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Welcome. I document life in NYC and my travels beyond the Big Apple. Thanks for joining me!

Restaurant wish list part 2

Restaurant wish list part 2

Last week I shared five restaurants that I’m dying to introduce my partner Lou to as things slowly start to reopen in NYC. Here are the other five restaurants at the top of my list to take Lou to.

  1. Bell Book and Candle: This little gem in the Village is so dark and cozy. The menu is updated seasonally and many of the fresh produce and herbs are grown in-house on their rooftop garden. When it’s on the menu the gin and tonic chicken is a personal favorite of mine. They also have a lovely wine and cocktail menu. Bell Book and Candle is open for outdoor dining and to-go food Wednesdays-Sundays. You can also support them by ordering tickets to their reopening which is TBD.

  2. Carthage Must Be Destroyed: I used to work in Bushwick and this cafe was always a treat to go to for lunch. It was also a go-to for weekend breakfast with friends from out of town. The eclectic decor and bright color make the place feel like Alice in Wonderland meets a hipster cafeteria. The star here is the food though. It’s simple and rustic. I love the hearty toast with lavender honey. I'm also a huge fan of the breakfast salad. The sandwiches are again simple but unexpected with combos like Havarti and olives or egg salad with dijon. Carthage is currently open for outdoor dining, take out, and delivery.

  3. Grand Sichuan: Believe it or not my favorite Sichuan restaurant is not in any of NYC’s three Chinatowns, but in Chelsea. The menu can seem overwhelming but order any of the classics such as orange beef, general tso’s chicken, or broccoli with garlic sauce and you will not go wrong. Grand Sichuan is currently open for pick up or delivery.

  4. Kaia Wine Bar: This South African wine bar on the Upper East Side has been a frequent location for birthdays and other celebrations with friends. It’s a great place to meet friends to split a bottle of Pinotage and some tacos and small bites or go for an unforgettable meal. The Bobotie and Elk Carpaccio are my faves. Kaia is currently open for outdoor dining, pick up, and delivery.

  5. Radegast Hall: This beer hall in Williamsburg is so fun and festive. The grill menu is like year-round Oktoberfest with wursts, sausages, and giant pretzels. I love the veggie spaetzle on the main menu too. Beers arrive in giant steins or tall pilsner glasses. Radegast is currently open for outdoor dining and take out.

Favorite NYC hotel bars

Favorite NYC hotel bars

Taco Tuesday: Trejo style

Taco Tuesday: Trejo style