The Wave – Beach Dunes Cafe Enjoys a “Glow Up”

The community cafe at 45-19 Rockaway Beach Boulevard in Far Rockaway has refreshed its menus, starting with its weekly specials.

According to Executive Chef Tracey Johnson, last week’s “Chopped Cheese Burger” special brought a big boost to the cafe, “We had a great week, it was better than what I’ve seen in a long time,” said the chef.

Each week, the chef designates a particular plate for the $7 per plate promotion, this week the entree is Meatball Subs.

The cafe has also reintroduced programming to grow its customer base. Last week’s “Family Movie Event” brought together local families for an “all you can eat” experience with BBQ pulled chicken or mushroom sliders served hot as customers enjoyed a viewing of Marvel’s Wakanda Forever, the 2022 sequel to the highly successful 2018 Black Panther film.

On February 12, Beach Dunes will join forces with the Far Rockaway/Arverne Nonprofit Coalition (FRANC) for a “big game” football viewing party complete with its own menu. The offering provides varying options of chicken wings, pizza, macaroni and cheese, and other favorite sides that are sure to be crowd-pleasers.

The first Friday of every month, a “Community Coffee Catch Up” welcomes the entire community to gather for complimentary coffee, and grab something from the breakfast menu all while catching up with community members. The program has become the “place to be” since executive board member Annie Mohan launched the program last year.

In addition to building upon community, the cafe’s goal is to serve as a conduit of job training for disadvantaged young people, provide stable employment and a living wage, and a high-quality “farm-to-table” dining experience at a much-reduced cost.

The café incorporates ingredients sourced from nearby their Far Rock farm during the growing season and local suppliers network in the off-season.

Additionally, Beach Dunes sells basic household essentials (ie. cleaning and cooking products) at a modest price point.

One may also notice the retail space available for local entrepreneurs to sell their wares directly to the public. Hyper-local merchants interested in selling their wares can reach out via email to communications@tcahnyc.org.

While all are welcomed into the cafe, those who cannot enjoy the dining experience are encouraged to take advantage of the delivery service available via Grub Hub or Door Dash.

Beach Dunes Cafe is managed by The Campaign Against Hunger. The space was generously funded by Queens Borough president Donovan Richards in collaboration with L+M Development Partners.