Taste of Queens

Welcome to the "Taste of Queens" tour, an immersive journey through the diverse neighborhoods of Flushing, Jackson Heights, and Forest Hills. While this experience is not strictly a food tour, it offers a unique introduction to some of Queens’ hidden gems, often overlooked in favor of Manhattan’s glitz and glamour. The tour highlights the borough’s rich history, cultural diversity, and distinctive character, giving participants a deeper understanding of its neighborhoods and communities. Visitors will explore streets steeped in history, observe the vibrant local culture, and gain insights into the stories that have shaped this dynamic part of New York City.

The journey begins in Flushing, one of Queens’ oldest neighborhoods, where Dutch settlers first established roots in the 17th century. Participants will explore the area and uncover traces of its colonial past, including the influence of Quaker settlers seeking refuge from religious persecution. From there, the tour continues to Jackson Heights, a neighborhood that has evolved from a symbol of early prosperity into a thriving, multicultural Hispanic community shaped by successive waves of immigration. The final stop is Forest Hills, recognized as the first garden community in the United States and celebrated as the birthplace of the US Open tennis tournament. This tour provides a rich blend of history, culture, and local flavor, offering a compelling perspective on the often-overlooked borough of Queens.