Crowds and the City

Thousands of faithful fans came to Radio City Music hall from all over the world to show their support for the cult that is Sex & the City. Over 6,000 people showed up to try and catch a glimpse of the fabulous 4some of Carrie, Samantha, Miranda and Charlotte. Dressed in their finest Manolo Blahniks, fans braved thunderstorms and extreme heat to be the first to see the movie premier in all its glory. With only enough seats for 2,000, the mob turned unruly, with many being turned away before they even reached the door.
Luckily for us, there are plenty of watering holes nearby (like the Oak Room at the Plaza) where fans could sip on Cosmo’s and dream of their fairytale wedding to Mr. Big.

Happy 125th Birthday Brooklyn Bridge!

Now That's a View

As the temperatures in New York slowly rise to sweltering summer heat, New Yorker’s ascend as well. With rooftop bars still all the rage, three new noteworthy bars have grabbed our attention.

#1 Highbar – Slated to open early next week, this midtown rooftop on West 48th Street welcomes rooftop revelers with a stellar view and simple backyard grill food like hot dogs and hamburgers. Drawbacks? No pool. See #2.

#2 Pooldeck – With its grand opening earlier this month at the Empire Hotel, this rooftop bar has, you guessed it, a pool. While the space itself isn’t massive (reps say it can hold a max of 150 guests), it will be a refreshing addition to the city. Drawbacks? Too small to get your groove on. See #3.

#3 230 Fifth – Okay. 230 Fifth is not the newest roof on the block, but we still feel it deserves our attention. With over 1,200 square feet of rooftop space, complete with an up close view of the Empire State Building, this rooftop still takes the cake as the place to see and be seen among New Yorker’s.

Rinkside Sips

It’s official. Rockefeller Center’s iconic skating rink has officially closed to make way for their summer Rink Bar. The closing of the Rock skating rink signifies the formal end to winter, welcoming in its place signature cocktails and summertime snacks. The Bar, surrounded by gardens previously occupied by the ice, is still one of the best kept secrets of New York. The Rink Bar also includes the famous view of the gilded statue of Prometheus, surrounded by a water fountain and unobstructed views of Rockefeller Center. And as we wipe away our winter memories with their signature mango mojito, we can’t help but count down the days until our city’s Tree returns.

Duck and Hide

While many other cities have already welcomed the Duck to their home turf, none can beat New York’s. This half boat/half bus has been spreading its wings throughout the city, offering a unique tour of both land and sea. The 1 hour tour begins in the heart of Times Square, followed by a trip to the Hudson River for a taste of the high seas. Want to give the duck a spin? Be forewarned – each guest on the Duck is equipped with a “quacker”, which the company’s ensures will give each guest a “quacken good time”. There are a few other words that come to mind when I hear the outbreak of quacking devices by 50 tourists in duck hats as I’m trying to enjoy a leisurely stroll down the block… Foie Gras and duck confit to name a few.

Going Local

While Los Angeles may be the hub of all things celebrity, New York has proven they can hold their own. NYC & Company has launched a “Just Ask the Locals” campaign where our favorite celebs tell us their hot spot of the hour. From restaurants to shopping to nightlife, superstar locals like P. Diddy, Robert De Niro, Matt Lauer and Ivanka Trump have all cast their vote on what’s hot in the city that never sleeps. The campaign will be featured throughout JFK Airport and New York’s Port Authority, but don’t blink your eyes – Hot spots like these are here and gone in a New York minute.

Yo Mario!

Noted as the only time you’ll get anything for free in New York, Mario (you know, of Mario & Luigi) was stationed outside Midtown today hailing cabs for our busy New Yorker’s. Mario’s free rides are thanks to the promotion of Nintendo’s new racing game - Mario Kart Wii. The game, due to hit stores on April 27, is packages with a Wii wheel controller, which creates the feel of a real race car when steered. But why buy the game when a simple New York cab ride will simulate racing through obstacles (aka pedestrians) at record speeds, risking life and limb at every turn? Sign me up.

Earth to New York

Looking for something to do this weekend? Why not help out our fellow Earth. Grand Central Terminal is hosting an all-weekend festival to celebrate and school us in easy ways to go green. With more than 60 environmental companies, non-profit organizations, and Earth Day New York sponsors, there will be plenty of product samples, Yoga lessons, and volunteer opportunities to satisfy all 8 million of us New Yorker’s. Still not sold? Experience the wall climb – on the side of a 36 foot, vegetable oil powered bus. We aren’t sure if the bus will be moving while we scale it, but we hope it will be.

Hands off the Pope Mobile!

The vatican is not taking any chances with the Pope this week after seeing what happened to the olympic torch recently.

Gettin' Figgy With It

Along with the beautiful weather we’ve been experiencing this week, comes another beautiful restaurant that we couldn't afford to pass up. Last night Fig & Olive opened their 3rd location, in the heart of midtown, with a private reception and tasting of their most scrumptious creations. The 5,000 square foot space boasts a collective of olive oils, a 50-foot marble bar, and 2 floors to get your fig on. On tap for the evening was their signature raspberry mojito, but they also boast an extensive wine list (which we had to sample, to confirm that is was indeed extensive).

Polar Bear Attacks New York Subway

So, the headline isn’t exactly true, but eye catching none the less. This is exactly what NYC art student Joshua Allen Harris had in mind when creating inflatable animals out of garbage bags. While to the naked eye the animals look like nothing more than a pile of garbage on a subway grate, they quickly take on a life of their own with the updraft of a subway train going by below ground. As the wind blows upward through the grates, Harris’ animals fill with air and inflate to life-size animals. After the train has left the station, the bags gracefully deflate into just another piece of trash. Keep an eye out – included in Harris’ entourage is a 6-foot giraffe, ready to jump up on unsuspecting dwellers.

Cherry Watch

As the winter months wither away, the Brooklyn Botanical Garden is flourishing in the annual month-long Cherry Tree celebration. Beginning this weekend, BBG’s 220-plus cherry trees will be flowering into breathtaking blooms. Along with the blossoming buds, the Garden will be showing its appreciation to the Asian ancestry of the Cherry tree with Japanese calligraphy lessons, traditional tea ceremonies, and Asian-inspired gifts at the Hanami gift shop.

Take it to the Streets

While many of us pass it daily, most may not realize that a piece of Germany’s history stands proud amongst the skyscrapers and hubbub of the City.

There are at least five portions of the Berlin Wall located within the New York City. While pieces are located at the Intrepid Sea-Air-Space Museum, Gateway Plaza, North Cove Marina, and the World Financial Center, our favorite resides in a somewhat unlikely place. Situated in an alcove on 53rd Street between 5th and Madison Avenues, this segment of the wall was originally located at Waldemarstreet in Berlin. So while you’re walking to work, out shopping, or just looking for something to do – take a look at this magnificent piece of history just outside your door. Peace out.

Toronto Takes a Bite Out of the Big Apple

Starting today, Toronto folks will now be able to fly direct to the Big Apple thanks to Porter Airlines. With 7 daily direct flights from Toronto City Centre to Newark Airport, Porter Airlines will take passengers from Bay Street to Wall Street in a New York minute.

Makeover at the Morgan

It’s renovation central in New York City, with the latest being the renovation of the Morgans Hotel. The chic midtown hotel will begin its $9 Million facelift on May 18 with a total overhaul of the entire hotel. Slated to be completed in September, the hotel will eventually boast a refurbished lobby, guestrooms and penthouse. A high-tech business center will also be added.

But don’t fret just yet – The hotel group’s other stylish hotels – the Royalton and the Hudson, will remain open and welcome to guests during the renovations.

This Spud's For You

While most of New York avoids carbohydrates much like a flesh-eating disease, we welcome with open arms the newest in a string of “specialty” restaurants. Totally Baked, a 14-seat counter-service restaurant has opened on West 18th Street, with only one item on the menu – the Potato. But buyer beware, this is no ordinary spud. The 14-ounce, stuff your own potato comes with your basic toppings like cheese, sour cream and bacon, but dares to be different with add-ons like seared Ahi Tuna and Clam Chowder. Our favorite is the Wild Mushroom potato, loaded with chanterelle, shitake, oyster and crimini mushrooms, topped with challots, chives and a heaping of manchego cheese. Dare to be different? Try the $55 Truffle potato, which comes loaded with truffle butter, truffle oil, truffle salt, and of course, a clogged artery.

Life's A Beach

Long Island City’s favorite playground, Water Taxi Beach, has just received their newest shipment of you guessed it – sand. New Yorker’s can now sink their feet into the revived Beach, which will nearly double its size for the 2008 season. Burgers, beers, and volleyball games will all be in full effect when the beach officially opens this May. The additional 500 tons of sand is being shipped directly from Long Island, so for those of you who can’t make it out to the Hampton’s this summer (or can’t afford to), you can bring a little piece of the Hampton’s glamorous sand to you. Dig in.

Soho Takes it to the Streets

Starting Memorial Day, Soho-savvy shoppers will get to enjoy their jaunts car-free. The area, best known for its avant-garde clothing and flea market bargains, will be shutting down Price Street to vehicles every Sunday, so that fashion-forward eyes can roam freely through the streets. The city’s plan to introduce Sunday strolling has led some residents to worry that the free roam will turn into a boisterous festival rather than a public promenade, but the Department of Transportation confirms that “This is not San Gennaro – there’s no funnel cake.”

Happy St. Patrick's Day

Today, New Yorker’s all have a little-bit-o-Irish in them as we celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. New York has their own distinct way of celebrating all things Irish - Wearing Green. Green attire and green hats are standard, but you'll also find green beers, green bagels, green water fountains, and even a green Empire State Building for an American spin on the traditional holiday.
Want to honor thy Irishman? Search no further than St. Patrick’s Roman Cathedral. Looking to take your pride to the street? Show your Gaelic love and cheer on the St. Patrick’s Day Parade (on 5th Avenue, from 44th to 86th Street). Feel that your love is best shown through your passion for beer? Stop by Connolly’s Pub where they have live Irish music, delicious brews and the almighty “Irish corned beef”.

Monster Bash at the MoMa

Last night, the Museum of Modern Art opened its doors to us for a private reception and first-hand view of the two newest installations at the Museum. The first, Color Chart, reflects some forty artists (including Andy Worhol and Frank Stella), and is the first major exhibit devoted to the transformation of color throughout time. The second, and perhaps one of the most awesome exhibits on display, is Design and the Elastic Mind. Put simply, the exhibit shows a designers ability to take advances in technology and turn it into usable art. The exhibits are wild – but none beats the interactive “Shadow Monster” exhibit.

The low down – Standing in front of a projection screen, your hand is magically morphed into a shadow monster, which changes into different “puppets” as you move. Monster-licious sound effects included.

So go on and let your inner monster out of the closet. We won’t tell.

M-E-T-S Mets, Mets, Mets!

We are finally nearing home plate with the completion of the new Met's Stadium. The latest additions? An eye to the environment. While we aren’t changing the team color to green just yet, included in the designs for the new Stadium are a “green roof” on the administration building, recycled steel throughout the core of the stadium, low-flow plumbing and energy efficient lighting for the field. The new stadium, dubbed Citi Field, is set to open for the 2009 season.

In other Mets news, Shea Stadium has announced that their final 2008 season will officially be designated a “Smoke Free Zone”. No longer will smokers have the luxury of smoking butts throughout the Stadium, including the ramps. Like the rest of New York City, smokers will be summoned to go great measures to get their smoke on – Limited to a reserved area outside of the Stadium gates. My heart pours out to you, old faithful smoker, as not even a Triple Grand Slam can keep you in your seat to enjoy your last season at Shea.

Water-less Fountain

In New York’s ongoing quest to go green, we have welcomed yet another spectacle to the infamous Rockefeller Center. Now through April 4, check out the Electric Fountain, a spectacular 3D light sculpture, which will illuminate the Plaza at Rockefeller Center. The 35 foot public artwork is made out of 3,390 LED bulbs, created to replicate the movement of water. With nearly 350,000 people strolling through Rockefeller Plaza complex each day, the Fountain will be sure to make a splash.

Vodka Dreams

In our city’s never ending search for what’s hot, things got down-right chilly as we attended the Vodka on Ice event at one of the city’s premier venues. The Loft, located at Rockefeller Center, offers a beautiful raw space with a huge rooftop garden and reflecting pond. It was here that we were introduced to a variety of organic vodkas, all paired with fruit purees – lollypop style (yummy!). The pops were seated on a bed of ice and displayed with fruit fusion name tags like razzmatazz raspberry and lavender lemon. We mingled, we sipped, and by the end of the evening, things were buzzing in more ways than one!

The Plaza is Back

On our ventures around town this weekend, we couldn’t help but be drawn in by the hundreds of tourists and New Yorker’s alike flocking to the reopening of the famed Plaza Hotel. Two years after closing its doors for renovation, the $400 million project is leaving people with something to talk about. One of the highlights of the restoration – an 1,800 square foot stained-glass ceiling in the Palm Court dining room, portraying a backlit yellow and green geometric design trimmed with roses.
The new renovations have also added something modern to the hotels old-fashioned opulence. Included in each room is a flat-screen TV, iPod docking station, and digital touch screens, but they have kept in the true name of the Plaza with 24-karat gold plated faucets, crystal chandeliers and mosaic tiled bathroom floors.
Although the Plaza looked more like the latest tourist attraction than a five star hotel this weekend, the true Grand Opening is not set until May 10. By then, the famous Oak Bar will be running, as well as a new lounge called the Rose Club. And for our inner-fashionista’s, over 160,000 square feet of high-end retail space will be in place.

Happy Leap Year!

Niagara Falls to New York

While New York is still fighting through the remaining months of winter, we are looking forward to things to come. This Summer, our city will welcome its first Waterfalls. Denmark born Artist Olafur Eliasson will present his monumental work of art, The New York City Waterfalls, in his attempt to insert nature into an urban cityscape.
Beginning mid-July, Circle Line Cruises will offer a 30-minute tour of the Waterfalls, including the exhibit at the Brooklyn Bridge, Governors Island, Pier 35 and Pier 4 in Brooklyn. Here guests will experience an in depth look at the displays, along with an audio introduction and insights from the artist behind them.

Something Fishy

While there are many interesting smells in New York, today fishy could be on the top of the list. This week announced the unveiling of a tropical paradise in the middle of Staten Island. Ferry passengers didn’t know what hit them as they arrived into the Staten Island terminal, greeted by tanks holding over 400 tropical fish. The project, costing $750,000, is set to be a major attraction on Staten Island. The 8-foot high tanks include unique tropical fish in beautiful coral reef settings which aims to promote a tranquil environment for the millions of people who flow through the station each year.

Happy Valentine's Day!

Of course we all know that the color for Valentine’s Day is red. Last night, in preparation of America’s most romantic holiday, we celebrated in red at Top of the Rock in support of The American Heart Disease Association's Go Red For Women Campaign. This 2nd annual special event united many New Yorker’s at one of the greatest places to view the Big Apple. With 360 degree unobstructed views, not even the rain could stop us from taking a moment to enjoy our great city!

A Shady History

As if creating allergy-free kittens and duplicating Mary’s little lambs wasn’t enough – New Yorker’s will now have the opportunity to find shade in the clones of Central Park’s own trees. As part of Mayor Bloomberg’s promise to plant one million new trees by 2017, arborists have been removing 12-inch branch ends from some of the Park’s oldest trees, as well as a sample of 25 others which will be cultivated and eventually planted throughout the city’s 5 boroughs. Will the Mayor’s plan to turn our city into a tree laden forest be successful? We have our doubts. However, we can still take comfort in the fact that our little clone-lings will provide shade for years to come.

Dog Lover's Unite!

We’ve all been waiting with baited breath. The time has once again come, as New York welcomes the 132nd Westminster Dog Show on February 11th & 12th. Tune in to see prancing Poodles, yippy Yorkies, and our favorite, the mindless Maltese, as they battle it out for the claim of Top Dog.
Still didn’t satisfy your desire for all things dog? Head over to Bonhams New York, where several dog collars once owned by the Duke of Windsor will be on display. Set to be auctioned off - 5 leather collars worn by the Duchess’ pug, said to be valued at $3,000.

Let It Snow!

While the weather in New York has been anything but typical, (we were wearing shorts last night and mittens this morning), Central Park is still embracing our legendary blustery winters with the 3rd Annual Winter Jam. Snow Guns and air compressors will be hooked up to city hydrants this weekend, creating a winter wonderland throughout the park. A skiers delight, the park will welcome its first ever snow flume, which will be two-stories high and over 80-feet long. BYO skiis or borrow some from the Park’s department. Not a skier? Enjoy the 500-foot cross country loop along Sheep’s Meadow. Make sure to check out the Bandshell, where you can enjoy live music and hot chocolate throughout the event.

Food For Thought

Drop to your knees, our dreams have come true. Pinkberry – you know the little frozen yogurt shops that have New Yorker’s in a frenzy even in the most frigid of weather – has announced its third almighty flavor. All hail Coffee flavored swirly goodness. As if the people of New York are not supplied with enough caffeine to revive the dead, we can now use its power to withstand the lines you will be waiting in 20 degree weather to consume the sweet treat. Personally, I get as much enjoyment watching the pink-a-holics from across 2nd Avenue while sipping a pint at the local pub. If only we put this much energy into working out at the gym…

5 Reasons We Love Terminal 5

While we all know that flying is not on our top 5 list of things we heart, we still found 5 reasons to love JFK’s new Terminal 5:

1. 1 checkpoint with 20 lanes. Benefit: Since we can now check-in from home, you will know instantly how long the wait is when arriving at the checkpoint.

2. The Marketplace. Benefit: 55,000 square foot food & retail mecca said to include free WiFi, flat panel information screens, and shopping boutiques.

3. 100 seats at every gate. Benefit: You will not be sitting on the ground or sleeping in the stand up position.

4. Easily visible Bathrooms. Benefits: No longer will you need to ask every person within a 20 foot radius if they know where the bathroom is.

5. Colossal baggage carousels. Benefit: With 6 new carousels, snag your bag and hail a cab.

Uptown Heading Downtown

Ground Zero will be welcoming yet another newcomer to the area – The Four Seasons Hotel – expected to be completed by 2011. The hotel will be situated on 22 floors of the planned 80 story building, and will hold the distinction of being the tallest residential structure in New York City. This will also be the Four Seasons first property built in the city in over 15 years, and is sure to be a huge draw to the downtown area. A spa, indoor pool, fitness center and high-end restaurant are just a few of the luxury amenities the 175-room hotel plans to feature.

Who Will Win, Part II

If (aka when) the Giants win the Superbowl today, New Yorker’s are ready to show some love. Here is the rundown:

Who: Our New York Superbowl Champion Giants

When: Tuesday, 10 AM to 2 PM

What: Victory Parade and Ceremony

Where: A Parade up Broadway to City Hall for a Grandstand Celebration Ceremony

Why: Because We Love New York!

Happy Groundhog Day!

The Verdict is in: 6 more weeks of Winter! Brrr...

Magnolia verses Buttercup

No, this is not an introduction to Strawberry Shortcake’s new movie. Magnolia Bakery, the West Village cupcake hot spot known for its butter-cream and crumbly creations has opened a second café on the Upper West Side. Already in operation, Magnolia has become somewhat of a cupcake phenomenon, selling out of their confectionary concoctions in their first days of operation.

Didn’t get enough sugary sweets? Hit up the nearby and equally popular Buttercup Bake Shop, Crumbs, or Bouchon Bakery, and see for yourself who takes the cake.

FDNY Rises to the Occasion

New York’s very own Fire Department will be trained using a new state of the art simulator aimed at battling high-rise fires. The 4-story building, housed on Randall’s Island, will include residential and office layouts along with a mock fire command station. The $4.5 M flame thrower is scheduled to be completed by next year, and will add to the FDNY Fire Academy’s artillery of top-of-the-line training techniques. Once again we come to thank the almighty protectors of our city’s fickle flames.

There's Nothing That Money Can't Buy

As New Yorker’s, we are always looking for the newest scene among the nearly endless enticing eateries. While it certainly sounds great in theory, sometimes unless you know somebody who knows somebody, getting into that scene can be harder than finding a seat on the 6 train at rush hour. Now, thanks to the creators of tablexchange.com, all of our foodie prayers are answered. Simply choose the restaurant, choose an available time, and voila – For around $25 you can buy your way up the social ladder to the top of the restaurant chain. So go on New York – impress your honey and elevate your social status by scoring the most coveted seats for the city's elite.

Lose the 'Tude Dude

Taxi drivers beware. New York may never have to deal with another rude taxi driver again – that is if the Taxi Police have anything to do with it. What began with complaints from passengers has led to an official crack down on cabbies who don’t mind their manners. Filed under “Operation Secret Rider”, these private taxi police are fining drivers up to $350 for infractions from cell phone talking to being just plain rude. If only we could initiate these rules on the mailman, deli clerk, hostess, delivery guy…

Cold as Ice

Looking for something to do this weekend in New York to take the chill off? Well, you won’t find it at the Rubin Museum of Art, where Dutchman Wim Hof (aka The Ice Man) will plunge himself into an ice tub in an attempt to break his previous record of 1 hour and 11 minutes submerged within a frosty bath. Through the ancient Tibetan practice of tumo, Wim is said to be able to control the temperature of his body through meditation. In our own show of mind over matter, we will be braving the elements to enjoy a steamy hot chocolate at the local café.

The Real 'Stars' in the City

So technically we don’t live in a gated community, although we like to consider our City a force to be reckoned with. Let’s face it – at over 8.2 million people on a mere 322 square miles, it’s no easy feat to survive, no less thrive.
Enter The Real Housewives of New York City. A Big Apple based spin-off of the Orange County series will show 5 women living (and working) in the upper-crust of New York society. My guess is that the show will fit into true Upper East Side style with lots of nanny’s chasing spoiled-rotten Upper East Side kid’s around their colossal Upper East Side brownstones while the “housewives” are downtown being fabulous (or is it out of touch?). In any case, we are staying tuned so that we too can learn how to juggle our extraordinary lives of charity balls, business ventures, Hampton house-hunting, and party planning all among Manhattan’s elite.

Move over Manhattan

A proposed $47M project to restore Harlem’s most acclaimed theater, The Apollo, is in full swing as theater officials launch a public fundraiser which aims at restoring the theater to its former glory. What can you get for $47 million dollars these days you ask?

- You could purchase an 18,000 square foot mansion situated on 25-acres in the infamous Hamptons. Rowboat for paddling around island included.

- You could have your very own, 510-acre private island off the coast of St. Thomas in the Caribbean. Viva la sol!

- The human body is said to be estimated around $45M, taking into consideration to the value of your bone marrow ($23 million), lungs ($116,400), kidney ($91,400), and heart ($57,000) to name a few.

As for the theater, $47M will provide for doubling the size of the theater lobby which will house a new grand staircase, along with repainting the walls, restoring the box seating, and replacing the columns and marble within. The icing on the cake – a bronze plaque memorial ‘Walk of Fame’ in front of the theater, idolizing such legends as Ella Fitzgerald, Billy Holiday and Stevie Wonder, who have all graced its stage.

New York No Longer In a Squeeze

No longer will New Yorker’s have to truly brave the elements of the all mighty public loo. The Big Apple is proud to offer the city’s first pay-per-potty at over 20 locations throughout the city. We first noticed one at Madison Square Park, just around the corner from the Shake Shack, and may we say – we will never ‘hold it’ again! The drawback? These pearly potties will be closed from 8:00 PM to 8:00 AM to protect against midnight monkey business. The bottom line: At just 25 cents a visit, these high-tech self cleaning toilets offer everyone their very own 15 minutes of relief, 12 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Packers vs. Giants - Who Will Win?

525,600 Reasons to be Sad

Rent has announced that it will be closing its run on Broadway. Our hankies are at the ready because we heart this show. Originally part of New York Theatre Workshops, this little show about “la vie boheme” in the East Village went on to become the 7th longest-running show in Broadway history, win four Tony Awards and a Pulitzer Prize. Closing on June 1st, the show leaves behind a good run, touring companies all over the work and the always-necessary call to “measure your life in love.”

NYC or Bust

New York once again broke its own tourism records in 2007 with a over 46 million visitors coming to NYC. That’s up 6% from the record high tourism of 2006, and accounts for over $28 billion in spending. Mayor Bloomberg has set a goal of over 50 million annual visitors by 2015 and it appears that the city is on track to achieve that sooner than expected.

A Winning Team