If you’ve ever gone to one of the legendary Shescape bashes—perhaps the Thanksgiving parties at the Rainbow Room or Tavern on the Green—you have Shescape’s senior partner, Susan Burdian, to thank. Burdian’s newest venture, the eclectic café Zuzies, is the result of her entrepreneurial streak and formal training at NYC’s Natural Gourmet Institute. Located at the Mix Café & Lounge right in her own Astoria neighborhood, Zuzies opened this summer. Featuring unexpected combos like lasagna salad, the island burger with pineapple and a chocolate and chorizo panini, Zuzies’ menu offers what Burdian calls “gourmet comfort food with global twists.” She has this advice for aspiring entrepreneurs: “I try to learn as much from my failures as I do from my successes. Don’t be discouraged when things get tough. Remember that every kick in the ass is a step forward!”
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