Strasbourg Holiday Market with Famille Hugel Wines
Strasbourg meets NYC as the Marché de Noël de Strasbourg-Alsace, Europe’s oldest Christmas market from 1570, brings the holiday magic to Bowling Green Park.
The market in Strasbourg was named “World’s Best Christmas Market” by CNN in 2018 with over 300 chalets and 2 million visitors a year. Luckily, in the true Christmas spirit, a beautiful piece of the market brimming with traditional holiday delights from Alsace is being shared with us right here in the city.
Relief from the chill could be found with warm and fruity mulled wine from the Famille Hugel wines chalet in a section of the market with seating and a buzzing atmosphere of chattering and holiday cheer.
I explored the market’s traditional wooden chalets with decorations and light displays imported from Strasbroug through a scavenger hunt list of items to find, ranging from traditional artisanal crafts such as pottery and intricate hand-made ornaments, to Alsatian Christmas food specialties such as jams, cookies and chocolates, all making exquisitely unique presents for family and friends. For the kids (or adults, I know you want to) Saint Nick is ready for pictures and chats in the central chalet of the market!
The evening at the market closed with Jean-Frédéric Hugel presenting a wine tasting of the Famille Hugel’s traditional, high-quality Alsatian wines. The vineyards in Alsace are currently managed by the 12th and 13th generations of the Hugel family in an unbroken lineage, with more than half of their hectares classified as Grand Cru. Hugel wines are well-known for their yellow labels and how the uniquely dry climate in Alsace produces a dry, slow-ripening grape that compliments most Western and Asian cuisines, making an ideal pairing for meals in the festive season.
Riesling classic known for its elegance and structure, Pinot Gris Classic with power and texture, rich but with dry expression, Gewürztraminer Classic made with a signature grape variety of Alsace, floral and fruity notes, and finally the Gewurtz. Vendange Tardive sweet wine. Accompanied by freshly made tarte flambée.
Don’t miss out on sharing in Europe’s oldest Christmas traditions at the Strasbourg Holiday Market open daily from 11am-9pm up to December 22 at Bowling Green Park, Broadway & Whitehall St, NY 10004.
Brunch at the Ainslie
A few months ago, our team was lucky enough to visit the newly opened Ainslie, a wine bar and beer garden serving Italian fare in the heart of Williamsburg. Last week, our team was once again invited back -- this time to try the newly crafted brunch menu from Chefs John DeLucie and Erasmo ‘Mino’ Lassandro.
The thing about Brunch in Brooklyn is that there’s a lot of it: weekend brunch, weekday brunch, party brunch, boozy brunch...even bottomless pizza brunch. The options are endless, so every place likes to run their own gimmick. Not that it’s a bad thing -- I’ve definitely had a day or two where all I needed was to eat french toast while being serenaded by shirtless waiters. Still, it’s refreshing to visit a place where brunch can be a simple, cozy affair. For a beer garden, the Ainslie is surprisingly wholesome -- manager Joe’s hope is to make the restaurant into a go-to community space for the neighborhood. He’s even planning to host a children’s meet and greet with Santa come Christmas time -- which, lest I forget to mention, the Ainslie definitely has space for, able to accommodate up to 340 people. Santa could definitely bring all of his elves.
But wholesomeness isn’t the only thing the Ainslie serves up. Their brunch menu, available from 12-4pm on Saturday and Sunday, puts an Italian spin on traditional American fare, with a Pancetta & Pecorino Omelette, a Bongiorno Pizza, and Pancakes topped with Gelato. But their traditional food is nothing to scoff at either -- I devoured my Eggs Benedict, and according to my dining partner, the Steak and Eggs are to die for.
So if you’re looking for someplace a little more genuine to enjoy a meal at the Ainslie is your best bet. Check them out @ainsliebkny or at https://ainsliebk.com/.
TOP DECEMBER NYC EVENTS
WINTER WONDERLAND BALL 2019
Friday, December 13, 2019
8 p.m. – 12:30 a.m. | #WinterBallNYBG
The Best Holiday Gala in New York!
Black Tie
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/11th-annual-latke-festival-tickets-55945999992
11th Annual Latke Festival
About The Event
One of New York City's most unique and delicious holiday tasting events, the Latke Festival is a charity event benefiting The Sylvia Center and organized by Great Performances Catering. This one-night affair celebrates the best and most creative potato pancakes in our city.
For its fourth year in a row, the 11th Annual Latke Festival will be held at the stunning Brooklyn Museum and is already on track to be our biggest celebration of latkes yet.
Join us and our panel of celebrity judges on December 16th to ring in the holidays, enjoy amazing food and drink, dance to our live DJ and vote for the Best Latke of all!
www.latkefestival.com | #LatkeFest | #TheSylviaCenter | @GPFood | @SylviaCenter
3. Big Band Holidays
What To Expect
Soulful, big band versions of holiday classics
Holiday cheer for all ages
Brand-new songs added to the JLCO’s holiday repertoire
It’s the most wonderful time of year in the House of Swing! The Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis and music director Marcus Printup continue a beloved New York tradition with Big Band Holidays. Featuring soulful, big band versions of classics like “Jingle Bells,” “Joy to the World,” and “Brazilian Sleigh Ride,” Big Band Holidays is an uplifting holiday program that plays to sold-out audiences every December.
Big Band Holidays is renowned for showcasing some of the most exciting and charismatic vocalists on the scene, with recent editions including Cécile McLorin Salvant, Gregory Porter, René Marie, Vuyo Sotashe, Veronica Swift, and Catherine Russell. This year we welcome back an old favorite, the smooth-as-silk baritone vocalist Denzal Sinclaire. We’re also thrilled to present a Big Band Holidays first-timer: local teenage phenomenon Alexis Morrast, first-place winner of the nationally broadcast Showtime at the Apollo.
4. LuminoCity Festival
LuminoCity Inc. is a multimedia entertainment company that transforms captivating stories into multidimensional experiences. By exploring the intersection of art forms, LuminoCity seeks to blur the lines between virtuality and reality when curating unforgettable experiences for all audiences. In the inaugural year of 2019, LuminoCity proudly presents its signature event LuminoCity Festival, a month-long holiday event with an exhibition of spectacular light art displays, live performances, and a celebration of cultures.
5. New Years Eve Gala at The Metropolitan Opera
New Year’s Eve Gala
STARRING
Anna Netrebko
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2019
In an unprecedented program to celebrate the new year, Anna Netrebko pulls out all the Puccini stops, starring as Mimì, Tosca, and Turandot in one gala evening. The star soprano will sing Act I of La Bohème, opposite tenor Matthew Polenzani, and Act I of Tosca and Act II of Turandot, opposite tenor Yusif Eyvazov. Conducted by Met Music Director Yannick Nézet-Séguin and featuring an outstanding cast that also includes baritones Quinn Kelsey and Davide Luciano, and bass-baritones Evgeny Nikitin and Christian Van Horn, this will be an evening not to be missed. Each of the acts will be fully staged and costumed in the respective (and spectacular) Zeffirelli and McVicar productions.
6. New Year's Eve Fireworks in Prospect Park
Join Brooklyn Borough President Eric L. Adams and Prospect Park Alliance for Brooklyn's most spectacular New Year’s Eve Fireworks Celebration at Prospect Park's iconic Grand Army Plaza. This free event includes live entertainment followed by fireworks at the stroke of midnight. This family-friendly fireworks display, now in its 40th year, attracts tens of thousands of revelers to Prospect Park, making it one of the city's most popular celebrations.
This event is free and open to the public, and will take place rain or shine!
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/new-years-eve-fireworks-in-prospect-park-tickets-71550955835
Sir Henri Penthouse Rooftop- The Perfect Winter Escape
On December 2nd, in the midst of the first snowfall of winter, Sir Henri Penthouse Rooftop & Lounge introduced a new winter food and drinks menu designed to warm the body and soul. Upon arrival, guests were greeted with Moet & Chandon champagne and encouraged to try the seasonal cocktails (Margaretha Franklin, Gin Martin, Sweet and Sour Voughan, Nina Cinnamon Old Fashion, Cold Porter, Nut King Cole). The signature drinks featured ingredients such as jalapenos, spiced pear liqueur, cinnamon, spiced rum, and other ingredients known to keep you warm as the temperature drops in NYC. However, if you prefer a more classic drink, Sir Henri has you covered with their Old Fashion, Manhattan, French 75, Cosmopolitan, and select wines and beers.
Cold Porter: Scotch, Elderflower, Luxardo, Passion Fruit
Nut King Cole: Spiced Rum, Frangelico, Fernet Blanca, Amaro, Honey
Old Fashion
French 75
Now of course, what are drinks without food? As guests mingled and took in the cozy ambiance, platters of Sir Henri’s new dishes were brought out for sampling. Chicken and shrimp tacos, barbeque chicken wings, Sir Henri Mini’s sliders, calamari, and a trio of dips (Tzatziki, Hummus, Spicy Feta) with warm pita bread were served and they paired amazingly with the drinks. The chicken wings, calamari, and shrimp tacos are highly recommended!
As the temperature drops, it becomes more difficult to go outdoors, but Sir Henri’s Penthouse Rooftop (37 W 24th Street) is definitely worth the trip. Located on the 18th floor of Hotel Henri, the venue exudes vibes of a Jazz Age speakeasy but brings it back to our time with modern mixology. It is insulated in the winter and open-aired in the summer, making it a great place year-round for views of NYC and good food and drinks.
Holly Jolly at the Ho Ho Holiday Lounge
The Springs, located in Brooklyn, NY, opened their Ho Ho Holiday Lounge on December 5th. This chic bar transformed itself into a Christmas wonderland, leaving every guest with an immediate euphoria. This pop-up lounge managed to incorporate everything one could think of to feel like Christmas has arrived. Greg’s Tree’s Christmas Market occupied both the patio and the side of The Springs. The Christmas trees embrace you with a pine scent, transporting you to a world of relaxation. Comfort was found amongst the trees, the towering reindeer decoration, Santa’s sleigh, and millions of other Christmas trinkets that were either for sale or amplifying the ambiance.
Every aspect of The Springs makes you feel like you are at home: the unmatched generous hospitality, the specially named seasonal cocktails, and Fornino’s pizza which brings warmth and contentment to your body with every bite. They offer a mouth-watering spiked hot chocolate(called “The Springs” on their menu), along with other drinks that will bring you as much fun as their names indicate such as: “Elf’d Up”, “Nog Yourself Out”, “Comet so Bitter”, and many more. Complimenting the drinks was a vast array of pizzas leaving an option for everyone. One was comprised of mushrooms and truffle oil, another was classic Margherita, and lastly there was one with butternut squash and a spicy honey. While these pizzas all had different toppings, what they all had in common, was a savory flavor.
The ceiling was lined with garland and Christmas lights, allowing a sense of magic to resonate through every corner of the room. Some parts of the entrance are garnished with rainbow lights. The back wall and ceiling are adorned with candy cane stripes, bringing about a pepperminty excitement. Scattered throughout are endearing videos of fire places displayed on TVs.
The Springs has an energetic sense of life that flows through every part of the establishment. The Ho Ho Holiday Lounge is open from December 5th- January 1st, and is the perfect way to get in the holiday spirit.
That’s right, everyone loves Gnocchi!
Finally made my way to Gnoccheria after hearing about it from so many people. There can never be too many Italian restaurants in New York, and Gnoccheria by Luzzo’s is no exception to the rule. As the city’s only eatery dedicated solely to gnocchi, Gnoccheria offers food trend followers a fresh meal with options for everyone.
Opening its doors in Tribeca, Gnoccheria dazzles its customers with amazing combinations of gnocchi dishes along with wonderful appetizer, antipasti and dessert menus. Whether you are in the mood for spinach gnocchi, pomodoro gnocchi, or mushroom and cheese gnocchi; Gnoccheria will have what you are looking for every time! Come in and enjoy their fantastic home cooked meal!
Gnoccheria is sure to be another hit within the Luzzo’s collection of restaurants! In a departure from the other restaurants owned by Mr. Luliano, Ms. Moloney, or both, many of which focus on or feature Michele Luliano’s Neapolitan style of pizza, Gnoccheria is solely driven by a passion for all things Gnocchi.
My mom and I shared a few dishes because we wanted to taste as much gnocchi as possible!
For starters, we had the polipo; grilled octopus with sauteed peas, tropea onions, and roasted pepper. We also had their delicious, mouth-watering Melanzane a Funghetti. We then had a selection of different Gnocchi; spinach, pomodoro, mushroom, and cheese. We could not choose one, so we ordered, and finished them all in about 15mins, that’s when you know it’s a great meal!
As for the desert, we had their famous chocolate tiramisu, appetizing and full of flavor. Despite the age difference, we both enjoyed the selection of food, wine, and most of all, the well-designed, business casual ambience.
As for the staff, they were incredibly accommodating. True to the restaurant’s Italian culture, the waiters all spoke with an Italian accent, were knowledgeable about rarer ingredients, and insisted that we try their espresso and dolce at the end!
Decadent, satisfying, and delicious would be the words I would use to describe Gnoccheria by Luzzo's! I can surely say that I have finally found my new go-to Italian restaurant!
Can’t wait for this summer to try their rooftop edition and enjoy a sweet cocktail during sunset!
Hello Panda – Sneak Peak to North America’s Largest Lantern Installation
On Thursday, December 5th, selected press representatives and affiliates were invited to the opening of the first-ever Hello Panda Festival in New York City. The installation covers almost the entire New York Citi Field which makes it the largest lantern arts event in North America.
Photo Credit: CPAA North America
Photo Credit: CPAA North America
Over 120 lantern displays handcrafted by more than 60 world-renowned lantern artisans have been arranged to stunning settings across Citi Field. The little islands of lantern-based Christmas trees, princess castles and magic forests completely transformed the usually plain parking lot into a Winter Wonderland. Credit for this extraordinary transformation can be given to the Chinese Performing Arts of America Association (CPAA) which has co-produced various events at the Lincoln and Kennedy Center since 2013.
Photo Credit: CPAA North America
Winston Wang, General Manager of CPAA North America, traces the current popularity of lantern festivals back to the growing “role of social media in today’s world”. Accordingly, many guests were excited by the numerous ‘instagrammable’ settings that qualified for some great Social Media posts. Unfortunately, the weather situation didn’t allow for too many photo sessions.
Photo Credit: CPAA North America
But spectators weren’t left in the cold. Prepared for the freezing temperatures, the considerable event management team set up igloo-like tents where attendees were invited to warm up while enjoying the complimentary open bar. The selection of beer, wine and cocktails was complemented by authentic dishes from around the world such as miniature burgers or waffle crepes.
Photo Credit: CPAA North America
The main tent also hosted one of the main events, an elaborate DJ Pult with supporting live violin players. Here, guests could dance the cold away to soothing beats and lively Christmas classics or simply sit down and relax while soaking in the stunning exterior.
Photo Credit: CPAA North America
All in all, the Hello Panda Festival truly makes up for an extraordinary experience that can be visited and revisited anytime from now until January 26, 2020.
Photo Credit: CPAA North America
For more information or ticket sales, visit http://www.hellopandafest.com.
Sweet Seoul Pastry Pop-Up
K-town is a foodie hot spot. From the bustling Food Gallery 32 to the extravagant Gaonuri, there are plenty of options bound to satisfy everyone and anyone -- except that is, if you’re looking for desserts. With the exception of bingsu (Korean shaved ice), and Bungeoppang (Korean taiyaki), there aren’t really that many options for Korean desserts in the city. In fact, off the top of my head, apart than bingsu and bungeoppang, the only other Korean dessert I can think of is...nothing. I can’t think of a single Korean dessert other than those two, and this is from someone who goes on monthly K-BBQ outings and eats Kimchi by the ton.
Luckily, I was very pleasantly educated on all things regarding Korean desserts at the Sweet Seoul Pop-Up exhibit at Jungsik last Thursday. Headed by top pastry chefs from restaurants Jungsik, Kimssiboon, Biwon, Gangjeong House, Dongbyung Sangryoun, and Haap, the event boasted one treat after another, including:
1. Fried Twist Cookies: a flaky, fried dessert infused with ginger juice and dusted with powdered sugar.
2. Sticky Rice Honey Cookies, Black Sesame Tea Cakes, Candied Apples, and Candied Ginger.
3. Half Moon Rice Cakes, Candied Lotus Root, and Honey Cookies with Walnut.
In addition to being able to feast on all of these delectable desserts, guests of the pop-up were also treated to a surprise performance from opera singers Olga Makarina and Hong Kyung Olivia Kim, both of whom blew everyone away with their renditions of Korean folk songs and classical Italian opera. However, the emotional impact of the event really came from the pastry chefs, including Jungsik’s own Eunji Lee. Hearing the chefs speak about their chosen dessert and their desire to share it with the world, it was clear that, to them, the desserts I tried that day signified more than the ending of a meal -- instead, they were markers of the Korean identity: desserts that could not have been created in a different country by a different group of people.
The Sweet Seoul Pop-up exhibit was a lesson in the diversity of the dessert world, as well as an eye opener to the particular uniqueness of Korean desserts. While going to Seoul to try one of these treats might be a little out of reach for the moment, hopefully it won’t be long before NYC has a Korean Pastry Shop to call our own. For now, though, I’ll see everyone at Spot.
Zeppelin Hall's 10th Anniversary
Zeppelin Hall, the Metropolitan area’s largest biergarten, started celebrating their ten year anniversary with a dinner party on Thursday the 21th of November. Festivities will be continued throughout the weekend starting Thursday, December 5th until Sunday, December 8th.
Imported Pretzel and Appetizers.
As a German, I was happily convinced by Executive Chef Franco Robazetti, for good upper class German food we no longer need to go back to Germany, but just across the Hudson to Jersey City.
Zeppelin Hall not only offers a cozy seating area right behind the entrance, where you can enjoy your dinner next to the fire place, but also a unique outdoor garden. On top of these great features, guests can have a drink at the lively bar or enjoy the Oktoberfest-like atmosphere in the great hall. For their anniversary festivities, Zeppelin Hall will also unveil their Polar Vortex, a spacious heated and tented outdoor bar.
Selection of their finest beers.
The whole venue doesn’t disappoint by combining the aim to bring Germany to New Jersey and creating a cozy biergarten ambience. Therefore Zeppelin hall is the perfect venue for celebrations of any kind, a superior German meal or just to enjoy one of the drinks of their fine collection of beer, wines and cocktails after work.
The Zeppelin Hall Bacon Sliders.
On Thursday night Executive Chef Franco Robazetti served us an exclusive taste of the anniversary weekend menu. On this night and the next weekend, the most popular 10 dishes will be served, which includes items from the biergarten’s over-the-top food festivals in addition to the most popular plates from their regular menu, like their Bacon Sliders.
While being seated in the homely restaurant area next to the fire place, we got to try Zeppelin Halls’ Bacon Burger, Sausage Platter, Shrimp Molcajete, Arugula Salad, their imported Pretzels, dessert in the form of Bananas Foster, as well as a 42oz Tomahawk Ribeye steak wrapped in sliced applewood bacon.
The 42oz Tomahawk Ribeye steak wrapped in sliced applewood bacon.
Executive Chef Franco Robazetti cutting the 42oz Tomahawk Ribeye steak.
My personal favorite: the Chicken Schnitzel. This German and Oktoberfest classic is very hard to find so beautifully prepared anywhere outside of Germany and I can proudly say I have finally found a decent Schnitzel in the USA.
The whole evening was pervaded with excellent food and drinks, a cozy and welcoming atmosphere and delightful chats with guests and the Zeppelin Hall crew. It was a pleasure to be part of the tenth anniversary celebration of Zeppelin Hall and the experience definitely made my german-heart beat faster.
Whether you are feeling homesick for Germany or not, Zeppelin Hall is absolutely worth a visit.
Photos courtesy of Zeppelin Hall
Zooba: NYC's Newest Egyptian Eatery
Opening its first international location, zesty Zooba brings the spice of Egyptian street food to the streets of NYC. Conveniently located in Nolita, Zooba offers the authenticity of delicious Egyptian food, from Spicy Hawawshi to Harissa Cauliflower, to the palettes of adventurous New Yorker’s looking for something slightly outside the mainstream. Zooba offers fresh yet warming dishes that celebrate ingredients and flavors at the heart of Egyptian cuisine. If customers leave their newest location pronouncing “tahini” as “tahina,” preferring fava beans to chickpeas in their falafel, and having Shazamed a couple of independent Egyptian trap songs, then they’ll call that a success.
Zooba NYC
As its first international restaurant, Zooba NYC has a slightly more restricted menu than other locations. “We’re choosing to focus on a tighter menu that serves equally as an introduction to Egyptian street food for the uninitiated while also showcasing a couple of our signature takes on a few classics,” explains Chef El Refaey. “Falafel and hummus are amazing but also everywhere. We like to think there’s enough room in the city for some taameya and bessara, too.” Taameya is Egyptian falafel made with fava beans as opposed to chickpeas, which lifts and zests the flavor considerably. Bessara is Egypt’s answer to hummus, also further utilizing the fava bean and its fresh, herby profile. My personal favorite, Cheese Hawawshi, a succulent pressed burger, full of Northern Africa spice, paired perfectly with the Dukka Fries, fried and seasoned to perfection, served with an abundance of flavorsome dipping sauces.
Cheese Hawawshi
Delectable Dukka Fries
Beginning as a collaboration between seasoned Executive Chef Moustafa El Refaey and founder Chris Khalifa, Zooba has been turning familiar Egyptian street food on its head since its first opening in Zamalek, Cairo in 2012. From local success and humble origins, the team has now set its sights internationally, hoping to crack the bustling, and at times, daunting, NYC food scene. Not only did Zooba want to test its chances in the world’s most famous food market, but also Khalifa’s mother is from New York, and he grew up spending his family summers here, making Zooba’s move to the city a literal and figurative homecoming.
To celebrate this next phase in the evolution of their brand, Zooba partnered with renowned NYC design agency &Walsh to revisit a visual identity that hadn’t been updated since they first opened seven years ago. After founder Jessica Walsh visited Cairo to experience the culture and try the food, they decided on new, colorful, vibrant designs that mirror Zooba’s original identity and authentic messaging through patterns and an Arabic alternative logo, which will expand to all Zooba locations. Further aligning with their mission of true Egyptian representation, their NYC space was designed by Egyptian born and award-winning architect Ahmed ElHusseiny of AE SuperLab, a cross-disciplinary creative design and development studio in Brooklyn. Together, they worked to take Cairo’s singular street style and contemporize it slightly, giving Zooba Nolita the perfect Cairo-meets-NYC aesthetic. A large mural on the restaurant’s Kenmare storefront encompasses that, with a huge sloppily painted Arabic logo clearly distinguishing it from the litany of painted walls elsewhere in the neighborhood.
Zooba interior, inspired by Cario, executed by AESuperlab
“Opening up shop next door to some of our favorite restaurants and brands anywhere in the world is a privilege for us,” explains Khalifa. “We started out seven years ago as a neighborhood store in Cairo, and we’re incredibly proud of everything it took to finally get to NYC. We’ve always tried to keep that inviting feeling of a local restaurant. Hopefully, we can bring that same spirit to our new neighborhood in Nolita.” If my experience was anything to go by, I don’t think they will have any troubles.
Sumo + Sushi: A Sensational Combination for an Evening of Entertainment
Good news! You no longer have to fly to Japan to experience the extravagance and thrill of Sumo wrestling. With the arrival of Sumo + Sushi, a live show that catapults this ancient sport right into the centre of New York City, Sumo fans now have the pleasure of watching five world champion Sumo wrestlers do their thing all while comfortably sipping on sake and snacking on sushi.
Sumo + Sushi, an intense experience of food and fighting
On Sunday, November 17, I had the pleasure of attending one of the fun filled shows sat The Playstation Theatre in Times Square. Hosted by legendary Sumo wrestler Konishiki, the first non-Japanese-born wrestler to reach ōzeki, the second highest rank in Sumo, the event was filled with information as well as entertainment, with Konishiki guiding the guests through the history and culture of Sumo, before explaining the do’s and dont’s of Sumo wrestling -- if a Sumo loses his silk belt and is exposed, for example, he automatically loses the match!
The evening progressed with the remaining four world champion Sumo wrestlers battling it out over the course of six live matches. Tououyama, a professional for nine years and weighing in at a whopping 400 lbs fought valiantly against Musashikuni, a 6’3” Hawaiian native. While fighters caught their breath, Q+A sessions with the wrestlers took place between matches, allowing the audience a further glimpse into the complex, competitive world of Sumo.
Sumo + Sushi at The Playstation Theatre
While watching the Sumo spectacle, guests were also treated to an interactive dining experience including miso soup and wasabi peas as well as a carefully curated bento box filled with sushi, vegetable tempura and chicken katsu. Multi talented wrestler Kumago, who owns a karaoke bar in the city, ended the evening with a haunting rendition of Backstreet Boys, I Want It That Way, to the wild enthusiasm and applause of the audience. Sake and beer were also widely available and indulged.
The pinnacle of the evening however, was the very end, with Sumo + Sushi’s unique trend of allowing audience participation. Eager, (and possibly insane) audience members clambered up into the ring to fight their chosen wrestler. Some did better than others but all had a fantastic if frightening experience. Sumo + Sushi brings so much together into one evening of outrageous entertainment!
Olivier Leflaive Dinner at Park Avenue
On October 28th, a few lucky guests gathered at the Park Avenue Autumn to learn about and celebrate Olivier Leflaive, a wine tasting event. The private affair was led by Jean Soubeyrand, who has been the president of Olivier Leflaive since 2008. Formerly a stock trader, (but always a wine lover) living abroad, Jean returned to joined the team at Olivier Leflaive under the tutelage of his former father-in-law, Olivier himself.
The history of the The Leflaive Family goes back all the way to 1717, then Domaine Leflaive began exporting to the United States in the early 1930’s. Entrepreneurial and creative, in 1985, Olivier started his own business, focusing solely on quality, buying grapes and managing vineyards, with a team directed by Olivier Leflaive himself. With his own team in place, Olivier Leflaive was able to source wines from outside of Puligny-Montrachet. In 1995, Olivier Leflaive, in mutual agreement with his family, left Domaine Leflaive to concentrate on Maison Olivier Leflaive. Today, the Maison Olivier Leflaive controls 50 acres of vineyards throughout Puligny-Monrachet, Chassagne-Monrachet, Meursault and Pommard.
The evening got off to a relaxed start, with a champagne reception in the Autumn's private dining room accentuated by delicious hors d’oeuvres. This reception was then followed by an extravagant dinner that began with a toast from guest of honor Jean Soubeyrand:“I want us to have a wonderful night and enjoy some of the finest wines we have.”
The appetizers were Hamachi Crudo, Orecchhiette, and Local Burrata & Roasted Grapes // Paired with Pugliny Montrachet AC. 2016, Chassagne Montrachet AC. 2017, and Mersault “Poruzots” Ier Cru.2015. The main course was Roasted Filet Mignon with Creamed Spinach & Mushroom Strudel// Paired with Volnay AC. 2017, Pommard “Pezerolles” Ier Cru. 2017, and Corton “Clos du Roi” Grand Cru. 2017. For the desert the table was served Park Avenue Auturmn Cheese plates paired with Corton Charlemnage Grand Cru. 2017. After the dinner, Champagne Valentine Leflaive and Brut Rose. NV was the perfect choice to end a remarkable evening.
Throughout the night, Jean told wonderful stories about the Leflaive wines and the kind of wines he prefers. Jean said that he continues educating himself by blind pouring wines when he is home, and tasting select wines from around the globe. His taste ranges from around France, Italy and even California.
Being a grower and grape buyer enables Maison Olivier Leflaive the strength to produce wines from Côte Chalonnaise and Côte de Beaune. The wines of Maison Olivier Leflaive are widely regarded for their precision, elegance and finesse rather than power and ‘specularité’. More than a dinner pairing, the wines are symbols of classiness, purity that consumers of all ages will enjoy and love.
2019 GIG Pre-Party x Christine and the Queens, A True Work of Art
Photo: Scott Rudd
Art is a shapeshifting form that is presented to us in the format of music, food, dance, sculpture, photography, painting, and many other mediums. At the 2019 GIG Pre-Party made possible by Dior, at the Guggenheim Museum, attendees encountered all those diverse forms of art.
Photo: Scott Rudd
Photo: Scott Rudd/BFA
The enchanting night began with special guests being photographed in front of the Dior red carpet. Each guest' outfit glistened with extravagance in front of the photo wall. Following the photo op, DJ Caroline Polachek’s performance greeted guests as they came in and enjoyed cocktails, mingling, and hors d’oeuvres. The first floor featured a stage in the center of the room and an area where people were being photographed against a semi-circular lit up wall. Ascending the spiral ramp delivered you to the second floor which had a wall beautifully covered in 4 individual works that were all glass covered in gunpowder. Peering across the building, the white spiral walkway was embraced by blue and purple lighting effects, amplifying the artistic ambiance of the elegantly curated night. The works that entailed were done by Constantin Brancusi and Paul Chan. In between the second and third floor was a room with an open bar paired with dishes such as mouth watering truffle crackers with goat cheese in between and a tender salmon on a chip that dissolved with bliss on your palette. The unique food choice magnified the riveting event.
Photo: Scott Rudd/BFA
As the night ensued, it came to its culmination as Christine and the Queens energy filled performance took the stage. The music reverberated through the museum and the attendees bodies, guiding their every movement. The singing and dancing grasped everyone’s attention allowing their sole focus to be on the melodious tunes.
The successful nine p.m. to 12 a.m. event, endorsed by Dior, presented lively music and art. The funds raised enable stellar exhibits to be shown at the Guggenheim, along with enlightening opportunities such as educational and public programming to take place. The gathering of people, exhibitions on display, delicacies to taste, and music to be heard was a live work of art.
Pascal Jolivet Wine Dinner
On October 21st, 2019, guests were invited to a very distinctive evening- a celebration and tasting of Pascal Jolivet’s latest 2018 vintage bottlings. The affair was hosted by Pascal himself, who shared intimate stories about wine and food and his favorite types of wine. Pascal Jolivet is one of the most vibrant representatives of wine in the world. The Frenchman has impeccable grape DNA. Both his great-grandfather Louis and grandfather Lucien were winemakers.
The house of Pascal Jolivet was founded in 1987 and is one of the most dynamic domaines in France’s Loire Valley. Based in Sancerre, the domaine now boasts over 120 acres of prime vineyards spread across the appellations of Sancerre and Pouilly-Fumé. Sancerre wines originate from three soil types: clay, limestone and flint. Sancerre wines are more floral and elegant than wines of the same varietal type in other regions.
Pascal Jolivet is a firm believer in natural winemaking and practices environmentally friendly techniques in both the vineyard and the cellar. The philosophy of the estate is to let nature take its course as much as possible. The juices are fermented with wild yeasts in stainless steel tanks with thermoregulation. Valentina Buoso is Pascal Jolivet’s newest winemaker, and she continues to fulfill Pascal Jolivet’s philosophy and practices.
The event took place at the Estiatorio Milos, inside new hotspot Hudson Yards, which afforded gorgeous views of The Vessel and Hudson River. The reception started with all the guests receiving a glass of Attitude Sauvignon Blanc. Since 2001, Pascal Jolivet has engaged in a profound reflection on Attitude. The idea was to create a high-quality Loire collection not especially from Sancerre area but from the Loire Valley, the best terroir in the world for the Sauvignon Blanc grape variety.
This reception was then followed by a very elaborate dinner served in an intimate setting within the hotel’s restaurant. While the highlight of the night was clearly engaged by the various courses of delectable wines that were paired with each dinner course, the food didn’t fail to impress either.
The first course was Sashimi quality Mediterranean Octopus, Santorini yellow split pea fava // Paired with Sancerre, Blanc-Fumé & Metis Sauvignon Blanc. Second, was the Madagascar Shrimp & Endive Salad // Paired with Sancerre “Le Chêne Marchand”, Pouilly Fumé “Les Terres Blanches” & Sancerre Rosé. The main course was the Grilled Mediterranean Sea bream with steamed crown broccoli // Paired with Sancerre “Sauvage” & Pouilly Fumé “Indigène”.
A wonderful night with one of the most knowledgeable and amazing hosts.
For more information on Pascal Jolivet, visit pascaljolivet.com.
Oscar Wilde Wows with New Head Chef Ali Dey Daly at the Helm.
Oscar Wilde stretches from mere literary feats, to visual and edible feasts at 45 W 27th St, with the addition of new head chef Ali Dey Daly. Award-winning, Tunisian-born Chef Ali innovates the menu with new dishes that match the extravagance and eccentricity of the popular NoMad bar and restaurant, that first opened in 2017.
Endearing energy exuded from all angles at Oscar Wilde.
Combining eclectic styles, from Victorian-influenced dishes and Celtic cuisine, with his classically trained French techniques, Chef Dey Daly introduces revamped menus now available at the longest continuous bar in New York City - do you need anymore reason to pay Oscar a visit?
The Celtic Developers Group Co-Founders, Thomas Burke and Frank McCole, are delighted with Chef Ali’s arrival: “With nearly three decades of culinary training and experience in award-winning, Michelin-star kitchens in Paris, Shanghai and New York, Chef Ali brings a global creative vision to our bar, while maintaining true to what our patrons love the most – delicious comfort fare with locally-sourced produce and ingredients.”
Beef Short Rib Bites
And those three decades of training certainly shine through, as Chef Ali offers seasonal snacks from Maple Glazed Bacon cooked for a staggering 72 hours, to elegant comfort dishes of Beef Tenderloin Cottage Pie topped with White Cheddar Mash to warm the winter cockles.
My personal favorite, Citrus Crab Avocado with Frisée & Toasts, was preceded by the perfect Fall opener, Beef Short Rib Bites; succulent braised beef lollipops, accompanied by autumnal spiced marmalade and paired with an apple and lemon champagne cocktail. Other enticements include, Branzino Filet with Cauliflower in Three Ways, Seared Duck Breast with Butternut Squash Puree, Asparagus and Citrus Sauce and the mouth watering Crémeux chocolat Manjari.
Wilde Whiskey Aplenty!
Born in Tunis, Tunisia, Chef Dey Daly found his passion for gastronomy at the young age of eleven. He studied at the prestigious Culinary School Institut Paul Bocuse in France and worked at the best Tunisian restaurants before heading back to France to fine-tune his talents, working at Alain Ducasse’s three Michelin-star kitchen at the Plaza Athénée in Paris, as well as at its sister property Le Meurice with Yannick Alléno. Chef Dey Daly continued his studies and traveled the world, before working his way up to Executive Chef at Le Cosy Paris near the Champs-Elysée. He also collaborated with the Parisian bakery café, Brioche Dorée, to launch their first three locations in China. In 2015, Chef Ali participated in the Toque d’Or international competition and won first prize.
“I’m thrilled to join the team at Oscar Wilde and bring a new approach to the bar’s menu” said Executive Chef Ali Dey Daly. “Also as a fun fact – during my first trip to New York City, the first bar I visited was coincidentally Oscar Wilde’s sister bar Lillie’s Victorian Establishment in Times Square, so this all comes full circle for me.”
Wilde festivities. Photo Credit: Celtic Developers Group.
Chef Ali proves the infamous Wilde quote true: ‘I can resist everything except temptation.’ Especially with the holidays right around the corner, as Oscar Wilde is widely known to display the most decadent festive decorations of all of NYC bars!
So come relax or get Wilde but remember extravagance is always in season.
The 13th Annual Food Film Festival
There is no delicacy better than having flavorful food served to you while watching films about what it is you’re eating. As they say in the art world, you have to know the history of what you’re looking at, in order to understand the piece. The same goes for food. You appreciate it all the more once you know the backstory of the chef and restaurant. The Food Film Festival provides you with that irreplaceable experience.
Upon arrival at AMC Empire 25, VIP guests were shown to the pre-party room, where doors opened at 6:15. The room was detailed with dishes, all prepared by Chef Stephen Yen. As each plate was thoughtfully placed, it enriched the atmosphere of the room, along with the drinks that were served by The Shanty and New York Distilling Company. The food and beverages served at the pre-party represented the diverse neighborhoods that inhabit New York, from lox bagels and roasted nuts to hot dogs, and kimchi fried rice, along with cocktails, wine, and beer. This prelude excited guests, leaving them in cheerful anticipation for what the theater had in store for them.
Afterwards, all GA & VIP guests took their seats, George Motz, Festival Director and co-founder said a few words and then the first film began.
The first film was about Lagunitas Brewery which quenched the guests thirst with Lagunitas IPA. It was the first of seven items to be passed down the rows for all to try. The second film, directed by Liza Mosquito deGuia, featured Erik Ramirez, a chef of a modern Peruvian restaurant. Many of his dishes were showcased, however, when the Tuna ceviche appeared on screen, it appeared in front of the audience as well. This dish filled your mouth with a savory flavor. The third film excited the audience as it centered on a more specialized type of cooking: bugs. While Chef Joseph Yoon spoke about his passion for bugs in the film, everyone else was sitting on the edge of their seats waiting to try the cricket-crusted fried chicken.
The Food Film Festival is such a riveting event that not one but two restaurants revived just for it. The first was Gyro II, which festival co-founder, George Motz, actually directed the film for. The second was Ramen Shack. In between the gyro meat with the famous white sauce being served from Gyro II, and ramen broth from Ramen Shack, carnitas con queso with braised chicken was served. The significant piece in what may seem like a typical carnita is the Piaxtla tortilla. The brothers who now own the company have a family history going back to their father who used to be a driver for the tortilla factory. The concluding dish was a sweet treat: an Indonesian style coconut pancake. The film focuses on their stand that sells this authentic cuisine and how it’s making was due to the lack of its prominence here.
After the films came to an end, the night went on in what was the original VIP party room and the outside terrace. There was a surplus of dishes that were extensions of the Chefs, restaurants, and factories menus shown in the films. With each bite that the attendees took, the food left everyone with radiating smiles.
Areppas Opened its Third Location in NYC, to the Delight of Downtowners
This Wednesday, October 23rd, Areppas, specializing in Venezuelan street food, opened its downtown location in Soho, at 25 Cleveland Place.
Areppas Soho.
Areppas’ third brick-and-mortar eatery, brought to you by husband and wife duo Celestino Diaz and Brooke Carrie Hil, offers fresh, wholesome dishes, which focus on quality artisan grains, punchy proteins and strong seasonal ingredients.
Assorted fillings.
Assorted protein fillings.
Areppas caters to vegans, vegetarians and carnivores with bowls, salads, empanadas, and of course. arepas. If patrons are feeling adventurous, they can custom build their own dishes with the abundance of fillings on offer.
Interior of Areppas Soho.
The new Soho location is 1,000 square feet inside with 16 seats and has plans to open a 1,500 square foot outdoor courtyard next spring. The interior matches the food; casual, colorful and comforting.
Areppas is a fast-growing, fast-casual concept that has a flagship location at 954 3rd Avenue, and recently opened a second eatery in Gramercy at 115 East 23rd Street last month. The eatery aims to introduce fresh, tasty, and cost-effective Latin-based options to the New York City market.
Downtown Arepas.
Keeping in the spirit of the new location, I ordered the Downtown Arepas, filled with melt-in-the mouth short rib and a generous helping of de mano cheese. Other delicious options include the aptly named The Queen, filled with tender shredded chicken, avocado, cilantro and lime and cheese empanadas, which are gooey perfection!
Assorted bowl.
From the Vegan Bowl, with sweet plantains and black beans, to the Pork Supreme Bowl packed full with slowly roasted pork tenderloin, pico de gallo and bean salad, you are sure to find something to your taste. At Areppas, less formal certainly doesn’t mean less flavor!
Areppas new Soho location is open Monday-Sunday 11am-11pm. For more information please visit, Areppas.com.
Photos courtesy of Areppas
Taste of the Seaport 2019
Downtown’s premier food festival, Taste of the Seaport, returned for the 10th year for a day filled with food, fun and fundraising on Saturday, October 19th at Pier 16 and 17 in the Seaport District of New York City. A record number of 15,000 attendees turned out to Taste of the Seaport to sample over 40 of the best restaurants in Lower Manhattan alongside an array of local vendors, artisans, entertainers and family friendly activities, making it the perfect day out for children and adults alike. The event was followed for the first time by a fun-filled Front Street Block Party to keep the party going.
An eclectic mix of the best food and beverage retailers and brands came together at Taste of the Seaport highlighting one of the city’s fastest growing neighborhoods and its vibrant restaurant scene. Food lovers explored a variety of culinary options from the Seaport and Financial District and purchased delicious tastes from The Fulton, CUT by Wolfgang Puck, Hole in the Wall, Barbalu, Fresh Salt, Financier, Cowgirl Seahorse, Taco Playa, The Fulton, 10 Corso Como Restaurant & Café, Cobble & Co, Malibu Farm, R17 and Suteishi to name a few. Guests also got the opportunity to relax in the Pier Bar with wine, beer and soda. Live musical performances occurred on the main stage throughout the afternoon and children of all ages had a blast participating in family-friendly activities at the festival’s KidsZone, presented by New York-Presbyterian Lower Manhattan Hospital.
The annual event raised much needed funds for the arts and enrichment programs at Public School 397 (The Spruce Street School) and Public School 343 (The Peck Slip School) and was sponsored by The Howard Hughes Corporation, the leading real-estate developer working to revitalize the Seaport District after Hurricane Sandy, the South Street Seaport Museum, New York Presbyterian Lower Manhattan Hospital, Basil Hayden, Olivia’s Organics, White Claw, the Old Seaport Alliance and the Downtown Alliance.
For more information, please visit http://www.tasteoftheseaport.org
Photos by Taste of Seaport
Marchesi di Barolo 90th Anniversary at TAK Room
I was honored to spend a delightful evening celebrating the Abbona family’s 90th Anniversary of owning their winery, Marchesi di Barolo, at Thomas Keller’s newly opened Hudson Yards restaurant TAK Room. The luxurious venue, offering stunning views over the city including the Vessel landmark, was ideal for an evening of exquisite wine tasting and Continental cuisine.
Valentina Abbona, now head of the winery, and her mother Anna introduced us to the history of their estate, with strong pride in their history and tradition. The Marchesi Di Barolo wine is referred to as “the king of wines and wine of kings” due to a French Noblewoman in the early 1800’s, Juliette Colbert de Maulévrier, being the first to see potential in the wine made in Barolo, sending barrels to the Italian king. The wine was praised for its unique power, elegance and strength. The Abbona family eventually were able to acquire the lands of the winery after Juliette’s death, starting a legacy of years of hard work aiming to enrich the traditions of the winery, in memory of Juliette’s techniques, with knowledge passed from parent to child combined with modern advancements across over five generations. The family’s commitment to continual hard work has been paramount to the high standards of the winery.
Anna and Valentina Abbona
We were served a range of flavorful wines throughout the evening, with Valentina explaining how their production varied. Despite being from different years, vineyards, and using methods of production, Valentina emphasised how all the wines had “the same soul.” A table favourite was the Sarmassa 2014, with a colorful dark and fruity taste that had a bit of fight in it to release its expressions gradually, which Valentina explained was due to the grapes being from a single vineyard that grew in the tougher conditions of rocky soil. Another favourite, the Barolo 2014 offered a different sharp and immediate taste, with its grapes being sourced from a blend of vineyards on the estate.
The wine paired beautifully with food from the TAK Room menu. First starters were served of fresh bread, “Super Chilled Iceberg Salad” with applewood smoked bacon and marinated tomatoes drizzled in Maytag blue cheese, followed by hand cut steak tartare. The main dish was “True Ribeye Steak” with spinach and buttermilk whipped potato. Each bite of the steak was like experiencing the delicious flavours for this first time, richly complemented by the deep and fruity tones of the wine. Dessert included an elegant “Dark Chocolate Layer Cake” and home-made caramelised popcorn.
For a range of exquisite wine options, try Marchesi di Barolo and discover more about the famed winery here. Also make sure to visit TAK Room at 20 Hudson Yards 5th floor, 10001, to enjoy a large menu of carefully made, delectable food in a timelessly elegant and luxurious setting.
Barano: Italian Dining At Its Best
Barano, an Italian restaurant located in Williamsburg, is an endearing eatery that provides you with a modern rustic scenery. The atmosphere of Barano engulfs you in a warmth that transports you to feel as though you are at an enchanting Italian villa.
From beginning to end of your dining experience here, there is a reinvented take on traditional Italian cuisine, opening your palate to customary dishes with a specialized twist and flawless presentation. When eating, it is rare to find food that tastes delicious and is presented well, but at Barano there is no need to settle for one or the other.
The eccentric cocktail names and savory meals ensure a memorable experience that everyone desires, whether you’re a local or tourist. One of the most captivating aspects were the names of the drinks on the menu. Although you may never find yourself in a situation where you’d say, “ I’ll do a living in a van down by the river and a schwing please”, but, after having a sip of the drinks, it’ll be your new favorite sentence.
Their menu offers food that accommodates all audiences, whether you’re pescatarian, vegetarian, or gluten free. Options range from steak, fish, pasta and chicken. When going out with friends, and especially large groups, finding a menu that suits everyones’ needs can be a daunting task, but Barano eliminates that stress.
The antipasta listed a variety of options that were impossible to go wrong with. The octopus was not only a favorite due to flavor, but its beautiful presentation will make you hesitate to dig in. The house bread was paired with chickpea puree + basil pesto, which if you never knew you needed it before, now you do. Not to mention, once you start eating their house made stracciatella you’ll never be able to stop.
The main courses continue to exceed expectations. It is ensured to leave with a happy and full stomach. After a meal, a desert is always desired but never something that will leave you overwhelmingly full. Barano’s dessert menu offers light options to end the dining experience with a sweet that tops off the meal.
The food and cocktails reverberate the atmosphere in every bite and sip. This restaurant brings with it not only quality food but a quality experience.