Slate Rooftop Opens
Slate, which has operated in Chelsea since 2000, raised the roof to commemorate its 22nd birthday this month. Slate Rooftop opened in Williamsburg just in time for summer. The Pod Brooklyn Hotel now has Brooklyn's only solar-powered rooftop.
Brooklyn's greenest rooftop bar is this outdoor haven. The rooftop and courtyard beer garden are powered by solar panels that recycle electricity. The rooftop solar panels generate enough energy to power the venue. Solar panels cover approximately 1800 square feet on both sides of the roof.
Guests at the launch celebration were urged to take the lean and green route up to the rooftop to help save even more energy and see some of OG Millie and Colby Rosenthal's spectacular art. From the ground level to the rooftop, the stairwell is an art lover's paradise, with one-of-a-kind works.
Executive Chef Darryl Harmon of Slate Rooftop has devised a menu of shared foods such as Beef Short Rib Birria Tacos, Philly Cheesesteak Empanadas, Korean Spicy Cauliflower, Crispy Mac N' Cheese Bites, and more. There are also artisanal pizzas, salads, and desserts to choose from.
In addition to four rotating beers on tap, Froses are a mainstay on the cocktail menu. The Slate Smash features vodka, aperol, muddled raspberries and mint, lemon juice, and simple syrup; the Jenga Gingersnap features Earl Grey vodka, ginger beer, thyme infused ginger syrup, lime, crystallized ginger, and fresh thyme; and the Queen's Gambit features bourbon, peach puree, honey syrup, lemon juice, peach bitters, a lemon wheel, and rosemary.
The new roof, which is loaded with fun and games, is now open for brunch on weekends and from late afternoon to evening on weekdays. There's also a large, al fresco private event room with a view of the NYC skyline where guests can celebrate important milestones.
Photo Credit: Greg Groovez
Dave & Buster's Brooklyn Opening
On Monday, May 9, Dave & Buster's launched its second Brooklyn location, joining a smattering of other retailers and eateries in the Atlantic Center. After a two-year hiatus owing to the pandemic, the second Dave & Buster's facility in Brooklyn has finally opened at Atlantic Terminal. The new location of this iconic establishment is easily accessible, conveniently located near the Atlantic terminal at Barclays Center.
As the ultimate destination to eat, play, drink, and watch sports, the new Dave & Busters features an over 34,000 square-foot space with hundreds of the latest and greatest arcade games, a new chef-crafted menu with options for every taste and diet preference, inventive drinks, and the state-of-the-art D&B Sports Bar featuring a 40-foot “WOW'' wall of high-definition screens for an unparalleled stadium-like viewing experience.
We enjoyed craft cocktails along with a series of delicious bites that gave us all the energy we needed to enjoy the many games. From cruising down the racetrack with Mario Kart to shooting hoops and tearing up the dance floor with Dance Dance Revolution, Dave & Busters has something for everyone… which makes it the perfect place to host a party! Whether it’s a company team-bonding event, a birthday, or any other celebration, Dave & Busters has a private room with catering options and offers a personal planner to ensure your event goes perfectly.
Though Dave & Busters is already known for having the most thrilling and playful energy, their just-opened location will definitely be the new headquarters for all Brooklyn fun.
This Dave & Buster's establishment not only gave Brooklyn another venue to interact and have fun, but it also produced roughly 170 jobs by hiring the attendants, servers, managers, cooks, and bartenders needed to bring the arcade to life.
Wild At Heart Beach Club Pop-up at The Skinny
No need to travel outside Manhattan for a beach club vibe this Memorial Day weekend! The Lower East Side staple The Skinny (174 Orchard St) is gearing up to debut its first spring/summer pop-up, Wild At Heart Beach Club.
The Skinny, transformed into an edgy tropical oasis, will be decked out floor-to-ceiling with palm tree wallpaper, a greenery covered wall with protruding hot pink skulls, the ceiling covered with oversized upside down cocktail umbrellas (aka paper parasol), with more surprises to make you feel like you’ve been whisked off the paradise, without a care in the world.
Wild At Heart Beach Club will boast special food items, beachy themed cocktails like Mermaid's Wish and Asphalt Oasis; and no beach club is complete without speciality frozen drinks.
Expect events to take place throughout the summer, with entertainment and specials including Thursday night Retro Beach A-GO-GO Party, with GoGo dancers starting at 10:30pm and $10 specialty cocktails, Friday night Burlesque show every Friday 9pm-11pm, upstairs at The "Lady Orchard Lounge," Saturday & Sunday 2hr Bottomless Brunch from 12noon-4pm ($39). Additionally, Sunday & Wednesday will feature .50 cent wings and Monday-Friday there will be $10 specials Food item with a beer (food selection changes each day)
For more information, visit: https://www.theskinny-nyc.com and follow on IG at @theskinnybar
Nashville Hot Chicken at JACX&CO’S
JACX&CO (28-17 Jackson Avenue), a new food hall in Long Island City (28-17 Jackson Avenue), debuted in November of last year to rave reviews. The food hall is located on the plaza level of The JACX, a 1.2 million square-foot creative office campus developed, owned and operated by Tishman Speyer. JACX&CO’s intuitive architectural design and branding set the stage for the food hall’s culinary experts, with an expansive dining room (reminiscent of a modern, airy courtyard) surrounded by the vendors’ booths which line the perimeter of the space.
The food hall reflects the vibrant culture of its neighborhood with diverse cuisine and versatile culinary options from celebrated chefs. All food options are available for indoor dining, pick-up and delivery, with a full service bar and outdoor dining.
JACX&CO recently opened their outdoor patio – perfect for enjoying a delectable meal from JACX&CO’s standout vendors, including the new Hot Chicken Takeover (HCT), which opened on 5/17.
HCT is a community-focused restaurant serving juicy, perfectly fried Nashville Hot Chicken. Founded in Columbus, Ohio in 2014, HCT prioritizes quality ingredients like fresh, never frozen chicken, housemade sides and fixings. A majority of HCT’s employees are hired through its Fair Chance program, which provides supportive employment to those who have been impacted by the justice system and adversity due to incarceration, homelessness and addiction. Some of the items on the menu includes:
Nashville Hot Chicken – marinated for 18 hours and fried-to-order with four heat levels
Miss B’s Banana Pudding – can also be made gluten-free!
Ma’s Slaw – made with tangy vinegar, not mayo
Hand punched fries – fresh cut daily
Ma’s Sweet Tea
The Bar at JACX&CO also serves up expert wine selections for those who want to go the classic route and premium craft beer for those who want to kick back and relax. Those who find themselves looking for a nightcap before heading home would find that The Bar at JACX&CO will more than satisfy their need for a buzz.
Bottles of top-of-the-line drinks filled the shelf from left to right. Surrounded by coat-covered high stool chairs, wooden tables, and comfy ottomans, the bar was full of guests looking to try inventive new drinks and some old favorites. There’s a lot of fun to be had just from the playfully named cocktails: a sweet-with-a-kick Gantry Park Fizz, Sunnyside, Spice & Smooth, Tale of 2 Cities, Side Piece, a classic Jacx & Coke, Queens Gold, and a smooth Highlander.
The full vendor list at JACX&CO’S
Beebe’s - a crispy, thin-crust pizzeria paying tribute to New York City’s original-style pies.
Hot Chicken Takeover - made-to-order Nashville-style hot chicken and delicious sides
Lotus + Cleaver - a fast-casual Chinese spot that highlights a mix of traditional and modern Chinese flavors featuring locally sourced ingredients in curated and make-your-own bowls, fresh salads, and seasonal market sides.
Méxology - chef Ivy Stark’s fast-casual Mexican spot using locally sourced, naturally raised and organic ingredients whenever possible, Méxology features bright flavors and fresh ideas with plates, bowls, tacos, and sides.
Taïm - chef Einat Admony’s popular falafel chain. Israeli inspired Mediterranean street food using the finest quality ingredients and spices.
Jia - specialty Chinese dim sum
Biao Sugar - bubble Tea
Temakase - lively hand roll sushi bar
Ghaya - an all-day Tunisian cafe from pastry chef Ghaya Oliveira
For more information and hours https://jacxandco.com/
Taste of Tribeca 2022
Taste of Tribeca — the 26th annual fundraiser for PS 234 and PS 150 — returned to Duane Park on May 21 after a two-year hiatus. Covid canceled the events in 2020 and 2021, but the volunteer organizers found a way to raise money by purchasing meals from local eateries, which were then delivered to hospitals throughout the city during the pandemic's deadliest days. It raised $70,000 and fed 8000 people.
The 26th Annual Taste of Tribeca highlighted a roster of Michelin-starred, award-winning, and other excellent restaurants, allowing attendees to sample the best dishes and drinks that Lower Manhattan has to offer.
While the weather was unseasonably hot, over 60 of Tribeca's top restaurants came together for an incredible outdoor food festival and public school fundraiser. Participating restaurants included 1803 NYC, AMERICAN CUT TRIBECA, AÑEJO TRIBECA, BELLE REVE, BENARES, BILLY'S BAKERY, BUBBY'S, CITY VINEYARD, CLASSIC NEW YORK BEER, TORCH & CROWN BREWING COMPANY, DOWNTOWN YOGURT & ICE CREAM, EDWARD'S, ESTANCIA 460 & NORTH BAR. FONDA, GIGINO TRATTORIA, GRANDAISY BAKERY, HAMLET HOUND, HOOK & LADDER 8, IL MULINO, INSOMNIA COOKIES, JUNGSIK. KHE-YO, L' ANGOLO TRIBECA, L' ABEILLE, MACAO TRADING COMPANY, MAMAN, MAX, MONK McGINN'S, MONTAUK BREWING COMPANY, MUDVILLE, ONE WHITE STREET, ONESEED, PAISLEY RESTAURANT, PUFFY'S TAVERN, PEPOLINO RESTAURANT, RESTAURANT MARC FORGIONE, SERAFINA TRIBECA, TAKAHACHI, TERROIR, THE HIDEAWAY, THE ODEON, THE PALM, THE ROXY HOTEL, TINY'S & THE BAR UPSTAIRS, TRIBECA GRILL, TWO HANDS, WALKERS, YVES, ZUCKER'S BAGELS & SMOKED FISH, ZUTTO JAPANESE AMERICAN PUB
Guests were also urged to bring their children to the KidsZone (located in Duane Park) for family-friendly activities, which included arts and crafts with Craft Studio and Spotlight Kids, games with Cocoon, edible art with Cricket's Candy, coding with The Coder School, and reading at Book Nook. Fashion Squad School, Dance with Miss Rachel, Arc Athletics, BB Skate Club, and Nicol Squash all gave performances.
All revenues will go toward music lessons, museum and author trips, and technological upgrades for over 800 youngsters at PS 150 and PS 234 public schools. It's never been easier to indulge for a good cause!
Bongos - Dinner through comtemporary noir lens
Bongos (85 Orchard St) — a new neighborhood bistro and cocktail bar located in the LES — has officially opened on May 17.
Owners Michael Beaumont Bray and Noble Harris, who also operate Kind Regards and Dingaling, bring their distinct sensibility to Bongos (Bongos is their first full service restaurant as owners). Bongos is the neighborhood's new go-to spot for group dining, conviviality, and shared experiences, drawing inspiration from supper clubs and designed to feel like a sophisticated and dynamic dinner party every night of the week.
Bongos has a laid-back, welcoming ambience that brings back memories for everyone who walks through its doors. Imagining the dinner party through a contemporary noir lens, they pay tribute to the Lower East Side as they live it – with dinner served until midnight, along with a curated beverage menu and weekend brunch.
Bongos’s menu features modern renditions of classic American Dishes. Popular bites include:
Charbroiled Oysters with pecorino, Aleppo, and herbs
Steak Tartare with black sesame, ancho, and pickled mustard seed
Bongos Chicken with Calabrian relish, house pickles, and herbs
Pacific Whiting with guajillo mojo, sourdough, and fennel
The cocktail menu offers something for everyone; options include:
The Chamomile Martini, plus classic and dirty martinis
"Negronis-ish” – a selection of Negronis and “Negroni-adjacent” libations, including Rum-Banana-Coconut, Mexican Coffee and Mezcal-Coffee-Amaro options
The Bongos Highball (scotch, honey, ginger, lemon)
The Orange Julius (vodka, vanilla, tangerine, lemon)
The Southside (gin, mint, cucumber, lime)
The restaurant's four separate areas (including the amber-hued grand dining room and rear atrium) are all inspired by the Lower East Side's personality and based on the concept of a dinner party in a private residence. Enjoy B-grade noir films on repeat, as well as terrazzo and handpicked outsider art in the decor.
Bongos's menus can be found online here.
Interior photos by Bongos
Grey Lady Happy Hour
Grey Lady (77 Delancey St) — the Lower East Side restaurant and late-night bar inspired by the casual beach towns of coastal New England. Offering an unpretentious, farm-to-table menu of seafood dishes and seasonal cocktails, Grey Lady is a laid-back escape for locals and visitors alike. They’ve been open for 10+ years (a feat in NYC) and are truly better than ever! This place is the spot for happy hour after a long day at work.
What’s On Tap at Grey Lady This Summer?
Dollar Oysters: All summer long, Grey Lady will offer weekday happy hour from 4pm - 6pm — including $1 oysters, $6 drafts, $9 wine, and $10 cocktails
Lobster Rolls: Make sure you don’t miss Grey Lady’s 1¼-lb freshly-shucked Maine lobster rolls – perfect for those who know you don’t have to leave New York to find great seafood
Nantucket-Inspired Cocktails: Enjoy refreshing libations like Grey Lady’s Nantucket Blueberry Lemonade, Sconset Slammer, and Spicy Watermelon Margarita
Grey Lady is open every day of the week until midnight or later (and until 4am on weekends), with reservations via Resy.
Intimate Cocktail Tasting at Bond 45
On May 17, we were welcomed to an intimate cocktail tasting and happy hour with Gabriele Guidoni, Corporate Beverage Director of Fireman Hospitality Group, at Bond 45 in Times Square (221 West 46th Street).
Guidoni demonstrated Fireman's upcoming spring and summer cocktail program with samples of the Pink Grapefruit Negroni Sorbet, Sgroppino Al Limone, The Pain Killer, as well as martinis (which have always been a fan favorite at FHG and continue to see an ongoing demand from guests), including their Espresso Martini. Cocktail samples were accompanied by light snacks, and mocktail choices were available upon request.
Espresso Martini
Pineapple Mojito
Guidoni has been with Fireman Hospitality Group for nearly 8 years and has previously held executive positions at award-winning restaurant groups in Rome, Doha, Vancouver, and other cities. He is a sommelier who attended the Italian Sommelier Association in Rome.
Fireman Hospitality Group features a portfolio of iconic restaurants located in high-traffic entertainment destinations and cultural centers including Broadway, Carnegie Hall, and Lincoln Center – including Bond 45 New York (221 West 46th Street), Café Fiorello (1900 Broadway at Lincoln Center), Brooklyn Delicatessen (200 West 57th Street), Brooklyn Diner (155 West 43rd Street and 212 West 57th Street), Redeye Grill (890 7th Avenue), and Trattoria Dell’Arte (900 7th Avenue).
Life Rooftop
As the summer weather commences, Life Rooftop is the ideal setting to enjoy a delicious cocktail and gaze at the sunset over Central Park.
Life Rooftop is a modern lounge and terrace atop hotel Le Meridien in midtown, with two bars fixing an array of alluring cocktails while also offering delicious bites from Executive Chef Anastacia Song. Life Rooftop’s clever design features a sleek indoor lounge to relax on those breezier nights, with also a covered terrace area to be able to enjoy the rooftop rain or shine. The perfect blend of elegance and comfortability.
Image courtesy of Assante Public Relations
Image courtesy of Assante Public Relations
The extensive bar menu features beautifully adorned craft cocktails as well as various options of bottle service. There’s even a delightful Rope Hanger Punch pitcher perfect for celebrations with friends. Executive Chef Anastacia Song’s menu offers an array of bar bites such as assorted cured meats and cheeses, as well as fun pub pretzels, cajun spice wings and everything bagel pastry pups.
The Seersucker (Rum, Fresh Strawberry, Lemon and Cinnamon) and a Classic Old Fashioned
The Tropical Nymph (Vodka, Blue Curacao, Pineapple, Mango, and Orgeat)
The Rope Hanger Punch perfect for sharing
New York native Anastacia Song switched from medical school to the hospitality industry upon realizing her heart was in the kitchen. She began her career in bartending before learning from Chef Harold Moore at Commerce where she continued to be a Chef de Cuisine in Jersey City, before returning to New York to work at Martha in Fort Greene, and Treehaus in Midtown. She became Executive Chef at American Cut for two years discovering her love of steak before helming the kitchen at Kumi in Le Meridien. Her expertise now brings small plate creations to the Life Rooftop.
Life Rooftop is owned and operated by Disruptive Restaurant Group led by Sam Nazarian, incubating globally renowned culinary brands and critically acclaimed restaurants, lounges and nightclubs.
Start your summer off with a visit to Life Rooftop and catch the dazzling Central Park views for a real living it up in NYC experience!
Distillers Cut: Chocolate Spirit Tasting & Cocktail Event
Our/New York hosted a Chocolate Spirit Tasting and Cocktail Event on April 9th to celebrate the launch of their latest creation, Our/New York Cocoa Vodka.
When they’re not making the smoothest vodka in NYC, O/NY’s distillers are often exploring various distillation techniques and botanical combinations. Their latest project, a cold-distilled limited-edition cocoa vodka, is as delicious as it sounds. Experience the new spirit and the creative custom cocktails crafted with it by the bar team at Manhattan’s first distillery since prohibition.Each cocktail tasting will be thoughtfully paired with locally sourced bites. To end the night, a full sized cocktail, an indulgent dessert, and a custom locally-crafted gift for you to enjoy at home.
Program included:
A fresh palate cleanser to prepare for initial spirit tasting
A 80 proof Our/New York Vodka & a limited edition chocolate vodka
3 cocktails crafted to highlight our latest project, a cold-distilled cocoa vodka, each thoughtfully paired with locally sourced bites
1. Our/CoCo-Old Fashioned with Duck L’Orange
2. Our/Holy Mole with Chicken OR Veggie Mole
3. Our/Neopolitan with Cheesecake from Juniors
A dessert cocktail experience
Our/Coco Espresso Martini with Cookie, Micro-fruit Salad & Annelies Cave Aged Reserve from Murray’s Cheese
Locally-crafted chocolate gift box
The event was an amazing experience and we would not be surpised to see it become a tradition there.
Isla New York
Isla pronounced “Eye, Luh” is a secret gem located in the heart of midtown. Situated in the boutique Hendricks hotel, but you certainly shouldn't discount it for that reason. It still feels like its own location with a very intimate dining room and a gorgeous bar that greets you as you step in.
We ordered the oysters, fried quail, and chicken liver mousse starters. Oysters set the tone immediately and were exceptionally fresh and flavorsome. The quail was delicious as well, but the chicken liver mousse was a life changing dish. The explosion of flavors that happens when you bite into the mousse is unexplainable, you just have to try it for yourself. For entrees we ordered seared scallops and roasted chicken. Everything was so flavorful and cooked perfectly. We don't like to dine at the same places, but we'll certainly be back here!
The menu encapsulates Australian style cooking - creative dishes and a seasonally driven dinner menu with excellent cuts of meat paired with bright flavors alongside vegetable focussed dishes. Isla is designed to fit the bill for your morning coffee, a mid-week lunch walk-in, an intimate dinner date or a social gathering spot, providing a convivial eatery boasting healthy, always-fresh, seasonal, high-quality ingredients and dishes, alongside an engaging service.
The food here is magnificent. Presentation and quality matched the setting perfectly. Can't wait to come back and try the rest of the menu but will always be getting the Chicken Liver with Bacon Mouse and the Seared Scallops!
Canary Club
Ideal for a night out with friends or a romantic date, Canary Club’s unexpected decor and entertainment make for a truly unforgettable evening. Inspired by the intoxicating energy of New Orleans, this unique supper club features a variety of live entertainment to go with your meal, including live jazz, funk, soul, disco, plus weekly comedy shows. Located in the heart of New York's Lower East Side at 303 Broome St, make sure you check out this vibrant bi-level spot
Opened in October 2019 by husband and wife duo Ryan Chadwick and Emily Frantz, Canary Club recently updated many of their menu items and cocktails. Canary Club’s menu includes colorful, modern American dishes cooked in a wood-fired oven. Highlights of the menu included perfectly roasted garlic & parsley creole escargot, prepared in the classic French fashion, and hoisin pork belly lettuce wraps. The differing flavor profiles were both equally delicious, a feat not easy to pull off. The crown jewel of the dinner menu was the featured Canary Club Fried Chicken with voodoo spice, crystal hot sauce, and waffle fries.
The signature cocktails were modern and exceptional, with names after the artists and art pieces from the Dada & Surrealist movements. Van Gogh’s Ear fittingly blended absinthe, cognac, grenadine, cachaca, and citrus to create a vivid and bright cocktail reminiscent of the paintings it referenced. The Two Fridas was also one of the recommended signature cocktails, with reposado tequila, mezcal, aperitif wine, thym liqueur, and cassis mixed together for a fiery, statement-making flavor combination that Miss Kahlo herself would certainly enjoy. And by featuring unique zero-proof cocktails, Canary Club ensures that you can partake in the fun even if you’re not drinking.
From the crafted and thoughtful meals and drinks to the handpicked selection of music, this elevated neighborhood bar can’t be missed.
Carnegie Diner & Cafe and Pizza & Shakes
There’s nothing like the cozy feeling of diner food and Carnegie Diner is here to cure your cravings!
Image courtesy of @CarnegieDiner
Although the famous diner reopened its doors a few years ago, its food options have continued to expand ever since. Carnegie Diner & Cafe, which is located on 205 W 57th Street, has everything from omelettes and pancakes to seafood and burgers.
Image courtesy of @CarnegieDiner
Carnegie Diner & Cafe also serves desserts, ranging from cheesecakes to pies, which can satisfy any sweet tooth! But if you’re in the mood for some pizza and milkshakes, walk down the street to find yourself at Pizza & Shakes, Carnegie Diner’s sister-store.
Image courtesy of @CarnegieDiner
Pizza & Shakes an original premier pizza, milkshake, and gelato restaurant providing high-quality food while combining fun and vibrant ambiance. Pizzas come in one unique size and one price featuring a variety of chef's specialty pizzas as well as a build-your-own option. Premium milkshakes include the basic flavors of chocolate, vanilla, strawberry, and cookies and cream. Gelato milkshakes are also available in various flavors using their authentic Italian gelato.
Both restaurants offer delivery and pickup, but if you’re ever in Midtown in search of the best diner food there is, look no further than Carnegie Diner & Cafe! For more information, visit www.carnegiediner.com or https://www.pizzashakes.com.
Made in New York Pizza West Village
Last night Made in New York Pizza opened its second location at 561 Hudson Street between Perry and West 11 streets with great fanfare at a party that celebrated NYC. The new location features a robust menu of pizzas in both traditional and square pies and by the slice along an impressive art collection of murals, NFTs and graffiti art that celebrate NYC. It is owned and operated by restaurateur Eytan Sugarman in partnership with Chef Lou Tomczak formerly of Emmy Squared. Sugarman’s partners in the project include Gary Vaynerchuk, Guy Oseary, Ryan Tedder and DJ Clue.
Guests at the party, with beats by DJ Clue, included Broadway power couple Orfeh and Andy Karl and sampled the Made In New York Spicy Pepperoni Square and new specialties such as The Drunken Grandma (grandma style square with fresh mozzarella, vodka sauce, fresh basil), Street Fair Square (sausage, shaved Vidalia onion and chopped cherry pepper), and new Margherita (fresh tomato sauce, pecorino, stracciatella cheese, basil and extra virgin olive oil). New vegan options, made with Violife Cheese were also available and included a cheese pie, a plant based pepperoni pie and a "vegan grandma" with hand crushed plum tomatoes, fresh chopped garlic, and Sicilian Oregano.
Also at the event was renowned Graffiti artist Lord Henry who created a graffiti mural on the restaurant's floor that is reminiscent of 1980’s era street art. Guests also took in several NFT’s from Sugarman’s personal collection including a rare Bored Ape Yacht Club Ape and The Very, Very Very Lucky Black Cat, which are a part of the mural. The “A Love Letter To New York” mural-consisting of a full wall canvas work that encompasses hundreds of images of iconic people, moments, and images of NYC- was also on display for all to see. Images on it include famous sports moments, scenes from movies shot in NYC, NYC iconic artists like Basquiat, Warhol, Keith Haring and LeRoy Neiman.
Made in New York Pizza's new location will be open from 12PM-12AM daily for take out, dine in and and will also deliver. It is at 561 Hudson Between West 11th and Perry.
$45,000 Cognac in NYC
History met luxury at the rooftop club Somewhere Nowhere NYC as Remy Martin’s Louis XIII Cognac was unveiled for a celebratory tasting. Only 0.0000038361% of people worldwide have had the opportunity to taste this unique and rare liquor.
With garden-inspired decor and a magical design, Somewhere Nowhere’s outdoor lounge and open-air rooftop pool gave 360-views of Manhattan’s majestic skyline and provided a truly immersive nightlife experience. The interior featured multiple floors and even an open-air rooftop pool, making it a luxury nightlife destination perfectly designed for the exclusive previewing of limited edition ultra-rare NXIII decanter by LOUIS XIII.
A LOUIS XIII Brand Ambassador hosted the exclusive LOUIS XIII tasting paired with caviar. The tasting explained the blend of the cognac, which is composed of up to 1,200 of the finest and most precious eaux-de-vie from grapes grown in Grande Champagne vineyard in the region of Cognac. This fiery, colorless liquid is poured into century-old Limousin oak casks to mature over the years. Since 1874, the Remy Martin Cellar Masters has set aside the finest Grande Champagne eau-de-vie and used their artistic intuition and craftsmanship to hand-pick different combinations of aged eaux-de-vie set aside by their predecessors to blend in such a way that retains the taste and aromas of LOUIS XIII cognac throughout time.
After admiring how the liquor was housed in a Baccarat crystal decanter marked with the signature fleur de lis insignia, we were led through the process of first eyeing the honeyed amber tones of the cognac and then enjoying a slow sip to fully dissect and appreciate the individual flavors that arose from both the taste and aroma. At the caviar pairing, the richness of the LOUIS XIII mingled with the brininess of the Special Reserve Petrossian Caviar to create an explosion of flavors on the tongue. The experience captured the essence of luxury, and was made all the more opulent by being hosted in Somewhere Nowhere’s extravagant venue.
Clinton Hall's New Hashtag Burger
The newest addition to Clinton Hall's menu is their Hashtag Burger, which debuts on Thursday, March 10th. It'll be served off at a half-off price of $10 on 3/10 for one day only to celebrate Clinton Hall reaching 100,000 followers on Instagram.
It’ll be available at all Clinton Hall locations and will be added to the menu for $20 beginning on 3/11.
And guests who snap a picture of the burger and hashtag #clintonhall will also have a chance to win a $100 dollar gift card!
The Hashtag Burger created by Clinton Hall Executive Chef Darryl Harmon is made with Wagyu beef, American Cheese, Gem Lettuce, Tomato, Bread and Butter Pickles, House Made Ketchup, on a Brioche Roll.
Isla & Co in Williamsburg
Isla & Co in Williamsburg is officially opening today! Australian restaurant group Parched Hospitality Group, the team behind New York City’s wildly popular Hole in the Wall restaurants, The Sentry, Daintree and Ghost Burger, is introducing their latest hospitality concept, Isla & Co. which will be housed adjacent to The William Vale in Williamsburg.
Helming the kitchen will be Executive Chef Matt Foley, formerly of two Michelin-starred Marea in NYC, who is best known for his flavor development and visual plating. Foley has crafted a menu that encapsulates specialty dishes inspired by Australian coastal towns by day and a cocktail driven dinner destination by night, Isla & Co. draws influences from Australia, Europe and SouthEast Asia. The menu encapsulates Australian style cooking - creative brunch dishes and a seasonally driven dinner menu with excellent cuts of meat paired with bright flavors alongside vegetable focussed dishes. Isla & Co. is designed to fit the bill for your morning coffee, a mid-week lunch walk-in, an intimate dinner date or a social gathering spot, providing a convivial eatery boasting healthy, always-fresh, seasonal, high-quality ingredients and dishes, alongside an engaging service.
Isla & Co. also plans to open two new locations in Florida and one in Atlanta this year. Their West Palm Beach location at 14 Clare Avenue, across from the Grandview Public Market, will open this Spring in addition to a Miami Beach location and Atlanta's Isla & Co. opening is slated for July.
Food: Brunch, which will be served until 4pm everyday will include Chili Egg Scramble, Brekkie Roll, Smoked Salmon Benedict, Brioche French Toast, Griddled Banana Bread, Isla Burger, and the Pulled Pork Sandwich with cabbage slaw, pickled onion and served with fries. Dinner items include Spicy Shrimp Vodka Rigatoni, a Signature Isla Burger, Fish & Chips and a Half Chicken with seasonal roasted vegetables.
Coffee: Isla & Co. delivers a specialty coffee program inspired by Australian coffee culture serving Hole in the Wall Espresso. Isla & co will feature two signature house blends suitable for Espresso and drip extraction originating from Ethiopia and the Americas and roasted in Denver Colorado.
Alcohol: Isla & Co will offer an extensive wine list with a large focus on natural and organic wines, craft beers and signature cocktails like the Wizard of Aus - Starward Whiskey, lemon juice, sugar, egg white, Shiraz wine float, Isla Old Fashioned -bourbon, Amaro Montenegro, Eucalyptus bitters, and The Taipan - Hiatus Tequila, spicy pepper, yuzu, agave, shiso alongside brunch cocktail favorites like a mimosa and their house blend bloody mary. All beverages are served from brunch through to dusk.
Days and Hours of Operation: Monday-Sunday from 8am-11pm with brunch from 8am - 4pm and dinner from 5pm - 11pm.
The Bar at JACX&CO Launches at The JACX
JACX&CO made quite a splash during the launch of its bar on Thursday, March 10, at the plaza level of The JACX in Long Island City. Nestled in the middle of The JACX’s Food Hall, The Bar at JAX&CO’s shows promise of a new late-night hangout for Long Island City dwellers.
Bottles of top-of-the-line drinks filled the shelf from left to right. Surrounded by coat-covered high stool chairs, wooden tables, and comfy ottomans, the bar was full of guests looking to try inventive new drinks and some old favorites.
There’s a lot of fun to be had just from the playfully named cocktails: a sweet-with-a-kick Gantry Park Fizz, Sunnyside, Spice & Smooth, Tale of 2 Cities, Side Piece, a classic Jacx & Coke, Queens Gold, and a smooth Highlander.
The Bar at JACX&CO also serves up expert wine selections for those who want to go the classic route and premium craft beer for those who want to kick back and relax. Those who find themselves looking for a nightcap before heading home would find that The Bar at JACX&CO will more than satisfy their need for a buzz.
There’s no need to worry about late-night grub, either—not when there’s a selection of culinary treats from The JACX’s well-known Food Hall eateries like Méxology, Taïm, Lotus + Cleaver, Beebe’s, Ghaya, Biao Sugar, and Temakase.
The Bar at JACX&Co is open from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. from Sunday to Thursday and 12 p.m. to 11 p.m. from Friday to Saturday. It;s accessible through the 7, N, W, E, M, R, and G trains.
Kumi
Kumi, which serves Japanese classics with a Korean American twist at Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino in Las Vegas, made its New York City debut inside Le Meridien New York (120 W. 57th Street) on February 3rd. Visionary Sam Nazarian’s Disruptive Restaurant Group (DRG) from sbe, which has partnered with some of the culinary industry’s brightest names such as Michelin starred Chef Dani Garcia and Dario Cecchini just brought NYC’s hottest new sushi concept to life with rising star Executive Chef Anastacia Song helming the kitchen. Kumi spans 4,200 square feet and boasts indoor seating for up to 130 guests.
New York native Anastacia Song began her culinary career learning from Chef Harold Moore at Commerce. She then took on the role of Chef de Cuisine at Jersey City’s Porta for two years before returning to New York City in 2016 to work at Martha in Fort Greene, followed by Phil & Anne’s Good Time Lounge in Cobble Hill and Treehaus in Midtown Manhattan. Song went on to become Executive Chef for LDV Hospitality’s American Cut in 2018. In 2021, Chef Song was hired by DRG to helm the kitchen at Kumi at Le Meridien New York where she harmonizes modern Japanese and Korean American cuisine into an unforgettable ballad to both cultures.
Commenting on her new menu for Kumi, Executive Chef Anastacia Song said, “I was inspired to create a menu that matches the bold flavor of New York City and the sophisticated palate of our diners. Kumi’s new menu has something for everyone, East-Asian ingredients coupled with Korean flair and best of all our ingredients are all sustainably sourced, providing a feel-good menu to satisfy one’s every craving.”
Signature Kumi menu items include an A5 Wagyu Striploin, Green Tea Smoked Chicken, Miso Glazed Black Cod, Gochujang Glazed Salmon and Galbi Braised Short Rib served with wild mushrooms, truffle and charred pear. The restaurant also offers a list of creative specialty rolls include the Hot Mess with poke sashimi, Mani Kama, avocado and Screaming O Sauce, Kumikaze with Cajun salmon, asparagus and yuzu yogurt and the Vegan Roll with Romaine, asparagus, cucumber, assorted seaweed salad and sesame. Kumi will also offer classic starters, cool shared plates, warm shared plates, salads, sides, nigiri and sashimi as well as maki and dessert. Playfully named specialty cocktails include Seeing Stars with Shochu, Sake, Plum Wine, Lemongrass, Yuzu, Lemon and Shiso Leaves and Peach Don't Kill My Vibe with Japanese Whisky, Pisco, Pulque, Peach, Apricot, Lemon and Orange Bitters. Japanese whisky, beer, sake, Junmai, Ginjo and Daiginjo will also be offered in addition to an extensive fine wine list.
“With the Disruptive Restaurant Group, we've always prided ourselves with being on the cutting edge of culinary cuisine and technique and we are thrilled to bring Kumi, a Las Vegas favorite to New York City,” said Sam Nazarian, Founder and CEO of sbe. Nazarian added, “Chef Anastacia Song and the team at Kumi have created a decadent menu that pushes the boundaries of what Japanese cuisine can be.”
Kumi is open Tuesday - Saturday from 5pm-10pm. Reservations can be made via OpenTable and walk-ins are welcome. For more information, visit www.kumirestaurant.com.
NY Cheese & Wine Week
The 5th edition of the New York Cheese & Wine Week is back and will take place from March 7 to 16, 2022. Created by Jean-François Hesse, founder of Essential PR, this tasty celebration brings together top European dairy and wine producers from the Savoie region of France.
For this celebratory week, participating restaurants and venues throughout the city will offer enjoyable tastings and pairings prepared by the executive chefs and professional sommeliers.
For the cheese lovers out there, you will have the opportunity to try a variety of cheeses from flavorful blues, and creamy brie to hard sheep’s milk cheese. Prime quality producers include Emmi Cheese, Savencia Fromage and Dairy, Germain Fromagerie, Fromagerie Henri Hutin, and Fromi.
If you are looking for a silky brie with nutty notes, I recommend Brebirousse D’Argental without a doubt! Made from pure pasteurized sheep milk, it doesn’t only look pretty, it tastes good as well!
For a more fruity flavor, and a creamier texture you can also try Époisses, which is made from cow’s milk and is produced by Germain Fromagerie. From the same producers I suggest you try Le Pico, made from goat’s milk, it has a melty center and a rich taste that I loved!
Head over to the locations below to try all these amazing cheeses and many many more!
Le District, Manhattan - CHEESE STATION
Murray’s Cheese, Manhattan - CHEESE (Rogue River, Caveman Blue, Berthaut Epoisses, Cypress Grove Humboldt Fog, Murray’s Cave Aged Gruyere, Roquefort Papillon, Cypress Grove Little Giant, Rogue River Smokey Blue, Rogue Creamery Oregon Blue and Rogue Creamery Smokey Blue)
Murray's Cheese Grand Central, Manhattan - CHEESE (Rogue River, Caveman Blue, Berthaut Epoisses, Cypress Grove Humboldt Fog, Murray’s Cave Aged Gruyere, Roquefort Papillon, Cypress Grove Little Giant, Rogue River Smokey Blue, Rogue Creamery Oregon Blue and Rogue Creamery Smokey Blue)
Zabar’s, Manhattan - CHEESES DISPLAY (special on Papillon Roquefort and St. Agur. Display on Gruyere and St. Andre)
As for wine lovers, you won’t be disappointed either! Exquisite wines from the Savoie region of France are waiting for you. You shouldn’t miss trying the Richel Savoie Blanc 2020 that combines a light texture with fruity aromas and notes of honey.
You can taste and love it in the participating restaurants and venues below.
Amelie Wine Bar, 566 Amsterdam Avenue, New York, NY 10024 - WINES OF SAVOIE (Richel Savoie Blanc 2020 - Tomme de Savoie)
Amelie Wine Bar, 22 W 8th street, New York, NY 10001 - WINES OF SAVOIE (Richel Savoie Blanc 2020 - Tomme de Savoie)
Balthazar, Manhattan - WINES OF SAVOIE BY THE GLASS (Savoie Blanc Viallet '20)
Corkscrew Wines Brooklyn, Brooklyn - WINES OF SAVOIE (Richel Savoie Apremont la Combelle white, 19USD)
Fiaf, Manhattan - WINES OF SAVOIE. Molière is in the Park: March 10th.
But let’s not forget, the full experience of the New York Cheese & Wine Week is found in the pairings of executive chefs and talented sommeliers!
Check the list below for the full, unforgettable, and tasteful experience!
AOC East, Manhattan - CHEESE AND WINES OF SAVOIE (Richel Savoie Blanc 2020 – Richel Mondeuse Paradoxe 2017)
Bacchus, Brooklyn - CHEESE AND WINES OF SAVOIE (3 cheese: St-Andre, Roquefort & st-Agur. Cheese plate $24, pairing add $24)
De Gustibus Cooking Scool at Macy's 8th Floor, Manhattan - Class Tasting of Cheeses and Wines of Savoie from 1pm to 3.30 pm with Anthony Giglio, wine expert. on March 12th
Felix, Manhattan - CHEESE AND WINES OF SAVOIE
Intercontinental New York Barclay, Manhattan - CHEESE AND WINES OF SAVOIE (Cheese plate: Gruyere, Emmentaler, Tête de Moine and Roquefort, with honey comb and cranberry and Rasin bread lavash. Cheese Dish: Grilled Raclette Sourdough Sandwich with onion compote. Wines of Savoie)
Murray's Cheese and MC Bar, Queens - CHEESE AND WINES OF SAVOIE (Rogue River, Caveman Blue, Berthaut Epoisses, Cypress Grove Humboldt Fog, Murray’s Cave Aged Gruyere, Roquefort Papillon, Cypress Grove Little Giant, Rogue River Smokey Blue, Rogue Creamery Oregon Blue and Rogue Creamery Smokey Blue)
Nougatine, Manhattan - CHEESE AND WINES OF SAVOIE (Saint Andre, Appenzeller, Brie Belle Etoile, Langres)
O Cabanon, Manhattan - CHEESE PLATE & WINES OF SAVOIE (Cheese plate and wines of Savoie during all the Cheese and Wine week and a Party on March 10th. Blue Cheese Sald & Wallnuts, Brie a la Truffe, Roasted Pork with Comte, Tartiflette Epoisse, Special Cheese Board, Brie CheeseBurger. Wines of Savoie: Crémant Domaine Jean Perrier et fils, Abymes Domaine Jean Perrier et fils, Mondeuse Maison Richel, Savoie rouge Maison Philippe Viallet)
And as the french saying goes,
Mangez bien, riez souvent, aimez beaucoup… et allez à New York Cheese & Wine Week!
Vive la France!