***New York*** (3 Viewers)

[Judge Smails]

Posted last night, don't know what happened. Started looking at tix for The Book of Mormon and the only night I could get 5 was on Tuesday. Pulled the trigger. $99 for right center mezzanine.So, here is the core of our trip - looking to build around it:Sat - afternoon arrivale - get to hotel, get our bearings, dinnerSunday - some tourist stuff, Circle Line 2 hour cruise to take pictures of Statue of Liberty - Avenue Q at nightMonday - wide openTuesday - The Book of Mormon at nightWednesday - Yankees/Rangers at nightThursday - Fuerza Bruta at nightFriday - MoMA - Free Fridays - 4-8 pmSat - departWant to do Top of the Rock, Ground Zero, Central Park bike ride, maybe one more museum, walk the neighorhoods (couple places I want to eat at in Brooklyn too), architectural walk, etc. We love food, so will also be hitting up some of the best (see my other threads) re pizza, deli's and other places we've seen highlighted on Food Network. Local joints. What I could really use help on is building itineraries each day that make sense with our planned activity, though we'd be coming back to our hotel (Doubletree Times Square) most days to shower beforehand anyway (maybe not the Yankee game). Locals - ideas to flesh out this trip and maximize our time in NY? This will be the one time we go as a family (from CA), so want to do it right! Thanks

My initial thought is you should do the Circle Line cruise later in the week and couple it with the bike riding (don't do the bike riding on the weekend). Bike and Roll has a location there and you should be able to rent there and drop off at any of their other locations including the one htey have on Tavern on the Green in CP. You can cruise up and down the West Side bike path and take the bike to Central Park by walking it up throught Riverside Park at 72nd and then across 72nd. There's also a nice bar and grill on the Hudson right off the bike path at 70th St that is good for lunch or an early dinner.

Boat Basin. One of my favorite casual places in the city. If you do end up going later in the week, try for earlier in the day...it will fill up with the happy hour crowd if it's a nice day.

I thought he was talking about the one right down on the river below the Boat Basin, which is at 79th. I'd check to make sure that either are open- they used to be seasonal.Hey Judge- I'd check on those Ave Q tickets for time... I'm pretty used to Sunday being matinee shows only- like at 2:00. I could be wrong there, but didn't want you to make a lot of plans that day if you've got a show right in the middle of it.The Circle Line... I'm not a fan. I've done it twice and felt pretty trapped on it both times- felt long. But it definitely gives you a good view of the city from the water.

Thanks - great suggestions guys. Ave Q does have a 7:30 performance Sunday night, so we are good there. hmmm - interesting to hear your take on Circle Line. Our neighbor loved it, thought it was a great start to the week and took some great pictures. I'll have to think about that one. Keep the itin suggetions coming!

 

[gump]

OK....beginning to eye the weather for our trip next Thurs - Monday.

The 10-day (I know) shows highs of 67 and lows of 55. Does the temp really only fluctuate that little? I'm sure the city keeps it warmer...but it seems like a high of 67 would get lower than 55 at night.

Showers likely this time of year?

 

[Nick Vermeil]

OK....beginning to eye the weather for our trip next Thurs - Monday.

The 10-day (I know) shows highs of 67 and lows of 55. Does the temp really only fluctuate that little? I'm sure the city keeps it warmer...but it seems like a high of 67 would get lower than 55 at night.



Showers likely this time of year?

The temp really doesn't fluctuate much unless a storm front moves in. Maybe it's the altitude/humidity? (I'm no meteorologist) And since you'll probably be walking more than you usually do, even if you think you might be cold I would suggest light layers.

 

[Judge Smails]

Every time I go to Brooklyn, it always makes me think of San Francisco- in a good way. The scale of things, the cool neighborhoods, the overall vibe. I can't tell you how many of our friends have moved out there- especialy those with families. Now if only the weather was 50s-60s year round like SF too...

Having grown up in Brooklyn and then moved out to San Francisco for the past 11+ years,I give this comparision a But I don't plan on moving back east any time soon cuz I'm spoiled by the year-round mild weatherout here. I'll take a few months of rainy wintertime over scraping the ice off my windshield anyday of the week!btw, when in Manhattan, grab a slice of pizza at Joe's on Bleeker and Carmine.

My folks were born and raised Brooklynites (Flatbush and Brownsville) before heading out to SF where I was born- they weren't too happy about me heading out here 20+ years ago, but grew to love having an excuse to coming "home".The wife is still bothered about having to get all the travel visas in place to head into Brooklyn, plus all the hassle of having to exchange money is usually the last thing we want to do on a weekend.

Travel visas - exchanging money - what other country are we talking about here?

 

[El Floppo]

Every time I go to Brooklyn, it always makes me think of San Francisco- in a good way. The scale of things, the cool neighborhoods, the overall vibe. I can't tell you how many of our friends have moved out there- especialy those with families. Now if only the weather was 50s-60s year round like SF too...

Having grown up in Brooklyn and then moved out to San Francisco for the past 11+ years,I give this comparision a But I don't plan on moving back east any time soon cuz I'm spoiled by the year-round mild weatherout here. I'll take a few months of rainy wintertime over scraping the ice off my windshield anyday of the week!btw, when in Manhattan, grab a slice of pizza at Joe's on Bleeker and Carmine.

My folks were born and raised Brooklynites (Flatbush and Brownsville) before heading out to SF where I was born- they weren't too happy about me heading out here 20+ years ago, but grew to love having an excuse to coming "home".The wife is still bothered about having to get all the travel visas in place to head into Brooklyn, plus all the hassle of having to exchange money is usually the last thing we want to do on a weekend.

Travel visas - exchanging money - what other country are we talking about here?

You've clearly never been to Brooklyn.

 

[Judge Smails]

Every time I go to Brooklyn, it always makes me think of San Francisco- in a good way. The scale of things, the cool neighborhoods, the overall vibe. I can't tell you how many of our friends have moved out there- especialy those with families. Now if only the weather was 50s-60s year round like SF too...

Having grown up in Brooklyn and then moved out to San Francisco for the past 11+ years,I give this comparision a But I don't plan on moving back east any time soon cuz I'm spoiled by the year-round mild weatherout here. I'll take a few months of rainy wintertime over scraping the ice off my windshield anyday of the week!btw, when in Manhattan, grab a slice of pizza at Joe's on Bleeker and Carmine.

My folks were born and raised Brooklynites (Flatbush and Brownsville) before heading out to SF where I was born- they weren't too happy about me heading out here 20+ years ago, but grew to love having an excuse to coming "home".The wife is still bothered about having to get all the travel visas in place to head into Brooklyn, plus all the hassle of having to exchange money is usually the last thing we want to do on a weekend.

Travel visas - exchanging money - what other country are we talking about here?

You've clearly never been to Brooklyn.

You're correct. First time with the family June 11-18. So it's a melting pot - I get that. Don't get the visa/exchange reference, unless it's schtick.

 

[El Floppo]

Every time I go to Brooklyn, it always makes me think of San Francisco- in a good way. The scale of things, the cool neighborhoods, the overall vibe. I can't tell you how many of our friends have moved out there- especialy those with families. Now if only the weather was 50s-60s year round like SF too...

Having grown up in Brooklyn and then moved out to San Francisco for the past 11+ years,I give this comparision a But I don't plan on moving back east any time soon cuz I'm spoiled by the year-round mild weatherout here. I'll take a few months of rainy wintertime over scraping the ice off my windshield anyday of the week!btw, when in Manhattan, grab a slice of pizza at Joe's on Bleeker and Carmine.

My folks were born and raised Brooklynites (Flatbush and Brownsville) before heading out to SF where I was born- they weren't too happy about me heading out here 20+ years ago, but grew to love having an excuse to coming "home".The wife is still bothered about having to get all the travel visas in place to head into Brooklyn, plus all the hassle of having to exchange money is usually the last thing we want to do on a weekend.

Travel visas - exchanging money - what other country are we talking about here?

You've clearly never been to Brooklyn.

You're correct. First time with the family June 11-18. So it's a melting pot - I get that. Don't get the visa/exchange reference, unless it's schtick.

Manhattan v Brooklyn schtick.eta: I'm so bad at this whole schtick thing, I give it up at first blush.

 

[PinkydaPimp]

Anyone thinking about checking this out.

Brewers' PicNyc is the ultimate city picnic!

Brought to you by Food Karma Projects (producers of Pig Island, Meatopia 2010 and Brewers 4 Brewers), Brewers' PicNyc is a two-day celebration (May 29-30/11am-5pm) of everything that makes NYC great: street food, craft beer and music on Governors Island's historic Colonels' Row.

A portion of the proceeds will go to Added Value Farm - a sustainable farm on Governors Island. This is Governors Island's official 2011 kickoff, and the unofficial beginning of summer, so spend your Memorial Day weekend with us - and about 5,000 of your neighbors - eating well and doing good.

Food Vendors: Australian Meat Pies, Big Gay Ice Cream Truck, Brooklyn Farmacy, The Bent Spoon, Fette Sau, Jimmy's No. 43, Luke's Lobster and more!

Beer Vendors: Featuring Goose Island's summer beers, plus Brooklyn Brewery, Sixpoint, Two Brother's and more!

 

[Tremendous Upside]

Every time I go to Brooklyn, it always makes me think of San Francisco- in a good way. The scale of things, the cool neighborhoods, the overall vibe. I can't tell you how many of our friends have moved out there- especialy those with families. Now if only the weather was 50s-60s year round like SF too...

Having grown up in Brooklyn and then moved out to San Francisco for the past 11+ years,I give this comparision a But I don't plan on moving back east any time soon cuz I'm spoiled by the year-round mild weatherout here. I'll take a few months of rainy wintertime over scraping the ice off my windshield anyday of the week!btw, when in Manhattan, grab a slice of pizza at Joe's on Bleeker and Carmine.

My folks were born and raised Brooklynites (Flatbush and Brownsville) before heading out to SF where I was born- they weren't too happy about me heading out here 20+ years ago, but grew to love having an excuse to coming "home".The wife is still bothered about having to get all the travel visas in place to head into Brooklyn, plus all the hassle of having to exchange money is usually the last thing we want to do on a weekend.

Travel visas - exchanging money - what other country are we talking about here?

You've clearly never been to Brooklyn.

You're correct. First time with the family June 11-18. So it's a melting pot - I get that. Don't get the visa/exchange reference, unless it's schtick.

Manhattan v Brooklyn schtick.eta: I'm so bad at this whole schtick thing, I give it up at first blush.

I know where you are coming from. I have good friends who live in Brooklyn who I rarely see because they won't cross the river into Manhattan. It's a weird thing. Especially for non NYers.

 

[El Floppo]

Every time I go to Brooklyn, it always makes me think of San Francisco- in a good way. The scale of things, the cool neighborhoods, the overall vibe. I can't tell you how many of our friends have moved out there- especialy those with families. Now if only the weather was 50s-60s year round like SF too...

Having grown up in Brooklyn and then moved out to San Francisco for the past 11+ years,I give this comparision a But I don't plan on moving back east any time soon cuz I'm spoiled by the year-round mild weatherout here. I'll take a few months of rainy wintertime over scraping the ice off my windshield anyday of the week!btw, when in Manhattan, grab a slice of pizza at Joe's on Bleeker and Carmine.

My folks were born and raised Brooklynites (Flatbush and Brownsville) before heading out to SF where I was born- they weren't too happy about me heading out here 20+ years ago, but grew to love having an excuse to coming "home".The wife is still bothered about having to get all the travel visas in place to head into Brooklyn, plus all the hassle of having to exchange money is usually the last thing we want to do on a weekend.

Travel visas - exchanging money - what other country are we talking about here?

You've clearly never been to Brooklyn.

You're correct. First time with the family June 11-18. So it's a melting pot - I get that. Don't get the visa/exchange reference, unless it's schtick.

Manhattan v Brooklyn schtick.eta: I'm so bad at this whole schtick thing, I give it up at first blush.

I know where you are coming from. I have good friends who live in Brooklyn who I rarely see because they won't cross the river into Manhattan. It's a weird thing. Especially for non NYers.

and it definitely goes both ways.But I think most urban people go through this when their friends move to the suburbs. The only difference is that Brooklyn isn't exactly the suburbs.But my wife is still so anti-Brooklyn because of the all proselytizing extremist pro-Brooklynites out there (and most notably the damned WBurgh hipsters), she'd rather move to LIC than anywhere in Brooklyn.

 

[BobbyLayne]

Every time I go to Brooklyn, it always makes me think of San Francisco- in a good way. The scale of things, the cool neighborhoods, the overall vibe. I can't tell you how many of our friends have moved out there- especialy those with families. Now if only the weather was 50s-60s year round like SF too...

Having grown up in Brooklyn and then moved out to San Francisco for the past 11+ years,I give this comparision a But I don't plan on moving back east any time soon cuz I'm spoiled by the year-round mild weatherout here. I'll take a few months of rainy wintertime over scraping the ice off my windshield anyday of the week!btw, when in Manhattan, grab a slice of pizza at Joe's on Bleeker and Carmine.

My folks were born and raised Brooklynites (Flatbush and Brownsville) before heading out to SF where I was born- they weren't too happy about me heading out here 20+ years ago, but grew to love having an excuse to coming "home".The wife is still bothered about having to get all the travel visas in place to head into Brooklyn, plus all the hassle of having to exchange money is usually the last thing we want to do on a weekend.

Travel visas - exchanging money - what other country are we talking about here?

You've clearly never been to Brooklyn.

You're correct. First time with the family June 11-18. So it's a melting pot - I get that. Don't get the visa/exchange reference, unless it's schtick.

Manhattan v Brooklyn schtick.eta: I'm so bad at this whole schtick thing, I give it up at first blush.

I know where you are coming from. I have good friends who live in Brooklyn who I rarely see because they won't cross the river into Manhattan. It's a weird thing. Especially for non NYers.

and it definitely goes both ways.But I think most urban people go through this when their friends move to the suburbs. The only difference is that Brooklyn isn't exactly the suburbs.But my wife is still so anti-Brooklyn because of the all proselytizing extremist pro-Brooklynites out there (and most notably the damned WBurgh hipsters), she'd rather move to LIC than anywhere in Brooklyn.

Mrs BL works in LIC; her office just moved there about 3 weeks ago. We now have several friends either renting or buying in new buildings here. Its a special brand of hell I wouldn't wish on my worst enemy. Billyburg isn't in my top 100 nabes, but brownstone Brooklyn is awesome.LIC...has a lot of stick buildings. So there is that. And Five Points (which may or may not be gone soon - but it does make you feel better after you waste a day trip checking out the overrated PS1). It has got to be the most soulless place around. Up around Vernon Blvd & Jackson Ave there are some decent restaurants. But where she is now working (Queens Plaza - Queensboro Plaza), its ####### Beirut. Just awful. She has to bring a sack or buy lunch on this side; no deli, no bodega, no restaurants, just one sucky cart that would probably give you food poisoning.I'm sure there are other parts of LIC that suck less, but there is just nothing charming or desirable about any of it. I guess your wife probably likes the bang for the buck the new buildings can offer. Well, the schools suck, the entertainment sucks, the cultural opportunities suck, but hey, it does have great transportation and Manhattan is nearby.Is your wife still in her third tri? I hope she comes to her senses about LIC.

 

[Tremendous Upside]

Every time I go to Brooklyn, it always makes me think of San Francisco- in a good way. The scale of things, the cool neighborhoods, the overall vibe. I can't tell you how many of our friends have moved out there- especialy those with families. Now if only the weather was 50s-60s year round like SF too...

Having grown up in Brooklyn and then moved out to San Francisco for the past 11+ years,I give this comparision a But I don't plan on moving back east any time soon cuz I'm spoiled by the year-round mild weatherout here. I'll take a few months of rainy wintertime over scraping the ice off my windshield anyday of the week!btw, when in Manhattan, grab a slice of pizza at Joe's on Bleeker and Carmine.

My folks were born and raised Brooklynites (Flatbush and Brownsville) before heading out to SF where I was born- they weren't too happy about me heading out here 20+ years ago, but grew to love having an excuse to coming "home".The wife is still bothered about having to get all the travel visas in place to head into Brooklyn, plus all the hassle of having to exchange money is usually the last thing we want to do on a weekend.

Travel visas - exchanging money - what other country are we talking about here?

You've clearly never been to Brooklyn.

You're correct. First time with the family June 11-18. So it's a melting pot - I get that. Don't get the visa/exchange reference, unless it's schtick.

Manhattan v Brooklyn schtick.eta: I'm so bad at this whole schtick thing, I give it up at first blush.

I know where you are coming from. I have good friends who live in Brooklyn who I rarely see because they won't cross the river into Manhattan. It's a weird thing. Especially for non NYers.

and it definitely goes both ways.But I think most urban people go through this when their friends move to the suburbs. The only difference is that Brooklyn isn't exactly the suburbs.But my wife is still so anti-Brooklyn because of the all proselytizing extremist pro-Brooklynites out there (and most notably the damned WBurgh hipsters), she'd rather move to LIC than anywhere in Brooklyn.

Mrs BL works in LIC; her office just moved there about 3 weeks ago. We now have several friends either renting or buying in new buildings here. Its a special brand of hell I wouldn't wish on my worst enemy. Billyburg isn't in my top 100 nabes, but brownstone Brooklyn is awesome.LIC...has a lot of stick buildings. So there is that. And Five Points (which may or may not be gone soon - but it does make you feel better after you waste a day trip checking out the overrated PS1). It has got to be the most soulless place around. Up around Vernon Blvd & Jackson Ave there are some decent restaurants. But where she is now working (Queens Plaza - Queensboro Plaza), its ####### Beirut. Just awful. She has to bring a sack or buy lunch on this side; no deli, no bodega, no restaurants, just one sucky cart that would probably give you food poisoning.I'm sure there are other parts of LIC that suck less, but there is just nothing charming or desirable about any of it. I guess your wife probably likes the bang for the buck the new buildings can offer. Well, the schools suck, the entertainment sucks, the cultural opportunities suck, but hey, it does have great transportation and Manhattan is nearby.Is your wife still in her third tri? I hope she comes to her senses about LIC.

Queens Plaza area does kinda blow, but the 23rd//Ely area is kinda coolTournesol is an awesome restaurant and worth checking outhttp://maps.google.com/maps/place?oe=utf-8&rls=org.mozilla:en-USfficial&client=firefox-a&um=1&ie=UTF-8&q=tournesol&fb=1&gl=us&hq=tournesol&hnear=New+York,+NY&cid=3978381408911157290

 

[BobbyLayne]

Tournesol is specifically one I was thinking of, and there is also a great Italian place about two blocks north of it on Jackson Ave. Like I said, I am sure there are other parts of LIC that suck less than the turmoil over where she is (friggin' constant jackhammering or some kind of loud construction all day right now). But seriously, man, a couple good resys does not a neighborhood make.

I'm getting dumped on a lot at night after she has another ####ty day working there, so obvs I have a pretty dim view of LIC right now. Nothing a summer in Shelter Island won't cure (for both of us).

 

[El Floppo]

We know only what we saw in one day looking at apts in LIC. Vernon Blvd looked like it was chock full of nice little restaurants and shops in an EVil, Brooklyn kinda way over a 4 or 5 block run. Kind of Potamkin Village once you venture off that stretch... but yeah, the apts were awfully nice- for the price or otherwise.

BL- wife is in her third (due beginning of July). It seems that our former landlords are unable to sell the apartment in the fire-damaged building and desperately want us back. This move is imminent, but with only a 1 year lease avaliable (they want to try and sell again next year when the market maybe corrects)... also awaiting HPD sign-off. I'll believe the move when everything gets ok'ed, but it could literally be next weekend.

Mixed feelings for me- we miss our old pad a ton... more spacious and full of amenities than our Stuy-Town digs with: 2nd bath, w/d in the apt, EIK, more loft-like open living space, don't hear every sound every neighbor makes... but our favorite element from the old place was our patio, which won't be available to us utnil likely Fall. Big negative there is that it's a slight uptick in price over ST, but it's also on an insanely busy intersection at Houston and A. Also with a limited life-span with the year-lease... I'm dreading needing to find yet another apartment with what will be a family of 4. One very, very nice thing about Stuy Town- now that the weather's nice, it's amazing to be able to walk out our door and not be on city streets- Jr can run to any one of 4 playgrounds entirely on pathways without cars. He's also started to make friends here in the playgrounds just at the time in his development he's ready for such things. Granted, we are still walking distance from our old spot, and pretty much equidistant from Tompkins Square Park/Playground.

 

[saintfool]

Astoria, Floppo! It has a beer garden!!!

 

[gump]

Fantastic trip! Thanks again for some of the advice....of course didn't follow our agenda exactly, but here's how it went:

Thurs - checked in at Algonquin (which was nice) at mid-day, hit Virgils for lunch, then to shopping. Straight to Macy's from there....I stayed for an hour (looking for something)...then left wife there to go explore. Walked around the Library, Bryant Park, Empire State Bldg...then headed up to Radio City to see what I could of the draft festivities. Stood across the street for about 15 minutes and saw Gabbert, Green, and some other coming in. Then to the liquor store to stock up the room....wife got home around 8. We were originally planning on the Village for dinner, but ended up at Blue Fin with a 10:00 reservation. Sat next to Hines Ward.....told Gabbert 'Go Dolphins' (i'd had a few)....then we walked around TS before heading home.

Fri - got up mid-morning and went to China Town. Walked around, then around Little Italy...then settled in for lunch at Vincents. Fantastic. Medium Zitti and a few screwdrivers. Then wife went to Soho to shop and I walked around Battery, FiDi, Ground Zero. Back to hotel late afternoon. We had a drink in the Algonquin lobby...then headed out for dinner at Del Friscos. Had the perfect meal. After some ridiculous dessert...and a stroll around Rock Center.....were looking for a live band and sent to Iridium. Looked like a great spot, but the band was done....so from there on to BB Kings. Stayed there until late.

Sat - Since it rained on Thurs, we went to Top of the Rock in the morning and lunch. Took a while...but worth it. From there we checked out of Algonquin and headed up to my cousin's duplex/apt on 88th St UWS. Relaxed for 30 minutes...then to the subways and Yankee Stadium. I don't think I even need to go into this experience, since we sat in the Legends Suite:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/60350165@N06/5681542123/in/photostream

Stayed until Mo closed her down....then back to UWS. Went up to a cool place called Calle Ocho on around 82nd for dinner....nice atmosphere and food was good for us since we ate so much at the Stadium. Then on to Cafe Lalo for dessert and oogling of waitresses in tights.

Sun - instead of going down to Brooklyn, since we where short on time...my cousin took us for a walking tour of Central Park. Cherry Blossoms in full bloom...we walked all the way around end....unded up eating lunch at the Conservatory Garden...which was cool. From there walked thru some of the undeveloped areas....walked around the UWS some more around Columbus...bought a mothers day gift at a boutique....hit a sidewalk sale on the back of the MOMH....then to airport.

Great trip! My wife missed two stores (HM and Century 21)....so we're heading back soon.

 

[jamny]

Fantastic trip! Thanks again for some of the advice....of course didn't follow our agenda exactly, but here's how it went:

Thurs - checked in at Algonquin (which was nice) at mid-day, hit Virgils for lunch, then to shopping. Straight to Macy's from there....I stayed for an hour (looking for something)...then left wife there to go explore. Walked around the Library, Bryant Park, Empire State Bldg...then headed up to Radio City to see what I could of the draft festivities. Stood across the street for about 15 minutes and saw Gabbert, Green, and some other coming in. Then to the liquor store to stock up the room....wife got home around 8. We were originally planning on the Village for dinner, but ended up at Blue Fin with a 10:00 reservation. Sat next to Hines Ward.....told Gabbert 'Go Dolphins' (i'd had a few)....then we walked around TS before heading home.

Fri - got up mid-morning and went to China Town. Walked around, then around Little Italy...then settled in for lunch at Vincents. Fantastic. Medium Zitti and a few screwdrivers. Then wife went to Soho to shop and I walked around Battery, FiDi, Ground Zero. Back to hotel late afternoon. We had a drink in the Algonquin lobby...then headed out for dinner at Del Friscos. Had the perfect meal. After some ridiculous dessert...and a stroll around Rock Center.....were looking for a live band and sent to Iridium. Looked like a great spot, but the band was done....so from there on to BB Kings. Stayed there until late.

Sat - Since it rained on Thurs, we went to Top of the Rock in the morning and lunch. Took a while...but worth it. From there we checked out of Algonquin and headed up to my cousin's duplex/apt on 88th St UWS. Relaxed for 30 minutes...then to the subways and Yankee Stadium. I don't think I even need to go into this experience, since we sat in the Legends Suite:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/60350165@N06/5681542123/in/photostream

Stayed until Mo closed her down....then back to UWS. Went up to a cool place called Calle Ocho on around 82nd for dinner....nice atmosphere and food was good for us since we ate so much at the Stadium. Then on to Cafe Lalo for dessert and oogling of waitresses in tights.

Sun - instead of going down to Brooklyn, since we where short on time...my cousin took us for a walking tour of Central Park. Cherry Blossoms in full bloom...we walked all the way around end....unded up eating lunch at the Conservatory Garden...which was cool. From there walked thru some of the undeveloped areas....walked around the UWS some more around Columbus...bought a mothers day gift at a boutique....hit a sidewalk sale on the back of the MOMH....then to airport.

Great trip! My wife missed two stores (HM and Century 21)....so we're heading back soon.

I knew someone was coming here from the board this past weekend. You had some great weather. Glad you had a good time.

 

[El Floppo]

Fantastic trip! Thanks again for some of the advice....of course didn't follow our agenda exactly, but here's how it went:

Thurs - checked in at Algonquin (which was nice) at mid-day, hit Virgils for lunch, then to shopping. Straight to Macy's from there....I stayed for an hour (looking for something)...then left wife there to go explore. Walked around the Library, Bryant Park, Empire State Bldg...then headed up to Radio City to see what I could of the draft festivities. Stood across the street for about 15 minutes and saw Gabbert, Green, and some other coming in. Then to the liquor store to stock up the room....wife got home around 8. We were originally planning on the Village for dinner, but ended up at Blue Fin with a 10:00 reservation. Sat next to Hines Ward.....told Gabbert 'Go Dolphins' (i'd had a few)....then we walked around TS before heading home.

Fri - got up mid-morning and went to China Town. Walked around, then around Little Italy...then settled in for lunch at Vincents. Fantastic. Medium Zitti and a few screwdrivers. Then wife went to Soho to shop and I walked around Battery, FiDi, Ground Zero. Back to hotel late afternoon. We had a drink in the Algonquin lobby...then headed out for dinner at Del Friscos. Had the perfect meal. After some ridiculous dessert...and a stroll around Rock Center.....were looking for a live band and sent to Iridium. Looked like a great spot, but the band was done....so from there on to BB Kings. Stayed there until late.

Sat - Since it rained on Thurs, we went to Top of the Rock in the morning and lunch. Took a while...but worth it. From there we checked out of Algonquin and headed up to my cousin's duplex/apt on 88th St UWS. Relaxed for 30 minutes...then to the subways and Yankee Stadium. I don't think I even need to go into this experience, since we sat in the Legends Suite:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/60350165@N06/5681542123/in/photostream

Stayed until Mo closed her down....then back to UWS. Went up to a cool place called Calle Ocho on around 82nd for dinner....nice atmosphere and food was good for us since we ate so much at the Stadium. Then on to Cafe Lalo for dessert and oogling of waitresses in tights.

Sun - instead of going down to Brooklyn, since we where short on time...my cousin took us for a walking tour of Central Park. Cherry Blossoms in full bloom...we walked all the way around end....unded up eating lunch at the Conservatory Garden...which was cool. From there walked thru some of the undeveloped areas....walked around the UWS some more around Columbus...bought a mothers day gift at a boutique....hit a sidewalk sale on the back of the MOMH....then to airport.

Great trip! My wife missed two stores (HM and Century 21)....so we're heading back soon.

sounds like a great trip- glad you had fun and thanks for the write-up.

fwiw about cafe Lalo- next time you watch the movie "You've Got Mail", that's the place Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan are supposed to meet for their first date.

I actually had a blind date there too. A woman friend (who I was actually the object of my desires, but was out of my league) set me up with her soap-opera actor BF's sister. I figured a good looking dude would probably have a good looking sister, so I called her up- she was incredibly cool on the phone and we definitely hit it off, so I figured even if she wasn't a looker, I'd at least have an enjoyable night (minus fooling around). Decided to meet in Lalo. She told me what she looked like- tallish and blonde and early mid-age (which I took to mean 30s), so I went in with that in mind.

When I showed up, the hostess at the door looked at me and said "you're here to meet a blonde?" and I nodded. She took me to the back of the cafe, which IIRC, is wehre Meg Ryan sat. I'm scanning the room as we walked hoping for the best. But as we approach the only table with a single blonde woman, my gut sinks. She's frumpy, late middle-aged (pushing 50) and decidedly NOT attractive. She looks up at me with a WTF look, and I think says- who are you? I start to tell her my name, she looks at the hostess who's in the process of turning to look at her station near the door. In that moment, a frumpy, unattractive late mid-aged guy walks in followed by a tall, blonde very attractive young 30s woman. We spent basically the next 5 days together. It didn't last, but it was without a doubt the best blind date of my life.

 

[gump]

I knew someone was coming here from the board this past weekend. You had some great weather. Glad you had a good time.

It was perfect for my bday (Fri) and the weekend...even Thurs was ok cause it was light rain. Top of the Rock on a clear day was a sight to behold.

 

[gump]

fwiw about cafe Lalo- next time you watch the movie "You've Got Mail", that's the place Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan are supposed to meet for their first date.

My cousin told us...he said that whole movie was supposed to be 'about a love story with the UWS'. That area was pretty cool....great way to wind down after being around Time Square for a few days.....walking down Columbus felt a little Seinfeld-esque...but nicer.He also pointed out what he thought was where Seinfeld lived...and a multi-story garage he apparently bought to store HIS cars.

Amazing, from the park, how much more character the buildings on the UWS have than the UES...even though UES is higher rent.

 

[Major]

I knew someone was coming here from the board this past weekend. You had some great weather. Glad you had a good time.

It was perfect for my bday (Fri) and the weekend...even Thurs was ok cause it was light rain. Top of the Rock on a clear day was a sight to behold.

Nice Nothing better than NYC in Late April-May (when the weather is good). Damn, I miss living there sometimes/all the time

 

[Judge Smails]

Which Carmine's? My family would love it, and they can eat. Theater district location showing no availability from 6-10 any day we are there in June on open table. Really? Is this location the best or the one on 91st? We are staying at Doubletree suites Times Square.

Not looking at high end restaurants - how many reservations in advance should I be making?

 

[El Floppo]

Which Carmine's? My family would love it, and they can eat. Theater district location showing no availability from 6-10 any day we are there in June on open table. Really? Is this location the best or the one on 91st? We are staying at Doubletree suites Times Square.

Not looking at high end restaurants - how many reservations in advance should I be making?

Big, big (as in it couldn't be bigger) X on Carmines.It's basically dogfood with a ton of garlic dished out banquet-style for birthday parties and office parties on the cheap. There are SOOOOOOOOOO many places to eat in NYC that it is borderline disgraceful that somebody would actually choose to eat there. Only redeeming quality of the place is that you can go there with a group of 10+ and get a table. Central Park also fits that criteria, minus the garlic/bad-Italian-food overload.

Other than Esca (which is more upscale and $$ and definitely needs reservations), I can't think off-hand of Italian places in the theater district I'd recommend. But for theater dining, I've never had a problem with Ruby Fu's (pan-Asian) or any of a myriad of newish places on 9th Ave. Bobby Layne will be your man for that hood.

 

[Reaper]

Which Carmine's? My family would love it, and they can eat. Theater district location showing no availability from 6-10 any day we are there in June on open table. Really? Is this location the best or the one on 91st? We are staying at Doubletree suites Times Square.

Not looking at high end restaurants - how many reservations in advance should I be making?

Big, big (as in it couldn't be bigger) X on Carmines.It's basically dogfood with a ton of garlic dished out banquet-style for birthday parties and office parties on the cheap. There are SOOOOOOOOOO many places to eat in NYC that it is borderline disgraceful that somebody would actually choose to eat there. Only redeeming quality of the place is that you can go there with a group of 10+ and get a table. Central Park also fits that criteria, minus the garlic/bad-Italian-food overload.

Other than Esca (which is more upscale and $$ and definitely needs reservations), I can't think off-hand of Italian places in the theater district I'd recommend. But for theater dining, I've never had a problem with Ruby Fu's (pan-Asian) or any of a myriad of newish places on 9th Ave. Bobby Layne will be your man for that hood.

I've eaten at BECCO

And enjoyed it.

When you walk up that block there's a few places that I never tried that look pretty good as well.

 

[Reaper]

I knew someone was coming here from the board this past weekend. You had some great weather. Glad you had a good time.

It was perfect for my bday (Fri) and the weekend...even Thurs was ok cause it was light rain. Top of the Rock on a clear day was a sight to behold.

Awesome review Gump!!!!Is H&M that much of a draw? I know Top Shop was hot when they 1st opened.I'd definitley concentrate on East / West Village, Union Sq, Meatpacking areas next time and maybe even get a hotel Downtown....Love doing that walk all thru those areas when the weather gets nice and the clothing gets lighter.

 

[Sammy3469]

Which Carmine's? My family would love it, and they can eat. Theater district location showing no availability from 6-10 any day we are there in June on open table. Really? Is this location the best or the one on 91st? We are staying at Doubletree suites Times Square.

Not looking at high end restaurants - how many reservations in advance should I be making?

Big, big (as in it couldn't be bigger) X on Carmines.It's basically dogfood with a ton of garlic dished out banquet-style for birthday parties and office parties on the cheap. There are SOOOOOOOOOO many places to eat in NYC that it is borderline disgraceful that somebody would actually choose to eat there. Only redeeming quality of the place is that you can go there with a group of 10+ and get a table. Central Park also fits that criteria, minus the garlic/bad-Italian-food overload.

Other than Esca (which is more upscale and $$ and definitely needs reservations), I can't think off-hand of Italian places in the theater district I'd recommend. But for theater dining, I've never had a problem with Ruby Fu's (pan-Asian) or any of a myriad of newish places on 9th Ave. Bobby Layne will be your man for that hood.

9th Ave/Hell's Kitchen is just a cornicorpia of good ethnic food right now. Nothing fancy, mind you, but every Thai place is good, Totti Ramen is outstanding (actually saw the founder of Chipotle told to wait there like everyone else...said he'd come back), Yakitori Totti is outstanding, Casellluna is a fun wine bar, Danji is good Korean, La Silluette is a good French and that's just the names I remember. There's also good Middle Eastern, and African place, a tiki bar with outstading fish tacos, a balkan place/market, etc. That entire area has really turned around and is a fun walk now (much better than walking up or down 8th or Broadway through Times Square).

 

[El Floppo]

Am I the only person with such a profound disgust/dislike of Carmine's?

 

[Koya]

Am I the only person with such a profound disgust/dislike of Carmine's?

No. That said, it is a quintessential "tourist" spot for some. Its noisy, its busy, huge portions, good for kids and large groups. Hell, I know local's who love the place. For me, there are a thousand better options for Italian food (hell, if you want kitsch, at least go to what remains of Little Italy), but some love the Carmine's experience.

 

[PinkydaPimp]

Am I the only person with such a profound disgust/dislike of Carmine's?

No. That said, it is a quintessential "tourist" spot for some. Its noisy, its busy, huge portions, good for kids and large groups. Hell, I know local's who love the place. For me, there are a thousand better options for Italian food (hell, if you want kitsch, at least go to what remains of Little Italy), but some love the Carmine's experience.

my mom loves it!

 

[Eephus]

Which Carmine's? My family would love it, and they can eat. Theater district location showing no availability from 6-10 any day we are there in June on open table. Really? Is this location the best or the one on 91st? We are staying at Doubletree suites Times Square.

Not looking at high end restaurants - how many reservations in advance should I be making?

Big, big (as in it couldn't be bigger) X on Carmines.It's basically dogfood with a ton of garlic dished out banquet-style for birthday parties and office parties on the cheap. There are SOOOOOOOOOO many places to eat in NYC that it is borderline disgraceful that somebody would actually choose to eat there. Only redeeming quality of the place is that you can go there with a group of 10+ and get a table. Central Park also fits that criteria, minus the garlic/bad-Italian-food overload.

Other than Esca (which is more upscale and $$ and definitely needs reservations), I can't think off-hand of Italian places in the theater district I'd recommend. But for theater dining, I've never had a problem with Ruby Fu's (pan-Asian) or any of a myriad of newish places on 9th Ave. Bobby Layne will be your man for that hood.

9th Ave/Hell's Kitchen is just a cornicorpia of good ethnic food right now. Nothing fancy, mind you, but every Thai place is good, Totti Ramen is outstanding (actually saw the founder of Chipotle told to wait there like everyone else...said he'd come back), Yakitori Totti is outstanding, Casellluna is a fun wine bar, Danji is good Korean, La Silluette is a good French and that's just the names I remember. There's also good Middle Eastern, and African place, a tiki bar with outstading fish tacos, a balkan place/market, etc. That entire area has really turned around and is a fun walk now (much better than walking up or down 8th or Broadway through Times Square).

Mrs. eephus and I just booked five days in mid July and are staying in this area. I have a lot of Jetblue miles and pretty much everything goes through JFK anyway. I'm looking forward to it since my previous visits were either on business or with my teenage son.

We're more live band people than fans of musical theater. It doesn't look like a lot of clubs are booked 2 1/2 months out, but I'm interested if there are any venues worth checking out or websites to watch for advance ticket sales. We don't mind dives and are willing to leave Manhattan. She wants to go to Brooklyn Bowl so that place is already on our to do list.

 

[Judge Smails]

OK, it sounds like Carmine's should be axed. I'm really trying to get my arms around dinners. Don't want 3 hour waits.

I have 3 Broadway shows - should I be making reservations for dinner before for all 3 now? We like Thai - so that works well for one night. Yankee game - just eat there or somewhere near the park before?

If I could eat one Italian meal with my family to get the New York experience - where would it be?? Doesn't have to be high end - we've done Battali's place in Vegas and others. I want a great local family run place, not just with a top chef's name on it.

 

[Koya]

OK, it sounds like Carmine's should be axed. I'm really trying to get my arms around dinners. Don't want 3 hour waits. I have 3 Broadway shows - should I be making reservations for dinner before for all 3 now? We like Thai - so that works well for one night. Yankee game - just eat there or somewhere near the park before? If I could eat one Italian meal with my family to get the New York experience - where would it be?? Doesn't have to be high end - we've done Battali's place in Vegas and others. I want a great local family run place, not just with a top chef's name on it.

There are still a couple good options in and around Little Italy, though Im not the one to let you know which - it is truly quintessential. But I'll defer to others so you don't end up in an overpriced, undertasty tourist trap.Another option, though you may need to wait an hour, is to hit up one of the old school pizzeria's downtown (or heck, make it to Brooklyn right over the bridge)

 

[higgins]

Regarding Little Italy restaurants: I've never been to this one (was highly recommended to me), but I plan on checking it out when I'm out in the area again.

Il Cortile

I was told to try and reserve a table in the sunroom/atrium.

 

[jamny]

Regarding Little Italy restaurants: I've never been to this one (was highly recommended to me), but I plan on checking it out when I'm out in the area again.

Il Cortile

I was told to try and reserve a table in the sunroom/atrium.

It's been a couple of years but this is what I would recommend too.

 

[BobbyLayne]

Which Carmine's? My family would love it, and they can eat. Theater district location showing no availability from 6-10 any day we are there in June on open table. Really? Is this location the best or the one on 91st? We are staying at Doubletree suites Times Square.

Not looking at high end restaurants - how many reservations in advance should I be making?

Big, big (as in it couldn't be bigger) X on Carmines.It's basically dogfood with a ton of garlic dished out banquet-style for birthday parties and office parties on the cheap. There are SOOOOOOOOOO many places to eat in NYC that it is borderline disgraceful that somebody would actually choose to eat there. Only redeeming quality of the place is that you can go there with a group of 10+ and get a table. Central Park also fits that criteria, minus the garlic/bad-Italian-food overload.

Other than Esca (which is more upscale and $$ and definitely needs reservations), I can't think off-hand of Italian places in the theater district I'd recommend. But for theater dining, I've never had a problem with Ruby Fu's (pan-Asian) or any of a myriad of newish places on 9th Ave. Bobby Layne will be your man for that hood.

9th Ave/Hell's Kitchen is just a cornicorpia of good ethnic food right now. Nothing fancy, mind you, but every Thai place is good, Totti Ramen is outstanding (actually saw the founder of Chipotle told to wait there like everyone else...said he'd come back), Yakitori Totti is outstanding, Casellluna is a fun wine bar, Danji is good Korean, La Silluette is a good French and that's just the names I remember. There's also good Middle Eastern, and African place, a tiki bar with outstading fish tacos, a balkan place/market, etc. That entire area has really turned around and is a fun walk now (much better than walking up or down 8th or Broadway through Times Square).

Nice job, Sammy. FWIW, I live between 8th and 9th on 45th. Our life is completely centered around 9th and 10th Ave, between 43rd and 48th. I walk down 8th Ave to enter the subway. Too many damn tourists over there.

So quit sending them over here.

 

[El Floppo]

Which Carmine's? My family would love it, and they can eat. Theater district location showing no availability from 6-10 any day we are there in June on open table. Really? Is this location the best or the one on 91st? We are staying at Doubletree suites Times Square.

Not looking at high end restaurants - how many reservations in advance should I be making?

Big, big (as in it couldn't be bigger) X on Carmines.It's basically dogfood with a ton of garlic dished out banquet-style for birthday parties and office parties on the cheap. There are SOOOOOOOOOO many places to eat in NYC that it is borderline disgraceful that somebody would actually choose to eat there. Only redeeming quality of the place is that you can go there with a group of 10+ and get a table. Central Park also fits that criteria, minus the garlic/bad-Italian-food overload.

Other than Esca (which is more upscale and $$ and definitely needs reservations), I can't think off-hand of Italian places in the theater district I'd recommend. But for theater dining, I've never had a problem with Ruby Fu's (pan-Asian) or any of a myriad of newish places on 9th Ave. Bobby Layne will be your man for that hood.

9th Ave/Hell's Kitchen is just a cornicorpia of good ethnic food right now. Nothing fancy, mind you, but every Thai place is good, Totti Ramen is outstanding (actually saw the founder of Chipotle told to wait there like everyone else...said he'd come back), Yakitori Totti is outstanding, Casellluna is a fun wine bar, Danji is good Korean, La Silluette is a good French and that's just the names I remember. There's also good Middle Eastern, and African place, a tiki bar with outstading fish tacos, a balkan place/market, etc. That entire area has really turned around and is a fun walk now (much better than walking up or down 8th or Broadway through Times Square).

Mrs. eephus and I just booked five days in mid July and are staying in this area. I have a lot of Jetblue miles and pretty much everything goes through JFK anyway. I'm looking forward to it since my previous visits were either on business or with my teenage son.

We're more live band people than fans of musical theater. It doesn't look like a lot of clubs are booked 2 1/2 months out, but I'm interested if there are any venues worth checking out or websites to watch for advance ticket sales. We don't mind dives and are willing to leave Manhattan. She wants to go to Brooklyn Bowl so that place is already on our to do list.

I'll defer to the others- team Floppo don't really see much music any more. But if you make it to The Mercury Lounge (felt like The National used to set up shop there), give a wave to my old building catty-corner... hopefully I'll wave back if we're actually back in.

 

[El Floppo]

Had a double whammy one-street-shopping take-out tonight... Luke's Lobster Shack for the missus and Porchetta for me. :girth:

and btw- why is obama visiting again? I've got the Colbert pre-interview self-congratulation running high-five/fist-bumping visual happening.

 

[El Floppo]

Does anybody know a reputable/dependable Man-with-a-Van? We need to move what I think is one van-full of boxes locally.

 

[Nick Vermeil]

Does anybody know a reputable/dependable Man-with-a-Van? We need to move what I think is one van-full of boxes locally.

You can call Pat if there are no stairs. He will probably be too expensive, but he is reputable. He is the guy who moves for our office. Tell him where you used to work and that I told you to call and ask for a quote. PM coming.

 

[INRIhab]

Stayed until Mo closed her down....then back to UWS. Went up to a cool place called Calle Ocho on around 82nd for dinner....nice atmosphere and food was good for us since we ate so much at the Stadium. Then on to Cafe Lalo for dessert and oogling of waitresses in tights.

I was at Calle Ocho a few weeks ago for Sunday brunch. Free all-you-can-drink sangria and the food was great as well. Best $20 you can spend, except I drank too much and then irresponsibly blew a bunch of money at Boat Basin afterwards

 

[Reaper]

Which Carmine's? My family would love it, and they can eat. Theater district location showing no availability from 6-10 any day we are there in June on open table. Really? Is this location the best or the one on 91st? We are staying at Doubletree suites Times Square.

Not looking at high end restaurants - how many reservations in advance should I be making?

Big, big (as in it couldn't be bigger) X on Carmines.It's basically dogfood with a ton of garlic dished out banquet-style for birthday parties and office parties on the cheap. There are SOOOOOOOOOO many places to eat in NYC that it is borderline disgraceful that somebody would actually choose to eat there. Only redeeming quality of the place is that you can go there with a group of 10+ and get a table. Central Park also fits that criteria, minus the garlic/bad-Italian-food overload.

Other than Esca (which is more upscale and $$ and definitely needs reservations), I can't think off-hand of Italian places in the theater district I'd recommend. But for theater dining, I've never had a problem with Ruby Fu's (pan-Asian) or any of a myriad of newish places on 9th Ave. Bobby Layne will be your man for that hood.

9th Ave/Hell's Kitchen is just a cornicorpia of good ethnic food right now. Nothing fancy, mind you, but every Thai place is good, Totti Ramen is outstanding (actually saw the founder of Chipotle told to wait there like everyone else...said he'd come back), Yakitori Totti is outstanding, Casellluna is a fun wine bar, Danji is good Korean, La Silluette is a good French and that's just the names I remember. There's also good Middle Eastern, and African place, a tiki bar with outstading fish tacos, a balkan place/market, etc. That entire area has really turned around and is a fun walk now (much better than walking up or down 8th or Broadway through Times Square).

Mrs. eephus and I just booked five days in mid July and are staying in this area. I have a lot of Jetblue miles and pretty much everything goes through JFK anyway. I'm looking forward to it since my previous visits were either on business or with my teenage son.

We're more live band people than fans of musical theater. It doesn't look like a lot of clubs are booked 2 1/2 months out, but I'm interested if there are any venues worth checking out or websites to watch for advance ticket sales. We don't mind dives and are willing to leave Manhattan. She wants to go to Brooklyn Bowl so that place is already on our to do list.

I'll defer to the others- team Floppo don't really see much music any more. But if you make it to The Mercury Lounge (felt like The National used to set up shop there), give a wave to my old building catty-corner... hopefully I'll wave back if we're actually back in.

This SITE Lists some bands playing...

I used to go to The National Underground

On E. Houston..... Bar is owned by Gavin Degraw and has live music and food....

You'll probably want to walk around Bleeker Street.

 

[Jojo the circus boy]

Which Carmine's? My family would love it, and they can eat. Theater district location showing no availability from 6-10 any day we are there in June on open table. Really? Is this location the best or the one on 91st? We are staying at Doubletree suites Times Square.

Not looking at high end restaurants - how many reservations in advance should I be making?

Big, big (as in it couldn't be bigger) X on Carmines.It's basically dogfood with a ton of garlic dished out banquet-style for birthday parties and office parties on the cheap. There are SOOOOOOOOOO many places to eat in NYC that it is borderline disgraceful that somebody would actually choose to eat there. Only redeeming quality of the place is that you can go there with a group of 10+ and get a table. Central Park also fits that criteria, minus the garlic/bad-Italian-food overload.

Other than Esca (which is more upscale and $$ and definitely needs reservations), I can't think off-hand of Italian places in the theater district I'd recommend. But for theater dining, I've never had a problem with Ruby Fu's (pan-Asian) or any of a myriad of newish places on 9th Ave. Bobby Layne will be your man for that hood.

9th Ave/Hell's Kitchen is just a cornicorpia of good ethnic food right now. Nothing fancy, mind you, but every Thai place is good, Totti Ramen is outstanding (actually saw the founder of Chipotle told to wait there like everyone else...said he'd come back), Yakitori Totti is outstanding, Casellluna is a fun wine bar, Danji is good Korean, La Silluette is a good French and that's just the names I remember. There's also good Middle Eastern, and African place, a tiki bar with outstading fish tacos, a balkan place/market, etc. That entire area has really turned around and is a fun walk now (much better than walking up or down 8th or Broadway through Times Square).

Mrs. eephus and I just booked five days in mid July and are staying in this area. I have a lot of Jetblue miles and pretty much everything goes through JFK anyway. I'm looking forward to it since my previous visits were either on business or with my teenage son.

We're more live band people than fans of musical theater. It doesn't look like a lot of clubs are booked 2 1/2 months out, but I'm interested if there are any venues worth checking out or websites to watch for advance ticket sales. We don't mind dives and are willing to leave Manhattan. She wants to go to Brooklyn Bowl so that place is already on our to do list.

I'll defer to the others- team Floppo don't really see much music any more. But if you make it to The Mercury Lounge (felt like The National used to set up shop there), give a wave to my old building catty-corner... hopefully I'll wave back if we're actually back in.

This SITE Lists some bands playing...

I used to go to The National Underground

On E. Houston..... Bar is owned by Gavin Degraw and has live music and food....

You'll probably want to walk around Bleeker Street.

+1 National Underground, cool scene, good music.

 

[Judge Smails]

Trip coming together nicely. Tickets for Avenue Q, the Book of Mormon, Fuerza Bruta. Saw a deal for the Motherf***er with the Hat for a Matinee on Wed - looks intriguing with Chris Rock and company. Watching Stubhub closely for Yankee tickets and for a midweek game going to wait to closer to June 15th gametime. Even though I need an odd number (5), I'm seeing plenty of options for midweek games up to the day before. Haven't done much in the way of meals yet. Booked one Thai restaurant before the Book of Mormon but that's it. Still work to do there.

Just purchased a Groupon for Blazing Saddles. We used them to bike the Golden Gate during our SF trip and it was awesome. Groupon was $25 for all-day bike rental that's normally $53. Best you can typically get is 10% if you book online, so it's a great deal. They have maps and self guided tours. Thinking of biking the Brooklyn Bridge, maybe hit Graham Avenue Meats and Deli or Grimaldi's for lunch, and then bike through Central Park in the afternoon. Too much? Looking at our food hit list I think burning off excess calories will be a good thing. Anybody bike the Bridge, or have you just walked it?

 

[Eephus]

Trip coming together nicely. Tickets for Avenue Q, the Book of Mormon, Fuerza Bruta. Saw a deal for the Motherf***er with the Hat for a Matinee on Wed - looks intriguing with Chris Rock and company. Watching Stubhub closely for Yankee tickets and for a midweek game going to wait to closer to June 15th gametime. Even though I need an odd number (5), I'm seeing plenty of options for midweek games up to the day before. Haven't done much in the way of meals yet. Booked one Thai restaurant before the Book of Mormon but that's it. Still work to do there.Just purchased a Groupon for Blazing Saddles. We used them to bike the Golden Gate during our SF trip and it was awesome. Groupon was $25 for all-day bike rental that's normally $53. Best you can typically get is 10% if you book online, so it's a great deal. They have maps and self guided tours. Thinking of biking the Brooklyn Bridge, maybe hit Graham Avenue Meats and Deli or Grimaldi's for lunch, and then bike through Central Park in the afternoon. Too much? Looking at our food hit list I think burning off excess calories will be a good thing. Anybody bike the Bridge, or have you just walked it?

Brooklyn Bridge is currently undergoing renovations. It's open at all times for pedestrian and bike traffic but supposedly some sections are covered up.

 

[Sammy3469]

Trip coming together nicely. Tickets for Avenue Q, the Book of Mormon, Fuerza Bruta. Saw a deal for the Motherf***er with the Hat for a Matinee on Wed - looks intriguing with Chris Rock and company. Watching Stubhub closely for Yankee tickets and for a midweek game going to wait to closer to June 15th gametime. Even though I need an odd number (5), I'm seeing plenty of options for midweek games up to the day before. Haven't done much in the way of meals yet. Booked one Thai restaurant before the Book of Mormon but that's it. Still work to do there.

Just purchased a Groupon for Blazing Saddles. We used them to bike the Golden Gate during our SF trip and it was awesome. Groupon was $25 for all-day bike rental that's normally $53. Best you can typically get is 10% if you book online, so it's a great deal. They have maps and self guided tours. Thinking of biking the Brooklyn Bridge, maybe hit Graham Avenue Meats and Deli or Grimaldi's for lunch, and then bike through Central Park in the afternoon. Too much? Looking at our food hit list I think burning off excess calories will be a good thing. Anybody bike the Bridge, or have you just walked it?

Brooklyn Bridge is currently undergoing renovations. It's open at all times for pedestrian and bike traffic but supposedly some sections are covered up.

It's generally OK for biking...having said that biking it during peak tourist season can be hazardous as the bike lane is basically a painted line that pedestrians continually cross. The bigger issue is that you sort of have to weave from the Manahattan entrance back to the West Side bike path through a little traffic.In terms of distance...all that's more than doable in one day. Central Park's 6 miles are the most difficult of any tourist Manhattan trip. The one trick is that to get from the West Side bike path to Central Park you're easiest path involves walking your bike up from the bike path to 72nd street and then taking 72nd to Central Park. My advice on 72nd is just to take the entire right lane.

Maps are below:

Lower Manhattan

Full Map

 

[Major]

Which Carmine's? My family would love it, and they can eat. Theater district location showing no availability from 6-10 any day we are there in June on open table. Really? Is this location the best or the one on 91st? We are staying at Doubletree suites Times Square.

Not looking at high end restaurants - how many reservations in advance should I be making?

Big, big (as in it couldn't be bigger) X on Carmines.It's basically dogfood with a ton of garlic dished out banquet-style for birthday parties and office parties on the cheap. There are SOOOOOOOOOO many places to eat in NYC that it is borderline disgraceful that somebody would actually choose to eat there. Only redeeming quality of the place is that you can go there with a group of 10+ and get a table. Central Park also fits that criteria, minus the garlic/bad-Italian-food overload.

Other than Esca (which is more upscale and $$ and definitely needs reservations), I can't think off-hand of Italian places in the theater district I'd recommend. But for theater dining, I've never had a problem with Ruby Fu's (pan-Asian) or any of a myriad of newish places on 9th Ave. Bobby Layne will be your man for that hood.

9th Ave/Hell's Kitchen is just a cornicorpia of good ethnic food right now. Nothing fancy, mind you, but every Thai place is good, Totti Ramen is outstanding (actually saw the founder of Chipotle told to wait there like everyone else...said he'd come back), Yakitori Totti is outstanding, Casellluna is a fun wine bar, Danji is good Korean, La Silluette is a good French and that's just the names I remember. There's also good Middle Eastern, and African place, a tiki bar with outstading fish tacos, a balkan place/market, etc. That entire area has really turned around and is a fun walk now (much better than walking up or down 8th or Broadway through Times Square).

Mrs. eephus and I just booked five days in mid July and are staying in this area. I have a lot of Jetblue miles and pretty much everything goes through JFK anyway. I'm looking forward to it since my previous visits were either on business or with my teenage son.

We're more live band people than fans of musical theater. It doesn't look like a lot of clubs are booked 2 1/2 months out, but I'm interested if there are any venues worth checking out or websites to watch for advance ticket sales. We don't mind dives and are willing to leave Manhattan. She wants to go to Brooklyn Bowl so that place is already on our to do list.

I'll defer to the others- team Floppo don't really see much music any more. But if you make it to The Mercury Lounge (felt like The National used to set up shop there), give a wave to my old building catty-corner... hopefully I'll wave back if we're actually back in.

big fan of Nu Blu on C avenue. Great live music if you're into funk, jazz and elements of hip hop.

 

[El Floppo]

Which Carmine's? My family would love it, and they can eat. Theater district location showing no availability from 6-10 any day we are there in June on open table. Really? Is this location the best or the one on 91st? We are staying at Doubletree suites Times Square.

Not looking at high end restaurants - how many reservations in advance should I be making?

Big, big (as in it couldn't be bigger) X on Carmines.It's basically dogfood with a ton of garlic dished out banquet-style for birthday parties and office parties on the cheap. There are SOOOOOOOOOO many places to eat in NYC that it is borderline disgraceful that somebody would actually choose to eat there. Only redeeming quality of the place is that you can go there with a group of 10+ and get a table. Central Park also fits that criteria, minus the garlic/bad-Italian-food overload.

Other than Esca (which is more upscale and $$ and definitely needs reservations), I can't think off-hand of Italian places in the theater district I'd recommend. But for theater dining, I've never had a problem with Ruby Fu's (pan-Asian) or any of a myriad of newish places on 9th Ave. Bobby Layne will be your man for that hood.

9th Ave/Hell's Kitchen is just a cornicorpia of good ethnic food right now. Nothing fancy, mind you, but every Thai place is good, Totti Ramen is outstanding (actually saw the founder of Chipotle told to wait there like everyone else...said he'd come back), Yakitori Totti is outstanding, Casellluna is a fun wine bar, Danji is good Korean, La Silluette is a good French and that's just the names I remember. There's also good Middle Eastern, and African place, a tiki bar with outstading fish tacos, a balkan place/market, etc. That entire area has really turned around and is a fun walk now (much better than walking up or down 8th or Broadway through Times Square).

Mrs. eephus and I just booked five days in mid July and are staying in this area. I have a lot of Jetblue miles and pretty much everything goes through JFK anyway. I'm looking forward to it since my previous visits were either on business or with my teenage son.

We're more live band people than fans of musical theater. It doesn't look like a lot of clubs are booked 2 1/2 months out, but I'm interested if there are any venues worth checking out or websites to watch for advance ticket sales. We don't mind dives and are willing to leave Manhattan. She wants to go to Brooklyn Bowl so that place is already on our to do list.

I'll defer to the others- team Floppo don't really see much music any more. But if you make it to The Mercury Lounge (felt like The National used to set up shop there), give a wave to my old building catty-corner... hopefully I'll wave back if we're actually back in.

big fan of Nu Blu on C avenue. Great live music if you're into funk, jazz and elements of hip hop.

Is that near Street 3?

 

[El Floppo]

Trip coming together nicely. Tickets for Avenue Q, the Book of Mormon, Fuerza Bruta. Saw a deal for the Motherf***er with the Hat for a Matinee on Wed - looks intriguing with Chris Rock and company. Watching Stubhub closely for Yankee tickets and for a midweek game going to wait to closer to June 15th gametime. Even though I need an odd number (5), I'm seeing plenty of options for midweek games up to the day before. Haven't done much in the way of meals yet. Booked one Thai restaurant before the Book of Mormon but that's it. Still work to do there.

Just purchased a Groupon for Blazing Saddles. We used them to bike the Golden Gate during our SF trip and it was awesome. Groupon was $25 for all-day bike rental that's normally $53. Best you can typically get is 10% if you book online, so it's a great deal. They have maps and self guided tours. Thinking of biking the Brooklyn Bridge, maybe hit Graham Avenue Meats and Deli or Grimaldi's for lunch, and then bike through Central Park in the afternoon. Too much? Looking at our food hit list I think burning off excess calories will be a good thing. Anybody bike the Bridge, or have you just walked it?

Brooklyn Bridge is currently undergoing renovations. It's open at all times for pedestrian and bike traffic but supposedly some sections are covered up.

It's generally OK for biking...having said that biking it during peak tourist season can be hazardous as the bike lane is basically a painted line that pedestrians continually cross. The bigger issue is that you sort of have to weave from the Manahattan entrance back to the West Side bike path through a little traffic.In terms of distance...all that's more than doable in one day. Central Park's 6 miles are the most difficult of any tourist Manhattan trip. The one trick is that to get from the West Side bike path to Central Park you're easiest path involves walking your bike up from the bike path to 72nd street and then taking 72nd to Central Park. My advice on 72nd is just to take the entire right lane.

Maps are below:

Lower Manhattan

Full Map

That's a long day on a bicycle.... and this is coming from a guy who used to put a lot of miles in on a Bicycle in NYC.I'd say to putter around Brooklyn, Bridge, Downtown (Battery, S. Street, etc) or just Central Park and call it a day. Part of that is the ride up with West Side is boring and fraught with numb-nuts who are either drunk, think they're racing an Ironman, or just clueless.. One positive about doing the west side is that you get to see the Entrepid... which I guess is cool? Central park is lovely- but I think maybe better done by foot, going across it from the Met to the Nat History. Sammy is right about getting across from the bike path at 72nd, but it's just a little, but steep hill up to from the river to 72nd St.

If you end up doing Central Park, avoid the North section by crossing over at 102nd St so that you don't have to deal with Harlem Hill. CP is still full of rolling hills though- so don't underestimate that at the end of a long day in the saddle.

 

[Eephus]

If you end up doing Central Park, avoid the North section by crossing over at 102nd St so that you don't have to deal with Harlem Hill. CP is still full of rolling hills though- so don't underestimate that at the end of a long day in the saddle.

This kind of surprised me when I went for a run from midtown up to the reservoir. I'm from SF and the conventional wisdom is NY=flat and SF=hilly, but I found Central Park to be more up and down than Golden Gate Park.

 

[RUSF18]

OK, it sounds like Carmine's should be axed. I'm really trying to get my arms around dinners. Don't want 3 hour waits. I have 3 Broadway shows - should I be making reservations for dinner before for all 3 now? We like Thai - so that works well for one night. Yankee game - just eat there or somewhere near the park before? If I could eat one Italian meal with my family to get the New York experience - where would it be?? Doesn't have to be high end - we've done Battali's place in Vegas and others. I want a great local family run place, not just with a top chef's name on it.

Piccolo Angolo, West Village?