NYC Tastes

It was the 8th year for the Star Chef's International Congress and a big one, as the four day event moved to a new space at Pier 57 and introduced a hard core theme: Guts and Glory, Leaving It All on the Line. The buzz in the building was incredible.  There was so much to see and do...check out the main stage where chefs like Francois Payard and Bryan Voltaggio were presenting, peek in on a round of the pastry competition and Somm Slam or maybe have a private tasting at one of the various pop up sessions.  I did a little bit of everything over the course of the event...let's check out some of the best of the savory dishes. This was an international event but I have to say some of my favorites food on display were from NYC like this Smoked Yukon Potato Puree with Brussels Sprout, Carrots and Country Ham from Maysville... ...and the decadent Poutine from Mile End draped in some of the best gravy I've ever had in my life. Another favorite was from Leah ...

I was in game day preparation mode.  NFL action was about to start Sunday and I needed a big breakfast to prepare for the long day of game watching.  I trekked down to Mile End Sandwich in SOHO (also getting in my exercise for the day) and went for two breakfast staples. The Bagel and Schmear was a fantastic choice.  Mile End has Montreal style bagels, smaller and slightly sweeter than our NYC ones, I find them to be absolutely delicious. The Breakfast Sandwich on the other hand was a disappointment. Fried Egg, Slab Bacon, Quebec Cheddar and Rye Bread sounds  wonderful but was executed poorly.  The sandwich had an abundance of grease, much more than a usual breakfast sandwich, and surprisingly little cheese.  At $9.00 a pop this is definitely an item to skip. Mile End Deli

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