Flip at Bloomingdale's

Last night I popped into Flip (a create-a-burger restaurant) inside Bloomingdale's flagship 59th Street store. (don't take me for a Bloomingdale's shopper, but sometimes they're good for basics like belts and tie bars) I'd dined there a few times before and had always been more or less 'pleased' with the food and service. But last night's experience was horrific.

I approached the unstaffed podium to be greeted by the host who was seated at the bar, watching The Travel Channel on the bar's flat screen TV. After confirming that I was "one," he escorted me to a table that looked like it had recently been the place for a six year old's birthday party. The banquette was littered with food as well as the floor, but at least my sitting perimeter was (just barely) crumb-free. I was handed the menus and as I opened one, accidentally knocked the pepper shaker onto the floor (which I'm pretty sure my server noticed). But following proper etiquette, I didn't pick it up and place it back on the table. Nonetheless, the shaker stayed on the floor, throughout the course of my meal, along with the rest of the debris. (and was never replaced--I had to ask for another, later)

Being seated, I could clearly distinguish the detritus that surrounded me on the floor. (just a sampling)

• A stepped upon French fry--completely flattened like blackened gum on a city sidewalk
• ⅓ of a strip of bacon
• Ketchup drippings 
• Crumbs of varying shapes, sizes and colors

Had Flip been a dark and cavernous restaurant, with dark wood paneling and banquettes, I may have forgiven some of the debris. But Flip's atmosphere is very "west coast" (in my opinion)--lots of light and neutral colors. So the clearly visible tableside litter was clearly not an oversight, but rather just sheer laziness (additionally, I was one of only three diners on the entire floor).

Returning attention to the menu, I decided upon creating my own burger: refined (wagyu beef), with chèvre on an onion and sage brioche bun and a side of steak fries ($5 extra). I also ordered an "individual bottle" of Saint Hilaire sparkling wine ($14) which did arrive in a timely manner, but was never offered any water, which I had to ask for later as well. My dish arrived shortly thereafter and was pleasing enough although I wish Flip offered dijon mustard instead of just yellow.

After I'd finished my burger and was about to enjoy my pickle spear, I noticed a hair on my tomato. I waited for a member of the staff to approach my table before informing: "Everything was wonderful, except for this." I pointed to the hair, not wanting to cause a scene in front of the other diners to which my server dumbly replied, "What's that?"

"There's a hair on my tomato."

(snicker) "Oh--sorry about that."

"You can take this away, I'm done with it."

The server also took my mustard, which I was still using for my fries (dished separately). I had to ask for more.

Many minutes passed before the manager (I assume) finally came over to my table and said, "I understand there was a hair in your food?"

"Yes. But I didn't say that because I wanted something taken off my check--I just wanted to let you know."

Shortly thereafter, my server returned with my check and informed me that the fries had been taken off. (appropriate enough) But, I had wanted to at least look at the dessert menu. I had to ask for that too. Later that evening I'd gotten the same upset stomach that I'd gotten the last time I ate there. I thought it was the dish I had ordered, but this time I ordered something different and still received the same end result.

Flip has really gone downhill. About a year ago, or less, I had lunch there with a friend and we ordered a bottle of champagne and received proper wine service and all... But it seems that the good staff at Flip has gone and they've taken the broom with them!

Designer Sample Sale to Benefit Japan

FASHION GIRLS FOR JAPAN

60+ DESIGNERS/60+ ROLLING RACKS

In an effort to show support for the recent earthquake and tsunami victims in Japan, Fashion Girls for Japan will host a special two day designer sample sale to benefit Japan Society’s Japan Earthquake Relief Fund, the Red Cross and the NYC’s Japan Earthquake and Tsunami Fund to be held at the Bowery Terrace in The Bowery Hotel on Saturday, April 2nd, from 11 a. m. to 7 p. m. and Sunday, April 3rd, from 11 a. m. to 5 p. m. 100% of the proceeds from the sales will go towards disaster relief efforts.

More than sixty New York-based designers have come together--including Alexander Wang, Altuzzara, Derek Lam, Diane von Furstenberg, Doo Ri, Marc Jacobs, Proenza Schouler, Rag + Bone, Thakoon and several accessories designers--and pledged to donate ‘one rolling rack’ of their clothing for this charity event. All items will be offered at 50% or more off the retail price.

Another Hate Crime in NYC (of all places)

It took me a moment, to decide whether or not I should post this here (a food blog), but given that I hold a platform not held by everyone else, I figured I should put the privilege to good use. I recently noticed, on my Facebook news feed, a post about yet another gay-bashing, right here, in New York City (and in the West Village, no less). I instantly reposted the item to which a friend commented: "so sad... where is the outrage? this is happening in the heart of the west village!!!" I tried to think about ways I could help; I figured this is the least I could do.

From stephww.wordpress.com:

Twenty six year old Damian Furtch was on his way home from work at a restaurant late Saturday night, when he stopped off at a McDonald's in NYC’s West Village (a predominantly gay area) to get some food. It was approximately 4:30 a. m. While inside the restaurant Damian noticed two men staring at him – giving him “looks” – we have all been there, we know what this feels like. It was late, Damian was tired, he felt uncomfortable and he didn’t want any trouble so he left. He was across the street, walking away while on the phone to a friend when the two men from McDonald's approached him and asked him “if he had a problem.” Before he knew it he was punched in the face by one man, then instantly felt another punch by the second perpetrator, and then he heard it – “You Fucking Faggot,” the words as hurtful as the punches.

Damian managed to get away – but not before suffering a severe beating to his face – and head to the nearest hospital where the police were called. He filed a police report and the cops appropriately asked him if [the attackers] used any slurs. Damian said, "Yes, they called me a faggot." Now these two [men] are wanted in connection to a hate crime. Damian got four stitches and they [had] to break and re-set his nose.

One of the perpetrators has a huge tattoo of a gothic cross under his left eye... it was approximately two inches. Damian will be going to the precinct to go through mug shots and the police have subpoenaed the video surveillance tape from McDonald's.

Thank God, Damian is alive.

Take a stand for Damian against the epidemic of hate in this country. It doesn’t stop here… this is where it starts.

I commend Damian on his bravery for coming forward, for not being ashamed as to what happened. When I spoke to him on the phone he kept trying to blame himself, "I was dressed a certain way" (the restaurant Damian works at requires the staff to wear a certain attire that could be perceived by some to be flamboyant) – not that it should matter, it’s NYC in 2011 right??… Yeah. Damian then continued, “It was late…” I told him it was NOT his fault for being who he is or where he was. I am working on getting the video from McDonald's and will post it here once it is released.

I am committed to seeking justice for Damian. Please stand with me on this issue and add Damian as a friend on Facebook – let him know his is not alone in this fight…

Additionally, click comments to read Barie Shortell's speech at his recent Gay Bash benefit.

Italian... Riesling?

Cavit Italian Riesling

Last week while David was preparing dinner, he sent me out to pick up some wine. "But no [sparkling]!" At the corner liquor store I scanned the whites looking for something appropriate. I asked the shopkeeper if he could recommend a white that wasn't chardonnay (David "hates" chardonnay) and that wasn't too dry... but not as sweet as a riesling. He asked if I'd be interested in trying the Cavit riesling. ($11) Never having had it before, I was up for trying something new.

Once home, I pulled the bottle out of the bag to examine the label and became a bit concerned... The wine was from Italy. If there's one thing I learned in wine class it's that Italy is all about the reds. But upon further examination I also read: Indicazione Geographica Tipica (typical of that terrior); perhaps it wouldn't be so bad.

Upon first taste: much more acid than you'd expect from a riesling and big, juicy flavor. It paired suitably with David's Asian-inspired cashew and celery dish and reading the back label confirmed: "Enjoy on its own or with sushi, spicy foods and Asian-inspired dishes." But for a "budget" riesling, I'd still prefer a bottle of Château Ste. Michelle.

De Wine Spot: Restocked

Fully stocked shelves at De Wine Spot

If you happened to notice that the shelves at De Wine Spot were a bit bare throughout the fall of 2010, you weren't alone. De Wine Spot has recently changed hands, but nonetheless is still standing to serve wine and sake (plus more) to Williamsburg's finest.

Friday, while enjoying a cookie plate and prosecco at Lure (do stop by and try pastry chef Katie McAlllister's updated cookie plate with a new pecan shortbread cookie), I read on my Facebook mobile feed:

de wine spot wine tasting tonite • seven 2 nine • we ♥ pinot noir

I decided to stop by.

HOPPING on a Canarsie bound L train, I got off at Lorimer Street and walked the short walk south to 428 Lorimer. I was instantly wowed by De Wine Spot's fully replenished shelves. Among them I noticed: Moët & Chandon, Veuve Clicquot, Fernet Branca, Campari, Absolut Brooklyn, a handful of top shelf whiskies and bourbons (including a locally distilled whiskey) and of course, plenty of wine and sake.

I stayed for an hour or so and watched the influx of shoppers and listened in on guest-to-shopkeeper banter. A pair of men walked in to examine the locally distilled whiskies (they were looking for a whiskey with "peat") and happily walked away with an $89 bottle. Another shopper was simply pleased with De Wine Spot's late night hours: "You're the only place open [late], otherwise you have to go all the way to Grand [Street]." But one thing that seemed to resound with most shoppers was their approval of the restocked goods: "The last time I came in here it looked like Old Mother Hubbard's cupboard!"

Become a fan of De Wine Spot on Facebook to keep abreast of weekly wine tastings and more.

Blue Ribbon Bakery's Special of The Week

Stop by Blue Ribbon Bakery this week for a delicious special: braised pork ravioli with grilled white asparagus, hen of the woods mushrooms, demi-glace and black truffles!

Dine Out for Japan

Now through Wednesday, March 30th, participating restaurants will donate 5%* from every breakfast, lunch and dinner meal toward disaster relief efforts in Japan and throughout the Pacific. Participating restaurants (and counting) include:

ABC Kitchen

Aburiya Kinnosuke

Alice's Tea Cups

Asia de Cuba at Morgans

Bar Basque

Bar Italia

Bogota Bistro

Brasserie Ruhlmann

Captain Bill's

Carte Blanche

Cha-An

China Grill

Choshi

Crabtree's Kittle House

Curry-Ya

Decibel

Donguri

Ed's Chowder House

The Empire Hotel Rooftop

FoodParc

Hakata Tonton

Havana Central

Hasaki

Ippudo NY

Jack the Horse Taven

Jojo

Ko Sushi

Kyotofu

Le Colonial Restaurant

Madison

The Mark Restaurant

The Mercer Kitchen

North Square Restaurant

Orsay

Otakufu

PDT

Perry Street

Plunge at Gansevoort Meatpacking

Rai Rai Ken

Robataya

Sakagura

SD26

Shabu-tatsu

Shimizu

Sobaya

Soba Totto

Sugar Bun Bakery

Tanuki Tavern

Telepan

Totto Ramen

Yakitori Totto

For more details, please visit: www.nysra.org/DineOutForJapan.
*A minimum of 1% and a maximum of 5% will be donated during the week.

Deluxe "Varsity" American Apparel Hoodie

Now available at our official store

Plus: Now through April 4th, receive a $10 coupon on any purchase over $50. Simply use the coupon code: SPRING2011 or CADSPRING2011. Offer valid in all Spreadshirt shops and will reduce the total purchase amount by $10.

CORPS EXQUIS at Webster Hall!

If you missed TRANSIT's premiere of CORPS EXQUIS, last October at Galapagos Art Space (to stellar reviews from Theme Magazine), this Sunday, March 27, you'll have another chance as CORPS EXQUIS receives its grand incarnation at iconic New York venue, Webster Hall.

The performance is part of a twelve hour arts festival that will completely take over the building for the presentation of creative works of every discipline presented by the QAS, an organization that promotes emerging artists while celebrating the history of the venue’s connection to the city.

Corps Exquis will be presented in the Grand Ballroom, and the splendor of the room and its excellent video capabilities will make this a show not to be missed!

Tickets can be purchased for $15 in advance here or for $20 at the door.

Ticket includes admittance for the entire festival. So stick around as long as you like after the performance, or arrive early and check out some of the other contributing artists.

CORPS EXQUIS at Webster Hall

March 27, 7:30 p. m.

125 East 11th Street, between 3rd & 4th Avenues

4, 5, 6, N, Q, R, W, L to Union Square


Check out a clip of CORPS EXQUIS' world premiere at Galapagos Art Space in DUMBO!

CORPS EXQUIS is a special project between composer Daniel Wohl, the TRANSIT collective and emerging video artists. With their feet firmly planted in the creative brainstorm of New York City's underground new music and contemporary art scenes, these artists join forces to create a large-scale performance piece that crosses artistic boundaries while speaking directly to contemporary culture.

The Surrealists developed the exquisite corpse parlor game in 1920s Paris in which a piece of art is collectively assembled. Each player is assigned a section, but only allowed a glimpse of the very end of the previous player's contribution; no one sees the final piece until each individual section is completed. In this way, a cohesive work is assembled, but each contributor's identity remains distinct in his work. CORPS EXQUIS uses this process to create a seamless multimedia experience that exists at the intersection of video installation, rock concert, avant-garde cinema, and experimental music.

Gazelle in Paris

My dear friend Gazelle seems to be having the time of his life in 'gay Paris' and I must say that I am just a touch envieux...

Having a croque-madame and people-watching at La Cométe...

(Rue des Archives at Rue de La Vennerie)

riding La Belle Epoque Carrousel in front of Place de l'Hotel de Ville...

(a block and one-half from Cafe de La Cométe)

and of course, strolling near the Arc de Triomphe...

Read about these travels and more on his blog www.freakchic.com.

Get Hip for Spring!

i ♥ champagne

New t-shirt designs are now available at our official store! Shipping is just $4.50 and turnaround is only 1-2 business days.

Left: Slim-fit retro sport tee in 100% cotton, available in four color options.

$30.49**

in an ultra-hip fit!

Visit the webstore to view other designs starting at just $22.99.

**Spring is coming to get you! Prepare to swap your old rags for some new threads! On any purchase over $50 receive a $10 coupon. Simply use coupon code: SPRING2011 or CADSPRING2011. Offer valid now thru April 4th. Offer valid in all Spreadshirt shops and will reduce the total purchase amount by $10.

Strip 'Tea' Glasses

females and matching coasters available as well

One of the gifts David received for his birthday this year was a set of four 'strip he glasses' from Fishs Eddy who is currently selling them at 20% off through March 23rd! They certainly spice up our Sunday brunch! (thanks Glenn)

Happy St. Paddy's Day!

Chandon Green Brut!

Yes, it really is green Chandon. But sadly, it was sold for one day only, last St. Patrick's Day... (this year, I guess you'll just have to dye it yourself) If you're looking to spruce up your traditional corned beef and cabbage dinner in addition to your bubbly, Napa Valley Wine Examiner Laird Durham brings you this recipe for "the best corned beef and cabbage dinner you will ever cook" with stir-fried cabbage and rosemary roasted potatoes.

For the corned beef:

3 oranges, sliced ¼ inch thick
2 large yellow onions, sliced ¼ inch thick
⅓ cup white wine
1 vacuum-packed corned beef (brisket preferred) Shenson or Western Family brands (3-4 pounds)

• Make a large wrap of aluminum foil by folding sheets from the roll together. Use three sheets, three feet long from the standard size roll, or two sheets from the large size. Join the sheets by folding the edges of two sheets on top of each other three times to form a good seal using about an inch of each sheet.
• Make a platform in the center of the wrap with a layer of orange slices topped with a layer of onion slices. Place the corned beef on the platform, then put the rest of the onion and orange slices on top and along side. Bring the sides of the foil up and fold them together three times.
• Next, roll one end of the foil up, and raise the other end so you can add the wine. Add the spice packet that comes with the meat. Then roll that end up. Put it in a baking pan in case it leaks, and cook in a 230° oven for five to seven hours depending on the size of the meat.
• Let it cool enough to touch. Open the wrap, put the corned beef on a cutting board. Discard the liquid, oranges, and onions. Slice the corned beef against the grain.

For the potatoes:

6 large white or gold potatoes
¼ cup butter or olive oil
3 tablespoons chopped rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste

• Cut the potatoes into ¾ inch pieces, with skins. Dry with paper towels.
• Melt butter in a pot and stir potatoes in the butter to coat.
• After removing the corned beef, turn up the oven to 400°. Put the potatoes in a shallow baking pan and bake until they start to brown, about thirty minutes.
• Add chopped rosemary to the pot with the butter and re-toss hot potatoes in the rosemary butter. Season with salt and pepper.
• Put back in the oven to finish browning--five to ten minutes--not so long that the rosemary burns.

For the cabbage:
½ head of cabbage
1 bunch of green Swiss chard, stalks removed
12 leaves fresh basil
Salt and pepper to taste
Two dashes of Louisiana Hot Sauce (optional)
3 tablespoons peanut oil

• Quarter the cabbage and cut out the core. Slice like slaw and remove the thick heavy pieces.
• Slice the Swiss chard leaves and basil to match the cabbage.
• After putting the potatoes in the oven for the second time, in a wok or large frying pan, heat the peanut oil until it shimmers, then add the cabbage, chard, and basil.
• Stir continually on high until the cabbage is al dente. Season with salt and pepper and Louisiana hot sauce. For variety, sauté sliced onions or sliced apples before adding the cabbage.
• Don't over cook.

And click here for Laird's wine pairing suggestions.

David's Home: No More Cracker Dinners

better than their brut

DAVID returned from his one week "mini-tour" upstate which means for me that the cook is back in the kitchen! (David doesn't let me cook--he cooks and I clean) David and I had both eaten a late lunch so when I got home from work, he continued to work on his grant application while I went to work on my blog. At around nine, David peeked his head into the refrigerator and said, "We have no wine," followed by, "I think I'll be getting hungry soon." I didn't need to ask...

I put on my coat and shoes and headed downstairs to the corner liquor store to pick up a bottle of our "house" bubbly, Segura Viudas cava. ($12) I usually go for Segura's brut cava, but after a couple of bottles I realized I was quite against the brut. I decided--this time--to instead purchase the extra dry (sweeter than brut) Segura Viudas.

While David prepared dinner, I uncorked the cava and filled two chilled champagne flutes. Almost instantly, I knew I liked the extra dry better than the brut. The extra dry Segura seemed to have so much more flavor than the brut Segura. As I sucked my palate after each sip, relishing the wine's newfound taste, David set the table with our first dish: herb salad (Italian parsley and chopped parmesan).

David's herb salad

David always 'recommends' eating back and forth (no eating one thing at a time); so naturally, he also set the table with: spiced yogurt crostini.

David's delicious spiced yogurt crostini 

My photo may not do the dish justice, but it looked absolutely wonderful with bright and arresting color! (and they were delicious!) The Segura paired beautifully with dinner and I even said to David, "I feel like we're eating at The Breslin!" For dessert, David whipped up a sweet and creamy corn pudding for two:

a happy ending

Gay Bash: A Benefit For Barie Shortell

Re-posted from ThatGreenPointBlog.com. My heart truly goes out to Mr. Shortell...

A gentleman named Michael writes:

Hi Miss Heather –

I was hoping you could spread the word about a hate crime that happened a few weeks ago in Williamsburg, on the corner of N. 4th St. and Wythe. A friend of mine who lives in the area, Barie Shortell, was attacked on the way home one evening. He was not robbed, but the people attacking him did mock him with anti-gay taunts before they attacked him... breaking his nose, jaw and eye socket. The attack has been deemed a hate crime.

Barie is doing much better but is not insured and will certainly still have a way to go in recovery…more surgeries are guaranteed.

• An account has been set up in his name for donations.
• Additionally, a Facebook page has been created.
• There will also be a benefit at the Blackout Bar in Greenpoint next Wednesday the 23rd to raise funds.

Any attention we can draw to this would be amazing. Barie could really use the support and people should know that this kind of shit is happening right here right now!

Duly posted. For what it is worth I heard about this disgusting act at last week’s Community Board meeting. It was described as being "pretty bad." This is an understatement (he was in surgery for over nine hours to have his face reconstructed). Please be a good neighbor and help spread the word about what happened to Mr. Shortell. Those who are able, please tender a donation to help defray medical bills and/or attend the previously mentioned fundraiser at Blackout:

Gay Bash: A Benefit For Barie Shortell
Wednesday, March 23 2011 starting at 7:00 p.m.
Blackout Bar
916 Manhattan Avenue
Brooklyn, New York 11222
Cost of admission: $35.00 (includes three hour open bar)

Let’s show ‘em that we north Brooklynites take care of our own!

Miss Heather

An Easy & Trendy Recipe from F&W

 Bar du Square's sardine toasts

Sardine Toasts
6 servings

Ingredients:
24 baguette slices, cut on the diagonal ⅓ inch thick
Extra-virgin olive oil, for brushing
¾ cup balsamic vinegar
2 cans (3.75 ounces each) olive oil-packed sardines, drained
Flaky salt, such as Maldon

• Preheat oven to 400°. Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and brush generously with olive oil. Toast for about ten minutes, until the bread is golden brown; let cool.
• Meanwhile, in a small saucepan, boil the balsamic vinegar over moderately high heat until reduced to ¼ cup, about twelve minutes; let cool.
• Arrange the toasts on a platter and top with the sardines. Drizzle with a little of the reduced balsamic. Serve with flaky salt for sprinkling.

www.foodandwine.com

Pizza & Bubbly at the Marriott Marquis and Le Poisson Rouge

my mobile upload

Saturday evening I was feeling a tad down and wanted to go somewhere where I could feel like I was on top of the world. I went to the Marriott Marquis hotel, in Times Square.

I'd passed through their eighth floor lounge once or twice and remembered that it had a decent view above Times Square. Exiting the elevator, I headed east toward "Broadway Lounge" where I scoped out and found a suitable seat overlooking the pedestrians and traffic below. A server approached my table promptly and asked if I'd like to start off with a drink to which I replied, "a glass of Perrier-Jouët." ($18) I wanted some real champagne!

The Perrier was satisfyingly cold and crisp and after browsing the menu, I decided upon four cheese pizza. (my server confirmed that the crust is made fresh, not pre-made) The $16 rectangular pizza arrived on a long wooden charcuterie board and was pre-sliced into several portions. The crust was thin, as my server had said it would be, but perhaps a little too thin; portions of the crust were reminiscent of matzah bread. As for the toppings, they were tasty enough... simple to the point of being foolproof.

I'd also like to add that my server, who was very attentive and (seemed) genuine, was almost as memorable as the champagne.

Sunday night I went to see David perform with Signal music ensemble at Le Poisson Rouge in a double performance show. Le Poisson's viewing area consists of standing room and tables--at which there is a two item minimum. Being a long day at the restaurant, I opted for a table. From the wine list, I selected a glass of Stellina Di Notte prosecco. ($11)

LPR's house sparkler

Being that the show had already begun and everyone was trying to be as quiet and unobtrusive as possible, I took my first sip of prosecco without my usual inspections which I had learned in wine class. (a swirl, smell and a taste--slurp some air over it...) Perhaps it was because I had not been able to focus on the attributes of the prosecco as much as I would have liked to, but I found the prosecco to be absolutely delicious--the closest comparison to champagne I've ever had with a sparkler.

Soon thereafter, my server returned to take my food order. I opted for the truffle oil and goat cheese pizza. ($16) My server pointed out that the pizza also comes with mushrooms and caramelized onions, which I was glad she did; I thought the listings were options. The pizza arrived while I was enjoying my second glass of prosecco and I was surprised to see it topped with a salad. Nonetheless, like the mushrooms and onions, it was a welcome addition.

The pizza was really quite lovely and combined with the champagne-like prosecco, was a winning meal. The only drawback with my "entrée" was that the crust was a bit too thin and crunchy and didn't seem "made to order." However, as far as venue dining goes, Le Poisson Rouge is certainly a hands-down winner.

On my last visit to "LPR," I enjoyed a Caesar salad with homemade dressing, lemon confit, parmesan tuile and white anchovies (the last ingredient, my own choice) which was quite good. And adding to the eerie elegance at LPR is the forever-blue lighting which casts a fluorescent glow, making for a truly other-wordly dining experience!

blue fish at Le Poisson Rouge

The FBTOT Spring Store is now Open!

(Eco-friendly natural canvas tote)

Our brand new spring store is now open for business with an all-new cotton canvas tote for spring! The new tote is large enough to carry all your things for a picnic or a day at the beach and at our webstore you'll also find two different tees in sizes for children and adults. Visit the store by clicking here!

Stylish Blogger Award - Part 2

The second 'task' upon being awarded the Stylish Blogger Award is to post ten other bloggers, on your blog, to whom you will "grant" an award. My first thought upon learning this was that I don't even read ten blogs, let alone think of ten that I'd like to pass an award along to. But the more I thought, the more I realized I can certainly think of ten other stylish bloggers... Here they are.

1. la daily musto

By all means, Mr. Musto does not "need" a stylish blogger award... As a matter of fact, he probably doesn't even want one. But Mr. Musto's blog is always my top go-to blog. I can only hope to someday be as witty as him...

2. freakchic.com

The blurb--straight from the "gazelle's" mouth: "All things freak, but not necessarily chic."

(that's all I'm saying about this one; you'll have to go there for yourself)

3. Balsamic Reduction

This is a blog I'd recently discovered which just happens to authored by a former co-worker of mine. But find no bias here--it's a terrific blog! Candied orange peels recipe... need I say more?

4. the coolbirth kid

Okay (New Yorkers), so he's from New Jersey. But hey--so was Debbie Harry. He can get a bit over-poetic at times, but in the words of Patricia Neal, in Breakfast at Tiffany's: "I am a very stylish girl." In this case, he, being the I. Or at least his blog is.

5. Paul Alexander's Blog

Paul was one of the first people I'd met upon moving to New York City over a decade ago and he's always been a such a darling to me... (the gentleman's got charm!) His blog is filled with photos of all the things you wish you were doing... every night of the week.

6. The Choz-Files

... or "From The Mixed Up Files of Cragle T. Chosweiler." Mr. Chosney is another good friend of mine, who just so happens to be nuts. (just kidding; he's actually quite the genius) Do check out his 'haul videos.'

7. Ham Flavored Blog

This blog showcases the artwork of a good friend of mine who happens to be hugely talented. I'm keeping my fingers crossed for this one...

8. A-B Fashion

... just because he reminds me what it was like to be new to New York.

9. ONE OF POINTS

This sixteen year old Dutch boy in western Netherlands is obsessed with shopping--and himself. But what sixteen year old isn't, right?

10. one paranoid android

And how could I put together a "top ten" list of blogs without mentioning the blog of one of my all-time favorite people? The answer: I couldn't. Read On Being A Throw Up Ninja to find out the fate of the above referenced duck club.

So there you have it, in my opinion, ten very stylish bloggers...

Getting Creative (how to have a gourmet meal for $16)

Today was the one day of the week that I work a lunch shift and on my way home I stopped at PJ Wine to take another peek in their bargain bins...

I decided I was only going to allow myself to spend whatever cash I had in my wallet, and no more. The evening's budget: $16. PJ still had the Dibon I'd had the other night, but wanted to try something different. I instead selected Ca' Furlan prosecco, cuvée "Beatrice"--whatever that means; I guess they name their vats. The Beatrice was a dollar more than the Dibon, costing me $8.97 for the bottle.

Ca' Furlan prosecco, $8.97

Leaving PJ Wine, I was left with $6 for "miscellaneous goods." Even though David did lots of cooking before he left for his one week tour and recording, I was getting tired of scalloped potatoes and decided to have a wine and cheese night.

I was in the mood for something creamy, that I could spread on crackers, but the best match I could find was farmer's cheese, which I'd never had before and didn't want to take a risk buying something that wouldn't be suitable for dinner. After thoroughly browsing all of Fine Fare's cheeses, I decided to inspect their "cured meats and such" department. I landed upon taramoslata, Greek caviar spread; $4.99.

Great at the beach.

I'd purchased the spread, once before, and it was a hit at Rockaway Beach. I thought it was due time to try it again.

With just $1 remaining, I rifled through my head trying to decide upon a companionable dessert. I thought a Skor bar would be a suitable finish, but was unable to find one anywhere. At CVS, I decided upon a Reese's peanut butter egg--one of my favorite holiday candies. 87¢. Once home, I placed the prosecco and caviar in the refrigerator while I tended to some domestic duties. At about 9:30, I decided it was high time for dinner and began preparing my meal.

Now this particular taramosalta pairs best with Carr's water crackers, but since they were not within my budget, I figured the Wasa fiber crispbread I had at home would suffice. After breaking a few crackers and assembling them into a ramekin, I opened the jar of taramosalta and was instantly wooed by its beauty.

Pink...

... like spring.

The taromosalata was saltier than I'd remembered and I think it would have been better served colder. If memory serves best, it was best enjoyed over ice, at the beach... (and definitely with Carr's water crackers)

Nonetheless, I still enjoyed the spread. Once I'd emptied both ramekins of their contents, it was time for dessert--which I'd decided to take up a notch.

Reese's peanut butter egg.

I've begun noticing that at almost every fine dining establishment, the pastry chef almost always sprinkles confectioner's sugar on your dessert--no matter what you order. While I was in the checkout line at CVS, I thought a doily would be nice touch for my "Easter egg," but wasn't about to go on a search for those... the powdered sugar seemed to work just fine. Taking things up yet another notch, I employed utensils to enjoy my confection with.

Keeping it classy!

So this, my friend, is how you can have a "gourmet" meal, for just $16. (I even have some prosecco left!) Additionally, I think I could open up my own restaurant or 'gastropub.' At $4.99 a jar, I'd charge $9 for a "serving" of taromosalta and crackers (which uses up not even a fifth of the jar) and at $8.97 a bottle, $10 per glass of prosecco. That's way more than three times the mark up! I should start small though... East Village perhaps?

I'm a "Stylish Blogger"

Last week, I was awarded a "Stylish Blogger Award" by fellow blogger, Sarah Walton of Dubai-ified. What I didn't know was that I'm supposed to tell you (my readers) seven things about myself. Here we go:

1. I've been asked many times 'how I stay so skinny'; the answer is in Mireille Guiliano's French Women Don't Get Fat. I used to fluctuate in weight quite a bit, but ever since reading this book nearly five years ago, I've been able to maintain a desired weight.

The "non-diet" diet book.

2. I used to work at Patricia Field's (now defunct) SoHo boutique, Hotel Venus.

We had the best window displays in SoHo!

3. I've worked at both McDonald's and Burger King.

Not so good.

4. I drink instant coffee.

Just add water!

5. I enjoy cleaning (but don't always clean).

Not me.

6. I've deleted songs from my iTunes that I'm embarrassed to like.

Didn't you use to have "Dress You Up"?

7. I love walking. When I used to live on 106th Street, I'd walk to Chinatown on the weekends--it'd take me three hours.

Not so good for my shoes...

I think my 'seven things' were supposed to be a little more in depth. But... whatever. If you've been a regular reader of this blog you probably already know enough about me!