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Showing posts with label New York. Show all posts
Showing posts with label New York. Show all posts
4/26/17
Sigmund's Pretzels, NYC
Pretzel perfection! How else can I describe the mesmerizing morsels that danced about my mouth? I stumbled upon this wonderland while browsing booths at the Union Square Holiday Market. Luckily, you can indulge in Sigmund's Truffle Cheddar and other varieties all year long at various NYC markets, including Urbanspace Vanderbilt near Grand Central.
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1/25/17
How to Buy Cheap Broadway Tickets!
Before attending my first Broadway play, I believed affordable tickets meant sitting miles away from the action. Follow these tips to see spectacular shows without spending a fortune.
1. Enter lotteries. Most shows offer these daily and place winners in awesome seats. I'm talking close enough to spy on the conductor! Tickets average around $35 with a maximum of two entries per show. Get $10 off your first show on TodayTix when you enter my code DLZUK at checkout. http://todaytix.com/refer/DLZUK
2. Buy rush tickets. These go on sale when the box office opens. Some theaters cater strictly to students or young adults while others offer general admission. Like lottery holders, rush buyers often score orchestra or front mezzanine seats.
3. Check out seating charts. All venues post layouts online so it's easy to compare options. Even nosebleed seats in some theaters, especially smaller ones, offer excellent views. Mezzanine options generally cost at least $20 more than lottery or rush.
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| Wicked, Rear Orchestra |
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| Book of Mormon, Front Row Center |
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| Fun Home, Stage Side |
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| Curious Incident, Rear Mezzanine |
4. Join loyalty programs. Modern theater thrill seekers have often overlooked money saving options. Besides selling tickets online, plenty of sites and apps offer friend referral credits. And, some sites give customers points for rating shows or checking in to performances that they can redeem for rewards.
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10/17/16
Free Crunch Gym Pass
5/22/16
Westside Community Garden, New York
Guess what's in bloom at Westside Community Garden? Tulips galore. The plot, tucked away in a mostly residential area, offers tranquility from NYC's continual grind.
Besides stunning flowers visitors can partake in concerts and other, mostly free, events.
Westside Community Garden depends on the kindness of volunteers and donations. So don't cheap out.
Drop a few bucks in the collection jar!
Besides stunning flowers visitors can partake in concerts and other, mostly free, events.
Westside Community Garden depends on the kindness of volunteers and donations. So don't cheap out.
Drop a few bucks in the collection jar!
Visit www.westsidecommunitygarden.org/ for a list of upcoming events.
2/9/16
New Park Pizza, Howard Beach
I skeptically stared at the piece square of pepperoni pizza before it entered the brick oven. Would it engage my taste buds or disappoint them?
The perfect combo of savory tomato sauce and cheese crowned this unassuming pizza's slightly salty, chewy crust. One more bite of the filling portion and I would've been stuffed. New Park's fare isn't gourmet, but it certainly calms a pizza craving.
The perfect combo of savory tomato sauce and cheese crowned this unassuming pizza's slightly salty, chewy crust. One more bite of the filling portion and I would've been stuffed. New Park's fare isn't gourmet, but it certainly calms a pizza craving.
12/4/15
Holiday Markets
Seek out similar holiday markets in your area to find last-minute gifts.
3/22/15
Los Tacos, Manhattan
A plethora of eateries exist within Chelsea Market. Without much info on any of them and in dire need of nutrition, I chose the one with the freshest looking food. Yes, I stalked some strangers' plates.
Los Tacos, reminiscent of a south-of-the-border roadside stand, had a line much longer than its competition. A sure sign of greatness. Right?
Going against that instinctual voice in my head, I bypassed the pork spinning on a rotisserie and opted for a carne asada tostada. What an error! The effort required to chew the meat detracted from the flawless flavors of the tostada, avocado, and salsa. My mouth definitely underwent an aerobic workout.
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Going against that instinctual voice in my head, I bypassed the pork spinning on a rotisserie and opted for a carne asada tostada. What an error! The effort required to chew the meat detracted from the flawless flavors of the tostada, avocado, and salsa. My mouth definitely underwent an aerobic workout.
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3/7/15
Samantha's Southern Cooking, Brooklyn
As I write this post, I'm still hungry. Having skipped breakfast and lunch, I needed a hearty dinner asap. Samantha's Southern Cooking won out over the competition because it was near my last errand and I had a 50% off deal. Clue number one that my meal might disappoint: a tiny crumb floating in my water glass. I pushed it aside. I planned on drinking my bottled water anyway. Clue number two, two guests told the waiter they did not enjoy whatever was in their bowls. Although unable to hear the details, their grimaces said it all. Hhmmm. Stay or go? Those same diners moved on to dessert and cleaned their plates. I decided to stay.
My fried pork chop sandwich included two huge portions of meat, way too much for the meager bun. A smarter choice would've been one portion cut in half to cut down on the thickness. After picking some of the char off of one slice of bread, I realized the other piece was practically burnt instead of toasted. Even worse, the meat was overcooked and tough. Cutting it with my fork and eating smaller pieces did not improve matters much.
I contemplated mentioning my disdain to the servers. Both glanced at me, but neither stopped by my table. The twice-baked macaroni provided a distraction. Peppery with undertones of mustard, it had just enough cheese and plenty of flavor. Now back to the sandwich.
The male server offered a to-go box. I pointed out the deficiencies in my entree. He apologized and said he would speak to his manager. She came over after helping other guests and indirectly asked what was going on. I asked her if the server relayed my issues and ended up repeating them to her. She removed my plate and said she would take care of it.
Minutes later, she informed me that they were remaking the entree. I would have prefered a refund instead of a remake and expressed that. However the manager, who is also Samantha's sister, advised me they had already started cooking a replacement. I told her that I rarely send food back but had to speak up. She assured me that they serve freshly-prepared and seasoned meat. I questioned the bun, stating that it did not look or taste like focaccia. She said it wasn't and realized that the menu was incorrect. The manager mentioned that they bought the bread from a local bakery.
She delivered my new sandwich and returned shortly to ask if it was up to par. I said it was even though I'd only tasted a tiny end portion. The manager said, "I'm sorry about that sweetheart," when she delivered my receipt. I requested a to-go box and left, eager to return home where I had backup food available. The new chops proved just as tough as the prior ones. I tossed the meat in the trash. Oh Samantha, this southern gal wanted a taste of home. Clearly I didn't find it.
My fried pork chop sandwich included two huge portions of meat, way too much for the meager bun. A smarter choice would've been one portion cut in half to cut down on the thickness. After picking some of the char off of one slice of bread, I realized the other piece was practically burnt instead of toasted. Even worse, the meat was overcooked and tough. Cutting it with my fork and eating smaller pieces did not improve matters much.
I contemplated mentioning my disdain to the servers. Both glanced at me, but neither stopped by my table. The twice-baked macaroni provided a distraction. Peppery with undertones of mustard, it had just enough cheese and plenty of flavor. Now back to the sandwich.
The male server offered a to-go box. I pointed out the deficiencies in my entree. He apologized and said he would speak to his manager. She came over after helping other guests and indirectly asked what was going on. I asked her if the server relayed my issues and ended up repeating them to her. She removed my plate and said she would take care of it.
Minutes later, she informed me that they were remaking the entree. I would have prefered a refund instead of a remake and expressed that. However the manager, who is also Samantha's sister, advised me they had already started cooking a replacement. I told her that I rarely send food back but had to speak up. She assured me that they serve freshly-prepared and seasoned meat. I questioned the bun, stating that it did not look or taste like focaccia. She said it wasn't and realized that the menu was incorrect. The manager mentioned that they bought the bread from a local bakery.
She delivered my new sandwich and returned shortly to ask if it was up to par. I said it was even though I'd only tasted a tiny end portion. The manager said, "I'm sorry about that sweetheart," when she delivered my receipt. I requested a to-go box and left, eager to return home where I had backup food available. The new chops proved just as tough as the prior ones. I tossed the meat in the trash. Oh Samantha, this southern gal wanted a taste of home. Clearly I didn't find it.
1/19/15
Blue Ribbon Chicken, NYC
Fueled by a mere handful of pistachios for breakfast, I needed nourishment. I'd been craving chicken for a few days and scoured reviews for joints offering fried goodness reminiscent of that served Down South. Every establishment's good commentary had an evil twin. By mid-afternoon I discovered Blue Ribbon Chicken. The eatery won by default. Brothers Bruce and Eric Bromberg run it and other themed spots around the city. Although I've visited none of the others, I figured they'd more than likely deliver an appetizing meal.
I decided to go a la carte and chose a Mighty Wing, instead of a regular one, and onion rings. While I waited, I asked a manager if they made the ice cream. He affirmed that they did and asked what flavor I thought looked interesting. I also noticed another manager visiting guests' tables. One employee's sole job consisted of cleaning the dining room. Kudos for staff attentiveness!
Almost embarrassingly so, I dove in seconds after my order arrived. The wing lacked that buttermilk dipped, heavily-floured coating I expected based on meals of fried chicken past. Between their signature spice mix and frying techniques, the owners did manage to create a crispy, light and flavorful crust. I ate every bit of skin I could pry off the bone.
As I did so, I thought of how the preparation seemed simultaneously simple and elevated. The rings had the sort of crust I expected the chicken to have. They reminded me of those served in most Savannah seafood restaurants.
I dipped portions of my Mighty Wing and onion rings in the honey mustard and bbq sauces although the chicken and rings tasted fine on their own. Freshly prepared, both condiments had a thin consistency but packed a surprisingly flavorful punch.
Dessert, complimentary banana salted caramel ice cream, topped off the meal. I'm not a huge banana fan but wanted to try it because I enjoy homemade caramel. As I scraped up every bit possible, I conjured up memories of every scoop I'd ever encountered. I must say this dessert edged out my previous favorite, High Road Craft Ice Cream's carrot variety.
I realized after reviewing Blue Ribbon's website that the manager who delivered the treat was one of the owners. With food, service, and an atmosphere that are all on point Blue Ribbon Chicken is bound to become a favorite.
I decided to go a la carte and chose a Mighty Wing, instead of a regular one, and onion rings. While I waited, I asked a manager if they made the ice cream. He affirmed that they did and asked what flavor I thought looked interesting. I also noticed another manager visiting guests' tables. One employee's sole job consisted of cleaning the dining room. Kudos for staff attentiveness!
Almost embarrassingly so, I dove in seconds after my order arrived. The wing lacked that buttermilk dipped, heavily-floured coating I expected based on meals of fried chicken past. Between their signature spice mix and frying techniques, the owners did manage to create a crispy, light and flavorful crust. I ate every bit of skin I could pry off the bone.
As I did so, I thought of how the preparation seemed simultaneously simple and elevated. The rings had the sort of crust I expected the chicken to have. They reminded me of those served in most Savannah seafood restaurants.
I dipped portions of my Mighty Wing and onion rings in the honey mustard and bbq sauces although the chicken and rings tasted fine on their own. Freshly prepared, both condiments had a thin consistency but packed a surprisingly flavorful punch.
Dessert, complimentary banana salted caramel ice cream, topped off the meal. I'm not a huge banana fan but wanted to try it because I enjoy homemade caramel. As I scraped up every bit possible, I conjured up memories of every scoop I'd ever encountered. I must say this dessert edged out my previous favorite, High Road Craft Ice Cream's carrot variety.
I realized after reviewing Blue Ribbon's website that the manager who delivered the treat was one of the owners. With food, service, and an atmosphere that are all on point Blue Ribbon Chicken is bound to become a favorite.
11/16/14
Waffle & Wolf, Brooklyn
What a wonderful way to enjoy a waffle! Baked in bacon bits, creamy avocado yogurt, and cheddar sprinkled atop tomatoes and cool arugula. Yum. Besides the #12 and other savory options, this tiny eatery whips up sweet creations and fresh squeezed juice combinations.
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11/3/14
Times Square, NYC
Need proof you're not in Kansas anymore? Stop by Times Square. A quintessential landmark bustling with activity, there's surely something in walking distance to satisfy everyone in your party's adventurous spirit.
The abundance of architecture and advertising are enough to captivate. I gravitate toward people and character watching over all else. Don't linger too long though. Shops in Times Square, aka Tourist Central, tend to charge a bit more. Venture into other boroughs or other areas of Manhattan to discover their offerings.
The abundance of architecture and advertising are enough to captivate. I gravitate toward people and character watching over all else. Don't linger too long though. Shops in Times Square, aka Tourist Central, tend to charge a bit more. Venture into other boroughs or other areas of Manhattan to discover their offerings.
9/20/14
Grand Appetito, Little Italy NYC
The Feast of San Gennaro ends tomorrow. Don't fret though, Little Italy's plethora of gastronomical goodness will still be available. After navigating the crowds and assortment of vendors, I found a near perfect cheesesteak on the festival's route.
Grand Appetito, an unassuming pizza joint on Grand Street, also sells sandwiches. I opted for onions and provolone only so I could truly compare the cheesesteak to its competition. Peering past the glass partition at the grill, I realized that a combination of cooking technique and quality beef would result in a product that rivaled any of sold at the smoky, crowded street booths.
In addition to an excellent entree, I received engaging service from Alex and his crew and a momentary escape from the rowdiness and blazing sun outside.
Grand Appetito, an unassuming pizza joint on Grand Street, also sells sandwiches. I opted for onions and provolone only so I could truly compare the cheesesteak to its competition. Peering past the glass partition at the grill, I realized that a combination of cooking technique and quality beef would result in a product that rivaled any of sold at the smoky, crowded street booths.
In addition to an excellent entree, I received engaging service from Alex and his crew and a momentary escape from the rowdiness and blazing sun outside.
5/25/14
Bowery Burger, NYC
A 100% grass-fed cheeseburger on a brioche bun for only $5 bucks in NYC? I checked the Bowery Burger menu board twice to make sure I hadn't hallucinated. Located in the Bowery Whole Foods, it also serves turkey burgers and hot dogs plus gluten-free and vegetarian options. I bypassed the $2 hand-cut fries (choose from sweet potato or regular) but spied them on another customer's plate. The portion appeared generous.
I'm a fan of burgers with discernible searing and top-notch buns. The bottom of mine was wimpy and not sturdy enough to support the toppings I chose. Despite that, it tasted delectable. In addition to the price, the array of toppings available besides standard lettuce, tomatoes, and pickles also made my burger a great deal. I'm talking garlic aioli, chili, whole slices of grilled onions, and premium cheese choices.
They say you should never buy groceries on an empty stomach. I agree, and grabbing a Bowery Burger should be at the top of your shopping list.
They say you should never buy groceries on an empty stomach. I agree, and grabbing a Bowery Burger should be at the top of your shopping list.
4/20/14
Old Saint Peter's Cathedral, NYC
3/30/14
One Cup Two Cupcakes, Manhattan
Presentation isn't everything, but it certainly grabs my tastebuds' attention. These cupcakes reminded me of the irregular items at certain discount stores where sometimes you find a bargain, sometimes you don't.
Unbalanced and average, the Vanilla Bean with Chocolate Buttercream was slightly overcooked and topped with sugary frosting.
The Erik Milk Coconut variety clearly outshone it. Coconut buttercream, working in unison with a moist yellow cupcake, created a memorable treat. One Cup Two Cupcakes lacks the pizzazz of other shops I've ventured into. You'll find no extravagant ingredients there. Then again, its prices run proportionate to size and content.
11/22/13
Washington Square Park, Manhattan
Comedians, contortionists, an improv jazz concert or puppet show, lively chess matches. These are some of the happenings one might encounter at Washington Square Park.
10/7/13
Gelato Ti Amo, New York
In contrast the Fig proved harmonious, highlighting the fruit and the gelato without either competing for attention. Best of all, the shop uses all-natural ingredients. I love Gelato Ti Amo, and you will too!
8/5/13
Doughnut Plant, NYC
TV shows repeatedly showcase Doughnut Plant. I added the shop to my list of must-visit NYC eateries years ago in part due to the publicity; mostly due to its array of high quality ingredients and its flavor combos. Few in my inner circle would dare try foods infused with matcha green tea or lavender. Most balk when I profess my love of coconut or blueberries, especially in baked goods. Discovering these varieties and more at Doughnut Plant proved a bit overwhelming. Filled with house-made jam or not? Cake or yeast? Add on fresh ice cream or flavored milk or juice meticulously processed by Doughnut Plant staff instead of some faraway vendor?
I ignored a Valrhona Chocolate doughnut tempting me from the display case. It looked too sinful. These pastries, after all, would pass as my breakfast instead of dessert.
The Coconut Lime cake and the Lavender Flower yeast varieties played like lullabies across my taste buds. Each exhibited subtle ingredient notes. The Fresh Blueberry yeast and Matcha Green Tea cake varieties popped on my palate.
Doughnut Plant's yeast offerings exhibit a chewiness and a density similar to ciabatta bread. I saved the lighter cake varieties for the next morning. They remained fresh without refrigeration.
The Coconut Lime cake and the Lavender Flower yeast varieties played like lullabies across my taste buds. Each exhibited subtle ingredient notes. The Fresh Blueberry yeast and Matcha Green Tea cake varieties popped on my palate.
Doughnut Plant's yeast offerings exhibit a chewiness and a density similar to ciabatta bread. I saved the lighter cake varieties for the next morning. They remained fresh without refrigeration.
7/22/13
Smith Street (Mocha) Bagels, Brooklyn
Call it a convenience store, coffee bar, bakery, bagel shop or deli. Regardless of how you categorize Mocha Bagels, it has options even for picky eaters like me.
7/3/13
3B Bed and Breakfast, Brooklyn
Home away from home. That's the sentiment Matt at 3B Bed and Breakfast expressed he hoped guests felt. Judging from thank you notes left by previous and often repeat travelers, 3B's staff has consistently delivered on creating homey experiences. Most guests, surprisingly, visit from Europe. My first bunk mate, of all places, lived in the same county where I reside.
Sharing a room isn't ideal for all. In an effort to save money and to embrace an attitude of adventure, I gambled on trying these unconventional accommodations. Friends cringed at the idea. After lodging at 3B, the stay ranks in my top three.
The staff resides within the brownstone on another floor. Someone was always available. I consider the high level of cleanliness and 3B's commitment to being green major pluses. Wind power, eco-friendly supplies, salvaged decor, an emphasis on locally-grown and organic foods, composting for a rooftop garden: My kind of place!
Families, singles and couples stay at 3B, which offers various room choices. If complete privacy isn't an issue, try out the bunk option. And if traveling with no more than three others, you could all sleep in the same room if each guest booked a bunk. I chatted with two sisters from Japan who did that.
I spent more time on site than any other guest because I was apartment hunting and taking full advantage of the complimentary computers. Allison and others gave me advice on navigating New York City as well as dining suggestions. The hearty yet healthy breakfast offerings kept me fueled until I recharged with my next meal. Between indulging in breakfast, tea and coffee at 3B and using Scoutmob, I spent less than $40 on meals over four days.
3B lies in the heart of downtown. Use the earplugs supplied or bring your own pair to block out noise from street level and the subway. Some nights were quiet. One opportunity for improvement at 3B would be adding additional towel hooks in the bathroom. Otherwise, these guys have nearly perfected creating a peaceful oasis in a fast-paced city.
Check out http://3bbrooklyn.com/ for more details.
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Sharing a room isn't ideal for all. In an effort to save money and to embrace an attitude of adventure, I gambled on trying these unconventional accommodations. Friends cringed at the idea. After lodging at 3B, the stay ranks in my top three.
The staff resides within the brownstone on another floor. Someone was always available. I consider the high level of cleanliness and 3B's commitment to being green major pluses. Wind power, eco-friendly supplies, salvaged decor, an emphasis on locally-grown and organic foods, composting for a rooftop garden: My kind of place!
Families, singles and couples stay at 3B, which offers various room choices. If complete privacy isn't an issue, try out the bunk option. And if traveling with no more than three others, you could all sleep in the same room if each guest booked a bunk. I chatted with two sisters from Japan who did that.
I spent more time on site than any other guest because I was apartment hunting and taking full advantage of the complimentary computers. Allison and others gave me advice on navigating New York City as well as dining suggestions. The hearty yet healthy breakfast offerings kept me fueled until I recharged with my next meal. Between indulging in breakfast, tea and coffee at 3B and using Scoutmob, I spent less than $40 on meals over four days.
3B lies in the heart of downtown. Use the earplugs supplied or bring your own pair to block out noise from street level and the subway. Some nights were quiet. One opportunity for improvement at 3B would be adding additional towel hooks in the bathroom. Otherwise, these guys have nearly perfected creating a peaceful oasis in a fast-paced city.
Check out http://3bbrooklyn.com/ for more details.
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