ICFF: inspiring, cool, fabulous + fun

The International Contemporary Furniture Fair, held this past weekend at the Javits is something I look forward to every year. I don’t know what I like more, seeing all the fantastic new design or attending the myriad of events centered around the show. The combination is a definitely a delightful Design O.D. There were so many amazing things, I could not possibly include then all in one post, so stay tuned for the ongoing series of my picks from the show. Seen here: The oversized serving dish from Fornasetti, spotted in the Barney’s showroom during the elegant exhibiton and event. This is on my wish list. A blue cocktail, generously served at the Artemide showroom party, and Gandia Blasco’s blue light display on the rooftop at the Gansevoort Hotel. Click on this link to see more event photos.

abc Kitchen: seasonal and sensational

Every New Yorker’s curiosity is always picqued when they see an established restaurant close in thier neighborhood—rumors fly as to what is coming. When I heard Jean Georges Vongerichten was opening a place where the old Lucy’s was, naturally I was anticipating great things. Now that abc Kitchen is open, I am delighted to have such a find, so close by. I was totally impressed at the freshness and quality of the ingredients in all the dishes I sampled. There were so many items on the menu that sounded good I couldn’t decide and had to ask the bartender for some suggestions. He recommended the ramp toasts, which would only be in season for a short time. Out came two pieces of bread, with ramp butter and goat cheese with small pink onions on top. Not what I expected—better—light, healthy, full of flavor. I also had the pea shoot salad, which, again, was extraordinary, and ended my meal with the burger (photo), which was presented beautifully with circles of jalapeño on top of the bun. About the design, well, I like the approach, but I think it could use a little more warmth. I kept getting the feeling that I was in a place that was unfinished, and the tarnished mirrors seemed a bit sad. Loved the dainty place settings, though. See more pictures of the restaurant and food from my visit here.

Exhibit: Drawing on Drawing PART TWO

If you missed Part One of this exhibit, don’t fret—you can still see more artists’ drawings this Friday night, May 21st. Deep Space New York will be hosting another fantastic show at 220 East 17th Street, 1G, from 7 to 9pm. Luckily, the weather will be perfect again, so art collectors and afficianados will be able to enjoy the garden and refreshing white sangria, while deciding on which piece they have to have. Featured artists: Eric Brown, Vincent Como, Matt Mullican, Jim Nolan, Deirdre O'Connell, Lucy Pullen, Sean Ryan, Kelly Wilson. Curated by Rory Donaldson and Erica Mercado.

Exhibit: Drawing on Drawing

I always find that drawings tell a lot about how an artist thinks. So, whenever there is an exhibit that includes drawings, I feel like I am getting the inside view. You can do just that, this Friday, at Deep Space New York, which is hosting a 2-part exhibit featuring only drawings. Come and view the works of  Eric Brown, Shane Caffrey, Vincent Como, Bruce Conner, Rory Donaldson, Jay Ivcevich, Jason Bailer Losh, Gary Petersen, Heidi Pollard, Sean Ryan, and Andy Warhol—while enjoying the adjoining garden and refreshments at 220 East 17th Street, 1G, from 7 to 9pm. Part 2 takes place on May 21st, from 7 to 9pm and features artists Eric Brown, Vincent Como, Matt Mullican, Jim Nolan, Deirdre O'Connell, Lucy Pullen, Sean Ryan, Kelly Wilson. Curated by Rory Donaldson and Erica Mercado. See you there!

Kentucky Derby-a-thon!

I can’t think of a better way to spend the afternoon, than nibbling on Daniel Humm and Co.’s’ tasty southern treats, drinking vast amounts of bourbon and champagne, and getting to wear a big, bright orange hat with flowers on it. All this in honor of the Kentucky Derby, which occurred on May 1st at Eleven Madison Park. Danny Meyer (seen in the background at the left tip of my hat) was on hand, as were about 300 other revelers, foodies, chefs and actual Kentuckians. I could not help but take photo after photo of the fantastic food and costumes about. See this link for more of what happened that day. Photo above shows me displaying my favorite bite served: a pea puree lollipop, with flash fried peas on the outside—perfectly beautiful, surprising, and tasty. No wonder ChefDaniel Humm just won Best NYC Chef 2010 from James Beard. Not to mention Sous Chef James Kent will be representing the U.S. at the upcoming Bocuse d'Or. Great year for 11Mad, they deserve it!

SPRING bounty

Spring is definitely in the air! April was full of pretty views and the new tastes of the season. Even in Vermont, where I was visiting my friend Vera, there were signs of the season. Photo above shows the freshly picked ramps and sorrel from Vera's garden, which she turned into a tasty sauce for our fish dinner. There was fresh asparagus in my salad, and fiddlehead ferns on gnocchi. See more photos here of places visited and sights seen...

earth day

Central Park, 105th st and Fifth Ave...a garden worth visiting... which my friend Maya and I did today...a couple shots to honor the earth...which creates the most amazing things in a way we can't fully understand...

Raise a glass to EARTH DAY!

Unbelievably, the 40th anniversary of Earth Day arrives on April 22. It is your civic and earthly duty to do something—why not involve the only USDA certified organic tequila? Casa Noble and La Sierra Agave Nectar makes the perfect couple, both extracted from the hearts of same agave piñas. You’d be wise to stock up the ingredients now, pull together some buddies, and have each make a commitment to the environment to adhere to for the year. Mother Earth will thank you!
Casa Noble Organic Margarita
2 oz Casa Noble Crystal
1 oz fresh lime juice (or the juice of 1 whole lime)
¾ oz La Sierra agave nectar
Kosher salt for rim (optional)
If using salt, moisten rim of glass with lime and gently roll in a plate of kosher salt. Combine first three ingredients in a shaker with ice. Shake, strain and serve up or on the rocks. Garnish with a lime wheel.

Giddy-UP for the Kentucky Derby @ Eleven Madison Park

Esquire Magazine is teaming up with 11 Madison Park to host the 2nd Annual Kentucky Derby Celebration on Saturday, May 1st, from 3 to 7pm. Tickets are going fast for this four-hour event featuring Chef Daniel Humm’s southern-styled goodies, raw bar, classic cocktails, Nat Sherman cigar lounge and a live blue-grass band. Last year’s 350 guests included hosts Danny Meyer and Esquire Editor-in-Chief David Granger, Daniel Boulud, NY Jets Darelle Revis, and many of whom dolled themselves up in fancy hats and attire, which is, naturally, encouraged. I have already purchased some gaily-colored flowers to attach to my orange hat—if only there were a hat contest!  Tickets are $175 per person. To purchase, send an email to derby@elevenmadisonpark.com. A silent auction, which always brings out the competitive spirit in me, will benefit New York Horse Rescue, whose mission is to prevent the inhumane treatment of injured, abused, and unwanted horses. Awwww....

Gourmet Surprises on Third Avenue, Part One: PONTY

The swath of Third Avenue between 23rd and 14th is a haven of Irish bars, fast food joints, and nail salons. I’m not complaining, yet do welcome a respite from this. Thankfully, there are a few gems nestled in you could easily overlook. Allow me to point them out, one at a time.
There is a little joint named Ponty, which happens to have a pair of first-class chefs. Cisse Elhadji and cousin Chekh Cisse have worked at top restaurants around the city, incuding Daniel, Café Boulud, Vong and Mercer Kitchen. You might recognize “Cisse” from his dramatic bout on Chopped! (and the ensuing commmercials for the show) “When Chefs Collide,” Season 3. The cousins saved up their pennies to create this cozy little neighborhood nook—and are as nice as can be. Whether you go for breakfast and savor one of the omellettes (like I had today, with the freshest goat cheese and spinach, paired with tiny cubes of potatoes and sweet crunchy bits of red and green peppers) or the Lobster Eggs Benedict (part of the unbeatable $15 Brunch special, which includes cocktail, and super-tasty lobster) you cannot go wrong. Evenings take on a different vibe, with the flavors of Senegal fused with modern takes on sophisticated French and Mediterranean cuisine. On Friday and Saturday nights the kitchen is open til 2 am. Did I mention the 2 for 1 martinis? Stop in and try one of their 9 potent offerings: French, Apple, Bissap, Lychee, Cosmopolitan, Chocolate, Passion Fruit, Raspberry, and the Ponty Fresh Ginger. At two for $12 it’s a deal that’s hard to beat. See you there! (third between 18/19)
Stay tuned for more neighborhood reports...

San Rocco’s 3-hour happy hour

When Italy does happy hour, you can be sure that there is food involved. The tradition of Apertivo is how Italians wind down after work—with a glass of wine and buffet of snacks. San Rocco NY is bringing Italy’s way of doing things to its place on 24th street. Pair your glass of wine, beer or cocktail with a fab selection of delicious Italian snacks. On my visit, I felt like I was actually in Italy, as the owners and staff all spoke Italian—and were handsome and stylish to boot! There’s a great outdoor seating area, plus three rooms with distinct atmospheres and wild artwork to admire while you sip away. The complimentary Apertivo Bar happens every night from 6 to 9. Milanese owner Rocco Arena invited Richard Boccato of Dutch Kills, to create the signature cocktails—which you can see photos of, plus the snacks I sampled here. Check out the website to find out about the first-Wednesday-of-the month parties, which are astrologically themed.

cat lovers go MOD!

Modkat has taken the mess and inconvenience of out dealing with the of realities of having cats as housemates. Designers, Brett Teper and Rich Williams, cat owners themselves, have tested and worked out every aspect of the litter box, from the scooper to the litter bag material. Not only does this design prevent litter from being scattered about, it also prevents other pets (dogs) from (ahem) interfering! Most importantly, it is not an embarrassment to have about. Seeing is believing, cats love it—check out the user-submitted videos of their cat’s reactions on the website.

CHOCOLATE, circulate this!

Could you believe in chocolate that’s good for your circulation? The makers of Cirku have developed a method of processing chocolate that keeps most of the flavanols intact—the active component in cocoa, tea, and wine that helps maintain healthy circulation. Their cocoa comes in individually wrapped packets, sweetened or unsweetened, that you can add to water, a smoothie, or to a cup of coffee, my prefered method. After you have tasted it you will not believe it has only 30 calories! (think Ovaltine, but more intense) Mars Botanical, the company behind this product, works sustainably and consciously with Indonesian farmers bringing environmental, economic and social benefits to their communities. Once you are hooked, they make being healthy an easy process. When you sign up for the Auto-ship Program, you will receive a monthly delivery of 28 packets, with free shipping for life.

kitchen + cocktails: Orson Salicetti's Art of Mixology

To experience cocktails enriched with fresh spices, tasty little bites—and a few surprises—head over to Covet, a newly opened club in midtown. Orson Salicetti’s new gig, the Art of Mixology, created the unique flavor combinations for this sexy, dark, underground space. My Laurel (photo above) was mixed with an aged rum and accented with bay leaf and allspice. I would put this into the manly category. Ladies can raise an elegant toast with the  Rose Champagne cocktail, which is a bit more potent than it sounds, having Champagne, Vodka, Lime, Agave, Aloe Vera, baby rose reduction and a red rose garnish as its ingredients. See more photos from the launch party and other cocktails (like the intriguingly-titled Tickle My Pickle) here.

Packed at Pulino’s

A wall of liquor and a beehive of activity greeted me a few weeks back upon entering Pulino’s in its opening week. It was amazing to think that the place was new, with the pre-patina’d decor and restaurant already at full capacity, the place seemed to have the absorbed energy of a 100-year old, neighborhood establishment. Vera and I happily sampled the cauliflower floret special, a fennel salad and mushroom wood-oven pizza, while Keith McNally, stationed in a corner booth, was working away (photo below). The servers made a great effort to make sure that you enjoyed your stay. See more photos of the space and food here.

Gourmet Latino: Featuring the Flavors of Latin America

Start preparing for a week-long celebration of the best in Latin gastronomy and culture as the weather starts to heat up. This June, from the 4th through the 12th, Gourmet Latino will feature events at Astor Center and at restaurants in NYC and surrounding areas. In addition to offering the best tastes of the Latin world, this festival is dedicated to being a socially conscious celebration. They are partnering with GrowNYC, the Rainforest Alliance and the Fair Trade Federation to ensure the festival will be a benefit to all involved. Street teams will be appearing around town, giving out exotic fruit samples, in lieu of paper handouts. How refreshing! For a schedule of events, information on participating chefs, mixologists, and restaurants visit www.gourmetlatinofestival.com. Tickets are already on sale—be sure to reserve a space now to experience the incredible flavors and exotic ingredients of the top talents in the city. I got a sample of what’s to come at the announcement party—see photos of the food and cocktails. Photo above shows Rayuela’s Chef Maximo Tejada’s Squid Ink Paella served in oyster shells, nice touch.

numerology on the table

Christopher Jagmin creates porcelain dishes with a modern feel. Add a playful context to your next gathering with these dishy digits. The big numbers are 10.5” in diameter and come in odd or even sets. Word dishes are dessert size at 7.5”,  and the pattern of digits comes in at 12.25” for serving up, say, a platter of cupcakes. I would use the YES and NO plates, to designate meat dishes from vegetarian. This company also has cleverly repurposed singular vintage dishes from the 70s (on patterns you will recognize from your grandmother’s house) and tied them together with the new graphics atop. Yeah!

a re-usable bag worth keeping

I have been holding out for the perfect, re-usable bag that’s not an embarrasment to carry around. Thank goodness I came across Baggu. They have created a parachute-type bag that is lightweight, and can be stashed in a purse for impromptu purchases. Unlike some other bags I’ve tried, this one is very easy to fold up and replace in its case, and sturdily holds up to 50 pounds. It might be difficult to choose which color to have as your signature, as they offer quite a delicious array. In that case, go for Baggu X3, which gives you 3 bags in a case. Recycling does not have to be dull.

handmade ceramics

There is something so luscious about Jars ceramics, a French company around since 1857. I must say, the photos online do not match what you witness in person. Whether you fancy the spa-like essence of light blues and whites or want to sink your teeth into a sassy bright yellow piece, your investment in these pieces will retain their classic style. Personally, I love the Plume series in Vert Atole, with its organic hand-made shapes, and serene effect.

Baba takes care of you

Brooklyn had been calling, and I decided to answer on a recent drizzly Sunday. I was lured in by Baba—a food shop slash restaurant with a cozy, sweet, and stylish atmosphere. They specialize in carefully chosen charcuterie and cheeses, like La Quercia’s Speck Americano from Iowa, a delicately smoked pork with an amazing soft texture, and my favorite, the Fra’ Mani Mortadella, a hand-made, preservative-free guilty pleasure. This set the stage for Chef Jose Edgardo Soto’s dishes. We started with a taste of his Spanish tortilla, which was served with a Moroccan Charmoula on the side (photo above). Upon tasting, I thought the sauce would make a fantastic accompaniment to a host of other dishes, say, atop a filet of fish, or with pasta. Happily, Jose was willing to share his recipe. I can’t wait to try it out on my guests. See more photos of our day here.
Charmoula
2 bunches cilantro
1 bunch parsley
1 small piece of fresh ginger, chopped
2 garlic cloves, roughly chopped
2 TB coriander powder
1 TB cumin powder
1 TB paprika
The zest of one lemon
1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
Pulse in a food processor, or place in a blender on medium speed. Add salt and pepper to taste. Jose recommends serving with: mussels, pork, eggs, lamb, or as he does at Baba, with a Spanish tortilla.

etched glassware with a sense of humor

Rolf Glass makes etched glassware in classic and contemporary patterns. I thought the Text U collection featuring texting symbols for: Evil (shown), Drunk, Kiss on the Cheek, and My Lips are Sealed were a humorous take on the genre. Also check out the Pearls collection, which gives a nod to Art Deco, and School of Fish, whose pattern has one of the fish going in the other direction, something I can totally relate to.

The end of the meat fast

I chose to have my first meaty entree at 10 Downing, and am not regretting a thing! Though I did learn a lot about alternatives over the past couple of months, I thought it was time to start enjoying top quality, consciously farm-raised specimens. Chef Jonnatan Leiva is bringing in top quality meat from Lydia Ratcliff, who runs Lovejoy Brook Farm, the last working farm still in operation in Andover, Vermont. Seen here is the Lamb Burger, new on the Spring menu. See more photos from the meal here.

INSIDE F+B: A Fresh + Bright Look at the Hospitality Industry

Francine Cohen is a busy woman. I was beginning to think there were clones of her, as she makes it her business to be at the center of all the important culinary events. This strategy has put her in the perfect position to have the one-on-one conversations with industry insiders and be privy to business trends, experiments, hits and misses. This information she keeps at her fingertips. Luckily those same fingertips are tapping away fervently at her NEW news source, INSIDE F+B, just launched in February. A must-read if you want to stay on top of international business trends, meet the innovators in the spirits and food worlds, see what new products are on the market, or take a peek at operations behind the scenes at the hottest destinations. If that’s not enough, Francine has also officially stated that she will act as your personal F+B matchmaker. If you are looking for a hard-to-find resource, or need a recommendation for talent, simply contact her through the site. I took advantage of the decor at Print restaurant to take her photo, seen above.

the greening of NYC

In honor of St. Patrick’s Day, I ordered a ‘green’ wine—organic, that is—with my lunch at Print, located in the Ink 48 Hotel. I found out that all the offerings on their wine list are either organic or biodynamic. Impressive. They even have a selection of organic beers, like Samuel Smith’s Organic Lager, from Tadcaster, England and Pinkus Pils Pilsner, from Münster, Germany, to name a few. The bar featured cocktails, whose names tie into the fact that this hotel used to be a printing house. How could you not be curious about something called White Out (Tanqueray Ten Gin, Cointreau, Lemon Juice, Tarragon) or Scotch Tape (Glenmorangie Single Malt Scotch, Ginger Juice, Fresh Lemon and Lime)? I suggest a stop here next time you are at the Javits. The menu features locally-sourced ingredients from upstate New York. A rooftop bar called Press opens in approximately two weeks. See more photos of my lunch with Francine, and enjoy my other St. Patrick’s Day day sightings taken at midday, before the chaos ensued.

splendor on Wall

It’s hard to believe you are in a Hyatt Hotel when you see what Andaz on Wall Street has to offer. The design by David Rockwell, has soaring ceilings and an over-the-top, futuristic staircase that I wanted to keep going up and down. The staff, who do not wear uniforms, were super friendly, accommodating and attentive. After doing a mini tour of Wall & Water, the farm-to-table restaurant upstairs, I decided to sample the salmon dish from their menu, downstairs at Bar Seven Five. The salmon was accompanied by a creamy horseradish sauce, and deliciously extra-sweet roasted fennel and beets. Kind of an odd combo, but very enjoyable. See more photos of the space here.

Michael Collins Irish Whisky: an IRISH toast

I celebrated St Patrick’s Day a little early with a tasting of Michael Collins Irish Whisky this past Monday at LEI in the South Street Seaport. What I learned was that out of 2000 original distilleries, Michael Collins is only one of 3 left producing whisky in Ireland. Thankfully, the rule of survival of the fittest applies here! Run and get yourself a bottle and make a toast with one of the creative cocktails from the website. Also, see my post labeled “Whiskey Persuasion” for another sensational cocktail. See more photos of the tasting here.

just beachy

It’s not warm enough for beach weather, yet I almost felt like I was out at the end of Long Island this afternoon. Sagaponack is serving a lunch buffet, with light green salads, creative sandwiches, soup, chicken (with 2 sides) and a taco bar. My friend JD and I had the salads—and remarkably, both our lunches together came in under $10.

Scotch + Ladies: cocktails from Ladies United for the Preservation of Endangered Cocktails

Ladies United for the Preservation of Endangered Cocktails (LUPEC) made quite a splash at Astor Center this week in honor of International Women’s Day. These crafty females started with a selection from Compass Box Whisky, and mixed it with the gamut: flamed orange zest, earl grey tea, apple butter, and grapefruit were just some of the ingredients on hand. I noticed a great trick that I am going to steal for my next shindig—the use of sprays. Partly used as a time-saver, and partly for adding just a hint. See more pics and cocktail recipes from the event here. Pictured, is Lady of the Lamp, by Rachel Kim of Momofuku, a combination of Asyla Whisky, Benedictine, Allspice, Honey, Lemon, and Ginger. If you haven’t tried Compass Box yet, put it on your agenda. They specialize in small batches of Scotch whiskies that fall into two categories: Signature Range, which includes Spice Tree, The Peat Monster, Oak Cross, Asyla, and Limited Release Range, having Hedonism, Lady Luck, Hedonism Maximus, The Peat Monster Reserve, and Canto Cask Series.

Hibiscus Superflower Teas: cocktails with benefits

My cousin’s boyfriend had a birthday, and I was recruited to come up with a signature cocktail for the event. I thought it would be a great opportunity to incorporate some new hibiscus teas that I had come across. The Republic of Tea makes 5 flavors, and with Hibiscus and Blueberry being my favorite, it was chosen to go into the mix. Paulina, my cousin, bought some beautiful pitchers, with centers where fruit could be added. The sweetened tea went into a mix of Pom Juice, Vodka, Muddled Blueberries, Cointreau, and lots of freshly squeezed lime juice. It made for a lightly sweet drink, heavy on the antioxidants, with a punch to it (the vodka), so it was named The JAB (which happen to be the initials of the birthday boy). More pics of the party here.

a perfect Village duet: Bobo and Minetta Tavern

I used to live in the village, and do miss the quaint old-style atmospheres of a lot of the restaurants and bars. That was remedied by a quick cab ride over to Bobo for dinner, followed by a nightcap at Minetta Tavern. Both places were packed and lots of fun. You couldn’t help but make new friends in such close quarters. Photo shows the back dining room at Minetta Tavern, which still had plenty of diners past 11pm. See more photos from the night here.

honoring WOMEN: LUPEC: Ladies United for the Preservation of Endangered Cocktails

I just became aware of the fact that March 8 is International Women's Day. In honor of that I will be attending the Winter Warmer Cocktail Tweetup at Astor Center, which will be featuring cocktails created by the team of LUPEC: Ladies United for the Preservation of Endangered Cocktails. Meet the ladies who shake and pour from Rye House, Pegu, Momofuku, Raines Law Room, Hearth, Bar Celona, Freeman's, and Hush Cocktails. Men and women are welcome. Robin Robinson of Compass Box Whiskies will be pouring samples of Asyla, Hedonism, Oak Cross, Peat Monster, Spice Tree and their infused whisky, Orangerie. $5 of the $30 price tag will go to the charity, Dress for Success. Stay tuned for cocktail details and photos from the event. I also thought I would mention that Hip Hostess NYC has been featured in Femme on Feast. Check out Natalie Shirinian's blog celebrating women in the fashion, art, culture, and culinary fields.

Dijon, not just for mustard

This week, the French city of Dijon led a week-long celebration of its culinary delights. Nine chefs and sommeliers arrived with tasty recipes and excellent wine, creme de cassis, and even a saffron-infused gin. I had to give up my meat-free plan for the day to enjoy the pate, duck, chicken, and beef on hand. I have no regrets. See more pictures of the event here, and be sure to check out the exhibit at the Met, The Mourners: Medieval Tomb Sculptures From The Court Of Burgundy. In addition to eating and drinking well, here are some compelling reasons to visit Dijon:
—In 2009, for the second year in a row, L’Entreprise magazine named Dijon the most attractive city in France.
—Dijon encompasses more than 1,700 acres of parks and gardens. Focused on low-impact transportation, Dijon offers citizens free bicycles to get around, as well as natural gas-powered buses, an electric mini-bus, and a soon-to-be-built tram.
—Dijon is located in the heart of Burgundy whose wine heritage dates back to medieval times. The tiny vineyards of Burgundy produce some of the worlds most highly refined, appreciated and elite wines.
—Dijon’s architecture includes houses that were constructed by the city’s most powerful families from the 15th Century until the time of the French Revolution.

snowstorm benefit: last minute reservation at Maialino

I had been dying to dine at Maialino since it opened, but have only managed to squeeze in some wine and cocktails. As the snow accumulated, my Friday night event got cancelled, I surmised there might be spots available, and snagged a reservation. The food, and of course, service was spectacular. The salad that accompanied my sea bass had the most tasty lemon vinaigrette, that made me thank the fact I live in such a great culinary city! See more from our dinner here, including the fantastic mild olive oil we enjoyed with the focaccia. In the photo: Bavette Pasta, side dish of cauliflower, and sea bass.