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Celebrate Labor Day in the Hamptons with Wolffer

I love Wölffer Estate Vineyard and Montauk, both.  And this weekend it seems that the Hamptons aren’t as crowded as you might have anticipated. So here’s a good reason to head to the East End for a last tribute to the summer.

On Sunday, September 6 (rain date Monday, September), Sagaponack’s

Wölffer Estate Vineyard and Montauk’s ultra-hip restaurant and bar The Crow’s Nest have joined forces to create and evening of Argentine fare and festivities. Guest Chef Fernando Trocca of Buenos Aires will prepare his signature seafood paella and Wölffer will be serving their first wine from their partnership in Mendoza, Finca Wölffer Rosé.

The weather is gorgeous, and this will be an outdoor event to remember:

Endless Summer Paella Party, Argentine-Style

Sunday, September 6th (rain date Monday, September 7th), 5pm-8pm at the Lakefront at Crow’s Nest Beach

Be among the first to try Finca Wölffer Rosé, Wölffer Estate’s new wine from Argentina, plus Wölffer No. 139 Dry White and Rosé Cider, regular beach bar cocktails and a special Wölffer cider cocktail

Food choices include the aforementioned seafood paella as well as tapas such as:

•  Red Shrimp Ceviche

•  Octopus Tiradito

•  Heirloom Tomato, Feta, Anchovies, Capers and Saatar Salad over Pita

•  Ricotta with Aubergines, Almonds, Honey and Lemon Zest

•  Grilled Spring Onions with Romesco Sauce

•  Raw Zucchini Carpaccio, Olives, Chiles, Lemon and Pecorino

•  Chopped Chicken Liver over “Pan De Campo”

4 Old West Lake Drive, Montauk, NY

And, if you can’t make it all the way to Montauk, try to get a reservation at Wölffer’s new restaurant in Sag Harbor, Wölffer Kitchen, 29 Main Street, 631-725-0101. While the initial attraction is the vineyard’s substantial list of wines and ciders, it’s the local produce and main courses that are the standouts.  Of particular note, the steaks, pastas and veggie sides all profit from the fresh produce and proteins from the area.  Chef Deena Chafetz and Wölffer winemaker and partner Roman Roth have curated both a menu and a wine list to appeal to all foodies and wine lovers. And the location can’t be beat, steps from the Bay Street Theater and the center of Sag Harbor.  www.wolffer.com.

Posted by Meryl Pearlstein
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Highlights of New York City Parks: Manhattan and Brooklyn

Belvedere Castle at Central Park

The enormity of Central Park can be daunting. To get the most beautiful and highest views of the park and its cityscape, venture up the hill behind the Delacorte Theater to Belvedere Castle, set in the middle of the park near 79th street.  An old Victorian folly transformed to measure today’s weather patterns, the castle provides spectacular lookout points to the reservoir to the north and the Ramble to the south.  The architectural landmark is open Tuesdays through Sundays from April to October and Wednesdays through Sundays from November to March.  For hours of operation call 212-772-0210 or visit http://www.centralparknyc.org/visit/things-to-see/great-lawn/belvedere-castle.html

Central Park Conservancy, 14 E. 60th St, Manhattan

Carousels at Brooklyn Bridge Park and Battery Park

Within another park known for its striking views of Manhattan, the renovated Jane’s Carousel is a tribute to early 20th century design genius. Lovingly restored according to 1922 plans, the Carousel was re-installed in September 2011 in a grand pavilion designed by award-winning architect Jean Nouvel. The 48-horse carousel and its magical setting are magnets for families, wedding parties and history buffs. Operating year-round, the carousel spins from 11am-7pm daily for $2 a person (with the exception of Tuesdays).  Further information can be obtained by phone at 718-222-2502, or at www.janescarousel.com

Jane’s Carousel, 45 Main Street Suite 602, Brooklyn

Just opened, the SeaGlass Carousel in Battery Park takes the concept of a carousel and spins it on its head: a nautilus-type structure puts riders into 30 fish illuminated with LED lighting and accompanied by integrated audio throughout. Open 10am-10pm. Rides are $5 per person. http://www.seaglasscarousel.nyc/

Sea Glass Carousel, State Street at Pearl Street, Manhattan

Dog Runs at Carl Schurz Park

While Central Park allows dogs off leash before 9am and after 9pm, Carl Schurz Park offers exercise options all day long. Taking into account the differences in a dog’s size, this East River park has two separate dog runs: one for small dogs and one for large dogs.  Located at East End Avenue to the East River from Gracie Square (East 84th St.) to 89th Street. www.carlschurzparknyc.org.

Carl Schurz Park, 217 East 85th Street, Manhattan

Posted by Meryl Pearlstein
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Bourbon, Rum, Tequila, Vodka and Whiskey Bars

It’s time to move on to our next set of summer cocktail celebrations in the second exploration of the city’s single liquor bar craze.  Here are some fabulous one-note venues that will satisfy your taste for something a little heavier than bitters or champagne.

Bourbon

Blue Smoke: If you can pull yourself away from the heavenly smell of barbeque, head straight to the bar and be wowed by the extensive bourbon list. Those feeling overwhelmed by the selection can opt for the bourbon flights including one ounce tastes of Basil Hayden’s, Blanton’s, Russell’s Reserve, Jefferson’s Reserve, and Blue Smoke Single Barrel.

116 East 27th Street; 212-447-7733; http://bluesmoke.com/blue/

Blue Smoke

Fette Sau: This Brooklyn hotspot is truly deserving of its repeated “Best BBQ in NYC” designation, but it should be equally recognized for its selection of “America’s Native Spirit.” Sit at the bar or grab a picnic table and show your New York pride while enjoying Hudson Baby Bourbon, the first bourbon to be distilled in New York.

354 Metropolitan Avenue (Brooklyn); 718-963-3404; http://www.fettesaubbq.com/

Fette Sau

Rum

Cienfuegos: Step into this Cuban-style speakeasy and be transformed into a world of pinks and greens where the rum steals the show. Rums hail from Barbados, Martinique, Fiji, and Guyana—to name a few. Bring some friends along and make sure to order any of the punch bowls with recommendations including the Isla Punch and the Peach Jam. Each of the three-selection rum flights includes specialties aged to perfection such as the High Roller with Ron Zacapa Centerario 25-year, Mount Gay 1703 Old Cask selection, and El Dorado Vintage Reserve 25-year.

95 Avenue A; 212-614-6818; http://www.cienfuegosny.com

Cienfuegos

Tequila

La Biblioteca: The basement of Richard Sandoval’s Zengo may call out to bookworms, but instead of finding shelves of the classics, explore more than 400 varieties of tequila. Take notes on your favorites while lounging over the wooden library tables or purchase your favorite bottle and store it in your own tequila locker for up to six months. Show your library card to retrieve your bottle and have it served with homemade sangrita or a shaker, sour mix, and salt to design your own margarita. Brush up on your tequila studies on Tuesday nights at 5pm while meeting ambassadors from different distilleries.

622 Third Avenue; 212-808-8110; http://www.richardsandoval.com/labiblioteca/

La Biblioteca

Mayahuel: Celebrate Cinco de Mayo every day at Mayahuel and gain a fine appreciation for tequila. The dark and sexy design is complemented by the smoky Mezcals as well as the inventive tequila-featured cocktails, punches and flights. For an authentic agave experience, try any of the sotol, blanco, reposado, or añejo selections. Traditional bar fare and bites take on a Mexican twist with palomitas (popcorn with lime, cotija cheese, and ancho chili) and croquetas (black bean and plaintain with roasted red pepper or chorizo and cheese smoked tomato).

304 East 6th Street; 212-253-5888; http://mayahuelny.com

Mayahuel

Vodka

Russian Vodka Room: In this Theater District favorite, choose from 53 different featured vodkas or be adventurous and try the Russian Vodka Room’s homemade flavor-infused vodkas. The brave at heart can try the horseradish or garlic, pepper, and dill vodkas. A traditional Russian menu accompanies the vodka, with highlights including the Gravlox with potato pancakes, assorted caviar selections, and pan seared veal blintzes.

265 West 52nd Street; 212-307-5835; http://www.russianvodkaroom.com/

Russian Vodka Room

Whiskey

Brandy Library: This TriBeCa favorite does boast a menu with almost any spirit you can think of, but its whiskey offerings are especially impressive. Browse through the 21-page whiskey menu online if you fear the anxiety coming on — you’ll find whiskeys from all over the world including selections from India and Japan, definitely enough to make your head spin without even a sip. Make sure to check in with any of the librarians for recommendations and suggestions.

25 North Moore Street; 212-226-5545; http://brandylibrary.com

Brandy Library:

Whiskey Tavern: Whiskey Tavern brings the feel of an authentic tavern to Chinatown with its old wooden booths and floors. Come for the game and enjoy your favorite whiskey with some traditional pub fare. True whiskey lovers should bravely order the pickle back, a shot of whiskey accompanied by a shot of pickle juice.

79 Baxter Street; 212-374-9119; http://whiskeytavernnyc.com/

Whiskey Tavern
Posted by Meryl Pearlstein
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Enjoy Bitters and Champagne? Try These Specialty NYC Bars

With summer in full swing, kick back and relax with your favorite drink of choice at some of NYC’s finest specialty spots. Start your journey with the lighter offerings from these single-liquor venues, where you can indulge in the current craze for bitters or toast the night away with all the bubbly you’d ever want.

Bitters

Amor y Amargo: Welcome New York City’s first bitters-centered bar, the brainchild of the famous bitters company Bittermens and Ravi DeRossi, father of other great liquor bars Mayahuel, Cienfuegos, and Death & Co. The intimate space features popular favorites like the 8 Amaro Sazerac and bespoke cocktails such as Negronis, Manhattans and Old Fashioneds, served dealer’s choice (they decide on the ingredients) or drinker’s choice (you decide). An indulgent tapas menu is served as well.

443 East 6th St; 212-614-6818; http://amoryamargony.com/

Amor y Amargo

Champagne

The Champagne Bar at The Plaza: Overlook the Pulitzer Fountain and Fifth Avenue as you enjoy your favorite champagne, caviar, and wines at The Champagne Bar. The bar, set in the lobby of the legendary Plaza Hotel, evokes the same old-time elegance and pristine as the original Champagne Porch opened in 1907. Order by the glass or the bottle, or sip one of the bar’s distinctive champagne cocktails including the Imperial Plaza, Rose Club Sparkle, and Imperial Tea Blossom.

Fifth Avenue at Central Park South; 212-759-3000; http://www.theplaza.com/dining/champagne-bar/

The Champagne Bar at The Plaza

Flûte: Flûte Gramercy and Flûte Midtown bring the same glamour to Manhattan as their counterpart in Paris. The sexy champagne bars sparkle with champagne bottles as a backdrop behind the bar as well as with candle-lit tables, fireplaces and original artwork. Enjoy popular favorites such as Veuve Clicquot by the flute or any of the triple flight selections. Flûte also takes a spin on other classic drinks with its cocktail menu including the Bellini-tini, white champagne sangria, champagne pisco sour, Dark and Stormy, and champagne mojito.

40 East 20th Street; 212-529-7870; http://www.flutebar.com/location/new-york-gramercy/ and 205 West 54th Street; 212-265-5269; http://www.flutebar.com/location/new-york/

Posted by Meryl Pearlstein
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Last Chance to see Some of Broadway’s Best – Shows Closing Starting This Weekend

On the 20th CenturyOn the Twentieth Century – Tony and Drama Desk award-winner Kristin Chenoweth will finally disembark in New York when On the Twentieth Century closes this weekend on July 19.  This catchy, silly romp on a train, which also features the stunningly talented Peter Gallagher, is filled with musical richesse from Cy Coleman, Betty Comden and Adolph Green. www.roundabouttheatre.org. American Airlines Theatre, 227 West 42nd Street.

Fish in the DarkFish in the Dark – Larry David’s kooky family comedy has the kind of outrageousness you’d find on his TV show. The lead is now played by Seinfeld and Broadway veteran Jason Alexander, and you have just a few more days to see it as it closes July 18. www.fishinthedark.com. Cort Theatre, 138 West 48th Street.

An Act of God – What could be more intriguing than having Sheldon (Big Bang Theory) play the role of God on Broadway? Jim Parsons embodies the divine as he explains creation.  Adding to the irreverence, the show takes place at the former Studio 54 disco. Closing August 2. www.anactofgod.com. Studio 54, 254 West 54th Street.

It Shoulda Been YouIt Shoulda Been You – Surprising twists, laughs, and witty dialogue are all in this no-intermission musical about two dysfunctional and disparate families. If you saw the Tonys, you know how talented Lisa Howard is and you won’t want to miss her star turn here. Closing August 9. www.itshouldabeenyou.com. Brooks Atkinson Theatre, 256 West 47th Street.

Mamma Mia – Come on, you know you can’t resist dancing to Abba’s catchy tunes. Maybe you’ve even since this show once, but the time to get tickets is coming to an end. Closing September 12, Mamma Mia has been entertaining Broadway audiences since 2001. Which one’s her dad? You won’t ever know unless you see the play. www.mammamianorthamerica.com. Broadhurst Theatre, 236 West 44th Street.

Posted by Meryl Pearlstein
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Free Things to Do This Summer

If you think everything in New York costs too much, well, you’re right—almost. In fact, the city has tons of free attractions and activities; here are some summer faves.

Brooklyn BridgeWalk across the Brooklyn Bridge (or part of it) for a spectacular view of the Financial District and One World Trade Center, Brooklyn, the seaport, and Manhattan. If you’re still energized, you can visit Brooklyn Bridge Park, a beautiful setting blessed with unobstructed city views.

Grab a distinctively different park experience by hiking the High Line. Where else but in New York could you smell the flowers, admire art and score some superb people watching along a former railroad track? If you happen to be there on Friday between 7 and 9:30pm, stop by the new Whitney Museum. Admission is free (you can pay what you wish).

Ride the Staten Island ferry (and back) to see the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the southern tip of Manhattan from the water.

Catch a free outdoor movie screening in Soundview Park (Bronx), Bryant Park (Manhattan), on Pier 1 in Riverside Park (Manhattan), Brooklyn Bridge Park, Sunset Park (Brooklyn), Willowbrook Park (Staten Island), Simeone Park (Queens) or at the Socrates Sculpture Garden (Queens). Schedules are posted weekly.

FishingGo catch-and-release fishing at Harlem Meer with free poles and bait to borrow from the Dana Discovery Center.

Wander Battery Park City’s waterfront promenade. The breeze, occasional concerts, fun parks and playgrounds, and passing boats will make you forget you’re in the gritty city, although the view of the Statue of Liberty will remind you that you couldn’t be anywhere but New York.

TrapeseWatch wannabe trapeze artists swing and soar at the New York Trapeze School along the Hudson River at Pier 40 in Manhattan, or at 3029 Stillwell Ave. in Coney Island

Island Hop to Governors Island by ferry. In this historic and expansive park setting you can bike, take a tram ride, and absorb the great views of the city.

Taste the treats at the Union Square greenmarket (Mon., Wed., Fri., Sat.), where farmers offer samples of organically grown produce, hand-pressed juices, artisanal cheeses, and fresh bread.

Stroll the Coney Island boardwalk and play on the beach for some old-school kitsch. Although the outrageous Mermaid Parade and the gluttonous Fourth of July hot-dog-eating contest have passed, there’s plenty to see to keep you entertained.

Check out the street performers around New York’s parks: break-dancers in Union Square and by Central Park’s Bethesda Fountain, nutty unicyclists in Washington Square, and Statue of Liberty clones in Battery Park and Times Square along the pedestrian-only Broadway promenade. The entertainers situated near the subway (or in the subway – enter for only $2.75) are better than you’d expect—to perform, they must first be vetted by committee.

Conservatory GardensStroll among the paths in the Central Park Conservatory Garden for gorgeous, gorgeous flowers, and idyllic formal gardens.

Attend a storytelling hour or author talk at Barnes & Noble. You can check schedules and store locations online.

Visit a museum. Many, many of New York City’s best collections offer hours, days, or nights when admission is free for all. You can view the complete schedule here.

Posted by Meryl Pearlstein
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