Jul 11
Two All-time NYC Favorites
I recently had the pleasure of catching up with two friends I hadn’t seen in awhile–over dinner at two of my favorite NYC restaurants.
First, I enjoyed a night out in the neighborhood with gal pal Lisa. We headed to Ko Sushi, a cozy Japanese eatery on the UES that never disappoints (best shumai dumplings ever and yummy sushi rolls).
An accomplished magazine editor and travel writer, Lisa shares my lifelong passion for NYC and I always love hearing about her latest adventures in and out of our hometown. We also talked about the profound blessing of being happy in our respective careers and never taking it for granted.
My good Stacy and I reconnected over drinks and appetizers at Pershing Square. This laidback bistro and bar right across from Grand Central serves up delicious bistro fare in a comfortable setting ideal for conversation.
Pershing Square Cafe (photo courtesy: pershingsquare.com)
We had plenty to talk about — from memorable concerts and developments at work to the soul soothing joys of travel.
As Stacy shared her recent jaunt to London, I felt a wave of nostalgia for my other favorite city–the only place I love as much as NYC.
Well, almost as much.
Jan 25
A Birthday To Remember
When it comes to birthdays, I usually agree with what Oprah says about celebrating them — rock it out. After the fanfare with which I greeted turning 40 last year, though, I enjoyed a quieter but equally festive celebration for my 41st, while being reminded of just how fortunate I truly am.
Celebrating with my pals Crystal (left) and Sara
Last Saturday, longtime dear friends Sara and Crystal joined me for dinner at Sushi Samba in the West Village. This lively fusion restaurant never fails to disappoint, with its festive vibe and fun menu. In addition to rock shrimp and mouthwatering sushi rolls, we indulged in a decadent dessert duo — chocolate banana cake and s’mores pops.
We talked a lot about new beginnings happening for each of us at the moment. 2015 definitely feels like a year that will continue the fresh start I embarked on in 2014, from my home makeover to taking on a third hotel at work, the fantastic Westin New York At Times Square. The blessing of truly loving what I do is one that I never, ever take for granted.
My Westin Times Square colleagues surprised me with this delicious tiramisu cake!
Speaking of blessings, my birthday was jam packed with them.
Wednesday began with receiving two beautiful bouquets of flowers, 11 text messages and a flurry of birthday greetings on Facebook. Old friends, new friends and even a few old flames took a moment to wish me a Happy Birthday. After treating myself to a huge vanilla cupcake at Crumbs and my annual spa massage at Bliss 49, I enjoyed dinner at Luna Piena, a longtime favorite Italian restaurant, with my beloved cousin and best friend, Alexandra.
Alexandra and me
Celebrating with my nearest and dearest, moments of pampering and feeling truly loved — as far as birthdays go, 41 couldn’t have been any more perfect!
Sep 16
An Evening In Long Island
Much as I love my hometown, there are times when I need a respite from the non-stop hustle and bustle of life in New York City. Friday, I enjoyed exactly that with an evening jaunt to Long Island to visit my dear friend Julie.
Long Island is one of my favorite places to retreat to. With its charming suburbs, cozy beaches and more neighborly vibe, it’s the perfect getaway from Manhattan. Though the swanky, star-studded Hamptons tend to receive much of the attention, it’s LI’s low-key enclaves that I love. From a romantic getaway in Montauk to family occasions in Deer Park, LI has always provided plenty of fun and rejuvenation over the years. Friday was no exception.
After a brisk 30-minute train ride, Julie picked me up in Manhasset and we drove to nearby Jericho. Our destination–Market Bistro, a lively restaurant packed with locals celebrating the start of the weekend.
Market Bistro in Manhasset (photo courtesy: marketbistroli.com)
While waiting at the bar for our table, a gracious gentleman moved over so Julie and I could both have a seat. When he quoted Patrick Swayze’s infamous line from Dirty Dancing (“Nobody puts baby in a corner”), I smiled. No question about it–New Yorkers are witty, playful people.
For dinner, Julie and I shared delicious pretzel bread and cheese-infused tater tots while I had perfectly cooked halibut with salsa verde. But the best part of the meal was Julie’s company.
Julie and me at my annual holiday party (December 2011)
There are some friends who serve as an anchor when life thrusts you into choppy waters. Julie is one of them.
After meeting four years ago at a mutual friend’s birthday lunch, I found myself pouring my heart out to her about an ill-fated romance during our first solo outing together. She’s that kind of person. Someone you can bare your soul to, secure in the knowledge that you will always be heard, understood and comforted. I adore her.
And I adore my hometown. For many reasons–including the varied pleasures available just a short train ride away.
