March 12, 2012 · 12:16 am

Cuban at Coppelia

At Coppelia

I had the chance to dine at Coppelia tonight with a group of great friends, old and new. This is an easy to find restaurant on W 14th St with its yellow and blue neon sign. The interior is charming, “done up in sun-faded pastel hues, with blue and white tiles on the floor, a sea-foam pressed ceiling and lovely teal shutters along the west wall that evoke images of old Havana.” There were also colorful artwork tiles in translucent light bordering the restaurant:

We were seated in a cozy booth. First thing, I had to try the Dulce de Leche milkshake.  It was quite good but a little bit too liquidy (I prefer thicker shakes) but I loved the taste of sweet caramel. So, we decided to order family style so that we could try a little bit of everything.

We started off with the following appetizers: Empanadas- beef, chicken, oxtail; yellow plantains; chips and guacamole, and mac and cheese with crispy pork belly and chicharron. All the starters were flavorful and delicious but the mac and cheese was the best out of all of them. The pork belly was perfectly crispy and there was just the right amount of cheese, garlic and seasoning.

Mac & Cheese

Plaintains/chips & guac.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Onto the main courses, of which we ordered an abundance. There was the special grilled pork chop with spicy sauce, spinach and tomatoes. We also had the classic ropa vieja which is slow-cooked beef in tomato salsa, peppers and chiles. This was decent, full of flavor.

Porkchop

Ropa Vieja

Another dish was baby back ribs in a Mexican chocolate glaze and chipotle-cotija corn on the cob. The ribs were tender and wonderful, but I couldn’t detect the chocolate flavoring. I tried a bit of the corn- It wasn’t one of the highlights.

These were my favorites: Salmon (per my suggestion) in a puree with tomatilla salad and orange sauce. The salmon itself was divine- flaking beautifully and cooked just the right amount.  Saving one of my favorites for last was lomo saltado, which is Peruvian stir-fry of beef short ribs, red onions, tomatoes, french fries and light soy ginger, along with rice. This dish was a gorgeous display of bright colors, great flavors mingling together and you could even taste the freshness of the meat & vegetables.

Salmon

Lomo Saltado

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

It was a treat to eat here, and I would definitely come back- Perhaps to try one of their desserts. We were all too full to order this time around. The prices were reasonable, and it is definitely best to share the meal as you will get more for your buck. Service was decent, though they cleared the table too fast and we were not finished with all the dishes.

The very cool thing about Coppelia: It is open 24/7 and breakfast is served all day, so if you’re craving some omelets, eggs, steak, pancakes, or waffles  in the wee hours after clubbing, this is a great spot!

 
Address: 207 W 14th St.

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March 9, 2012 · 2:20 am

Shecky’s Girls Night Out

I attended Shecky’s Girls Night Out with 2 friends tonight, which is famous for their glorious goodie bags, unique designers and free drinks.

Inside the Goodie Bags: Full sized Jergens moisturizer, cocktail mixer, rain kissed water lily scent, body washes, hand sanitizer, hair accessories, soft lips, nail appliques, and vitamin water. To be honest, I’ve seen better especially through Shecky’s so it was a bit of a let down but at least I didn’t pay full price for the ticket.

There were mostly jewelry, clothing, skincare, beauty along with some tea, treats and dessert as well as “Passion Party” vendors sprinkled throughout. I preferred the more delicate jewelry; for example shown here:

Stella & Dot

Stella & Dot

There were quite a few Swedish companies known for their skincare and beauty brands. There were  also Passion Party tables so one of my friends signed up to host “Slumber Party” possibly the most crazy and fun sounding of them all. I checked out some of the clothing racks, many between the prices of $20-$55 and fell in like with several of the dresses: The beautiful vibrant blues, silver belt detail, simple but flattering cuts… Alas, I didn’t end up purchasing any.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We also got to try some appetizers: Beef empanada which was packed with flavor, as was the pulled pork mini slider. What I really enjoyed and ended up taking home was Jessy’s Peruvian Pastries– little bites of dulce de leche heaven. Wrapped individually and smelling of sweet shortbread and caramel deliciousness, a bagful was only $10.

Despite the somewhat disappointing Goodie Bag and very crowded space (some pushing, shoving, rudeness), I had a lovely time checking out all the different vendors and partaking in giveaways for skincare products, laser skin removal treatments (I actually received a free gift from SLEEK for microdermabrasion or chemical peel!), Broadway shows and more… Who knows– Maybe I’ll win something.

If you go, make sure to find a special code to save $5 or $10 off the original ticket price of $25 (available at different vendor locations and online). And bring cash as vendors may charge more if you use a credit card. Also, here’s hoping that next time around the Goodie Bags will be more substantial (like in previous years).

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March 7, 2012 · 1:23 am

Brunch at Barrel

Recently, I dined at The Barrel for brunch, a lovely restaurant serving European cuisines at the edge of St. Mark’s Place. The Barrel’s interior is a wonderful earthy experience. A copper paned window entrance accents the restaurant’s décor while shielding the street’s view,  leading to a dining area where there is barrel-inspired booth seating. The tables are made of beautiful polished-shiny wood. There is also a bar located further inside with drop lighting, a wine tree and other intricate details like white flowers and beautiful wine glasses which accents the entire restaurant.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The brunch menu looked varied and delicious with great pricing: $11.95 for the meal including coffee, tea and a complimentary beverage (including alcoholic). It was a tough decision, but I finally settled on Steak & Eggs which came with home fries, creamed spinach, homemade bread, and  eggs (however style we wanted). Everything was prepared beautifully. The steak was cut into smaller pieces, making it easier on us and was simply delicious, especially covered in the sauce provided. Every part of the meal was delectable on its own, as well as together.

What I have to try next time: Grilled Chicken and Mushroom Fusseli Pasta “sauteed with herbs, garlic, white wine and butter finished in a parmesan cream sauce.”

Brunch at The Barrel was a truly delightful experience, complete with wonderful service- The waiters were attentive and accommodating.

Address: 10 Stuyvesant Street.

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March 4, 2012 · 11:32 pm

Shopping at Strawberry


If you haven’t heard of Strawberry stores let me enlighten you. This is one of my absolute favorite places to shop. Strawberry is a New York-based store with low priced fashion forward and fun junior, junior plus and misses clothing and accessories. They feature current hip fashions of denim, dresses, shoes, outerwear, lingerie, and much more.

My recent trips had me looking for dresses and pants- specifically color pop skinny pants in red, navy or pastel blue and hot pink. I found 2 dresses that were really cute in different ways. The first dress was a blue-turquoise color with a deep V-neck, an intricate brown, deep blue & tan paisley swirly design with a soft flowy look and movement to it. Price: $20.

The other dress I fell in love with when I spotted it on my way out and luckily it fit perfectly. Black background with flowers of all different colors: White, red, orange, and a sprinkling of dark blue and hot pink. The cut fit in all the right places, enhancing the bust and waistline, with the skirt draping in a flattering way. I loved the flirty playful feel of this dress. Price: $20.

As for the pants, I picked out a smart red pant by Flirtatious – not exactly skinny jeans, but beautiful in color, fabric and design. I also found a rock and roll style white jeans ripped style in front and silver crystal gem accents by Almost Famous. Price both $25.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Locations: There are several locations in Downtown, Midtown, Upper East Side, Upper West Side in Manhattan as well as Brooklyn/Queens and Pennsylvania, Maryland & other states. The Strawberry stores I frequent are in Midtown- the Manhattan Mall; 14 W 34 St and 129 E 42 St by Grand Central. For a full listing of all the locations, click here.

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March 3, 2012 · 3:04 am

Dueling Pianos!

Tobacco Road features the original NYC Dueling Pianos show, Shake Rattle and Roll which is an all request rock and roll singalong where two guys sit across from each other on the stage, battling songs out on the piano (and singing them). The capable piano men play anything from Billy Joel to Lady Gaga, to Meat Loaf. They really do know every song.

I got to go with Random Events (where I’m an Assistant Organizer) to this crazy show and we were seated at the bar and in front. We were definitely a fun and spirited crowd. In the beginning of the show, we played a game on which side of the room was loudest, and since we were a raucous, vocal bunch it wasn’t hard to win.

The pianists played quite a few of 80’s songs. My personal favorites: “Jessie’s Girl” and “Take Me On.” Of course they also played the classic songs everyone loves: “Brown Eyed Girl” and Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believing.” We also heard “The Lion Sleeps Tonight” from Lion King which was awesome, “Faith” by George Michael, and a medley of Monkees & Michael Jackson songs. Plus much more of course.

Later in the night, I put in my request for Hanson’s MMMBop (thanks to my co-organizer’s funds)… I know most of you will groan when you hear the name Hanson, but it’s actually a really good song to play on the piano and sounded amazing live. And if you actually listen, the lyrics are wiser than you would think:

You have so many relationships in this life
Only one or two will last
You go through all the pain and strife
Then you turn your back and they’re gone so fast

There were also many jokes and toasts. The pianists would ask us if we would like to hear a dirty or clean toast, and we would invariably answer “Dirty!”  However, my favorite toast was not a dirty one, but a sentimental one: “There are ships that sail, and ships that… But the best ships are friendships.” What a sweet and true statement.

The night was filled with karaoke-style singing along, dancing, toasts, laughter, screaming and more.

 

If you go, it is every Friday and Saturday night at Tobacco Road. $10 with a two-drink minimum and it’s a good idea to make reservations to ensure you have a seat as this show is almost always sold out. Also, bring some cash as you will have to wrap your song requests in money if you want to hear it.

Address: 355 W. 41st St

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March 1, 2012 · 10:37 pm

Safe House & Dinner


Safe House, starring Ryan Reynolds is about a young CIA agent who looks after a safe house. But when the safe house is attacked, he is finds himself on the run with the notorious fugitive. The movie is excitement filled,  intense fight scenes that show off both Ryan Reynolds and Denzel Washington skill and physical power in combat.

Ryan plays his role extremely well with sex appeal, and though doesn’t seem to be muscular and tough enough to go up against Denzel and countless others, he really holds his own. He makes you believe that he truly is that character. Denzel also gave a virtuoso performance as the ultimate bad guy.

This movie definitely captured my interest. I had to concentrate a little bit as the plot was a bit complex, but very engaging. I also enjoyed the more tender moments between Matt (Ryan Reynolds) and his girlfriend as well as the surprising tender moments between Matt and Tobin Frost (Denzel Washington).

Afterwards, my friend and I went to eat at City Crab. I’ve always passed by the restaurant but never been so finally had the chance to try it, and it did not disappoint. Our waiter, Jack was charming and cute, and was knowledgeable about the food. I chose the Steam Pot which was filled with lobster tail, crab legs, andouille sausage, shrimp, scallops, corn. It also came with mussels and clams which I couldn’t bring myself to eat. Everything else was delicious, flavored wonderfully and dipped in butter.


I also tried their Oreo ice cream cake which came with raspberry syrup. It was decent- I liked the ice cream part of it and it did taste like Oreos but I expected more. It just didn’t blow me away.

Overall, a very satisfying meal which I somehow got for less than the advertised price… Always a nice surprise.


Address: 235 Park Ave S (19/20th St)

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February 28, 2012 · 12:55 am

Enjoying Coffee & Tea Festival

This past weekend marked the 7th Annual Coffee & Tea Festival and it was a completely sold out weekend. Good thing I was a volunteer and was able to check it out for free!

I tried out many of the different types of tea from green tea, to fruity tea, to British tea, to iced and sweet teas. Some of my favorite exhibitors were Harney & Sons, Honest Tea, Green Cura, T Salon, Tavalon, and Fang Gourmet Tea. One of the most unique but delicious flavor was Matcha Cappuccino tea. I also enjoyed the little nibbles that went with the tea, from Walker’s Shortbread and gluten free cookies.

Harney & Sons

Green Cura

As for the coffee, I really liked Peet’s Coffee & Tea (which is based in California so I know it well), Teabean White Coffee was interesting and tasty, Think Coffee and European coffees- both hot and iced.

I also had the chance to sit in on a couple of demonstrations. The first was about creating coffee-and-tea infused desserts which was presented by celebrity chef Melody McGinley Whitelaw. She was sweet and charming, and let us try some of her creations: Brown rice with edamame & carrots made with tea; bread with coffee cream cheese but my favorites were  the chocolate bread pudding and amazingly delectable coffee-filled brownie.

The other demonstration was about making Tea Cocktails, with Tea Sommelier Chris Cason (co-founder of Tavalon). Chris was dynamic, fun and a great speaker. He showed us several different recipes for tea cocktails, using vodka, gin, brandy and other alcoholic beverages.


One tea cocktail that looked good was made with red tea, orange rind with cloves. Another one was a sweet iced tea and vodka drink. We actually got to try one of the tea cocktails: “SmarTEAni” which is a white mint tea steeped in vodka for 45 minutes with Korean plum sweet flavoring. It was truly delicious and didn’t taste of alcohol at all (a plus for me.)


I had a really good time trying new and unique flavors of teas and coffees, and the nibbles of cookies, cakes, cheese, more.  There were a couple of demonstrations I would’ve liked but missed: Green Teas of China, Korea & Japan; Artistry of Afternoon Tea and Coffee Cupping/Tasting. But the ones I did see were enjoyable: Interesting and fun. I would definitely make it a point to go again next time!

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February 27, 2012 · 6:04 pm

The Academy Awards: Best Dressed


I love watching The Academy Awards, and this year I had the privilege of  seeing it on the big screen at Chelsea Clearview Cinemas. It was a glitzy affair, complete with a sweet goodie bag, unlimited popcorn and drinks, Hedda Lettuce — my favorite drag queen who made hilarious commentary and doled out prizes (I was wishing for the $200 gift certificate to the Modern at the MOMA but sadly didn’t win it) throughout the show.

Here is my list of Best Dressed Actresses of the night:

1. Rooney Mara from The Girl in the Dragon Tattoo
Made by Givenchy Haute Couture, this romantic white dress delights and dazzles the eye. Her updo and makeup is the picture of polished perfection.


2. Penelope Cruz
She looked like a gorgeous princess in this Armani Prive, with lovely jewelry and updo. Love the chiffony material, the blue grayish color, the neckline, and how the gown falls.


3. Jessica Chastain from The Help
This is a Alexander McQueen black and gold hand embroidered gown. The detail is incredible, the cut impeccable and the way the dress flows down Chastain and to the ground is  elegant and graceful.

4. Michelle Williams
Beautiful in a coral-red Louis Vuitton with a ruched bustline, peplum skirt that hugs her body just right. Absolutely loved the small silver detail to the side.

5. Emma Stone from The Help
This Giambattista Valli gown has received mixed reviews, but I personally enjoy it. The bold color, the huge bow detail around the neck, the soft luxurious  fabric and flow… And Emma looks lovely in it.


As far as Best Dressed actors: Christopher Plummer (in a velvet tuxedo), Jean DuJardin (from The Artist), and Christian Bale made the cut.

Congratulations to the biggest winners: Best Actor Jean DuJardin from The Artist; Best Supporting Actress Octavia Spencer from The Help;  Best Supporting Actor Christopher Plummer from Beginners and even though I didn’t love Meryl Streep’s choice of dress, I certainly love and admire her as an actress and was ecstatic to have predicted correctly that she won Best Actress. She most definitely deserves it.

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February 24, 2012 · 2:06 am

Free Screenings: The Vow, Wanderlust, Act of Valor


One of the many things I love about living in NYC are the free movie screenings. I’ve been to three in the past few weeks: The Vow, Wanderlust and Act of Valor.

I thought I would be head over heels over The Vow. It is after all my favorite type of film- Romance, and starring one of my favorite actors, Channing Tatum. For me, he made the film. His acting, his conviction, his good looks kept me interested. Rachel McAdams played her part well, but to me she was not a likeable character (which may have been the point).

However, if I woke up with amnesia only remembering my college days and found out that I was married to this handsome, incredibly understanding and kind stranger who loved me so fiercely, I would only want to love him the same way back. His unconditional love is the kind of love I dream of having… But she had to find her own way again which is fair.

The journey was frustrating and a bit stilted, but at least it made you root for the couple. It made you think. And in the end, it was beautiful especially when you remember it was based on a true story.


A friend invited me to see Wanderlust and the plus was we got to sit in the press section. When my friend first mentioned the movie, I hadn’t even heard of it! When I found out that Jennifer Aniston was in it, whom I love, I was instantly excited to see it. Then I remembered that Aniston is not the best at picking films that portray her as a serious actress, and this movie was no different from her other happy-fun-mediocre choices.

Wanderlust is a quirky weird movie about a couple who cannot stay in their new apartment in the West Village on Christopher St(!) due to unforeseen circumstances.  They travel out of the city and happen upon a commune with a memorable set of characters that welcome them with open arms. The commune inhabitants have strange out-there rituals but there’s a certain charm to living there and it’s an interesting journey full of laughs.


Now, Act of Valor was a force to be reckoned with. If you know me, you know that one of my deepest loves is servicemen in the military, especially Navy, Marine and Air Force. I know and have met many in my lifetime and always find I have a special connection with them.

Act of Valor stars actual and active US Navy Seals. High energy, lots of action- a bit too much but that’s to be expected in this type of movie. The emotion and operations were real which made it all the more heart wrenching to watch. It was an intense and emotional tearjerker of special operations units performing courageous missions and acts.

To imagine that this is what US Navy Seals go through day in and day out, and that they routinely put down their lives for each other and their country without a second thought – It made me love these men even more, if that’s at all possible.

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February 23, 2012 · 12:53 am

Fun Day Out

I made the most of my day off on President’s Day, spending the time with some great friends. One of my girlfriends took me out to eat at Shalom Bombay, where they have a $12.95 lunch buffet. We enjoyed tandoori chicken, chicken curry, vegetable dishes, fresh salad, lentils, basmati rice, naan, breaded fried vegetables.

It was all delicious. Since my friend was treating me, she urged me to try dessert. I picked the chocolate chip cookie dough cake with warm molten chocolate inside and whipped cream all around it. It tasted of rich soft chocolate, and I savored every bite.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

After eating, we headed to the Central Park Zoo (my first time!) which small but filled with cute animals such as the polar bear, snow leopard, red panda, monkeys and a tropical forest with birds and other creatures.  There were even penguins, but I was disappointed when they didn’t follow my finger as I moved it along the glass- This is something that the penguins at the Monterey Bay Aquarium always do, and I’ve always found that to be fun and charming.





The rest of the night was spent at Pulse Karaoke with about 30 other people. Pulse is a gorgeous, spacious spot with purplish lighting and a sleek design of white couches and white tables. It is a trendy spot, complete with inexpensive drinks and appetizers of nachos, fried coconut shrimp, wings, and mozzarella sticks.

We basically had the whole place to ourselves, so got to sing to our heart’s content. Some of ones I did (with the help of others) were, “Rolling in the Deep,” “I Wanna Dance with Somebody,” and “Holiday.” There was a great energy throughout the night and we all helped each other out by jumping on stage to sing or backup dance.

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