We packed our 500 square foot apartment into a 5x7 mini storage. Walking back into a cold empty apartment was the first realization that the move is only days away. Within 5 months we had the time of our lives and came to some hard truths about what its like to live in Manhattan which I will get to later. Saying I will see you soon to friends we made along the way has been a challenge to me, we met some very special people. We got very lucky in this adventure and together we our ready for our next. It's never a farewell but a see you soon to the faces and places that made Manhattan feel more like home.
At our going away party I remember walking into the pub and all of our friends lined the entire bar and that's when I knew of our impact within the short 5 months. I hardly scratched the surface of NYC and before I knew it I breathed and my experience was over.
I am now in the state that grew me and I truly forgot how beautifully peaceful it is here. There's a certain calmness that Minnesota gives me, perhaps its the lakes or maybe it's the pretty shades of summer. My mind was still in NYC but my body slowed down to the pace of Minnesota. There's a pride that comes from living here and that pride has never left me in fact its intensified since I left.
With London being right around the corner and my life in a constant travel mode I'm truly excited for this next chapter. Manhattan prepared me for my European adventure and soon this blog will turn into Breaking London and hopefully it will inspire you to adventure more, live with less restriction and to never loss your instinct while exploring new elements of your life's direction whether planned or not.
Keep you posted and thanks for supporting, coming soon Breaking London..
Friday, June 3, 2011
Monday, May 23, 2011
The MUST EATS in NYC..
As I have said before this is the food mecca. This review will appeal to every taste bud and its for every price range. If I had a dollar for every time I said "this is the best" I would surly be a millionaire. I have eaten my way through this city and when you come visit these are my recommendations. Although it may seem bias to the east side of Manhattan its only because this is where I lived and within it found that best eats. I have 2 rules when eating out, keep it reasonably healthy and keep it affordable.
Falafel at Tiam- The falafel will blow your mind. The best in the city as you will see a Halal truck on every corner. Don't be fooled this falafel will change your world. I'm drooling just thinking of it.
Brick Lane Curry House: Indian food hasn't always been my go to, until now. The flavors are something I crave and lets be honest some food is just boring, not Indian. Its complex, multi-layered and the Indian cuisine here will take your taste buds on a wild adventure.
Supper: I have a hard time with Italian as I have been ruined by Olive Garden and feel I can always make it better. Until Supper I was convinced that Italian was heavy and makes you feel like there's a rock in your belly. Supper is the perfect combination of perfect portions and fresh pasta. I take everyone who comes to town to Supper or their sister restaurant Little Frankies.
Terminal Thai: I love me some pad thai, it has layer of favor combination that flirt with your taste buds. Between their drunken noodles and spring rolls I always have such a hard time deciding what to get as I am rarely disappointed.
Greek Salad at Atlas Cafe: Ok so this place is more of a coffee shop then a restaurant but their Greek salad makes me order it at least once a week. Its a heavily mix of perfect crisp greens and a light vinaigrette with the juiciest tomatoes. Served with warm bread, this is not your typical boring salad. Plus they have great coffee, all around a winner to me.
Desert Trucks Bread Pudding: Yikes I wish this place wasn't a block away. Its a daily occurrence that I I try to convince myself that I don't need to go there, but yet I still find myself standing in the doorway puppy-eyed and drooling. Its the most delectable desert creations. Also featured on Bobby Flay's Throwdown and won, come on people its that good.
Pho sandwich from Sunny and Annie's Deli: I have ordered this a few too many times after 1 am but damn its good. Its spicy, zesty and loaded with flavor in each bite. Its hard to put down and although I usually order the 2011 but always find myself stealing bites from Greg's Pho sandwich.
Pho at Pho 32: This place is open 24 hours bless their hearts. Its a great combination of thai basil, a sweet broth and crunchy sprouts. My mother fell in love with this dish which isn't hard to do. My comfort food is a big bowl of soup and this is nothing shy of just that.
Veggie Burger at Kate's Joint: Wont taste like a veggie burger to you because it doesn't to me. Although I'm not a disciplined vegetarian I do prefer veggies over carcass. This burger comes California style, thick cut pickle, ripe tomatoes and crisp lettuce. Side of Kate's special sauce and you got yourself a pretty convincing burger.
Breakfast at Clinton Street Baking Company: This breakfast is so good it will wake your ass up before noon. If you can get in to this small place its well worth the wait. My only wish is that they buy the space next to it to make more room. It's small but the Egg's Benedict will make you order it every time and I hear their blueberry pancakes are pretty kick ass.
Fish tacos at Essex Market/Grocery Store: If you blinked you would miss this little stand. There's 2 people working the counter so don't expect fast service but what you will get is food made with love. The fish taco's are under 5.00 bucks and for the money you get a hefty portion of homemade love in a tortilla.
Pizza at L'asso: Pizza isn't something I crave but allow me to tell you that when this pizza comes out I have a hard time holding back and eating just 2 slices. I am a member of the clean plate club when I'm here, I eat more pizza then I care to inform you on and lets just say that you will have a food moment here. All time will stop and you will get snapped back to reality once you feel your waistband explode. Wear your big girl pants when dining here as you won't be able to stop at just one slice.
Smoothie at Pause Cafe: Its a build your own smoothie bar. Mango's, strawberries and blueberries oh my all the combinations are making me want to run down there right now and order one. Ok so there's nothing exciting or innovative about a smoothie you say but allow me to tell you that on a hot day there's nothing more refreshing.
Bisous Ciao Macaroons: My sister nearly had a desert meltdown when her lips locked passionately to these perfectly prepared gems. With disbelief and crumbs on her face she realized then that she likes no loves macaroons. "No I can't believe this," she said. Words of a wise woman go and you will be convinced too.
Momofuku Milk Bar: Chocolate Cookies. My boyfriend Greg who doesn't eat sweets ate 3 big cookies, need I say more?
Il Laboratorio Del Gelato: I clench the gelato cup for I have fear of dropping this delicious delectable desert. By far the best gelato I have ever had!
Lucky's Burger: Read my Yelp review, for someone who rarely eats red meat it received 4 out of 5 stars. Get the cheeseburger, YUM!
Dumplings at Prosperity Dumplings: These homemade dumplings are right across the street from us. They are not only cheap, I'm talking 8 dumplings for 2.00 cheap but they are fast. Perfect street food although messy.
Calexico Food Truck: Get the folded quesadilla served with their crack sauce (chipotle sour cream) it will surly become your go to street food. Stroll through Soho, quesadilla is hand and you got yourself a perfect little afternoon.
Donut at Donut Planet: So don't go here on a weekend morning, it will be as if you were waiting in line for a U2 concert. I don't eat many donuts but let me tell ya I ate one and could have easily eaten another one. Its as if Grandma is back there making a fresh batch of sugary goodness by the minute. Plus the smell of this place is truly intoxicating.
Rice to Riches: This place may sound odd but it's interesting how many rice pudding flavors they have created. You walk in and there's at least 25 different varieties of rice pudding plus you can add toppings. This was one of my mom's favorite.
Baohaus Sandwich: Again I love me some street food. These are Vietnamese soft bun sandwiches with braised meat, heavy cilantro and chopped peanuts. You can't get this tiny buddle of flavor just anywhere. If you want to awake your taste-buds come here.
Hampton Chutney Co: These next 2 reviews I cant take credit for because I haven't eaten there but Greg has. I believe Greg had some life changing moments here
Bowery Poetry Clubs Roast Beef sandwich: For 2 blocks while scarfing down this sandwich all I heard was pure satisfaction from Greg of course, that should sum it up.
Eataly: Fresh pasta, rare meats, imported cheeses, the finest espresso, perfected deserts and wine. Its like Italy moved to NYC. In fact the first Eataly is in Italy and then there's one here!
Chelsea Market: The Food Network is located upstairs to this market so I think they know a thing or 2 about food. I could spend hours here and once you go you will see why.
Zucco Le French Diner: This place has under 5 tables but try to belly-up at the bar. The food and the owner are nothing shy of witty charm. They even have a sign that says no ketchup, no budlight and no reservations which makes me love this place even more.
So of course I'm missing many amazing restaurants, this hardly scratches the surface but what I can tell you is that in 5 months of being here we did some damage. Although we still cooked at home we also enjoyed the many incredible restaurants Manhattan has to offer. The variety is endless and to me a great meal shouldn't cost you an arm and a leg.
Damn I'm going to miss the food here..
Falafel at Tiam- The falafel will blow your mind. The best in the city as you will see a Halal truck on every corner. Don't be fooled this falafel will change your world. I'm drooling just thinking of it.
Brick Lane Curry House: Indian food hasn't always been my go to, until now. The flavors are something I crave and lets be honest some food is just boring, not Indian. Its complex, multi-layered and the Indian cuisine here will take your taste buds on a wild adventure.
Supper: I have a hard time with Italian as I have been ruined by Olive Garden and feel I can always make it better. Until Supper I was convinced that Italian was heavy and makes you feel like there's a rock in your belly. Supper is the perfect combination of perfect portions and fresh pasta. I take everyone who comes to town to Supper or their sister restaurant Little Frankies.
Terminal Thai: I love me some pad thai, it has layer of favor combination that flirt with your taste buds. Between their drunken noodles and spring rolls I always have such a hard time deciding what to get as I am rarely disappointed.
Greek Salad at Atlas Cafe: Ok so this place is more of a coffee shop then a restaurant but their Greek salad makes me order it at least once a week. Its a heavily mix of perfect crisp greens and a light vinaigrette with the juiciest tomatoes. Served with warm bread, this is not your typical boring salad. Plus they have great coffee, all around a winner to me.
Desert Trucks Bread Pudding: Yikes I wish this place wasn't a block away. Its a daily occurrence that I I try to convince myself that I don't need to go there, but yet I still find myself standing in the doorway puppy-eyed and drooling. Its the most delectable desert creations. Also featured on Bobby Flay's Throwdown and won, come on people its that good.
Pho sandwich from Sunny and Annie's Deli: I have ordered this a few too many times after 1 am but damn its good. Its spicy, zesty and loaded with flavor in each bite. Its hard to put down and although I usually order the 2011 but always find myself stealing bites from Greg's Pho sandwich.
Pho at Pho 32: This place is open 24 hours bless their hearts. Its a great combination of thai basil, a sweet broth and crunchy sprouts. My mother fell in love with this dish which isn't hard to do. My comfort food is a big bowl of soup and this is nothing shy of just that.
Veggie Burger at Kate's Joint: Wont taste like a veggie burger to you because it doesn't to me. Although I'm not a disciplined vegetarian I do prefer veggies over carcass. This burger comes California style, thick cut pickle, ripe tomatoes and crisp lettuce. Side of Kate's special sauce and you got yourself a pretty convincing burger.
Breakfast at Clinton Street Baking Company: This breakfast is so good it will wake your ass up before noon. If you can get in to this small place its well worth the wait. My only wish is that they buy the space next to it to make more room. It's small but the Egg's Benedict will make you order it every time and I hear their blueberry pancakes are pretty kick ass.
Fish tacos at Essex Market/Grocery Store: If you blinked you would miss this little stand. There's 2 people working the counter so don't expect fast service but what you will get is food made with love. The fish taco's are under 5.00 bucks and for the money you get a hefty portion of homemade love in a tortilla.
Pizza at L'asso: Pizza isn't something I crave but allow me to tell you that when this pizza comes out I have a hard time holding back and eating just 2 slices. I am a member of the clean plate club when I'm here, I eat more pizza then I care to inform you on and lets just say that you will have a food moment here. All time will stop and you will get snapped back to reality once you feel your waistband explode. Wear your big girl pants when dining here as you won't be able to stop at just one slice.
Smoothie at Pause Cafe: Its a build your own smoothie bar. Mango's, strawberries and blueberries oh my all the combinations are making me want to run down there right now and order one. Ok so there's nothing exciting or innovative about a smoothie you say but allow me to tell you that on a hot day there's nothing more refreshing.
Bisous Ciao Macaroons: My sister nearly had a desert meltdown when her lips locked passionately to these perfectly prepared gems. With disbelief and crumbs on her face she realized then that she likes no loves macaroons. "No I can't believe this," she said. Words of a wise woman go and you will be convinced too.
Momofuku Milk Bar: Chocolate Cookies. My boyfriend Greg who doesn't eat sweets ate 3 big cookies, need I say more?
Il Laboratorio Del Gelato: I clench the gelato cup for I have fear of dropping this delicious delectable desert. By far the best gelato I have ever had!
Lucky's Burger: Read my Yelp review, for someone who rarely eats red meat it received 4 out of 5 stars. Get the cheeseburger, YUM!
Dumplings at Prosperity Dumplings: These homemade dumplings are right across the street from us. They are not only cheap, I'm talking 8 dumplings for 2.00 cheap but they are fast. Perfect street food although messy.
Calexico Food Truck: Get the folded quesadilla served with their crack sauce (chipotle sour cream) it will surly become your go to street food. Stroll through Soho, quesadilla is hand and you got yourself a perfect little afternoon.
Donut at Donut Planet: So don't go here on a weekend morning, it will be as if you were waiting in line for a U2 concert. I don't eat many donuts but let me tell ya I ate one and could have easily eaten another one. Its as if Grandma is back there making a fresh batch of sugary goodness by the minute. Plus the smell of this place is truly intoxicating.
Rice to Riches: This place may sound odd but it's interesting how many rice pudding flavors they have created. You walk in and there's at least 25 different varieties of rice pudding plus you can add toppings. This was one of my mom's favorite.
Baohaus Sandwich: Again I love me some street food. These are Vietnamese soft bun sandwiches with braised meat, heavy cilantro and chopped peanuts. You can't get this tiny buddle of flavor just anywhere. If you want to awake your taste-buds come here.
Hampton Chutney Co: These next 2 reviews I cant take credit for because I haven't eaten there but Greg has. I believe Greg had some life changing moments here
Bowery Poetry Clubs Roast Beef sandwich: For 2 blocks while scarfing down this sandwich all I heard was pure satisfaction from Greg of course, that should sum it up.
Eataly: Fresh pasta, rare meats, imported cheeses, the finest espresso, perfected deserts and wine. Its like Italy moved to NYC. In fact the first Eataly is in Italy and then there's one here!
Chelsea Market: The Food Network is located upstairs to this market so I think they know a thing or 2 about food. I could spend hours here and once you go you will see why.
Zucco Le French Diner: This place has under 5 tables but try to belly-up at the bar. The food and the owner are nothing shy of witty charm. They even have a sign that says no ketchup, no budlight and no reservations which makes me love this place even more.
So of course I'm missing many amazing restaurants, this hardly scratches the surface but what I can tell you is that in 5 months of being here we did some damage. Although we still cooked at home we also enjoyed the many incredible restaurants Manhattan has to offer. The variety is endless and to me a great meal shouldn't cost you an arm and a leg.
Damn I'm going to miss the food here..
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Tour Guild through Manhattan
Even though I have lived in Manhattan for a brief 5 months I have turned into a tour guild which allows me to tell you about all the secret gems I have found. While visiting Manhattan one can become overwhelmed by the massiveness of concrete and sheer volume of places to visit. I have narrowed it down to the places I take the many visitors that have came and went. Before you die, Manhattan needs to be on your bucket-list although it's not for everyone you will find that there's something for everyone here in the greatest city in the world.
Soho (South of Houston Street): When on Broadway street you will notice the volume of people and the tallness of the buildings increase two-fold. Lined with familiar shops and some unfamiliar markets, Soho quickly will grab your last remaining dollars. Street vendors set up shop at every corner selling everything from hats to one of a kind jewels. Its not surprising that one would walk right into a movie shoot featuring Will Smith. This is the New York you see in movies with a sea of people heading towards you and tourist as far as the eye can see. I wouldn't dare go to Soho on a Saturday however on a Monday you will have better luck finding a dressing room or getting a touch of customer service.
By Soho there's a street called Prince and another called Spring: These streets got money honey. Lets start with Prince, maybe I'm partial to this street because that's where I saw my first celebrity. Wouldn't you like to know who, we'll get to that later. Little bakeries, coffeehouses, my favorite bookstore and designer boutiques I could never afford. I find myself walking along with puppy dog eyes at the newest fashion one of a kinds. I'm drooling at the sugary confections lined in a perfect row while neighbors sip espresso on benches by the cobblestone street. I love this street because it's a perfect combination of shops specializing in only purses and perfect restaurants offering top of the line cuisine.
Spring Street: The Kardashian sisters like this street too as their overpriced boutique can be found moments away from Soho. Little patios, small cafes and the best pizza in the city can be found here. These 2 streets run parallel to each other complimenting one another by the highest of standards. Someone would have to die to get an apartment here. Between the 2, I love them both.
Lower East Side specifically Clinton Street to Houston: Maybe I'm partial because I live on this street but in my opinion there's nothing like it. Atlas coffee shops truly feels as if your in Rome and most restaurants have less then 15 tables. There's a homemade dumpling restaurant and markets that are cheap, rare and remind me of Global Market. Clinton Street Baking Company gets the most attention and every time I tell someone where I live they instantly say "have you tried their blueberry pancakes?" and unfortunately I say no because on any given day there's a 2 hour wait. Its a kinda place where one can roll out of bed and call it fashion and where you can find the cheapest eats in the city. It's been my home for 5 months now and I can't imagine living anywhere else within Manhattan. My fire escape has become my favorite view of the city and made me realize that one doesn't need a T.V if you live here. Ludlow, Orchard, Essex and Rivington street, this is what made me fall in love with Manhattan.
The Parks (yes we have parks here): Washington Square, Union Square and of course Central Park.
It is a concrete jungle but thank god they were smart enough to build in parks. The sheer noise of this city can drive someone crazy so when you dip into one of these parks it somewhat feels like you've shut the city off if only for a moment. You can still hear the slight hum of the city by you but that melts away once you can sit on the grass and smell the pretty flowers. Mind you it wasn't like this for me when I moved here in the dead of winter but now I can appreciate the beauty within these parks. Grab a good read, iced coffee and a scone and one could spend hours wasting away in these man made wonders roasting in the sun.
Chinatown: The stench of the fish mongers will let you know when you have stumbled upon Chinatown. Canel Street will bring you into the heart of it all where English becomes second to Chinese. Some New York's will disagree but to me this is the cheapest place within the city. You can find 60 minute massages for 40.00 (happy ending not included) and if you can get past the smell of half-dead fish the produce isn't all that bad. You truly feel like you are in China itself and if your on a budget go here. Weirdest thing I saw was a giant bucket of bull frogs for 4.50 a pound or dried deer foot for a dollar which actually seems like a deal. Also allow me to remind you that the Chinese don't waste anything so keep that in mind if your in the market for say fish eyeballs or dried fish belly.
Some people avoid Chinatown but I say the more unfamiliar the better.
St.Marks Street: Again another concrete stretch I love. Its hard to sum this one up, I just like it. It's got good restaurants and I always go and eat Pho there. Its trendy (but then again what part of Manhattan isn't) and has a great vibe. I like people watching here because it's very eclectic. Its got a vibe that you will fall in love and its not an instant touristy spot.
On top of the Rockefeller: I just did this with my mother and it was truly breathtaking. It's perfectly placed so that you can walk around and see all sides of Manhattan. Plus your 67 floors up, with 3 levels and if you go in the morning you will avoid the dreadful lines.
The Food: This deserves an entirly different blog, coming soon.
Times Square at Night: Those who know me know I dislike Times Square, the very thought of it makes me want to throw up. The crowds, the lines its like a cluster fuck of people that all seem to be lost. However bringing people to see the light show for the first time makes me realizes how insensitive I am to their first Times Square experience. Its a spectacle of dancing lights, a marvel of man-made screens plastered on tall buildings. I suggest taking a giant hit of acid and stroll along the streets of Times Square (this is a joke as you would surly violently puke.) It's something to see if only once and in my case 8-10 times. I am over it but I see virgin Times Square observers truly light up like Times Square itself.
World Trade Center Memorial: The TV did you no justice. Once your eyes find the giant missing spot in the sky you will truly understand the weight of this disaster. It opens this fall and although most of it is closed off, between gaps in the construction you can catch a small glimpse of the destruction. Go and pay your respects, go and support the fellow Americans caught in the madness that is politics.
Battery Park: Way at the base of Manhattan is a well preserved park, this was where all the immigrants first settled. You can take multiple ferry's to other islands and as you walk along the waters edge. It's nothing that will blow your mind away but it's rich in history and beautiful once the sun starts setting.
Just Walk: Too often trips are so overly planned, Manhattan will plan you. You can walk and get lost for hours here, you will stumble into your own secret gems and I challenge you to allow Manhattan to take you on it's own journey. The misconception is that you will stumble into a unsafe place, get over that fear now this city is safe. Unless you are waving money in plain sight or acting like an idiot you will find that Manhattan is just as safe as if you were sitting in your backyard. Walking has become a simple joy for me and on any given day I walk about 50-80 blocks.
Eataly, Chelsea Market and all smaller foodie markets: This is the food mecca people thank god I walk or I would surly become a fat ass. Fresh pasta, the freshest fish and the rarest cuts of meat that will make a vegetarian contemplate being one. You can find the rarest imported goods, the highest quality produce and deserts that will make a diabetic cheat on their diet. Come here and eat your heart out, it's easy to do.
The High-Rise: Secret gem in the city offering a perfect view of the Hudson on the West side. Equipped with chairs feel free to take a nap on one of many lounge chairs built into this walkway. Locals will not like me for spilling this hidden secret but once you take the yellow elevator up to the highrise you will understand why this is a great spot within the city. Go and walk along the flowers and smell the spring in the air.
Go see a show, any show: Lights, Camera, Action and lots of it. Theater row offers anything for any cost, for any taste. The best of the best, the cream of the crop. Go and be blown away by the talent.
Surly I am forgetting some specucals but for the meantime this will fill at least 4 days of sightseeing. All these places I have taken my guests and each time they walk away loving Manhattan which is not hard to do.
Oh yes and the celebrity on Prince street was Jake Gyllenhaal.
Soho (South of Houston Street): When on Broadway street you will notice the volume of people and the tallness of the buildings increase two-fold. Lined with familiar shops and some unfamiliar markets, Soho quickly will grab your last remaining dollars. Street vendors set up shop at every corner selling everything from hats to one of a kind jewels. Its not surprising that one would walk right into a movie shoot featuring Will Smith. This is the New York you see in movies with a sea of people heading towards you and tourist as far as the eye can see. I wouldn't dare go to Soho on a Saturday however on a Monday you will have better luck finding a dressing room or getting a touch of customer service.
By Soho there's a street called Prince and another called Spring: These streets got money honey. Lets start with Prince, maybe I'm partial to this street because that's where I saw my first celebrity. Wouldn't you like to know who, we'll get to that later. Little bakeries, coffeehouses, my favorite bookstore and designer boutiques I could never afford. I find myself walking along with puppy dog eyes at the newest fashion one of a kinds. I'm drooling at the sugary confections lined in a perfect row while neighbors sip espresso on benches by the cobblestone street. I love this street because it's a perfect combination of shops specializing in only purses and perfect restaurants offering top of the line cuisine.
Spring Street: The Kardashian sisters like this street too as their overpriced boutique can be found moments away from Soho. Little patios, small cafes and the best pizza in the city can be found here. These 2 streets run parallel to each other complimenting one another by the highest of standards. Someone would have to die to get an apartment here. Between the 2, I love them both.
Lower East Side specifically Clinton Street to Houston: Maybe I'm partial because I live on this street but in my opinion there's nothing like it. Atlas coffee shops truly feels as if your in Rome and most restaurants have less then 15 tables. There's a homemade dumpling restaurant and markets that are cheap, rare and remind me of Global Market. Clinton Street Baking Company gets the most attention and every time I tell someone where I live they instantly say "have you tried their blueberry pancakes?" and unfortunately I say no because on any given day there's a 2 hour wait. Its a kinda place where one can roll out of bed and call it fashion and where you can find the cheapest eats in the city. It's been my home for 5 months now and I can't imagine living anywhere else within Manhattan. My fire escape has become my favorite view of the city and made me realize that one doesn't need a T.V if you live here. Ludlow, Orchard, Essex and Rivington street, this is what made me fall in love with Manhattan.
The Parks (yes we have parks here): Washington Square, Union Square and of course Central Park.
It is a concrete jungle but thank god they were smart enough to build in parks. The sheer noise of this city can drive someone crazy so when you dip into one of these parks it somewhat feels like you've shut the city off if only for a moment. You can still hear the slight hum of the city by you but that melts away once you can sit on the grass and smell the pretty flowers. Mind you it wasn't like this for me when I moved here in the dead of winter but now I can appreciate the beauty within these parks. Grab a good read, iced coffee and a scone and one could spend hours wasting away in these man made wonders roasting in the sun.
Chinatown: The stench of the fish mongers will let you know when you have stumbled upon Chinatown. Canel Street will bring you into the heart of it all where English becomes second to Chinese. Some New York's will disagree but to me this is the cheapest place within the city. You can find 60 minute massages for 40.00 (happy ending not included) and if you can get past the smell of half-dead fish the produce isn't all that bad. You truly feel like you are in China itself and if your on a budget go here. Weirdest thing I saw was a giant bucket of bull frogs for 4.50 a pound or dried deer foot for a dollar which actually seems like a deal. Also allow me to remind you that the Chinese don't waste anything so keep that in mind if your in the market for say fish eyeballs or dried fish belly.
Some people avoid Chinatown but I say the more unfamiliar the better.
St.Marks Street: Again another concrete stretch I love. Its hard to sum this one up, I just like it. It's got good restaurants and I always go and eat Pho there. Its trendy (but then again what part of Manhattan isn't) and has a great vibe. I like people watching here because it's very eclectic. Its got a vibe that you will fall in love and its not an instant touristy spot.
On top of the Rockefeller: I just did this with my mother and it was truly breathtaking. It's perfectly placed so that you can walk around and see all sides of Manhattan. Plus your 67 floors up, with 3 levels and if you go in the morning you will avoid the dreadful lines.
The Food: This deserves an entirly different blog, coming soon.
Times Square at Night: Those who know me know I dislike Times Square, the very thought of it makes me want to throw up. The crowds, the lines its like a cluster fuck of people that all seem to be lost. However bringing people to see the light show for the first time makes me realizes how insensitive I am to their first Times Square experience. Its a spectacle of dancing lights, a marvel of man-made screens plastered on tall buildings. I suggest taking a giant hit of acid and stroll along the streets of Times Square (this is a joke as you would surly violently puke.) It's something to see if only once and in my case 8-10 times. I am over it but I see virgin Times Square observers truly light up like Times Square itself.
World Trade Center Memorial: The TV did you no justice. Once your eyes find the giant missing spot in the sky you will truly understand the weight of this disaster. It opens this fall and although most of it is closed off, between gaps in the construction you can catch a small glimpse of the destruction. Go and pay your respects, go and support the fellow Americans caught in the madness that is politics.
Battery Park: Way at the base of Manhattan is a well preserved park, this was where all the immigrants first settled. You can take multiple ferry's to other islands and as you walk along the waters edge. It's nothing that will blow your mind away but it's rich in history and beautiful once the sun starts setting.
Just Walk: Too often trips are so overly planned, Manhattan will plan you. You can walk and get lost for hours here, you will stumble into your own secret gems and I challenge you to allow Manhattan to take you on it's own journey. The misconception is that you will stumble into a unsafe place, get over that fear now this city is safe. Unless you are waving money in plain sight or acting like an idiot you will find that Manhattan is just as safe as if you were sitting in your backyard. Walking has become a simple joy for me and on any given day I walk about 50-80 blocks.
Eataly, Chelsea Market and all smaller foodie markets: This is the food mecca people thank god I walk or I would surly become a fat ass. Fresh pasta, the freshest fish and the rarest cuts of meat that will make a vegetarian contemplate being one. You can find the rarest imported goods, the highest quality produce and deserts that will make a diabetic cheat on their diet. Come here and eat your heart out, it's easy to do.
The High-Rise: Secret gem in the city offering a perfect view of the Hudson on the West side. Equipped with chairs feel free to take a nap on one of many lounge chairs built into this walkway. Locals will not like me for spilling this hidden secret but once you take the yellow elevator up to the highrise you will understand why this is a great spot within the city. Go and walk along the flowers and smell the spring in the air.
Go see a show, any show: Lights, Camera, Action and lots of it. Theater row offers anything for any cost, for any taste. The best of the best, the cream of the crop. Go and be blown away by the talent.
Surly I am forgetting some specucals but for the meantime this will fill at least 4 days of sightseeing. All these places I have taken my guests and each time they walk away loving Manhattan which is not hard to do.
Oh yes and the celebrity on Prince street was Jake Gyllenhaal.
Monday, May 2, 2011
Am I Safe?
Do you feel safe in New York City? Is a common question I get asked. The truth is that I have never felt safer. With each neighborhood is surrounded by fellow spirits just trying to make sense of this accomplishment. And that's how I would describe Manhattan, the place I call home. With the skyscrapers as high as the eye can see and its streets pressed with history touching your toes its hard to not feel secure. Its the unfamiliarity of a new place, a change but once you stop making sense of it, all things seem to fall in place.
There's been just a few times I felt a change in the air, a heavnyness of insecurity where the thoughts "I shouldn't be here" sprung into mind. I live by the F train (a common subway for everyday New Yorkers) and I left the actual station on the wrong side. Sudddenly I went above gorund to a very quite New York. A little too quiet and I was a little too new to New York but I took notice. I understood one thing and that was that New York City was never quiet not only quiet but dark. Something swelled up in my throat and I felt my strut turn into a faster pace jog as if a fire was lite from under my shoe. I was alone. I finally felt alone. Never upon an island of 8 million had I felt this way, I knew I was in the wrong area. Nothing happened as a sprinted along but it was one of the times I felt unsafe or maybe it was the first time I had been alone. Needless to say, I was scared and my only thought was my mother getting a phone call that her baby girl in the Big City for the first time didn't make it home last night.
Here's a fun fact about New York, it's safe. Sure there's area's to avoid but you never feel alone and you always feel like there is just too many damn people everywhere. There's times when at any given moment you will have 50 people around you and then you will turn down a street and have 2. You gracefully shoulder rub oncoming civilian traffic that people never seem too far away.
So as I sit in my apartment alone (watching Glee and drink a glass (bottle) of wine) and ponder the question of safety, I without a doubt feel it here. I trust an inner instinct within myself that says I fight like a complete girl but could cut a bitch if need be. With familiarity brings security because with familiarity one recognizes where they are and in New York I rarely knew where I was. Not like I understand now being 5 months in. For now I am safe and always felt that way the moment I entered this amazing city.
There's been just a few times I felt a change in the air, a heavnyness of insecurity where the thoughts "I shouldn't be here" sprung into mind. I live by the F train (a common subway for everyday New Yorkers) and I left the actual station on the wrong side. Sudddenly I went above gorund to a very quite New York. A little too quiet and I was a little too new to New York but I took notice. I understood one thing and that was that New York City was never quiet not only quiet but dark. Something swelled up in my throat and I felt my strut turn into a faster pace jog as if a fire was lite from under my shoe. I was alone. I finally felt alone. Never upon an island of 8 million had I felt this way, I knew I was in the wrong area. Nothing happened as a sprinted along but it was one of the times I felt unsafe or maybe it was the first time I had been alone. Needless to say, I was scared and my only thought was my mother getting a phone call that her baby girl in the Big City for the first time didn't make it home last night.
Here's a fun fact about New York, it's safe. Sure there's area's to avoid but you never feel alone and you always feel like there is just too many damn people everywhere. There's times when at any given moment you will have 50 people around you and then you will turn down a street and have 2. You gracefully shoulder rub oncoming civilian traffic that people never seem too far away.
So as I sit in my apartment alone (watching Glee and drink a glass (bottle) of wine) and ponder the question of safety, I without a doubt feel it here. I trust an inner instinct within myself that says I fight like a complete girl but could cut a bitch if need be. With familiarity brings security because with familiarity one recognizes where they are and in New York I rarely knew where I was. Not like I understand now being 5 months in. For now I am safe and always felt that way the moment I entered this amazing city.
Friday, April 15, 2011
You Win New York, You Win.
So I have been told many things about New York. The one that sticks is that I came during one of the worst winters they have had. Which made me still like New York but I also found it to be kind of harsh, harder to learn, and kind of dirty. I destroyed many shoes, got lost in the freezing cold and felt exhausted on most days while trying to furnish an apartment. I wasn't completely sold on this New York thing, I wasn't completely against it but all I knew is that the winter was harsh until it happened. The weather turned and so did the city. It became alive in a way I didn't see before, in a way I didn't expect. We had our first over 70 degree day and then I understood New York, that's when the light went off.
That day I walked 7 hours. 30 of those blocks I walked with a complete stranger that I had a lovely conversation with. My feet didn't mind the blisters and for the first time I saw all the beauty this city holds. From the tall monstrous buildings surrounding me to the endless sea of people coming and going those of which I can now recognize as native or tourist. This city is not for the claustrophobic, in fact there are things that I still dislike sun or snow but I at least get it.
When its nice the city truly transforms but then again doesn't every place. Here it seems to slow people and it brings the bustling to a slower push. My fast jog of a walk turns into a less intensive stroll. You weave in and out of places you didn't realize were there and 60+ blocks seems close. The harsh of the grit is less invasive, the graffiti becomes art and the subways make you feel like a New Yorker. The air even smells fresher and the breeze you catch cools an extreme walker. I get it, I get it New York. I see why you steal the hearts of everyone who enter your massiveness. Yah yah yah, there's nothing like you, ok you win. That's the truest statement of my life, once I stopped fighting it I got it ( and with it came nicer weather). Winning.
I tasted summer and even though we are leaving I now understand why one would never leave. I understand why this is the greatest place for opportunity. New York will always have a piece of my heart, New York is a pretty special place to be.
That day I walked 7 hours. 30 of those blocks I walked with a complete stranger that I had a lovely conversation with. My feet didn't mind the blisters and for the first time I saw all the beauty this city holds. From the tall monstrous buildings surrounding me to the endless sea of people coming and going those of which I can now recognize as native or tourist. This city is not for the claustrophobic, in fact there are things that I still dislike sun or snow but I at least get it.
When its nice the city truly transforms but then again doesn't every place. Here it seems to slow people and it brings the bustling to a slower push. My fast jog of a walk turns into a less intensive stroll. You weave in and out of places you didn't realize were there and 60+ blocks seems close. The harsh of the grit is less invasive, the graffiti becomes art and the subways make you feel like a New Yorker. The air even smells fresher and the breeze you catch cools an extreme walker. I get it, I get it New York. I see why you steal the hearts of everyone who enter your massiveness. Yah yah yah, there's nothing like you, ok you win. That's the truest statement of my life, once I stopped fighting it I got it ( and with it came nicer weather). Winning.
I tasted summer and even though we are leaving I now understand why one would never leave. I understand why this is the greatest place for opportunity. New York will always have a piece of my heart, New York is a pretty special place to be.
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Its Been 10 Years..
I remember seeing a hole missing within the many miles of skyscrapers (which is odd for Manhattan). A noticeable missing space. I remember feeling heavy and before I knew it I was there and for once I didn't need my map to tell me where I was. I looked to my right and there it was and my body was pulled to it. I became saddened and quiet which is a miracle all in itself. 9/11 became real and not a mess of horrible images splashed on the tube. I stood there 10 years later and finally felt the gravity of the situation.
The memorial opens this fall and I didn't intent to stumble upon it, I just happened to and in doing so I knew where I was. An untouched dusty church sits right along side the grave and buildings as tall as the eye can see surrounding this "place" (for lack of a better word). I can't really think of a word to describe it since it unleashes a weird unsettled feeling beyond what I've felt. There were also a lot of bodies that were never recovered and I feel compelled to say grave but I don't care for that either. It's also massive, bigger then your T.V lead you to believe.
It's something we all shared in, didn't we? I'm sad that we hear less about the war and even less about this missing spot in Manhattan. It's like a big pink elephant that everyone ignores because time has won the fight on terrorism. If you could see it, its something that will make what you saw on TV real. If you could feel the weight of this sight it would make all of your problems seem like insignificant specs of dusk. It's undeniable, it's perfectly symbolic of the damage we can do to ourselves without getting political.
Its been ten years and I would like to say that we all shared in this moment, a moment that may still affect you today. We all know someone fighting in the war, we all have our own story about what happened that day. Can you give one of your thoughts to those that lost their life that day and those that fight in the war still today? its been 10 years and we are still in it today.
The memorial opens this fall and I didn't intent to stumble upon it, I just happened to and in doing so I knew where I was. An untouched dusty church sits right along side the grave and buildings as tall as the eye can see surrounding this "place" (for lack of a better word). I can't really think of a word to describe it since it unleashes a weird unsettled feeling beyond what I've felt. There were also a lot of bodies that were never recovered and I feel compelled to say grave but I don't care for that either. It's also massive, bigger then your T.V lead you to believe.
It's something we all shared in, didn't we? I'm sad that we hear less about the war and even less about this missing spot in Manhattan. It's like a big pink elephant that everyone ignores because time has won the fight on terrorism. If you could see it, its something that will make what you saw on TV real. If you could feel the weight of this sight it would make all of your problems seem like insignificant specs of dusk. It's undeniable, it's perfectly symbolic of the damage we can do to ourselves without getting political.
Its been ten years and I would like to say that we all shared in this moment, a moment that may still affect you today. We all know someone fighting in the war, we all have our own story about what happened that day. Can you give one of your thoughts to those that lost their life that day and those that fight in the war still today? its been 10 years and we are still in it today.
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Fashion, Drama and (ready Britt) Action..
One would notice the individuality that surrounds Manhattan depending on the area. We live in the LES (lower east side) that screams hipster, dark colors and an anything goes kind of apparel. It encourages messy hair and a rolled out of bed look. Walking in Soho and on 5th Avenue you will find a more pulled together look with a lot of fur and a sense of money. The fashion in Manhattan is cutting edge and on any corner little boutiques host one of a kind fashions at any price.
When you walk the streets no one person fits a conformity mold and one starts to notice that anything goes when it comes to fashion. You become more daring, you add more not less and if something speaks to you, you go for it. Black is the color trend and in cold weather states that seems to be the classic color of the season. When the weather turns less cruel so do New Yorkers. We smile a little more, we walk kinder and black gets a brief retirement. Its a play ground for the fashion forward or those on any budget. You can play dress up here from Lady Gaga to as white trash as say Brittney Spears post meltdown. You own it and therefore it looks trendy and it makes you stop and notice.
In Union Square I sat on a bench, people watching. This is easy to do here, and you could really do this for hours. Who needs to TV when the live entertainment value of New Yorkers is entertaining enough. A multicolored wig caught my eye. Not only the color but the height of this thing was impressive. A good ten pounds of fake colored fro, bouncing carelessly as big busts of wind failed to knock the glory off his head. Every color of the rainbow, a teased mess and he was damn proud that he had found it. He was wearing it today and no one could stop him, it would take a short door entrance to knock his prized locks off. Oh and the strut, that man STRUTTED like he was on a runway for Chanel.
And that my friends is New York City. No shame, no conformity and all individuality (with a dash of what some would say is crazy). You can get away with anything here except for urinating in public and fighting in bars. Even the homeless people here are all that and a bag of chips. Every one not only walks really fast here but they walk with purpose and with a strut (unless you are a tourist).
Here's my cheers to NYC. You go New York with your bad self. New york is like an Italian woman, it will cook you a nice meal but if you piss her off it will be quick to give you the middle finger. There's no place like it however I hear London is comparable.
When you walk the streets no one person fits a conformity mold and one starts to notice that anything goes when it comes to fashion. You become more daring, you add more not less and if something speaks to you, you go for it. Black is the color trend and in cold weather states that seems to be the classic color of the season. When the weather turns less cruel so do New Yorkers. We smile a little more, we walk kinder and black gets a brief retirement. Its a play ground for the fashion forward or those on any budget. You can play dress up here from Lady Gaga to as white trash as say Brittney Spears post meltdown. You own it and therefore it looks trendy and it makes you stop and notice.
In Union Square I sat on a bench, people watching. This is easy to do here, and you could really do this for hours. Who needs to TV when the live entertainment value of New Yorkers is entertaining enough. A multicolored wig caught my eye. Not only the color but the height of this thing was impressive. A good ten pounds of fake colored fro, bouncing carelessly as big busts of wind failed to knock the glory off his head. Every color of the rainbow, a teased mess and he was damn proud that he had found it. He was wearing it today and no one could stop him, it would take a short door entrance to knock his prized locks off. Oh and the strut, that man STRUTTED like he was on a runway for Chanel.
And that my friends is New York City. No shame, no conformity and all individuality (with a dash of what some would say is crazy). You can get away with anything here except for urinating in public and fighting in bars. Even the homeless people here are all that and a bag of chips. Every one not only walks really fast here but they walk with purpose and with a strut (unless you are a tourist).
Here's my cheers to NYC. You go New York with your bad self. New york is like an Italian woman, it will cook you a nice meal but if you piss her off it will be quick to give you the middle finger. There's no place like it however I hear London is comparable.
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