CITY LOVE (TOKYO) : SHIBUYA STARBUCKS

I walked up to the cash register.  "One apple cider please", asked the 15-year old me.  I was at Starbucks on a Friday night again.  It was basically where I spent every Friday.  As a teenager living in Tokyo, I was constantly grounded for something and Starbucks was my escape.

There aren't many Starbucks where I would spend my Friday night.  This one was special.  Located in the heart of Shibuya, this particular Starbucks overlooked Shibuya Crossing.  Recognized as one of the busiest intersections in the world, Shibuya Crossing is known to see over 3 million people each day!  I used to sit by the window on the second level and watch all the people cross by.  Every few minutes a crowd of hundreds would gather on each side of the road.   As soon as the walking man would flash green, both sides would rush together, creating a swarm of people headed in different directions.  It was fascinating to watch.  Where were they all going?  What was their story?  I was constantly picking out interesting people in the crowd and imagining what their life was like.  It became one of my favorite pastimes, maybe the one I missed the most when I moved back to the states in 2003. Next time you are in Toyko, grab a cup of coffee (or an apple cider) here for me.  I guarantee you will find this crossing just as fascinating as I did.

I snapped this picture of Shibuya Crossing when I was a Sophomore in high school.  If you look closely, you can see the Starbucks in the top right hand corner.  HAPPY FRIDAY!

CITY LOVE : DYLANS CANDY BAR

I love candy.  No...that doesn't even do it justice.  I LUVVVVVVVE me some candy!  I could eat candy all day, every day, for every meal.  I love it that much.  When I am really craving candy, I go one place...Dylan's Candy Bar.  Just the name brings on a warm fuzzy feeling and a big smile to my face.  Drawing in kids and adults of all ages, Dylan's Candy Bar really does have something for everyone.

Located on 60th and 3rd, this candy lovers' haven takes up three entire stories.  As you enter through the large glass doors, an island in the middle of the store entirely surrounded with types of gummies awaits. That is where I go first.  The back wall is filled with chocolates...chocolate covered raisins, chocolate peanuts and chocolate covered marshmallows, just to name a few.  The bottom level holds candies from around the world and the top floor, an actual "candy bar", serving things like root beer floatinis and strawberry nerds mojitos.  My favorite is their signature hot chocolate.  It is like nothing I have ever tasted.  Next time you are in the area, stop by and try one.  I guarantee it will warm up the coldest of days.  HAPPY FRIDAY!

CITY LOVE : CHRISTMAS ON 5TH AVENUE

Nothing puts me in the mood for Christmas like a hot chocolate from Dylan's Candy Bar and a stroll down 5th avenue.  Sparkly lights,  beautiful wreaths, and hundreds of trees join the sea of yellow taxi cabs on this famous street at Christmas time in New York City.  By day or by night, the decorations are spectacular!  From ice-skating under the magnificent tree at Rockefeller on 50th, to the snowflake on 57th , 5th avenue is one of the most wonderful places to be this time of the year. 

The Unicef snowflake on 57th street weighs 3,300 pounds! This snowflake is a yearly reminder of Unicef's commitment to reach a day where zero kids die of preventable causes.  

Bergdolf Goodman adds a wreath to every window!

Anyone buying their sweetheart a sparkly gift from Harry Winston this year?

Ice-skating to Christmas music under the 74-foot Christmas Tree at Rockefeller is magical!

My favorite thing about 5th avenue?  The tiny Christmas trees lighting up both sides of this beautiful street.  HAPPY FRIDAY and Merry Christmas Eve-Eve!

CITY LOVE : CARLO'S BAKE SHOP (CAKE BOSS)

If you are a fan of TLC's Cake Boss, you are going to LOVE today's post.  Located in Hoboken, NJ, this bakery is anything by ordinary. Yes, I just quoted Avril Lavigne, don't hate!  Filled with lavishly decorated cakes, cupcakes and pastries, Carlo's Bake Shop definitely has the "wow" factor.

As soon as I entered the small shop, I was greeted with the sweet smell of buttercream and a long line of excited customers.  I looked around in awe and quickly fell in love with the adorable 3D cupcakes on the far wall decorated in Christmas shapes.  I purchased three (because one is never enough) and found a bench outside to enjoy the tasty looking  Christmas tree.  Let me tell you, it was heaven!   Next time you are in the area, check out Carlo's Bake Shop.  I promise you will leave with an amazing sugar high, and a smile.

Aren't these cupcakes ADORABLE?! 

HAPPY FRIDAY!!!

CITY LOVE : ROCKEFELLER CHRISTMAS TREE

There is nothing more magical than New York City at Christmas.  The snow covered rooftops, the lights on Fifth, and my favorite, the Rockefeller Christmas Tree.  Ice-skating under the hundreds of lights twinkling above is something I look forward to every year.  Visit the rink yourself.  I guarantee you will leave filled to the brim with Christmas spirit :)

CITY LOVE : EATALY

Smells of rich espresso and sweet creamy gelato fill the air as the door swings open to one of the largest italian market places in New York, Eataly. Located on 23rd and 5th, this is the ultimate destination for food lovers to taste, savor and purchase authentic italian food.  Filled with fresh meats, cheeses, fish, homemade pastas, baked goods, and coffee, this place aims to please.  Next time you are in the area, take a trip to Eataly.  You will LOVE it!

CITY LOVE : THE RESERVOIR

A perfect lake set in one of the most unusual locations.  The Reservoir in Central Park is unlike any other place in the city.  A quiet peace occupies this open space, making it a favorite spot for runners, dog walkers, and those just looking for a little beauty.  Surrounding the lake is a 1.58 mile path where celebrities like Bill Clinton, Madonna and Jackie Kennedy have been seen enjoying a jog.  My favorite time of the year to make the trek up to 86th street is the fall.  To me, nothing is more beautiful than watching the yellow and red leaves fall gently onto the still water.

CITY LOVE : SOUTH STREET SEAPORT

As the sun goes down, South Street Seaport comes alive.  Music playing from ship decks lures people passing by to stop for a dance.  With it's easy vibe that is rarely found in Manhattan, South Street Seaport has stolen my heart.

Located along the lower Manhattan waterfront, South Street Seaport is a gateway to the harbor.  Posh shops scatter the streets, along with an array of diverse restaurants.  If you are looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, South Street Seaport is the perfect spot.

CITY LOVE : MORADA BAY (FLORIDA KEYS)

Every once and a while it is okay to take a little vacation.    This week's city love post comes to you from the Florida Keys!  That's right, join me in Islamorada, FL, at the beautiful Morada Bay.  This beach front restaurant could not get any hotter!  With live music and delicious seafood, this hidden treasure is worth checking out.  I suggest trying the coconut shrimp. The apricot ginger marmalade it comes with is to die for!  

Melissa (of Stay Forever Photography) and I made sure to fuel up before last weekend's wedding in the Keys.  

My favorite part of Morada Bay was the live music and the beachy smell wafting through the air.  This place knows how to set the mood for the most relaxing lunch ever!

CITY LOVE : SERENDIPITY

This week we are traveling to my all time favorite spot for dessert, Serendipity!  Located on 60^th between 2^nd and 3^rd avenue, Serendipity is close to Central Park, 5^th Avenue, and the Roosevelt Island Tram.  It’s a good things there are so many great places to hang out nearby.  If you don’t hold a reservation, it can be quite a long wait! 

Serendipity serves a wide variety of food, but they are known for fabulous desserts.  The Frrrozen Hot Chocolate is on the top of their popularity list, but my favorite is the Forbidden Broadway Sundae.  This heavenly treat comes with a large piece of chocolate cake, soft vanilla ice cream, and the most delicious hot fudge you have ever tasted. 

While I try to make my way to Serendipity on every trip to the city, the best time to go is during the Christmas season.  Decked with floor to ceiling lights and unique ornaments, Serendipity turns into a magical place, one I never want to leave.  

Which one looks better to you?

CITY LOVE : SUSHI SAMBA

Sushi Samba is one of those place you can walk by and just know it's cool.  With a unique blend of Japanese, Brazilian and Peruvian cuisine, there is no place like it in New York City.  The music is always going and the energy this restaurant gives off can be felt from a mile away.  The ladies of Sex and the City were practically regulars at Sushi Samba when the show was filming.  Since I am a HUGE Sex and the City fan, I had to check it out!

Sushi Samba was actually the first "friend date" Mekina and I went on when she first moved to New York!  We ordered a Samba 7 roll and Green Envy to share.  Both were DELICIOUS!  Next time you are in the West Village, stop by!  I guarantee you will have a good time.

CITY LOVE : FETTE SAU

Not every great restaurant is located right in the center of Manhattan.  Sometimes you have to travel over the bridge to Brooklyn to experience mouth watering deliciousness.  One of my favorites has to be Fette Sau.  Located in the heart of Williamsburg, Fette Sau has been rated the best BBQ joint in NYC since 2009.  

The entrance of Fette Sau is lined with old wooden picnic tables and the walls are creatively painted with many different cuts of meat.  The menu is loaded with great pork ribs, tender pulled pork and beef, potato salad and BBQ baked beans.  Just thinking about it makes my mouth water!!  My favorite part?  The Cheerwine to wash everything down!  Next time you are in the area, try it out.  I guarantee you will love it!

CITY LOVE : TOP OF THE ROCK

Today's post is short and sweet.  If you are looking for the best view in the city, nothing beats the "Top of the Rock".  Standing on the 56th floor of Rockefeller Center, you will be able to take in AMAZING views of Central Park, the Empire State Building, the Statue of Liberty and so much more.   Don't get too close to the edge, it is a long way down!

Check out this picture of my husband Matt and I, taken on my iPhone at the "Top of the Rock" earlier this summer.  I can't get over the view!  HAVE A FABULOUS FRIDAY!

CITY LOVE : BRYANT PARK

It was spring, one of the first really nice spring days that year.  I took the train into the city for an early morning massage at Bliss Spa, one I had received from my ever so thoughtful husband Matt for my birthday.  After 90 minutes of complete heaven, I walked the 10 blocks to Bryant Park.  On the way I picked up a Crumbs cupcake for lunch (I know it is ridiculous but I have a MAJOR sweet tooth).  I meandered around the edge of the park until I found a perfect spot in the sun to read.  With my kindle in one hand and my cupcake in the other, I sat there for hours enjoying one of the most perfect days I can remember.  

Every time I look at this photo, I am reminded of this amazingly relaxing day in Bryant Park.  HAVE A FABULOUS FRIDAY!

CITY LOVE : THE BOW BRIDGE

The Bow Bridge. To me, it is one of the most romantic places in all of New York.  It could be it’s graceful shape, or maybe the breathtaking views of the weeping willows.  More magical than the views are the lovers seen happily rowing their boats under the bridge, or whispering a sweet proposal on top of it. To be honest, I believe it is the way this bridge makes me feel that is so special.  Every time I come across it, a calm smile spreads across my face as I think, this is a place that has seen true love.    

The Bow Bridge makes a beautiful backdrop for engagement pictures. 

HAVE A FABULOUS FRIDAY!

CITY LOVE : PORTILLO'S (CHICAGO)

“City love” comes from Chicago!  The name is Portillo’s. This famous restaurant located in downtown Chicago is packed with plenty of delicious hot dogs, Italian beef, and a great atmosphere. Walking in, you are greeted with a long line of excited customers wrapped around the red and white checkered tables.  Even with the humongous line, things move quickly thanks to the many friendly staff members waiting to take your order on the back of a white paper bag in line.  

I checked out the menu and decided on the Chicago style hot dog topped with mustard, relish, freshly chopped onions, sliced ripe tomatoes, pickle, and sport peppers, all piled onto a perfectly steamed poppy seed bun.  Wow, talk about a mouthful!  For dessert, (because no meal is complete without it) I ordered the chocolate cake shake which was very rich, but oh so good.  If you are in Chicago, try it!  You will not be disappointed.

My husband trying hard to figure out the street parking in Chicago :)

Check out the massive line!

The Chicago style hot dog was delicious.  

I finished the meal with a sweet chocolate cake shake.  YUMMM!

HAVE A FABULOUS FRIDAY!

CITY LOVE : MAGNOLIA BAKERY

So I realize this is my third “city love” post in a row on a restaurant; I promise they will not all be about food!  This week I am going to take you to my favorite spot for cupcakes, Magnolia Bakery. 

Magnolia’s…my mouth just waters when I think of these delicious sugary treats.  Walking in, it is impossible not to smile as the aroma of fresh baked cakes of all flavors fills the air.  You will have a choice of two lines, one for cupcakes, and one for everything else (coffee, pastries, banana pudding etc).  I go to the cupcake line first, since it is usually the longest.  There are many flavors to choose from like red velvet, s'mores, and snickerdoodle, but my favorite is the vanilla-vanilla.  Vanilla cake with vanilla icing, super simple but definitely the best flavor!  The icing is so sweet and sugary; it literally melts in your mouth.  YUMMM!

Something they are definitely not as well known for, but should be, is their banana pudding.  With a consistency like cake batter, this banana pudding is richer and fluffier than any I have ever had before.  (You heard right, fluffier).  Try it, I guarantee you will be surprised at how much you love it. 

There are four locations in the city, but my favorite is on 6^th and 49^th. It is so close to the theater district and makes a great snack after a Broadway play.  Plus, the lines are never as long here.  Check out a few photos from my last visit!

The Rockefeller Center Magnolia Bakery, on 49th street and 6th avenue.

My FAVORITES!  The banana pudding, red velvet cupcake, and vanilla-vanilla cupcake.

Of course, Magnolia's is best enjoyed with friends!  HAVE A FABULOUS FRIDAY!

CITY LOVE : SHAKE SHACK

This week I am going to take you to my favorite burger joint in the city, Shake Shack!  Nothing draws me in faster than a place where I can enjoy a meal and delicious dessert, all in one spot! 

I found Shake Shack when I was picking up tickets for Rain on Broadway.  I was a little early so I decided to grab dinner before the show.  I am always looking for new places to try and tonight, I wanted to discover somewhere GOOD.  Discover…like I was going to be the first person to find it.  As I made my way up 8^th avenue, a bright flashing sign and a line that stretched 10 feet out the door caught my eye.  I stuck my head inside to discover a parade of cheeseburgers, Chicago style hotdogs and creamy milkshakes in front of me.  YUUUUMMY!  I waited in line and ordered a shack burger and fries.  For dessert, I decided on a chocolate concrete (basically custard blended with your favorite toppings) with marshmallow cream and chocolate truffle cookie dough.  Talk about heaven in your mouth!  I finished off my meal and headed off to Rain, completely satisfied.    

The Shake Shack in the theatre district is always packed!

The shack burger and fries...my favorite.

The resurfaced tables were once part of a bowling lane!

My favorite Shake Shack is actually located in Madison Square Park.

You might recognize this location from the movie "Something Borrowed".

Of course, Shake Shack is always better when it is enjoyed with friends.  As much as we try and stay away, I know my second shooter Mekina and I will enjoy many more meals from Shake Shack in the future.


HAVE A FABULOUS FRIDAY!