News

EVIL KATSU FINDS A PERMANENT HOME ON LOWER EAST SIDE
July 31, 2021, 10:18.20 am ET
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Sometimes hard work and determination really do pay off. That is the case with Evil Katsu, a dynamite sandwich shop on the Lower East Side. The three partners, Chris, Hai and Asher, found themselves out of jobs during the pandemic, so they created their own jobs. Working out of a pop-up in the back of Pretty Ricky’s when most businesses were shut down they looked to their favorite late-night snack on St Marks for inspiration, katsu, which is basically a fried Japanese-style cutlet. Only these guys and gal have managed to perfect it. They found a space on East 9th Street, which already had some restaurant equipment, spruced it up and now Evil Katsu has a permanent home.

Photos: Cititour.com

The sandos, which are truly the stars of the menu, should not be missed. It begins with light-as-air milk bread, upon which the cutlet sits, house marinated twice-fried center cutlet, nori kewpie, and surround with shredded red cabbage and carrot. It arrives with a side of house pickles. Pork, chicken and Portobello sandos are available. The katsu can also be purchased in a bento box with choice of 2 sides, garlic rice and tonkatsu sauce. Also on the menu are several types of salads, chilled udon with tomatoes and chicken katsu bites. Seating is limited with just a few seats at a window counter and curbside.

Evil Katsu is located at 435 East 9th Street, NY (646) 370-3435

For more information, visit evilkatsu.com

Bar Blondeau Opens in Williamsburg
July 30, 2021, 5:57.11 pm ET
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Photos: Liz Clayman

The acclaimed Le Crocodile team brings you Bar Blondeau at the Wythe Hotel in Williamsburg. The French-style bar offers unobstructed waterfront views of Manhattan. Chef partners Aidan O’Neal and Jake Leiber (Le Crocodile, Chez Ma Tante) and restaurateur Jon Neidich of Golden Age Hospitality (Le Crocodile, Acme & others) are the driving forces behind the venture. The seafood-forward menu with its French, Spanish and Portuguese influences complements an international selection of natural wines from up-and-coming wine regions.

The menu includes bar bites such as Oysters with apples and ginger, Salmon Rillettes with creme fraiche, Lobster Salad with basil and potato, Saffron Rice with duck and escargot, and Raclette with potatoes and Spanish ham, among others.

Cocktails, which are sleekly presented with a twist, include Martini Blond with Amalfi Coast gin, cucumber botanical vodka, amber vermouth, lemon oil, and a house-pickled onion. Frozen beverages include L’Orange, with orange wine, Lillet blanc, Swedish-style aquavit and orange oil. Non-alcoholic drinks are also available.

Designed by the award-winning design and architectural studio bonetti/kozerski (Sant Ambroeus, The West Hollywood EDITION), the space features soft natural oak walls, built-in banquettes and custom, gold-accented ambient lighting.

The 70-seat space is centered by a sea green-tiled, marble top bar, positioned along a floor-to-ceiling wall of windows that overlooks the East River and Manhattan’s iconic skyline. There’s also outdoor seating among lush green planters.

Bar Blondeau is located at 80 Wythe Avenue, Brooklyn, NY. For more information, visit barblondeau.com

BROADWAY ANNOUNCES NEW COVID-19 SAFETY RULES
July 30, 2021, 10:51.32 am ET
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Photo: Cititour.com

As concern rises over the Covid-19 Delta Variant, The Broadway League and Actors Equity have announced that the owners and operators of all 41 Broadway theaters in New York City will require vaccinations for audience members, as well as all performers, backstage crew, and theatre staff, for all performances through October 31, 2021. Masks will also be required for audiences inside the theater, except while eating or drinking in designated locations. As of now, approximately 25 shows have committed to opening or beginning previews before that date.

Under the new policy, guests will need to be fully vaccinated with an FDA or WHO authorized vaccine in order to attend a show and must show proof of vaccination at their time of entry into the theatre with their valid ticket. “Fully vaccinated” means the performance date must be at least 14 days after the second dose of a two-dose COVID-19 vaccine, or at least 14 days after a single-dose COVID-19 vaccine.

Exceptions are being made for children under 12 and people with a medical condition or closely held religious belief that prevents vaccination. These guests must provide proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of the performance start time, or a negative COVID-19 antigen test taken within 6 hours of the performance start time.

In addition, all Broadway theaters have committed to improving their HVAC systems, which regulate the heating, air conditioning and ventilation of air.

For performances in November 2021 and beyond, Broadway theater owners anticipate a review of policies in September.

Moreover, many of NYC’s other cultural institutions, including the Metropolitan Opera and Carnegie Hall, are also reportedly planning to only allow vaccinated patrons to attend performances.

Things are heating up at Nowadays
July 30, 2021, 10:34.55 am ET
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Photo: Nowadays

The summer vibe is heating up at Nowadays, a sprawling bar and restaurant on the Brooklyn/Queens border.

Saturdays are Burger BBQ Night. Three different burgers are being offered, including a Miso Burger with yuzu paste, onions and cabbage; a Mozzarella Cheese Bacon Burger; and Chef Sato’s Burger with bacon, egg, onion, tomatoes and lettuce. Diner by the Izakaya provides Japanese-style family meals called “famiresu” for the remainder of the week. Look for things like chicken katsu sandwiches, wagyu burgers, acai bowls and more.

Guests are welcome to hang in the backyard seven days a week, whether it's dinner with a group at the picnic tables, relaxing in a hammock under a canopy of trees, or sipping a cocktail by the bar. On Sundays, the backyard in its other incarnation is home to New York daytime party institution, Mister Sunday from 3-9pm.

Free movies are shown Monday to Wednesday on a big outdoor screen with a sound system designed for deep immersion. August's lineup includes The Song Remains the Same (classic Led Zeppelin concert film) and Style Wars (classic documentary about NYC graffiti culture in the 80s). Films start at 8:30pm and are free, no reservations required.

Nowadays is located at 56-06 Cooper Ave, Flushing, NY

VIRGIL'S BBQ REOPENS IN TIMES SQUARE ALONG WITH THE HUNT & FISH CLUB
July 30, 2021, 1:10.17 am ET
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Cocktail Time: Coconut Knuckelball and more at Garret Colecteria
July 29, 2021, 6:27.03 pm ET
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Jungle Summer has arrived at the Garret Colecteria on Broome Street, bringing with it an assortment of tropical drinks. Here's a look at what you can expect. Cheers!

COCONUT KNUCKELBALL

Served in a coconut-shaped glass, the Coconut Knuckelball is a mix of black pepper vodka, apricot and honeydew topped with toasted coconut.

PAPAYA IN THE BULLPEN

Papaya in the Bullpen exudes the tropics. Served in a tall hurricane glass, the drink combines white rum, demerara rum, papaya, dragon fruit, salt and lime.

Photos: Garret Colecteria

THE COLOMBIAN GETDOWN

Arriving on the rocks, this sexy cocktail is made with dark rum, aguardiente, passion fruit two ways, ginger and bitters.

For more information on Jungle Summer click here

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COCKTAIL TIME - PANIC AT HIBISCO, AVION DE PAPEL, AMANTE AND MORE AT ETEREA

BROADWAY’S HAMILTON ANNOUNCES CASTING
July 29, 2021, 6:24.55 pm ET
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Photo: Joan Marcus

Casting has been announced for the Broadway return of “Hamilton,” which will resume on September 14, at the Richard Rodgers Theatre. The Tony Award-winning show, which traces the life of Alexander Hamilton, features book, music, and lyrics by Lin-Manuel Miranda, direction by Thomas Kail, choreography by Andy Blankenbuehler, and musical supervision and orchestrations by Alex Lacamoire.

The cast will include Miguel Cervantes as Alexander Hamilton; Krystal Joy Brown as Eliza Hamilton; Mandy Gonzalez as Angelica Schuyler; Tamar Greene as George Washington; Jin Ha as Aaron Burr; James Monroe Iglehart as Marquis de Lafayette/Thomas Jefferson; Euan Morton as King George III; Fergie L. Philippe as Hercules Mulligan/James Madison; Aubin Wise as Peggy Schuyler/Maria Reynolds and Daniel Yearwood as John Laurens/Philip Hamilton.

In addition, on August 12, Hamilton The Store will reopen at the Paramount Hotel (235 West 46th Street). The store has been updated and will include new merchandise.

For more information, visit www.HamiltonMusical.com

THE VESSEL MAY CLOSE PERMANENTLY AFTER TEEN JUMPS TO DEATH
July 29, 2021, 6:06.25 pm ET
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Photo: Cititour.com

New York City police are investigating the death of a 14-year-old who reportedly jumped to his death from the Vessel at Hudson Yards. The incident happened Thursday afternoon at about 1pm. A Citizen App video capturiung the scene which shows police activity and white tents erected nearby.

Billionaire developer Stephen Ross telling the Daily Beast , "We thought we did everything that would really prevent this." Ross adding, “It's hard to really fathom how something like that could happen. But you know, I feel terrible for the family.”

WEGMANS TO OPEN MANHATTAN STORE IN 2023
July 29, 2021, 5:48.52 pm ET
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Photo: Vornado Realty Trust

Supermarket chain Wegmans Food Markets will open its first Manhattan store at 770 Broadway, most recently the former site of the Astor Place Kmart, in the second half of 2023. Wegmans opened its first NYC store in the Brooklyn Navy Yard in October of 2019.

Under the terms of the 30-year lease, Wegmans will occupy space on both the street and lower levels of 770 Broadway – which is a landmarked building -- for a total of roughly 82,000 square feet.

Customers can expect the same level of unmatched customer service, restaurant foods, one-stop shopping, and consistent low prices that has made the chain so beloved around the United States; there are currently over 100 locations in seven states.

For more information, visit wegmans.com

Catching the Olympics on the Big Screen
July 29, 2021, 12:44.49 am ET
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Photo: Cititour.com

If you're looking to catch the summer games while in Midtown, NBC's Today has set up a giant screen in the plaza just off 48th Street at Rockefeller Center. Benches and chairs are available giving folks a birds' eye view of all the Olympics action. It's also steps away from City Winery's popular wine garden.

Go U.S.A.!

Restaurant Radar - Venchi to open in former Grom space on Bleecker St
July 29, 2021, 12:24.42 am ET
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The blight is almost over. Venchi, the premiere chocolate and gelato shop, is taking over the former Grom space at the corner of Bleecker and Carmine St. Grom, which also sold Italian-style gelato, had a good run but over the last year or so, the empty shop had become an eyesore, covered with graffiti.

The sign out front reads simply that Venchi will be opening soon. If it's anything like Venchi's Union Square location, visitors can expect silky gelato in all sorts of wonderful flavors, and chocolate-making that dates back 140 years to Turin, Italy. There may also be some surprises. Maybe a chocolate fountain? Stay tuned.

Venchi - 233 Bleecker St, New York, NY

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RESTAURANT RADAR - MR. SUN AND YEMEN HOUSE RESTAURANT

SOUTH STREET SEAPORT MUSEUM TO OFFER W.O. DECKER CRUISES
July 28, 2021, 10:48.57 pm ET
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Photo: South Street Seaport Museum

The South Street Seaport Museum will offer public cruises aboard the 1930 tugboat W.O. Decker every Saturday from July 31 through August 21. The ship will run three tours each Saturday, departing at 1:15pm, 2:45pm, and 4:15pm.

On this 75-minute ride on the last surviving New York-built wooden tugboat, riders will explore the New York Harbor, and views may include the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, the Battery, and Governors Island.

Advance reservations are recommended, and guests must check in 15 minutes before the scheduled tour. In accordance with current Federal and New York State COVID-19 guidance for public transportation and masks are required onboard Tickets are $30 for adults, $25 for seniors/students, and $15 for kids (who must be 10 or over) and are available for purchase at seaportmuseum.org/decker

SIEGELMAN STABLE TO HOST WILLIAMSBURG POP-UP SHOP
July 28, 2021, 10:44.27 pm ET
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Sport fashion brand Siegelman Stable and non-profit organization Hambletonian Society have partnered together to exclusively drop a six-piece capsule collection that will officially release on Friday, July 30 and which will be then sold exclusively at a one-weekend-only pop-up store at 252 Kent Street in Williamsburg on July 31 and August 1.

The Siegelman Stable capsule collection will include a range of Hambletonian embroidered hats, t-shirts, crewnecks, and shorts, retailing from $48 to $88. Siegelman Stable will also be selling original pieces at its pop-up including four Stable hats in a variety of colors and the brand’s Stable t-shirts in new black and yellow colorways.

In addition to shopping the collection, guest at the pop-up will be invited to meet two special in-store guests -- mini horses from Horseability -- who will be present to help showcase the positive impact that equine therapy can have in urban environments like New York City.

A portion of all proceeds from the pop-up goes to equine therapy programs for veterans, nurses, doctors and inner-city youth programs.

LITTLE ISLAND TO HOST NYC FREE FESTIVAL
July 28, 2021, 10:25.59 pm ET
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Photo: Cititour.com

Little Island, New York City’s new public park in Hudson River Park has announced details of NYC FREE, a month-long arts festival celebrating the creativity of New York City’s artists and the indomitable spirit of all its people, to run August 11-September 5. In total, there will be 160 performances featuring over 450 artists.

Among the many artists who will perform or have helped curate the festival are Tariq Al-Sabir, Ronald K.Brown, Dormeshia, Robert Garland, Misty Copeland, Alphonso Horne, Paolo Javier, Raquel Acevedo Klein, Georgina Pazcoguin, Conrad Tao, Adam Tendler, Awoye Timpo, Shirazette Tinnin, Eduardo Vilaro, Adam Tendler, Devonte Hynes and DJ Eli Escobar.

Savory Hospitality will serve local and responsibly sourced food and beverage daily from 7am to 11pm daily to Little Island visitors.

In accordance with current New York State and CDC guidelines, Both vaccinated and unvaccinated guests can attend events. Unvaccinated visitors will be required to wear their masks when they cannot maintain 6-feet of distance from others. Children under the age of 2 are not required to wear a mask.

While the majority of the NYC FREE events are included with entrance to the park, all events hosted in The Amph will also require a free ticket reservation, There will be no tickets available to reserve on-site. All tickets will be electronic/mobile-only and are available for reservation now by visiting www.littleisland.org

BROADWAY’S SIX WILL RETURN WITH ORIGINAL CAST
July 28, 2021, 10:25.59 pm ET
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Photo: Joan Marcus

The Broadway producers of the musical “Six” which was supposed to open on March 12, 2020, have confirmed that the six women who originated the starring roles here will return to the production, which begins previews September 17 at the Brooks Atkinson Theatre (256 W 47th Street). The show, which is co-directed by Lucy Moss and Jamie Armitage and features choreography by Carrie-Anne Ingrouille, will officially open on October 3.

The sung-through show, featuring the music of Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss, tells the story of the six wives of England’s Henry VIII from the women’s perspective.

The Broadway cast will feature Adrianna Hicks as Catherine of Aragon, Andrea Macasaet as Anne Boleyn, Abby Mueller as Jane Seymour, Brittney Mack as Anne of Cleves, Samantha Pauly as Katherine Howard, and Anna Uzele as Catherine Parr, alongside Nicole Kyoung-Mi Lambert, Courtney Mack, Mallory Maedke and Keirsten Hodgens.

For more information, visit sixonbroadway.com

JUNGLE SUMMER OPENS AT THE GARRET COCTELERIA
July 28, 2021, 5:43.35 pm ET
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Photos: Garret Cocteleria

Jungle Summer, a new installation at The Garret Cocteleria (349 Broome Streeet), will open on July 29. Visitors will be transported to a lush oasis channeling the rainforests of Central and South America with a new, floor-to-ceiling tropical plant installation designed in partnership with Nick Amoruso of GREENCITYdesign, and featuring plants and flowers sourced locally from NYC’s flower district and garden centers in New Jersey. The covered, open air structure is outfitted with woven bamboo furniture, rattan lighting, and foliage throughout.

Guests will enjoy strong cocktails styled with palm leaves, floral garnishes and served in ceramic coconuts created by Beverage Director Max Stampa-Brown.

Highlights include Papaya in the Bullpen (dragon fruit, papaya, honey, salt, chartreuse, demerara rum, white rum, lime), Coconut Knuckleball (toasted coconut, black pepper vodka, apricot, yellow watermelon), The Colombian Getdown (aguardiente, passion fruit two ways, dark rum, ginger, bitters) and Tamarind Tambourine (saffron, pineapple, tamarind, mezcal, gin, guava)

Bites from Chef Yuval Ochoa include Shrimp Ceviche, House Nachos, Dragon Fruit & Mango Ceviche, Spicy Tuna Tartare and Caesar Salad.

For reservations, visit www.resy.com

Just Opened - BBF, Family Meal and Yucusiama
July 28, 2021, 1:14.49 am ET
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A new Japanese spot called BBF by Chef Chikara Sona has opened on Ludlow Street on the LES just steps from Katz’s Deli. Look for things like Anago Fish & Chips made with sea eel, Crispy Shrimp Puff with sweet & chili Mayo, and Grilled Black Cod marinated with saikyo miso. From the land comes Dirty Finger Baby Back Ribs with special sauce, Hokkaido Style Skirt Steak and Grilled Ragnarok Chicken with gobo chips. There is also something called a “sushi bomb,” featuring 12 pieces of round-shaped sushi with decorative toppings. 177 Ludlow Street, New York, NY (646) 476-5088

Blue Hill in Greenwich Village is now Family Meal, a summer pop-up offering group dinners for 4-8 people. Blue Hill says the goal is to give people more time for spending with friends and family after a challenging year. Dishes include mostly vegetables, grains and some proteins that are meant to be shared. The price is $115 per person, excluding beverages, tax and tip. Dress is casual. 75 Washington Pl, New York, NY (212) 539-1776

Photos: Cititour.com

A new Mexican spot called Yucusiama has opened in Brooklyn selling nine different types of tacos, including ones made with Cabeza or head beef. Assorted quesadillas, tortas and burritos are also available. 484 77th St (nr 5th Ave), Brooklyn, NY (718) 333-5487

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Accessibility is key at Contento
July 27, 2021, 6:47.18 pm ET
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Photos: Michael Tulipan

Contento which opened recently in East Harlem is all about accessibility. Contento’s Managing Partner and Beverage Director is Yannick Benjamin. After a car accident left him paralyzed below the waist, he quickly adapted by outfitting his wheelchair with a table, allowing him to continue his work as a sommelier. He went on to create Wine on Wheels, an organization that empowers people with disabilities.

The design of Contento reflects this passion with features for all wheelchair users, including a lower bar counter, slightly higher tables and enough space to navigate comfortably with dining room-level bathrooms, and adaptive utensils. The restaurant is also providing job training for those living with disabilities.

It’s also about the food and drink. Peruvian-born Chef Oscar Lorenzzi has worked at iconic NYC restaurants such as the Waverly Inn, Marseille and Nice Matin. The seasonal menu reflects influences from his native Peru. It begins with Cancha or corn nuts, a popular snack in Peru followed by small plates such as Shrimp Escabeche, Duck Liver Mousse with purple corn focaccian and Ceviche Classico with leche de tigre. Larger plates feature Creamy Quinoa risotto - “Quinotto” - with parmesan cream, Salmon with zucchini pico de gallo and pumpkin seeds, and Pork Katsu served Nikkei-style with a spicy vinegar daikon slaw.

The wine list explores regional wines from New York, Vermont, Maryland, and Virginia, as well as Euorpe and the ancient world, including Turkey, Israel, Lebanon, Greece and Sicily. Cocktails such as Lime & The Coconut get a Caribbean kick with light coconut rum, Luxardo, pressed coconut, and lime.

Contento is located at 88 E. 111th St, New York, NY (646) 410-0111

For more information, visit www.contentonyc.com

Summer in Japan at Koyo
July 27, 2021, 6:00.48 pm ET
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Photo: Koyo

Kōyō, a Michelin-recognized Japanese restaurant in Astoria, is unveiling its summer menu. Executive Chef/Owner Jay Zheng is putting the emphasis on hyper-seasonal ingredients features elements reminiscent of summer in Japan.

The multi-course Kaiseki dining experience includes:

- Sakizuke - Amuse bouche including seared ayu, Norwegian king crab, pickled watermelon rind and watermelon yuzu dashi.

- Hassun - A circular assortment of small bites meant to be eaten beginning from the left, consisting of botan ebi tartar with kaluga caviar, uni milk custard topped with hokkaido uni and yuba, kisu tempura with matcha salt and fresh Wakame with tosazu glee and crispy sawagani.

- Yakimono - The grilled course now featuring tachiuo, a seasonal Japanese fish in a Sakiyo miso marinade, with grilled baby corn atop sweet corn miso.

- Nigirizushi - Kōyō’s dedicated diners can expect eight new chef selections of Nigiri, which will change weekly.

Kōyō is located 37-12 31st Ave, Astoria, NY (929) 328-2890

For more information, visit www.koyonewyork.com

Philomena's Bar to open in East Williamsburg
July 26, 2021, 6:53.13 pm ET
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Photos: Kevin Lapsley

Philomena’s, a new artisanal cocktail lounge, is set to open in East Williamsburg early next month. Founded by Kyle O’Brien, the co-founder of The Late Late, Hotel Chantelle and Den Hospitality, Philomena's will serve as a a welcoming spot for cocktails, beer, and wine along with shareable bites.

Offerings will center around the cocktail menu crafted by Beverage Director Kyle Dailey (Tao Group, Quality Branded, Il Mulino) with a focus on unique carved and infused ice cubes. Fat-washed spirits and sweet-meets-spicy flavor combinations will be evident in drinks like, Felix (mezcal, expressed orange, and a cucumber-lime-tajin ice cube), Aileen (tequila blanco, guava, lime, cointreau, habanero ice cube), and Philomena (prosecco, watermelon rose ice cube).

The cocktails are being paired with light, shareable bites prepared in partnership with Williamsburg eatery, Pomp & Circumstance. They include bar snacks and dips, such as hummus and duck liver mousse served with toasted semolina pita.

The bar’s name pays homage to co-founders Kyle and Sean O’Brien’s Great Aunt Philomena who was known as the "life of the party." Philomena’s will be open seven days a week for dinner, with 75 indoor seats.

Philomena’s is located at 790 Grand Street in East Williamsburg, Brooklyn.

For more information, visit philomenasbar.com

ATOMIX AND OLMSTED JOIN ROCKEFELLER CENTER’S DINE AT 620 LINEUP
July 26, 2021, 6:04.39 pm ET
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Photos: Rockefeller Center

Rockefeller Center’s Dine at 620, a dynamic line-up of pop-up dining events at 620 Loft & Garden, has announced its latest collaborations with world-renowned chefs bringing their special creations to this extraordinary rooftop venue.

From July 26-29, Junghyun “JP” and Ellia Park of Atomix present Atogirl, which features a set menus of Korean-inspired street food and snacks for dinner and select weekday lunch services.

Then, on Aug 2-5 and Aug 9-12, Greg Baxtrom’s Brooklyn favorite, Olmsted, will offer a summery prix-fixe consisting tonkatsu ribs along with Greenmarket salads, cornbread and a hot fudge brownie à la mode for dessert.

Reservations are required at https://resy.com

UNIQLO UNVEILS ALL-STAR ARTISTS COLLABORATION
July 26, 2021, 5:42.12 pm ET
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Photo: Uniqlo

UNIQLO UT’s all-star collaboration featuring the work of three of NYC’s most pre-eminent artists, Andy Warhol, Jean-Michel Basquiat and Keith Haring, is now available at select UNIQLO stores including those at 666 Fifth Avenue, Hudson Yards and 546 Broadway in SoHo.

This collaborative collection utilizes some of the most famous works of these iconic men, including Warhol’s signature Campbell’s Soup and Brillo works, Basquiat’s crown motif, and Haring’s famous “LOVE” graphic, all printed on t-shirts, baseball caps, tote bags, umbrellas, slip-on sneakers and small home goods. The t-shirts and accessories are available in a full range of adult sizes, with prices ranging from $7.90 to $39.90.

For more information, visit Uniqlo.com

THIS WEEK IN LIVE PERFORMANCE
July 26, 2021, 5:22.25 pm ET
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Photo: Speakeasy Magic

The Lineup with Susie Mosher: This wonderful variety show, hosted by the hilarious Susie Mosher, has been packing them in on Tuesday nights ever since Birland reopened. This week’s edition features such top-tier talents as Aisha De Haas, Michael Winther, Elizabeth Ward Land, Sue Matsuki and the Boy Band Project. www.eventbrite.com

Fabulous Fanny Brice: If you’d rather not be blue, then mark July 29 on your calendar! In Kimberly Faye Greenberg’s popular cabaret show, which comes to the beautiful Green Room 42 at Manhattan’s ultra-cool YOTEL, viewers can once again enjoy classic show tunes and good old-fashioned fun as they travel through time with Fanny Brice, the legendary Jewish comedienne and singer best known as the inspiration for the musical “Funny Girl.” www.thegreenroon42.com

Speakeasy Magic: This popular one-of-a-kind entertainment has returned for a series of not-to-be-missed Friday night performances. Upon arriving, audiences are transported to the top floor of The McKittrick Hotel, in a vintage elevator car, where The Club Car and its residents await to be dazzled by a combination of up-close-and-personal prestidigitation and parlor magic by the city’s top talents. Along with host Todd Robbins, featured performers include Alex Boyce, Jason Suran, Mark Calabrese, Matthew Holtzclaw, Prakash Puru and Rachel Wax. www.mckittrickhotel.com

An Evening of 100 Boyfriends: NY PopUps is hosting this free reading of Brontez Purnell’s critically-acclaimed book,at MoMA PS1 on Friday, July 30. Thr cast will include, Jackson Howard, Mx Justin Vivian Bond, Khalif Diouf, Max Steele, Cakes da Killa, Elliot Reed, Savannah Knoop, Wonza Johnson, Saxton Jay Walker, Adam R, ThugPop, Ty Mitchell, and Quinn Roberts. visit www.mo.ma/ps1tickets

Critical Care, or Rehearsals for a Nurse. This new piece by Theater for the New City, is a rip-roaring original musical which tells the story of a young person studying to be a nurse who, in order to pay for tuition and books, takes a job in a nursing home. It begins a two-month run at various city parks in the five boroughs on July 31. theaterforthenewcity.net

Jason Danieley: One of Broadway and cabaret’s most dashing-looking and gorgeous-sounding leading men returns to the cabaret stage on August 1 and 2 with “Reflections” at Feinstein’s/54 Below. This sure-to-be spectacular evening of Broadway and Great American Songbook standards – including works by the Gershwins, Harold Arlen and Jule Styne -- threats together reflections of yesterday, today and a hopeful look toward tomorrow. www.54below.com

A TASTE OF LEBANON AT BALADE
July 26, 2021, 1:13.22 am ET
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Balade in the East Village is known for its family-style Mezze, or shareable plates. Chef/Owner Roland Semaan is a native of Beirut, Lebanon whose life as child of a diplomat, who held elaborate parties, and his grandmother’s cooking sparked his interest in cooking. He opened Balade in 2010 to introduce New Yorkers to Lebanese cuisine.

The meal begins plates of hummus, chickpea puree with tahini livened with lemon, bab ghanouj mad with char-grilled eggplant, and mouhmara made with spicy red peppers, walnuts and pomegranate. Hot appetizers include char-grilled chicken wings marinated in a special spice blend for 24 hours and Kebbe Kras, Lebanon’s national dish, made with lean beef, cracked wheat, onion and pine nuts.

Larger plates bring char-grilled lamb chops with rice and grilled vegetables, grilled branzino marinated in lemon with tahini sauce, and jumbo shrimp served with a yogurt sauce and toasted pita. The Supreme Mixed Grill offers a combination of four meats and grilled vegetables meant for sharing. Balade also offers Manakeesh, a Lebanese style pizza served seven ways. Desserts include baklava and mouhallabie, a milk pudding topped with ground pistachios and homemade syrup.

The indoor space at Balade features exposed brick, Arabesque tiles and a unique wall feature made of wood made from the cedars of Lebanon. Outdoor seating is also available.

Photos: Balade

Balade also operates a grab-and-go concept called, Balade Your Way, in the Fashion District (144 West 37th St) offering lamb kebabs, house-made sausages, meat & spinach pies, falafel, and more.

Balade is located at 208 First Avenue, East Village, NY (212) 529-6868

For more information, visit www.baladerestaurants.com

Three places to try if you can snag a table - Ilili, Maiden Korea and Sveta
July 25, 2021, 11:25.34 am ET
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ILILI

Ilili in Flatiron draw quite the crowd in Flatiron for its Lebanese cuisine. Executive Chef and Owner Philippe Massoud likes to call it a melting pot of Lebanese, Levantine and Mediterranean. Expect an array of hot and cold mezze to share including baba ghannouj with eggplant, tahini and olive oil, mouhamara with walnuts, sundried peppers and pomegranate, and fried kibbeh made with spiced beef and pine nuts. There’s baklava and Knafe bil Jinbneh for dessert.

MAIDEN KOREA

Maiden Korea is an outdoor digital food garden which has popped up in a fenced-in lot at the corner of 32^nd Street and 5^th Avenue in KTown. The food and drinks are provided by nearby restaurants and bars that because they are on top of other establishments have no outdoor option. The garden is using a ghost kitchen platform called Cookspace. Look for contemporary Korean cuisine and artisanal cocktails. Think Loaded Bulgogi Fries, Chicken Kara-Age, Yakitori skewers and assorted Korean BBQ. To see the full menu click here. Judging by the crowd, you will want to make a reservation.

SVETA

Sveta with its colorful outdoor dining, and where guests are treated like family, is a popular spot for Russian cuisine on Carmine Street in the West Village. It could be the Russian Borscht (served cold), Veriniki (homemade potato dumplings), Skirt Steak Sliders and Lobster Roll with spicy aioli. Summer cocktails include an assortment of frozen crushers in flavors like watermelon margarita and tropical blast.

Gabriel's Bar and Restaurant returns to Central Park South
July 24, 2021, 6:14.20 pm ET
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Gabriel’s Bar and Restaurant, a fixture in Midtown for more than 30 years, is known for its hospitality and pastas made in-house from scratch. At its new location just steps away from Central Park, visitors can dine outdoors café style or in a more formal indoor setting, with plush green banquettes and white linen tablecloths.

The food celebrates the flavors of Northern Italy with dishes like a rainbow baby beets with figs, hazelnuts, orange and ricotta cheese, and Tartara di Tonno with diced yellow fin tuna, avocado mousse, stracciatella cheese, pomegranate, pistachio and lemon dressing. A half dozen pastas are offered at any given time. They include Gnocchi Sorrentina served in a tomato-basil sauce with fresh mozzarella, Ravioli Zucca filled with roasted butternut squash in a sauce of brown butter and sage, and Linguine alle Vongole with Manilla clams, white wine and pepperoncino flakes.

Photos: Gabriel's Bar and Restaurant

Main courses include Barolo-braised short ribs with creamy parmesan polenta, grilled yellow fin tuna with spinach and horseradish, and prosciutto-wrapped sea scallops. All of the desserts and uniquely flavored gelatos are made in-house.

Northern Italy also shines through on the wine list with Tuscany, Piedmont, Umbria, Puglia and Campania among the regions represented along with "new world" varieties. Many are available by glass, as well as bottle. Cocktails include a classic Hemingway Daiquiri, Central Park Fizz and Espresso Martini.

Gabriel’s Bar and Restaurant is located at 40 Central Park South, New York, NY (212) 956-4600

For more information, visit www.gabrielsbarandrest.com

Creamline Beer Garden opens at Chelsea Market
July 24, 2021, 1:36.52 pm ET
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Photo: Creamline Beer Garden

Creamline is teaming up with Catskill Brewery this summer to bring you the Creamline Beer Garden, a 90-foot outdoor space outside Chelsea Market for beers and bites.

Centuries old noodle maker Sarashina Horii makes its NYC debut
July 24, 2021, 11:34.56 am ET
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Photos: Sarashina Horii

New Yorkers are in for a rare treat at Sarashina Horii in Flatiron. Not only is the space amazing with its towering ceiling art and sexy bar, it is the only place to experience its signature Japanese soba noodles.

Hamaguri Hard Clam Soba

In fact, this is Sarashina Horii’s first foray outside of Japan where it operates 3 locations in Tokyo. New York City is now its first international outpost. Overseen by ninth generation soba maker and owner Yoshinori Horii, Sarashina Horii has a history that dates back to 1789 to the age of Shoguns and Imperial Japanese Household. The restaurant was featured on Anthony Bourdain’s No Reservations’ Tokyo episode seen here.

Owner Yoshinori Horii

Sarashina Horii is known for its unique white soba made using only the very core of the buckwheat seeds. The husk of the seed is polished off the way rice is polished to make sake. This white soba is a much different type of soba and has been made this way by the family since the late 1800s. No one else in New York is serving this style and it’s quite uncommon even in Japan being that it requires specific skills.

Sarashina Horii Signature Soba

The menu features more than a dozen soba dishes, both cold and hot, with options such as their signature Duck & Leek, Hamaguri clam, Kurobuta pork, Mushroom and Lobster tempura. A raw bar is offered along with tempura, including prawns, lobster and soft shell crab. Entrees, such as Stone-Grilled Duck and Black Cod with “Saikyo Miso” are also available.

Soft Shell Crab Tempura

The Tasting Menu offers a great way to get the full experience of Sarashina Horii. The 6-course dinner tasting starts with 5 types of seasonal small bite appetizers, followed by 3 types of sashimi, then choice of each: tempura, soba, entrée and dessert ($98). The lunch tasting is shorter with an appetizer, carpaccio of white fish, then choice of each: tempura, soba and dessert ($48).

Photo: Michael Tulipan

The beverage program offers sake, wine, beer and signature cocktails that highlight Japanese gin, shochu and whisky, plus international spirits. The Hanasaka (above) offers a mix of Shochu, Lillet Rose, Watermelon, Agave, Lime, Shiso, and Prosecco Rose.

Photo: Michael Tulipan

Sarashina Horii is located at 45 E. 20th Street, NYC

For more information, visit www.sarashinahorii.com

CROISSANTS ARE KING AT THE NEW DOMINIQUE ANSEL WORKSHOP
July 24, 2021, 10:08.39 am ET
Details

Photos: Evan Sung

James Beard Award-winning pastry chef Dominique Ansel is going back to his roots with a small croissant counter inside his production kitchens in Flatiron to pay tribute to the classic French croissant and other flaky pastries reimagined.

Dominique Ansel Workshop is a true celebration of croissants, from classic croissants (made with French Beurre d'Isigny and Les Grands Moulins de Paris flour) to olive oil croissants (with cold-pressed olive oil in the butter block during lamination, with a hint of rosemary and confit garlic), multigrain, pain au chocolat, almond, and more. Plus, French classics reimagined - like a Brioche Bressane (a traditional pastry from the Bresse region) with crème fraiche, orange blossom water, star anise, and crunchy pearl sugar; and a Huckleberry Riz au Lait Cube with laminated brioche, huckleberry jam, and vanilla arborio rice pudding.

Chef Dominique Ansel

"The focus of the new shop is on croissants,” says Dominique. “And more specifically that beautiful process of lamination where layers of butter go between dough and give you this beautiful flakiness. For me, that's the ultimate treat.”

Visitors will discover an array of croissants and pastries for any time of day, including Pain Au Chocolat, Almond Croissant and Ham & Cheese, as well as a Honey Crisp Apple Rosette, Hazelnut Praline Coffee Triangle and Honey-Roasted Peach Danish. Chef Dominique says prepare to get messy, “When you bite into a well-made croissant, there will be crumbs everywhere. There’s no way to hide the evidence.”

Honey-Roasted Peach Danish

Dominique Ansel Workshop is located at 17 East 27th Street (between 5th Avenue & Madison Avenue), New York, NY (212) 901-1015. The workshop is open Monday-Friday 8AM-4PM, Saturday-Sunday 8AM-6PM for takeaway only. A few outdoor tables are available.

For more information, visit DominiqueAnselWorkshop.com

Cocktail Time - Panic at Hibisco, Avion de Papel, Amante and more at Eterea
July 23, 2021, 6:21.05 pm ET
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Explore the new cocktails at Etérea from Mixologist Sother Teague.

AVION DE PAPEL

Also known as the Paper Plane, this cocktail is a mix of Añejo Tequila, Amaro Nonino, Capitoline Tiber, with a lemon twist

AMANTE

Amante, or Lover in Spanish, exudes a pinkish glow. The cocktail is made with Blanco Tequila, Absinthe, Raspberry Shrub, with a spritz of basil oil

OAXACA OLD FASHIONED

This take on an Old Fashoned begins Reposado Tequila, Mezcal, Agave and a dash of Molé bitters.

PANIC AT HIBISCO

This frosty summer cocktails begins with Añejo Tequila with Pepita Orgeat, Citrus Blend and Hibiscus Syrup.

Photos: Eric Medsker

YELLOW PINEAPPLE

This tropical drink is made with Reposado Tequila, Chartreuse Jaune, Pineapple, Lime and Coconut and garnished with a wedge of dried pineapple.

For more information, visit www.overthrowhospitality.com/venues/eterea

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COCKTAIL TIME - JUST A GIGOLO, THE GRATEFUL MATADOR AND POTTER'S FIELD AT SUGAR MONK

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NEW COCKTAIL BAR ETEREA OPENS IN EAST VILLAGE
July 23, 2021, 6:02.27 pm ET
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Etérea Coctelería y Cocina, a new cocktail bar devoted to tequila and mezcal by producers who are ethical to their people and the planet, has opened at 511 East 5th Street. The restaurant seats 52 people indoors (at full capacity) and another 24 diners in its soon-to-open backyward.

Mixologist Sother Teague has created 36 exuberant cocktails and curated a list of 30 tequilas and mezcals that celebrate the full flavor spectrum of these noble agave spirits, and these drinks are complemented by original, plant-based Mexican small plates by Executive Chef Xila Caudillo.

All of the cocktails (priced at $16) conjure the flavors of Mexico with ingredients that include chile peppers, molé, cilantro, hibiscus and pepitas. Other notable ingredients in these luscious libations include horchata syrup, absinthe, grapefruit bitters, amontillado sherry, corn milk and hot sauce.

Photos: Eric Medsker

Chef Xila’s menu is highlighted by Aciento Tacos, made with mushrooms, and Zucchini Tacos made with fried smoked cheese. Other delicious delights include corn ribs elote, guacamole, a tostada with marinated tomato, cauliflower in ranchero sauce, and corn pudding served with rosemary meringues, candied pecans and blackberries.

For more information, visit www.overthrowhospitality.com/venues/eterea

ADRIENNE WARREN TO RETURN TO BROADWAY’S TINA
July 23, 2021, 5:14.16 pm ET
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Photo: Adrienne Warren

Tony Award nominee Adrienne Warren will return to the title role of “Tina: The Tina Turner Musical” for a limited engagement at Broadway’s Lunt-Fontanne Theatre (205 West 46th Street) on Friday, October 8.

Written by Tony Award nominee and Pulitzer Prize winner Katori Hall with Frank Ketelaar and Kees Prins, the musical, which is up for 11 Tony Awards this year, is directed by Tony Award nominee Phyllida Lloyd with choreography by Tony Award nominee Anthony van Laast, Additional casting for the run has not yet been announced.

Warren originated the role of music icon Tina Turner in London, where she was nominated for an Olivier Award. She previously received a Tony nomination for “Shuffle Along.” In addition, she just wrapped filming of the highly anticipated limited series for ABC entitled “Women of the Movement,” in which she stars as Mamie Till-Mobley, and will appear in concert on Bryant Park on June 30.

For More Information, visit www.TinaOnBroadway.com

CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR WITH ROCKETTES TO RETURN TO RADIO CITY IN NOVEMBER
July 23, 2021, 10:35.49 am ET
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Photo: Rockettes

The famed “Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes” will return to live performances at Radio City Music Hall from November 5 to January 2, 2022.

In this one-of-a-kind show, the magic of Christmas in New York comes alive through an intoxicating mix of song, dance, and storytelling. While the show’s specific line-up has yet to be announced, audiences are likely to see such evergreen treats as “The 12 Days of Christmas,” “The Parade of the Wooden Soldiers,” “New York at Christmas,” and “The Living Nativity,” which features live animals on stage! Kids and adults alike will be thrilled to share the festivities with Santa, who appears frequently throughout the 90-minute production.

Tickets for the 2021 show are on sale now at rockettes.com/christmas

NYC HOMECOMING WEEK TO INCLUDE FIVE CONCERTS
July 23, 2021, 10:30.01 am ET
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Photo: Rob DeMartin

The City of New York will host concerts in each of the five borough s— between August 14th and August 22nd — as part of NYC Homecoming Week.

The concerts will be held on Monday, August 16th at Orchard Beach in The Bronx; Tuesday, August 17th at Richmond County Bank Park in Staten Island; Thursday, August 19th at Brooklyn Army Terminal in Brooklyn; Friday, August 20th at Forest Hills Stadium in Queens; and Saturday, August 21st at The Great Lawn, Central Park in Manhattan. The full line-up of performers for each concert will be announced shortly.

As previously announced, music legend Clive Davis will produce the Central Park event, which is expected to feature Grammy Award winners Bruce Springsteen, Paul Simon and Jennifer Hudson among other artists.

NYC Homecoming Week events will also include free film screenings hosted by Rooftop Films, NYC Restaurant Week, Summer Streets. iconic events, cultural activities, public art, and more in all five boroughs.

To sign up for email updates on NYC Homecoming Week events and tickets, go to nyc.gov/HomecomingWeek.

The Market Line reopens on the Lower East Side
July 23, 2021, 12:48.43 am ET
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The Market Line, a subterranean food hall on the Lower East Side, has officially reopened with some of the original players along with some new ones.

Veselka is back serving up its signature pierogis, including meat, cheese and potato served with sautéed onions. They arrive with sides of red cabbage, potato salad, coleslaw and sour cream.

Nom Wah has returned with its signature dumplings. A dim sum sample plate lets you taste all of them along with a crunchy spring roll. They are also seeing up Sloppy Joe Noodles with miso-braised chicken.

At Best Damned Cookies we watched as our s’mores were made right before our eyes with a large toasted marshmallow sandwiched between two chocolate-glazed cookies. But the highlight was a truffle-infused honey cookie with shavings of fresh black truffle on top. Yum!

Elsewhere we were intrigued by the detail on these perfect little tea cup pops at Rebecca’s Cake Pops.

The Slice Joint had a wonderful assortment of round and square pies. The spicy pepperoni square slice with a thick crunchy crust is amazing. They also operate a location in DC.

There was a huge pork shoulder, whole chickens and farm fresh eggs when we passed the Ends Meat stand which remained open for much of the pandemic.

Essex Pearl’s takeout counter also stayed open. The oysters we sampled were pristine and briny served with a splash of lemon. Indoor dining is slated to return in the fall.

Tortilleria Nixtamal is making its own tortillas on site with mini conveyor belt. They’re used in lively dishes, including several types of nachos.

At Alimentari Fleuneur, a market specializing in hard-to-find fruits and vegetables, we spotted some beautiful donut nectarines from Family Tree Farms in California.

Also on hand, authentic Puerto Rican cuisine at Que Chevere, The Pickle Guys, Asian fare at Kuro-Obi and Dragon Bing, as well as ice cream from Ample Hills.

The Market Line is located at 115 Delancey St, New York, NY

Restaurant Radar - Mr. Sun and Yemen House Restaurant
July 21, 2021, 7:09.13 pm ET
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Signage is up for Mr. Sun (48 West 48th St) just steps away from Rockefeller Center. A sneak peek shows a modern space with an interesting tiled wall with green inlaid lights and what appears to be a full bar. It looks to be an Asian restaurant for lunch and dinner. The only other Mr. Sun we are aware of was a ramen spot in Flushing, Queens which has since closed.

Photos: Cititour.com

Also preparing to open in Brooklyn is Yemen House Restaurant (7204 Fifth Ave, Brooklyn). We're told this is the sister restaurant to the nearby Yemen Cafe. The interior of the new restaurant is much more ornate, compared with the cafe which is less formal. The restaurant is known for its generous portions and authentic Yemeni food.

Stay tuned!

We all scream for Ice Cream!
July 21, 2021, 1:06.06 am ET
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Soft Serve Sundae at Hall

When the heat is on, New Yorkers know how to chill out. Here are some of our favorite ice cream spots.

To celebrate summer, Hall in Flatiron is out with original soft serve sundaes in various flavors. Ours came with a chunk of rich chocolate brownie, caramel, mochi and an alcohol spiked cookie on top with a dusting of green tea. Digging deeper we discovered crunchy nuts and cornflakes.

Soft Swerve on Lower East Side

Soft Swerve is a perennial favorite on Allen Street on the LES known for unique flavors like Ube/Black Sesame swirl with a slew of toppings ranging from colored sprinkles and Oreos to mochi and Fruity Pebbles.

Mister Dips at Seaport

Mister Dips, which now has a spot Pier 17 in the Seaport, is known for its dipped ice creams. Flavors include Berry Gibbs with strawberry, nilla wafer, and sweet cream, Chocolate P.B.D. with a salted peanut butter drip, and Summer Patriot with sweet cherry, bourbon vanilla and blue raspberry. Floats are also available.

Big Gay Ice Cream at Seaport

Big Gay Ice Cream also has a spot at the Seaport. Popular cones include The Salty Pimp injected with dulce de leche with a salted & dipped chocolate shell, and the Mermaid, an ice cream sundae inspired by Key Lime Pie.

Ample Hills in Gowanus

Ample Hills’s Scoop Shop on Union Street in Gowanus is a place to hit when the temperature turns steamy. New flavors include Summer of Love with buttercream frosting and Baked by Melissa’s tie-dye cupcakes, and I Want to Dance with Some Berry with blueberry ice cream, raspberry cheesecake swirl and funfetti.

Lady Moo Moo in Bed-Stuy

When in Bed-Stuy we can't resist at stop at Lady Moo Moo on Chauncey Street. Aside from ice cream they also have wonderful sorbets in flavors like yuzu lemon, passion fruit and blood orange.

Van Leeuwen Rockefeller Center

Van Leeuwen, with locations across the city, is known for its vegan varieties like Caramel Almond Praline Chip and Chocolate Oat Milk Cookie Dough Crunch. Non-vegan options are also plentiful.

16 Handles Times Square

16 Handles now has a spot in Times Square. Visitors can mix and match soft serve flavors and toppings to create an unlimited number of flavor combinations.

Photos: Cititour.com

Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory now has a spacious location in a converted garage on Old Fulton Street in DUMBO where you can order your ice cream and sit outside at bright red tables. Here' you will find more traditional flavors like Peaches & Cream, Butter Pecan, Strawberry and Chocolate Chocolate Chunk.

Just Opened - Sarashina Horii, Le Pecora Bianca and more...
July 21, 2021, 12:01.53 am ET
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On a block known for hot spots like Sona and Gramercy Tavern, a restaurant dating back to Imperial Japan and Shoguns has arrived in a setting that is truly fit for royalty. Sarashina Horii dates back to 1789 and is known around the world for its soba noodles. Two types of “soba” are used: Sarahina made with buckwheat flour including the core of the seed, and Moro, a mix of buckwheat and wheat flour. It is available with Mixed Shrimp Tempura, Lobster Tempura, Berkshire Pork Belly, Mushroom Tempura and more. Appetizers include Japanese Duck Meatballs, Salmon Tartare with sesame & black vinegar and Braised Duck. Sushi rolls are also available. 45 East 20th St, New York, NY (917) 409-0546

Photos: Cititour.com

La Pecora Bianca now has a location just steps away from Bryant Park. Look for things like whipped ricotta with truffle honey, crispy calamari and beef & pork meatballs with pomodoro sauce. Assorted pastas include spaghetti, rigatoni with vodka sauce and cacio e pepe. Larger plates bring branzino with roasted Jersey corn, NY strip steak, a roasted porterhouse pork chop, among others. 20 West 40th St, New York, NY (212) 924-4040

A new wine bar called Temperance is calling Carmine Street home in the West Village. 40 Carmine St, New York, NY

Creamline is teaming up with Catskill Brewery for a new beer garden at Chelsea Market with a beer-friendly menu. The beer garden spans 90 feet along 16th Street between 9th and 10th Avenues beginning on July 22nd. 75 9th Ave, New York, NY

Tuscan Butcher Dario Cecchini, an eighth generation butcher, is bringing Italian panini sandwiches and sliced meats to Brookfield Place. The deli and restaurant goes by the name, Cicci Di Carne. 230 Vesey St, New York, NY

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JUST OPENED - L'ADRESSE, SIXTY THREE CLINTON, PATRICK STEAKHOUSE & MORE

NORDSTROM TO OPEN POP-IN DISNEY SHOP
July 20, 2021, 6:58.10 pm ET
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NYC RESTAURANT WEEK TO LAST UNTIL AUGUST 22
July 20, 2021, 6:48.45 pm ET
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Photo: Root & Bone

NYC Restaurant Week has kicked off with over 500 participating restaurants serving special multi-course menus at great prices through August 22. Diners will have the choice of eating lunch for $21 or dinner for $39, with some restaurants offering special $125 menus. In many cases, these deals will also be available for take-out dining and delivery.

Among the many eateries that are part of this special citywide promotion are Nobu Downtown, Sea Fire Grill, Calle Ocho, Nice Matin, Il Gattopardo, Tavern on the Green, Red Rooster Harlem, The Russian Tea Room, Gallagher’s Steakhouse, La Grande Boucherie, Café D’Alsace, BLT Prime, Oceans, Kyma, Brooklyn Winery, Leuca, Parklife and Tantra Lounge.

For more information, please visit NYCGo.com

LADY GAGA AND TONY BENNETT TO PLAY RADIO CITY IN AUGUST
July 19, 2021, 6:33.04 pm ET
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Grammy Award winners Lady Gaga and Tony Bennett will reunite for two special concerts, entitled One Last Time: An Evening With Tony Bennett and Lady Gaga,” at Radio City Music Hall on August 3 and 5.

The pair previously collaborated on an album of standards in 2014 called “Cheek to Cheek,” which won the Grammy for Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album, and toured the US in support of the album. A concert performance was also aired on PBS. A new collaborative album from the pair is reportedly slated to arrive later this year.

Tickets for the August shows will go on sale July 22 at 10 am. local time via Live Nation. Citi cardholders will have access to presale tickets on July 2 from 10 am to 8pm local time. To attend the show, fans must be fully vaccinated against Covid-19 and provide proof upon entry. The only exception is for children under the age of 16, who will be allowed to provide proof of a negative antigen or PCR Covid-19 test, and are accompanied by a fully vaccinated adult.

For tickets and information, visit www.msg.com

PAUL TAYLOR DANCE FOUNDATION OFFERS FREE PERFORMANCES
July 19, 2021, 6:25.28 pm ET
Details

Photo: Paul Taylor Dance Company

Paul Taylor Dance Foundation will welcome vaccinated friends, patrons, Lower East Side neighbors, and the NYC dance community to the return of our in-person Community Day on June 25 at the Taylor Studios (551 Grand Street).

Attendees will enjoy a free performance by the Paul Taylor Dance Company at either 1pm or 3pm to see the Company perform either Taylor's Aureole and Company B, two of his greatest dances.

In an effort to provide as many people as possible the opportunity to see live dance again, please choose only one performance to attend. There is a maximum of two (2) tickets per person available. Multiple ticket orders will be automatically cancelled. Proof of full vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test administered no more than 72 hours prior is required upon entry. Please show your vaccination card, Excelsior Pass, or test results at the door. Masks are optional and audience seating is not socially distanced.

For tickets and information, visit hwww.ptamdinfo.org or rsvp@ptamd.org

THIS WEEK IN LIVE PERFORMANCE: FRIENDS, LOVERS AND STORYTELLERS
July 19, 2021, 6:08.39 pm ET
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Photo: Brian Stokes Mitchell

FRIENDS: THE MUSICAL PARODY: In case, the recent HBO Max reunion of the cast of the megahit TV comedy wasn’t enough for you – or left you wanting more -- you’re in luck. Those marvelous misfits, Ross, Rachel, Joey, Phoebe, Monica, Chandler and Janice, take to the stage for a two-month summertime run in this hilarious musical send-up of the iconic TV comedy. Performances continue at the Jerry Orbach Theater at The Theater Center (1627 Broadway) through September 19. www.ticketmaster.com

JAZZ IN JULY: Scooby dooby do! The 92nd Street Y (1395 Lexington Avenue) is finally re-opening its doors with two 60-minute live concerts, part of its famed “Jazz in July,” both featuring the incomparable pianist Bill Charlap and his trio. On July 20, he’s joined by the sublime Grammy-winning vocalist Kurt Elling, while on July 27, Charlap shares the stage with NEA Grand Master and Grammy winner Dianne Reeves, a singer in a class by herself. www.92Y.org

THE DISCIPLE: Few authors have made more of an impact on American life than the iconoclastic Ayn Rand, known for such works as “Atlas Shrugged” and “The Fountainhead.” Now, “The Disciple,” a new play by Rachel Carey at The Wild Project (195 East 3rd Street) from July 20-25, dramatizes the lifelong affair between Rand and the psychologist Nathaniel Branden in this dramatic two-hander. www.thridwing.info.

BRIAN STOKES MITCHELL: Lincoln Center’s Restart Stages program will launch its summer cabaret series with Tony Award-winner Brian Stokes Mitchell in his new concert “Out with the Old, In with the New,” July 21-23 at Damrosch Park. www.lct.org

LITTLE ISLAND STORYTELLING FESTIVAL: If you haven’t yet made it to NYC’s newest tourist attraction (located at 14th Street and the West Side Highway), there’s no better reason to visit than to come sit in the amphitheater and listen to members of the great PigPen Theater Company as well as some of NYC’s finest actors, singers and poets enchant you with their words! The festival runs July 21-25. www.LittleIsland.org

BOTTE DI FERRO: The garden patio of Brooklyn’s popular Good Fork restaurant (391 Van Brunt Street) provides the perfect al fresco setting for this new play that examines the fraught and complex romance between two outer-borough New Yorkers over many decades. And since the play both begins and ends at Pizzeria Botte di Ferro in Naples, it’s only logical there will be a pizza pop-up as certain performances. (The run is now July 21-25, and July 27-29) www.thetanknyc.org/bottediferro

Baby Luc's Slice Shop opens in Carroll Gardens
July 17, 2021, 11:16.09 am ET
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One of the most anticipated pizza joints to open in some time is now serving up slices in Carroll Gardens. Baby Luc's broke the news with its first Instagram post on Friday. It read simply, Today's the Day. 50 pies at 6pm.

[Instagram]

Baby Luc's is operated by the same folks behing the popular Lucali restaurant where folks can wait hours for a table. Hopefully, this new spot will relieve some of that pressure.

Baby Luc's is located at 387 Court Street, Brooklyn, NY. For more information, visit www.babylucs.com

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

Burger Madness at Breslin Burger in NoMad
July 17, 2021, 10:40.50 am ET
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Breslin Burger has popped up in NoMad with a number of enticing burgers being offered in a laid back atmosphere. We thought we’d give you a sneak peek at some of them. We warn you though, do not view this on an empty stomach!

Photos: Edward Grams

DRY-AGED RIBEYE BURGER $40

This burger is topped with seared foie gras, a pile of fried tobacco onion, on a sesame seed bun. It’s served with black garlic aioli and a side of cornichons. It’s also Breslin’s priciest Burger, weighing in at forty bucks.

SURF BURGER $26

This house-made patty blends shrimp and scallop to create the ultimate seafood burger. It’s topped with a saffron-tomato mayo, sliced shallot and frisee. It arrives on a brioche bun with twice-cooked fried.

CHAR GRILLED LAMB BURGER $24

This oversized lamb burger is loaded up with whipped feta, red onion on a ciabatta bun.

B.B. VEGGIE BURGER $20

This veggie patty is packed with wholesome goodness, including carrot, walnut, lentil and mushroom. It’s topped with American cheese, thick slices of avocado, pickled green tomato, lettuce and spicy mayo.

DOUBLE PATTY BEEF BURGER $20

This burger comes with two, 4oz patties overflowing with white cheddar and topped with thick slices of bacon and house-made bread & butter pickles.

Aside from burgers, Breslin Burger is also offering a Fried Pork Rib Sandwich tonkatsu-style with a white BBQ sauce, and Fried Soft Shell Crab Sandwich with celery ranch and house fermented hot sauce.

Breslin Burger is located at 16 West 29 St, New York, NY (212) 679-1939. For more information, visit breslinnyc.com

Hitting the roof at Somewhere in Nolita
July 17, 2021, 9:47.28 am ET
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Photo: Evan Sung

Somewhere In Nolita is a new rooftop bar located atop the Nolitian Hotel offering stunning New York City view, refreshing cocktails, playful snacks and summery seafood dishes. Plush jade banquettes topped with coral accent pillows and copper tables are shaded by canvas canopies, and surrounded by woodsy native greenery and flowers.

The extensive cocktail menu includes drinks like Heat Map with tequila, mezcal, watermelon, basil, and calabrian chili; Pineapple Over the Sea, a tropical take on a Manhattan; Not a Rum and Coke with rum, cio ciaro amaro, prosecco, and yuzu; The Nuts and Bolts, a Spanish gin & tonic with gin mare, wray & nephew rum, sesame, fever-tree tonic, and herbs; and Thirst Quencher, a daiquiri with rum, midori luxardo maraschino, lime, and coconut.

The seafood-centric menu of snacks infuses Asian and Mexican flavors, and includes Popcorn with uni butter; Crab and Corn Puffs with avocado-tomatillo salsa; Fried Clams with salt and pepper spice, and cilantro ranch; and a Lobster Roll with nuoc cham drawn butter on a milk bread bun. There’s also an Ice Cream Sandwich with sweet corn ice cream, blueberry swirl, and graham cracker and a Coca-Cola Popsicle with yakult marble and cherry dip for dessert.

Somewhere in Nolita is located at 30 Kenmare St, New York, NY. For more information, visit somewhereinnolita.com

Bronson's Burgers brings burgers & shakes to Nolita
July 17, 2021, 9:22.23 am ET
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Photo: Melissa Hom

Bronson’s Burgers has taken over the former Torrisi space in Nolita with a craveable menu of burgers and milkshakes, and a beachy vibe. The cozy interior features whitewashed wood banquette seating and sun-bleached wood tables, and a vibrant, abstract mural by Philadelphia-based artist Isaac Lin. Outdoor seating is also available.

Photo: Melissa Hom

All of the burgers are made with Golden Meat Purveyors’ special grass fed beef blend, and served on the choice of a brioche bun, gluten-free bun, or lettuce wrap. Burgers include: Bronson’s Signature Burger with house made bacon marmalade, cheddar, mushrooms, and crispy onions; Classic Burger with caramelized onions, cheddar, and pickles; Veggie Burger with a house made patty consisting of chickpeas, lentils, black beans, mushrooms, and beets, topped with basil mayo; and a Build-Your-Own Burger. Other offerings include a classic BLT, Grilled Cheese & Summer Tomato Soup, and Snap-O-Razzo Hot dogs with chili & cheese.

Photo: Melissa Hom

Several types of fries, including skinny, curly and sweet potato, as well as cheeseburger hash browns. Custom shakes include a Chocolate Malted, Toasted Marshmallow and Cookie Butter Crunch.

Bronson’s Burgers is located at 250 Mulberry St, New York, NY. For more information, visit www.bronsonsburgers.com

Cocktail Time - Just A Gigolo, The Grateful Matador and Potter's Field at Sugar Monk
July 16, 2021, 7:02.39 pm ET
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Each week we highlight some of the best cocktails New York City has to offer. At Sugar Monk in Harlem, exotic cocktails get the star treatment. Here are three favorites:

Photo: Sugar Monk

JUST A GIGOLO

D’Ussé VSOP Cognac, Crémant d’Alsace, Amaro Dell’Etna, Hibiscus, Rosehip, Passion Fruit

Inspired by the popular song, adapted by Irving Caesar into English in 1929 from the Austrian tango,”Schoner Gigolo, arner Gigolo”, this cocktail pays homage to all of the lavishly dressed gentlemen…. or gigolos. We thank them for their services. Created for Sugar Monk by Ex-Head Bartender, Tom Garvin @instagarvin

Photo: Sugar Monk

THE GRATEFUL MATADOR

Espolon Tequila Reposado,Cointreau, Dewar’s Ilegal Smooth Mezcal Cask Finish, Ginger, Honey, Yuzu, SM Arsonist Bitters,Palo Santo

This unique cocktail, occupies a space somewhere between a margarita and a penicillin. Created by our very talented bartender, Jake Godek @_jodek and in collaboration with the entire bar team, it pays homage to Alexander Fleming, the Scottish physician and microbiologist, best known for discovering the enzyme lysozyme and the world's first broadly effective antibiotic substance which he named penicillin. A statue of Alexander Fleming stands outside the main bullring in Madrid, Plaza de Toros de Las Ventas. It was erected by subscription from “grateful matadors” as penicillin greatly reduced the number of deaths in the bullring.

Photo: @hallieburton

POTTER’S FIELD

Peloton de la Muerte Espadin Mezcal, St. Elder, Absinthe, Chamomille-Infused Lillet, Lemon, Black & Green Cardamom

The POTTER'S FIELD enhanced by master Dagito’s @clear_fancy_ice beautiful floral ice spheres, it is a very popular cocktail. Originally created by the Beverage Director and Co-Owner, Ektoras Binikos for the 2 Michelin #gabrielkreuther to commemorate the first Potter’s Field in NYC, Brian Park, it was and continues to be a very loved libation. The name: "A potter's field, paupers' grave or common grave is a term for a place for the burial of unknown or indigent people. The term is of Biblical origin, referring to a ground where clay was dug for pottery, later bought by the high priests of Jerusalem for the burial of strangers, criminals and the poor.”

For more information, visit sugarmonklounge.com

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Buddha-Bar arrives in TriBeCa
July 16, 2021, 6:35.56 pm ET
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Photos: Tatiana Valerie

Buddha-Bar – the destination Pan-Asian restaurant – now has a location in TriBeCa with a modern, chef-driven menu and a breathtaking interior, including a 16-foot, glass-hewn Buddha sculpture which serves as the centerpiece of the space.

The restaurant, bar and lounge sit within a historic landmarked building in a vaulted two-story space with meticulous, opulent modern design perfectly aligned with the rustic beams and bricks of the original structure. The restaurant’s interiors feature fully-custom décor and furnishings commissioned from Milan-based Laura Meroni, as well as custom-designed large-scale metal pendant lights that hang in the main dining room.

The menu for Buddha-Bar Restaurant New York is led by Executive Chef Andrew Riccatelli, a Food Network’s Chopped Champion, has been a culinary professional for the better part of 20 years and in that time he worked alongside some of the best chefs and restaurateurs in the country including Jean-Georges, Bobby Flay and Stephen Starr. The menu features a modern take on Asian cuisine and beloved dishes from the legacy of Buddha-Bar's original menu in Paris and locations around the world.

“We have been exploring new ways to bring the unique energy of New York and quest for innovation inherent in this city to our Buddha-Bar menu,” says Executive Chef Andrew Riccatelli. “We are working with the highest quality products to create new, elevated dishes, and we are eager to share our passion for modern Asian cuisine with the people of New York, as well as bring them beloved favorites from Buddha-Bar.”

Executive Chef Andrew Riccatelli

Look for modern takes on dishes from the robata grill, fresh sashimi, finely curated maki rolls, and Thai-inspired curries, as well as signature and new dishes such as A5 Miyazaki wagyu ribeye with crispy rice, and whole roasted cauliflower with black bean-chili oil, peanut and mint.

The bar program includes a full range of cocktails offered in the mezzanine lounge and in the main dining area, as well as an extensive wine selection visible along the full length of one wall of the main dining area. Two private dining rooms are also available for executive board meetings, birthday celebrations, engagement parties or corporate networking events.

Buddha-Bar Restaurant New York is located at 62 Thomas St, New York, NY (212) 256-0360. For more information, visit buddhabarnewyork.com

Lamalo reopens in Midtown
July 15, 2021, 6:03.41 pm ET
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Photo: Lamalo

Lamalo, the modern Middle Eastern experience, returns to Midtown’s dining scene at the Arlo NoMad. It is also a social event where guests feast of on an assortment of dips and spreads, accompanied by a Jerusalem Laffa, a large oblong-shaped flatbread that is baked to order.

The menu at Lamalo draws from the diverse and flavorful cuisine of the Middle East, specifically Israel, by offering an authentic taste of the region with a few nods to New York. New to the menu is the variety of skewers being offered. Some include Kohlrabi & Fennel with preserved lemon vinaigrette, Lamb Kofta with caramelized onions, cumin & pepper and Shrimp with aleppo oil.

Along with the re-opening of the restaurant, the Lamalo team also manages the rooftop lounge, A.R.T. Nomad, where guests can enjoy a drink while waiting for a table while taking in views of the New York City skyline.

Lamalo is located at 11 East 31st St, New York, NY (212) 660-2112. For more information, visit www.lamalonyc.com

Sixty Three Clinton opens on the Lower East Side
July 15, 2021, 5:37.10 pm ET
Details

Photos: Giada Paoloni

Sixty Three Clinton is turning up the heat on the Lower East Side. The restaurant run by longtime friends and colleagues, Michelin-starred Chef Samuel Clonts and Raymond Trinh, is focusing on modern American fare. The two formerly worked together at The Chef’s Table at Brooklyn Fare and Bar Uchū.

The menu is a seven-course seasonal dinner centered on local ingredients with a global approach. It begins with a breakfast taco with ajitama, salsa verde, and trout roe, a charcoal-seared crudo with yuzu vinaigrette and shiso; and a seasonal agnolotti pasta. A single dessert - the wood-fired baked Alaska - brings the menu to a close with a twist on an American classic.

Chef Samuel Clonts and business partner Raymond Trinh

The beverage program compliments the menu's seasonality with traditional and progressive wines with responsible farming in mind. It includes old world icons such as Moussé Fils, Château Yvonne, & Ciro Picariello to the new world picks such as Arnot Roberts, Massican & Hermann J. Wiemer – all rooted in producing wines that are pure, mineral-driven and focused.

The cozy, 60 seat restaurant combines two, distinct and separate rooms featuring wrought iron, wood, and marble with accents like warm, glowing sconces, custom Dylan Mellinger tables, and colorful vintage flatware. A u-shaped chef’s counter gives diners a bird’s eye view into the open kitchen. Right now a $92 tasting menu is available with a la carte dining to follow.

Sixty Three Clinton is located at 63 Clinton St, New York, NY. For more information, visit www.63clinton.com

RISE & RIND TO BE AVAILABLE AT OTHER HALF BREWING
July 15, 2021, 12:58.53 pm ET
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Photo: Rise & Rind

Limited edition Rise & RIND, a tangy, fruity and refreshing summertime crusher Pale Ale brewed with Citra hops and Dried Persimmon, will be on tap at Other Half Brewing’s Domino Park location in Brooklyn (34 River Street) starting on July 14 until the beginning of August.

The beer is created in combination with RIND snacks; in total, 25 pounds of RIND’s persimmons and 50 pounds of RIND’s orange chips have been used to create the beverage, which has a 4.4% ABV.

Other Half Brewing is a taproom that offers an incredibly wide variety of beers on tap, including Instant Greens, Triple Mylar Daydeam, Green Diamonds, Patio Fun and Ivy City Lager. There are also light food options available including popcorn, nachos, nuts, jerky and RIND Snacks. Beers to go (in cans) are also available or purchase and delivery.

For more information, visit www.otherhalfbrewing.com

DRAMA BOOK SHOP HOSTS IN THE HEIGHTS BOOK SIGNING
July 15, 2021, 12:44.40 pm ET
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The Drama Book Shop announces its first in-person book signing with “In The Heights: Finding Home” authors Lin-Manuel Miranda, Quiara Alegría Hudes and Jeremy McCarter on Wednesday, July 21 at its new home at 266 West 39th Street. The store will close to the public at noon that day.

The book traces the creation of the musical “In the Heights,” co-written by Mr. Miranda and Ms. Hudes, which went on to win four 2008 Tony Awards, including Best Musical. It then opened on June 11 as a major motion picture from Warner Brothers (and was immediately available from HBO Max.)

Among his many accomplishments, Mr. McCarter was the co-author of “Hamilton: The Revolution” with Miranda. He spent five years on the staff of the Public Theater and was a writer about culture and politics for New York, Newsweek, and The New York Times.

A limited number of tickets will be available for purchase online beginning Friday, July 16 at 10am. Only one copy of “In The Heights: Finding Home” will be signed for each ticket holder. Appointment times cannot be changed, and all attendees must wear a mask inside the store.

For more information, visit www.dramabookshop.com

Brooklyn Kolache expands to Manhattan
July 15, 2021, 1:15.34 am ET
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Brooklyn Kolache which got its start 9 years ago in Bed-Stuy is branching out to Manhattan with a second location in Greenwich Village. The Texas-style pastries are made from scratch in house.

Kolaches are made with a yeast dough with sweet and savory fillings such as fruit jams, poppy seeds, cheese and streusel topping or savory with sausages, cheese, eggs and vegetables. Flavors at Brooklyn Kolache change with the seasons but signature ones are always available, including Poppyseed; Cherry and Sweet Cheese; Chocolate Ganache and Bacon, Egg & Cheese. At the new Bleecker Street location, kolaches are filled with Faicco's classic sweet Italian sausage, egg and cheese.

Photos: Brooklyn Kolache

All of the pastries are made in small batches with natural and organic ingredients whenever possible. Orange or cinnamon rolls, vegan biscuits and cookies, plus coffee, tea, and other beverages, including a vibrant purple Ube Latte round out the menu.

Brooklyn Kolache is located at 185 Bleecker St (at MacDougal), New York, NY. For more information, visit www.brooklynkolache.com

Just Opened - L'Adresse, Sixty Three Clinton, Patrick Steakhouse & more
July 14, 2021, 11:51.53 pm ET
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L'Adresse, the modern Amerian bistro with European touches, has taken over the space once occupied by Maxwell's Chophouse in NoMad. The restaurant, which also operates a location across from Bryant Park, is known for dishes like veal dumplings called pelmeni, wagyu tartare & bone marrow, and Moroccan-style lamb chops, as well as assorted salads, pastas and burgers. 1184 Broadway, New York, NY (212) 221-2510

Breslin Burger is now open at the Ace Hotel in NoMad. Five different burgers are offered, including a Dry-Aged Rib Eye Burger with seared foie gras selling for forty bucks. Shareable plates include loaded fries, deviled eggs and a pickle pot. 16 West 29 St, New York, NY (212) 679-1939

Sixty Three Clinton has taken over the Speedy Romeo spot on the Lower East Side. Partners and longtime friend Sam Clonts and Raymond Trinh have opened the new space serving classic dishes like razor clams with smoked corn and caviar, roasted tomato agnolotti, Berkshire pork short ribs and Baked Alaska for dessert. 63 Clinton St, New York, NY (917) 663-6223

Buddha Bar now has a location in TriBeCa complete with a 16-foot glass hewn Buddha. Look for modern pan-Asian cuisine with a global twist, such as duck and foie gras dumplings, seared scallops with xo sauce, and Szechuan-style wok-fried whole red snapper for the table. 62 Thomas St, New York, NY (212) 256-0360

Photos: Cititour.com

Patrick Steakhouse, whose motto is "Steaks Done the Brooklyn Way," has opened on Rogers Avenue in Crown Heights. The restaurant features a full bar and outdoor atrium with colorful murals. The menu includes several cuts of beef: New York Strip, Ribeye, Skirt and Filet with a 48oz Porterhouse for two available on Fridays and Saturdays along with various sauces. Fish, Chicken and Seafood also make an appearance. 227 Rogers Ave, Brooklyn, NY (347) 789-9976

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INWOOD FARM OPENS WITH FARM-TO-TABLE MENU
July 14, 2021, 5:47.52 pm ET
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Photo: Inwood Farm

Take the CrazyShake Challenge
July 14, 2021, 5:37.23 pm ET
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Photo: Black Tap

In honor of National Ice Cream Day, Black Tap is launches “The CrazyShake® Challenge.” For the first-time ever, fans all across the US can play shake-maker and take their shot at making their dream version of the brand’s iconic dessert a reality. The winning shake will receive a coveted place on the menus at select Black Tap locations for a limited time in August.

In order to enter, fans simply have to let their imaginations run wild and then submit their CrazyShake® milkshake idea via Black Tap’s website linked here.

Entries can be submitted starting today through July 15, 2021. Submissions must include the proposed shake name, shake description including the milkshake base flavor, candy/treats for the frosted rim, toppings, and the creator’s name, email and zip code.

Black Tap will select their two favorites and announce the finalists on social media (@blacktapnyc) on National Ice Cream Day, July 18, 2021. For more information, visit www.blacktap.com

STOMP RETURNS OFF-BROADWAY ON JULY 20
July 14, 2021, 12:45.22 pm ET
Details

Photo: STOMP

“STOMP,” the award-winning international theatrical sensation which has been astonishing audiences for the past 26 years, at the Orpheum Theatre (126 Second Avenue) will resume performances on Tuesday, July 20. The show has won an Obie Award, Drama Desk Award and a “Legend of Off Broadway Award,” among other honors.

In “STOMP,” both household and industrial objects find new life as musical instruments in the hands of an idiosyncratic band of body percussionists. Synchronized stiff-bristle brooms become a sweeping orchestra, eight Zippo lighters flip open and closed to create a fiery fugue; wooden poles thump and clack in a rhythmic explosion. In fact, the performers use everything from dustbins to tea chests, radiator hoses, boots and hub caps to fill the stage with sound and movement.

Producers will require that all cast, crew, staff and audiences entering the Orpheum Theatre show proof of vaccination prior to entry. Out of an abundance of caution, audiences will also have to be masked throughout the show’s 90-minute running time.

Tickets are currently available through www.Ticketmaster.com and at The Orpheum theatre box office.

Monarch Rooftop reopens in Midtown
July 13, 2021, 5:56.23 pm ET
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Photo: Monarch Rooftop

Monarch Rooftop, with stunning views of the Empire State Building, is open again. Perched 18 stories atop Midtown, Monarch boasts two bars with more than 5,000 square feet of interior and exterior space. Visitors can enjoy specialty cocktails like The Glow Up (Ketel One Botanical Peach & Orange Blossom, Passion Fruit, Vanilla, Lemon, Topped with Prosecco) or the Let's Get Lit Mojito (Citrus Rum, Muddled Lime, Mint, Soda Water). Small plates include Tiger Shrimp Dumplings, Boneless Buffalo Wings, Tuna Tartare Mini Tacos and more. For additional information visit, www.monarchrooftop.com

AWARD WINNERS COME TO BROADWAY
July 13, 2021, 11:58.18 am ET
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Photo: LaChanze

Tony and Emmy Award winner LaChanze (“The Color Purple”) will star in the Broadway premiere of “Trouble in Mind” by Alice Childress, directed by Charles Randolph-Wright, which will begin preview performances at the Roundabout’s American Airlines Theatre (227 West. 42nd Street). The long-awaited show will begin performances on Friday, October 29 and open officially on Thursday, November 18. For tickets and information, visit www.roundabouttheatre.org

Second Stage’s production of Pulitzer Prize winner Lynn Nottage’s new play “Clyde’s” will feature three-time Emmy Award-winner Uzo Aduba (“Orange is the New Black”) and two-time Emmy Award-winner Ron Cephas Jones (“This Is Us”), alongside rising stars Reza Salazar and Kara Young. Directed by Kate Whoriskey, the drama will begin previews on Wednesday, November 3 and officially open on Monday, November 22 at The Hayes Theater (240 West 44th street). For tickets and information, visit www.2st.com

Olivier Award winner Sharon D. Clarke will re-create her explosive performance as the title character in the Roundabout Theater’s production of the acclaimed Tony Kushner-Jeanine Tesori musical “Caroline or Change,” which begins a limited engagement on October 8 at Studio 54. The show’s supporting cast includes stage favorites Caissie Levy (“Frozen”), Chip Zien (“Into the Woods”), John Cariani (“Fiddler on the Roof”) and N’Kenge (“Motown the Musical”). For tickets and information, visit www.roundabouttheatre.org

Finally, it’s a Broadway homecoming for Obie and New York Drama Critics Circle Award winner Deirdre O’Connell, who will reprise her extraordinary performance in Lucas Hnath’s solo show “Dana H.,” which will come to Broadway’s Lyceum Theatre for a limited run on October 1. In a most unusual fashion, the show tells the harrowing true story of a woman – Hnath’s mother -- held captive in a series of Florida motels for five months. “Dana H.” will play in repertory with the equally acclaimed “Is This A Room,” another award-winning show presented by the Vineyard Theatre during its 2019-2020 season. Written by Tina Satter, directed by Les Waters and starring Emily Davis, “Is This A Room” focuses on the true story of Reality Winner, the 25-year-old former Air Force linguist who was surprised at her home by the FBI on June 3, 2017. Performances begin September 24. For tickets and information, visit https://thelyceumplays.com

PERFORMING NOW NYC TICKET BOOTH TO OPEN ON JULY 14
July 13, 2021, 12:29.51 am ET
Details

Photo: Cititour.com

The Off-Broadway Alliance, in association with The Theater Center and The Torkian Group, has created PERFORMING NOW NYC, a new same day pop-up ticket booth at 1657 Broadway, inside the I Love NY Gift Shop, slated to open on July 14.

The booth will sell tickets to the various Off-Broadway, dance, comedy shows now open and performing throughout New York City. It will be open between Monday through Friday 3:00pm and 8:00pm and on Saturdays and Sundays between 11:00am and 7:00pm through Tuesday, September 14 when the TKTS booth is slated to re-open. At the booth, ticket buyers will be able to purchase tickets to shows to see the same day.

Initial offerings are scheduled to include “Perfect Crime,” “The Office! A Musical Parody” and “The Housewives of Secaucus.” Customers can purchase same day tickets at face value and have the option to pay an additional $4 service fee which will go to The Actors Fund. Only credit cards will be accepted.

For more information, visit performingnownyc.com

HERE THERE AND EVERYWHERE: THIS WEEK IN LIVE PERFORMANCE
July 12, 2021, 6:02.59 pm ET
Details

Rendering: Lincoln Center

You Are Here: Lincoln Center will literally come alive with “You Are Here,” a free public sculpture, sound, and live performance installation at Hearst Plaza conceived by award-winning choreographer Andrea Miller. From July 14-23, visitors will experience a free sculpture and sound installation in which sculptures by famed scenic designer Mimi Lien house a speaker through which audio portraits of ordinary New Yorkers are projected. From July 24–30 at 7pm, these audio portraits are then replaced by live performances featuring Miller’s dance company, Gallim. Tickets are available through www.TodayTix.com

Photo: David Broza

David Broza: Singer-songwriter David Broza will perform his first post-pandemic in-person solo concert at City WineryNYC on July 14. Broza, who has performed worldwide since 1977 -- when his song “Yihye Tov” first hit the airwaves -- will offer a selection of songs from his 40 albums, representing works from many countries from around the world. citywinery.com/newyork

Orfeh: One of Broadway’s most powerful vocalists, the star of “Saturday Night Fever” and “Pretty Woman” will have you dancing in your seats from July 15-17 at Feinstein’s/54 Below with a dynamic collection of showtunes and pop hits, performed alongside pals Eric Anderson, Marissa Rosen and Raymond J. Lee. www.54below.com

Two Noble Kinsmen: Even if you think you’ve seen all of the Bard’s plays, you may have missed this rarely-seen tragicomic work by Shakespeare and John Fletcher. For this go-round by the Drilling Company, director Hamilton Clancy is re-envisioning the original story of Thebes and Athens into a modern spy caper complete with two Russian spies, a corporate magnate and an Interpol spy-catcher. Performances take place at the Clemente Parking Lot (107 Suffolk Street) from July 15-17 and 28-30 as well as in Bryant Park from July 19-21. www.shakespeareintheparkinglot.com

Why It Matters: New York City Ballet principal Lauren Lovette has created this one-night only gala on July 16 at Spring Studios, which features four of her new choreographic works. Lovette will be joined on stage by fellow dancers Unity Phelan, Indiana Woodward, Victor Abreu, Gilbert Bolden III, Preston Chamblee, Laine Habony, Herman Cornejo, Hee Seo, Zimmi Coker, Patrick Frenette, Remy Young and Julian Mackay. Tickets are available for both performance-only or with a private dinner afterwards. whyitmattersdance.com

FRENCH CHEESE BOARD TO UNVEIL “CONTEXOMY”
July 12, 2021, 9:40.37 am ET
Details

Photo: The Cheese Board

The French Cheese Board will unveil their newest exhibit, “Contexomy” on Wednesday, July 14 at their flagship store located 41 Spring Street. The exhibit will take French cheese out of its comfort zone and give it an entirely new look and feel by replacing the typical and expected ingredients in many popular dishes with cheese.

For example, among the dishes that viewers can see are “Steak Tartare,” which will be made with Cantal, a semi-hard cheese from the Auvergne region; “Fish Tacos,” which will be reinvented with sticks of Vieille Mimolette; “Chateau Blanc Sliders” will feature a hearty slice of Bleu d’Auvergne, a sharp, woody and spicy cow’s milk cheese. Sweet treats that are being transformed by the presence of cheese include Macarons and ice cream cones.

For more information, visit https://frenchcheeseboard.com

WAYS TO CELEBRATE BASTILLE DAY
July 12, 2021, 9:39.14 am ET
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While it’s not our national holiday, many New Yorkers love to make like the French (or make love to the French) on July 14 in ordor to honor Bastille Day. Here’s three special ways to do so this year!

The Consulate General of France in New York, the French Institute Alliance Française and the Committee of French Speaking Societies will present a special Bastille Day Celebration in Central Park at SummerStage (Rumsey Playfield), beginning at 6:30pm. After the playing of the French and U.S. National Anthems, visitors will be treated to the stylings of a jazz quintet headlined by vocalist Kavita Shah, followed by a get-up-and-dance set with film clips by star Joachim Garraud and a screening of the 2020 French comedy “My Donkey, My Lover & I.” Chairs and seating are available on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information, visit www.fiaf.org

For more than four decades, local Francophiles have flocked to Chez Josephine (411 W. 42nd Street), the elegant eatery once owned by Jean-Claude Baker, son of the legendary entertainer Josephine Baker. On Bastille Day, diners can indulge in classic Gallic fare – including escargot, pate and trout almondine – as well as two specially-created jazz shows (at 7pm and 10pm). Call 212-594-1925 for reservations.

At East Village supper club Pangea (178 Second Avenue), “Allons Enfants,” a Bastille Day celebration masterminded by Steve Ross and Jean Brassard, with special guests Karen Akers and Stephanie Biddle, premieres on July 14 at 8:30pm. Unfortunately, you’ll need to nab a last-minute cancellation to attend, but if you’re willing to celebrate Bastille Day a little late, another performance, on Friday August 6, at 7pm, has been added to the club’s schedule. For information and reservations, visit www.pangeanyc.com

Photo: Estuary

Estuary at ONE°15 Brooklyn Marina in Brooklyn Bridge Park, is commemorating Bastille with a special menu from Executive Chef Jonathan Rodriguez (Danny Brown Kitchen, Batard). It includes Deviled Eggs with Cajun spiced mayo and smoked trout roe, Steak Tartare served with Dijon and capers that’s topped with a quail egg, as well as Côte de Boeuf in a peppercorn sauce served with fries. Estuary is also offering two biodynamic wines shipped directly from France to the marina via the cargo sailboat, Grain De Sail. They are White: Domaine Des Maravilhas, Côtes du Rhône, France 2019 (Clairette) or Red: Maestral Domaine Des Maravilhas, Côtes du Rhône, France 2015 (cinsault, Grenache, Syrah). For more information, visit www.estuarybrooklyn.com

French bistro La Goulue on East 61st Street in Midtown is offering a special menu in honor of Bastille Day on Wednesday, July 14th. Crafted by Executive Chef Antoine Camin, the $65 prix fixe with a cocktail, called French 75 with Citadelle Gin, fresh lemon juice and Frerejean Frères. Diners will also discover Salade Lyonnaise (Frisée salad, bacon vinaigrette, poached egg and croutons) and Navarin d’Agneau (braised lamb with summer vegetables). For more information, visit www.lagouluerestaurant.com

3 places to try if you can snag a table - Freehold in the Park and more
July 10, 2021, 4:51.01 pm ET
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Freehold in the Park

Located at Union Square, Freehold in the Park is a destination for cocktails and thin & crispy pizzas with ingredients sourced from the nearby green market. The outdoor pavillion is open for dining 7 days a week from 12pm to 12 am. 20 Union Square West, New York, NY (646) 908-3333

Rezdôra

Rezdora in the Flatiron District has folks lining up for its freshly-made pastas, including strozzapreti with lobster & basil, uovo raviolo di nino bergese with chanterelles, asparagus & black truffle, and speghettoni con grachio with jumbo lump crab, garlic & parsley. 27 East 20th St, New York, NY

Balthazar

For those looking for a true French embrace, Balthazar in SoHo is the perfect spot to share a table and some wine. Escargots, lobster in puff pastry, Long Island duck breast l'orange, and NY strip steak au poivre are among the classic French offerings. 80 Spring St, New York, NY (212) 965-1414

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Restaurant Radar - Evil Katsu on LES
July 10, 2021, 1:21.38 pm ET
Details

Photo: Cititour.com

After getting its start as a pop-up inside Pretty Ricky's on the Lower East Side, Evil Katsu now has a permanent home at 435 East 9th Street. Evil Katsu was born out of necessity after the three partners found themselves without jobs during the pandemic. On the menu look for pork and chicken katsu sandos, bento boxes and sides.

For more information visit evilkatsu.com

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Cocktail Time - Oh Oh Cherie at Victor
July 9, 2021, 6:43.29 pm ET
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Photo: Cititour.com

If you are looking for a cocktail that might just be a bit out of your comfort zone, try the frothy Oh Oh Cherie at Victor in Gowanus. The drink combines light rum with maraschino, violet, citrus and egg. We call it, "purple pleasure."

Other offerings at this new Mediterranean spot include Byrrh Me! with byrrh, contratto bitters and prosecco, and Many Moons of Love with rye, fino, and lo-fi gentian amaro. If you're looking to spice things up, there's El Diablo, a mix of tequila blanco, sassis, ginger beer and lime. Cheers!

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Shukette debuts in Chelsea
July 9, 2021, 6:08.22 pm ET
Details

Labne with Crispy Squash Blossoms

Shukette in Chelsea is celebrating the foods of the Levant, countries along the eastern shores of the Mediterranean. Shukette is an offshoot of Shuka by partners Chef Ayesha Nurdjaja and The Bowery Group showcasing the region’s many cuisines with locally and sustainably sourced ingredients when possible.

Chef/Partner Ayesha Nurdjaja

Flavorful dips, salads and market-driven small plates such as fetatoush with chickpea flaxseed crackers and stuffed grape leaves arrive in quick procession from the open kitchen. Guests are encouraged to mop up their plates with warm pieces of house-baked breads such as lafa with za’atar or potato-stuffed gozleme. Larger plates, including Joojeh chicken and Fish in a Cage, capture the crackling energy of the charcoal grill. Playful cocktails by bar director Tim Harris are offered alongside a curated selection of wine and beer.

Photos: Kyle Nunez

The brightly colored, 74-seat space by Guzy Architects is designed to encourage lively conversation in a friendly atmospher. Hanging light fixtures and cork walls accented with Mediterranean blue tile and pale saffron yellow trim accent the interior. Shukette’s extensive outdoor setup features ample sidewalk seating that traces the corner of Ninth Avenue and 24th Street as well as a covered structure.

Shukette is located at 230 9th Ave, New York, NY (212) 242-1803

For more information visit shukettenyc.com

Around Town - New Magnolia Bakery, Funnel Cakes in Coney, Dive Bars and more...
July 8, 2021, 6:58.43 pm ET
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At the Moynihan Train Hall, new food places are starting to open up. Magnolia Bakery now has a shiny new space with tempting cupcakes and other desserts on full display.

On the other side of the main hall, Starbucks has opened a large counter for hot & cold drinks along with snacks. Burger Joint, Davey’s Ice Cream, Sauce Pizzeria, Jacob’s Pickles and Maman Kitchen are among restaurants slated to open this fall in a grand food hall.

We stopped by Coney Island for the July 4th holiday. The fireworks show was spectacular. So were the funnel cakes being sold from a stand steps away from the boardwalk.

Ruby’s Bar & Grill was jamming. We couldn’t resist some fried clams, crab cake sandwiches and an authentic corn dog. Icy Coronas seemed to be the drink of choice at the bar where the juke box was belting out Tom Jones’ 70s hit “She’s a Lady.”

In the Meatpacking District, The Gansevroot Hotel is getting a major facelift with new restaurants, including an open-air café called Coffee & Cocktails that promises to whisk you away to the cobblestone streets of Paris. There's also a pop-omakase by Kissaki.

Two dive have managed to survive the pandemic. Blarney Stone (410 8th Ave), near Madison Square Garden, still has its green neon sign lit up. It’s the place to go if you’re in the mood for a Miller Lite and maybe some Blarney Wings or Irish Bacon.

Not too far away on 29th and Ninth Ave, the “world famous” Billy Mark’s West has returned. A few months ago the place was covered with graffiti and looked like a goner. But it’s cleaned up nicely with a fresh coat of paint. It’s got an all-day, all-night Beer + Shot special going. There’s also a pool table in the back room.

Photos: Cititour.com

In Times Square, a giant electronic billboard has shot up for Space Jam, A New Legacy, set to debut on July 16th. It’s nice to see that movies are back with the bulk of Broadway set to come back in the fall.

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

The New York Hall of Science reopens this weekend
July 8, 2021, 5:31.11 pm ET
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Photo: New York Hall of Science

The New York Hall of Science is marking its return starting with a weekend of special programming. It includes a brand-new exhibit called The Happiness Experiment, where visitors will discover the ways in which environmental and social factors can affect emotions and well-being.

The debut of Small Discoveries is a reimagined exhibit that invites visitors to explore the power of microbes There is also a redesigned PreSchool Place, featuring a new shadow and light area, train table, tinkering and building activities, as well as a new dedicated space for infants. There are also Engineering activities, free workshops in the Maker Space, access to Rocket Park mini-golf, and dozens of other exhibits and experiences, as well as complimentary beverages at The bubly Smile Bar.

Visitors will find refreshed and reimagined spaces, exhibits and experiences that they can enjoy safely Thursdays through Sundays, 10 AM-5 PM, except Saturday when NYSCI will be open 10 AM-6 PM.

For more information visit nysci.org

QUEENS THEATRE PRESENTS OUTDOOR SUMMER PERFORMANCES
July 7, 2021, 11:09.06 pm ET
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Photo: Red Radio

Queens Theatre will present a series of exciting outdoor music and dance performances in three spaces across Queens -- Flushing Meadows Corona Park, Corona Plaza at 103rd Street and Gantry State Park in Long Island City -- from July 9 through September 3. Performances are free, but reservations are required for some shows.

Participating artists in the series include Dorrance Dance, RED Radio, SOLE Defined, The Orchestra of St. Luke’s, Calpulli Mexican Dance Company, Ali Bello & The Sweet Wire Band, Grupo Rebolú, Sisa Pakari Dance, Tango Y Mas, Mestizo Dance Company, The True Little Red, Racies Group, Supermambo, George Gee Big Band, Music from the Sole, The Gentlemen of Soul, Yasser Tejeda and On the Sun.

In addition, the Queens Dance Party, featuring a variety of performers, will be held every Tuesday night at 7:30pm through August 3 at Flushing Meadows Corona Park.

For information, call 718-760-0064 or visit www.QueensTheatre.org

UPTOWN NIGHT MARKET TO DEBUT IN WEST HARLEM
July 7, 2021, 11:09.05 pm ET
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MASC Hospitality Group is bringing The Uptown Night Market, the latest iteration of its successful open-air concept celebrating cuisine, community and culture, to West Harlem starting on July 8 from 4pm to 10pm. The Market, which is located on 12th Avenue and 135th Street, is free to the public and is open rain or shine.

Photos: Uptown Night Market

The Market will feature a curated and diverse selection of approximately 40 local West Harlem & NYC-based food, beverage, arts & crafts, and packaged goods vendors, including Booze Scoops, Fried Lasagna Mama, Harlem Hoopz, La Braza, Sam’s Ice Cream, Hangry Dog and more. It will also feature live performances from local artists and a variety of family activities. In addition, the market will employ predominantly local staff and suppliers.

For more information, visit www.uptownnightmarket.com

Just Opened - Joomak Banjum, Local Roots Market & Cafe and more...
July 7, 2021, 6:29.24 pm ET
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Photo: Cititour.com

Joomak Banjum has popped up on Fifth Avenue near 32nd Street in Koreatown. The restaurant offers “Korean cuisine inspired by Chinese cuisine, executed with French technique.” Right now the restaurant is offering an Ugly Duckling Tasting for $125 and a 4-course meal for $85. 312 Fifth Ave, New York, NY

Local Roots which operates a Harvest Club offering a farm-to-table subscription, now has a market and café where locals can explore sustainable eating. The restaurant is serving Chinese childhood favorites from founder Wen-Yay Ying. 398 Court St, Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn

Mocha Red is a Kosher steakhouse with a bit of Asian flair. Alongside Prime Ribeye and Prime Vowboy Steak is edamame togarashi with Himalayan salt flakes and sweet chili glaze. 127 4th Ave (13th St), New York, NY (212) 419-8889

Bice Cucina, an established player in Midtown, now has a second location is SoHo. Look for things like meatballs with beef, veal and pork, baked eggplant parmigiana, Roman-style pizzas, as well as assorted pastas and risotto. 15 Watts St, New York, NY

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JUST OPENED - MARVELOUS BY FRED, THE Q NIGHTCLUB AND MORE...

Morgan's Brooklyn Barbecue Returns
July 7, 2021, 6:07.51 pm ET
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Photo: Morgan's Brooklyn Barbecue

Morgan’s Brooklyn Barbecue is marking its much-anticipated return to the city with the launch of their new LES smoker-retrofitted kitchen. Known for its low-and-slow style BBQ, Morgan’s will be operating temporarily from DoorDash Kitchen’s brick-and-mortar outpost at 196 Stanton Street. The ghost kitchen is one of only three of its kind, home to other well-known concepts like Roberta’s and DiFara pizza.

Offerings include Morgan’s world-famous smoked brisket, pork ribs, smoked chicken wings, pulled pork, and smoked turkey. Mac `n Cheese, Frito Pie, and Smoked Queso are also returning along with house-baked desserts like Fried Oreos, Bourbon Pecan Pie and Key Lime Pie. Also debuting, the “BB-Bow” sauce sampler — a rainbow array of regional barbecue sauces including (Carolina Mustard) Yellow, (Alabama) White, (Kentucky) Black and (Kansas City Molasses) Red.

Morgan’s Brooklyn Barbecue in Prospect Heights is also set to reopen in time for Labor Day 2021, and recently opened an outpost in Philadelphia’s King of Prussia.

For more information visit www.morgansbrooklynbarbecue.com

BROADWAY IS COOKING UP A STORM!
July 7, 2021, 5:28.46 pm ET
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Photo: Jeremy Daniel

Sugar, butter, Sara Bareilles. Talk about the ingredients for a hit show. The acclaimed singer-songwriter is heading back to the on-stage diner to star in the limited return of her musical “Waitress” at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre from September 2 to October 19. No additional casting has been announced for her run, nor who will replace her for the rest of the limited engagement, now scheduled to end on January 9, 2022. Visit www.telecharge.com for tickets.

While the historic New Amsterdam Theatre will remain mostly empty until “Aladdin” rides in again on its magic carpet, Disney on Broadway will present “Live at The New Am: A Benefit Concert for The Actors Fund,” with Ashley Brown, Michael James Scott, Kissy Simmons and Josh Strickland performing some of the most-beloved hit songs from Disney’s Broadway shows. The concert plays four performances July 22-24 at 7:30pm and July 25 at 2pm. For tickets and information, visit disneyonbroadway.com/liveatthenewam

As the COVID pandemic eases, we’re all desperate for a little company, so it’s great news that the much-anticipated revival of Stephen Sondheim and George Furth’s landmark musical “Company” will come home to Bernard Jacobs Theatre a little earlier than planned, with performances now starting on November 15. This revolutionary production, directed by Tony Award-winner Marianne Elliott, switches the gender of its main character, now the 35-and-still-unmarried Bobbie (played by Tony winner Katrina Lek) as well as some of the supporting players. The all-star supporting cast is led by the inimitable Patti LuPone as the worldly, wisecracking Joanne. I’ll drink to that. For tickets and information, visit www.telecharge.com

MODERN GOTHIC DEBUTS AT BROOKLYN MUSEUM
July 7, 2021, 12:12.58 am ET
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Photo: Brooklyn Museum

“Modern Gothic: The Inventive Furniture of Kimbel and Cabus, 1863–82,” now at the Brooklyn Museum, is the first museum exhibition to trace the American success story and the nearly 20-year partnership of Anton Kimbel and Joseph Cabus, who developed one of New York City's leading furniture and decorating firms. Combining British and continental European design sources, Kimbel and Cabus's furniture forms featured bold, clean lines and rich surface decoration, and the firm used innovative production techniques to offer these striking artistic objects at a variety of prices.

Using both new scholarship and primary sources, the exhibit offers fresh insight into the history of the enterprising design team, their ambitious marketing practices, and their forward-looking clientele. Over 60 objects are on view, with rare examples of furniture from their famous chair designs and dramatic, monumental desks to their quirky, smaller forms decorated with fanciful paper panels, as well as books and ephemera.

For more information, visit www.brooklynmuseum.org

Angie Mar opens Les Trois Chevaux in the West Village
July 7, 2021, 12:01.16 am ET
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Photo: Cititour.com

Angie Mar, whose name is synonymous with Beatrice Inn, has decided to move in an entirely new direction. Mar’s new restaurant, Les Trois Chevaux, dives head first into classical French. Translated the name of the restaurant means “The Three Horses,” a nickname Mar and her brothers were given by their father and uncles, according to the restaurant’s website.

The space is quite elegant with a rounded bar on one side, white linen tables on the other with elegant lighting. The menu is a tribute to New York City's great French restaurants of years gone by.

Diners can begin with oysters on the half shell served with a champagne and bonito mignonette, or truffles and caviar. Follow it up with Tartare de la Mer with otoro (the most desirable part of the tuna belly), rock shrimp, yuzu and caviar. Confit of frog’s legs also makes an appearance, as does breast of pigeon roasted in ash with Sakura blossom, porcini and shiitake mushrooms. Seconds include rack of lamb, sautéed dover sole and juniper roasted pheasant.

Cocktails include the 52nd Avenue South, a drink named after Mar’s childhood home. It’s a mix of Beluga Vodka, 20th Century Pear and Dassai Nigori. There’s also a lengthy wine list with more than a dozen available by the glass. Dress to impress. Proper attire isn’t just suggested, it’s required, including dinner jackets for men and absolutely no blue jeans, shorts or sneakers.

THIS WEEK IN NYC LIVE PERFORMANCE
July 6, 2021, 6:35.50 pm ET
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Photo: Charmed Life/Ben Hider

This summer’s stages, both indoors and outdoors, heat up just as suddenly as the weather!

Importance of Being Earnest LBGTQ+: In this modern update of Oscar Wilde’s classic comedy, now at the Actor’s Temple, the genders of some of the main characters have changed, but Wilde’s gift for farce and witticism – and his basic understanding of human nature -- are sure to remain the same. For more information, visit www.actorstempletheatre.com

Fruma Sarah (Waiting in the Wings): Catching Emmy nominee and Broadway favorite Jackie Hoffman in anything always proves worthwhile (even “The Addams Family.”) That proves true once more in this one-hour play in which she plays a community theater actress whose one-hour wait to make a brief appearance in a local production of “Fiddler on the Roof” starts to take a psychic and potentially physical toll on her. For more information, visit www.thecelltheatre.org

Seize the King: Yes, there is always “more” Shakespeare available for viewing every summer than what’s onstage at the Delacorte. This month, the award-winning Classical Theatre of Harlem will present this powerful reimagining of the Bard’s “Richard III” by the award-winning playwright Will Power. Better yet, this show runs– for free -- through July 29 at the Richard Rodgers Amphitheater in Marcus Garvey Park (124th Street and 5th Avenue). For more information, visit cthnyc.org

Charmed Life, From Soul Singing to Opera Star: Lori Brown Mirabal's acclaimed autobiographical play with music toasts the many entertainment luminaries, including Oprah, Cab Calloway, and Luciano Pavarotti, who had a hand in her rise to success, and salutes the black opera singers that paved the way in the opera world. For more information, visit urbanStages.org

No One Cries for the Blacksmith. And finally, a livestream worth watching: Tony Award winner Chuck Cooper and Drama Desk Award winner Robert Cuccioli star in Lloyd Khaner’s new two-character play about the chance meeting between a New York City cab driver and a down-and-out marketing executive, which will be streamed starting July 11 at 3pm (and available OnDemand until July 15). Tony Award winner Tonya Pinkins will direct the reading. For livestream tickets, visit https://onthestage.com/show/theater-resources-unlimited/no-one-cries-for-the-blacksmith-56913

Restaurant Radar - Rick Bayless Tortazo
July 5, 2021, 11:47.07 pm ET
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Photo: Cititour.com

On the corner of 25th Street and Broadway, signage is now up for Tortazo, a new fast-casual Mexican restaurant by chef Rick Bayless. Inspired by the vibrant foods and culture of Mexico, Tortazo will be offering tortas (sandwiches), bowls, salads, desserts and beverages, incuding margaritas and beer. Among the tortas is slow-cooked achiote-braised pork, pickled red onions, black bean spread and a side of fiery roasted habanero salsa.

Rick Baylees is a 7-time James Beard award winning chef and considered an expert on Mexican cuisine in America. Tortazo, which already operates in Chicago at the Willis Tower, is slated to make its New York City debut this September.

Tortazo NoMad is located at 1123 North Broadway, New York, NY.

For more information visit www.tortazo.com

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MYLES FROST TO NOW STAR IN MICHAEL JACKSON MUSICAL “MJ”
July 5, 2021, 9:20.56 pm ET
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Photo: MJ

“MJ,” the new musical inspired by the life and art of Michael Jackson, will begin performances on Broadway on December 6 with an opening night set for Tuesday, February 1, 2022 at the newly refurbished Neil Simon Theatre (250 W 52nd Street). Newcomer Myles Frost will play Jackson with additional casting to be announced.

The show features a book by two-time Pulitzer Prize winner Lynn Nottage and a score made up of some of the best-loved, top-selling songs in recording history. Tony Award winner Christopher Wheeldon will direct and choreograph.

The creative team will feature Scenic Design by Tony and two-time Emmy Award winner Derek McLane, Lighting Design by six-time Tony Award winner Natasha Katz, Costume Design by Tony and Emmy Award winner Paul Tazewell, Sound Design by two-time Tony Award nominee Gareth Owen, Projection Design by two-time Tony Award nominee Peter Nigrini, Hair & Wig Design by two-time Emmy Award nominee Charles LaPointe, Musical Supervision by David Holcenberg, Orchestrations and Arrangements by David Holcenberg and Tony Award winner Jason Michael Webb, and Music Direction by Jason Michael Webb.

Tickets will be available on Ticketmaster.com

POSTER HOUSE TO CELEBRATE SECOND BIRTHDAY
July 5, 2021, 9:16.14 pm ET
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Chelsea-based museum Poster House (119 West 23rd Street) will officially celebrate its second birthday on Saturday, July 10 by offering free admission. Throughout the day, the museum will also have free guided tours of its exhibits, interactive activities and poster signings with artists including Mike King and Pablo Medina, and sweet treats available in its café.

Currently, the museum has three incredible exhibitions on view: “Vera List & the Posters of Lincoln Center” (through October 3); “Julius Klinger: Posters for the Modern Age” (through October 15); and “Freak Power” (through August 15).

For more information, visit www.posterhouse.org

A taste of Vietnam at Saigon Social on LES
July 5, 2021, 9:06.01 pm ET
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Saigon Social on the Lower East Side, which had its official launch delayed due to the pandemic, remains an outdoor affair, at least for now. Orders are taken from a window and delivered to tables outside. The restaurant is led by Chef Helen Nguyen who trained under Chef Daniel Boulud at Daniel. But while trained in classic French her true passion is for Vietnamese cuisine. And it shows.

At Saigon Social, traditional Vietnamese comfort foods are elevated. Simple dishes like Thit Nuong, or skewers, are deeply flavored with three choices; pork belly, lemongrass chicken and garlic butter prawns. Saigon Chicken Wings get added zip from fish sauce, lemongrass and pickled jalapenos. There are traditional Banh Mi Sandwiches and not so traditional Banh Mi Burger and Softshell Crab Banh Mi. Several soups are offered, including Crab & Tomato Soup and Beef Pho with brisket and rice noodles in a beef bone broth. One of our favorites is the Oxtail Fried Rice made with oxtail, shredded ribeye and served with a fried egg on top.

Photos: Cititour.com

On the beverage side, three types of sangria are served along with sparkling wines and beer. Non-alcoholic beverages include a Jackfruit Coco Fresca with jackfruit, toddy palm, coconut jelly & meat, basil seeds, pandon jelly and coconut water served over ice.

Saigon Social is located at 172 Orchard St, New York, NY

For more information www.saigonsocialnyc.com

Cocktail Time - Olympia at Barbounia
July 2, 2021, 5:44.59 pm ET
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Photos: Cititour.com

With the summer upon us, and the weather getting pretty steamy, what better way to cool down than with a bit of bubbly. Barbounia (250 Park Avenue South) has the perfect cocktail escape.

The Olympia is made with muddled fresh strawberries, Martini Bianco, peach and bubbles. It arrives in a tall champagne glass with a juicy strawberry as garnish. It's light, slightly sweet and truly satisfying. Other options include the Basilika with vodka, St. Germaine, fresh pressed basil and cucumber, and Portokali with scotch, orange marmalade, fresh lemon and rose water.

While there you can opt for a full Mediterranean meal or some mezze, like Fire-Roasted Eggplant with green tahini, marinated Japanese eggplant and schug, or Smoked Trout with labneh, dill, scallions, olive oil and trout roe. You can also order a sampler platter for sharing. The mezze arrives with delightful za'ater dusted flatbread for dipping. Cheers!

For more information visit barbounia.com

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MOVIES UNDER THE STARS RETURNS TO NYC PARKS
July 2, 2021, 5:13.23 pm ET
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Photo: "Raya and the Last Dragon"/Walt Disney

“Movies Under the Stars,” which brings summer film screenings to New York City’s parks and playgrounds, has returned. As part of the series, various parks across the city are hosting screenings of films including “Coco,” “Raya and The Last Dragon,” “Moana,” “Onward,” “The Wizard of Oz” and other family favorites.

For the first time ever, this NYC summer tradition will include screenings, from July 9-11, of the third annual New York Public School Film Festival which showcases 32 films created by NYC public school students from across the five boroughs. As a bonus, these special screenings will be followed by student interviews with leading film and television industry professionals including director Malcolm D. Lee, director and screenwriter; Kemp Powers, and executive producer Nina Yang Bongiovi.

Attendees are encouraged to bring their own chairs and snacks, although some chairs will be reserved for seniors and those with disabilities.

For the complete schedule, visit nyc.gov/moviesunderthestars

SELTZERLAND FESTIVAL TO COME TO BROOKLYN IN AUGUST
July 2, 2021, 12:27.30 am ET
Details

Photo: Seltzerland

Seltzerland, the nationally-touring hard seltzer festival, will take place on Saturday, August 7 at Brooklyn Expo Center (72 Noble St.) in Greenpoint.

Over 100 of the best hard seltzer brands in the land -- from iconic national brands, to beloved local companies including White Claw, Mike's Hard Lemonade Seltzer, Vizzy, Playamar (Jose Cuervo Seltzer), Basic and Coors Seltzer -- will be on-site offering a variety of beverage samplings. Attendees will also indulge in additional mouthwatering munchies and receive tons of Seltzer swag.

To avoid overcrowding, there will be three sessions: 11am-1:30pm, 2pm-5pm (VIP Session), and 5:30pm-8pm. Tickets, which begin at $42, can be purchased by visiting www.seltzerland.com

Jungsik gets a new Executive Pastry Chef
July 1, 2021, 7:02.37 pm ET
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Photo: Jungsik

Jungsik, the two-Michelin-starred New Korean Restaurant in Tribeca announces Yoonjung Oh as its new Executive Pastry Chef.

Chef Yoonjung studied at The Culinary Institute of America and held an externship at two-Michelin-starred Aquavit and began working there full time upon her graduation. She then joined the team at Jungsik in 2017 where she became the Pastry Sous Chef in less than six months after and worked under former Executive Pastry Chef Eunji Lee for more than three years.

Taking the reins as Jungsik’s new Executive Pastry Chef, Chef Yoonjung brings her creativity and artistic flair to the forefront, adding her mark to Jungsik’s acclaimed menu with her first dessert creation: Charcoal and Corn, a grilled corn dessert with corn ice cream, corn cream, Doenjang caramel, caramelized sable, brown butter crumble, lime zest, and Parmesan cheese. The dessert is plated as charcoal shaped pieces on the left and ice cream on the right to evoke rustic and camping memories from seeing the charcoal on the plate and from the smoky smell.

For more information visit jungsik.com

Around Town - Salt Bae returns, a Raptor roams NYC and more...
July 1, 2021, 5:58.03 pm ET
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Your complete guide to New York City at this very moment!

Salt Bae is back! The burger joint is named after Nusret Gökçe who became famous with this meme showing how he prepares and seasons his meat with a flip of a wrist. The restaurant has reopened for indoor dining at its original location on Park Avenue South.

Bond 45 is gleaming again as it reopens in the Theater District with a new show called Speakeasy as Cititour.com has reported on.

At Grand Central, Cipriani Dolce has reopened its ritzy Italian spot overlooking the world famous transit hub, this as office workers begin returning to the Big Apple. Bellini anyone?

At the Lobster Place inside Chelsea Market tourists and New Yorkers alike are lining up, looking to beat the heat with a buttery lobster feast and some chilled oysters.

Macy’s Herald Square is decked out for its fireworks extravaganza on the Fourth of July. We’ve got the best viewing areas and places where you can dine while taking in the show.

At Books by Kinokuniya across from Bryant Park, they’ve got memory game in the window that pairs up before-and-after pictures of drag queens as we say goodbye to pride month.

A LEGO raptor is prowling Rockefeller Center. It’s all part of a Scavenger Hunt running through July 5 celebrating the reopening of LEGO’s flagship store. Here’s a link to a map to find all twelve.

At New York City’s Exotic Snax on the LES we were amazed at the selection of hard-to-find goodies from all over the world like M&M milkshakes, Dorito Taco Chips, Hershey’s Chocolate Cake Cookies, Lays Tomato Chips and more. Inventory changes weekly!

Photos: Cititour.com

And In Times Square this week, Manhattanhenge had the streets glowing orange with sun beaming through the crossroads of the world.

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