Who Created the First New Year's Eve Ball Drop in Times Square?

And the answer is ...

c) The New York Times

In 1908, the New York Times had just moved its headquarters to Longacre Square, convincing the city to rename the site "Times Square" after the iconic newspaper. To draw even more attention to the site, publisher Adolph Ochs commissioned the first Ball Drop celebration. Although the newspaper has since changed headquarters, the tradition continues up through today!

Happy New Year!

New York Trivia Tuesday

Celebrating New Year's Eve on Times Square is an event that has been immortalized in movies and on television, with lots of excitement surrounding the main attraction: the Times Square Ball Drop. The Ball has been a feature of Times Square on New Year's Eve ever since 1908, when a company decided to fund the first celebration. Since then, Waterford Crystal makes a new Ball for the event every year. Who funded the first Ball in Times Square?

a) General Electric
b) Carnegie Steel
c) The New York Times
d) The New York Yankees

Check back on Thursday for the answer to this week's trivia question!

What Country Does the Metropolitan Museum's Creche Come From?

And the answer is ...

d) Italy

The famous Baroque creche was originally by Italian sculptor Giuseppe Sammartino; most of his work remains in Naples. When the creche was first displayed in the Met in 1925, the idea of having a decorated tree behind a creche was unusual; typically, they are displayed along. But the donor, Loretta Hines, was adamant about the idea for the original display. Now her daughter continues to personally set up the arrangement every year.

New York Trivia Tuesday

One of the most-visited Christmas attractions in New York is the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Christmas Tree and Baroque Creche, which depicts the Nativity scene, the Magi, and a choir of over 50 angels. The Creche was given to the museum in 1925 and has become a holiday icon ever since, backed up a blue spruce and topped by a dramatic array of candles. But in what country were the figures sculpted?

a) Belgium
b) France
c) Germany
d) Italy

Check back on Thursday for the answer to this week's trivia question!

Best of New York: Restaurants Open on Christmas

You’ve decorated the tree, shopped until you dropped, put up the lights, and sat through the family reunions. Who wants to cook? That’s why many restaurants in NYC keep their doors open on Christmas, often with special menus to help you celebrate the season—away from your oven. Here are our favorite eateries open on the ho-ho-holiday:

Maialino

The only one of restaurateur Danny Meyer’s restaurants to be open on Christmas Day, Maialino promises a hearty Italian feast to celebrate the holiday season. Its specials will include capon with polenta and panettone—a traditional Italian sweet bread that’s a staple at Christmastime—made in-house. If you’re bringing your family out to dinner, think about one of the chef’s specials: an entire suckling pig. Diets can wait until the New Year.

2 Lexington Ave, Manhattan; maialinonyc.com

Ippudo

Since many transplant New Yorkers head back home for the holidays, Christmas is a great time to try those popular restaurants that are usually packed every night of the week. Ippudo is one of those restaurants; its no reservation policy and its cheap prices make waiting for a table a multiple-hour affair. But since its open on Christmas, you can chow down on their traditional ramen—often called the best in NYC—without knocking elbows with the person next to you.

65 4th Ave, Manhattan; ippudony.com

Blue Water Grill

For classic American cuisine with some holiday cheer, head to Blue Water Grill off of Union Square. A favorite for the holidays, its classy seasonal décor welcome you in for some fresh seafood in a vibrant atmosphere. For brunch, its eggnog pancakes with spiced rum caramel sauce give you a taste of Christmas, and its raw bars with oysters on the half shell are a holiday staple. For dessert, indulge with their specialty “banana tower,” a impressive (and delicious!) ice cream structure.

31 Union Square West, Manhattan; bluewatergrillnyc.com

Saul

Consistently ranked as one of the top-rated restaurants in Brooklyn—and with a Michelin star to prove it—any day is a good day to try Saul. But with a special menu for the holiday, Christmas is a particularly delicious meal. Dedicated to the Feast of the Seven Fishes, an Italian festival observed on Christmas Eve, the seven-course menu celebrates seafood in all its forms. You’ll be getting traditional Italian flavors, some Brooklyn flair, and fine dining all in one bite.

140 Smith St, Brooklyn; saulrestaurant.com

Virgil’s

For those from the big BBQ states missing a taste of home, head to Virgil’s, NYC’s homage to meat. From pulled pork to ribs falling off the bone, it’s one of the go-to eateries for New Yorkers ready to get in touch with their carnivorous side. The restaurant is serving its usual menu on Christmas, which means that you’ll get a lot of meat, some delicious sides (the cornbread is our favorite), and a bill that won’t break the bank.

152 W 44th St, Manhattan; virgilsbbq.com

What Are the Names of the New York Public Library Lions?

And the answer is ...

a) Patience

Although the lions were originally placed by the library in honor of Leo Astor and Leo Lennox, two of the library's founders, they were nicknamed Patience and Fortitude in the 1930s by famed NYC mayor Fiorello LaGuardia, to honor qualities of New Yorkers that would help them through the Great Depression. The names stuck, and you can still see the famous statues today.

New York Trivia Tuesday

The main branch of the New York Public Library, one 5th Avenue and 42nd Street, is one of the most recognizable buildings in NYC. Built in 1911, the library was at the time the largest marble structure ever created, and was revered for its Beaux Arts style. But the site is perhaps most famous for the two stone lions that flank its entrance. Sculpted by Edward Clark Potter, one of the lions is named Fortitude. What is the name of the other lion?

a) Patience
b) Liberty
c) Courage
d) Honor

Check back on Thursday for the answer to this week's trivia question!

Best of New York: Holiday Markets

The holidays are here again, and if you're like me, you still have a lot of gifts to get in the next week. But thanks to the abundance of holiday markets in New York, you have a wealth of options at your fingertips. Whether shopping for the traditional gifts or something a bit more unique, get last-minute finds at these holiday shops:

Union Square Holiday Market

One of the most well-known holiday fairs in NYC, the Union Square Holiday Markets combines upscale goods with some seriously delicious grub. Now in its 16th year, the fair covers the south side of the park, with over 100 vendors selling everything from handmade leather bags to beautiful blown-glass vases. To keep your shopping energy up, grab a delicious treat from one of the gourmet food booths, offering everything from Belgian waffles to German brats. Best of all, the market is open every day until Christmas Eve, so you can find that last-minute gift here.

Union Square, Manhattan.
Nov 19-Dec 24.

Brooklyn Craft Central

Get a gift made locally with love at the third annual Brooklyn Craft Central. The craft market has become so popular among New Yorkers that it has expanded this year into two new spaces, five minutes apart. Browse the aisles of over 70 vendors to find handmade soap, stationary, jewelry, and more quirky items for the hipster on your list (a clock with different horse illustrations instead of numbers?).

Littlefield Art and Performance Space, 622 Degraw St, Brooklyn and Textile Arts Center, 505 Carroll St, Brooklyn
Dec 18-19.

Grand Central Terminal Holiday Fair

Take a train into Grand Central Terminal around the holiday season and you’ll be tempted to linger at their Holiday Fair, a pop-up shop that takes over the station’s cavernous Vanderbilt Hall. Nearly 80 vendors participate in the market every year, selling goods from all corners of the globe. Jewelry, accessories, and clothing are the most popular items here; you can find scarves from India, silver from Argentina, and pillows from Nepal. But there are also items that will remind you of NYC: the New York Transit Museum sells their subway line-branded merchandise as a memento of your time in the station.

Grand Central Station, Manhattan.
Nov 15-Dec 24.

Gifted at the Brooklyn Flea

The Brooklyn Flea is a regular stop for New Yorkers looking for some vintage duds or handmade art. And for the holiday season, the Flea is bringing some of its favorite vendors together for a special celebration. This is the perfect place to shop for the antiques lover on your list, or anyone who wants a little old-timey bling. You’ll also find Brooklyn-made items, including Fine & Raw Chocolates, Brooklyn Salsa, and preserves from the SchoolHouse Kitchen. It’s the perfect way to give something from New York to far-flung relatives.

Skylight One Hanson, 1 Hanson Place, Brooklyn.
Dec 15-23.

The Holiday Shops at Bryant Park

With its ice skating rink and brilliant light displays, Bryant Park is already a magical place during the holidays. But with the holiday shops, it’s also the perfect place to do a little seasonal shopping in style. Inspired by European open-air markets, vendors hailing from the Himalayas to Istanbul are bringing their international flair to this holiday market. Eco-friendly gifts are in fashion here, as well as décor for the house and home. When you’re done shopping, take a spin on the ice and enjoy some pretzels from Sigmund’s, one of the hottest new foodie establishments to open this year.

Bryant Park, Manhattan.
Nov 5-Jan 2.

What Happens to the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree After the Holidays?

And the answer is …

c) construction

Every year, the towering Christmas tree from Rockefeller Center is given to Habitat for Humanity, which uses the wood in its home construction projects to benefit those who cannot afford housing. Now that’s spreading the holiday cheer, all year ‘round!

New York Trivia Tuesday

The Rockefeller Center Christmas tree is one of the most famous of its kind. Thousands of New Yorkers and tourists alike flocking to see the tree-lighting ceremony, the event is also broadcast to millions more every year on NBC.

Unlike many public Christmas trees, the one in Rockefeller center is real; a new one is trucked in from surrounding states every year (This year it’s from Mahopic, New York). But after the tree is taken down in the first week of January, what happens to the wood? It is used for:

a) firewood
b) fertilizer
c) construction
d) furniture

Check back on Thursday for the answer to this week’s trivia question!

NYC's Most Romantic Restaurants

New York during the holidays is one of the most romantic places in the world. And with many occasions to celebrate this month, you might find yourself looking for a good place to enjoy the ambiance over some food. Check out our list of NYC’s most romantic restaurants. And while you’re at it, remember that many of these places fill up early for Valentine’s!

One If By Land, Two If By Sea

The king of all romantic New York restaurants, One If By Land is known as the place to impress the ladies. Located in the old carriage house of third American vice-president Aaron Burr, the building itself has an old-world feel. But step inside and you’ll feel transported: the tapestries, the dozens of candles, the live piano music all take you back to another era. The pricey food rarely draws raves, but is solid new American fare. Plus, you’ll probably be too busy gazing into each others’ eyes (or at the display of pistols that Burr used to shoot Alexander Hamilton) to notice.

17 Barrow St, Manhattan; (212) 255-8649

Café Charbon

If French is the language of love, what could be more romantic than a cozy bistro? This Lower East Side gem is divided in two: the front half is a hip bar where singles go to be seen, while the back is a homey restaurant where couples split a tarte tatin. The room is decorated like a French general store, with international spices and picturesque packages lining the walls. The food gets high marks, although it is standard bistro fare with few culinary surprises. Enjoy a medium-rare steak or a chicken roasted to perfection, and end the night with a (French) kiss.

170 Orchard St, Manhattan; (212) 420-7520

River Café

We’re not sure why, but there’s something about those skyline views that makes an evening one to remember. That’s why River Café is a perennial favorite on lists of top romantic restaurants. That, and the food is really, really good. The upscale American cuisine is offered in a $100 prix fixe menu, so save this one for special occasions. But when you have something to celebrate, enjoy the food and the expansive views of Manhattan from right across the water. As a kitschy touch, you can get a chocolate model of the Brooklyn Bridge for dessert.

1 Water St, Brooklyn; (718) 522-5200
Apizz

This abandoned corner on Manhattan’s Lower East Side may not seem like the most romantic place to spend a Saturday night, but a flickering neon sign reading “Apizz” means you’re in the right place. Enter, and you’ll find yourself in a wood-paneled, cozy room filled with aromas from the kitchen. The reinvented Italian fare here is the star of the show; creamy lobster risotto and crispy pizza appetizers are some of the house specialties.

217 Eldridge St, Manhattan; (212) 253-9199

El Quinto Pino

This Spanish tapas bar delivers in both food and flirty fun. The menu of small plates ranges from cod croquettes to Japanese-influenced sea urchin panini. The wine menu, even more extensive, offers you a selection of individual glasses at very reasonable prices, so you can feel free to indulge. Although the space is small and can be cramped (or should we say, “intimate”?), sharing a few plates and a few drinks over a first date is a great way to try new things in a fun and relaxed atmosphere.

401 W 24th St, Manhattan; (212) 206-6900

What Figure Did Diego Rivera Refuse to Remove from his Mural?

And the answer is ...

c) Vladimir Lenin

A known socialist, Diego Rivera depicted several scenes of Moscow May Day and a portrait of Lenin in his original mural. Although he offered to counterbalance the images with a portrait of Lincoln, he refused to remove them, causing Nelson Rockefeller to paper over the entire mural. Although restorers attempted to save it a year later, the mural was beyond repair and was destroyed. It was replaced by a mural called "American Progress," by Josep Maria Sert.

New York Trivia Tuesday

During the holidays, visitors to Rockefeller Center's famed ice skating rink will glide next to the plaza's illuminated Prometheus statue, one of the most recognized public art pieces in the country.

Sculptor Paul Manship isn't the only famous artist who created works for Rockefeller Center, though. Diego Rivera created a mural for the lobby of the RCA building that sits on the plaza--but you can't see it today. That's because Nelson Rockefeller papered it over after Rivera refused to remove this famous figure from the mural:

a) Karl Marx
b) Jesus
c) Vladimir Lenin
d) Fidel Castro

Think you have the answer? Check back on Thursday for the answer to this week's trivia question!

Best of New York: Holiday Performances

The holiday season is finally here, and with it comes bright lights, shopping sales, and a wave of performances that celebrate the most wonderful time of the year. From classical music concerts to fantastical dance productions, celebrate the season with one of these New York twists on holiday classics.

The Nutcracker

Although most ballet companies recycle their productions of this classic holiday performance from year to year, the city’s preeminent company American Ballet Theatre is introducing a brand new production this season. With costumes by Tony award-winning Richard Hudson (of Lion King fame) and a focus on lavish storytelling, Alexei Ratmansky choreographs over 100 dancers in this premiere to some of Tchaikovsky’s most beloved music.

December 22-January 2, show times vary. BAM Howard Gilman Opera House, 30 Lafayette Ave, Brooklyn.
abt.org

Messiah

A staple of the holiday season, Handel’s oratorio is one of the most recognizable and most performed works of classical music in the world. Although there are several different performances in Manhattan, our favorite is at the historic Trinity Church in Lower Manhattan, built in 1696. The church’s resident choir, one of the best professional choirs in the city, is known for their performance of the Messiah, so soak up the music while enjoying the old building’s stained glass and vaulted ceilings.

December 12-13, 7:30 pm. 74 Trinity Place, Manhattan.
trinitywallstreet.org

Bargemusic

One of the most scenic concert venues in the five boroughs, Bargemusic lets you listen to classical selections while floating next to a pier on the East River, just underneath the Brooklyn Bridge. Their Christmas Eve concert will amp up the holiday magic, allowing you a view of the illuminated Manhattan skyline while providing chocolate treats and a crackling fire to go with the music: Steven Beck’s rendition of the Goldberg Variations.

December 24, 8 pm. Fulton Ferry Landing, Brooklyn.
bargemusic.org

Peter and the Wolf

Now in its fourth year, this holiday tradition, produced by Carnegie Hall at the famed Guggenheim museum, brings an all-ages musical favorite to New York for the season. Prokofiev’s classic musical story of a young boy and the animals he meets in the woods is performed by the Julliard Ensemble and narrated by celeb designer Isaac Mizrahi. This year, the production will be framed by an installation of contemporary Japanese sculptures, as well as the beautiful lines of the Frank Lloyd Wright building.

December 11-19, show times vary. 1071 Fifth Ave, Manhattan.
carnegiehall.org

Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall

The ultimate in classic New York holiday kitsch, the Rockettes are a must-see for visitors and New Yorkers alike. This precision dance troupe has been performing for 77 years, so you’ll be able to swap stories with your grandparents about the first time you saw their Christmas Spectacular, their iconic show featuring an original score, dramatic sets, and elaborate costumes. You’ll be in good company: over a million visitors see the show every year!

Show times vary through December 30. Radio City Music Hall, 50th St and 6th Ave, Manhattan.
radiocity.com


Looking for more holiday fun? Check out the Holiday Edition of our Amazing New York Race!

What Was the First Balloon in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade?

And the answer is ...

b) Felix the Cat

Felix, the popular cartoon character of the 1920s, was the first character to be balloon-ified in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. The Marx Brothers, Uncle Sam, Mickey Mouse, and Superman would be introduced over the next 12 years. Bugs Bunny wasn't created until 1989. These days, several new balloons are premiered every year. In 2010, five new balloons will travel with the parade, including Kung Fu Panda and a character from the children's series Diary of a Wimpy Kid.

New York Trivia Tuesday

The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade was started in 1924, when employees of Macy's, many of whom were immigrants, wanted to celebrate the new holiday with the type of public festival that was a European tradition. Over 250,000 people attended the first parade, making it a huge success and establishing a tradition that continues today.

The parades of the first few years featured live animals from the Central Park Zoo, but in 1927 Macy's started to introduce balloons that would take the place of the animals. What was the first balloon created for the parade?

a) Mickey Mouse
b) Felix the Cat
c) Bugs Bunny
d) Superman

Check back on Thursday for the answer to this week's trivia question!

Best of New York: Thanksgiving Dinners

In a city of small kitchens and big restaurants, Thanksgiving is the perfect occasion to dine out. You avoid the preparation and cleaning, and can spend more time with family and friends. Plus, New York restaurants have whipped up some special meals just for the occasion. If you’re wondering where to go this Thanksgiving, or accidentally burned the turkey, here are our suggestions:

Recette

If you’d prefer to be out of the kitchen for the Thanksgiving feast, there’s no better way to spend it than at one of 2010’s best new restaurants in NYC. The updated classics of French cuisine from the restaurant’s critically-acclaimed regular menu are available for diners on Thanksgiving, as well as their special for the holiday: a prix-fixe four-course menu featuring all the familiar flavors of fall, turned haut cuisine. Pumpkin soup, rabbit ravioli, and a chocolate-pecan tart with sweet potato ice cream all add to the main event: a confit turkey roulade stuffed with chestnuts and cranberries.

328 W 12th St, Manhattan; 212-414-3000

The Farm on Adderley

What better place to celebrate Thanksgiving than down on the farm? One of Ditmas Park’s favorite neighborhood restaurants, the Farm on Adderley is known for its food as much as for its rustic and friendly atmosphere. Their Thanksgiving menu, unlike most, offers several choices for each of the three courses, so any picky eater can find something to choose from. The turkey comes with all the fixings (Brussels sprouts, potatoes, stuffings and gravy), while vegetarian and pescatarian alternatives include sweet potato ravioli and poached halibut. We’re looking forward to the root beer cake: two amazing things in one!

1108 Cortelyou Rd, Brooklyn; 718-287-3101

Zabar’s

Want to have Thanksgiving at home, without the cooking hassle? New York’s legendary Zabar’s will bring the Thanksgiving meal right to your door (You can even reheat and pretend you made it yourself!). With numerous options for the main course, including turkey, goose, and duck, and dozens of sides and desserts, you can assemble the meal you’re craving online, then sit back, relax with family, and have all the feasting without any of the fussing. And while you're ordering, why not call ahead to reserve one of these best pies in New York?

2245 Broadway, Manhattan; 212-787-2000

Devi

Give your Thanksgiving an international spin at Devi, one of the city’s most renowned Indian restaurants. Offering a five-course prix fixe menu only on Thanksgiving day, the turkey here gets a punch from a tamarind glaze, and is served with masala corn bread and a cranberry chutney. Other dishes range from the exotic (harvest stew with tandoor grilled halibut) to the familiar (banana caramel pudding). One thing’s for sure: you won’t be missing your aunt’s boring mashed potatoes.
8 E 18th St, Manhattan; 212-691-1300

Torrisi Italian Specialties

After Thanksgiving, my family makes turkey sandwiches for lunch for the rest of the weekend. If you’re still craving leftover turkey after the big T-day celebrations, head over to Torrisi. Although they’re not open on Thanksgiving day, they’re well known for the best turkey sandwich in all of New York. Called the Panama, the sandwich is simple: just a little red onion, lettuce, tomato and a spicy sauce add to the turkey. But the meat is perfectly cooked, glazed with garlic and honey and roasted to perfection. Stop eating leftovers and pick up your order here to experience what a turkey sandwich should be about.

250 Mulberry St, Manhattan; 212-965-0955

What Did New York's JFK Airport Replace?

And the answer is ...

c) a golf course

When the new airport was built in the 1940s, it displaced 1,000 acres the Idlewild Golf Course, leading many New Yorkers to call the new airport "the Idlewild airport," although that was never its official name. Now, the remaining land from the golf course remains as a park for locals and visitors to enjoy.

New York Trivia Tuesday

New Yorkers have their choice of three airports in the metropolitan area: Newark Liberty (EWR), LaGuardia (LGA) and John F. Kennedy (JFK). Of these, JFK is the newest airport, with construction starting in 1943.

Although it was intended to be named Major General Alexander E. Anderson Airport until President Kennedy's assassination in 1963, the airport was commonly called "Idlewild" by many New Yorkers, since the airport was built on top of a site formerly known as Idlewild. What was formerly located at the airport's current location?

a) a zoo
b) a country club
c) a golf course
d) a cemetery

Check back on Thursday for the answer to this week's trivia question!

Best of New York: Trivia Nights

What is more fun than having a drink with friends? Having a drink with friends while showing off your smarts, of course. Luckily, many of New York’s bars have their own trivia nights each week, where players can grab a beer, form a team, and test their wits with a series of questions from pop culture to politics. Plus, winners win prizes from bar tabs to cash. Where will you play?

Crash Mansion

Although it only comes to NYC every other week, this traveling trivia night is worth the wait. Dubbed “The Next Big Quiz Thing,” it’s famous to New Yorkers who like to brag about their brainpower. The questions here are tough—ridiculously tough. Why? The prize is a cool $200. But whether you’re daring to enter the ring as a competitor or would prefer to watch the battle from the sidelines, you’ll be more entertained here than at any other trivia night in the city … and you’ll probably learn something too.
199 Bowery, Manhattan; visit bigquizthing.com for dates and times

Crocodile Lounge

Trivia at the Crocodile Lounge is a relaxed, straightforward affair. It’s a free four rounds of questions focusing on current events, with some pop culture thrown in. The hosts offer free shots between rounds to those who are quick enough to answer some bonus questions. Unlike some more competitive games in town, trivia night here is a laid-back night out with friends, with the added chance to show off your smarts. The best part? A free pizza comes with each drink, so you can stay for dinner.
235 E 14th St, Manhattan; Wednesdays at 9 pm

Rocky Sullivan’s

Only locals and die-hard trivia fans make it out to this bar in far-away Red Hook, but for those willing to make the journey out to Brooklyn’s docks, they’ll get one of the best trivia nights in the five boroughs. The game is free, and the organizers are known to bring in some unorthodox clues for their “show and tell” round, from license plates to album covers.

31 Van Dyck St, Brooklyn; Thursdays at 8:30 pm

Pete’s Candy Store

This hipster hangout and music space offers free trivia on Wednesday nights, catering to an artsy and indie crowd. The questions, although varied, often revolve around music and the arts, so get your friends from art school and tackle the regulars who come here every week for some trivia challenges and some cheap beers at happy hour (which ends at 7).

709 Lorimer St, Brooklyn; Wednesdays at 7:30 pm

Rope

Want a serious prize? You got it. Instead of the typical bar tab, Rope offers its trivia champions cold hard cash. The $2 contribution from each player at the bar adds up to an impressive grand prize, so expect some serious challengers here. And unlike many trivia nights, which have a different theme every round, Rope’s trivia nights have one overall theme for the whole evening. Study up in advance, and school the competition.

415 Myrtle Ave, Brooklyn; Tuesdays at 8:30 pm

What Broadway Musical Inspired the Empire State's Illumination?

And the answer is ...

d) Jersey Boys

On November 5th and 6th, you might have seen the Empire State Building light up in red, yellow and white, the prominent colors on the Jersey Boys posters. The musical, one of the most popular currently on the Great White Way, has been playing there for five years. In 2008, the Empire State Building celebrated another musical's 5-year anniversary, by doing itself up all in green as a tribute to Wicked.

New York Trivia Tuesday

The Empire State Building started lighting up in vivid color at night in 1964, when colored floodlights were added to the facade. The iconic building's colors, which change nightly, celebrate a mix of holidays, commemorations, promotions, and quirky anniversaries. This month, the tower lit up in red, white and yellow to celebrate the anniversary of this Broadway musical's run:

a) The Lion King
b) Wicked
c) Mamma Mia
d) Jersey Boys

Check back on Thursday for the answer to this week's trivia question!

Best Hot Chocolate in NYC

Immortalized in romantic comedies and NYC guidebooks, Serendipity III is known internationally for its "frozen hot chocolate." But when you want to warm up, where do you get your fix? Check out these five favorites for a cup of cocoa on these cold New York days.

City Bakery

Any die-hard hot chocolate lover in NYC will point you toward City Bakery, a place so famous for its hot chocolate that the bakery dedicates each day in the month of February to a different flavor of the toasty drink. All year round, you can try the iconic original: a rich, decadent dark chocolate. Order a cup with one of their house-made marshmallows, or just get a $2 shot-sized portion; it’s more than enough to fill you up!

3 W 18th St, Manhattan; 212-366-1414; thecitybakery.com


Jacques Torres

The famous owner of this self-named New York chain is nicknamed “Mr. Chocolate,” and for good reason! His chocolate emporiums have some of the tastiest creations in New York, from classic chocolate chip cookies to creative ice cream sandwiches. Hot chocolate fans will delight in Torres’ piping-hot specialty: the Wicked Hot Chocolate. With dark chocolate and a dose of chili powder, it packs an extra helping of heat in your hot cocoa.

Various locations; see mrchocolate.com

Vosges Haut-Chocolat

Like the name suggests, this is the chic NYC spot for a hot chocolate fix. The three gourmet flavors offer something for everyone’s chocolate tastes: a spicy dark chocolate with chiles, a classic dark chocolate with vanilla bean, and a unique white hot chocolate, infused with lavender and lemon. Pair your selection with one of the specialty truffles and you’ll have a whole chocolate meal.

1100 Madison Ave, Manhattan; 212-717-2929; vosgeschocolate.com
132 Spring St; 212-625-2929; vosgeschocolate.com


The Chocolate Room

Park Slope’s ode to chocolate, the Chocolate Room is a cute café that offers every concoction you could wish for, from cakes to custards. Of course, hot chocolate makes a starring appearance on the menu in many different forms. Their classic hot cocoa, lighter than many of New York’s competitors, benefits from a helping of gooey marshmallow. On warmer days, you can still enjoy it, either frozen (à la Serendipity) or as the base of an ice cream float.

86 Fifth Ave, Brooklyn; 718-783-2900, thechocolateroombrooklyn.com

Otto

Although, unlike the other locations featured here, Otto is a full-service restaurant, you can stop by the bar to sample one of their lesser-known but much-loved creations: gianduja calda. The drink gets its name from a specialty Italian chocolate (“gianduja”) that contains hazelnut paste. Pastry chef Meredith Kurtzman makes her own by seeping hazelnut grounds in milk, then mixing it with liquid chocolate. The result is a deliciously creamy concoction with a hazelnut twist that will have you wanting to lick the cup clean.

1 5th Ave, Manhattan; 212-995-9559; ottopizzeria.com

Which President Didn't Start as New York Governor?

And the answer is ...

b) Millard Fillmore

Although Fillmore was born in New York, he was the only one of four US presidents from the state that didn't become as governor first (Martin Van Buren, Theodore Roosevelt, and Franklin Roosevelt, the other three, all served as governor). Grover Cleveland, although he was New York governor, was from New Jersey.

Another bit of trivia: Virginia is the state that produced the most presidents, with seven, including George Washington.

New York Trivia Tuesday: Election Edition!

In honor of today's election, our weekly trivia question concerns a hotly-contested race for New Yorkers: the office of governor. The state of New York has had 51 governors in its long history, a number of whom later became president (and many of whom did not). Which US president was NOT formerly a governor of New York?

a) Martin Van Buren
b) Millard Fillmore
c) Grover Cleveland
d) Theodore Roosevelt

Check back on Thursday for the answer to this week's trivia question!

Best French Fries in NYC

What is more delicious--and more addicting--than the perfect French fry? But with so many soggy, limp, burnt or tasteless fries out there, the search for the perfect potato can prove difficult. Luckily, we have our five favorite French fries in NYC, with something for every budget and taste. From thin and crispy to light and fluffy, these win the fries prize.

Want a burger to go with your fries? Check out our list of best burgers in NYC!

Pommes Frites

Only in NYC would you have a restaurant solely devoted to the art of the fry. But stop by this hole-in-the-wall storefront in the East Village and you’ll see why the shop continues to thrive, despite having only one dish on the menu. These are technically Belgian-style frites, served in a paper cone, cut thickly and double-fried. The variety is in the dipping sauces: Pommes Frites serves over 25, from plain ketchup to wasabi mayo.

Price: $4.50, $1 each for additional sauces 123 Second Ave, Manhattan; (212) 674-1234
Balthazar

For the classic French fry experience, head to Keith McNally’s famed bistro Balthazar. The fries are the ideal width, cut evenly with enough crispy golden shell on the outside and plenty of light and fluffy potato on the inside. They’re served with mayonnaise and Dijon mustard, which French foodies like to pair together for the perfect bite. Pair it with one of their famous steaks and you’ll be transported to Paris.

Price: $8.50 80 Spring St, Manhattan; (212) 965-1785

Rare Bar

One of the beauties of the French fry is the many shapes it takes: shoestring, waffle, curly, classic. Can’t decide? Come to Rare Bar, where the fry tasting basket offers fries in all forms. Not only do they vary the style of fry, the folks at Rare Bar also include new types of potatoes, from the often-ignored sweet potato to the classic russet. Enjoy them with unusual dipping sauce pairings, including honey maple and Mexican chili ketchup.
Price: $10 Fashion 26 Hotel, 152 West 26th St, Manhattan; (212) 807-7273 Affinia Shelburne Hotel; 303 Lexington Ave, Manhattan; (212) 481-1999

Five Guys

It may be a chain, but Five Guys consistently produces top-notch French fries at a level that outshines most fancy NYC restaurants, and at a price that should make them blush. The potatoes come from a farm in Idaho, and unlike most fast food joints, Five Guys leaves the skins for a more rustic, less processed feel; they’re served in a paper bag, after all. A bit softer than the other fries on this list, you can order yours salted or “Cajun style” with a bit of heat.

Price: $3.19 Various locations; see fiveguys.com for details

The Harrison

Perhaps the most raved-about New York fry of them all, the Harrison’s potatoes are a dieter’s nightmare—and a fry-lover’s dream. Thin and crispy, with a center of creamy potato, they get their delicious flavor and crackly texture from the duck fat they’re finished with. Served with a hearty portion of vinegar mayo, these are tangy, crispy, and the perfect addition to any meal (or sometimes, the whole meal itself).
Price:$9 355 Greenwich St # 1, Manhattan; (212) 274-9310

Which horror film was shot in the haunted Dakota building?

And the answer is ...

c) Rosemary's Baby

This now-classic horror movie by Roman Polanski was filmed partially on location at the Dakota, a Gothic-style apartment building on 72nd Street and Central Park West in Manhattan. Renamed the Bramford for the film, the apartment's real tenants included such famous names as Lauren Bacall, Judy Garland, Leonard Bernstein, and of course, John Lennon.

New York Trivia Tuesday: Halloween Edition

Legends of New York's haunted spots are especially popular around Halloween, and none more so than the tales of the ghosts at the Dakota, one of the city's most historic apartment buildings. Although John Lennon was murdered outside the same building in 1980, neighbors most commonly report seeing a young man and woman in turn-of-the-century clothing roaming the halls. What's more, a famous horror movie was filmed in the building. Which movie filmed in the "haunted" Dakota apartments?

a) The Exorcist
b) Carrie
c) Rosemary's Baby
d) Cat People

Check back on Thursday for the answer to this week's trivia question!

Best Haunted Houses in NYC

There’s only one week left until Halloween, and NYC is getting in the ghoulish spirit. Each year, a variety of haunted houses pop up around the city, each with its own creepy take on the most horrifying of holidays. For a gory good time, take a look at these spooky spots:

NYC Haunted House

The name is no-frills, but thrill-seekers say that this haunted house, put on by the Vortex Theatre Company, is NYC’s most purely terrifying destination. Unlike nearly all haunted houses in the city, Haunted House warns visitors that they will be touched, so those who enter should be prepared for some in-your-face action. Past years have included sensory deprivation, surgical masks, and crawling through unsavory substances, so it’s not for the faint of heart (or stomach). The kicker? You’ll be walking through completely alone.

115 W 27th St, Manhattan; nychalloweenhauntedhouse.com

Nightmare: Superstitions

Less participatory than NYC Haunted House but a good deal creepier, Nightmare: Superstitions is New York’s biggest Halloween attraction. Groups of six travel through a haunted psych ward, where paranoid patients have admitted themselves, fearing a curse from the outside and hoping to place it on your instead. The house claims to “explore the psychology of fear,” so don’t expect the chainsaws and blood, but be ready for a mind-warping, unsettling evening.

623 Broadway, Manhattan; hauntedhousenyc.com

Haunted Forest at Inwood Hill Park

For a more family-friendly version of the haunted house, head to Inwood Hill Park Nature Center on Halloween night, where the park’s natural inhabitants transform into classic monsters from Frankenstein to the Werewolf. Experience the most haunted night of the year outdoors in the darkness of NYC’s last natural forest—then emerge for a party that includes free pizza, drinks, and other tricks and treats.

218th St and Indian Rd, Manhattan; nycgovparks.org

Steampunk Haunted House

Combining the spookiness of a haunted house with the elegant beauty of a Victorian mansion, the Steampunk Haunted House is a unique New York experience. Twisted staircases wind up three floors of the 100-year-old Abron Arts Center, which is filled with mechanical monsters, ghostly spirits and more. Separated from your group, you’ll wander the haunted halls to find your way out in an eerie but dazzling blend of installation and performance art.

466 Grand St, Manhattan; steampunkhauntedhouse.com

Merchant’s House Museum

Haunted houses can certainly be scary, but we all know that the ghosts and monsters are actors. Or are they? At NYC’s famous Merchant’s House Museum, the oldest family home still preserved in the city, a real ghost has been rumored to haunt the floors. Gertrude Tredwell, who never married and died here in the 1930s, is said to keep watch over her old house; the museum’s staff and visitors have reported strange happenings since Gertrude’s death. In October, the museum offers candlelit tours, where visitors can try to spy the spirit.

29 E 4th St, Manhattan; merchantshouse.com

What Roller Coaster Predated the Coney Island Cyclone?

And the answer is ...

b) the Thunderbolt

The Thunderbolt, built in 1925, was one of the first roller coasters in New York and was the basis for the Coney Island Cyclone. An area icon because of the track's position directly over a hotel, it was featured in Woody Allen's classic film Annie Hall, in 1977. Closed shortly after, in 1982, it was still visible for nearly 20 years before being demolished in 2000.

Event Spotlight: What to Do This Week in NYC

In our new regular blog feature, we're spotlighting the best of New York's events this week. Looking for something to do? Check out our recs, posted every Wednesday and Friday!

Literary Death Match

WHERE: Bowery Poetry Club, 308 Bowery, Manhattan
WHEN: October 22, 8pm
HOW: $10 preorder, $15 at the door; literarydeathmatch.com

WHY: Big-time authors get the American Idol treatment in this high-energy literary series. A panel of judges (including New York Times critic Liesl Schillinger) critique the offerings from the latest bestsellers. Rick Moody and supermodel-turned-writer Paulina Porizkova will read from their latest books, so take some notes and see how your scores stack up against the professional critics!

New York Trivia Tuesday

Coney Island is famous for being a popular weekend getaway for New Yorkers wanting some beach time and crazy rides. As Yogi Berra once said, "Nobody goes to Coney Island anymore. It's too crowded."

Although one of the major amusement parks on Coney Island, Astroland, closed in the last decade, many rides are still running, including the Cyclone, one of the nation's oldest roller coasters. But some other coasters weren't so lucky. What was the name of the Coney Island roller coaster that predated the Cyclone, but has since been torn down?

a) the Hurricane
b) the Thunderbolt
c) the Twister
d) the Earthquake

Check back on Thursday for the answer to this week's trivia question!

Event Spotlight: What to Do This Week in NYC

In our new regular blog feature, we're spotlighting the best of New York's events this week. Looking for something to do? Check out our recs, posted every Wednesday and Friday!

Pumpkin Picking at the Queens County Farm Museum

WHERE: 73-50 Little Neck Parkway, Floral Park, New York
WHEN: Through October 31, 11am-4pm
HOW: Price based on size of pumpkin; queensfarm.org

WHY: A farm? In Queens? Get a dose of fall flavors and Halloween flair without leaving the five boroughs at the Queens County Farm Museum, which opens a pick-you-own pumpkin patch to visitors throughout October. Find a pumpkin perfect for your best carving art, then head to the 3-acre corn maze, where clues and puzzles will await those who dare enter the labyrinth (The maze is open until 9pm on Saturdays for those who want a little extra fright in their night).

What Is the Secret Ingredient in New York-Style Pizza?

And the answer is ...

c) water

They say the taste of true NYC pizza comes from the city's plain old tap water. Although New York-style pizza is known for it's high-gluten crust, it's the minerals in the water give it its distinctive flavor. Chefs are known to bring jugs of it to far-flung restaurants!

Event Spotlight: What to Do This Week in NYC

In our new regular blog feature, we're spotlighting the best of New York's events this week. Looking for something to do? Check out our recs, posted every Wednesday and Friday!

Pizza-Making Class at the Brooklyn Kitchen

WHERE: 100 Frost Street, Brooklyn
WHEN: Sunday, October 17, 2pm
HOW: RSVP at thebrooklynkitchen.com; tickets are $75

WHY: Since you're learning all about pizza this week, why not learn how to make some for yourself? Pizzaioli (that's pizza-maker to you) Anthony Falco will teach you all the tricks of the trade, and you can learn how to recreate your favorite slices in your own kitchen. You'll learn how to make the dough from scratch with local and seasonal ingredients, and maybe you'll get good enough to learn how to toss it like a pro. Finally, chow down on the product of your efforts: your own handmade pie.

New York Trivia Tuesday

In the New York-style vs. Chicago-style pizza wars, everyone has an opinion. New York-style pizza is known for its thin, hand-tossed crust and it's thin layer of sauce, as opposed to Chicago's deep dish and thick sauces. New Yorkers often eat their slices folded in half, to make it easier to eat (and to get more in each delicious bite!).

A key ingredient in NY pizza, however, is often overlooked by pizza fans, though not by chefs, who have been known to transport it from NYC to pizzerias across the country. What is the secret ingredient to the perfect New York-style slice?

a) shortening
b) New York cheddar
c) water
d) Kosher salt

Check back on Thursday for the answer to this week's trivia question!

Best of New York: Pies

Fall means apples, apples mean pies, and pies mean delicious. Recently, New York has experienced a pie renaissance, with new bakeries like Four and Twenty Blackbirds showing the city how a good pie can take the cake. Get a jump on Thanksgiving dinner and start sampling some slices from these best bakeries in New York; some require a few week’s notice for holiday orders.

Two Little Red Hens

Also known for their cupcakes and custom birthday cakes, this Upper East Side favorite is a pie-lover’s dream. The classic offerings change by the season, with beautiful latticed cherry pies in the summer and their signature chocolate-pecan in the fall. The bakery is also a favorite of local grocers and high-end markets, so if you can’t make the trip to the UES, you can find their baked goods at your local Dean & DeLuca, or one of their other wholesale vendors around the city.

1652 Second Ave, Manhattan; (212) 452-0476

First Prize Pies

Most other bakeries on this list specialize in fruit pies, but for those who prefer the cream and custard varieties, find Allison Kave, master baker of First Prize Pies. Chocolate usually takes center stage in these confections, from a spicy hot chocolate pie that combined chocolate cream with chili powder to the signature chocolate peanut butter pretzel pie, which offers a satisfying crunch in every bite. First Prize Pies don’t have their own storefront yet, but you’ll be able to find their delicious products at the Hester Street Fair, as well as on the menu at Brooklyn’s Fatty ‘Cue.

Fatty ‘Cue, 91 S 6th St, Brooklyn; (718) 599-3090
firstprizepies.com

Four and Twenty Blackbirds

Recently the winner of numerous bake-offs and awards, including a mention on New York magazine’s competitive Cheap Eats list, this Brooklyn bakery takes classic recipes and kicks them up a notch. Their apple pie is a salted caramel version, and the strawberry rhubarb adds a touch of balsamic vinegar for a savory-sweet combination. Plus, you’ll get a dollop of their house-made whipped cream on the side; it’s often made fresh right in front of your eyes.

439 3rd Ave, Brooklyn; (718) 499-2917
birdsblack.com

Little Pie Company

Little Pie Company is a blast from the past, both in the diner décor of their location near Times Square and the quality of their pies, which tastes just like the ones grandma used to make. Grab one of the coveted few tables inside and have a soda from the old-fashioned soda fountain while waiting for your order. Try one of their two most famous creations: the Mississippi Mud, an overwhelmingly rich concoction with three types of chocolate, and their sour cream apple walnut, often called the best pie in the city and many families’ choice for Thanksgiving dessert.

424 West 43 St, Manhattan; (212) 736-4780
295 Greenwich St; (212) 748-5290
littlepiecompany.com

Billy’s Bakery

This Chelsea favorite was founded by a former baker at the famous Magnolia’s Bakery in the West Village, but now has a very loyal following in its own right. The cupcakes are famous, but the cream and custard pies are the unsung star here, with some of the best Boston cream, banana cream and key lime pies in New York. Come with a friend and split one of their giant slices—definitely enough for two.

184 9th Ave, Manhattan; (212) 647-9956
billysbakerynyc.com

Event Spotlight: What to Do This Week in NYC

Oktoberfest at Governor's Island

WHERE: Colonel's Row, Governor's Island
WHEN: Saturday, October 9, noon-5pm
HOW: Tickets are free, but first-come-first-served, so arrive early!

WHY: It's the last weekend of the year to head out to Governor's Island, so why not go for a beer on your way? Enjoy a selection of fall-themed brews from at home and abroad, from New York's own Six Points Pumpkin Ale and Brooklyn Brewery's Oktoberfest to Schneider Weis'n Edelweiss, a traditional beer for the 'fest. Food vendors will be supplying the German grub, including brats from Hallo Berlin to the award-winning pretzels from Sigmund's. Prost!

In What Decade Did the Yankees Fail to Win a World Series?

And the answer is ...

d) the 1980s

Ever since they began at the turn of the 20th century, the Yankees won a national championship title every decade except for the 1980s, largely thanks to their stars. Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig starred in the 1930s, Joe DiMaggio led the team in the 1940s, Mickey Mantle ruled the 1960s and Joe Torre and Derek Jeter stood out in the 1990s. Although the Yankees had the most wins of any major league team in the 1980s, led by Don Mattingly, they failed to win when it counted: in the postseason.

Event Spotlight: What to Do This Week in NYC

In our new regular blog feature, we're spotlighting the best of New York's events this week. Looking for something to do? Check out our recs, posted every Wednesday and Friday!

The Manhattan Vintage Clothing Show

WHERE: 125 W. 18th Street, Manhattan
WHEN: Friday, October 8, 1pm-8pm; Saturday, October 9, 11am-6pm
HOW: RSVP at 518-434.-4312; tickets are $20 (with $5 off here)

WHY: Get a dose of old-time glamour at this seasonal clothing exhibit. Both a show and a shopping trip at once, exhibitors from around the country gather here to show off and sell their best vintage finds. Expect to find adorable cowboy boots, quirky hats, statement jewelry and more. In celebration of the critically-acclaimed, Atlantic City-based new show Boardwalk Empire, this season's theme is the 1920s, so show off your flapper style is the aisles.

New York Trivia Tuesday

The regular baseball season is over, but New York fans can still watch the Yankees in the postseason games, where the home team won the wildcard spot in the American League. The Yankees are known for their talent and luck in the postseason, winning more titles than any other team in the league. In fact, in every decade, the team won at least two World Championships. Every decade, that is, but one.

In which decade did the Yankees fail to win a single championship?

a) the 1920s
b) the 1940s
c) the 1960s
d) the 1980s

Check back on Thursday for the answer to this week's trivia question!

Best Spots for Fall Foliage in NYC

With the weather turning colder, the leaves are turning color. New York is known for its spectacular fall foliage, so while it’s still warm enough to take a stroll through the trees, why not stop by one of our favorite places for some seasonal views.

The Ramble at Central Park

In 1857, the Ramble was designed to be a wild, “natural” forest that would counterbalance the planned, ordered layout of the rest of Central Park, and remains so to this day. Hike through the closely-planted trees like you’re on a mountain path, and navigate the twists and turns of the streams running through the rocks. The most varied area in Central Park in terms of plant species, trees here include tulip trees, sycamores, oaks, and Kentucky coffee trees, making for a brilliant fall walk.

Central Park, 5th Avenue and 79th Street, Manhattan.

Fort Greene Park

Famed poet and nature-lover Walt Whitman campaigned for the creation of this park, and made it one of his usual walks; now you can follow in his footsteps. Brooklyn’s oldest major park is home to over 40 species of trees, including oaks, elms, osage oranges and ginkos; a Tree Trail will lead you around the different varieties, with descriptions you can read while viewing the array of colors.

Nostrand Avenue between Myrtle and DeKalb Avenues, Brooklyn.

Clove Lakes Park

Part of Staten Island’s green reserve, Clove Lakes Park is especially notable for its 300-year-old, 107-foot-tall tulip tree, rumored to be the oldest plant on Staten Island. You’ll find pine, maple and beech trees here, for some amazing views of foliage in the fall. When you’re done looking up, take a look at the ground: the park is famous for its deposits of serpentine, a grey-green rock with patterns that look like snake skin.

Victory Blvd at Clove Rd, Staten Island.

Lullwater at Prospect Park

Although the open Long Meadow is the best place for tanning, Frisbee and football, head to Lullwater for some of the best foliage spots in Brooklyn. Named for the lake running through this section of the park, Lullwater gives you double the view: the trees reflected off the water create an explosion of color. Walk out to the peninsula to get a nearly 360-degree view of the surroundings.

Prospect Park, Prospect Park West at 3rd, 9th or 15th Streets, Brooklyn.

Inwood Hill Park

Not only is this the last native hardwood forest in all of Manhattan, it’s also one of the most picturesque parks in the city for fall foliage. When its native tree population was overrun by Norway maple trees in the early 2000, New York’s Forest Restoration Team replaced them with brand-new tulip poplars, whose bright yellow leaves light up the park in the fall. Explore the salt marsh and caves scatters across the acres; you might even go for an impromptu archeology dig, since the Lenape tribe lived here in the 17th century.

Dykman Street at the Hudson River, Manhattan.


For the best views of the Manhattan skyline, check out these scenic overlooks.

When Did the New York Times Last Give an Italian Restaurant 4 Stars?

And the answer is ...

d) 1975

Amazingly, the New York Times hadn't given an Italian restaurant a 4-star review in 35 years until it bestowed the honor on Mario Batali's Del Posto this week. Although many readers' interest in the restaurant spiked after the recent review, it caused controversy in the foodie world, many commenters claiming that new critic Sam Sifton is far too lenient of a reviewer.

Want to check out more of the New York food scene? Join us on October 3, for a race around some of NYC's favorite restaurants (with samples along the way!). Check out the Taste of New York Race for more details!

New York Trivia Tuesday

The famed restaurant critics at The New York Times are some of the most-followed and most-feared people in the Big Apple, especially among those in the restaurant biz. A negative review can shutter an eatery in just a few months, and critics have worn elaborate disguises while dining in order not to be recognized. But good reviews can bring foodie fame, which is why celebrity chef Mario Batali was so excited about today's review in the Times. Critic Sam Sifton gave Batali's restaurant Del Posto the paper's top rating: 4 stars.

The rave is especially notable because, strangely, the Times rarely gives 4-star reviews to Italian restaurants. In what year did an Italian eatery last receive the coveted honor?

a) 2001
b) 1993
c) 1983
d) 1975

Check back on Thursday for the answer to this week's trivia question!

Best BBQ in New York

Although NYC is known for being a food capital of the world, Southern and Texan ex-pats often bemoan the lack of good, authentic barbecue in the Big Apple. While it’s true that New Yorkers don’t have the multitude of options for a good ‘cue that their neighbors to the south might, the city does boast a few serious contenders. Check out our favorites:

R.U.B. BBQ

There is nothing fancy about R.U.B., but the name (short for Righteous Urban Barbecue) shows that barbecue is taken seriously at this Chelsea meatopia. Co-owner Paul Kirk hails from Kansas City and has won dozens of competitions over the years, so it’s all about the food here, with no frills; meals are dished up on paper plates, and there are paper towels waiting on your table in lieu of napkins. But try the popular smorgasbord called Taste of the Baron—ribs, wings, and various smoked meats—and you’ll see why Kirk has his titles. Don’t miss the baked beans, often hailed as the best in the city.

208 W 23rd St, Manhattan; 212-524-4300

The Smoke Joint

The cooking at the Smoke Joint is just like the name: simple, satisfying, and with a lot of smoky flavor, thanks to a smoker mixing hickory, maple and mesquite woods. The food here is billed as “authentic New York barbecue,” giving the chefs free reign to tinker with some Southern and Texas-inspired classics Although customers praise typical barbecue fare like ribs and wings, less the Smoke Joint’s hotdogs, lemonade, and house-made hot sauces have also won top honors. Plus, the dishes here are the cheapest on our list, most just over $10.
87 South Elliott, Brooklyn; 718-797-1011

Daisy May’s BBQ USA

When ready for a full-on, no-holds-barred pig-out, come to Daisy May’s with an open mouth and an empty stomach. Although Chef Adam Perry Lang is a veteran of New York elite restaurants like Daniel and Le Cirque, he seems right at home in barbecue territory, ranging from Tennessee beer-can chicken to Memphis-style ribs. His biggest success, though, is in his specialty whole-hog and pork-butt feasts, which require advance booking but which showcase the best of snout-to-tail cooking.

623 Eleventh Ave, Manhattan; 212-977-1500

Fette Sau

This Williamsburg hotspot is a hip haven for Brooklyn hog-lovers. Unlike many other Western or Southern-themed BBQ joints, Fette Sau pays homage to its location’s past life as a factory with a post-industrial feel, centering around the restaurant’s 500-pound smoker. The kitchen is known for its unusual twists on beloved classics, like ribs with an espresso/brown sugar marinade, or “pastrami” made of beef tongue. What’s more, there are more than 40 American whiskeys on the menu, for leisurely sipping after your meal.

354 Metropolitan Ave, Brooklyn; 718-963-3404

Virgil’s Real BBQ

Virgil’s has a serious reputation, among New Yorkers and tourists alike—but unlike many tourist favorites, it’s with good reason. This Memphis-style joint slathers on the barbecue sauce and keeps most of the fat on the bone for a calorie-loaded but extra-delicious meal. Highlights include the pork ribs and anything fried, although beware some elevated prices due to its popularity with the out-of-towner crowd. Take a cue from the hand towels on the table and leave the good clothes at home: you’re going to get messy here.
152 W 44th St, Manhattan; 212-921-9494

Which of these dishes is NOT served at Times Square's Pop-Tarts World?

And the answer is ...

c) Pizza-Tart: assorted gummi fruits on a Brown Sugar Pop-Tart

Yes, the Pop-Tarts World Cafe does in fact serve Ants on a Log, Fluffer Butters and the notorious Pop-Tarts sushi. Famous New York Times food writer Mark Bittman visited the cafe on the day it opened, and had this to say about the dish:

"In a moment of sugar-induced delerium I may have uttered the words 'well balanced' (because of the slight tartness of the pulverized strawberry(?) Pop-Tarts). Then my senses returned and told me 'this #$!% has got to stop.'"

New York Trivia Tuesday

Times Square is home to many flagship stores with unusual and wacky gimmicks: from the Ferris Wheel inside the Toys "R" Us to the rainbow array of candies in every color at the M&M Store. One of the most recent additions to the scene is Pop-Tarts World, a new store from Kellogg's that sells everything from customized boxes with your favorite flavors, to clothes and posters starring the Pop-Tart.

The adjoining cafe offers several different unique dishes that star the eponymous pastry. Which of these dishes is NOT served at Pop-Tarts World?

a) Ants on a Log: celery, peanut butter and Wild Grape Pop-Tart
b) Fluffer Butter: marshmallow sandwiched between two frosted chocolate Pop-Tarts
c) Pizza-Tart: assorted gummi fruits on a Brown Sugar Pop-Tart
d) Pop-Tarts Sushi: three kinds of chopped Pop-Tarts wrapped in a fruit roll-up

Check back on Thursday for the answer to this week's trivia question!

Best of New York: Bowling Alleys

Dinner and a movie is a classic NYC first date, but what about that other first-date favorite: a trip to the bowling alley? Although they’re harder to find in Manhattan than a movie theater, bowling lanes are a popular New York hangout, especially in Brooklyn where you’ll often find the best alleys and bigger bars. Try one of these spots when you’re feeling like knocking out a few strikes (and knocking back a few beers):

Bowlmor

Bowlmor is the Manhattan bowling-lover’s staple. Lots of lanes, no-nonsense décor, big portions of bar food and a returning crowd of regulars that takes its game seriously. Because of the prime location in the heart of Union Square, games can get pricey, so consider heading over on Monday nights after 10pm, when shoe rental and unlimited bowling is $24. Plus, you can get drink service right to your lane.

110 University Pl, Manhattan
212-255-8188; bowlmor.com

Maple Lanes

If you’re looking for a quick game of ninepins on a budget, this Brooklyn outpost is the place to be. The 48 lanes allow for big parties and shorter lines, the large but simple bar is serviceable, and if there isn’t a particularly alluring atmosphere – who cares? T special prices can’t be beat: games are only 99 cents on weekdays from 3 to 6pm.

1570 60th St, Brooklyn
718-331-9000; bowlmaple.com

Brooklyn Bowl

Brooklyn Bowl has it all: it’s a performance space, restaurant, bar, club and bowling alley all in one. The Bowl hosts shows every night of the week with touring artists and guest DJs, but if you’re not digging the music, you can always grab a pair of bowling shoes and throw some strikes. Make sure you come hungry, since NYC’s famed Blue Ribbon restaurants created a special menu for the venue, and you can dig in to your high-class meal while seated on comfy leather sofas right next to the lanes.

61 Wythe Ave, Brooklyn
718-963-3369; brooklynbowl.com

300 New York

If you’ve ever wanted your bowling experience to be more like a lounge, with glittery bowling balls, disco lighting and a multitude of plasma screen TVs playing music videos for the bumping pop soundtrack, bring your bowling shoes over to 300 New York. The giant alley located within Chelsea Piers caters to the younger, fun-loving crowd, complete with arcade at the front.

Chelsea Piers, 23rd St at the West Side Highway, Manhattan
212-835-2695, 3hundred.com

The Gutter

This relatively new addition to the New York bowling scene is brought to by the same people behind the popular Brooklyn hotspot Barcade (a cross between a classic arcade and, of course, a bar). Now they’ve worked their magic on the bowling alley, transforming the old-school lanes into a hipster bar hangout. You’ll enjoy the throwback vibe and the number of beers on tap, but remember: only 21-and-over bowlers are allowed to play here.

200 North 14th St, Brooklyn
718-387-3585; thegutterbrooklyn.com

What's Happening This Weekend in NYC

Every weekend, we're bringing you five of our top events picks from around NYC. Check back next week for more ways you can eat, drink, see, shop and play around the city!

EAT

Eating and exercise don’t necessarily have to be like oil and water. In the NYC pizza run, you can burn your calories as quickly as you down them! The 2.25-mile course will take you around Manhattan to three different pizza rest stops, where you’ll down a piece and start your engines Proceeds benefit the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, and also go toward prizes for the winners.

Sun, September 19, 11am; $35
Tompkins Square Park, Ave A between 7th and 10th Sts, Manhattan; nycpizzarun.com

DRINK

The beginning of fall means the beginning of Oktoberfest parties in New York, which somehow run from well before October to long after it has passed. Start the season off right with the First Annual Oktoberfest on the Hudson, which features a pop-up beer garden right on the water, a booze cruise on the river, and a traditional Bavarian band. Besides a long list of German beers, you’ll also get to munch on some pretzels and brats while toasting the German’s culture and unparalleled alcohol tolerance.

Sat, September 18, noon-4:30pm; $15, $10 in advance
Pier 81, W 41st St at the Hudson River; worldyachtoktoberfest.eventbrite.com

SEE

All the residents of Little Italy flee their neighborhood this week, when the Feast of San Gennero takes over their streets for ten whole days. The longest-running and biggest outdoor religious festival in the US, the party for the patron saint of Naples rages with live music, Italian street food, dozens of vendors, parades, and an annual cannoli competition.

September 16-26; free
Mulberry St, between Canal St and Houston St, Manhattan; sangennaro.org

SHOP

NYC Fashion Week is winding down, but for a scrappier, alternative, and (let’s be honest) actually affordable look at what local designers are doing, head to Williamsburg Fashion Weekend at Glasslands. View the work of a dozen creators whose one-of-a-kind or small-run collections will be fall’s next big thing. And rather than the stodgy runway shows in Bryant Park, these clothes will be shown with live music and dancing models. We hope there’s some audience participation.

Sat, September 18, 8pm-11:30pm; $8
289 Kent Ave, Brooklyn; http://glasslands.blogspot.com

PLAY

How much do you know about Brooklyn? Find out this weekend, with the triumphant return of The Amazing Brooklyn Race! From Brooklyn Heights to DUMBO, the scavenger hunt and obstacle course will take you to hidden spots around the borough, performing crazy challenges along the way. Get to know the neighborhood – in a whole new way!

Sun, September 19, 1pm-5pm; $35
Grand Army Plaza, Brooklyn; theamazingnewyorkrace.com

What City Owns a Copy of the Wall Street Bull?

And the answer is ...

d) Shanghai

Shanghai officials commissioned a bull statue from di Modica, which was unveiled in May of 2010. Although the work is the same size and weight of its Wall Street counterpart, it was designed to look "younger and stronger" than the New York bull, with a face that looked upwards, all symbolizing the vigor of and hope for the country's economy.

New York Trivia Tuesday

One of New York's most famous icons is the Charging Bull, a bronze statue by Arturo di Modica that stands in Manhattan's Financial District, near Wall Street. The bull symbolizes financial prosperity, and has been a popular tourist attraction since its installation in 1989.

Di Modica stated in 1998 that he would make four more bull statues for cities around the world, when he found buyers for them. Although three bulls remain unclaimed, one city has bought a statue from di Modica, which was installed just this year. Where is the second bronze bull statue located?

a) Dubai
b) Kuala Lumpur
c) Mumbai
d) Shanghai

Check back on Thursday for the answer to this week's trivia question!

New York's Best: Martinis

Long before James Bond preferred them shaken, not stirred, martinis have been a happy hour favorite, and every NYC bar has their own taken on this classic cocktail. Since all martinis are not created equal, we’ve rounded up a list of our favorite concoctions, from dirty martinis to rosemary ones (really!). Don’t try them all at once.

Milk and Honey

Milk and Honey is renowned in the NYC bar scene, not only for their carefully crafted cocktails, but also for beginning the trend of speakeasy-themed bars around Manhattan. The trained mixologists will make you a new drink of choice, if you’ll explain what your booze preferences are, but the specialty martini is also top-notch, with Plymouth gin and extra olives. Drinks are pricy, but experts say the bar staff here is worth the extra fiver.

134 Eldridge St, Manhattan (212) 625-3397; milkandhoneynyc.com

Bemelman's at the Carlyle

For a martini in chic settings, head to the Carlyle Hotel, the site of many a famous guest since its creation in the 1920s. All of the US presidents since Harry S. Truman have lodged here, and many of them doubtless visited Bemelman’s bar, located inside the lobby, for one of their signature martinis. The drinks stay extra-cold thanks to smaller sized glasses, with refills delivered in a carafe on the side. Check out the famous murals of Central Park while you drink in this historic setting.

35 East 76th St, Manhattan thecarlyle.com

Pravda

For those who prefer their martinis with vodka instead of gin, head to Pravda, a caviar bar hidden underground in a dark Nolita lounge. Pravda is known for its variety of flavored martinis, from chocolate to rosemary, and vodka enthusiasts will have their pick at this Russian-themed speakeasy. It serves over 75 varieties of the spirit from a dozen countries, but we recommend you stick with Russian vodka and pair it with an order of pierogies (Russian potato dumplings)

281 Lafayette St, Manhattan (212) 226-4696; pravdany.com

Pegu Club

At Pegu Club, martini fans will find a throwback to the days of the classic cocktail (drinks are even served in vintage glasses). The martinis are on the dry side, with a house version is made with Hendrick’s gin and heavy on the vermouth. However, mixologist Audrey Sanders, who got her start at Bemelman’s, will change the mix to suit your preferences; she already has an alternative for those who hate the dry martini: known as the Fitty-Fitty, it gives you more gin for your dollar.
77 W. Houston St, 2nd fl, Manhattan peguclub.com

Babbo

Our favorite martini at a restaurant, rather than a bar, can be found at Mario Batali’s famed Italian joint Babbo. Although its specializes in Italian wine, with several specialty tastings a year, the dirty martini here is simple perfection, with Italian olives that compliment the rest of the meal. Stop by the bar for a glass after work, or enjoy one over a larger meal.
110 Waverly Pl, Manhattan (212) 777-0303; babbonyc.com

What's Happening This Weekend in NYC

Every weekend, we're bringing you five of our top events picks from around NYC. Check back next week for more ways you can eat, drink, see, shop and play around the city!

EAT

This weekend marks 200 years since Mexico gained its independence from Spain, and you can celebrate it by filling your stomach with one of the county’s favorite condiments. The Salsa Slam comes to the Bell House with 20 competitors vying for the crowd’s vote. Sample all their salsas, cast your lot for the winner, and cool down by chugging some water and listening to the event’s mariachi band accompaniment.

Sun, September 12, 4-7pm; $15 149 7th St, Gowanus, Brooklyn; nachosny.com

DRINK

Bookworms, get your booze on! The third annual LitCrawl NYC offers a literary twist on the pub crawl, with a selection of bookish events at each bar along the way. Fight other literati in a book trivia challenge, join a karaoke recital of famous author interviews, and listen to local authors reading from their latest works. Luckily, you’re not the one at the podium, so you can drink at every stop. Then make some impulse buys at one of our favorite NYC bookstores and support the lit cause!

Sat, September 11, 6-9pm; free Locations and times vary; litcrawl.org

SEE

Residents of the five boroughs, especially those in Williamsburg, see a lot of unusual facial hair. Now is the time that unusual handlebar mustache comes in handy. The Coney Island Beard and Mustache Competition is presenting its honors to those with the best (and worst) beards and ‘staches in the city. Girls, don’t feel left out—the Best Fake category is up for grabs to competitors of any gender!

Sat, September 11, 6pm; $15
1208 Surf Ave, Brooklyn; coneyisland.com

SHOP

Get a taste of the small-town with the Fall Arts and Crafts Fair on City Island. With dozens of vendors selling their homemade wares, from art pieces to accessories to textiles, you’ll get the variety of a big city with the peaceful surroundings of the country. Folk artists from the Lickety Split Band provide the down-home accompaniment.

Sat and Sun, September 11-12, 11am-7pm; free Hawkins Park, City Island, Bronx; cityislandchamber.org

PLAY

NYC dogs and their owners are invited to join the third annual Amazing New York Race: Dog Friendly Edition! POGO Events and FIDO present the ultimate dog day afternoon: part scavenger hunt, part puppy obstacle course and all the best of NYC. Follow a course through Prospect Park through puppy friendly challenges, from an agility tunnel to a dance contest. At the finish line, an after-party greets the teams with food, drink and “doggie bags” filled with treats for humans and dogs alike. $5 of each ticket purchased will go to City Pitties, a local animal rescue organization.

Sun, September 12, 1pm-4pm; $35 The Nethermead, Prospect Park, Brooklyn; theamazingnewyorkrace.com

Which Famous Author Grew Up on Governors Island?

And the answer is ...

c) Lois Lowry

Famous for her beloved children's books, including Number the Stars and The Giver, Lois Lowry is among the select group of New Yorkers who have lived on Governors Island; her father was stationed there in the 1950s.

The number of people who have lived on the Island, however, might soon increase expotentially. Developers are eyeing parts of the Island for condos, and New York University announced earlier this year that a new dorm will be located there. Summertime visitors will always be able to visit, however, since half of Governors Island is protected by New York Parks.

New York Trivia Tuesday

A must-see summer destination for New Yorkers and visitors to NYC, Governors Island feels a world away from the bustle of Manhattan, but is only a 5 minute ferry ride outside the city. Although it's legally part of the borough of Manhattan, you won't find subways or skyscrapers here, but parks and cultural events abound. Although no one currently lives on the island, it has served as a Coast Guard base and housed many servicemen and their families. Which famous author grew up on Governors Island?

a) Joyce Carol Oates
b) Maurice Sendack
c) Lois Lowry
d) Danielle Steel

Check back on Thursday for the answer to this trivia question!

Best of New York: Movie Theaters

If you still haven’t seen the biggest movie releases of the summer, or are looking forward to the new batch of fall films, head to one of New York’s best movie theaters. Whether you’re looking for Hollywood glamour, giant screens, indie flicks or cheap seats, our list of favorite cinema spots have to ready to buy some popcorn.

Landmark Sunshine

New Yorkers flock to this downtown movie house to see both new releases and cult favorites; although it focuses on the major independent and art-house films of the season, the Sunshine will run the occasional evening of The Rocky Horror Picture Show or Donnie Darko. The building was converted from a Yiddish vaudeville house, so you can soak in the neighborhood history while you enjoy the stadium seating—known to have some of the best sightlines and comfortable chairs in NYC.

143 E Houston St, Manhattan; landmarktheatres.com

Clearview Cinema Ziegfeld

Get a dose of old New York at this historic movie theater, the same spot where the legendary Ziegfeld Follies played throughout the first half of the 20th century. The luxurious décor still remains today, so you can walk the same red carpet and wash your hands at the same marble sinks that Broadway’s earliest stars did. Although there’s only one screen, which plays blockbuster new releases, you’ll be watching in style.

141 W 54th St, Manhattan; clearviewcinemas.com

BAM Rose Cinemas

Missed your favorite flick at one of NYC's summer movie screenings? Brooklyn’s most ornate movie theater is also one of its most eclectic, screening everything from recent independent films to cinema classics on its four screens. A Brooklyn counterpart to Manhattan’s Film Forum, this is where serious film buffs in the boroughs can see rare and foreign films, as well as events with famous names in the movie biz, including directors, writers, producers and actors.

30 Lafayette Ave, Brooklyn; bam.org

AMC Loews Lincoln Square 13

Every movie theater list needs its multiplex, and if you want to see the season’s biggest blockbuster films, or are planning a movie day with multiple showings in one afternoon, look no further than the AMC in Lincoln Square. The theater is far enough away from the masses in Times Square to avoid the crowds, the stadium seating gives you great views, and, to top it off, it’s the only theater in NYC to show films in IMAX. Get your tickets here to the biggest action movies of the year.

1998 Broadway, Manhattan; 212-336-5020

Kew Gardens Cinemas

For those who shy away from dropping $12 on a movie ticket, head to Kew Gardens for some of the best cinema deals in New York. See a selection of current blockbusters and independent productions for almost half the NYC theater price on Tuesdays and Thursdays: all showings are $6.50. Or get some early bird deals before 5pm on weekdays and 2pm on weekends: still $6.50 for all movies! If you can only make peak times, you’ll still be saving a couple dollars, so it’s well worth the trip to Queens.

81-05 Lefferts Blvd, Queens; kewgardenstheatre.com

What's Happening This Weekend in NYC

Every weekend, we're bringing you five of our top events picks from around NYC. Check back next week for more ways you can eat, drink, see, shop and play around the city!

EAT

Nothing screams summer like massive eating contests, but you don’t have to leave them to the professional hot dog eaters. Anyone can join in on Hell Gate Social’s Labor Day BBQ and Pie Eating Contest (as long as you get there early to reserve your spot among the top 12). For those with less of a sweet tooth, get a plate of BBQ for $10 and watch the showdown, then let your stomach do its work while watching free movies al fresco.

Sun, September 4, 2pm-4am; $10 12-21 Astoria Blvd, Queens; hellgatesocial.com

DRINK

Kick off your holiday weekend and celebrate the beginning of fall by kicking back a seasonal beer by the grill. Ditmas Park favorite Sycamore is opening up their backyard garden and serving some special suds from a visiting brewery from Escondido, California for just $5. Get a free hot dog with your first beer, and enjoy other snacks hot off the grill all afternoon.

Sat, September 4, 2-8pm; $5/glass 1118 Cortelyou Rd, Brooklyn; sycamorebrooklyn.com

SEE

When you think “freestyling,” you probably don’t also think “unicycles.” But this weekend, NYC’s first Unicycle Festival will feature freestyle demonstrations from professional uni riders that you won’t want to miss. The festival also includes Unicycle Basketball, Unicycle Hockey, and a long-distance ride through Brooklyn. If you’re not quite on that level yet, a workshop for beginners will be running throughout the day.

Sat, September 4, noon-5pm; free Governors Island; nycunifest.com

SHOP

New York artists show off their stuff in the third annual Governors Island Art Fair. Every weekend in September, over 100 local artists present their work, from paintings to photography to sculpture to crafts. Browse through the dozens of rooms and explore your own pop-up museum, or support NYC artists by buying a piece or two. You never know who will become the next Picasso!

Sat and Sun, September 4-5, 11am-6pm; free Governors Island Building 12

PLAY

Labor Day isn’t the only day we’re celebrating this weekend. Plan a last-minute trip to Rio with the Brazilian Day festivities on Sixth Avenue, to celebrate Brazilian independence. Now in its 26th year, the festivities have become the biggest Brazilian event outside Brazil, with over 400 vendors showing off their art, crafts and food. Visiting musicians, including Brazilian superstar Carlinhos Brown, play everything from tropicalia to “Brazilian country” (a world away from Taylor Swift).

Sun, September 5, 11sm-7pm; free Sixth Ave between 43rd and 57th Sts; brazilianday.com