Arthur Avenue: The Italian-American Experience

A day in New York is, simply, what you make it. An artist at heart? Stop in at MOMA. Or the Met. Only here for the parties? You can dance your heart out way up at The Top of the Standard, or way down at The Village Underground. But if you’re a foodie looking for an authentic culinary experience, there’s only really only one place for you: Arthur Avenue. 

Colloquially known as the “Little Italy of the Bronx,” Arthur Avenue has escaped, for the most part, the encroaching gentrification that has plagued much of New York. Here, you’ll find no shortage of businesses that can tout the claim of being “multi-generational,” which makes it unique not only by New York standards (considering the very few businesses that survive a year, let alone generations), but unique from a culinary standpoint. Shaped by both Italian immigrants and their American descendants, the food on Arthur Avenue is one of the few places in the world where you can find food that is authentically Italian American: a little Italian, a little American, and a whole lot of love.

The proof is in the pudding -- or in this case, the cheese; especially if you stop by Joe’s Italian Deli, a casual eatery serving up fresh, hand pulled mozzarella. Their bocconcini, along with a few slices of salty prosciutto, is all but the perfect start to the day -- but I wouldn’t say no to their antipasto, and frankly, their Hitman Hero is mouth-watering. For a tourist, however, the deli can offer something even more delicious -- between the rows of canned tomato sauce and the school kids stopping in for sandwiches, Joe’s happens to be, in my opinion, a rare glimpse into the more local side of Arthur Avenue. 

But if you’re more interested in the iconic, there’s plenty of that on the avenue as well, starting with Mario’s Restaurant, one of those aforementioned multi-generational eateries. Known for their red sauce fare, which includes Neapolitan style pizza, house made manicotti, and all types of parmigiana, Mario’s Restaurant is a classic both inside and out, even boasting a cameo in The Sopranos and a name drop in Mario Puzo’s The Godfather. 

But perhaps more impressive than the food is the space itself. What started off as a six person pizzeria is now twenty-nine person restaurant accentuated with velvet lined chairs, soft Italian Opera, and warm oil paintings. Mario’s is proof that a little hard work can go a long way, and Regina Migliucci-Delfino, the current, fifth generation owner, is a testament to that -- she is, without so much as a blink, capable of reciting from memory every dish on the menu, as well as its components. Still, the family continues to pay it forward: during Tuesday to Friday dinner hours from now through October, patrons who wish the family well for their 100th year anniversary will receive one free pizza appetizer for that table (with the purchase of an entrée).

If you’re looking for more traditional Italian fare, however (read: No white sauce! No chicken parmesan!), Arthur Ave has its fair share of that as well, most recently MangiPasta, a Naples transplant serving up fresh, ‘choose your own style’ pasta dishes that include Cacio e pepe, Pesto Rigatoni, and a personal favorite: homemade Ravioli with Aglio, Olio e Peperoncino. Under normal circumstances I don’t even like ravioli, but I was sorely tempted to purchase an entire bag of MangiPasta’s to bring home with me. Trust me on this one. 

And then, of course, there’s dessert. There are plenty of great options on Arthur Ave, but you can’t go wrong with Egidio Pastry Shop, a landmark bakery vouched for by the The New York Times and enshrined on an October 2018 cover of The New Yorker. The shop offers up tray after tray of Italian cookies and endless variations of biscotti, but locals will point you to the cannolis, all hand rolled and filled to the brim with cream. You might think you won’t have room after a day full of pasta and pastrami -- but don’t worry, you can get some to go. 

So if you’re looking to get away from the hub and bub of Manhattan, a day trip to Arthur Avenue might just be the thing for you. In between meals, feel free to stop by the Botanical Gardens, or even check out the Bronx Zoo. Like I said...it’s what you make it. 

The Springs NYC

New York is great and all, but there are definitely some times where the concrete doesn’t cut it, and I crave Cali -- palm trees, beaches, and dreamy 80’s pop. Cut to The Springs, a combination bar, lounge, and patio located in Greenpoint, Brooklyn. 

With colorful umbrellas, pink flamingo decor, an outdoor patio and plenty of frozen cocktails to go around, The Springs is a step into 70’s era Cali, a la Palm Springs. And this year, they’ve handed another West Coast element to their repertoire -- Desert Hideaway, a conceptual food truck serving elevated bites.

Created by Executive Chef Natalie Mitchell, Desert Hideaway is a comfort food lover’s dream. In addition to classics like Baja Shrimp Tacos and Fried Chicken, Desert Hideaway also serves up a delish Fried Pimento Cheese dish, a Grilled Cheese with Bacon and Jam, and my personal favorite: the panko crusted avocado, served with a delish cilantro sauce and a few stray jalapenos. 

In addition to the bites, of course, The Springs offers an extensive cocktail menu, with drinks such as the Desert Star (Milagro Silver Tequila, Dolin Blanc, Cucumber, Mint & Thai Chile), the Neon Palm (Spring 44 Gin, Grapefruit Cordial, Lillet Rose, Lemon & Absinthe), and the Midnight Mirage  (Mezcal, Campari, Blackstrap Rum &  Pineapple).

So if you’re looking to get your Cali fix, be sure so stop by The Springs while summer’s still in town. For more information, check out https://www.thesprings-bk.com/ or @thespringsbk

Camp Squish

In preparation for National S’Mores Day on August 10th, Squish Marshmallow invited guests to visit Camp Squish on July 30th. In the heart of the East Village, Squish Marsh created a campsite in their store for guests to make their own delicious s’mores. Thanks to Chameleon Cold Brew and Ritter Sport, guests were able to choose from different kinds of chocolate and flavored cold brews to enjoy with their toasted marshmallows. 

Creator Katherine Sprung started Squish Marshmallows after getting hooked on making marshmallows. Squish aims to make quality, delicious marshmallows by using natural ingredients. They are made in small batches and hand-cut, and with flavors like Birthday Party, Banana Pudding, Rocky Road, and Smoothie Bowl, Squish has changed the way customers think about the simple marshmallow.

In honor of National S’Mores Day, Squish will open its doors to the public from 1 pm to 10 pm on August 10th, but until then, marshmallow- enthusiasts can shop products online, attend Marshmallow Cooking or Decorating classes, and even order Squish online. Don’t miss your chance to experience this urban campsite!

Savanna Rooftop

Rooftop Bars in Manhattan are all the rage, but there is one noticeable drawback: when you’re in the city, you can’t see the city. There’s nothing like being at the top of a skyscraper in the middle of midtown and not being able to see the actual NYC skyline. However, there’s a simple solution to this perennial problem: Savanna Rooftop in Long Island City.

Just a few stops from midtown on the M train, Savanna Rooftop is a contemporary cocktail bar drawing inspiration from the savannas of Africa, with eucalyptus wood, grassy ground, and colorful murals from Brooklyn artist N. Carlos J. It’s truly a step into paradise -- and that’s even before you get to the view. Completely open-air, Savanna Rooftop boasts 180 degree skyline views of Manhattan from it’s 12th floor perch, as well as stunning views across Long Island.

And while Savanna’s most stand out feature is absolutely it’s view, there’s a lot to be said for both it’s cocktail and small bites menu. The drinks, crafted by mixologist Chad Dutkowski, includes a mezcal based Coco Camino, a frozen Hula Daiquiri and a frozen Gin & Tonic. And as for the menu -- well, you can’t go wrong with bites. There’s carne asada tacos, chicken satay, and my personal favorite: the savanna beef sliders, featuring red onion, gruyere cheese, and sriracha mayo.

So if you’re in Long Island City and looking for a relaxed party vibe, check out Savanna Rooftop. But even if you’re not in LIC, I suggest making the trip out there anyways: the view alone is worth it. 

For more pictures and information about Savanna Rooftop, check out: https://savannarooftop.com/, or their instagram, @savannarooftop. 

Photos provided by Savanna Rooftop

Gigawatt Garden

One of my favorite things about showing people around New York is being able to take them to “hidden foodie gems” in the city. Think ‘Los Mariscos,’ an authentic taqueria accessible through a secret side hallway in Chelsea Market. Or ‘Burger Joint,’ a divey burger spot located inside the swanky Parker New York Hotel. Now, I can add another one of these gems to my list: Clinton Hall’s Gigawatt Garden, a cute summer space accessed through the lobby of the POD 51 Hotel at 230 East 51st Street. 

The Garden, which had its official launch on July 16th, is the perfect place to spend a few boozy summer nights. In addition to live music, the space offers patrons a number of board games to choose from, from super sized Connect Four to Cards of Humanity. No matter what, there’s definitely some sort of entertainment here for everyone.

Then, of course, there’s the food. Loaded waffle fries, soft pretzel bites, buffalo wings and both beef and veggie burger options -- the next door Clinton Hall does an excellent job of making sure visitors will be satisfied with their meal. Bonus Tip: GET THE DONUTS! These soft cinnamon doughnut holes come with your choice of chocolate or caramel drizzle, and they are decadent. I had to stop myself after four, but could have easily devoured about five more. Instead traded eating more donuts for some of the Frose -- totally delicious and refreshing, but again, GET THE DONUTS.

So, if you’re looking for a chill place with a backyard vibe to kick it in the middle of the city, the Gigawatt Garden is your best bet. And if you’re looking for something a little extra, drop in on a Tuesday for some Drag Bingo! I almost guarantee it’ll be more exciting than any other game of bingo you’ve ever played in your life. 

Photos by Gigawatt

The Lil Num Chick Sammy

Craving a burger, but can’t decide between pork belly or fried chicken? Well now you don’t have to. Sweet Chick and Num Pang Kitchen are collaborating for the very first time to bring the best of the farm to your stomach.

Their love child, the Num Chick Sammy, is stacked with crispy fried chicken from Sweet Chick, melt-in-your-mouth five-spice pork belly from Num Pang, refreshing Asian slaw to cut the grease, and chili mayo on a fluffy brioche bun. This hearty, but perfectly balanced sandwich is only available until July 21st at Num Pang Union Square and Sweet Chick LES. Get yours before it’s gone. Don’t forget to also try Sweet Chick’s Chicken and Waffles or other Southeast-Asian inspired eats from Num Pang.

Move over BLT, the Num Chick Sammy is here to take the title of the best sandwich.

AICNY & Puglia Demo Chef Kitchen

In celebration of Italian cuisine and the Italian chefs of America, noted international and Italian chefs gathered to showcase a repertoire of authentic Apulian, or Puglian, recipes to be paired the most popular wines of the region, such as Primitivo, Nero di Troia and many more. The event, held on the evening of June 25th, was organized by the Associazione Italiana Chef di New York (AICNY) in collaboration with Puglia in Rosé, Cantine Due Palme and the Restaurant Associates (RA) for Scavolini.

Many flocked to the kitchens of the beautiful and distinguished Scavolini SoHo gallery to experience the flavors of Puglia through dishes from featured chefs such as Rocco di Spirito, Davide Oldani, Roberto Caporuscio, Stephen Yen, and Michael Lomonaco. The event also commemorated the great legacy of Anthony Bourdain, whose portrait stood in the corner of the gallery.

American and Italian food and wine bloggers and sommeliers worked their way from one kitchen space to the next, sampling charcuterie in between occasional stops by the bar for a glass of wine to pair with their plate. Every surface in the room was covered in food, spanning from whole wheels of cheese to platters of cured meats to olives, peppers, and fresh herbs. Favorite dishes included pasta served straight from a cheese wheel onto a plate, garnished with freshly grated summer truffles from Italy, and granchio burrata gnocchi. Desserts were also a big hit, including a tiramisu that was light yet rich and indulgent, calling for a sip of rosé to wash it down.

The evening came to a hallmark moment when all the chefs congregated outside in the middle of the street, halting traffic for a photo all together in celebration of food, wine, Puglia, and the art of cooking, with Anthony Bourdain’s picture at the center.

Vinho Verde Wine Experience – Sippin’ on Portuguese Wine

like no other wine in the world.

For those who don’t know, Vinho Verde is the Portuguese wine that originated in the historic Minho province in the far north of the country.

However, Vinho Verde Wine Experience is an event in New York City that offers endless Vinho Verde tastings to Wine lovers along with food pairings from some of the NYC’s hottest restaurants.

The Vinho Verde event took place in Midtown Manhattan. There were around fifteen different wines accompanied by food, mixologists slinging cocktails, live music, top sommeliers teaching you about Vinho Verde, and a print photo booth capturing the entire experience.

People were tasting and educating themselves on different Portuguese wines, chatting with one another, roaming around with their branded stemless wine glasses, dancing to the DJ’s favorite songs, and having small bites from NYC’s best restaurants.

Seeing that the event is one of the most hotly anticipated parties on the summer social calendar, the venue was big enough to fit the whole Vinho Verde experience. As for the Vinho Verde Wine Portuguese producers, they were educating their guests on the history of their wines and answering all the questions. 

I learned a lot of things about Vinho Verde that blew my mind. Did you know that the Vinho Verde region has produced wine for over 2,000 years, making it one of the oldest wine regions in Portugal? I think that’s fantastic! Also, The wines of Vinho Verde have long been known for their vibrant fruit, low alcohol and refreshing qualities; a true combination that makes them one of the most versatile partners with food. Another thing I learned from the producers is that Vinho Verde is an ideal wine pairing for salads, seafood and Asian cuisine, and can be served alone or as an aperitif.

“Vinho Verde is Portugal’s largest wine region, with 19,000 grape growers farming over 51,000 acres of vineyards.” said the producer at the Manuel Costa & Filhos stand who gave us a tasting of the Melodia Wine.

As for the food presented, it was mouthwatering. It was the perfect food combination to enjoy different Portuguese wines. The food selected for the event created amazing pairing combinations with Vinho Verde, ideal to enjoy the right experience.  

Fresh Seafood Ceviche “Tigre de Leche” presented by second, Handcrafted Vegan and Chicken Dumplings with a gluten free hot sauce presented by Silly Chilly Dumplings, Porchetta and beef sliders presented by Bread & Spread and the best My/Mo Mochi Ice Cream.

As you walk into the event, you can spot a vibrant and colorful cocktail bar where top mixologists were crafting Vinho Verde cocktails. Brightly coloured drinks that went by “Sunset Breeze”, “Summer Fling” and “All Day Cooler” were served. 

After hours of  sippin’ on Portuguese wine, the day ended with fun games, photo booth pictures, and endless memories. 

Urbani Truffles Cruise Party

There’s little that can improve a New York City sunset, but the addition of fine Italian food and drinks does just that. On Friday, June 28, Urbani Truffles held their annual cruise party on a Hornblower Hybrid Yacht at Pier 40, the event had spectacular views of the Hudson River. Guests were invited to celebrate the anniversary of the largest Truffle exporter in the world - Urbani Truffle. patrons were wined and dined with delicious truffle delicacies and were taken on a cruise of Manhattan!

One of the most interesting and complex flavors in the culinary world: the truffle, a common name for Hypogeous fungi was the main attraction of the night.. To my surprise, as a vegetarian I had plenty of options to eat from, my personal favorite - the truffle pizza was delectable and savory. Made out of fresh truffle, this delicious soft pizza will leave you wanting more.

The event was chock full of surprises with performers for entertainment, and glamorous cigar girls featuring Switzerland’s Villiger Cigar collection for the guests.

The magnificent evening was wrapped up by cruising around Ellis island with friends and family while sipping on finest champagne and enjoying the tunes and views.

Check out Urbani at - https://www.urbani.com/

Photos courtesy of Urbani

The Central Park Conservancy - Evening In The Garden

New York City is the greatest city in the world -- at least in my eyes.  However, New York would quickly lose its status as number one if it weren’t for Central Park. This 842.6 acre park in the center of Manhattan is home to ballfields, tennis courts, handball courts, playgrounds, ice skating rinks, boat rentals, swimming pools, running trails, and more. When I think about my fondest memories in New York, having picnics and people watching in Central Park with my friends comes to the forefront of my mind. Central Park fosters community, physical activity, and serves as a needed escape from the concrete jungle that is New York City. 

On Wednesday, June 19, over 500 New Yorkers ventured to the Central Park’s Conservatory Garden to attend the14th annual Evening in the Garden, the flagship summer benefit hosted by the Greensward Circle, the Central Park Conservancy’s network of young professionals. The event raised over $100,000 in support of the Conservancy’s mission to restore, maintain, and enhance Central Park. 

The Central Park Conservancy is a private, not-for-profit organization that manages Central Park and is responsible for raising the Park's annual operating budget. The Conservancy’s staff is responsible for all aspects of the Park’s stewardship, from day-to-day maintenance and operations to continued restoration and rebuilding projects. The Conservancy also operates the Park’s visitor centers, provides public programs, and serves as a resource for other NYC parks and for public-private partnerships around the world. The Greensward Circle is a group of philanthropists committed to preserving Central Park for future generations through annual support. 

Every aspect of the evening was a display of excellence. Delicious dishes were served, my personal favorite was the modern South Asian street food provided by The MasalaWala. Dessert was provided by the infamous Georgetown Cupcakes and Dorée’s Spirited Sorbet Scoops from Erv’s on Beekman. The little rain that fell that night only enhanced the experience, the mist made the gardens appear even more lush and mystical. The fog covered park coupled with the live jazz created a dream like experience. 

The Evening in the Garden was a picturesque event, filled with mouthwatering food and drink, excellent music, and wonderful outfits. Most notably, however, Evening in the Garden helps maintain New York’s most celebrated park by bringing together young philanthropists.

Photo credit: Neil Rasmus/BFA.com

Go Green and Drink at Clinton Hall’s Rooftop Beer Garden

Save the Beer, Save the World … or was that Save the Cheerleader? In any case, drinking at Clinton Hall’s new Rooftop Beer Garden will take you a step in the right eco-friendly direction. The 2,000-square foot rooftop space located at the POD BK Hotel in Williamsburg is the first solar powered rooftop bar in Brooklyn and ready to take on both the environment and thirsty New Yorkers.

Just off the L train on Metropolitan Ave, Brooklyn’s newest and greenest beer garden has been added onto the beer hall’s current ground space which serves the always delicious Clinton Hall bar food, beer and cocktails. Games are of course a part of the experience, now they are just being played four flights off the ground. Getting to the top is part of the experience, with intricate murals lining the walls as you wind your way up the spacious outdoor staircase.

When you make it to the top, grab a spot at one of the picnic tables to enjoy a bite and drink from Executive Chef Darryl Harmon’s new culinary offerings. The menu includes Taco & Margarita flights, an Angry Lobster Roll, Guac and Chips, Crab and Cobb Salad and of course a summer must, Cider Frose.

Come for the day day and stay for that Instagramable sunset, either way the Rooftop Beer Garden is a welcome summer oasis. 

ROLLN

“Someone sold their soul to be able to make their vegan tuna roll this good.”

- My friend upon their first bite of ROLLN’s Avocado & Vegan Tuna

In the looming and beautiful shadow of the Flatiron district sits a small sushi oasis named ROLLN. This sushi sanctuary sits at the unique location of 38 East 23rd st, doors open to welcome flatiron workers and park frolickers alike. Upon entering, one is immediately struck by the cleanliness of the eatery. The contrast between the dusty weathered streets versus the smell of fresh, fragrant rice is tangibly refreshing and invigorating. Be prepared to breathe in and let all your senses take a vacation here. 

The rolls themselves are placed neatly together in a glass display, steam from their creation still rises off the nori indicating their fresh and delicious status. From California to Teriyaki Chicken to Salmon Avocado roll, all of these options sit perfectly and briefly stacked until their inevitable food adoption. The only hard part of eating food this good is deciding what to try first. 

ROLLN is the ongoing exploration between Australian Expats: David Tam and Gavin Tseng. This endeavoring partnership sought to bring fresh and hand rolled eats to their community and source their ingredients from certified sustainable and organic distributors only. With proprietary quinoa-based rolls, vegan options and a 100% gluten free establishment, ROLLN continues to raise the bar on quality and food accessibility. Other establishments, take note.

Photos by ROLLN

Haven Rooftop - Summer Kick Off Party

It’s officially summer in New York City, and that means baseball, sun dresses, barbecuing, and most importantly rooftop bars. On Monday, June 17th, the Haven Rooftop hosted its seventh annual summer kickoff party. Held atop the Sanctuary hotel, located in the heart of Time Square, the Haven Rooftop provide the perfect setting to unwind on a summer night. The kickoff party offered anything but a mundane monday, the drinks were flowing, the music was playing, and the people were having fun.

Even though it was a cloudy day, the Haven Rooftop was a sanctuary from the rain and muck of New York. The atmosphere was upbeat and cheerful. And the views of Midtown Manhattan from the rooftop were breathtaking.

Throughout the night an array of mouth-watering appetizers were served, including sliders, tuna tartar, truffle cheese bread, and watermelon with mint and feta. An extensive selection of beers, wines, liquors, and signature craft cocktails are offered at Haven Rooftop. All the drinks are very refreshing, perfect for hot summer nights. My personal favorite was the Cloudtini, a cocktail made with Grey Goose and lychee puree.

The Haven Rooftop is the spot to go to enjoy delectable modern American cuisine and indulge in delicious cocktails while conversing with friends and listening to music.

Photo Credit: Will Cadena

Dizzy’s Club: Where Jazz Gets You Drunk

In New Orleans they say “pass a good time” when wishing someone pleasure and fun. When I visited the city of Jazz, I had no glass in my hand but music still got me drunk: The rawness in the artists’ pieces. The emotions in the melody. The joy in the trumpet. And the melancholy in the piano... I’ve passed the best time surrendering to the music. I never thought I would ever get that NOLA feeling again, until I went to The Summer Super & Jazz Evening at Dizzy’s Club at the Jazz Lincoln Center.

There, I got the chance to see Christian McBride Big Band’s performance-and they hypnotized me. Jazz got me drunk for the first time since I visited New Orleans last March, and I was enjoying every second of it. Dizzy’s Club handpicks grand artists and offers the authentic Jazz experience in the midst of Manhattan. The elegant, wooden-interior looks like a violin with its beautifully shaped curves. The club oversees a skyline that changes color as the sun sets. The service is simply impeccable, and the food is varied, sophisticated, and exquisite. Everything tasted delicious. Everything sounded beautiful. Everything looked pretty. All of my senses were pleased. It was easy to surrender to the music.

That night, I didn’t pass a good time. I passed the best time. Thanks to Dizzy’s Club, I relived my New Orleans experience and got drunk on Jazz again.

Dalup - A Modern Indian Restaurant

As a self proclaimed foodie I have traveled to nearly every corner of New York in search of tasty food. And I can attest to the fact that even in New York City it is extremely difficult to find restaurants that are affordable, environmentally sustainable, healthy, and appetizing. Fortunately I had the privilege of attending the opening of Dalup, a modern Indian restaurant that miraculously meets all of these criteria.

Located at 350 7th Avenue in Chelsea, Dalup is the perfect place to grab a quick bite during a lunch break or to sit down and spend an evening with friends and family enjoying the many delightful delectables it has to offer.

Bravo’s Top Chef alum Dave Martin created the menu with the goal of developing a lighter, more approachable and modern version of traditional Indian cuisine. He achieved this by producing a completely dairy-free menu, additionally the oil used in each of the dishes is minimal. Full, bold flavors are established through the freshness of the ingredients and the proprietary spice blend.  Ultimately lending authentic flavors that do not sit heavy in your stomach.

Dalup is the perfect restaurants for meat eaters, vegetarians, and vegans alike. Signature dishes include the Dalup Naan Roll featuring house-made Naan bread with antibiotic-free Chicken Tikka Masala (that is cashew milk-based), wrapped with cilantro and greens that will be available. Other features include a build-your-own “Veggie Karma” bowl with freekeh, Korma Curry (coconut milk-based) with roasted cauliflower, chickpeas, carrots and peas, served with tomato chutney, raita and pickled citrus. Everything is made in-house including the dough for the Naans and Dosas which are made from scratch.

When I entered the restaurant I was immediately greeted with warmness. The atmosphere is comfortable and friendly. After talking to the owners, the chef, and the employees it was clear that on every level there was a genuine excitement for the future of Dalup.

Dalup practices modernity not only through its recipes but through how the food is actually made. Dalup utilizes specialized engineered equipment to bake their Naan bread and their grilled kebab-style meat. Dalup even has a custom developed robotic Dosa machine that makes Dosas on order. Dalup also donates a portion of their proceeds to Girls Who Code, a national not-for-profit organization with the mission to close the gender gap in technology.

Every aspect of this restaurant was developed with extreme care and consideration. From the meats and produce that are locally sourced from socially responsible vendors to the innovative technology used to cook the food. I had a truly wonderful night and am looking for to spending many more nights eating at Dalup.  

American Cancer Society's Taste of Hope

There are very few occasions where one might find themselves helping fight cancer and tasting the most popular dishes of New York City’s best restaurants in the same room. On May 23rd, the American Cancer Society hosted its 14th annual “Taste of Hope” event at the Metropolitan Pavilion to simultaneously celebrate the NYC food scene and fundraise for cancer research. Thanks to nine months of hard work by event co-chairs, Mark D. Friedman and Jamie Koff, many of New York’s most popular restaurants and beverage vendors set up tables at the benefit, including chefs from restaurants as famous as Nobu, Tao, Baby Brasa, The Smith, Benjamin Prime, and The Magnolia Bakery. The 14th annual Taste of Hope event recognized Michael Lomonaco, chef and partner of Porter House Bar and Grill, and Ralph Scamardella, chef and partner of TAO Group restaurants, as this year’s Culinary Honorees. The Corporate Honoree was Otto Cedeno, founder of Otto’s Tacos, and the Survivor Honoree was Dana Cowin, former Editor-in-Chief of Food & Wine Magazine. In the past 14 years, the event has raised over $1.8 million towards its goal of eliminating cancer as a major health problem.

Photo Credit: Hideki Aono

In addition to tasting food from New York’s finest restaurants, guests had the opportunity to bid on silent auction prizes, donated from esteemed organizations and brands such as Tory Burch, Levain Bakery, Ark Restaurants, and Balenciaga. These extravagant prizes and decadent food tastings were all donated with the intention of raising funds to support the American Cancer Society in their fight towards a world without cancer. The American Cancer Society uses all of its funds to beat cancer from every angle, including research, lodging near treatment, a 24/7/365 helpline, free rides to treatment, and convening activists to create awareness. Not only were guests able to experience the finest food Manhattan has to offer, but they were also contributing to a future cancer-free world.

Photo Credit: Hideki Aono

Phobar: Where Teleportation to Vietnam Happens

As a foodie, one of my favorite things about NYC is the opportunity to locally try different cuisines from all over the world. Last week, it was time to try the Vietnamese cuisine at PhoBar, in honor of their recently added menu items. I was excited to live a new Vietnamese, culinary experience, but I was mostly curious to know what PhoBar’s buzz is all about. And I have to confess, the restaurant’s savory recipes, unique décor, and impeccable service, exceeded my expectations.

Right at the heart of Chinatown, PhoBar embraces the Asian atmosphere. It directly teleported me to a hip Vietnamese world with its ceiling of green water lilies, big dragon ornaments, and a neon-lit noodle bar… and of course, the food is also loyal to its culture. PhoBar’s menu has so many options, and I felt like ordering everything on it. For our entrées, my friend and I ended up picking the perfectly crispy Spring Rolls, the flavorful Chili Shrimps, and the savory Brussels Sprout Salad. In just five minutes (and I’m not exaggerating), everything was on the table. The food was delicious, but it was the speed of the service and the friendliness of the waiters that impressed me.

Since we were eating at PhoBar, we figured that we should taste its Pho dishes (of course). Wanting to keep it simple, we ordered the Classic Beef Pho, which was hea-ven-ly! This basic dish’s ingredients perfectly harmonize with one-another to create rich, yet light flavors. A big bowl of warm, and guiltless comfort-food, that effortlessly put a smile on our faces. My friend and I also shared the “Grilled Lemon Grass Chicken, Shrimp, & Spring Roll”. Served with dry noodles, the dish’s meats are so tender, and melt in the mouth. We were enjoying every bite of our dinner, but we kept some leftovers in our plates: Not because we didn’t love the food, but because PhoBar’s portions are VERY generous.

Looking at our not-so-empty plates, I was once again teleported to the Vietnamese world: here, even the portions reflect the culture’s values of generosity and giving. I now get why everyone praises PhoBar. And I can confirm that the BUZZ IS REAL!

La Nuit en Rosé: Skyline, Yacht, and Lots of Wine

Cherry blossoms are not the only thing color-splashing New York with a little bit of pink during Spring. For several years, La Nuit en Rosé’s cruises have been gathering the city’s wine enthusiasts for a pink-themed party over the Hudson River: And the 2019 Cruise definitely turned NYC into a tipsy, Barbie world.  

Guests, welcomed on a pink carpet to the yacht, respected the cruise’s pink-and-white dress code. They spent their time sipping wine over a selection of New York’s best Rosés. Taking pictures in front of the city’s breathtaking skyline. Enjoying the breeze of air on the boat’s deck. Dancing to the DJs’ INSANE music (and there is a DJ on every floor of the yacht!) Tasting French cheese, bite-sized pizzas, ice cream-and even Rosé Risotto…

La Nuit en Rosé 2019 turned New York, and la vie, en rose. And luckily, this yearly event will be back in 2020, for another chance to drink, eat, and breath pink. 

Marlow Bistro

There is no surer sign of summer in the city than the appearance of sidewalk seating. Wicker chairs, potted plants, decorative awning...it’s a pretty picture, and there’s no place more guilty of this aesthetic than the mediterranean farm-to-table restaurant Marlow Bistro.

Located on the Upper West Side, Marlow Bistro is the child of Chef Zivko Radojcic, a place for him to wheel out original and modern twists on classic mediterranean food. The menu, which changes depending on the available seasonal fare, includes fresh handcrafted pizzas, homemade pastas, and expertly mixed cocktails.

On my first visit to Marlow, I could only hope that the food would live up to the charm of the bistro, from the soft candlelight to the pretty potted plants. My expectations were more than surpassed, starting with the first course -- and artichoke salad with Jerusalem artichokes, goat cheese, and frisée; a bowl full of creamy, cheesy polenta, and the house bread: crispy focaccia paired with olive oil.

Having rarely had the chance to try house made pasta, I went with the mint-ricotta tortellini with peas, spring garlic and lamb-shank ragout, while my friend chose the the gnocchi sardi, with ramps pesto, mushrooms, asparagus, and feta. Both were delicious, but even so, there were still so many more dishes I wish I could have had room for -- from the goat cheese ravioli with artichoke barigoule, olives, parsley and a sun-dried tomato, to a tartufata pizza laden with blueberry goat cheese, french beans, Parma prosciutto, and truffle oil.

But even if you’re stuffed beyond belief, is there’s one thing you must absolutely make room for at Marlow Bistro, it’s dessert. The restaurant in unique in that it boasts the full-time pastry chef Leidy Azcona, whose dedication to her craft is apparent in each of her delicate, visually stunning dishes. While I only managed room for a chocolate espresso mousse paired with hazelnut ice cream, there are many, many more options to satisfy even the most picky of sweet tooths.

So if you’re looking for the perfect place to enjoy good food and bask in the warmth of a summer night, Marlow Bistro is a must visit. Check them out on their Instagram @marlowbistro, or at their website: https://www.marlowbistro.com/

Noho’s straight to the soul thai seafood restaurant

A restaurant in one of the most enjoyable neighborhoods of NYC – Nolita. This area has the coolest shops, jewelry stores, galleries and fashion boutiques. It’s great to walk the narrow streets, explore the interesting stores and take a break in one of the many great restaurants, like Fish Cheeks!

The outside of Fish Cheeks is accentuated with funky colors (yellow, red and blue), which pop against the sleek white walls. As for the inside, the woven wicker chandelier brings a friendly and relaxed vibe to the space. The kitchen has a very welcoming aura. It is visible from the front door, welcoming guests into the space with a peek behind-the-scenes. In the back of the restaurant, you can spot a cute colorful space right next to the bar which offers a variety of flavorsome cocktails.

We couldn’t decide on what to order, everything looked tasty. We asked the waitress for recommendations on the menu, and she knew exactly the way to our heart.

For starters, we had the market oysters served with fried shallot & nam jim seafood. The raw oysters on the half shell were so fresh as if they came right from the sea. The second starter we ordered was the grilled pork cheeks marinated in a mouth watering fish sauce and served with their unique Jaew sauce. As for the third starter, we had the Shrimp Sao Nahm, which is a perfect combination of pineapple, ginger, mint, shallot, cilantro, chili, fried garlic, shrimp floss with a coconut cream dressing.

I thought that nothing could beat the starters we had, but that was before the main dishes entered the table!

For the main dish, we’ve been told that the Crab Aob Woonsen, the coconut crab curry and the steamed fish are a must, which I totally agree!

The Crab Aob Woonsen is basically a baked crab meat, with a thinly sliced pork belly in a glass noodles with cilantro roots and celery leaves. As for the steamed fish, it comes as a whole striped chili bass in cilantro and fresh lime broth. The coconut crab curry is essential to add a little spice to your mouth! It’s mainly a southern style curry with crab meat house-made curry and sea beans served with rice. A must for spicy lovers. In addition to their food menu, Fish Cheeks offers a bunch of Thai-inspired twists on bar classics. New cocktails include the refreshing Passion Trip, Cheeky Green, and the technicolor Butterfly Effect.

With all of the key parts of the restaurant the food and its presentation, the variety of cocktails, the crowd, the design of the place and of course, the service -- hitting the right notes, I’ll be sure to go back.