I love a market that boasts the best snacks, bites, and delicacies of the local area, and the Queens Night Market is (in my opinion) THE best in New York! The Queens Night Market returns with local art, food, music, and vibes each Saturday. In true Queens style, it brings all the diverse cultures together, and food is at the center of this bustling gathering.
It’s free to attend, and with over 70 food stalls and the most diverse range of cuisines tasting through the flavors of all 5 boroughs—there really is something for everyone. There’s heaps of open grass space, and on a nice afternoon, it’s the place to chill and enjoy the sunset with friends and family while picnicking alongside the sweet sounds of summer.
The details: Every Saturday from 4PM until 12AM.
Location: New York Hall of Science, Flushing Meadows, Corona Park, Queens
I highly recommend bringing a picnic rug, as there is many beautiful green spaces to enjoy a sunset soirée.
A few of my favorite things I tried:
- Empanadas by Sweet & Salty
These are some of the BEST empanadas I’ve had. Crispy fried pastry on the outside and a choice of filings. I highly recommend them! The toppings were perfect, too. 10/10
- Bubble Tea from Anda Boba Tea
It’s very on-brand for the Queens Night Market to offer the best Bubble Tea in Queens. Good news: Endless cocktails are available there, too, but for a non-alcoholic beverage, I highly recommend the Bubble Tea from ANDA Boba Tea!
- Potato Stick by Twisted Potato
These remind me of the Victorian Market in Melbourne, but they might be even better!! In true American fashion, you can choose from so many toppings. I went with garlic and cheese and was not disappointed!
- Sam’s Fried Ice-Cream
My lactose wouldn’t allow me to enjoy these, BUT I have the intel that they ARE the best! How can you go wrong with fried ice cream?
Bring Some Mates Because There’s So Much to Try!
At Queen’s Night Market, the array of vendors changes frequently, making each visit a unique culinary adventure. Before you go, check their website for the latest lineup to fully experience the diversity of offerings. From Treat Yourself Jerk Chicken’s fiery grills to Daaku BBQ’s aromatic tandoor kebabs and from Menya Jiro’s hearty Japanese ramen to Bstro’s playful Taiwanese popcorn chicken, the market serves up a world of flavors in one vibrant locale.
The market offers a rich tapestry of global cuisine, including Filipino chicken adobo, Brazilian churrasco, and Mexican huaraches, all ready to be savored under the New York sky. Indulge in everything from Emeye Ethiopian Cuisine’s earthy spices to De Rangoon’s refreshing Burmese tea leaf salad. Whether it’s Polish pierogies from Matylda’s Foods or the tropical treats of Irie Treatz, Queen’s Night Market promises a deliciously eclectic dining experience with every visit.
Enjoy Loads of Entertainment to Bring on the Vibes
Each week, the market features a variety of entertainment, and on the night I visited, the band truly set the tone. Crowds gathered, drawn by the lively performance, enhancing the vibrant atmosphere of the evening!
Food, Music, and What Else Is on Offer?
The Night Market boasts diverse artists and makers, each bringing their unique flair to the venue. The artist vendors also had some beautiful stalls; from beauty products to clothing, homewares, and more, you could bring home a piece of NY. The best part is that the prices are nothing like what you would pay in the city, and you get authentic, great-quality local pieces!
Visitors can explore the intricate designs of D Vrousa and the whimsical creations at Kat’s Handmade Jewels. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the vibrant works from Johnnerdraws and the elegant compositions by Art by Larceria. For those looking for a touch of beauty and self-care, Sabrina’s Henna offers exquisite body art, while Joyeria Angelica Maria showcases stunning jewelry.
The market also features unique home decor and gifts from Theobucket Vintage, Ombrato’s delicate sleepwear, and the scented wonders of Nose Best Candles. Each vendor sells products and shares a piece of their artistic journey, making every visit a discovery of creativity and craftsmanship.
More Information:
Parking at the market is extremely limited. Visitors can walk, bike, or use mass transit to get to the venue. Please note that the adjacent parking lot, which is not operated by the market, charges a $15 fee for vehicles.
Directions by Subway:
To reach the market by subway, take the 7 train to the 111th Street station. From there, walk south for four blocks, passing under an overpass. You’ll find the Night Market located behind the New York Hall of Science on the left.
To learn more about the night market’s history, visit its website or follow the deliciousness on Instagram at @queensnightmarket.
Photos from June 8 2024 by Metaxas Media.
AWNY | Australian Women in New York 