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NYC Spring Openings and Easter specials
March 31, 2021, 7:02.48 pm ET
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Photo: Evan Sung

Eleven Madison Park
Eleven Madison Park offers a limited-availability, bountiful Eleven Madison Home Spring Lamb Dinner spread for pick-up Thurs/April 1 through Sun/April 4. A Lamb Rack centerpiece is accompanied by ready-to-eat sides such as snow pea salad, spring garlic custard, bibb lettuce with sprouts and caraway crumble, a strawberry tart for dessert and chocolate hazelnut granola for the day after. EMP donates ten meals per dinner set purchased to New Yorkers in need through their partnership with Rethink Food. Pick-ups take place at Eleven Madison Park between 12-2pm or various pick-up locations throughout the tri-state area including Westchester, the Hamptons, New Jersey and more at designated times. $395/meal set (serves 4ppl). Order here.

Photo: The Standard

The Standard, High Line
Book a room at The Standard, High Line in NYC’s Meatpacking district from 3/28 to 4/9 with code HOPSTUFF, and there’ll be three eggs hidden throughout your room with all types of goodies inside. We’re talking sweets, toys, drink tickets and more. Get your hands on a rare golden egg and you could land yourself a free night at The Standard, High Line or up to $50 for drinking and dining around the hotel. Promotion applies to all room types, only during the above dates.

The Standard Biergarten
On Sunday, April 4th at 8pm, the Standard Biergarten will host a special Naughty Bunny Bingo at Not Your Standard Bingo, with games, bunny-themed costumes and an array of colorful shots for guests to win as they hunt for numbers on their bingo cards. Enjoy specialty cocktails, punch bowls, and bingo bites including Korean Fried Chicken, Shrimp Spring Rolls, Fish Tacos and more. $50 minimum per person, reservations are encouraged and can be made here.

Photo: Shimmon & Tammer

Aldo Sohm Wine Bar
Aldo Sohm Wine Bar reopens - celebrated wine director/partner Aldo Sohm and his lively crew of sommeliers are back in action with indoor seating and outdoor imbibing on the terrace. Menu favorites such as “The Tower” with charcuterie and cheeses as well as a variety of Tarte Flambée are available. Hours: Mon-Fri, 4-11pm. Reservations (recommended) by phone or Resy.

Photo: Gary He

COTE Korean Steakhouse ™
Starting this Easter, COTE will be adding several spring dishes to their dine-in menu, including scallops and lamb chops, which will be available throughout the season. Those looking to grill at home can order a Goldbelly Spring Feast for national shipping.

Around Town - New exhibit tackles Asian Violence, Game of Thrones coming to Broadway and more...
March 31, 2021, 6:16.26 pm ET
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Image: Linjie Deng

A new exhibition of works inspired by the Asian violence in America by conceptual Chinese artist, Linjie Deng, is now showing at Carlton Fine Arts Ltd.’s location at 543 Madison Avenue from today through May 24th. Asian Art SPA features a selection of different works that Deng created after he was attacked at a New York street subway station. His attacker referred to him as yellow while shoving him to the ground therefore these three works are all yellow, including I am White, Black and Asian, in which a panda is depicted holding two guns; and I don’t like the way he looked at me either. The proceeds from these works will be donated to Think!Chinatown.

Image: Francesco Clemente: Fragments of Now

Beginning April 16, Vito Schnabel Gallery (455 West 19^th St) will present Francesco Clemente: Fragments of Now, introducing a new body of work by the renowned New York-based artist. The nine monumental canvases on view find Clemente drawing inspiration from Homer’s Iliad, a cornerstone text of Western culture first transcribed in the 8th century B.C., describing the Trojan War as a sprawling conflict between and among both humans and gods.

Game of Thrones is coming to Broadway. The Hollywood Reporter learning that “a dramatic stage show spectacular based on George R.R. Martin’s fantasy world is now in development.” The first show is expected in 2023.

Photo: Casa Del Toro

Things are heating up in Hell’s Kitchen. Casa Del Toro is now offering dine-in service with LIVE aerialist performances. On Friday and Saturday evenings, diners can indulge in regional signature dishes alongside imaginative craft cocktails at the Oaxacan-inspired taqueria while watching the mesmerizing movements of Eliana Wenick, a lauded NYC-based aerialist, who will perform 3 live sets on both nights. Reservations via OpenTable.

Photo: The Whitney/Alex Munro

At the Whitney, multidisciplinary artist Dave McKenzie prompts observers to reconsider seemingly familiar feelings, settings, and actions. On May 1, The Whitney will debut Disturbing the View, a commissioned performance by McKenzie that draws inspiration from the entrepreneurial window washers prevalent in many American cities. McKenzie choreographs a circuitous path around the Museum, at times perched on a ladder or hidden from the sightlines of visitors.

Photo: Cititour.com

The Rockefeller Center Flag Project is underway. 83 photographs representing the spirit of New York as being flown as flags in the plaza on 49^th Street. In addition to winning submissions, images from nine famous photographers are also on display through April 30th.

Photo: Pétanque by Carreau Club

Spring is upon us and if you’re looking to get outside, the Pétanque by Carreau Club has arrived at Industry City in Sunset Park, Brooklyn. Dating back to Ancient Rome, pétanque as seen today was popularized in Provence, France in the early 1900s and is emerging across the world as a fun and communal bocce ball-esque sport. Though primarily first-come-first-served, reservations can be made in advance on the Carreau Club website. A maximum of 6 participants per team can play for $20 per hour, and tickets can be purchased at the courts.

Photo: Cititour.com

Another sure sign of spring, Grand Banks, the schooner offering dockside meals and drinks on the Hudson, is now accepting reservations. Reservations are also available for Drift In located at Pier 45 at Hudson River Park near Christopher Street.

Until next time, we’ll see you Around Town!

Sushi Ginza Onodera reopens after year-long pause
March 30, 2021, 6:01.52 pm ET
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Photos: Lily Brown

After a year-long pandemic pause, Michelin starred Sushi Ginza Onodera has reopened with new Head Sushi Chef Takuya Kubo, who comes to NYC from Sushi Ginza Onodera in Honolulu. A native of Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island known for its superior seafood, Chef Kubo began his sushi training in high school at 15. He spent a decade at Sushiden in Tokyo, before joining the Sushi Ginza Onodera Group.

Uni

Chef Kubo keeps true to traditional Edomae-style sushi and techniques of aging, curing and preserving fish that develop umami flavors and create a more tender texture, as well as the use of koshihikari rice seasoned with two different types of red vinegar, one dark and one light, that give it a light brown hue.

His new menu showcases the best seasonal fish from Japan’s Toyosu Market (formerly Tsukiji), which includes refreshing Kegani Hairy Crab with caviar and tomato gelee; lightly seared tataki-style Katsuo (bonito aka skipjack tuna) with garlic chips, sesame, ginger and shiso; earthy, and slow-simmered Tako octopus with yuzu pepper jelly.

Japanese Surf Clam

Guests will also find dishes like grilled Kinki rockfish marinated in light Saikyo miso from Kyoto; along with Sushi Ginza Onodera’s signature Uni and Ikura Chawanmushi, a delicate egg custard with sea urchin and salmon roe.

Lunch offers a Michelin experience without breaking the bank with omakase menus at $100, $150, $200; dinner from $300; service included in all menus (gratuity not accepted).

Photo: Sushi Ginza Onodera

Sushi Ginza Onodera is located at 461 Fifth Ave, New York, NY (212) 390-0925

Visit website at https://www.sushiginzaonoderanewyork.com

DRAMA LEAGUE ANNOUNCES 2021 NOMINEES
March 30, 2021, 5:38.41 pm ET
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Photo: Drama League

The Drama League has announced the 2021 Nominees and Special Recognition Honorees for the 87th Annual Drama League Awards, which will be streamed on Friday, May 21 at 7pm.

This year, the organization has established five unique categories, Outstanding Digital Theater, Individual Production; Outstanding Digital Theater, Collection or Festival; Outstanding Interactive or Socially-Distanced Theater; Outstanding Audio Theater Production; and Outstanding Digital Concert, to honor the extraordinary achievements of artists across the nation who created digital and socially-distanced theatrical productions The 33 nominated productions were selected from submissions by over 400 directors and theatre professionals who are the alumni of The Drama League’s support programs for directors.

In addition, the Drama League Awards’ 2021 Special Recognition Honorees will go to Iris Smith, who will receive the inaugural Gratitude Award for her fearless support of the the Drama League and the theater community at large; Liesl Tommy, who will be presented with the Founders Award for Excellence in Directing for her extraordinary work on stages across the country and commitment to mentorship in the field; father-daughter duo Richard & Demi Weitz, who will be honored with the Distinguished Achievement in Musical Theater Award for their creation of the “Quarantunes” series, which provides a virtual platform for musical theater artists and generated over $20 million in funds for nonprofits across the country; and The Actors Fund, the recipient of the Unique Contribution to Theater Award for its emergency relief efforts through COVID-19, the Winter Storms, and Oregon Wildfires this past season and its ongoing commitment to providing resources for artists.

For a complete list of nominees, visit www.dramaleague.org

DIANA THE MUSICAL SETS BROADWAY RETURN
March 30, 2021, 5:28.54 pm ET
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Photo: Matthew Murphy

“Diana: The Musical,” which tells the story of the late Princess Diana, is scheduled to resume Broadway performances at the Longacre Theatre on Wednesday, December 1. Opening night will be Thursday, December 16.

The musical has book and lyrics by Tony winner Joe DiPietro and music and lyrics by Tony Award winner David Bryan. Direction is by Tony winner Christopher Ashley, choreography is by Olivier Award winner Kelly Devine and musical supervision and arrangements are by Olivier Award winner Ian Eisendrath.

The show features Jeanna de Waal as “Diana”, Roe Hartrampf as “Prince Charles”, Erin Davie as “Camilla Parker Bowles” and Judy Kaye as “Queen Elizabeth.” The complete cast also includes Zach Adkins, Tessa Alves, Ashley Andrews, Austen Danielle Bohmer, Holly Ann Butler, Stephen Carrasco, Bruce Dow, Richard Gatta, Lauren E.J. Hamilton, Emma Hearn, Shaye B. Hopkins, André Jordan, Gareth Keegan, Nathan Lucrezio, Tomás Matos, Chris Medlin, Laura Stracko, and Bethany Ann Tesarck.

In addition, a special presentation of the show, filmed for Netflix, will debut on October 1.

Learning our abcV's at Jean-Georges near Union Square
March 30, 2021, 12:31.26 am ET
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On a warm spring afternoon, abcV by Jean-Georges is the perfect spot for dining al fresco near Union Square. Grab a cocktail or two, in this case a Strawberry Martini, and enjoy some innovative vegetarian dishes that doesn’t taste like vegetarian.

One dish that fits the bill immediately is the Mushroom Walnut Bolognese which had us fooled that it wasn’t beef, and then there's the spicy bowl of ramen filled with silky tofu and a trio of mushrooms - woodear, donko and honshimeji - offering earthy goodness.

Other offerings include a house cultured hemp seed burger on sweet potato bun, as well as a whole head of cauliflower smothered with turmeric tahini, za’ater, pomegranate date molasses and pistachios.

Photos: Cititour.com

The cocktail list also features a Lemongrass Collins, Fennel Margarita and Beetroot Madras along with a lengthy wine list.

abcV is located at 38 E 19th St, New York, NY (212) 475-5829

The choices at Planet Taco are out of this world
March 29, 2021, 9:48.24 pm ET
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Planet Taco in the East Village is hoping to reach a new dimension with taco combinations that are out of this world. For instance, the Mars "Vegetarian Chorizo" Taco sits atop a red tortilla topped with red quinoa, while the Saturn arrives on a yellow tortilla with grilled nopales, portobello, watermelon and crispy onions.

Photos: Cititour.com

Closer to earth, the Cuba features slow-cooked pulled pork with sliced orange and chipotle cream, while Japan includes shrimp tempura, pickled daikon, fried cellophane noodles with a miso slaw. Also on the menu is the Quesabirria with braised beef, Monterey Jack served with beef consommé on the side. Planet taco offers a number of unique flavor combinations and just as many sauces. Cafe-style dining is available outside.

Planet Taco is located at 141 2nd Avenue, New York, NY (347) 727-2669

Where to get the party started on Hudson Street
March 27, 2021, 3:40.05 pm ET
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Share a teepee at Katana Kitten in the West Village. Find highballs and signature cocktails along with small bites, skewers, sandos and more. 531 Hudson St, New York, NY

Dante on Hudson is a gloriously restored spot in the West Village where you can find tableside martini service and cocktails along with salads, burgers and more. 551 Hudson St, New York, NY

Take a walk on the wild side at Wild where they are serving up signature flatbreads made with seasonal ingredients along with libations. Their motto is "eat, drink, Wild." 535 Hudson Street, New York, NY

Photos: Cititour.com

White Horse Tavern is New York's second oldest pub and a reliable watering hole. Lock for cocktails, draft beers and bar food like French onion soup and a double smash burger. 567 Hudon St, New York, NY

Restaurant Radar
March 26, 2021, 5:50.32 pm ET
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La Pulperia has opened its doors in Hell’s Kitchen after relocating. The corner location is bright and airy. Named after a market, the restaurant is a collection of different Latin flavors. Think empanadas with corn and manchego cheese, grilled skirt steak with gigante beans, pan-roasted salmon with coconut rice and a mixed grill (parrillada) of short ribs, skirt steak, Argentinean chorizo and papas provençal. Cocteles are also available. 623 9th Ave, New York, NY

The original Food Sermon in Crown Heights has been replaced by Mr. Biggs Rasta Pasta. The restaurant is giving its unique spin on pasta dishes with some Caribbean flare, including Jerk Chicken, Oxtail, and Curry Goat. Seafood also dominates the menu with Fried Red Snapper, Broiled Crab Legs and Curry Conch on the menu. An assortment of Roti Rolls are also offered and there's Pineapple Coconut Cake for dessert. 355 Rogers Ave, Brooklyn, NY

Machi Machi has popped up in K-Town selling bubble teas and milk drinks in grass flasks. The bottled drinks offer a split taste. For instance, one had Fresh Strawberry Latte on top with Panna Cotta on the bottom. Another was a mix of Jasmine Tea with Plum Jelly. Add-in’s include tapioca and mini taro balls. The shop's slogan: "I love you so machi." 33 West 32nd St, New York, NY

Photos: Cititour.com

Tracks Raw Bar & Grill is up and running. The Penn Station fixture is now located outside of Madison Square Garden. It made the move just prior to the pandemic hitting. Tracks is known for its seafood. Look for things like Stuffed Shrimps, Crab Cakes, Baked Clams and large selection of oysters, all reasonably priced. Larger plates include Fish & Chips, Linguini with Clams and Shepherd’s Pie. 220 West 31st St, New York, NY

Stay tuned for more Restaurant Radar

TALEA Beer Co. now has a Taproom
March 25, 2021, 6:14.46 pm ET
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TALEA Beer Co, led by LeAnn Darland and Tara Hankinson, now has a swanky new taproom and brewery to call home in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. The avid homebrewers quit their corporate jobs to pursue their passion - beer. And not just any beer. TALEA describes its beers at the "intersection of high quality and low-bitterness with fruit-forward flavors."

Photos: TALEA Beer Co.

The taproom will feature 11 different brews at any given time. Some of those flavors include Passion Punch: Gose-style Sour Ale brewed with pink guava, passionfruit, and mango; Raspberry Peach Tart Deco: Sour IPA brewed with raspberry, peach, and milk sugar; and Power Couple: Hazy Double IPA with hits of Maine blueberries and passionfruit smoothie. Aside from the taproom, the beers can also be purchased online in colorful 4-packs. Cheers!

TALEA Beer Co. is located at 87 Richardson Street, Brooklyn, NY (347) 799-1281

Around Town - Hayden Planetarium Returns, Dolphin Sightings, Curbside Korean BBQ and more...
March 24, 2021, 7:21.40 pm ET
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Photo: AMNH/D. Finn

The Haden Planetarium Space Theater is now open to the public at limited capacity after closing a year ago due to the pandemic. Tickets must be reserved in advance at amnh.org. Because of the physical distance requirements only 48 people will be allowed for each showing, well below the normal 429 limit. The current screening is Worlds Beyond Earth.

Image: NYC.gov

The New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission has reportedly approved plans for a rooftop park above Radio City Music Hall. The plans also call for a skybridge.

The city saw some welcome guests this week. New Yorker Cailin Ann spotted these three dolphins swimming happily in the East River in the waters off Greenpoint, Brooklyn.

Photo: Cititour.com

The smell of barbecue is in the air at Love Korean Barbecue in K-Town. The restaurant has set up an outdoor grill right on Fifth Avenue. Guests can eat in or dine out.

Photo: Cititour.com

If you’re in the mood for dancing, Sahadi's is offering outdoor dining with a live band in the courtyard at Industry City. Folks could be seen dancing nearby. There’s also an oyster bar by Mother Shucker.

Warmer weather also bringing out the crowds at Madison Square Park. Folks lining up at Shake Shack again. Sing us up for a ShackBurger!

Stay tuned for next week's Around Town

STAR-STUDDED BROADWAY BACKWARDS SET FOR MARCH 30
March 24, 2021, 7:21.37 pm ET
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Photo: Broadway Cares

“Broadway Backwards”, the annual musical fundraiser for Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, will stream at 8 pm Eastern on Tuesday, March 30. The show is being written and directed by Robert Bartley.

The show will explore how the isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic has specifically affected the LGBTQ community. New performances will be merged with full numbers from previous editions of Broadway Backwards to create an edition that feels distinctly of the moment.

This year’s extra-special event includes performances and appearances by Glenn Close, Stephanie J. Block, Deborah Cox, Lea Salonga, Matt Bomer, Darren Criss, Ariana DeBose, Robin De Jesús, Cynthia Erivo, Joshua Henry, Cherry Jones, Kelli O’Hara, Jim Parsons, Amy Adams, James Monroe Iglehart, Cheyenne Jackson, L Morgan Lee, Raymond J. Lee, Eric McCormack, Debra Messing, Ruthie Ann Miles, Brian Stokes Mitchell, Jessie Mueller, Kelli O’Hara, Karen Olivo, Bernadette Peters, Elizabeth Stanley, Debbie Allen, Brenda Braxton, Len Cariou, Loretta Devine, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Aasif Mandvi, Michael McElroy, Javier Muñoz, Eve Plumb, Roslyn Ruff, Tony Yazbeck, Jay Armstrong Johnson, Jenn Colella, Chasten Buttigieg, Anderson Cooper, Don Lemon, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Robin Roberts, Tony Shalhoub and Ben Vereen.

For more information on tickets and donating, visit www.broadwaycares.org

Places in New York City to celebrate Easter and Passover.
March 24, 2021, 6:43.26 pm ET
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Photoa: VIA VAI

EASTER SUNDAY - APRIL4, 2021

VIA VAI, a contemporary Italian spot in Astoria, is offering a $75 prix fixe menu, with an optional wine pairing for Easter. Diners will find things like Fois Gras encrusted with dried figs, pistachios and orange zest, served with Brioche and red onion marmalade; Mushroom and potato gnocchi, with rabbit and sundried tomato pesto; and Seared duck breast with hazelnut mashed potatoes, raspberry reduction and blueberries. For dessert, there is Bombolone (Italian donut filled with vanilla pastry cream) and Maritozzo (Classic Roman brioche with Chantilly cream). Via Vai will be serving Easter Dinner from 1pm to 11pm on Easter Sunday.

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Celebrate Greek Easter at Calissa. Menu highlights include Grilled Haloumi Cheese and Heirloom Tomatoes with Sour Cherry-Balsamic; Braised Artichokes With Shrimp, Lemon, And Greek Saffron; Roasted Leg Of Lamb with Honey Glazed Baby Carrots, Greek Yogurt and Toasted Pistachios; and Orzo with Spring Pea Salad.

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Bar Marseille’s Easter Dinner features Wild Mushroom Salad with Poached Duck Egg, and Frisee; Grilled Lamb Chops with Scalloped Potatoes, Roasted Sweet Peppers, and Rosemary Jus and Brioche Bread Pudding with Crème Anglaise, Strawberry Rhubarb Jam, and Dried Currents

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La Goulue is offering a $56 two-course Easter brunch. Options include Smoked Salmon “Maison,” house-smoked, capers, onions, and caviar cream; French Toast on Home-made brioche with mascarpone cream, and blueberry jam; Croque Monsieur with brie and black truffle, mache salad & French fries; and Gigo D’Agneau with roasted leg of lamb, flageolet beans, garlic and tomato confit, simple jus. The brunch will include a complimentary selection of baked goods, including croissants, lemon cakes and danishes.

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Jean-Georges is offering a 5-course Easter feast delivered to your home. It includes Deviled Eggs with caviar, Warm Asparagus with morel vinaigrette, Lamb Rack with artichokes and spring onions, Potato Puree and Almond Layer Cake with fresh strawberries and strawberry sorbet.

PASSOVER - MARCH 27-APRIL 4

Photo: Numha

Nuhma NYC chef & owner Nuhma Tuazon has curated a special Passover menu including The Seder Plate with roasted eggs, shank bones, horseradish root and parsley, and potato latkes. There is Braised Lamb Tagine and Classic Braised Brisket as well as Roasted Spring Whole Chicken with pan jus, rosemary, thyme and lemon. Desserts include Flourless Chocolate Cake, Lemon Cheesecake and Coconut Macaroons.

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For Passover, Amali is offering Agnolotti del Plin with Nettles, Black Trumpet Mushrooms, and Stracchino Cheese; Lavender Crusted Duck Breast with Rhubarb, Pea Leaves, and Puffed Quinoa; Sea Scallops with Green Garlic Nage, Asparagus, and Sea Fennel; and Olive Oil Cake with Ricotta Gelato, Orange, and Fennel Pollen.

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Great Performances is offering a Passover holiday dinner kit and a la carte with classics like gefilte fish, matzo ball soup and charoset to yield the heartening taste memories passed from one generation to the next. Other offerings include brisket in a red wine and port reduction, cauliflower roasted with za’atar and topped with sautéed sweet yellow pepper, fennel, and toasted pine nuts, whole roasted tri-color carrots tossed in orange glaze with currants and pistachios, and spatchcock chickens with pomegranate glaze. For dessert, there’s gold dusted flourless chocolate cake with a bittersweet chocolate glaze.

KEANU REEVES TO STAR IN “THE THANKSGIVING PLAY”
March 24, 2021, 10:45.24 am ET
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Photo: Keanu Reeves

The spring “Spotlight on Plays” series of livestreamed theater will kick off on Thursday, March 25 with Larissa Fasthorse’s acclaimed “The Thanksgiving Play” starring Keanu Reeves, Bobby Cannavale, Heidi Schreck and Alia Shwakat. Proceeds from all productions will benefit The Actors’ Fund.

As the season progresses, 2021 Kennedy Center Honoree and Tony Award winner Debbie Allen will star in “Angry Raucous and Shamelessly Gorgeous,” Academy Award winner Ellen Burstyn & SAG nominee Carla Gugino will star in “Watch on the Rhine”, Emmy Award winner Kathryn Hahn will star in “The Sisters Rosensweig,” Tony Award winner Audra McDonald will star in “Ohio State Murders”, Tony Award winner Mary-Louise Parke” will star in “The Baltimore Waltz” and Academy Award winners Meryl Streep and Kevin Kline will star in “Dear Elizabeth.” Specific dates will be announced.

The “Spotlight on Plays” events are livestreamed on Stellar at 8PM and available for a strictly limited amount of time. For more information, visit www.BroadwaysBestShows.com

NYC BITES - THE CHOCOLATE SWIRL
March 24, 2021, 8:50.17 am ET
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Photo: Cititour.com

The Chocolate Swirl at Ole & Steen is a thing of beauty. It has the crunch of a crispy croissant, the sweet filling of a cinnamon bun and a swirl of chocolate that you might find on a glazed donut. The Danish pastry with a shortcrust base sells for $4.50 but is large enough for two. Although it won’t last long. We found it at the Ole & Steen’s near Bryant Park. There’s also a Cinnamon Swirl version with vanilla icing.

Gage & Tollner to reopen for indoor dining on April 15th
March 23, 2021, 11:58.08 pm ET
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Photo: Cititour.com

Gage & Tollner, the historic restaurant lovingly restored to its original splendor in Downtown Brooklyn, will reopen for indoor dining on Thursday, April 15th. The announcement coming from partners Sohui Kim (Insa, The Good Fork), Ben Schneider (Insa, The Good Fork) and St. John Frizell (Fort Defiance). The partners were set to open the restaurant in March of last year just as the pandemic hit after a successful Go Fund Me campaign. The reopening has been a long time coming. The oyster and lobster house located in a landmark brownstone first opened its doors in 1879 on Fulton Street. It served its last meal in 2004 and spent the next 12 years occupied by chain restaurants and discount retailers before finally getting a new lease on life, which makes this reopening so important.

Sona opens in Flatiron offering fine Indian dining
March 23, 2021, 11:38.48 pm ET
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Timeless India is how Sona in Flatiron describes itself. The towering space with gilded columns, and honeycombed orbs dangling from the ceiling, add to the excitement, as does the restaurateur behind it. Priyanka Chopra Jonas is considered Indian royalty by some. The author and actress writing on Instagram that she “poured her love for Indian food” into Sona, calling it the embodiment of the flavors she grew up with. Among those flavors, Kafka Korma, ricotta dumplings in cashew sauce, and Chili Cheese Naan. The kitchen is helmed by chef Hari Nanak who has worked at such restaurants as Tandur, Bombay Bungalow and Moombai and Co. Nanak says Sona, “pays homage to the Indian subcontinent’s rich cultural heritage.” Sona is also offering a private dining space called Mimi’s for up to 30 guests as well as Indian artwork that is also available for purchase.

Photos: Cititour.com

Sona is located at 36 East 20th St, New York, NY

CITY CENTER TO SHOWCASE A RATMANSKY CELEBRATION
March 23, 2021, 5:47.04 pm ET
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Photo: American Ballet Theatre

American Ballet Theatre makes a much-anticipated return to City Center with a group of works by acclaimed choreographer and ABT Artist in Residence Alexei Ratmansky, all filmed live on the City Center stage. The series is available for viewing from March 23 through April 18.

“A Ratmansky Celebration” showcases many of the company’s renowned dancers in excerpts from “The Seasons,” “Seven Sonatas,” “The Sleeping Beauty,” and “Bernstein in a Bubble,” a world premiere work that is set to the music of legendary composer Leonard Bernstein. This new piece, Ratmansky’s first since March 2020, was recently created during a quarantined “ballet bubble” in Silver Bay, New York.

For tickets and more information, visit nycitycenter.org

& Sons Buttery serves up American Hams, Cheeses and a lot more
March 23, 2021, 1:45.08 am ET
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& Sons Buttery is a wonderful little shop offering an assortment sandwiches, cheeses and charcuterie on Rogers Avenue in Prospect Lefferts Garden. Brought to you by the team behind Ham Bar, it's also the go-to spot for country hams. On any given day, you will find as many as ten varieties from hickory-smoked Benton's in Tennessee to Newsom's long-aged ham from Kentucky.

We stopped in for a sandwich made with Soppressata from Salumeria Biellese, a New York City deli known for its hand-crafted charcuterie since 1925. It arrived on two thick slices of country bread called Miche and slathered with Bobbie's Boat Sauce and Sir Kensington Mayo. It's served with gerkins and a side of chips. What a treat!

Visitors to the shop with also find an assortment of cheeses like Two Red Lines, a goat's milk cheese, from Lazy Lady Farm, Gatekeeper from Crown River Caves and Little Hosmer, a new world style brie from The Cellars. Other provisions include classic beef dogs from The Brooklyn Hot Dog Co., several types of bacon, including New Hampshire's North Country Smokehouse, chocolates from Tony’s Chocolonely, unique drinks (soft & hard) and much more.

While the Ham Bar next door remains closed to indoor dining, we’re told a pop-up is in the works and could open on a nearby side street in the not-too-distant future. Stay tuned.

& Sons Buttery is located at 447 Rogers Ave, Brooklyn, NY (347) 789-3422

Interactive timeline marks 100th Anniversary of Walter Kerr Theatre
March 23, 2021, 1:16.01 am ET
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Photo: Walter Kerr Theatre

Jujamcyn Theaters celebrates the 100th Anniversary of the historic Walter Kerr Theatre, with a just-released interactive timeline. A definitive history of the building, the timelime features a century’s worth of history, from the earliest shows, musicals, and revues, through its history as a television and radio studio, brief spans as an adult film theater and later a children’s theater, and finally as one of the most beloved houses on Broadway.

The timeline features a lovingly curated collection of seldom seen ephemera including old production photos, Playbill covers, sheet music and press clippings.

In addition, many of the people who have made the Walter Kerr their home over the last century have contributed memories of their time at the Kerr. Contributors include Stephanie J. Block, Crystal Dickinson, Tovah Feldshuh, Lewis Flinn, John Earl Jelks, Cherry Jones, Kenny Leon, Adriane Lenox, Andrew Lippa, Omar Metwally, Ruben Santiago-Hudson, Jeremy Shamos, Jason Tam, Frederick Weller and more.

The timeline can be viewed at www.jujamcyn.com/walterkerrtimeline

Chef Eric Ripert welcomes guests back to Le Bernardin
March 22, 2021, 7:10.28 pm ET
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Photos: Nigel Parry

Le Bernardin, the stylish French restaurant in Midtown, has reopened after a brief hiatus due to the pandemic. The restaurant, led by Chef Eric Ripart, is known for its mastery of seafood and sauces.

Tuna Caviar

The reopening menu includes dishes like Striped Bass Truffled Tartare with Périgord vinaigrette, Grilled Lobster “Mi-Cuit” with charred scallions and sea urchin sauce Américaine; Barely Cooked Faroe Islands Salmon with a morel-snow pea “Pot-au-Feu;” and Warm Peekytoe Crab with yuzu rice, Persian cucumber and green tea-nori consommé.

Striped Bass Truffled Tartare

Desserts by pastry chef Thomas Raquel include Blackberry-Rhubarb Compote with yogurt sorbet and hibiscus tuile, as well Apple Brown Butter Mousse with armagnac sabayon

Baba su Rhum

Guests can choose from a Prix Fixe menu ($180/person) and Chef’s Tasting Menu ($215/person, $365/person with wine pairing by wine director Aldo Sohm). Le Bernadin is open for dinner Monday-Saturday from 5pm to 11pm.

Photo: Daniel Krieger

Through the end of the year, the restaurant will donate $5.00 for every guest to City Harvest in partnership with World Central Kitchen. Each donation will help feed 13 New Yorkers for a day. Reservations via Resy.

Le Bernadin is located at 155 W 51st St, New York, NY (212) 554-1515

Festive outdoor dining at Wakuwaku in Industry City
March 21, 2021, 3:15.12 pm ET
Details

Photo: Cititour.com

Dangling lamps and a fire pit provide a festive setting for outdoor dining at Wakuwaku. Located in the courtyard behind Japan Village at Industry City, the restaurant is offering an assortment of small plates, bento boxes and sashimi. Dishes range from braised gobo root with carrots and sesame to fried sqid legs with Japanese QP mayo, panko fried "kani croquettes" with crab cream grilled, bone-in mackeral. For the bento boxes, diners have a choice of pork katsu, unaji (eel), fried chicken karaage, salmon teriyaki and more. Each is served with two types of pickles, rice and salad. Mixed sashimi brings tuna, salmon, yellowtail and octopus. Daily specials are also available. Craft & classic cocktails, Santory Toki highballs, beer and cider are also available.

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ROOFTOP FARM AT INDUSTRY CITY OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

HOMETOWN BBQ FOR RIBS AND MORE AT INDUSTRY CITY

Mama Ganoush opens in Midtown
March 21, 2021, 10:48.41 am ET
Details

Photos: Cititour.com

Mama Ganoush, known for its Middle Eastern street pitas and bowls, now has a location on Lexington Avenue in Midtown. All of the sandwiches are served on a pita dusted with za'atar and olive oil. Guests can choose from things like lemon chicken, grilled steak and spicy meatballs or vegetarian offerings including chickpea croquettes and cauliflower steak.

Assorted dips and toppings are also available includeing hummus, charred eggplant and tzatziki, as well as sumac onions, roasted beets, feta, and pickles among others. Special house combos are also available as pitas or bowls. Drinks come in flavors like pomegranate iced tea and watermelon lemonade. The brightly lit space is well designed and service is helpful.

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NYC Fashions and Stimulus Dreams
March 19, 2021, 5:51.33 pm ET
Details

Antropologie

After a year of pandemic lockdowns, New York's Fifth Avenue is back big time with a burst of spring colors. And if you're looking to spend that stimulus check, here's what some of the city's prime retailers and designers have to offer:

Dolce & Gabbana

Michael Kors

Saks Fifth Avenue

Versace

Abercrombie & Fitch

Tommy Bahama

Salvatore Ferragamo

UGG

St. John

Alexander McQueen at Saks

Photos: Cititour.com Sacai at Saks

Around Town - Pink Sushi, A rooftop returns, and LIC gets a new mega-market
March 18, 2021, 6:36.39 pm ET
Details

Spring is here and in honor of the cherry blossom season, MakiMaki (360 Lexington Ave) is offering Sakura Denbu, traditional Japanese hand rolls and cut rolls made with pink rice and finely ground cooked fish seasoned with sake, sugar and salt.

Photos: MakiMaki

MakiMaki founder Kevin Takarada says Sakura Denbu dates back centuries and is intended to "cheer up" diners after a long winter. We could all use a bit of that!

Also, keep an eye on the Brooklyn Botanical Garden's "Cherrywatch" for peak cherry blossom blooms this spring. Donations are always welcome for the upkeep of the gardens and to keep staff safe.

Photo: mökbar/Cititour.com

Esther Choi's mökbar now delivers to your door. With locations in Chelsea and Brooklyn, diners can order things like Korean "Army" Stew and signature hot and spicey rice cakes that can be made at home. mökbar is also known for its Korean fried chicken, dumplings and more.

~~~~~

The Rooftop at Le Bain returns to The Standard on Friday, March 19th. It is open Fri-Sun from 4pm to 9pm for sunsets, food and cocktails. Parties are temporarily paused due to the pandemic.

Photo: Yakatori Torien/Liz Clayman

The counter at Yakitori Torien has reopened and is now accepting reservations. Guests will be treated to a chef's selection of skewers, or omakase, ranging from familiar cuts like Chicken Kashiwa Thigh and Tabaski Wings to Tsukune Meatballs (chicken) and Nami Chicken Neck Skin. Each is cooked over kishu binchotan, a slow-burning white charcoal.

Photo: Tasca/Liz Clayman

Tasca is a destination spot for paella, fideuá for two, churrasco and more in a beautifully-designed space on the Upper West Side. Restaurateurs Jay and Norisa Espinal opened the multi-level spot last November inspired by the cuisines of their childhoods.

Photo: City Acres Market

And City Acres Market is branching out, opening its third location in Long Island City. The 13,000 square foot market at The JACX (29-18 Queens Plaza South) features an in-house cheesemonger, premium charcuterie and gourmet deli counter. The Long Island City location is the third location for City Acres Market, joining Williamsburg as well as FiDi. City Acres Market LIC hosts Korean restaurant Madang, which serves jaeyook hokum and bulgogi. There are also freshly made juices from Dragonfly.

Tune in next week for our next Around Town!

Hortus names ''Lenny'' Moon its new executive chef
March 18, 2021, 6:09.48 pm ET
Details

Hortus NYC has named SangMin “Lenny” Moon (Jungsik, The Bari, Pado) its new Executive Chef. Chef Moon grew up in the restaurant industry in South Korea, and studied at The French Culinary Institute in New York. He also worked under Chef Jung Sik Yim at two-Michelin starred Jungsik where he honed his skills. At Hortus, he intends to offer modern Asian cuisine inspired by the flavors of China, Japan, Korea and Southeast Asia.

Photos: Hortus NYC

Chef Lenny’s new spring menu includes coconut carrot soup, yellowtail crudo and crispy octopus served with pickled beet and wasabi aioli. A new arrival to the menu, Kumamoto oysters, which will be paired with two sauces; gochujang, a spicy red chili paste, and lightly sweet and tart plum mignonette. A Royal Platter is also available including chilled lobster tail, tuna tataki, four pieces of chilled, shrimp cocktail, and an option to include a dozen oysters. Dry-aged Duck Breast in dong pa sauce, an Asian soy glaze, is also on the menu, along with Branzino with a Yuzu miso glaze and cilantro polenta; and a Truffle Donabe with wild mushrooms, cured egg yolk, and black truffles topped with an option of hanger steak or sea urchin.

Desserts include Monaka Ice Cream, an ice cream sandwich with chocolate mochi and choices of black sesame, matcha, or vanilla ice and Thai Tea pudding with blueberry compote.

Diners also have the option to order the Hortus Tasting Menu, which includes the Royal platter for two, as well as a choice of an appetizer, main course, and dessert for each person, with an option for a wine pairing.

Hortus NYC is located at 271 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY (646) 858-3784

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WORKS & PROCESS RESUMES LIVE PERFORMANCES AT THE GUGGENHEIM MUSEUM
March 18, 2021, 7:50.25 am ET
Details

The performing arts series “Works & Process” announces the return of live performances at the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum as a part of New York state’s “Safely Bringing Back the Arts” pilot program.

Between March 19 and April 19, “Works & Process” will present a succession of surprise daytime performances at the Guggenheim featuring performers from organizations such as Jazz at Lincoln Center, the Metropolitan Opera Lindemann Young Artist Development Program, The Santa Fe Opera, Glimmerglass Festival, the Paul Taylor American Modern Dance and more. Select artists featured as part of Works & Process Artists (WPA) Virtual Commissions will also perform.

In addition, March 20 marks the beginning of 12 one-night-only commissions developed in bubble residencies. Performers will include Caleb Teichner & Company with Conrad Teo, Anthony Roth Costanzo, Passion Fruit Dance Company, Les Ballets Afrik and more. This series will run through June 20.

For tickets and information, visit www.worksandprocess.org

For something hot try Xiang Hot Pot in Brooklyn's Chinatown
March 17, 2021, 6:44.04 pm ET
Details

Entering Xiang Hot Pot, a sprawling restaurant on Fort Hamilton Parkway in Sunset Park, Brooklyn, you get the feeling that you've just been whisked away to China. Elaborate woodwork, fountains and oversized decorative lamps above each table resembling paper lanterns immediately catch the eye.

At the center of each marble table is placed a stainless steel hotpot. Diners have a choice of several different broths ranging from the mild pork and mushroom broths to the "spicy pot" which we would describe as an inferno in a bowl. Even the boldest among us had difficulty dealing with the heat generated by this cauldron of chili peppers and sea of chili oil. It's really that hot. If you're not so daring, it's best to get the combo pot which offers a choice of two broths, a sort of a yin-yang approach.

Now the fun begins. Dipping various items in the broth and fishing for them with your chopsticks. Diners can choose from a refrigerated buffet with shelves of all-you-can eat of various mushrooms, dumplings, fish balls, Chinese sausages, noods and veggies that are stacked atop each other. Diners also have a choice of thinly-sliced beef and lamb. The buffet is moderaterly priced. For those lookingto upgrade there's lobster, seafood combo and Wagyu beef among others to purchase a la carte.

Photos: Cititour.com

As we dunked our meats and nibbled on fresh shrimp, clams, baby squids, and yes, even Spam, we enjoyed some lively conversation and a few rounds of Tsingtau beer. Our hosts could not have been more friendly and helpful as we savored this flavorful and adventurous Chinese feast.

Xiang is located at 5816 Fort Hamilton Parkway, Brooklyn, NY (718) 851-5888

Joey Bats Cafe at Rockefeller Center is a real crowd pleaser
March 17, 2021, 5:54.34 pm ET
Details

After starting as a pop-up last fall, Joe Bats has grown into a full-scale cafe at Rockefeller Center, emerging stronger after the pandemic. The cafe with its swirvy counter showcases Joey Bats' signature dish, the Portuguese Tart, also known as Pasteis de Nata which is similar to creme brulee wrapped in crispy pastry. It also happens to be quite delicious served warm.

Visitors will also find croissants drizzled with chocolate and assorted pastries along with several types of coffee drinks. The cafe also offers outdoor seating in view of the golden statue of Prometheus, and the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree during the winter months.

Photos: Cititour.com

Joey Bats Cafe is located at 1 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY (212) 951-1189

LINCOLN CENTER THEATER ANNOUCES ''PRIVATE REELS'' SERIES OF FILMED PLAYS
March 15, 2021, 2:33.26 pm ET
Details

Photo: Lincoln Center Theater

Lincoln Center Theater has announced “Private Reels: From the LCT Archives,” a series of streamed recordings of previous outstanding LCT productions to be shown in their entirety.

The series will kick off on Thursday, March 18 with Christopher Durang’s award-winning “Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike,” starring Genevieve Angelson, Shalita Grant, Billy Magnussen, Kristine Nielsen, David Hyde Pierce and Sigourney Weaver. The play, which later transferred to Broadway, won both the Tony and Drama Desk Awards for Best Play.

Future streams will include the Mitzi E. Newhouse Theater productions of “The Royale,” “The Wolves,” and “Marys Seacole,” with dates to be announced.

The series will be available for free. Visit www.lct.org for more information.

LUPITO NYONG'O TO STAR IN ''ROMEO Y JULIETA''
March 15, 2021, 11:04.34 am ET
Details

Photo: Nick Barose

Oscar winner Lupito Nyong’o will headline the Public Theater’s bilingual audio play “Romeo y Julieta.” This world premiere production has been adapted from Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet” by Saheem Ali and Ricardo Pérez González (based on the Spanish translation by Alfredo Michel Modenessi) and is directed by Ali. The podcast will debut on Thursday, March 18.

The show co-stars Juan Castano as Romeo, and the cast also includes Carlo Alban, Guillermo Diaz, Kevin Herrera, Javier Munoz, Florenica Lozano, Tony Plana and David Zayas.

Nyong’o appeared on Broadway in “Eclipsed,” She won the Academy Award for her performance in “12 Years a Slave,” and her other film credits include “Black Panther,” “Us,” and “Little Monsters.”

In addition, audiences around the globe can also join an online opening night listening party, presented by The Greene Space at WNYC and WQXR, on Thursday, March 18 at 7pm. For this event, Nyong’o, and other cast members will join WNYC’s Rebeca Ibarra for an interactive Q & A to be presented in English and Spanish. This event is available free of charge at www.thegreenespace.org.

For more information, visit www.publictheater.org

Exciting new Mediterranean spot Victor opens in Gowanus
March 13, 2021, 10:22.12 am ET
Details

Photos: Victor

Chefs Ryan Angulo and Ian Alvarez have teamed up to open Victor, a wood-fired Mediterranean restaurant in the former Freek's Mill space in Gowanus. The menu is full of tantalizing small plates for sharing like Smoked Paprika Prawns with shallot, lime & almond “aioli” and Date Croquettes with manchego & macadamia nut. Oysters also make an appearance with a saffron mignonette and Baccalau with salt cod, gigante beans, capers and citrus.

Larger plates include Whole Fish with preserved orange and sesame gremoulata, Spiced Half Chicken with braised greens and Le Burger with comte, au poivre onions, cornichon and fries. On the sweeter side, there is Basque Cheesecake and Chocolate Budino with salted caramel.

A varied wine list is offered with bubbles, red, white, rose and orange varieties, along with cocktails like the Birds-of-Paradise with dark rum, cynar, pineapple & agave, and Byrrh Me! with byrrh, contratto bitters and prosecco.

Chefs Angulo and Alvarez, who met while working at Butter Channel in Carroll Gardens and later French Louie in Bourem Hill, have created a laid back atmosphere with the focus on bright and flavorful cuisine. Opening day is set for March 18th.

Victor is located at 285 Nevins St, Booklyn, NY

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Some NYC specials for St Patrick's Day
March 13, 2021, 9:22.49 am ET
Details

Photo: The Cauldron

The Cauldron is offering a Lucky Leprechaun Feast. The price is $80.00 per person plus tax & tip with indoor and outdoor seating available in ventilated bubbles.

Here's what it consists of:

- 2 Irish shots: Laughing Leprechaun Bubbling Shot on arrival and a Pride of Paddy Shot pre-departure

- 2 magical potions to brew and consume guided by our Potions Master (alcoholic and non-alcoholic)

- Warm Irish Soda Bread served on a tree stump platter w/ KerryGold Butter, Aged Dubliner Cheddar, Ballymaloe Relish (Gluten-free option with vegan butter and cheese available)

- One entree per person from our specialty menu which includes decadent Irish pies such as:

- Beef and Guinness Stew w/ Slow Roasted Black Angus Beef, Carrots, Herbs, Garlic, Onions And Celery, Guinness Sauce, Creme Fresh, Scallions

- Dublin Fish Pie w/ Irish Salmon, Cod, Shrimp, Potatoes, Green Beans, Dubliner Cheese Crust

- Connemara Vegetable Pie w/ Red Curry, Delectable Squash, Peas, Butternut Squash, Rustic Carrots, Cauliflower, Broccoli Florets, Vegan Crust, Toasted Coconut

- Paddy Pot Pie w/ Chicken, Peas, Vidalia Onions, Rustic Carrots, Celery, Crusty Puff Pastry

- Lucky Swag Bag to take home with a Stone Street branded Guinness Glass and a little nip of the strong stuff (Jameson Cold Brew) to make your own Irish coffee at home among other goodies.

For more information click here

Photo: Little Chef Little Cafe

Little Chef Little Café is offering chef Diana Manalang’s slow-cooked Corned Beef & Cabbage Dinner with potatoes, carrots, brown bread and a Guinness chocolate cupcake with Bailey’s frosting for dessert ($25 per person). Diners will also find Corned Beef & Cabbage Sliders with house coleslaw (6 sliders, $15) and a special Guinness Beef Stew ($14/pint, $26/quart) with house baked brown bread. St. Patrick’s themed cookies and cupcakes are now available at the café ($3.50 each), along with special cookie and cupcake decorating kits for the occasion featuring 9 Shamrock-shaped cookies with frosting, sprinkles and candy ($25). Located at 5-43 48th Avenue, Long Island City, NY (845) 310-4255

Photo: Concord Hill

Concord Hill in Williamsburg will offer all-day drink specials from 12pm to 11pm on Wednesday 3/17, with $10 cocktails like the Calm Current with vodka, cassis, cocchi rosa, anise tea and prosecco; Grapefruit Ginger Mule; and House Margarita. Bar Manager Victor Bautista will also be crafting a special cocktail for the day with jalapeno infused vodka, mint, fresh cilantro, grapefruit and seltzer, plus there will be signature cocktails by the pitcher. Or enjoy traditional green beer with Lamb Stuffed Savoy Cabbage. Open for outdoor dining on their heated patio, limited indoor dining. Located at 374 Graham Ave, Brooklyn

Photo; Sean's Pub/Cititour.com

Also check out our listings for Irish Pubs and Gastro-pubs. (Please check ahead. Some listings may have changed due to the pandemic.)

Cantina Rooftop opens for Brunch in Hell's Kitchen
March 13, 2021, 9:01.05 am ET
Details

NYC’s popular Mexican rooftop, Cantina Rooftop, in the heart of Hell’s Kitchen is now open to cure the winter blues. It's a great spot for after-work or weekend gatherings with friends, all perfectly socially distanced.

Photos: Cantina Rooftop

The year-round rooftop restaurant under the helm of Chef Saul Montiel is offering a new brunch menu with items such as Mejillones, steamed mussels with chorizo, Huevos Rancheros and Tres Leches French Toast. Also available by special order, the Giant Ass Taco which can be shared by up to six people.

Cantina Rooftop is has a festive cocktail menu include margaritas, mezcal-ritas, mojitos and more. Mexican beers and sangria are also available.

Cantina Rooftop is located at 605 W 48th St, New York, NY (212) 957-1700

Around Town - Nifty Fifty, Hi-End Reopenings and $5 pizza pizza
March 12, 2021, 6:50.08 pm ET
Details

A deep dive into Chef Medina's menu at Kuxe
March 11, 2021, 11:43.40 pm ET
Details

First look at some of the exciting dishes you will find on Chef Julian Medina's menu at Kuxé, celebrating authentic Mexican cuisine.

TACOS DE BIRRIA - Braised brisket in red chiles, melted Chihuahua cheese, onion,
cilantro & salsa verde

CEMITAS - Puebla style torta with sweet sesame bun, organic chicken milanesa, quesillo,
avocado, papalo greens, tomato, chipotle, pinto beans, mayo

MACHETE - Large corn tortilla filled with Oaxaca cheese, lettuce, crema queso fresco with
choice of: Huitlacoche & Mushrooms / Chicken Tinga / Chicharrón prensado

MOLCAJETE VOLCÁN - Skirt steak, chorizo, shrimp, chicken, queso fresco, nopales,
Texas onion, stewed in molcajete and roasted chile de árbol salsa

TAMAL DE ZARZAMORA

Photos: Marconi Gonzales

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twiggy to go opens in Tribeca
March 11, 2021, 11:25.09 pm ET
Details

Photos: twiggy to go

twiggy to go is a new grab-n-go concept in TriBeCa from chef and caterer Mitchel London and his business partner Thomas Mikolasko. London was the former chef at NYC's iconic Gracie Mansion during Ed Koch's mayoral tenure in the 80's.

London and Mikolasko originally planned on opening a full-service restaurant – until the pandemic hit last Spring. Instead, they pivoted and opened twiggy to go, which offers sweet and savory pastries, prepared foods, and London’s signature cakes for carryout and delivery. They have plans to renovate and open the restaurant in the same space in early 2022.

Chicken Paillard Sandwich

The twiggy to go menu (with everything made on-premises daily) features an ever-rotating selection of seasonal specialties that include salads, soups, sandwiches, and tarts, an assortment of meat, fish, and vegetable mains, and sides including potatoes and a variety of grains.

Crab Cakes

Specialties include chicken (Herb-Roasted (above) and Old-Fashioned Fried Chicken), quiche (Lorraine or Chèvre Asparagus), a Roasted Tomato, Gruyere, and Basil Tart, and Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes. London, who is well-known for his sweets, is also baking confections like Maple-Glazed French Crullers, Rustic Apple Tarts, Chocolate Devil Dogs, Vanilla Meringue Cake, Tarte Tatin, and more, daily.

Delivery is available in Manhattan – with 24 hours advance notice – via the Dinner at Home program. This summer, Dinner at Home delivery will expand to the Hamptons as well. The eatery also offers wine, beer, and specialty cocktails to go.

In the Spring, twiggy to go will add outdoor seating on the curbside patio and full-service dining. Catering and special menus are also available for holidays and events.

twiggy to go is located at 279 Church Street, New York, NY (212) 473-276

RENEE FLEMING TO PERFORM LIVE AT THE SHED
March 11, 2021, 5:44.07 pm ET
Details

Photo: Renee Fleming

“An Audience with…,” a live music and comedy series, will kick off next month at The Shed at Hudson Yards. The series will initially feature singer and cellist Kelsey Lu on April 2, musicians from the New York Philharmonic on April 14 and 15, soprano Renée Fleming on April 21 and comedian Michelle Wolf on April 22. The series will take place in the Shed’s flexible 18,000-square-foot McCourt space with a state-of-the-art MERV ventilation system, 115-foot-high ceilings, and distanced seating for 150 people. For tickets and more information, visit www.theshed.org

New York City restaurants reopen at 50 percent capacity
March 10, 2021, 5:24.30 pm ET
Details

Photo: St Tropez/Michael Tulipan

Restaurants in New York City will soon be allowed to reopen at 50 percent of capacity. New York Governor Andrew Cuomo and New Jersey's governor announcing the change will take effect on March 19th. Here's what Governor Cuomo had to say about it:

"In New York State, our decisions are based on science and data and we are encouraged by the continued decline in infection and hospitalization rates," Governor Cuomo said. "In partnership with the State of New Jersey, we are expanding our indoor dining openings in New York City to 50 percent. We will continue to follow the science and react accordingly. If we keep the infections down and vaccinations up, we will continue to stay ahead in the footrace against this invisible enemy and reach the light at the end of the tunnel together."

As for the rest of New York State, restaurants will be allowed to reopen at 75% of capacity.

KATHLEEN CHALFANT TO STAR IN ''THE YEAR OF MAGICAL THINKING''
March 9, 2021, 5:51.08 pm ET
Details

Image: Keane Company

Keen Company continues the 2020-’21 Season with the benefit broadcast of “The Year of Magical Thinking,” starring Kathleen Chalfant and directed by Jonathan Silverstein. This livestreamed video performance will premiere on Saturday, March 13th at 7pm and remain available through Wednesday, March 17th at 7pm.

Adapted from Joan Didion's award-winning best-selling memoir, this one-woman show explores the author's poignant journey of grief following concurrent and tragic personal events.

Chalfant won the Obie, the Drama Desk, the Lucille Lortel and the Outer Critics Circle Award for her work in “Wit.” Her many other theatrical credits include “Angels in America,” “Racing Demon,” “Talking Heads” and “Dead Man’s Cell Phone.”

This one-night only event will feature an exclusive talkback after the show with the artists. Benefit tickets are $25 and are available at www.keencompany.org.

PARK AVENUE ARMORY TO WELCOME AUDIENCES BACK ON MARCH 24
March 9, 2021, 5:39.10 pm ET
Details

Park Avenue Armory will launch “Social Distance Hall,” a season of new commissions of dance, music, and theater created by artists during and in response to the pandemic, beginning on March 24. The season feature works by Bill T. Jones; Steven Hoggett, Christine Jones, and David Byrne; and Laurie Anderson and Jason Moran.

The season will begin with Jones’ “Afterwardness,” to be performed by nine dancers of the Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane Company. The work addresses the idea of imposed isolation and the trauma of the twin pandemics of COVID-19 and the ongoing violence against Black bodies. The work is accompanied by a musical landscape featuring works by Holland Andrews, Pauline Kim —with an original violin homage to George Floyd entitled “8:46”— as well as excerpts from Olivier Messiaen’s wartime composition “Quartet for the End of Time.” It will run through March 31.

Photo: Park Avenue Armory

Park Avenue Armory offers the possibility of welcoming live audiences back in a completely socially distanced and extremely safe environment that is not achievable in traditional performance venues that have fixed seating and tight corridors and lobbies. With its immense, 55,000-square-foot Wade Thompson Drill Hall and multiple airy rooms and entrances —featuring an air volume comparable to being outdoors— the Armory can provide an early pathway and model for the re-opening of the performing arts in New York and beyond. The Armory and its consultant team have designed seating plans for “Afterwardsness” for audiences at 10 percent of the Drill Hall’s normal capacity, in which audience members are placed 9 feet – 12 feet apart in every direction.

For more information, visit www.armorypark.org

BLINDNESS TO DEBUT OFF-BROADWAY IN APRIL
March 9, 2021, 11:14.32 am ET
Details

nudibranch brings a new dinner series to East Village
March 7, 2021, 11:48.58 am ET
Details

Photos: nudibranch

Victor Xia and Jeff Kim, two former Momofuku Ssäm Bar alums, are branching out with a new pop-up dinner series called nudibranch. The two are also using what they've learned at other popular restaurants like Ataboy, Eleven Madison Park and Jua to create a unique experience fueled by what they call the unwavering optimism of the New York City's dining scene.

The menu includes dishes like Razor Clams with grapefruit and fermented chili, Nudibranch Gilda with mussel escabeche, boquerones and assorted pickles, Scallop with white asparagus, celeriac and sunchoke, and Hamachi Nori Tostada with soy pineapplem perilla and red currants.

The menu costs $65 for 6 courses. Seatings are Thursday thru Sunday at 6 and 8pm. Reservations can be made via DM @nudibranchnyc

nudibranch is located at 130 First Ave, New York, NY

SUPERSTARS TO SALUTE LIZA MINNELLI
March 7, 2021, 11:25.01 am ET
Details

A host of Broadway, film and television stars will salute the legendary Liza Minnelli on her 75th Birthday during “Love Letter to Liza: A 75th Birthday Tribute Celebration.” The show will air on Friday, March 12 at 8pm on the streaming platform Stellar, with repeat streams to take place on Saturday, March 13 at 2pm and 8pm and Sunday, March 14 at 7pm on Stellar Video on Demand.

Hosted by NY1’s Frank DiLella, the star-studded cast taking part in this virtual event will include Joel Grey, Lily Tomlin, Chita Rivera, Joan Collins, Ben Vereen, Ute Lemper, Billy Stritch, Charles Busch, Kathie Lee Gifford, Lea DeLaria, Jim Caruso, Jonathan Groff, Sandra Bernhard, Andrew Rannells, Nathan Lane, Mario Cantone, Lorna Luft, John Kander, Michael Feinstein, Julie Halston, Melissa Manchester, Jason Alexander, Parker Posey, Kathy Griffin, Nicholas King, Kathy Najimy, Hoda Kotb, Michael York, Craig Ferguson and Haley Swindal Tony Hale, Coco Peru, John Cameron Mitchell, Michele Lee, Andrea Martin, Seth Sikes, Neil Meron and more.

A portion of all proceeds will benefit the Actor’s Fund. For more information, visit stellartickets.com and clubcummingnyc.com.

Mr. Lee's pops up at The Good Fork in Red Hook
March 7, 2021, 7:42.20 am ET
Details

Oxtail and Tendon Fried Rice

Mr. Lee's has taken up residence at The Good Fork in Red Hook, Brooklyn. The to-go concept run by Good Fork alum Leland Yu is turning out some exciting takes on Chinese-American classics, along with cocktails, beers, soju and sake.

Pork and Chive Dumplings

Start with some Pan-Fried Pork and Chive dumplings tossed in a garlic soy vinaigrette or Crab Rangoon with crab, cream cheese, scallion and sweet chili duck sauce.

Shrimp Toast

The menu also includes dishes like Shrimp Toast, white bread slathered with a mix of shrimp, water chestnut and sweet chili duck sauce, and Cha Siu Pork Belly Buns made with slow-roasted pork belly, pickled carrot & daikon, fried garlic and cilantro on a mantu bun.

Cha Siu Pork Belly Buns

There are two takes on fried rice, one with a medley of abalone, oyster & shiitake mushrooms, and another with slow-cooked oxtail and tendon with jasmine white rice, egg, onion and scallion.

Photos: SJS for Cititour.com

Among the drinks, you will find the Good Fork Old Fashioned, Blood Orange Margarita and the Sojito with gin, lemon juice, St. Germaine and muddled mint. The pop-up will be open thru May 2nd, Thursday to Sunday from 5pm to 9:30pm. Takeout and Delivery only.

Mr. Lee's at The Good fork is located at 391 Van Brunt St, Brooklyn, NY (718) 643-6636

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NEW EDITION OF VOYEUR TO RUN THROUGH APRIL
March 6, 2021, 10:42.55 am ET
Details

Photo: Voyeur

Bated Breath Theatre Company’s new edition of “VOYEUR: THE WINDOWS OF TOULOUSE-LAUTREC,” will run from March 6 through April 3. Beginning at the Duplex (61 Christopher Street), the show is an open air, immersive theatrical experience that guides an intimate eight-person audience through the dreams of iconic artist Toulouse-Lautrec as he recalls his final absinthe-laced years living and working in Paris in the 1890s.

The show, which is conceived and directed by Mara Lieberman, features Chloé Bell, Bianca Bulgarelli, Melissa Cabey, Sophia Carlin, Ever Chavez, Falana Fox, Natasha Frater, Sarah Gagarin, Clint Hromsco, Megan Lako, Adam Lawrence, Ryan Lisa, Gregory Marlow, Ella McMillion, Josh McWhortor, Annika Rudolph, Fé Torres and Katherine Winter.

In an effort to maintain additional safety during the Covid-19 pandemic, audience members will be required to wear a mask at all times and maintain a safe social distance for the duration of the performance. Hand sanitizing stations are available at stops throughout the tour. This immersive performance is hosted primarily outdoors, with one short venture indoors into a spacious atmosphere capable of safe social distancing.

A flexible ticket exchange policy will be offered to those who may feel ill in order to facilitate responsible event participation. Audience members are asked to check local weather forecasts and dress accordingly.

Tickets are $84 for general admission or $94 including a pre-show cocktail. Visit www.unmakinglautrecplay.com for more information.

A taste of Peru in Sunset Park
March 5, 2021, 6:32.20 pm ET
Details

Photos: SJS for Cititour.com

If you are looking for a taste of Peru, head to El Pollo Peruano on 5th Avenue in Sunset Park, Brooklyn. The restaurant is known for its rotiserrie chicken, which can be ordered with rice & beans, fries or fried plantains. Two types of ceviche are offered, including Civiche de Pescado with fish and choclo (large Peruvian corn) and Mixto with mixed seafood.

Another standout dish is the Jalea, a pile of deep-fied seafood, including shrimp, fish, calamari, crab, scallops and fried casava topped with red onions and hot peppers marinated in lime juice. It's a great dish for sharing.

Also on the menu are traditional dishes like Salchipapas (french fries and hot dog slices), Lomo Saltado (stir-fried beef with onion, tomatoes and french fries), Papa Rellena (mashed potato stuffed with beef, egg and olives similar to a croquette) and Aji de Gallina (shredded chicken in a cream sauce with Peruvian spices).

For dessert there is Alfajores, airy corn starch cookies sandwiched between dulce de leche and dusted with powdered sugar.

El Pollo Peruano is located at 4102 5th Ave, Brooklyn, NY (347) 889-5420

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Smillie Pizza at Il Buco
March 5, 2021, 12:40.12 am ET
Details

Chorizo

Chef Justin Smillie is known for serving up tasty pizzas at il Buco Alimentari & Vineria. Now he's offering seven varities on-the-go at Smillie's, a pop-up located inside il Buco. The pies are available for takout and delivery.

The pizzas range from Green Chorizo with charred onions, mozarella, provolone and pepperoncini to a traditional margherita with mozzarellla, Grana padano, basil, sea salt and Umbrian olive oil. Feel free to add on things like arugula and sausage.

Cacio Pepe

The star of the menu is the Cacio Pepe Pie, an unctuous white pie topped with fresh mozzarella. fontina, ricotta, pecorino and lots of black pepper. It was our favorite of the three we tried.

Other varieties include Kale & Anchovy, Funghi, Soppressata Picante and Mortadella. All of the pies are cooked in il Buco's wood-fired oven and have a nice chew. The pies range in price from $17 to $23 and come with four large slices. To order via Uber Eats click here

Photos: Cititour.com Arugula

Smillie Pizza is at located at 53 Great Jones St (Bowery), New York, NY (212) 837-2622

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Statue of Ruth Bader Ginsburg will be unveiled at City Point next week
March 4, 2021, 10:54.13 pm ET
Details

A bronze statue of Ruth Bader Ginsburg will be unveiled March 15th at City Point in Downtown Brooklyn as part of Women's History Month. The unveiling coincides with what would have been the late Justice’s 88th birthday. Artists Gillie and Marc designed the statue as part of their "Statues for Equality" series, including 10 sculptures which have already been installed of women around New York City. Ginsburg's figure is the eleventh in the series.

Photos: Gillie and Marc

"We had the honor and privilege to create Justice Ginsburg's likeness in everlasting bronze as a part of Statues for Equality," the artist duo said. "The final statue, which she endorsed, reflects her wish to be depicted in a dignified manner." The artists continue, "With the two steps on its large base representing the Supreme Court and the climb she made to get there, the work is designed to provide the public with an opportunity to stand at her side, and gain inspiration from her journey fighting for equal rights."

City Point is located at 445 Albee Square W, Brooklyn, NY

Around Town - Canal Street Market reopens, Red Paper Clip pop-up and more...
March 3, 2021, 6:42.06 pm ET
Details

Photo: Cititour.com

Canal Street Market is open again after shutting down in late December due to the pandemic. The Food Hall and Shops are now open from 11am to 6 pm. Food vendors include Joe's Steam Rice Roll, Boba Guys and Mission Ceviche. 265 Canal St, New York, NY

Photo: Cititour.com

Another pop-up is popping up. This time at Red Paper Clip in the West Village. Sanguine, which stands for optimism and positivity, will be offering a 5-course tasting starting on March 7th. Chef Monique Cardavona's new concept Mama Guava will celebrate Hawiaiian and Filipino flavors for one night. Reservations via resy.com or RPCNYC.com. 120 Christopher St, New York, NY (646) 596-7476

Photo: Market Line

Chapter 5 of Waroeng's pop-up series at The Market Line on the Lower East Side will feature classic Jimbaran dishes including grilled prawns marinated with Balinese sambal, griilled pompano with Indonesian aromatics, black pepper squid and chili clams. The menu which feeds 2 is available from 11am to 10pm on Saturday March 20th. 115 Delancey St, New York, NY

Photo: Melissa Hom

Nakaji, which opened right as the pandemic hit and later shut down, recently reopened for indoor dining. Kunihide “Nakaji” Nakajima, formerly of Sushiden and Michelin-starred Sushi Inoue, is known for his seasonal omakase menus. At the moment, he is extending a special anniversary menu honoring 3 generations of the Nakajima family through March 5th with imited availability. 48 Bowery, Nerw York, NY (646) 478-8282

Stay tuned for our next edition of Around Town!

Chef Hiroki Odo adds ''gallerist'' to his title
March 3, 2021, 6:05.25 pm ET
Details

Photos: THE GALLERY

Hiroki Odo, the chef behind award-winning restaurants such as o.d.o and all-day eatery HALL, is unveiling THE GALLERY in Flatiron. THE GALLERY is a new cultural space created with the express intention of featuring rotating art exhibitions by emerging artists and creatives from around the country and his birthplace in Kyushu, Japan.

“I appreciate the value of creative expression and I am excited to explore and share the works of creative and artistic communities,” said Odo. “And, as a mixed media artist, I am thrilled to operate a space that will serve as a platform for inspiration and discovery of new artistic talent.” THE GALLERY serving as fertile ground for their creations.

The inaugural exhibition, Botanicals, is by professional NYC photographer Cody Rassmussen and will feature eleven ethereal photographs of flowers, herbs and spices, shot by Rasmussen in the spring of last year. Entombed under an acrylic glass cover, the minimalist works depict up close shots of fresh as well as preserved botanicals saturated with rich natural tones that beautifully contrast with the simple black and grey backdrops. More details on the Botanicals exhibition can be found here.

Aiming to nurture artists, Hiroki Odo created a platform where creatives will be supported in crafting a viable career path in a highly competitive cultural hub like New York City.

Hours of operation for THE GALLERY are 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM daily (subject to change). Also, starting in July, Chef Odo will open up THE GALLERY for dinner service. Odo is eager to surprise patrons with original menus that will change with every season, complementing the arts and culture focus of the space. More details on THE GALLERY’S dining options will be released closer to July. For more information visit odogallery.nyc.

LIVE PERFORMANCES TO RESUME IN NYC ON APRIL 2
March 3, 2021, 5:36.32 pm ET
Details

Photo: NY PopsUp

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo has announced the long-awaited return of live indoor performance across New York State will commence on April 2 with the reopening of a significant number of Flexible Venues (“Flex Venues”) as part of an ongoing systematic effort to help jumpstart New York’s struggling live entertainment sector. NY PopsUp, the new festival of pop-up events that has been established to help revitalize the spirit and emotional well-being of New York citizens.

These Flex Venues -- which are established performance spaces that are able to be adapted for social distancing guidelines – include such important culture hubs as The Apollo, Park Avenue Armory, St. Ann’s Warehouse, The SHED, Harlem Stage, La MaMa and the National Black Theatre.

In April, select Broadway theaters, beginning with the Music Box on 45th Street, will open their doors to audiences with a series of special NY PopsUp programs. These theaters will put in motion safety protocols that will eventually be employed for Broadway’s return.

Per New York State’s Department of Health, attendee capacity of any performance must be limited to the lesser of 33% of the maximum occupancy for the particular area or 50 people; exclusive of performers, crew, and other staff who are necessary for the event. Effective April 2, 2021, the number of attendees may exceed the social gathering limit of 50 people, up to a maximum of 150 attendees, within a 33% maximum occupancy limit for the particular area so long as all attendees receive an appropriate negative diagnostic test result prior to the event.

Given the impromptu nature and surprise element of the pop-up format, not all performances will be announced in advance. Please follow @NYPopsUp on Twitter and Instagram for the latest information.

JAGGED LITLE PILL CONCERT TO GET ENCORE AIRING
March 3, 2021, 8:10.27 am ET
Details

“Jagged Live In NYC: A Broadway Reunion Concert” – a global livestream of the one-night-only onstage reunion of the Broadway cast of the Tony-nominated musical “Jagged Little Pill” – will have a special encore airing on Saturday, March 6 at 7pm on Stellar.

The free event will fully benefit four charitable organizations: RAINN, the nation’s largest anti-sexual violence organization; Learn to Cope, a non-profit support network offering education and resources for parents and family members coping with a loved one addicted to opiates or other drugs; GLAAD, a dynamic media force that tackles tough issues to shape the narrative, provoke dialogue and rewrite the script for LGBTQ acceptance; and Color of Change, the nation’s largest online racial justice organization.

The concert features the music of Alanis Morissette performed by the show’s Broadway cast, including Elizabeth Stanley, Celia Rose Gooding, Sean Allan Krill, Derek Klena, Lauren Patten, Kathryn Gallagher and Antonio Cipriano. It will be followed by a special live Q&A session with members of the musical’s cast.

For tickets and information, visit www.stellartickets.com.

Izzy's Smokehouse is cookin' on the Upper West Side
March 2, 2021, 7:35.30 pm ET
Details

Chef Julian Medina opens Kuxé in Greenwich Village
March 2, 2021, 6:31.50 pm ET
Details

Photo: Chef Julian Medina

Chef Julian Medina and Restaurateur Louis Skibar is opening Kuxé, an authentic Mexican restaurant celebrating the roots and dishes of the team behind it. “If the last year has taught us anything, it’s that we truly are all in this together, and that we need to rely on one another to move forward,” said Medina and Skibar. In turn, the menu celebrates community, family, comfort and tradition, allowing for the chefs to embrace their history with flavorful dishes, while sharing their personal stories.

At Kuxé, diners can expect tacos like Taco de Birria: braised beef in red chiles, melted chihuahua cheese, onion, cilantro & salsa verde and of course a cup of consome; Taco de Coliflor “Cochinita” with cauliflower marinated Cochinita style, steamed in banana leaves, hazelnut salsa macha, and habanero-red onions. Main dishes include Mole de Caderas, steamed lamb shank marinated in chiles, guaje seeds & seasonal vegetables, and served with Mexican rice and Pipian Rojo, pumpkin seeds, chile guajillo and tomato sauce with choice of tender pork, chicken or seasonal vegetables. Other dishes include Costillas de Puero en Salsa Verde, braised pork ribs in tomatillo salsa, verdolagas, potatoes, frijoles puercos & Mexican rice and Mone de Pescado, steamed Chatham cod in banana leaf, sweet plantains, tomato, and Fresno chiles.

Sit back with coctktails like Oaxacan Sunsets made with Mezcal, St Germain, guanabana, coconut water, lime and coconut foam, and La Dasy: Sotol with aperol, prickly pear, lime and agave, in addition to a variety of margarita offerings, as well as beer and wine.

The new eatery features homemade recipes using both traditional and modern techniques, and makes its own “masa” from corn sourced directly from Oaxaca, Mexico. A molino, the traditional corn grinder is used, as well as nixtamalization, an ancient process of steeping corn in alkaline water, cooking it, and grinding it into flour which is then used to make tortillas, quesadillas, tacos, memeles, tetelas and tlayudas.

In a time of chaos and uncertainty, the familiar always offers some relief. Embodying the spirit of the well known Spanish phrase “Mi Casa es Su Casa,” Skibar and Medina hope to provide a sense of comfort to both their employees and patrons with the opening of Kuxé. As such, Kuxé is meant to reflect habitability, organicity, and the warmth of a home full of childhood memories and dreams, some of which may be related to the cuisine, but all of course, which are intended to make you feel part of a family.

Kuxé is located at 205 Thompson St, New York, NY (212) 420-0600 Watch for the official opening on March 10th.

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The Met unveils its new facade: Carol Bove: The séances aren't helping
March 1, 2021, 8:12.22 pm ET
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Four new sculptures created by American artist Carol Bove for The Met Fifth Avenue's facade niches is now on view. The Facade Commission: Carol Bove: The séances aren't helping is the second commission to be featured on the facade of The Met.

Born in 1971 in Geneva, Carol Bove was raised in Berkeley, California, and studied at New York University. She currently lives and works in Brooklyn. Known for works that incorporate found and constructed elements with a unique formal, technical, and conceptual inventiveness, Bove consistently challenges and expands the possibilities of formal abstraction. For The Met commission, Bove will offer a striking series of commanding nonrepresentational forms that resonate with modernist styles such as Art Deco and abstraction.

The Facade Commission is part of a new series of contemporary commissions at The Met in which the Museum invites artists to create new works of art, establishing a dialogue between the artist's practice, The Met collection, the physical Museum, and The Met's audiences. The Facade Commission was inaugurated in September 2019 with Wangechi Mutu's The NewOnes, will free Us (September 9, 2019–November 1, 2020).

CITY CENTER TO PRESENT MATTHEW BOURNE’S NEW ADVENTURES FESTIVAL
March 1, 2021, 7:41.45 pm ET
Details

Photo: Johan Persson

New York City Center will present “Matthew Bourne’s New Adventures Festival,” a month-long digital festival featuring four of the company’s most beloved productions filmed live at London’s Sadler’s Wells Theater: “Swan Lake,” “The Car Man,” “Cinderella,” and “Romeo and Juliet.”

These shows will be available on demand in rotation from Friday, March 5 to Sunday, April 4, with a new title premiering every Friday. Each one will then be available on demand for 10 days.

Bourne won two Tony Awards for the Broadway production of “Swan Lake.” His other theatrical productions include “Mary Poppins, “Edward Scissorhands” and “Play Without Words.”

For tickets and information, visit NYCityCenter.org.

ROCKWELL GROUP TO DESIGN SPACES FOR OPENSTAGE NYC
March 1, 2021, 7:36.06 pm ET
Details

Illustrations: Rockwell Group/TAIT

NYC-based architect David Rockwell and his architecture and design firm Rockwell Group have joined forces with TAIT, a global leader in the design and construction of solutions for live events, to create OpenStage NYC, a new initiative that utilizes portable staging, to help arts organizations move to outdoor performances this spring. It is expected that the performance stages will utilize streets, plazas, and other public spaces identified as part of the Open Culture program as well as other public performance programs in New York City.

To program the stages, Rockwell Group and TAIT have partnered with the Bronx Academy of Arts and Dance (BAAD!), BRIC, and the LaGuardia Performing Arts Center (LPAC) to help theses arts organizations in book performances in the same or multiple locations within the borough.

LPAC will use the space behind the theaters for programming and plans to work with other Queens-based artists and organizations to tour the borough of Queens and provide live entertainment; BAAD!’s programming will take place on its property in the Bronx and will kick-off with Boogie Down Dance Series performances in mid-April through May; while BRIC has a number of programs planned in Brooklyn.

Last year, Rockwell Group launched DineOutNYC to advocate for public space for restaurants for outdoor dining. In addition to his other architecture and design work, Rockwell has designed the sets for many Broadway and off-Broadway productions, including “She Loves Me,” for which he won the Tony Award, “Hairspray”, “Kinky Boots,” and “The Normal Heart.”

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