Wined Up bar and restaurant, located in the Flatiron district offers a fun and cool place to stop in for a drink or have a casual meal.

You might think you are in the wrong place or at best on a questionable mission to parts unknown as you walk up the steep stairs, passing the entrance to Punch restaurant.  But as you push through the heavy, velvet Harry Potteresque curtains, you will ultimately end up at Wined Up.

The curtains open up into a beautifully decorated area where you will be seated at a marble bar located in the back of the restaurant. I have only been the bar during the week and think that while there was room at the bar or room to stand, on busy nights, it probably is crowded and will seem like a small space for drinks.

The dining room faces the front as you would expect, is quite spacious, unlike other restaurants where you are literally sitting on top of one another.  One entire wall is lined with bottles of wine giving the room a very open and elegant effect.

I have been to Wined Up on several occasions both for drinks and dinner.

The Bar – While they offer wine by the glass, I would definitely recommend getting a bottle with friends as the pricing is so much better. Wine by the glass will run you $9 – $14. The wine selection  ranges from Riojas to Chilean wines. We enjoyed a delightful Rioja and a Malbec on the day that we went. The bartenders are always friendly and are more than happy to answer all your questions about the wine list.

The Restaurant – The variety of foods on the menu is sure to please, whether you are there for drinks and appetizers or low-key dinner with friends.

The appetizer menu includes an incredible cheese selection from the United States, France, Italy and Spain. There are cheeses on the menu that I had never heard of but the server will be able to walk you through all the different choices and help you pair them with your wine selection. Since we had just come for appetizers, we tried everything and were quite happy. Don’t forget to ask for more bread, there is definitely not enough bread for the cheese.  If you are into pizza, think about adding pizza along with your cheese appetizer options.  There is your basic pizza margherita along with unusual topped pizzas like truffled tomato (yummy.)

For dinner, there is a range of options that is sure to appeal all of your friends and even kids. The menu ranges from salad to pasta to steak. My friend and I, were feeling rather carnivorous the day we went to Wined Up. She ordered a hamburger while I opted for the cast iron hanger steak with spicy fries. The steak was just perfect. The portion size was generous enough to walk away with a doggy bag. The average entrees range from $13 – $20 which is pretty average for New York City.

So if you are wandering around Union Square or Madison Square, head “up” to Wined Up.

Again don’t be confused by the location,  you have to enter a doorway that is the same entrance to Punch restaurant but for you to get to Wined Up, you need to climb up the stairs to the second floor.

Location: Wined Up

913 Broadway between 20th and 21st Streets

Reservations: 212-673-6333

Now that the snow has passed and you’re able to get out and about, why not add a little Mojo to your life? You won’t go home disappointed.

Mojo is a Harlem eatery located on the corner of 119th Street and Amsterdam Avenue. Occupying a corner unit of one of the area’s condo edifices, Mojo greets its patrons as a jeweled glass structure reflecting the rich colors of purple and red within out onto the street and the night air.

Don’t be surprised when you enter the tight confines of the restaurant. Real estate is at a premium in this area and Mojo’s floor plan is no different than any of its siblings in the area (despite appearing quite spacious in NBC’s American Express commercial that features the establishment).

The proximity issues that Mojo presents has its pros and cons. The cons being, if you’re uncomfortable sitting and eating next to strangers then this isn’t the place for you. On the flipside, if you don’t have these qualms, it’s easy to make friends (most who are area locals) while breaking bread.

The bread at Mojo, dubbed “New Harlem Cuisine” is a fusion of Mediterranean/Southern flavor and represents the diversity of Harlem. Impressive sounding and tasting menu items from the creative kitchen of Executive Chef Julio Sanchez’ include Buckwheat Fried Oysters, Harlem Fried Chicken Sliders, Moroccan Grilled Baby Lamb Chops, and Grilled Skirt Steak with Chimichurri. The restaurant’s website touts their Sexy Grits as being the crowd favorite. I won’t say why they’re so sexy. You’ll have to find out on your own if the dish lives up to its claims. And if you’re the type who does desert, you can finish off a meal that pops with flavor with a tasty delight for your sweet tooth. How does Strawberry Tiramisu and Chocolate Mousse sound?

Owner, Mounir Jabrane’s grew up in both Belgium and Morocco before settling down and setting up shop in Harlem. One only needs to take a glance at the interior or peruse the menu to see the influences of these two countries. Mr. Jabrane, an affable restaurateur who takes the time to meet and greet his patrons, considers himself a throwback to the explosively creative times of the Harlem Renaissance. He’s doing his part to continue the tradition by featuring live music by unknowns and local favorites alike. You can call or check the website for performance dates and times. But what you can’t do is make a reservation unless your party is six or more. And on heavy nights, service can be spotty. Despite these minor inconveniences this writer’s humble opinion is that it is better to experience Mojo than not to.

Mojo
mojo-harlem.com
185 Saint Nicholas Avenue (at the corner of 119th Street)
New York, NY 10026-1200
(212) 280-1924

Photo courtesy of Mojo

107 West is a cozy little restaurant tucked away into a non-descript row of store-fronts as eclectic as they are expected on the block of 187th Street at Fort Washington Street in the Hudson Heights/Inwood Section of upper Manhattan. It is the one of two 107 West locations, the original is actually located at 107th & Broadway on the West Side. Which location is better depends almost wholly on personal preference. This writer’s just happens to be for the less accessible enclave situated in Hudson Heights. But the staffs at both locations are equally attentive. The themes at each restaurant are different, but both are equally inviting as places to unwind at the end of a long day or to begin a romantic evening.

At the 187th Street location the fare is American and Mexican inspired with occasional flourishes that make their way to the menu seasonally. Dishes such as jambalaya made of Andouille sausage, smoked chicken, shrimp, calamari, crawfish & clams in corn & sweet pepper etoufee with cajun rice, an all veggie platter of roasted assorted vegetables, tofu, mushrooms, brown rice & tahini sauce, jumbo Maryland crab cakes, sautéed creole chicken and shrimp, and quesadillas round out the menu. Admittedly, and to the chagrin of many, I feel their strongest dishes are the ones that include good old fashioned cow. The burgers and steaks will leave meat lovers aching for more. The pan seared hanger steak, prepared to your liking, with sautéed sweet onions, mashed potatoes and country collard greens is hands down their most memorable meal and actually tastes just as good from one visit to the next. But fret not, their fried chicken is crisp and succulent and will leave you satisfied to the very last forkful. Nor are they lacking in Italian and seafood selections, and their vegetarian considerations welcome the most discriminating Vegans. The bar is more than adequate with several varietals to accompany your meal. The mimosas aren’t especially dry and make for a great daytime pairing.

The sides alone could carry a review. The French Fries always come piping hot, but hardly heavy. There’s not much of a desert selection for those of us with nut allergies, but if you’re not held down by such limitations, feel free to round out your meal with a slice of macadamia oat apple crisp, frozen mocha mud pie or an evil looking slice of chocolate mousse cake. Or you can simply opt for a cup of coffee.

Art for sale lines the walls of the narrow Hudson Heights location and is rotated on a regular basis. You’ll be surprised to see an occasional celebrity sitting alone or with company enjoying a quiet meal. I once had the interesting pleasure of being seated beside Dr. Ruth Westheimer, but I didn’t bother her with any questions.

107 West is the place to go when you can’t really make up your mind what to eat, but know for sure you want memorable food and a memorable experience.

107 West

811 West 187th Street
New York, NY 10033
Tel: 212-923-3311
www.107west.com

Photo credit: Eric Payne

Harlem is home to Nectar, a wonderfully sublime and sexy wine bar tucked away into the edifice of a new apartment building on Frederick Douglas Boulevard  at the corner of 121st Street. By day it is a clean and open, almost reminiscent of gallery space, clearly visible from the street. But after sunset it takes on the austerity of speakeasy, with its’ tiny foyer which is shades its entrance from the beauty behind it.  Two steps in, your eyes will take notice of the dark stone concrete floor beneath your feet before traveling upward, drawn to the white light emanating from the rectangular bar and held suspended slightly above it by its muted gray walls. Unwillingly you continue to delight in the aesthetics, white barstools, chairs and tables, dramatic, sweeping white sailcloth panels that grace both wall and ceiling along with few ebony wood baffles suspended from the ceiling. Quickly you might even think you’re in a cozy, swank sound studio. Not a wine bar. And not a wine bar in Harlem. It’s only after you see the back wall rack of wines, which are visible from the street, do you remember why you’re there. Your pupils should be fully dilated now and you’re glad you’ve come before sitting down and before indulging in your first pour.

Conveniently located a few short blocks from 125th Street and open Monday through Sunday from 4pm to 1am, Nectar is the child of proprietors Jai Jai Greenfield and Eric Woods who also own Harlem Vintage, the wine shop next door that preceded Nectar’s existence as a growing Harlem staple. The bartenders’ knowledge is up to speed with the establishment’s broad and eclectic offering of wines and beer. Neither shy nor standoffish, the staff is willing and able to aid you in your selections. Conventional is another word you can scratch off their list. I’m no neophyte to this place, but during a recent visit on a chilly fall evening, the manager introduced me to my first ever, beer cocktail, a concoction of Lineman’s Lambic Frambroise (this writer’s current favorite Belgian beer), pineapple juice and champagne.

And the food? Nectar has a little bit for everyone keeping focus on what is poured and not cooked. The food menu is arranged in four easy categories and is considerate of Vegans: artisanal cheeses, charcuterie (salted and cured, economical meats), nibbles such as olives, dates, duck and pistachio pate, and paninis for those in need of a little more than a pairing for the palette with their wine or beer of choice.

Here’s where existing side by side with your older brother is a plus. If, while patronizing Nectar, you come across something new or a favorite you must take home for further enjoyment, you’ll only have to go as far as next door to Harlem Vintage to buy a bottle or a case of it.

Pricing ranges from reasonable to respectable and is still considerably lower than most establishments south of Harlem.  With an ambiance that oozes smooth and cool you’ll never have to out talk the music playing overhead while imbibing with friends or the one you love. Although when it’s crowded you may have to speak to be heard over everyone else speaking as it can get lively when the house is full on Saturday and Sunday evenings. Most impressive is the diversity of the patrons. Whether you’re a neighborhood regular, hail from the outer boroughs or greater New York are, or are simply a tourist passing through, all are welcome here. Don’t be surprised if you get drawn into a great conversation with strangers at the bar and find yourself not wanting to leave.

The nectar of Harlem just happens to flow from a place called Nectar. It’s Harlem’s wine bar destination.

Nectar Wine Bar
2235 8th Ave
New York, NY 10027-6175
(212) 961-9622
www.nectarwinenyc.com

As baby makers let’s face facts: life can get a little mundane and routine, no matter how few dull moments our kids allow. Many times spouses or partners simply become the other parent you live with — your business partner around the house, not the love of your life. So how do you shake this off to light some sparks and relearn the fun of being an adult? Try going out on the town in New York City, one of the greatest cultural epicenters of the world. Single people do it all the time. They call it, “dating.”

NJPAC, otherwise known as the New Jersey Performing Arts Center just happens to be one of my favorite places to go when I need to remind myself I’m an adult and am able to enjoy myself and my wife’s company in ways that don’t involve Dora the Explorer, an xBox, or high school athletics. Since it’s opening in 1997, NJPAC has been the home of the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra and hosts all genres of arts and entertainment, from classical and dance to jazz, cabaret and pop.

The Center is comprised of three spaces: the breathtakingly opulent Prudential Hall, which seats 2,750, the urban chic Victoria Theater which seats 514 and The Chase Room which provides an intimate setting, spectacular views and is host to NJPAC’s cabaret series.

Parking is ample and affordable by New York standards and even more affordable if you purchase it in advance online with your tickets (available only though the NJPAC website). By far, Prudential Hall is my favorite of the three venues. With a modern lobby that is a marriage of wood and metal as soon as you cross into the space you know you’re somewhere special. Having sat in nearly every section, from the nosebleed balcony seating to center stage in the eighth row of the Orchestra, there truly are no obstructed views. Nothing beats being in the first-tier box seats which in this writer’s opinion, provides an enhance level of intimacy with the performer on stage and the one you love beside you. But beware, tickets sell out quickly thanks to the lower price point that comes with being across the river from the Big Apple.

Although this isn’t about the kiddies, it’s worth mentioning that NJPAC has a reputable Arts In Education Program that includes and Teen Jazz Program and a summer Youth Performance Workshop. Newark is a literal stone’s throw from New York City, easily accessible via the New Jersey Transit leaving from Penn Station and PATH trains leaving from Midtown and Lower Manhattan if you do public transportation or any of the bridges and tunnels that connect to New Jersey, if you prefer to drive. If you manage to leave work on time you may even have time to snag a great pre-show dinner at a local Soul Food favorite Je’s or prix fixe dining at  Theater Square Grill, Theater Square Bistro and outdoor patio fare (during summer months only) at Calcada, all located on the NJPAC campus.

Even if you’re married with children you don’t have to be an outsider looking in when it comes to much that New York City and its surroundings have to offer. NJPAC is a wonderful, affordable performing arts center. A great place to take the one you love to remind them that you love them. It’s a modern day majestic theater in similar grandeur to the Publix theatres of yesteryear.

Check out the current October 2009 lineup that includes talents such as R. Kelly, Pink Floyd: The Wall, Lily Tomlin, Rita Moreno and Smokey Robinson by visiting www.njpac.org.

A night out on the town is so special to me, such a relief from my often busy, often kid-filled life, that when it comes around I want to make sure it is great.  And if watching a movie is in the plans, I want to make that a special experience as well. Though a visit to a major mega theater can be fun, I often prefer spending these rare movie nights out at The Angelika Film Center.  The last time I was there I saw Slumdog Millionaire.  And my experience was amazing.  Not only was the movie great, but I got to watch it while sipping on a cappuccino and eating a chocolate cheesecake from the film center’s Café.  

The Café is famous for its pastries and gourmet foods. It is also known for its java drinks. I have been known to show up much earlier than my movie is scheduled to start just so I can sit in the cafe and enjoy my treats. The atmosphere is great to hang out at with friends.  The theater space is theater space is intimate and welcoming, and the seats are super comfortable.

The movie selections are wonderful, especially if you enjoy independent films. The selections here are great for anyone who thoroughly enjoys thought provoking, quality cinematography.

The film center is located in one of the most fab neighborhoods of Manhattan, NOHO, where the selection of good restaurants and bars seem endless.

The list of current films, as well as the list of upcoming films, are enough to make me want to run and schedule my sitter for a few nights.

One such film, for example, is The Boys Are Back.  I recently had the privilege to pre-screen this film and loved it. Based on a true story, and starring Clive Owen (introducing 6 year old actor Nicholas Mcanulty and teen actor George Macay), the movie tells the tale of a father who suddenly finds himself as a single dad, trying to navigate through the emotions brought forth by the fragility of life, and parenthood. I think it’s one of many must sees at the Angelika.

The Angelika is wheelchair accessible and easily accessible by public transportation as well.  Check here for info on the nearest parking garages nearby.

So try out the Angelika, catch one of the great movies there…and don’t forget the java!

Photo credit: Carol Cain

When I first came to Queens almost eight years ago, I was most impressed by the number of kosher restaurants on the main drag (Main Street, between Jewel Avenue and 76th Avenue). Fast forward five years and now there is everything from Sushi, Middle Eastern, Mexican (meat), European, Italian (dairy), and Lox and Bagels. I will be featuring these places and much more in future posts. First, I’d like to give a brief overview of the laws and practices of kosher food.

First, I’d like to address the meaning of what kosher does not mean. Most people-even Jewish people-say that kosher means that a Rabbi came in and blessed the kitchen. Last week, while at the OU(Orthodox Union) Advanced Kashrus Seminar For Women, a Rabbi told us where that idea came from. There are times when a Rabbi will get to the restaurant or hotel kitchen very early in the morning and perform the morning prayer with tallis (prayer shawl) and tefillin (black straps that wrap around the arm and head). I can see how this might translate to a Rabbi blessing the location that he is in, but in reality he is just saying his morning prayers. Now that we’ve got that out of the way, what does kosher really mean? There is so much to keeping kosher and this post could go on and on. However, I will outline some of the main ideas from a website I visit trust and frequently visit, JewFAQ.

This all started back when the Torah (the entire body of Jewish teachings) was given to the Jewish people. The Torah begins by stating “In the beginning, G-d created…” Since G-d created the world and within his creations the laws of keep kosher, some Jews keep kosher just for that reason. This is not the opinion of Jews around the world and that is fine.  When I became a Torah Observant Jew eight years ago, I studied sources and commentaries that further explained the idea that G-d created everything.  Torah Observant Jews observe the laws of the Torah and show appreciation of the creator, G-d, by keeping those laws.

In order to keep this post shorter than longer, I would like to share the basic rules of keeping kosher. In a nutshell (yes, nuts are kosher) a person keeps the laws of kosher by purchasing only kosher chicken, beef, and fish and kosher certified products from the supermarket. Another big part of keeping kosher, always separate milk and dairy. Not just the food combination, but the dishes, pots and pans, and eating utensils. Yes, I have two separate sets of dishes. Thank G-d for bridal showers and wedding presents!

I would like to share a solid overview of kosher laws that I found on KosherFAQ  and I have posted them here:

1. Certain animals may not be eaten at all. This restriction includes the flesh, organs, eggs and milk of the forbidden animals.
2. Of the animals that may be eaten, the birds and mammals must be killed in accordance with Jewish law.
3. All blood must be drained from the meat or broiled out of it before it is eaten.
4. Certain parts of permitted animals may not be eaten.
5. Fruits and vegetables are permitted, but must be inspected for bugs
6. Meat (the flesh of birds and mammals) cannot be eaten with dairy. Fish, eggs, fruits, vegetables and grains can be eaten with either meat or dairy. (According to some views, fish may not be eaten with meat).
7. Utensils that have come into contact with meat may not be used with dairy, and vice versa. Utensils that have come into contact with non-kosher food may not be used with kosher food. This applies only where the contact occurred while the food was hot.
8. Grape products made by non-Jews may not be eaten.
9. There are a few other rules that are not universal.

While the laws of keeping kosher may seem limiting to most people, it made perfect sense to me. It is not as hard or isolating as people think, just try out some of the kosher places in Queens and you’ll see what I mean. Here a couple to get you started!

Carlos & Gabby’s

If you’re going to the US Open this week or picking up a friend at LaGuardia Airport, Carlos & Gabby’s has the best kosher Mexican food in Kew Gardens Hills, NY. Located at 67-11 Main Street, Flushing, New York, 11367, phone (718) 575-8226, and walking distance from Queens College, you can enjoy Mexican favorites, fused with a handful of American classics… not to mention all those great sauces (Tangy BBQ, Avocado Ranch, Creamy Caesar, Mmmm!) You can view the complete menu here.

Grill Point

If you are in the mood for some traditional Middle Eastern food you can find plenty of it at Grill Point. Located at the corner of Jewel Avenue and Main Street (69-54 Main Street Flushing, NY 11367, phone (718) 261-7077).

This shawarma  (sandwich-like wrap with shaved lamb, goat, chicken, turkey, or beef) place in Queens has homemade laffas (pita bread), and includes a free salad bar. Customers can add delicious moroccan style carrots, pickled cabbage, pickles,  and/or jalapeno peppers to their shwarma and top it off with delicious hummus. Check out this review of Grill Point , is your stomach rumbling yet? I know what my family is havin for dinner tonight!

Photo credit: Flickr – Newwavegurly