Out of all of the different cuisines, French cuisine has one of the major footholds in NYC, and is offered by high-end bistros which are some of the best restaurants in the city. These bistros feature both French classics and modern marvels. In our guide, we will cover the best French restaurants in the city, and possibly the world.

Best French Restaurants in Manhattan

 

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Le Coucou ($$$$)

Led by head chef Daniel Rose, this place is so fancy that they have a dress code: dress your best for a fancy night out. They have a ton of French classics like tartare de boeuf, filet basquaise, and bar noir á la sétoise. This place has a subtle and classy ambiance that makes for an extremely romantic evening. Perfect for special occasions, this place also serves specialty cocktails alongside an extensive wine list to round out an already elegant evening. If you’re seeking a quiet evening with powerful flavors, this is the place to go.

Balthazar ($$$)

Famous in the NYC dining world, Balthazar offers an authentic French experience for those who come here. The restaurant first opened in 1997 and specializes in French seafood dishes that include ingredients like oysters, king salmon, and lobster. In fact, they are one of the only restaurants in the city that delivers caviar straight to your front door. For patrons who dislike seafood, don’t worry, the restaurant also offers a ton of other delicious pastries, pasta, and chicken dishes that will leave your mouth salivating. Based on reviews, one of their most popular dishes is their dry-aged côte de boeuf. This dish is meant to be shared, but we’ve seen several brave souls’ attempts to tackle it on their own. Folks who come here to eat can expect a lively dining experience.

Le Rivage ($$)

This restaurant is a bit more lowkey than other places offering French cuisine and has a homey and comfortable atmosphere. The exposed red brick walls and elegant private dining rooms are perfect for casual hangouts or a romantic date night. Le Rivage is an extremely popular addition to restaurant row, especially with the live music they have playing on special occasions. Due its close proximity to the Theater District, Le Rivage is also a popular destination for diners either before or after theater performances. They have several á la carte options, but the real deal here are the prix fixe menus. They even have rather impressive holiday menus, especially for Christmas and Thanksgiving. This is a very cozy, yet theatrical, space.

La Grenouille ($$$$)

Opened in 1962 by husband and wife duo Charles and Gisèle Masson, La Grenouille was the go-to French restaurant for celebrities like John Wayne, Sophia Loren, Johnny Carson, and many more. The restaurant offers various menus here, but their best one is their Live Jazz Night Menu, a $75 minimum á la carte experience featuring items like grilled salmon salad, split pea soup, and baked little neck clams. This place also has a daily dinner special, along with traditional French cuisine options like frog legs, filet mignon, and whitefish quenelles. It’s a classy experience with delicious food, so visit today and try the foods that made David Bowie a regular.

La Grande Boucherie ($$$$)

Following the philosophy of joie de vivre – the joy of life – this establishment is so popular that they decided to publish a cookbook. This bistro has fascinating décor, with dark wooden tables surrounded by white tile walls. The food might be French, but the interior is all NYC. Speaking of the food, they have a ton of menus, including one for brunch, lunch, dinner, pre-theater performances, breakfast, and even a late lunch menu. They have an extensive wine menu, and many of these great selections come directly from France. This place is an all around great pick for a meal.

Buvette New York ($$$)

This cozy place specializes in small plates that are meant to be shared amongst friends and family. They offer a great many options for brunch, lunch, and dinner too. One of their most creative dishes is their waffle sandwich, which comes with bacon, eggs, and gruyere cheese between two buttermilk waffles. If you’re seeking a more traditional French meal, they have meals like escargot, steak tartare, and cassoulet. This restaurant has several locations worldwide, and all of them are of great quality. However, the New York location is the only one with that special waffle sandwich we know and love.

Benoit ($$$)

This upscale establishment is bright and comfortable, with a ton of classic French meals and specialty items with a modern flair. Considered one of the best brunches in the city, this place serves beef tartare, an octopus roll, and a ton of specialty cocktails along with a huge wine list. They also have an extensive lunch and dinner menu, and head chef, Alberto Marcolongo, has recently revamped the menu to reflect that modern New Yorker’s palate. They also offer private dining experiences, where guests can sit in a beautifully decorated room while enjoying a meal with limited company rather than the whole city.

Best French Restaurants in Brooklyn

 

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Bacchus ($$)

Known as a French comfort food restaurant, this place has a Brooklyn vibe that guests just can’t get enough of. With ample outdoor seating, and three separate rooms to dine in, you have a variety of atmospheres to choose from while enjoying your meal. The bistro is very modern, the dining room is fancy, and the wine bar is for those seeking a very intimate experience. Opened in 2003, this place has a great menu that features things like tuna tartare, black sea bass, and magret de canard. Their brunch menu is equally impressive. Diners can enjoy a 2 hour bottomless brunch for just $42 per person.

Le Fond ($$)

Located in Greenpoint, this place is a cute spot that will get you addicted to French cuisine. Le Fond offers a four course menu for just $58. The menu changes daily, but rest assured, you can always expect the menu to be full of delicious options that will get you excited for the next course. They even have a wine flight for dessert, which will make your tastebuds sing as you try each one. Their wine menu includes some rarer bottles of wine, and you can order them by the glass or by the bottle. The desserts and the pastries here are top-notch too, especially their macarons.

French Louie ($$)

Named after the French Canadian legend Louis Seymour, this establishment is all about having fun for a reasonable price. This place has a ton of menus, each with delicious options for just about any palate you could imagine. Their á la carte menu features oysters, chicken liver paté, and even steak tartare. They have a separate wine menu for drinks by the glass and by the bottle. Best of all, they love to host large parties and events in their dining room or outdoor garden. These events have separate menus depending on the time of day, but all of them feature delicious foods that your entire party will love.

Chez Oskar ($$)

Chez Oskar does not just offer its patrons delicious food, it is also one of the restaurants with grand plans to keep NYC’s outdoor dining culture permanently going. The team at Chez Oskar has worked hard to improve their outdoor space with décor and various heating elements for winter dining and wants to keep it as long as they can. If you are interested in helping out with their mission, they include info on their website about how to make NYC outdoor dining permanent. Their guests agree with them, though their opinions might be influenced by the restaurant’s delicious food. They have some French favorites like chicken au jus, bourguignon, and a special risotto of the day. They also have a ton of specialty cocktails, rare wines and liquors, and delicious desserts. Some are even gluten-free!

L’Antagoniste ($$$)

This farm-to-table French restaurant is one of Brooklyn’s best, and has an ever-changing seasonal menu.  They have several dinner and takeout options, including their whole chicken dinner package, which comes with two sides and a baguette for $85. For those aiming to dine in, they also have an extensive brunch menu that features spicy pork belly, duck hash, or an omelette au jambon et fromage. L’Antagoniste has a ton of drinks and a fun atmosphere that makes this a very popular spot any time of day. This is a Brooklyn gem you don’t want to miss.

Best French Restaurants in Queens

 

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Tournesol ($$)

Tournesol is a part of the diverse Queens culinary experience. It’s a popular brunch spot with classics like croque monsieur, quiche, and croissant sandwiches. On top of their popular brunch selections, Tournesol offers daily special appetizer options to be shared with your entire table. Beyond brunch and daily specials, you can also stop by for dinner! Their dinner menu is delicious and any entrée can pair well with a wine from their extensive wine list. Diners who come here can expect a mouthwatering meal paired with a great ambiance and outdoor seating. It’s a beautiful atmosphere that has drawn local residents to come back again and again, so come check them out!

La Baraka ($$)

This cozy French/Northern African restaurant combines two amazing cuisines together into one. Located in Little Neck, this establishment has been serving patrons since the 1970s, and was one of the first restaurants in NYC to serve couscous! Some of the best menu items here include quiche lorraine, filet au poivre, and sole aux fruit de mer. The seafood and meat dishes leave guests stuffed and happy and get people addicted to this amazing place. This will become your go-to place for French and North African cuisine, especially if you have a special occasion to celebrate. They even have mardi gras events and are open for birthdays.

Bliss 46 Bistro ($$)

Bliss 46 Bistro’s large, yet delicious, portions of French comfort food for diners in Sunnyside, Queens. This space isn’t fussy, and prides itself on its relaxing atmosphere. They have hundreds of great reviews on Yelp and Google. Better yet, you can order large plates of food at an affordable price. For example, you can get a plate full of mussels for just $7, and their brunch omelets are only $10. They have a ton of seafood, meat, and sides to eat meaning everyone will be happy when dining here.

Best French Restaurant in The Bronx

 

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Maisonetta ($$)

This restaurant’s unique fusion of French and Mexican foods is a match made in heaven. Maisonetta is one of the few places in the South Bronx that offers French cuisine to diners making them a favorite in the area. Their food is a combination of flavors and pairs perfectly with the wine that they offer. Better yet, Masionetta is located right on the water, so you can enjoy an amazing view of Manhattan and the river while you savor your meal. Come check this place out and have your mind blown.

Best French Restaurant in Staten Island

 

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Taverna Restaurant ($$)

This Mediterranean restaurant features French, Italian, and some Spanish cuisines. Their seafood menu is huge, and their raw bar is about as French as it gets, with oysters, clams, and lobster aplenty. They also have some great risotto options and a huge wine list with a little something for everyone. This is a Staten Island gem that can be found right on the water, which means you can enjoy your meal while also enjoying a great view of Manhattan, Brooklyn, and the bay. See what it’s all about here!

Crepes du Nord ($$)

This is the first restaurant on our list that specializes in crepes, specifically made-to-order crepes that uses organic ingredients sourced straight from local farms. Every crepe order can be customized to the consumer’s request – they offer gluten-free options for their crepes. You can purchase both sweet crepes with toppings like strawberries, nutella, and apples, and savory crepes with toppings like ham, chicken, and cheese. Given the focus on desserts, this restaurant sells mostly a ton of hot and cold drinks that will pair well with a crepe. They are mostly coffee-related beverages, but they do have some tea and sodas. While this place isn’t the best for a full meal, it’s great for a quick treat, especially on a nice day. It’s one of the many Staten Island restaurants that deserves a second glance.

French cuisine is relatively easy to find in NYC, and the restaurants that feature dishes from this cuisine are some of the best in the world. The chefs have studied all over the world, the décor is classy, and the combination of classic dishes and modern sensibilities will leave any guest feeling satisfied. Many people think that French restaurants are too upscale and fancy, but there are plenty of places that have affordable dishes just waiting to be enjoyed. These restaurants are extremely popular, so make sure to make a reservation and get dolled up for a nice night on the town.

The post The 18 Best French Restaurants and Bistros in NYC appeared first on CitySignal.

There are many different types of kitchens available to consumers. If you’ve been on or are on the market for an apartment in the city, you might have come across listings highlighting a “kitchenette.” So, what is a kitchenette? As the name entails, a kitchenette is a smaller, compact version of a kitchen. At this point, you might just be thinking of a small kitchen, but there are distinct differences between a normal-sized kitchen and a kitchenette. 

Differences Between Kitchen and Kitchenette

1.) Size and Location

Generally speaking, kitchenettes are planned as a solution to save space in a smaller home such as a studio apartment like this apartment at 25 Tudor City Place. This means they will be smaller than kitchens. You can have everything within reach with a kitchenette instead of walking back and forth to grab items. However, there are also downsides. Since kitchens are usually bigger, they are typically located in a separate room or a more well-defined space within an open-floorplan and connected with a living room. On the other hand, kitchenettes generally start in a smaller living space so that you may cook very closely to your bed or desk. You may frequently find smells from the last things you cooked lingering as you sleep or partake in other activities.

Note that you can find kitchenettes in all sizes and homes, so it’s important to review the listing carefully to see if the home has a kitchen or kitchenette if you know you want to have one over the other.

2.) Space and Storage

In a traditional kitchen, there are usually a lot of cabinets, drawers, and countertop space. Since a kitchenette is smaller than a normal kitchen, there may not be enough room for storage. A kitchenette can have very limited space to put basic kitchen tools. This may be inconvenient for those who like cooking or baking or a situation where multiple dishes have to be made. If you have a lot of food or food-related items, there may be limited storage to store all of those as well. 

3.) Appliances

Kitchens will usually come with some appliances already installed and running. This includes a fridge, an oven, sometimes a dishwasher, and a four-burner stovetop. With a kitchenette, you will most likely get a mini-fridge with no freezer, a two-burner stovetop, and a small toaster oven may be included to replace a traditional oven. Generally speaking, given the lack of space, kitchenettes will not come equipped with a dishwasher. 

4.) Cost

A kitchenette is generally cheaper to maintain and will ensure that your rent is lower. However, given that you may have to purchase additional appliances or additional storage, the costs may add up regardless.

5.) Cleaning

If you’re someone who hates cleaning after cooking, living in an apartment with a kitchenette would be easy. With the limited space, there isn’t much to wipe down. Even if you have to clean the floor, it would also be a smaller space to sweep/mop. On the other hand, kitchens have more storage spaces, meaning it’s easier to minimize clutter on countertops and ensure that you properly wipe down everything. 

How to Choose Between a Kitchen and Kitchenette?

Those who like cooking, hosting parties, or having a separate kitchen to cook in will most likely prefer a kitchen. However, if you’re someone who lives minimally, doesn’t cook a lot, or doesn’t own a lot of kitchen tools, a kitchenette would be perfect. 

Utilizing Kitchenette Space

Renting an apartment with a kitchenette isn’t the end of your cooking and storage days. Instead, there are a lot of ways you could make space for pots, pans, kitchen tools, and food. Before installing and trying to renovate an apartment, check with your landlord about what you can and cannot do. Thankfully, we live in a modern age where there are modern tools that don’t require drilling and knocking down walls. Here are some of our tips:

• Install/attach hooks so that you can hang up items/tools such as pots, pans, cooking utensils, etc.
• Install a shelf or two that can store cups and spices. Alternatively, consider a small rolling shelf that is thin and tall to slide in between any available space.
• Save yourself extra space by getting rid of the chunky knife block. If the fridge is magnetized, get a thick magnet strip to store your knives.
• If you want and have space, there are small kitchen tables that double as an island. This way, you can have extra storage space for the surplus of kitchen items that couldn’t be stored in the kitchenette.
• If your landlord approves it, consider painting the kitchenette area a lighter color. This way, it can look more spacious than it actually is.
• Consider stacking appliances on top of one another to create more room. For example, a microwave/toaster oven can be placed on top of a mini-fridge.
• Designate corners of the area to store items, so there is less clutter.

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Whether with your family, friends or by yourself, apple picking is something most people love. Not only do you get to feel the thrill of collecting your own food, but you will have some delicious and fresh apples to take home to cook, bake, or snack with! Apple picking on Long Island does not stop at retrieving little bundles of juicy goodness. Many orchards will sell their own apple-based goods such as cider, donuts, pies, and more. Done with picking apples? Stick around for hayrides, corn mazes, playgrounds, and more Fall-Esque games! 

Interested in partaking in this activity? We have compiled a list of our favorite apple orchards on Long Island for you. Check them out before the end of the apple-picking season! 

Best Apple Picking in Long Island

1.) Richter’s Orchard – Northport, NY

Address: 1 Richters Drive, Northport, NY 11768
Phone: (631) 261-1980
Hours of Operation: Mon through Sat from 9 AM – 5:30 PM and Sun from 10 AM – 5 PM 

Stated as “one of the best apple orchards on Long Island,” Richter’s Orchard offers a lot in terms of experience. Between the beautiful drive to the orchard in Northport and the apple trees that line their driveway, this is one of the most authentic apple-picking experiences you can get. They have items for purchase other than the apples and a friendly crew to guide you along. Richter’s is open from August to May. 

2.) Harbes Family Farm – Riverhead, NY

Address: 5698 Sound Avenue, Riverhead, NY 11901 
Phone: (631) 683 – 8388 
Hours of Operation: Mon through Fri from 10 AM – 5 PM and Weekends and Holidays from 9 AM to 6 PM. Closed Tues, Wed, and Thurs.

Harbes is one of our team’s personal favorites. Not only is it a beautiful orchard that immerses you in the fall spirit, but the food they sell is also fantastic. There is nothing like a hot cup of fresh apple cider on a cold day with an apple cider donut on the side. The combination is fantastic, the apples are fantastic, and it is all around a really phenomenal experience. They are famous for their pies, so make sure to pick one up on your way out! Harbes is open for apple picking throughout the month of November.

3.) Lewin Farms – Calverton, NY

Address: 812 Sound Avenue, Calverton, NY 11933 
Phone: (631) 929 – 4327 
Hours of Operation: Mon through Sun from 9 AM – 4:30 PM. 

Throughout our research, Lewin Farms is a name that popped up multiple times. Not only do they offer apple picking, but you can also pick tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, and pumpkins/gourds. Apple picking runs until the end of November, and the others vegetables stop around early November, so we recommend calling in advance to double-check. They also have a corn maze that is open on weekends from 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM. The farm offers free parking and no admission fees, so even if you don’t find anything worth your while, it’s still worth a visit. 

4.) Milk Pail U-Pick Farm – Water Mill, NY

Address: 50 Horsemill Lane, Water Mill, NY 11976 
Phone: (631) 537 – 2565 
Hours of Operation: Fri through Sun from 10 AM – 5:30 PM 

With various apples to choose from, Milk Pail U-Pick Farm offers a great experience for its customers. You pick your ticket according to how many people you want to enter the orchard and how many pounds of apples you plan on picking. Not only that, but they also have pumpkin and gourd picking. Before you visit, we recommend checking their website to see the types of apples or pumpkins they have available at the farm that day. There is also a Milk Pail Market which you can visit after your picking extravaganza! At this market, they have a plethora of fresh fruits/vegetables for purchase, gifts, drinks/food, flowers, and other wonderful items to bring home. Whereas their apple picking is only open until mid-November, their market is open year-round. So, if you happen to miss out on apple picking, you can still give them a visit! 

5.) Mediavilla Orchards – Huntington, NY

Address: 1527 E Jericho Turnpike, Huntington, NY 11743 
Phone: (631) 423 – 4794 
Hours of Operation: Tues through Sun from 10 AM – 4 PM 

If going out east is not ideal for you and you want to stay closer to central Long Island, Mediavilla Orchards is a fantastic option. This spot is family-owned and mainly run by a mother and daughter duo. Not only are the owners friendly, but the deliciousness of apples and other food sold at this stand is apparently impeccable! Although you cannot pick the apples yourself, the apples that they do offer are “just picked” by their team and done so with impressive amounts of quality control. They also sell things like jellies, chestnuts, peaches, pears, and cider. Mediavilla Orchards is cash only, so keep that in mind. 

6.) Seven Ponds Orchard – Water Mill, NY

Address: 65 7 Ponds Road, Water Mill, NY 11976 
Phone: (631) 726 – 8015 
Hours of Operation: Mon through Sun from 9 AM – 6 PM 

Seven Ponds Orchard is open until Thanksgiving and offers many fruits/vegetables to pick from. Apples, berries, vegetables, sunflowers, and pumpkins are all usually readily available for purchase. This is yet another place where we recommend calling in advance to assure that they have the item you are interested in because some are seasonal (pumpkins and sunflowers). There is also a farmers market, corn maze, playground, and hayride on site for some extra fun. 

The post 6 Of the Best Apple Picking Spots on Long Island appeared first on CitySignal.

This eager attitude to eat can be found in New York City residents and visitors alike. There is just something so special about what this bustling archipelago has to offer in regard to grub. But, where do you even start? In Manhattan alone there are roughly 27,000 restaurants that exist. Kind of crazy, no? How does one even begin to navigate the treasure hunt in finding the best spots? 

Well, to start, exploring by neighborhood is probably your best bet. Lucky for you we have sifted through the best Lower East Side restaurants to begin the journey. Throughout the years, the Lower East Side of Manhattan has gone through a copious amount of changes. Originally an area that had roots in farming is now a spot that holds some of the best famously known streets in all of New York City. Starting at Canal Street all the way up to Houston Street, the Lower East Side is home to some of the best restaurants in lower Manhattan. 

Lower East Side Restaurants

Freemans – Freeman Alley ($$)

 

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In fall of 2004 the owners of Freemans were exploring the streets of Manhattan when they stumbled across a cozy and unused alley off the Bowery. Thus came the birth of Freemans. This American-style restaurant was built up to mock a rugged clandestine colonial tavern. The cuisine features tastes that are simple, rustic, and inspired by Old World traditions. 

Freemans offers brunch everyday from 11AM to 4PM and dinner Sunday to Monday 6PM to 10PM. From Tuesday to Saturday, dinner runs a bit later from 6PM to 11PM. They also have a seasonal cocktail and food menu in which you can check out on their Instagram. 

Pig and Khao – 68 Clinton Street ($$)

 

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Leah Cohen is the chef and owner of this Filipino-Thai fusion gem. Pig and Khao first opened up in 2014 with only 74 seats available. The intimate setting decorated with Southeast Asian inspired dishes has thrived since the day they served their first meal. Cohen had a dream of mixing her passion of cooking with her Filipino upbringing as well as constant visits to the motherland. With her desire to stay true to authentic Southeast Asian flavors, Pig and Khao became a spot that was acclaimed by publications such as the New York Times, New York Magazine, and The Huffington Post. 

Pig and Khao offers both a dinner and brunch menu. For dinner, they offer a Night Market Menu in which restaurant-goers can choose from which features monthly dishes for $48/person. You can also take part in their cocktail tasting for $30/per person. For brunch, Pig and Khao have the option for bottomless mimosas at $21/person with the purchase of 1 brunch food item. 

Russ & Daughters Café – 127 Orchard Street ($$)

 

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Russ & Daughters is certainly a culinary and cultural icon in New York City. Since 1914, they have been serving the highest quality of smoked fish, caviar, bagels, bialys, babka, and other traditional Jewish baked goods. It has been owned and operated by four generations of the Russ family with the original store on 106 Houston St. The shop is called Russ & Daughters with just the option to purchase goods, but the café offers full-service. 

The café opened in 2014 on the 100th anniversary of Russ & Daughters on Orchard St. which is the same street in which the current owner’s grandfather pickled herring. The history of this spot runs deep in traditional family values. At the café, restaurant-goers can view the salmon slicers at work through an open-kitchen setup. One could visit Russ & Daughters at really any time of the day to get a light meal, brunch, lunch, cocktails, or dinner. 

La Contenta – 102 Norfolk Street ($$)

 

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Stop by La Contenta for some authentic Mexican food in the Lower East Side. The owner and chef, Luis Arce Mota, first started his career as a dishwasher at Carmine’s in Times Square. With hard work and determination, Luis advanced his career and gained experience under the tutelage of many renowned chefs such as David Bouley and Michael Lomonaco. He eventually studied at Cordon Bleu in Paris and the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York.

In 2014, Luis and his partners opened up La Contenta, an intimidate Lower East Side bistro. Diners can enjoy an unique menu highlighting Mexican ingredients that have been incorporated with classis French techniques. Stop by for brunch or dinner and don’t forget to get there early to take advantage of their happy hour deals.

Double Chicken Please – 115 Allen Street ($$)

 

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Double Chicken Please first opened during the height of the pandemic in November of 2020. Faye Chen and GN Chan, the two co-owners, partnered up with Chef Mark Chou, who received his training at Eleven Madison Park, to bring together a delightful cocktail menu with a delectable food menu.

Like its name, the restaurant offers two experiences in one space. Check out the front for a more casual laid back atmosphere and be sure to try their famous chicken sandwiches and inventive cocktails on tap. Want something more along the lines of fine dining? Then book a seat in their Back Room. The food there is simply divine and their rotating list of inventive and classic cocktails will have you coming back over and over again.

Dudley’s – 85 Orchard Street ($$)

 

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From the same team that brought us Ruby’s, Dudley’s is a Australian corner pub-and-bistro you’ll need to check out. Whether you’re meeting friends for brunch or dinner, you can guarantee to enjoy the food and drink menu here. They’re best known for their big brekkie, avocado toast, bronte burger, and crispy rice salad but frankly, everything on the menu looks divine.

The restaurant does not currently take reservations and will serve guests on a first-come-first-serve basis so be sure to head no over earlier to put your name on the waitlist. Thankfully, there’s plenty of activities to check out around the Lower East Side. So take a nice stroll while you wait!

Wolfnights – The Gourmet Wrap – 99 Rivington Street ($$)

 

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Each bite of a wrap at Wolfnights is made to be ideal. The team here uses unique house-made ingredients to create unique, one-of-a-kind wraps that contain everything you’d ever want. Every single bite is meant to give you a full blast of flavor, from sweet, savory, sour, spicy, fresh, and crunchy!

Wolfnights technically has two locations but the one by Lower East Side is perfect after a long night out partying at the many lounges, clubs, and bars in the area. Stop by and give Wolfnights a try. We promise you won’t regret it.

Contra – 138 Orchard Street ($$$)

 

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Established in 2013 by chefs Jeremiah Stone and Fabian von Hauske, Contra is a dinner-only restaurant that serves a rotating menu of seasonal and experimental dishes. The restaurant has Contra originally opened up with a $55 five course set menu but after reopening after the pandemic in 2021, they now offer an a la carte menu to provide diners with more freedom. The food menu here changes daily so you can expect a different experience each time you visit. Don’t just take our word for it, Contra has earned a Michelin star and also two star rating by the New York Times!

Ivan Ramen – 25 Clinton Street ($$)

 

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Craving a bowl of good shio ramen? Stop by Ivan Ramen for their world famous take on traditional Japanese style ramen. Ivan Orkin, the owner of Ivan Ramen, fell in love with Japan and its culture and moved there permanently after graduating from the Culinary Institute of America. There, he opened up his first ramen shop on the suggestion of his wife. To everyone’s surprise, the shop succeeded and his ramen shop became one of the top ramen shops in Japan. He eventually opened yet another ramen shop in Japan and eventually Ivan Ramen in the Lower East Side of New York. Today, Ivan is recognized as one of the leading American authorities on ramen.

Katz’s Delicatessen – 205 E Houston Street ($$)

 

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Katz’s first opened up in 1888 as a small deli named Iceland Brothers. Willy Katz joined the partnership in 1903 and eventually bought out the entirety of the deli in 1910 with his cousin Benny Katz. With that, the deli was renamed to Katz’s Delicatessen and the rest is history. Kat’s has been family-owned for over 100 years and is currently run by Alan Dell, his son Jake Dell, and Alan’s brother-in-law Fred Austin. Today, the deli is one of the remaining Jewish-style delis. Stop by Katz’s to try their famous pastrami and corned beef rye bread sandwich. You won’t be disappointed.

Empanada Mama – 95 Allen Street ($)

 

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Owner Socrates Nanas opened up this Columbian joint with one thing in mind: how can I feed the masses by offering big flavors in small packages? This idea evolved into a beloved modern Patty Place that harbors nothing but great energy in mind. Every empanada dish is made with fresh ingredients to ensure the most delicious of meals. 

Their menu consists of roughly forty different empanadas stuffed and sealed with wheat or corn based shells. Some different flavors one can choose from are as follows: Greek (spinach pie), Cuban (ham, pork, and cheese), Polish (kielbasa and sauerkraut), Hawaiian (ham, cheese, and pineapple), Italian (sausage, peppers, and onions), and American (cheeseburger). Some of their small offerings include arepas, tamales, veal, rice balls, and pork-tenderloin meatballs. 

Dirt Candy – 86 Allen Street ($$)

 

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Looking for an inventive vegetarian spot? Well, Dirt Candy is everything a vegetarian could ever dream of. This is one of Manhattan’s only solely-vegetable restaurants. Their award winning chef, Amanda Cohen, is constantly changing the menu to see how elaborate she can get with what she discovers. Their single tasting menu will alternate depending on the season due to the produce that is freshly available.  

Dirt Candy’s five course tasting menu is $90/person and is only served at night. They also offer a wine pairing for an additional $50 which both include tip, but not tax. Their current spring menu is available and has been since April 14, 2022. But, as stated before, it will change depending on the season. 

Essex – 124 Rivington Street ($$)

 

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Essex is an American restaurant offering dishes in a warehouse space with balcony seating. They have both a dinner and brunch menu with an extensive list of dishes. Not only that, but do they also offer an oyster happy hour (who doesn’t love an oyster happy hour?). Every Sunday – Friday from 5PM to 7PM Essex hosts a happy hour indoors and outdoors where customers can choose from discounted drinks, dishes, and $1.50/PC oysters. 

Their weekend brunch special comes with a choice of an entrée, 90 minutes of bottomless mimosas, bloody marys, screwdrivers, and Narragansett draft beers for $42.95/person. If you are interested in booking a table for more than 7 guests, you must place a reservation. The brunch party menu includes 2 hours of mimosas, bloody marys, screwdrivers, and Narragansett draft beers for $52.95/person. 

Serafina Ludlow – 98 Rivington Street ($$)

 

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With locations all over Manhattan, Serafina finds itself as a beloved modern Italian spot. Vittorio Assaf and Fabio Granato, the two owners, are good friends with an interesting story. Before the 90s they were out on the water and quickly became lost at sea. Stranded, all they could think about was having the perfect pizza. To strengthen their spirits at surviving they promised each other that when they got back to safety, they would open a pizzeria which also served some of the best pasta in the world. Thankfully they survived and in 1995 opened Serafina Fabulous Pizza on the Upper East Side. 

Serafina has a strong commitment to quality of food based on an authentic approach to Italian cuisine. Their ingredients are sourced from all over the world. Assaf and Granato have visited farms and produce partners in Italy to hand pick items they serve to their customers. Their olive oil, burrata and mozzarella, parmesan, prosciutto, tomatoes, flour, vinegar, and truffle are all straight from Italy. 

Cervo’s – 43 Canal Street ($$$)

 

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In the summer of 2017 Cervo’s opened up as a downtown ode to the seafood of the Iberian peninsula. They also pay homage to the sustainable ingredients of the Northeast. Their wine list features bottles from Coastal Spain and Portugal with fun cocktails thrown into the mix. This is yet another joint known for serving the utmost delicious oysters. However, they are a bit more pricey here ranging from $3.75/each to a whole dish for $40. 

Other than oysters, customers can taste seafood specialties such as Yellowfish Tuna, Watercress, Clams, Prawns, and mussels paired with tapas-like dishes. Cervo’s is known for their fish, so if you have a kick for seafood then this is definitely the place to go! 

Yopparai – 49 Clinton Street ($$$)

 

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There is nothing that says Japanese tradition like an izakaya. This funky joint brings the excitement of an izakaya right to Manhattan. Albeit the small size, Yopparai thrives off the intimacy. Their sake bar and restaurant is known for their wide variety of sake paired with traditional cuisine and adventurous dishes. Their most ordered items are the homemade tofu, sashimi, and grilled meat/fish. 

Currently, they have been adding new dishes like sushi and Japanese hot pot (the perfect meal for cold weather). Yopparai has highly educated staff members that are experts in the sake world and can help you choose which sake is best for you. 

For an even more intimate experience, check out Yopparai Ronin. It’s a new omakase date-night spot located just down the same street at 69A Clinton Street and was put together by the same team at Yopparai. Their Chef’s selected tasting menu is constantly changing to reflect the different seasons.

Balvanera – 152 Stanton Street ($$)

 

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Argentine chef, Fernando Navas, works hard to represent the cuisine and spirit of Buenos Aires, Argentina. He cooks up porteña cuisine with influences from different dynamic areas of Argentina. The menu features traditional small plates with the choice of both mouth-watering vegetable and carne dishes. Not only are there small plates, but Balvanera has the option for friend and family style food as well. 

Balvanera’s drink menu was created in collaboration with Argentine Wine Consultant, Sebastian Koncurat to construct the best pairings one could receive. There is a wide selection of Argentinian wines available with a very particular offering of beer as well. Wine is available by glass, carafe, or bottle to accommodate any sort of request. 

Sauce – 78 Rivington Street ($$)

 

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Sauce has got the sauce. This restaurant is known and loved for their heritage chicken parmesan, grass-fed beef meatballs, homemade pasta, and extra thin-crust pizza. But, the catalyst of it all is their famous sauce. They thrive on Italian tradition and prepare their sauce much like a “nonna” would before a Sunday dinner. 

Sauce’s menu is served daily from 5PM to 11PM with the option for both a kid and dessert menu. The space is cozy, the music sets the tone, and their plates are filled to the brim with some of the best Italian food on the LES. 

The post The 18 Best Restaurants in the Lower East Side appeared first on CitySignal.

BBQ History in NYC

NYC’s history of BBQ is short, but there has definitely been some progress since the beginning. Before the 1980s, there was hardly any “real” barbeque in the city. There were places that served ribs, but most of these were cooked with a quality that was only a little bit better than what you could make at home. Places like this used gas rotisseries, which gave the meat flavor, but there was a lack of the “smoky” taste that is often associated with barbeque. The majority of gas rotisseries are gone, but the Royal Rib House in Brooklyn still practices this method and does it well.

In the 1980s, the city saw more and more places popping up that were actually doing barbecue like they do in Texas and Tennessee. These restaurants were slow-cooking their meats over charcoal for hours to produce the smoky flavor that NYC barbeque was lacking before. Restaurants specializing in ribs, multiple styles, and flavors were starting to emerge, but it wasn’t until 1992, when Stick to Your Ribs, Pearson’s Texas Barbeque began to change the city BBQ game permanently. The restaurant was founded by a hairdresser named Robert Pearson. He moved a barbeque he had founded from Connecticut to Long Island City. When he left the business, the restaurant was moved to Jackson Heights and renamed Ranger Texas Barbeque and it stayed open until 2009. 

Pearson did something differently that cemented his place in NYC barbeque history. Instead of importing meat, he bought meat from local butchers and his rolls came from local bakers. After seeing what barbeque could be in the city, new restaurants started their own businesses featuring all types of styles.

What are the 4 types of BBQ?

Now, you’re probably wondering what kind of styles there are in barbeque. There are more or less four different types of barbeque, and they are determined by the four prominent BBQ regions: Carolina, Memphis, Texas, and Kansas City. In order to understand the four styles, here is a breakdown of each region and how they barbeque their meat.

1. Carolina Style BBQ

It’s hard to combine the Carolinas together as there are different barbeque styles even within each state. In Eastern North Carolina, you will find whole hogs served chopped with a vinegar-based sauce. Whereas western Lexington barbeque only smokes the shoulder and their meats are usually served on a sandwich with a tomato-based sauce. South Carolina, on the other hand, is famous for their whole hog barbeque and their love for mustard, which is known as Carolina Gold.

2. Memphis Style BBQ

Memphis, aka pork country, is all about serving heavily smoked pulled pork, and wet and dry ribs. What makes Memphis style so distinctive is their rub. The meat is traditionally rubbed down with a dry rub that is made up of 40 different spices. Good rubs usually feature garlic and paprika. After the meat is rubbed down, it is then cooked in a big pit. The pitmaster will let the meat cook as long as possible, with no glaze applied at all through the process. The flavor is gained through the wood and the rub.

3. Texas Style BBQ

A distinctive feature of Texas-style barbeque is the lack of sides in your serving. They are known for their portions of meat, and meat only. The typical rub used is a salt and pepper mix, so a huge portion of the smokiness in the meat is from the wood. Texas-style relies on slow cooking, which means the meat can be cooked over oak wood for over 12 hours. They are also known for their smoked brisket and sausage. 

4. Kansas City Style BBQ

Kansas City will barbeque any kind of meat they can get their hands on. Their cuts are coated with a spicy rub, cooked low and slow over hickory smoke and then served with a tangy tomato mixture on the side. They are known for their burnt ends.

Barbeque NYC

At this point, you’re probably salivating and wanting to get to the good part — where can you find all of NYC’s prime barbeque spots? Here are some notable places when you’re craving barbeque.

1. Hometown Barbeque ($$)

 

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This popular spot located in Red Hook may be NYC’s current barbeque king. Hometown Barbeque serves up Brooklyn-style BBQ that uses southern techniques. Some of their notable dishes include the Caribbean Jerk Baby Back Ribs, Korean Pork Ribs, Texas-style brisket, and the Pulled Pork. The lines at this joint are usually long but great news, you can order from their bar and have a few drinks to sip on while you wait! Alternatively, check out their new location in Industry City, Brooklyn.

2. Dinosaur Bar-B-Que ($$)

 

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With multiple locations, this restaurant was first founded by John Stage and his two partners at the Harley Rendezvous in 1983. The three believed that bikers deserved a good plate of food and that Dinosaur could be that place. For the next five years, they served Dinosaur Bar-B-Que on the road for motorcycle shows, fairs, and festivals. They decided to settle the business in 1988 in Syracuse as a quick-service joint. Since then, they have opened up in Rochester, Harlem, Brooklyn, and more. They don’t have a specific style and rather combine different styles. The restaurant’s stand-out item is the spice-rubbed, pit-smoked, char-grilled Bar-B-Que Chicken Wings. But be sure to check out their BBQ Nachos, St. Louis Ribs, and Combo Plates. They also have a Sweetheart Deal for 2, which is a full rack of ribs with four different homemade sides all for $42. 

3. Hill Country Barbeque Market ($$)

 

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Hill Country specializes in Central Texas-style barbeque with meats smoked in post oak wood. The Flatiron spot rubs their high-quality meat with a simple dry rub and then does the slow-and-low cooking method to obtain moist meat. For $109, you can get the Combo Cue, a family-style platter that will serve 3-5 people. The platter comes with brisket, chicken, Hill Country Hot Links & spare ribs, and three 16 oz sides!

4. Pig Beach ($$)

 

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Unlike anything in NYC, Pig Beach experiments with the tried and true BBQ technique. With locations in Brooklyn and Queens, they use local meats, sustainable seafood, and market fresh produce as a standard. With no specific BBQ style, instead they are an alchemy of multiple cooking disciplines with a strong focus on live wood fire. Try out their Pulled Pork Shoulder, Beef Brisket, Baby Back Ribs, and Yankee Red Hot Sausage Link. They also have burgers, sides, and desserts. 

5. Queens Bully ($$)

 

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Named after the iconic Queens Boulevard, Queens Bully is a gastropub located in Forest Hills. They serve traditional American BBQ and other global dishes. They also have cocktails and beers. According to Queen Bully, the spot was born out of mutual love for their neighborhood’s culture. Choose from their chicken (half or full), pulled pork, baby back ribs, brisket, and a BBQ meat sampler. They have sandwiches like the Smoked Brisket, Jerk Chicken, Astoria Lamb, Po’Boy, or the 74th St Aloo Tikki.

6. Royal Rib House ($$)

 

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The Royal Rib House has been in the Brooklyn community for over 50 years and they have just reopened earlier in 2022. You can usually see people lining up for their meat when they’re open. According to them, one of the main reasons for their success is the slow brewed barbeque sauce. With the Carolina-style sauce and meat, be sure to check out dishes like the Barbeque Ribs, Chopped Barbeque, Fried Chicken Legs, Short Ribs of Beef, Barbeque Chicken, and more. They have sandwiches with all of the meat mentioned. Don’t forget to pair your meal with some candied yams, baked macaroni, or cole slaw, and end it with some banana pudding.

7. Fette Sau ($$)

 

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This long-standing Williamsburg spot serves smoked meats by-the-pound. They have Texas-style and New York deli-style meats. The shop offers all of the traditional barbeque cuts along with plenty of not-so-traditional things such as veal heart, beef tongue pastrami, and pork belly. For the less experimental, Fette Sau is known for their Burnt End Baked Beans which is made with pork and beef that is slowly cooked in beans overnight. Be sure to check their Instagram for any specials or menu changes, as they sell out very quickly. 

8. Hudson Smokehouse ($$)

 

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Located in the Mott Haven area of the South Bronx, Hudson Smokehouse opened up right before the start of the pandemic, but was forced to shut down two weeks later. However, the owner, Kenneth McPartlan, didn’t give up and kept up with delivery services and was even responsible for brining 300 meals a day to World Central Kitchen for folks in need. Make sure to enjoy popular items like the Texas-style Brisket and Pork Belly Burnt Ends, and sandwiches like Pulled Pork and the Smashed Burger. They also have Saturday specials of pastrami or beef ribs by the half-pound.

9. Mighty Quinn’s ($$)

 

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This spot has locations all across NYC, like the East Village, Brooklyn, Forest Hills, and the Bronx. Mighty Quinn’s serves both Texas and Carolina’s style of barbeque. Their mission is to source the best quality ingredients and not to fuss with them too much. They cook their BBQ the old-school way; with plenty of wood and time, while adding just the right amount of salt and spice. They use all-natural meats and poultry, seasoned with spice blends and smoked with wood for long hours until the “perfect harmony of smoke, flavor, and time emerges.” Hugh Mangum, the pitmaster is all about slow-cooked perfection. Try out their Brisket, Burnt Ends, Brontosaurus Rib, Pulled Pork, and their meat platters. 

10. Mable’s Smokehouse ($$)

 

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Located in Williamsburg, Mable’s Smokehouse is all about southern hospitality. They have been open for 12 years now and are run by a husband and wife duo. They consider themselves an authentic, no-frills, old-fashioned BBQ spot, and their most popular item is the sliced brisket that is lean with the perfect amount of fat and will fill your senses with a delightful smoky taste. For their meats, they have pulled chicken, pulled pork, beef brisket, St. Louis ribs, andouille sausage, and even a veggie sloppy joe. Don’t forget to check out sides like BBQ baked beans and the creamy mac n’ cheese. They even have whole pies (key lime and peanut butter) to balance out your meal.

11. John Brown BBQ ($$)

 

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Opened as an ode to the owner’s hometown of Kansas City, John Brown BBQ brings the freshest and most delicious Kansas City style BBQ to the people of Long Island City and beyond. They sell platters and meat by the pound which includes pulled pork, brisket, burnt ends, and cured pastrami. They even have specialty sandwiches like the Spicy Chopped Beef, John Brown Reuben, P.B.L.T, and Philippe Deluxe. Don’t forget to try out some of their sides too which include coleslaw, hand-cut fries, chili, and baked beans. Since this is a Kansas City-styled restaurant, you will have to try the burnt ends. 

12. Juicy Lucy ($$)

 

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A Staten Island special, this spot has three locations across the island. Juicy Lucy is a Central Texas-style barbeque spot that has won several local awards for their Brisket and Ribs. They won the Brisket King award in 2019 and won both Rib and Brisket King in 2021.  Choose from their Barbeque Chicken, Slow Smoked Pastrami, and Brisket if you are wanting something from their signature smoked meats. They have their own specials like the Brisket Poutine which is chopped brisket over a bed of cheese curls and fries, and then topped with brisket gravy. They also have the Juicy Lucy Burger, Porky’s Revenge Sandwich, and Mac Attack as their specials. 

The post The 12 Best BBQ Spots in NYC appeared first on CitySignal.

Places to Propose in Manhattan

Four Freedoms Park

The Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park is located on Roosevelt Island. The park is a memorial to this famous influential, historical figure. Whether or not you and your partner are fans of FDR, you can still appreciate the beauty of this park. Sprawling across four acres, there are plenty of areas in this park where you can pop the question. This location provides a wonderful view of the Manhattan skyline, especially in the evening. The park is closed on Tuesdays and is usually less busy early mornings or evenings after 3 pm.

Strawberry Fields

Named after the famous Beatles song, this Central Park destination is a memorial to John Lennon. It’s located just inside the park gates and opposite West 72nd Street. On the corner of West 72nd Street and Central Park West sits the Dakota Building which was the home of Lennon. He was shot right outside his home in 1980. Sad things aside, if you and your partner are big Beatles fans, proposing at a sentimental and historical place like Strawberry Fields might be the move. The location is always blooming with flowers, serene and peaceful, and you and your soon-to-be wife/husband can place a flower on the memorial too.

Central Park Lake

Are you and your partner a fan of the water? Propose while boating on the Central Park lake. You can either rent out your own boat ($12 for the first hour and then $2.50 each additional 15 minutes, $20 cash deposit required) or get a gondola ride for $30 per half hour at the Loeb Boathouse. Note, the gondola rides are only available during summer from 5 pm to 9 pm Monday through Friday and 2 pm to 9 pm Saturday through Sunday. No reservations so make sure to get there early to line up!

Central Park Conservatory Garden

Suppose you want an even more peaceful proposal, head over to Central Park’s Conservatory Garden on the east side between 104th and 106th. The garden is six acres that are well-known for planting lilies, tulips, lilacs, crabapple trees, and chrysanthemums. The garden opened up in 1937 and is named after the glass conservatory that was built in the same location in 1899. The Conservatory Garden is made up of three areas: the French-style North Garden, the English-style South Garden, and the Italianate Center Garden. Surrounded by distinct garden designs and beautiful flowers, this would be the perfect place to propose if your partner adores flowers. The garden is open every day and busiest during the afternoon.

Top of The Rock

If you want to propose at the top of a building that is not the Empire State, Top of the Rock is a great alternative that is less popular, and less crowded. You do have to buy tickets to get to the viewing decks, which range from $34-$40. The name comes from being on top of 30 Rockefeller Plaza, and the place is not surprisingly the busiest during the early evenings when the sun is about to set. Get there earlier to propose without a crowd and if you pull this off, just know that getting engaged at the top of the Rockefeller is definitely a bragging right!

Greenacre Park

One of Midtown’s best secret parks, Greenacre Park was designed by Sasaki, Dawson, DeMay Associates with Masao Kinoshita as lead designer. The park opened up in 1971 and was intended to offer New Yorkers an “intimate urban park experience.” One of the features is the 25-foot-waterfall in the rear of the garden. The park was also listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2018. As a place for most locals to chill out, this park is usually busy between lunch hours from 12 pm to 3 pm.

Grand Central Station

Before you go protesting that Grand Central Station is super busy and always full of tourists, the station does have its fair share of quieter hours. The station starts slowing down after 7 pm, and while there will definitely still be commuters, you can get a better view of the grand station without the massive crowds. Get on one knee and propose to your partner in one of NYC’s most iconic stations.

The High Line

This Chelsea attraction takes you on a walk through an elevated park that used to be train tracks. Although the crowds can reach great proportions during the day, early mornings and evenings are less crowded and freer for the perfect proposal. Take your partner on a walk and propose to them either as the sun comes up or when the sun goes down. The High Line provides beautiful skyline and Hudson River views and is very close to nice restaurants and the Chelsea Market, in case you intend to celebrate after with some good food. 

Hayden Planetarium

Looking to propose under the stars? Seeing a sky full of stars can be a little difficult sometimes in the city due to the light pollution, but it doesn’t mean the option is impossible! Hayden Planetarium located at the American Museum of Natural History has The Star Theater, which uses a customized Zeiss Star Projector system to replicate a starry night sky. Surprise your significant other with a trip under the stars and a replicated night that they will never forget. They are closed on Mondays and Tuesdays and are busiest during noon.

The Met Cloisters

Although there is more foot traffic at the Cloisters, the museum itself is so beautiful, that it would be a shame to not mention it. With impressive columns and a garden, it’s like you and your significant other are walking through an old European castle. This building opened up in 1938 and is the only museum in the country dedicated to the art of the Middle Ages. The Met Cloisters are closed on Wednesdays and is busiest 1 pm to 3 pm.

Fort Washington Park

Located along the Hudson River, Fort Washington Park offers impressive views of the George Washington Bridge. This Washington Heights park is full of history and beauty. A great feature of this park is the Little Red Lighthouse. Once a functioning lighthouse, now a quaint structure that holds decades of history. Early evening is usually the most popular time, so either propose early afternoon or at sunset, the most romantic time of the day, and when the George Washington Bridge’s lights turn on.

Governor’s Island

When you step onto Governor’s Island, you can immediately feel like you’re not in the city. If you decide to propose here, make a day out of it by visiting Fort Jay, watching live music at a lawn party, learning about climate change from a marine biologist, or relaxing with your significant other at the Hammock Grove. The island also offers overnight accommodations on its green lawns. Consider a proposal away from the hustle and bustle of the city, and enjoying the community and lifestyle on Governor’s Island. 

Liberty Island

It’s almost impossible to not know Liberty Island if you’re a native New Yorker or even if you’re visiting. The Statue of Liberty stands here and is an important part of U.S. history. While you cannot propose up at the crown of the statue with the ring, you can still do it without. You can even propose at the base of the statue, looking at the NYC skyline. Just be aware that you need to book in advance if this is your move because the number of visitors is limited daily. On the plus side, with the limit, you might just snag a time where there are fewer visitors, so you can propose at the perfect time. 

Beautiful Places to Propose in Queens

Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum

If you’re looking for a historical and serene location to propose in Queens then you can’t miss out on the Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum. Built in 1836, this landmark-designated Greek-Revival mansion in Pelham Bay Park is perfect for an intimate proposal. Better yet, after you’re done, you can even schedule a photoshoot in both the garden and interior of the mansion.

Socrates Sculpture Park

A lover of art and the Manhattan skyline? Plan a romantic proposal at the Socrates Sculpture Park after a day of perusing contemporary public art exhibits. Found in 1986 by visionary sculptor Mark di Suvero, the park faces the gorgeous Manhattan skyline. The skyline is great to look at any time of the day, but sunset is especially romantic. Weekdays are the best days to stop by if you want less foot traffic.

Gantry Plaza State Park

Take a stroll by the Gantry Plaza State Park for your perfect proposal. Located in Long Island City, this is a 12-acre state park most famous for its landmark-designated Pepsi-Cola Sign. There are plenty of picnic benches around the park so plan a romantic picnic and get ready to propose to the love of your life.

Romantic Places to Propose in Brooklyn

Brooklyn Bridge Park

Nothing beats the views you can get at Brooklyn Bridge Park. Located in Brooklyn (as the name implies), you’re able to see the Manhattan skyline as well as the Brooklyn and Manhattan bridges. The park snakes around the waterfront, and there are plenty of private spaces and benches where you can pop the question. Saturdays are usually the popular days, but the park is quite large, so finding a private space should be easy.

Brooklyn Botanic Garden

Want to be surrounded by greenery and flowers when you propose, but not have to pay for the set-up? The Brooklyn Botanic Garden offers just that. With acres of blooming flowers, a Japanese zen garden, and a lily pond, this garden offers a quiet, romantic spot to ask the question. They’re not open Mondays, but weekdays are considerably less busy than weekends.

Prospect Park Boathouse

One of the most beautiful buildings in the park is the Art-Beaux Prospect Park Boathouse. Built in 1905, Brooklyn locals almost lost this boathouse due to years and years of neglect. Luckily, the community decided to step in and save the boathouse from being demolished. It was eventually repaired and added to the National Register of Historic Places. The Audubon Center is inside the boathouse and is used for learning and immersive programs about nature. Set up a picnic or make it seem like a normal walk in the park. Make sure to get some photos right by Lullwater of your proposal. 

Coney Island Boardwalk

Unless you and your partner are not amusement park fans, the Coney Island Boardwalk is actually a great place to get on the knee. Spend the day at the beach or on the amusement park rides. Once evening starts coming around, the tired families start leaving and going home, which is the perfect time to walk to the end of the boardwalk to propose. You could even propose right before the fireworks start and stay watching the sky light up with colors. Another private option could be to propose on the Ferris wheel.

Best Proposal Spots in the Bronx

Bronx Zoo

If your partner loves animals, then you definitely can’t miss out on a proposal at the Bronx Zoo. The Bronx Zoo first opened up in 1899 and is one of the largest wildlife conservation parks in the US. There are currently over 4000 animals in the Zoo with more than 650 species. Mondays and Tuesdays appear to be the least busy so if you want a more intimate proposal then you should aim for these days.

Wave Hill Public Garden

Flowers are a sure way to set up a romantic environment and you can find a lot of them at the Wave Hill public garden and cultural center in Riverdale. There are beautiful serene paths that wind across a field of wildflowers in springtime and a pool with water lilies and lotus flowers throughout the summer and fall. Tuesday and Wednesday are the least trafficked days making them great days to stop by the garden for your proposal.

Staten Island Locations to Get Engaged

The Staten Island Ferry

This might be a stranger option, but if you’re looking to propose on the water without paying a hefty price to rent a boat, the Staten Island Ferry could be perfect. Note that since the ferry is also used as a commuter method for New Yorkers, going on during rush hours might not be the best time of the day. Instead, try going in the afternoon, or even at night. You can head up the stairs/ramp and propose on the deck as the ferry skirts past the Statue of Liberty. Plus, it’s free!

The Chinese Scholar’s Garden

Staten Island has a lot more to offer than the Staten Island Ferry. A great underrated attraction is the New York Chinese Scholar’s Garden. It’s one of the two authentic classical outdoor Chinese gardens built in the United States. The garden itself is a compilation of different gardens from China. According to the site, it is based on the Ming Dynasty gardens (1368-1644 AD). All of the architectural components were fabricated in Suzhou, China. There are eight pavilions that you and your partner are able to explore, including a bamboo forest path, a koi pond, and waterfalls. The entrance fee is five dollars per adult, and free on the first Friday of each month with the proof of residency. If you’re not already a Staten Island resident, take the ferry over with your partner, explore all the pavilions, and propose in this beautiful setting. They are closed Mondays and Tuesdays and are busiest on Saturdays. The weekdays seem to be the least busy or not even busy at all.

The post Most Serene Places to Propose in NYC appeared first on CitySignal.

Want to spend your day off in the city, but not have it feel like NYC? Taking an escape to Roosevelt Island might be your answer. Sandwiched between Manhattan and Queens, Roosevelt Island is a narrow island that has a rich history. It was originally purchased from the Canarsie Indians in 1637 by Dutch Governor Wouter Van Twiller. The island was eventually taken over by Captain John Manning in 1666 after the Dutch surrendered to the English in 1664 and became known as Manning’s Island. Twenty years later, Manning’s son-in-law, Robert Blackwell inherited the island. The Blackwell family eventually sold the island to the City of New York in 1828 for $32,000. After nearly a century, in 1921 the island was renamed Welfare Island after the prison, asylum, and many hospitals that the city constructed throughout the years. The island only finally landed on its current name in 1973 when it was renamed in honor of Franklin D. Roosevelt, who was New York’s governor from 1929 to 1933.

The island has a lot to offer its residents and visitors. From a fantastic aerial tram that lets you get the best views of Manhattan’s Upper East Side to snapping pictures of the Smallpox Hospital from behind a fence, here are the best things to do and see on Roosevelt Island.

Things to Do on Roosevelt Island

Plan Your Smallpox Hospital Roosevelt Island Visit

Although this attraction is off-limits and fenced off, you can still see the ruins behind the fence. This historic hospital was built in the 1850s to treat people with smallpox. Built by James Renwich Jr., the hospital was also referred to as the Renwick Smallpox Hospital and eventually Renwick’s Ruins. According to Atlas Obscura, from 1856 to 1875, the hospital treated 7,000 patients a year. In 1875, the hospital was converted into a nurses’ dormitory, and by the 1950s the hospital had been abandoned by the city. However, in 1975, the Landmarks Preservation Commission took interest and declared the old hospital a city landmark. 

Take the Roosevelt Island Tram

The oldest tram in North America, the Roosevelt Island Tram runs every 10-15 minutes. Considered one of NYC’s most underrated tourist attractions, this tram ride is fast, easy, not crowded, and has the most beautiful view of the city skyline and East River. It costs the same as a subway ride and takes about three to five minutes to get from one side to the other. Since the tram is not meant to be a tourist attraction, but an efficient commuter rail, make sure to avoid riding the tram during rush hours. Also, note that the tram does not run every hour, so make sure to check the schedule.

Explore Blackwell Island Lighthouse

The Roosevelt Island Lighthouse, formally known as the Blackwell Island Lighthouse and then the Welfare Island Lighthouse (1921-1973), is a 50-foot-tall Gothic-style lighthouse first built in 1872. This was a lighthouse commissioned by the city in order to light up the nearby New York City Lunatic Asylum for the boats navigating the Hell Gate waters. Legend says that the lighthouse was constructed by a patient by the name of John McCarthy at the former asylum though it’s more likely that inmate labor was used in the construction of this city-run project. The lighthouse was eventually decommissioned in the 1940s, designated a city landmark, and then partially restored in 1976. 

Blackwell House

Located at 500 Main Street, the Blackwell House was named after its owner Jacob Blackwell who constructed the house in 1796. Fun fact, Jacob Blackwell was the great-grandson of the same Robert Blackwell who took owners of Roosevelt Island (then known as Manning’s Island) back in 1686. This farmhouse is the last remaining house on the island that was constructed in a period of time when the island was still privately-held property. It is also New York County’s sixth oldest house. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1972. Today, visitors can stop by the house for free to learn more about the island’s rich history through the treasures, records, and archives that are stored inside this historic building.

Admire The Octagon at 888 Main Street, Roosevelt Island

At the northern end of Roosevelt Island is this mid-19th-century landmark that was built as the main entrance to the New York City Lunatic Asylum. The Octagon also served as the administrative center of the asylum. The building’s famous rotunda design was done by New York architect, Alexander Jackson Davis. The design was even praised by a visiting Charles Dickens, who called the building “handsome” and the rotunda’s flying spiral staircase an especially “spacious and elegant” feature; but he further commented that the asylum had a “lounging, listless, madhouse air which was very painful.” Thankfully, that frightening air is no longer around as this landmark was converted in 2019 into a luxury green building. These days residents of the building can enjoy state-of-the-art and luxurious amenities. Non-residents should make sure to walk by the building and take in the signature five-story octagonal rotunda.

Check Out the Future Cornell Tech

Considered the tech hub of NYC, the Cornell Tech campus is a joint venture between Cornell University and Technion. With amazing architecture designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merill, and with James Corner Field Operations doing the landscape design, Cornell Tech is tech-savvy and pleasing to look at. The 12-acres campus isn’t expected to be finished until 2037, but the Bloomberg Center is open to visitors where you can check out the city’s first net-zero building, as it only uses electricity that it creates itself. 

Take a Stroll in Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park

Located on the southern tip of Roosevelt Island, the construction of the Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park started on March 29th, 2010 following architect Louis I. Kahn’s original design (in fact, it was the famous architect’s last work). The park was completed on budget in September of 2012 and then opened to the public in October of 2012. A dedication ceremony was also held when the park opened including people like Bill Clinton, Andrew Cuomo, and Michael Bloomberg. The ceremony was where the Four Freedoms Park was officially designated a New York State Park by Cuomo. The park itself is beautiful containing 120 Linden trees, a 340-ft-long triangular lawn, a 60-square-foot open plaza, and a bronze casting of FDR. You can stop by the park to take in some wonderful views of the Manhattan and Queens skyline. 

Enjoy Artworks at RIVAA

If you’re an art lover, be sure to check out the Roosevelt Island Visual Art Association (RIVAA). It’s a nonprofit arts group that works to promote the Roosevelt Island art scene. They boost gallery exhibitions, workshops, and community events. They converted a former pharmacy into Roosevelt Island’s first free gallery space in 2002. If you’re looking to find contemporary art, they are considered to have some of the best contemporary art around. They exhibit works by local and international guest artists.

Take in the Manhattan Skyline during Sunset

It’s golden hour and you’re wanting to see the last of the sun’s rays hitting the city’s skyscraper windows. Luckily, if you’re on Roosevelt Island, you can go to the island’s west side and have a front-seat skyline view of Manhattan’s Midtown and Upper East Side. No need for rooftops and ferries when you’re getting the most authentic and beautiful views from Roosevelt Island. Viewing the city skyline is the perfect way to finish off the day on the island. 

Grab a Bite at the Graduate Roosevelt Island Hotel

However, if you’re feeling peckish, then consider grabbing a bite to eat at the Graduate Hotel. Designed by internationally renowned design firm Snøhetta, this is currently the only hotel on the island. The bright and modern hotel was designed to ensure unobstructed views of both Manhattan and Queens. Visitors can drop by to grab a bite at the hotel’s restaurant, Anything At All, then enjoy a delicious cocktail from the rooftop bar, the Panorama Room, while taking in the 360-degree views of New York.

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The Best Water Sports New York has to offer in Brooklyn

Relax with Fishing in Brooklyn

Nothing beats fishing if you’re looking for a calm afternoon, and Brooklyn has some of the best fishing spots in all of New York. You can fish in some parks and creeks, but the best place to cast your line is the American Veterans Memorial Pier. This historic pier is in Bay Ridge and features an amazing view of the Statue of Liberty and Downtown Manhattan. It’s a perfect place to sooth your mind, and catch some saltwater fish.

Interactive Fun at Water Lab

If you have kids who are afraid of deep water, the Water Lab playground is the place to go. Located in Brooklyn Bridge Park, this playground is all about cooling off and having fun. The Water Jet Field has a ton of interactive water features guaranteed to keep your children entertained. This is a place for smaller children, though. Older kids and adults might want something a bit more adventurous or, dare we say, extreme.

Jet Ski in Bensonhurst at Empire City Watersports, Brooklyn NY

If you like jet skis, head down to Bensonhurst, the home base of Empire City Watersports. They offer jet skis for rental and for organized tours of the Statue of Liberty, Downtown Brooklyn, Manhattan, and more! This extreme water activity is perfect for older kids, parents, or people who want to go on a creative date. This activity is perfect for anyone who loves extreme water sports.

Kayaking in NYC at Brooklyn Bridge Park

If jet skis are too extreme, consider kayaking instead! This water sport still allows you to exert energy but is far more relaxing and allows you to really take in your surroundings and the scenery. Some New Yorkers love it so much that they even invest in their own kayaks. 

Right now, you can join the Brooklyn Bridge Park Conservancy and Brooklyn Bridge Park Boathouse at Pier 2 from June through September for free kayaking sessions. For those with little ones, the Boathouse is also offering a family kayaking program. Folks who join in on these free sessions will enjoy an amazing view of lower Manhattan and the Status of Liberty in the far distance. The typical kayak session will last around 20 minutes. Make your appointment today and be prepared to get a little wet from the waist down!

Sail a Boat in the East River

There are a surprising amount of boating options in NYC, but none are more popular than the North Brooklyn Boat Club. The club welcomes people of all ages and skill sets, though it divides you by beginner, intermediate, and advanced boaters. You’ll then set out on an excursion from the Newtown Creek where you’ll eventually reach the East River. It’s a very relaxing experience that lets you see parts of the city you never knew existed.

Try Marine Park and Prospect Park Boating

Many of Brooklyn’s Parks have lakes, and nothing screams “fun” like a paddle boat with friends. With locations in Prospect Park and Marine Park, Wheel Fun Rentals provide boats and life jackets to customers looking for romance or good times on the water. Paddle boats aren’t the only water rental options either. You can also get kayaks here and can rent bikes too, but those aren’t supposed to go in the water.

Play Beach Volleyball in Brooklyn Bridge Park

Okay, so you won’t necessarily be in water for this activity but given that it’s right on Pier 6 on the East River, we’re slipping this water activity into our list. Beach volleyball, unlike traditional volleyball is played in sand with a lighter, softer, and bigger ball. For those looking to try out beach volleybal at Brooklyn Bridge Park, note that the three regulation-size sand courts are first come first serve and play-time should be capped at an hour so others can get a turn.

Other Water Activities in NYC

Experience and Learn at the New York Aquarium

For a more relaxing, but exciting, activity, the New York Aquarium offers many cool experiences that are great for all ages. Take a tour of the different exhibits like the spineless animals, sharks, and sea cliff critters. There’s also the Aquatheater, an interactive live show that features trainers and sea lions showcasing the bond between animal and man. A 4-D theater also provides an interactive experience, so the aquarium has a little something for everyone.

Beach time on Coney Island

Brooklyn beaches are plentiful, but not many can compete with Coney Island. With an amusement park, shopping, and food, there’s always a ton of cool stuff to do. The Nathan’s Hotdog Eating Contest and The Mermaid Parade are always big draws, and the water here is great for swimming, surfing, and other water related activities. All in all, Coney Island is a great place to spend a warm summer day, especially during a time of celebration.

Dance and Eat on a Boat Tour

If a more luxurious water activity is what you’re craving, Atlantis New York Cruises in Sheepshead Bay is just what the doctor ordered. These boats are available for special events, like weddings and birthdays, or just because you want to dance and eat on a yacht. The ship is three stories and will take you on a wonderful trip around New York Harbor, where you can look forward to a wonderful evening of food, celebration, and breathtaking views.

Tour Brooklyn Naval Yard

Even though this stop is much more a beacon of industry, Brooklyn Naval Yard still does tours of their past and present as a naval powerhouse! You won’t get splashed here, but you will experience some nautical fun with the museum and art installations that can be found here. There are also plenty of places to eat and drink near the water, so grab your friends and enjoy a nice afternoon.

Soak and Relax at Spas in Brooklyn

Most people think that water activities need to be active. These people don’t know the majesty of just sitting in hot water for a half hour. Places like Bath House offer amazing spa services like hot tubs and deep soaking baths to calm your nerves and relax your muscles. These water activities are some of the best around because they aren’t just fun, they heal your weary soul.

Experience Fun with Friends on a Boat Bar

If you like drinking on boats but hate when they are in motion, check out the floating bars of Brooklyn like Pilot. These boats have great service, fun drinks, and a nautical atmosphere that will ensure you have a great time. The gentle sway of the boats, as well as the cooling breeze in your hair, will accent the already amazing views of the city. Seafood is also usually served.

New York City has a ton of fun things for locals and tourists to enjoy. Some of the best spots are in the waters of Brooklyn. Thanks to environmental cleaning projects, the rivers, bays, and ocean here are the cleanest they’ve ever been. These waters are just waiting for you to enjoy them, so get out there and cool off with some of the best water activities around, even if you aren’t actually getting wet.

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Writers at Delish provided a list of unspoken ‘rules’ of  Bottomless Brunch which we felt was important to include before we got into the best restaurants.

• Don’t make plans afterward as you will be full and most certainly drunk.
• Arrive on time because with most bottomless brunch places you will have an allocated time period and they will not allow you to go over no matter what. The restaurants have other people who also want their turn at boozy brunch!
• People get crazy when they’re drunk and that’s okay, but do not be disrespectful. Keep you and your party under control out of consideration for others.
• With every refill of your alcoholic beverage, make sure you are also refilling your water, and drinking it. It is easy to become dehydrated during your stay which is only a recipe for disaster. You know what we’re talking about.
• Most importantly, have fun. Bottomless brunch is always an event and a half, so be ready to get full and have a great time. 

With that being said, read on for our recommendations on the best boozy brunch deals!

Best NYC Boozy Brunch Deals

1.) The Crooked Knife – 232 W 14th Street

 

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Located in Chelsea (with two other locations), The Crooked Knife is one of our favorite spots. With the option for both indoor and outdoor seating, The Crooked Knife is a perfect spot for the approaching warm weather. For a party of 7-14 guests you must fill out a form on their website, but otherwise, you can call or go online to make a reservation. You can sit for a total of 90 minutes and for $47 per person you get an entrée of choice and unlimited Bloody Mary’s or Mimosas. Residents living in Chelsea sure have it good. 

2.) Añejo – 301 Church Street

 

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You can never go wrong doing bottomless brunch with a modern Mexican twist. Añejo, located on the lower west side of Manhattan, offers their customers a deal you do not want to miss. For $55/person you get 90 minutes at a table, traditional guacamole and salsa to share with a side of coconut French toast, a brunch entrée of your choice, and unlimited brunch cocktails: Blanco Margarita, Bloody Maria, Mimosa, or Sangria. Your entire party must participate in the bottomless brunch and there is a five card maximum. To make a reservation, you can call them at (212) 920 – 6270. 

3.) Carroll Place – 157 Bleecker Street

 

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This Italian-American wine bar and gastropub joint near Washington Square Park is a true fan favorite. Carroll Place has nothing but raving reviews with a particular affinity for their bottomless brunch. For a party of 8 or more, you get 90 minutes of unlimited brunch drinks (Mimosa, Bellini, Bloody Mary, Rose Sangria), 2 starters (with any additional items at $3 per person), 3 main dishes (with any additional items at $5 per person), and dessert all for $38 per person. If you have a party of less than 8, you can get bottomless drinks for 90 minutes and any entrée for $28 per person. With such a delicious menu, this price is hard to beat. 

4.) Pig and Khao – 68 Clinton Street

 

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A Filipino-Thai fusion brunch with bottomless mimosas. That should be enough to have you sprinting there right this moment. Located in the Lower East Side, Pig and Khao offers a mouth-watering brunch menu with the choice of bottomless mimosas for 90 minutes. For $18 you get unlimited drinks with a handful of flavors: orange, lychee, mango, and peach. Their deal does not include an entrée, just drinks. It is important to take note of the fact that they stop taking orders at 3 PM and the cutoff for bottomless mimosas is 4 PM. 

5.) 1803 NYC – 82 Reade Street

 

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This little spot in the Financial District provides its customers with an authentic New Orleans experience. The second you walk through their doors you will forget that you are in Manhattan and feel as if you have traveled to the bustling and bright city in Louisiana. Between the atmosphere and food they serve, 1803 NYC prides itself on its delicious Cajun-Creole adventure. Every Saturday and Sunday from 12 PM – 4 PM you can choose from their brunch menu where they offer alcoholic pitchers for $35 during brunch. Whereas this is not a traditional bottomless brunch, with enough people it could become bottomless very quickly. 

6.) Isabelle’s NYC – 245 Park Ave Street

 

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Isabelle’s Osteria is a lovely little Italian spot located in the Flatiron neighborhood. Serving a wide array of Italian favorites, Isabelle’s also does $19 unlimited Bellini every Sunday. The Bellini paired with their brunch menu is absolutely mouth-watering. With rave reviews across the board, we highly recommend reserving a Sunday brunch meal here as soon as possible. 

7.) Tasca  – 505 Columbus Avenue

If you’re looking for a great bottomless brunch deal on the Upper West Side, be sure to swing around Tasca. This restaurant combines flavors from Spain, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, and Puerto Rico. For just $25, you’ll get your choice of a delicious appetizer and entrée. We highly recommend the Huevos Gitanos, a dish with baked Gypsy eggs, potatoes, spinach, chorizo, Serrano ham, pepper & onion, and tomato sofrito. For something sweet, try the Torrija, a Spanish-style French toast, instead! Enjoy bottomless red sangria for an additional $15 (for 90 minutes)—or upgrade to premium Bloody Mary or Cava Mimosa for an additional $10.

The post The 7 Best NYC Boozy Brunch Deals Right Now appeared first on CitySignal.

Noodles Around the World

1. Laksa | Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore

If you visit a Malaysian restaurant, you will most likely see this dish on the menu. It features [usually] thick vermicelli noodles served in a creamy and spicy broth. The broth is usually coconut based and it is topped with bean sprouts, shrimp, an egg, and dried tofu puffs. Laksa does require quite a few ingredients to make, but would be well worth it to eat after. One of our favorite Malaysian restaurants located in the Lower East Side and bordering Chinatown, is Kopitiam!

2. Ramen | Japan

No, we’re not talking about instant ramen noodles you buy at the grocery store (although those are tasty too). Real ramen noodles, served fresh and hot, are the ultimate comfort food. Noodle shapes can differ depending on the restaurant you choose, but the real delicacy is the art behind the broth. The Japanese have found that boiling the broth for longer amounts of time brings out more flavor from the ingredients used, like pork and chicken. 

Looking to try some quality ramen at home? Check out these fun ramen kits from ICHIRAN, a leading expert in Tonkotsu ramen. Each kit features three servings of individually packed noodles, dried broth and original spicy red seasoning packet. You can find these packets on ICHIRAN’s website.

3. Pho | Vietnam

Oh, how I highly recommend this dish. While prices in the U.S. are much higher than Vietnam to try their national noodle dish, there are still tons of restaurants that serve some of the best pho you may ever have. This dish usually has a beef broth base, but chicken and seafood have found places in pho-loving hearts too. Unlike a thicker tonkotsu ramen broth, pho has a lighter broth, almost transparent, but packs the same punch of flavor. The best part of eating pho is dressing it up. Bean sprouts, Thai basil, chillies, fresh lime wedges, and cilantro are usually brought out with the dish and you are free to add whichever ingredients you would like. The dish is also eaten with hoisin sauce and sriracha. The editor’s favorite can be found at Thái Sơn in Chinatown. Residents who live here are incredibly lucky!

4. Pad Thai | Thailand

This stir-fried dish is actually commonly served as a street food in Thailand, but is served as a proper dish outside of the country. The dish is served with thin rice noodles, and topped with bean sprouts, your choice of meat (our favorite is either chicken or shrimp), lime wedge, scrambled egg, and peanuts. The sauce used to douse the noodles gives it a zesty taste with some sweetness included. Pad Thai is the perfect dish if you’re wanting a noodle without the broth or cream.

5. Tallarines Verde | Peru

Often labeled as a “Peruvian comfort food,” this dish was recommended by a Peruvian friend. This dish might look and taste familiar as it is otherwise known as pesto pasta. Pesto was first brought to Peru by Italian immigrants and they made it their own. Every Peruvian has their own twist on the dish, but it mainly consists of spinach, basil, and cheese sauce.

6. Naengmyeon | South Korea

This noodle dish made from thin, chewy, buckwheat noodles is a summer favorite in Korea. It is served cold, and sometimes even with ice! There are a lot of pre-packaged options of this cold noodle that make it convenient for an at-home meal. The broth usually consists of dongchimi (radish kimchi) and beef broth. Vinegar and hot mustard can be added for more of a spicy kick. The noodles come with toppings like a boiled egg, cucumber, and thin beef slices.

7. Sopa Seca | Mexico

Sopa seca is a Mexican noodle dish that is considered a comfort food. The name translates to “dry soup.” Vermicelli noodles are lightly fried before cooking them in a flavorful broth. Like other Mexican dishes, sopa seca is prepared with a lot of spices along with tomatoes and chipotle peppers. Chicken bouillon is often added to enhance the taste as well. Not having tried it myself, people say it tastes like aromatic tomatoes and onions with a side of chicken.

Saving the Best for Last

Bonus! My grandma’s noodles are my comfort food. My grandpa will make the noodles by hand, and she will carefully boil the chicken or beef broth for a few hours, making the broth as flavorful as it can be. She tops the noodles with delicious beef slices, or a combination of spices and mushroom bits made by hand. Even her meatless noodles taste great, with tomatoes and veggies included.

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