Discover Gramercy’s Hidden Lane
New York’s newest hidden gem is Hidden Lane in Gramercy. Located at 129 E. 15th Street, this lounge is a townhouse turned bi-level bar, lounge, and outdoor garden. This intimate bar is ideal for a date night or after-work happy hour, and is available as a venue to rent for private parties.
The interior of the second floor
Hidden Lane also features a backyard with a picturesque garden illuminated by beautiful lit up trees. The interior displays were recently renovated with barn-wood paneling and painted white brick throughout. The space is accented with an ornate brass ceiling and features an upstairs lounge with lounge seating, a cozy fireplace, and a separate bar area.
The backyard area
Their extensive craft cocktail list includes The Antidote made with Bombay Gin, Lillet, Elderflower and lemon, The Junglebird with Plantation Dark Rum, pineapple, Campari and lime, a Spice Girls spicy margarita, and an addictive Espresso Martini made with Cognac.
Drinks on the bar
Steps away from Gramercy Park, Hidden Lane is open from 4pm to 2am during weekdays and from 2pm to 3am on weekends with an amazing M-F, 5pm - 8pm happy hour with $8 margaritas, as well as a Beer & Shot combination for $8. Guests can also enjoy $2 off all draft beers as well as $2 off mixed drinks and cocktails.
One of the signature cocktails and the menus
We attended their recent Winter Cocktail Soiree which included delicious pies and meatless meatballs from Zazzy's Pizza in addition to chocolate covered doughnuts and cookies from Innocent Yesterday on the Upper East Side, which were delivered especially for the occasion.
Valentines and February Events
February is the month of love, and there’s nowhere better to be than in NYC. Whether you’re spending Valentine’s day with your significant other, your family and friends, or by yourself, we’ve rounded up the best ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day in NYC.
1.Bond 45 New York (221 West 46th Street)
Couples can enjoy live entertainment with their dinner at Bond 45 in Times Square, as well as Redeye Grill across from Carnegie Hall by Pianist & Singer Desmond Scaife Jr. who will be performing from 6pm – 10pm on Monday, 2/14.
At Bond 45, GRAMMY Award Winner Vince Giordano & The Nighthawks will perform from 8pm to close, bringing back the swinging music of the roaring 20’s and 30’s. Vince and the Nighthawks have appeared in films including The Cotton Club, The Aviator, Finding Forrester, Revolutionary Road, HBOs Boardwalk Empire, as well as Town Hall, Jazz At Lincoln Center, the Newport Jazz Festival and the 92nd St Y for the past four decades. Celebrities who have enjoyed Vince’s shows include Mel Brooks, Liza Minnelli, Michael Feinstein, Elvis Costello, Diana Krall, Tommy Tune, Molly Ringwald, Michael Feinstein, and many others. There is a $25 cover and $25 F&B minimum.
2. Sereneco (113 Franklin St)
Sereneco is offering a pre fixe menu key details are below:
Menu highlights:
Hudson Valley Duck Confit Frisee Salad (apple, walnut, dried cranberry, blue cheese, maple balsamic)
Salmon Crudo (pistachio, mint, lime, breakfast radish)
Braised Lamb Shank (polenta, gremolata, butternut squash, brussels sprouts)
Steelhead Trout (broccolini, black rice, pistachio, cranberry, brown butter vinaigrette)
Lentil Stew (carrot, celery, shallot, garlic, spinach, arugula salad)
Full prix fixe menu: here
Cocktail highlights (in addition to a robust natural wine & craft beer list):
Dorothy Parker Sour (rose-infused gin, Aperol, rosemary, lemon, egg white)
The Greenpoint (Japanese whiskey, Carpano Antica, yellow chartreuse)
Sereneco Derby (bourbon, rosemary, honey, grapefruit)
Future G&T (Future gin, Boylan heritage tonic, ginger, apple, star anise)
Price: $65 pp
Reservations via Resy
3.Due West (189 W 10th St)
An elevated but approachable neighborhood bar offering unique, well-crafted cocktails and a delicious menu by former Locanda Verde chef Victor Bonano.
Due West highlights include:
Canned craft cocktails: Born out of the pandemic and exclusive only to Due West, 4 of the gastropub’s signature cocktails are canned and feature original artwork by Vincent Bolognini. Due West will be donating a portion of the proceeds for the Seasonal Hard Seltzer canned cocktail to the Billion Oyster Project which is restoring oyster reefs to New York Harbor in collaboration with New York City communities.
Monday Industry Night: Hosted by Employees Only veteran doorman, Sean Campbell, Monday nights at Due West entertains the finest of New York City with the best in local sports including Monday night football happy hour specials, and one of a kind cocktails.
(credit: Mochidoki)
4. Valentine’s Day at Mochidoki
The brand has just introduced a new flavor, Raspberry White Chocolate, ideal for Valentine’s Day. This flavor features raspberry ice cream accented with white chocolate, combining fruity flavor with the sweet and delicate snap of chocolate curls. Replace your usual box of chocolates and pick up the flavor at Mochidoki’s brick-and-mortar shops in SoHo and the Upper East Side. It’s also available for nation-wide shipping via www.mochidoki.com.
Customers can also opt to gift a Signature Collection (with 12 bestselling flavors) a Vegan Signature Collection (with 6 oat and coconut milk based flavors), or a mix-and-match 4-piece or 24-piece box of favorite flavors, including Strawberry, Chocolate, Salted Caramel, and many more.
5. Restaurant week Jan 18 - Feb 13
NYC Restaurant Week returns this winter with two-course lunch and three-course dinner options across the five boroughs, including top-tier restaurants and neighborhood favorites.
Returns this winter with its signature deal: 2-for-1 tickets to some of the best musicals and plays on stage right now. Prefer to splurge? Opt for upgraded seats at $125 per ticket.
Drinks and Bites at Due West!
Located in the heart of West Village “Due West” is an elevated but approachable neighborhood gastropub with a vibrant ambiance and a great selection of food and cocktails!
The bar offers unique, well-crafted cocktails and a delicious menu by former Locanda Verde chef Victor Bonano. The space is nicely decorated with navy velvet banquettes and cool modern art hanging on the walls, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Looking at the menu you’ll find raw bar options and a well-selected array of small bites and shareable plates accompanied by a beautifully curated list of cocktails. We began our night with cocktails and I had the Dw Sour which I loved! Dw Sour combines Barr Hill Gin, egg white, and citrus flavors. Would definitely recommend it if you like strong and sour drinks! As for old fashioned lovers, don’t worry Due West has you covered too! You can make your own old fashioned, just as you like it, by selecting the spirit, the sugar, and the bitters!
For food, we shared some plates, and each was better than the previous one! From the small plates, we got chicken bites with yuzu honey, fries with duck fat, and baked oysters with garlic butter and herbs. The chicken was sweet but rightly balanced and had a delicious crispiness that I couldn’t resist! It was my first time having fries with duck fat and although I was a bit hesitant at first, their taste was clean and truly delightful. As for the baked oysters, they were very flavorful and simply exceptional! I will surely order them again when I’m back! We also couldn’t resist the temptation and ordered the three cheese flatbread, which is very tasteful while also light. I could easily eat all of it before even realizing!
When the flatbread came, I was done with my cocktail and decided to try one of the bar’s canned craft cocktails which had caught my eye on the menu since the very beginning. Born out of the pandemic, Due West offers 4 of their signature cocktails canned and carbonated. The cans are beautifully designed and feature original artwork by Vincent Bolognini. Due West will be donating a portion of the proceeds for the Seasonal Hard Seltzer canned cocktail to the Billion Oyster Project which is restoring oyster reefs to New York Harbor in collaboration with New York City communities. I love both the purpose and execution! I ordered the Seasonal Hard Seltzer and was really amazed! It had a fresh, fizzy taste with strong aromas, being light and delicious! Definitely one of the gastropub’s highlights!
I highly recommend Due West for drinks and bites and I encourage you to try their Seasonal Hard Seltzer if you want great taste and to support the bar’s initiative to contribute to the Billion Oyster Project.
Are you there yet?
Have a look at Due West’s menu here https://www.duewestnyc.com/menus/ and check out their IG page @duewestnyc to get a feel of the restaurant along with their most recent updates!
P.S. We were there on a Wednesday but found out that on Monday nights Employees Only veteran doorman, Sean Campbell, hosts Industry nights entertaining the finest of New York City with the best in local sports including Monday night football, happy hour specials, and one of a kind cocktails. So we’ll absolutely be back to check that out!
International Sous Vide Day
You might know that February 9th is National Pizza Day or that August 10th is National S'mores Day, but unless you’re a little more in-tune with the culinary world, you might not know that since 2018, January 26th has been known as International Sous Vide Day.
Photo by Patrick McMullan/PMC
Created by Dr. Bruno Gossualt (who also celebrates his birthday on the 26th!), Sous Vide is a simple yet effective French culinary technique in which food is vacuum-sealed in a bag, then cooked to a very precise temperature in a water bath. The result? A juicy and tender bite that can’t be replicated any other way.
Photo by Patrick McMullan/PMC
So how should you celebrate Sous Vide Day? This year, Cuisine Solutions will be hosting a virtual celebration on Sous Vide Day with renowned masters of the craft, including Chefs Daniel Boulud, Eric Barale, Marc Ehrler, and Scott Randolph. At a preview hosted at Chef’s Boulud’s Michelin Starred restaurant Daniel, guests were given a little taste of each of the Chef’s sous vide specialites, including seared octopus “à la plancha” with grilled sweet onions, grape must poached leeks, potato ‘’Boulangère’’ and ‘’Beurre Marchand de vin’’; pork belly with sous vide lentils; and khao curry John Dory casserole with Moose Lake wild rice and cauliflower. It was hard to pick a favorite, but, as each chef will be demonstrating how to cook these dishes during the live event, you’ll be able to follow along and choose for yourself! If you’re a budding chef or gourmet home cook, this chance to learn a few Michelin-star secrets is really an opportunity like no other.
Gerard Bertholon, Daniel Boulud- Photo by Patrick McMullan/PMC
And no good dish is complete without a drink to pair it with. If you really want the full sous vide experience, we definitely recommend sipping on a few of these Specialty sous vide cocktails throughout your meal as well. All crafted by Grand Marnier Ambassador Xavier Herit, these specialty cocktails including the Grand 65, a play on the brand’s signature Grand 75, with Grand Marnier, Lallier® Champagne, and a pineapple cryoconcentration, as well as the Manhattan Park—a twist on the classic Manhattan which included Grand Marnier, Russel’s Reserve® Rye, and 1757 Vermouth di Torino Rosso.
Photo by Patrick McMullan/PMC
International Sous Vide day only comes once a year, and, in our opinion, it’s worth just as much hype as National Pizza or Smore’s Day. Sign up to be part of the virtual event at https://www.internationalsousvideday.com/ or follow @cuisinesolutions for more news and updates.
Don't Miss out on Greenpoint's newest restaurant!
Located on the ground floor of Greenpoint's historic Pencil Factory and on the corner of Franklin street is “Sereneco,” a warm and healthy restaurant that opened only this September.
As I was about to open the all wood front door, a woman who was walking by stopped my friend and I to say “You are in for a treat because the chef is insanely good.” Well, that’s a good sign to start my night, isn't it? Upon entering, the host warmly greeted and seated us at our table. As we walked to the table, I couldn't help but notice the modern design of the space with high ceilings, wood furnishings, and overhead lanterns.
The restaurant offers contemporary, seasonal New American food in a bright and airy space that pays homage to the building’s original structure. Led by Owner & Beverage Director Billy Van Dolsen and Partner Jim Nawn, the restaurant is a peaceful oasis for locals and visitors alike. Sereneco is really cool in that it gives you the feeling of a cafe kind of place during daytime, and more restaurant vibes during nighttime.
Looking at the menu and you’ll find extremely unique, satisfying dishes. We began our night with the seared octopus which comes with a side of black puree, marinated olives and a fennel salad. I’ve never had black puree before, but it was definitely worth the try. As for the cocktails, I had the Dorothy Parker Sour; so good that the second round was on the table before the main dish arrived. High five to the bartender! We were actually told that the bar offers a variety of cocktails with New York State-produced gins paired with botanically compatible tonics and garnishes; as well as beers exclusively sourced from Brooklyn and natural organic wines.
For my main dish, I had the delicious Seared Cod. It came with a Vadouvan Curry broth, basmati rice, dried cranberries and pistachio; and my friend ordered the Braised Short Rib which came with potato mash, glazed baby carrot and gremolata. She mentioned it was “cooked just right to provide both a crispy and tender flavor.” We ended it with an Apple Crumble dessert, and we were simply just savoring the moment. Just as the woman at the door said, the food was indeed insanely good and gave us the feeling of a meal that’s home cooked by a chef.
One thing that shouldn’t go unnoticed, is the service. All-star for this wonderful service. It was excellent and went smoothly making our night fun and relaxing.
The restaurant had a steady flow of customers without feeling overly crowded, a healthy sign for a new spot opening during a pandemic. I highly recommend eating and/or drinking at Sereneco. You'll support a local business and enjoy yourself.
P.S: We were there on a Tuesday and found out that Sereneco offers Happy Hour from Tuesdays through Wednesdays where guests can enjoy select cocktails for $9, glasses of wine for $8, and beers for $6.
Don’t hesitate to look at their menu here sereneconyc.com and check out their IG page @sereneconyc for the look and feel of the restaurant!
NYC Holiday and NYE Events
credit: Raphael Mendez
Amor Loco, a lively, new Mexican restaurant that recently opened in the Theatre District, is hosting a New Year’s Eve Party that will include live music and two burlesque shows hosted by Lucy Buttons at 9:30pm & 11:15pm, including one performance with fire involved! Guests will be steps from the Times Square revelry without having to brave the cold :) For a party of 2 ($65 per person), guests will receive one appetizer, two entrees, one dessert and two margaritas or cocktails of their choice. At midnight, guests will also receive a free flute of champagne as Amor Loco toasts to the new year! Reservations are recommended through Resy or by emailing info@amorloconyc.com. Walk-ins are always welcome, but subject to availability.
2. Daintree Rooftop & Lounge (25 W. 38th St.) invites you to party the night away while perched high up in the Manhattan sky with unbelievable views of the Empire State Building. The special night will include a live DJ, passed hors d’oeuvres, a champagne toast and fireworks at midnight. Tickets begin at $95. Doors open at 9pm and you can book your experience by visiting, https://www.sevenrooms.com/events/daintreenyc
Credit: Front of House)
3.Feliz Cocteleria at The Garret Cocteleria (349 Broome Street)
Feliz Coctelería — the uber, festive holiday pop-up at The Garret Coctelería — will be hosting a New Year’s Eve fiesta with holiday cocktails and Taco Towers (serving 4-5) with shrimp ceviche, tuna tartar, chips and guacamole, hot sauces, and good vibes to toast in the New Year. Reservations are available via Resy. Each reservation includes a taco tower ($50 per table).
Credit: Briana Balducci
4. Dingaling(116 Avenue C (at 8th Street)
East Village’s stylish neighborhood bar, Dingaling, is hosting a New Year’s Eve party to welcome in 2022. Tickets ($150pp) include a full open bar, champagne toast and – of course – great tunes from local DJs and fancy hot dogs from 8pm - late. Tickets available via Eventbrite
5. Bandits (44 Bedford Street)
Bandits, the watering hole from The Garret Bars (Borrachito and The Garret Bars), will transform into a glittering, 70’s-inspired party for New Year’s Eve with the theme All That Glitters Is Gold. From 5pm-10pm, Bandits will offer a three-course prix-fixe menu ($75pp; available on Resy), with dishes that feature a modern take on old school diner and dive classics, along with a champagne toast and additional cocktail pairing.
After dinner, from 10pm-2am, Bandits’ All That Glitters Is Gold party will include an open bar and champagne toast at midnight. General admission tickets are available on Resy for $150pp. Table reservations are also available on Resy, starting at $250, including a bottle of champagne and 3-tier Seafood Tower.
Bandits’ bar will remain open until 4am for cash bar service. Reservations available here; tables available here
6. Hidden Lane (129 E. 15th St.) has you covered if you're workin' 9am - 5pm, with a special holiday happy hour menu from 5pm - 8pm, Monday to Friday. Grab drinks with friends and coworkers with specially priced cocktails include Hidden Lane's House or Spicy Margarita for $8 as well as a Beer & Shot combo for $8. Guests can also enjoy $2 off all draft beers as well as $2 off mixed drinks and cocktails. There are also $5 well shots and $5 domestic beers to make your 5pm - 8pm great. More information can be found by visiting, http://www.hiddenlanebar.com
7. Slate (54 W. 21st St.) in the heart of Chelsea, opens at 4pm, Monday-Thursday and has a happy hour till 8pm with $5 Bud Light, $6 Well Drinks, $8 House Wine and $9 House Margaritas and House Martinis. Enjoy a drink while playing ping pong, pool, giant jenga or the world’s largest Pac Man. For more information, visit https://slate-ny.com/
8. Brooklyn Chop House (150 Nassau St) in FiDi will celebrate New Year’s Eve with a multi course dinner for $145 per person. Appetizer options include rock shrimp tempura, chicken lettuce wraps, chicken satays with peanut sauce, vegetable spring rolls, bacon cheeseburger shumai, or pac man seafood dumplings. For entrees, guests are given a choice of 24 oz ribeye steak, salt & pepper 4lb lobster for 2, 7lb Long Island Peking Duck for two, spicy Kung Pao chicken, or sea bass with black bean and fresh garlic. The variety of sides will feature different fried rice including lobster, soft shell crab, and chicken along with french fries and onion rings, crispy seaweed, and Bok Choy. Desserts include ice cream or sorbet sampler, red velvet cake, or peanut butter cheesecake. A choice of two appetizers and one entree are available to one to five guests and six guests or more will be served family style. For more information, visit https://www.brooklynchophouse.com/
9. American Brass (2-01 50th Avenue) in Long Island City features an Early New Year’s Eve menu with availability from 5pm - 7:30pm for $90 per person and a late menu with availability from 9pm - 10pm for $225 complemented by a champagne toast at midnight as well as an open bar. The early menu includes Sourdough Focaccia for the table with a choice of Charred Carrot Salad, Steak Tartare or Grilled Octopus for the first course. The second course includes Branzino, Roast Chicken, a Wagyu Flank Steak and Mushroom Lasagna with parmesan mousse, crispy oyster mushrooms and preserved truffle. Dessert features Red Wine Velvet Cake, Honey Walnut Tart and Chocolate Rosemary Custard. The late menu features an Amuse Bouche and Sourdough Focaccia for the table, with a choice of a Poached Duck Egg, Kampachi Tartare and Cauliflower Velouté for the first course. The second course includes Mushroom Lasagna and Ricotta Cavatelli, the third course features Ocean Trout with champagne sauce, smoked trout roe and marble potatoes, Short Rib served with black truffle pomme purèe, confit king trumpet mushrooms and sauce diablè, and Grilled Cauliflower with vadouvan spice, golden raisin chutney and marcona almond ‘tahini’ and desserts include Red Wine Velvet Cake, Honey Walnut Tart and Dark Chocolate Mousse. Reservations can be made by visiting, https://www.americanbrasslic.com
10. Amali (115 E 60th St) New Year’s Eve special will feature a full course tasting menu for $150 per person. The special year end menu includes Burrata Di Bufala served for the table, Potato Gnocchi, Tajarin Pasta, and Filet Mignon. And be sure to indulge in a decadent chocolate mousse for dessert. For more information or to make a reservation, visit https://www.amalinyc.com/
Credit: Front of House
Credit: Front of House
11. The Garret East (206 Avenue A) and The Garret West (296 Bleecker Street)
Nestled above Five Guys Burgers and Fries, overlooking 7th Avenue in Manhattan, sits The Garret West. For New Year’s Eve, The Garret West will offer a no-frills celebration to ring in 2022. No tickets required, just a cash bar with champagne toast at midnight. Reservations available here; tables available here This New Year’s Eve, The Garret East will transform into a chic evening party to manifest “No Bad Days” in 2022. Ticketed entrance will be from 9pm-2am. General admission ($100pp) includes an open bar and champagne toast at midnight. Tables and private room reservations, ($150pp) include open bar, champagne toast at midnight, and a taco party platter from Borrachito. General admission and table reservations are available via Resy.
12. Fornino at Time Out Market will celebrate New Year’s Eve. For $100, guests are given entry to Time Out Market’s scenic terrace with incredible views of the Brooklyn Bridge and Manhattan across the East River. Vendors will include Fornino along with others. Additional entertainment includes DJs and a live Latin Jazz band at 10:30pm. The Rooftop’s midnight toast lets you ring in the new year with an individually-sized bottle of bubbly right as we roll into 2022. https://www.timeout.com/newyork/time-out-market/new-years-eve-2022-at-time-out-market-new-york Fornino (849 Manhattan Ave) will also celebrate New Year’s Eve with a special pizza love fest kit to bring home for the holiday. The special menu features a full meal including an imported cheese and fruit plate, large salad, two heart shaped pizzas, tiramisu and strawberries, and a bottle of either prosecco or wine. To top off the holiday season, the special will also include party hats and noisemakers. The Pizza Love Fest Kit available for pickup or delivery on Friday 12/31 from 4 to 7pm. Orders can be placed by 2pm on 12/30 at https://www.fornino.com/
Feliz Cocteleria Holiday
Credit: Front of House
It’s the most wonderful time of the year! The Garret Bars’ immersive holiday pop-up, Feliz Coctelería, is back and more festive than ever!
The uber-popular, seasonal pop-up (which first launched in 2020) returned to The Garret Coctelería (349 Broome Street) on 11/26. Just in time for the holidays, Feliz Coctelería offers much-needed respite and warming drinks. We’d love for you to keep the exciting news in mind for any December openings coverage or holiday-themed guides.
Credit: Front of House
Credit: Front of House
With Latin-inspired holiday decor, twinkling lights, eclectic ornaments, and colorful textiles, Feliz Cocteleria is a celebration of Navidad and the holiday spirit - channeling the merriment of the festive season. Key design elements include:
Large palm trees adorned with Christmas lights will be scattered throughout the pop-up
Traditional snowflake paper chains will be decoratively strung from the ceiling
Christmas trees will line the walls and restaurant booths
Gift-wrapped tables where guests can enjoy their festive libations
Hanukkah-inspired blue and silver adornments & floating dreidels, menorahs and more will offer an all-encompassing holiday experience
A lifesize floating sleigh with a mariachi band to delight restaurant-goers
And the return of the holiday llamas!
Feliz Cocteleria’s limited-edition holiday drinks are served in delightfully seasonal glassware (think: snowmen, Santas, and other festive trinkets), curated by Beverage Director Max Stampa-Brown. The pop-up’s holiday cocteles combine vibrant Latin American flavors with holiday season nostalgia.
A few fun beverage highlights include:
Epazote Hot Toddy - Epazote Hot Tea, Ginger, Spiced Apple Cider, Lemon, Guajillo-infused Bourbon
Rocco’s Hot Cocoa - Golden Rice Milk Latte, Powdered Chipotle Powder Blend, Chocolate, Mezcal, Green Chartreuse Marshmallow
A Lump of Coal - Blackberry, Mint, Mango Butter, Black Sesame, Tequila, Lime, Egg White, Chilean Red Wine
Rose & Lenny - Babka infused Slivovitz, Cream of Coconut, Clove & Cardamom, Turmeric, Lime
Fig Tree in Nolita - Mexican Gin, Fig, Ginger, Cacao Nib Sweet Vermouth, Lemon
Travel Back in Time with Vince Giordano & The Nighthawks
Step back in time at Bond 45 with the Grammy award winning band Vince Giordano and the Nighthawks. More than anything, authenticity and quality music are quintessential values of the Nighthawks, and Bond 45 takes this in stride.
Produced by Steve Garrin, guests can now enjoy dinner and dancing to iconic big band scores of the 1920’s and 30’s every Monday and Tuesday nights. Vince and the Nighthawks have appeared in films including The Cotton Club, The Aviator, Finding Forrester, Revolutionary Road, HBOs Boardwalk Empire, as well as Town Hall, Jazz At Lincoln Center, the Newport Jazz Festival and the 92nd St Y for the past four decades. Doors open at 7:30 pm with performances from 8 to 11 pm. To sample some of Vince’s music, you can visit his website here: https://www.vincegiordano.com/
Vince and the band perform.
In addition to the spectacle of live jazz, guests are sure to enjoy Bond 45’s elevated Italian cuisine. Quality ingredients, generous portions and unique takes on Italian classics make for an unforgettable meal, but make sure to leave room for the indulgent and delightful desserts. Nestled in a rustic space decorated with wreaths and twinkle lights, Bond 45 is also the perfect locale for a meal during the holiday season.
Spaghetti Carbonara with freshly cracked pepper and parmesan cheese
As the food and drinks were brought out by the convivial staff, special guests took their turns to join the band. On this evening, local jazz musicians were encouraged to join as well as Breakfast Club star Molly Ringwald and archivist for the Great American Songbook Michael Feinstein. Recent guests have also included pop star Carly Rae Jepsen. The spontaneous atmosphere (and proximity to Broadway) means that no two nights will be the same, and there’s endless potential for star-studded guests to stop by for a tune.
Molly Ringwald performs with the band.
Michael Feinstein sits in to sing.
Interested in spending New Years Eve in the Roaring 20s? Ring in 2022 with this Gatsby themed celebration, complete with live tunes performed by the 16-piece band Vince Giordano and the Nighthawks, a three-course prix-fixe menu inclusive of a Champagne Toast at midnight, and views of the Times Square ball drop and Central Park’s fireworks. The celebration will go from 8:30 pm to 12:30 pm and starts at $250 per person for bar and upstairs seating and $400 per person for premium seating. To book, email newyearseve@thefiremangroup.com
TOP DECEMBER EVENTS
HOLIDAY HOUSE NYC FALL 2021
‘COMING TOGETHER’ TABLETOP EVENT
What: Holiday House NYC is returning to New York City for a LIVE event, which will showcase their beloved design industry members and talented interior designers as they come together to raise critical funds for the Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF).
A VIP press preview will be held from 5:00pm – 6:00pm prior to the main event to allow the media exclusive access to the designers and conduct interviews with Holiday House founder Iris Dankner.
Who: The event is co-chaired by Amy Lau, Campion Platt, Jean Shafiroff and Andrea Stark.
Over a dozen leading designers will each design their own chic tabletops to showcase cutting edge décor and lifestyle concepts to be viewed by the design industry, Holiday House’s loyal patrons and the affluent NYC community. Designers will include Austin Gray Design Group, Badilla Painters x Rio Hamilton, Beth Donner and Andrea Correale, Eric Haydel, Evan Mason Designs, Kim Seybert, Leeann Lavin, Michele Safra, Mottahedeh, Purvi Padia Design, Sandy Berman, Unlimited Earth Care and Vanessa Deleon Associates. The event will also include interactive experiences including a cocktail making class.
When: Opening Night Preview: December 8, 2021
6pm – 9pm
General Admission: December 9, 2021
11am – 8pm
December 10, 2021
11am -5pm
(Times of events will be announced at a later date)
Where: The Elizabeth Taylor Mansion
10 West 56th Street
New York, NY 10019
Holiday House invites the community to ‘Come Together’ for an evening of beautiful tabletop designs with hors d’oeuvres by Elegant Affairs in celebration of being able to reunite after spending a year apart.
Sponsors for the event include Jiun Ho x Cambria, 41 Madison x Waterford, Top Hat Home Services, The Melissa Cohn Group, FJ Hakimian, Sebastian Capital and Stark. Media Partners include Modern Luxury Manhattan and Hamptons Real Estate Showcase.
Proceeds from the event will benefit the Breast Cancer Research Foundation® (BCRF). To date, Holiday House has raised almost two million dollars for breast cancer research.
Tickets for the opening night preview are priced at $250 and general admission are priced at $50. Tickets can be purchased here.
The annual exhibition and sale of one-of-a-kind contemporary jewelry returns to New York's Museum of Arts and Design (MAD) for its twenty-first edition.
MAD About Jewelry is open to the public with free admission, December 7 through 11, showcasin more than 40 emerging and acclaimed US-based jewelry artists, including Pamela Love, Of Rare Origin, MoAnA Luu, and Tiffany Vanderhoop.
For collectors, connoisseurs, fashionistas, and all who share an interest in the interplay of art and design, MAD About Jewelry provides an unparalleled opportunity to converse with and acquire pieces from some of the most innovative creators in the field in support of the Museum’s exhibitions and educational programs.
3. Feliz Cocteleria Holiday Pop-Up
It’s the most wonderful time of the year! The Garret Bars’ immersive holiday pop-up, Feliz Coctelería, is back and more festive than ever!
The uber-popular, seasonal pop-up (which first launched in 2020) returned to The Garret Coctelería (349 Broome Street) on 11/26. Just in time for the holidays, Feliz Coctelería offers much-needed respite and warming drinks. We’d love for you to keep the exciting news in mind for any December openings coverage or holiday-themed guides.
With Latin-inspired holiday decor, twinkling lights, eclectic ornaments, and colorful textiles, Feliz Cocteleria is a celebration of Navidad and the holiday spirit - channeling the merriment of the festive season. Key design elements include:
Large palm trees adorned with Christmas lights will be scattered throughout the pop-up
Traditional snowflake paper chains will be decoratively strung from the ceiling
Christmas trees will line the walls and restaurant booths
Gift-wrapped tables where guests can enjoy their festive libations
Hanukkah-inspired blue and silver adornments & floating dreidels, menorahs and more will offer an all-encompassing holiday experience
A lifesize floating sleigh with a mariachi band to delight restaurant-goers
And the return of the holiday llamas!
Feliz Cocteleria’s limited-edition holiday drinks are served in delightfully seasonal glassware (think: snowmen, Santas, and other festive trinkets), curated by Beverage Director Max Stampa-Brown. The pop-up’s holiday cocteles combine vibrant Latin American flavors with holiday season nostalgia.
A few fun beverage highlights include:
Epazote Hot Toddy - Epazote Hot Tea, Ginger, Spiced Apple Cider, Lemon, Guajillo-infused Bourbon
Rocco’s Hot Cocoa - Golden Rice Milk Latte, Powdered Chipotle Powder Blend, Chocolate, Mezcal, Green Chartreuse Marshmallow
A Lump of Coal - Blackberry, Mint, Mango Butter, Black Sesame, Tequila, Lime, Egg White, Chilean Red Wine
Rose & Lenny - Babka infused Slivovitz, Cream of Coconut, Clove & Cardamom, Turmeric, Lime
Fig Tree in Nolita - Mexican Gin, Fig, Ginger, Cacao Nib Sweet Vermouth, Lemon
Naughty or Nice at The Skinny
The Lower East Side bar and lounge The Skinny (174 Orchard St) is now the most extra holiday bar in town. The Naughty or Nice Holiday Pop Up Bar at The Skinny is now open to the public through the end of January 2022. The festive bar is decked in floor-to-ceiling, over-the-top, gaudy Christmas decor and boasts interactive games like a Wheel of Misfortune and a calendar full of surprises. Rudolph and his reindeer friends can be spotted on the wall alongside a wall of Bad Santa photos.
Expect events that will place you on the naughty list like seductive burlesque performances, naughty Christmas caroling, karaoke and more complemented by mouth watering holiday-inspired food and Coping Mechanism cocktails that will make you feel good about being bad. Naughty or Nice has live music nightly and maybe if you're lucky you might catch a glimpse of Santa, a Drag Queen Grinch or Mrs. Claus. For more information, visit: https://www.theskinny-nyc.com
Photos are courtesy of Daniel Kwak
The Hard Seltzer Fest Seltzerland Will Hit 22 Cities in 2022
Seltzerland's 22-city 2022 tour will kick off in San Diego on January 29th at St. Mark Golf Club - 12 events across the US are on sale right now at https://www.seltzerland.com/2022-cities-page.
Cannonball Productions has announced the second season of its highly-successful nationally-touring hard seltzer festival, Seltzerland, with tour-dates in both new and returning cities. The 22-city 2022 tour will kick off in San Diego on January 29th at St. Mark Golf Club, followed by Los Angeles on February 5th at Bixby Village Golf Course, Phoenix on February 26th at The Great Lawn at Sportsman's Park, Houston on March 12th at Wildcat Golf Club, Dallas on March 15th at Lake Park Golf Club Executive Course, Tampa on April 2nd at Westchase Golf Club, Nashville on April 30th at Riverside Golf Links, Charlotte on May 7th at Paradise Valley Golf Course and Milwaukee on June 5th at Lincoln Park Golf Course before heading to NYC on August 6th at the Brooklyn Expo Center, Denver on September 10th at Overland Golf Course and Atlanta on April 23rd at John. A White Golf Course with additional stops soon to be added along the way.
The fest’s groundbreaking launch took place in Chicago in August 2020 and visited five cities in total that year by taking the event from large-scale indoor venues, to the great outdoors during the pandemic. The fest’s success was palpable, which led to Cannonball Productions embarking on a sold-out 20-city tour in 2021, which hit golf courses coast-to-coast from Scottsdale, Tampa, Atlanta and Nashville, to Austin, Chicago, Boston, Seattle, Las Vegas and Miami.
In 2022, guests will bask in the bubbly, spending the afternoon tasting over 100 hard seltzer varieties including White Claw, Mike's Hard Lemonade Seltzer, Vizzy, Topo Chico Hard Seltzer, Playamar, BuzzBallz and Sparking Ice Spiked, while indulging in mouthwatering munchies along the way. Each event will have fun music, epic games and one-of-a-kind immersive experiences, all while attendees sip on hard seltzers from iconic national and beloved local brands.
"Clearly, hard seltzer is here to stay." said Cannonball Productions Founder & CEO Kate Levenstien. "We are excited to give everyone the opportunity to sample the best hard seltzers and find new favorites, all while enjoying great company, fun activities and beautiful weather on rolling green golf courses."
There are two ways to experience Seltzerland with General Admission and VIP tickets offered. General Admission tickets begin at $29 and VIP tickets start at $49. VIP ticket holders will kick off the event with premier timeslots, a full-sized can of hard seltzer, a specialty cocktail, a commemorative tasting glass, exclusive swag and more!
For tickets and tour updates, visit https://www.seltzerland.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/seltzerland/ Instagram: @seltzer_land
Ticketing inquiries can be directed to hello@cannonballproductions.com
Curtain Call at Amali
On Monday, November 8th, stars gathered to toast Jessica Vosk, a Broadway performer who sold out her Carnegie Hall show. Glasses filled with drinks from a seasonal cocktail list, organic wine menu and Mediterranean beer array clinked in celebration of the joyous occasion at Mediterranean restaurant Amali’s 10th Anniversary Party.
The Mediterranean way of life that the restaurant Amali, which opened in 2011 is modeled after, is present in the atmosphere. The owners, James Mallios, Kylie Monagan, Tanya Saxena, and Michael Van Camp ensured this execution from design, to food and drink. The executive chef of this Midtown East neighborhood restaurant, Alex Tubero, emphasizes vegetables, olive oil, cheese, grains and fish in his masterminded menu. Growing up in South Florida, constant exposure to seafood and fresh produce has allowed Alex’s love for cooking to develop into a distinguished culinary background.
From the cauliflower garnished in a harmonious blend of colatura, golden raisins and mint to dishes like the Maine lobster ravioli, Filet Mignon, and Spanish Octopus, the food at Amali evokes the highest sensory experience. The restaurant’s menu, which fuses historical traditions of the Mediterranean with modern-day New York City, has been enjoyed by many popular celebrities including Zac Posen, David Burtka, Pentatonix singer Scott Hoying, Dear Evan Hansen concertmaster Justin Smith, and American Idol star Melinda Doolittle.
The highly acclaimed restaurant is a humble welcome for greatness. They boast a commitment not just to their guests but to the world at large. Their dedication to sustainability has garnered Amali recognition from the Obamas, Slow Food Society, and the New York Times. They even promote musical talent, hosting The New Power Trio on Sundays with Dear Evan Hansen Concertmaster Justin Smith and fellow Broadway alums along with Jazz Trio performances on Monday.
Open from Monday-Sunday, dining, celebrating or grabbing a drink at Amali is an experience you will relive for weeks on end.
Gray Hawk Grill
If there’s one thing to thank Gossip Girl for, it’s bringing the Upper East Side back into the limelight. What was previously a haven for wealthy trust fund families is now a trendy new hotspot for young professionals looking to live large à la their favorite Upper East Siders. Our pick if you’re looking to spend time above 60th? The Gray Hawk Grill, a New American restaurant located at 1556 Second Ave that’s the ultimate food stop for anyone looking to eat authentically UES.
Owned by UES resident and native New Yorker Steve Millan, Gray Hawk Grill is the pinnacle of the classic New York food scene. You won’t find trendy doughnut burgers or copious amounts of cheese here—taste takes precedence over flashy social media food anyday. Instead, get ready to bite into one the best burgers I’ve had in a while: a Double Truffle Burger loaded with delicious truffle aioli and crunchy fried onions. If you’re a truffle lover, this burger is a must-have—along with being slathered in truffle sauce, it comes with a ramekin of even more truffle aioli for dipping your hand cut fries. Not a truffle fan? No worries, there’s plenty more perfectly seasoned dishes to pick from, including a very hollainsidey Eggs Benedict and a first rate Steak & Eggs.
In addition to being a truffle haven, Gray Hawk Grill is the perfect place for eating through half of the city in a single meal. From Master Purveyors for beef to Orwashers for bread and The Little Pie Company for desserts, all of the ingredients you see are sourced from top-rated New York businesses. The result? A memorable dining experience that’s the finishing touch to a day on the UES.
So if you find yourself around the Met one day, feel free to walk a few avenues over and try out the Gray Hawk Grill. From cocktails to brunch to dessert, it’s the ultimate place to satisfying all your city cravings—and maybe even find some new things to be a fan of.
Make a reservation for Gray HawK Grill at https://www.grayhawkgrill.com or follow them on Instagram: @Gray_Hawk_Grill Facebook: @GrayHawkGrill Twitter: @GrayHawkGrill.
Theater Saves Lives: An Evening of Hope
On Tuesday, October 26th, Ruth Stage and the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation hosted Theater Saves Lives: An Evening of Hope. Featuring luxury artworks donated by generous friends of Ruth Stage, a cocktail hour, and charcuterie grazing stations with hors d'oeuvres, this charity auction was one for the books As the namesake of the event suggested, it was truly a night full of hope.
The evening started off with multiple speeches. Guests from the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation, Ruth Stage, and a guest oncologist spoke about their experiences with cholangiocarcinoma and innovations in current therapies and treatments. A commonality was present throughout their stories—cholangiocarcinoma is an under researched and not widely known disease.
One of the evening’s charcuterie boards
In a special presentation by Stacie Lindsey, Founder and CEO of the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation, she explained how there were almost no resources available when her brother was diagnosed with cholangiocarcinoma in 2005. They were forced to cobble together bits and pieces of information from other patients, online forums, and conversations with dozens of physicians across the country. The foundation was born out of the determination that no one else should have to invest as much time and effort to gather basic information about cholangiocarcinoma, and that those who are affected by it have the opportunity to surround themselves with an empathetic community.
Ruth Stage’s involvement was also drawn from personal connections. After a close friend of Matt de Rogatis’ was diagnosed with Cholangiocarcinoma, his organization the Ruth Stage Company sprung into action. They worked with the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation to create an event that would function not only as a benefit for the Foundation, but act as a physical manifestation of the support system that was there for their friend.
One of the art pieces for auction: a portrait of actress Scarlett Johansson, who starred in Cat on a Hot Tin Roof on Broadway in 2013
The evening culminated in the cast rehearsal of “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof”. Though it was a rehearsal, the actors gave the performance their all as the room was enraptured with their emotional portrayals of Williams’ iconic play. By performing the scene when the character of “Big Daddy” finds out he has cancer, the connection between the play and the evening’s cause added an additional layer of depth to the performances. The Ruth Stage company was able to bring a further profundity to what was already a rich play, and will certainly reflect this magnitude on the Off-Broadway Stage.
The cast rehearsal. From left to right Joe Rosario, Spencer Scott, Alison Fraser, Austin Pendleton
You can visit https://www.ruthstage.org/ to learn more about Ruth Stage and “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof”, and you can visit https://www.cholangiocarcinoma.org/ to learn more about the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation.
enCourage Kids Serving Up Smiles
On Tuesday, October 19th, the enCourage Kids Foundation hosted their Serving Up Smiles premier tasting event that included decadent plates from the hottest chefs and top named restaurants in NYC, a VIP Speakeasy Lounge presented by Go Tab, Inc., Shinju Japanese Whiskey, world-class wines, cocktails, and incredible auction items at The Lighthouse at Chelsea Piers.
“I want to thank all the sponsors, board members, guests and my team for a wonderful and successful night. The outpouring of support for the work we do at the enCourage Kids Foundation in helping humanize healthcare for children and their families by resourcing impact-driven pediatric programs and supporting the child life community, is beyond humbling. We look forward to seeing everybody at our next event,” Michele Hall Duncan – CEO enCourage Kids Foundation.
Guests were greeted outside by DJ Chef who had the crowd dancing their way through the entrance doors. ABC Sports Anchor Ryan Field emceed the evening alongside Michele Hall Duncan and Culinary Chair/Chef & Partner TAO Hospitality Group, Chef Ralph Scamardella. The music and dancing continued inside with Acute Inflections and Live Wire Band. Malik Yoba (Actor Empire & NY Undercover) ate and danced his way through the evening having a great time with the guests.
“What a great event for the perfect cause, said Actor Malik Yoba. I look forward to continue to support the efforts of the enCourage Kids Foundation for a long time.”
Participating restaurants and included BAKEYOREY, BRYANT PARK GRILL, BUTTER, CARDINALI BAKERY, KELLARI TAVERNA, LAMIA’S FISH MARKET, LAVO, ME CASA, MYKONOS BLEU, OMAR’S KITCHEN, SKORPIOS, SPICE CULTURE and SPYCE sauce.
Participating wines and spirits included AQUAFINA, BROOKLYN BREWERY, BUBLY, DR. PERRICONE HYDROGEN WATER, FERVOR MEZCAL, HARLEM HOPS, LOS DOS TEQUILA, OWL’S BREW, PRESSED, REVEL SPIRITS, ROUTESTOCK -WILSON DANIELS, TEQUILA ARMERO, WHITLEY NEILL GIN and ZYR VODKA.
Event sponsors included FEIL FAMILY FOUNDATION, ARK RESTAURANTS, BRYANT PARK GRILL, COUGAR CAPITAL, THE DONUT PUB, SIGNATURE BANK, LUCY and DAVID BALL, BUCHBINDER & WARREN LLC, SANDERS FAMILY, EMERSON AMUSEMENTS, and GO TAB.
The Chemistry Room at Sushi Lab
If you’re looking for a unique dining experience in the heart of the city, get yourself to The Chemistry Room at Sushi Lab. From the creative minds of Executive Chef Frankie Chen and Vice President of Operations Jeremy Poon, Sushi Lab offers an omakase like no other. Omakase fans will be able to indulge in a new $100 offering, with 13 courses including smokey miso soup served in a beaker, nigiri pieces, a tuna flight, A5 Wagyu, dessert and matcha green tea.
An all new signature cocktail menu will include Mr. Chiri with tequila, yuzu, red chili peppers and cilantro, Shiso Pretty with sake, tequila, lemon juice and shiso leaves, Morning Glory with gin, basil, grapefruit syrup and egg whitie, Smoky Old Fashioned with rye whiskey, simple syrup and bitters, Pearfection with soju, pear puree, lemon juice and pea flower syrup, Sakura Bliss with blueberry, rum and fresh lime and a Whiskey Sour with bourbon, yuzu, egg white and bitters. Sake will also be served by the glass and bottle in addition to beer and wine.
Sushi Lab first opened as an 8-person omakase hotspot at The Sanctuary Hotel’s concierge desk in March 2019, offering guests a creative spin on traditional sushi from Executive Chef Frankie Chen. The concept rapidly grew in popularity and expanded to Sushi Lab Rooftop in July 2020. Perched above the luxury boutique hotel, Sushi Lab Rooftop is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner with 40 seats. Now The Chemistry Room at Sushi Lab will take over the former home of Tender Lounge this fall. Guests will enjoy an up-close and intimate dining experience from Executive Chef Frankie Chen and Sushi Chef Nikki Zheng.
The Chemistry Room at Sushi Lab has 10 seats at the chef’s counter and table seating for an additional 20 guests.
The Sanctuary Hotel's owners Hank Freid and Brandon Freid are the father-son team behind The Impulsive Group. Their luxury boutique hotel, The Sanctuary Hotel, is home to Haven Rooftop and The Chemistry Room at Sushi Lab in the space that formerly housed Tender Lounge in addition to Sushi Lab Rooftop.
The Chemistry Room at Sushi Lab, officially opens on Thursday, October 21st, will serve up a 13 piece $100 omakase from Executive Chef Frankie Chen complemented by a unique selection of cocktails and sake.
Days & Hours of Operation: Tuesday-Saturday, 5pm - 11pm - Reservations are required via Resy.
Address: 130 W 47th Street, New York, NY 10036
Phone: 212-234-7000 Website: https://sushilab.nyc
CANDY POP x SOUR PATCH KIDS
On Tuesday, October 19th , CANDY POP popcorn and SOUR PATCH KIDS® celebrated the official launch of CANDY POP MADE WITH SOUR PATCH KIDS® - THE NEWEST, EXCITING FLAVOR INNOVATION combining America’s leading popcorn brand and #1 sour confection brand!
Actor NICO TORTORELLA, Star of Younger, Bella Banos and Alonzo Slater among many others, attended the VIP celebration held last night, October 19th, at JIMMY Soho at Modernhaus hotel in NYC, and featured music by DJ TAY JAMES (Official DJ For Justin Bieber).
Nico mingled with friends at the rooftop party, enjoyed CANDY POP x SOUR PATCH KIDS® popcorn treats and they even danced with the official SOUR PATCH KIDS® mascot as DJ Tay James had amazing beats going all evening long.
SNAX-Sational Brands’ premiere popcorn brand, inclusive of Cookie Pop and Candy Pop, officially debuted its the exciting new Candy Pop creation, Candy Pop Popcorn made with SOUR PATCH KIDS.® Attendees enjoyed the newest flavor variety by CANDY POP featuring a REDBERRY® flavored coating on their signature popcorn topped with authentic SOUR PATCH KIDS® Bitz and finished with a sour sugar sprinkle.
Guests at the rooftop fete enjoyed fun CANDY POP and SOUR PATCH KIDS® elements such as a custom cotton candy cart, fun brand merchandise, oversized Candy Pop popcorn bags, life-size SOUR PATCH KIDS® and the official SOUR PATCH KIDS® mascot. Candy Pop promo models served the sweet and savory new popcorn creation to guests, who also enjoyed delicious cuisine from JIMMY Soho such as sliders and flatbreads by chef George Mendes of Veranda Soho, and three delectable custom desserts - Gianduja Hazelnut Chocolate Cups, Honeycrisp Apple Tart, and a Pumpkin cheesecake with toasted meringue, all topped with the new popcorn flavor by Candy Pop.
The event kicked off at sunset, overlooking the beautiful downtown Manhattan skyline, as guests danced and mingled under the stars. Attendees sipped on brightly colored themed cocktails from Lobos 1707 Tequila, wine spritzers by Coastal, and a specialty cherry flavor mocktail featuring the sour candy as a garnish.
Visit www.cookiepopcandypop.com for more information and follow @CookiePop_CandyPop and @SourPatchKids on social media. #CandyPopSourPatchKids
Candy Pop made with SOUR PATCH KIDS® popcorn which hits shelves officially this week, for October 2021 at Walmart nationwide.
Photo Credit: Michael Simon/Startraksphoto.com
11th Annual Taste of the Seaport
On Saturday, October 16th, Taste of the Seaport returned to the Seaport for the 11th year of food, fun, and fundraising. Sponsored by The Howard Hughes Corporation, Downtown’s premier food festival brought together over 30 of the best restaurants in Lower Manhattan and showcased an array of local vendors, artisans, entertainers, and family friendly activities. The annual event benefits the arts and enrichment programs at Public School 397 (The Spruce Street School) and Public School 343 (The Peck Slip School).
An eclectic mix of Lower Manhattan’s best food and beverage vendors came together at Taste of the Seaport to highlight one of the city’s fastest growing neighborhoods and its vibrant restaurant scene. Food lovers were invited to explore a variety of culinary options available in the Seaport and Financial District with delicious dishes from Eataly Downtown, Industry Kitchen, Watermark Bar, Beatnic, Fresh Salt, Stout FiDi, Route 66 Smokehouse, and Mac Daddy’s, to name a few.
For the first time, Taste of the Seaport had a demonstration stage where guests learned the Art of Pizza Making from Keste and also got to take in an Interactive Potion Mixology Demonstration by The Cauldron NYC. There was live music throughout the fest in addition to family-friendly activities at the festival’s expansive KidsZone.
For more information, please visit www.tasteoftheseaport.org
3 Can't Miss Omakase Experiences in NYC
Kintsugi
Kintsugi (28 Grand Street) offers four indoor omakase experiences to choose from; The Rush Hour for $65, The Grand Street Classic for $95, The SoHo Omakase for $125 and The Kintsugi Signature Omakase for $175. The experiences range from 9 pieces for The Rush Hour, to 15 pieces for The Kintsugi Omakase in addition to serving up a seasonal appetizer and sashimi plate, a chef's choice handroll, Tomago, Miso Soup and a seasonal dessert, making this a dinner not to miss. Three omakase experiences are offered al-fresco and reservations can be made by visiting www.kintsuginyc.com. The restaurant is open Tuesday and Wednesday from 5pm - 11pm, Thursday - Sunday from 12pm - 4pm for lunch and 5pm - 11pm for dinner.
Sushi Lab Rooftop
Sushi Lab Rooftop at The Sanctuary Hotel (132 W. 47th Street) raises the roof, serving up an elevated omakase from Executive Frankie Chen daily. Two omakases are offered, a Chef's Selection 10 piece omakase for $60 and The Lab Experiment 16 piece omakase for $120. Specialty sushi rolls, handrolls and appetizers are also offered in addition to a wide selection of expertly crafted cocktails. The rooftop restaurant is open from 12pm - 10pm seven days per week and reservations can be made on Resy or by visiting https://sushilab.nyc/
Sushi by Bou
Sushi by Bou has locations in NYC, Jersey City, Miami, Chicago and Pompano Beach. Their Times Square subterranean location is located at The Sanctuary Hotel, a true sushi lovers haven. A Signature $50 per person 30-minute omakase and $100 60-minute Omakase experience are offered making it a great way to grab a quick bite before a Broadway show. Reservations can be made at www.sushibybou.com.
TOP OCTOBER EVENTS
The Bacon and Beer Classic will head to The Lot (at 107 Morgan Street) in Jersey City on October 9th. The event is ditching sample sizes this year and going straight to full course meals with decadent dishes like Pork Belly Banh Mi and Chocolate Bacon Cupcakes on the menu.
That's in addition to 50+ craft beers to sample to toast and celebrate Oktoberfest with.
2. New York Comic Con 2021
Finally back after the postponement of the 2020 NYCC due to COVID. The New York Comic Con is an annual New York City fan convention dedicated to comics, graphic novels, anime, manga, video games, toys, movies, and television.
On Tuesday, October 19, 2021, the enCourage Kids Foundation will host Serving Up Smiles, a premier tasting event that will include decadent plates from the hottest chefs and top named restaurants in NYC, VIP Speakeasy Lounge presented by Go Tab featuring Shinju Japanese Whiskey, world-class wines, cocktails, and incredible auction items at The Lighthouse at Chelsea Piers. Red Carpet & VIP Reception 6:00pm-7:00pm and doors 7:00pm-9:30pm.
Taste of the Seaport returns to the Seaport for the 11th year of food, fun, and fundraising. Sponsored by The Howard Hughes Corporation, Downtown’s premier food festival brings together over 30 of the best restaurants in Lower Manhattan and showcases an array of local vendors, artisans, entertainers, and family friendly activities, making it an enjoyable day out for children and adults alike. The annual event benefits the arts and enrichment programs at Public School 397 (The Spruce Street School) and Public School 343 (The Peck Slip School). This year’s event will take place on Saturday, October 16th from 12 p.m.–3 p.m. at Piers 16 and 17.
Ticket packs will be available for purchase at www.tasteoftheseaport.org for $45 for 5 tastes. Guests may also purchase tickets on the day of the festival for $50. VIP tables will also be available for an additional fee, which will provide access to an exclusive seating area complete with table service and complimentary beer, wine and soda.
For more information, please visit www.tasteoftheseaport.org
Planning a party of your own this year or next? The 9th Annual Event Planner Expo presented by EMRG Media returns from October 12th to the 14th.
The expo will have a star-studded lineup of speakers including Shark Tank star and Celebrity Event Planner Colin Cowie. Events will take place at the Metropolitan Pavilion, SPIN and Nebula Nightclub.
Tickets, which begin at $69, can be purchased by visiting: www.TheEventPlannerExpo2021.com
Off Broadway actor and producer Matt de Rogatis has announced that his non profit theater organization, Ruth Stage, has formed a partnership with the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation. The two charities have been informally working together since last May on a variety of projects but have only recently finalized a series of fundraising events through early 2022.
As part of their syndicate, an exclusive gala entitled Theater Saves Lives: An Evening of Hope, will be held at 7pm on Tuesday, October the 26th, 2021. The benefit will be held at Cubico in Soho, New York City located at 433 Broadway in “The Cellar” space. This exclusive event is limited to 100 guests and tickets are available on tier levels ranging from $300 to $800 for individuals and $500 to $1500 for couples.
Attendees can expect a full service open bar with specialty cocktails, a high end, southern inspired pass around dinner, dessert, live music, guest speakers from the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation and a charity auction featuring fine art, sports memorabilia and getaway vacation packages. Proceeds will benefit the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation and Ruth Stage.
To purchase tickets to Theater Saves Lives: An Evening of Hope, visit www.ruthstage.org or www.theatersaveslives.eventbrite.com.
7. EXXXOTICA 2021
The largest event in the USA dedicated to love and sex is back! Beginning Oct 22, the three-day run at Edison NJ.
Exxxotica Expo is an annual three-day adult-themed event produced by 3XEvents. Billed as a "Celebration of Sexy", Exxxotica Expo shows are held in several US cities, which currently include Edison, New Jersey, Chicago, Miami and Portland, Oregon.
For more information on stars and schedules please visit https://exxxoticaexpo.com/
Join us for a Swing Dinner Dance on Thursday, October 21st, 2021
7.00PM – Midnight
Metropolitan Club
Purchase Your Tickets
9. Halloween Parties
Get tickets to see the long-awaited New York City return of Tiësto, who will kick off Halloween weekend with a FEARHOUSE NYC headlining show at The New York Expo Center (1110 Oak Point Ave.) in the Bronx on Friday, October 29th. The Chainsmokers will headline a Halloween weekend rave the following night with Surf Mesa, Ship Wrek and Zack Bia on Saturday, October 30th. Tickets are on sale now at www.degpresents.com
10. Cocteleria de los Muertos - Halloween Pop-up
Coctelería de los Muertos – from Den Hospitality (the team behind Bandits and the Garret bars) which just launched 10/5 at The Garret Coctelería (349 Broome Street). With custom-built altars honoring artistic icons we’ve lost (think: Marilyn Monroe, The Notorious B.I.G., Jimi Hendrix, Amy Winehouse, and more), over 5,000 feet of marigold flowers, an abundance of candles, string lights, and bright blankets to keep outdoor diners warm, this is the ultimate set-up for spooky season.
You can view the full menu here.
11. Loulou Reopening
@Floratorium
Loulou (176 8th Avenue) in Chelsea will reopen on Tuesday, October 12th following an arson attack in August. Like a phoenix rising from the ashes, this fabulous French Bistro and Speakeasy will debut a beautifully rebuilt exterior with fall florals from Floratorium. Signature menu items from Executive Chef Jarett Brodie include the Loulou Burger made with grass-fed beef, cheddar and caramelized onions, Duck Leg Confit with apple rosemary puree and gala chutney and Steak Frites featuring a 7oz skirt steak and béarnaise. Pair you lunch, brunch or dinner with a perfectly crafted cocktail and you’ll start your fall right.
11. Slice Out Hunger
Fornino at Brooklyn Bridge Park location is supporting Slice Out Hunger on Sunday, October 17th from 12pm - 4:30pm with an outdoor pizza party featuring some of the NYC area’s top pizza makers. Early bird tickets are $35, which grants you access to Fornino’s pizza patio at Pier 6 for a 90-minute session with all the pizza you can imagine complemented by a cash bar for beer and wine. 100% of proceeds will support local hunger relief. Tickets can be purchased by visiting, sliceouthunger.org.