Nathan's Famous Hot Dogs, now a famous national chain, began as a small shop on Coney Island in 1916 by Nathan Handwerker, who started charging 5 cents per dog to beat his rival's 10-cent price. Now there are 1,400 Nathan's in 14 states and 17 countriesl Nathan's also sponsors a Hot Dog Eating Contest, where champion Joey Chestnut ate 68 hot dogs and buns in 10 minutes in 2009. Which other eating world record does Chestnut hold?
a) Oysters
b) Hamburgers
c) Chicken Wings
d) Radishes
Check back on Thursday for the answer to this week's New York trivia question!
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Monday, March 29, 2010
New York’s Best: Views
The best views of New York offer a fresh perspective for visitors and locals alike who want a good look at the Big Apple. Whether from up high or across the water, these scenic spots are sure to give you an eyeful!
Brooklyn Bridge
A NYC icon in itself, the famous bridge sees hundreds of pedestrians walk its length every day and offers spectacular views of both its Manhattan and Brooklyn banks in the process. Stand still in the middle of the trip and watch boats and barges glide underneath your feet.
Brooklyn Bridge; free
Top of the Rock
Although often considered a visitors’ destination, the top of 30 Rockefeller Plaza is more than just a tourist trap. The three-tiered observation deck gives visitors one of the best views of New York – 360 degrees worth! Less crowded and less obstructed than the view from the popular Empire State building, you’ll also be able to snap pictures of the renovated building, which was reopened to the public in 2005.
30 Rockefeller Plaza, Manhattan; (212) 698-2000; $17.50
East River State Park
Get an unparalleled view of the NYC skyline by hopping across the East River to the Williamsburg waterfront. The East River State Park, which holds free concerts in the summer, leads right up to the water and affords a view of Manhattan from the Battery to the Bronx. Enjoy some tunes and watch the sun set over one of the best views of New York.
90 Kent Ave, Brooklyn; free
Mandarin Oriental Hotel
Reserving a room in these posh digs can cost a bundle just for some views, but visitors can have a look by dining in the restaurant, Asiate, or just stepping into the Lobby Lounge next door. Checking out Central Park from above and watch the bustle around Columbus Circle while enjoying the restaurant’s Asian fusion cuisine is one of New York’s best dinner theaters!
80 Columbus Circle, Manhattan; (212) 805-8881
Roosevelt Island Tramway
One of the best views of New York you’ve never heard of, the tramway to Roosevelt Island takes you on a flying trip across the East River. The 4-minute ride only costs the price of a subway ticket, and with views of the river and the Upper East Side skyline, it is sure to be more scenic! Once on the island, a minibus will extend your tour for a mere 25 cents a trip!
59th Street and Second Avenue, Manhattan; $2.25
Brooklyn Bridge
A NYC icon in itself, the famous bridge sees hundreds of pedestrians walk its length every day and offers spectacular views of both its Manhattan and Brooklyn banks in the process. Stand still in the middle of the trip and watch boats and barges glide underneath your feet.
Brooklyn Bridge; free
Top of the Rock
Although often considered a visitors’ destination, the top of 30 Rockefeller Plaza is more than just a tourist trap. The three-tiered observation deck gives visitors one of the best views of New York – 360 degrees worth! Less crowded and less obstructed than the view from the popular Empire State building, you’ll also be able to snap pictures of the renovated building, which was reopened to the public in 2005.
30 Rockefeller Plaza, Manhattan; (212) 698-2000; $17.50
East River State Park
Get an unparalleled view of the NYC skyline by hopping across the East River to the Williamsburg waterfront. The East River State Park, which holds free concerts in the summer, leads right up to the water and affords a view of Manhattan from the Battery to the Bronx. Enjoy some tunes and watch the sun set over one of the best views of New York.
90 Kent Ave, Brooklyn; free
Mandarin Oriental Hotel
Reserving a room in these posh digs can cost a bundle just for some views, but visitors can have a look by dining in the restaurant, Asiate, or just stepping into the Lobby Lounge next door. Checking out Central Park from above and watch the bustle around Columbus Circle while enjoying the restaurant’s Asian fusion cuisine is one of New York’s best dinner theaters!
80 Columbus Circle, Manhattan; (212) 805-8881
Roosevelt Island Tramway
One of the best views of New York you’ve never heard of, the tramway to Roosevelt Island takes you on a flying trip across the East River. The 4-minute ride only costs the price of a subway ticket, and with views of the river and the Upper East Side skyline, it is sure to be more scenic! Once on the island, a minibus will extend your tour for a mere 25 cents a trip!
59th Street and Second Avenue, Manhattan; $2.25
Friday, March 26, 2010
What's Happening This Weekend?
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
Join a crowd of fellow foodies on a search for the best brownie in Manhattan! After joining a team, you’ll receive a route that will take you on a sampling tour of NYC’s finest sweet treats. Whether you like the middle pieces or the crispy edges, cake-like or gooey, you’ll be able to find your favorite and cast your vote to determine the day’s best brownie (or just check out our list of NYC's Best Bakeries!).
Sunday, March 28, 3 pm
Meet at Greenwich Ave & 8th Ave, Manhattan
DRINK
Join Lacey Rozinsky, sommelier at The Four Seasons, at a private wine class and tasting. Learn about wine from one of the city's experts and sample a few different tastes from regions across the globe on the cheap! Space is limited, so sign up early!
Sunday, March 28, 6pm
751 President Street #4, Brooklyn
www.bklynevents.com
SEE
If you were the type of kid who would rather play with LEGO sets than set foot in a museum, you’re in luck. Nathan Sawaya’s art is entirely constructed in LEGO bricks. From small recreations of favorite desserts to life-size self portraits, he puts our old LEGO castles to shame.
Saturday, March 27, 11 am – 6 pm
530 W 25th St, Manhattan
www.brickartist.com
SHOP
Get your closet ready for spring with Built By Wendy’s sample sale: 70% off everything in the store. The summer dress and the classic cardigan sweater are the standouts at this store, a must for the wannabe quirky librarians in all of us.
Saturday and Sunday, March 27-28.
46 N. 6th St, Brooklyn
PLAY
Get your kicks at Coney Island this weekend: the Cyclone is reopening for business. The classic landmark roller coaster is offering free rides to the first 100 people to stand in line for some bone-shaking, old-timey fun. Our word to the wise: have your hot dogs afterward.
834 Surf Ave, Brooklyn
Sunday, March 28, opens at noon; $8 after the first 100 riders
coneyislandcyclone.com
EAT
Join a crowd of fellow foodies on a search for the best brownie in Manhattan! After joining a team, you’ll receive a route that will take you on a sampling tour of NYC’s finest sweet treats. Whether you like the middle pieces or the crispy edges, cake-like or gooey, you’ll be able to find your favorite and cast your vote to determine the day’s best brownie (or just check out our list of NYC's Best Bakeries!).
Sunday, March 28, 3 pm
Meet at Greenwich Ave & 8th Ave, Manhattan
DRINK
Join Lacey Rozinsky, sommelier at The Four Seasons, at a private wine class and tasting. Learn about wine from one of the city's experts and sample a few different tastes from regions across the globe on the cheap! Space is limited, so sign up early!
Sunday, March 28, 6pm
751 President Street #4, Brooklyn
www.bklynevents.com
SEE
If you were the type of kid who would rather play with LEGO sets than set foot in a museum, you’re in luck. Nathan Sawaya’s art is entirely constructed in LEGO bricks. From small recreations of favorite desserts to life-size self portraits, he puts our old LEGO castles to shame.
Saturday, March 27, 11 am – 6 pm
530 W 25th St, Manhattan
www.brickartist.com
SHOP
Get your closet ready for spring with Built By Wendy’s sample sale: 70% off everything in the store. The summer dress and the classic cardigan sweater are the standouts at this store, a must for the wannabe quirky librarians in all of us.
Saturday and Sunday, March 27-28.
46 N. 6th St, Brooklyn
PLAY
Get your kicks at Coney Island this weekend: the Cyclone is reopening for business. The classic landmark roller coaster is offering free rides to the first 100 people to stand in line for some bone-shaking, old-timey fun. Our word to the wise: have your hot dogs afterward.
834 Surf Ave, Brooklyn
Sunday, March 28, opens at noon; $8 after the first 100 riders
coneyislandcyclone.com
Thursday, March 25, 2010
What Were the Alternate Names for the Mets?
And the answer is ...
d) Apples
Although New York City is often known as the Big Apple, the famous fruit was never in contention for the team name. "Mets" was chosen because it harkened back to an earlier New York team from the 1880s, and because the brevity of the name would look good in newspaper headlines.
d) Apples
Although New York City is often known as the Big Apple, the famous fruit was never in contention for the team name. "Mets" was chosen because it harkened back to an earlier New York team from the 1880s, and because the brevity of the name would look good in newspaper headlines.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
New York Trivia Tuesday
The New York Mets, New York's National League baseball team, got its name in the early 1960s -- It's short for "Metropolitans." Which of these team names was NOT a finalist in the selection?
a) Bees
b) Jets
c) Skyscrapers
d) Apples
Check back on Thursday for the answer to this week's New York trivia question!
a) Bees
b) Jets
c) Skyscrapers
d) Apples
Check back on Thursday for the answer to this week's New York trivia question!
Monday, March 22, 2010
New York’s Best: Vintage Stores
Spring is officially here, and it's time to stock up on seasonal garb. Where to get the goods? Check out our list of New York's best vintage stores to rock the season in style.
Buffalo Exchange
One of the forerunners to the vintage craze, Buffalo Exchange began in 1974 and has grown to become a nationwide chain of 37 stores, two of which are right here in the five boroughs. Although you won’t find many big name brands here, Buffalo’s mix of thrift and vintage basics make it a great first stop for those newly thinking about old styles.
504 Driggs Avenue, Brooklyn, (718) 384-6901
332 E. 11th Street, Manhattan, (212) 260-9340
www.buffaloexchange.com
Beacon’s Closet
The old standby for Brooklyn’s most trendy, Beacon’s Closet supplies an eclectic mix of vintage threads and last season’s top brands. We’ve found everything from Urban Outfitters rompers (new with tags) to vintage Marc Jacobs clutches. While the Williamsburg location is four times the size of the Park Slope store, gems can be found at both with a careful comb through the racks.
88 N 11th St, Brooklyn, (718) 486-0816
92 5th Ave, Brooklyn, (718) 230-1630
www.beaconscloset.com
The Clothing Warehouse
While Beacon’s Closet is in an empty warehouse, The Clothing Warehouse is, surprisingly, not in a warehouse at all. More upscale and strictly-vintage than Beacon’s or Buffalo, this small SoHo shop came up from Atlanta in 2009 and has been a staple for retro glamour ever since. With a superior selection of boots and paisley boho wear, the collection is painstakingly curated -- but expect to pay a little more for the goods.
8 Prince Street, Manhattan, (212) 343-1934
www.theclothingwarehouse.com
10 Ft. Single
Hidden away from the vintage-crazy crowds, 10 ft. Single is the lesser-known cousin of popular Village hotspot Stella Dallas. That means you’ll not only avoid the crowds, you’ll also get first choice of an amazing selection of designer vintage goods. Besides the standard dresses, hats and purses, the back of the store boasts an unparalleled men’s section from English waistcoats to white suits à la Michael Jackson.
285 N 6th St, Brooklyn, (718) 486-9482
Urban Jungle
Another warehouse-turned-retailer, Urban Jungle is certainly off the beaten path for vintage lovers. But what it lacks in prime location it makes up for in sheer volume; anyone will be able to find a perfect fit in this massive collection of clothes for an unbeatable price. Stamina is key: be prepared to spend a few hours sifting through the grit before you strike gold.
118 Knickerbocker St, Brooklyn
urbanjunglevintage.wordpress.com
Buffalo Exchange
One of the forerunners to the vintage craze, Buffalo Exchange began in 1974 and has grown to become a nationwide chain of 37 stores, two of which are right here in the five boroughs. Although you won’t find many big name brands here, Buffalo’s mix of thrift and vintage basics make it a great first stop for those newly thinking about old styles.
504 Driggs Avenue, Brooklyn, (718) 384-6901
332 E. 11th Street, Manhattan, (212) 260-9340
www.buffaloexchange.com
Beacon’s Closet
The old standby for Brooklyn’s most trendy, Beacon’s Closet supplies an eclectic mix of vintage threads and last season’s top brands. We’ve found everything from Urban Outfitters rompers (new with tags) to vintage Marc Jacobs clutches. While the Williamsburg location is four times the size of the Park Slope store, gems can be found at both with a careful comb through the racks.
88 N 11th St, Brooklyn, (718) 486-0816
92 5th Ave, Brooklyn, (718) 230-1630
www.beaconscloset.com
The Clothing Warehouse
While Beacon’s Closet is in an empty warehouse, The Clothing Warehouse is, surprisingly, not in a warehouse at all. More upscale and strictly-vintage than Beacon’s or Buffalo, this small SoHo shop came up from Atlanta in 2009 and has been a staple for retro glamour ever since. With a superior selection of boots and paisley boho wear, the collection is painstakingly curated -- but expect to pay a little more for the goods.
8 Prince Street, Manhattan, (212) 343-1934
www.theclothingwarehouse.com
10 Ft. Single
Hidden away from the vintage-crazy crowds, 10 ft. Single is the lesser-known cousin of popular Village hotspot Stella Dallas. That means you’ll not only avoid the crowds, you’ll also get first choice of an amazing selection of designer vintage goods. Besides the standard dresses, hats and purses, the back of the store boasts an unparalleled men’s section from English waistcoats to white suits à la Michael Jackson.
285 N 6th St, Brooklyn, (718) 486-9482
Urban Jungle
Another warehouse-turned-retailer, Urban Jungle is certainly off the beaten path for vintage lovers. But what it lacks in prime location it makes up for in sheer volume; anyone will be able to find a perfect fit in this massive collection of clothes for an unbeatable price. Stamina is key: be prepared to spend a few hours sifting through the grit before you strike gold.
118 Knickerbocker St, Brooklyn
urbanjunglevintage.wordpress.com
Friday, March 19, 2010
What’s Happening This Weekend?: Our Picks
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
March 20th is official Macaron Day (one of our personal favorite patry-related holidays). Enjoy this deliciously elegant French cookie at 13 renowned NYC bakeries for free to celebrate. Participants include Bouchon Bakery, La Maison du Chocolat and DessertTruck Works. Just say you're there for Macaron Day and get a free sweet treat. We'll be impressed if you hit all the stops.
Sat March 20, noon-10pm; free
See the participating stores: http://macarondaynyc.com/participants.html
DRINK
Get out of the dark bar and enjoy the spring weather this weekend at Bohemian Hall, New York's most celebrated beer garden. Even for die-hard Manhattanites, the plentiful outdoor garden bar seating and the impressive list of German beers make this watering hole a don't-miss destination and well worth the trip out to Astoria.
Weekends 12pm-11pm; free
2919 24th Avenue, Queens
SEE
You don't have to go to an observatory to see the stars this weekend. On Saturday night, amateur astronomers take to the streets and share their telescopes with the public. In a city where the lights are bright, these kind of starry views are hard to find, so check them out and ask the astronomers your burning celestial questions.
Sat, March 20; free
See website for location details: http://www.sidewalkastronomers.us/id220.html
SHOP
Lit lovers, it's your lucky day! Head on up to Book Culture, where nearly every book is 20% off thanks to the store's spring sale. Stock up on some Shakespeare, check out some Chaucer, or just browse around one of our favorite independent bookstores in NYC.
Sat and Sun, March 20-21, 11am-7pm
536 West 112th Street, Manhattan
PLAY
Get out, meet new friends and explore your city: The Amazing New York Race is having its last underground race of the season this weekend! Follow clues that take you through the underground secrets of NYC, and complete challenges along the way in this event that's part obstacle course, part scavenger hunt, and all New York!
Sun, March 21, 12:30pm-4:30pm; $35
Starts at Tracks Bar and Grill, LIRR level of Penn Station, 11 Penn Plaza, Manhattan
EAT
March 20th is official Macaron Day (one of our personal favorite patry-related holidays). Enjoy this deliciously elegant French cookie at 13 renowned NYC bakeries for free to celebrate. Participants include Bouchon Bakery, La Maison du Chocolat and DessertTruck Works. Just say you're there for Macaron Day and get a free sweet treat. We'll be impressed if you hit all the stops.
Sat March 20, noon-10pm; free
See the participating stores: http://macarondaynyc.com/participants.html
DRINK
Get out of the dark bar and enjoy the spring weather this weekend at Bohemian Hall, New York's most celebrated beer garden. Even for die-hard Manhattanites, the plentiful outdoor garden bar seating and the impressive list of German beers make this watering hole a don't-miss destination and well worth the trip out to Astoria.
Weekends 12pm-11pm; free
2919 24th Avenue, Queens
SEE
You don't have to go to an observatory to see the stars this weekend. On Saturday night, amateur astronomers take to the streets and share their telescopes with the public. In a city where the lights are bright, these kind of starry views are hard to find, so check them out and ask the astronomers your burning celestial questions.
Sat, March 20; free
See website for location details: http://www.sidewalkastronomers.us/id220.html
SHOP
Lit lovers, it's your lucky day! Head on up to Book Culture, where nearly every book is 20% off thanks to the store's spring sale. Stock up on some Shakespeare, check out some Chaucer, or just browse around one of our favorite independent bookstores in NYC.
Sat and Sun, March 20-21, 11am-7pm
536 West 112th Street, Manhattan
PLAY
Get out, meet new friends and explore your city: The Amazing New York Race is having its last underground race of the season this weekend! Follow clues that take you through the underground secrets of NYC, and complete challenges along the way in this event that's part obstacle course, part scavenger hunt, and all New York!
Sun, March 21, 12:30pm-4:30pm; $35
Starts at Tracks Bar and Grill, LIRR level of Penn Station, 11 Penn Plaza, Manhattan
Thursday, March 18, 2010
What Is not in Grand Central?
And the answer is ...
c) a petting zoo
Grand Central station holds much more than just trains. The third level houses tennis courts that are open to members, and from 1939 to 1964, CBS had three studios above the main hall, which filmed the Evening News as well as classics like "What's My Line?"
The station also has a secret platform, number 61, that ran underneath the Waldorf-Astoria hotel. Although it was used for several visiting dignitaries, the platform's most famous guest was President Franklin D. Roosevelt, who was more easily transported in his wheelchair to his hotel room and could avoid the public crowds.
c) a petting zoo
Grand Central station holds much more than just trains. The third level houses tennis courts that are open to members, and from 1939 to 1964, CBS had three studios above the main hall, which filmed the Evening News as well as classics like "What's My Line?"
The station also has a secret platform, number 61, that ran underneath the Waldorf-Astoria hotel. Although it was used for several visiting dignitaries, the platform's most famous guest was President Franklin D. Roosevelt, who was more easily transported in his wheelchair to his hotel room and could avoid the public crowds.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
New York Trivia Tuesday
Grand Central Station in New York City is the world's biggest train station by the number of platforms it houses. But Grand Central has been a lot more than a train station over the years. Which of these has never existed in Grand Central over its 130-year history:
a) a tennis court
b) a secret platform
c) a petting zoo
d) a television studio
Check back on Thursday for the answer to this week's New York trivia question!
a) a tennis court
b) a secret platform
c) a petting zoo
d) a television studio
Check back on Thursday for the answer to this week's New York trivia question!
Monday, March 15, 2010
New York's Best: Cheap Dates
So, you've landed a great date for this weekend and you want to plan an impressive event. Even in NYC, you don't have to spend this month's whole paycheck to make that happen!
Check out our list of New York's best cheap date ideas for your next romantic rendezvous.
Havana Nights
Journey to the Cuban capital without leaving Manhattan, starting with dinner at Cafe Habana in SoHo. Despite the trendy location, entrees are surprisingly affordable, hovering around $12/person for a intimidatingly large plate of delicious Cuban cuisine. Try the Enchiladas de Mole Poblano: chicken enchiladas in a mole sauce with rice & beans.
Then shake your stuff at Ripley Greer studios, where celebrated salsa instructor Frank "Ritmo" Garcia leads classes for just $5 on Fridays. Begininners and seasoned dancers alike will get down with their date and enjoy the salsa beat!
Cafe Habana: 17 Prince Street, Manhattan; 212.625.2001; www.cafehabana.com; average entree: $12
Ripley Grier Studios: 939 Eighth Avenue, Manhattan; www.asuritmo.com; $5/person
Get Sporty
Sports fans don't have to sit on the sidelines with their dates. Instead, have a drink at Floyd NY, where you don't just watch the game - you can be the star of the team! Floyd NY has indoor bocce courts, and hosts the city's only bocce tournament! Join together to play another team, or compete against each other (Loser owes the winner another drink!).
Worn out from the heat of the competition? Relax at 200 Fifth, where Brooklynites from around the borough will be watching the night's game during POGO's March Madness Event (March 18th). Choose your college basketball picks and root for your favorite team. Then celebrate your victory together - or comfort each other after a defeat.
Floyd NY: 131 Atlantic Avenue, Brooklyn; 718-858-5810; www.floydny.com; free
March Madness Event at 200 Fifth: 200 Fifth Avenue, Brooklyn; www.bklynevents.com; $5
Take a Trip to Chinatown
Manhattan's Chinatown is one of the largest Chinese communities outside of Asia, and just browsing the streets and market is intriguing enough for a daytime date. But when you need a break from the crowds outside, take a breather and check out the Museum of Chinese in America, a beautiful and serene spot dedicated to Chinese experience in New York. The collections include beautiful and delicate paper sculpture, detailed Chinese opera costumes, and art pieces from the past two centuries. Admission is 2-for-1 until May, making it a great stop for a couple!
Hungry? Check out Xi'an Famous Foods for what is often hailed as the best Xi'an food outside of China. Perfect for the frugal and adventurous gourmet, the tiny space specializes in hand-pulled noodles; try the famous cumin lamb noodles, or go for the more adventurous "spicy and tingly lamb face."
Museum of Chinese in America: 215 Centre St, Manhattan; 212-619-4785; www.mocanyc.com; $7 for two (through May 31)
Xi'an Famous Foods: 88 East Broadway #106, Manhattan; 646-209-8242; www.xianfoods.com; average entree: $5
Fun & Games
Get rid of first-date jitters by laughing the night away at the best comedy show in New York. Need another reason to check it out? It's free! Join hosts Max Silvestri and Gabe Liedman at Big Terrific, where visiting comedy guests will have you rolling on the floor (We hope it's clean). SNL cast member Jenny Slate started out here, so you might catch some comedians just before they make it big.
Then go back to your childhood with the Brooklyn date staple, Barcade. With dozens of classic arcade games, you'll feel like it's 1985 again - except this time, the games are accompanied by 20 delicious beers on tap!
Big Terrific: Cameo, 93 N. 6th St, Brooklyn; 718-302-1180; free
Barcade: 388 Union Ave, Brooklyn; 718-302-6464; www.barcadebrooklyn.com
As Seen on TV
TV fanatics, rejoice: you can see all your favorite classic shows for free right here in NYC! The NY Public Library for the Performing Arts at Lincoln Center has a video arcived packed with episodes of classic shows like I Love Lucy, M*A*S*H, and more. If you reserve in advance, you can also borrow from their extensive film archive and spend a Saturday afternoon snuggling in front of one of the collection's free multimedia viewing centers.
Then head over to a watering hole made famous by TV, Tom's Restaurant. The face of the celebrated diner on Seinfeld, Tom's is a local favorite, and is easy on the wallet! Enjoy classic diner fare like the hamburger special ($5) or the roast beef sandwich (6.25).
NYPL for the Performing Arts: 40 Lincoln Center Plaza, Manhattan; 212-870-1630; www.nypl.org; free
Tom's Restaurant: 2880 Broadway, Manhattan; 212-864-6137; average entree: $6
Check out our list of New York's best cheap date ideas for your next romantic rendezvous.
Havana Nights
Journey to the Cuban capital without leaving Manhattan, starting with dinner at Cafe Habana in SoHo. Despite the trendy location, entrees are surprisingly affordable, hovering around $12/person for a intimidatingly large plate of delicious Cuban cuisine. Try the Enchiladas de Mole Poblano: chicken enchiladas in a mole sauce with rice & beans.
Then shake your stuff at Ripley Greer studios, where celebrated salsa instructor Frank "Ritmo" Garcia leads classes for just $5 on Fridays. Begininners and seasoned dancers alike will get down with their date and enjoy the salsa beat!
Cafe Habana: 17 Prince Street, Manhattan; 212.625.2001; www.cafehabana.com; average entree: $12
Ripley Grier Studios: 939 Eighth Avenue, Manhattan; www.asuritmo.com; $5/person
Get Sporty
Sports fans don't have to sit on the sidelines with their dates. Instead, have a drink at Floyd NY, where you don't just watch the game - you can be the star of the team! Floyd NY has indoor bocce courts, and hosts the city's only bocce tournament! Join together to play another team, or compete against each other (Loser owes the winner another drink!).
Worn out from the heat of the competition? Relax at 200 Fifth, where Brooklynites from around the borough will be watching the night's game during POGO's March Madness Event (March 18th). Choose your college basketball picks and root for your favorite team. Then celebrate your victory together - or comfort each other after a defeat.
Floyd NY: 131 Atlantic Avenue, Brooklyn; 718-858-5810; www.floydny.com; free
March Madness Event at 200 Fifth: 200 Fifth Avenue, Brooklyn; www.bklynevents.com; $5
Take a Trip to Chinatown
Manhattan's Chinatown is one of the largest Chinese communities outside of Asia, and just browsing the streets and market is intriguing enough for a daytime date. But when you need a break from the crowds outside, take a breather and check out the Museum of Chinese in America, a beautiful and serene spot dedicated to Chinese experience in New York. The collections include beautiful and delicate paper sculpture, detailed Chinese opera costumes, and art pieces from the past two centuries. Admission is 2-for-1 until May, making it a great stop for a couple!
Hungry? Check out Xi'an Famous Foods for what is often hailed as the best Xi'an food outside of China. Perfect for the frugal and adventurous gourmet, the tiny space specializes in hand-pulled noodles; try the famous cumin lamb noodles, or go for the more adventurous "spicy and tingly lamb face."
Museum of Chinese in America: 215 Centre St, Manhattan; 212-619-4785; www.mocanyc.com; $7 for two (through May 31)
Xi'an Famous Foods: 88 East Broadway #106, Manhattan; 646-209-8242; www.xianfoods.com; average entree: $5
Fun & Games
Get rid of first-date jitters by laughing the night away at the best comedy show in New York. Need another reason to check it out? It's free! Join hosts Max Silvestri and Gabe Liedman at Big Terrific, where visiting comedy guests will have you rolling on the floor (We hope it's clean). SNL cast member Jenny Slate started out here, so you might catch some comedians just before they make it big.
Then go back to your childhood with the Brooklyn date staple, Barcade. With dozens of classic arcade games, you'll feel like it's 1985 again - except this time, the games are accompanied by 20 delicious beers on tap!
Big Terrific: Cameo, 93 N. 6th St, Brooklyn; 718-302-1180; free
Barcade: 388 Union Ave, Brooklyn; 718-302-6464; www.barcadebrooklyn.com
As Seen on TV
TV fanatics, rejoice: you can see all your favorite classic shows for free right here in NYC! The NY Public Library for the Performing Arts at Lincoln Center has a video arcived packed with episodes of classic shows like I Love Lucy, M*A*S*H, and more. If you reserve in advance, you can also borrow from their extensive film archive and spend a Saturday afternoon snuggling in front of one of the collection's free multimedia viewing centers.
Then head over to a watering hole made famous by TV, Tom's Restaurant. The face of the celebrated diner on Seinfeld, Tom's is a local favorite, and is easy on the wallet! Enjoy classic diner fare like the hamburger special ($5) or the roast beef sandwich (6.25).
NYPL for the Performing Arts: 40 Lincoln Center Plaza, Manhattan; 212-870-1630; www.nypl.org; free
Tom's Restaurant: 2880 Broadway, Manhattan; 212-864-6137; average entree: $6
Friday, March 12, 2010
What’s Happening This Weekend?: Our Picks
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
Get a head start on St. Patrick’s Day at Ulysses’ Folk House, the classic Irish pub that has Patty’s-themed events all week long. Our favorite? Their Cobblestone Brunch, featuring unlimited servings of sausage, omelets, oysters, pastries from Financier, and of course, corned beef. A complimentary Guinness makes it a true St. Patrick’s Day treat.
Sun March 14, 11am-4pm, $20
95 Pearl Street / 58 Stone Street, Manhattan
DRINK
Celebrate the opening of West 3rd Common, a new addition to the Washington Square bar scene, with a free glass of beer or wine, plus a free order of garlic fries for the table, when you tell them the code word (“wheaten terrier”). Then sip on your drink while enjoying the bar’s selection of board games with friends.
Through March 31; free
1 W. 3rd St, Manhattan
SEE
It's time to play the music, it's time to light the lights. It's time to meet the Muppets with a sing-along screening of The Muppet Movie at the Knitting Factory. Watch the movie and join in with subtitled song selections. Fans of Kermit, Fozzie and the gang will also enjoy Muppet trivia and drink specials honoring the fuzzy friends.
Sun, March 14, 2:15 PM; $7.00
361 Metropolitan Ave, Brooklyn
SHOP
Pick up a vintage handbag or decorate your apartment with one-of-a-kind pieces from the Pier Antiques Show. With over 500 vendors joining the crowd, you’ll find everything from classic LPs to chandeliers while browsing this lineup along the Hudson. Curious collectors can also bring items to be appraised – You might have something valuable on your hands!
Sat and Sun, March 13-14, 10am-6pm; free
Pier 94, 12th Ave at 55th St, Manhattan
PLAY
Bring your puppy or just watch the canine competitors at Brooklyn’s Mutt Show. See who will win the crown in events like Sloppiest Kisser, Looks Most Like Owner and Most Nutritionally Advantaged (Fattest). Puppy costumes will also be judged, so be ready to face the cuteness.
Sat and Sun, March 13-14, 11am-7pm; $5 to watch, $10 to enter
Brooklyn Lyceum, 227 Fourth Ave, Brooklyn
Thursday, March 11, 2010
How Long Is Manhattan?
And the answer is ....
B) 13. 4 miles
From the southernmost point of Manhattan island, Battery Park, to the uppermost, 220th Street, Manhattan is 13.4 miles long. Broadway runs almost the entire length of the island, stopping just north of Battery Park!
B) 13. 4 miles
From the southernmost point of Manhattan island, Battery Park, to the uppermost, 220th Street, Manhattan is 13.4 miles long. Broadway runs almost the entire length of the island, stopping just north of Battery Park!
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
New York Trivia Tuesday
North-south blocks in Manhattan are an average of 1/20th of a mile. But how long is the entire island of Manhattan?
a) 8.2 miles
b) 13.4 miles
c) 16.6 miles
d) 11.2 miles
Check back on Thursday for the answer to this week's New York trivia question!
a) 8.2 miles
b) 13.4 miles
c) 16.6 miles
d) 11.2 miles
Check back on Thursday for the answer to this week's New York trivia question!
Monday, March 8, 2010
New York's Best: Coffee Shops
New York is known as the city that never sleeps - and a large part of that is thanks to caffeination from the city's best coffee shops. Luckily, there's a coffee spot for every scene, style and budget.
Check out our picks of the best coffee shops in New York:
Best Coffee Artisan: Abraço Espresso
Tradition is a buzzword at owner Jamie McCormick’s old-world espresso bar, where drinks are carefully crafted and espresso is always served in a demitasse. There’s no loitering here; you can take your cup outside or pretend you’re in Europe while standing at the bar. House-made pastries (including a signature olive oil cake) are another highlight of one of New York’s best coffee shops.
86 E. 7th St., Manhattan
Best to Kick Back and Relax: Southside Coffee
Take a break with a cup of joe at this laid-back and chilled-out Windsor Terrace favorite. Besides some of the best coffee in Brooklyn, their staff will willingly chat with you about your beverage of choice and help make suggestions for the casual drinker. Free wifi makes this hangout a place to while away an afternoon.
652 6th Ave., Brooklyn.
Best Student Central: Joe
A popular favorite with the NYU crowd and a common student vote for the city’s best coffee shop, Joe’s original location in the West Village became so popular that it’s now a chain of 5 – and slated to grow some more in the next year. The coffee hasn’t suffered though, and you can learn even more about it by enrolling in Joe University: a series of home brewing classes for the budding coffee connoisseur.
141 Waverly Pl., Manhattan.
Also: 9 E 13th St., 405 W 23rd St St., 44 Grand Central Terminal and 514 Columbus Ave.
Best Hidden Gem: Outpost Café
Step off a bleak section of Fulton Street and into this welcoming coffee haven, complete with backyard terrace in the summers. Long wooden benches in this best coffee shop around foster a communal atmosphere that will have you chatting with your neighbors about your favorite brews.
1014 Fulton St., Brooklyn.
Best Simple Cup: Stumptown
If you’re just looking for the best no-frills cup of coffee in New York, look no further than Stumptown. Although its Flatiron outpost in the Ace Hotel has more of a get-in get-out atmosphere than a sit-down hangout, this Oregon import deserves mention in our list of best coffee shops for its quality beans.
Ace Hotel, 18 W 29th St, Manhattan.
Check out our picks of the best coffee shops in New York:
Best Coffee Artisan: Abraço Espresso
Tradition is a buzzword at owner Jamie McCormick’s old-world espresso bar, where drinks are carefully crafted and espresso is always served in a demitasse. There’s no loitering here; you can take your cup outside or pretend you’re in Europe while standing at the bar. House-made pastries (including a signature olive oil cake) are another highlight of one of New York’s best coffee shops.
86 E. 7th St., Manhattan
Best to Kick Back and Relax: Southside Coffee
Take a break with a cup of joe at this laid-back and chilled-out Windsor Terrace favorite. Besides some of the best coffee in Brooklyn, their staff will willingly chat with you about your beverage of choice and help make suggestions for the casual drinker. Free wifi makes this hangout a place to while away an afternoon.
652 6th Ave., Brooklyn.
Best Student Central: Joe
A popular favorite with the NYU crowd and a common student vote for the city’s best coffee shop, Joe’s original location in the West Village became so popular that it’s now a chain of 5 – and slated to grow some more in the next year. The coffee hasn’t suffered though, and you can learn even more about it by enrolling in Joe University: a series of home brewing classes for the budding coffee connoisseur.
141 Waverly Pl., Manhattan.
Also: 9 E 13th St., 405 W 23rd St St., 44 Grand Central Terminal and 514 Columbus Ave.
Best Hidden Gem: Outpost Café
Step off a bleak section of Fulton Street and into this welcoming coffee haven, complete with backyard terrace in the summers. Long wooden benches in this best coffee shop around foster a communal atmosphere that will have you chatting with your neighbors about your favorite brews.
1014 Fulton St., Brooklyn.
Best Simple Cup: Stumptown
If you’re just looking for the best no-frills cup of coffee in New York, look no further than Stumptown. Although its Flatiron outpost in the Ace Hotel has more of a get-in get-out atmosphere than a sit-down hangout, this Oregon import deserves mention in our list of best coffee shops for its quality beans.
Ace Hotel, 18 W 29th St, Manhattan.
Saturday, March 6, 2010
Did You Know ..... (Bklyn Edition)
that Red Hook was named after the red clay soil in the area -- that's the "red" part and the way the land is a "point" in the harbor, after another word that came from the original dutch settlers. Bay Ridge, just south of Red Hook, was originally called "Yellow Hook", but after a yellow fever epidemic the area was renamed in 1853.
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Trivia Tuesday is Back!!!!
The first American chess tournament was held in New York in what year??
a) 1776
b) 1843
c) 1803
d) 1998
a) 1776
b) 1843
c) 1803
d) 1998
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)