ASTORIA — The Queens Kickshaw — a popular eatery known for its fancy grilled cheese sandwiches, craft ciders and vegetarian-friendly menu — will close its doors later this month and reopen as a new restaurant in the same space, its owners announced.
The eatery will officially close on Aug. 27 after more than six years on Broadway and 41st Street, a decision owners Jennifer Lim and Ben Sandler said they made in order to "address growing business challenges, and reinvent ourselves."
"The Kickshaw spirit will stay in place, though the food and beverage will change," they said in a statement Monday. "We will maintain our mission of being a supportive workplace while envisioning a new gathering spot for the neighborhood."
The restaurant will host a closing party from 6 to 11 p.m. on its last day, then shutter for renovations for about a month, the owners said. They'll reopen the space "as an entirely different restaurant" in early October.
While the pair did not immediately share details about the new venture, they noted that patrons can sign up for email updates and even buy tickets in advance for opening week dinners at the future eatery.
Queens Kickshaw owners Jennifer Lim and Ben Sandler (Credit: Queens Kickshaw)
Queens Kickshaw first opened in March of 2011, primarily as a coffee bar and sandwich spot. Its menu expanded over the years, adding a craft beer and cider selection and launching a cocktail menu last year.
The restaurant became a popular neighborhood hub, hosting live music, farmer's markets, cider promotions and special events like its annual Asian and Jewish Christmas Eve brunch.
"The Queens Kickshaw holds such a dear place in my heart," one customer wrote on the restaurant's Facebook page in response to news of its closure. "That place taught me how important community is in my life. Thanks for creating such a special place Jen and Ben."
The owners reassured fans that the new eatery will aim to offer a similar sense of neighborhood unity.
"While it has been a heavy decision for us to make to close Kickshaw, we are excited for what is to come," they said.
