Have a Beautiful Day!!!

What a glorious day in New York!!! I woke up late-ish; chomped down a bit of granola; and went for a lovely walk around Prospect Park. If you’ve never been to this absolutely beautiful spot just off Grand Army Plaza in Brooklyn, then you must do so immediately. Don’t miss out either on the albeit tiny Saturday market just in front where you can purchase some organic comforts such as mustard greens or lamb.
After strolling around the park and back up Vanderbilt, I stopped in for a Grand Moka at Le Gamin. There I sat, perfectly content reading “The Picture of Dorian Gray” by Oscar Wilde and eavesdropping on the Frenchies behind me talking about searching for the perfect little French bistro in New York and French chefs in the city. Ugh! I’ve become such a NY culinary biz groopie.
So what’s been happening as of late? Well, if you are in New York right now, I do recommend taking advantage of Restaurant Week. It’s Monday through Friday ONLY and lasts until February 3. Enjoy a three-course prix-fixe lunch for $24.07 or a dinner for $35.00 at participating restaurants around the city. Last week, I dined with a friend at Craftbar on Steak Tartare, Pig Foot, Pan-Roasted Sweetbreads, and Young Pecorino Fondue. I found the Tartare to be a bit chewy, but otherwise the food was delicious. The interior is a bit stark, but I imagine quite convivial once packed. The staff uniforms are very informal (jeans, hoodies, etc.), and personalities pretty down-to-earth. Great food without the pompous attitude. Afterwards, we sauntered down to Union Square to have a end-of-the eve libation at Todd English’s Olives, where we spotted Mariska Hargitay of Law & Order: SVU. Nice space in the “W” hotel, friendly people, and hip waitstaff attire in stylish and funky classic black.
Last Monday, I found myself schmoozing with the best of ’em at the Gourmet Magazine party at Morimoto’s” new spot in the Meatpacking district, due to open this week. The sushi kitchen is absolutely amazing, and I can only dream of having something similar in my house one day, when I grow up. Hors d’oeuvres devoured were, among many others, Sashimi; Kumamoto Oyster, Sea Urchin, and Foie Gras Teriyaki; and Crispy Rock Shrimp Tempura, Morimoto Buffalo Sauce, and Wasabi Aioli. The interior, though very stylish, is a bit chilly. However, I am anxious to visit it again once it opens to check out the balance of beautiful cuisine and stylish diners. You just can’t go wrong with the Iron Chef.
After the shindig, a few friends and I went to Tribeca’s Brandy Library; the perfect cozy space to enjoy an after-dinner eau de vie. I have yet to dine there, but definitely can attest to the warmth of a smooth cognac.
Jacques Pépin was busy kissing hands and shaking babies at the 25th Anniversary of De Gusitbus at Macy’s. Spotted Chefs: Daniel Boulud and Jean-Georges Vongerichten.
A couple of weeks ago, I FINALLY made it to the BB King Gospel Brunch. FANTASTIC! The music was beautiful! And of course, I was so happy to nosh on catfish, greens, grits, and jambalaya.
Don’t forget to make your Valentine’s reservations early. There are so many incredible options available in New York, whether with your significant other or not. Dine out, take a stroll around Central Park, go to a museum, read an enthralling book, take a cooking lesson, relish in a spa day, sip on a decadently rich hot chocolate at Maison du Chocolat; whatever you do, pamper yourself and be happy. Remember, it doesn’t have to be an uncomfortable-silence-in-a-fancy-restaurant-wearing-I-can’t-breathe-clothing-and-eating-drugstore-heart-shaped-chocolates evening. Ugh,really!
Have a beautiful day, and don’t forget to live!