Total Pageviews

Thursday, November 3, 2011

And the beat goes on

can't believe we are in our last couple of days here. The time has gone so quickly. It is so magical and paradoxical here. Last nite we went to a restaurant in Ramat Aviv -northern Tel Aviv for dinner with friends. the area is called Sun and Sea -the resturant is called Turqoise and is built up to look like the most expensive area of Miami Beach and I imagine this is where the Israeli's who aspire to be American wannabes hang out.. the nouveau riche and the beautiful. It was probably the most expensive restaurant I have been to and the least impressive .The food was mediocre at best and the service likewise. the most fun was watching the pretentious people parading back and forth. I prefer our hummus and homemade soup places. At least the food is good!!!!
looks like the clouds are rolling in It might rain later. Today we are going to stroll along the boardwalk and walk to Jaffa . we have a dinner with friends on their kibbutz near Natanya tonite
And tomorrow we all head home!!!!

Tuesday, November 1, 2011

And the fun just goes on and on

On the way to the kibbutz we stopped for coffee agai at Yakum at caffe Bouno. They have just the best coffee!!! Not only were there bicyclists there but also bikers-we dubbed them Jewish Hells Angels!! the place is hopping so I guess I am not the only one who loves this place!!! We arrived at the kibbutz and our friends had a lovely breakfast prepared for us. fresh vegetables and the most delicious cottage cheese among all the other fresh food. We also had the most delicious tea made with fresh herbs. Plans changed somewhat and we headed to RoshHanikra which is one of the most beautiful sights -among the many -In Israel .It is right on the border with Lebanon and looks over the Mediterranian which was a fantastic blue azure. There are fabulous grottos and we are actually at the border crossing.

Then headed to Akko and toured the crusader 's castles and had a wonderful early dinner in the shui and watched the sun set over the sea.Long drive back
sunday we met our friend 's for coffee at the North Port . it was Harold's birthday it's amazing that we are all just walking along together in Tel Aviv. We then walked to Neve Tzedek and met a friend of ours from last year at our favorite chicken rotisserie restaurant . Our friend used to own the restaurant . The food was as good as ever and we all pigged out on chicken and roasted potatoes and fresh cucumber and tomato salad . We crawled out of the restaurant and surprisingly found our way to Anita's for gelatin. the best gelatin in Tel Aviv and we have been to many places!!! A bit more walking and home to get ready for dinner to Segev Express with another friend. This is an upscale restaurant that we visited last year and it was superb. This year the food was not as remarkable -a disappointment . We all decided we should stick with the typical Israeli fare. We have never been disappointed in our street food!!!
yesterday we were up and out early and headed to Masada and the dead sea. First time we have seen so many tourists!!! Marsha and Jule braved the rocks to go into the dead sea and we all traipsed down Masada
met up with everyone at our favorite soup restaurant on Bograshov -more ice cream and home
today we are going to Independence hall ,hagganah museum and Baha'is museum and dinner on the sea!!The sun is shining and the breezes are warm. another beautiful day in paradise

Friday, October 28, 2011

Hike

Heading up north to kibbutz of the ghetto fighters and going on a hike and to Akko and Mayb Rosh Hanikra. Beautiful and sunny and it's a quiet Shabbat morning as we prepare to make our way out of the city

Memories

every year that we have come here we have knocked on the door of the apt Harold lived in here inBet Hakerem. And no one ever answered . This time we were lucky. An almost nude fat 36 year old guy reluctantly answered the door and let us in. Harold was transported back to another time And regaled this poor fellow with stories I am sure he never wanted to hear. But oh well -it was a great experience for Harold!!!!! After that we went to the super sol that he shopped at to get some groceries. the area has become very religious and any o e we asked for I for I formation refused to speak to us. Interesting experience. We took the new tram to the old city -fantastic new transportation mode and alleviates the hassle of traffic and fighting for a parking spot.Of course Iwas starving when we got to the old city and we bought a bagele from the man in front of the Jaffa Gate . I had always wanted to do that . it was delicious of course and he sells it with a delicious spice that you dip the pulled off pieces of bread into. Yummy. Spent time in the old city and at the Wall .
yesterday we picked up Bonnie and headed to Caeseria . On the way stopped at my favorite gas station called Yakum and they have the most incredible coffee shop there called Buono Cafe . We all got coffee drinks to go and were on our way again Caeseria is beautiful and it was very peaceful. Harold got Jule to climb the aqueduct !!! Then we headed over to the ruins. We saw many brides having their pictures taken there. At that point I decided I needed to eat again so Harold and Marsha continued to explore and Jule ,Bonnie and I sat down at cafe by the sea . We had hummus and grilled eggplant and pita . marsha and Harold got stuck in the rui s because they closed the gates and they had to climb over the ramparts to get out!!!!! last nite we had dinner with the Winnipegers and all met at an outdoor shwarma stand at Frishman and Dizengof . it was awesome Here we were in Tel Aviv having dinner with our childhood friends!!!! And of course then stopes for ice cream and walked along the beach .
Today Harold ran to the market and got fresh baked goods for breakfast and we are going to walk the streets and enjoy Tel Aviv as she prepares for Shabbat!!! The energy in the city grows and grows and the day progresses. Tonite is Dina's. birthday and we are all meeti g at a restaurant on the beach for a birthday party.

Wednesday, October 26, 2011

I love Israel

Have been so busy eating, visiting And touring that I haven't had a moment to write. Sitting in a cafe in Jerusalem waiting for our friends at who r at Yad Vashem Will start at the most recent and work back. Yesterday was the wedding And to say it wad amazing and exquisite is not to do it justice. It was called for 3:30 near Jerusalem so we left at 2:00 figuring that would give us plenty of time. Of course we didn't account for the massive traffic jam because of numerous accidents We finally arrived at 4:30 thinking we had missed the wedding -not so. An Israeli wedding time -which we didn't know-takes into account thar traffic. As a matter if fact the rabbi was stuck in the same traffic and she arrived after us. So in fact there is a pre party before and we were still there in time for drinks and appetizers. The bride and groom were there partying with everyone !!!!the ceremony took place on a terrace overlooking the valley. The trees were lit with flickering lights and it was sundown The groom wax so excited he literally danced down the aisle with his parents He was grinning from ear to ear lots of singing and participation during the ceremony. After the glass breaking and everyone shouting mazel tov the guest rushed to the couple before they could even walk back down the aisle amid many hugs and kisses and cheering. It was the happiest and most heartwarming thing I have ever seen The bride looked stunning in a simple lace gown and even tho she wasn't wearing a single piece of jewelry it seemed like she was sparkling with diamonds because she was glowing so much. After much dancing a delicious and copious buffet was served. Awesome Israeli band and a DJ who played European techno.
I will also try and remember other things we have done... The reversal dinner was Monday night at a restaurant cslled the rotisserie It wax just outside the New gate.
Unbelievable dinner. ... Many many courses. Started with an eggplant appetizer , mushroom brown rice risotto , sliced duck with cranberries, coquiles st Jacque , baby lamb chops, and stewed pears and mascarpone for dessert
After dinner we walked to the wall. The old city was deserted except for a few Haredim and it was truly magical. We were there t mist 2:00AMand didn't get home till the wee hours of The morning Thd next day we stayed close to home and explored Shenkin St , Carmel market and Neve tzedefk with a stop at at Dita for dinner and Anita's for gelatto.going to head to the old city today and mamilla mall
Ater

Sunday, October 23, 2011

Shalom shalom!!!!

Well here we are in wonderful downtown Tel Aviv. the flight was good. Air France does a better job of meals on their flights than Delta. Arrived just around Shabbat so the airport wasn't that busy.. got our car with ease and we were "upgraded"to a ford focus And of course it's all relative but it feels like a huge car here-especially when you are driving down a very narrow street and there are parked cars on either side. Made to the apartment where we are staying by memory -yeah for me!!!!! Also very little traffic. the apartment-same p,ace we stayed last time has deteriorated"somewhat" and of course we couldn't reach the broker because he is religious . So today will be interesting.
the air conditioning was not working and I won't go on from there..... Some young boys were staying across the hall and they helped us get the air on at least one floor. very nice young, men who are here for a semester before they start college in January . they left today for 2 months on. Kibbutz and when Harold went out to get some baked goods from the market this morning they had left us a note and leaving some of their extra food and detergent -very sweet!!!!
Friday night we drove up to our Friend Rochie in Herzilyia and had Friday night dinner with her and her husband . She makes soup like no one else-and this time she made a sweet potato soup that was awesome!!!!She also gave us some supplies and we headed back very late -but that didn't stop us from taking a walk by the sea and in town at 12:30am -just in time to see all the kids lined up to get into the clubs.. many more things are open now on Shabbat than even 1 1/2 years ago.
yesterday morning we headed back to the airport and picked our friends from Winnipeg who are staying with us. We ran them ragged for the rest of the day .. took a glorious walk on the tayellit -board walk -along the sea to Jaffa. The weather is gorgeous .. We walked thru the old town and stopped for lunch -hummus and felafel at an Arab restaurant -it was delicious. Walked back -rested for a bit and went to a restaurant on Bograshov St for dinner about 9 ish Sat put side and watched the world go by. I had pea soup with chili in it!!! Harold had chicken schnitzel. can you feel me grinning in glee???????Walked along Dizengof and Ben Gurion sts and then got Gelatto on Ben Gurion. Finally home to bed .
Harold just came back from the market with bagelas and borekas Unfortunately our man -who was nasty as all get out and of course we loved him -was fired from pur bakery .so sad!!!!!
So I am going to eat and then we are off to Zichron Yaakov and the wine country and then tonite a dinner in Jerusalem at the rotisserie restaurant for the wedding !!!!

Thursday, October 20, 2011

Getting confused

The days r starting to run into each other Yesterday we went to l' orangerie. An entire floor is given over to Monet 's water lillies in 3 rooms. Magnificent doesn't even begin to describe it It's like twirling in fantasy Also a new exhibit in the lower level of Spanish painters I am not familiar with them but have rarely been so overwhelmed and enjoyed s display as much Cound hardly drag myself away and wl have to really read up on these artists There was an early Dali find in hhe impressionist style -so odd for him.
We then headed to notre dame Stopped in the Latin quarter for lunch and hoovered an enormous gyro. Aldo saw the French in action a well dressed man just had to relieve himself against a wall in the middle of the street!!!
Walked home and harold unfortunately has a cold. So we just grabbed a cheese crepe on the street
Had to change rooms at the hotel there was a short in one of the light switches and it smelled like fire -of course they insisted nothing was wrong and still do but we had to get out of there. Today we walked down the champs élysées and arc de triomphe and saw the Eiffel tower. One of our favorite things to do is visit the car dealership on the champs. They show futuristic cars and were wonderful. And fun. Made our third trip to marais looking for a store I found the first day. Success!!! On our way to the hotel to pack. Leave tomorrow morning for tel aviv -yeah!!!!!

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

Le rive gauche

Well, l'orangerie is closed on Tuesday. Luckily we checked befor heading there. So we walked thru the tuilleries -so beautiful and serene There r chairs which lean back for people to bask in the sun -of course it was raining yesterday but ..., also lots of people jogging thru the park We walked across the Seine to the musee d orsay and stood in. Line for about an hour to get in Luckily I was wearing a raincoat with a hood as it was pouring out. Met a lovely young couple in line from Texas who r living and working in Singapore and whe there r traveling the world. The musee is being renovated so my favorite Degas ballet dancers were not on display but we saw some incredible tolouse lautrec van gogh, gaugin and Bonnard So a wonderful couple if hours spent It truly fills up the senses. Stopped for lunch at a bar and ordered a cheese omelette. No one makes an omelette like the French!!!!
Harold has a friend who lives here that he knew in Israel 40 years ago. Last night they invited us to their house fir dinner. We took the metro. They live in a very old house behind beautiful wooden gates. They r both professors at Paris university. While the house is in disrepair it was looked like professors lived there-walls and walls of bookshelves. Harlots friend cooked ad his wife had a late class. He made coquille st Jacques , rice , salad , bread , wine -all delicious. After dinner they brought out a cheese plate and one of the cheeses was an Italian pepper cheese with chunks of peppercorns in it wow !!! Also a fig tarte (poor harold ) for dessert but he managed to scarf some down We had a lively time -great discussion about politics and of course we talked about Dominique strausse Kahn !!!! Late night but lots of fun. Right now I am reduced to sitting in ( shudder) mcdonalds to use the Internet. And it is disgusting !!! Also this is the first time we have been confronted by how rude the French can be
The sun us shining and we r going to l'orangerie and perhaps notre dame we seem to have slowed down our eating We need to remedy that today !!!!! A bientot

Tuesday, October 18, 2011

Duexieme jour a Paris

It's so beautiful here. the city is just stunning.. We walked and walked and ate. Got a late start and grabbed a small breakfast at Starbucks because they have free Internet -to a point . They give u a card to sign in and then shut you off after 30 minutes and in order to reconnect to the Internet you need to buy another coffee . Hmmmm
ran over to Galleries Lafayette which is my favorite dept store ever. the line up to buy Longchamp bags wound around thru out the store. all foreigners -not EU get 10 % extra off and tax rebate. mayb the productivity is down on china becuz they r all here buying longchamps bags -ok that's a cheap shot. needless to say I did not stand in line but I can get the knock offs in NYC for next to nothing!!!!
Got some fabulous running shoes by a company called patogaus -and they actually are not sold in the US. the stores are busy -lots of tourists but mostly European W e r not hearing a lot of English .
headed over to La Marais to find a photography store that Carla recommendedbut we got there late so it was closed -but we will go back.
We realized we were letting our side down becua we hadn't been eating enuff -so we started stopping again to pick up pastries. Today many more stores were open and the beauty of the pastries isphenomenal ? At one store The pasttries were laid out and decorated and looked like jewels. While taking pictures of some gorgeous tortes I started talking to another couple who were also taking pictures of the same pastry -we r both nuts-and turns out they were Israeli and we had a great time . they r here on vacation and rented an apt and invited us to come back for dinner but we needed to trudge on!!!! We exchanged contact info and hopefully we will connect in Tel Aviv.
As we were walking we heard shouting and landed in the midst of a demonstration. A crowd of thousands was marching in memory of the massacre in 1961 of French Algerians who were demonstrating here agianstFrench rule in Algeria . the party line is only a few were killed but thousands are unaccounted for.and not forgotten. A banner stated the Jews and Arabs were marching together in this cause.
We r headed off to Orangerie now and I am tres excited as have not been to this museum yet.
A bientot

Sunday, October 16, 2011

Arrive a Paris

We're here!!!! First time I have been in Paris when it hasn't been freezing cold and grey. it's beautiful today -the sun is shining and it's warm and the city is gorgeous Our flight was just bearable .. Flying to Paris from NYC is too long for dinner and a movie but not long enough to sleep for more than a couple of hours at best. And there were 2HUGE French women behind us who talked loudly would not shut up even with not so gentle nudges. But since I had a couple of glasses of wine I was more mellow than usual . As only we can we took the train from the airport into the city and transferred to the metro to get to our hotel. We actually found it -not too much yelling!!!! The hotel is ideally situated right near the Tuileries Gardens and right around the corner from Rue St Honorea-great shopping and around the corner from the the Opera. the hotel is well appointed but alas no wifi there so we r in a star bucks. I don't like not being connected.
We just dumped our stuff and tired as we were headed out to the streets. We stopped at our first patisserie brioches doree. I had a chicken et tomato baguette and cafe aulakit and Harold had his first apple tart of the day!!!! it was pretty good -not fantastic yet We wanted to head to Montmarte becuz I have a favorite bakery there that makes great apple tarts. Well we ended up walking all the way there. Stopped a few time s-please see facebook for pics -I don't know how to download pics to the blog yet. Another apple tar tine -to die for The pastry is unbelievable and the apples have just the right amount of sugar. I also had a tomato and olive roll and Harold also had a chocolate filled Beignet Oh and we stopped for macarons at a neighborhood bakery I had raspberry -sublime . Wait somewhere in there he had a chocolate brioches too. Stopped at Monmarte cemetery . Saw the graves of Emile Zola , Francois Truffaukt, Najinsky and many Jewish graves also and there was one head stone dedicated to several Jewish families who perished in the Holocaust .Very moving .
headed up to the church of sacre cour and found my bakery -another tart tar tine and they are all different while still being so delicious..
we walked back to the hotel and we were really whipped . rested for an hour and we r back out for dinner!!! Not sure where yet but am sure something will catch our eye. I actually can't believe we are going to eat again !!!!!

Saturday, October 15, 2011

Vacation time

In the Delta airport lounge at Kennedy waiiting to board our flight to Paris. Five days of eating at as many patisseries and boulangeries as we can find ..Then onto Israel for 2 weeks of fun and food with friends from Winnipeg
I will try and blog every day so you can salivate with me!!!!

Thursday, September 29, 2011

Catching up

writing a blog is kind of like going to the gym. You dont want to go but once you get there -it's ok. In other words I have been neglecting my blog and the more I neglect it the harder it is to get back to it. But ...
We have been on our usual run around even tho Harold was away for a few days and the rhythm of life changed a bit.
Saw a play -The Lyons with Linda Lavin. She is a wonderful actress and has great legs. And the play was funny and entertaining -for 20 minutes and after that it went downhill . Oh well -Sunday afternoon at the theater. oh and we also went to Tim Horton donuts for coffee -everyone should go -once.
Heard Paul Krugman and Sylvia Nasser speak this week. Awesome He is a great speaker If I had him teaching me economics I might have majored in it? ????
Also went to hear Lara Logan speak at NYU .. Incredibly brilliant and brave woman. I didn't expect to be so impressed by her but she is very clear and decisive about her ideas and thoughts.
Restaurants galore
Today went to City Bakery-W18 and fifth - for lunch . very good food and what a selection.among the delicious items we had was a hot smoked chicken and cheese on this incredible sweet dark bread.
We also ate at newly opened Joe's of Brooklyn in Astor Place. fabulous fries and burgers -nice staff too
tried South African food at Braai on W54 .Good Biryani and samosas -not the Indian type tho but the service was inattentive .

Sunday, September 18, 2011

Great movie

Saw a great Indie movie called Toast about Nigel Slater a British food critic. Would def recommend seeing this . Interesting story of coming of age and fabulous food!!!!

Saturday, September 17, 2011

Our day in Connecticut

At Fairfield county hunt club It's so us!!! The antique cars are so awesome. One belonged to Nick Cage and a Rolls Royce belonged to Sammy Davis JR .. We spent a few hours there -surprisingly. Headed to Norwalk to Walmart & Costco. On the way just happened to stop at a store called Mitchells in Fairfield. Incredible clothing store for men and women. It's like Madison Ave in one store.and I completed my winter wardrobe today.yeah no more shopping
We went to 2 Walmarts . The first was so run down that we thought we would try another But no they were both the same Just crummy. Stocked up on cat stuff at Costco.
It's good to b back in the city in our little apartment .just had some great chicken soup and matzo balls for dinner( yes I made it) and am curled up reading a schlock book. bliss
Tomorrow up and out early to see a preview of a movie called Toast with Helena Bonham Carter The ultimate nostalgia trip thru everything edible in 1960's Britain.
Traffic traffic and tolls Burbs here we come

West port Ct

off to Westport Ct for an antique car show and Walmart !!!! woo hoo!!!!
We are actually taking our car out of the garage and driving!!! have not done this the entire year we have been here. We have loved being in the city so much that we have not even thought of going anywhere else .. Well I guess today is the day.

Friday, September 16, 2011

Vespa

Thumbs down to Vespa- service still lacking and food was only so so won't go back

Odds & sodds

Very exciting thing happened to me this week, I had entered my recipe for overnight baked French toast on crown maple.com.. We had tried Crown Maple Syrup at Smorgasburg in Williamsburg and we loved it. Anyway I entered my recipe and was notified this week that I won recipe of the month!!!! And I won 3bottles of this incredibly delicious maple syrup. To try my recipe -it's great for brunch -go to Crownmaple.com You'll love it.
Had a lovely glass of wine and sushi at Blue Water Grill in Union Square. try it for a late afternoon pick me up
Last night we ate Italian at a wonderful neighborhood restaurant -Isle of Capri. At the corner of 61 St and Third. it's been a long time since we have been treated so well at a restaurant -lots of personal attention and the food is scrumptious. The owner Maria greeted us at the door and kept checking with us to make sure everything was fine. And the portions are ginormous. We had two salads -Caesar -which was perfectly dressed and the chefs salad which was chock full of ingredients -almost a meal in itself. We shared the special which was seafood linguini in red sauce and there was still too much food!!! And it was full of large chunks of lobster and shrimp!! Desert was cookies, canoli, tartuffo and.... Bindi Italian Gelato Definitely on our list to return.

tonite a return to Vespa Let's see if the service improves

We are going to Paris in a few weeks and have decided that we are going to take ourselves on a patisserie and boulangerie tour of the city. it's soooo us.If anyone has a favorite bakery in Paris please let me know!!! We want to try it.

Sunday, September 11, 2011

Egg salad sandwich at Fairway and....

Again headed over to west side to do some errands . Stopped at FairwayMarket for an egg salad (they put dill in their egg salad)sandwich at their cafe. Just love this .The sandwich is so big that they cut it Into three and it is served on the best seven grain whole wheat bread .On our way back we happened to walk past Doyle Auction House on 87 between Lex. &Third. They were previewing a personal effects sale of Douglas Fairbanks JR. So of course we had to go in. There were racks of his clothes-from plaid suits to beautiful silk kimonos to gorgeous coats,hats,shoes and boots..All the clothes appeared to be tailor made. Also on display were china,books , and pictures-many of him with not only movie stars but royalty as well.Needless to say Harold started to try on some of the coats and jackets and they fit him sooo well. of course you are NOT supposed to try on any clothes -which he found quickly enough. He may go back on Tuesday -the day of the auction and buy himself a new cashmere winter coat with velvet collar-just his style!!!! So much fun playing dress up and fantasizing!!!!

What an incredible day!!!!

Saturday and it's sunny and warm(hot)and our feet are just itching to get on out on the pavement and explore. It's time walk Riverside Park and environs. So we headed across the park at a fairly purposeful clip and as soon as we hit Amsterdam Ave decided we were hungry. Stopped at this lovely looking cafe called the B.Cafe on Amsterdam between 77 & 78. It is actually a Begian pub/cafe with a very large selection of beer. Also has a great menu. We sat outside and luxuriated in the warm September sun and watching and listening to the hubbub around us. For each of us there were quite a few things on the menu from which to choose. I thought for sure Harold would have the Belgian waffle with chocolate sauce but...he totally surprised me by ordering an omelette Jardiniere -with mushrooms,scallions,Tomatoes,asparagus and ,gruyere cheese.So for those of you who know him you can understand my shock. However it does come with the most incredible mouth watering Belgian fries. you could easily spend the afternoon just eating these. They come with a 3 sauces ketchup , mayo, and a spicy samurai sauce. But really you could easily eat them as is. I had a chop chop salad -good -not remarkable. I also ordered iced tea -but you need to know that his restaurant charges for refills and doesn't tell you that they do until you are surprised by the bill at the end of the meal. the wait staff is also quite snarky when/if you ask for anything or question the bill. Sooooo the jury is out if we will return -but those fries!!!!!! Also there is another location on the east side on 75th.
We had to walk off our meal so headed west and north to Riverside park .There is a wonderful promenade along Riverside Dr and beautiful huge edifice to sailors and soldiers. Quite breathtaking . We then decided to head south and walked along the promenade -very Francais-and sort of detoured along the river. At around 70 Th we came upon bands playing and a pier with childrens rides and carts selling food and free kayaking .Lots and lots of people milling about and just having a great time . Headed on to Hudson River park ,past the ships docked in port .There are bicycle and running paths and separate walking paths and benches and sculptures along the paths .For most people this would have been enough but we trudged (notice we have progressed from walking to trudging ) on to Chelsea Pier and the realized we were at the High Line So since we hadn't seen the new part we just had to go up to the high line and walk the length of both the old and new. I like the greenery of the new part very much but the walkway is narrower and it was packed with people.At 30 Th &10 Th they have created an outdoor roller rink and public plaza .There is also a large area with a huge bar and daily selection of food trucks.they all looked fabulous but by this time we had had ice cream sandwiches at the high line.... but I can see us going back.
We broke down and walked to the subway and headed home for a bit of a rest only to head out again at 9:30 for dinner.We stopped in at Mediterraneo at 2nd & 66. well this restaurant is three for three- bad service, small portions and huge prices.I can't say anymore about it. not worth my time .

Saturday, September 10, 2011

Movie and Pizza

The traffic here yesterday was quite unbelievable. Had my hair colored and cut at Garren Salon at 59 Th and Fifth and the traffic on Fifth was pure gridlock. That being said I have a new "shorter "hair cut and wonderful soft color. My New York self is evolving thanks to Patrick and Alexis.
Walking to the salon along Madison Ave I encountered a block long line up of well healed/dresssed New Yorkers .....outside Laduree.-and what were they lined up for -macaroons- The store it self was a mob scene . I just sauntered past-too much for me -Mayb I should try making macaroons myself !!!But it was an amusing site to see.
We saw the movie the Debt last night . This is a tough movie to watch. It is very disturbing and I thought very hard to watch some parts of it -not a happy movie about tortured (literally and figuratively ) souls.
Walked for awhile after the movie to clear my head and stopped in at Al Forno on 2nd between 77 &78 for pizza and salad . Delicious pizza as always -love the fresh basil and great people watching.

Friday, September 9, 2011

Quiet life

Well it has been a couple of the quietest few days we have spent since we have been here and I realize I have become an adventure junky. I much prefer to be out on the streets than trying to live real life like paying bills etc. I guess the rain hasn't helped much.
The good thing is I have spent more time at the gym and even took a yoga class. Get these old muscles stretched out!,,,
played mahj yesterday and it was good to be with the "girls" . good friends , good game -even tho I won four times I still lost more than I won- these women are good!!!
Watched Obama's speech last night. That was the man we voted for!!! I sure hope the GOP doesn't try and block everything. You can always count on Michelle Bachman to be reactionary.She is one scary woman. And did you see her hair at the GOP debate? it looks she forgot her creme rinse.
Off for a beauty day today at Garren Salon.Alexis for color and Patrick for cut-they are the BEST .
Need to get back out in the city -Plans for tonight???? HMMMMM

Wednesday, September 7, 2011

Rain rain go away

It's raining so hard that even the New York dogs are wearing rain hats ,coats and boots

Monday, September 5, 2011

best pizza in nyc

We were starving after hitting BedBath and Beyond and Bloomies sale with Jenn ...So nothing better than stopping on the street and scarfing down the most awesome pizza ever.On 43 rd between Lex and 3rd. Fine dining- definitely !!!!We highly recommend
By the way I am slowly but surely learning how to add things and pics to my blog !!!

Sunday, September 4, 2011

Borscht at last borscht at last

Headed out Saturday about noon ish to walk down to the East village to visit our favorite vegetarian restaurant B & H Vegetarian on 2nd between 9th & 10 Th.The streets were packed with people -including the street person lounging on a stone bench and smoking a joint. Had a bowl of the most delicious hot beet borscht -just as good as my mother used to make even tho she put meat in hers. the borscht is served with two thick slices of challah and butter. is your mouth watering? Harold had one cherry blintz and one blueberry blintz with sour cream .Huge , hot and homemade. We watched the cook make a tuna melt on the grill that could easily serve four !!!Mayb next time. So that seems like we would be satisfied and full right uh uh -we then headed over to a bakery we had heard of called Jane's Sweet Buns. It's at 102 St Marks Place It's claim to fame is liquor flavored cinnamon buns. Well for us it was a big disappointment the bun we chose out of a limited few was just mediocre at best -not a place we would return to.
From there we walked over to Washington Square park . Listened to the piano player under the arch,the fellow playing bagpipes -shades of Winnipeg- and saw the end of an Israeli social action demonstration in sympathy to the tent city in tel aviv . walked thru the art show and on to Union Square and the fresh food market Bought some farm grown tomatoes and pickling cucumbers. Then onto one of our favorite stores -Fishes Eddies where I bought some salt and pepper shakers, hit Jack's .$99 store and even Macy's and... Continued to walk home. That was it for me -great day but exhausting.

Saturday, September 3, 2011

The BEST Mac and cheese in the WORLD

So we found it!!!! I can't believe I am letting you in on the secret . There is a tiny beer and cheese bar on Park just north of 97th .And I mean tiny-one long Table with benches and a very narrow bar along one wall. So you either stand and wait for a space or just tell people to shove over like we did and share the table with the other people there who are at least 30 years younger than we are!!!!! Of course they are not at all concerned that their cholesterol levels will shoot sky high after consuming The BEST Mac and cheese in the world.Let me just tell you what 's in it-Goat cheese ,Rosemary ,and shredded (more like chunks) of chicken and it comes in a tall crock like bowl. rich and creamy and tasty and bowl licking delicious is not even doing this justice. orgasmic -maybe You really need to try it. Also had grilled cheese sandwich -calabro mozzarella, miso mayo, potato chips,dill pickles on an English muffin. Unbelievable While it was delicious -the Mac and cheese is still the winner. Also had 2-count them--2beer- Whale pale ale And of course the entertainment is talking to the other"young"people at the table. We met a charming artist from Santa Monica who creates very abstract art when he isn't tutoring and a lawyer who just finished grad school in tax law How different can you get Oh by the way the name of this incredible restaurant is EARL'S BEER and CHEESE Try -if you dare!!!!

Thursday, September 1, 2011

Day at Moma

So after 2days of mahj I needed some intellectual stimulation. So "cousin Judy. " and I headed for lunch and an afternoon at Moma. Restaurant choice was left to me Oh Oh . So...I chose Menchanko -Tei which is a noodle place on West 55 Th between 5 Th and 6 Th The restaurant is long and narrow and we found it crowded with people waiting for take out and tables for lunch. Our wait wasnt too long and we were led way way to the back of the restaurant -and I mean way back -even past the restrooms. the good thing was that the air-conditioning was better at the back!!! The fragrances of the noodle dishes made our mouths water and it was everything I could do to restrain myself as people were eagerly slurping up their noodles.We decided to order 2 dishes which could easily have fed 4 !!! We ordered the original Menchanko. I can still taste it in my memory. This hot noodle dish is served in a cast iron bowl. Thick ramen noodles are hanging out in a soy broth with chicken,2huge shrimp,fish balls,tofu,rice cake and veggies. Need I say more- mouthwatering We also order a cold noodle dish called Tsuke Men Miso This was equally delicious. Thick ramen noodles topped with grilled chicken,boiled egg,spinach,bamboo shoots,and leeks with a spicy brown sauce . And lunch for 2 under $20. By the way the staff was friendly and informative. Will keep this on the list. On to Moma. Modern art isn't a favorite but always enjoy Water Lilies by Monet -a bit of respite in a crazy world. we also walked thru the very popular exhibit Talk to Me: Design and the Communication between People and Objects. Way over my head -just too old I guess .The mostly young people there were very enthusiastic !! I guess I missed it. All computer related . Relaxed in The outdoor sculpture garden with an iced coffee. Company in from Atlanta in the evening and we went to Vespa for dinner-an Italian farm to table restaurant on second between 84 Th and 85 Th. they have a especially appealing outdoor garden in the back which totally removes you from the hustle and bustle of the city.While the food was good the service was awful and would probably not go back.However , did have one appetizer that was outstanding -grilled zucchini with mint -delicious marriage of flavors.

Mahj and more mahj

So Monday and Tuesday was devoted to mahj games both days.Almost too much for me!!! had the girls here on Monday and made a great brunch /lunch -very traditional -chopped egg and tuna and bagels ..And Debra I made your delicious tomatoes with basil and balsamic vinegar and olive oil.We played til 7 !!!! Tuesday I subbed in at another game and managed to squeeze a work out in before the start time of 1:00 PM And I only lost $.25!!!! ran out Tuesday nite to Tiny Thai-our local Thai restaurant on Third and 87th. Had delicious pad Thai and Massaman Curry.They do a really good job and have the nicest wait staff. the weather is so beautiful now and it was a great evening for a long walk

Monday, August 29, 2011

Sunday, August 28, 2011

The day after

Slept thru the night except for a text from Matt that he got home from Nicaragua. He was heading right to the emergency room as he had been bitten by fire ants I guess that happens when you stand in an fire ant hill -his ankles were all swollen .Spent 2 hours in emerg and finally went home without seeing anyone. Luckily the swelling is down today
We thought that we had missed the storm completely however- Harold -for some reason -walked across the carpet in his bare feet and let out a gishray(Yiddish for scream) the carpet was soaking wet.It seems we had a flood and at least 1/3 of the hardwood floor was soaking. Now the nice part about renting is that they management took the rug and are going to have it cleaned and as soon as the hardwood dries they will see if the floor needs to b replaced There are also some water damage spots on the ceiling ..They said they think the leaks came from the soffits???? But it is not our problem-love it!!
rain had stopped and the sun was trying to come out and we went on one of our marathon walks to the east village.Many stores were boarded up and still closed. The subways and busses still not running but any restaurant that was open was packed. new Yorkers love to eat!!! two grocery chains were open Gristedes and Food Emporium. We wanted to go to our favorite B &H vegetarian for borscht but it was closed so we went to a place on St Marks Square called Jebon Sushi & Noodle. We had veggie dumplings that were to die for .The wait staff is exceptionally nice and really try to make sure that everything is to your liking.Would definitely go back.We had to walk back home and it was drizzling amd quite windy and I think I've walked enough for awhile . Made spaghetti and meatballs for dinner and Jenn came over to share with us!!! Funny thing. -she went home with groceries for the week.
Let's hope the subways and buses start up again tomorrow. I miss the hurly burly
Mahj at my place tomorrow

Saturday evening awaiting the hurricane

So we went out for dinner with friends to Beyoglu on Third in the eighties.The restaurant called us to come a bit early as they wanted to close the kitchen early -I am sure to let the staff go home. not a problem and we had a great meal .The Shepherd salad is crisp and crunchy with delicious dressing over cucumbers and tomatoes. Also had and hummus and babaganoush that were perfect.I ordered a chicken kabob and there was so much that I took 3/4 of it home. The chicken was tender and very flavorful. Harold had swordfish kabobs also very good and he ate it all!!!!
We walked home in the pouring rain but nothing like hurricane stormy -yet

Saturday, August 27, 2011

Waiting out the storm

last nite we decided to take a very long walk since the weather was beautiful and we knew what was coming. We headed across the park and it was teeming with people -running ,walking and even relaxing and reading on benches. The west side was bustling and all the restaurants -especially the outdoor eating areas were jam packed. We couldn't decide where to park our rear ends so we made it to Columbus circle and headed back over to the east side and walked up 2nd. Finally at around 9 we stopped at Al Forno Brick Oven Pizzeria between 77 Th &78th. Ordered a small cheese , small Caesar salad and ai had a glass of wine ($6) .On the whole it was great -probably would not get the salad again but the pizza was delicious -homemade small chunky tomato sauce and delicious cheese and... We have enuff left over to have some later and that was the small. also the wine was fine .Barely made it home and fell into bed -full but exhausted.
Walked some of the city today and very weird vibes. While a lot of places were closed -star bucks was closed- many movie theaters were closed but many resaurants were open and packed -when there is nothing else to do -eat!!!! Our gym was open so stopped in and even managed to get some weights in. And we wait

Friday, August 26, 2011

Added to stash

We r good bought 2 bags of doritos happy campers Meanwhile it is hot and sunny in beautiful NYC

huge salads

Played mahj last night and ordered a HUGE turkey salad from Viand diner.Very expensive but easily feeds three!!! Having leftovers for lunch and the turkey is fresh roasted

A storm is coming ..A storm is coming!!!!!

So everyone is freaked out about this hurricane I even know people who are leaving town.anyway today dawned beautiful and sunny However, it is starting to cloud over now but that may b because of the hordes of people running to the grocery stores to stock up on everything they don't need.. If the electricity goes out what will you do with the 50 pounds of meat and fish you bought and the tons of fresh fruit and veggies? And ...where will you put all this stuff in your tiny little NY city apartment kitchen???? So after being called by everyone we know from near and far Harold and I thought that just Mayb we should try and prepare..And truly that is not easy for us -as most of you know we don't usually plan anything in advance.
so first thing first -we need flash lites and batteries.Headed to Spaha (for those of you not in the know that is Spanish Harlem ) Lots of .99 stores!!!! First stop-we noticed a breakfast truck at 96th and 3rd .I guess we had not been out this early -the truck is gone by 11:30.
Harold just had to buy a sprinkled chocolate covered cream filled donut. Which he scarfed down and we also got a huge slab of marble cake -for later..... Delicious!!!Passed a fruit and veggie outdoor market and bought some fresh mint. Tea later????
Also stopped At the projects community center when we heard Spanish music blasting from loud speakers.I think it was seniors day -they were sitting at tables playing dominoes and noshing and having a good time.
finally reached the store a got the last 2 tiny flashlites and batteries -I hope they work they only cost $.99 each !!!!! We also bought 2 candles -M &M flavored not surprising!!!!
then we headed back to the sublime upper east side to Fairway Markets?. OMG out front the deliveries were stacked 10 deep and the lines in the store were endless. so we just quickly picked up some staples.6 pumpernickel bagels ,bing cherries and watermelon. Almost set-we had one more stop Glaser's Bake Shop at 87th and First. they have been closed for the summer and sorely missed.Harold bought 2of his favorite Lemon meringue tarts -beautiful , whoopee pies and I got a scone. we r set!!!!Just need to see if we have matches to lite the candles if we need them.

Wednesday, August 24, 2011

What a day!!!!

Lunch and a play with cousin Judy -what could be better. the weather is lovely so decided ( not surprising) to walk over to the west side and our lunch spot of Empanada Mama on 9th between 51st and 52nd.Have been there before and loved it so this was my real test. Same waiters who are friendly and accommodating. So I ordered the Empanada I had before -the oven baked mushroom-sauteed portobello and white mushrooms with onions. it was just as delicious as I remembered.Then ventured into new territory. Judy and I ordered an Empanada called Viagra-mouth watering seafood stew with shrimps,scallops and crab meat Are you on your way over yet??? but wait there is more We also ordered the Cuban -very traditional and very tasty. And then to try something different we had a tapas of veal and rice balls with lemon mushroom sauce with a splash of wine I would absolutely say this is a must to order.I spooned up the sauce till there was not a drop left.
We then waddled over to the theater and saw Master Class with Tyne Daly We both really enjoyed this play about Maria Callas .Learned quite a bit about her life and more than I wanted to know about Ari -the scum bag
We walked back up to the upper east side Judy was meeting her sister in law and we stopped for coffee at Cafe Noi-reccommended by Robin-on 2nd near 77th.Lovely little coffe shop with a friendly owner named Alon.Also had an apple strudel that was nice and sweet. another good day in the city!!!!

Tuesday, August 23, 2011

Hanging in the afternoon

While I forced myself to stay in and do some paperwork -isn't life a perpetual vacation?Harold went off to the Met for a couple of hours of art and relaxation He enjoyed the Frans Halles exhibit which Is small but very good and also perused some of El Greco& Valenzuela -all from about the same period but all from different countries and very different art. He thoroughly enjoyed himself . We ate in tonight -I know it's a shock -but we ate left overs of our restaurant meals !!! And then went for a lovely 3 mile stroll up Third and back down second.. The subway construction on Second is awful Still terribly noisy and brightly lit at 10 at night. Also stopped at Pinkberry for Mango frozen yoghurt!

Earthquake

Didn't even know about it .Got a text from Jenn that the Chrysler Buiding was swaying like crazy and they had to run down 50 flights of stairs

Twitter

Also tweeting now!!! Too much!!!!

Monday, August 22, 2011

Mahj day

Another beautiful day in NYC Off to play mahj this afternoon. Hope for a winning day -my Pishka is getting low!!!!
Well I managed to win 3 games but lost a lot of money. looks like I need another roll of quarters. A fun day and of course the wine didn hurt. Walked I've to Dallas BBQ fo dinner. The p,ac is a mess They are re modeling but chicken is good as usual an lot left over. So it's great to walk a mile to dinner an a mile home. It takes away some of the guilt of over eating!!!!

Sunday, August 21, 2011

Cooked dinner

it was raining so I took the plunge a decided to cook!! Luckily Carla brought us lots of heirloom tomatoes from the Berkshires .So...I chopped them up added a little onion and garlic and wine and of course brown sugar becuase Harold loves sweet and made fresh tomato sauce. it was really good -surprise surprise !!!!!

Indian Day Parade

off to the parade and Madison Square Park!!!
Yeah no rain as we started out .We had a lovely walk along Park Ave and caught up,with the parade in the 30's. What a crush of people -women in beautiful and colorful saris. People dancing in the streets in the heat!!! Many food booths were set up in Madison Square Park however too many people to even get close. We sat in the park for awhile and there is a very Interesting huge white face Sculpture in the center of the park . Walked over to Lex and 24 and stopped at Di DI Dumplings and had chicken pot stickers that were awesome -very tasty and then we walked back home and as we entered our buidling the rain came down!!!!! thinking of Dalllas BB Que for dinner!!!

Saturday, August 20, 2011

Day in Harlem

Boarded the M101 bus to attend an afternoon concert of jazz at Morris Jamel Mansion at Amsterdam and 161. We were of course running late and thought we didn't have time to walk.The mansion and grounds are fabulous .It is the oldest house in Manhattan and George Washington used it as his headquarters during the war of Independance. Beautifully preserved and furnished. Chairs were set out on the lawn and we listened to jazz for close to 2 hours. Decided to walk back and the architecture in Harlem is still wonderful The vibes kept changing from Black Harlem to Spanish Harlem and back again. Walked thru a street fair and had a very sweet huge fruit punch and Jamaican Patti-just managed to resist the fried chicken !!! happened upon Red Rooster which is one of the hottest restaurants in the city.Trust me if it wasn't random I would never have gotten Harold to go there. Sat at the bar and had a beer and the most incredible corn bread I have ever had-soaked in butter and honey.Unfortunately it was too early for us to stop for dinner there but there was a line up at 5 .
Does anyone know how to download photos from my I phone to this blog????

Walking and walking in the heat!!!!

Started out to meet Toni at 70 Th and Columbus and in my delusion decided I could actually find my way across the park. Not so much-I managed to walk way past my destination and exited at 59th and the Plaza-typical. luckily Toni was running late too and so I headed back north and we decided to meet at Blossom Cafe at 80th and Columbus -almost full circle. Was I a sopping mess. Blossom Cafe is a vegan restaurant which I have always wanted to try and now I can say- been there done that.It was OK at best. After a lovely afternoon and a manicure we I walked back home from 59th again.Not sure if that made up for not going to the gym!!!!
Saw the Help last nite with Jenn , Carla and Jenn' s co worker and her Mom. Thought the movie was better than the book!!! Really enjoyed it. Grabbed a bite at a favorite neighborhood restaurant Pan Asia. The Pho Ga is the best -reminders of Viet Nam. Tried the curry chicken and it was delicious -very different from the usual curry sauce -much lighter and lots of veggies. Great service. If you live in the area -good for take out/delivery also.
matt is off to Nicaragua on a "school"trip for the week I am sure it will be a great adventure.
speaking of adventures we r off to Harlem this afternoon for Jazz at the Mansion!!!!!!

Thursday, August 18, 2011

Birthday Dinner

Matt was in town so we decided to celebrate his birthday early and we had a family dinner.We missed you Jordan!!!
Went to Balade a Lebanese Pitza and Grill on1St and 12 Th. Jenn recommended it and it was fabulous.For appetizers we had hummus which is served with great hot home baked mini pitas Also had Fattoush salad,and Makanek which is ground beef rolls with a hint of lemon-to die for.Chicken kabobs ,and two kinds of pizza beef and lamb rounded out the meal .Would definitely go again and great ,friendly service.

Sunday, August 14, 2011

Rainy Sunay

rain ,rain and more rain. It just kept pouring down thru out the entire day. But did that stop us -not one bit. With umbrella in hand ,yellow slicker and polka dot rain boots headed out to the New York Gift Show to see what we have been missing for the past three years. We had to wade thru flooded subway stations and walked from Penn station to the Javits Center. So, was it worth it, did we miss it -not so much. Even after 3 years there were still people there who remembered us but we were both glad to be meandering down the isles and not in a booth trying to sell. the aisles were quite empty.
Then we headed over (walking of course) to Jenn's apt and put together a shelf for her. We went for a light dinner to Taza a Mediterranean cafe on Third between 27th & 28 Th. Delicious Hummous and chicken Shawarma.Second time I have been there and enjoyed it both times.Highly recommend for cheap and quick.
and.....we took the bus home on Third.FYI after 10 PM the driver will let you off right in front of your apt building even if its not a regular bus stop.It helps when it is pouring rain.

Saturday, August 13, 2011

Words with friends

I admit t it -I'm addicted-spent the evening in and played Words ALL night. Tomorrow is to be a rainy day in NYC -hmmmm
Another great day .Headed off to take the ferry to Governor's Island. Remember to get there in plenty of time -it seems everyone has the same idea.The island is a wonderful retreat from the hurly burly of Manhattan -lots of green and they and an awesome Old VW car show . Does anyone want to see "The Thing" ? And of course we couldn't resist a chocolate chip ice cream sandwich headed back to Battery Park City and strolled along the waterfront -fantastic-Stopped for a snack again at the promenade and had delicious finger licking chicken tacos from the taco stand-highly . Walked thru City Hall Park beautiful gas lit lights and fountains and for good measure to round off the day we walked across the Brooklyn Bridge !!! Subwayed back to UES and of course the ride was typical NYC -girl across from us eating the most delicious looking chocolate pudding cake which she almost dropped but luckily caught in mid drop, a guy with a feather in his cap citing his contempt for women -we finally changed cars .Tonight .???? let's see if we get a second wind.