Dongan Hills, Staten Island NY...the Best of Both
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8/28/2009
I've never lived anywhere else so it is hard to imagine how that might be. I am one of the few 2nd generation Staten Islanders - though I'm not sure if that's a brag or a confession! A lot has changed here over the course of my lifetime & even more so since my parents grew up here in the 1950's -'60's, but mostly, aside from the overcrowding &what the run amuck builders have done with their monstrous identical duplexes, I like the changes.
There was not a lot to keep my interest & keep me out of trouble growing up so I rode the ferry into Manhattan a lot & took advantage of all the great things NYC has to offer. That hasn't changed, I love the close proximity to the city & although it's been a long time since I've taken the ferry, I like having that option as well as an express bus at the bottom of my block or that I can drive & be in lower Manhattan usually within 30 minutes (depending on the time of day).
In the other direction I also enjoy all the Jersey Shore has to offer all summer long...but there's so much going on right here now that I don't always have to cross a bridge & I like that a lot too. I live within walking distance to the beautiful South Beach Boardwalk & Midland Beach Promenade & take full advantage of them, bike riding or jogging just about every morning. I have a great healthfoods store nearby, also within walking distance, as is my veterinarian's office, yoga/Pilates studio where I like to take classes, chiropractor's office, just about everything I need is within walking distance...including great dining!
Some of my very favorite spots in all of Staten Island are within walking distance to my home: Trattoria Romana has great Italian food in a lively, relaxed & hospitable atmosphere; Pasticceria Bruno - their food's no good but oh their pastries are really something special, I'll get dessert there anytime! Lee's Tavern has been there forever, great casual neighborhood spot for pizza & beer. Chen's is great for casual, fresh & healthy Chinese food - though I usually get mine to-go. And Carol's Cafe is my favorite local special occasion place. And of course, many more options are available in the city!
Dongan Hills is quiet, filled with tree-lined streets where people smile & say "good morning" to eachother. I don't know that I'll live here forever but it is such a special place that I can count at least 6 kids I grew up with on my own block who took over their parents' or grandparents' homes & stayed!
Aurora | New York, NY