A British girl's insight to dining and nightlife in the Big Apple and Beyond!

Thursday, December 8, 2011

The Raines Law Room

Another post dedicated to my best friend Ania for showing me another amazing place in the city! Wrote about it for Miss A but I loved it so much I want to post it on my blog too!!




I debated back and forth whether I wanted to write about this place. A part of me felt like its spark was the fact that it was so secret, but then another part of me felt like it was my duty as a future-food journalist to share my discovery.


My friend took me here on a whim last week and I have been thanking her everyday since. She kept repeating the words “secret”, “underground” and “hidden” so I was expecting some dodgy dive bar in the basement of a run down apartment building in the East Village. How wrong I was.

Just steps from Union Square on 17th Street, this sexy and mysterious lounge could easily go unnoticed. There is no sign outside that beckons you in, in fact there is no evidence whatsoever that you are steps away from one of New York’s most exciting bars. From the outside it is just steps down to what one could consider another apartment or office building service entrance. Upon going down the stairs you find you cannot open the door – instead, you must ring the doorbell and wait in the dark before you can enter.

A woman peers through the door crack and proceeds to open the door further. Immediately you are enticed by the warmth from the fire place, the velvet couches and chairs,the dark, intimate interior and the sounds of sophistication and charm. Already you know you are in the presence of an extraordinary place. You are truly transported back in time.



Once seated you can choose to pull the black, lace curtains around your individual seating area and really have a private gossip with your best friend or a romantic evening with your lover, without having to be embarrassed about a little bit of PDA. If you need your waitress to order one of many outstanding cocktails, simply pull the private buzzer by your table.




The drinks are all made in an open, marble and wood kitchen that you have to go through to find the eerie and candle-lit bathrooms. The whole experience is one-of-a kind. If you are looking for a place where you can have great conversation without screaming above the noise of other consumers and loud music – this is the place to go.



And for those of you who know The Raines Law Room well, and are shaking your fists at the screen at me for releasing the secret unto the world – don’t worry, the atmosphere there will not be ruined. If there are no seats for arriving guests, there will be sent away and called back when there is room! This is a no-standing lounge, which means no crowds and no interruptions…

WHERE:
Rains Law Room
48 West 17th Street (between 5th and 6th Ave)
New York, NY
reservations@rainslawroom.com

HOURS OF OPERATION:
Monday-Thursday: 5 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Friday-Saturday: 5 p.m. to 3 a.m.
Sunday: 8 p.m. to 1 a.m.
Reservations can only be made before 3 p.m. on Sundays, Mondays and Tuesdays ONLY. Other days are first come, first served.

Monday, December 5, 2011

Win! Win! Win!




Ho!Ho!Ho! Here is an early Christmas present from Santa’s Little Elves at Flipkey.com! As this blog shows I am someone who loves to eat food from many different cultures and so I thought it was my duty to pass on the knowledge of this competition!

From now until January 10th you can enter to win a 7 NIGHT STAY in your choice of three luxury vacation homes in BALI, COSTA RICA or TUSCANY.

There are no catches here, it is just a little Holiday Spirit from Flipkey and it is completely free to enter! There is only one entry per participant but you receive an extra entry for any friend that you invite who enters the sweepstake as well – and I am sure if they win they will invite you along with them!

The lucky winner will not only win a week in one of the five star homes but also be allowed to bring up to TEN friends with them!

I urge you to enter this competition, as this prize really is once in a life time. You can enter through Flipkeys Facebook Page and choose one of these amazing vacations.

Here is a little bit about each choice.

Villa Les Rizieres, Bali
http://www.flipkey.com/bali-villa-rentals/p274479/
• 2 swimming pools
• Private tennis court
• Private cinema
• Car and driver
Within driving distance of the "Best Golf Course in Asia," this Balinese villa puts luxury and convenience at your fingertips. The house is surrounded by a tropical walking garden, and the grounds come complete with a tennis court and both indoor and outdoor pools.





Punto de Vista, Costa Rica
http://www.flipkey.com/manuel-antonio-villa-rentals/p237408/
• Breakfast included daily
• Rooftop cinema
• Butler and staff
• Secluded beach
• Swimming pool
Seeing is believing when it comes to the incredible panoramic views at Punto de Vista. This rainforest mansion overlooks a gorgeous golden-sand beach, and the local flora and fauna come right up to your door. Ten bedrooms provide enough space for you and your friends.






Villa Ferraia, Tuscany
http://www.flipkey.com/monticiano-villa-rentals/p295085/
• Infinity pool
• 3 stone soaking tubs
• Private observatory
• Professional-grade kitchen
• Sauna
This incredible estate in the beautiful Tuscan countryside can accommodate all your guests in comfortable suites that overlook impeccably landscaped grounds. Enjoy a private pool and roman baths, as well as a restaurant-grade kitchen where you can practice your favorite Italian dishes.



So, Good Luck Everyone! I have already entered myself and am really hoping to get another chance to see Tuscany!
Merry Christmas!

Friday, October 28, 2011

Plaza Food Hall by Todd English

I first moved to New York around this time six years ago, and I thought I was pretty clued up by now about the best places to eat and drink in the city. I guess that is what I love about New York – the fact that there is always a new restaurant or a new bar to be discovered! However, when it comes to The Plaza Hotel I assumed I knew everything about it – I love the architecture, the rooms, the furnishings, the shops, the banquet halls, the wedding’s held there and of course, the food and drink. But, as it turns out I was missing out on one of the best contributions the Plaza has given to New Yorkers: The Plaza Food Hall. I was a huge fan of The Oak Room, which unfortunately has closed for now, and I have really missed getting all dressed up and having an elegant evening drink with friends. I was given the best present the other day when my friend introduced me to the Plaza Food Hall. Hidden downstairs on the ground floor of the hotel is a large hall with high bars and chairs in the center. Surrounding the seating area is a huge array of delights; I didn’t know where to start! The Food Hall invites you to try everything they have to offer. Whatever you desire, they will have it. There is a sushi bar, a dumpling bar, a bakery, pizza, cheese and charcuterie, a grill, a market and a wine bar! Of course, I wanted to try everything but I settled with a Bellini, a two-way tuna roll and a slice of red velvet cake. The Bellini came in a very generous sized glass and could rival the Cipriani Bellini easily, the sushi was so fresh it melted in my mouth and the red velvet cake was so delicious I nearly cried – Magnolia Bakery has competition! But what was even more fantastic were the prices. Yes, the Oak Room was ridiculously expensive, but that is to be expected when dining at the Plaza’s infamous restaurant. Yet, the Plaza Food Hall gives you the sophistication and elegance but without clearing out your bank account. It is also has a much more welcoming and cozy atmosphere than you would expect and whether you are decked out to the nines or all cuddled up in a knit sweater and your Ugg boots, you will still feel at ease. With the Holiday Season coming up I cannot think of a better place to warm up and treat yourself or even take home their goodies to enjoy at home with your friends and family. I cannot wait to go back and try some more! WHERE: The Plaza Food Hall by Todd English One West 59th Street, Concourse Level New York, NY 10019 Ph. 212-986-9260 HOURS OF OPERATION: Sunday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Thursday, October 27, 2011

I Heart The Hart Agency




I am currently meant to be at work and doing a promotion downtown for Patron Tequila. But, I cricked my neck this morning and I am in so much pain and can hardly move my neck. So, I thought that instead of being at work I would blog about what I am meant to be doing!

I want to blog about my work at the Hart Agency for several reasons. The first is that I don't think a lot of people actually know what a promotional model actually does. I think it would be interesting for people to read what the work consists of. Secondly, working for Hart has actually been really helpful in my pursuit of a career in Food and Wine. I have also met some wonderful people and made great friends through the agency, for which I am really thankful!









I have been working with the Hart Agency for nearly a year and a half now and I have learned so much about the top wines and liquors on our shelves. I have been fortunate enough to work for and with some of the most prominent names in the business. Not only is it interesting and informative work, it is also a whole lot of fun! A promotional model at the Hart Agency is there to represent a certain brand, inform consumers about the product and give feedback about their responses. I mainly work at bars all over the city and promote liquors such as Jack Daniels, Jim Beam, Patron, Ultimat Vodka, Pinnacle Vodka and other infamous brands. However, I have also been lucky enough to work at some really fun and special events, which have actually worked out well for my blog and my first few baby steps into the industry. Some of these events included; The Taste Of the Upper West Side, New York Food and Wine Festival and my favorite one to date; The James Beard Foundation Awards at the Lincoln Center (this is like the Oscar's of the food world!) Through these events I have met some very influential people in the business such as Food Journalist Adam Richman, as well as many editors of magazines like Bon Appétit and Food&Wine Magazine.

The bars and events that I have promoted at are all over the borough of Manhattan and even though I have lived in New York for so long now, I am still finding amazing venues and bar spots that I didn't know existed. For example, I worked many promotions at the Roosevelt Hotel, which gave me inspiration for an article I wrote for Miss A Woman's Online Magazine.

The Hart Agency has a team of fun, professional and hard-working people and I don't know many people who have such a good time at their work! Being part of the Hart Team also means you are invited to great parties and events that are held around the city; in the summer there was a Hudson River Cruise and every Christmas and Halloween parties for the models and their guests are organized.





The training is also one of my favorite parts of the job. Promotional models also learn to host Wine Tastings and many of the training programs mean we are given the opportunity to taste and sample a huge variety of wines, (it's an extra plus most of these trainings include cheese, crackers and even pizza!) I have learned so much about red and white wines from all over the world, which will be so useful to me in my future career.

Any of you who are reading this and want to be a part of the fun, email daryl@hartagencyny.com or take a look at the facebook page.

Here are some photos of me working --- not a bad job, eh?







Wednesday, October 26, 2011

And I'm Back!

Well, my last post was a lifetime ago. What with traveling back and forwards from Arizona and New York,an amazing summer in Tuscany with the fiancee and friends, a busy work life at the Hart Agency and midterm exams at school I have definitely been MIA! But, I am going to be making a much bigger effort from now on, I promise!


In the blogging world I haven't been doing too badly for myself. I recently received an email from the editor at FlipKey who saw Caitlin's Critique and is interested in me perhaps becoming a travel blogger for their website. I am incredibly excited about this, as apart from writing about food and wine, I love to travel and have definitely done my fair share of it in my 22 years!

As some of you may be unaware of I am planning on moving to Arizona when I graduate in May and so I will be looking for a writing job there. I still class myself as a passionate New Yorker and so my blog will still include areas of the Big Apple as well as some new insight into the dining and nightlife in Arizona. I couldn't have picked two contrasting areas!

I wanted to write a short post and update you on a few future blogs I am planning to write. Friends of mine in New York and friends that have visited me from England know that my favorite place to be on many a night is at Aged restaurant, a block away from my apartment. I am hoping an article about that will be posted on Miss A soon, so keep a look out!

As for Caitlin's Critique, watch this space, as there are many blog posts overdue. Halloween is coming up in a few days and unfortunately I will not be joining in on the festivities exactly, but will be promoting Jim Beam and Patron around the city!

Until next time, Happy Halloween!


Here are some photos of the amazing food I enjoyed in Italy this summer: (Photo Credit: Ania Wojcik)

Thursday, June 30, 2011

Salumeria Rosi

I have recently just returned from spending two weeks in Italy. I completely indulged in the glorious food and wine the country had to offer, and so you can imagine my disappointment when I returned to JFK and saw the abundance of McDonalds and Subways lining my way to arrivals. However, as sad as I am not to be walking through the villages of Tuscany and enjoying a glass of wine and antipasti with a view of the Mediterranean- all is not lost thanks to the Salumeria Rosi Parmacotta. Italian restaurants are not scarce in New York City, perhaps they are even as common as a Starbucks, however the authenticity of Italian food is harder to find. With the restaurant having a location in Parma, Italy which is famous for Prosciutto di Parma and Parmigiano Reggiano, you can be assured you will be truly having a taste of Italy in their wines, meats and cheeses. It is not just the food that makes this restaurant authentic – it is the atmosphere, decor and dining experience. Salumeria Rosi has really captured the essence and style of a cute, rustic, deli and wine bar. It is small, warm and inviting, with a strong, enticing smell wafting from the kitchen. The deep reds and colorful displays of all the meat and produce will take you out of New York, and transports you to Under The Tuscan Sun. This restaurant does not do over-indulgent ‘Super Size’ plates. In fact, it is much more the place to go to taste and try new flavors, new foods and have several small plates. The restaurant really urges you to explore their entire menu and make selections from meat, cheese, pastas, and other delights. My favorite touch on the menu is how they phonetically spell out the Italian names of the meats, dishes, etc so you can order with a perfect Italian pronunciation! The Chef, Cesare Casella, is not only a wonder in the kitchen, a true-blooded Italian and the dean of the Italian Culinary Academy at the International Culinary Center, he also is involved in many charities. I urge you all to go to this little slice of Tuscan Heaven and if you love it there as much as I do, you will be happy to know that you can get your daily meats from there as well to take home and share! Buon Appetito! Salumeria Rosi Pamacotta 283 Amsterdam Ave (nr. 73rd St.) New York, NY 10023 Ph. 212-877-4800

Monday, June 6, 2011

Branzino De Pietro!




Last night my beautiful fiancee made me the most delicious meal. If you have been reading my previous blogs you may remember me talking about a restaurant on the Upper East Side, called Bella Blu, and how much I love their signature Branzini Special.
Well,for less than $20 you can make it at home. It was so amazing I had to share it.

You will need:

1 or 2 whole branzini fish
potatoes
rosemary
cherry tomatoes
olive oil
salt & pepper



First start by gutting your fish. If you're squeamish get someone else to do it, as scooping out guts is not so appetizing.

Then preheat the oven to 320degrees and while its heating up peel the potatoes and cut them into bite size pieces. Put them on a baking try, cover them in Olive Oil - Sogno Toscano is the best ;) - season and a add a few sprigs of rosemary. Put them in the oven and leave for 25 minutes.

Now cut the cherry tomatoes in half. Place the branzino on a large sheet of aluminium foil, stuffing it with lemon and rosemary, and place some of the tomatoes around the fish. Wrap the contents in the aluminium foil but leaving it open at the top. Place this in the middle of the baking tray of potatoes and add some of the cherry tomatoes to the potatoes.

Now turn the oven to 360 and leave for a further 25mins.

To tell if the fish is ready you should be able to easily scrape back the silver skin and the fish meat should be pure white.

Now take out the fish meat out and place on a plate with the potatoes and tomatoes. Squeeze some lemon, salt and pepper all over the fish.

Easy! And no meal is complete without some good wine. We drank this Chardonnay which tasted amazing and was only $16!




A delicious, easy, healthy meal that in my opinion, is sometimes much better enjoyed at home with your loved ones than spending money in a fancy restaurant!

Plane Shame

I am currently writing this blog on the plane from New York to Arizona. The flight is a grueling 5 hours, so I was trying to get as much writing done as possible. However, this idea for a blog kept coming to me throughout the day, so more pressing work is going to have to wait.

Before I fly I am always incredibly nervous so I tend to not eat anything. However, once I got through security, an hour before my flight at 8pm, I was starving. It was at this point that I got to thinking about the disastrous cuisine options at airports and on the planes themselves. I stand in the middle of Terminal 5 and look around me: Cheeseburgers, Philly Cheesesteaks, Dunkin’ Donuts, Famiglia. The only options are crappy, fatty, foods that are the last thing I think anyone should eat before they fly in a crowded plane and sit for hours on end. Yuck. All I wanted was something light and healthy, clean and fresh. Like a nice salad. But no, that’s a big mistake too. Have you ever stayed at one of those airport hotels, like Premier or Holiday Inn? And they offer a ‘gourmet chefs salad’? And the salad comes and its rubbery, leaves a terrible after taste and is the furthest state possible from being fresh. That is what I dub as “Plane Salad”, whether it is served on board an aircraft or not. It’s so inedible that even my greedy Springer spaniel wouldn’t touch it.

I don’t understand why the food is this way. Especially at airports like JFK and Newark who pride themselves on being so superior. Just because I am not spending thousands of dollars on a first class ticket doesn’t mean I don’t deserve some fine dining. I have never been lucky enough to experience first class but I have heard the cuisine upfront is much finer than the crap they serve us back in coach… Not all of us back there are redneck, hillbillies that just live off junk food and artery blocking snacks. And look at Heathrow – British people are stereotypically judged as not having a special culture of food, but Heathrow have a variety of restaurants – plus a champagne and caviar bar for god’s sake!

I actually asked the flight attendant on board why there are no healthy food options, and she said that on International Flights there are always vegetables on the side. Yes, vegetables that are wimpy and pathetic straight from a tin can.


What I am basically saying is; Plane Food = Shit Food. And what with this huge big concern of the nations health… no smoking in public places (still not over that), etc…. it is about time something is done about it. No wonder fat people have to buy two seats now; they probably get to the airport hours early to pig out on all the junk food, getting rid of their conscience by claiming they are on “vacation”.

Maybe that’s a tad harsh… but I sitting here between two terribly large men, both of who are gushing back beer and cheese puffs, I have a stomach ache after trying Jet Blue’s attempt to be gourmet – Turkey and Smoked Gouda Bites (in reality: processed turkey and cheese whip) – and I still have 3 more hours to go. I hate flying. And I hate bad food.

Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Heaven on A Plate



This post will be dedicated to the best desert I have ever had. I am addicted. I am obsessed. I am guilty of making others addicted to this particular vice. Good things are only sinful. And I cannot think of a better way to describe this desert. It really is sinful - completely calorie ridden, completely takes over your mouth and your mind. This is what I imagine the apple in the Garden of Eden would have tasted like if it was a tart instead. Yes, I sound crazy, but until you have tried this yourself you cannot judge me.

One of my favorite places in Manhattan is the Lincoln Center. I love to sit by the fountain and watch all the people walk out after seeing an opera or ballet, and look at all the beautiful gowns and men in black tie. Fiorello's restaurant is one of the prime restaurants where the opera and ballet crowds dine after their show. I first discovered this place in September 2009, after my first day at my university. My mum met me and we went and had lunch. We decided to be good and share desert. We had recently discovered the American "Graham Cracker" and were obsessed; so when we saw it was part of one of their deserts, we picked that. From that first bite of their "Limoncello Tart" - I have become a loyal lover. I will crave it at 11pm, take a cab and take a slice to go. I show it to every visitor and friend I have in New York. I can be so full, and feeling so sick after just a few bites but I will eat the entire slice - the idea of wasting it is blasphemy.

I urge anyone who is reading this and lives in New York to get yourself down to Fiorello, 64th and Broadway, and treat yourself to a glass of Moscato D'Asti and a slice of their signature Limoncello Tart: a lemon curd with brulee top, graham cracker crust & whipped cream. The description doesn't do it justice. Nor do the pictures. Just trust me and try it.


P.S) You can buy a whole tart (10 slices) for $80.... I ask for it for every birthday and Christmas... but I guess others are watching my weight for me...

Sunday, April 17, 2011

Up On The Rooftop



Considering that the weather in New York City is getting slightly better I thought I would encourage the sun to stay by reviewing a few of my favorite rooftop bars in Manhattan.

The first is The Hudson Hotel.I first heard of this place through reading my gossip magazines and celebrity sighting web pages (no shame here, it's my thing, let it go). This hotel is Lady Gaga's favorite place to stay in when she visits New York -and knowing (and loving) her eclectic style I had to go and check it out for myself.

The entrance of the hotel is very mysterious, with translucent doors and false fire torches perched on either side. Upon walking through the only way to go is up, with an escalator shining in florescent yellow, leading the way. The reception of the hotel is incredibly original; the lighting is extremely dim, almost Gothic, with black marble desks and a large, crystal chandelier drooping from the high ceiling.





Their Library Bar is really a unique experience. I love it because it has a very English feel. It quite literally is a grand library with a fully stocked bar in one corner. The walls are covered in all kinds of books (think of the library in Disney's 'Beauty & The Beast'!)There is also a very sophisticated looking Billiards table, as well as a couple of chess boards by large, leather armchairs. It has a very cozy, traditional feel of Grandpa's Cigar and Brandy room. The bar, although expensive, makes up for it by the quality of the cocktails and wine.


But the main feature of this bar that I love - is the open terrace. Covered in couches, benches, seats and cushions, lit by candles and fairy-lights, decorated with exotic plants and stone statues, this terrace is the perfect place to enjoy a drink with your friends in the Summer air. It closes at 12am so as not to disturb the guests, so I recommend arriving early!




A totally different feel, but yet just as a satisfying experience, is the rooftop bar at 230 Fifth Avenue
The fantastic thing about this bar is that it can be enjoyed even when the weather isn't at its finest! The Rooftop provides many red, warm robes to snuggle up in when the wind gets too cold. It is such a funny sight to see girls all dressed in Chanel and Louboutins, covering themselves in the matching red robes!


The view is exquisite - the best I have seen of the Empire State Building. It has palm trees and patio heaters to keep in with the Summer feel, and the wooden benches and tables create a relaxed atmosphere for such an impressive space. The cocktails are delicious - if a little pricey - so go when money is not an issue (or at least when you'll be getting so drunk you wont notice the bill...)
I have yet to go to their Weekend Brunch, but will be planning to do so as soon as the sun comes out!


And thirdly the rooftop lounge Mad 46 at the Roosevelt Hotel is the perfect spot in the summer. Located on the 19th floor, you are right under the Manhattan Skyline and have breathtaking panoramic views. The lounge is a huge attraction for happy hour and post-work drinks. The crowd is professional and sophisticated, and despite the lounge being so elegantly decorated, the atmosphere is still relaxed and gives you the ability to unwind after the stressful day at the office. What makes Mad 46 even more perfect is that it is actually the first rooftop lounge that I have been to where you can still enjoy the ‘outdoor’ appeal and stay comfortable even when the weather is not on your side. Mad 46 not only has two indoor lounges (aptly named Uptown and Downtown) but also retractable canopies – which have been ideal this summer with the strong heat and frequent showers! The rooftop prides itself on ‘Big Drinks and Small Bites” and the menu leaves you with plenty of choice. Their specialty cocktails are delicious – especially the madMojito! However, the attractions don’t stop there. Mad 46 hold a special “Mad Monday” happy hours where those who work or live on Madison Avenue are treated to 10% off their drinks! If that doesn’t inspire you then take note of their monthly movie nights where iconic movies are shown with matching cocktails. For example, coming up on August 16th is the showing of Grease with cocktails such as the Grease Lightening and the Pink Lady Lemonade! So whether you want to go enjoy a night with the girls, a business drink at the end of the workday or even hold a spectacular private party or event – Mad 46 is definitely a space to be considered!

Monday, April 11, 2011

You've Got Cake




Have you seen that movie with Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan. Not the one where they meet on top of the Empire State Building...but the one where they email each other a lot and both own book stores? "You've Got Mail!"

I love this movie for many reasons, but in particular because it was filmed in my neighborhood of the Upper West Side! I remember watching it the first few days of my first week in New York and recognizing the area, the park and the various blocks of the 70's and 80's on the Upper West.

The most climatic point of the movie is when the two main characters are about to meet face to face and they choose to meet at Cafe Lalo on 83rd and Amsterdam...

The cafe is extremely European in both decor and menu. The outside of the cafe has a tree covered in little fairy lights, drooping over a couple of benches. The front of the cafe is made up of large, French windows and the paintings on the brick walls are of Parisian style.
The music playing in the background consists of only instrumental versions of well-known, classic melodies. All the waitresses are dressed in lilac leggings and a stylish t-shirt with the Cafe Lalo logo and various paintings. I have yet to be served by an American waitress, so the fact that the staff are from all over Europe really add to atmosphere.

The first thing you will notice about Lalo's is the huge display of desserts. Cafe Lalo holds over 100 different cakes, pies, tarts, cookies, biscotti and other guilty pleasures. I recommend trying their varieties of cheesecake - they are all amazing!



But it is not all unhealthy, calorie ridden desserts that they offer. Lalo's serve all organic products and the only produce you will find on the menu in the meat/fish region is smoked salmon. They provide a huge menu of eggs, sandwiches, salads, soups and quiches. There is also a large selection of hot and cold drinks and every syrup and flavors imaginable! Cafe Lalo is famous for its brunches. They serve Brunch everyday until 4pm, although a lot of the menu used for Brunch are still available after 4pm - such as their delicious Belgium Waffle with Cinnamon Whip and Strawberries!




The Brunch Menu is alive with culture as each Brunch is dedicated to a country, such as France, Italy, Morocco, England, Bulgarian and there is even the option of the New Yorker or Jewish Brunch! I think it is such a wonderful and original idea - giving their customers the epitome of choice!

Sounds great, right? Relaxing, worldly, cozy, calm... Well that it is during the day but Lalo's becomes a lively bar scene at night! With the cafe not closing until 4am on most nights and a full bar to offer - there is a buzzing scene of movie and theater goers in the evenings. The lights go down, the music turns up and the cocktails are passed around!

Oh and that reminds me - notice what your food and drink is served IN. I really wish Cafe Lalo would open a store so I could buy all their cutlery. The cups that hold the coffee and tea are huge, and very Central Perk-esque from F.R.I.E.N.D.S, the colors are bright and vibrant, and the glasses for the wine and cocktails are so tall and elegant, with an element of funkiness!

Tips - they only take credit cards if you spent $25 or over and I would stay clear of their Mediterranean Salad with bell peppers if you have a slightly sensitive stomach! ( I am not the only person to advise this, I assure you).

All this and more is why I have been a loyal customer for 5 years and counting!