Here's a clip from inside of the club where we spent our New Year's Eve (2007):
Showing posts with label New York. Show all posts
Showing posts with label New York. Show all posts
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
America's oldest Pizzeria
If you are in New York City, do not miss the opportunity of tasting some of the tastiest pizza ever made. Head straight for the intersection of Spring and Mott in Little Italy, to savor the deliciousness at Lombardi's. They have a huge sign outside declaring themselves as 'America's Oldest Pizzeria', but you won't care about the authenticity of that declaration after you've tasted their pizzas.
The picture was taken on the 31st of December 2007, and just look at the line! Although the wait was long (50 minutes!), it was well worth it. Lombardi's has tons of atmosphere and it was good to see the locals clamoring for a place in line with bright-eyed tourists, such as ourselves. Nestled amongst gritty tenements , this is a part town which is refreshingly New York compared to the touristy madness of Midtown, so if you've never been down here, make the trip.
Coming back to Lombardi's, we were ushered down to the basement dining room which was a quirky little room, walls adorned with old black and white family photos, classic film posters, or celebrity fans of the establishment. Two of the four walls carry wines to satisfy all tastes. Shirley Bassey and Frank Sinatra blared alternately from the speakers around, their loud booming voices barely audible underneath the crowd who were enjoying themselves tremendously.
Between the two of us, we managed to wolf down a 18" large pepperoni pizza in 25 minutes. Brooklyn Ale added to the wonderful experience. The exquisitely sweet and tangy mozzarella and tomato sauce was like nothing else I'd tasted before. I could never go back to Domino's ever again.
Lombardi's is at 32 Spring St, New York, NY 10012.
The picture was taken on the 31st of December 2007, and just look at the line! Although the wait was long (50 minutes!), it was well worth it. Lombardi's has tons of atmosphere and it was good to see the locals clamoring for a place in line with bright-eyed tourists, such as ourselves. Nestled amongst gritty tenements , this is a part town which is refreshingly New York compared to the touristy madness of Midtown, so if you've never been down here, make the trip.
Coming back to Lombardi's, we were ushered down to the basement dining room which was a quirky little room, walls adorned with old black and white family photos, classic film posters, or celebrity fans of the establishment. Two of the four walls carry wines to satisfy all tastes. Shirley Bassey and Frank Sinatra blared alternately from the speakers around, their loud booming voices barely audible underneath the crowd who were enjoying themselves tremendously.
Between the two of us, we managed to wolf down a 18" large pepperoni pizza in 25 minutes. Brooklyn Ale added to the wonderful experience. The exquisitely sweet and tangy mozzarella and tomato sauce was like nothing else I'd tasted before. I could never go back to Domino's ever again.
Lombardi's is at 32 Spring St, New York, NY 10012.
Monday, January 7, 2008
How to make it to your Time Square Party!!
You've got the tickets. Whew! Now you hear the ticket clerk say to get there really early, and maybe, just maybe you'll make it. Funny they didn't have that disclaimer on their website when they were selling the tickets! "It's all up to New York's finest - if they want to be a******s, they might not let you in" came back the cheery reply from the clerk.
Things are, I'm glad to say, not that dreary. If you follow a few simple rules. Like many others, we were understandably anxious about whether we could actually get in to our pre-booked party in Times Square, given the entire area starts shutting down from around 4 pm in preparation of one of the world's greatest New Year's Eve parties.
Leaving early is always a good thing. Let's say your party starts around 9 pm. Follow the simple rules to make sure you make it:
We left early enough and were extremely lucky to have several police escorts walk us to our venue. We were really overcome with their friendliness, and could not believe it when they actually walked us right in front of the ball drop. There were hardly any people congregating there at the time, and we saw the TV and live band crews setting up frantically. The crystal ball was there right at the top of those billboards, glowing brightly. It was surreal.
Though this advice may be a little late, I hope it will come in handy for all those planning to visit the Big Apple next year. I spent quite some time online looking for similar information last week, but was disappointed. And so I hope this helps someone.....
Things are, I'm glad to say, not that dreary. If you follow a few simple rules. Like many others, we were understandably anxious about whether we could actually get in to our pre-booked party in Times Square, given the entire area starts shutting down from around 4 pm in preparation of one of the world's greatest New Year's Eve parties.
Leaving early is always a good thing. Let's say your party starts around 9 pm. Follow the simple rules to make sure you make it:
- Listen to the local NYC news on the morning of the 31st, or search online for all information on local transit closures and times. This will form the basis of your journey plan.
- Leave as early as you can - around 7 if you're staying in Midtown, earlier the further away you are.
- Don't forget to take your tickets and any associated receipts, and keep them handy! This is what you'll need to show to the police.
- Get as close to your venue as possible, and then locate the police, and ask them (very nicely) about how to get to your venue. Show them your tickets.
- If you're lucky, you'll be personally escorted as close to your venue as possible. If he or she's a grouch, excuse yourself politely and locate another officer. Especially one who looks like they're having a good time!
- Even if you get to your party well ahead of time, line up. If you're with a group of friends, take turns to keep your places in the line, as it might be pretty cold at the time. Speaking of which, wrap up as warmly as you can!
We left early enough and were extremely lucky to have several police escorts walk us to our venue. We were really overcome with their friendliness, and could not believe it when they actually walked us right in front of the ball drop. There were hardly any people congregating there at the time, and we saw the TV and live band crews setting up frantically. The crystal ball was there right at the top of those billboards, glowing brightly. It was surreal.
Though this advice may be a little late, I hope it will come in handy for all those planning to visit the Big Apple next year. I spent quite some time online looking for similar information last week, but was disappointed. And so I hope this helps someone.....
Thursday, December 13, 2007
How to party in Times Square (NYE) and beat the cold!
It sounds so sexy and exciting, doesn't it? Watching the ball drop in Times Square has got to be one of the best ways of spending New Year's Eve. Well, not if you're not a teenager anymore. Not if you haven't loaded up on the hot dogs and beer, and aren't really in a mood to scream your way into the new year, just to keep yourself warm, along with a million other die-hard revelers.
Many of us are enamored with the idea of being in New York, in Times Square and watching the crystal ball drop live. I am one of those people. But I am also one of those people who are not excited about the prospect of standing in the freezing cold for hours. So if you're like me, and realize that spending those few extra dollars could make a difference between having a really good time and having an anti-climactic and miserable time, then read on.
What I am suggesting is to check out the gazillion parties going on around the Big Apple. As a starter, I can suggest the pretty comprehensive site below. You can check out offerings from multiple cities around the US, but go over to New York, where there are about 150 listings (when this article was written).
Be it the Meatpacking District, Greenwich Village, Midtown or Bryant Park, there is something for everyone. There is something to suit all budgets too. Most offer a live broadcast of the ball drop, even those near or in Times Square. It's fascinating just to find out about all the parties!
So this is what we did. After spending a good few hours on this site in conjunction with Google Maps, we figured that a good choice would be the bar at the Paramount Hotel. On 46th St and minutes from Times Square, this nightspot offers passed hors d'oeuvres, a champagne reception, a 3 1/2 premium open bar - all for $79! And get this - you do have the option of stepping out to catch the ball drop live since its minutes away, or if you can't stand the cold, to just stay in and catch it live on the screens. The best of both worlds!
Then there's a general admission at most of these places for around $30 after 12:30 am. So say if you did opt to stay out most of the night, but then wanted to have a drink or two after it's all over, it doesn't have to break the bank!
So there you have it. You could have a fabulous night drinking top shelf stuff, nibbling on goodies, keeping warm, and being near it all. Caveat: Not all general admission prices are in the $80 range, so shop around! The bigger name clubs and nightspots may have general admission tickets from $150 upwards, but they may offer more than some of the more reasonably-priced places. Go for something which suits you, in terms of budget, what's included in the price, and location. And remember that the experience will last you a lifetime. You will have some good stories to tell, and glamorous memories to hold on to!
If you do decide to give this a try, or have done so already, don't forget to drop in a line here. But whatever you end up doing, have a great New Year's Eve!
The New York City 2008 Party list
Many of us are enamored with the idea of being in New York, in Times Square and watching the crystal ball drop live. I am one of those people. But I am also one of those people who are not excited about the prospect of standing in the freezing cold for hours. So if you're like me, and realize that spending those few extra dollars could make a difference between having a really good time and having an anti-climactic and miserable time, then read on.
What I am suggesting is to check out the gazillion parties going on around the Big Apple. As a starter, I can suggest the pretty comprehensive site below. You can check out offerings from multiple cities around the US, but go over to New York, where there are about 150 listings (when this article was written).
Be it the Meatpacking District, Greenwich Village, Midtown or Bryant Park, there is something for everyone. There is something to suit all budgets too. Most offer a live broadcast of the ball drop, even those near or in Times Square. It's fascinating just to find out about all the parties!
So this is what we did. After spending a good few hours on this site in conjunction with Google Maps, we figured that a good choice would be the bar at the Paramount Hotel. On 46th St and minutes from Times Square, this nightspot offers passed hors d'oeuvres, a champagne reception, a 3 1/2 premium open bar - all for $79! And get this - you do have the option of stepping out to catch the ball drop live since its minutes away, or if you can't stand the cold, to just stay in and catch it live on the screens. The best of both worlds!
Then there's a general admission at most of these places for around $30 after 12:30 am. So say if you did opt to stay out most of the night, but then wanted to have a drink or two after it's all over, it doesn't have to break the bank!
So there you have it. You could have a fabulous night drinking top shelf stuff, nibbling on goodies, keeping warm, and being near it all. Caveat: Not all general admission prices are in the $80 range, so shop around! The bigger name clubs and nightspots may have general admission tickets from $150 upwards, but they may offer more than some of the more reasonably-priced places. Go for something which suits you, in terms of budget, what's included in the price, and location. And remember that the experience will last you a lifetime. You will have some good stories to tell, and glamorous memories to hold on to!
If you do decide to give this a try, or have done so already, don't forget to drop in a line here. But whatever you end up doing, have a great New Year's Eve!
The New York City 2008 Party list
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
New York City, here I come!
We did it! After hours of procrastinating about whether we should, we did it! A $5 flight to NYC on the 31st Dec.
I kid you not. If you have 15000 airmiles with American, you can do it too. We sat at the computer the other day, not expecting our miles to take us anywhere decent over the New Year's period, and couldn't believe it when the Big Apple turned out to be an option. All it cost us was $5 for the transaction. Sweet. We snapped it up, and sped over onto Expedia to get us a decent room. Given that we spent virtually nothing for the room, we were able to get a room averaging about $350 per night. Not bad for this time period in NYC.
I cannot wait to make the trip and give you all an update. Being in one of the world's greatest cities on New Year's eve has always been a dream. Have you done it? Perhaps Sydney, Paris, London? Maybe you have a great story to tell about just a wonderful New Year's you spent? Share it here....
I kid you not. If you have 15000 airmiles with American, you can do it too. We sat at the computer the other day, not expecting our miles to take us anywhere decent over the New Year's period, and couldn't believe it when the Big Apple turned out to be an option. All it cost us was $5 for the transaction. Sweet. We snapped it up, and sped over onto Expedia to get us a decent room. Given that we spent virtually nothing for the room, we were able to get a room averaging about $350 per night. Not bad for this time period in NYC.
I cannot wait to make the trip and give you all an update. Being in one of the world's greatest cities on New Year's eve has always been a dream. Have you done it? Perhaps Sydney, Paris, London? Maybe you have a great story to tell about just a wonderful New Year's you spent? Share it here....
Friday, September 21, 2007
Great Jazz in Greenwich village, NYC
KJ Denhert is phenomenal. Her style and music epitomize laid back New York at its best. Her music is easy listening jazz, happy and emotional. She is one of those fantastic live acts, who give you goosebumps and make you fantasize that anything is possible, with their energy and ability. I personally believe that her recorded material does not do her live performances justice, so go listen to her live in New York if you can.
In addition to her great music, I remember being struck by how funny she was, and how she was able to control her audience with her humor and sassyness.
Go see her if you can. She can be found playing at 'The 55 bar' in New York's West village pretty regularly. It is a cosy venue and it is not expensive. We paid $5 to get in, but they do expect you to enjoy a drink or two with the music. They do not serve food. Get in early for the best seats.
Check out KJ's myspace page for more information and show dates.
KJ Denhert
In addition to her great music, I remember being struck by how funny she was, and how she was able to control her audience with her humor and sassyness.
Go see her if you can. She can be found playing at 'The 55 bar' in New York's West village pretty regularly. It is a cosy venue and it is not expensive. We paid $5 to get in, but they do expect you to enjoy a drink or two with the music. They do not serve food. Get in early for the best seats.
Check out KJ's myspace page for more information and show dates.
KJ Denhert
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
Kittichai, a Thai gem in NYC
Location: 60 Thompson St, NYC 10012
As I delved deeper into the recommended restaurant list in the Lonely Planet guide, it became increasingly impossible to find a restaurant which would satisfy my impulse: sharp & sexy ambiance, food to wow, cocktails to enthrall. After all, I was treating my husband and brother, and I wanted it to be super-special. Suddenly, I read the review. This was it! I proceeded to make my reservation for the night.
It was a late summer Friday evening, around 9 pm. Kittichai was as I had envisioned it. A magnificent Thai restaurant and bar, which was something out of 'Sex and the City' with ethereally beautiful people in Gucci floating around, but was at the same time, completely accessible and friendly. Soft romantic lighting and modern jazz set the tone. Populated mainly by well-heeled locals, there were a couple of tourists like ourselves, and the waiters were very warm and welcoming. The bar was lively and my lychee martini was to die for. Abhijit and Bobby took an immediate liking to the place, much to my relief. Their martini and mojito was equally mouthwatering.
We were seated soon enough. Spicy fishcakes with onion chutney, Chilean sea bass, and barramundi (A delicious Australian fish) with chilli -tamarind sauce tantalized the senses. Music and conversation was excellent, and the evening got dreamier with every bite. Or was it with every sip?
Sure, the bill was far from average, but such a dining experience in the heart of Manhattan is one to be cherished for a long long time. It's all about the experience, and the company. I would do it all again, and again. Once I saved up of course :). Go check it out. It's worth every penny.
As I delved deeper into the recommended restaurant list in the Lonely Planet guide, it became increasingly impossible to find a restaurant which would satisfy my impulse: sharp & sexy ambiance, food to wow, cocktails to enthrall. After all, I was treating my husband and brother, and I wanted it to be super-special. Suddenly, I read the review. This was it! I proceeded to make my reservation for the night.
It was a late summer Friday evening, around 9 pm. Kittichai was as I had envisioned it. A magnificent Thai restaurant and bar, which was something out of 'Sex and the City' with ethereally beautiful people in Gucci floating around, but was at the same time, completely accessible and friendly. Soft romantic lighting and modern jazz set the tone. Populated mainly by well-heeled locals, there were a couple of tourists like ourselves, and the waiters were very warm and welcoming. The bar was lively and my lychee martini was to die for. Abhijit and Bobby took an immediate liking to the place, much to my relief. Their martini and mojito was equally mouthwatering.
We were seated soon enough. Spicy fishcakes with onion chutney, Chilean sea bass, and barramundi (A delicious Australian fish) with chilli -tamarind sauce tantalized the senses. Music and conversation was excellent, and the evening got dreamier with every bite. Or was it with every sip?
Sure, the bill was far from average, but such a dining experience in the heart of Manhattan is one to be cherished for a long long time. It's all about the experience, and the company. I would do it all again, and again. Once I saved up of course :). Go check it out. It's worth every penny.
Monday, August 20, 2007
New York: Alluring busy...
...So we walked towards Wall Street, hungry as hell but content with drinking in the sights and sounds around us. Throngs of tourists crowded around the 911 memorial center, another directed towards the Trinity Church, armed police at every corner, cranes and construction everywhere, suits munching on hot dogs. It was wonderful. We boarded the 'Hop on Hop off tour at Battery Park for the downtown loop. By the way, this is a great way to orientate yourself with NY if you are new to it, and at around $49 for the uptown, downtown, Brooklyn and night tour, it's a steal. The next two hours were spent pleasantly as we let the tour guide do all the work, and watched envious New Yorkers gazing at us tourists, trying to get through rush hour hell......
New York: checking in
We checked into the Embassy Suites downtown. Might be a little on the pricey side, but with a cooked-to-order breakfast and a manager's reception including two complimentary alcoholic drinks every day, we were pretty happy with our choice. Not to mention the cosy suite with a living room and pull out bed, which is ideal if you are traveling in a group. And it's the closest we can get to apartment living in downtown Manhattan till we put our deposit down on that brownstone mansion near the Waldorf Astoria. Jokes aside, I would definitely recommend the hotel to you. It's within walking distance of the subway, and steps away from a serene riverside walk.
Fascinating New York
If I had to pick between living in a mansion with a pool, a maid and a Maserati, and a two bed condo in the upper East Side of New York City, I would choose the condo. Forget a two-bed condo, or even the posh hoods, a studio in Brooklyn would do me just fine. Any real estate in New York City would keep me smiling for the rest of my life. That's how much I love the Big Apple. Well, maybe the Maserati....
We arrived in Manhattan on the 14th June - myself, my husband and my brother. It was a frenetic Thursday afternoon near our hotel in the financial district; bankers on their lunch break opting for a smoke instead, secretaries in Manolo Blahnik rip offs venting about their co-workers, the incessant sound of construction around Ground Zero, and the welcoming whiff of hot dogs from the street vendor trolleys - I loved it all.
We got on a 48 hour hop on-hop off bus even before we checked in. If you're new to the city, this is really the best way to get your bearings. For $49, you get the downtown, uptown, Brooklyn, and even the Night Lights loop for two days. We did the downtown loop amidst rush hour, ubiquitous yellow cabs and yelling people, japanese tourists getting photographed with the Naked Cowboy in Times Square, and an overwhelming police presence in pretty much every block we turn. After about two hours, we decided it was time to check in.
More soon....
We arrived in Manhattan on the 14th June - myself, my husband and my brother. It was a frenetic Thursday afternoon near our hotel in the financial district; bankers on their lunch break opting for a smoke instead, secretaries in Manolo Blahnik rip offs venting about their co-workers, the incessant sound of construction around Ground Zero, and the welcoming whiff of hot dogs from the street vendor trolleys - I loved it all.
We got on a 48 hour hop on-hop off bus even before we checked in. If you're new to the city, this is really the best way to get your bearings. For $49, you get the downtown, uptown, Brooklyn, and even the Night Lights loop for two days. We did the downtown loop amidst rush hour, ubiquitous yellow cabs and yelling people, japanese tourists getting photographed with the Naked Cowboy in Times Square, and an overwhelming police presence in pretty much every block we turn. After about two hours, we decided it was time to check in.
More soon....
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