Dine and Discover Queens: Loycent Gordon, Owner and CEO of Neir’s Tavern
It’s “Dine and Discover Queens” time! “Dine and Discover Queens” is a monthly spotlight on some of the best food and drink options from around the borough! This month, we are featuring Loycent Gordon, Owner and CEO of Neir’s Tavern, located at 87-48 78th St in Woodhaven. To learn more, go to https://neirstavern.com/.
What inspired the creation of your restaurant, and how did you get your start?
Neir’s Tavern was established to serve the spectators of the most famous horse racing track in the 1800s, The Union Course Race Track. Upwards of 100,000 people would attend races there until the track became an encampment for soldiers of the American Civil War. Then the soldiers were sent south to fight. The Neir family took over the tavern and turned it into a ‘Social Hall’ with a catering hall, bowling alley, and even a ballroom where it’s believed Mae West got her start. After decades of ownership, the Neir family sold the tavern, and unfortunately, it lingered on as only a drinking establishment.
When I became the owner in 2009, Neir’s Tavern was facing a period of decline, and without intervention, it would have been likely to close its doors. My motivation to take on the business was driven by a respect for its legacy and a determination to preserve its story for future generations. As a Jamaican immigrant, it was important to preserve one of America’s oldest establishments as a way to give back. There was no food menu and limited beverage options. We wanted to reconnect with the families and community who wanted to have a nice evening out so I created a food and beverage program that goes beyond bar fare to include elevated dishes such as steak, salmon, and gourmet handmade burgers, as well as introducing a weekend brunch menu and fun community events.
Can you share a bit about your restaurant journey in Queens?
I started in the restaurant business accidentally. I became aware that this iconic community institution, Neir’s Tavern, was days from closing, and I wanted to help. However, owning and maintaining a restaurant has been the most challenging project I’ve ever taken on. During the more demanding days, the support from our most passionate visitors and guests, who have made Neir’s Tavern a part of their regular dining experience, was what provided the sales to keep us going. I was especially motivated by personal stories of neighborhood kids who, when they turned 21, decided to have their first beer at Neir’s Tavern. I also love the stories of guests returning to dine at their parents’ favorite table. These experiences are priceless and I would love the continued support from more customers to ensure Neir’s Tavern reaches its 200th anniversary in 2029.
Are there dishes or drinks that have become beloved by the Queens community, or anything on your menu you would like to highlight?
Neir’s Tavern is celebrated not only for its renowned chicken wings, but also as the exclusive home of the ‘Goodfella’ burger. Named after the iconic film "Goodfellas," which had 14% of its scenes filmed right at the tavern, the Goodfella burger features a unique recipe complemented by the tavern’s proprietary signature sauce. Guests often pair this legendary burger with the Wise Guy cocktail, a signature drink inspired by the same movie, adding a memorable touch to the dining experience. In addition to these menu highlights, Neir’s continues a proud tradition by serving some of the coldest tap beers in Queens, using its original stainless-steel coil system, which is chilled with ice. This rare system remains one of the few still in operation across the United States, further distinguishing Neir’s as a unique gathering place for both locals and visitors.
