Off Topic: New Glamor Blog

I just came across this blog written by a staff writer Christine Coppa at Glamour.

She's been "knocked up" and it offers the most hilarious, witty commentary on what it's like for a woman in her mid-twenties to go through the experience of getting pregnant. She jokes about having finally gotten out of the house and now finding herself having had to move back in with them, and on how people react to the infamous "bump."

I would recommend it to any woman, pregnant or not. Enjoy!

Gawker: Video User Guides for Williamsburg and Park Slope

Gawker offers a satirical video travel guide to Brooklyn's Park Slope neighborhood. Nothing too informative here, more just cheap shots at the neighborhood and the stereotype it's become. The guide notes that while adults are mainly the homeowners in Park Slope, it is actually dominated by children with names like Olive and Farley. I really don't find Park Slope that pretentious?

There is also one on Williamsburg, but since I've only been there twice I can't really comment.

(UPDATED) This Weekend in DUMBO: Strange Constumed Folk

Did anyone see the large group of people walking through DUMBO dressed in red goth-ish costumes? Many of the women had red fairy wings while the men were dressed head to toe in red and black.

UPDATED:

Thanks to dumbonyc for offering a report and photos! Check it out.

It was One Night of Fire, which began at Brooklyn Bridge and went to Coney Island.

Our New Family Member: Lucy

Say hello to our new kitten Lucy! She's enjoying the view of the Brooklyn Bridge and Manhattan.

A Lovely Day in Central Park

Yesterday we went to Central Park with our friends. Living in Brooklyn (and even Manhattan) it's easy to sometimes forget about the lovely parks available to you. We headed to Sheep Meadow in the 60s on the West Side for a little sunning and Frisbee. It was a gorgeous day, although the sun was very strong.

When we arrived at Noon, the park was relatively empty. By the time we left around 3, the place was packed. It was great to see everyone out and having a great time enjoying the day. Everyone once and a while you forget where you are and then look up to see the skyscrapers and it brings you back to reality. There was also a weird guy in a cape and mask organizing a 1 pm water fight. Not sure if it was supposed to be some sort of flash mob to garner media attention for supersoakers, but everyone who participated seemed to be having a blast.

Thumbs Up: The Good Fork in Red Hook

Last night we went to The Good Fork in Red Hook for dinner (391 Van Brunt Street) upon our friends' recommendation. Not thinking we'd have to make a reservation, we called the day of and left a voicemail requesting a table for four at 7:30. We received a call back later that afternoon offering us a table at 8:30, but that we needed to call back quickly to confirm as there was a waiting list.

We took the 8:30 table and ate in the front room. Parking was easy on Van Brunt. The place is very unpretentious, with romantic lighting and rustic features. The garden seating area was also beautiful and I would definitely request to sit there next time we go for dinner. There is a middle room that seems fine as well, but our friends sat there previously and didn't like the atmosphere.

The menu is small compared to other restaurants in the city, but we found ourselves having a hard time choosing based on the wide variety of tasty looking dishes (and two tempting specials). One of the things the restaurant's menu is built on is accessible ingredients. On the menu, several dishes are marked with an "AV," which stands for Added Value which is the name of its local organic farm, only two blocks away (luckily not next store, which looks like a trash yard).

For drinks, there was an ample wine selection and my husband ordered his favorite drink, a Dark and Stormy, which he became a fan of during our rainy honeymoon in Bermuda. I had a sojito, a take on the mojito, traditional with lime and mint.

Three of us started with the AV Green Salad, which had a lovely vinaigrette dressing. My husband had the crispy cornmeal (i.e. friend) oysters, which was accompanied by greens and beets that were really good.

Then for main courses, the boys ordered the signature dish "steak and eggs" korean style (grilled skirt steak, kimchee rice, fried egg for $18), I had the crab cakes as a main course (with mashed and asparagus) and my other friend had the grilled shrimp special (served with mashed fava beans - a really tasty surprise, similar to hummus). My crab cakes were especially good as they had little to no breading. I enjoyed them, but think I slightly prefer the crab cakes from Henry's End. But it would be a close edge.

For dessert, we had Steve's Key Lime pie, a Red Hook staple my husband has been dying to try for a year now. We definitely we NOT disappointed. It was delicious!

Definitely try The Good Fork for dinner sometime soon or you'll be missing out on a great new Brooklyn edition! Service was great as well.

Another DUMBO Building to Go Condo

An industrial building located at 37-45 Bridge street in DUMBO (actually Vinegar Hill) will be turned into 53 condo units. The property was bought by private investor Baruch Singer for $13 million, or approximately $205 per square foot.

Oven Debuts on Henry Street

Restaurant row in Brooklyn Heights now has a new addition. Oven (60 Henry St., at Cranberry Street), owned by Chris Fehlinger, has finally opened for business. I will definitely have to sample the goods for myself, but in the meantime, here's a review from The Brooklyn Paper:

The thin-crust pizzas range from old-time favorites to the inventive and a bit out there — but all go well beyond the traditional Margherita pie. A chicken curry pizza is topped with cashews, green peppers, red onions and mozzarella, baked in a curry flavored tomato sauce and topped with a yogurt mint sauce. An eggplant pizza is topped with an assortment of cheeses and pine nuts, a surprisingly crunchy and complimentary combo. And there’s even a roasted asparagus pizza with Vermont goat cheese and oven-roasted Roma tomatoes, served on a creme fraiche base ... Oven focuses on specialty pizzas and an extensive wine list — over 180 bottles and more than 40 half-bottles..."

Trader Joe's to Cross East River

I just heard that Trader Joe's is coming to Brooklyn. I'm not a huge fan of the store, but I do like their wine store on 14th street in the city. The line in the food store is way too long. Hopefully they will have a similar side-by-side set-up.

Brooklyn Dodgers: The Ghosts of Flatbush

In a Newsday review:

"Brooklyn Dodgers: The Ghosts of Flatbush" lays it on thick - heart-tugging music and all - but that's the way the team's partisans remember it, as a glorious era ended by epic tragedy. It isn't so much that there's anything new in this production. It's that the pain still remains. So does the undying affection.

What: An HBO special, "Brooklyn Dodgers: The Ghosts of Flatbush"

When: Tonight, 8-10 pm

Where: HBO

Edited: Child Stars All Grown Up

Winnie Cooper (a.k.a. Danica McKellar) from the "Wonder Years" (for some reason I had Growing Pains here before...thx to those who corrected me) looks exactly the same, just slightly more womanly. Check out other pictures of your old favorites here.

My favorite topic

Lobster Roll is one of my favorite things to eat and make. I was just reading an article in New York Magazine that rated Lobster Rolls in NYC. Surprisingly not on the is BLT Fish's lobster roll, which is really good in my opinion. Mermaid Inn's LR is also good.

I think my Lobster Roll is the best, but here Jasper White, chef-owner of Summer Shack in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and author of Lobster at Home, offers some advice as to what makes a real lobster roll.

1. A good amount of meat. A lobster roll should contain the meat from a one-pound lobster, about 3.5 ounces during the summer.
2. A flat-bottomed, or “top-loading,” hot-dog bun, butter-griddled like a grilled-cheese sandwich.
3. The right dressing. Hellmann’s is great, but mayo isn’t enough. Try a little mustard and a dice of cucumbers instead of celery. (BE Notes: Add old bay seasoning and some lemon juice, not too much though. And mix it first before adding to the lobster meat. I find celery is good, but make sure to get some of the light green stalk in there too, chopped, the part you find in the celery heart.)
4. On the side, some kind of pickle is important to add a little acidity; potato chips are nice. (BE Note: Whip up a salad of corn, shelled edamame, diced jalepeno, cucumber, split cherry tomato as a side dressed in a little EVOO, apple cider vinegar and lemon juice.)
5. Eat with your hands. You can get away with a knife and fork in a restaurant, but if you tried that while sitting around a picnic table anywhere in New England, the locals would probably beat you up.

Fireworks and Hot Dogs

The July 4th fireworks are supposed to kick off tomorrow night around 9:20 p.m. dumbonyc has a nice photo from last year. Every year my family, me and my husband go to the Hamptons, well actually Amagansett, which is near East Hampton. It's so beautiful, but this year we convinced my parents that the fireworks in DUMBO were much better and that we should all hang out here first.
Aside from fireworks, the Coney Island hot dog eating contest goes hand-in-hand with July 4th. I just read that the champion is suffering from jaw pain and may not be able to compete this year.

Takeru Kobayashi, the six-time defending Nathan's hot dog eating champion, received a chilling diagnosis that could end his Fourth of July roll: a creaky jaw.

The second cutest kitties

Originally uploaded by pratt

These are my friends kitties, but they are so cute I think anyone can appreciate this photo.

Vets That Really Care in Brooklyn

I'm writing this because I know how hard it can be to find a trustworthy vet. After recently losing our precious kitty to bladder stones, we've been extremely sentitive to our second cat's health and diet, and set out to find a new vet in Brooklyn.

Last week, we took him to Atlantic Animal Care (AAC) on the recommendation of a close friend to discuss how we could prevent him from the same fate. They were the most professional and caring vetrinary group.

After taking our cat there for his annual check-up, I was impressed by the cleanliness of the office and personal attention from the staff. Unfortunately, one day after the check-up we started to notice that he was showing signs of a bladder infection (sorry if this is TMI) and took him to the emergency vetrinary clinic near Smith Street, called Veterinary Emergency & Referral Group (VERG). They were recommended by AAC and were amazing as well. Everyone from the woman at the front desk admitting animals to the emergency care vets (Dr. Humphreys & Dr. Anderson) doing the examinations, everyone was attentive and helpful.

Both the AAC and VERG followed-up with me to make sure our cat was feeling better. VERG sent a prescription to AAC and I was able to order new food from their online service. It was so easy and everything got delivered in just a few days. VERG even let us bring him in one night for a 5 minute visit to check his bladder and make sure his meds were working correctly.

I highly recommend either place for you to bring your cat or dog!

Splasher Attempts to Make a Stink in DUMBO

I have been totally intrigued by reports of the infamous Splasher who is destroying graffiti art around the city. When I got home last night around 8, there was a large group of people outside for the Shepard Fairey art exhibit and apparently there were some interesting happenings.

dumbonyc found a report of the scene from woostercollective:

Two young guys entered Shepard Fairey’s opening night party at 81 Front Street in Dumbo with a backpack. Moments later they were seen attempting to light a homemade stink and smoke bomb that was hidden in a coffee can. As they were setting it off, two guys nearby saw what was happening and managed to stop the guys from igniting it before it went off. Seeing the scuffle, the security guys hired for the evening caught one of the two guys (shown above) while the other was able to get away.

I first read about the Splasher in New York Magazine and in a more recent interview with Fairey about his DUMBO art exhibit, he says:

He’s splashed almost every one of my pieces, but sometimes it takes him four months to get to them. Some people are all, ‘What statement are they making?’ Any arguments in favor of this kind of thing are incredibly flimsy, but at least it gets people talking and any dialogue about street art is always good to have.

I really appreciate street art and graffiti, even neckface's weird expressions. I hope this guy gets caught.

Summer Grub in NYC

In general, friedness is goodness when it comes to food, especially seafood. Gothamist offers a nice round-up of local restaurants known for fried clams, one of my favorites.

Included in the post is Brooklyn Fish Camp, a place I have been wanting to try but haven't gotten around to it (mainly because when in Park Slope, I like to Al Di La). If you've been and liked it, leave a comment.

JCondo Ready for Business

dumbonyc offers a nice update on JCondo, including pictures of the building and units.

Top 10 Burgers in New York

Time Out has published its Top Ten List for burgers in New York City.

Brooklyn's Blue Ribbon nabbed the No. 9 slot.

9 Blue Ribbon/Blue Ribbon Brooklyn
The name of the restaurant (in Soho and Park Slope) isn't the only reason this deluxe model is a Blue Ribbon burger. The densely packed beef patty, served on a toasted bun with a plateful of crisp fries and the requisite lettuce, tomato, onions and pickle, recalls the flame-licked meat that comes off backyard Webers in the summer. What the superlean, eight-ounce beauty ($12.50) lacks in chin-wiping juiciness it makes up for with its nicely charred outside and smoky flavor.

My personal favorite burger is still J.G. Melon. The secret (well maybe not so secret) trick is they cook it right next to a big heap of bacon so it's basically cooking in bacon fat. As Emeril would say, BAM!

No. 6 is Rare in Murray Hill, which is also pretty good.

Kitty Shopping at BARC Today

Well, it's really called the Brooklyn Animal Resource Coalition (BARC). My husband and I are in the market for a new cat as a companion for our cat Oscar, who recently lost his life-long buddy. We have looked at countless pets on the Web through Petfinder and also Catster, which I am embarrassed to say I look at quite often.

We went to BARC today in Williamsburg and they really have it together. I have been to a bunch of volunteer-based shelters and by far this is one of the nicest places for rescued animals to live. The space was clean, the cats were healthy and happy, and the volunteers were knowledgeable and kind. We met a very nice female cat that we're considering taking home to DUMBO. I highly recommend BARC if you are looking for a pet in need of a home. They have dogs and bunnies too.

If you're interested in adopting a pet, click here for more information.

Best Deal in Brooklyn! Lobster Roll @ Fairway

A tip from a close friend led us to lunch in Red Hook at Fairway. While I frequently shop there, I have never taken advantage of the outdoor eating area. The weather today couldn't have been more perfect so we decided to have lunch at Fairway.

We tried the Lobster Roll, as suggested by our friend, and were pleasantly surprised. We got two good sized portions with kettle chips, a pickle and salad on the side. Each portion was only $7.99. I can't say there are many places you can have a full lunch for two and spend less than $20. The Lobster Rolls were really good - lots of meat and no fillers, except a little celery mixed in and greens on the roll, which was nicely toasted on the grill as it should. My only complaint was that they went a little overboard with the salad dressing on the side salad, but now I know to ask for just a drop.

We got a nice table outside on the water and it certainly didn't feel like we were in the city. More like the beach somewhere far from NYC. But to our rightwas the Statue of Liberty. It doesn't get more perfect.

Rental Listings Round-up from Craigslist

DUMBO: Aclove 600 sq ft in JCondo - $2195/month
DUMBO: Studio 700 sq ft at 79 Bridge Street - $2600/month
Red Hook: 3 bdrm, 2 bath duplex - $2,400/month
Carroll Gardens: 1 bdrm on Clark St. - $1,400/month

Wiimbledon Comes to Brooklyn

I was reading in Time Out about a new event coming to Brooklyn. Called Wiimbledon, a cross between the famous Tennis Tournament and the Wii Tennis game, it's a one-day event being held on Sunday, June 23 at Barcade in Williamsburg. You can sign up to receive the newsletter here for more details as they become available. The tournament is being hosted by Steve Bryant, a reporter for eWEEK.

Brooklyn Sunset

Brooklyn Sunset
Originally uploaded by Harleys & Thunderstorms

We've been having some gorgeous sunsets lately.

Don't Free Paris T-Shirts

I couldn't resist posting this. For only $19.99 it could be yours! From Gawker.

Sopranos For Real! Botched Brooklyn Mob Hit

(NY Post) "The son of one of 'Dapper Don' John Gotti's trusted capos narrowly escaped an old-fashioned mob hit yesterday when a bullet grazed his head in a drive-by shooting in Brooklyn's Mafia heartland ... Robert DeCicco, whom feds identified as a 56-year-old mob associate, also was shot three times in the arm during the botched rubout in his car at Bath and 17th avenues in Bath Beach at about 10:15 a.m., cops and witnesses said."

Spice Up Your Drink Order

From Gothamist, here are some suggestions of more interesting mixed drinks you can order to keep your bartender on his/her toes.

Vodka and tonic drinker, try:
Moscow Mule – vodka, lime juice, ginger-ale
Salty Dog – vodka, grapefruit juice, ginger-ale, sparkling lemonade
Kir Lethale – vodka, crème de cassis, champagne

Gin and tonic drinker, try:
Gimlet – gin, lime juice
Horse’s Neck – gin, lemon, gin, ginger-ale
White Lady – gin, Cointreau, lemon juice
Gin Smash – gin, sugar, fresh mint

Whiskey and soda drinker, try:
Manhattan – rye whiskey, dry and sweet vermouth
Mint Julep – bourbon, sugar, mint leaves
Blizzard – bourbon, cranberry juice
Highland Morning – scotch, Cointreau, grapefruit juice

What bars do you think have the most interesting cocktails? I like Dove Bar in the West Village and my all time favorite in Boston, B-Side Lounge, home of the violet colored "Stardust" (light rum, Parfait Amour and lemon juice).

Event: DUMBO Block Party This Weekend

Check out the DUMBO Block Party this Saturday June 2nd from 1pm* to 7pm at 1 Main Street in Dumbo (Main St. between Plymouth and Water Sts). These were really fun last year.

LIVE MUSIC at 2pm for kids by AUDRA ROX and TOXIC MUFFIN
DJ Emilee 1-2
The Dahkter 3:30-4:30
DJ GOV 4:30-5:30
Alex Dirttt 5:30-7

Plus family fun with a bouncey castle, arts & crafts activities brought to you by the Brooklyn Children's Museum, and the FDNY's Mobile Fire Safety House and NYC Parks Department's Play Mobile on hand. (the graphic says 2 but music starts at 1pm)

The above image is of colored chalk on the sidewalk from last year's July 4th Block Party.

From NYT: Galapagos Moves to DUMBO

A NYT article caught by Brooklyn Record reports that the Galapagos Art Space is moving to a DUMBO venue next year -- a 102-year-old, 10,000 square-foot former horse stable at 16 Main Street that is owned by Two Trees. For more information, visit here.

This Day in History

In 1883, the Brooklyn Bridge, linking two New York City boroughs, Brooklyn and Manhattan, was opened to traffic. (Red Bluff Daily News).

Nannies Diaries: Brooklyn Heights

From the Brooklyn Eagle:

Photographer John Barnard's work is on exhibit at the Callahan Center, St. Francis College, Remsen Street, Brooklyn Heights.

But what's really interesting is the subject of his photos: Brooklyn Heights nannies.

“I’ve lived in Brooklyn Heights since 1971, and I never noticed the nannies,” he said. “They’re here all the time, yet I never noticed them. All of a sudden I saw nannies at Starbucks, picking up their kids at school, taking them to the playground. I started to see that nannies are a pretty important part of Brooklyn Heights.”

Lady Sovereign Lets Brooklyn Fans Down

Female UK rapper Lady Sovereign, who is opening for Gwen Stefanie on tour, was supposed to do a 1:30 am set in Brooklyn at venue Studio B but her bus broke down and didn't arrive until 3:30 am. Apparently, upon arrival she made some nasty remarks about the small crowd.

She has since apologized in a statement, saying "I know how stupid i must have looked on Friday, I was tired and not in the mood, having a bad day. But that's no excuse for letting fans down, I'm sorry to those that were at Studio B to see me."

I really like Lady Sovereign, so I hope she was just having an "off night."

Williamsburg's Aurora Opens in SOHO

Aurora SoHo
Crispy artichokes with mint, lobster with porcini and truffles, fennel pollen panna cotta, and sparkling malvasia.
510 Broome St., b/t Thompson St. & W. Broadway
212-334-9020
From dailycandy

Or stick with the Williamburg venue.

Random Rant: Curb Your Dog!

I was walking out of my building yesterday in DUMBO to see this woman walking her two little norfolk terriers. Nothing against terriers, my family has a cairn, but what she was doing really pissed me off.

She was pulling one of them by the neck to jump over the little gate around the tree outside my building so he could go urinate on the tree. While I don't like to see people yanking their dogs by the neck, I was so irratated that she was dragging her dog over the little gate -- which is clearly to keep dogs from going to the bathroom in that area. The dog didn't seem too enthusiastic about jumping over anyway.

So I asked our doorman if she lived in the building, cause this is an issue the residents have discussed, and the guy standing next to me in the lobby said "we need to put curb your dog signs up." I was like seriously, are you kidding me? You're telling me this lady doesn't know that the gates aren't there for a reason?

Well, I told her I would appreciate if she didn't let her dogs pee on our trees and in case she didn't realize, the gates are there for a reason. She apologized, smiled and walked away. But it really made me angry. I realize people don't have much of a choice as to where their animals go to the bathroom in the city, but when someone has clearly made an effort to keep pets out, why must people just ignore it?

Woman bitten after helping sick squirrel

Note to self: squirrels are just rats with furry tails. Would you help a sick rat? Yeah, thought so.

Photo: Brooklyn Bridge

Brooklyn HDR
Originally uploaded by Douglaslevy Photography.

Really liked this picture from Flickr and thought I'd share.

Upcoming Events: Uncommon Grounds BK

• Sunday, 5/20: Make your own Bloody Mary, with uncommon garnishes like Lobster-stuffed olives. Runs from 11 am-6pm. Mention my blog and get your first round at half price.
• Thursday, 5/24: Comedy Night next. No cover, click here for more info.

Brooklyn Industries "Top Dog Contest"

Brooklyn Industries is hosting an open casting call for dogs. If you think your pooch is the best in Brooklyn, take your pup to one of these three open casting calls!

Sat. 6/2, 11am - 3pm (Raindate Sun. 6/3)
PARK SLOPE STORE, 206 5th Ave, Brooklyn

Sat. 6/16, 11am - 3pm (Raindate Sun. 6/17)
WILLIAMSBURG, 162 Bedford Ave, Brooklyn

Sat. 6/30, 11am - 3pm (Raindate Sun. 7/1)
SMITH STREET, 100 Smith St, Brooklyn

Hope for Fourth Ave Section of Park Slope

Yes, my rhyme wasn't that cool but at 5 pm on a Friday what do you expect? Just saw this article from the NY Post about the beautification of Fourth Avenue.

We've all strolled down the boutique and restaurant filled Fifth Street and the treelined side streets, but I would have to agree that I've never thought much of Fourth Street. In fact, the only time I really go there is to find parking for Al Di La or with my husband to get the car fixed, washed or gassed up.

The article discusses and offers pics of the new real estate developments and retail establishments in the area. Looks very nice, actually.

Hampton Jitney to Stop in DUMBO

Hampton Jitney will now make stops in Brooklyn, one of which will be on Cadman Plaza and Clark Street. The new Brooklyn route begins on Friday, May 18.

Note that the Brooklyn Jitneys won't run on the Westhampton and Sag Harbor lines, but service will be available on the North Fork and Montauk lines (East, South, Bridgehampton).

Summer is almost here!

Event Tonight: DUMBO Town Meeting & Mixer

From dumbonyc, check out the event tonight for the DUMBO business and residential communites. It begins tonight at 6:30PM at Powerhouse Arena, which is on the corner of Main St. and Water St.

Old Factory on Henry Street: Lots of Potential

I was walking around Brooklyn Heights last weekend and I passed by 22 Henry (or maybe it was 20?), the what seems like an abandoned residential building/used-to-be Peaks Mason Mints candy factory. The windows are all knocked out but you can see old air conditioners and built-ins in some of the apartments. It seems that there may have been some bad history with this building and forced evictions.

Given the location - especially the proximity to P.S. 8 - and demand to live in the area, I am so surprised that a developer has yet to snatch up this property. I did a few Web searches but couldn't find any public information (perhaps I'm just looking in the wrong places). Plus, who wouldn't want to live a block from Noodle Pudding and Henry's End?

After some different searches on 20 Henry, I found some information on Brooklyn Heights Blog about the failed attempts to refurbish this property into condos, but seems it has been stalled. Based on all the information about 20 Henry, it's likely I read the number on the building incorrectly ... then after reading this notice by the Brooklyn Heights Association it looks like there may be two separate projects on the same property.

If anyone has any info on this property, please leave a comment.

Brooklyn Blog Fest

Unfortunately I didn't get a chance to attend this year's event (it was my husband's birthday), but Brooklyn Record offers a nice post on the festivities and a visual. Gowanus Lounge also reported on the event and posted some photos as well.

Round-up: Events This Weekend

• Uncommon Grounds is doing a wine tasting this weekend on both Saturday and Sunday between 6 - 8 p.m. The theme on the wines will be a comparison of Old & New World styles of the same varietal.
• Pigfest kicks off today at Brooklyn Bridge Park @ 1 pm. Read original post for more info.
• Brooklyn Heights House Tour is also this weekend. Read more at Brooklyn Heights Blog.
  

Brooklyn Waterfront Artists Coalition Open Studio Weekend

A press release announced that on Saturday June 9 and Sunday June 10, the Brooklyn Waterfront Artists Coalition (BWAC) will host its Open Studio Weekend with self-guided tours in Red Hook and Carroll Gardens. There will be more than 100 participating artists and opening their studios to the public. The Red Hook/Carroll Gardens Open Studio Weekend (www.BWAC.org) and the Atlantic Avenue Art Walk (www.atlanticavenueartwalk.com) will run simultaneously.

$7.5 Million Penthouse at 1 Brooklyn Bridge Park

The New York Post reports on the planned $7.5 Million penthouse at 1 Brooklyn Bridge Park, along the Brooklyn Heights waterfront, that will offer 4,638-square-feet over three floors, with panoramic views of the Manhattan and Brooklyn skylines from inside a state-planned public park.

Then there's more on the DUMBO side of Brooklyn Bridge Park from the Brooklyn Daily Eagle.

Uber Trendy Coming to DUMBO? Or near by ...

According to Brooklyn Record, Urban Outfitters is seriously considering opening a few Brooklyn locations. Target areas include Atlantic Ave. in DUMBO (I didn't know DUMBO extended this far?) and another in Williamsburg to-be-determined.

I do like Urban Outfitters, but I don't think we need one in Dumbo, or Brooklyn Heights for that matter. I prefer our little Dumbo boutiques, however expensive they maybe, to having chains in our hood.

NYT: Splitting the Bill

So glad that finally someone tackled this topic (and here).

Mmmm... donuts

I was reading up on donuts in Gothamist, which offers a nice overview of good donut places in Brooklyn and Manhattan. The list was in response to a recent world domination plot by Dunkin Donuts in Boston, as reported by Bostonist. I haven't been to The Plant, but have been wanting to go ever since I saw Food Network cover the store. They have these blueberry striped donuts in honor of the Yankees. Gothamist also notes a piece on Indie Donut Shops from the Fall edition of Edible Brooklyn.

Review: Uncommon Grounds in BK Heights

I finally had the chance to go here on Friday night. My husband joined me and we had an amazing time. My overall review is that this place has enormous potential. It's got coffee, casual comfy seating, art, awesome entertainment of all genres, good food and great wine.

The drink: We had a bottle of the Shiraz they are serving, which was nice and smooth. They also had a nice selection of wines by the glass and half bottles, which they nicely recognize on the menu as "cute, but pricey."

Nibbles: Then we tried the seafood dip, which was similar to an artichoke dip but with seafood. Not overpoweringly fishy, just nice and light. That was served with flat bread and crispy pita chips. We also had their "slyders," a very scaled up version of the White Castle favorite. There were three mini burgers with some homemade accoutrements including ketchup. My only feedback there is that they weren't served hot. They were still tasty though.

Dessert: Always in its own category, dessert was a nice slice of pecan pie with ice cream (think from The Blue Pig, who may also be supporting the team at Uncommon Grounds...). The pie was really, really good and the chef, who is also the chef at Busy Chef, brought out his student who cooked up the Pecan Pie earlier that day.

The entertainment: There was a really cool chica called Drum Girl (aka Amanda Homi) who played an assortment of world music. It was fun and lively, the kind of music you can't keep still in your seat when you listen to, but still relaxed and quiet enough to carry a conversation. She was joined by a drummer and guitarist (so sorry, I skipped a day and blogged about John Valeri being there on Friday, but he was actually booked for Saturday). I liked her music, as did my husband, so we bought her CD. Our favorite was her song "Thin Ice."

The vibe: There were about 15 people there including us and the people who work at Uncommon Grounds. Everyone is really friendly and brings a special set of talents to the table. There were a few people who were hanging out in the doorway, intrigued by the music, but ultimately continued on their way. Others stopped in and gave a little shake to the music.

All in all, it was a great time and something you don't get to experience every day. Uncommon Grounds brings a unique atmosphere to Brooklyn Heights.

Cinco De Mayo

Fellow blogger dumbonyc has posted a great round-up of Cinco De Mayo activities in DUMBO.

Citysearch has also a page dedicated to local Cinco De Mayo festivities.

I'll be in Central Park for the Revlon/Run Walk, and then back to Brooklyn for a few drinks.

BKLYN Designs

From Brooklyn Daily Eagle: The Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce is gearing up for the fifth edition of BKLYN Designs on May 11, 12 and 13 in DUMBO that coincides with NY Design Week citywide.

Domino's Will Never Equate to Brooklyn Style Pizza

The whole idea of Domino's claiming to have "Brooklyn style pizza" is just an oxymoron in itself.

I must admit I lived on Domino's in college, but only because it was essentially free (I could order these "points" through school and then my parents got charged). It was OK. I am by no means a pizza snob, but I have had some good pizza. I think I may have blogged about pizza several months back, but I was recently reminded of the topic when I saw this.

A new Domino's marketing campaign seeks to answer the Domino's 'Great Debate': Philly Cheese Steak vs. Brooklyn Style pizza. I have never had a Philly Cheese Steak from Philly, but I watched that Bobby Flay throw down episode and I can say without a doubt that I would choose a Philly Cheese Steak over a slice of Domino's pizza. Oh, and don't even get me started on those horrible ads with supposed Brooklynites talking about Brooklyn style pizza.

Kenny Wallace picked Philly and even talked sports with his pizza.
Dale Jarrett, a devout Yankees fan, went with Brooklyn.
David Reutimann also went with Brooklyn.
And Michael Waltrip...well...he just said, "I just like Domino's."

Considering I work in PR, I have a little insight into how these "campaigns" work. Molto Mario knew what he was doing branching out into NASCAR with his tailgate cookbook. This is a huge marketing opportunity.

I am guessing that these drivers have probably had better pizza at some point in their lives. But, for now, let me know what you think Domino's touting BK Style Pizza?

Zoe DUMBO Store Opening Party

I must admit I love Zoe, but I'm afraid only from afar as I've yet to find something there in my price range or size for that matter.

They are having a DUMBO store opening party (a few months too late, but who am I to complain!) and are offering free champagne and a 15% off coupon here this Sunday, May 6 between 4-6 pm.

So, browse and make your wish list with some bubbly.

Second Annual Brooklyn Blogfest on 5/10

I would totally have gone to this but it's my husband's birthday. Anyone who goes please let me know what it's all about.

WHAT: 2007 Brooklyn Blogfest
WHERE: Old Stone House (3^rd Ave and 4^th Street)
WHEN: Thursday, May 10^th, 8:00 PM

From Dope on the Slope.

Event this Friday 5/4 @ unCOMMon GRounDS

Anyone interested in some FREE music and wine this Friday in Brooklyn?

If so, come to unCOMMon GRounDs in Brooklyn Heights this Friday, May 4 for an open wine bar from 7:30-8:30 before the live music show.

The music will be upbeat, mostly guitar, the kind that can be in the background, or on which you can focus. The artist is John Valeri, a professionally trained Jazz guitar artist who has toured around the globe.

Anyone who RSVPs to rsvp (at) uncommonbrooklyn (dot) com and mentions brooklyn enthusiast will get in for free.

Also, if you are a musician, Chris at unCOMMon GRounDs is offering to play your music during the day at the venue and sell CDs at the counter (he's not interested in commission).

What are you waiting for?

Jehovah’s Make Bank

As a DUMBO resident, I am always on the lookout for news of property sales.

Just read in the Brooklyn Daily Eagle that Watchtower Bible and Tract Society (a.k.a. Jehovah’s Witnesses) will sell several six Brooklyn Heights properties, citing a decrease in Brooklyn staff.

Three properties are being sold as a portfolio:
• The Standish
• 183 Columbia Heights
• 161 Columbia Heights

Then, the three being sold separately are:
• 165 Columbia Heights
• 105 Willow St.
• 34 Orange St.

Brownstoner has some images up of the properties. One of the commenters on Brownstoner estimates the market price for 165 Columbia Heights would be about $3.5M. The views must be amazing.

Clark Street Subway Elevators Useless

Having taken the 2,3 several times from Manhattan to Brooklyn Heights, I always wondered if there was another way out of the subway station to the street level aside from the three elevators. In the summer it's hot and disgusting, and you're forced to smoosh into the freight elevator with 20 other people.

A new report claims the elevators have broken down 400 times over the past 2 years, not to mention that fact that passengers have been trapped in the broken down elevators more than 20 times. According to the same article on the report, there is an 80 ft staircase but it's mostly used in emergencies.

I think an escalator is in order for Clark St station, along with a general clean up initiative. The station itself is disgusting and gives a horrible first impression of Brooklyn Heights.

Pigfest!

I came across a press release that was posted in the Brooklyn Daily Eagle about the upcoming Brooklyn Brewery event being held on May 12 in the Empire Fulton-Ferry State Park to benefit the Brooklyn Bridge Park Conservancy.

The festival is scheduled from 1-6 p.m. and will feature beer (no doubt!) from Brooklyn Brewery, in addition to live music and slow-cooked barbecue at the park’s Tobacco Warehouse (corner of Water and Dock streets in DUMBO).

Aptly named Pigfest, the team will be slow-cooking whole hogs, pork shoulder, chicken and delicious BBQ side dishes. Live music will be performed throughout the afternoon by The Cobble Hillbillies.

Tickets are $75 in advance through brooklynbrewery.com or $85 at the door, if available.

I Blog, Therefore I am Yuppie

From the NYT.com today:

"One Web site’s survey of the prevalence of blogs in urban neighborhoods found a link between gentrification and the number of people who feel compelled to think out loud about the changes in their backyards. The site, Outside.in, crowned Clinton Hill in Brooklyn as the most blogged-about neighborhood in America. Also on the top 10 list were Harlem; Shaw in Washington; downtown Los Angeles; Newton, Mass.; and Rogers Park/North Howard in Chicago."

"In Clinton Hill, Jonathan Butler, the publisher of Brownstoner, did not take his blogging title too seriously. 'This either means we’ve got a lot of creative, community-minded people in the neighborhood or a lot of recluses with too much time on their hands,' he wrote in an e-mail message."

DUMBO wasn't on the list -- yet.

My father asked me this weekend: "Why do you do this blog thing?" I can't explain it, I have a vested interest in my neighborhood and the community at large, and I'm in the communications business. It was a natural fit I guess.

Street Necrology of Brooklyn from Forgotten NY

Interesting site I found by way of Brooklyn Ramblings. It's called Forgotten NY and it offers insight into how street names have changed in areas like Brooklyn Heights, Red Hook and Cobble Hill. For example, what is now Atlantic Avenue used to be called District St.

The site also offers a lot of historical facts about streets we all know. Like how Montague Street was "originally named for the family of local landowner Hezekiah Pierrepont's wife, the name was changed to Montague in honor of Lady Mary Montague, a British author and member of the Pierrepont family." Previously it was named Constable St.

Definitely worth a browse!

Carla's Closets

For some reason I have failed to blog about my friend Carla, the brains behind Carla's Closets. I've known Carla since high school (yes we go way back) and she does some amazing work for her clients.

We've all been there -- a closet full of clothes and nothing to wear. That's where Carla comes into the picture. With a strong background in fashion, she will come to you and help you streamline your wardrobe to elimate what doesn't work.

Once you've done some editing together (trust me, it's very theraputic), Carla will help you learn how to mix and match, layer, accessorize and do your body the most justice – with what you already own. During this process, she will take photos, which will be turned into a swatch book, so it is easier for you to remember what looked good and what works with what.

And then you'll have more room for stuff that works for your body. If you're interested, check out her Web site, or get in touch.

She'll even do a free consultation.

unCOMMon GRounDS

I wasn't able to attend last night, but the folks at unCOMMon GRounDS had what sounds like a great comedian that some of you may know from Last Comic Standing, Michele Balan.

Michele Balan was one of the four finalists on NBC’s 2006 “Last Comic Standing,” and she is "The Last Woman Comic." She was also voted one of the “Top 10 Comics” by Backstage Magazine in 2004. Balan is known as a brash, New York Stand-up comedian who has performed on Comedy Central as well as in top comedy clubs, theatres, festivals and on cruises all over the country.

I am a day late in posting, but Chris from Uncommon Grounds said that anyone who RSVPs with the below e-mail and mentions my blog will get the cover waived (thanks Chris!!!).

Unfortunately, I was a day late in posting so to those of you who actually read my blog, I'm sorry. I'm sure Chris will be kind enough to extend the same offer in the near future.

Also, I noticed on their Web site that interested artists can get in touch to potentially showcase their art on the walls of unCOMMon GRounDS (art (at) uncommonbrooklyn (dot) com).

57 Front Street, DUMBO

I have always been really curious about this property, 57 Front Street, especially now that its on the same block as the now infamous novo clutch building (which dumbonyc did a nice historical overview of btw). I can sort of see into the apts from my apt at 70 Washington and the units look really spacious, lofty and new.

I was poking around on the Corcoran Web site and came across a listing. From the photos posted (see photos at left), looks like all my assumptions were correct -- the units are very clean, open and nicely finished. There is a new gym (according to the pics) and the unit has river views as well, something I couldn't tell from over here. The only drawback seems to be the communal laundry room.

Brooklyn Industries F&F Sale

In my last post, I mentioned that I really like Brooklyn Industries. I got an e-mail about their Friends & Family sale. My friend used to work there and I think that's how I got on their list. Considering how much these types of sale codes get sent around, I'm sure they won't mind if I also spread the love. It's not like hundreds of people read my blog everyday anyway :-) (I can only hope!)

Anyhoo... I did like this t-shirt (notice DUMBO is on the map!). Between Wed 4/25 and Sun 4/29 you can save 20% online by entering FRIEND407 at checkout. Have fun!

Parsons Design Contest for BK Industries

I am a big fan of Brooklyn Industries and think their clothing is unique. I think it's great that they are very in tune with the local community on so many levels.

I just read that BK Industries will soon begin selling limited edition t-shirts created by Parsons Illustration students and commissioned by Brooklyn Industries. The t-shirts will be sold at the Brooklyn Industries store and via www.brooklynindustries.com

Initial Line-up Announced for Brooklyn Hip-Hop Festival

HipHopdx.com reports that Ghostface Killah will headline The Brooklyn Hip-Hop Festival along with Big Daddy Kane, Lupe Fiasco, Consequence, Skillz, Tanya Morgan and Rhymefest. The festival is set to take place in June (7, 14, 21, 22 and 23).

Update: Uncommon Grounds - Jazz Events Tonight

I spoke with someone at Uncommon Grounds and there is an event tonight that is open to the public. The invite only events are dedicated for those involved in the development of the space, vendors, laborers and their guests. The goal is to perfect the events before asking the public to pay.

The recipe must be successful as there are two Jazz shows tonight (8:30 and 10:00) and the $15 pp. cover includes 2 courses of small plates or desserts and unlimited wine bar during the show. You can reserve here or by phone at 718.243.2402.

I would love to go but can't make tonight's event. If someone else goes, please let me know how it is.

Update: Uncommon Ground - Jazz Events Tonight

I spoke with someone at Uncommon Ground and there is an event tonight that is open to the public. The invite only events are dedicated for those involved in the development of the space, vendors, laborers and their guests. The goal is to perfect the events before asking the public to pay.

The recipe must be successful as there are two Jazz shows tonight (8:30 and 10:00) and the $15 pp. cover includes 2 courses of small plates or desserts and unlimited wine bar during the show. You can reserve here or by phone at 718.243.2402.

I would love to go but can't make tonight's event. If someone else goes, please let me know how it is.

UNCOMMON GROUNDS

I haven't been yet, but Brooklyn Heights blog reports on a new coffee shop at the corner of Cranberry and Henry that is called Uncommon Grounds. The business Web site says the "founders of Uncommon Grounds were some of these early coffee pioneers, and in the beginning the coffee was roasted in an old peanut roaster down on the Brooklyn waterfront." Pretty cool.


In any case, they are hosting a series of "invitation only" music and comedy events.

Brooklyn Whale Goes to Sea in the Sky

According to CBS News, the baby (3,500 to 5,000 lbs) Minke whale that was swimming around the Brooklyn bay dies yesterday after swimming aimlessly in its waters for two days. It was pulled out with the help of two police divers.

Cute Brooklyn Gear

This cute Brooklyn bag came through my DailyCandy e-mail and thought it was super cute. Enjoy!

David Walentas Stirring Up Trouble

I can't attend the Landmark hearing today, but I do hope it goes through.

Rumors of a plan by David Walentas of Two Trees to build on Front Street is causing heartburn for some of the 70 Washington Residents, including myself. According to dumbonyc.com, "his first attempt to build a tall building on this site in 2004 failed due to opposition from community residents."

What's strange is that he would be cannibalizing his own customers who live at 70 Washington. The proposed building would truncate our views of the bridge and significantly impact the value of the property. I guess he doesn't care now that we've all paid for the condos and the loss would be our issue to deal with. I certainly hope this isn't the case.

It would be the old Novo Clutch building, which commenters on dumbonyc.com say recently saw the "illegal removal of dangerous asbestos as well on the roof to prep for the 'cheaper' demolition of the Nova Clutch building. Without informing the public, the airborne microscopic asbestos particles due to this inappropriate removal have unnecessarily exposed the local residents unknowingly."

Spa in DUMBO

I have been meaning to try out a spa in DUMBO that is off the beaten path. I found out about it from someone in my building and dumbonyc has posted a review from CitySearch about the spa. Called Pretty Inside, it's located on the second floor of 147 Front Street. I can't wait to try it although I agree the services are a bit on the high side, although still very comparable to Bliss. One spa I really like in the city is Oasis, but I prefer the 32nd and Park location. Definitely great for massages and somewhere your husband will feel comfortable going to as well.

Getting in Touch with My new Polish Side

Having married into a Polish family (well half Polish) I naturally wanted to try some Polish food. When my friend was here a few weeks ago, we all went to Greenpoint (naturally) to try some authentic food. My husband had been to a place last year called Krolewskie Jadlo ("King's Feast) with his father, who immigrated here a long time ago from Warsaw and gave his stamp of approval.

It's a neat little place, very small and very understaffed. But you get the sense that grandma is the only one in the back cooking your food, so you can't complain. The food is very inexpensive and the portions are large so definitely go hungry. The Polish plate was I think $8 and you get pierogies, kielbasa, potato pancakes and something else that was basically meat wrapped in cabbage. All very good - just can't remember the name.

Definitely stop in sometime ...
694 Manhattan Avenue,
between Nassau and Norman,
Greenpoint, Brooklyn, NY 11222,
tel: 718 383 8993

Summer Concerts

It's gross, cold and rainy today so naturally my mind has drifted to thoughts of summer. I was reading brooklynvegan who has a bunch of concert information up for this summer. I used to really be big into electronic music, DJs and such, but have fallen out of that scene. Although it could be interesting to go see Paul Van Dyk at summer stage this year. Hmmm... also I would be interested to see Daft Punk at Coney Island. I heard this is the last year it will be open to the public and will be torn down to make condos. I have no idea if that is really going to happen, but that's the rumor. I also like some of Manu Chao's songs, but I don't know if it's enough to pay to see the concert.

Brooklyn Social

Anyone been here?

Parrots in Brooklyn

From the Brooklyn Daily Eagle. Pretty cool.

Wild South American parrots are seen, with pigeon “friends,” near Brooklyn College. The parrots have actually been roosting in the borough for decades, after most likely escaping from shipments from Argentina in the 1960s or ’70s.

Whole Foods Brooklyn

I feel like I may be the last one to know this, but there is a Whole Foods being built in Brooklyn that is set to open this Fall. I am so excited!!!

Brooklyn
Whole Foods Market
220 3rd Street
Brooklyn, NY
52,000 sq. ft.
Opening date to be announced.

Rikers Going to Burst

Apparently Rikers is overflowing with prisoners and wants Brooklyn to help take the load off. I am sure the new developments in Downtown BK will love this. For those of you who don't know where the Brooklyn Dept of Correction is, it's on Atlantic Avenue on the way to Target.

Bon Jovi Comes to BK

Bon Jovi hits BK by picking up a hammer and pitching in to help Habitat for Humanity.

"On Tuesday, along with volunteers and money from Delta Airlines, the group committed to build two Habitat projects in Brooklyn -- affordable housing for working families in need. Delta recently donated $750,000 to the Bon Jovi-Habitat effort."

85 Adams

Not sure if anyone else noticed, but people have moved into 85 Adams. Looks like the lobby is fully finished but it's unclear as to when the construction adjacent to the entrance will be complete. This is the location for the infamous feng shui zen garden.

Smith Street Dining

Blog 1 Stop Over in Brooklyn offers picks on the "Top 10 Restaurants on Smith St."

I have only been to Chestnut, which was really good for dinner and has lovely outdoor seating. Notably missing from the list is a recc on sushi in the area. Perhaps nothing good?

1. The Grocery (Get the Tasting Menu)
2. Saul (Star in Michelin Guide)
3. Patois (Best Steak – Price Fixe)
4. Chestnut (Great Brunch)
5. Bar Tabac (Best Late Nite)
6. Panino'teca (Best Place to Eat at the Bar)
7. Robin des Bois (Best Atmosphere and Garden)
8. Zaytoons (Best Healthy Meal)
9. Hanco’s (Best Lunch)
10.Pacifico (Best Mexican)

Brooklyn Rules

This new movie out May 18 sounds like it will be really good.

Brought Back the Sun

Back from Florida, which was gorgeous and sunny. Now I'm back at work and seem to have brought the sun back with me to NYC. Soon those tulips on Park Ave will be in bloom. Aw, summer... can't wait.

The Other Dumbo

dumbo.jpg
Originally uploaded by innuendo.

Found this on Flickr as part of a photo search on JCondo and DUMBO. Cute.

Going to Miami

Well, that's the plan so long as Jetblue comes through. We have a flight out tonight and of course the weather is nice all week and then decides not to cooperate today.

Please keep your fingers crossed we'll get out safely tonight and will be on the beach tomorrow. I am in dire need of some sun and vacation time so I really hope everything works out as planned.

DUMBO Calling

I like how this lady thinks. Great article on the absence of everything DUMBO in NYMag's annual Best of Issue.

DUMBO Population Expected to Triple Next Year

According to the Brooklyn Heights Courier, a new plan from the DUMBO Business Improvement District (BID) seeks to reopen the archway of the Manhattan Bridge at Water Street between Adams Street and Anchorage Place to pedestrian and bicycle traffic. The

Additionally, the Pearl Street Triangle would be turned into a “Town Square” offering a venue for special events and public markets.

Also, the www.dumbonyc.org Web site predicts that over the next year DUMBO’s residential population will triple from 2,000 to 6,000.

BID will hold a public meeting for input on the planned project at 5:30 p.m., Thursday, March 22 at the DUMBO BID office, 111 Front Street, suite 258.

"Global Feminisms" Exhibit Set to Open at Brooklyn Museum

A new exhibition titled "Global Feminisms" is set to open March 23–July 1.

"Global Feminisms" assembles works in a range of media by more than 100 women artists, most of whom are under 40 and two-thirds of whom have never before presented work in New York. Some 50 countries are represented, including a good number that seldom figure in the contemporary art discourse, such as Sierra Leone, Kenya, Russia, Yugoslavia, Costa Rica, Afghanistan, Indonesia and Taiwan.

T to Grow Slowly Underneath Second Ave

From Gothamist, the Second Ave subway project gets underway again.

There are a ton of comments on this post already. My two cents is that having previously lived between First and Second avenue, I think the new T line is much needed to reduce congestion and prevent the lazy (i.e. me) from having to walk to Park to catch the subway. Unfortunately, it's still ten+ years away.

I do agree with some of the comments, including perceived lack of express tracks, lack of extension into Alphabet City and lack of attention re: expanding cross town subway options and subway issues in the other boroughs.

The origin of Brooklyn Beckham's name

Victoria Beckman tries to say something smart ...

She wrote in her autobiography, Learning to Fly,

It was when we were in Marbella that we came up with the name Brooklyn. We already knew he was a boy and so I knew he could end up a footballer, so it had to be a name that was a bit blokey. I had always liked the name Brooke and then we suddenly thought about Brooklyn. I'd always like it as a place - it's very multi-cultural, very grounded. And it was only afterwards that I realized how appropriate it was because it was in New York that I found out I was pregnant and where David came after the World Cup.

Magic Johnson backs Brooklyn condo project

Interesting project in Greenpoint being financed by the former Lakers player.

Basketball legend Earvin "Magic" Johnson and his joint-venture partner, Canyon -Johnson Urban Fund, will provide $12.4 million of financing to help build a 130-unit condominium project in the growing Greenpoint section of Brooklyn.

The Green Street project will offer one-, two- and three-bedroom units, targeted at single professionals or young families who cannot afford Manhattan real estate prices. Bank of New York has provided a $41 million loan for the project.

15 East - "No Philly Cream Cheese Here"

After work last night we went for a drink at Park Bar, meaning my usual after-work happy hour crew of three people, including myself. Anyway, afterward we decided to go to a new sushi restaurant next door called 15 East, which has been reviewed as it's been open for a few months now (I think).

We wanted to see a menu before walking in, but decided to take a risk and once we went in there was no turning back. As it turns out, we weren't disappointed. However, if you crave spicy tuna roll or something wretched like an Americanized Philadelphia roll, you should go somewhere else.

The menu is very traditional and offers a mix of sushi dishes and entrees from the kitchen. We had a yellowtail appetizer and a special appetizer of scorpion fish. The waiter was awesome and he even brought out a book after our appetizer to show us what the fish looked like! It was small, striped and had weird wisker-like tentacles. Something you'd see in a tropical fish tank. The good news is that he knew what it looked like because they get all their fish whole (i.e. fresh!).

Then we had some sushi pieces - nice selection by the way - including artic char, different grades/types of tuna and some nice NZ king salmon. There was also a really good toro/jalepeno roll that pretty much just melts in your mouth. The service was impeccable and the decor was very simple. However, you might feel underdressed in jeans and a sweatshirt.

My husband went so far as to say it was on par with the experience at Gari East, my favorite sushi restaurant, minus Gari's ridiculously good spicy tuna roll. I don't know if I'd go that far, but it came close.

Wow, do I feel lazy now ...

Found this amNewYork story via a post on Gothamist about extreme commuters, which profiles this woman who rides her bike 200 blocks a day. Not to mention she works 12.5 hour shifts at Mt. Sinai hospital.

Speaking of feeling lazy, on a tipsy cab ride home last Friday our friend Lisa mentioned that she often runs home after work. FYI, she works at Rockafeller Center and lives in Red Hook. Imagine working a 10 hour shift on your feet and then running home? I can barely make it across the BK Bridge and back...

Wild Edibles coming to DUMBO

Great news about Wild Edibles coming to DUMBO as part of Foragers Market on Front Street. Hopefully they will offer the same "steam" service for lobster that they do at the Murray Hill location. I make a really great lobster roll, if I don't say so myself. I'll have to share my recipe when it gets a bit more spring-like outside ;-)

New York Magazine's Best of Issue

New York Magazine's Best of Issue is now available. Here's a link to their local winners. The chart rates best wine shop, manicure place, bagels, shoe repair, pet supply store, dry cleaners, etc. Several neighborhoods are included, with a Brooklyn Round-up of Boerum Hill/Cobble Hill/Carol Gardens.