NYC: Weekend Plans

July 22, 2015

A few amazing things to include in your weekend plans before the summer season ends.

1. Hamilton's Soda Fountain & Luncheonette

I've heard, seen, and tasted so many great things from this historical luncheonette. The whole place is kind of like a time warp taking any that dare enter to a more simpler times. The interior is basically every fashion blogger & Instagrammers' dream - everything is so white and retro. If you somehow resist the urge to capture a snap make sure to order a fizzy drink or a milkshake. I like to drop in on less-than-stellar days and treat myself to happiness in a glass - it's cheaper than therapy ;).

51 Bank Street, Greenwich Village - get more info here.

2. Frida Kahlo Exhibit @ New York Botanical Garden

I have not yet been to this exhibit and it's driving me bonkers. However, it's on the must-do list and will definitely get accomplished before it's over. For those like-minded fans visiting or in NYC, we have until November 1st to view her reimagined garden and a dozen of her paintings. Getting to view an artist's surrounding (even if it's a replication) is one of the best ways to learn more about what goes on beyond the canvas. Also, I'm excited to learn more about my culture as half-Mexicana.

2900 Southern Boulevard, Bronx - get more info here.

3. Baohaus

OK, so I totally added this eatery to my must-eats after viewing it on the Layover. I have passed by Baohaus millions upon millions of times and have never once pondered the thought of venturing inside. You guys, if I could I would go back in time and stop "past Aileen" in her tracks and demand she order the Birdhaus Bao & Taro Fries (please note the delicious things you should order) I would. Instead, I cry myself to sleep at all the missed opportunities of Birdhaus Baos. Don't let this become you! If you walk/drive/fly by Baohaus, just stop, take a break and eat there. Avoid my misery.

238 East 14th Street, Stuy Town - get more info here.

NYC: Let's Eat

June 26, 2015

I did two of my favorite things this month - eat and explore. NYC, you never disappoint.

1. Alice's Tea Cup

During my college years, I had one "fat year." No, it wasn't during my freshman year, although that would've been classic. It was during my sophomore year when I used to work at this location. Their scones are baked daily and often accompanied by an intoxicating scent. I'd literally black out from scent alone to awaken covered in crumbs. Recently went for brunch (get their mad hatter) and their scone selection is still my kryptonite - YUM!

156 E 64th St, UES - get more info here.

2. Sugar Freak

After FireFly, we drove into Queens to pick up Miles (my fur baby). Then a hankering for sweet tea came over us like no other. Hastily followed by hunger (or should I say hanger). Our yelp research led us to Sugar Freak, were the sweet tea is bottomless and the chicken & waffle dish gave us a second boost for energy. We heard brunch is even more tastier so we'll have to come back real soon.

36-18 30th Avenue, Astoria - get more info here.

3. Genuine

There's a boom box, cassette tapes, and really amazing Cali fare. Genuine is truly a breath of fresh air in the often cluttered tourist traps of Little Italy. Not only that, but everything served in this open air gastro diner is superb and had us coming back multiple times in one week. Vic recommends their Cali Shrimp & Grits (filling and comforting), or if you're a chicken head like myself go for the Buttermilk Battered Chicken Sandwich (so good).

191 Grand Street, Little Italy - get more info here.

4. Dimes

I'm going to be honest, after an intense hot yoga sesh I like to hydrate with cocktails. Thankfully, it runs in the family because my sister was on board with my plan after our workout. Off into Chinatown we went in search of magical margaritas which we found at Dimes. Wheatgrass margaritas - so we were still eating clean. After a round of drinks we peered over to our neighbors and discovered colorful plates and audible approval. We were sold and cleaned our plates clean. I recommend ALL of their drinks and their Pulled Pork Bowl.

49 Canal Street, Chinatown - get more info here.

Must Eat: Lovecraft

June 3, 2015

If you ever find yourself in ABC City, make it a point to have one of your meals (or drinks) at Lovecraft. Tucked between Avenue A and B on 3rd street, this sci-fi themed restaurant pays homage to H.P. Lovecraft. Less than a year old, the space is finding itself at home in its new hood.

Inspired by Lovecraft's imagination, little monsters adorn both floors (yes, this place has two floors) and all are hand painted and etched. The gallery wall on the main floor is dedicated to sketches of Lovecraft himself or his conjured creations. If you're there early (i.e. brunch) the wall is insta-worthy for those that are digitally obsessed.

The bottom floors are always bustling with energy from the community (in a good way). The night I attended there was a local gallery showing and another room was getting prepped for an open mic. I was also told that costume parties are pretty popular there due to its fantastical decor.

The spot recently dived head first into the food scene and nothing my friend (absolutely nothing) is left behind when it comes to taste. The American trained chef and 2009 Chopped Winner, Chris Coleman, prides himself on using the freshest ingredients and doing things the right way. When I met with him, he hinted at the possibilities of new additions and fun changes for the fall season. Um YUM!

Lovecraft carries a full bar but let's be honest - don't come for basic drinks. Come for their vodka infusions and absinthe cocktails. Normally I stray from drinking on a work week but I had to sip their fig and sage vodka infusion - so delish, so strong, so what I needed. There are a few odd infusions on their list, but sometimes the weirdest combos taste magical.

Headed there soon? Here are a few recommendations straight from the Chef and I: Seafood Bouillabaisse, Montauk Lobster Tacos, Maryland Crab Cake, or try their Skirt Steak. Going for a boozy brunch? Then you must absolutely try their Fried Chicken & Waffles or Crab Cake Benedict. For another $15 get unlimited drinks to accompany your waffles.

I'm definitely trying their Fried Chicken & Waffles and maybe an absinthe drink (or two) when I revisit later this month. Can't wait!

Restaurant hours + tidbits:
50 Avenue B
Hours: M-T 4p-12p, F 4p-1p, Sa 11a-1a, Su 11a-12a
Happy Hour: 4p-8p | $3 off all cocktails + infusions

www.lovecraftnyc.com

All images via Lovecraft Bar NYC.