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Just Opened - Marvelous by Fred, The Q and more...
June 30, 2021, 11:39.26 pm ET
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Just Opened - Marvelous by Fred, The Q and more...

Marvelous by Fred, aka Aux Merveilleux de Fred, has just opened a spectacular new French pastry shop on the corner of 37th St and Avenue of the Americas. The centerpiece is a crystal chandelier that practically spans the entire width of the shop. It's quite the showstopper as are the baked goods. Among the "marvelous" desserts are chocolate chip brioche (to die for!), regular and mini Merveilleux (meringue with whipped cream and topped with chocolate flakes), assorted croissants and merigues, as well as sandwiches. Coffee drinks are also availlable.

For more information visit www.marvelousbyfred.com

Just Opened - Marvelous by Fred, The Q and more...
Photos: Cititour.com

The Q nightclub is a multi-level queer venue that just opened in the heart of Hell's Kitchen at 795 8th Avenue. We stopped in for a quick look-see. It's quite extravagent with black walls, crystal chandeliers, bright red curtains and curvy banquettes. There's also an amazingly long bar and that's just the first floor. In fact, there are 4 separate dance floors, 19 DJs and 3 parties going at any time with "epic" lights and sound. Staff is also super friendly. To start they've been doing some private parties but get ready for The Q to burst on the scene big time! No cover before 11 am, $20 after.

For more information visit theqnyc.com

Harlem Bakery Make My Cake now has a third location, a coffee shop, called I Like It Black, at 409 West 125th Street. The shop is serving assorted coffee drinks and pastries. Sweet Tea and Nitro Southern Brew are counted among the offerings.

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JUST OPENED - AMOR LOCO, CARNE MARE AND THIEF

GAME ON! CELLAR DOG OPENS IN WEST VILLAGE
June 30, 2021, 10:36.17 pm ET
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GAME ON! CELLAR DOG OPENS IN WEST VILLAGE
Photo: Cellar Dog

Cellar Dog, a 9,000 square-foot live music venue and game hall (75 Christopher Street) has opened at the former Fat Cat space; it will operate five days a week from Wednesdays to Sundays from 2pm to 4 am with plans to extend its hours in the fall.

The venue features a variety of games including pool tables, ping pong, shuffleboard, foosball, checkers, chess, as well as antique and novelty games including Pac Man and many more. A regular live entertainment schedule will be available throughout the week. The space is also outfitted with the latest purifying air filters, contactless ordering, updated restrooms, and touchless hand dryers.

The casual food and beverage menu features small bites including movie theater-style nachos, grandma’s pizza, pretzels, and custom ice cream, coupled with wine, seltzers, and a variety of beers on tap.

For more information, visit www.cellar.dog and https://backalgroup.com

Restaurant Radar -BorSalia opens in NoMad
June 29, 2021, 11:36.16 pm ET
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Photo: Cititour.com

BorSalia, aka Italian soul, is now open in NoMad. The coffee shop is a place where award-winning Italian pastry chefs can showcase their latest creations with a pastry residency program. BorSalia is open for lunch and dinner and has a special panini menu. Also look for Italian specialties like Ravioli de Bufalo with San Marzano tomato sauce, Fagottini Verdi filled with Italian ham and Pesce del Mercato, pan-seared fish of the day served with seasonal sauteed vegetables. BorSalia also has a location in Williamsburg.

BorSalia NoMad is located at 1165 Broadway, New York, NY (929) 214-7192

For more information visit www.borsalia.com

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RESTAURANT RADAR - BABY LUC'S IN CARROLL GARDENS; FAI BENE IN GOWANUS

MUSEUM OF MODERN ART TO UNVEIL AUTOMANIA
June 29, 2021, 11:04.46 pm ET
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Photo: MoMA

The Museum of Modern Art will unveil its newest exhibition “Automania,” to be held in the 3rd floor Philip Johnson galleries and the famed sculpture garden, for members from July 1-3, with public admission beginning on July 4.

The exhibit addresses the conflicted feelings—compulsion, fixation, desire, and rage—that developed in response to cars and car culture in the 20th century. Examining automobiles as both modern industrial products and style icons, the exhibition also explores their adverse impact on roads and streets, public health, and the planet’s ecosystems.

“Automania” brings together cars and car parts, architectural models, films, photographs, posters, paintings, and sculptures, ranging from Lily Reich’s 1930s designs for a tubular steel car seat to Andy Warhol’s “Orange Car Crash Fourteen Times.” Nine cars, including a recently restored Volkswagen Type 1 sedan (better known as the Beetle), will also be available to allow visitors to take an up-close view of these spectacular machines.

For more information, visit www.moma.org

MATTHEW BRODERICK AND SARAH JESSICA PARKER TO STAR IN PLAZA SUITE
June 29, 2021, 7:58.08 pm ET
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Photo: Plaza Suite

The upcoming Broadway revival of Neil Simon’s classic comedy “Plaza Suite,” which stars real-life couple Matthew Broderick and Sarah Jessica Parker, will now begin preview performances on Friday, February 25, 2022 at the Hudson Theatre (141 Wet 44th Street), with the official opening night set for Monday, March 28, 2022.

First seen on Broadway in 1968, the work consists of three short plays, each involving different characters but set in the same suite in NYC’s Plaza Hotel. It was later filmed in 1971.

Tony Award winner John Benjamin Hickey will direct the production. The design team includes two-time Tony Award winner John Lee Beatty (set design), Tony Award winner Jane Greenwood (costume design), five-time Tony Award winner Brian MacDevitt (lighting design), Tony Award winner Scott Lehrer (sound design) and Tony Award winner Marc Shaiman (incidental music).

Broderick received a Tony Award for his work in “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying” and “Brighton Beach Memoirs,” and received a nomination for “The Producers.” His many other Broadway credits include “The Odd Couple,” “Sylvia,” “It’s Only a Play” and “Torch Song Trilogy.”

Parker’s Broadway credits include “Annie,” “Once Upon a Mattress” and “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying.” She is best known for her role as Carrie Bradshaw on HBO’s “Sex & The City.”

For tickets and information, visit www.plazasuitebroadway.com or www.thehudsonbroadway.com

Junoon reopens in Flatiron
June 29, 2021, 7:47.05 pm ET
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Photo: Junoon

Michelin-starred Junoon reopens in Flatiron with a new look and concept. Junoon, which means "passion" in Hindi, offers an upscale take on traditional Indian cuisine. Look for vibrant flavors and an ambiance to match with ornate screens, private dining nooks and sexy bar.

The menu brings appetizers like Watermelon Chaat with pistachio and goat cheese, Lasooni Gobi with crispy cauliflower and garlic-chili-chutney, Tandoori Octopus with garlic aioli and roasted fingerlings, and Smoked Marsala Ribs with a vindaloo spice rub. Tempting mains include Tellicherry Duck, dry-aged crescent valley duck breast with a sauce of tellicherry peppercorns from the Malabar Coast. Lamb Chops arrive with tamarind glazed brussel sprouts and leak puree, while Snapper Moilee features coconut milk, fenugreek, tumeric, heirloom tomatoes and hearts of palm. Desserts include Ma's Rice Pudding with candied almonds and caramelized banana, Cricket with chikoo mousse, coconut grass and guava, as well as a seasonal sorbet tasting.

Junoon also pushes the envelope with its cocktails like Royal-Tea made with Kikori whisky, Aperol, honey, English breakfast tea, and mahogany tea foam. The restaurant also boasts an elaborate whisky list that spans the globe.

For more information visit https://www.junoonnyc.com

Baar Baar unveils its summer drinks menu with an Indian twist
June 29, 2021, 6:57.14 pm ET
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Photo: Baar Baar

Baar Baar, the modern Indian restaurant in the East Village, helmed by chef Sujan Sarkar, is launching a new summer cocktail menu. Developed by mixologist Chetan Gangan, the menu features classic cocktails with some Indian flare. Think Rum Punch with curry leaves, a Mule with mango jam, a Margarita with muskmelon & chili, and a chai-infused Negroni with Bombay khari.

Here’s a look at the new cocktail menu:

HYDERABAD GIMLET
Gin Infused with Turmeric, Passion Fruit, St. Germaine

KAIRI MULE
Vodka, Homemade Mango Jam, Lime

BANARAS – FIZZ
Vodka, Cucumber, Green Pea Juice, Green Apple Liqueur, Tonic

AMUL - OLD FASHIONED
Amul Butter Washed Whiskey, Canned Sugar Syrup, Pet Hausa Bitter

MUMBAI MARGARITA
Tequila, Muskmelon, Midori, Chilli

GOA PUNCH
Dark Rum, Malibu, Pineapple Juice, Peach Schnapps, Curry Leaves

JAIPUR PALOMA

Mezcal, Pink Guava, Grapefruit, Black Salt

CHAI – NEGRONI
Gin, Masala Chai Concoction, Campari, Sweet Vermouth (served with Bombay Khari)

For more information visit http://baarbaarnyc.com

The Black Truffle Fest is on!
June 29, 2021, 6:37.18 pm ET
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The Black Truffle Festival is underway. The Parmigiano Reggiano Consortium has partnered with Urbani Truffles to create some black truffle magic. Throughout the week, food and wine enthusiasts across the country will have the opportunity to indulge in exclusive festival menus featuring Italy’s most treasured ingredients at some of the country’s most esteemed restaurants. Several New York City restaurants are participating, including Keste, Eataly Downtown & Flatiron, Lupa, Olio e Piu, Osteria Brooklyn, Don Antonio, Nello, Vice Versa and more. In the wake of such a challenging year for restaurants, the Black Truffle Festival sponsors will donate funds to the Restaurant Workers Community Foundation, an organization that aids restaurant workers impacted by the pandemic. The Festival runs from June 26 through July 4.

For more information visit https://blacktrufflefest.com

NYC BITES: VENCHI’S LESS SUGAR STRAWBERRY GELATO
June 28, 2021, 11:08.46 pm ET
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Photo: Venchi

Famed Italian chocolatier and gelato maker Venchi has launched its 50% Less Sugar Strawberry Gelato at its two New York City ChocoGelateria's (861 Broadway and 1796 Columbus Circle). This delicious, wholesome – and vegan – treat has approximately 40 percent fewer calories than the company’s regular Strawberry Gelato and is made fresh daily in the Gelato Lab at each location from the finest ingredients -- including fresh strawberries. It’s available in single servings (up to three scoops) as well as in small, medium and large containers for take-home and delivery. It’s hard to think of a better way to keep oneself cool this summer! For more information, visit https://us.venchi.com.

HARRY POTTER TO RETURN TO BROADWAY IN NOVEMBER
June 28, 2021, 10:48.39 pm ET
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HARRY POTTER TO RETURN TO BROADWAY IN NOVEMBER
Photo: Manuel Harlan

The Broadway production of “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child” will return to the Lyric Theatre on November 16, with the former two-part play now cut down and to be performed in just one sitting eight times a week. Casting has not yet been announced.

The play, which is written by Jack Thorne and directed by John Tiffany, focuses on both the now-grown-up versions of the characters introduced in the novels by British author J.K. Rowling as well as their children.

The production, which first debuted on Broadway in April 2018, won six Tony Awards, including Best Play. Meanwhile, the Lyric Theatre underwent a multi-million dollar renovation in order to accommodate the show.

As previously reported by Cititour.com, a massive store devoted to all things Harry Potter opened earlier this month at Broadway and 22nd Street and has drawn enormous crowds ever since.

THIS WEEK IN LIVE PERFORMANCE - SPRINGSTEEN RETURNS, BIRDLAND REOPENING...
June 28, 2021, 7:00.43 pm ET
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Photo: Little Fang

Springsteen on Broadway: With the opening of “Springsteen on Broadway” on June 26, the Great White Way is officially back is business! And while the Boss’ intimate concert has already been seen by thousands of theatergoers in its original run – and millions more via Netflix – this limited run at the St. James Theater (through September 4) is another sell-out. However, 32 tickets will be sold for each performance through a digital lottery for $75 each (limit 2 tickets per winner). Visit http://www.luckyseat.com for more information.

Ice Factory Festival: One of the NYC’s most innovative theater festivals, the Ice Factory Festival returns for seven weeks of live performances on June 30 at the New Ohio Theatre (154 Christopher Street). Things kick off with “Endless Loop of Gratitude,” a solo, interactive sound installation that opens one hour prior to the start of each Ice Factory performance in which participants are invited to record their own reflections on gratitude or read the words of another person who is not present, and “The Extremely Grey Line,” a site-specific show led designed around the streets of New York -- which are also the graveyards of New York. Audience members can choose whether to go on bicycle, on foot, or by sitting inside the “Underneath.” Visit http://NewOhioTheatre.org for more information.

Birdland: After a 15-month hiatus, the upstairs room at this legendary jazz club and cabaret reopens on July 1, with many tickets as low as 99 cents. The line-up of Birdland favorites who will entertain you in the coming weeks include the Emmet Cohen Trio, Arturo O’Farrill & The Afro Latin Jazz Ensemble, Jim Caruso’s Cast Party, The Lineup with Susie Mosher, Matt Munisteri and David Ostwald’s Louis Armstrong Eternity Band. For more information, visit www.birldandjazz.com


Photo: Endure

Endure Run Woman Show: Writer Melanie Jones has created a one-woman show and outdoor immersive theatrical experience that celebrates resilience through the stories of real-life athletes. Equipped with a sanitized and synchronized audio player, audiences will follow one performer on a winding and circular 5K / 3.1-mile journey through Central Park. As park-goers listen to the inner monologue of the athlete, they’ll not only be greeted by the natural beauty of their surroundings, but also the vulnerable and transformative thoughts of the runner. (Audiences can walk, not run!). Performances take place July 3 through August 8. Visit https://runwomanshow.com for more information.

THIEF STEALS INTO WILLIAMSBURG
June 27, 2021, 4:04.35 pm ET
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Photo: Ashley Sears

Thief, the first solo venture from legendary restaurateur John McNulty, has opened in Brooklyn’s trendy Williamsburg neighborhood (595 Union Avenue), offering an emphasis on a wide array of beverages along with light bites and a 1980s-inspired atmosphere.

Designed by Jason Volenec of Volenec Studio, the 50-seat space incorporates raw, nostalgic elements meant to evoke that bygone era: a black and silver checkerboard ceiling, original flyers from punk and hip-hop shows. and a beautiful piece by famed artist of that era, Maripol, featuring Polaroids of artist Jean-Michel Basquiat in his downtown NYC loft in 1982. Occasional live music will also capture the creative energy that coursed through the early ‘80s, while a top-notch sound system will fill the room with gritty soul.


Photo: Daniel Schwartz

A killer wine menu focuses on small producers that McNulty has discovered throughout his years in the restaurant industry. On hot days you can opt for a Friesling -- a frosty glass of frozen Riesling – and there will be a second, rotating frozen beverage on offer. In addition, Thief will serve up a simple list of five or six cocktails created by head bartender Victor Everitt, which includes “Summer Nights,” a twist on the classic Old Fashioned that mixes reposado tequila with oranges bitters and peaches, and the “Supersonic,” which amps up the traditional gin and tonic with celery shrub and a cucumber ice cube. Beer, aperitifs and after-dinner drinks will also await those who come to the restaurant.


Photo: Ashley Sears

For guests looking for a nibble, an all-day menu of casual snacks and light bites will accompany the booze, such as crudites, Bavarian pretzels with beer cheese and warm sandwiches like smoked ham and gruyere. Food will also be available by delivery or when ordered through a specially designed take-out window.

For more information, please visit thiefnyc.com

GALLOW GREEN REOPENS ON ROOF OF MCKITTRICK HOTEL
June 27, 2021, 3:56.04 pm ET
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Photos: Noah Fecks

The McKittrick Hotel (530 West 27th Street) has announced the return of its gorgeous rooftop garden hideaway, Gallow Green, which is now open for dinner and drinks on Wednesday through Sunday evenings.

The legendary hotel’s rooftop is currently overflowing with fragrant flowers, herbs, and hanging vines that create a whimsical, dream-like setting. The outdoor space has plenty of intimate nooks for romantic tête-à-têtes as well as protection from the elements to accommodate guests rain or shine.

Visitors can enjoy a seasonal selection of refreshing, hand-crafted cocktails such as the “Sleep No More” (pea flower-infused vodka, elderflower, and rosé cider) and the “Gallow Green” (bourbon, blue curaçao, citrus, and ginger). Frozé on tap, wine by the glass. local seasonal draft beers, and bottled ciders are also among the libations available to sip all summer long.

The dinner menu, expertly prepared by executive chef Pascal Le Seac’h, features a variety of raw bar selections, lightly fried calamari, a gorgeous crudité bowl, a lobster roll served with fresh Old Bay chips, the GG Burger, made with a special blend of DeBragga steak cuts, homemade pickles, and bacon marmalade with fries, a fattoush salad with diced vegetables, chickpeas, fresh mint, and crispy strips of naan lightly dressed in yogurt, and a Banh Mi sandwich made with maple-soy glazed pork belly and pickled vegetables on a baguette. The dessert menu features a silky orange panna cotta and sorbets and ice cream by Il Laboratorio del Gelato.

For more information, visit www.mckittrickhotel.com/gallow-green

Cocktail Time - Tropical Magic at SANDBAR
June 25, 2021, 12:26.33 am ET
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Tropical Magic at Sandbar, NYC

It is that time of the week again. Time for that great escape as we search for some of the best cocktails that New York City has to offer. At High Street on the Hudson’s pop-up SANDBAR, one of our favorites is Tropical Magic with toasted coconut infused rum, Rockey’s botanical, pineapple juice and pistachio orgeat. It’s served in a frothy mug with sprigs of fresh mint and a rum shot tucked inside half a lime. It’s not too sweet, very refreshing and packs a nice punch.

Town With No Cheer Cocktail at Sandbar, NYC
Photos: Cititour.com

Another drink on the menu, Town With No Cheer, is a mix of raspberry dry cordial, aperol, sfumato amaro and prosecco. It’s served on the rocks as a high ball. The cocktail list at SANDBAR changes periodically. What doesn’t change is the originality. You can enjoy your drinks curbside or inside. You’ll want to make a few selections from the raw bar as well!

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COCKTAIL TIME - TEQUILA SUNRISE AT TACOS GUEY

3 Places to try if you can snag a table - Fresco by Scotto and more
June 24, 2021, 11:22.44 pm ET
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Fresco by Scotto

Fresco by Scotto has managed to turn its outdoor scaffolding into a lush garden for some curbside dining that’s getting plenty of Midtown attention. The menu includes eggplant & zucchini pie with ricotta and homemade mozzarella, along with a salad of shaved raw artichoke with celery heart & crimini mushrooms. Pastas bring rigatoni bolognese with a veal & chicken ragu, and tomato cavatelli with sausage, fennel and rapini in a white wine butter sauce. Entrees include double cut rack of lamb chops, whole roasted branzino, and a bone-in ribeye with grilled bone marrow. 34 East 52nd St (212) 935-3434

Monte’s Trattoria

Who would have thought old school Italian could be such a magnet. Monte’s on MacDougal Street has been around for more than 100 years and diners are still eating up the laid back atmosphere that makes you feel like family. Aside from the friendly atmosphere, Chef-Owner Pietro Mosconi is cooking up Italian classics like prosciutto & melon, stuffed mushrooms and clams oreganata to start. Larger plates include house-made lasagna, chicken parmigiana, veal marsala and spaghetti & meatballs. 97 MacDougal St (212) 674-9456


Photos: Cititour.com

Sant Ambroeus

Sant Ambroeus in SoHo had emerged twice as large after the pandemic by taking over a nearby storefront. While it’s considered a mini-chain, it still boasts a loyal following for its laid back atmosphere and Italian bites, including homemade rigatoni with spicy tomato sauce, linguine alla vongole with New Zealand clams, and a traditional veal chop Milanese. There are also curated wines and nice dessert selection. It’s also a great place to drop in for an espresso and some people watcging. 265 Lafayette St (212) 966-2770

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NORM LEWIS AND MICHAEL URIE TO STAR IN BROADWAY'S CHICKEN AND BISCUITS
June 24, 2021, 5:16.20 pm ET
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Photo: Chicken & Biscuits

“Chicken and Biscuits,”, a new comedy written by Douglas Lyons and directed by Zhailon Levingston, will have its Broadway premiere at Circle in the Square Theatre beginning on Thursday, September 23 with an official opening on Sunday, October 10. The show is set to play a limited engagement through Sunday, January 2, 2022.

In this raucous comedy, The Jenkins family comes together to celebrate the life of their father—hopefully without killing each other! But any hopes for a peaceful reunion ravel when a family secret shows up at the funeral.

The show’s ensemble cast will be led by Tony Award nominee Norm Lewis and Drama Desk Award winner Michael Urie, with additional casting to be announced shortly.

Lewis’ many stage credits include “The Gershwins’ Porgy & Bess,” “Sweeney Todd,” “Once on This Island” and “The Phantom of the Opera.” He is also well known for his recurring role on the TV drama “Scandal.”

Urie’s numerous stage credits include “Torch Song,” “Grand Horizons,” “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying,” “The Government Inspector,” and “Buyer and Cellar.” He currently hosts the reality show “Clipped” and is best known for his portrayal of Marc St. James on “Ugly Betty.”

Tickets are currently on sale at www.telecharge.com or by calling 212-239-6200.

Roosevelt statue to be removed from American Museum of Natural History
June 24, 2021, 8:21.09 am ET
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Photo: Cititour.com

A statue of Theodore Roosevelt will be removed from the front of the American Museum of Natural History. The New York Times reporting the decision was finalized on Monday. Critics say the statue, which shows Roosevelt flanked by a Native American and African man, glorifies colonialism and racism. The statue which stands in front of the museum will be relocated to a yet-to-be-disclosed cultural institution.

Around Town - Il Patio at Eataly, Dine at 620 Details, Gowanus Yacht Club and more...
June 24, 2021, 1:17.12 am ET
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Eataly in Flatiron has ditched its cabanas for Il Patio, a communal outdoor garden directly across from Madison Square Park.

On the Steakhouse front, both Smith & Wollensky and Sparks Steakhouse are both open for indoor dining in Midtown. Wollensky’s Grill is also drawing a nice crowd.

A short distance away Cornerstone Tavern was packing 'em in. Must be those individual beer taps they’re offering tableside. Cheers!

Still no signs of life at Sardis even as more Broadway shows come back on line, The Music Man among the latest to announce. The Theater District won't really be back until Sardi's is back.

A massive rainbow now stretches across the outdoor plaza at Rockefeller Center in honor of Pride Month.

Separately, The Rock also has something cooking with its new Dine at 620 concept this July and August. The loft and garden will include Pebble Bar from team behind Grand Army, Celestine and The Smile, Korean-inspired food called Atogirl from the creators of Atoboy and Atomix. There’s also a prix fixe tonkatsu rib menu courtesy of Olmsted.

Gowanus Yacht Club is sailing again on Brooklyn’s Smith Street where you can once again sit back, grab a beer and watch the game.

Showtime in the window? It’ all part of The Seven Deadly Sins, a new outdoor production in the Meatpacking District where the audience watches on from the street and listens with headsets. We first told out about in our “This Week in Live Performance” feature.

Not too far away, we were intrigued watching Michael Puma, founder of The Gotham Burger Social Club, flipping his smash burgers at the future home of his summer pop-up at the Jane Hotel. Stay tuned!

And concrete jungle. Cartier is using golden tiger paws for its social distancing at its Fifth Avenue location. But with the city reopening at a rapid clip they may soon be extinct.


Photos: Cititour.com

Until next time, we’ll be seeing you Around Town

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THREE EXHIBITS TO SEE THIS WEEKEND
June 23, 2021, 6:48.27 pm ET
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Photo: Shahzia Sikander: Extraordinary Realities

Pakistani American artist Shahzia Sikander is internationally celebrated for bringing Indo-Persian manuscript-painting traditions into dialogue with contemporary art practice. The new exhibition, “Shahzia Sikander: Extraordinary Realities” at the Morgan Library & Museum (225 Madison Avenue) through September 26. tracks the first 15 years of her artistic journey, during which Sikander richly interrogated gender, sexuality, race, class, and history, creating open-ended narratives that have sustained her work as one of the most significant artists working today.


Photo: New York Historical Society

In “Marker, Emblem, Symbol, Signal: Artists Reflect on the Flag,” now at the New York Historical Society (170 Central Park West), the New York-based project Art for Artists asked 13 artists -- Chloe Bass, Natalie Baxter, Daniel Bejar, Mel Chin, Pamela Council, DARNstudio, Ghost of a Dream, Vandana Jain, Kirsten Hassenfeld, Sarah Sandman, David Scher, Dread Scott and Sanne Vaassen -- to explore the symbolic possibilities and perils of flags. Talk about independent thinkers!


Photo: Visions of Pride: Paris is Still Burning

As is fitting for the month, The Center, in partnership with the High Line, is presenting “Visions of Pride: Paris is Still Burning,” an in-person photo exhibition on the High Line at 14th Street through July 11. The exhibit depicts the multifaceted nature of ballroom culture, both in New York City and nationwide, through the lenses of photographers Anja Matthes, Damien Armstrong, and William Isaac Lockhart. These artists’ intimate portraits and landscapes provide an up-close look at the grandeur of the ballroom community and the stories of its members.

The Museum of Art and Design’s annual “MAD About Jewelry” exhibition and sale is a highlight for many collectors. This year, on Saturday, June 26 from 10:30 am to 3:30pm, the museum will host first in-person MAD About Jewelry event of the year—a pop-up trunk show to be held outside the Museum (2 Columbus Circle). Visitors can meet artists Jocelyn DeSisto, Danielle Gori-Montanelli, Mia Hebib, Casey Sobel, and Katrin Zimmermann and shop their collections. In addition, work from Ashley Buchanan, Kate Cusack, Paula Giecco, Tara Locklear, and Lucy Martin will also be for sale.

Anything At All arrives on Roosevelt Island
June 23, 2021, 6:22.42 pm ET
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Anything At All, Roosevelt Island, Wild Greens
Wild Greens

From hospitality duo and New York City natives Marc Rose and Med Abrous, of Call Mom, comes Anything At All at the Graduate Hotel on Roosevelt Island. The all-female food & beverage team includes MINA Group alumna Ja’Toria Harper as Executive Chef, Lindsey Verardo - formerly of Benno and Gramercy Tavern - as Executive Pastry Chef, and Estelle Bossy, whose impressive resume includes Union Square Hospitality Group and Del Posto, as Beverage Director.

Anything At All, Roosevelt Island, Black Sea Bass
Black Sea Bass with Puffed Rice Chip

The all-day restaurant is rooted in a farm-first, vegetable-forward approach to comfort foods. The playful, eclectic menu includes dishes like Coastal Toast with smoked trout, red onion, olive oil, toasted sourdough; Kampachi Crudo with fresnos, shallots, lemon, caviar, and cilantro; and The Roasted Cabbage with charred summer cabbage, herbed yogurt and crunchy chickpeas.

Anything At All, Roosevelt Island, Fried Chicken SandwichZ
Fried Chick Sandwich with Spicy Aioli

A killer Fried Chicken Sandwich with spicy aioli, cabbage & radish slaw is offered for lunch along with a Crispy Mushroom Sandwich. Chef Verardo’s elevated desserts includes Vanilla Poached Meringue with black sesame, shiso and strawberry consomme.

Food and Cocktail Photos by Noah Fecks

The cocktail menu highlights house-made and infused vermouths, seasonal spritzes and creative frozen drinks for the summer months. Additionally, Brooklyn’s Variety Coffee is being served at the hotel and from a solar and battery-powered Poindexter Coffee Bike Cart. Coffee and a curated selection grab-and-go items will be available in the morning and afternoon.

Anything At All, Roosevelt Island, Interior
Photo: Steve Freihon

Floor-to-ceiling windows drench the space with natural light with walls artfully curated with an impressive selection of vintage books. The restaurant is anchored by an 18-seat wraparound bar and lounge seating. The team will also open the Panorama Room, a rooftop bar, at Roosevelt Island's first-ever hotel in late July.

Anything At All is located at 22 North Loop Road, New York, NY (929) 447-4700

For more information visit anythingatallnyc.com

Just Opened - Amor Loco, Carne Mare, and Thief
June 23, 2021, 1:05.00 am ET
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Amor Loco, Times Square, NYC
Photo: Cititour.com

Amor Loco

Amor Loco or "crazy love" has just opened a vibrant new spot in the heart of Times Square with colorful murals, bright pink ceiling where diners can show some love. Stop in for a coctele, including frozen magaritas, palomas and the "Crazy Love," a mix of gin, passion fruit, aperol, lemon with a blue flower tea float. There's also sangria, cerveza and something called the "Swirl," a frozen margarita spiked with red sangria. The menu is taqueria style with tacos, sopas, burritos, empanadas and more. 134 West 46th St, New York, NY (917) 261-5650

Carne Mare, Pier 17, Seaport, NYC
Photo: Cititour.com

Carne Mare

Carne Mare is Chef Andrew Carmelini's new chophouse at Pier 17 in the Seaport. The restaurant is offering prime cuts of steak, seafood and Italian Specialties. The restaurant has outdoor dining with waterfront views when weather permits, as well as two floors of indoor dining. Starters include fresh and grilled oysters, pasta dishes, including Spicy Lobster Spaghetti and steaks for one or two, including a Wagyu Striploin and Roast Prime Rib of Beef. 89 South St, New York, NY (212) 280-4600

Thief

Thief in Williamsburg likes to call itself a modern take on a neighborhood bar with an 80s style vibe where the summer drink is Friesling (frozen reisling), according to reports. 595 Union Ave, Williamsburg, Brooklyn (203) 570-6347

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JUST OPENED - LOWER EAST, MENDY'S 2.0 AND RIB NO. 7

Dinner at Victor in Gowanus
June 22, 2021, 7:03.44 pm ET
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If you haven’t been to Victor in the old Freek’s Mill space in the Gowanus section of Brooklyn, you don’t know what you’re missing. The restaurant with its open kitchen and plenty of outside space has a laid back vibe and excellent Mediterranean fare. Chefs Ryan Angulo and Ian Alvarez (Butter Channel, French Louie) are the forces behind Victor specializing in small plates for sharing and some larger ones.

Start with some Fried Dates stuffed with macadamia nuts and dusted with manchego cheese. They’re addictive. Oysters are roasted with merguez sausage, bread crumbs and lemon. But the real star is the charred octopus served as a salad with olive, vibrant lettuces, fennel and a puree of garlic and herbs. The octopus is melt-in-your-mouth delicious and a highlight of the meal.

Other offerings include a beet and radicchio salad with orange jam and smoked ricotta salata, baccalau with gigante beans, and smoked paprika prawns with almond aioli. Larger plates bring whole fish with preserved orange and sesame gremolata, and chicken with anchovy salsa verde and charred chicories. My son devoured his Le Burger with cornichons and crispy fries.

The special this day was a bone-in Berkshire pork chop perfectly prepared with blistered shishitos, Tokyo turnips and summer squash. The healthy veggies offsetting any guilt you may have from diving into all of that porky goodness. On the sweet side, Basque cheesecake, chocolate budino and an apple-walnut cake are counted among the desserts.


Photos: Cititour.com

Victor also has a deft hand at creating skillful cocktails like the Birds-of-Paradise with dark rum, cynar, pineapple and agave, and Byrrh Me! with byrrh (similar to a light port), contratto bitters and prosecco. A well-choreographed wine selection is also available with bubbles, red, white, orange and rosé varieties by the glass or bottle, as well as some magnums. Craft beers include Wild East Temperance Dark Ale and Finback Crispy Morning Pils. - TR

Victor is located at 285 Nevins Street, Brooklyn, NY (347) 889-6588

For more information visit victorbrooklyn.com

BROADWAY'S GOT SOME BIG NEWS!
June 22, 2021, 5:20.26 pm ET
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The Music Man Tickets go on sale and more...
Photo: The Music Man

Tickets are now officially on sale (via telecharge.com) for the highly anticipated revival of “Meredith Willson’s The Music Man,” which will begin an open-ended run at the Winter Garden Theatre on December 20, with an official opening night set for February 10, 2022. Directed by Jerry Zaks, with choreography by Warren Carlyle, this beloved 1957 musical about a con man who tries to win over a small town in Iowa, will star Tony Award winners Hugh Jackman as Professor Harold Hill, Sutton Foster as Marian Paroo, Jayne Houdyshell as Mrs. Shinn, Jefferson Mays as Mayor Shinn, Marie Mullen as Mrs. Paroo and Shuler Hensley as Marcellus Washburn.

The Tony Awards Administration Committee has announced they will present three Special Tony Awards as part of the special Tony Awards ceremony on September 26. The honorees are The Broadway Advocacy Coalition, an arts-based advocacy nonprofit dedicated to building the capacity of individuals, organizations and communities to use storytelling to dismantle the systems that perpetuate racism, along with the shows “David Byrne’s American Utopia” and “Freestyle Love Supreme.” As previously reported, “American Utopia” will begin a new run at the St. James Theatre on September 17 and “Freestyle Love Supreme,” which was co-created by Lin-Manuel Miranda, will begin a limited run at the Booth Theatre on October 7.

Steppenwolf’s production of Tracy Letts’ acclaimed play “The Minutes,” to be directed by Anna D. Shapiro, will begin performances at Studio 54 in March 2022. The 90-minute work, which had previously been set to open at the Cort Theatre in March 2020, takes a hard look at the inner workings of a city council meeting and the hypocrisy, greed and ambition that bubble to the surface when a newcomer to the small town of Big Cherry starts to ask the wrong questions. Casting for the production will be announced at a later date.

Amigo by Nai becomes a full service restaurant
June 22, 2021, 5:18.50 pm ET
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Photo: Amigo by Nai

Starting this weekend, Amigo by Nai will now be a full-service restaurant while also launching a new brunch menu. To complement its tacos, the restaurants is now offering appetizers like Salpicon (octopus, shrimp, sherry, pico de gallo), Empanadas (beef, raisin potato, olive), and Churrasco (skirt steak skewers with garlic chimichurri and lime), and of course some Guac + Chips. Eight different types of tacos are also on the menu along with churros, coconut flan and arroz con leche (rice pudding) for dessert.
Amigo by Nai is also offering brunch on Saturday and Sunday from 12-3:30pm. Think burritos filled with egg, black beans, salsa and manchego, short rib confit tacos and more. Cocktails include a Mocha Martini with habanero shrub bitters.

Amigo by Nai is located at 29 2nd Avenue, New York, NY (212) 633-4487
For more information visit nairestaurant.com/amigo

ALI WONG TO PLAY BEACON THEATRE IN AUGUST
June 22, 2021, 10:48.02 am ET
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Photo: Ali Wong

Comedian Ali Wong will perform at the Beacon Theatre on her “Milk & Money” tour from Tuesday, August 10 through Saturday, August 14. Tickets for all five shows will go on sale to the general public on Friday, June 25 at 10AM.

Wong is well known from her popular Netflix stand-up specials “Baby Cobra”and “Hard Knock Wife”; her Netflix feature film “Always Be My Maybe,” and her role as Doris on the hit ABC sitcom “American Housewife.” In addition, her book “Dear Girls: Intimate Tales, Untold Secrets & Advice for Living Your Best Life” was released in October 2019 and became an instant New York Times Bestseller.

For more information, visit www.Ticketmaster.com or call 1-866-858-0008.

MACE OFFERS A WORLDLY COCKTAIL MENU
June 22, 2021, 10:37.17 am ET
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Photo: Mace

At the new eatery Mace (35 West Eighth Street) mixologist extraordinaire Nico de Soto has created a new travel-inspired cocktail menu that pairs perfectly with chef Cyed Adraincem’s menu of decadent seafood platters, raw bar items, and small plates, including a pork rillette and scallion flatbread. The bright, airy space, which also has outdoor seating, can accommodate 80 guests, including 14 seats at its 27-foot zinc bar.

De Soto’s 19 specialty cocktails, full of spices from around the world, include the signature Wasabi + Cilantro, a drink consisting of two frozen slushie layers: a Strawberry Daiquiri made with wasabi-infused rum, strawberries, angelica root, vanilla and lime and a Piña Colada made with Bacon-washed rum, pineapple, coconut, plantain, lime and cilantro.

Other cocktail highlights include the Peruvian-inspired Black Sesame, which marries date-infused rye, chaga mushroom, cupuaçu-washed bitters, lacto-fermented mushroom and black sesame; the Indonesian-inspired Soy, which is based on a blend of rums, sweet potato, cucumber, tomato, peanut, lime, spices and soy; the Greek-inspired Bay Leaf, which melds bay leaf-infused sweet vermouth, kalamata olive, caramelized onion, egg white, gin and lemon; and the Fennel Pollen, which features Aperol infused with fennel and bee pollen, beeswax-infused pisco and acacia honey, along with Prosecco.

Also available are three types of homemade bottled Kombucha: Pandan, made with Pandan, pineapple and lemon; Sakura, made with Honeydew melon, lemon and cherry blossom; and Dill, made with strawberry, dill, rhubarb, and lingonberry.

For more information visit macenewyork.com

Restaurant Radar - Baby Luc's in Carroll Gardens; Fai Bene opening in Gowanus
June 21, 2021, 6:28.47 pm ET
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Fai Bene, Italian, Opening in Gowanus

Fai Bene, which means doin' good, is poised to open on 3rd Avenue in Gowanus for some old-school Italian dining. The menu includes Seafood Salad with calamari, shrimp, and congili (conch) served in a lobster, Spaghetti & Meatballs, and Stuffed Pork Chops. No dish is over $25. Opening is set for the first week of July.

Fai Bene is loctated at 255 3rd Ave, Brooklyn, NY

Baby Luc's, slice joint, opening in Carroll Gardens
Photos: Cititour.com

Baby Luc's, a new slice joint, from the folks behind Lucali could open as early as this week. Diners who've been itching to snag a table at Lucali will now have an alternative with a spacious new restaurant and outdoor dining to boot. It already has 5 stars on Google and hasn't even opened yet.

Baby Luc's is located at 387 Court St, Brooklyn, NY

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RESTAURANT RADAR - SPUMONI GARDENS TO OPEN IN DUMBO

Sushi AMANE names new Executive Chef
June 21, 2021, 5:43.40 pm ET
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Photo: Sushi AMANE

Sushi AMANE, the Michelin-starred sushi restaurant, has reopened with Tomoyuki Hayashi as its new Executive Sushi Chef. Chef Hayashi apprenticed under top sushi masters in Tokyo for many years before leaving Japan to seek opportunities in America. Most recently he served as Executive Sushi Chef at Sushi Azabu in Tribeca.

At Sushi AMANE, Chef Hayashi will have full reign to put creativity on display with some surprises in store for diners like nama-yuba and Japanese uni with Kaluga caviar. Chef Hayashi’s omakase experience features wild fish imported from Japan and other countries. It consists of four small dishes, nine Nigiri, tamago, hand roll, and miso soup. The menu changes daily based on market availability.

Sushi AMANE is an eight-seat sushi bar concealed within MIFUNE’s subterranean dining room. The omakase sushi experience is priced at $200 and will have two seatings daily Tuesday through Saturday, at 6pm and 8:30pm.

Sushi AMANE is located at 245 East 44th St, New York, NY (212) 986-5300

For more information visit sushi-amane.com

BAILEYS AND ODDFELLOWS ICE CREAM TEAM UP TO CELEBRATE PRIDE
June 21, 2021, 12:52.49 pm ET
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Photo: Oddfellows, Bailey's

To celebrate NYC Pride and help ring in the official launch of summer, Baileys Irish Cream Liqueur and OddFellows Ice Cream Co. have teamed up to create a limited-edition soft serve ice cream. This non-alcoholic tweet is infused with the flavor of the newest from Baileys, Baileys Colada, and is covered with edible glitter and topped with a rainbow candy.The Baileys Colada soft serve will be available for purchase exclusively at OddFellows scoop shops in DUMBO and Williamsburg Domino Park from June 22 through June 26.

Meanwhile, on Sunday, June 27, customers can stop by OddFellows scoop shops in DUMBO and Williamsburg Domino Park to receive a complimentary non-alcoholic Baileys Colada soft serve while supplies last. This limited-time offer is only available to the first 250 customers (21+) who arrive at each shop!

For every sale of Baileys Colada soft serve, Baileys will match the price and make a donation to The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender Community Center whose mission is to celebrate our city’s diversity and advocate for justice and opportunity.

THIS WEEK IN LIVE PERFORMANCE
June 21, 2021, 10:14.05 am ET
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Photo: Shuga Cain

The Seven Deadly Sins: This brand-new outdoor production, set in the Meatpacking District, begins a six-week run on June 22. The piece features world premiere short works from Ngozi Anyanwu (Gluttony), Thomas Bradshaw (Sloth), MJ Kaufman (Pride), Moisés Kaufman (Greed), Jeffrey LaHoste (Envy), Ming Peiffer (Wrath), and Bess Wohl (Lust), performed by a diverse troupe of leading New York theater actors, reality show stars (including the exciting Shuga Cain), and exciting newcomers alike. Audience will gather and be welcomed with a brief performance at their first stop of the evening (Purgatory) before they divide into small, socially distanced pods. Each group will then explore the perils and pleasures of each sin’s storefront window (designed by Tony Award winner David Rockwell), while listening through provided sanitized headphones while wearing masks. For more information, visit www.sevendeadlysinsnyc.com.

Audience: The Czechoslovak-American Marionette Theatre will present its new live theater puppet production of Vaclav Havel’s classic autobiographical play on June 23 and 29 at 8pm at Bohemian National Hall (321 East 73rd Street). The show will be staged with projected closeups of puppets from security cameras in order to suggest the surveillance that was common in Czechoslovakia in the 1970s. Audiences will be seated and socially distanced for this 60-minute production, and admission is free. For more information, visit www.jsnyc.com/season/audience.htm.

King Lear: New York Classical Theatre will perform William Shakespeare’s renowned drama n four NYC parks from June 24 through August 8, beginning with a three-week run in Central Park (at 103rd Street). The show will feature a cast of 14, with John Michalski in the title role. The production will feature the “happy ending” of Nahum Tate’s 1681 adaptation along with several additional scenes from Tate’s version. For more information, visit www.nyclassical.org.


Photo: Michael Che

Michael Che: “Saturday Night Live” star Michael Che, known for his work on the series ‘ popular “Weekend Update” segment, will headline his new show, “Michael Shea Unperfect.” at Carolines on Broadway on Friday, June 25 at 9:45pm. He will then continue there with a July residency that will run on Tuesdays July 6, 13, 20 and 27 at 8pm. For tickets and information, visit www.carolines.com

Jason Robert Brown: The Tony-Award winning composer of such popular shows as “The Last 5 Years,” “13,” “Parade,” “The Bridges of Madison County,” and “Honeymoon in Vegas” returns to Feinstein’s/54 Below on June 26 at 7pm to celebrate his first-ever vinyl release, “Coming From Inside The House: A Virtual SubCulture Concert.” The show will feature songs from his award-winning shows and movies, his solo albums, and a couple of surprises, making it a true don’t-miss event. Visit 54below.com for more information.

SPEAKEASY TO OPEN AT BOND45
June 20, 2021, 11:48.43 pm ET
Details

“Speakeasy:Times Square,” an all-in-one immersive supper club experience that combines lavish performances with a deliciously decadent drink and food, will begin its summer residency at Bond45 in the Hotel Edison on Friday, June 25. This new show also marks the official reopening of the famed eatery, which has been closed since the pandemic.

The brainchild of producer and director Holly-Anne Devlin, the show features the top aerialist, burlesque, and theatrical performers in the world, including Jada Temple, Omar Edwards, Morgan Bryant, Sarah Meahl, Alec Varcas, Miss Miranda, Aryn, Opera Gaga, Tansy Burlesque, Audrey Love, Peekaboo Pointe, Megan Campbell, Jacob Yates, Josh Roberts, Tony Glausi and Lauren Mary Moore. There will be a special opening night appearance by “Kinky Boots” star J. Harrison Ghee.

Tickets to “Speakeasy” includes five specialty crafted cocktails designed by the master mixologists of Fireman Hospitality Group, which are perfectly paired to the evening’s performances and a sinful snack. Additional dining options from Bond45’s menu are also available to complete the supper club experience.

Speakeasy runs through July 31. For tickets and information, visit https://www.todaytix.com/nyc/shows/23421-speakeasy---times-square

Five exciting new restaurants to try in New York City
June 20, 2021, 11:12.07 pm ET
Details


Photo: Thomas Schauer

La Pavillon

Michelin-starred chef Daniel Boulud newly opened Le Pavillon, at One Vanderbilt Avenue, is pure elegance, The interior design features a winding garden path, seamlessly blending nature and architecture. Suspended above the bar, American artist Andy Paiko has created a custom, hand blown glass chandelier, highlighting breathtaking views of Grand Central Terminal and the Chrysler building. more


Photo: Cititour.com

Dame

The British have landed on MacDougal Street in Greenwich Village. Look for a seafood centric menu at Dame with fish & chips and grilled blowfish tails playing a starring role. The restaurant also plans to resurrect its Sunday Series in July, handing over the kitchen to an invited industry friend. more


Photo: YUCO

YUCO

Dive in to the flavors of the Yukotan at YUCO in Greenwich Village. The Menu features dishes like Snake River Farm ribeye tacos, squash blossom tacos, and braised oxtail empanadas, or go for a 5-course tasting menu with wine pairing. There's an imaginative cocktail list and 100 types of agave to choose from as well. more


Photo: HAND Hospitality

LittleMad

LittleMad is a new Korean-American restaurant in K-Town where Executive Chef Sol Han is employing French technique to create a playful, visual and interactive dishes. Look for Nduja Toast with manila clam, pickled pearls and herbs, Soft Shell Crab with speck, pea leaves and sabayon, among others. more


Photo: Bandits

Bandits

Bandits is New York City's newest watering hole at the corner of 44 Bedford Street in the West Village in the former Daddy-O space where visitors will be transported back in time. The restaurant is taking its cue from on an old school diner and dive, including cocktails that offer a nod to prominent moments in New York pop culture.

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DANCE AGAINST CANCER OUTSIDE BENEFIT TO TAKE PLACE IN DAMROSCH PARK
June 20, 2021, 12:26.18 am ET
Details


Photo: Dance Against Cancer

MTV host (and “Dancing with the Stars” contestant) Nev Schulman will host the American Cancer Society’s 2021 benefit, “Dance Against Cancer Outside,” at Lincoln Center’s Damrosch Park on Monday, June 21 at 7:30pm. The event can be seen by live audiences and will also be available for streaming.

The event will include world premieres and new works by Fredrick Earl Mosley, Darrell Grand Moultrie, James Gray, Adriana Pierce, Jacob Jonas and more.

In addition to Schulman, dancers will include Tiler Peck, Roman Mejia, Sara Mearns, Lloyd Knight, Hee Seo, Thomas Forster, Miriam Miller, Devon Teuscher, Denys Drozdyuk, Antonina Skobina, Ayodele Casel, Daniel Ulbricht, Matthew Rushing, Steve Hackman, and Kevin Boseman who lost his brother, award-winning actor Chadwick Bosemen to cancer last August.

For tickets and more information, visit dacny.org

POPULAR OPENS AT THE PUBLIC HOTEL
June 20, 2021, 12:12.34 am ET
Details

The Public Hotel (215 Chrystie Street) has announced the opening of Popular, its new restaurant featuring a menu of globally-inspired food and beverage created by two world-class culinary stars, Chef Diego Muñoz of Lima, Peru, and Chef John Fraser of New York City, who have been brought together by hotelier Ian Schrager. The restaurant has both indoor and outdoor seating.


Chef John Frazer (L), Chef Diego Muñoz (R)

Munoz’s culinary program celebrates Peru’s authentic, multicultural cuisine that seamlessly blends Incan, Spanish, Moorish, African, Italian, Chinese and Japanese contributions. Among the many dishes are Ceviche Nikkei, made with ahi tuna, miso, aji panca amd shiso; Papa Huancaína, made with aji amarillo, hen egg and botija olives; and a Wood Smoked Paella with clams, mussels and a parihuela broth. Brunch offerings include a Horchata French toast and a quinoa stir fry.


Photos: Popular at The Public Hotel

The inventive cocktail list includes nine libations made with Pisco, including a Pisco Sour with puro quebranta, lime, egg white and angostura; the Sandia Salada with acholado, fresh watermelon, mint & lemongrass tea and turmeric salt; and the Capitan with mosto verde italia, vermouth rosso and campari cherry. The extensive wine list features 19 wines by the glass and more than 90 by the bottle and include sherry and sake.

For more information, visit www.publichotels.com

Cocktail Time - The Tequila Sunrise at Tacos Guey
June 19, 2021, 10:28.49 am ET
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Photo: Cititour.com

When’s the last time you had a Tequila Sunrise? At Tacos Guey in Chelsea, the drink has been transformed into a powerful potion while keeping the rainbow of colors intact. It’s made with tequila, xtabentum, peaflower, orange and strawberry-hibiscus shrimp. Much of the alcohol floats on top. Drink a few of these and you might find yourself waking up at sunrise.

Other offerings include That Guey with congelado, tequila, curaçao, limon, tajin-guey; Paloma with mezcal or tequila with grapefruit, Limon and club soda; and the Michelada with mezcal, red pepper, habanero, tamarind, ginger, limon and cerveza (beer). Match them up with an assortment of flavorful tacos and other bar bites.

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Gotham Burger Social Club is coming to the Jane Hotel
June 18, 2021, 5:15.11 pm ET
Details


Photo: Gotham Burger Social Club

Gotham Burger Social Club - the 2021 people's choice winner at South Beach Wine & Food's legendary Burger Bash - will be residing at the Jane Hotel (113 Jane St) this summer, serving their signature smash burgers.

Gotham Burger's Mike Puma will be making his signature smash burgers, made with New York Valley wagyu beef, onions, American cheese and pickles, served on a Martin's potato roll bun.

Stay tuned for more details…

Around Town - Anthony Bourdain Pop-Up and more...
June 18, 2021, 12:06.29 am ET
Details

Sugar Hill Creamery, Time Out, DUMBO

Time Out Market DUMBO is open again after shutting down for the pandemic. Diners can choose to eat in or take their food out to a courtyard with picnic tables stationed outside. There are ten eateries to start with more to follow. They include Pat LaFrieda Meat Purveyors, Felice Pasta Bar, Ivy Stark, Jacob’s Pickles and Sugar Hill Creamery.

Queens Night Market is also back in action. The market reopens Jun 19 at Flushing Meadows Corona Park. There are close to 50 vendors, including Twisted Potato, Grilla in Manila, Don Ceviche and Treat Yourself Jerk Chicken to name a few. Saturday’s 4pm to Midnight through Sept 25th.

Uncle Win’s Food Truck has debuted near 32nd Street in Koreatown. We stopped by for some duck-filled spring rolls which were quite wonderful. Also on the menu, Roast Spareribs in Honey Sauce, Thai Pork Chop Rice, Grilled Eel Over Rice, Pan-Fried Dumplings and more.

Anthony Bourdain Pop-Up Les Halles

Roadrunner, a film about the late Anthony Bourdain, is set to be released next month. In celebration, there will be a Brasserie Les Halles pop-up in honor of where Bourdain began his culinary career. The pop-up is taking place at 411 Park Avenue South (at 28th St) from July 9th to 11th. The film hits theaters on July 16th. Tickets go on sale June 22 for Amex holders and June 24 for the general public. The cost is $95 for a three-course prix fixe menu which will include classic French onion soup, steak frites with au poivre sauce, and choice of dessert. Fore more information visit resy.com/roadrunner

Beauty and Essex returns after pandemic, NYC

The doorman is back at Beauty & Essex on the Lower East Side and so are the beautiful people who hang out there.

Bagel Boss is replacing Oddfellows on Houston Street.

Morgenstern's adds burgers, fries and pies

A few blocks away, Morgenstern’s Finest Ice Cream, also on Houston, is now offering burgers, fries and pies with its frosty treats.

Flag Exhibit, Times Square, NYC

In Times Square, A series of flags are on display in an exhibition entitled How I Keep Looking Up by Christine Wong Yap. The flags, made by seniors, address the challenges the city is facing after COVID.

M&Ms, Pride, Times Square, Love Wins
Photos: Cititour.com

The M&M's store is covered with the colors of the rainbow for PRIDE month with a heart that reads, Love Wins.

Until next time, we will see you Around Town!

Places to catch July 4th Fireworks in NYC and a meal
June 17, 2021, 6:22.58 pm ET
Details

During the long holiday weekend, here are four of spots where you can eat, drink and enjoy some fireworks on July 4th.


Photo: The Sentry

Manhattan:

Celebrate Summer in the City at The Sentry (435 E. 35th St.) atop the American Copper Buildings as the private social and pool club opens to ticket holders for one day only, July 4th obviously! The Sentry, which is perched 42 stories in the sky, will transform that day into a tropical paradise from 4pm - 11pm with a DJ, BBQ and epic view of the Macy’s firework show. Spending the day poolside on America's Birthday. All tickets include 4 drinks and can be purchased by visiting https://www.simpletix.com/e/summer-in-the-city-tickets-72797


Photo: Fornino

Brooklyn:

Fornino at Brooklyn Bridge Park's Pier 6 has a rooftop that's open beginning at 12pm daily (weather permitting). Visitors can watch the skyline illuminate with fireworks and enjoy generations of Neapolitan pizza creations in the process. In addition to fabulous pizza made in wood burning ovens, the eatery also serves specialty cocktails at the rooftop bar for the complete 4th of July experience. Reservations are a must and a $50 surcharge will apply to capture all of the action from this BK rooftop.

Photo: American Brass

Queens:

American Brass (2-01 50th Ave) in Long Island City will serve brunch, a raw bar and drinks menu midday and a three course dinner for $75 a person at night. The fireworks are directly in front of the restaurant on the waterfront, making it the place to be. See the show without being shoulder to shoulder with thousands of people while having a delicious meal and drinks at American Brass.


Photo: Clinton Hall

Staten Island:

Clinton Hall (55 Richmond Terrace) will open its newest location at Empire Outlets in Staten Island on July 4th. The Supercraft beer hall will have draft beers, signature cocktails, and over the top dishes like their award winning Double SmashBurger. This will be complemented by a fireworks display from Empire Outlets on the water, which is free to attend. the word “independence” rather than “emancipation.”

Mister Dips makes a splash at the Seaport
June 17, 2021, 12:21.51 am ET
Details

People are lining up for Mister Dips at the Seaport. The maker of gourmet dipped cones has a splashy new location on the water's edge. The shop with its Mister Dips mascot is a fun place with rounded edges, colorful signs and white booths and tables inside and out where you can enjoy your meal. The menu is chock full of dipped ice cream cones, the Dipsy Doozy ("a thick-aaazz shake") and the Boozy Doozy spiked with booze for adults.

Dipped cones include the Berry Gibbs, a strawberry dipped cone with nilla wafers and sweet cream, Buttermilk Crunch with mint custard, fudge drizzle & grasshopper cookie, and Chocolate P.B.D. featuring dark cocoa soft serve with a salted peanut butter dip. To celebrate pride month, Mister Dips is offering Pride N' True with vanilla custard, cake batter and all of the colors of the rainbow. Mister Dips is also serving up floats with root beer and other sodas.

Visitors will also find griddle burgers, which are excellent by the way, made with all-natural angus beef. Choose from a single dip with aged cheddar and "fine n' dandy" sauce, a double version and a double-smoked bacon version with American cheese and spicy red slaw. There also an Impossible Dip. Chixy Dips, which are crispy boneless chicken fingers, can also be found along with waffle fries, regular and loaded.


Photos: Cititour.com

One of the things we were really impressed with are the prices which start in the $5-to-$6 range for burgers and cones making it an affordable option for families in the area. But seeing kids' faces light up with one of the cones. Well, that's priceless!

Mister Dips is located at 89 South Street (Pier 17), New York, NY. Open Wednesday-Sunday.

For more information visit misterdips.com

Restaurant Radar - Spumoni Gardens to open in DUMBO
June 16, 2021, 10:55.07 pm ET
Details

L&B Spumoni Gardens opening new location in DUMBO
Photo: Cititour.com

L&B Spumoni Gardens is about to enter Brooklyn's pizza wars. Signage is up for its first new location at 49 Old Fulton Street in DUMBO just steps away from Grimaldi's and Juliana's which have been battling for pizza dominance over the past few years. This is Spumoni Garden's first new restaurant since opening its original location on 86th Street in Bensonhurst, Brooklyn back in 1939. Stay tuned!

The Book of Mormon, Freestyle Love Supreme return to Broadway
June 16, 2021, 5:42.36 pm ET
Details

The Book of Mormon returns to Broadway
Photo: Joan Marcus

Producer Anne Garefino announcing today that THE BOOK OF MORMON, winner of nine 2011 Tony Awards including Best Musical and the Grammy for Best Musical Theatre Album, will once again say ‘Hello!’ to Broadway when it returns to the Eugene O’Neill Theatre (230 West 49th Street) on Friday, November 5, 2021. Tickets will go on sale to the public on June 28, 2021 viaSeatGeek

Freestyle Love Supreme returns to Broadway
Photo: Freestyle Love Supreme

Before Hamilton and In The Heights, there was FREESTYLE LOVE SUPREME, the highly-acclaimed improv sensation created by Thomas Kail, Lin-Manuel Miranda and Anthony Veneziale more than 17 years ago in the basement of the Drama Bookshop in New York City. The strictly limited Broadway engagement, will begin performances on Thursday, October 7, 2021 at the Booth Theatre (222 West 45th St) with a limited run to January 2nd. Tickets go on sale Wednesday, June 23 at 10:00 am EST via Telecharge. A lottery for a limited number of $25 tickets will be offered during the run.

DOORS POP-UP SHOP TO OPEN IN SOHO
June 16, 2021, 5:22.50 pm ET
Details


Photo: Colin LoCasio

DOORS, a new fashion and art platform launched in midst of the pandemic, is opening its first one-week experiential pop-up on June 15 at 75 Wooster Street.

Along with New York-based fashion talent such as Private Policy and Colin LoCascio, the new pop-up will showcase over international cult brands including Juun.J, Litkovskaya, GCDS, and Linda Farrow, as well as over 20 artists. Clothing, jewelry, accessories, shoes, beauty products, home goods and art will be available for purchase.

The pop-up design concept has been created by Superpool, an international architecture firm based in Istanbul, Turkey, founded in 2006 by Selva Gürdoğan and Gregers Tang Thomsen who met at Rem Koolhaas’ studio in 2003.

After the first one-week pop-up in June in SoHo, New York, DOORS plans to launch three additional month-long pop-ups in Fall/Winter 2021 in New York, Miami, and Paris.

Old John's Luncheonette makes a retro return to the UWS
June 16, 2021, 12:20.52 am ET
Details

Old John's Luncheonette, NYC, Burger

Old John’s Luncheonette on the Upper West Side is back! The old-time diner has been resurrected by restaurateur Louis Skibar, a former Old John’s employee.

Old John's Luncheonette, NYC, Meatloaf

Old John’s is known for serving up classic American comfort foods. Think Disco Fries with pickled red onions, gravy, and mozzarella; Old John’s Burger with an 8 oz dry-aged patty, cheddar cheese, and raw onion on a house made sesame bun with French fries; My Momma’s Meatloaf with potato puree with French beans, brown butter and almonds; Saltine Cracker-Crusted Cod with steamed broccolini, homemade tartar sauce, and lemon; and Chicken Pot Pie with carrots, peas, and puff pastry.

Old John's Luncheonette, NYC, Blueberry Pie

For dessert, how about a Warm Brownie (baked in a cast iron skillet) with fresh mint chocolate chip ice cream and mocha crème anglaise, as well as cakes (Carrot Cake, 5-Layer Dark Chocolate Cake, Coconut Cake, and New York Cheesecake), pies (Apple Pie with salted caramel sauce, Blueberry Pie, and Lemon Meringue), and ice cream made in-house that you can get by the scoop, a sundae or banana split.

Photos: Marconi Jose Gonzalez

Due to its close proximity to ABC and The Juilliard School, Old John’s became a regular hangout for celebrities throughout its 70-year run. Tony Danza, Susan Lucci, Kevin Kline, Alan Alda, Paul Shaffer, and Regis Philbin were among its frequent visitors.Right now. The restaurant is open for dinner with breakfast and lunch to follow.

Old John’s Diner is located at 148 West 67th Street in New York City. 212-874-2700,

For more information visit iloveoldjohns.com

Just Opened - Lower East, Mendy's 2.0 and more
June 15, 2021, 11:48.25 pm ET
Details

Just Opened - Lower East, Noodle Shop, NYC

Lower East is located where Orchard Street and Stanton intersect on the Lower East Side. The restaurant is the latest project by Jonathan Morr, the proprietor of Bondst in NoHo and Republic which had a long run at Union Square. Lower East will features dishes like Shrimp & Avocado Tarts with togarashi and pickled onion, Summer Rolls, Veggie Wontons, Cauliflower Tempura and Chocolate Chicken Wings with a chocolate chili glaze. Several types of bao are offered including one with duck confit, pickled veggies and hoisin sauce. There’s a lengthy list of noodle dishes from Pad Thai and Shrimp Spicy Sausage to Charred Squid and Ginger Beef. Broth noodles are also available like Kakiage with Udon noodles and a Japanese crispy fritter. Punch cocktails and mocktails are also on the menu like Just Do It with watermelon, lime, hibiscus and gin, and Thai Breeze with Tito’s vodka, lemon, mango and passionfruit. Lower East is located at 167 Orchard Street, New York, NY (646) 719-1700

Just Opened - Mendy's 2.0, Jewish Deli, NYC

Mendy’s which closed down its Grand Central location has opened Mendy’s 2.0 a few blocks away on Park Avenue South. The Kosher Deli features staples like Old Fashioned Chicken Noodle Soup, Chopped Liver, Stuffed Cabbage along with specialty sandwiches like pastrami, corned beef and brisket. Burgers, hot dogs and knishes are also sold. Mendy’s is located at 441 Park Avenue South, New York, NY (212) 576-1010

Just Opened - Rib No. 7, KTown, NYC
Photos: Cititour.com

Rib No. 7 is a new Korean BBQ spot on West 33rd Street. The space is large and quite elegant. The food is strictly Korean. There’s Bossam with steamed pork belly and shredded radish Kimchi and Suyook, thinly sliced braised beef with chive and onion. BBQ plates include marinated prime aged rib, thinly sliced pork belly and marinated boneless pork rib. Larger plates Korean Army Stew with ramen noodles, Kimchi, Spam, hot dogs, bacon and vegetables, The Royal Galby, slowly braised beef ribs in a stew of radish, carrots and dates. Rib No. 7 is located at 32 West 33rd St, New York, NY (212) 381-0802

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WATERWELL TO PRESENT JUNE RITES !! AT GOVERNOR’S ISLAND
June 15, 2021, 5:40.03 pm ET
Details


Photo: Waterwell

Waterwell is proud to announce the world premiere of “June Rites !!,” an outdoor dance-theater piece celebrating the arrival of summer. It will be performed at Picnic Point on Governors Island from June 18 to June 27.

Conceived as a civic ritual in dialogue with state fairs and summer solstice festivals, this 60-minute piece will be an opportunity for collective reemergence into public spaces after a long, hard winter.

The piece will feature original music written and performed by Mauro Refosco and Gustavo Di Dalva. The production will be directed and choreographed by Lee Sunday Evans with costume design by Ásta Bennie Hostetter and scenic design by Mariana Sanchez.

Tickets are free of charge, with a suggested donation that goes directly toward Waterwell’s mission of telling engrossing stories in unexpected ways that grapple with complex civic questions. Tickets must be reserved in advance at waterwell.org/junerites

NYC Bites - Doughgirl Cupcakes in Bed-Stuy
June 14, 2021, 6:59.21 pm ET
Details

There's something magical about cupcakes. Whether its all the fluffy icing piled high, or a creamy suprise in the center. Doughgirl Cupcakes, on Marcus Garvey Blvd in Bed-Stuy, hits the mark on both counts. That means those delicious Red Velvet cupcakes with vanilla cream cheese frosting on top also have a dollop of cream in the center.

The Peanut Butter and Jelly Cupcake, which is topped with peanut butter cream and grape jelly on top , gets a with a dab of jelly in the center. You get the picture.

There are more than a dozen different flavors to choose from at any time, including Nutella, Lemon, Strawberry Cream, Oreo and more. Whole cakes can also be purchased in sizes ranging from six to twelve inches. Housemade Banana Pudding, Brownies and Chocolate Chip cookies are also sold. You go Doughgirl!

Doughgirl Cupcakes is located at 421 Marcus Garvey Blvd, Brooklyn, NY (347) 306-6601

For more information visit doughgirlcupcakes.square.site

Casa Limone brings stylish Italian dining to Midtown
June 14, 2021, 6:51.19 pm ET
Details

Casa Limone brings the flavors of Southern Italy to Midtown and a Michelin-Starred Chef. Chef Antonio Salvatore is a partner in the beautifully designed restaurant with the Monte Carlo Hospitality Group. The menu is inspired by Chef Salvatore’s upbringing in Basilicata as well as neighboring regions of Puglia, Calabria, Campania and the island of Sicily.

"I’m humbled to open a new restaurant in the United States during these unprecedented times and this period of recovery,” said Salvatore. “To be able to present versions of the dishes and ingredients I grew up eating, to a world-class city like New York, is a career highlight and we look forward to welcoming everyone to Casa Limone.”

Expressing the notion of La Dolce Vita, or the sweet life, Casa Limone is meant to be enjoyed at any time of day – from a light Italian breakfast, leisurely lunch, and aperitivo hour to a night out on the town. Menu highlights include Carpaccio di Tonno with yellowfin tuna, sundried tomatoes, olives and capers, Burrata Pugliese with tomato and basil, and hand-made pastas like Ravioli Casa Limone with wild mushrooms and sausage, and Spaghetti alle Vongole with manilla clams in a parsley-garlic sauce.

Pizzas inspired by Naples range from a simple Marinara pie to the Siciliani with fresh tomatoes, roasted eggplant, and ricotta salata. There’s also a roast beef pizza with mozzarella, parmesan and fresh arugula. Larger plates include roasted organic chicken cutlet with capers in lemon sauce, wild salmon with saffron risotto, breaded veal chop with caponata, mozzarella, ‘Nduja and tomato sauce, as well as dry-aged filet mignon with beef jus. Cap off the meal with house-made gelato, cannolo Siciliano, tiramisu and Rum Baba with Zacapa rum-soaked cake, vanilla cream and fresh berries.


Photos: Casa Limone

Classic Italian cocktails (Negroni Americano, Aperol Spritz) are also offered along with drinks inspired by the vitality of New York (Fiore Bianco, Sgroppino al Limone). A large selection of Southern Italian wines are available along with select Northern Italian, French, Argentine and American varieties.

Guests are greeted by a lovingly restored antique lemon-yellow Vespa, 17-seat white marble bar with royal blue velvet bar seats, and an intimate dining area with orange velvet chairs and flowered lattice that allows diners a peek into the kitchen. On the second floor, guests are transported to a pergola with climbing vines and hanging flowers that are accented by a stone wall and window shutters reminiscent of Italian streets.

Casa Limone is located at at 20 East 49th Street, New York, NY

For more information visit casalimonerestaurant.com

NEW YORK, NEW MUSIC: 1980-1986 ON VIEW AT MUSEUM OF CITY OF NEW YORK
June 14, 2021, 5:58.54 pm ET
Details


Credit: Charlie Ahearn, "Debbie Harry, Fab 5 Freddy, Grandmaster Flash,and Chris Stein,"
1981,
Courtesy of the photographer

The Museum of the City of New York is presenting “New York, New Music: 1980-1986,” a new exhibition that revisits the music scene of early 1980s New York City. The exhibition examines this transformative era through the lens of emerging pivotal music genres and the influence they played on New York’s broader cultural landscape.

The exhibition is organized around a series of key “moments” and features more than 350 objects, including video footage, photography, artifacts, and ephemera. such as: photographs by Janette Beckman, Martha Cooper, Joe Conzo, William Coupon, Bob Gruen, Laura Levine, Ebet Roberts, Chris Stein and others; flyers for Beastie Boys; Bad Brains; Sonic Youth; Teenage Jesus; The Feelies; and Gray and DNA at CBGB; an MTV Music Awards Moon Person Award Statul; vinyl records from Madonna, Funky 4+1, Liquid Liquid, and Konk; a Zoot Suit and hat worn by Kid Creole; a t-shirt and other ephemera from Keith Haring and DJ Larry Levan’s “Party of Life” event at Paradise Garage; guitars from Tim Wright, Arto Lindsay and Richard McGuire; and music videos and rare concert footage including Grand Master Flash; Fort Apache Band; Lounge Lizards and Cyndi Lauper.

Visitors will also have the opportunity enjoy some of the quintessential moments in a retro-feeling suburban rec room- inspired space, developed in collaboration with video artists Pat Ivers and Emily Armstrong, the team behind the original lounge for Danceteria in the early 1980s.

The lounge installation features a mix of found footage, video art, and their own archival film of downtown musicians like the Dead Boys, Heartbreakers and Bush Tetras; along with rare early MTV interviews with New York-based artists such as David Johansen, Madonna and RUN DMC, and footage from “The Scott and Gary Show,” a Brooklyn-based public access program, including early performances by Beastie Boys, Butthole Surfers and R Stevie Moore.

In addition, the exhibition will accompanied by film screenings of “After Hours” and “Krush Groove” and a virtual conversation with singer-songwriter Suzanne Vega.

For more information, visit mcny.org

WHAT TO SEND UP WHEN IT GOES DOWN PREMIERES AT BAM
June 14, 2021, 5:58.53 pm ET
Details


Photo: BAM

BAM and Playwrights Horizons will present Aleshea Harris’ new play “What to Send Up When It Goes Down,” directed by Whitney White, at the Fishman Space at BAM’s Fisher Theatre, June 20-July 11

This groundbreaking work is a play, a ritual, and a homegoing celebration that bears witness to the physical and spiritual deaths of Black people as a result of racist violence. Setting out to disrupt the pervasiveness of anti-Blackness and acknowledge the inherent value of Black people throughout history, this theatrical work blurs the boundaries between actors and audiences, offering a space for catharsis, discussion, reflection, and healing. This co-production will also have a staging at Playwrights Horizons in the fall.

The show’s cast features Alana Raquel Bowers, Rachel Christopher, Ugo Chukwu, Kalyne Coleman, Denise Manning, Javon Q. Minter and Beau Thom.

Tickets will go on sale on June 15. For more information, visit bam.org.

Ten places to celebrate dad this Father’s Day!
June 14, 2021, 5:32.31 pm ET
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Photo: Root & Bone

Is Dad a brunch guy?

Root & Bone is offering a menu of Southern classics including Chicken Fried Steak with country gravy & eggs, and a Boozy Brunch package (6/20 only).

The Pandering Pig is serving up Beef Wellington and Boeuf Bourguignon for pop.

Puttanesca is offering a special 2-course meal, including Filet Mignon and a Tuscan Style Veal Chop.

Rolo’s is rolling out Wood-fired Polenta Bread, Double Cheeseburgers, and Crispy Potatoes “War Style.”

Sweet Chick is offering dad all-day Nashville Hot Chicken and Waffles along with Chicken Sausage, Egg & Cheese on a Buttermilk Biscuit.

Maison Yaki has dad covered with its Super Crunchy Fried Chicken Sandwich and a limited-time Spare Ribs Special.

Mission Ceviche is serving up a special Father’s Day brunch featuring the flavors of Peru. Lomo Saltado anybody?

Disco Tacos will mark Father’s Day with its first ever Sunday Spin Day (12pm-3pm) with specials on margaritas, and music from DJ Marialina.

Bar Marseille in the Rockaways is offering bistro classics for dad, including Slow-Cooked Brisket with tomato gravy and grilled asparagus. Dine-in (6/20 only).

Amali is offering a Strube Ranch Wagyu Tomahawk Steak with choice of two vegetable sides. Dine-in only (6/19, 6/20).

Here's to you, Dad!

Japanese coffee house % Arabica takes DUMBO by storm
June 14, 2021, 12:44.35 am ET
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% Arabica, DUMBO, Brooklyn, Exterior

The New York coffee scene just got a java jolt. Japanese specialty coffee brand % Arabica (pronounced simply “Arabica”) opened its first ever U.S. location in DUMBO to long lines. The shop is providing some of the finest global Arabica coffee around, roasted and served in a stylish setting.

Founded in Kyoto – where its storefronts in Arashiyama and Higashiyama are famous for its long lines – % Arabica now boasts over 85 international locations. The DUMBO Roastery embodies the brand’s “New Wave” coffee ethos, designed to bring the the artisanal coffee experience to the masses.

% Arabica, DUMBO, Brooklyn, Interior

Like all of its global locations, % Arabica uses the award-winning Slayer Espresso machines (considered one of the best in the world), and also has its own in-store Probat roaster, manned by an in-house Master Roaster, to supply freshly roasted beans to customers. All of coffee is sourced from small farms, serving single-origin coffees and lighter roasts.

% Arabica, DUMBO, Brooklyn, Iced Spanish Latte
Photos: Cititour.com

In fact, the smell of that fresh roasted coffee hits you the moment you walk through the door. Hot and cold coffee drinks are available, like the Spanish Latte seen here made with a sweet creamy topping. It already appears to have a cult following. % Arabica is located at 20 Old Fulton Street, Brooklyn, NY

For more information visit arabicacoffee.us

Five exciting new restaurants to try in New York City
June 13, 2021, 2:32.07 pm ET
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Five exciting new restaurants to try in NYC - Skorpios
Photo: Skorpios

SKORPIOS

Escape to the Greek islands without leaving the city. Skorpios in Midtown boasts four indoor waterfalls cascading down marble pillars, an expansive rock wall and a 32-foot sand art wall providing the feel of a true island escape. more

Five exciting new restaurants to try in NYC - Jolene
Photo: Cititour.com

JOLENE

This is Gabe Stulman's new spot on Great Jones Street. The place has a laid back vibe, perfect to sit back with a glass or wine or cocktail while eating some snacks and dishes meant for sharing. more

Five exciting new restaurants to try in NYC - Fulgrances, Laundromat
Photo: Caroline Thompkins

FULGRANCES, LAUNDROMAT

Catch up with what the some of the city's hottest chefs are cooking up. At Fulgrances, Laundromat a new young chef is taking over the kitchen every 3 to 6 months. Victoria Blamey (Chumley's, Gotham Bar & Grill) is currently heading up the kitchen. more

Five exciting new restaurants to try in NYC - Nearly Ninth
Photo: Caitlin Ochs

NEARLY NINTH

Nearly Ninth, a new rooftop spot at the Arlo Hotel in Midtown features five dining spaces – lobby bar, lounge, rooftop, coffee bar, and later this summer, a dining room with an attached courtyard. Pizzas, pastas, and meatball sliders are featured on the menu. more

Five exciting new restaurants to try in NYC - KOYO

KOYO NEW YORK

Not quite a new opening, more of a reinvention by Chef/Owner Jay Zheng who ditched the omakase to focus on kaiseki cuisine with a 7 course tasting menu. The space features an eight-seat white marble Chef’s counter, open kitchen as well as a spacious outdoor patio. more

Some places to hit while hitting the Hamptons
June 12, 2021, 6:27.31 pm ET
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Photo: Kissaki

Kissaki is teaming up with Fish Cheeks in Montauk to offer Thai favorites plus Kissaki’s sushi menu. Find it at Kissaki X Fish Cheeks at the Anglers Club and Marina. 467 E Lake Dr.

Il Buco al Mare in East Hampton is giving seafood a starring role with its raw bar, tinned seafood, seared octopus, littleneck clams, duck wings and more. 231 Main St.

La Fin Kitchen & Lounge is a farm-to-table French spot on the shores of Montauk harbor. Menu items include lobster lettuce wraps, crepes, salads, quiche and burgers. 474 West Lake Drive (631) 668-8344

Old Stove Pub in Sagaponack is hosting guest celebrity chefs on Tuesdays along with its steakhouse fare. 3516 Montawk Highway (631) 537-3300

Manna at Lobster Inn in Southhampton is heavy on seafood, from baked clams and seafood towers to fluke Milanese and lobster bisque ramen. 5 Inlet Rd (631) 728-5555

Rita Cantina in East Hampton offers modern coastal Mexican fare. Think ceviche, local fluke tacos, Berkshire pork ribs & more, plus 14 different types of margaritas. 29 Maidstone Park Road (631) 329-3663

Buddha Lounge at Blu Mar in Southhampton is an Asian-inspired nightspot with musical guests for some late-night fun. 136 Main St

Si Si or “Yes, Yes” is a Mediterranean spot in East Hampton. Look for paella, bucatini with lobster, roasted branzino, amog others. Can accommodate yachts. 295 Three Mile Harbor Hog Creek Rd (631) 658-9380

Three places to try tonight if you can snag a table
June 12, 2021, 12:18.21 pm ET
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Olio é Piu, an Italian trattoria, in the heart of Greenwich Village, often has a line of people waiting to get in. Aside from curbside dining, it also boast a 45-seat open patio. The restaurant is know for its hand-stretched pizzas, house-made pastas and entrees incuding a fried Veal Cutlet Milanese and Grilled Ribeye. Drinks include the Belladonna (Luxardo sour cherry gin, cinzano, Mathilde framboise, prosecco). 3 Greenwich Avenue, New York, NY (212) 243-6546

Jack’s Wife Freda at Carmine always seems to draw a crowd for its comfort foods in a relaxed atmosphere. The all-day café is known for dishes like Rosewater Waffles for breakfast, Duck Bacon, Egg & Cheese sandwiches, and Bennie’s Chicken Schnitzel, among others. There’s a full cocktail list including the Bootsy Collins (vodka, lilllet Rouge, lime, mint) and La Vida Loca (mescal, triple sec, lime, honey). 50 Carmine St, New York, NY (646) 669-9888


Photos: Cititour.com

Havana New York, on West 38TH Street, has a lush outdoor dining area that fills up quickly. Inside there are large Cuba-inspired murals and full bar. Here you will find classic Cuban dishes reinvented and lively Latin and Mediterranean fare. Dishes include Shellfish fricassee with lobster, shrimp, mussels, and clams in a saffron-tomato broth, a traditional Cubano Sandwich, Chicharron de Pollo (crispy adobo chicken), and Bistec Churrasco (skirt steak with chimichurri sauce). Wash it down with some classy margaritas. 58 W 38th Street, New York, NY (212) 944-0990

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NYC Bites - The Raspberry Lychee Tart at Bibble & Sipp
June 12, 2021, 10:33.07 am ET
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Photo: Cititour.com

Bibble & Sipp’s playful treats are worthy of a visit. The Raspberry Lychee Tart is a real showstopper filled with raspberry Bavarian cream, lychee chunks and white chocolate whipped ganache. It’s topped with a seasonal macaron and a happy face. Other offerings include oversized Earl Grey and Matcha Cream Puffs, Milk Tea Cloud Cake and its whimsical Lucky Hazelnut made with hazelnut mousse and hazelnut chocolate cake. Assorted cookies and fresh baked breads are also available along with signature drinks like a lavender latte and passion fruit jasmine tea.

Bibble & Sipp has two locations in New York City at 253 West 51ST Street (646) 649-5116 and 174 Hester Street (646) 449-8900.

For more information visit bibbleandsip.com

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Around Town – New Spicy Picnic Box, Harry Potter’s Butterbeer, Dippin’ Dots and more…
June 11, 2021, 7:25.26 pm ET
Details

% Arabica opens in DUMBO
Photo: % Arabica/Avdoo

In restaurant news…

% Arabica, a Kyoto-based coffee shop, has landed in DUMBO in a very cool space. Located in the Fulton Ferry Historic District, the shop is using coffee sourced from small farms, serving single-origin coffees and lighter roasts.

Carne Mare has arrived at Pier 17 at the Seaport. It’s Andrew Carmellini’s new chop house serving up prime cuts of beef, seafood and Italian specialties.

SONA is doing lunch. Beginning Sunday, June 20 SONA will be offering a “flavor-packed” lunch. Look for dishes like an Egg & Cheese Dosa and a Spicy Chicken Sandwich with Masala fries.

Milu Sichuan Spiced Wings Picnic Basket
Photo: Oyster Sunday

Milu has launched a new Sichuan Spiced Wings Picnic Box, now available on Saturdays. The box, which costs $45 and serves two, included a bucket of 13 wings, scallion mayo dipping sauce, marinated cucumbers, tofu seaweed salad, 8 buttermilk biscuits and more. Available for pick-up, delivery and eat-in.

Smorgasburg is back in Prospect Park on Sundays starting June 13 with 35 vendors, full bar, ample seating and lots of space for the kids to run around, after filling their bellies of course. 11am-6pm at Breeze Hill.

Rough Trade at Rockefeller Center
Photo: Cititour.com

Rough Trade, the vinyl record store in Williamsburg, is marking its arrival at Rockefeller Center with Record Store Day on Saturday, June 12.

Picnic Performances at Bryant Park
Photo: Cititour.com

Picnic Performances kicked off this week at Bryant Park and judging by the crowds it was an astounding success. You will need to show proof of vax or negative COVID test to get it.

Butterbeer at Harry Potter Store
Photo: Harry Potter Store Butterbeer

Fawkes the Phoenix has landed at the Harry Potter Store in Flatiron. The crowds have died down a bit from opening day. Stop in for some Butterbeer at the Butterbeer Bar with nearly 1,000 bottles rising from the floor.

Dippin' Dots first NYC Store
Photo: Cititour.com

Dippin’ Dots, a staple on boardwalks across the Jersey shore, has its first NYC location on 23rd St across from Madison Square Park serving up its ice cream beads in various color and flavor combinations for the summer.

New York City continues to show its PRIDE. The windows at Saks Fifth Avenue are a rainbow of colors to mark the event.

Pride Window at Saks Fifth Avenue, NYC
Photo: Cititour.com

Lady Moo Moo in Bed Stuy is offering a special Rainbow Pride scoop.

Pride Ice Cream at Lady Moo Moo, Brooklyn
Photo: Cititour.com

Magnolia Bakery in Midtown is showing off its PRIDE Rainbow cake.

Pride Cake at Magnolia Bakery, NYC
Photo: Cititour.com

Que Chevere is raising money for Autism Speaks at Market Line. They will be holding a raffle Saturday, June 12 from 11am to 8pm. The grand prize is 4 tickets to a VIP suite for the Mets vs Dodgers game in August.

Until next time, we'll see you Around Town!
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Cocktail Time - The Royale at Cosme
June 11, 2021, 12:53.03 am ET
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Photo: Cititour.com

It’s that time of the week again, Cocktail Time. And this week we’re traveling to Cosme, the sexy Flatiron restaurant rooted in the flavors of Mexico. It’s also the perfect spot to share a cocktail or two with some Mexican bites.

The restaurant is known for its selection of margaritas including the Royale. The drink is made with Casa Dragones Blanco tequila with Giffa ds Triple Sec, lime and champagne and is served it a highball glass with a twist of lime.

It’s is light, refreshing, and our new favorite summer cooler!

Cosme is located at 35 East 21st St, New York, NY

For more information visit cosmenyc.com

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NYC Bites - Indian street snacks called pani puri arrive in Hell's Kitchen
June 11, 2021, 12:11.31 am ET
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Photo: Taco Mahal

Taco Mahal, the West Village cult eatery known for selling its Chicken Tikka Masala Naan Tacos from a converted newsstand, is branching out to Hell’s Kitchen.

The “Latindia” hybrid is now open on 9th Avenue (between 45th and 46th), launched by second-generation restaurateur Danikkah Josan.

The new location is introducing pani puri, a street snack well known in India that is now finding its place stateside. Often sold in kiosks, these bitesize Indian poppers consist of a crisp, hollow bread filled with tamarind-flavored water and chickpeas, potato, coriander, onion, and masala. Tandoori Chicken Wings, Chips & Chutney, Masala Fries, and Mango Lassi round out the signature menu options.

This summer, Josan will also be opening Manhattan’s first ever Kulfi shop, selling traditional Indian no-churn ice cream.

For more information visit tacomahalnyc.com

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Celestine reopens in DUMBO
June 10, 2021, 6:29.05 pm ET
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Celestine, DUMBO, Brooklyn, Views

Celestine - the Mediterranean restaurant in DUMBO with stunning views of the bridges and Manhattan skyline - has reopened following its winter hiatus with a new chef, Sean Froedtert. Sean previously worked for years at Cookshop and Buvette.

Celestine, DUMBO, Brooklyn, Chef Sean Froedtert

While Celestine has specifically identified itself as Eastern Mediterranean in the past, they're now aiming to take the menu in a more general Mediterranean and seasonal direction. The updated menu includes signature dishes on Celestine's menu, such as the mezze, branzino and roast chicken, maintaining its Mediterranean influences while also bringing some new dishes into rotation.

Celestine, DUMBO, Brooklyn, Short Rib Manti

Look for dips like Muhammara with walnut and piquillo pepper, Pistachio Feta Spread and House-made Flatbread with Za’atar. Other offerings include a Vegan Caesar, Short Rib Manti with onion marmalade and pomegranate, Spiced Half Chicken with brown butter jus, and a Brisket Burger with a custom blend provided by Pat LaFrieda served with cheddar and fries.

Celestine, DUMBO, Brooklyn, Brisket Burger
Photos: Celestine/Max Flatow

The new cocktail menu features drinks like the Celestine Spritza (Aperol, Cocchi Aperitif, Grapefruit, Cava), the Phoenix (Vodka, Blood Orange, Hibiscus, Lemon) and Lazy Hustler (Mezcal, Passionfruit, Coconut, Chamomile, Pineapple, Citrus). Spirit-free drinks are also available like the Blackberry Cooler.

Celestine is currently open for indoor and outdoor patio dining Wednesday - Sunday from 5pm - 10pm and plans to add brunch in the next couple of weeks.

For more information visit celestinebk.com

TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD SETS BROADWAY RETURN
June 10, 2021, 6:00.56 pm ET
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Photo: Juliet Cervantes

The highly successful stage adaptation of Harper Lee’s “To Kill a Mockingbird” is set to resume performances on Broadway on Tuesday, October 5 at the Shubert Theatre. The production features a script by Aaron Sorkin, based on Lee’s landmark novel, and direction by Bartlett Sher.

Tony Award nominee Jeff Daniels will reprise his iconic role as local attorney Atticus Finch and Celia Keenan-Bolger returns in her Tony Award-winning performance as his daughter Scout. Remaining casting will be announced shortly.

Set in Alabama in 1934, the play focuses on the Finch family, which also includes Scout’s brother Jem, as well as their caretaker Calpurnia, their visiting friend Dill, and a mysterious neighbor, the reclusive Arthur “Boo” Radley. When Atticus defends an African-American man charged with a serious crime against a white woman, the family finds itself in the middle of a major controversy.

Tickets are now available via Telecharge at 212-239-6200 and on Telecharge.com.

NEW YORK CITY MACY'S FIREWORKS ARE BACK!
June 10, 2021, 11:06.36 am ET
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NEW YORK CITY MACY'S FIREWORKS ARE BACK!
Photo: Cititour.com

New York City Mayor Bill De Blasio says “Macy’s Fourth of July Fireworks are back in New York City," The Mayor announcing that Macy's is bringing back a full-scale fireworks show this year, adding, "This will be the biggest show yet. Macy’s is planning the biggest fireworks show it has ever had.”

The Mayor says there will be areas for fully vaccinated folks and other areas for people who are not vaccinated, calling it “a tremendous sign of the rebirth of the city.”

Macy’s says the it all starts with a spark on Sunday, July 4 at approximately 9:25pm, the 45th anniversary of Macy’s July 4th fireworks will ignite with a jaw dropping 25-minute salute to the nation with five barges lining the New York City’s East River. Macy’s will launch more than 65,000 shells delighting spectators in Manhattan, Brooklyn and Queens and millions more on television nationwide during NBC’s 2-hour broadcast special. The show will feature performances by the Black Pumas, Coldplay, Tori Kelly and Reba McEntire.

Mayor De Blasio says the Coney Island fireworks show will also be back this year after the Macy’s fireworks display is held.

Fore more information click here

BOWNE & CO TO OFFER FREE PRINTING DEMONSTRATIONS
June 9, 2021, 6:30.24 pm ET
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Photo: South Street Seaport Museum

The South Street Seaport Museum has announced that as part of the 2021 Season of Seaport Museum Open Days, Bowne & Co. will host free, outdoor letterpress printing demonstrations from June 11 to October 10 on Fridays and Saturdays.

The printers will set up a selection of historic presses outdoors on the steps of 209-211 Water Street. Demonstrations -- which will take place every hour on the hour between 11am-5pm and will run from five to seven minutes long – will illustrate the 19th century printing process with a variety of presses and equipment from the Museum’s Printing History Collection. Items printed throughout the day will be given away as tangible reminders of the experience.

Alongside these demonstrations, shoppers can browse new products now available for purchase from Bowne & Co., including new lines of letterpress-made postcards, broadsides, and boxed notecard sets, For more information, visit bowne.co.

Yuco arrives in the Village
June 9, 2021, 6:06.38 pm ET
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The flavors of the Yucatan are flowing at YUCO in the heart of Greenwich Village. Co-owners Trent Walker and Chef Christian Ortiz (Landmarc, Prime House) are drawing inspiration from the foods they love from the Yucatan Peninsula.

The a la carte menu and bar menu features Snake River Farm Ribeye tacos, squash blossom tacos, and braised oxtail empanadas. A short-form tasting menu begins with a first course of Ceviche, that includes sushi-quality, sustainable kampachi, tender octopus, cucumber, apricot and citrus; second course of Flor en Nogadas, lightly tempura-fried squash blossom, sweet plantain, red prickly pear spheres on walnut cream with poblano powder, a riff on the traditional red, white and green poblanos en nogadas, that pay homage to Mexican independence with the colors of the Mexican flag.

The third course is top quality Wagyu Ribeye Steak, served with smoked chayote puree, pearl onion, and chili pepper demi-glace. The fourth and final dessert course, called Corn Texture, combines sweet corn crème patisserie, aguachilies sorbet, corn shortbread and carbon powder for a touch of smoky, bitter contrast. Wine pairings can be arranged to go with any of the menus.


Photos: Yuco

From the bar, guests can choose from about 100 different Agave-based spirits. Cocktails include a Spicy Margarita with Lunazul El Humoso Tequila, agave nectar & spice, and Pulp Fiction made with beef-fat washed Ten to One Dark Rum and Feijolas.

For more information visit yucorestaurant.com

LITTLEMAD OPENS IN KOREATOWN
June 9, 2021, 5:31.40 pm ET
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LITTLEMAD OPENS IN KOREATOWN

LittleMad, a vibrant new Korean-American restaurant from Executive Chef Sol Han in partnership with HAND hospitality, has opened at 110 Madison Ave (between 29th and 30th Streets.). The eatery combines Sol’s Korean-American background, with French and Italian culinary techniques as well as his penchant for playful, visual and interactive elements.

LITTLEMAD OPENS IN KOREATOWN

The modern industrial 50-seat dining room features floor-to-ceiling glass doors, exposed wood ceilings and copper details woven throughout the space, which are inspired by Sol’s love of French cooking pots. An open kitchen centers the energy of the dining room, and an intimate bar offers an additional six seats.

LITTLEMAD OPENS IN KOREATOWN

The menu’s highlights include Yellowtail with Asian pear, sesame dressing and scallion oil; Beef Tartare with yukhwe, shitake and a maesangi chip, crushed tableside with a mini wood hammer; Pyeonyuk Torchon with head cheese, market greens and yangyum dressing; Zucchini a la Cesar with black sesame, parsley and blossoms; Fried Buhsut with maitake mushrooms, sour cream and onion; Nduja Toast with manila clam, pickled pearls and herbs; Soft Shell Crab with speck, pea leaves and sabayon; Crispy Bossam with marcona almonds, anchovy and horseradish; and Black Bass with artichoke, mussel and pickled ramp kimchi.

LITTLEMAD OPENS IN KOREATOWN
Photos: HAND Hospitality

The beverage menu features the best of Eastern and Western offerings, with signature cocktails like Sol Honey, made with damsol and Korean honey, and Yes Yes Yuzu, made with bourbon and yuzu, as well as a selection of soju, and an extensive wine list.

For more information, visit littlemadnyc.com

Just Opened - Tacos Guey, Casa Limone and more
June 9, 2021, 2:05.47 am ET
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Tacos Guey, Chelsea, NYC

Tacos Güey has arrived in Chelsea. This sexy, candlelit spot features lots of exposed brick and a full bar showcasing dozens of different mezcals. Cocteles include This Güey Congelado with mezcal, oaxacan rum, pineapple, honey, and mint and the Gringito with tequila, avocado, maize, serrano, lmón, and basil. Bites include prawn ceviche, surf clams escabeche and big eye tuna crudo. Diners will also discover assorted tacos (carnitas, carne asada, pescado frita, birria and more), along with pork belly sopas and tamales. Churros with a chocolate dipping sauce are among the desserts.37 West 19th St, New York, NY (212) 991-8222

Bar Limone, Midtown, NYC

Michelin-starred Chef Antonio Salvatore makes his North American debut at Casa Limone in the City with the flavors of Southern Italy. The stylish two-level restaurant with a lemon-yellow scooter up front is highlighting dishes from Chef Antonio's upbringing in Basilicata and nearby Puglia, Molise, Calabria and Campania. Look for an assortment of pizzas, including the Calabrese with Pepperoni Calabrese, tomatoes, mozzarella, Taggiasca olives, and pasta dishes like Ravioli Casa Limon with ricotta ravioli, wild mushrooms, and Italian sausage. Other offerings include wild salmon with saffron risotto, and a breaded veal chop with ‘Nduja, and tomato sauce. 20 East 49th St, New York, NY (646) 370-6282

Barn Joo, NoMad, NYC
Photos: Cititour.com

Barn Joo continues to expand with a third location now in NoMad on the corner of 28th Street and 6th Avenue. The restaurant is known for Korean-inspired tapas and plates to share. Think bulgogi tacos, BBQ chicken, short ribs, Korean Army Stew, and several types of bibimbap. Cocktails, Korean spirits and sake are also available. 816 6th Avenue, New York, NY

NEW YORK CITY ARTS - MOMA AND MORE
June 8, 2021, 5:44.19 pm ET
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Just like the weather, the art and museum scene is heating up as NYC comes back to life. Here are some events and exhibits to put on your calendar this week.


Photo: Cézanne Drawing/MoMA

The newest exhibit at MoMA (11 West 53rd Street), “Cézanne Drawing” brings together more than 250 rarely shown works in pencil and kaleidoscopic watercolor from across the artist’s career, along with key paintings, that together reveal how drawing shaped Cézanne’s transformative modern vision.Drawing almost daily on individual sheets and across the pages of sketchbooks, Cézanne often focused on those subjects close at hand, including the objects on his kitchen table, his wife and son, and clocks and lamps that adorn domestic life, as well as views of his favorite Mont Sainte-Victoire or into dense On paper, he rendered the iconic motifs for which he is most recognized—vibrant still lifes, prismatic landscapes, and carefully choreographed bathers—with a fresh immediacy. (www.moma.org)

The Metropolitan Museum of Art (1000 Fifth Avenue) has partnered with Citymeals on Wheels on a new initiative to bring creative and art-focused activities, inspired by The Met collection, to older adults throughout New York City. The monthly “Your Met Art Box” features four art cards with full-color images of works from the Museum’s permanent collection, along with questions and activities to encourage seniors and Citymeals volunteers to explore art and art making together during weekly conversations. The box, whose contents will be tied to a monthly theme, will also include materials and other items that engage the senses; a booklet of bonus information about each featured work of art; and two stamped, large-format postcards that act as free passes to the Museum. Recipients are encouraged to write and send these postcards to family and friends to inspire communication and community connection after a year of increased isolation among older New Yorkers due to the ongoing pandemic. (www.metmuseum.org)


Photo: Untitled (Drone)/High Line

The second High Line Plinth commission, “Untitled (drone)” by Seattle-born artist Sam Durant, is now on view on the High Line Plinth, at 30th Street and 10th Avenue. Durant’s fiberglass sculpture in the shape of an abstracted drone atop a 25-foot-tall steel pole continues High Line Art’s mission of presenting new, powerful, thought-provoking artworks that generate and amplify some of today’s most important conversations. (www.thehighlineart.org)

The Lower East Side Tenement Museum (97 Orchard Street) is celebrating being back in business on June 12 from noon to 4pm with its Grand Reopening Block Party on Orchard Street. Enjoy tours, giveaways from local business, activities, performances, as well as the launch of its newest walking tour, Reclaiming Black Spaces, an initiative that has been two years in the making. (www.tenement.org)


Photo: Melissa Schainker Exhibit

Acclaimed artist Melissa Schainker has a new exhibition of her striking and colorful works at Bento on Hudson (675 Hudson Street). Her background in both graphic design and painting are evident in the unusual portraits on display in this special event space. (www.mschainkerfineart.com)

FOO FIGHTERS TO BE MADISON SQUARE GARDEN’S FIRST CONCERT
June 8, 2021, 10:39.24 am ET
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Photo: Foo Fighters

Grammy-winning rock band Foo Fighters will play Madison Square Garden on June 20, marking the legendary venue’s first concert in more than 460 days and the first 100 percent vaccinated event at the venue. Tickets go on sale to the general public on June 11 at 10am.

Foo Fighters first headlined a sold-out Garden in February 2008 on their “Echoes, Silence, Patience & Grace” tour and returned to rock the venue for another sell-out show in November 2011 on the “Wasting Light” tour. The group recently released their latest album “Medicine at Midnight.” The group has 12 Grammy Awards, including four for Best Rock Album.

The June 20 Foo Fighters show is part of the company’s efforts to restart New York, which also include two sold-out events this month: the closing night of Tribeca Festival featuring “Untitled: Dave Chappelle Documentary” at Radio City Music Hall on June 19 and “Two Evenings With Trey Anastasio” at the Beacon Theatre on June 22-23.

For more information, visit foofighters.co/MSG

Hitting the roof for the latest food lineup
June 8, 2021, 12:50.52 am ET
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Rooftop Reds announces summer food lineup, NYC
Photo: Rooftop Reds

Rooftop Reds, the world’s first rooftop vineyard at the Brooklyn Navy Yard, is announcing its guest restaurants for the summer.

This year’s lineup includes.

- Rosella: The East Village sushi restaurant that puts an emphasis on locally sourced, sustainable fish and seasonal ingredients. The team, who recently received rave reviews from The New York Times and New York Magazine, will serve special handrolls like Arctic Char and Avocado with Rosella Sauce as well as the Spicy Avocado.

- The Migrant Kitchen: Arab-Latin restaurant that provides meaningful opportunities for immigrants from chefs Nasser Jaber and Dan Dorado. The chef-duo will offer a selection of snacks and dips including Burrata with Grilled Peaches and Zaatar, Lamb Empanadas and House Made Hummus with Chimmichuri, as well as larger plates like Cauliflower Shawarma and Spicy Crispy Chicken Sandwich, in addition to curating a seated multicourse dinner.

- Safar by Moosh: A journey into the Persian cultural experience, chef Behzad Jamshidi will serve items such as Carmelized Labneh, Lamb Tartare, and Spicy Pickles, benefiting displaced and traditionally disenfranchised restaurants.

- Chef Olly and Chef Cava: Award-winning, classically trained team who will serve a vegetable forward menu with seasonal produce from the Northeast

- Salem’s Hour: New Orleans-inspired cajun cuisine and soul music.

Rooftop reds is also unveiling its solar kitchen as it works to become carbon neutral. Guests will also enjoy views on the New York City skyline.

For more information please visit www.rooftopreds.com

New York City announces plans for a comeback concert
June 8, 2021, 12:37.56 am ET
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New York City announces plans for a comeback concert
Photo: Cititour.com

New York City is planning what’s being called a “homecoming” after the pandemic. Mayor Bill DeBlasio is acing it a “once in a lifetime week” that includes a massive concert in Central Park. It’s the brainchild of Danny Meyer, Chair of the New York City Economic Development Corporation Board.

DeBlasio adding, “I know it's going to be a great lineup because we turned to one of literally the greatest figures in music industry history, Clive Davis. Brooklyn's own, Brooklyn born and bred, never forgot the city he loves. I turned to Clive, I said, I need the biggest, most extraordinary all-star lineup you can put together, heavy on New York artists. He said, I'm on it. I'm going to make it happen.”

No exact date has been given. Stay tuned.

SPRINGSTEEN ON BROADWAY TO RETURN THIS SUMMER
June 7, 2021, 6:30.45 pm ET
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SPRINGSTEEN ON BROADWAY TO RETURN THIS SUMMER
Photo: Rob DeMatin

Legendary musician Bruce Springsteen will return to Broadway for a limited run of his award-wining show “Springsteen on Broadway” at Jujamcyn's St. James Theatre (246 W 44th Street) from Saturday June 26 through September 4.

Based on his worldwide best-selling autobiography “Born to Run,” the show is a unique evening with Springsteen, his guitar, a piano, his songs and his very personal stories. Springsteen earned a Special Tony Award for the show’s original run of performances. In addition, the show was later adapted into a film and a soundtrack album.

Springsteen has sold more than 135 million records worldwide and more than 64 million records in the United States. He has earned numerous awards for his work, including 20 Grammy Awards, two Golden Globes, an Academy Award, a Kennedy Center Honor and the Woody Guthrie Prize. He was inducted into both the Songwriters Hall of Fame and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1999, was named MusiCares person of the year in 2013, and was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Barack Obama in 2016.

Proceeds from the show’s opening night will be donated to a group of local New York and New Jersey charities including the Boys and Girls Club of Monmouth County, Broadway Cares/Equity Fights Aids, Community FoodBank of New Jersey, Food Bank for New York City, Fulfill (Monmouth & Ocean Counties Foodbank), Long Island Cares, NJ Pandemic Relief Fund and The Actor’s Fund.

Tickets will go on sale Thursday, June 10 at 12pm through the show's official ticketing provider SeatGeek; visit https://seatgeek.com/springsteen-on-broadway-tickets. For additional information, visit https://brucespringsteen.net/

THIS WEEK IN LIVE THEATER
June 7, 2021, 11:44.06 am ET
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Photo: My Cyrano

As live theater begins to return to NYC, this weekly column will keep you up to date on the newest offerings.

“My Cyrano”, a modern improvisational adaptation of Edmond Rostand’s classic play “Cyrano de Bergerac” -- featuring extracts from Tanya Lebedinskaya’s poem “My Cyrano” – is being presented in Russian with English supertitles at The Center at West Park (125 West 86th Street) on June 11 and 12. The show, which blends musical, dance, and theatrical performance, includes music by hard-rock band The Blackfires and Grammy-winning Baroque musician Jordi Savall. The Blackfires’ front man Andrey ‘Cheggi’ Chegodaev leads the cast as Cyrano with Marina Wonder as Roxanne. For tickets and information, visit https://tinyurl.com/2021mycyrano.

The Downtown Urban Arts Festival will feature works from 16 playwrights at the Abron Arts Center (466 Grand Street, New York City) from Thursday, June 10 through Saturday, June 26. For the opening week, works by Sheila Duane, Mel Nieves, Malique Quinn and Alano P. Baez will be presented. Reservations must be made by visiting www.DUAFnyc.com.

In honor of Gay Pride Month, INTAR (500 West 52nd Street) is presenting an outdoor production of “Oso Fabuloso & The Bear Backs!” on June 12 .The show, which has book and lyrics by C. Julian Jiménez with music by P.K. Variance, focuses on a Queer Latino bear named Oso Fabuloso (played by Jimenez), who has recently been dumped by a two-timing daddy bear. In order to overcome his depression, Oso seeks the help of his therapist Dr. Calvo, who convinces him to go on tour and use his gift of song to sing the blues away For tickets and information visit www.intartheatre.org.

Thanks to Vern, a new, improvised two-act musical will be created for four Saturdays this summer, beginning on June 12, at the Players Theater (115 MacDougal Street). Players include Matt Giroveanu, Katie Hammond, Daniel Teppe, Mikey Cakes, Julie A. Feltman, Rachel Bouton, Kiki Mikkelsen and Jeff Scherer. For information, visit www.vernimprov.com

WOLFNIGHTS TO OPEN ON UPPER WEST SIDE
June 7, 2021, 10:49.16 am ET
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Photo: Wolfnights

Wolfnights, which continues to perfect its menu of crave-worthy wraps by using the highest quality ingredients to achieve unique flavor experiences, will open its third NYC location on Thursday, June 10 at 2675 Broadway (at 102nd Street). It will have eight indoor seats and eight outdoor seats. Opening day diners will be treated to a free wrap with a $5 donation to the West Side Campaign Against Hunger and the first 20 people in line at opening get a $100 Wolfnights Gift Card.

Wraps include the Dire Wolf, made with fried chicken wrapped in a ginger dough with lamb bacon, melted cheddar, green papaya slaw, spicy pickled shipka peppers and Wolf Ketchup; the Mowgli, featuring grilled cauliflower wrapped in a fennel seed dough with spicy pickled pineapple, shallot, barbecue potato chips and sage aioli; and The Pack, made with scrambled eggs and lamb bacon wrapped in fig dough melted cheddar, sumac onions, tater tots, pickled Jalapeño and chipotle aioli.

All wraps can be made into a bowl with a choice of mixed greens, a bed of Arugula or Quinoa. Sides include Tater Tots, Smokin’ Steak Fries, Zaatar Fried Chicken Tenders and more. Drinks include Boylan sodas and indulgent milkshakes.

The company has two other NYC locations at 99 Rivington Street on the Lower East Side and in Greenwich Village at 235 Bleecker Street, with a fourth NYC location set to open in August at 40 West 55th Street.

For more information, visit www.wolfnightsusa.com

Kōyō reopens in Astoria, Queens
June 5, 2021, 8:15.33 am ET
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Photo: Koyo

Kōyō, located in Astoria, has reopened after closing due to the pandemic. It is one of just a handful of New York restaurants focusing on kaiseki cuisine. Chef-Owner Jay Zheng is now offering a 7-course kaiseki tasting menu.

It includes dishes like house-made black sesame tofu with classic kaluga caviar and freshly grated wasabi; followed by Hassun a collection of smaller bites served on an eight-inch dish intended to be eaten clockwise beginning on the left: monkfish liver with freshly grated daikon, followed by mozuku salad, dressed with a tosazu gelée, meant to be taken as a shot. Botan ebi, spotted shrimp from Japan, topped with Hokkaido uni is the next suggested bite. Rounding out the Hassun is braised bamboo shoot along with hotaru ika and firefly squid, served atop of sake steamed broccoli rabe.

The soup course follows, Suimono, a sugar snap pea puree and Dungeness crab, followed by the Yakimono, a grilled octopus leg from Monaco brushed with tare and finished on a charcoal Binchotan grill. Pulling from Zheng’s cultural background is the rice course, Gohan, forbidden black rice with hijiki seaweed, and aori ika, Japanese reef squid, then finally a Nigiri course, which is six pieces of sushi composed from the freshest fish from Japan, Australia, New Zealand, and Spain, each individually selected and prepared by Zheng. The meal ends with Mizumono, the dessert course: a hojicha milk pudding along with black sugar tapioca and a light kuromitsu.

The space features an eight-seat white marble Chef’s counter, open kitchen as well as a spacious outdoor patio.

Kōyō is located at 37-12, 31st Avenue in Astoria, Queens (929) 328-2890

For more information visit koyonewyork.com

Grand Army Bar's new drink menu honors Nicolas Cage
June 5, 2021, 7:56.56 am ET
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Grand Army Bar, Nic Cage, Dr. Goodspeed
Dr. Goodspeed

Grand Army Bar, in Boerum Hill (336 State Street) is launching an all-new menu update for its food and drinks, while announcing the arrival of its new chef, Thom Chun, formerly of Coi in SF.

The theme of this summer’s cocktail menu is based around actor Nicolas Cage of Raising Arizona, The Rock and Moonstruck fame. The 14 new cocktails were created by Robby Dow (beverage director, longtime employee of GA) and Ally Marrone, the new head bartender who worked previously at (the now-closed) Blacktail. There are riffs on martinis, old fashioneds, spicy margs, negronis, tiki classics, and even a spritz on tap which is affectionately named "Nic Cage Champagne."

Grand Army Bar, Nic Cage, Raising Arizona
Raising Arizona

They have also commissioned local tattoo artist Annie Lloyd (@getfatbk) to hand draw custom caricatures of iconic Nic Cage moments. They're included on the digital menu and they also are giving out temporary tattoos of them at the bar when you order one of the cocktails.

Why Nic Cage, you ask? Why not! The bar is known for its irreverent cocktail menu themes. (Previous themes include My Little Pony, gemstones, Gilmore Girls, Sade songs, monster trucks, space cowgirls, and state parks of Oklahoma.)

Grand Army Bar, Boerum Hill, Deviled Eggs
Deviled Eggs

To go along with those cocktails, Chef Thom Chun, is taking the food to the next level. He's embracing Grand Army's raw bar traditions and has totally revamped the seafood tower, and added more menu items like marinated shrimp, deviled eggs with crab, a trouthead sashimi cured with gin and olives, a mapo octopus dish, a delightful fluke ceviche, and more.

Grand Army Bar, Boerum Hill, Fluke Ceviche
Photos: Grand Army Bar Fluke Ceviche

Last but not least, Grand Army is also giving its wine list a user-friendly overhaul so that every single bottle has an easy-to-understand description, no matter what a guest's level of wine knowledge.

For more information visit grandarmybar.com

Vinegar Hill House returns reinvigorated
June 5, 2021, 7:04.24 am ET
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Vinegar Hill House returns reinvigorated, Brooklyn

Vinegar Hill House has reemerged from the pandemic better than ever. That laid back vibe, wonderful food and a friendly staff are keys to its success. These days the restaurant has both inside and outside diner on a street with wood-framed houses and shops of old New York that make up the Vinegar Hill neighborhood on the outskirts of DUMBO.

Vinegar Hill House, Brooklyn, Cocktail

Here you can opt for a full meal or, as we did, some cocktails and some light bites. The warmer weather is perfect for some refreshing cocktails. Some Light You Can Hold is one of them, a mix of tequila, aperol, maraschino & lime, and Cosmic Reflection made with Japanese melon liqueur, lime and soda. Wine, beer, cider and sake are also offered, along with several non-alcoholic drinks.

Vinegar Hill House, Brooklyn, Charcuterie

To go along with its cocktails, Vinegar Hill House offers several types of cheeses and charcuterie. All are outstanding. There’s Farmstead Cheese, which offers a selection of both hard and soft cheeses, served with grapefruit marmalade and oat crackers. Basque-style salami arrives with pickled ramps and thick slices of toast drizzled with a bit of olive oil.

Vinegar Hill House, Brooklyn, Charred Octopus

Other offerings include Charred Octopus with cauliflower soubise and vadouvan, and Chicken Liver Mousse with vinegar onions and pistachios. Pastas bring Rigatoni with lamb ragù and pecorino, and Reginetti, a curly pasta with shiitake mushrooms, green garlic and stracciatella.

Vinegar Hill House, Brooklyn, Rigatoni
Photos: Cititour.com

Rounding out the menu, larger plates of Cast Iron Chicken, Red Wattle Pork Chop with cheddar jalapeno grits and Paneed Tilefish with sauce gribiche and pea leaves. For dessert, there’s Guinness Chocolate Cake and Bay Leaf Panna Cotta with rhubarb. Brunch is also served. Reservations are strongly suggested, although walk-ins are welcome.

Vinegar Hill House is located at 72 Hudson Avenue,, Brooklyn, NY

For more information visit vinegarhillhouse.com

Evil Twin unveils in twin Taproom in DUMBO
June 4, 2021, 6:45.45 pm ET
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Evil Twin now has a twin taproom in DUMBO in the shadow of the Manhattan Bridge. The brewery is known for its unique assortment of beers with quirky names like Sey Even More, a Dry Coffee Stout, Nobody Wanted the Middle Seat Anyway, Triple IPA that forwards flavors of ripe pineapple, blueberry and melon, and To The Milky Way and Back lll with hints of clementine, key lime and cherry. The beers are available on tap or can, as well as growlers. Colorful packaging helps seal the deal.
The brewery was founded by Jeppe Jarnit-Bjergsø who told Cititour in October of 2019 that his rivalry with his brother was no secret when asked about the Evil Twin name, adding "I'm a twin and I might be evil." He also told us, "Beer should not be serious, it's meant to make people joyful and happy!"


Photo: Evil Twin Brewing
At the taproom in DUMBO, featured beers are prominently displayed on a wall across from the bar. Twenty different types can be offered at any given time, along with daily specials. Vistors can also share a booth surrounded by lush greenery and twinkling string lights.

Evil Twin Taproom is located at 43 Main St, Brooklyn, NY
For more information visit eviltwin.nyc

SHAKESPEARE IN THE PARK ANNOUNCES CASTING AND DATES FOR MERRY WIVES
June 4, 2021, 5:47.34 pm ET
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Photo: Delacorte Theater

The Public Theater’s much-loved Shakespeare in the Park will return this summer with “Merry Wives,” a fresh and joyous adaptation of William Shakespeare’s “Merry Wives of Windsor,” written by Jocelyn Bioh and directed by Saheem Ali. It will run July 6 through September 18.

Set in South Harlem, amidst a vibrant and eclectic community of West African immigrants, the play is a New York story about tricks of the heart, This hilarious farce tells the story of the trickster Falstaff and the wily wives who outwit him in a new celebration of Black joy, laughter, and vitality. The production will run 90 minutes.

The show’s cast will feature Abena, Shola Adewusi, Gbenga Akinnagbe, Pascale Armand, MaYaa Boateng, Phillip James Brannon, Brandon E. Burton, Joshua Echebiri, Branden Lindsay, Ebony Marshall-Oliver, Jarvis D. Matthews, Jacob Ming-Trent, Jennifer Mogbock, Julian Rozzell Jr., Kyle Scatliffe, David Ryan Smith, and Susan Kelechi Watson.


Photo: Susan Kelechi Watson

As of this writing, the theater’s capacity will be limited for social distancing between seating for both vaccinated and non-vaccinated people along with additional requirements for mask wearing, and proof of vaccination or proof of negative tests prior to entry.

For this production, free tickets will be distributed entirely via an advanced digital lottery hosted by GOLDSTAR. Audiences can enter the lottery through the Goldstar app on Apple, Android, and the website each Tuesday and Friday, one week prior to the next week’s scheduled performances.

For more information, visit www.publictheater.org.

THE LEHMAN TRILOGY TO HIT BROADWAY IN SEPTEMBER
June 4, 2021, 10:18.15 am ET
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THE LEHMAN TRILOGY TO HIT BROADWAY IN SEPTEMBER
Photo: Stephanie Berger

The highly acclaimed drama “The Lehman Trilogy” is set to begin performances on Broadway on Saturday, September 25, for a 14-week run at the Nederlander Theatre. The play is written by Stefano Massini and adapted by Ben Power, directed by Academy Award and Tony Award winner Sam Mendes, and will star returning original company members Simon Russell Beale and Adam Godley, with award-winning actor Adrian Lester joining the cast.

Weaving together nearly two centuries of family history, this epic theatrical event charts the humble beginnings, outrageous successes and devastating failure of Lehman Brothers, the legendary financial institution that would ultimately bring the global economy to its knees in 2008.

Previous productions were seen at New York’s Park Avenue Armory and London’s National Theatre and Piccadilly Theatre. A Broadway run for Spring 2020 was cancelled due to the COVID-19 Pandemic.

For tickets and information, visit www.telecharge.com

NEW HALLS OF GEMS AND MINERALS TO OPEN AT AMERICAN MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY
June 4, 2021, 10:10.02 am ET
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Photo: D. Finnin/AMNH

The new Allison and Roberto Mignone Halls of Gems and Minerals at the American Museum of Natural History will open on Saturday, June 12,. A sparkling showcase for the Museum’s world-renowned collection and an engaging guide to current scientific knowledge about our dynamic planet, the 11,000-square-foot Halls are among the first major new cultural facilities to welcome the public as New York reopens.

Telling the fascinating story of how minerals in their vast diversity formed on Earth, and how humans have used them throughout the millennia for personal adornment, tools, and technology, the Halls’ exhibits include a gallery of dazzling gems, including the legendary 563-carat Star of India sapphire, gem crystals like the 632-carat Patricia Emerald, and the Organdie necklace designed by Michelle Ong for Carnet with 110 carats of diamonds.

In addition, the halls will feature a host of fabulous new specimens, many never before exhibited, including a pair of towering, sparkling amethyst geodes that are among the world’s largest on display, a slice of a 35-million-year-old metasequoia the 9-pound almandine Subway Garnet discovered under Manhattan’s 35th Street in 1885, and the Tarugo, a three-foot-tall cranberry-red elbaite tourmaline that is one of the most fantastic mineral crystal clusters ever found.

There will also be numerous interactive displays illustrating the science of mineralogy, including a dynamic periodic table of chemical elements that demonstrates how they “make minerals.”

Lastly, the halls feature a temporary exhibition space, the Melissa and Keith Meister Gallery, opening with “Beautiful Creatures”, an unprecedented display of exquisite historic and contemporary jewelry inspired by animals.

Reservations to visit the Mignone Halls of Gems and Minerals are included in a General Admission ticket and are available now at ticketing.amnh.org.

Around Town - New York City is showing its Pride
June 3, 2021, 6:23.30 pm ET
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Pride, Superhero art, NYC
Photo: Superhero Super Gay/Linjie Deng

In honor of Pride Month, Carlton Fine Arts is featuring a new exhibition, Queer Art 1950s -2021. Featured works include Andy Warhol’s The Witch from 1981 and General Custer from 1986; Keith Haring’s two Untitled works from 1982; and Heather Fazzino’s Pride Herstory from 2021. - Romero Britto’s colorful sculptures will also be spotlighted while conceptual artist Linjie Deng has created brand new works including Superhero Super Gay and Love is Flowing.


Photo: Pride CrazyShake/Black Tap

Also to celebrate, Black Tap is teaming up with Dough Donuts to offer an epic CrazyShake. Launching this Friday on June 4 (also NATIONAL DONUT DAY), the Pride CrazyShake is a vanilla rainbow shake with a vanilla frosted rim with rainbow sour gummies, specialty made dough doughnut rainbow donut, rainbow twisty pop, sour rainbow belt, rainbow sprinkles, & whipped cream ($21). The shake will be offered all month long at Black Tap SoHo with $1 from each shake sold donated to NYC’s LGBT Community Center.

This year’s New York City Pride events include:

-New York City Pride March is back after being virtual last year. It will be held on June 27th beginning at noon. This year’s theme: “The Fight Continues”

- Queer Liberation March kicks off on June 27th, starting at Bryant Park at 2:30pm. This year’s theme: “no cops, no corporations, no politicians.”

- NYC Dyke March will be held one day earlier, on June 26th, starting at Bryant Park and down 5th Avenue, ending at Washington Square Park.

Elsehwere...

Puttanesca, Cocktail, NYC
Photo: Puttanesca

Newly opened Puttanesca trattoria in Chelsea is offering “Wine Down Night” on Wednesdays. Diners 50% off every bottle of wine from Puttanesca’s wine menu (predominantly Italian wines, with selections from California and France). Every Thursday night is Oyster Night, where a Chef’s selection of oysters is $1 each. They can be pared with cocktails like the Passionista: White rum, fresh lime juice, and passionfruit.

The Brooklyn Bridge Park Conservancy is hosting “Sunset Picnic on the Pier” to help raise funds for the park’s upkeep. The specially crafted picnic will be held at Liberty Lawn at Pier 6 from 6:30pm to 8:30pm. Curated bento boxes, wine, live music and more will be offered. For ticket info click here.

And if you've been wondering where all of these heart images have been coming from...

Circle of Hearts by Timu Rozi

They are signed Timu Rozi @timuryorkart.

Until next time, we'll be seeing you Around Town!

TIMES SQUARE ALLIANCE ANNOUNCES LIVE PROGRAMS
June 3, 2021, 10:55.50 am ET
Details


Photo: Cititour.com

The Times Square Alliance has announced its live summer programing. Highlights are as follows:

Taste of Times Square (June 7-14)
For this annual celebration of the neighborhood’s restaurants, select eateries will offer special three-course prix-fixe menus for $35 (plus beverages, tax, and gratuity_. Participating restaurants include BarDough, Gallagher’s Steakhouse, Havana Central, Hold Fast, Le Rivage, P.S. Kitchen, Playwright Celtic Pub, Tito Murphy’s, Tony’s Di Napoli, and many others. Live entertainment will also be performed by Hell’s Kitchen Happiness Krewe.

Solstice in Times Square: Mind Over Madness Yoga (June 20)
First-timers and experienced yogis are welcome to join for one of seven socially distanced, limited capacity in-person classes that will also be livestreamed.

Jazz in Times Square: (Thursdays at 7pm, July 8 – Sept 30)
This series, curated by Jazz at Lincoln Center, will bring New York City’s hottest young jazz bands to the plaza, creating the feeling of an intimate club amidst the lights and sounds of Times Square.

Broadway Buskers: (Fridays at 7pm, July 9 – Oct 1)
This series, curated and hosted by Ben Cameron, will showcase Broadway actors and up-and-coming composers performing their own original music.

Carnegie Hall Citywide: Harlem Quartet in Times Square (August 18, 5pm)
The Times Square Alliance will host the Harlem Quartet, who perform cornerstones of classical repertoire along with jazz, Latin, and contemporary works.

For more information, visit www.timessquarenyc.org

NYC Bites - Brent's Comfort Kitchen for classic sandwiches
June 3, 2021, 12:18.02 am ET
Details

NYC Bites - Brent's Comfort Kitchen for classic NYC sandwiches

Brent Romanow has opened Brent’s Comfort Kitchen in Midtown East. The restaurant, which operates from a window, is offering classic deli sandwiches for takeout and delivery only. Think overstuffed Reuben sandwiches served with half & full sour pickles and a bag of Brent’s kettle chips, or house-smoke pastrami piled high on rye with choice of dressing, including deli mustard, honey mustard and horseradish cream.

NYC Bites - Brent's Comfort Kitchen for classic NYC sandwiches

There’s also house-made roast beef and roast turkey and a French Dip with hot roast beef, swiss, cherry peppers on a sesame hoagie with au jus for dipping. You can also make your sandwiches a triple-decker by adding bacon, lettuce and tomato. Other offerings include footlong hot dogs, potato knishes and noodle kugel with apples and dried cherries.

NYC Bites - Brent's Comfort Kitchen for classic NYC sandwiches
Photos: Cititour.com

All of sandwiches are packaged in a way to ensure freshness upon arrival. Ours survived a 40 minute train ride to Brooklyn, intact and delicious. We also got a taste of that wonderful kugel for free. Brent’s Comfort Kitchen is definitely worth sinking your teeth into!

Brent’s Comfort Kitchen is located at 304 East 49th St, New York, NY

For more information visit brentscomfortkitchen.com

British seafood restaurant Dame opens to large crowds in Greenwich Village
June 2, 2021, 11:07.15 pm ET
Details

British seafood spot Dame opens to large crowds in the Village
Photo: Cititour.com

Several New York City restaurants have emerged stronger after the pandemic. Dame, owned by Patricia Howard and Ed Szymanski, is one one of them. Started as a pop-up inside Round K, Dame went on to open a provisions shop on MacDougal Street back in January selling fish & chips on the weekends and a nice selection of wines. Fast forward to June, and Dame has emerged as a full-fledged restaurant in the heart of Greenwich Village with indoor and outdoor seating. The outdoors is decked out with colorful flowers and cafe style seating.

The menu is just as colorful with grilled oysters in a starring role with green chartreuse butter. There are blowfish tails fresh off the grill served with mint and capers, and smoked whitefish croquettes to start. Dig deeper and you will find fried soft shell crabs with tarragon aioli, and grilled razor clams with bone marrow & white asparagus. The fish & chips are still here, along with a warm lobster tart with morels & green garlic. A rhubarb & elderflower custard tart can be found among the deserts. From the looks of it, Dame is off to a damn good start.

Dame is located at 87 MacDougal Street, New York, NY ‪(929) 367-7370‬

Fore more information visit damenewyork.com

HARRY POTTER NY STORE OPENS
June 2, 2021, 6:10.51 pm ET
Details

HARRY POTTER NY STORE OPENS
Photo: Cititour.com

Harry Potter New York, a new store dedicated to the world created by author J.K. Rowling, will open on Thursday, June 3 at 925 Broadway. Spanning three floors, the store will house the largest collection of “Harry Potter” and “Fantastic Beasts” products under one roof, as well as a range of brand collaborations including Spirit Jerseys, Loungefly handbags and Pottery Barn Teen products.

Entering the store, customers will pass under a huge model of Fawkes the Phoenix gazing down from the ceiling. The impressive model weighs over 220 pounds and is just one of many painstakingly detailed, handmade props, each one created to surprise and delight customers as they explore the store.

The shop will feature 15 different themed areas, as well as special photo op areas, an interactive wand table, virtual reality experiences and digital technologies available throughout the store, including integration with the Harry Potter Fan Club app. In addition, users will find a number of Enchanted Keys throughout the store that unlock exclusive behind-the-scenes facts, figures and videos that bring the store to life.

Gift buyers will flock to the Personalization Area, where fans can engrave a wand, emboss a journal or embroider a House robe with their name. Other gift options (for yourself or others) include Chocolate Frogs and Bertie Bott's Every Flavour Beans.

In addition, the store will be home to America's only House of MinaLima, dedicated to the graphic design duo responsible for all work on the “Harry Potter” and “Fantastic Beasts” movies. Fans will discover prints of the Daily Prophet covers, Harry's Hogwarts acceptance letter and the Quibbler, all hand-designed by MinaLima in a space modeled after their London shop.

For more information, visit www.harrypottershop.com.

Jolene offers indoor dining to vax-only guests
June 2, 2021, 12:51.39 am ET
Details

Jolene offers indoor dining to vax-only guests
Photo: Cititour.com

Jolene has taken up residence at Gabe Stulman’s The Jones which unfortunately didn’t survive the pandemic. It's an easygoing spot offering wine, cocktails, snacks and dishes meant for sharing.

House-made potato chips, eggs with jammy yolks, and ham from Bayonne with comte cheese & dijon are counted among the snacks. Appetizers include head-on shrimp with fresno chili butter, and littleneck clams in watercress-garlic sauce served with grilled bread. Mains include chopped steak frites with sauce at poivre.

Cocktails come with a little something for everyone. Thinks spritzes, palomas and Negronis. There's also a tribute to the “Pegu Club" which shuttered during the pandemic. Visitors to Jolene will find both indoor and outdoor dining. It’s best to call ahead for reservations, although walk-ins are welcome. There is a hitch. Only vaccinated guests can dine indoors and every member of the party will need to submit proof.

Jolene is located at 54 Great Jones St, New York, NY

For more information visit https://www.jolene.nyc

CAROLINES ON BROADWAY REOPENS
June 2, 2021, 12:12.22 am ET
Details

Photo: Diane Bondareff

Legendary comedy club Carolines on Broadway has re-opened to the public for the first time this weekend since the pandemic, making it one of the first live entertainment venues to operate in Times Square. In honor of the re-opening, there was a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by owner Caroline Hirsch, U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer, comedian Yamaneika Saunders, Manhattan Borough President Gale Brewer and State Senator Brad Hoylman.

June headliners at the club include Gilbert Gottfried, Renny, Pete Lee, Zarna Garg, Modi, Ryan Long, Maz Jobrani and Natalie Perlin.

For more information, visit www.carolines.com

PASS OVER TO NOW LAUNCH NEW BROADWAY SEASON
June 1, 2021, 6:15.02 pm ET
Details


Photo: Jeremy Daniel

The Lincoln Center Theater/LCT3 production of Antoinette Chinonye Nwandu’s award-winning play “Pass Over.” will now launch the 2021-2022 Broadway season with performances beginning on August 4 at the August Wilson Theatre (245 W 52nd Street). Performances are set to conclude on October 10.

The 85-minute play -- which draws inspiration from both Samuel Beckett’s “Waiting for Godot” and the Exodus story -- finds two young black men, Moses and Kitch, standing on a street corner, passing the time, and hoping that maybe today will be different. As they dream of their promised land, a white stranger wanders into their space and disrupts their plans.

The production, to be directed by Obie Award winner Danya Taynor, will feature the original cast from the Lincoln Center Theater production: Tony Award nominee Jon Michael Hill, Jeff Award nominee Namir Smallwood and Tony Award winner Gabriel Ebert.

For more information, visit www.passoverbroadway.com

STARS IN THE HOUSE TO CELEBRATE DREAMGIRLS
June 1, 2021, 5:56.46 pm ET
Details


Photo: Stars in the House

The acclaimed virtual series “Stars in the House,” hosted by Seth Rudetsky and James Wesley, will celebrate the famed 20th Anniversary “Dreamgirls” benefit concert on Saturday, June 5 at 8pm. Proceeds from the evening’s donations will benefit the Actors Fund; the original concert raised over $1 million for the organization.

The starry line-up for this special episode includes the stars of the concert: Lillias White, Audra McDonald, Heather Headley, Darius DeHaas, Norm Lewis, Tamara Tunie, and Brenda Braxton. Fans will have a chance to ask questions, and there will be plenty of songs from the Tony Award-winning musical.

The event can be seen on the Stars In The House YouTube channel, and StarsInTheHouse.com

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