Halloween Happenings All Over Town

It's time to get into a spooky attitude now that Halloween is just around the corner.  It is well known that NYC does the Halloween parties, and we anticipate that this year won't be any different. Everyone may experience a little Halloween magic, regardless of whether they enjoy dressing up in costumes, being frightened in haunted houses, or simply enjoying the fall decorations. We compiled a list of the last minute Halloween activities in New York City this weekend. 

Dances of Vice: Black Magic Halloween Ball

This Halloween, we’ve conjured a sumptuous sabbath of Halloween black magic to initiate you into the dark arts. This bewitching bacchanal will feature a theatrical Grand Guignol in three diabolical acts, replete with occult incantations, adulterous exorcisms, voodoo rituals, and a fiery trial by ordeal.

On the dance floor, devilish DJs will weave raucous spells to incite agile limbs to a frenzied St Vitus’ dance. In the VIP dungeon, equipped with the appliances of torment and pleasure, dommes will hex and heal consenting patrons eager to explore their limits in the pleasures of bondage, domination, submission and masochism.

Dungeon access is granted with VIP Ticket only. GA tickets are standing room only. Our costumed dress code will be strictly enforced. If your attire is not turning heads, you will be refused entry at the door.

MAINSTAGE SHOWS @ 11:30pm, 12:30am , 1:30am

AGE RESTRICTION: All attendees must be 21+ for entry (valid photo ID required).

Purchase tickets here

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Greg’s Great Pumpkin Patch at Domino Park

Greg's Trees transformed Domino Park (South 1 St. & River St.) into Greg’s Great Pumpkin Patch, which is open now through October 31st from 9am - 9pm daily with events and attractions for the whole family.  Expect a massive selection of pumpkins and Halloween decor along with a haystack maze for little ones, pumpkin painting and carving daily, Instagram-able photo opps and activities galore. 

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Hidden Lane has a Limited Edition Pumpkin Spice Espresso Martini Coming to the Menu

Hidden Lane (129 E 15th Street) will officially launch a new seasonal cocktail menu beginning on October 17th that includes a can’t miss Pumpkin Spice Espresso Martini complete with cinnamon, pumpkin spice and espresso! The specialty seasonal drink will be the first of many autumn inspired cocktails debuting this month. For more information visit, http://www.hiddenlanebar.com

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Celebrate Hallo-Whine at Bar Schimmi on Friday 10/28

Get ready for Hallo-Whine at Schimanski’s Bar Schimmi (60 N 11th St) on Friday, October 28th from 10 p.m to 4 a.m!  Prepare to spend the evening on your feet jamming to your favorite hip-shaking tunes. Guests will have access to a dazzling dance floor, a full-service bar, and island vibes while listening to special guest performances from DJ Billionaire Pat, DJ Hell Rell, and DJ Chris John. Enjoy the music and ambiance while sipping your fave drinks at the bar or order VIP bottle service for your squad by emailing vip@schimanskinyc.com.  And in the main room at Schimanski, TECHNO BKLYN x KLANDEST invite you to get lost in trance with special live performances from Indira Paganotto, Joyhauser and Niia Guerra. Make the night monumental and order VIP bottle service by emailing vip@schimanskinyc.com.  

Get tickets online by visiting, seetickets.us/hallowhine or https://schimanskinyc.com.

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Enjoy Frightening Fun at Slate's Nightmare On 21st Street Party on Friday 10/28

Never sleep again! Get your costumes ready for an epic Halloween soiree at Slate (54 West 21st St) on Friday, October 28th at 8:00 PM to October 29th at 4:00 AM, inspired by one of the greatest horror films of all time, Nightmare on Elm Street! To kick off the Halloween festivities, Slate will host two floors of epic music throughout the night including DJ Fotsbeats upstairs and DJ Kaution downstairs! Celebrate all night while enjoying the chic décor, sipping on your favorite drinks and letting loose on the spacious premier lounge dancefloors. 

To purchase tickets or reserve VIP packages visit, https://slate.ticketsauce.com/e/halloween-weekend-slate-friday-10-28 

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Pickle: Support by Firpo: presented by The Somethings: Halloween Weekend on Friday 10/28

Kick-off your Halloween weekend with a sprinkle of art, fantasy and gnomes at The Somethings party at Somewhere Nowhere (112 W 25th St.) on Friday, October 28th! The Somethings will offer a night filled with NFTs, magic and futuristic art. Surrender to a world of goblets, glowing orbs and floating islands!  Purchase tickets and VIP bottle packages by visiting, https://www.halloweenweekend.com 

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Zombies on the Loose at Haven Rooftop

Haven Rooftop above the Sanctuary Hotel (132 W. 47th Street) in Midtown will host Zombies On The Loose on Saturday, October 29th with food and drink specials and a costume contest. More information can be found by visiting, https://havenrooftop.com/

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Party with Jessie’s Girl at Stranger Hallow-Things at City Winery NYC on Saturday 10/29

Celebrate Halloween Weekend with some Sci Fi, spooky and costumed fun at a Stranger Hallow-Things party at City Winery (25 11th Avenue) on Saturday, October 29th beginning at 11pm.  Fun Music Presents will host this otherworldly evening devoted to the '80s tunes that were popularized all over again thanks to the hit series Stranger Things!  Dance to live cover music from the band Jessie’s Girl beginning at the stroke of midnight. Before and after the concert, guest DJ Stef Nava will spin a mix of today's top 40 songs and anthems from the 1980s and beyond to allow every partygoer to unleash their inner Eleven and get turned upside down!

Tickets can be purchased by visiting: https://www.funmusicpresents.com 

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Attend Haunting on the UWS at e’s BAR on Saturday 10/29

Rock out on Saturday, October 29th during Haunting on the UWS at e’s BAR (511 Amsterdam Ave)! The special Karaoke party will include a costume contest where the best dressed will win a $100 bar tab. A live special guest DJ will spin tunes all night and there’s no cover fee! Chow down on elevated bar food classics, sip from their massive beer and cocktail list, play fun tabletop games, and sing alongside lively crowds. Doors will open at 8:00pm.

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Moojo: Support by Forest Down Under: Halloween Weekend on Saturday 10/29

Grab your spot at Somewhere Nowhere (112 W 25th St.), which will be decked out in decor exemplifying the Seven Deadly Sins to catch DJ Moojo live on Saturday, October 29th for a Halloween Weekend blowout. Listen to a live set from DJ Moojo who has been touring the globe since his musical debut at the age of 14 and is the founder of the independent label Calamar Records. Purchase tickets and VIP bottle packages by visiting, 

https://www.halloweenweekend.com 

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Daintree Hosts A View to Kill Rooftop Halloween Party on Saturday 10/29 

Daintree (25 W 38th St.)  is hosting A View to Kill, a rooftop soiree in the sky atop Hotel Hendrick’s to celebrate Halloween on Saturday, October 29th at 10:00 p.m! Add a little glitz and glamour to your haunted weekend by enjoying Daintree’s one-of-a-kind view of NYC’s skyline, carefully curated Fall cocktails and music from Guest DJ throughout the evening. Treat yourself to small plates inspired by Aussie-Asian cuisine fusion like Chicken Salt and Seaweed Popcorn, Caviar and Chips and tempting plates of Oyster and a drink reimagine New York classics, and distinct Australian wines. VIP packages and tickets, starting at $15 for GA, can be purchased by  visiting, https://krispi.ticketsauce.com/e/daintree1029. 

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Enjoy Good Vibrations: Halloween at Schimanski on Saturday 10/29

Lighten up Halloween weekend with Good Vibrations: Halloween, a high-energy costume party at Schimanski (54 N. 11th St) on Saturday, October, 29th from 10 p.m to 4 a.m!

Tear up the dance floor to the greatest Dancehall, Reggae, Afrobeats, and Hip Hop hits while wearing your best costume and indulge at the full-service bar throughout the night! Special hosts Wallay, Boye, Rahilou, and Mr. Shawtyme will keep the entertainment moving along and the fun coming into the next morning. Attendees can dance all night to live music from SB Sounds, Sydney Love, Citizen B, Spindoll, and AQ. One lucky party-goer will have the chance to win a $500 cash prize for the best costume.  RSVP online by visiting, seetickets.us/goodhalloween 

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Slate Hosts a Forbidden Palace Halloween Party on Saturday 10/29

This Halloween, uncover the secrets of the Forbidden Palace at Slate (54 W. 21st St.) with a 1-hour vodka bar from 8pm - 9pm and a live DJ performance. A premier lounge with a sprawling space, Slate beckons you to come beyond velvet curtains to join a live DJ dance party with New York’s beautiful creatures. Indulge and choose one of Slate’s VIP table packages for bottle service and other amenities. Doors open at 8pm. Tickets for this event begin at $20 and can be purchased by visiting, https://slate.ticketsauce.com/e/halloween-party-slate-saturday-10-29

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Sapphire 60 Hosts Nick Cannon’s Wild Halloween N Treats Out Sunday Sins Party on 10/30

Get spooky with American television host, actor, rapper, and comedian Nick Cannon live at Sapphire 60 (333 E 60th St) on Sunday, October 30th for Nick Cannon’s Wild Halloween N Treats Out Party. The special Sunday Sins event will be full of seasonal fun and entertainment from Nick, known for The Nick Cannon Show, Wild 'n Out, America's Got Talent, Lip Sync Battle Shorties, and The Masked Singer. Purchase VIP bottle packages and enjoy the entertainment including Sapphire's most talented dancers. Tickets and Bottle packages can be reserved by visiting, http://nysapphire.com. 

Find more event information at https://www.sinsny.com

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Monolink Presented by Forest Down Under & Firpo: Halloween Weekend on 10/30

Surrender to the enchanted tunes of Electronic and Dance musician DJ Firpo during an exclusive performance at Somewhere Nowhere (112 W 25th St.) on Sunday, October 30th! Lose yourself to the rhythm of hit songs and take in the exhilarating air of pre-Halloween anticipation.

Purchase tickets and VIP bottle packages by visiting, https://www.sevenrooms.com/events/somewherenowhere. 

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The Villains’ Ball (Halloween Night) with Rick Wonder: Best Costume Wins $1000 Cash

Get your 'ghouls' together for The Villains’ Ball at Somewhere Nowhere (112 W 25th St.) on Monday, October 31st! Give into your darkest desires and dress as your favorite villain.  Sip on cocktails and hit the dance floor to dance to tracks from Rick Wonder during the special evening where one lucky guest will take home a $1000 cash prize for best costume. Purchase tickets and VIP bottle packages by visiting, www.halloweenweekend.com

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Nebula Hosts Costume Couture on Halloween Night 10/31

Nebula (135 W. 41st St) is celebrating Halloween night with an over the top Costume Couture Party hosted by La La and Lenny S. on Monday, October 31st.  The all-nighter, which kicks off at 10pm is sponsored by RHUDE and Lobos 1707.  Guests wearing their best Halloween costumes can take to the dancefloor while Dj Gigi Rosa, DJ Boof and First Choice spin tunes all night. RSVP via email to NYCostumeCouture@gmail.com

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enCourage Kids Serving Up Smiles 2022

Wesley & Hall Family

The enCourage Kids Foundation (EKF) held Serving Up Smiles on Tuesday, October 18, 2022, at The Lighthouse at Chelsea Piers. This exquisite tasting event included delicious dishes from top chefs and restaurants in New York City, a VIP Lounge, top-notch wines, drinks, and fantastic auction items. Chef Ralph Scamardella (Chef & Partner TAO Group Hospitality) served as Culinary Chair while ABC Sports Anchor Ryan Field emceed the event.

The food and drinks were donated by Alvin & Friends, Avo Taco, bakeyorey, Ben & Jack’s Steakhouse, Bryant Park Grill, Butter, HappyBoards, LAVO New York, Robert, Sfoglia, Spice Culture, Sweets to Crave, TAO Uptown, B. Stuyvesant Champagne, Dr. Perricone Hydrogen Water, Fever-Tree, FIJI Water, Jade Sparkling Wine, JUSTIN Vineyards & Winery, Landmark Vineyards, Newburgh Brewing Company, Owl’s Brew, Revel Spirits Inc., Shinju Japanese Whiskey, Whitley Neill Gin, and Zyr Vodka.

“All of us at enCourage Kids are beyond grateful for the continued support of our donors, sponsors, and guests who are committed to the work of our organization. It was a special night to honor the late Michele Hall Duncan, our former president & CEO, and acknowledge her hard work throughout the years. We are committed to our mission to make hospitals a better place to get better and we will continue to support our enCourage Kids families, "said Joe Wessely, Board Chair of enCourage Kids Foundation.

A touching tribute film was shown in honor of Michele Hall Duncan, the late president and CEO of the enCourage Kids Foundation, who lost her fight with metastatic breast cancer in June. The son of Michele Duncan, Wesley Duncan, honored his mother's 26 years of service to the organization with a emotional and profound speech. The Michele Hall-Duncan Child Life Hero award, which will be given annually to honor a child life specialist for their exceptional devotion and commitment to pediatric patients, was just created by the organization. Another method to pay tribute to Michele's legacy is via a donation that will be given to the recipient's institution to support a pediatric program. The first prize will be presented at the enCourage Kids Gala in 2023.

MJ, Erik, Joe, Joe, Charles, Ryan, Wesley, Matt

Erik Coleman (Former NFL Safety & MSG Commentator of Odds with Ends), Jimmy Leyritz (Twice NY Yankees World Series Champion), Tony Richardson (NFL Legend & Sports Commentator), and Matt Brust (Former NBA Forward & Finance Expert), who attended, were committed to the mission of enCourage Kids. They took pleasure in eating and dancing the night away to the music of the Live Wire Band.

Event sponsors included ARK RESTAURANTS, BRYANT PARK GRILL, CAPITAL ONE, COUGAR Capital, The Donut Pub, Feil Family Foundation, GFP Real Estate, ROBERT, Signature Bank, Lucy and David Ball, Goldberg Weprin Finkel Goldstein LLP, CUSHMAN & WAKEFIELD, BUCHBINDER & WARREN, and Emerson Amusements Company.

Hospitals may be made better places to heal because of the life-changing initiatives offered by EKF. Their flagship program, the Jay Anderson Pediatric Hospital Support Program, provides funding to hospitals for a range of initiatives, including facility dogs for children and pediatric staff, music and creative arts therapy programs, and music therapy programs. The enCourage Kids Bear initiative gives soft teddy bears to young patients who desperately need comfort. These bears also serve as an important educational tool for children to learn coping mechanisms.

Board Members

In order to start a program for mental health comfort kits, the group was given a grant this year by the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation to start a program for mental health comfort kits. They created three separate comfort kits containing safe products that may be provided to hospitalized children with mental health problems, especially those who are on a psychiatric hold or watch, after receiving feedback from their panel of healthcare specialists from all around the nation. 2,500 comfort packages are being provided under the funding for the children treated at 4 NYC Health + Hospitals centers.

Harry Potter: A Forbidden Forest Experience in Westchester

Whether or not you're a Harry Potter fan, Harry Potter: A Forbidden Forest Experience is a must-see. The experience is essentially a walking track through a real forest filled with fantastic creatures and interactive fun in Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park, which is a little over an hour's drive north of New York City. 

At the entryway, a statue of Harry Potter's stag Patronus keeps watch. Adjacent to the statue, visitors will discover a Hogsmeade-style village where they can find hot beverages or a cool glass of non-alcoholic butterbeer, as well as confectionery shops, snack shops, and gift shops.

As you continue on the voyage, a witch or wizard who displays their deluminator abilities may be found along a lighted route. The journey through the lit-up forest then starts, with the music from the movies playing throughout and the trees and lights creating a surreal, almost otherworldly ambiance.

At the start of the trail, you will encounter Rubeus Hagrid and his trusty sidekick, Fang. As you make your way further into the Forbidden Forest, you'll see Buckbeak the Hippogriff, Nifflers guarding their valuables, centaurs, acromantulas and many more. There are unexpected surprises around every corner.

The whole event is interactive, so individuals who wish to dress in their Hogwarts House robes and wand may take pictures, fight, or use the Patronus spell. Spells may be performed using specialized wands that will be given.

Another rest stop and facilities are located halfway down the path, so you may stop there before continuing into the forest. Visitors are led to a spectacular conclusion before departing the event, which sends them into the gift store.

You will be sorry if you miss this experience! When you go, be sure to bundle up and wear outdoor shoes since this is an outdoor winter event in the forest of NY. As part of the experience's partnership with One Tree Planted, visitors have the opportunity to donate the cost of a tree, which will support sustainability and forestry initiatives. Donating $1 buys a tree within One Tree Planted's projects and contributes towards creating the forests of the future.

For more information and tickets please visit: https://hpforbiddenforestexperience.com/westchester/

Wilderton Launch at the Midnight Cafe

Planning on staying sober for your next night out? Whether you’re the designated driver (subway handler) or cutting back on your alcohol consumption (a wise move), we recommend Wilderton’s latest non-alcoholic spirit: Bittersweet Apertivito. 

A love child between Campari, Aperol and sweet vermouth, Bittersweet Aperitivo is a botanical journey that manages to be spicy and smoky on top of bright and citrusy. During its launch at the Midnight Cafe in Hudson Yards, these flavors came through when the spirit was mixed by cocktail expert Iain Griffiths to make several non-traditional drinks that were equal parts refreshing and delicious. It is definitely worth a try, even if you are a committed casual drinker. 

Pairing with the drinks were bites from the mind of Chef Chai Trivedi, including bacon wrapped shrimp, deviled eggs, and mushroom spring rolls. Guests of the event were also able to make their own custom scent thanks to an Olfactory DIY station—I was able to walk away with a new rhubarb and freesia scent that earned compliments from everyone in the room.

So the next time you’d like to have an aperitivo without it actually being an aperitivo, check out Wilderton and their range of non-alcoholic spirits. Between their woodsy Earthen and floral Lustre, you’ll be sure to find a drink that’ll have you saying cheers while still keeping your wits.

Follow @wilderton_free for more updates on their spirits, and be sure to stop by @midnightcafenyc for even more deliciousness. 

Sally Can Wait Evokes Vintage Miami Vibes in LES

Sally Can Wait, an 80’s inspired bar with a Miami Vice-inspired aesthetic, welcomes you into a neon oasis from the concrete jungle.  "Oy Empingao,” the restaurant’s motto emblazoned on the wall references the cultures that influence the bar’s theme, pairing the Jewish term for shock and amazement with the Cuban phrase for "so awesome."  

The space opened under the radar almost a year ago with industry vets Matt Friedlander, coming from Sweetwater Social and Grand Banks, and Zak Snyder, also from Grand Banks, Balthazar, and Analogue. The duo wanted to put together a concept that was fun and casual with a heavy hand of serious cocktails.

We started our experience with a trip down memory lane with an Ecto Cooler, a delightful adult take on the childhood drink, comprised of mezcal, Midori, honeydew lime syrup, and trendy kalamansi, a favorite of the owners. I still have dreams about this cocktail. The bar also has all the frozen drinks you can imagine that you usually get on vacation in Florida and more concoctions that I have yet to try.

Much like the cocktails, the food has a fun twist on usual bar bites. The menu, which Snyder is responsible for, includes the quintessential latkes with all the fixins and Cubano sandwich to cover off on both the Latin and Jewish categories that the restaurant represents. “The Burger,” which includes caramelized onions and special sauce, is not to be missed, and while tots are simple, they are also simply delicious.

Sally Can Wait is the perfect local tropical getaway without leaving the city. To experience Miami vibes year-round, please visit sallycanwait.com to make a reservation or just drop in for their weekday happy hour. You’ll probably find me at the bar with my Ecto Cooler trying more items off the food menu.

Taste of Upper West Side 2022

The Taste of the Upper West Side is a large-scale food tasting event proudly hosted by the Columbus Avenue Business Improvement District. It is a much-loved neighborhood event that highlights the relevance and scope of the Upper West Side's culinary culture. This past weekend, the festival returned for its 14th year. On September 30 and October 1, Taste of the Upper West Side was hosted in a tent at the playground on Columbus Avenue between West 76th and 77th streets, which is home to the Grand Bazaar NYC market.

Each year, Taste of the Upper West Side invites new restaurants, some of which have not yet opened, to give the community a chance to meet the chefs and try their food. The menus were delectably diversified, and participants sampled the delectable cuisines of the area's greatest restaurateurs. This year, over 80 chefs from the district's leading restaurants presented samples of their specialty dishes at the event. The proceeds from this event are reinvested in the community and used to finance specific neighborhood initiatives.

Farewell to Summer kicked off the 14th annual two-night culinary festival with highly anticipated premieres of restaurants and bars, as well as old local favorites, featuring 30+ prominent establishments grilling up cherished menu items. As always, there was the ultimate confectioners' corner, as well as unlimited wine, spirits, and music focusing on inventive seasonal food.

Autumn Ball presented by Park West Village wrapped up the festival.on the second night. It's a really upmarket event that will leave you overstuffed and with a long list of restaurants for which you need to make reservations.

Ainslie is Now Open at 199 Bowery

In the Lower East Side location of 199 Bowery where Vandal formerly stood, South Village Hospitality has officially unveiled the 20,000 square foot Italian restaurant, wine bar, and beer garden named Ainslie. Ainslie is presented to you by partners AJ Bontempo, Sergio Riva, and Mario Riva who also own and run Osteria Cotta on the Upper West Side, Follia in Gramercy, Carroll Place in Greenwich Village, and Ainslie's flagship in Williamsburg, which launched in the autumn of 2019.

A Shepard Fairey painting welcomes visitors to this large new Ainslie site in Lower Manhattan, which features an airy beer terrace that extends to the pavement through two hangar aircraft doors. A beer hall with a 50-foot bar, 32 beer taps, and games including foosball and shuffleboard is located within Ainslie. An small wine bar is located in front of a sizable open kitchen that includes a wood-fired pizza oven at the back of Ainslie. The restaurant features a private dining room that is ideal for parties as well as a gorgeous dining room with chandeliers above. Later this year, an underground club named The Underground will open beside the venue. It can accommodate 250 people for a cocktail-style event and 130 people seated. Additionally, there will be heated outside seats.

Executive Chef John DeLucie, a seasoned chef from New York City who founded Waverly Inn and currently serves as chef and partner at Empire Diner and Merchants Social in Hudson, New York, as well as having a platform on the new CookUnity Chef Collective in New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles, is in charge of the kitchen at Ainslie. In addition to a variety of hand-crafted wood-fired pizzas like The Saltimbocca with fresh mozzarella, prosciutto di parma, sage, and white wine, Chef DeLucie's menu at Ainslie also features Wood Fired Rosemary Wings, a signature Ainslie Burger with prosciutto and gorgonzola dolce served on a Brioche bun, homemade Ravioli, Gnocchi, and Pappardelle, and a Free Range Hanger Steak with watercress, balsamic and truffle fries.

After several years with South Village Hospitality, beverage director Jessica Duré, previously of Broken Shaker, now oversees Ainslie's beverage program and will also choose the wines for the new Bowery site. More than 20 wines by the glass, four wines on tap, and a dozen beers from regional and European breweries are available at the restaurant, which has various bars.

The restaurant is open on Wednesday & Thursday 5pm - Midnight, Friday - 4pm - 2am, Saturday - 4pm - 2am, Sunday - 4pm - Midnight with brunch coming soon.

Coctelería de los Muertos Pop-Up at Coctelería

The Garret Coctelera (349 Broome Street) hosted the Coctelera de los Muertos opening on September 21 to November 19. The Garret Bars team will be renovating their Nolita location to honor Dia de los Muertos (11/1 & 11/2), which is a celebration of life and those who have passed away.

The Garret Bars team has developed an immersive setting - the most recent in their continuous series of rotating pop-ups—that will transport visitors to Mexico to honor los muertos in collaboration with up-and-coming set designer Michael Harbeck. The exhibit will include:

• Gravestones, including  cutouts of gravestones on the walls and sculptural gravestones on the ceiling, the space will resemble an inverted cemetery. It tunes into the zeitgeist and pop culture phenomenon of Stranger Things and provides a design rhythm with a magical quality.

• Custom built altars attributed to those traditionally found in cemeteries and grave sites.

• Hanging marigolds, often known as “flowers of the dead” (flor de muerto), will be dispersed throughout the space – from the altars to the tables and ceiling. It is believed that marigolds’ vibrant colors and fragrant scent guide spirits to their altars.

• White bulb string lights will be decoratively strung from the ceiling both in the indoor and outdoor seating areas. 

• Brightly colored, woven blankets and textiles will be offered tableside to keep diners warm in the outdoor dining structure.

• Weekly DJs will play sets on Thursday, Friday and Saturday night! The bar will also host expanded Halloween celebrations and Dia De Los Muertos parties on November 1st and 2nd.

Beverage Director Max Stampa-Brown has put his creative spin on the new, on-theme beverage menu with libations featuring seasonal ingredients and festive garnishes. A few highlights include: 

• Weeping in Queens: White rum, pumpkin, orange bell pepper, five spice

• Barry Marigold: Tequila, carrot juice, agave, pumpkin seeds, pimento dram spiced liqueur

• Juanny Appleseed: Pisco, chai, apple, honey, aji amarillo 

• Cafe De Olla Hot Coffee: Oaxacan rum, coffee liqueur, spiced tea, have a nice day coffee

• Certified Sad Boy: Reposado tequila, pineapple, tamarind, hibiscus

• Felices Los: Four aged spirits - elijah craig bourbon, santa teresa 1796 rum, pedro ximenez sherry, peated scotch

Pair drinks with yummy bites from Chef Yuval Ochoa (also of The Garret Bars’ eastside concept Borrachito Taqueria & Spirits) like:

• Tacos - Choice of sweet potato, pork carnitas, short rib birira, and vegan chorizo

• Shrimp Ceviche- Shrimp, jalapeño, lime, cucumber, onions, tomato, black pepper, chips

• Tuna Tostada- Wild tuna, fermented red pepper mayo, diced scallions, furikake, corn tostada

• Rainbow Beet Salad- Sesame dressing, pistachio brittle, queso fresco mousse, spicy roasted pepitas

We highly recommend the Taco Tower, which serves 4-5 and comes with tacos, shrimp ceviche, tuna tartar, chips, and guacamole and hot sauces.

Cassoulet Confessions: An Evening with Sylvie Bigar

On a true fall Wednesday, the Consulate General of France in New York hosted, “Cassoulet Confessions.” The event opened up with a panel discussion moderated by Communications Consultant, Marianne Fabre-Lanvin, while featuring a panel of prominent speakers: the author of Cassoulet Confessions, Sylvie Bigar; Executive Chef & Cassoulet Ambassador, Philippe Bertineau; Executive Director of La Maison de la Région Occitanie à New York, Paul Cousin; and Co-Owner of Clay Coyote Pottery, Morgan Baum.

The panel discussion was dedicated to cassoulet — one of the staples of French country cuisine. The dish is perfect for the chilly fall and winter nights, as it typically consists of “a hearty slow-simmered stew of sausage, confit (typically duck), pork, and white beans.” (Source: Kitchn) Cassoulet’s name comes from the traditional cooking pot, “the casserole”, which is a deep, round, earthenware pot with slanting sides. Although the Clay Coyote Pottery is based in Hutchinson, Minnesota, their studio is one of the three establishments in the United States that creates the proper “casserole”.

Sylvie Bigar, who is the author of Cassoulet Confessions, mentioned that she studied the dish and its cultural importance for years, but she truly understood the cassoulet and its significance once she tasted it in the Occitanie region of Southern France.

After the cassoulet discussion came to a close, the lucky attendees were able to taste-test one of the cassoulet recipes mentioned in the book, accompanied by a choice of Gerard Bertrand red or white wine and traditional baguette bread.

If you’re interested in learning more about the cassoulet dish, along with its cultural relevance and its influence on Sylvie Bigar’s life, Cassoulet Confessions is available for purchase here. If you’re also interested in making the cassoulet at home, make sure to order your casserole at Clay Coyote Pottery.

Diner en Blanc Makes a Splash for 10 Year Anniversary Event

Image Courtesy of Eric Vitale

Last Monday evening, Diner en Blanc’s 10th Anniversary location was unveiled as Brookfield Place, the same place they hosted their first event 10 years ago. Just after rain wreaked havoc on the city, 4,000 diehard attendees flocked to the waterfront, donned in white with all of their supplies for the evening, just as the sun came out before sunset.

According to Sandy Safi, Co-Founder of Diner en Blanc, this was also the first time that they went back to their waitlist for 2011 and invited back diners from the first event. New York was the first event in the United States and that event set Diner en Blanc into a global affair.

Guests sipped on champagne from Diner en Blanc partner, Champagne Barons de Rothschild and Celebrity Chef and four-time James Beard winner Todd English was on site to help.  “I love Diner en Blanc, it’s a global organization that brings people of all walks of life and cultures together in a peaceful and celebratory manner, and exemplifies that food is our greatest democracy.” At 7pm the iconic moment of diners waving their white napkins in the air signified the beginning of the dinner.

Image Courtesy of Eric Vitale

Co-Host Sarah Birtwistle, was a guest in Montreal 10-12 years ago and her husband said she would be a part of the organization one day. Fast forward and she has now helped organize in Montreal, Paris’ 30th anniversary dinner, which hosted 25,000 attendees and this event, among others. According to Sarah, the attendees make the event magical because they’re part of the production. “The people are part of the event versus just attending an event or concert.”

The event was the best excuse to wear white after Labor Day and rumor has it that next year’s location has already been chosen, although no one will know where it is until right before! For more information and to get on the waitlist, visit https://newyork.dinerenblanc.com/.

-Photos courtesy of Eric Vitale

Festivál Cafe Celebrates 2nd Birthday in UES

Kicking off right before Labor Day Weekend, Festivál Cafe celebrated their 2nd birthday in their Upper East Side venue. Known previously from their Secret Summer events, the producers went on to open the only farm-to-table bar experience in NYC.

Much like Secret Summer, the birthday party featured spirits that were stars of the show. Dorothy Parker Rose Petal Gin was the main ingredient for the Dorothy’s Raspberry Rose cocktail served up in with a raspberry foam topper. Dorothy’s Birthday Melons featured a refreshing mix of Dorothy Parker Gin, yuzu lime, melon and green tea demerara. And Ragtime Rye was the main component of the Peach Ragtime Celebration cocktail with lemon, peach and thyme demerara and the Ragtime Rye Juleps, either the classic triple mint or elecampane variety.

Cocktails were not the only thing on the menu. In addition to a grand grazing table, Festivál served up mini lobster bites, tuna tostadas, and various flatbreads to keep palates satiated. For entertainment, Louis B. Middleton opened up the night playing covers of popular artists that encouraged attendee sing-a-longs, and a DJ Tony Starr closed out the night.

Didn’t make the event? You have plenty of opportunities to have a similar experience. The restaurant is open for coffee and pastries in the morning, afternoon menus and dinner service Monday-Saturday, with live music weekly on Thursdays. Should you want to host your own party, private parties are also available to host in their varied spaces. For more information, please visit https://www.festivalcafenyc.com/.

New Serafina Rooftop Perches Above Times Square

Serafina in the Sky, the newest location in the Pod Hotel, opened just before the end of summer, taking over the old Polynesian space. Sitting nine stories above 42nd Street, the venue dons the iconic yellow accents along with the authentic Italian cuisine that Serafina is known for.

Highlights from the menu include the vegetable lasagna, cacio e pepe pasta and pizza margherita. Other dishes that are great to share for the table are the calamari, truffle fries and Serafina’s famous meatballs. While the cocktail menu is still being crafted, specialty drinks that are not to be missed while we still have warm weather are the rum punch, flavored margaritas and frose.

Whether it’s indoor or outdoor, pre-theater dining or happy hour, Serafina in the Sky is perfect for groups, corporate events, dining with family, friends, or with a date. For more information, please visit https://www.serafinarestaurant.com/serafina-in-the-sky-pod-hotel/.

Farm to People

In the past, summer meant visiting the farmers' market and meandering among stalls brimming with colorful fruit, getting free samples, and talking to farmers who could explain exactly how they cultivated their food. Even though the pandemic has been abating, our purchasing patterns have been permanently altered because we now frequently order items online or over the phone in place of going to a physical store. There isn't anything that can replace the tradition of buying your own vegetables at the farmers' market, but there is a delivery service that comes very close.

Brooklyn-based Farm to People offers the greenmarket experience without you ever having to leave your apartment. Produce CSAs (community-supported agriculture) of all sizes are delivered by Farm to People to Manhattan, as well as select areas of Brooklyn and Queens. The boxes can include produce that is in season and organic, as well as protein and supplies. Produce, in particular, comes from farms that are free of genetically modified organisms (GMOs), organic, and regenerative. One of the best things about Farm to People is that they pay their farmers $0.50 for every $1 sold on average (higher than the $0.13 per consumer $1 spent that farmers collect through traditional retail channels). You have the option of purchasing products à la carte or subscribing to a service, in which case you can remove items you aren't interested in and add others.

Michael Robinov

Michael Robinov, along with his father, David Robinov, and cofounder Anina von Haeften, established Farm to People in 2013. Michael Robinov was inspired to start the company after spending time working at the Union Square farmers’ market in New York City while he was a high school student. He was also influenced by his father, who was a pioneer in the natural food scene.

Farm to People has also launched Farm to People Kitchen & Bar, a restaurant serving the same premium, freshly chosen foods that consumers have come to love since its founding. A network of over 150 farms provides the ingredients for the cuisine at the restaurant. The space is the antithesis of the "dark store" movement and invites people to dine in, in an effort to further connect them with their food. Chef Matt's menu includes items like a Sumac Smash Burger, Yuzu Tarragon Potato Salad, Baby Gem Salad, lots of natural wines, and craft beers. “Food brings us all together,” said Michael Robnov, as he was giving a tour of the new space.

Farm to People Kitchen & Bar is located at 1100 Flushing Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11237 and open Friday 5 p.m.-12 a.m., Saturday 12 p.m.-12 a.m., and Sunday 2 p.m.-10 p.m.

Celebrating Drink Lightly Book Release with Lillet

Natasha David, a mixologist and author, hosted a party at the Showfields terrace to celebrate the publication of her book Drink Lightly. Guests enjoyed tasting light cocktails from the book, flower arrangements, delectable bites, and refreshing Lillet apéritifs.

Drink Lightly is a collection of low-alcohol aperitif style genre-pushing drinks that embrace a relaxed style of drinking while being based on the technical precision of craft-cocktails from award-winning bartender Natasha David’s expertise. Natasha also details in the book how her international upbringing, filled with food and music, and her journey in NYC brought her to where she is today. A collection of the book's recipes were available to try, like the “Endless Spring” with Lillet Rose, amaro, fresh lemon, and strawberry puree, or the non-alcoholic delight “Adult Supervision” with raspberry, verjus, and seltzer.

The “Giggle Fit” from Drink Lightly (Lillet Rose, aquavit, fresh lemon, pomegranate, carrot eau de vie, and sparkling rose)

Drink Lightly recipes sample

Lillet celebrated their 150th anniversary with Natasha as their brand ambassador this year. The French aperitifs, perfect for light and bright summer cocktails, can be found in NYC retailers including Astor Wine and Spirits, Warehouse Wine & Spirits, Bowery and Vine Wine & Spirits, and East Village Wines.

Pick up your copy of Drink Lightly and a bottle of Lillet to start making some relaxing summer sunset cocktails!

Seltzerland NYC 2022

On August 6, Seltzerland, the first hard seltzer festival to tour the nation, arrived in New York City and drew thousands of enthusiasts to Pier 36. At the weekend's VIP and General Admission sessions, guests sampled more than 100 different hard seltzers from household names both locally and nationally, including White Claw, Mike's Hard Lemonade Seltzer, Vizzy, Topo Chico Hard Seltzer, and Smirnoff Spiked Seltzer. Cornhole, lemonade ladder golf, and seltzer pong were just a few of the entertaining activities that charismatic guests enjoyed. Guests also took advantage of the interactive photo opportunities, like the inflatable bubble-filled photo booth and the lifelike White Claw lifeguard station, to capture their memories.

Throughout the event, Zazzy’s Pizza and Meatoss served delicious food to the buzzed crowds when hunger struck. The VIP ticket, priced at $59, offers early event entry, a full can of hard seltzer, a speciality drink, and a souvenir sampling cup for serious hard seltzer aficionados thinking about the premium Seltzerland experience. Visit www.seltzerland.com to learn more about where Seltzerland will be next, including the Jersey Shore, Denver, and Minneapolis.

A part of the earnings from all Seltzerland events are donated to Forage Forward, a nationwide organization that supports local and national non-profit groups with a focus on social justice, food banks, food sustainability, and food education.

A Celebration of Tuscan Cuisine

Photo Credit: Lydia Lee

At his signature eatery, Morso, legendary chef Pino Luongo hosted “A Celebration of Tuscan Cuisine” last night. The event highlighted Chef Luongo's 40-year history and substantial contributions to the city's cuisine and restaurant sector, in addition to raising money for City Harvest and God's Love We Deliver. Many of the participating chefs, including Rocco DiSpirito, Margherita Aloi, Cesare Casella, Kevin Garcia, Patti Jackson, Maurizio Marfoglia, Soerke Peters, Gianni Scappin, Michael Schlow, Pat Trama, and Ciro Verde, have cooked with or been inspired by Luongo.

Photo Credit: Lydia Lee

Photo Credit: Lydia Lee

Photo Credit: Lydia Lee

The tasting event honored Chef Luongo's extensive heritage by serving iconic dishes such as focaccia robiola, bistecca alla Fiorentina, and an antipasto misto terra table. Guests enjoyed a full bar with specialty Italian cocktails and wines, and danced to the music by renowned D.J. Dipp

In Florence, in his mother's kitchen, Pino Luongo first developed a passion for cooking. He began honing his culinary skills at the age of sixteen while spending the summers working at his uncle's restaurant in Porto Santo Stefano, Tuscany. When Luongo relocated from Florence to New York City in 1980, he pursued his genuine passion—becoming a chef and restaurateur.

Luongo has operated restaurants in New York City for more than 40 years. He opened several highly regarded restaurants since his arrival, including the East Village institution Il Cantinori, Coco Pazzo, Le Madri, Mad 61, and his most recent venture, Coco Shack. With every new restaurant he opened, up to a total of sixteen at one point, he brought a piece of his native Italy to the United States, bringing with him the cuisine, the scenery, the heritage, and the culture of Italy. A mentor and former boss to the late Anthony Bourdain, Luongo is the bestselling author of several books, including A Tuscan in the Kitchen, Fish Talking, and Dirty Dishes: A Story of Passion, Pain, and Pasta.

“Coming to the US from Italy in 1980, I imagined a very modern trattoria serving authentic Tuscan cuisine. I never dreamed I would achieve success and recognition in the business I love so much,” said Chef Pino Luongo. “Throughout the years, I was lucky enough to mentor some of the most talented chefs cooking Italian food today. It gives me tremendous joy to see how many have come together to celebrate my passion for Tuscan cuisine and belief in giving back to the community that has supported me. For me, food, especially Italian food, has always represented a certain love and nurturing that we try to demonstrate in all of my restaurants. By partnering with City Harvest and God’s Love We Deliver for this special evening, I recognize and celebrate the tremendous efforts, love, and nurturing that both have given to many New Yorkers in need. We are so proud to be a part of this milestone evening.”

Proceeds from the event benefited two amazing organizations: God’s Love We Deliver and City Harvest. City Harvest is New York City's largest food rescue organization, assisting in the feeding of millions of low-income New Yorkers. This year, they will rescue 75 million pounds of food and deliver it for free to hundreds of food pantries, soup kitchens, and other community partners throughout the five boroughs. By reducing hunger and malnutrition, God's Love We Deliver seeks to promote the health and wellbeing of men, women, and children who are afflicted with HIV/AIDS, cancer, and other major illnesses. They make and distribute wholesome meals for those who are unable to furnish or prepare meals for themselves due to illnesses. To learn more or donate, please visit cityharvest.org and glwd.org

Best Places for Happy Hour NYC

As workers reluctantly return to their workplaces and inflation continues to drive up day-to-day living expenses for city dwellers, happy hours are making a comeback in New York City.

Having too many choices might be problematic. The pubs and restaurants in New York City are some of the greatest in the world, and practically all of them feature happy hour specials. So, how are you going to pick a place to go out for a drink after work?

Our list of the greatest happy hours in the city is here to help you find a new favorite way to occupy the time between work and dinnertime. There are a variety of ways to get drunk on a budget in New York City, from local dives to trendy cocktail lounges.

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Haven Rooftop above The Sanctuary Hotel (132 W. 47th Street) in Midtown is the perfect happy hour escape. Haven offers $6 select beers, $9 glasses of wine and champagne, and $10 margaritas and Aperol Spritzes from 4:30pm - 5:30pm, Monday - Friday. For more information, visit http://www.havenrooftop.com/

Haven Rooftop

Kumi (120 W 57th St) has a new Happy Hour offered at their stunning bar from Tuesday through Saturday from 5pm - 7pm. Guests can enjoy special half-off pricing on small plates like Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice, Shishito Peppers, Edamame and BBQ Bao Buns. Cool down with $5 draft beers and sip on select wines for $9. For more info visit, https://www.kumirestaurant.com.

Kumi

Wonderland (20 W 20th St), the city's newest adult nightlife destination, has Happy Hour offered Monday through Thursday from 7pm - 9pm where guests can score half-priced drinks and bottles and no cover charge. Guests will also be treated to live entertainment and performances throughout the night! For more information visit, https://nycwonderland.com

Wonderland

Enjoy happy hour at every Clinton Hall! All locations offer $6 drafts, $8 well drinks, wine, and select cocktails as well as deals on bar snacks. Their flagship FiDi location (90 Washington St.) has an expansive indoor and outdoor seating area to enjoy happy hour from 3pm - 6pm, Monday - Friday along with their expansive W. 36th Street locale. Clinton Hall’s Williamsburg (247 Metropolitan Ave.) and E. 51st Street locations offer happy hour Monday - Friday from 3pm - 7pm and the Bronx (601 E. 189th St.) location offers happy hour from Monday - Friday from open, till 7pm. For more information, visit https://clintonhallny.com/

Clinton Hall

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/

Slate

Hidden Lane (129 E. 15th St.) has you covered if you're workin' 9am - 5pm, with a happy hour menu from 5pm - 8pm, Monday to Friday. Grab drinks with friends and coworkers with specially priced cocktails including $5 Bud Lights, Narragansetts and well shots, and $8 Margaritas, Spicy Margaritas 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. More information can be found by visiting, http://www.hiddenlanebar.com

Hidden Lane

Bar Marseille (190 Beach 69th St) in the Rockaways includes $10 cocktails, $5 beers, and $8 house wines from 3pm to 7pm daily. Along with drinks, added can’t miss specials include $1 oysters all day. The seaside restaurant, which has airy indoor dining and a stunning outdoor patio and a rooftop bar, and pays tribute to Provençal cuisine paired with a robust wine and cocktail list. For more information, visit https://www.barmarseille.com

Bar Marseille

Bongos (85 Orchard Street) (right in the heart of Dimes Square) This trendy, noir-inspired bistro offers unexpected twists on classic cocktails (like a Chamomile Martini and a full menu of house-made negronis) alongside elevated bites like charbroiled oysters and crispy artichokes – perfect for kicking off the night. Be sure to come back once you’re done reveling for a nightcap (as dinner is served until late!). Bongos is all about creating a grown-up dinner party atmosphere, with rich conversation and memorable experiences. Their outdoor seating area is the perfect place to take in the whirlwind of happenings on Orchard Street while you snack and sip.

Photo by Bongos

Canary Club (303 Broome Street) For a night of jazz, modern American bites, and elevated cocktails, stop in at Canary Club—the vibrant and chic music & supper club in the heart of the Lower East Side. Starting in August, Canary Club will be offering a list of 100 happy hour cocktails for $10 each (Monday-Friday, 5-7 pm). Additionally, on Thursdays from 5 pm-close, martinis are 2-for-1 all evening long! Enjoy New Orleans-inspired cocktails and sharable small plates in Canary Club’s stylish club lounge, dining room, or outdoor patio.

Photo by Canary Club

Grey Lady (77 Delancey Street) For those who are staying in the city but still craving a New England escape, look no further than Grey Lady, the unpretentious farm-to-table restaurant and late-night bar inspired by the casual beach towns of Nantucket. Stop in for happy hour (Sunday-Friday, 4-6 pm) and grab $1 fresh oysters and $10 Nantucket-inspired cocktails. Additionally, on Wednesday evenings (4 pm-close), enjoy half-off on bottles of wine, paired with sharable seafood plates like Fried Calamari or Crab & Artichoke Dip.

Photo by Grey Lady

Sereneco (113 Franklin St) Sereneco has just expanded their happy hour to Tuesdays—Saturdays from 4:00–7:00pm. Take advantage of Summer Fridays and sip on $10 summery spritzes (more on those below), $10 select cocktails, $5 beer, $6 cider, and $10 glasses of red, white, rosé, and orange wines.

Sereneco

Aunt Bernie's Bar and Jardin (513 3rd Ave) Aunt Bernie’s offers $13 wine flights and many more options for people in the Murray Hill area.

Rosé Filled Summer Brunch at Amali

The Mediterranean diet, which places an emphasis on vegetables, olive oil, cheese, grains, and fish, served as the inspiration for Amali. Its name is taken from a Turkish phrase that refers to the similarity of the regions west of Istanbul. Amali's dedication to sustainability is exceptional for the Midtown East neighborhood in which it is located and has won praise from the Obama White House, Slow Food Society, New York Times, and James Beard House. Since 2011, Amali has led the way in introducing customers to Greek wine, female winemakers, and the biodynamic/organic/vin natural wine movement.

With a "New York City spin," the meal at Amali pays homage to the rich historical traditions that contemporary Greece, Italy, France, Israel, and Spain share. At Amali, the trip starts with mouthwatering sesame bread with whipped feta butter and continues with fresh pastas, a variety of seafood dishes, including tableside flambéed salt-baked market fish, quinoa-crusted duck, filet mignon, spice-grilled chicken, and more.

With the summer heating up, Amali is helping out with their Summer of Rosé promotion, where diners can purchase half-off bottles of Rosé during brunch now through Labor Day Weekend.

Capacity: Main dining and three private dining rooms offer seating for up to 135 guests.

Days & Hours of Operation: 

Lunch is offered Monday - Friday 12pm - 3pm Brunch Saturday - Sunday 12pm - 5pm

Dinner is offered Sunday - Monday from 5pm - 9:15pm and Tuesday - Saturday, 5pm - 10:30pm 

Instagram Handle: @amalinyc

“New York Made” Cocktail Menu at Greenpoint’s Sereneco

Sereneco is an upscale contemporary American restaurant with a focus on seasonal veggies. We recently went to this establishment in Greenpoint, Brooklyn. The decor was stunning, and the energy in the room was second to none. Everything we ate was prepared to perfection by the chef. Throughout the night, the service was fantastic and everything ran well, allowing us to enjoy our time together.

Sereneco has just expanded their happy hour to Tuesdays—Saturdays from 4:00–7:00pm. Take advantage of Summer Fridays and sip on $10 summery spritzes (more on those below), $10 select cocktails, $5 beer, $6 cider, and $10 glasses of red, white, rosé, and orange wines. Snack on Sereneco favorites like Whipped Ricotta with House-Made Focaccia (toasted pistachio, orange blossom water, honey) or try the new Raw Oysters (two types, spicy mignonette, cocktail sauce), Roasted Mushroom Crostini (Vermont goat cheese, vin cotto, thyme) or Caponata Crostini (roasted zucchini, eggplant, bell pepper, pinenuts).

Owner and Beverage Director Billy Van Dolsen is incorporating regional ingredients into Sereneco's cocktail menu as a complement to the restaurant's emphasis on seasonal, local foods. The result is a new “New York Made” section of the drinks menu, featuring three light spritzes and two botanically-inspired gin & tonics:

• St. Agrestis Spritz (locally-made St. Agrestis Paradiso aperitif, prosecco, club soda & blood orange)

• Forthave Spritz (Brooklyn-made Forthave red aperitif, prosecco, soda, & orange)

• Le Moné Spritz (local Le Moné Meyer lemon aperitif, prosecco, soda, fresh lemon & thyme)

• Dorothy Parker G&T (NYC-made Dorothy Parker gin, fever tree tonic, hibiscus flowers, & grapefruit)

• Greenhook G&T (Brooklyn-made Greenhook Ginsmiths gin, fever tree tonic, lime, grapefruit, & pink peppercorns)

Don't hesitate; visit now to sample the updated menu.

OL’DAYS NYC

New York, don't worry; the good ol' days are still to come. An intriguing new eatery is making the long journey from Argentina to open its first location in New York. OL’DAYS NYC officially opened its doors to the public on July 14th at 1165 Broadway (at 28th St), in NoMad between West 27th and West 28th Street.

Ol'Days is a warm and welcoming all-day cafe that provides healthy, locally sourced farm-to-table cuisine. When Martina and Juliana Fracchia, together with their lifelong best friend Camila Basigalup, decided to start OL'DAYS in 2014, they were inspired by their childhood memories of Argentina's hospitality and reunion customs. There are presently two OL'DAYS outlets in Miami and Buenos Aires, but this is their first in New York. This coffee shop was created to serve as a place where customers could come to unwind and catch up with old friends, and Martina, Julianna, and Camila Fracchia set out to do just that. With a wide selection of organic food, Ol'Days also provides a vegetarian menu with a focus on plant-based fare such burgers and bowls as well as speciality coffee.

Some of the most popular dishes from the menu are available, including spiced sangria, boutique wine and beer from small producers, cold-pressed juices, the Quinoa Rainbow Bowl (with organic chicken or poached egg), Salmon Brioche (with smoked salmon and capers cream), Grass Fed Short Rib (slow-cooked with shoyu and arugula), and Beef Wellington.