The Upper East Side Informer

Children’s Cancer & Blood Foundation Breakthrough Ball Gala Event

2011-10-25T10:04:00.002-04:00

Children’s Cancer & Blood Foundation Breakthrough Ball Gala

Honoring Leyla Aliyeva, Muffie Potter Aston, and Buddy Valastro

The Children’s Cancer & Blood Foundation (CCBF) will host its annual “Breakthrough Ball” benefit gala on Tuesday evening, November 1st, 2011 at the Plaza Hotel in New York City. Proceeds from this benefit help to provide much needed medication, chemotherapy and other life-saving treatments to children at the Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology of New York-Presbyterian Hospital Weill Cornell Medical Center.

The coveted “Key to Life” award will be presented to Leyla Aliyeva, Vice President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation and Founder of IDEA Environment Campaign. Joining her will be the “Breakthrough Spirit” award recipients Muffie Potter Aston, Humanitarian and Philanthropist and Buddy Valastro, Master Cake Decorator and Star of the Hit TLC Reality Show, who will be awarded for their inspirational dedication to supporting children in need. Past “Breakthrough Ball” honorees include Katie Couric, Ted Turner, Toni Braxton, Tiki Barber, Trent Tucker and HRH Princess Ghida Talal of Jordan. The evening will also include a special performance by popular a capella group, Straight No Chaser.

Jamie Niven, Vice Chairman, Sotheby’s will lead a live auction that will feature, among other packages, Super Bowl XLVI Tickets, a Fashion Trip to Paris and a Hampton’s Golf Package with tee-offs at the Hampton’s most exclusive and highly rated courses including Shinnecock Hills, Atlantic, The Bridge and Maidstone. The live auction concludes with a pledge item that gives guests the opportunity to support a child’s chemotherapy treatment for a year.

For nearly 60 years, CCBF has been proud to support the extraordinary team of doctors and researchers of the Division. CCBF’s support has attracted and retained a group of world-renowned experts on the treatment of multiple pediatric blood disorders and cancers, including hemophilia, sickle-cell anemia and leukemia. CCBF researchers have received international recognition for their work and are on the cusp of breakthroughs predicted to change the way the medical community treats children with cancer and blood diseases. Each year, physicians treat more than 1,000 children through more than 10,000 inpatient and outpatient visits. No child is ever turned away for services, regardless of his or her ability to pay.

Children’s Cancer & Blood Foundation Breakthrough Ball Gala Event http://www.childrenscbf.org/

The Plaza Hotel
768 5th Avenue, New York
(212) 546-5300

Sometimes Money is Just Money

2011-09-15T13:01:00.003-04:00

I must admit that I am not the greatest art enthusiast; however I do believe that the most salient art is the type that has the ability to be the most interchangeable, so that every viewer can relate it to his/ or her own personal experience(s) or identity. And where installation art is concerned, some of it tends to be a little to abstract and obscure for my overly pragmatic mind and my unnerving need to find practicality in everything.

So when I read about the Hans-Peter Feldmann’s $100,000 Hugo Boss Prize awarded for 2010, which was turned into a art installation and on exhibit at the Solomon R Guggenheim Museum from May 20, 2011 to November 2, 2011- Yes, I finally got around to viewing it and writing a blog about it, better late than never, besides I wanted my opportunity to weigh in on this presentation.

Hans-Peter Feldmann is a 70 year old German artist who has made his staple in the conceptual art movement (for those who are unaware, conceptual art embraces the notion or ideology of the art as more prevalent than simply being pleasing to the eye). His work began in the late 60’s and expands through today. His repertoire of work spans from paintings, photography and installation as well as publications. In commemoration of the longevity and admiration of his work he was awarded.

The exhibit presents 100,000 one dollar bills pinned to a large airy room with columns leaving every space completely wallpapered in money. It took nearly two weeks and approximately nine assistants to create. The bills are displayed face up or down in a random pattern which overlap each other.

The art is meant to question the parallels of value and art. Dollar bills are simply pieces of paper as it’s attached to a wall but outside of that room essential reigns supreme in a capitalist environment. Let me just say that I love money and I hope to acquire a lot more of it in my life. I definitely recommend seeing the exhibit because it is a sight that you may never see again in your life; however I do not know that the message was properly relayed as it was meant. Without disrespect, I find the aesthetic to be astounding but it overshadows Mr. Feldmann’s message to the public; and therefore making the art not so conceptual. As such, I have sided with Karen Rosenberg’s June 22nd review in the New York Times entitled “Spendable Art That’s Not for Sale” (http://www.nytimes.com/2011/06/03/arts/design/hans-peter-feldmann-at-the-guggenheim-review.html)

Hugo Boss Prize 2010: Hans-Peter Feldmann
On display through 11/9/2011
Solomon R Guggenheim Museum
101 5th Avenue
(Corner of 5th and 89th Street)
212-423-3500

Off The Rails

2011-08-24T11:23:00.001-04:00

One of the great novelties of New York City living is the turnover of businesses that come through like a whirlwind. Unfortunately, lately I have grown more accustomed to seeing establishments leave the neighborhood due to all the construction. But in this entry of Upper East Side Informer, I am happy to introduce a new local hang out to my fellow Upper Eastsiders…Off the Rails.

The exposed brick, open front and mahogany bar may add to the appeal but not the uniqueness of this bar. A concept, which is rare in this neighborhood but not uncommon in other parts of the city, is that this bar actually has a DJ and not a jukebox that plays the latest hits from lame and lamer. This feature adds an element of liveliness and action, which sets it apart from the rest.

If that doesn’t encourage you to come, maybe the unpredictable crowd will. You can enjoy a low key night on Second Avenue with exceptional cocktails made to your liking by experienced bartenders, come into an atmosphere where girls dance on bar-tops and do body shots across the bar, giving Coyote Ugly a run for its money. A night at Off the Rails is a gamble but the odds are win-win.

Notable too is the friendliness of both the patrons and the barkeeps, some of whom speak in a charming brogue. Our local friendly DJ came in, instantly recognizable with his easygoing smile and manner. Watching him shake the hand of the man behind the bar, I got the sense that while OTR may not be “Cheers,” it definitely has that intimate feeling that a bar with recurring clientele can afford. At the same time, people coming in for the first time are equally treated to a smile and a frank assessment of what beers are good.

In summation OTR, is a great alternative to the Yorkville nightlife scene (that is generally Manny’s) and is increasingly becoming my favorite new resident spot. Whether you live nearby or if you just come to UES to experience one of the many fine restaurants and enjoy a cocktail out, this pick definitely gets my recommendation.

Off the Rails

1754 2^nd Avenue

New York, NY

212-369-1900

http://www.offtherailsnyc.com

http://www.facebook.com/OffTheRailsNYC

TwitterID: OffTheRailsNYC

Welcome Neely's BBQ!

2011-07-14T01:08:00.009-04:00

After many months of renovating the former Merchant's space, Pat and Gina Neely will finally be opening their 1st restaurant in Manhattan’s Upper East Side. Pat and Gina host a show called “Down Home with the Neely’s” on a little network that very few people ever tune into known as the Food Network. Their show became the highest-rated series debut in the five-year history of Food Network's “In the Kitchen Weekend Block." Pat and Gina also released their first cookbook. Down Home with the Neely’s (Knopf, 2009), earning a place on The New York Times’ best-seller list.

The grand opening of Neely’s Barbecue Parlor is know upon us on July 13, 2011 and unless you seen the massive sign in front of this 1st location stating “Coming Soon” many months ago then you probably will not be able to gain entry to this very coveted event. Reservations have long been booked in advance by over 200 people per night. Perhaps when the publicity subsides and the restaurant reviews release then us "common folk" can actually obtain entry to this long awaited establishment.

Pat Neely opened up his first family barbeque restaurant in Memphis, Tennessee in 1988. Since then several other locations have populated throughout the south as well as a small country store in Nashville airport. In August 2008 they acquired a 2,000-square-foot space in mid-town Memphis coined to be the corporate headquarters for this ever expanding franchise.

The interior, a down-home southern décor as are many of New York’s barbeque restaurants and partitioned into various rooms complete with a den, a porch for outdoor seating, a fireplace. So move over infamous West Harlem famed BBQ joint, "Dinosaur" Neely's is comin' to UES!

Let us know if Neely’s Pig Parlor kept you eating high on the hog by commenting on our site and "Ya'll Come Back, Now Ye Heer!"

See below for menu highlights:

APPETIZERS

Hickory Smoked Chicken Wings Basted with chipotle BBQ 8.75

Spicy Sautéed Jumbo Shrimp & Anson Mills Grits with grilled scallions 15.75

Fried Green Tomatoes with Vidalia Onion Relish 8.95

Deep Fried Pickles with secret sauce 5.25

PEI Mussels steamed with poor man’s champagne, BBQ spices and smoked tomatoes $13.25

Pulled Pork Hushpuppies Spicy Carolina Mustard Dipping sauce $ 7.25

Candied Thick Cut Slab Bacon Brown Sugar coated and slow baked until crispy 7.00

Cornmeal Fried Mississippi Catfish Creole Remoulade 10.25

Three Little Pulled Pigs Pulled Pork Sliders on Mini Buns with your choice of sauce 9.00

SALADS
Iceberg Wedges Crumbled Blue cheese, Candied Bacon, Sweet 100 tomatoes, Ranch Dressing 8.50

Chopped Salad Romaine, Vine Ripe Tomato, Cucumber, Vidalia Onions, Pinto Beans, Smoked Cheddar Cheese,Smoked Tomato Vinaigrette 8.95

Dixieland Salad Crispy Chicken, Romaine, Hard Boiled Eggs, Grape Tomatoes, Spiced Pecans, Tupelo Honey-MustardDressing 14.95

BBQ PLATES
Served with your choice of one side and cornbreadTexas Style “12 hr” Smoked Beef Brisket Cooked low & slow over select hickory and post oak hardwoods for 12hours 15.95

Pulled Pork Potato Roll, Sweet Slaw, Tangy Vinegar Dipping Sauce 14.50

Memphis Style Baby Back Ribs Wet or Dry Full Rack 25.95 / half rack 15.50

Full Cut BBQ Pork Spare Ribs Full Rack 25.95 / half Rack 15.50

KC Style “Sweet and Sticky” Ribs Full Rack 25.95 / half Rack Basted with our Sweet & Tangy Barbeque Sauce 15.50

All Day “Beef Back Ribs Half Rack Really slow smoked over hickory & post oak Texas Style with no sauce 22.95

Pork Sampler Platter Spare Ribs, Baby Back Ribs, Pulled Pork 21.95

Neely’s Rib Sampler ½ Rack each of Pork Spare Ribs & Baby Back Ribs 28.95

MAIN PLATES
Cedar Planked Wild Salmon with Soft Corn Pudding, Tiny Green Beans & Parsley Butter 19.95

BBQ Spiced Day Boat Scallops with Succotash and “Slow Roasted” Cippollini Onions 25.95

Grilled “Sterling Silver” Cowboy Ribeye Steak 33.95

Moonshine glazed Bell Peppers, Creamed Corn, and TobaccoOnions“Blue Ribbon” Chicken (a/k/a Pat’s Beer Can Chicken) Free Range Chicken Cooked Over the Coals with a Pabst BlueRibbon Beer Can In Its Belly, with 2 Sides of Your Choice 16.95

SIDES
Cole Slaw 3.50
Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes 4.75
Macaroni & Cheese 7.95Gina’s Collard Greens 4.50
Steamed Tiny Green Beans 4.95
Hand-Cut Kennebec Fries 4.75
Southern Creamed Corn 4.95
Sweet Potato Fries 4.75
Black Eyed Peas with Pork & Bacon 4.50
Molasses Baked Beans 4.95
Spicy Pinto Beans with Burnt Ends 4.95

DESSERTS 7.00
Blackberry Cobbler with Vanilla Ice Cream
Pecan Pie a la Mode
NY Cheesecake with Raspberry Sauce
Mississippi Mud Pie with Rich Chocolate Sauce
Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Icing

Neely's
1125 1st Ave
New York, NY 10021
(347) 474-7093
http://http//www.facebook.com/NeelysBarbecueParlor
http://www.neelysbbq.com/

Street Eats in the UES

2011-06-17T20:30:00.002-04:00

This week on the Upper East Side pays tribute to New York’s favorite past time… Street Food! Many people can be squeamish around the idea of eating food from a sketchy looking character off the back of a truck, however street food has come along way from pre-wrapped sandwiches around a construction site -In fact street food vendors have evolved into fine cuisine over the years.

Street food appears to be saturated all over Midtown and slowly but surely the glorious street carts are now also creeping there way to be more common and accessible to Uppereastsiders. Many now adays have a twitter or Facebook so you can follow street vendors every mobile move. There are also dedicated websites to allow you to locate the best street vendor to satisfy you salacious palette.

Every so often new advances are made to the street food truck. Most recently the Pera Turkish Taco Truck stationed by the tourist office and gift shop that used to be the old Tavern on the Green has been awarded the first liquor license granted to a New York City food truck.

Here are a few street eats around the Upper East Side to try:

Tony 'The Dragon' Dragonas

Food: Mediterranean

Address: 62nd St and Madison Ave

New York, NY 10065

El Rey del Sabor

Food: Mexican

Address: 60th St and 3rd Ave

New York, NY 10021

Halal Cart

Food: Mediterranean

Address: 3rd Ave. between 59th & 58th St.

New York, NY 10022

Halal Cart - 86th and 3^rd

Food: Mediterranean

Address: Corner of 86th and 3rd

New York, NY 10028

Nuts 4 Nuts

Food: Snack Food

Address: 5th Ave & E 72nd St

Manhattan, NY 10021

Halal Cart

Food: Mediterranean

Address: 3rd Ave & 71st St

New York, NY 10079

York and 69th Halal Cart

Food: Mediterranean

Address: York Ave & E 69th St

New York, NY 10021

Cake & Shake NY

Food: Desserts

Address: 5th Ave and 82nd St

Near the steps of The Metropolitan Museum of Art

New York, NY 10028

Website: cakeandshakeny.com/

Yvonne's Jamaican Food Truck

Food: Caribbean

Address: 71st St and York Ave

New York, NY 10021

Hot Dog Vendor 69th and Fifth Ave

Food: Hot Dogs

Corner of 69th St and Fifth Avenue

New York, NY 10021

The Coffee Guy on Madison Avenue

Food: Coffee/ Snacks

Address: Madison Ave. between 58th St & 59th St

New York, NY 10184

Fruit and Veggie Guy

Food: Fruits & Veggies, Food Stands

Address: 77th and 3^rd Avenue

New York, NY 10021

Hot Dog Vendor at 68th and 3rd

Food: Hot Dogs

Address: 1172 3rd Avenue

New York, NY 10021

Halal Cart

Food: Mediterranean

Address: E 68th St, between Park Ave and Lexington Ave

New York, NY 10021

Other Sites:

http://newyorkstreetfood.com/

http://www.nycfoodtrucks.org/

Lets Get It Started???

2011-06-10T20:04:00.006-04:00

The concert for NYC to benefit Robin Hood Foundation was supposed to have been a major event on Thursday June 9th. Yours truly had tickets towhat was supposed to be a grand performance. It was the Black Eyed Peas free benefit concert in central park where 54,000 free tickets were distributed to many luckyfans (including myself). As soon as the ticket sign-up opened, I expeditiously entered my name, only to discover 2 weeks later (on May 25th) that I had won 4 free tickets to this epic show. As the days got closer to the event I discovered several guests to join the Black Eyed Peas to the stage during their show for special surprises and duets! Among them were Taylor Swift, LL Cool J, Debbie Harry (of Blondie), Carol King, Natasha Bedingfield, and more… I brought my very good friend and part time photographer as one of my guests so we could capture this celeb studded event.
Gates were supposed to open at 3 pm and I was supposed to report to the gate entrance on 72nd and 5th Avenue. As the day carried on, several alerts were sent to my phone stating “severe heat warning,” but I was determined to make it there and relish this awesome experience. So I travel to the Upper East Side to meet my friends. As anyone could have guest, there was a sea of people gathered around the corner. Police could barely manage this magnitude of people crowded and eagerly waiting for the gates to open.
The humidity was debilitating and the skies were dim and overcasting. Once I arrived, I hear the officer saying the show had been postponed from 7:30 to 8:30 pm. After waiting for hours already I figured “what the hell” I’ve already been tackling the humidity, what’s a one more hour?
As the crowd multiplied, everyone was re-routed to 71st and 5th Avenue. Once the moments grew closer, the line started to inch up to the gate and suspense was in the air. At 72nd street the thunderous lightening was finally upon us, but only sporadic droplets of rain to fall. Once the weather condition heightened, we threw in the towel. No longer can we wait! And we turned through the mob and exited towards a less congested street, and heading towards the subway. Thousands of confused patrons questioning the fate of this concert. We replied, “we didn’t know, but we had had enough!”
By the time I returned home, it was official: The concert was cancelled! Disappointed and relieved at the same time. Guess I will have to wait till next year ☹

Photos courtesy of Oronde Bell

http://www.glophotos.com/

Roofin' it Up!

2011-06-03T14:39:00.040-04:00

Who doesn’t love a great rooftop bar during the warm summer nights? Not having them on the island of Manhattan is as un-American as socialism in the United States or Speedos on a fat guy or even liking the actor Tom Cruise. If you’ve been reading my articles the past couple of months you know I love the Upper East Side and I advocate it every week. However, I do have one bone to pick with this region of the city… There are not nearly enough rooftop restaurant/ bars in the neighborhood. It’s a trade off really; many bars are below walk up apartment buildings. In order to attain more rooftop nightspots, we either need to forgo semi-affordable residences (semi- affordable when compared to prices in other regions of the city) or have a less residential neighborhood inundated with large bars and roof-top access.

The logical side of my brain obviously would prefer a place to live; however the mischievous and irresponsible part of my brain wants more outdoor fun in the coming months without having to venture to the opposite side of town to do so. With that notion in mind, I went through blood, sweat & tears to hunt down all the rooftop bars/ restaurants in the Upper East Side and all nearby areas that hug its borders; so readers and locals do not have to spend $20 on a one-way cab ride for the same amount of fun…

In the Upper East Side:

1) Roof Garden Café and Martini Bar
The Metropolitan Museum of Art
1000 5th Avenue, 5th Floor
New York, NY 10028 (5th Avenue & 82nd Street)
http://www.metmuseum.org/visit/dining/
212-535-7710
Brief Synopsis: More sophisticated environment as opposed to crazy party spot. Menu changes frequently but offers mostly sandwiches & appetizers.

2) Surrey
20 East 76th Street, 17th Floor
New York, NY 10021
(76th Street between 5th & Madison Avenues)
(212) 288-3700
http://www.thesurrey.com/New-York-Luxury-Hotel.aspx?name=The-Surrey&page=Private-Rooftop-Garden
Brief Synopsis: Newly opened, upscale, pricey, offers food from French hotel restaurant, Café Boulud.

3) Bentley Rooftop Restaurant
500 E 62nd Street, 21st Floor
New York NY 10021
(62nd Street & York Avenue)
212-644-6000
http://www.hotelbentleynewyork.com/
Brief Synopsis: Upscale, pricey, offers full menu (Italian American), visit http://uppereastsidescene.blogspot.com/2008/05/bentley-well-kept-secret.html for more detailed review

Near the Upper East Side:

4) Salon de Ning
The Peninsula New York
700 5th Avenue, 23rd Floor
New York, NY 10019 (5th Avenue & 55th Street)
212-903-3097 http://www.peninsula.com/New_York/en/Dining/default.aspx#/New_York/en/Dining/Salon_de_Ning/Brief
Synopsis: Upscale, expensive, DJ music, offers full bar, menu (Asian)

5) Sutton Place
1015 2nd Avenue
New York, NY 10022 (2nd Avenue & 54th Street)
212-207-3777
http://www.suttonplacenyc.com/terrace.html
Brief Synopsis: Casual, moderately priced, DJ music, offers bar menu (American)

6) Upstairs at the Kimberly Hotel
145 E. 50th Street, 31st Floor
New York, NY 10022 (3rd Avenue & 50th Street)
212-702-1685
http://upstairsnyc.com/index.php
Brief Synopsis: Upscale, pricey, music, offers full bar, menu (Tapas)

7) Top of the Tower
Beekman Tower Hotel
3 Mitchell Place, 26th Floor
New York, NY 10022
(1st Avenue & 49th Street)
212-355-7300
http://www.thetopofthetower.com/
Brief Synopsis: Upscale, pricey, live music, offers full bar, full menu (American)

8) Ali Baba Terrace
862 2nd Avenue, 2nd Floor
(2nd Avenue & 46th Street)New York, NY 10016
212-888-8622
http://www.alibabaturkishcuisine.com/
Brief Synopsis: Casual, reasonably priced, music, offers full bar, full menu (Turkish)

9) Aretsky's Patroon
160 E 46th Street
(46th Street between Lexington & 3rd Avenues)
New York, NY
212-883-7373
http://www.patroonrestaurant.com/
Brief Synopsis: Upscale, dressy, expensive, offers full bar, bar menu (American)

10) MAD 46 Rooftop lounge
Roosevelt Hotel
45 E 46th Street, 19th Floor
(46th Street & Madison Avenue)
New York, NY, 10017
(212) 661-9600
http://www.mad46.com/
Brief Synopsis: Cool & contemporary (after work crowd), pricey, music, offers full bar, menu (Tapas)

11) Overlook
225 East 44th StreetNew York, NY 10017
212-682-7266
http://www.overlooknyc.com/roofdeckparty.html
Brief Synopsis: Casual, reasonably priced, DJ music & karaoke, offers full bar, bar-food menu (American)

12) Bookmarks
Library Hotel
299 Madison Avenue, 14th FloorNew York, NY 10017-6298
(Between Madison & 41st Street)
212-204-5498
http://www.libraryhotel.com/dining/index.cfm
Brief Synopsis: Upscale, pricey, intimate, offers full bar

Astonishment & Atrocity: Alexander McQueen

2011-05-23T15:50:00.009-04:00

“I want to be the purveyor of a certain silhouette or a way of cutting so that when I am dead and gone people will know that the 21st century was started by Alexander McQueen.” This is one of the many quotes decorating the hallways of the “Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty” exhibit appearing at the Metropolitan Museum of Art now through July 31, 2011. Since his drug induced suicide in February 11, 2010, the acclaimed designer has been immortalized through his craft and now on display for anyone with a few extra dollars to drop as a donation.

The exhibit begins with two very bold garments. One bright red dress made of Ostrich feathers and glass microscope slides; another made of razor clam shells. These costume-ish dresses may seem somewhat like a train wreck that you just can’t be turned away from. On the other hand, one has to respect the ingenuity of the pieces; however if you are one that equate clothing with a functionality or a purpose, then this exhibit will leave you absconded with a feeling of bewilderment and perplexity.

The exhibit features designs from many collections over McQueen’s 20 year career. First pieces shown was from the collection titled, “Jack the Ripper Stalks his Victims,”created in1992 from his design school graduation collection. Clearly McQueen misses no opportunity to acquire shock value. From the titles of the collections to the materials used, everything about these designs is obscure and striking. One of the items on display was a pink silk satin printed thorn pattern lined in white silk with encapsulated human hair. McQueen always included a story behind his garments; he described the story behind this piece as: “The inspiration behind the hair came from Victorian times when prostitutes would sell theirs for kits of hair locks, which were bought by people to give to their lovers. I used it as my signature label with locks of hair in Perspex. In the early collections, it was my own hair.” Weaving in a filamentous biomaterial from your own body to make a jacket is either repelling or innovative, but this was the question plaguing me as I stroll through the ominous and gothic corridors at the MET.

The next room demonstrated even more bizarre pieces. Mannequin’s heads were all concealed by outlandish S & M themed masks and head treatments created by hair stylist Guido Palau. One dress sure to leave an imprint was made entirely out of duck feathers from the autumn/ winter 2009-2010 collection known as “The Horns of Plenty.” This piece embodied McQueen's love for birds and his infatuation with death. One of the consistency’s in his work was his trademark silhouette which consisted of exaggerated shoulders and cinched waists in his excessively structural designs. McQueen was also an exceptional tailor, which is apparent when you view any of the footage of the garments on the actual models from the fashion shows- this did not translate as eminently on the mannequin’s.

Of the 6 room exhibit the last was the latest collection of the late designer known as “Plato’s Atlantis,” including “The Jellyfish” ensemble featuring the notorious “Armadillo” heeled boots most infamously worn by Lady Gaga with dress leggings covered in embroidered, iridescent, enameled paillettes. McQueen was a skilled scuba diver so this collection was inspired by the sea and all things futuristic-like.

The curator, Andrew Bolton did an outstanding job selecting all (approximately) 200 pieces for this exhibit, encompassing just the right combination of beauty and morbidity; astonishment and atrocity as well as displaying the admirable craftsmanship that allows spectators to appreciate the work even if you are a fashion illiterate. If you haven’t yet been it is an integral part of New York culture and diversity. Definitely, a must see on the Upper East Side!!!

Metropolitan Museum of Art
1000 5th Avenue
(5th Avenue & 82nd Street)
New York, NY 10028
212) 535-7710
http://www.metmuseum.org/
Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pg0HwLAJyV0&feature=related

Adieu Elaine’s

2011-05-18T10:59:00.007-04:00

The New York Times reported Tuesday, May 17, 2011, it has officially been announced that Elaine’s restaurant will be closing indefinitely on May 26, 2011. Elaine Kaufman, former owner of this well known restaurant has passed at the age of 81 on December 3, 2010 from emphysema. The restaurant was left to Diane Becker, Manager of Elaine’s for the last 26 years, since the 1980’s, who will now place the property for sale. In addition, the affixed 5 story apartment building located above the restaurant will also be for sale. Listing price for the apartment was recently reduced from 2.95 million to 2.75 million.

The restaurant had been opened since 1963 by New Yorker, Elaine Kaufman. Over the years Elaine’s was visited by many celebrities, including legendary writers such as Kurt Vonnegut, Norman Mailer, George Plimpton and Gay Talese. Other celebrities that have visited the landmark restaurant were Jackie Onassis, Michael Caine and George Steinbrenner. The restaurant was even featured in the silver screen. Woody Allen’s "Manhattan" included an opening scene at this famed establishment. The restaurant was also noted in Billy Joel’s song "Big Shot," and writer of many mystery novels, Stuart Woods began numerous literary pieces with scenes from Elaine’s.

Elaine’s menu featured Italian & American cuisine from Rissotto, to Black Angus Rib-Eye Steak, Home Fries, Zuppa Di Pesce, Broiled Veal Chop to hamburgers and my favorite Veal Saltimbocca. Lunch prices ranged from $21 - $28 and dinner ranged from $15- $32. Some have argued this restaurant was priced to high for the value; however truth be told the business has suffered for a long time, displaying many empty tables during what should be peaking hours for the restaurant business.

Unfortunately it appears the will to restore its roots and once again become a profiting and thriving business is not longer there. As The New York Times reported that manager, Diane Becker said in a recent statement that “The truth is, there is no Elaine’s without Elaine,” She went on to include, “The business is just not there without Elaine.” As sad as this may be to those that cherish lasting memories at this Upper East Side staple, we bid adieu

Elaine’s
1703 2nd Avenue
Between 88th & 89th Streets
New York, New York
212-534-8103

Inside the 2nd Avenue Subway

2011-05-10T20:57:00.010-04:00

The 2nd avenue subway line has been in progress since it kicked off in April of 2007, but has actually been in the cities pipeline since 1929. The plan has been to run a 2-line track downtown starting in Lower Manhattan’s, Financial District (in Hanover Square) & running up Second Avenue through East Harlem at 125th Street. There will also be a transfer (to the local “Q” train) on 63rd Street to allow riders to travel cross-town to the west side in Midtown and also a connection (to the local “F” train) travelling to Brooklyn for a total of 16 stops.

Currently, we are in phase one of a four phase project. Quarterly financial report posted to the MTA website shows that out of the 4,451 billion dollars that has been budgeted for phase 1 as of 4th quarter in 2010, that 2,039.6 billion dollars has been awarded in expenditures and 1,102.7 billion dollars has been expended. The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) has expected that expenditures may supersede budgeted expectations and reach a possible $5.7 billion.

I am one of the thousands of “lucky” residents to live above this masterpiece of construction on the Upper East Side. Although, when I look out my window or walk by the eyesore in front of my apartment that appears to be nothing more than massive holes in the ground or trailers built for the construction crew (as shown in the photo taken by yours truly to the right) . I was actually astounded to see what lies beneath my very feet.

Until right now I thought that all that constant moving of the sidewalks was just to confuse us pedestrians and make residents feel comfortable that there was some level of progression with the infamous subway line which has been to not be completed during my youth; until I came across an interesting story published recently in Our Town by a photographer named Joseph M. Calisi (shown to the left). Astounding images displayed 2 colossal tunnels for the north and southbound tracks; and the tunnel boring machine (TBM) also called a "mole", which is a mechanism used to excavate tunnels and can drill through the solid rock and rubble are definitely a magnificent site.

As accessible as my neighborhood is I often think about how even more labor-less it would be to walk out my front door and onto a subway platform heading to the opposite side of the island. The FTA has also approximated a possible completion date for mid 2018, or mid 2017 at best so unfortunately I may have to stick around for another 7 years or so for that day.

Continue to check in Uppereast.com for the latest news on the 2nd Avenue subway
updates.

References:
http://ourtownny.com/2011/05/04/down-deep-in-the-hole/#more-12144
http://www.plannyc.org/
http://www.mta.info/capconstr/sas/documents/sas_Q4_FTAReport.pdf

Happy Cinco De Mayo

2011-05-03T19:23:00.005-04:00

Did you know that the 5th of May is not Mexican Independence Day? The Mexican Independence day is actually September 16th. However arguably, maybe it should be! Did you also know that “Cinco de Mayo” is not an American holiday? That doesn’t stop many of New Yorkers flooding the streets on that day to enjoy the Cinco de Mayo festivities.

Mexico declared its independence from Spain on the September 15, 1810. My question to you all is why this day is commemorated so largely in the USA also? 4,000 Mexican soldiers overrun the opposing French and turncoat Mexican army in 1862. Five months earlier, the French, Spanish and English had invaded Mexico with the intent of collecting Mexican debts from a newly elected President. While the English and Spanish had conducted their business and soon left; while the The French leader Emperor Napoleon III attempted to stay and overthrow Mexico resulting in a bloody war known as the battle of Puebla that took place on May 5, 1862.

Ultimately the Americans joined in and behold Mexico had a solid defeat over the French.

So now you know a little bit of background about this day, you also know this is not a Mexican Holiday or an American Holiday; or even a Holiday at all. This is a totally made up day in America that is designed for consumers to go out and enjoy the festivities. So what will you be doing on this completely made-up occasion? It’s pretty safe to say that probably 99% of Manhattan Mexican restaurants will be having some type of fiesta or at least an extra special happy hour.

Just in case you can’t get any information on Cinco De Mayo events, you can always go to Uppereast.com and get a complete listing of events. Here are just a few to keep you partying:

Mad River Bar
1442 3rd Avenue
(Between 81st & 82nd St)
212-988-1832
Madrivergrille.com
$4 Margaritas, $3 Tequila Shots, $4 Coronas, $2 Nachos

Rosa Mexicano
1063 First Ave.
(At 58th St).
212-753-7407
Presenting their 9th Annual Cinco de Mayo Festival, Thursday, May 5th. Enjoy live music, special menu and festive decor!

Maya
1191 1st Ave, New York, NY 10021
http://www.modernmexican.com/
Tel. 212-585-1818
Cinco de Mayo- Thursday, May 5, 2011 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM
3-course Prix Fix for $50 per person. Specialty cocktails. Excludes Tax and Tip. Offer valid May 5, 2011

Cinco De Mayo At Grand Central Fair
43rd Street From Lexington - 3rd Ave, New York, NY, 11109
See event at: http://www.facebook.com/#!/event.php?eid=208872975789639

Millesima
Cinco de Mayo wine tasting. An extensive selection of Burgundian Chardonnays from the Maconnais to Cote de Beaune regions. Some of the wines include: Macon-Lugny, Meursault, Chassagne-Montrachet, Puligy-Montrachet and Meursault Premier Cru.
Thursday Mat 5th. This free event goes from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
1355 2nd Ave., between 71st & 72nd Sts.

http://www.millesima-usa.com/

For a complete list of Mexican Restaurants visit http:http://www.uppereast.com/: http://www.uppereast.com/mexican-restaurants

Big Weekend on the UES

2011-04-22T14:25:00.001-04:00

Presently there are a plethora of events going on in the city. This is a celebratory weekend overflowing with special holidays and celebrations from Earth Day, Passover, Easter weekend and of course Tribeca film festival. There definitely is no shortage of activities to keep you immersed in New York City culture and tradition; so much so that I for one feel very lucky to be a New Yorker at this time of year.

In observance of earth day there are tours in central park at Belvedere Castle, mid-Park at 79th Street. You can cross streams, hike through woods in a maze-like path through 38 acres of secluded land. These types of tours are offered frequently throughout the coming spring and summer months. There are a host of various events such as yoga, group runs, etc. Visit the calendar of events on the central park official website at: http://support.centralparknyc.org/site/Calendar/1138018665. You must call head for availability, fees or donations may apply. Although one of the main festivities of Earth Day just maybe an event organized by the nonprofit organization Earth Day New York, which is the annual New York City Earth Fair located inside Grand Central Terminal (Vanderbilt Hal)l from April 21-23, 2011 as well as outside of Grand Central Terminal on April 22 and 23, 2011.

On Saturday April 23, 2011 there is a street fair on East 93rd Street between Park and Madison Avenues and also on April 30th is the Lexington Avenue Festival between Lexington Avenue between 60th and 66th Streets. Visit the calendar of events on the NY.gov official website at: http://www.nyc.gov/portal/site/nycgov/menuitem.bd175b51da17d74f472ae1852f8089a0/. Let me also not leave out the best feature at all… They are FREE!!!

If you’re in the spirit of Passover, the 92nd street Y or the Jewish museum is the place to go. The 92Y has a full roster of lectures with such celebrities as Ted Danson. Daniel Radcliffe, and Larry King; and they average approx. $30 per ticket. They also feature a wide array of classes as well as even singles events and mixers sure to please your Jewish mother. Average price also around $30, visit 92Y official website at: http://www.92y.org.

The Jewish museum always presents some interesting exhibits. One more recent was the Houdini exhibit that showcased the life and work of legendary magician Harry Houdini. Currently, the museum is showcasing an exhibit called “The Art of Matrimony: Thirty Splendid Marriage Contracts from The Jewish Theological Seminary Library” thru June 26th. The museum also has permanent exhibits such as, “Culture and Continuity: The Jewish Journey” which is a fascinating multilevel display of the evolution on Jewish culture and history through art. For these and other exhibits featured on the page, visit the museum’s official website at: http://www.thejewishmuseum.org/.

Not surprisingly the largest event on Sunday just maybe the Easter Parade, a grand Easter Parade and Easter Bonnet Festival which runs up Fifth Avenue starting at 49th Street and finishing around 57th Street- Not quite upper east side but its only 2 blocks away. Don’t forget the many fabulous Sunday brunch spots on the Upper East Side as well. Visit www.uppereast.com for the best listings and reviews on for brunch on the UES.

San Matteo

2011-04-19T09:28:00.005-04:00

While in many ways a traditional NYC pizza joint, San Matteo boasts the pedigree of a finer UES dining haunt. Its pizza evokes not so much greasy spoon as fine Italian dining; the atmosphere reflects the subtlety of its food. In short, this is less a pizza restaurant than a classy Italian restaurant that specializes in pizza

A brick interior calls to mind old-fashioned pizza joints, complemented by both a vast selection of wine, and an espresso machines. Everything is deliciously home-made, and even the bread seems to emit a fine home-cooked steam. The salad, too, crinkles with immediate taste. The tomatoes, the greens and the bread all share two things in common: Freshness and taste.

Due to its small dimensions, it is better suited to an intimate evening with a date or one or two friends, rather than a large party. But if you are searching for an intimate experience of excellent food, this place will satiate you on every need.

As I sat back with friends enjoying a fine bottle of Montepulciano, our server brought over the Tagliere di Formaggi; a mixture of parmigiano reggiano, asiago, pecorino, primaddona and provolone accompanied by honey with tartufo and some of the finest balsamic modina vinegar to accent its natural flavors. Yes, it’s a cheese plate, and yes, it’s as delicious as it sounds.

The next plate was the Porcini e Tartufo, which was a thin crust pizza cooked in wood burning oven that sits behind the bar. Topped with mozzarella, porcini mushrooms, parmigiano reggiano, and truffle oil, it is truly a unique entrée while being refreshingly familiar. In case you don’t already know, Tartufo has been called “food of the gods” with aphrodisiac-like powers. Tartufo contains a pheromone that only animals can locate with their keen sense of smell; a well-trained dog must be used to obtain this rare food. White Tartufo (the kind offered at San Matteo) is only found in the Langhe, Valpadana, small zones of Tuscany, the Marche, and Umbria from October to December.

One pizza, relatively inexpensive for an entrée averaging at around $15, is perfect for a party of one as well as ideal for tapas-type style of dining. To appease my vegetarian friend, we ordered the Margherita Pizza; the other option included prosciutto sliced fresh behind the bar. Equally delicious, this pizza has tomato sauce, homemade mozzarella, and fresh basil. A very simple recipe; the fresh ingredients make it truly exceptional.

Panuozzo Mortadella e Melanzane (imported mordadella, smoked buffalo mozzarella and marinated eggplant) was the final dish we were served. Like everything else, it did not disappoint. It was mouth-watering without being excessively fattening—Literally, the perfect combination. This is the best kind of comfort food, satisfying without being excessively heavy. The best of both worlds: Filling and light, cozy and high-class… San Matteo is the archetypal NYC dining experience.

San Matteo
1739 2nd Ave
(between 90th St & 89th St)
Manhattan, NY 10128
(212) 426-6943
www.sanmatteopanuozzo.com

La Comida Tipica

2011-04-11T22:45:00.011-04:00

After getting heartburn from a Taco Taco I had been a little put off from Mexican food. So ever since I had been trying to keep my eyes open for a Mexican restaurant in my neighborhood that is reasonably priced and muy delicioso.

Alas! I think I have succeeded in finding one… I frequently walk the streets of the Upper East Side in hot pursuit of all things new and interesting and fabulous, so when I stumbled upon the tiniest little eat-in-eatery my radar had instantaneously went off.

We sat down to be greeted with a smile and a plate of tortilla chips with salsa verde that was zesty, spicy with a hint of cilantro (yummmmmm). “I’ll start with a pitcher of the sangria rojo!” the words eagerly expelled from my mouth to our server as she approached us for our drink order. After being gone from a challenging business trip I was definitely out for cocktails and more cocktails. By the way the Sangria is refreshing. Thankfully it was not too sweet but still incredibly “sabrosa.”

I then ordered the spicy chicken wings to start. Ok readers, I enjoy spicy, but the mild was highly fiery, so I hope your tolerance is up to par or else you’ll be in for a rude awakening. However, I am a trooper and I forged on and finished that plate of hot wings (well that and I was absolutely famished). Mission accomplished and I was now ready for my entrée. My guest of honor munched on the grilled chicken fajitas, while I gorged on beef alambres which for those who don’t know it's kinda like a Mexican shish kabob, absolutely mouthwatering. Awesome guacamole by the way too. This is a cozy little venue with exposed brick tons of keepsakes from Acapulco and traditional salsa music in the backdrop.

I a couple years ago I had spent 3 weeks in Mexico city and the food I ate at Sabor A Mexico rivaled many a restaurants in the capital. Definitely worth a try if you haven’t yet been or heard of it. Entrée’s are priced median around the $10 - $15 range; but are not large like most Mexican restaurants that you may be accustom too. The Sangria is also not inexpensive at $25 for a pitcher that is not huge. My overall recommendation is to venture out here. We thoroughly enjoyed the food and service was highly satisfactory entonces por qué hace no va y tiene una tarde feliz y mantiene por favor visitando www.uppereast.com para las mejores revisiones en la mejor ciudad

Sabor a Mexico
1744 1st Ave Between 90th & 91st Avenues
New York, NY 10184
(212) 289-2641

Go To Osso Buco

2011-03-29T11:09:00.009-04:00

Ok… I’m going to get straight to the point on this one. I am a fan! Osso Buco is an exquisite Italian restaurant on the Upper East Side. With that said I am also most critical of Italian restaurants. Being an Italian American myself, I was raised off macaroni and gravy (that’s right I said macaroni and gravy… Not pasta & sauce!!!). Literally, I think if my mom could’ve put gravy in my Sippy-cup, she would’ve. Recipes for my native dishes have been passed down by generations by my estranged Genoese family from Northern Italy. So being that I am privy to these secrets of Italian cuisine, I have become spoiled to these unparalleled home cooked foods. From the instance you enter into this restaurant, an impression has been made. Osso Buco has a striking décor with warming colors that will entice your senses. Deep reds and coral walls stimulates, while hints of yellow arouses and awakens preparing you for a pleasurable experience. Expect to walk in and be greeted by a very cheerful host and the other gracious staff here. Being that I was alone this evening I decided to sit and eat at the bar- which I highly recommend if you are alone, since you will likely be adjacent to other patrons and find yourself engaged in an amusing cackling session. The front of the restaurant is completely windowed and there is a large TV mounted above the bar so there is plenty to keep your eyes wandering. I scanned the menu overflowing with variety from steak to veal, to seafood, to chicken as well as traditional pasta dishes; and as hard as it was to decide I finally committed to my first option. I started out with the “Osso Buco Salad,” consisting of romaine lettuce, olives, peperoncini, mozzarella, red onions, and sun dried tomatoes under Italian vinaigrette. This salad was hearty and savory, a first-rate start to my dining experience. I then was prepared to fix upon my entrée choice, seeing that my salad was so delicious, I decided to stick with the self entitled theme and go once again with the “Osso Buco,” a veal shank slowly braised with vegetables served over home made fettuccini. Once the meal arrived I was astounded by the generous portion- there was no evidence of pinching pennies in this execution. The spices were incredibly fresh and palatable. My Pinot Noir was the perfect compliment to the plump and tender veal that effortlessly slipped off the bone as you cut into it. The pasta was true uniqueness, perfect consistency and sure to stick to the wall (Let it be duly noted that I did not test this theory; however nothing is worse then overcooked or undercooked pasta). In the end I left with smiling with a juicy sum of leftovers that satisfied my hunger even more the second day (Note to readers: I would recommend heating the leftovers in the oven at about 350 degrees until warm and enjoy). Overall, I would consider this an outstanding feasting result… a true success. Please go there and let me know what you think- and better yet comment on this article. I am definitely an advocate and welcome all your comments here at http://www.uppereast.com/.
Mangia!

Usso Buco
1662 3rd Avenue
(Corner of 93rd Street & 2nd Avenue)
New York, NY
212-426-5422
www.ossobuco2010.com

Agony & Art

2011-03-21T18:22:00.005-04:00

Inside the Upper East Side concealed within some of Manhattan’s most luxurious and illustrious designer boutiques lay an inconspicuous little gallery that displays some outlandish art that will resonate in your mind. It is the latest art exhibit of Berlinde De Bruyckere at Hauser and Wirth titled “Into One-Another to PPP.”

If you’re anything like me– not to be considered an afficionado of the arts but highly intelligent with a voracious appetite & curiosity of the arts, then you may need to be proactive and do a little research first. The “To PPP” is in reference to Pier Paolo Pasolini (PPP), is who this exhibit tribute (take a moment to Wikipedia him if you’ve never heard of him). He is also known as an Italian film artist, painter, poet, and even journalist who were brutally murdered in 1975.

Pasolini’s work was inspired by Catholic ritual, revolutionary European literature, Renaissance painting’s, and the political events of his time to create such films as ‘The Gospel According to St. Matthew,’ ‘Teorema,’ and ‘Salò.’ Pasolini’s work was vivid and disconcerting portraying explicit scenes of brutality and controversial violent acts.

De Bruyckere maintains the same level of intensity in her portrayal creating images that are incredibly haunting and realistic. The premise of De Bruyckere’s work hones in on the dualities of love and suffering, danger and protection, life and death. Wax bodies distorted and conjoined and headless leave a lasting impression. All sculptures and sketches appear with white black and bloody red. De Bruyckere used professional dancers as models for her work. Their movements and poses are inspiration for her own obscure composition. These figures appear stationary within an embellished pose awakening degradation and tragedy.

As I walk down the plain white walls at the Hauser and Wirth and worth gallery amidst four very empty rooms containing a single glass encased body, sexually ambiguous and hermaphrodite-like. While I am not quite sure what I am looking at, I am also engrossed yet perplexed by the visual that stands before me. New York City is a mecca of originality and culture and this exhibit embodies just that. Let’s not leave out one key detail… It’s a FREE exhibit running from March 1st to April 23rd from 10 am to 6 pm. For more details go to www.uppereast.com

Hauser & Wirth
32 East 69th Street
(Corner of 69th Street & Madison Avenue)

New York NY 10021
(212) 794-4970
www.hauserwirth.com/

Boston Invades the Upper East Side

2011-03-14T15:42:00.008-04:00

Being a Boston native, born and raised, and growing up for the first 25 years of my life as a true Bostonian and proud Masshole, I couldn’t help but notice when I passed a bar inconspicuously located on the corner of 2nd Avenue and 88th Street with the most flagrant sign out front in daringly bold red letters unashamedly declared, “Catch all the Red Sox Games Here!” After living in enemy territory for the last 4 years of my life and never seeing anything like this in the tri-state area and I was more than duty-bound to investigate. Although baseball season has yet to begin I will definitely be coming here to see all my favorite home teams play; Red Sox, Patriots, Celtics and Bruins…

Pat O’Brien’s started in 2003 by three gentlemen including a Boston College alumnus; these bar owners also own Thunder Jackson’s in Greenwich Village, Point Break in Midtown West and Billy Hurricane’s in East Village. Much of this bar is staffed with fellow Bostonian blood and a bartender named Diego otherwise known as the self proclaimed “Best Bartender Ever.” If you’re Boston/ New England bread or just a fan who can relate, this place provides a safe haven- a home away from home, if you will from the unendurable ranting and relentless blathering of the ever so primitive Yankee fan.

Unlike many other bars in the area (which I have grown accustom to know- since I reside just a few blocks nearby) this bar definitely embodies the phrase “You’re neighborhood bar.” If you’ve ever toured the city of Boston you may have heard of a little bar featured in a sitcom called “Cheers.” –Ok, well this bar is nothing like Cheers, however when I entered Pat O’Brien’s the slogan, “Where everyone knows your name,” resonated in my mind at this great locals hangout. A non pretentious, non hostile environment where fellow colligates or their older counterparts can drink twenty five cent beers and play beer pong freely, go pretend hunting on the “Big Buck Safari” video arcade game machine, or shoot basketball hoops behind the bar.

As to be expected you may encounter a pesky Yankee fan heckling as they pass by, or stray balls from the beer pong on the ping pong table; however bar fights are not typical here- As this is friendly bar with smiley, upbeat patrons ready to drink and have a enjoyable time. Friday, Saturday and during all Boston games seem to be the busiest times of the week here. The music is a great mix of hip hop, top 40, pop and house music from Kanye West “Goldigger” mixed with “Tu vo Fa L'americano Remix” (Radio Ibiza Edit), Sean Paul, Justin Beiber, Nightcrawlers “Push the feeling on”, Cee Lo, Dave Matthews Band, Jay-Z, etc. Take advantage of the most inexpensive happy hour that the city has to offer here and also reasonable non-happy hour priced drinks average $5. My favorite is all the Boston sports articles and memorabilia displayed all around.

Although very much a pro-Boston sports bar, there is a little something for everyone and especially if you are a Boston fan you must venture over here once, twice or even five times and if you do please feel free to comment on it via http://www.uppereast.com/, so that everyone can share their experiences too and hopefully do a little more Yankee bashing :)

PS. GO SOX!!!

Pat O’Brien’s
1701 2nd Avenue
Corner of 2nd Avenue and 88th St
New York, NY 10128
212.410.2013
http://www.patobriensnyc.com/

Mexican Dive to Tasteful Tapas

2011-03-07T09:41:00.009-05:00

Upon my travels in my neighborhood, I happened to happen upon a little restaurant called “Aza Wine & Tapas.” Either I’m hallucinating or just a couple of weeks ago this was a little dive/whole in the wall known as “Tequila Jacks.” Now, I realize that New York is a fast-pace city where it is virtually impossible to keep up with the latest “hot” or “not” of the moment, but it seemed this place turned over faster than a subway door closing on your face.

Hoping that I’m not experiencing the early signs of sheer lunacy, I go in and check it out. I notice a vast difference from before. No more crowds of people, creepy bazaar regulars or drunken college types. Although still dark, much of the dinginess has been replaced by plush red cushiony chairs and candlelit tables. And music that would’ve formerly made your ears bleed has been defeated by some unique, soothing French, jazz-like influence type of music, calming like the sounds of the ocean. Oh—and I almost forgot one of the most disconcerting things of all… a child. Yes folks, this is now a child friendly environment!

After realizing I had followed the yellow brick road into uncharted territory—ending up in a place somewhat reminiscent of the Village—I decided it was my patriotic duty as your newest local connection to all things Upper East Side to introduce Aza to readers. The owner, Don, was nice enough to allow me to monopolize a small portion of his time to engage in a short discussion.

Don Detelj opened his doors approximately 8 weeks ago to Upper East Side residents and tourists alike. He was a former investor in the old establishment and thought the business could use a “new perspective.” He is pleased to engulf himself in the social environment that coincides with owning a restaurant, and receive customer appreciation and satisfaction; as well as provide a heightened edge and classiness that the restaurant presents to the neighborhood. He admits that opening a restaurant is a laborious profession, dominating majority of his days and nights (up to 18 hours or more even per week), but he works to continuously brainstorm new ideas to evolve his business and introduce new events to patrons. An avid cook himself, he also enjoys all types of exotic cooking (preferably Italian food).

Don leverages his staff to their full extent and supports their efforts. For example, a recent event was held on Sunday February 27th featuring a member of his bartending staff who goes by the name “Keyke” performing original music. He also utilizes the cultural background of staff members from Spain to ascertain new and interesting menu ideas. Two new beverages recently introduced to the brunch menu include “Calimocho Madrillo,” which consists of red wine, dash of grenadine, and a slice of lemon; another is “Tinto De Verano,” which is red wine, sprite, sweet vermouth, and lemon.

During my visit to the Spanish tapas and wine bar my friend and I ordered the restaurant specialties, “Churrasquito” (flame broiled mini skirt steak), “Camarones Diablo” (shrimp cooked in spicy sauce), “Paella Valenciana” (saffron rice cooked with fresh seafood, chicken and Spanish sausage). We also indulged in sweat potato fries and “Mini Hamburguesa Aza” (Black Angus burger, bibb lettuce, tomato, cheese, pickles). My personal favorite was the “Churrasquito” because the meat was tender, flavorful and the cream, paprika sauce was heavenly (spicy but not too hot). My friend favored the “Camarones Diablo;” although it was delicious it had a more buttery flavor than a spicy one as it stated from the menu. There are a few non Spanish plates on the menu as well like chicken skewers with peanut sauce too, mac and cheese, spring rolls, hummus, etc. to appeal to the masses. The wine selection for the wine bar is slightly limited; however, it is expanding and the owner maintains “quality over quantity.” Prices for tapas menu range from $4.45 to $12. There are also a few entrees ranging from $14.95 to $17.95; dinner for two with cocktails expects to pay upwards of $80.00, comfortably.

Aza appears a great place to bring that special someone, set up to create a sensuous and sexy experience. From the deep dim lighting to the luxurious backroom seating, it is sure to give you all the privacy you can desire. I have visited Aza now twice and each time dined on a diverse selection of various foods with healthy portions that won’t leave your tummy aching from the stroll back to your Manhattan walk-up. This restaurant is brand new and still evolving. It leaves me hungry to return and visit the new developments that are underway such as a “Wine Tasting Wednesday” and “Late Night Happy Hour.” For more information please visit the website or on Facebook at http://www.azanyc.com/, and as always go to http://www.uppereast.com/ to stay abreast to the newest events and business on the UES.

Aza Wine & Tapas
1668 3rd Ave

New York, NY 10128
212-426-1416

http://www.azanyc.com/

A Night of Trivia (or maybe not)

2011-02-28T11:37:00.007-05:00

I was initially drawn to this place over the advertisement on Facebook “Tonight at Bounce Restaurant & Sports Lounge Trivia night!!!! Free to play, also $3 drafts and $20 barrels of Coors light!!!!,” which was advertised from 7 pm until closing. Once I arrived it seems trivia night took back seat to other sporting events. Thankfully, my sports literate boyfriend schooled me that Carmelo Anthony was formerly played for Denver, Nuggets is now traded the Knicks (whatever that means) so all of New York appeared to be out & in great spirits. As I peruse my surroundings I notice 12 carefully mounted flat screens that guaranteed you don’t ever miss a glimpse of whatever the TV projects; and 12 various phone chargers strategically affixed to the end of the bar which ensures you will always have full bars on your handheld devices.

This is hip and trendy place that differs from most other Upper East Side watering wholes. Blue lights glimmered inducing a club-like atmosphere while the sounds of progressive house track “I Remember” from Kaskade & Deadmau5 creates an aura sure to abscond you from the nuisances of the day. Everything from locals too you’re traditional-suit wearing, after work happy hour crowd, all ready to indulge one of the many happy hour specials offered at Bounce.

We were promptly seated at a high top table behind the window/doors that enclosed the entire anterior of the bar. It wasn’t long before the bar caught the attention of the eager (crazy) passer-by’s from outside, one of whom in particular hastily pressed his nose against the glass looking in. It then occurred to me that he and everyone else were struggling to sneak a peek at Carmelo Anthony’s first night playing for the New York Knicks. It’s moments like these that I feel more like a true New Yorker than ever (guess I can kiss my Boston Celtics goodbye- well, at least for tonight). As I overhear (eavesdrop) patrons chatter around me, one word about the scene stuck out… “Swordfight! LOL” I just now became conscientious of the singles scene that I am swimming in. Ladies, look your best when you come here!!! However, the female staff definitely does not mess around sporting their skin tight black pants and micro mini tanks to give the gentleman a little eye candy, in addition to the ever so fashionable uptown fashonista’s showing their patronage- its quality not quantity.

As we order our first round of draft & bottled beers we suddenly were distracted by the massive 110 oz cylinder attached to what appears to be a spout and a Coors Light fish bowl that the bartender was filling with beer… OMG??? I thought, as I moved in closer to gain a sharper view. I was told they are the $20 barrels on special for happy hour… given that it was still mid-week I promised myself I’d be good and refrain from ordering one. The service was incomparable and Ana was the most attentive server anyone could ask for. I enjoyed one of the best Cobb Salad’s that I have ever ordered in this neighborhood and my boyfriend scarfed down a swiss cheese burger with beef that had to be no less than an inch tall, standing smugly above a sesame seed bun. We also got to sample the Bounce signature drink and shot. Well, I don’t know exactly what was in it but we had a choice of grape, cherry or orange, and it could best be described as a form of liquid “Pez.” Def… Worth a shot (no pun intended)!

As it turns out we missed trivia and my $3 drafts mysteriously turned into $5 drafts when the bill arrived but it was well worth the night out and a great way to break up “hump day.” The wait staff is friendly, the menu/ drinks are reasonably priced and the music is diverse and modern. This place conveys a unique décor which you won’t find at any other bar on 2nd Avenue; but still remains casual, sporty and pretentious free. Hope to see you there ;-) or at any other establishment you read about here on www.uppereast.com.

Bounce Restaurant & Sports Lounge
1403 2nd Avenue
Corner of 2nd Avenue 73rd Street
212-535-2183
http://www.bounceny.com/

East End Bar & Grill

2011-02-19T15:59:00.012-05:00

As a new Upper Eastsider I am making a conscious effort to acclimate myself to my new surroundings, so I adopted the rule “Never go to the same place twice.” Sounds simple, I know, but it’s very easy to get accustomed to a spot and continue going, rather than having to strain my brain on ideas for new places to go. So I comb the city in sight of a site to write my first blog entry for www.uppereast.com/blogs….

My friend and I, after a glamorous walk of avoiding dog poop and sun in our eyes, made the brilliant decision to cross over to First Avenue, just for the shade. Most places at 2:30 PM were closed, but one bar stood out with a conspicuously glowing “beer” sign. After looking at the menu (Posted outside! Detailed! Containing many references to dead chickens!) we were sold.Being the only customers, and attractive ladies, we had the full attention of the bartender/manager, who for reasons I'd rather not mention in context has taken classes in fraud analysis.

The ambience? Ambient! Many large televisions surrounded by Irish flags and Syracuse jerseys. No doubt, East End Bar demands a certain kind of loyalty. Not only are the chicken wings specialized to any level of spice tolerance, but the bun on the burger is pre-askewed for your ketchuping pleasure! The cooks know their clientele! I'm typing on its free Wi-Fi. If only I'd had the presence of mind to come here last night when my internets were down. D'oh!

So here we sit as I scan the menu looking for something calorific… and there it is on the $7.95 Lunch Menu Monday – Friday 12 pm -4 pm a 1/2lb Charcoal Burger topped with cheddar cheese and 10 wings sure to make you gulp down your Blue Moons faster than a reckless Upper East Side cab driver. Let’s just say I took a quick pause from writing this article to completely haus my burger and end my unintentional fasting.

Boy George, Johnny Cash, Billy Idol, & the #1 hit of 1961 “Runaround Sue” by Dion fill my ears as I enjoy a second round of Blue Moon; while watching sportscasters on mute as patrons slowly fill this place, which should make for a very happy happy hour. The crowd is eclectic, including a guy wearing a paperboy hat & a borderline Ed Hardy tee-shirt. A patron, in a ripped leopard print shirt, caused disagreement between my friend and me as to say patron's gender. My friend ultimately won the argument that he was male. I guess it was the sideburns that supported her case. And yet, still classier than the faux-Hardy to whom he was speaking. A man in a business suit and the best looking guys here bartenders & their…grrrrrrlfriends sigh… And not to mention the most bodacious babes in the bar. ;)

In summation, it was a successful outing. Spicy hot wings, succulent burgers and delicious Blue Moon to satisfy your watering pallet at this all American Irish bar; as well as great company, people watching and the best of every era from 60’s to 80’s. Oh and did I mention they have Blue Moon? Good times to be had by all! Stop by and say hi to my new buddy Andrew at the “#1 Syracuse Orange Bar in NYC” The East End Bar & Grill. Let’s not leave out the $20 open bar (see bar website for details: http://www.eastendbar.com/) and while your at it continue to check out http://www.uppereast.com/ for the best listings of this and all places in the UPPER EAST SIDE!
East End Bar & Grill
1664 1st Avenue
(Between 86 & 87th Street)
New York, NY 10028
212-348-3783
www.eastendbar.com

UES Insurance Agent with Great Approach, Accessibility, and Community Activism

2010-11-04T18:19:00.003-04:00

The Upper East Side has a good neighbor in Anna Notaro. Notaro, an agent with 15 years of experience in the insurance industry, opened her own agency two years ago on the Upper East Side. She came to the UES with over 10 years in auto claims experience, giving her a unique perspective that is particularly helpful to clients who are involved in an accident.

Anna’s approach to helping Upper East Siders meet their insurance needs focuses on the comprehensive insurance and financial needs of each individual. To this end, Anna has her Series 6 and Serise 63 licenses, allowing her to help clients invest in mutual funds and retirement accounts. Thus, Notaro’s State Farm is a one-stop-shop for customers seeking insurance and/or financial services. In addition, Anna's staff, composed of licensed agents hired personally by Anna, is bilingual, with agents who speak Italian and English.

Anna is always accessible to UES clients. She can be reached 24 hours a day via email or phone. In addition, clients and prospective clients can visit her website to obtain a quote or request information at any time.

Not only is Anna accessible to Upper East Siders, but she’s also active in the community. A proud UES resident, she sets up booths at street fairs and sponsors neighborhood events such as a free ice cream day at Steiner's Last Licks. She recently participated in the Columbus Day parade.

Anna is particularly passionate about helping small businesses affected by the Second Avenue subway construction. As a small business owner herself, Anna intimately understands the needs of small business owners. It's Anna's goal to give guidance to the business owners in the area, enabling them to save money and receive better coverage.

In addition to being knowledgeable, accessible, and active in the community, Anna strives to make each client’s experience with State Farm as comfortable as possible. The agency is pet-friendly; dog biscuits are always available for furry friends. To show her appreciation for customer referrals, Anna rewards clients with a $10 Visa giftcard.

It’s evident that Anna enjoys what she does. She says that she finds the work rewarding and that she enjoys building relationships with customers.

Anna has sound advice for anyone with insurance or considering obtaining insurance “It’s important that people know who their agent is since that person is giving them advice.” She notes that with State Farm, “You’re buying quality- a lot more than car insurance. You’re buying an experience.”

Luxurious Experience at Loripak Beauty Spa

2010-10-18T13:46:00.012-04:00

Loripak Beauty Spa is a top-notch European spa located in a serene setting. You'll be soothed not only by the treatments but also by the immaculate setting accented pale blue walls and water fountains that sound like babbling brooks.

Loripak has been open since February, but its owner, Larissa, has years of experience in the spa industry in both Europe and in the US. After spending the last ten years working in spas in New York, Larissa decided to branch out on her own because, as she says, "I know everything. I do everything." Larissa's experience runs the gamut of spa treatments- from microdermabrasion to Swedish Massage to waxing. She was also trained at the Christine Valmy school. Loripak has recently hired two new aethesticians who are also extensively trained to provide a variety of spa treatments.

What distinguishes Loripak from other NYC spas is the price, products, and professional approach. Loripak delivers top spa treatments at reasonable prices: facials begin at $55 and massages begin at $80. In addition, your tenth visit for a massage or facial is free. There are other discounts available, including large birthday discounts.

At the same time, Loripak doesn't sacrifice on quality. Loripak exclusively uses Yon-ka products, which she has had experience with for 6 years. She and her daughter use it themselves. It is a non-allergenic product produced in France. Yon-ka is not widely available as the company choses to work with a network of professional aestheticians that they carefully selected and regularly train in the use of our products and treatments. Yon-ka products are made from selected plants from land and sea that come from renewable resources and organic farming. The products are made in a filtered air environment where the air is 10 times purer than that at the North Pole. Prior to use, these raw materials are subject to strict laboratory testing. Larissa says she has had no complaints from customers In her experience with the product. Although Yon-ka products are not widely available, they are available for purchase at Loripak. Loripak can give advice on using the products at home.

Loripak's goal is to provide spa service tailored to every individual. As Larissa says, "It's important for people to feel comfortable." She hopes that her customers feel like they have "a vacation for a couple of hours." To that end, clients are greeted at Loripak with coffee and tea and ushered into one of the quiet treatment rooms. While receiving spa treatments, clients are surrounded by soothing sounds- soft, relaxing music and water fountains. Loripak's aestheticians will ask questions throughout the spa treatment to assess a client's preferences and comfort level. Each spa treatment is performed with the client's skin type and skin care goals in mind. Not only is Loripak's commitment to providing a quality spa experience for each individual alluring, but so is the confidence that the owner Larissa radiates about the Loripak spa experience, "If people come, I'm 100% sure they'll come back."

Cascabel Taqueria

2010-07-25T22:44:00.006-04:00

Have you ever passed by that one restaurant on your way to the subway and thought…I really have to try that place?! Life tends to get busy and you forget about the list of restaurants you have been yearning to try. This week, however, after a long day at work, I finally brought out my long list of restaurants. At last, my sister and I made it a Mexican night at Cascabel Taqueria.

Every time I passed by Cascabel Taqueria, located at 1542 2nd Avenue between 80th and 81st Street, the atmosphere of the restaurant seemed to be spilling onto the streets as diners enjoyed generous margaritas and delicious tacos. Even though Cascabel has a light and casual atmosphere, they are serious about their tacos and excited about bringing Mexican street food to the Upper East Side.

The menu is broken into five categories and perfect for sharing with friends and family. There is “Para Empezar” (starters), “Para Acompañar” (sides), “Tacos,” “Platos Grandes” (entrees) and “Dulce” (desserts). There were so many great dishes to choose from, but my sister and I settled on three different tacos to share. Carne Asada, a grilled yucatán achiote hanger steak with oyster mushrooms, creme fresca, and crispy onion, Camaron with roasted wild shrimp, fresh oregano, garlic, chili oil, and black beans, and Pollo Chipotle with Amish chicken, avocado, and green onion.

Doesn’t your mouth just water reading this? The Camaron and Pollo Chipotle tacos were delicious but on my next visit to Cascabel, I will be ordering the Carne Asada again. The hanger steak was perfectly cooked and the crispy onions make this the ultimate addictive taco! Of course, no meal is complete without a side of traditional guacamole with tostadas. Be careful! If you like spicy, order your guacamole hot, otherwise stick with mild or medium.

At Cascabel, the motto is “Eat, Drink, and Love Tacos.” My experience was just that and more. The ingredients are top-quality and the drinks and Mexican brews are the perfect way to top off a hot summer day!

Butterfield Market

2010-07-09T18:38:00.018-04:00

If you are an Upper East Sider who uses the 77th Street subway stop, you are familiar with the ever-popular Butterfield Market located at 1114 Lexington Avenue between 77th and 78th Street. There is nothing I love more than neighborhood markets. Being from a small town north of Chicago, I grew up visiting our local market where everyone knew my name. I get the same welcoming vibe every time I visit Butterfield Market.

Butterfield Market’s Long and Rich History

Butterfield Market has been serving Upper East Siders for almost a century, including such famous patrons as Brooke Astor and John Rockefeller. Long ago, before cell phones ran our lives, telephone exchanges were given names instead of numbers. This area of New York was named Butterfield 8 – from which the store’s name is derived.

The market changed owners over the next forty years until 1963 when Theodore Appelbaum, lovingly nicknamed “Mr. Butterfield,” bought the store and worked tirelessly 6 days a week until he was 91 years old. As the business grew, “Mr. Butterfield” asked his son-in-law, Alan Obsatz, to be his partner. Later, in the early 2000's, Alan’s daughter Joelle Obsatz and son Evan Obsatz entered the family business, where they continue to work today.

For me, it is truly special that Butterfield Market has been in the hands of the same family for so many decades. I recently had the pleasure of meeting the entire Obsatz family. They welcomed me to their store with warmth and hospitality. As I watched the Obsatz family interact with customers and employees, I could see how much they genuinely care for every member of their staff and the many patrons who walk through their doors each day. Beyond the plethora of delicious specialty foods, I believe this is what makes Butterfield Market truly unique and special for Upper East Side residents.

Specialty Products and Partnerships

Hanging from the awning of Butterfield Market, you will notice three signs: Tate’s of Southampton, The Vegan Divas, and Payard. This delectable trio has a special partnership with Butterfield, adding to the distinctiveness of this market compared to others throughout the city.

Tate’s of Southampton
After meeting with the Tate’s of Southampton owner in November 2009, Butterfield has become the sole provider outside of Kathleen King’s shop in Southampton, to offer a full line of products. While you may have seen Tate’s famous cookies sold in other parts of the city, nowhere else will you find the full line of scones, brownies, and cobblers. Pies and scones are baked fresh every single day at the in-house kitchen of Butterfield Market.

Payard
Chocolate lovers throughout the Upper East Side were heart broken when Payard on 73rd and Lexington closed their doors. Fortunately, for French macarons lovers like myself, Butterfield Market is proud to be working with Francois Payard, and offering a full line of his products including chocolates, truffles, macarons, cakes, and pastries. My mouth waters every time I pass Payard’s display of pastries in the window of Butterfield Market.

The Vegan Divas
My New Year’s resolution for 2010 was to consume more organic products and focus on a vegan diet. While I do not adhere to a strict vegan diet (I cannot pry myself away from yogurt just yet) I do limit myself to only vegan desserts. Luckily for me, Butterfield Market now partners with Fernanda Capobianco, and has created an entire line of sweet pastries called The Vegan Divas. I have had the pleasure of trying almost every one of their products. Everything from the double chocolate cupcakes, brownies, Spa Detox Trail Mix, coconut macaroons, and raspberry lemon muffins are absolutely out of this world! The bag of chocolate chip cookies that I got from Butterfield Market just two days ago has already vanished. Check out more facts below on what makes The Vegan Divas so healthy and unique!

• All Vegan Divas products are 100% vegan, kosher, and parve (a guarantee that the food product does not contain any meat or dairy products, and it has not come in contact with either). In addition, all products are cholesterol-free.
• Every single Vegan Divas product displays a calorie-count and list of nutrition facts on its packaging.
• All Vegan Divas foods are 100% preservative-free and artisan-crafted from fresh ingredients.
• Spelt is used in place of regular flour (for better digestion). 100% all-natural sugars are used including maple syrup, evaporated cane juice, and sucanat (dark-brown soft sugar).

Two additions to Butterfield Market that deserve special mention are the ever-popular Butterfield Frozen Yogurt stand and the homemade fresh blended juices. The yogurt stand opened only last summer and it has already become the go-to spot for frozen yogurt on a hot day. Since so many people visit the stand each day, a rope is needed to keep the lines out of the street! If you venture inside Butterfield Market, right in the middle of the store are three juice options, which are homemade and blended with natural sugar and water. Flavors include cantaloupe, watermelon, and lemonade.

Butterfield Market Gives Back

On top of being a welcoming family business with a wide selection of delicious products, Butterfield Market is also dedicated to giving back to the community and creating a green atmosphere. With “Project Green,” Butterfield is committed to minimizing their impact on the Earth’s climate as much as possible and implementing several environment-friendly practices. Below are some of the ways Butterfield Market is reducing their carbon footprint:

• All salad containers and sandwich wraps are made from corn-based plastics and are compostable.
• All bags are made from recycled plastics and the napkins are made from 100% recycled paper.
• They have changed butcher paper and wax paper to natural bleach-free paper.
• Many of the plates and utensils are made from corn-based plastics.

Each year, Butterfield donates over 3,000 pounds of food to City Harvest and contributes to more than 50 local non-profit organizations. As a consumer, it is important that the market where I buy my groceries and specialty products focuses on the environment and community. In a way, it makes me feel as if I am giving back as well.

I would like to thank the Obsatz family for providing Upper East Side residents with such delectable products and a welcoming atmosphere! In honor of my birthday, my sister surprised me with this beautiful birthday cake from Butterfield Market!

Carnegie Hill Chemists

2010-07-02T15:14:00.006-04:00

One of my favorite things about living in New York is the range of unique products and stores that are available across the city. If I am looking for an exclusive Indonesian bath and shower gel or an organic deodorant that will not irritate my skin, then I will be sure to find it somewhere in the city.

Little did I know that just down the street from my apartment and behind the construction on Second Avenue is a one-stop shop for all my pharmaceutical and organic bath and shower needs! Carnegie Hill Chemists, located at 1842 Second Avenue between 95th and 96th Street, is a new European-style, neighborhood pharmacy that caters to the individual needs of each client with quality service and an excellent selection of products from across the globe.

Having recently opened in February of this year, Carnegie Hill Chemists brings something new to the neighborhood including an entire line of holistic, organic, and free trade products that do not have harmful chemicals or substances. There is something for everyone including babies and mommies-to-be. Carnegie Hill Chemists carries an excellent brand called Erbaviva, which carries a product specifically for stretch marks, back oils rubs, and organic deodorant. Weleda, a brand that gently cares for and protects the delicate skin of babies, offers diaper and baby creams.

Those looking to have a relaxing at-home-spa session can also indulge in Carnegie Hill Chemist’s amazing face products with delicious flavors like honey papaya, pomegranate and mint, or a nut meal exfoliate. To really reduce the stress, Carnegie Hill Chemist’s offers the Anthousa home fragrance collection, which draws inspiration from the richness of the Mediterranean and the beautiful Tuscan countryside.

In addition to the wide range of products, Carnegie Hill Chemists’ make-up and facial consultant, Tammy, offers free makeovers using the chic Becca make-up line. Tammy is available Wednesday through Saturday for makeovers and there is no purchase necessary! There are also free facials and other events, so come into the store today and sign up to be on the Carnegie Hill Chemist event mailing list.

Before I left, Tammy gave me some amazing products from the Juara line. I tried the Juara rice facial cleanser, which is a traditional Indonesia rice water rinse that left my skin feeling soft and supple. It is for all skin types including sensitive skin like mine! I also sampled the Juara tiare jasmine tea bath and shower gel that smelled heavenly. The shower gel is a combination of sulfate-free cleansing agents and antioxidant-rich triple-tea extracts of green, white, and black teas that gently cleansed my delicate skin.

I have never seen products like this before and I can assure you that I will be returning to Carnegie Hill Chemists for more! Their organic and holistic line also makes for wonderful gifts for family and friends. Stop by the store anytime Monday-Friday 8:00am-8:00pm and Saturday 9:00am-6:00pm.

Uskudar Turkish Restaurant

2010-06-05T20:38:00.008-04:00

Are you ready for a different type of cuisine this weekend? Make a quick trip across the Atlantic and discover the delicious flavors of Turkey right in the heart of the Upper East Side!

One of my favorite things about the Upper East Side is the diversity of the cuisine and the fact that some restaurants have been in the same location for decades. This is why I recently dined at Uskudar Turkish Restaurant, named after a neighborhood in Istanbul, which has been operating in the same spot for nearly 23 years. This relaxed and intimate restaurant located at 1405 Second Avenue between 73rd and 74th Street, was the perfect getaway for a night of international cuisine and company. I was fortunate to dine with my friend, Hakan, who hails from Istanbul, to make my Turkish evening complete!

We started out with my favorite hot Turkish appetizer of all – borek. The lightly layered dough was filled with feta cheese and spinach and fried until golden brown. The borek was delightfully crisp and had just the right balance of feta and spinach. If I had it my way, I could have eaten borek all evening!

However, Hakan knew best and suggested we try the Chef’s Mixed Grill so I could try all of Uskudar’s famous kebabs. The mixed plate included tender cubes of baby lamb, chicken adana, lamb patty, and baby lamb chop, all marinated in a special seasoning with white rice cooked with pasta. Of course, on top of all the delicious food, I was able to sample Turkey’s national drink – raki! However, don’t mistake raki for water like I did. Once water is added to the already transparent drink, raki changes color and becomes a milky white, which gives it a distinct and pleasant licorice-like taste. There is a reason Turkish people call their national drink “lion’s milk” - so drink with caution!

Finally, a Turkish dinner is not complete without dessert and Turkish coffee. I chose kadayif, a shredded wheat confection with walnuts and honey, while Hakan opted for keskul, a coconut pudding. For someone with a sweet tooth, kadayif is by far my favorite Turkish dessert. I loved how it was made with just the right amount of honey and wheat. As we enjoyed our desserts and Turkish coffee, Hakan told me that when one is finished with his or her coffee, the cup is turned over into the saucer. After the grounds have cooled, the patterns of the coffee grounds can be used for fortune telling called kahve falı. According to Hakan, my Turkish coffee predicted many more dinners at Uskudar with him, and I think he may be right!

In addition to the delicious food and great company, I truly enjoyed the overall dining experience at Uskudar. In Turkey, food is meant to be savored and enjoyed over a long period of time. The staff at Uskudar was not only friendly and accommodating, but they allowed us to leisurely enjoy our meal and surroundings. It is no wonder they have been serving the Upper East Side for 23 years. I urge everyone looking for a unique and enjoyable evening to indulge in the delectable cuisine of Turkey at Uskudar Turkish Restaurant!

The Best of Italy on the Upper East Side

2010-05-11T00:47:00.014-04:00

There is something special about Nica Trattoria and it is not just the delectable specials menu. Head chef and owner, Giuseppe Nicolosi, is an extraordinary host who made me feel as if I walked into his Sicilian home for a special, homemade dinner. Welcoming me with his unique Italian charm, Giuseppe has a contagious enthusiasm that gets you excited about your food and experience in his cozy home. You better get your passports ready, because you will truly feel as if you are stepping into Sicilian territory!

With so many Italian restaurants to choose from in New York, Upper East Siders are truly fortunate to have such an authentic gem in our neighborhood. One of the many things I love about Nica Trattoria is the way Giuseppe uses local produce and Upper East Side vendors such as Agata and Valentina to make his daily specials. His menu is made fresh everyday and the specials menu will change day-to-day depending on the local produce and fresh fish he finds in the morning markets.

As I sit down at my little table for two, I chat with my neighbor, Judy, who tells me that she is a regular diner at Nica Trattoria with her husband and friends. After trying every restaurant on the Upper East Side, she has chosen Nica as her regular spot and has been a loyal customer for over two years. When I asked her what keeps her coming back, she said it is for the delicious homemade food that makes her feel like she is right at home, and, of course, Giuseppe’s way of making every customer feel special. After two years, they are on a first name basis and Giuseppe already knows what she wants to order before she sits down.

I was excited to finally sample all the delicious food I was seeing around me. After Giuseppe’s enthusiastic presentation of the specials menu, I decided to start with the cauliflower tart with pine nuts, homemade breadcrumbs, and cheese, followed by Nica’s famous gnocchi with a creamy gorgonzola sauce. The cauliflower tart was heavenly and the gnocchi felt light and fluffy and melted in my mouth. For my next trip to Nica, I will have to try the braised lamb, which my new friend Judy said is one of her favorites. Of course, I could not stop there. I had to try the homemade tiramisu, which was perfection. After devouring all courses, I definitely understood why I was surrounded by regular customers. There is no doubt that I will join Judy and the others as a loyal customer to Nica Trattoria.

Nica Trattoria is open seven days a week from 5:30pm-10:30pm and is cash only. I recommend making a reservation because there is no way you want to miss out on the mouth-watering menu and Guiseppe’s infectious passion for his food and customers.

Check out my video below on my experience at Nica Trattoria with additional information and pictures.

Buon appetito!

Goulash Avenue

2010-04-22T19:55:00.019-04:00

Even though there are so many great coffee shops on the Upper East Side, I continue to go to my favorite Starbucks on the corner of 81st and 2nd Avenue. Why would a seasoned Upper East Sider like myself go to the same Starbucks everyday? While the frappachinos are delicious, I go to watch my favorite Hungarian men who sit in their special corner of Starbucks so I can listen to their boisterous and cheerful afternoon conversations. The Hungarian friends gather together every single day at this particular Starbucks on 81st and 2nd Avenue. As I sipped my afternoon vanilla bean frappachino, I looked across 2nd Avenue and noticed the Hungarian Meat Market & Delicatessen. I was starting to sense some kind of connection taking place.

When I returned to my apartment (ironically located one block from “King Stephen of Hungary Way” on 82nd Street and 1st Avenue) I began to research the Hungarian influence on the Upper East Side and was amazed at what I discovered. Decades ago, three of the main streets crossing Yorkville created an Eastern European ethnic flavor that still resonates today. The Bohemian Boulevard covered 72nd Street, Hungarian Boulevard was 79th Street, and the German Boulevard stretched across 86th Street.

Of course, the Upper East Side has evolved since these times but it is important to recognize and celebrate the cultural influences that are present in our neighborhood today. When I returned to the Hungarian Meat Market & Delicatessen at 1560 2nd Avenue, I learned that the market was established in the 1950’s on “Goulash Avenue” when Hungarian immigrants populated Manhattan’s Yorkville district. The delicatessen continues to be family owned and the employees in the market are from Hungary. As Yorkville’s last Hungarian meat market, they are committed to preserving Hungarian culture and cuisine as well as familiarizing Upper East Siders with its famous Kalosca paprika, apricot jam, and Kashkaval cheese among other delicacies.

My quest to find everything Hungarian did not stop there. I ventured forward to Andre’s Café and Bakery, the last Hungarian restaurant on the Upper East Side located at 1631 2nd Avenue between 84th and 85th Street. For a bargain price of $12.95 each, my friend and I lunched on Andre’s famous goulash soup, generous portions of stuffed cabbage and breaded chicken (a recommendation from my new friend at the Hungarian Meat Market) and, finally, a delicious helping of Napoleon Kremes.
From the lively Hungarian men, to the Hungarian Meat Market & Delicatessen, and finally Andre’s Café and Bakery, I felt like I traveled back in time to Hungarian Boulevard for the afternoon. The Upper East Side contains so many cultural gems and sometimes they are hard to see beyond modern New York. However, if you look hard enough, behind every Starbucks might be a group of cheerful old friends with a special connection to Upper East Side history.

An Early Taste of Summer

2010-04-09T12:30:00.014-04:00

Break out the air conditioner units, New Yorkers! Summer has arrived!

Wait…

Summer? But isn’t it only April?!

Yes, it is only April but this past week New York hit record high temperatures. On Wednesday, Central Park actually hit 90 degrees and broke the current record of 89 degrees in 1929! As someone with Scandinavian blood, I am not used to hot weather arriving so early in the year, so my friends and I took advantage of this rarity and celebrated in Central Park.

There is nothing I love more than springtime in New York with its picturesque flowers, luscious green lawns, and a feeling of rejuvenation and overall beauty after a harsh winter. While some New Yorkers head to Washington D.C. to celebrate the Cherry Blossom Festival, those of us who live on the Upper East Side just need to step outside our back yard to experience our own cherry blossom festival in Central Park.

From the Shakespeare Garden, to the Belvedere Castle, and finally to the Great Lawn, my friends and I leisurely stroll through the park until we find a comfortable place to sit and watch the families, couples, and friends basking in the sun and enjoying an exceptional summer day in April.

After several hours in the hot sun, my friends and I decided to cool off for an early dinner at Atlantic Grill on Third Avenue between 76th and 77th Street. Good thing I planned ahead and made reservations because Atlantic Grill is always packed – and rightfully so – the food is fresh and delicious! It seemed all the families in Central Park had the same idea about an early dinner. For such a well-established seafood restaurant, I was pleasantly surprised to see how accommodating Atlantic Grill is for families with several menu options for children.

As my friends dined on Scottish Salmon and Jumbo Day Boat Scallops, I enjoyed a perfectly prepared Crab Crusted Mahi-Mahi with Porcini Mushrooms and Sweet Garlic Farro Risotto. Even after such generous portions, we couldn’t resist the dessert menu and finished with the White Chocolate-Orange Creme Brulée with a Chocolate-Dipped Coconut Macaroon and a Caramelized Banana Ice Cream Tower in a Hazelnut Shell with Toasted Marshmallow Sauce. Not only was the food delicious at Atlantic Grill, but the service was excellent and the staff was patient and very hospitable to large groups of friends and families.

At the end of this perfect and rare hot, spring day I was able to enjoy three of my favorite things on the Upper East Side: Central Park, fine dining, and fabulous friends! I may not be used to 90 degree summer days in April, but I can definitely get used to an early summer of relaxation, fun, food, and friends on the Upper East Side!

Become Your Dream

2010-03-24T14:14:00.015-04:00

It all started about three years ago when I moved to the Upper East Side from Murray Hill. I just graduated from a challenging graduate program at New York University and I was ready to take on the “real world.” After six straight years of academia, I was hoping to have a better idea of what this “real world” was like and I chose to start my new journey on the Upper East Side .

The first few months after graduation were difficult and I still did not know exactly what I wanted to do with my life. I felt lost and confused. Even in a huge city like New York with endless possibilities, I needed a sign that I was moving in the right direction. Then one day when I walked out of my five-story walk-up, I saw three simple words that hit me like a ton of bricks. Written on a dirty, old twin mattress slumped against the curbside were the words –

Become Your Dream

Alongside that powerful phrase was a picture of a fish jumping out of its tank. Tears immediately swelled in my eyes. How could three simple words have such an impact on me? Maybe because I was finally that fish taking a leap of faith and jumping out of the tank into the world? Months passed by and I did not see the words again - but I never forgot them. Then about six months later when I was having a hard time at my first job after graduate school, I saw those three beautiful words on an old Ikea dresser –

Become Your Dream

This time, however, the name De La Vega was written next to it. I immediately went up to my apartment and Googled “Become Your Dream De La Vega.” To my surprise, James De La Vega is a famous artist in New York City who has been spreading his thought-provoking words throughout the city for many years – first in East Harlem and now with a museum in the East Village. I was even more delighted to discover that in 2005, De La Vega painted a mural of his iconic words and jumping fish on a brick wall located in my very own Upper East Side neighborhood. Thankfully, this mural is still around and can be found on East 95th Street between 1st and 2nd Avenue for locals to visit and draw inspiration from its beautiful colors and message.

I can honestly say that ever since I saw my first “Become Your Dream” three years ago, I have a more positive outlook on my future and I am taking the necessary steps to reaching my true potential. A few months ago, I met De La Vega for the first time and told him how his words changed my life. He asked me why those three words aroused such emotion in me. I told him it meant so much because the real world is not always easy and I am discovering that everyday – post graduate school. There are so many people, places, and opportunities that it is easy to lose yourself and – most importantly your dreams – in the chaos of everyday life and particularly in a city like New York. Seeing those three words pop out of garbage cans and juxtaposed in the middle of a busy street really makes me stop and reflect what I want out of my life.

Unfortunately, I do not have photos from my first encounters of De La Vega’s message three years ago, but I recently began making a scrapbook of every “Become Your Dream” I find on the Upper East Side and have over 50 photos in my collection. De La Vega himself does not write every “Become Your Dream” I stumble across but, rather, it is people just like me who are inspired by his words and want to spread the message to others.

I urge everyone to visit East 95th Street and witness De La Vega’s Upper East Side treasure. It will inspire you to jump out of the tank and “Become Your Dream.”

Making Everyday Life Beautiful at Marimekko

2010-03-15T22:19:00.008-04:00

Is it Japanese? Swedish? Danish? This is a common question customers ask themselves as they browse the shelves of the vibrant Upper East Side store – Marimekko. Do not let the name confuse you, however. Marimekko is a staple and proud national treasure of Finland. As an Upper East Sider with Finnish roots, I hold a special place in my heart for this bold and beautiful textile, clothing, and home goods store. As the only Marimekko store in New York, and one of the few in the United States, we are lucky to have a neighborhood outlet to unleash our inner Finn.

While many Upper East Siders admire Marimekko for its quality of clothing, array of modern textiles, and practical home goods – there is another important reason locals should be lucky to have a foreign gem in our neighborhood. When Armi Ratia (1912-1979) began to commission young artists to design fabrics in 1951 with her husband’s textile firm, people admired the boldly colored prints, yet did not know how to use them in everyday life. In order to demonstrate the use of these new fabrics, a small collection of clothing was put together for a fashion show. The effervescent colors and fresh styles gave new life to Finland as people were still recovering from the somber and gray post-war years.

The Marimekko mission is to give people hope and joy by making everyday life beautiful. As New Yorkers, we know all too well that the hustle and bustle of the city can be overwhelming. But the moment you step into this Finnish wonderland on the Upper East Side, the colors will transport you to a place of nature, dreams, and memories and you will leave the noise of the city outside.

Now that New York’s tough winter weather is almost behind us, there is no better way to jump into springtime than with a trip to Marimekko. Starting this Friday, March 12, New Yorkers will have a once in a lifetime opportunity to indulge in a “Spring Cleaning” sale with items up to 70% off including clothing, home and bath items, kitchen ware, shoes, bags, and more! All Marimekko aficionados should travel to the Upper East Side and take advantage of this incredible sale until March 22.

How will you express your inner Finn this season?!

Visit Marimekko at 1262 Third Avenue between 72nd and 73rd Street or on the web at http://www.kiitosmarimekko.com

The Magnificent Lady M

2010-03-02T11:42:00.008-05:00

Cheering on all those svelte, fit Olympians the last two weeks certainly caused me to yearn for my own…leaner days. This didn’t prevent me from recently stopping into the beautiful Lady M Cake Boutique on 78^th between Madison and Park Avenues. Over the years, I have often peeked through her sidewalk-to-ceiling windows and the cakes inside have certainly beckoned. I knew crossing that glass threshold was going to cost me some calories, but it just could not be resisted.

What I found inside was, well, simply put: heaven. The space is almost entirely white with a marble and glass counter lit from below. The floors are white, the chairs are white, the walls are white. And the flowers? They’re white, too. This might sound like a sterile atmosphere, but it is actually extremely warm. The pristine setting lets the cakes speak for themselves. More accurately, I think these would sing. I imagine a sweet operatic soprano savoring new love (or trying to convince you you’re more beautiful without a waistline.)

General Manager Kim Lawrence tells me that the concept behind the store was to not only have exquisite confections, but to serve them in an elegant, sophisticated space. Really, she says, “the cakes are like the jewelry of the store.” And they are gorgeous. The banana Mille Feuille is especially striking and, in its half-consumed state, looks a little bit like the Sydney Opera House. The berries circling the top of the Strawberry Mille Feuille have been placed with incomprehensible precision. And the Green Tea Mousse Cake is veritably verdant.

I opted for the selection most modest in appearance and most enticing in description: The Lady M Mille Crepes. “No less than 20 thin, hand-made crepes layered with an ethereally light and creamy custard.” This is Lady M’s signature cake, the jewel this boutique is famous for, and likely what regularly fills up the eight or so tiny tables of this unique space. Customers regularly pop in to purchase entire crepe cakes to take away ($40 for a small, $75 for full size); I assume they are the grand finale to many local dinner soirees.

My husband opted for the Blanc Glace Chocolate Cake and we both ordered lattes with skim (as if this one sensible decision would balance out the decadence.)

We were both delighted with our selections, to say the least. The crepe cake was divine: rich, but not too sweet. Eggy, and creamy, and indeed layered with more individual crepes than I could count, creating an attractive cross cut: my mother has always contended that, where beauty is concerned, what’s most important is on the inside. And this dessert certainly bears this out. The chocolate cake was also wonderful, if not quite as unique.

While enjoying this Saturday afternoon treat, I noticed that Lady M also offers a few sandwiches (Smoked Salmon, Tomato Mozzarella, Brie, etc.), some croissants, and some equally stylish individual sweets like Chocolate Eclairs and a Very Berry tartlet. I also noted that Classical music lilted softly in the background; customers seemed to keep their voices hushed as if in sugary reverence.

Lady M opened her doors in 2005. Lawrence tells me that there is no actual “Lady M”, which disappointed me, somewhat. I was beginning to imagine her as a modern iconoclast with a blackberry in one hand, a quill pen in the other, red lipstick as carefully applied as those strawberries, and just a hint of flour on her black cashmere turtleneck…but I digress, (and I suppose I can to continue to think of her in that way if I so desire...) The boutique is actually owned by various investors and chefs overseas and Lawrence was brought in to launch and run it. The cakes are composed in Queens.

This area on the Upper East Side was identified as a perfect spot for this kind of venture. It is a happy coincidence that the Wedding Library (kind of like a wedding research storefront featuring different local vendors) opened up next door around the same time. There is no connection between the businesses, but I presume many brides-to-be enjoy stopping in to Lady M with their mothers or bridesmaids. Then again, if they’re trying to squeeze into that strapless dress, they may want to think twice….

The boutique is open Mon-Fri 10-7, Sat 11-7 and Sun 11-6. Even though this indulgence may have taken me even further from Olympic form, I give this little spot a gold medal…perhaps, in this case, best hung from a string of milky-white pearls, (or crystallized sugar?) Point is, I highly recommend.

A Taste of Paris in Yorkville

2010-02-26T10:59:00.013-05:00

No need to fly to Paris to find the perfect crepe…
Yorkville Creperie is right around the corner!

On a snowy New York afternoon, there is no better way to warm your hands and belly than a rich, delicious crepe from the Yorkville Creperie. Whether it is a quick lunch, after-dinner dessert, Sunday brunch, or coffee break while browsing the Internet using the creperie’s free wireless - there is something for everyone at Yorkville Creperie.

Having only been open since April 2009, this hot spot is the go-to Upper East Side eatery for both sweet and savory crepes. With a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, the Yorkville Creperie offers overflowing natural light, mellow music, aromatic coffee, and a variety of seating including over-sized comfortable couches, standard tables, or even a charming alcove in the corner.

As I settled into my cozy alcove, I browsed the diverse menu of sweet and savory crepes, salads, and panini’s. My eyes and taste buds shifted immediately to the U.E.S. crepe. This unique crepe, dedicated to local Upper East Siders such as myself, combines life’s sweetest pleasures by layering a chocolate brownie, bananas, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, and drizzled with Nutella! Before I could indulge in my sweet tooth, I started with the Roma Crepe – an herb crepe with chicken, mozzarella, and tomato bruschetta. Yum!

While enjoying my Roma and Upper East Side crepes, I admired the beautiful artwork displayed on the walls throughout the cafe. Chris Boyce, one of the owners of Yorkville Creperie, explained to me that local artists approach him to showcase their art. Artists typically display for one to two months and all pieces are available for purchase. This local creative touch brings a special intimacy and connection to customers with their Upper East Side neighborhood.

Next time you are craving something sweet or savory, there is no need to spend hundreds of dollars on a ticket to Paris, just head over to the Yorkville Creperie located at 1586 York Avenue between 83rd and 84th Streets and enjoy local food, art, and ambience!

For a full menu visit http://www.yorkvillecreperienyc.com/

Bon appetit!

Café 79 Under New Ownership

2010-01-26T08:58:00.004-05:00

I felt bad cheating on Gracie Mews, our favorite weekend eggstop at First and 81st, but sometimes you just gotta change things up. And every time I’ve walked past Café 79 since it re-opened, it’s been buzzing. The hubs and I decided to give it a try this past Saturday.

Café 79 is at the corner of 79th and 1st and re-opened under new ownership in November. Though it was packed and a line was quickly forming behind us, we got a seat pretty quickly. And what a handsome seat, especially for a diner – leather-ish and geometrical. In fact, the décor here is a great improvement. A real orchid greets you at the front, colorful glass tile serves as a backdrop to the counter, and the lighting fixtures are contemporary.

The new owner tells me they were aiming to modernize the space and brighten it up. They put a lot of effort into how it looks and you can tell. But he says that, mostly, they’re focusing on the food, using fresh, high-quality ingredients.

Sometimes it can be difficult to focus, in New York restaurants. I love all the hustle bustle but I also get distracted by it. I noticed that all four diners beside us ordered steak and eggs (14.95). I noticed that the place was teaming with couples, mostly dressed in black. There was an adorable (and vocal) baby next to us with a picture of a puppy sewn onto the derriere of her pink pants. I noticed that there were whole wheat griddle cakes on the menu and attractive bottles of olive oil and balsamic vinegar on every table…

Anyway, I finally buckled down to the business of breakfast and ordered an Omelette with avocado, Swiss, and bacon, which I enjoyed. The potatoes on the side contained green peppers and therefore were not to my taste. I’m sure many people don’t mind these little green intruders, but I prefer my potatoes with just spices, some onions of course an ample dose of grease.

My husband liked his Italian Omelette, which contained sausage, pepper, tomato, and mozzarella. But we mostly enjoyed the pancakes we ordered for “breakfast dessert.” Fluffy, flavorful, and bonus this time, two of them were connected together like Siamese twins.

The service here was pleasant, the coffee and water flowed, and the over all experience was positive. Café 79 is open for seating and delivery 24 hours a day.

Feeding a Cold on the UES

2010-01-07T12:02:00.011-05:00

They say you should starve a flu and feed a cold. I suppose we should all be wary of the generalized “they” but I tend to heed their advice, especially when they suggest eating. Earlier this week, I had a gnarly yet short-lived head cold: my least-attractive self could have starred in a cold medicine commercial.

So you’d think this piece would be about searching out chicken soup on the Upper East Side. There are certainly some excellent homemade versions around here, but alas, I was all set on that front: on Monday I took a good dose of it for lunch along with an abundance of vitamin C in the form of those uber-sweet clementines. I was gobbling those juicy little segments all day like candy, but by dinner I was still ravenous. When you’re under the weather like that, eating is a both comfort and distraction. Maybe if I gorge myself I’ll be less focused on this pressure in my head…

Anyway, for some reason, I set my sights on Indian food. My husband, otherwise now known as “The Hubs,” offered to pick it up. The strange thing is that, though I love Indian food, I’ve never had it on the UES. I have two places I like on the Upper West, a great place in White Plains, and recently discovered a wonderful Indian restaurant in New Rochelle, but haven’t checked out the offerings nearby.

We found Indian Tandoor-Oven Restaurant on 83rd between 3rd and Lex online and perused the menu on their website. On these cyber pages, the owner is pictured with Jimmy Fallon, Christina Ricci, Jason Biggs, and Woody Allen. We are to presume they have all dined at this establishment. (Or simply passed by and lingered long enough for a photo shoot?)

Then we called up (I love New York), ordered some dishes and…waited patiently. That is, I waited patiently while eating more clementines and The Hubs went out to hunt and gather, city-style. Unfortunately, there was a “mishap.” The paper bag, overstuffed with piping-hot cold-curing food, busted at the bottom, resulting in some Pollack-esque stainage on his favorite pants and new coat. The good news is that no food actually fell or got harmed in his ever-capable hands. Sigh…my hero.

After I snapped a few Informer pics, we dug in, starting with my favorite appetizer: papadum (the flatbread crackers), which are fun to eat but even more fun to say. For the record, when I incessantly repeat the word Papadum, it’s not a commentary on the intelligence of anyone’s father.

My go-to Indian dish is Chicken Tikka Masala. A dear friend of mine from college introduced me to this tomato-ey, creamy dish and I’ve rarely been disappointed. This is apparently the most popular Indian dish around the world and might have roots in either Mughlai or Glasgow, Scotland. It’s kind of like the California Roll of Indian food. The Saag Chicken we got, a spinach-based dish, was less exciting – it did seem very healthy, though I think I like the Paneer version (i.e. with cheese) better.

The Naan bread was excellent and contoured with many mountainous bread bubbles. Again, I’ve rarely met a slab of Naan I didn’t like.

Surprisingly, the real stand-out here was the Basmati rice. I don’t think I’ve ever had it with yellow raisins and slivered almonds before. It was excellent.

This meal was exactly what the doctor ordered – thanks to some good food and lots of TLC, I am on the mend.

Can you suggest other good Indian places to try up here? Click on 'comments' below.

Seeing Stars on the UES

2009-11-24T22:11:00.008-05:00

I am not a stalker. This is not a gossip column. I do carry a camera everywhere I go and I often bust it out on the sly (mostly to snap shots of unsuspecting entrees and attractive desserts…), but I am not a member of the paparazzi. It’s fun to spot famous people around the Upper East Side, but I’d never take a photo. Likewise, I’d never do something tacky like request an autograph or approach for any reason. I believe that the famous amongst us deserve their space.

In fact, I pride myself on keeping my distance and maintaining a high level of decorum whenever fate places me in close proximity to a star. My mother taught me that it isn’t polite to stare, and I agree with her. But I must confess: I have also found that staring is really the only way to see exactly what someone is wearing, track someone’s every move, and analyze what makes this fabulous person tick. After all, if you don’t seize the opportunity to examine fame when you stumble upon it, how else can you ever hope to achieve similar beauty, luster, and wealth?

This is why I have developed a method of facing my head in one direction and straining my eyeballs so that they can see in the exact opposite direction. This feat requires a combination of strength, flexibility, and, mostly, well… burning curiosity. Contrary to what “some others” may say, I assure you that my technique is the quite subtle. This is precisely how I was able to get through brunch just two tiny tables away from famous feminist Gloria Steinem at Sarabeth’s in the Whitney Museum. It may have seemed like I was looking at my Farmer’s Omelette but I was instead noting that Gloria was comfortably ensconced in her corner table, the picture of womanly self-assurance, sipping coffee long after her plate was taken away. Tried as I did, I could not recognize her girlish brunch companions.

This is also how I spent a lovely luncheon with Alec Baldwin. My husband and I were sitting at one of the communal tables of Le Pain Quotidien on Madison at 85th when he and his companion chose, amid many other options, to sit with us. He was literally two feet away. The fact that his back was turned to us didn’t make it seem any less like a cozy double date. Contrary to all accusations afterwards, I was able to engage in an extremely coherent conversation while using the aforementioned visual technique to stealthily size-up Alec’s leggy friend of the lustrous locks. Likewise, I did not flip my own hair with a hint of seduction. Nor did my laughter suddenly take on a sexier tone. I simply observed that real men do in fact eat quiche and noted how diplomatic Alec was when he inquired if his was “supposed to be served hot or cold?” The waitress quickly whisked it away and returned with a new, presumably hotter slice. We had the good sense to not interrupt his repast like some other eager beaver who foisted out his hand, claiming he was “a big fan.” We were on far more intimate terms: my husband was more than happy to share mixed berry preserves with Alec from the same communal condiment caddy.

The day I saw David Duchovny, I didn’t have to strain my eyeballs but I did almost sprain my neck. I was in the car, heading south on Madison Avenue and he was walking northbound, somewhere in the 80’s, with purpose. I managed to not get in an accident while registering that he had on a nice pair of sunglasses, though it was not very sunny out. He also had on v-neck cardigan in a tasteful auburn hue and a messenger bag strap across his chest.

It was my husband who first spotted author Tom Wolfe as he walked toward us, near the Carlyle Hotel. We pretended we were window shopping but we were actually gawking at this remarkable vision of uptown, old-time, insider New York. The author looked exactly as dapper as you’d think: he was be-hatted, perfectly groomed, and donned an elegant white suit. His Sherlock Holmesian type cloak bounced gently with each efficient step. We saw after he passed that this cloak was plaid underneath.

When Derek Jeter walked into the Starbucks at 75th and First Avenue, you could feel the entire place ripple with recognition. You could also see about 30 camera phones jut up into the air and snap pictures in unison. Derek was with two other men who, I guessed, based on their ample physiques, were also athletes, possibly other New York Yankees. They strode across the coffee shop relaxed, yet ultra-confident, like a veritable pride of lions. I hid behind my laptop and peered at them as if through jungle fronds, while the baristas whipped them up a round of venti frappaccinos.

Along the way, I’ve hobnobbed with other stars on the Upper East: Emmy Rossum (Phantom of the Opera, etc.), Rue McClanahan (Golden Girls, etc.), Richard Herd (George Costanza’s boss at the Yankees on Seinfeld, etc.) and the list goes on…

But the most quintessential UES star sighting occurred just recently, at the corner of 96th and Madison. I was stretching my calves in preparation for a run around the reservoir, while waiting for my husband who was picking up a pre-run latte. When I looked up, I saw none other than Woody Allen taking a stroll with a friend of similar age and comportment. They were engaged in what I can only assume was a discussion of a highly philosophical and perhaps somewhat sarcastic nature. Woody had on khakis, sensible shoes, a faded blue button-down and one of those hats most often worn by fishermen, sans lures.

I couldn’t help myself this time: I excitedly hopped from one foot to the other and beckoned for my husband to hurry up! The fact that we followed Woody and friend as they turned left onto 5th Avenue then continued south along the park was not a act of stalking but a complete and utter coincidence – really, we were headed exact in the same direction. We did not sprint ahead then peek from behind trees as they passed, nor did we get close on their heels then cup our hands around our ears in order to hear what they were saying. We maintained a perfectly respectful distance and when we reached our destination at the park, we forced ourselves to stop. We simply watched as they continued their walkabout, still deep in conversation. Gradually, they faded out of our sight, past the Guggenheim and into the city beyond.

What have I learned through my studies? That famous people aren't all that different from the rest of us and sometimes they even happen to occupy the same space. (Also, if you’re on the market for some prime star sightings, Madison Avenue is by far your best bet.)

A Mix of Live Performances this Saturday on UES

2009-11-16T14:28:00.007-05:00

Great news! You don’t have to trek down to Broadway or to the village to get your grass-roots art fix. There is going to be a program of multifaceted live performances this weekend here on the Upper East Side. In my opinion, this is a welcome and all-too-rare occurrence in this otherwise lovely neck of the woods.

A group of collaborative artists called, Break the Mold, will be gathering together several performers at Our Lady of Good Counsel (90th between Second and Third Avenues) on Saturday, November 21 at 7:30 pm and Sunday at 2 pm for an eclectic mix of music, dance, and spoken word. The suggested donation is $8.

The shows will last approximately one hour and feature, among others, opera singer Andrea Lynn Cianflone, percussion group Loop 2.4.3, and rock and roll trio TJ Moss Band. There will also be Irish step dancers, a violinist, a harpist, and a lyric-reading actress, many of whom will combine forces in unique and perhaps surprising ways. The cool thing is that there will be a reception afterwards where you can mix and mingle with the artists.

Organizer Melinda Marie Heitzman says that the first go-round of Break the Mold at Our Lady of Good Counsel this past July was so popular that they decided to expand from one to two days, this time. Likewise, many people were so excited by what they saw that they stuck around afterwards to meet and speak with the performers. They therefore decided to officially include a post-show reception so that “audience members can meet the artists and the artists can get to know their audience.”

Heitzman, who has a background in both dance and community theater, laments that there are so many talented artists in this city who are relegated to small venues. She and her friends wanted to do something about this. Break the Mold gives artists an opportunity to collaborate with one another and perform for wider audiences. “This is unique for the Upper East Side and it’s unique for New York City, in general. It’s great for undiscovered artists, here, to get on a bigger stage.”

She says that Our Lady of Good Counsel is an excellent space since it has a good sound stage and can accommodate a large audience. Besides, “this is a very family-oriented show. You can bring your grandma, your best friend, your priest, and your niece and nephew.” While they are pleased to headquarter this kind event on the UES and provide entertainment for this community, Break the Mold is also interested in attracting people from all over the city.

Heitzman tells me that Break the Mold was originally a conglomeration of friends and their friends but it is quickly growing. Artists interested in participating can submit their reels, videos or music by contacting Break the Mold at collaborate.nyc@gmail.com.

Perhaps I’ll see you there this weekend. I'll be the one tapping my toe (don't worry - in my seat - not on stage...)

Libertador: Best Fries on the UES

2009-11-04T16:01:00.007-05:00

I have not tasted every single French fry on the Upper East Side, but I have tasted enough fries in this neighborhood (okay, and across this fine city) (and okay, across this fine country) to know that I have now discovered the very best. In fact, what the heck, I’ve never been afraid of a little hyperbole – I hereby proclaim that I have found the best French fries in The Entire Universe. They’re right here on Second Avenue and 89th Street at Libertador Parrilla - Argentina.

The first time I went to Libertador, these fries snuck up on me: the entrée was good, but the side dish was out of sight. I went back a second time to confirm that they were exactly as excellent as I remembered. They were. After this, the daydreams began. It got to the point where I couldn’t concentrate on anything besides these fries. I inevitably went back, this time by myself so that I could focus. I ordered a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon. Then I ate an entire bowl of fries. For dinner.

They call them French Fries Provenzal and they are fancied up with ample amounts of fresh garlic and parsley. They are crisp yet chewy and moist but not too greasy. This preparation is really more of a French thing: Manager Gedas Masilionis tells me that Argentinian food is heavily influenced by French and Italian cooking.

Don’t even think about insulting these fries with ketchup. You won’t get any at Libertador. If you absolutely have to dip them in something, try the delicious chimichurri sauce.

Then maybe get some steak on the side. Though I don't eat red meat, myself, I am aware that Argentinian cuisine is known for its beef. The cuts here are free-range and grass fed. You can even watch your steak get prepared to your specifications at the parrillero, basically an open-kitchen barbecue or meat bar, in the corner of the restaurant.

Besides the fries, I can recommend the 10 oz. King Salmon Fillet, which has been marinated for 24 hours, grilled and lightly smoked. It is served with an extremely fresh watercress, corn, and tomato salad. The Chicken Milanesa is pressed, breaded and served with mashed potatoes or…Fries Provenzal. Did I mention the fries?

The chef here is the young, up-and-coming Natalia Machado. She grew up in Buenos Aires and also heads-up the kitchens at Azul in the lower east side and Industria Argentina in Tribeca. Earlier this fall, she appeared on The Food Network’s Chopped, a chef contest show, and won.

Libertador, only open since last March, has been designed to resemble the parillas on the streets of Buenos Aires. The space is open and airy with both modern and traditional touches. The front façade is comprised entirely of windows looking out onto Second Avenue. This view of the city’s hustle and bustle combined with cozy lighting makes this a hip place to meet up with friends or a romantic spot for a date. In fact, I have a knack for spotting first dates and I’ve now noticed more than a few of them here.

Fabrics imported from Argentina adorn the bar stools and the banquet. Distressed mirrors line the walls and the ceiling is covered with old Argentinian newspapers detailing political events from the 1950’s to 1970’s. A colorful patchwork mural at the back of the restaurant features the shadow of a soldier on his horse. He is mid-stride and triumphant – presumably a libertadore celebrating independence. Or maybe he just had a serving of those Fries Provenzal. Of course, victory is always sweet, but I now believe it can also be savory…

Halloween Howl for Doggies at Carl Shurz, Sunday

2009-10-22T13:24:00.009-04:00

Halloween is lurking right around the corner, so it’s time to round up costumes for everyone in the family: that means you, your kids, and… even your bull dog. I don’t have a dog, myself, but I am delighted to discover that there is going to be a canine costume party here on the Upper East Side. It’s called the Annual Halloween Howl and it’s taking place Sunday afternoon (October 25) at Carl Shurz Park, 1-3 pm. If that doesn’t make you wag your tail then I don’t what will.

Turns out the Howl has been going on for about 12 years and is a fundraiser for the dog runs, which are maintained by volunteers and funded by private donations. If you want to register your companion in the contest, gussie him up, and arrive at the basketball court by the dog runs between 12 and 1 (enter the park at 84th Street and East End Avenue). It’s just a $5 donation fee to participate. Prizes will be awarded in the following categories: Small Dog, Large Dog, Group (dogs and their humans or more than one dog), and Best New York City Themed Costume.

Then, it’s your doggie’s chance to shine, to strut his stuff for the esteemed judging panel. The judges, culled mostly from the world of fashion, will be looking for originality, demeanor, attitude, and behavior. First, Second and Third places in each category will win ribbons and also gift certificates from Three Tiny Terriers, a dog boutique on First between 91st and 92nd.

There will also be a raffle, chances costing $1 each and $5 for a book of 6. There is an extensive list of prizes including gift certificates to lots of UES businesses like Maz Mezcal, Glaser’s Bake Shop and Yorkville Creperie. You could also win doggie-centric treats like a hand-knit sweater by Canine Couture, a 45 minute telephone consultation for animal communication with Cynthia Fellows, and 1 year’s supply of Frontline from University Animal Hospital, among many other great offerings. Besides, the merchandise table will be selling Carl Shurz thermal mugs, tote bags, flashing lights for dog collars, and leashes in addition to T-Shirts, sweatshirts, and hats.

I had the chance to catch up with one of the organizers, Nina Mortellito. She’s a volunteer and board member of the Carl Shurz Park Conservancy and specifically works with the dog runs. She got involved with this group about four years ago when she started taking her West Highland Terrier, Lily, to the park. She noticed that the runs needed some attention and decided to help out. “One of the things people don’t realize is that there is only one paid employee for the whole park. People think there’s a whole staff, but there isn’t.” She said that this and their annual Schmooze Benefit, which took place earlier this month, really keep the dog runs going and that’s good for the whole park. She told me, “we’re excited that the dog runs will now be renovated and we’re hoping that they’ll break ground as soon as next month.”

Mortellito’s Lily won’t be participating in the contest this year, but she’s previously dressed up as an oreo cookie. Mortellito says that the Halloween Howl is a great opportunity for UES dog owners and lots of kids to all get together in good spirits. While some owners purchase fun canine costumes online, others put a lot of creativity into making their own. Some of the most memorable entries, in her mind, were the Three Little Pigs (one dog, two owners) and one couple who built a dog-sized replica of the 86th Street crosstown bus, complete with the corrugated middle. “I don’t know how they trained their dog to stay in there, but they did!” I personally think this collection of snapshots would melt the heart of any Halloweeen scrooge.

Last year, there were about 100 small dogs and 50 large and group entries and Mortellito says they’re usually very well behaved. “There’s the Pug contingent, the Yorkie contingent, lots of Golden Retrievers, and always a few American Bulldogs.” She has noticed that there are more and more adopted mixed breeds coming out for the event. “It seems like a lot more people are reaching out.” In fact, the ASPCA regularly uses the dog runs to help acclimate the adoptables. They will have a table at the event.

So if your dog is ready to show off his ghoulish best, or just wants to enjoy the festivities, then stop by Carl Shurz on Sunday. See you there, woof woof!

Yup, Finger Therapy at New York-Presbyterian

2009-10-16T11:10:00.009-04:00

Please don’t make fun of the fact that I am currently in finger therapy at New York-Presbytarian Hospital. Never mind, go ahead: everyone else seems quite entertained by this, so you might as well be, too. And I do see the humor in this situation. I do. That is, when I’m not writhing in pain.

Here’s what happened: a few months back, I cut my left index finger with an extremely sharp pair of scissors. I did this while visiting my mom down in Delaware. We rushed over to the local Emergency Room for stitches. No big deal, except that the cut was right on my finger joint. This meant I had to wear a splint for two weeks because bending the finger would keep re-opening the wound. A special bandage kept my finger straight for a few more weeks.

As a result, my finger froze in a straight position. The joint tightened up and so did the skin. Point is, bending it is now surprisingly excruciating. So yes, silly little injury. Big pain in the…finger.

The other thing is that the scar looks…well, odd. It’s still red and shaped kind of like a tiny piece of pizza with rounded edges. The skin flap didn’t heal down onto the rest of my finger. Instead, it curled up, kind of like a hook. It looks almost like a tiny 6th appendage. My brother likened it to the snout of a little rodent, perhaps a mole. In a genuine attempt to make me feel better, one friend said it looked like a wart.

It has been suggested by a few medical practitioners that I should have requested a plastic surgeon while still in the ER. In fact, the concept did cross my mind, but it felt somewhat vain to do so. Now, I’m on deck for some reconstructive work, however the plastic surgeon won’t touch it until I regain full mobility.

Hence, finger therapy. This takes place in the Occupational Therapy department on the 18th floor of New York-Presbyterian Hospital - Weill Cornell Medical Center on York Avenue at 68th. Here, they work on all the upper extremities: arms, wrists, shoulders and hands.

I am a lifelong athlete, so am no stranger to therapy. In fact, all my limbs have gone through some kind of therapy at one point or another. I know all about electro stimulation, deep tissue massage, icing, heat, oversized rubber bands for resistance exercises. I know about re-building strength and flexibility and I’ve engaged in a lot of weird rehabilitative exercises.

This process has been the strangest to date. Let’s start with the Jane Fonda-esque exercises. I invite you to imagine my finger wearing a headband and a spandex leotard while I count “and one…and two…and three…”. The corresponding resistance exercises don’t involve a tiny barbell, but you can imagine one of those if you want. There are sponges of varying sponginess to squeeze. There’s a tiny finger-sized sling to wear that holds it in a bent position.

The quirkiest activity is wrapping my hand around dowels of varying circumference and stamping holes with them into a lump of blue putty. The resulting pattern looks like some kind of alien flora or deep sea creature.

My therapist is Upper East Side resident Lora Stubin-Amelio. She’s been an Occupational Therapist since 1988 and certified to focus on hands for 17 years. She became interested in the field during high school when she dislocated her own finger playing softball and had to receive hand therapy.

I like Lora, even though she repeatedly hurts me. First of all, it’s obvious that she knows what she’s doing and second of all, she’s nice about it. Before she bends my finger all the way (and my sweat glands transform into individual shower spouts), she says, “I know you’re going to hate me for this…” But I don’t. She’s purposefully chatty – in order to distract me from the pain. She tells me that she enjoys seeing the change in patients and helping them go back to daily activities. Just interacting with people, in general, is one of her favorite parts of the job.

She says that, in her department, they see a lot of distal radius (wrist) fractures and also, due to the hospital’s burn center, they work with a lot of burn victims. She told me that skin injuries often result in the tightening of the joint capsule. In my small way, I can confirm this. This process has been a learning experience and an interesting little window into another career path, another nook of New York.

Granted, my situation can be classified as more of an annoyance than a tragedy and I’m sure I’ll return to full finger health, soon or soonish, anyway. I do believe that everything happens for a reason. Even just walking down that section of York Avenue with all the hospitals on a weekly basis provides a dose of perspective. Seeing people who are dealing with far more serious issues reminds me to be generally thankful for my health.

Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have some exercises to do and putty to poke…

Nirvana at Naulo Nails

2009-10-13T12:02:00.004-04:00

Before living in New York, I thought that getting your nails done by someone else was an extremely luxurious, chi-chi thing to do. Now, after being here for while, so-called mani-pedis seem like one of those NYC “things” – like getting your laundry washed and folded by someone else or getting Thai delivered right to your apartment door – that are just part of the Manhattan (or shall I say Mani-hattan?) experience. I don’t indulge all that often, but when I do I come away feeling quite relaxed and rejuvenated.

Like many women on the Upper East Side, I tried out a few spots around the neighborhood before identifying one location to call “my nail place.” For me, this is Naulo Nails on First Avenue between 76th and 77th, chosen for its convenience, competence and cleanliness.

Over the years, I’ve rushed there before dates, treated myself to some pampering on gloomy afternoons, and booked appointments there for the whole gang the day before my wedding. Of course, it’s nice to get the nails re-shaped and a fresh coat of polish, but these are only the most obvious parts of the process.

Truthfully, what brings me back even more are probably the mini-massages: 1) the foot/toe/shin/calf rub-down that comes with the pedicures ($19) and 2) the 10 minute neck/shoulder/back/arm massage I spring for ($11), almost every time. These take place on the weird back rub chairs with the donut-shaped face rests, the chairs that look more like instruments of torture than pleasure.

All the massages I’ve received at Naulo have been excellent, but when manager Sam Gurung comes out from behind the desk to work his magic, you’re in for a serious work-over. In fact, for one unfortunate epoch, involving a shoulder injury and a herniated disc in my neck, I popped in to see him a few times per week, not even bothering with nails.

Gurung tells me that they’ve been open six years. In addition to manicures, pedicures, and quickie massages, they offer threading and waxing services. Like most nail spots, they cater to regulars with appointments and, with seven or so technicians on staff, they can accommodate lots of walk-ins. He tells me that their busiest days are Fridays and Saturdays, with women beautifying for the weekend.

On Columbus Day, I stopped in for what I call a winter pedicure, i.e. skipping the polish. Of course I like my feet to sport some color all year but this time of year I leave that job to my socks. My pedicurist this time, Veronaca Caneta, who is from Mexico and has been working at Naulo for one and a half years, trimmed my little piggies and filed them down while I got lost in the pages of good old People Magazine.

Then she scrubbed at my skin with exfoliating gel. By the time she started to dig into the arches of my feet with the peppermint lotion, I was beginning to reach an extra-relaxed state, in extreme contrast with the hustle and bustle outside and the mad-dash that would be the rest of my week. I closed my eyes and breathed deep.

Over in the chair, she kneaded a bagel-sized knot on my right shoulder until it became more like a bialy. And I felt extremely thankful: glad I had the day off, and glad that there are places like Naulo where you can buy some nirvana 10 minutes at a time.

Maui: A Long way from Manhattan

2009-09-29T13:50:00.009-04:00

Not so long ago we flew by way of JFK to a place far far away that goes by the name of Maui. Although it is also an island, starts with the same consonant as Manhattan, and is also part of these United States… it is just a bit different.

For example, the pigeons there are pink and sometimes balance on one leg. One fluffy white bird looked right at us and politely spoke the word, “Aloha,” the heyhowyoudoin’ in their native language.

Instead of potholes, there are volcanic craters. Instead of puddles, there are crystal-clear pools fed by meandering waterfalls. The neckties are made of flowers and the bridges are made of rainbows.

Instead of yellow taxies zooming this way and that, we cruised slowly in a car with no top so we could marvel at the scenery in every direction.

While there, people wear a multitude of colors. Floral patterns become the new black, flip flops the new stiletto.

Some women there know how to shake and swivel their hips in an alluring fashion. They do so in unison, wearing banana leaf skirts and nothing but coconut shells on top.

The guitars are tiny and the waves are huge. With the help of boards, some locals are able to walk on water.

The sun shines with such intensity that you must re-apply liquid shade to your skin every seven minutes to avoid physical damage, a.k.a skinjury.

The benches are in the shape of lounge chairs, the sidewalks are made of sand, and the lampposts are tiki torches.

Instead of pastry, we ate cubes and cubes of pineapple, otherwise known as gold.

Like us, many of the other visitors to this magical place had just wed within the last week or so: fingernails were still painted tasteful beige, they admired (and fidgeted with) their new rings, and their faces revealed unmistakable relief.

Many that we spoke to were fascinated by the fact that we live in New York. A twentysomething waitress shared that before she lived there, she assumed she’d also travel to Maui for her own honeymoon. Now, she figures that, when the time comes, she’ll probably use it as an opportunity to visit New York.

When we returned, we were moving at a different pace. We inched along like snails down the most congested part of Lexington at the busiest time of day, ricocheting off other pedestrians and laughing the whole way.

Gradually, we resumed our former patterns and returned to our usual Upper East Side haunts. But after that glimpse of paradise, everything seemed just a bit more vivid. It’s good to go away, and it’s good to come back again.

Views Abound at Bentley Hotel

2009-09-24T13:42:00.016-04:00

Well, our wedding is behind us. It was an amazing night, an incredible weekend, and several wonderful months of scheming and dreaming. It was such a fun event to plan and ridiculously fun to see it all play out. I don’t think my husband (hee hee, still getting used to that) or I would have done anything differently.

We were particularly pleased with the accommodations we found for our out-of-town guests. We reserved room blocks at the Radi sson Lexington at Lexington and 48th, right in the heart of all the Manhattan action, and also at the Bentley Hotel, a little more off the beaten path, at York Avenue and 62nd. We chose this latter hotel due to its proximity to the 59th Street Bridge and therefore its convenience to our wedding venue in Long Island City, Queens.

As New Yorkers, it’s difficult to recommend hotels to visitors because we obviously never stay in them. To research, we did our own little hotel tour. I did have some family members stay at the Bentley a few years ago so we revisited it. I think it’s one of the Upper E ast Side’s best kept secrets. The lobby is contemporary and hip. The furniture and fixtures are all modern and this carries through to the guest rooms. I appreciate good interior design, but you hardly notice how cool the rooms are due to the awesome views. There aren’t a lot of tall buildings adjacent to the hotel so the view of the city, the East River and the 59th Street Bridge are unobstructed, at least on three sides.

Most of our guests (myself included) scored corner suites on fairly high floors, with wall-to-wall windows facing south and east. From the 12th floor, I was pretty much even with the bridge’s upper deck. This thrilled me because I have a strange affection for this structure (see one of my previous postings), but there was also the practical benefit of being able to keep tabs on the traffic on both decks before heading over to the wedding. While getting my hair and make-up done, I kept intermittent tabs on this through ever-thickening eyelashes (thanks Lucas!)

On Friday, the night before the wedding, we had an informal gathering at the Bentley’s Rooftop Restaurant on the 21st floor. Visitors and New Yorkers alike marveled at the twinkling lights of Manhattan and Queens – what an excellent backdrop for Wedding Eve! The city glowed all around us and I was elated.

In fact, I was so pleased with this setting that I opened all my window blinds before I went to bed, so I could continue to enjoy the scenery, with the room lights off. Big mistake. This prompted a night of reminiscing, a sort of sleepless euphoria. One wall of windows faced my beloved UES, and, perched up there like some kind of fairytale princess, I couldn’t help remembering all the years I’d rushed, strolled, shopped and dined all up and down the grid of First, Second, and Third Avenues, etc. I was sometimes content and often lonely; much of that time, I was looking for exactly the kind of love I’d finally found, and would be so happily committing to in a matter of hours. Well, I saw the sun rise – pink, then salmon, then orange, then gold – and eventually fell asleep for about 30 quick minutes. No matter, my adrenaline was pumping.

Here’s the other thing about the Bentley: it’s so far east and there aren’t a lot of sidewalk businesses in the immediate vicinity, so it feels nicely detached from the hustle bustle of the city. Regional General Manager Helena Blat told me that this, in fact, draws a lot of guests to this hotel. She’s been in the hotel business for over 20 years. In the last two years, she has noticed a marked change in how people travel and choose their accommodations. She says, “There is more of an emphasis on health and relaxation, now. People like to have fun in the city then come back to sleep at a place with less noise and less commotion. Because this is such an active, tiring city where you really use all of your senses, visitors appreciate a hotel that is comfortable and restful.” She has noticed that this seems to be true of both international and U.S. travelers.

The Bentley has 197 rooms on 19 floors (of course no 13th floor). It has been open since 1998 and, along with The Ameritania, the Marcel, the Moderne, and other hotels, it is owned by the Amsterdam Hospitality Group.

The basic concept behind The Bentley is to fit in to the neighborhood. Despite the great Rooftop Restaurant with a lounge-like vibe, Blat says that they don’t promote it as so-called “night-life, but more as a casual gathering place. We really don’t want to disturb the neighborhood.” Indeed, when we were having cocktails up there, it was, thankfully, not “a scene”, just a well-appointed, open space with an insane view.

The room prices here are reasonable, for the city, at $249-$399 per night, depending on the season. Blat told me that occasionally they even have locals move in temporarily while their apartments are under renovation.

I’ll say this: the Bentley staff was friendly, the rooms were stylish and clean, and our guests seemed to have a positive experience. This sleek little slice of Manhattan will always be a special part of an unforgettable weekend. After all, theirs is the only elevator I’ve ever ridden in a wedding gown and the threshold of that suite is the only one I’ve ever been carried across.

Turning Back the Clocks at EJ's Luncheonette

2009-08-25T18:37:00.007-04:00

Maybe you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover, but I think it’s safe to judge NYC brunch spots by the number of customers lined up outside. You could probably just drive around on a Saturday or Sunday around 11 AM and pick the best place this way. These people are tired and hungry…yet willing to wait for good grub. According to these standards, EJ’s Luncheonette is a clear favorite, here on the Upper East Side.

The Saturday we recently went, it was a familiar scene: there were a lots of people patiently waiting, many of them wearing team shirts from a race in Central Park. We put our name on the list and joined the ranks outside next to a whole fleet of delivery bikes. The wait wasn’t bad, and before we knew it, we were seated in a tiny two-person booth in the sunny room adjacent to the sidewalk, the ideal spot for people-watching, right at the corner at 3rd and 73rd.

EJ’s only opened 17 years ago, but, based on the throwback décor, you’d think they’d been around since the 50’s: checkered floor, stools at the counter, vintage signage and black and white photos of girls in poodle skirts. I like how the food runners at EJ’s wear the old-school paper hats and on my way past, I took note of the well-stocked pie case.

Lots of items on the menu caught my eye, like the Multigrain Flapjacks with honeycrunch wheat germ and flax seeds, and the patriotic Red, White, and Blue Cheese Blintzes with ricotta, strawberries, bananas and blueberries. I was also tempted by the Sweet Potato Flapjacks. However, I opted for my standby omelet with mushrooms and swiss with Canadian bacon on the side. My fiancé ordered the Huevos Racheros Wrap and enjoyed it. His Challah toast (pictured below) screamed to me from across the table, but I somehow managed to resist.

Everything was tasty, the servings were substantial, and our waiter, Shahen from Bangladesh, didn’t miss a beat. Our coffee was refilled (and refilled, and refilled…) without our having to request it.

There’s actually another location across the park on Amsterdam and 82nd that has also been around since the early 1990’s. Co-owner Robert Eby is proud of how much of a “neighborhood, small-town feeling” EJ’s has. He says they have regulars who come by as often as seven times a week and sometimes twice a day. They have an e-mail list of 1000 customers who receive the dinner specials around noon on a daily basis.

The concept behind EJ’s has always been to offer large portions at affordable prices. Their blue plate dinners include a Meatloaf Platter ($14.50) with gravy, mashed potatoes and a vegetable, a Roasted Lemon Herb Half Chicken ($14.95), also with mashed potatoes and vegetable.

This summer, they decided to roll back the clock and offer a Recession Buster, meaning that they have been offering all their Blue Plate dinners for just $9.95 on Monday and Tuesday nights, which is their pricing from 1992, when they opened. Granted, not exactly 1950’s pricing, but a great value for the city. I don’t know about you, but this makes me want to pull my hair back in a pony, bust out some saddle shoes, and sidle up to that counter. And, yes, in case you were wondering, they do offer milkshakes, malteds and egg creams…

59th Street Bridge: An Ode

2009-08-20T14:40:00.002-04:00

I’ve driven across you and sat, suspended, in your traffic.

I’ve cursed all the early morning horn-honking you inspired directly under my bedroom window and rued the congestion you created on the Upper East Side.

But…of course I’ve always appreciated your absence of tolls.

For some reason, you have long been one of my favorite landmarks, a symbol of city living.

I’ve gazed at you from below and sped past on the FDR.

I spotted you from a plane, floated under you in a boat on the East River, and glided alongside you in the tram.

I opened the curtains of a nearby hotel room to see your steady stream of headlights, winking.

I’ve shopped in your beautiful market, taken a tennis lesson under your wing. Had a drink (or a few) in your elegant (though now private) cavern.

I’ve cheered marathoners across your flank, and tapped my toe to Simon and Garfunkle’s groovy tribute.

I watched you get a makeover then get slowly revealed from under that tarp.

You turned 100 this June and I applaud you for carrying thousands of commuters to and from Queens and beyond, everyday, for all those years.

Soon, I will travel across you on the way to my wedding. I can’t think of a better bridge to connect me from Here to There.

East Side Story: Scavengers on the Loose!

2009-08-08T12:27:00.010-04:00

If you were out on the town last Saturday night, you may have witnessed something resembling a “rumble” scene from West Side Story. The difference is that the combatants were wearing dresses and heels, they were not exactly gang members, and the weapons were digital cameras. The occasion was my bachelorette party, hosted by my friends and organized down to the tiniest details by a longtime and very dear friend from out-of-town. To my surprise and extreme delight, it was an Upper East Side scavenger hunt. They know me so well…

The ten of us started at Molly Pitchers at 2nd and 85th where we scored the empty back room. This was a perfect (and relatively private) place for me to don the elegant headpiece I had received earlier in the afternoon from another friend at the cookie-themed wedding shower downtown. It had lots of bling and came with a lovely veil (pictured, above). This is where we also received and modeled our official t-shirts for the event: in my favorite color (green) and with my favorite decoration (polka dots).

Next, we were handed instruction scrolls and learned the rules, including the fact that we would receive bonus points if we could snap pictures of another team in action. We broke into three teams and raced all over the UES.

The face-off happened on 85th between 1st and York on our way to New York Pipe Dreams, a surf, skate and snowboard shop included in the hunt to commemorate the year I snowboarded my way through Colorado. I spotted another team walking toward us then they quickly disappeared behind potted plants and cars. While trying to scatter (and one of my teammates attempting to conceal herself behind an extremely skinny tree, ha!), a camera emerged from behind a delivery van and, flash! – we were caught.

Then, while sprinting and laughing, we caught sight of the third team and took some blurry action shots. They held their hands in front of their faces as if we were the paparazzi. We were the last group to arrive at the snowboard shop, so the super laid-back guys expected us, “Scavenger hunt?” they asked with amusement then stepped aside so we could do a photo shoot with jackets and a board. (By the way, I noticed they’re having some excellent summer sales right now.)

From there, we went to my beloved Marimekko boutique in honor of my predilection for (obsession with?) polka dots. My dear friend tried to explain this sickness as a result of being from Delaware, where the state bug is the handsomely patterned…ladybug.

As instructed, we next snagged a coffee cuff from a java joint, then went down to the Pig n Whistle Irish Pub on 3rd between 55th and 56th in honor of the summer I spent in Ireland.

Next was Gourmet Garage – that wonderful “epicurean depot” where I have often bought cheese to satisfy the Wisconsonite in me – this is the state where I spent my earliest years.

Finally, we took a cab back uptown to meet with the rest of the group at the tiny Cipolla Rossa on 1st between 91st and 92nd. (They have another location on 1st between 60th and 61st.) Here, another battle ensued: each of us contended that we'd won. One team even awarded themselves a certificate of victory drawn up on a napkin. The other team had also done some impressive work, especially in wrangling a picture of a teammate in the driver’s seat of an NYC cab for bonus points. I felt my team deserved a little bit of extra credit for crossing the finish line in our t-shirts. (Denied). But really, aren’t we all winners? We shared our respective tales and laughed at each other’s snapshots, especially the hilarious ones from our 85th street showdown.

Our group took up most of Cipolla Rossa’s 20 or so seats. Though having so many of my lifelong girlfriends at one table distracted me a bit from the food, I noticed that a lot of it did in fact include red onions. I enjoyed the mushroom risotto starter (one of that night’s specials) the Caprese, and the asparagus wrapped in proscuitto. Everyone seemed to enjoy their meals. Fortunately, one of our scavenger hunt directives was to stop by a liquor store to pick up some wine because the place is BYOB (way to think ahead.)

In all, it was a fabulous day from beginning to end – thanks to my girls for an unforgettable party!

"Slightly Altered" at Sophia's

2009-07-28T17:39:00.008-04:00

So I bought a dress that didn’t fit me. It gaped at the chest in a way that was unseemly and yet I fell in love with its green stripes and how it was both modern and also somewhat retro. Besides, it was more than 50% off at Lord and Taylor in the ‘burbs. I repeat: 50 % off!

Maybe some have the strength to walk away from the dressing room in this kind of situation, but I kept twirling around dreamily. So what if the top was loose to the point of indecency? I knew I had a secret sizing weapon (and no, this didn’t involve implants or stuffing of any kind…) I knew I could count on Sophia of Sophia’s Expert European Alterations here on the Upper East Side on 75th between First and York.

Sophia has come to my rescue for pants, skirts and even two bathing suits. Her work is excellent. I learned to sew in 8th grade Home Economics class, so I can mend a hole here and there, but who has room in their apartment for a sewing machine? And I’d be afraid I’d ruin a garment as delightful as this.

Sophia Dramitinos was born in Athens, Greece and has been altering garments here on the Upper East Side for over 25 years: 12 years at this location and 13 years at Lex and 82nd. Her mother, who was a seamstress as well, first taught her to sew then Sophia apprenticed with a busy designer and dressmaker before moving to the United States.

Now, she commutes from Astoria six days per week. Her hours are Monday – Friday 11-6 and Saturday 11-4.

Since she does no advertising, her customers come to her entirely from word of mouth, and not just from the Yorkville area, but also from Madison, Park and Fifth Avenue. She says, “Customers like that they can bring their clothes directly to me and I’m the one actually doing the work.” She told me that she gets a lot of botched jobs from dry cleaners. “If they send it out after the fitting, you don’t know what you’re going to get.”

In fact, she’s had regular customers who have been coming back to her for alterations for 25 years. She says she’s worked on everything from Halloween costumes to wedding gowns to blue jeans. She gets a lot of bridesmaid dresses and also works on furs.

I asked if she happened to notice if more people were coming in to make their old clothes new again, due to the recession. She answered with a shrug and a smile. “Well, I was going to close this year and work out of my house, but more people started coming in so…I changed my mind.”

I, for one, am hoping she keeps her doors open and her needles flying for years to come. I highly recommend you keep her in mind for any future handiwork you may need, whether it’s an old garment in need of updating or a new one with the tags still attached. I picked up my dress yesterday and it now fits like a glove. I also dropped off another dress (also green, also on sale, and also positively dreamy) which needs just a little tweaking…

The Big/Huge/Gigantic UES Barnes & Noble

2009-07-21T17:19:00.012-04:00

While waiting for the train last week, I saw an advertisement across the subway platform for the new Barnes & Noble on 86th and Lexington. It said something like: “A New Upper East Side Landmark.” I had noticed that the one further east on 86th closed and heard it was being replaced. I am a bit of a bookworm and therefore a bookstore devotee, but “landmark”? Hmm, we’ll see about that.

I prefer smaller, independent bookshops…you know, those little places that are getting squashed by monstrous megachains? On this note, among many other hold-outs in this fine neighborhood, I highly recommend Crawford Doyle Booksellers on Madison between 81st and 82nd and of course Shakespeare and Company on Lexington between 68th and 69th.

Hard to believe that Barnes & Noble, which now has more than 700 locations, had humble beginnings in 1837 in an Illinois print shop owned by Charles Barnes. In 1917, his son, William, went on to partner up with a G. Clifford Noble and open a bookstore here in New York City on West 15th Street. I searched out these historical tidbits perhaps to somehow personalize the place and justify the fact that I’ve given into this gigantic corporation's convenience and ability to stock lots of titles.

I was curious about this new one, so I finally visited this weekend. I was on the market for a new pocket thesaurus. This is a critical Informer tool, and my current one was barely holding itself together despite numerous spine surgeries - Book nurse, please hand me more tape…

The new B&N location opened in June and is right next to the also brand-new H&M. The front entrance (or, at the suggestions of my new thesaurus, shall I say vestibule? Threshold?) is sleek and leads to a foyer paneled with a three-sided mural depicting true Upper East Side landmarks – The Cooper-Hewitt, the Whitney, Yorkville, the 92nd Street Y. Front and center is a huge screen announcing upcoming events.

I rode the escalator down to the main level, which opens up like a vast cavern. The expansive space is impressive from a New York real estate perspective. At 55,000 square feet, it doesn’t feel cramped or jumbled (which is how, only in comparison, I’d now characterized that previous location). I’d say these proportions are practically suburban. It feels kind of like a mall. I could argue both sides of this equation: though this amount of space seems a tad excessive and sterile on one hand, it’s also nice to not be bumping into other customers and bruising your thighs on the corners of book tables (or maybe that last bit is just my own klutzy/clumsy problem…) Since this location is mostly underground, there isn’t any natural light in the place; I suppose the huge, round polka dot-like light fixtures above are a small consolation.

Anyway, a wall labeled The Current Scene features attractive coffee table books of all kinds. And a nearby kiosk shows off children’s books with especially adorable covers. Ahh…books. These kinds of thoughtful displays remind me of when I set up the shelves in my girlhood bedroom to resemble a bookstore. I’ve always revered books, of course for their content, and also as objects.

Here’s the thing, and perhaps this is nit-picky of me, but when you look/gaze across the expanse, the main signage you see is not "Fiction" or "Literature", or "Self-Help." Instead, the words, “Movies, Music, and Audio Books” glow especially bright. Harrrumph! If you’re concerned that “the book is dead” (or dying) then you best shield thine eyes.

Oh well. Due to a dearth/scarcity/shortage of more book-centric signage, it took me a while and yet another escalator ride to find the reference section. Once I did, it pleased me to see the plural of thesaurus written out: this isn’t something you see everyday. I am pretty easily entertained.

Continuing the oversized theme, the café area is spacious. I noted, however, that the tables are not particularly big and therefore not conducive to the long stays to which I am prone (with laptop, manuscripts, coffee, and “thesauri” all spread out…). The checkout line was notably quick and painless, thanks to those nifty numbered cashier stations and automated announcements/prompts reporting which one has just become available. This is a major improvement over the last B&N location – waiting in that extremely cramped, claustrophobic line under the escalator would induce panic attacks in even the most hardened New Yorkers.

Did we need a whole new Barnes & Noble on the Upper East Side? Not really. Is it nice in a showy, clean, but not-exactly-a-landmark kind of way? Affirmative. Will I be back at some point? Despite myself, probably...yes.

Stumblebums on UES

2009-07-13T15:33:00.004-04:00

I love the public displays of creativity here in New York: artful fashions, street performers of every ilk, and people just generally letting loose. You never know what you might see around the next street corner. This is especially true downtown. Though I have a special place in my heart for the Upper East Side, I do find that this is probably one of least “random” and more predictable quadrants in Manhattan.

So I was delighted this past Thursday night to stumble upon something wholly unexpected. I was on my way to meet up with a friend at Vespa on Second between 84th and 85th. This restaurant has solid Italian fare, but what really keeps me coming back is the quaint, bi-level garden out back and that adorable polka-dotted Vespa parked out front.

I was rounding the corner at 86th street when I saw a tuba bouncing along above the heads of other pedestrians. The tuba is remarkable to begin with. The way it winds around its owner makes it look like a thick brass snake with a big solitary ear for a head. Soon, the instrument stopped moving and started playing directly in front of the sidewalk diners at Mustang. The tuba was at first accompanied by drums and a trumpet. A few pedestrians, including myself, stopped to watch the trio, and some of the diners started bee-bopping in their seats.

A couple measures in, the long-haired, goatee-ed trumpeter swapped out his instrument for what looked like a megaphone and started singing in a style that was part Louis Armstrong, part Tom Waits, and (due to the megaphone) part construction site supervisor. Just as the customers were really starting to get their groove on, the funky trio was on the move again. They stopped briefly down the street for the benefit of the outdoor guests at Swig who were equally entertained by the impromptu entertainment.

Before they continued their parade, I caught up with them long enough to snap some quick pictures and find out that they call themselves the Stumblebum Brass Band, comprised of Jesse Wildcards on tuba (also called a sousaphone), Smidge Malone on trumpet and vocals, and Jonny Ballz on drums. They praised the Yorkville/ Upper East Side area as a great family neighborhood. Jesse Wildcards said that as of right now, they “travel all over the city but hope to one day travel all over the world” with their music. To hear them and see some of their upcoming gigs, visit their myspace page here. Or just keep your eyes and ears open as you round that next street corner…

Mysteries and Marvels at Vermicelli

2009-07-07T21:50:00.011-04:00

It was a weird night. My friend and I planned to meet on the Upper East Side to catch up: she’d been on a trip to very distant lands and I was anxious to hear about her adventures. She suggested Vermicelli, a Vietnamese restaurant on Second at 78th Street. I rushed in, feeling guilty that I was a few minutes late, but she wasn’t there yet.

I slid into the long banquet that runs the length of the restaurant and leaned against one of the elongated pillows that hang from a pole, cleverly emulating chair backs. Little did I know that this would be a night of many questions and this was the first one: why doesn’t every restaurant set up the seating like this? These pillows are adjustable, comfortable, and they look cool.

I ordered a Black Opal Shiraz then perused the menu for a few minutes. Maybe I’m not all that well-traveled – I’ve never been to Vietnam, or anywhere in Asia for that matter – so I was confused: isn’t vermicelli more of an Italian thing? Apparently not. I suppose it’s a matter of nomenclature: in one part of the world it’s pasta and in another part it’s noodles. All the vermicelli dishes sounded delicious, as did the curries and the fish dishes.

Soon, an intriguing bowl of snacks arrived. They were puffy as pillows. When I asked the affable manager, Alan, about these, he told me they were rice crackers with oyster flavor. Served alongside was a peanut sauce with pineapple. I wondered: how rude is it to start in on the complimentary comestibles before the rest of your party has arrived?

My friend was now 20 minutes late, which is uncharacteristic of her. She hadn’t responded to my “I’m here” text or my voicemail. I second-guessed myself: had I gotten the place wrong, or the night? At about 25 minutes, I wondered if she was okay and texted again. Granted, New York City can create all kinds of delays, surely I’d hear from her soon…

At 30 minutes, I sipped some more wine, then finally bit into one of those puffy crackers. It dissolved into my mouth in a pleasing, almost-wafer-like way… the sauce was sweet and savory. I leaned back and tried not to worry about my friend. Instead, I worried that my new sweater was was a bit too tight. And did I remember to snip off the price tag?

Before long, I’d eaten the entire bowl of crackers. Well, almost: one of them had attached itself like Velcro to my sweater sleeve… I detached it with as much decorum as possible and hoped no one had seen. Then I really threw all etiquette to the wind, pretty sure my friend would understand, and ordered the “Bahn Cuon” appetizer: steamed Rice Ravioli with chicken, bean sprouts, crispy shallots and…drumroll please…ear mushrooms. I almost asked about that latter ingredient then decided I’d rather not know the particulars.

I looked around me. With all this free time on my hands, I was really starting to question everything: were the walls more of a rust shade or a burnt sienna? Were those birdcage lanterns real birdcages? Ditto with the rice patty hats doubling as sconces. A steady stream of locals stopped in to pick up their take-out. I wondered what they did for their livings and if their kitchens were as tiny as mine. The bar had one of those uber-tall vases of blossoms. I love these: their height really lends a space a sense of grandeur.

My friend still hadn’t arrived when the ravioli did. They were delicious but incredibly slippery. Since the spoon seemed to be provided for serving and not eating, I was forced to wonder how long one should keep struggling with the chopstics before requesting a fork. In my case, not too long – I was hungry.

Alan told me that this place opened 10 years ago and is owned by Danny Chau. Both he and the chef are from Vietnam. Alan said that weekends very busy and during the week, a lot of customers come in for the lunchboxes. These are reasonably priced from 6.50 to 7.95 and include soup, salad, steamed rice and a vegetarian imperial roll. He told me that their most popular dishes are, naturally, the vermicelli dishes and also the Saigon Chicken, the Grilled Pork Chops and the Chilean Sea Bass.

At long last, my friend called (oh yikes, why did I have my phone ringer on so loud?) to say that she had been stuck in a work meeting where she couldn’t call out and that she was now on her way.

She eventually rushed in with her hair flying behind her, all apologies, and I, in turn, apologized for getting started without her.

I had by now done a thorough analysis of the menu so suggested that we order the “Cari Ga,” (pictured, left) curried chicken with sweet potato, carrot and coconut sauce and also try the "Bung Nuaong,” B.B.Q. marinated chicken in lemon grass, warm vermicelli, lettuce, mint, coriander and peanuts, to share.

The curry dish, served with rice, was extremely flavorful. It was a warm and comforting dish for what has thus far been a chilly summer here in New York. The vermicelli dish (below) was also great for opposite reasons: with its mint, lettuce and bean sprouts it was light and refreshing, kind of like a promise, like those blossoms on the bar, that the weather will still make a turn for the better.

After we settled into our meal a bit and exchanged a few facts about our respectively crazy days, I finally got to ask the main question I’d been waiting for all evening.

“So,” I said, “how was your trip?”

Gently Worn Garments and Gowns at Michael’s

2009-06-25T08:17:00.010-04:00

I wouldn’t exactly say that a recession is the ideal time to plan a wedding, but it isn’t the end of the world, either. Euphemistically speaking, right now is an opportunity for all of us, no matter where we are in our lives, to get a little more financially “creative.” I’m not alluding to Madoff-ian tactics…just good old-fashioned cost-cutting, keeping the pennies inside the piggy bank, and perhaps some unconventional consumerism.

This latter category is where I’d file my recent trip to Michael’s The Consignment Shop for Women, here on the Upper East Side. I’d heard that, among other items, this is where you can buy used high-end wedding gowns. Since I was on the market for a downturn-deal, I decided to go check it out.

Michael’s is located on Madison Avenue at 79th. Like so many good New York secrets, the store sits above street-level on the second and third floors. The name brands printed on the stairs – Prada, Dior, Marc Jacobs – promise that the walk upstairs will be worth it. I’m not generally very brand-centric but I have to admit that the prospect of not paying full price for these big names put a little spring in my step. It was a Saturday afternoon and the place was abuzz with shoppers.

Before heading up to the bridal salon, I poked around at the stylish everyday-wear: I saw Chanel skirts, Jimmy Choo shoes, and some other labels I’d probably recognize if I’d watched more Sex in the City. Point is, this is a "designer" consignment shop – the items were pretty fabulous to begin with, and now they’re even better (as far as I’m concerned) because they’re more affordable.

This place is a family affair, originally opened by Michael Kosof in 1954 and now run by his daughter, Laura Fluhr, along with her daughter. They only choose to re-sell items that are in mint condition and then they split the proceeds with the seller 50/50. The prices are set in conjunction with the re-sellers; it’s a collaborative process. Fluhr says that, indeed, they have seen an upsurge in both customers and in people bringing in clothes for re-sale in the last year. “We’re part of a bigger story,” Fluhr says. “This is a business model that works, especially right now.”

Fluhr says that their customers are stylish, and chic and, though she wouldn’t name names, also sometimes famous. In fact, while loitering, I did notice a highly-attractive woman both dropping off and purchasing some items. Despite all my gawking, I couldn’t place her face, but she certainly had supermodel proportions.

I sighed with a bit of envy then asked to see the bridal gowns, which are on the 3rd floor. Though I had the “salon” to myself that day, it’s sometimes so hopping that brides are limited to 30 minutes in the dressing room and a total of five gowns. Quite understandably, a sign on the wall requests that you wear no lipstick.

I was exited to see that there were several dresses in my size. It was reaching closing time, so I chose 3. When Genesis, my kindly sales assistant took them out of their plastic bags, I was pleased to see that they were as pristine as promised.

Fluhr accepts only high-end designers. She does not re-sell gowns made of rayon or polyester. Beyond this, she says that they have to reject a lot of dresses because they have been damaged during the cleaning process. Many women don’t even realize that the dry cleaners have mistreated their dress, leaving iron marks or various discolorations.

First, I tried on a Reem Acra gown with ruching on the bodice for $1200, then a Marisa dress for $895. Last, I tried on a beautiful Vera Wang ballet-style gown with mounds of poofy tulle for $1200. Not only did this dress stand up on its own when no one was wearing it (see picture), I felt as wide in it as I did tall. I imagined the guests at our reception parting like the red sea as I jeté’d my way across the dance floor in point shoes.

Before going into Michael’s, I wasn’t sure I’d really be able to buy a used dress, but all three of these were pretty dreamy – I did feel like a princess in them, not a second-hand Cinderella. Is it possible, though, to not wonder about the karma of the dress? I suppose you can’t think about whether or not the original owner is still happily married…and Fluhr isn’t going to tell you, anyway. She does say that, “women who buy here are the smartest brides in New York, because they’ve already made that mental adjustment. There are so many other things to spend your money on, right now.”

I agree. I’ve purchased many second-hand items and even picked a few (like the desk I’m currently typing at) off the street. Rather than obsessing over the history of these used objects, I’m more concerned about their cleanliness. All of the dresses at Michael’s have been thoroughly cleaned I suppose you could take them in for a second round of cleaning if you wanted. Keep in mind that they’ve only been worn for one day anyway. Okay, and also for a few fittings…

On that note, I recommend that if you go to Michael’s to try on wedding gowns, you start with ones that are a size bigger than your usual size (ego-bruising as it might be). Most of these have already been altered, and this usually means taken in. Tried as Genesis did, she couldn’t get the zippers up on any of those dresses I chose! I didn’t have time to try on more before closing. I had every intention of going back, but fell in love with another (new, yet budget-friendly) gown in the meantime. Still, I think this is a great way to cut costs, especially if you’ve always dreamed of walking down the aisle in Givenchy or Vera Wang. Come to think of it, perhaps I’ll stop by again anyway: there’s a rehearsal dinner and a honeymoon coming up and I’d like to dress for those in style…

Summer’s Back at LeSportsac

2009-06-19T08:22:00.008-04:00

So I was walking down Madison Avenue here on the Upper East Side the other day when I noticed that the window of the LeSportsac boutique was looking a lot like a fruit and vegetable stand. As far as I knew, this store sells bags, so I was naturally curious why there’d be a cart containing citrus and greens on display.

Based on what has been an uncommonly dreary spring, it’s hard to believe that summer will officially commence on Sunday. The good news is that LeSportSac is ready. One of their new patterns, out this June, is called Farmer’s Market (hence the healthy display) and it sings the praises of summer even if the sun refuses to shine. There are carrots, blueberries, and radishes a-plenty on these colorful bags.

The first LeSportsac duffel was made out of parachute nylon and carpet binding tape here in New York City in 1974, making this their 35th anniversary. In their words: “35 Years Young…what was hip to zip then…is hip to zip now!”

Today, LeSportsacs are still known for their soft durability. They come in all different shapes and sizes, from toiletry bags to backpacks to coin purses and laptop sleeves. You can even get an extra long bag for your yoga mat in the Flower Power print, also new this month (pictured). Of course, these bags are sold all over the place, but there are only two LeSportsac boutiques in the city, here on Madison between 80th and 81st and one down in SoHo on Greene Street.

I think I got my first LeSportsac purse when I was about 12. I remember that it was navy blue: I thought it was quite sporty and spiffy and I liked the logo. It was purchased excitedly at the “fancy mall” near us in Madison, Wisconsin. Since then, I have carried around a few LeSportsac cosmetic bags. This brand slipped off my radar for a few years but I have been noticing it around a lot more and it seems like it is making a welcome resurgence. The store’s space is modern and crisp and I like the new designs.

Shopgirls Cyrena and Sara told me that this shop has been at this location for about seven years. They sell a lot of weekenders and, in the fall, they sell lots of tote bags to local schoolgirls. Remarkably, LeSportsac comes out with several new prints every month. Other summery selections right now include: Garden club, a black and white print with little watering cans and Adirondack chairs and Magic Garden with butterflies and a tiny bird holding a bouquet in his beak. I couldn’t decide if I liked May’s Paper Dots selections (pictured) better or another one depicting ice cream cones.

But what really caught my eye, and my imagination (and also perhaps, soon, my credit card number…?) was a print by LeSportsac’s current “artist in residence”, Fifi Lapin. This is a talented fashionista bunny who sketches herself in designer clothes from the latest runways. She has been named “the world’s most stylish bunny” by Elle Magazine and I have to agree. I especially like the print “Sweethearts” depicting Fifi and her equally-stylish beau, Sonny Hare, on the go. Hmm, don’t you think a tote or a duffle in this pattern would be just perfect for my upcoming weekend hop-along to Seattle where I’ll be crashing my bunny’s business trip…?

Culinary Pirouettes at Cafe D'Alsace

2009-06-13T08:46:00.011-04:00

What is the most important part of a dining experience? Is it the flavors? The presentation? The setting? The service? The company? Well, I consulted my inner dine-o-meter but this proved to be far too difficult a question and it crashed. I suppose all these elements help to create that delicate dining balance.

I’m happy to report that each of these categories were more than satisfied when I recently visited Café D’Alsace here on the Upper East Side. Some friends of mine from Nyack had been telling me about this restaurant for months. They are longtime New Yorkers who make yearly trips to Paris to visit family. They know their food so I had every reason to believe their pick would be excellent; it was just a matter of finding time in our respective busy schedules when we could all meet.

So we all rushed to Café D’Alsace last Thursday after work. It’s located on the corner of 88th Street and 2nd Avenue and was opened by Simon Oren of Nice Matin on the Upper West and Marseille in Midtown.

We settled into the cozy front table and grinned. It was 9 pm and the place was full to overflowing. I love the cacophony of silverware and the lilt of merry conversation in New York City restaurants. Though I haven’t been to France (yet!), I imagine that their brasseries, bistros and cafes have a similar hustle and bustle. This space is sparkly and warm. I noticed that the bar behind me was ringed with colorful old seltzer bottles.

My friends explained that Alsace is a region on the eastern-most part of the country, abutting and influenced by Germany. They also informed me that it’s pronounced “alzas” and not “alsatchay” like I was erroneously saying, oops. Indeed, the chef, Philippe Roussel, is dedicated to replicating the dishes of his father’s homeland and giving them a New York twist.

For example, the menu offers some intriguing Specialties D’Alsace with obvious German influences including something called Choucroute Garnie (“dressed sauerkraut”). This has assorted sausages and smoked pork breast over sauerkraut with Reisling, juniper and potatoes. The Baeckeofe is a traditional Alsation casserole of lamb, oxtail, bacon, and potatoes braised in pinot gris with onions and thyme.

Things were going well. They got better when our server, Jamal, swooped in to describe the specials. This wasn’t your everyday here’s-what’s-cookin’-tonight monologue. This was more like a ballet performance: energetic, heartfelt, nuanced. He didn’t look to be wearing tights, but the way he moved his hands while describing the trout special and other selections was so graceful yet masculine, I swear he could give Baryshnikov a run for his money. Let’s just say he made it all sound delicious.

Even though it wasn’t exactly in keeping with the French/Alsatian theme, two of us ordered mojitos. When one of us apologetically mentioned to Jamal that there could be more citrus and more mint, the drink was quickly and pleasantly replaced with a better one. When one of our party ordered a glass of wine, a small taste was proffered, first. And Café D’Alsace has an extensive beer selection – one selection at our table was purportedly from the oldest brewery in the world.

Our hors d’oeuvres arrived and they were all manifique. Of course, I felt it was The Informer’s duty to sample each of them. My fiancé and I shared the Escargots, which came in a vibrant green butter and garlic sauce. Across the table, there were Soft Shell Crabs (one of specials) covered in chopped tomatoes and herbs, and Gnocchi Parisienne with wild mushroom gratinee and gruyere cheese. Most attractive was the Goat Cheese Tatin (pictured) with herbed goat cheese and carmelized onions.

Our entrees were also divine. That trout special Jamal tempted us with was definitely special (pictured). I ordered the Shrimp and Lobster Ravioli with a noilly-prat (vermouth) and leek sauce. Dare I say that the sauce – which was light despite the cream – practically danced on my tongue? A healthy serving of asparagus rendered this dish extremely fresh. Though I did not sample the red meat, my dinner companions reported that the Steak Frites with bone marrow and red wine sauce and Dry Aged NY Strip with bernaise were cooked to perfection. I did sneak a frite and can therefore confirm that they were as good as they looked.

One of our friends ordered a selection of fromage for dessert, which struck me as quite sophisticated. He is a bonafide connoisseur -- it's true, he used to select the cheese for a four-star restaurant in Tribeca. He enjoyed two out of three cheeses very much and the presentation, nestled amid fruit and walnuts on a rustic cutting board, was a nice touch. Whenever I see Crème Brulée on a menu I do not have the strength to resist – this was the case here, and I was not disappointed.

The whole experience at Café D’Alsace was great. The atmosphere was fun, and the service was precise yet easygoing. The night couldn’t have been choreographed better. As far as all that delicious food goes, I think this picture pretty much says it all.

We exchanged farewells with Jamal and vowed to revisit for an encore soon.

Before School at Jackson Hole

2009-05-28T09:38:00.009-04:00

Thanks to those energetic little birds outside my window, I woke up at the crack of dawn last Friday. The sun was finally coming out after way too many days in hiding, so they were understandably excited. The feeling was contagious: I bolted out of bed and grabbed my new t-shirt. It has some dots, some frill and it seemed like the perfect day for its debut. But where?

My fiancé and I threw a proverbial dart at the Upper East Side map and decided to head to Madison Avenue in the 90’s for some breakfast. We considered the ever-enticing Yura on 92nd then opted instead for more of a sit-down egg and potato situation. We found that (and more) at the bustling Jackson Hole on 91st street. This place, established in 1972, has eight locations around Manhattan, Queens, and New Jersey. Of course, they are mostly known for their 7-ounce burgers, but the breakfast shift seemed pretty popular as well.

We ordered some coffee and drank in the morning ambiance. At 7:30 AM, this is a real neighborhood scene with people exchanging pleasantries (and some complaints about all that grey weather) from one table to another, others waving in recognition, and regular customers getting served without having to order. We saw one man with a serious case of bed-head taking his vitamins, as if he were in his own kitchen. Another man was devouring The New York Times with a buttered roll on the side.

On the walls at this Jackson Hole, there are a lot of classic tin signs – “bottomless cup of coffee, 5 cents” – and some western-themed art. A cowboy in a painting above my head played the harmonica.

Most striking, however, were all the parents stopping in with their kids on the way to school. We were surrounded by school uniforms. A pair of sisters from Sacred Heart ate scrambled eggs behind us with their mom, and, up front, a group of teenagers from Spence were meeting up for coffee and camaraderie before class. A group of boys in blues and khakis, from another local school we couldn’t identify, stopped to chat with them on their way out. One little girl had her pink guitar with her and her dad had his tie hooked protectively over his shoulder. Another father-daughter combination provided the best quote of the morning. She must have been about five years old, and perched on her knees, she said, loudly yet sweetly, “Did you return my money yet?” We didn’t hear Dad’s response but noticed that he did pick up the tab.

The menu is extensive and offers all the items you’d hope for from a New York breakfast: bialys with a smear of cream cheese, bagels with lox, eggs cooked to order, and shortstacks. On the griddle, we could hear and smell sausage, eggs and potatoes cooking. Hamburger buns were piled high waiting to be filled with those oversized patties later in the day. They have 32 different kinds of burgers here including the “Eastsider”, which features bacon and ham, cheese, mushrooms, tomatoes and fried onions. The “Gombee Burger” has both American and mozzarella cheese. There are also veggie burgers and a whole array of chicken sandwiches with similar toppings.

But we were breaking the fast, so I opted for a broccoli and cheddar omelet. This was only mediocre. Surprisingly, based on all those decadent burger descriptions I’d been reading on the menu, it skewed a little too healthy – a few too many trees and not enough eggs and cheese. My fiancé reported that the waffle was superior and I had to agree. It was the perfect combination of soft and crisp with a good vanilla flavor. All that butter and syrup pooling nicely in the waffle grid made up for my extra-green omelet. We also liked the sausage, which had a good, spicy kick.

Before we knew it, our bill was on the table and the place had cleared out. It was 8:15, so I suppose the school kids were folded into their homeroom seats and their parents were strap-hanging on the train. Outside the windows, cabs whizzed around, buses lumbered along, but Jackson Hole was relatively quiet. In preparation for the next wave, waiters wiped tables, and cowboy above my head re-tuned his harmonica.

Off to the Races at Tony's DiNapoli

2009-05-18T09:56:00.009-04:00

My fiancé and I are looking for a restaurant where we can have our rehearsal dinner. We are coming to what is perhaps a rather obvious realization that finding a place to seat a big group (maybe like 30 people) during primetime on a Friday night in Manhattan isn’t…so…easy. Not that we’ve put so much effort into this project yet, but our initial research revealed that, due to space limitations, 1.there aren’t a lot of rooms for private parties in this town, 2.most restaurants don’t want you to invade their whole space, and, if so, 3.they will charge an arm and a leg do so. After discussing this, we decided that it’s important to keep all limbs intact.

So I remembered Tony’s Di Napoli on 2nd at 83rd. They opened in 1959 and now have a second location in Times Square. I’ve walked by the Upper East Side location at least a billion times, and in fact my fiancé and I strolled past it on our first date. A few years before that, I shared dinner with two friends, outside at one of the many sidewalk tables. This was memorable, of course due to the excellent company, but also because it was tasty and the portions were gigantic. I knew, from the signage, that they can accommodate big groups but I’d never been inside. So we decided to give the place a look.

Inside, it’s bustling and bi-leveled. We were seated at a table to the right of the restaurant, a few steps down into what felt like a sunken living room. Checkered cloths dress the tables and a chalkboard on one end of the space lists their many traditional Southern Neopolitan dishes. We gazed around, attempting to digest this fun, lively atmosphere.

Turns out the owner is a racing fan, so racecar art is in abundance. Photos of famous drivers cover the walls, a small replica of a red Formula One car dangles from the ceiling, and, in a mural-sized painting at the back of the space, a racecar skillfully speeds alongside the Mediterranean.

It was a Thursday night and the place was packed with large and small groups alike. A table of 12 behind my right shoulder was celebrating a graduation and another family of eight was gathered around a circular table at my left. I was glad to see this, because often in New York, it feels like an imposition to have a large group, like you should apologize if you’re asking for a table of six. Even if a restaurant can accommodate you, you should expect to be sitting on each other’s laps and lower your expectations of the service.

But at Tony’s, there seemed to be quite a few servers speeding efficient laps around the tables. One made a pit stop at ours to deliver a basket of bread with hot pepper oil. I made a silent vow, after taking this picture, that I would have only one piece (after all, The Informer must be thorough), but this bread was so fresh with perfectly crisp crust and a smattering of slightly toasted sesame seeds that I…well, had trouble putting on the so-called brakes.

Our server, Irini, soon pulled up for pleasant introductions. We asked her which salad the women next to us were enjoying. Tony’s Salad: a simple combination of arugula, plum tomatoes, red onions and basil with balsamic vinaigrette. We copied these fellow patrons and did not regret it.

Tony’s selection of pasta, veal, chicken and seafood dishes is truly vast. They mostly specialize in those mounded family-style platters that serve two or three people. This is a good situation for our larger purpose, but that night we were pleased to discover that they have recently implemented a menu of individual portions.

I chose the Rigatoni with Vodka Sauce and Mushrooms and my fiancé opted for the old-standby: Spaghetti and Meatballs. After we ordered this, however, we did experience some regret. This is because the women next to us were served a chicken dish still sizzling in the pan it was cooked in. This looked and smelled amazing. Part of the fragrance was “stemming” from an oversized branch of rosemary resting across the top.

I briefly interrupted their meal to find out that this was the Chicken Saltimbocca, that night’s special, with prosciutto, spinach, melted cheese, and what seemed to be an extremely savory sauce. They confirmed that it was indeed delicious. I asked my fiancé if it would be rude to reach over and try it for myself. He recommended against it. Likewise, I did not help myself any of their sangria, even though they had a whole pitcher of it. In fact, lots of people around the room were drinking sangria. No matter, I was quite content with my glass of Cactus Creek Red Zinfandel.

Our food arrived and it was excellent; I’m pretty sure the women next to us were glancing over with jealousy in between their animated chitchat. The vodka sauce had the perfect balance of tomatoes and cream. I appreciated the sprig of basil sprouting out of the top like a little tree. My fiancé’s bowl of spaghetti was picture-perfect. When I asked him to describe the meatballs in one word, he answered without missing a beat, “zesty.” I don’t eat red meat these days, but in the process of sampling his pasta, we inadvertently reenacted the iconic scene from The Lady and the Tramp, the one where they end up tasting the same string of spaghetti resulting in a kiss…that’s amore! Okay, I’m kidding, but I have a feeling that this scene was filmed out back.

Again, in the name of being thorough, we ordered the brownie sundae. A mint leaf stood like a flag on top of a whip cream mountain. Their consistent use of fresh herbs as ingredients and garnishes impressed me. An extremely rich and gooey brownie way underneath made the arduous excavation project well worth it.

I took note of the fact that the service was speedy, yet not at all rushed. Afterwards, we talked to Elizabeth, the event coordinator, about big parties. They have three different packages at three reasonable price points per person. Bar packages are extra and of course there’s tax and gratuity to add in, but this would still come out to be about 50 percent less than anywhere else we’ve checked out so far. She showed us their private room, which was also bustling and, remarkably, can accommodate 80 people. Our party of 30ish would only take up part of it, so there would likely be other parties going on in there at the same time. I like that this huge, open space has some windows to the street, so you don’t feel like you’re holed up in the back.

We don’t know yet if Tony’s will be the location of our rehearsal dinner, but it’s on the short list and we had a good night there. The food is extremely fresh and I feel confident in the service: though it’s a big engine, it seems to run quite smoothly. Whether you’ve got two, or ten (or 80) in your party, it’s a fun place to try. Just make sure you’re hungry and you fasten your seatbelt. Vroom vroom...

Gimme some Gourmet Garage

2009-05-05T12:43:00.010-04:00

On Saturday night, we invited some friends over for a little wine and cheese gathering. Please imagine me saying (well, typing) the words “wine and cheese” in a snooty tone with a slightly British accent. In fact, I know very little about those two items, beyond knowing that I like them very much.

We stopped by one of my favorite Upper East Side gourmet grocers, Agata and Valentina to pick up some fromage and crackers. On the sidewalk outside, I was surprised to see that community volunteers and members of a local supermarket union were handing out flyers titled, “Ignoring Workers and Customers.” This called for customers to speak out to management about improving work conditions here. This was disconcerting: I love this place and its old-world, European charm. It’s packed to the gills with delectables. I didn’t like to learn that they might be mistreating their employees yet I really wanted to serve that cheese they have with the truffles…

Enter Fiancéman, my superhero. When he came in a few minutes after me, I already had the cheese in my basket and also some of those excellent, extra long, Margaret’s Artisan Flatbreads speckled with rosemary. “We shouldn’t buy here if this is true,” he said, holding the flyer out to me.

I looked at him. “But…” That’s really all I could say. After all, he was right. It did seem sad that the store was absolutely buzzing with customers despite the mini protest outside. So I put my items back and we took our business elsewhere, to Gourmet Garage, at 96th and Madison. I’ve been to the location on 64th a few times but this was my first visit to this one. In the early 80’s this company started as a wholesale food distributor. In the 90’s they opened their doors directly to the customers, and now there are five locations in Manhattan.

This store is also stacked high with similar gourmand goodness. I appreciate their “shop like a chef” tagline: if they handed out tall white chef hats at the door, I’d certainly wear one. (And while we’re at it, can I get a white jacket with my name on the pocket?) Anyway, this is the kind of place that makes you want to throw a dart at a cookbook and try an exotic new recipe, or maybe just brainstorm some groundbreaking culinations (that’s my new word for culinary creations) on the spot. If we ever get around to filming that comical Food Network pilot we’ve been joking about, I now think this will be our sponsor, our supplier, our headquarters for all things delicious.

The produce section is perfectly organized and gleaming, like a huge, healthy salad just waiting to be chopped. Just beyond, there are rows of unique olive oils, salsas and pasta sauces. Like most supermarkets in the city, the space is kind of tight, and it feels a bit like a maze, but one that you’re happy to get lost inside.

Of course this weekend, we were all about cheese. In the “Garage Fromage” section, there were piles and aisles of it, most of it unfamiliar to me, an excellent indication of its legitimacy.

And crackers! Mountains of different varieties, including those crowd-pleasing rosemary ones referenced above. Certain guests have come to expect (practically demand) these when visiting my abode. If you think of the cracker as the car that drives the cheese then these are definitely stretch limos. I highly recommend.

After a few minutes of cross-eyed indecision, we chose the old standby, French Brie (70% cream), a good Gouda from Holland (cloaked stylishly in red wax) and a French Port Salute which we’d never tried before.

On the way out, we picked up an intriguing kalamata olive dip. We almost got some mangos then remembered that they are far too complicated to cut and neither of us have yet earned our PhD in this subject. Instead, we bought some blackberries from a produce vendor on the street. All of this paired well with the California red zinfandel and the sauvignon blanc we’d purchased downtown earlier in the day.

One of the best parts was setting these out with our new dry-erase porcelain cheese markers, stylish compliments of the soon-to-be in-laws. Can you say fancy? And please pronounce that fawwncy with a few w’s. Cheers!

Get Creative at Kate's Paperie

2009-04-28T19:21:00.010-04:00

My fiancé and I are determined to “DIY” as much of our upcoming wedding as possible. It’s not like we’re going to try and cater it or spin the silk for my dress, or anything, but we’re tackling some fairly ambitious projects, nonetheless. One of these projects is making our own invitations. While we are confident that we can create some nice ones, we have of course never done so before and therefore have no idea where to start.

So we recently headed over to the Upper East Side location of Kate’s Paperie on 3rd Avenue and 74th Street to do some research. I love this store. Whenever I go, I get inspired to make a career change into a field I’m not sure even exists: professional gift wrapping. I mean, if a gift wrapper is only as good as her tools, then anybody with Kate on her side would certainly be fabulous.

For example, the room of ribbons on the right, just inside the door, contains row upon row of unique spools that really force you to re-examine your former definition of “ribbon". Ribbons with polka dots, ribbons seemingly laced with pure gold, ribbons that look like feather boas, ribbons made of tiny pompoms. Basically, this nook will help you tie the mother of all bows.

The papers, sold by the sheet in the back of the store, come in every color of the rainbow, with all kinds of interesting patterns and textures. Again, you might not have originally considered some of these sheets paper at all. There are metallic papers, lacey papers, and rough-hewn, handmade papers from all over the world. Some feel almost like plastic and others like fabric. Kate’s offers over 4000 varieties and they range from approximately $2.75 to $12.50 per piece. Some of these papers are so nice, I think it might break my heart to fold them around a box or sully them with a piece of tape, never mind ripping them. I once bought a beautiful Asian-printed piece of paper here and hung it on my wall, quite convincingly I think, as a piece of art.

You can also purchase folders that make filing more fun. (Yes, I just used the words ‘filing’ and ‘fun’ in the same sentence.) I have some with flowers on them but you can also get them with butterflies or birdcages.

Kate’s is clearly a scrapbooker’s paradise, offering all kinds of different stickers, ink stamps, and various tools of that trade. I once bought some champagne stickers here to put on an envelope for a friend who’d just gotten engaged. The sky is truly limit: there are sports stickers, dragonfly stickers, and even stickers that look like tattoos and Greek columns.

They have gadgets that are completely foreign to me. For example, there is something called a paper crimper that folds paper accordion style. They have a station where you can test out some nifty “paper shaper” craft punches (pictured, above). By simply clamping these things around a piece of paper, you can chomp out the shape of a leaf or a cupcake. I doubt even the most dexterous could do that with a pair of scissors.

But I digress…this trip, my fiancé and I had a specific mission. First, we flipped through one of the many books of wedding invitations they have in order to get some ideas. We took note of the more colorful, non-traditional ones. Then we strolled through the stationery section where they sell papers and envelopes in all shapes, styles and sizes. We were intrigued by something called “envelofolds” where the invitation and envelope are one piece. I like how they open up kind of like a present. There is something similar called “pocketfolds” that open in a similar fashion and also feature little pockets, perfect for holding RSVP cards.

We purchased a few pieces of paper and a few envelopes to play with and now we’re letting the ideas percolate. I noticed that Kate’s Paperie is having a Bridal Brunch on Sunday July 13 (10 AM) to offer some insider info on wedding invitations, so if we’re still in need of inspiration then, we might check that out. In the meantime, they are hosting a few Mother’s day events that are of interest:

Saturday May 2, 1-3 pm: Book signing with Nancy Bachrach, who wrote a mother-daughter memoir called “The Center of the Universe”.

Saturday, May 9, 1-3 pm: Last Minute Mother’s Day Calligraphy Event. Calligraphers will be on hand to artfully inscribe your card to your mom.

Wednesday, May 6 from 2-5 and Saturday, May 9, 2-4 pm: Springtime Craft Demonstrations. They’ll show you how to wrap a gift for your mom so that it looks like an adorable little purse. With wrapping that cute, it hardly matters what’s inside, right? Come to think of it, if I want to be a professional wrapper, this seems like an ideal resume builder…

Shaken and Stirred at the Carlyle

2009-04-17T11:54:00.007-04:00

It was Easter Eve. Okay, actually it was two nights before Easter but I already had bunnies on the brain. Before heading out of town for the weekend to paint eggs and gorge on far too many jellybeans, I went out for a drink with a friend to celebrate her birthday. When I asked her where she’d like to go, she said, without missing a beat, “Somewhere that mixes a good drink.” Though I’m no teetotaler, I’m not exactly a rolodex of fancy cocktails, either. I dug deep and suggested that we visit a hotel bar. In fact, she and I used to occasionally splurge flapper-style at the Algonquin.

This time, we picked Upper East Side landmark, Bemelmans Bar, at the Carlyle hotel. This is located on Madison Avenue at 76th. I knew I’d been there once on a date, but was I confusing it with the King Cole Bar at the St. Regis, where I’d also once been on a date? (Oh how events from that era are blurring together…). When I arrived, I remembered, ah yes, that this was the place with the quaint murals painted by the same guy who did the Madeline books. It’s a funny juxtaposition: the bar feels a bit like a speakeasy and is permeated with scent of good scotch, yet you’re surrounded by all these endearing, childlike illustrations of animals.

I tucked myself into a corner booth to wait for my friend. In the meantime, I was hardly alone. The dapper waiter, wearing a pristine white jacket and black bow tie was immediately at my service. And a quick glance around me revealed that I was in the company of many pleasant creatures, mostly bunnies. How apropos. One looked to be sipping an espresso at a café whilst gazing pensively through his spectacles. Another was taking cover from the rain under an umbrella. To my right, a whole group of them danced around in a merry circle. Apparently, artist Ludwig Bemelman was commissioned to paint this famous Central Park scene in 1947. In exchange, he received 18 months stay at the hotel.

Soon, my Cosmopolitan arrived. It came with a tiny extra pitcher, which, to my delight, the waiter called The Dividend. Maybe this is a common term, but I’d never heard it before: it seemed so formal and so fittingly financial. I took martini in hand and sipped, careful to not spill it. I have found those glasses to be particularly…challenging for those of us located on the far end of the klutzy scale. This drink was excellent.

I was happy that some complimentary snacks were also delivered to the table. I had rushed from work and hadn’t been able to pick up any dinner. A peek at the menu indicated that though I was ready and willing to burn some cash, the entrees and even appetizers were more than a little bit out of my current price range. Fortunately, this trifecta of treats, including salted nuts, spicy crackers and potato chips was fitting the so-called bill.

Less fortunately, on one of my hand’s trips to my mouth, I managed to knock over my precious Dividend, spilling bonus Cosmo all over the menu, my notes, and pants. I caught the waiter’s attention: “I spilled my Dividend!” I exclaimed so pitifully that he chuckled. As his equally dapper colleague wiped up my mess, I felt like a child at a Madeline tea party. (In fact, they offer this very thing for children every Saturday.)

I was cheered to see that a band was beginning to set up. The menu indicated that on Friday nights the Loston Harris Trio plays from 9:30 to 1 AM. There are few things I like more than live jazz. When my friend arrived, she was equally pleased by this scenario. She was also pleased with her Old Cuban Mojito, which is made with rum, bitters, champagne and muddled mint. While listening to these jazz standards, as rendered by the piano, the trumpet and the bass, we soaked up this unique atmosphere. The place was by now packed with what looked like a mix of New Yorkers and tourists, many of whom were wearing neckties, some of whom may have been staying at the Carlyle. Recession? Didn’t really seem like it had hit this dimly-lit nook.

To top things off, a special guest suddenly sidled up to Harris on the piano: cabaret cornerstone, James Naughton. The now somewhat tipsy crowd went bonkers for his rendition of “The Very Thought of You” and a few other classics.

Resplendent, my friend and I ordered a second set of drinks. We (carefully) toasted her birthday and The Good Life. “Where else can you do something like this?” Only New York, we nodded, perhaps with a bit too much self-congratulation.

Because, well, the bill eventually came. Turns out we missed the part about the music cover charge: $25 per person. Actually, I had seen that on the menu, earlier, but thought, naively, that it didn’t apply if you took your seat before 9:30 pm. Ouch. After our eyeballs popped out of their sockets, we tried to play it cool, as if we’re accustomed to spending $170 for two drinks each (and no dinner! Please bust out the violins…)

Anyway, despite our night’s “economic downturn” we had fun. We managed to laugh through tears as we visited the ATM across the street in an attempt to replenish. I recommend that every New Yorker hop on over to Bemelmans at least once. Just make sure that loan comes through, first.

Spring has Sprung at Marimekko

2009-04-07T08:34:00.015-04:00

I met up with Mother Nature the other day for coffee to discuss the weather. She and I have always been pretty close, but I have to admit that I don’t always trust her. For example, sometimes she’ll suggest that I bundle up: then, as temperatures rise, my big down feather coat and a wool scarf gradually begin to serve as a portable sweat lodge. Conversely, she’ll hint at sandals and sundress then blindside me with a blizzard. She can be quite a trickster.

“So, Spring,” I said, sipping my coffee. “Is it really going to arrive and stick around?”
“Patience, my friend, patience,” she replied, smirking enigmatically, then downed her espresso in one impatient gulp.
What am I supposed to do with that? The birds are starting to chirp, the days are getting longer yet it’s still chilly – I’m wearing earmuffs and flip flops at the same time.

I logically know Spring eventually arrives every year, but this time around, the suspense is killing me. So I headed over to one of my favorite Upper East Side shops, Kiitos Marimekko, where I knew I’d get a good dose. It’s located on 3rd Avenue between 72nd and 73rd Streets.

This Finnish brand, which as been around since 1951, started off selling textiles with iconic, bold patterns, and now offers clothing, accessories, and items for interior design. Everything they sell is bright and much of it is smattered with oversized flowers.

In fact, passing through these doors is like entering some kind of fantastical botanical garden, maybe one you’d see in cartoons. This is what is considered a Marimekko lifestyle concept store and is the only one like it in New York City. Indeed, spring has sprung here: an orange and fuscia shift dress glows like the sun itself. The small sofa at the entrance is blooming with flowery and geometric throw pillows. I’m pretty sure that any item you pick up here will raise your psychological temperature at least a few degrees.

Okay, full disclosure: over the years, I’ve been slowly building a small Marimmekko empire of my own, including a polka dotted shoulder bag, a pair of Converse-like sneakers, a coin purse, a potholder, etc. I have brought friends into the fold. Every time I go, I try to limit myself to one purchase, which requires extreme self control.

This time, I took a few deep breaths before darting around from display to display in an excited, zigzagged blur. I had scoped out some items on their website first, and spotted an intriguing black and white mousepad depicting a city scene. I also identified a few things to include on our wedding registry/wish list including tea towels in one of their popular patterns called Kevatjuhla, which depicts cows who appear to be galloping (perhaps toward their nearest Marimekko shop?)

Pleasant shopgirls Emily and Lydia told me that customers are a mix. Many of them have known about the fabric and the clothes for a long time. They also have lots of interior designers coming in and people buying gifts for friends.

Owner Josie Cotzas was a manager at a Marimekko store on 56th Street in 1989 when that store closed due to overhead expense. “As the store’s existence came to a close, I felt that I simply couldn’t let it die. This product is like no other and it has a loyal customer base.” This led her to start a mail order business with a colleague and eventually find retail space. They have been in this current location on 3rd for six years. She enjoys working with the variety of products – both clothing and items for the home.

Indeed, you really could outfit your entire life with items from this tiny shop. A wall of towels will dry in style for $9-$65. The paper napkins (above) will brighten up any “tablescape” for $6-$12.

I can attest that the canvas bags (left) both work hard and play hard for $54-$75. The hot pink “Unnikko Kinto” toiletry case travels well for $52 and the kid-sized rain boots make a splash. They are currently on sale for $35.

Alas, I purchased that nifty pad for my mouse and he’s gliding it across it right now. It’s actually one of the least spring-like things in Marimekko. I suppose I’ll just have to stop in again soon. I think I’ll bring Mother Nature with me…just in case she needs a little inspiration.

Mmmm Rohrs' Teas and Coffees

2009-03-24T09:14:00.008-04:00

Did you know that the New York Stock Exchange was born in the back of a coffee house? This was because coffee used to be one of the most heavily traded commodities in the world. Apparently, The Bank of New York and the first established insurance agency also started within the walls of java joints. I mean, I know from my own experience that coffee has a way of fueling productivity, but I didn’t know any of these tasty facts until I talked to Donald Wright, owner of M. Rohrs’ House of Fine Teas and Coffees.

This quaint shop, located on 86th street between 1st and 2nd Avenues, is an Upper East Side throwback. The space certainly reflects the owner’s enthusiasm for history. It’s packed with old photographs, old signage, and even some old subway doors. It’s the kind of mishmash you might find in your grandmother’s basement, or in an antique store, and it’s all arranged tastefully. I have spent many hours here honing my craft and soaking up this eclectic atmosphere. A skylight sheds sun on a big green plant in the middle of the store, while fish bustle around energetically in a bubbling aquarium nearby. (Are they also drinking the stuff?)

Wright has owned M. Rohrs since 1995, but the shop has been in operation in the Yorkville area for over 100 years, when a woman named Mary Rohrs sold coffee and teas by the cup and by the pound. Wright, who is also in the insurance business, stumbled upon Rohrs when he was researching the best coffee he could find in the area. He was interested in opening an interactive, cultural place where he could “bring worlds, ideas, and people together”. It so happened that the former owner of M. Rohrs was looking to retire. It was a perfect fit. In fact, until about four years ago, Wright himself ran his insurance business in the shop. Clients would have coffee up front and meet with him in back.

Wright is proud that this isn’t a formica-counter “hi, get your money and get out” kind of place. He regularly receives lots of appreciation from the community and is happy to have fostered an old-fashioned tradition. “There are a lot of things in here. Something might touch one person and others might gloss right over it.” One of the things I appreciate is the classic soundtrack, often featuring Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, and Nina Simone.

While listening to the tunes and collecting my thoughts, I’ve analyzed pretty much every nook and cranny of this comfortable space. What I didn’t notice until recently was the impressive mission statement, framed by the front door. It states: Our mission is to create an interactive, intergenerational coffee and tea house/café leading to an environment where people of all walks of life, of all ages can come together under the same roof. To enjoy a relaxed atmosphere; to begin to communicate with each other on all levels; as well as expanding individuals’ hearts and minds. Once this process begins, most will begin to see the parallels that make us not separate and alone but together and the same internally in the world. Each individual mutually helping make us one and the same, highlighting the unseen links that connect us all as one community. It sounds like coffee Shangri-La, and it is.

At M. Rohrs, they put together all kinds of gift baskets. They offer over 80 varieties of coffee and over 90 varieties of tea, many of which are contained in old-time tins behind the counter. What also makes Rohrs heavenly are all the cookies and treats displayed on every square millimeter of counter space, like an old candy shop. I have dipped my hand into glass jars of rugelach, brownie “poppers”, and madeleines. At the encouragement of a friend I brought here last summer, I discovered something called Mexican Wedding Cookies and my waistline hasn’t been the same since. Besides, I’ve never turned my back on a good almond croissant and I wouldn’t dare do so here.

They also serve lots of freshly-made sandwiches and salads. The java is excellent, but in the summer, I opt for ridiculously refreshing iced Moroccan Mint tea, green tea sweetened with honey and the perfect touch of mint.

The customers here run the gamut: mommies meet up with other mommies, friends catch up, and some contentedly sip coffee in solitude. Then there’s the industrious set: hunched over textbooks, playing the keys of laptops or meeting up with colleagues to talk business. I often find that I can get more accomplished here than in my apartment. It’s like an office, yet cozy. I’m not sure I’ll start up a new stock exchange or anything (though maybe we could use one!) but I may pack up a pesky project I’ve been avoiding and head on over…taxes. See you there – I’ll be the one buried under a disorganized pile of receipts, some of them from Rohrs itself…

Gobo To Go

2009-03-12T09:23:00.010-04:00

I am not a vegetarian. But I’m not exactly a rip-roaring, fang-baring, pig-on-a-spit, Brazilian-barbeque carnivore either. Let’s just say I occasionally eat meat, with some reservation, and I have no problem whatsoever with meatless meals. I enjoy vegetarian restaurants because I like vegetables and accoutrements such as couscous and that quirky little super-grain known as quinoa.

So when my fiancé recently suggested we pick up some food from Gobo, his favorite vegetarian place on the Upper East Side, I was game. He’s not a vegetarian, but his sister is; she visits Gobo whenever she’s in town from Ohio. (In fact she likes it so much that he refrains from mentioning it when he goes there because he doesn’t want make her jealous.)

Anyway, it was a weeknight. We’d both been working too hard, running around like chickens with our heads cut off (woops, sorry vegetarians, bad analogy), and we didn’t feel like cooking. We didn’t feel like being “out” either. It was one of those winter nights when you just want to put on your PJs and your coziest socks in order to unceremoniously chow down. Take-out is a beautiful thing. In cases like these, I believe that the couch makes the perfect seat, your knees are an ideal table and a blanket is as lovely a tablecloth as any.

So we looked up Gobo’s menu online, dialed their number, and pulled up out front, at 3rd and 81st about 10 minutes later. I sat in our getaway car while he ducked into the purple pick-up entrance right on 81st. We could have had the food delivered, but it’s slightly easier to justify not cooking these days if at least you sidestep the gratuity. (I tend to over-tip, which is one part generosity and two parts poor math.)

The problem with acquiring dinner in this fashion is that you have to demonstrate some patience, (maybe not as much as cooking, but…). Though it was packed up tight, the food on my lap smelled delicious. I was ravenous. Would it be so bad to tear into that bag with my bare hands and go at that food as if I was some kind of rabid hyena? Yes.

Somehow, I managed to control myself, get out of the car, down the street then climb the stairs pretending that I was not salivating the volume equivalent to an ocean. My fiancé, far more civilized than I, took the time to arrange the eco-friendly boxes of food in an artistic formation. He even got out utensils and plates, all of which seemed extraneous to me at this point.

Finally, dinner. To start, we ordered Scallion Pancakes with Homemade Mango Salsa. These were perfectly crisp and packed with onions. We also got an order of the Pan Seared Spinach Dumplings, which were plump purses of goodness. There are lots of things that intrigue on this menu. Most, but not all of the selections at Gobo seem to skew Asian. The menu is broken up into quick bites, small plates, sandwiches, noodles, large plates, and salads and soups. They have another location down in the West Village.

I like what it says on the Gobo website: that the “spirited vegetarian dining awakens the five senses for each guest. Rooted in Zen compassion, Gobo is founded on the belief that delicious food and beverages using non-meat ingredients will nourish both your body and your mind.” It sounds like the dinner version of Yoga class. I inhaled deeply and dug into my entrée.

I ordered the (not-so-Asian) Butternut Squash Risotto with Toasted Almonds. Made with brown rice (of course) and large chunks of squash, this was exactly as delicious as I anticipated. It was buttery and bursting with almonds. My fiancé ordered the Sizzling Soy Cutlet Platter with Black Pepper Sauce. When he offered me some, I scrunched up my nose. “No thanks.” I don’t love meat but I don’t go for faux meat, either. I have tasted a few bites of that wheat-based seitan product before and found it strange. I can dabble in some strait-up tofu, but it seems that some of those meatless creations are for the real purists. Of course, he eventually convinced me to give it a try, and it was actually quite tasty. In fact, that black pepper sauce on the “cutlet” and accompanying vegetables was succulent and prompted me to reach across the couch for seconds.

Leftovers the next night were just as satisfying, and stretching this take-out over two dinners diminished the spending guilt considerably. Though I haven’t dined in at Gobo yet, the atmosphere looks to be very serene and appropriately Zen. And I always find that healthy vibe to be contagious. When I go, I intend to try one of their organic smoothies, a fresh squeezed juice, or…okay, you twisted my arm, perhaps a glass of organic wine. See you there. I’ll be the one tucking myself in cozily under the tablecloth…

UES Garbage Pickin'

2009-03-02T11:32:00.012-05:00

It happened on a Friday night, a few weeks ago. I had a lot on my mind and approximately 15,000 things to do. I was getting home late from work and hadn’t yet packed a thing for a flight out of Laguardia early the next morning. I was making a mental checklist of all I needed to remember, when suddenly I stopped in my tracks. In front of me was the most beautiful piece of garbage I’d ever seen.

Basically, it was the desk of my dreams – someone had put it out on the street for the next day’s collection. Right here on the Upper East Side, this piece of abandoned furniture beckoned to me, it glowed with possibility. I’m pretty sure I heard angels sing.

It was long and lean, white-ish, and had eight drawers just begging to be filled with my sundry office supplies. My current desk was adequate yet drawer-less. I calculated that, strangely enough, I hadn’t had a desk with drawers since we sold off my girlhood furniture at age 14. I ran my hand across the top surface, which measured approximately a mile. Oh, the masterpieces I could write on this thing.

I am not new to garbage pickin’. Some of my most valued treasures have been acquired in this manner: a love seat from the 50’s, a Jetson-esque orange chair, and a funky, discarded kitchen cabinet that has long served as my (not-so-functional) desk storage. If you've never claimed anything off the street as your own and you're reading this with a bit of disgust, I assure that everything (other than say mattresses and couches) can be cleaned thoroughly. Besides, I guarantee that that this form of recession-era "shopping" will give you a satisfying rush. You know what they say about one man’s trash…

I find that, like so many things in life, the best garbage pickin’ happens when you least expect it. Maybe there are some true aficionados out there who troll around on Friday nights from city block to city block in order to score the perfect pickin’s but I think it’s a matter of just going about your life, keeping your eyes open, then being decisive. It’s like apartment hunting: if you don’t act quickly, someone else will definitely snap up the one you’re pretty sure you want.

This time, however, I hesitated. I could tell this was narrow enough for my space but was it too long? Was it too low to the ground to be ergonomic? Was it too yellowed? Had a dog relieved himself on it yet? In fact, upon closer inspection, I discovered that this glorious piece was not a desk at all but actually a vanity. The compartment in the middle flipped up to reveal an undersurface that used to house a mirror and a bunch of secret compartments, one of which, sure enough, contained an old tube of lipstick. There was also a great pair of 1970’s sunglasses in one of the drawers.

The main question was: how was I going to get this up to my 5th floor walk-up? I’m no carpenter, but it seemed like it would detach into three pieces. I immediately dialed my fiancé and told him that I’d stumbled upon a dreamy piece of garbage. “Really?” he replied, amused and possibly a little afraid. I proceeded to describe its attributes with an excitement that, he would later recount, rendered me pretty much unintelligible.

I knew I needed some brawn. The problem was that my brawn was in a gnarly line at a Fed Ex. He told me he’d be over as soon as possible. In the meantime, I decided to stand sentry, to guard my new/old desk/vanity so that no one else could even think about claiming it.

I admit that as we waited, and waited…and waited for that Fed Ex line to dissipate, doubt set in. The desk gradually began to seem fairly beat-up and far too big. Mainly, getting it upstairs started to seem like way too much of a hassle amid everything we had to do that night. I do love free stuff, but also fundamentally believe that “less is more” and it would be easier to just walk away. Besides, despite all the soldier-like marching I was doing back in forth in front of it, I was getting cold. I decided it was all just a little much. Wistfully, I headed upstairs, rustled up some dinner, and dug out my suitcase.

When my fiancé finally arrived an hour later, he was also excited. “That desk is great,” he said, and suggested we go back down to investigate further. I was surprised that it was still there. We proceeded to examine it from every angle, and carried one of the drawers into my foyer to see what the color looked like in normal light. It was somewhat discolored, but it did seem like a lot of that would scrub away and what didn’t would add charm.

“Do you think it will be comfortable for you?” he asked. I pretended to sit and type at my laptop, perching on thin air, almost falling in the process. “Let’s go get your desk chair,” he said. Of course. I nodded my head and took off while he stood sentry. I bounded up the stairs with renewed energy, pleased to know such a genius and vowing to grab my camera for documentation purposes. Back on the sidewalk, I couldn’t stop laughing. I sidled up to the desk and once again pretended to type, this time with good posture, full of intention. That’s the first time I ever pretend-typed at a desk on the sidewalk.

“Perfect,” I said. We then dismantled it and determined that it wouldn’t be too hard to carry upstairs. First, we made sure to take in my desk chair, so that no one dared to claim that as her own. Then we took out the drawers. Granted, this 3-piece desk/vanity wasn’t too heavy, but traipsing it up five floors wasn’t exactly a stroll in the park, either; I find that even small objects, like pencils or even feathers, can seem heavy when you have to climb beyond that third floor.

It was by then 10:30 pm. Because we still had to pack and address those 14,999 other pre-trip tasks, we couldn’t do much else with the desk besides pile it up on top of itself and take turns modeling those crazy sunglasses.

In the last few weeks, I have engaged in four rounds of vigorous scrubbing. I used those Magic Eraser sponges that are so aptly named. If you haven’t tried these yet, I highly recommend. They are a product of that trusty, bald-headed Mr. Clean. I got mine in the cleaning section of Rainbow Hardware and Pharmacy, downstairs, on First between 75th and 76th. Thanks to these sponges, my desk/vanity brightened up considerably. I have been busy filling up every drawer and every nook and cranny with my beloved office supplies. And, of course, I am happily typing on it, at this very moment. It feels like the dawn of a new era. I suspect that many masterpieces will be composed in this exact spot in the months, years, and maybe even decades to come.

That following Friday, I put my other desk (which I've been writing at for the last 22 years) out for collection. Guess what? It vanished within the hour. Right now, perhaps someone else nearby is also typing a blog about the great new desk she found on the sidewalk...

UES Parking Garages: Thank Heaven

2009-02-19T10:36:00.006-05:00

I have now been a monthly customer at three parking garages on the Upper East Side. I moved too far away from the first. The second one closed to make way for a high rise luxury condominium. As I type, my car is tucked cozily into the third.

Parking garages are beautiful things. And for me, arguably necessary, despite the expense. When I moved from the suburbs into Manhattan, being able to afford a parking space in addition to rent was a prerequisite. I still reverse commute out to Westchester for work. I do so at ideal times for driving (leaving the city around one in the afternoon and returning around nine pm) and the worst possible times for parking on the street. Without a garage, I’d have to devote my mornings to moving my car to comply with alternate side parking rules and it would be challenging to find a space that late at night.

And, though I have certainly improved over the years, parallel parking is far from my forte. I need room for error, including the freedom to start over and re-try. When a line of cabs and commuters inevitably start to honk their horns in an impatient chorus, forget it, I’ll just pull away in frustration. I think if I had to circle around for the perfect space every night, I’d often end my day in tears. I imagine myself just stopping the car after hours of fruitless searching, getting out, and leaving it in the middle of the street. Or pushing it into the East River.

So I have invested a lot into the convenience of a guaranteed space every night. It’s like paying a whole other rent, but it has been well worth it. Still, it’s a strange phenomenon, handing over your keys to people you only half-know. Remember that joyride scene in the movie, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off? It’s doubtful that my little Hyundai would inspire that kind of illicit jaunt, and I do trust the integrity of the garage attendants, but it has crossed my mind.

Because I commute every day, I spend a lot of time in my car. It’s almost like a second home: an office, a dining room, and a living room on wheels. Parking in a city lot, though, makes my car seem like more of a public space than a private one. This point was exemplified when I once happened to be walking by my garage and I saw an attendant reclined in my driver’s seat, napping. Just like subletting your apartment, or opening your home to guests, you give up a certain amount of control.

Along these lines, sometimes when you get back in it, your car feels as foreign as a rental. You have to re-adjust the seat and the mirrors so that you can drive it, just as the attendants understandably had to do, themselves. Sometimes, I’ll be changing lanes on the FDR and discover that the passenger side mirror is still folded in, the car equivalent of “sucking it in.” This is so that your car can fit into a smaller space.

Every once in a while, I forget something in my car, prompting the “do I really need it tonight?” debate. It’s not like the car is just in the driveway a few short steps from my front door, and I can just run back out there in my slippers. Banana? No. Wallet? Yes. Mittens? No. Cell phone? Definitely.

When I’ve decided to go back, I’ve had attendants do one of three things. They might fish out your car from the bowels of the garage and drive it down (or up) to you. If it’s already too packed into their car puzzle, they might ask what you forgot and where, and bring just that item to you. The craziest is when they escort you inside. This might get you a ride on the car elevator. And you’ll get the opportunity to see just how expertly they fit these cars in.

Seeing how each level is packed tight as a can of sardines, you’ll start to understand why the sides of your car are gradually becoming so pock-marked. Even a wafer-thin human cannot possibly squeeze into a car in that small of a space without pressing the edge of one door into the vehicle beside it, resulting in a tiny dent. My car currently has hundreds of these: it’s starting to look like a golf ball. Of course, you get these when you park out on the street or in suburban parking lots as well, so it’s hard to say whether my car would look more pristine (or possibly even more battered) if I wasn’t a monthly garage customer. I suppose if I had…how shall I say…a more luxury vehicle, I might swaddle it in one of those protective, padded, blankets. But that is not the case.

But my car has “weathered” more extreme mishaps in my years of garaging. Like the elevator closing on the back of my car, crushing the trunk like bug while I watched. Like picking up my car and discovering that the fender was bashed in and streaked with yellow paint the same color as the garage poles. The wildest was when there was a dent along the width of my car roof unmistakably imprinted by “the lift,” those large stacking structures that are like shelves for cars. I have had the damage from these blunders both immediately fixed by the management and also denied. After all, most garages have a sign that says, “Not responsible for damage to your car or items left in your car.”

I have to admit that, because my apartment is so small, my car also serves as a storage space for various and sundry items I can’t fit in my pint-sized apartment. I try to stuff all these things in my trunk – it is a disorganized mess back there – but there is inevitably overflow to the backseat and I feel much better having these items out when parked safely in the garage. If it were parked on the street, these items, even non-valuables, could tempt passersby to “reach through” the window, shattering the glass in the process. And that’s not how I like my windows.

One thing you have to leave in your car at a garage is the key. I have accidentally walked off with it twice in the last several years, one time noticing it in my hand when I reached my apartment, and another time receiving a frantic phone call from the garage to bring the key back because my car was blocking other customers. But there’s also danger of the reverse: getting so accustomed to leaving your keys in the car that you do so in other scenarios. Yes, that’s unfortunately happened once or twice as well.

Overall, though, the pros of parking regularly in a garage far out-weigh the cons and I do recommend it. The quality of life here on the Upper East Side is already excellent, and having a parking space you can count on certainly enhances it, dents and all.