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.

Bleeding Hearts

July 13, 2015

Summer, the best time to indulge in NYC's street art and ask your S.O. for a few snaps while you're there.

Visiting the Bleeding Hearts mural by James Goldcrown has been on my list for the past three months (maybe more) but coordinating time with my boyfriend hasn't allowed for it until now. Once there I was quite surprised by the amount of foot traffic this tiny stretch of street gets. If you find yourself in Soho find it at the intersection of Broome & Mott Street.

Dress: c/o Gentle Fawn Heels: JoieEarrings: Jewels of June Bracelet: Nashelle (plate of food donated for every piece sold) Rings: Zoetik Purse: Tory Burch Lipbalm: EOS Lip Balm

We were headed to a quick dinner at the Butcher's Daughter which gave me all the reason (and more) to dress up my Gentle Fawn striped dress. By dress up, I mean switch out my Adidas for these blue Joie heels. Both pairs have been getting so much wear this summer - it has actually been making my closet/shoe consolidation a lot easier.

OH, and if you're into street art you should all follow Eva Chen's second Instagram account @PhotogenicWalls - it's seriously the best.

Photos by Victor Cerejo.

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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.