Author Archives: Katie Cizewski

Death and Company: Speak Easy and Drink Well

The story goes that during American prohibition bartenders were considered the walking dead – hence the name “Death and Company” of this prohibition style bar in Manhattan’s present day East Village. Here you will find old fashioned stirred and shaken drinks such as the Straw Dog – that’s Compass Box Asyla Scotch, Dolin Blanc Vermouth, fresh squeezed lemon juice, Bitterman’s Grapefruit Bitters, and muddled strawberry – and the Bella Luna which is Plymouth Gin, St. Germain Elderflower, fresh squeezed lemon juice, and Creme Yvette. There’s an abbreviated wine and beer selection but an intriguing list of Champagne cocktails and punches to make up for it. There’s also a “Bites” menu with a lobster roll and crispy pork belly. The scene is all marble and mahogany, quiet but lively. They don’t let more people in than there are seats for so it’s never too crowded but you may have to wait outside – though it’s no problem, the doorman is quite friendly.

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Tokio 7: Consignment Couture

Tokio 7 is the little 7th Street consignment shop that everyone goes to. The shelves and racks are always packed with lightly used – sometimes brand-new looking – designer clothes, shoes, and accessories at about half the retail price; and because the store sells so much, everything in there is always current. Looking for a pair of slick Paul Smith oxfords? Or a metallic Gucci minidress? How about a pair of Persol sunglasses? Or a Helmut Lang tank? They’ve got all that – but not for long. Next week it will be gone and in it’s place some Marc Jacobs cargo pants, Valentino motorcycle boots, a couple of Balanciaga handbags, and a Jill Sander shift dress. If you are lucky you may even find a couture Chanel jacket. Whatever you are looking for, Tokio 7 is wort checking out, especially now that it’s in its new location that is just a smidge bigger.

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The Cloisters: Medieval Art at the Summit of Manhattan

Looking for a European getaway for the price of a Metrocard? There are five Medieval French Cloisters connected by galleries full of period art sitting on four acres of land that overlook the Hudson River in Fort Tyron Park. This extension of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, know as the Cloisters, has been called “the crowning achievement of American museology” by the former director of the Louvre in Paris – and he would know. Here atop grassy peaks at the top of Manhattan are all forms of European Medieval art, from paintings to tapestries to sculptures and stained glass and even parts of the structure itself. The indoors spaces flow seamlessly into the outdoor cloisters and gardens and the breathtaking views of the Hudson River valley are always there peaking out between the columns and archways. The Cloisters is a beautiful and enchanting glimpse into history and well worth the trek uptown.

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Update Your Closet at Beacon’s Closet

For the most sought-after trends and vintage pieces look no further then Beacon’s Closet in where else but hipster-ville Williamsburg. This warehouse converted into a consignment shop can’t really be called a shop; it is three huge rooms full of men’s and women’s clothes, shoes, bags, accessories, and home goods that run the gambit from retro-chic to sleek and sexy to straight-up street wear. There are not many places that you can get La Rock striped booty shorts, Levis in every wash imaginable and Nike’s in every color imaginable, a white Calvin Klein rouched mini dress – for under twenty-five bucks! – silver Costume National pumps, light blue boat shoes, and an Andy Warhol look book; but, at Beacon’s Closet you can. All the goods are lightly used and formerly loved, with price tags that may shock you, in a good way. And if you are looking to unload your old duds they do that for you here too, but remember, only bring in the fabulous pieces as this is not your average Salvation Army type thrift shop – this place is hip and caters to that crowd.3018558507_9f1914bea4_o

Keste is Neapolitan for “This Is It”

San Marzano tomatoes, buffalo mozzarella flash-frozen in Campagna, Italy before shipping to New York, sea salt, volcanic stone heated to one thousand degrees: these are just some of the necessary ingredients for a true Italian pie at Keste Pizza & Vino. And this attention to authentic detail is working, as the newest contender for the best slice in New York, it has already ranked #1 on NY Mag’s list of NYC’s Top Pie.

Keste Pizza & Vino offers over twenty pizza pies ranging in price from $9 to $19 with striking toppings such as imported cooked ham, butternut squash cream and truffle spread. Once the order is placed and the toppings are spread over the dough, pizzas cook in just one minute thanks to the thousand degree oven.

Chef-owner Roberto Caporuscio is a traditionalist when it comes to making his twelve-inch Neapolitan pies. With an oven that was made by artisans flown in from Naples, Keste Pizza & Vino is the newest contender for the legendary New York slice status, even if it is through and through Italian. The name sake pie has tomatoes, buffalo mozzarella, prosciutto di parma, arugola, gran cru and extra virgin olive oil. And for the purist there is always the simple elegance and perfection that is the equally popular Margherita.

Perry St: Inventive French Fare From Jean Georges


diners_perry_streetFrom the chef that brought us the acclaimed Spice Market, Jean Georges delivers yet another inventive menu and beautiful restaurant to go with it, Perry St. Here you will find Asian-inspired modern French fare and a minimalist dining room full of white leather sofas. As is the present crowd, patrons of haute cuisine have come to expect culinary extras like the amuse bouche, and on this order Perry St delivers (with a strawberry and basil gazpacho no less!). Entree items range from the predictable but proven – slowly baked arctic char with white asparagus and basil vinaigrette – to the surprising – you can have fried chicken with spicy pea puree and pickled onions for dinner if you like. And as is the case with many concept restaurants, the creativity really shines through in the selection of appetizers. For starters you might enjoy a crispy poached egg with caviar and vodka cream. Because, why not?

Foley + Corinna: City Chic Bags with Design in Mind

shanae_grimes Foley Corinna bagEvery city girl needs a Foley + Corinna City Tote. It’s the it-bag year after year thanks to fresh colors, sizes, and materials that make it new every season. It’s convertible yet uncomplicated and oh-so-refined looking. And that’s just one of more than a dozen hip bags from Foley + Corinna. The slouchy shape of the Moto Hobo is cool and casual and it has just enough hardware to make it nighttime chic too. The pint-sized Deco packs a lot of glamour into a sophisticated little pouch – it’s made of silver metal mesh and soft black leather. And then there’s the Cargo that doubles as a shoulder bag and messenger bag for perhaps the stylish cyclist. The bottom line is, Foley + Corinna handbags are beautifully constructed, stylishly designed, and well thought out with city living in mind. Oh, and they do clothing too that’s just as head-turning.

Italian Culinary Heavyweights Deliver at Del Posto

For an authentic yet modern, inventive Italian meal, not many restaurants in NYC deliver in style like Del Posto. With both Mario Batali and Lidia Bastianich at the helm- er kitchen- from the first steps guests are greeted to a grand experience:del posto classical pianists set the mood in the ballroom of a dining room with balcony seating, three sets of marble staircases, wrought iron railings, and wooden beams in the high ceilings.

Start your meal with the Abalone Carpaccio with Grilled Asparagus and Young Ramps or with Lidia’s Lobster Salad alla Catalana with Tomato and Celery. For your primi course, the hand made Orecchiette with Lamb Shoulder Sausage, Crispy Morels, and Minted Soybeans is worth it for the minted soybeans alone. For your secondi course, there’s no way to go wrong, but if you are feeling adventurous try the Roasted Turbot – from the Mediterranean – with Caponatina, Crunchy Fregola and Moorish Spices. To finish, the Chocolate Ricotta Tortino with Toasted Sicilian Pistachios and EVOO Gelato is a masterpiece of a dessert and the perfect ending to a beautiful Italian meal.

At Del Posto, the atmosphere and the service are impeccable, but in the end, it is all about the food – as it should be.

Scandalous to Fabulous at New Limelight Marketplace

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It’s hard to believe the once infamous nightclub Limelight-that was once an Episcopal church turned into a scandalous late night party house- is now a chichi mall. There’s a doorman in a marble lobby of the new Limelight Marketplace, a chandelier on every ceiling, and exquisite – read, expensive – designer pajamas available from Olatz that you can wear in bed, while you eat artisan chocolate from Mariebelle Cacao Bar & Cafe.

On the first floor, formerly the main dance floor, there are Havianas and Hunter boots in every color imaginable, on the balconies there are flower arrangements from Barbara Scott (that might break the bank if you’re not careful), and rows of dainty handmade jewels from Tina Tang. And in the once co-ed bathroom that posted naked pictures of porn stars, you will find classy Brocade home furnishings fit for a modern princess.

In short, the Limelight Marketplace has it all for the ultimate upscale New York, however ironic, shopping experience. But lost on this irony the Limelight Marketplace is not. Many of the boutique stalls are set up around little bars that serve wares instead of alcohol: at Alexander West you can order a custom (bespoke!) men’s dress shirt and at Petrossian you can order ten different types off caviar – if that’s what you’re into. There are mannequins dressed as club kids on the main floor and there are antique bobbles from Old Hollywood on display in front of an enormous stained glass tryptic on the balcony. Shopping at the Limelight Marketplace is truly a unique experience – especially if you have experienced it in its former gritty glory.

Le Bernardin for Award-Winning Seafood Perfection

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A 4 star restaurant that has been named the #1 restaurant in New York by New York Magazine, New York Times and Zagat’s Guide; has won more James Beard Awards than any other restaurant; and has been awarded the highest number of Michelin stars: 3, Le Bernardin is the premier French restaurants in New York City – and arguably the world – and certainly one of the most elegant dining rooms in the country.

Picture 67The philosophy of Le Bernardin is, very simply put, the fish is the star of the plate. With the focus on seafood, Chef Eric Ripert (whose name and restaurant may sound familiar from multiple Top Chef appearances) has created an ambitious yet uncomplicated dinner menu that is broken into three courses: almost raw, barely touched and lightly cooked. Chef Eric Ripert’s favorite dishes are the Tuna made of Layers of Thinly Pounded Yellowfin with Foie Gras and Toasted Baguette; the Crab with Stuffed Zucchini Flower with Peektoe, King Crab and “Fine Herbs – Lemon” Mousseline Sauce; and the Surf and Turf of Escolar and Seared Kobe Beef with Sea Bean Salad and Eggplant Fries.

Le Bernardin is one of those restaurants that is the special occasion as it will probably be the most memorable dining experience of your entire life.

Insider’s Tip: As Le Bernardin’s reputation precedes itself throughout the globe, make sure to make a reservation well in advance and bring a heavy wallet; such perfection is priced accordingly.

Two Spots for One Stop Shopping At Bloomingdale’s

For the stylish New York shopper only one stop is necessary: Bloomingdale’s. They are on top of every trend and have more brands than you’re even aware exist. In the denim department you’ll find J Brand, Joe’s Jeans, and 7 For All Mankind for miles; Rebecca Minkoff totes, and COMME des GARCONS wallets in the handbag department; Marc by Marc Jacobs ballet flats, Diane von Furstenberg clogs, and Stuart Weitzman heels of all types in shoes, and then there’s still more. For men, Bloomingdale’s has Theory, Converse, Paul Smith, and John Varvatos shoes, clothes and outerwear. They have funky home goods, they have luxury jewelry finds, they even have celeb skin secret La Mer. This is, after all, a department store- New York style.

The old world charm of the Flagship Bloomingdale’s on Lexington is enchanting, but to get down to shopping business the younger (and more European) clientele tend towards the Bloomingdale’s in SoHo. Either way, floors upon floors of designer and hard-to-find boutique brands await. And when you are done shopping for yourself, you can repent for your shopping sins by buying something for mom in the Home department – Le Creuset is available in ten colors – or for your niece in the Kid’s department – Ralph Lauren Polos for little ones come in all sorts of colors.

The Scoop On The Latest Fashion

Scoop’s byline is “the ultimate closet.” And how else could this – Alice & Olivia tunics, Zac Posen gowns, Tom Binns jewelry, Theory blazers, Helmut Lang tees, Marc Jacobs clutches, Vince camis, exclusive Stewart Weitzman heels and flats, Ya-Ya skirts, and Acne jeans – be described? Ultimate, for starters, because that’s just the women’s section. The men’s, kid’s, and home sections meaPicture 49sure up accordingly with brands like DSquared and Chip & Pepper.

For one-stop fashion shopping there are three Scoop locations in New York City to chose from. The SoHo Scoop, which is aptly referred to as the Mega-Scoop, is where you will find current runway trends and staples alike from every hip designer you’ve ever lusted over. Translation: this store is huge and has it all. The West Village Scoop houses a concept store that is referred to as “the ultimate attic” and tends more towards Ileana Makri jewelry, Havaiana flip-flops, and Freecity hoodies. And for uptowners, well, there’s the uptown Scoop. But regardless of location, the Scoop philosophy of shopping remains the same: all the clothes and accessories are organized by trend, color, and type so that the ever time-strapped New York shopper can find exactly what they want, right along side the right pieces to compliment what they came shopping for.

Bottle Service Then Brunch At Libation

New York City is full of hot nightclubs, but not many can brag about a great brunch as well.  Libation, however, is one that can.  It’s a stylish restaurant and lounge in the evening, an out of control three floor playground set to hip-hop and DJ mash-ups at night, and the next see-and-be-seen brunch spot on Sunday afternoons.

But to do it all and to do it well is the impressive part.Picture 48 With three bars and two DJ booths on three floors, Libation is a veritable nightclub.  The dancing gets pumping at around eleven and bottle service is available all night on the balcony.  DJs fly in from Las Vegas and California to spin the latest tracks and bartenders mix specialty drinks such as the Libation Lemonade: fresh blueberries and blackberries muddled with fresh squeezed lemon juice, sugar and Stoli Bluberi Vodka.

After a long night of dancing and drinking, come back to nurse your hangover away with the Texas French Toast.  It comes with bananas, walnuts, and your choice of bacon, sausage, or ham, and-most importantly-unlimited Mimosas and Bloody Marys.  Brunch reservations are a must for Sunday, but planning ahead for a Libation double-header is worth it, because haven’t you always wondered what a nightclub would be like in the day?

Rosa Mexicano Gives Mexican a Stylish Makeover

A New York institution since 1984, Rosa Mexicano turns wimpy tacos into bold, flavorful Flautas de Pollo, making South of the Border food upscale and gourmet cuisine. Starting the tableside guacamole service trend that has exploded across America, Rosa Mexicano is the end all, be all to authentic, modern Mexican cuisine that only New York can make seriously trendy and stylish.

Rosa Mexicano is best known for its signature pomegranate margaritas, but seasoned diners (and drinkers!) know to go for a fresh cocktail made from Picture 33any of the 100 tequilas stocked behind the bar. One such favorite is the Paloma: a tequila and grapefruit soda cocktail.

The impressive interiors of New York’s two newest Rosa Mexicano outposts (Lincoln Center and Union Square) were designed by David Rockwell and feature electric-blue tiled water walls. But for that old-school Mexicana, all three of its NYC restaurants feature the award-winning tableside prepared guacamole that is not to be missed. In fact, it should be ordered before even cracking open the menu. It is made in the traditional lava-rock mortar and is well worth the $14 price tag. The rest of the menu is a journey into new territory of elevated, elegant Mexican dining from the Filete con Hongos (Filet Mignon with Wild Mushrooms) to the Jaiba Enchiladas (Jumbo Lump Crab Enchiladas).

Insider’s Tip: Make reservations early for a prime-time table. All three Manhattan locations get crowded and waiting for a table at the bar is not really an option due to the popular reputation of those pomegranate margaritas.

The Latest Momofuku is Ma Peche in Midtown

Ma Peche, David Chang’s newest Asian fusion restaurant and the first to venture outside of the East Village, is now open for business.  The restaurant is in Midtown’s Chambers Hotel, but don’t let the new neighborhood or the high ceilings in the hotel lobby fool you.  ma pecheMa Peche stays true to the Momofuku brand of exclusivity that is brought about by dim lighting, community seating and chefs working within an arms reach.  Oh, and they don’t take reservations.

The menu at Ma Peche changes daily depending on what local farmers have on the chopping block.  That’s code for: this restaurant serves a lot of meat, and has no vegetarian options.  Mainstay entrees include spicy pork two ways, ribs with carrots and spaetzle, and mussels with crab paste and beer.

After the meal is over and the reasonable tab is settled, stop by the Milk Bar at the front of the house.  Offerings include Cereal Milk soft serve and Crack Pie.  They call it that because, well, it’s really addictive.

Guilty Pleasures at Momofuku Milk Bar

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Momofuku Milk Bar is restaurateur extraordinaire Chef David Chang’s sweet tooth answer to his hugely successful group of savory eateries in the East Village (and now Midtown as well). With the help of Pastry Chef Christina Tosi, the Milk Bar serves up wild delights like Peach Tea Soft Serve, the classic Cereal Milk Soft Serve, Corn Cookies, and Compost Cookies – which unlike the simple but tasty Corn Cookie has a lot of ingredients in it including pretzels, potato chips, coffee, oats, butterscotch, and chocolate chips. You can also get a bizarre variety of yummy and sometimes savory pies, cakes, breads, and buns here. And then there is the Crack Pie, which, as the menu informs, is made up of two components only: toasted oat crust and gooey butter filling. Seems a little vague, no? Though anyone that has tasted this confectionary delight knows that the title of the treat speaks volumes compared to the description. Coffee lovers will also be happy to hear that the only beans in house here – brewing and in the Compost Cookie – are Stumptown coffee beans.

Insider tip: visit the Milk Bar on a weekday if you don’t like to wait for your treats. Otherwise, come on a Friday or a Saturday night and wait in line with all the other Crack Pie addicts. The people watching is good and a couple of celebrities have been known to stop by for their fix too.

Chanel Fine Jewelry Boutique

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If any name is synonymous with luxury, it’s Chanel. Here at their jewelry and watch boutique, you’ll find some of the most opulent pieces you can imagine. And when you visit this store, you’ll feel elegantly transported back in time as the salon is modeled after Coco Chanel’s own apartment!

MaxMara

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MaxMara is a luxurious brand at a great price point.  It is the perfect combination of value and luxury found in chic and easy to wear silhouettes that can be accessorized to fit everyone’s style. MaxMara is known worldwide for their confidence-inspiring neutral and tonal separates and their great fit.  These are garments women rely on to be chic and relaxed in all occasions.

High Tea or a Night Cap at Alice’s Tea Cup

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At Alice’s Tea Cup the air seems to be filled with ferry dust and sweet dreams. It’s actually just glitter and the scent of freshly baked cupcakes but when you are here in one of the exquisite tea rooms, the magic of Alice In Wonderland takes over and even the grumpiest adults can become kids again over the famous Pumpkin Scones and a pot of Birthday Tea. Or if you are more adventurous try the Chocolate Mint Tea, that’s Indian black tea with mini chocolate chips and peppermint leaves, and Alice’s Hamburger, it comes with Lapsang and Rooibos tea infused sauteed onions and mushrooms – yum! For the grown-ups in the group there is also the inventive menu of “Mar-tea-nis and Such” serving up creative libations like the Admiral’s Mar-tea-ni which is Rooibos tea, Kahlua, and Kettle One. You can’t go wrong with the restorative powers of tea and the ancient effects of liquor all in one! Now with three uptown locations serving a huge selection of teas and beverages, tea sandwiches and soups, treats and cakes, and other delights you should have no problem fitting a little afternoon tea into your afternoon.

Ohhs, Ahhs, and Eeks! at the New York Aquarium

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From hair raising encounters with toothy reef sharks to meeting the adorably playful penguins and just about everything in between and underwater – you’ll see sea lions, sea otters, giant walruses that weigh in at over 1200 pounds, and octopuses – the New York Aquarium will make you go ohh!, ahh!, and eek! Tickle a starfish or a horseshoe crab at one of the two Touch Pools. See California sea lions dance, swim, and sing, er- bark at the Aquatheater musical show; if you are lucky you may even get a kiss from one of these sweet west coast creatures. Or for a real jolt, experience a day in the life of our aqueous friends in 4-D – 3-D is so last year – at the Planet Earth: Shallow Seas show. Or better yet, stop by the Alien Stingers exhibit to explore the many types of spine chilling tentacles. Whatever you go to see, and you should probably see and do it all, you won’t have a complete Coney Island experience until you have visited the New York Aquarium. It’s the only aquarium in New York City and it features over 8,000 creatures waiting to befriend (or eat!) you.

Ellis Island

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When you are touring around Manhattan, there are a few things that have to be on your checklist of must-sees. Ellis Island is definitely one of them. This historic landmark will bring you right back to where it all started. Check out some of the recognizable names that have passed through this incredible port. You can even look up your own family’s genealogy. At Ellis Island, you’ll learn all about some of the unbelievable journeys people took to be a part of our country through film, photographs, and museum displays. The Wall of Honor is a sight to see as well. Overlooking the Statue of Liberty and the city skyline, The Wall of Honor contains over 700,000 names of immigrants. And it’s all free so how can you say no? Ferries leave from Battery Park and Liberty State Park daily.
For tickets and schedule information, call 1-877-LADY TIX or 1-877-523-9849 or visit www.statuecruises.com.

Indulge at Dylan’s Candy Bar

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With over 5,000 types of candy on three sweet floors, the New York Candy Cafe and multiple private party rooms, Dylan’s Candy Bar is not only the largest candy store in New York, but the largest in the world. As featured in Vogue and the New York Times, Dylan’s Candy Bar in New York is the ultimate sweet-tooth attraction for the candy lover in you. Peruse the award winning displays of candy – there’s a life-size tree made of over-sized lollipops – or challenge yourself and your belly to an I Bet You Can’t Sundae – that’s ten scoops of ice cream and ten toppings for twenty bucks! Make sure to go in on this one with a friend or two if you hope to get up out of your seat when the spoons have hit the bottom of the dish. Or if you prefer to save your figure, just buy a few of your favorite childhood candies, they are sure to have whatever you are looking for here in this spectacular world of lollipops, gummy bears, jelly beans and chocolate. Looking for gourmet sea-salt caramels? They’ve got that. Kosher Marshmallow twists? You’ll find them here. Yummy edible bikinis? Yeah, they’ve even got those.