NYC Tastes

I thought summer was over last week but then the sun came out this afternoon and it became the perfect day for a poke lunch from Gotham Poke at Madison Square Eats. I always get the Spicy Big Eye Tuna bowl with a base of spring greens and white rice.  I love the spicy sliced jalapenos mixed with the crisp refreshing slices of radish.  Its colorful and delicious; just perfect for enjoying in the park on such a bright lovely day. Gotham Poke at Madison Square Eats 5th Avenue between 25th & 26th Street New York, NY 10010

My favorite semi-annual pop-up is back for the Spring season and this years line up is better than ever.  My first stop is usually at Roberta's for their delicious  Bee Sting  pie but this year Takumi Taco won the first season pit stop.  I've become obsessed with both their Spicy Tuna and Short Rib tacos topped with cabbage, wasabi crema and scallion. Old favorites like Red Hook Lobster Pound, Illili Box and Asiadog were on hand doling out lobster rolls, shawarma and all sorts of specialty hot dogs topped with Chinese pork belly, and sesame slaw. But the biggest line of the day was at newcomer The Truffleist.  In addition to their specialty truffle oil and butter products they were whipping up Cheesesteak Sandwich's with rich truffle bechamel sauce and melted Swiss cheese. And there's no shortage of beverage options this year; passionfruit & mango margaritas at Mexicue, prickly pear Shiner Bock and white wine sangria at Hill Country ...

Madison Square Eats ends on Friday which means only three more days to grab some delicious treats all in one spot.  If you see a sign for the special Spulace pie at Roberta's I highly suggest trying it out. It's got crazy dollops of cheddar cheese curds melted throughout the basil and tomato top with that thin charred and chewy crust. Delaney BBQ is still there doling out their rich, fatty brisket tacos along with a veggie option the Brussels Sprout taco with black bean puree and red onions. Or you could just return to one of your favorites as I did.  One last spicy, sweet Bee Sting pie for the season ender!

I love this seasonal pop-up right next to Madison Square Park.  It's the only time of year I can get the fabulous Bee Sting from Roberta's without the long trek out to East Williamsburg. This super spicy pie with sweet honey is always a favorite but this year a new vendor shares the spotlight- Delaney BBQ.  Remember that fantastic slab of brisket from a few months ago...it's back in taco form. Topped with red onion, shredded cheddar cheese, cilantro and a sweet chili sauce... The brisket is just as wonderful as ever...super juicy with a fatty burnt crust.  The meat is so fantastic on its own the toppings almost took away from the flavor.  Next time I would order just the meat with cheese and chili sauce. Stick to the brisket taco as the Fried Chicken is mostly breading and pepper.  But don't forget to check out some of the beers while your at the Market.  NuNu Chocolates has the rare Double DBA from Firestone Walker on draft an...

There are so many fantastic events going on this weekend I may need to go into a serious detox program when all is said and done.  Let's get started with the list: Manhattan Cocktail Classic-   The annual celebration of cocktails and culture returns this Friday with the fabulous opening night Gala at the New York Public Library.  This black tie affair is always amazing and the party continues all week.  There are 168 events at 71 different venues throughout NYC over the span of five fabulous days!  Not to mention the incredible Industry Invitational at the Andaz Hotel.  It will certainly be a "spirited" week. Manhattan Cocktail Classic The Great Googa Mooga-  Okay last year left a LOT to be desired but they apparently have been listening to feedback and promise much shorter food lines, beer set up and more cell service.  I'm hoping for the best and excited for the incredible line up of food vendors.  Not to mention t...

There's only one week left so it's time to head over and get the last bites of Madison Square Eats before it shuts down for the year.  As always an excellent choice is the Bee Sting Pie from Roberta's.  I love the combination of fatty Soppresetta, fiery chili oil and sweet sticky honey.   New to the Market this year Broken English packed various stewed meats and veggies into a fluffy pizza bianca pocket.  I tried out the Pollo alla Cacciotora which was chicken cooked in rosemary, white wine and garlic. Arancini Bros made another appearance with their enormous balls of rice. The Buffalo Blue Balls were a little too much for me.  The spicy sauce was nice but the strong Gorgonzola really overpowered the flavor.  The Bianco Rosso Verde fared much better with a sharp Basil Pesto and fresh cherry tomato filling.   Or you could just go pick up something sweet like a Marshmallow...

There's no better way to celebrate today than enjoying some tasty eats and drinks outside- NYC style at Madison Square Eats. Perhaps you're feeling like a little BBQ- we got some pulled chicken and spicy Brisket sliders from Mexicue. Or how about some wood fired pizzas from Robertas- the Bee Sting with honey and chili oil is a good start.   The Speckenwolf is even better with mushrooms, onions, oregano and speck.   Or the insanely delicious Smoked Beef Brisket sandwich from Mile End my current favorite obsession. You really can't go wrong with any of them but get them soon.  All this wonderful food goes away on Friday! Madison Square Park

Truth be told Sunday is my favorite day of the week but who doesn’t love a Friday as well? Fridays are great for me since I usually get out of work early and have some city time alone before the rush of the weekend crowd sets in. Last Friday I walked home across the Brooklyn Bridge, through Chinatown and into the East Village where my first stop was Abarco for a warm macchiato. Then I hopped on over to Good Beer where I enjoyed a delicious Joan of Arc cider while I perused the shelves of beer for weekend imbibing. After getting fully stocked I lugged my haul over to Momofuku Milk Bar and picked up some more weekend treats- birthday cake truffles. And finally I ended up near home at the Madison Square Eats for their final night. Mr. T joined me and we enjoyed a hearty Imperial Black Ale from Southern Tier Brewing Company. Then shared an awesome, creamy Brussels Sprout pizza that seriously rivaled Motorino’s version. Then we retired home for a nice scary mov...