ROSEANNE BAR - AND I SHOULD KNOW

For those of us who grew up watching television in the late 80's, you should remember Roseanne.  Often rude and crass, Roseanne represented the "real" working class woman who didn't let men rule her world and she made her own decisions and played by her own rules.  I loved this show!!  I've always been an avid TV fanatic and this show most certainly falls into my top 10 of all time.  After all, it did last 9 years (an eternity in TV land).

As you all can see from previous posts, I never recommend reading anything...I'm not much of a book person.  However, I do read magazines and a lot of online articles.  I came across this article in New York Magazine and found it fascinating!!  I loved this show and had briefly heard rumors about Roseanne's battle with the network, writers and producer which is what made me continue reading.  Now I have to buy Roseanne's book and watch her new reality show.  She speaks her mind and I admire her for that!!!  She also empathizes with Charlie Sheen and can understand his demons.  Go Roseanne!!!!

ART BAR - West Village

I had a date, yes a date on Tuesday night at Art Bar (52 8th Avenue bw Horatio & Jane).  While he didn't pick up the tab (verdict is still out on that), I rather enjoyed myself at this West Village spot.  The music was top notch.  It was so good that I could've stayed put all night.  I loved the antique chairs, the curtains, the hanging lamps, the paintings and most of all...the drinks.  The martinis were super cheap and filled to the rim.  I'll go back to this place for the drinks and for the cute single boys...lol. 

SOCIAL EATZ - Midtown East

 

Last night, three of us went to Social Eatz owned by Angelo Sosa of Top Chef.  We had the chili kissed tilapia, Southeast Asian Pickles, the Social Burger and crispy fries.  Not to mention several glasses of champagne (they can out of Cava but the rose champagne was even better) and one glass of wine.  Everything was very good!!  We had thought the pickles and cauliflower would come out in whole pieces, not shredded but it was still tasty.  Our waitress/bartender (Liz) was super friendly so overall we had a good experience.  I look forwarding to trying the spring rolls (they ran out) and the Korean beef taco next time.  This block is filled with restaurants but I'd pick Social Eatz for the tapas style bites, the music, the decor and the friendliness of the staff.

Marché du Sud - Upper East Side

Alicia (creator of AM Style Architect) and I went to Marché du Sud  (1136 1st Avenue) on the Upper East Side the other evening.  The food was insanely good.  It's a French restaurant, market & bakery within two separate areas.  They offered a tasty selection of cheeses, meats, soups, sandwiches, French pizzas, entrees and desserts.  At the bar, there is a nice variety of wines as well as vodka, beer and other spirits.  This spot is romantic courtesy of the crystal chandeliers, exposed brick wall, wooden beams and even a heated outdoor garden.  It's in my neighborhood so I'd love to take you for a visit!!

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

 

I had a much needed vacation in the Dominican Republic with some great people.  I wouldn't recommend the resort (Viva Wyndham Dominicus Palace) but I did like the beaches and the time spent with my friends.  My Spanish was a bit rusty but we survived.  I conquered snorkeling and one of my many OCD's (lol).  We all need a break from working!!  

THE SWELL SEASON - Tribeca Film Festival

A group of us went to see "The Swell Season" at the Tribeca Film Festival.  I had never been to the festival so this was one check off my "bucket list".  If you don't recognize the name of the band, you might know them as Academy Award Winners for Best Original Song "Falling Slowly" from Once.  This is by far one of the best soundtracks I've ever heard.  Jill and I had the honor of seeing them perform more than once in NYC.  Our first show at Radio City bought me to tears.  They're such a humble pair and their music is amazing!!!  This film documents their love, her struggle with fame and the challenges within their own relationship.  It's a touching film and I hope it brings great success to the three directors who worked on it for three years.

RAFAELLA ON NINTH - Chelsea

We had a delicious dinner at Rafaella on Ninth (178 9th Avenue) right before going to see a movie at the Tribeca Film Festival.  There are plenty of options on the menu since they offer Italian, Mediterranean, Crepes, Vegetarian and Vegan options.  We didn't stay for dessert but they offered a variety of crepes (sweet), cakes, pies and pastries plus they have a coffee bar.  The restaurant's decor was charming and super cozy.  They had beautiful chandeliers, paintings, candles, antique chairs & couches and brick walls.  I would highly recommend this spot if you're in the neighborhood.