Sep 3
French Flavored Fun In Times Square
There’s no better way to start the weekend than catching up with a dear friend.
Last Friday, I did just that with that with galpal Stacy. Stacy and I connected four years ago on Twitter over our love for Ricky Martin. We have since enjoyed many epic nights out in NYC — we’re also both foodies — and this one was right up there.
We met up at Café Un Deux Trois, a delightful slice of French charm located just off of Times Square.
Café Un Deux Trois: magnifique!
The attentive, friendly service and yummy fare didn’t disappoint. It was truly a shared experience, as we split a crisp bottle of wine and perfect escargot, then each had sauteed Dorade with vegetables. For dessert–a heavenly duo of chocolate crepes and (a longtime tradition for us) creme brulee. Delicieux.
Dessert perfection: Creme Brulee
Over dinner, we talked about work, the increasingly swift passage of time and travels both recent and upcoming. Along with a potential December getaway overseas, we’re planning a weekend jaunt for this fall. Because as much as we’re both New York City gals, sometimes you need a break from all the hustle and bustle. And it’s a lot more fun when you have fantastic friends to do it with.
Apr 18
An Evening In Times Square
When it comes to Times Square, I’m one of those rare New Yorkers who actually likes it. Between working in the Crossroads of the World and being a Broadway aficionado, I appreciate it as an apex of hustle and bustle — and great dining if you know where to go.
During a recent girls night out with my work BFF Lisa, we headed to two of my favorite Times Square spots. First stop —The Lambs Club, a cozy bar and restaurant at the Chatwal Hotel that is equal parts swanky and boutique-style charm.
The Lambs Club’s upstairs bar. Love the NYC-themed light fixtures! (photo courtesy: Facebook.com/TheLambsClub)
Over cocktails and a tasty plate of hot mixed nuts, we talked about old friends, new beginnings and taking chances. Then, it was off to Café Un Deux Trois, a delightful French bistro that never disappoints. I departed from my usual picks here, enjoying the pâté starter and a perfectly cooked salmon burger.
It was a short stroll from dinner to the Sondheim Theater for Beautiful: the Carole King musical. Beautiful is a richly entertaining journey through King’s life and work. Packed with 25 pop hits like “Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow,” “So Far Away” and “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman,” it’s also a fascinating look at the stories behind these classic songs, soulfully performed by the cast. Catch Beautiful before it closes in September.
Sep 10
Girls Night Out: Times Square
Friday, I enjoyed a girls night out in Times Square with my dear friend Lisa.
The evening’s main event – Rock of Ages. As an 80’s child and diehard fan of music from that era, I’ve been wanting to see this show for years. It didn’t disappoint.
Constantine Maroulis and the cast of Rock of Ages (photo credit: Joan Marcus/Playbill.com)
American Idol alum and original cast member Constantine Maroulis anchors Rock of Ages’ lively cast in the story of a city boy and small town girl seeking love and stardom in L.A. The show offers plenty of sing a long moments, weaving in about 80’s hits from, among others, Foreigner, Pat Benatar, REO Speedwagon, Twisted Sister and Whitesnake. It strikes the pitch perfect balance of kitschy, nostalgic fun and cheeky humor. Constantine is back through October 26 only, don’t miss your chance to see him.
After the show, Lisa and I briefly braved the Times Square crowds to walk over to Blue Fin nearby for a late dinner. I enjoyed bronzino with squash salad and cinnamon ice cream–all delicious with a capital D.
As I headed home, I thought about two things: good friends and my good fortune to live in NYC.
I heart my hometown.
