, rustic and modern. All while still maintaining the essence of what Dandana has always been – a place to relax with friends and make new ones.

We can’t wait to see what’s next in line for this must try Astoria restaurant.