“Step Into The Black” with Captain Morgan

New York, NY–

“Step Into The Black” was a Captain Morgan Black launch party with a live performance from indie rock legends, The Walkmen and Questlove of The Roots spinning on the 1’s & 2’s. The journey to get into the party was a “speakeasy” dimensional adventure.

As I arrived at the event, I gave the doorman the secret password and oddly he opened the basement door. So as I stepped down I was greeted by models in Victorian dresses that were passing Champagne flutes, but I noticed there weren’t many people present. Once I given my glass she asked me, “Are you ready to step into the black?” I knodded and there was a secret passage way behind the bookcase. I was astounded!

Once I walked up the stairs, I realized that I finally arrived as I saw passed hors d’oeuvres, smiling faces, cocktails, great energy, and felt the vibrant bass from Quest Love in the booth spinning hipster favorites. There were two open bars adjacent from one another with dimensional ice sculptures with Captain Morgan Black bottles frozen inside. Once Quest Love finished his set, The Walkmen performed live and kept the crowd going.

Check out the action shots of my “Captain” journey and experience!

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Isaiah Kelsey                                                                                                                                        Editor

 

Health Kick: Get Juiced in the Upper West Side

New York, NY-

Feeling sluggish? Had one too many martinis last night? Or perhaps you’ve eaten your body weight in meatballs and mozzarella. Whatever your need for a detox and body-refresher, these are my picks for the three best Upper West Side cafes to help get back on your healthy track.

Cafe Blossom: As you walk into this vegan bar/restaurant haven, the sprawling bright wood with arbor-inspired decor has an immediate calming effect on the weary liver. Though Cafe Blossom is more conducive to sitting down and relaxing, you can take your order to go as well. When I asked for a recommendation on their juice blends, the waiter responded immediately with “the Pink Lady” and it was so enthusiastic I’d be a fool not to trust him. This blend of pineapple, carrots and apples is incredibly refreshing with a kick of ginger to balance out the sweetness. This Pink Lady nearly compelled me to belt out a couple of Grease songs.

466 Columbus Ave. (b/t 82nd & 83rd)

http://www.blossomnyc.com/

 

Juice Generation: Juice Generation is always bustling and frequently packed to the door. But the wait is worth it seeing as they use all fresh ingredients sweetened with agave nectar, real fruit and are unbelievably fast with their service. Their menu is extensive enough to keep you coming back almost daily for a month without replicating the same order, however after finding a favorite smoothie it’s always hard to stray from the tried and true flavors you love. I’ve had the Antioxidant All-Star which is a hearty berry-centric smoothie chock-full of mangosteen, pomegranates and rounded out with the sweet, full flavor of bananas. For those looking for a tropical, coconut-inspired escape, try the Mucho Mango or the Acai Extreme Energy for a natural way to power up.

117 W. 72nd St. (b/t Columbus & Amsterdam)

http://www.juicegeneration.com/menu

Courtesy of OrganicAvenue.com

Organic Avenue: If you can’t find feel-good bliss in their charming glass bottles and minimalist approach to fine juices, smoothies and coffee, there is little hope that you’ll rid yourself of bad toxins. Organic Avenue has blown up all around the city, so this is by far one of the most accessible and easy-to-locate health stops. From healthy mint chip and chai smoothies to bottled rarities like Turmeric Tonic and Green Coco, there’s a blend for every taste bud. But Organic Ave. makes its unique mark selling cleanses; pre-bottled and scheduled detox juices and supplements to aid in cleaning out your precious insides. From 1-5 day delicious detox programs offered, Organic Ave. will deliver these right to your door and before you know it, you’re back to your glowing, beautiful self.

461 Amsterdam Ave. (b/t 82nd & 83rd)

http://www.organicavenue.com/

Diana Tsuchida                                                                                                                            U.F.P Contibutor

New iPhone App: Rama App for Foodie Tours

Courtesy of Crimson Bamboo LLC

New York, NY –

As we all know in New York there is always a new restaurant popping up, so instead of aimlessly roaming throughout the city looking for the “Best Of”, Crimson Bamboo LLC has created an iPhone App to give us some guidance. The company’s primary focus was history tours and as of April 6th has incorporated food tours. Some of the current tours are tailored towards include Indian, Vegetarian, Chinese, and BBQ cuisine.

It is a free app download that informs us on food tours that range from $1 – $4 to be taken on. Once you choose a tour such as the “NYC BBQ Tour”, James Boo, BBQ Expert offers many tips and suggestions on transportation, tipping, menu recommendations, restrictions [ie. not vegetarian-friendly], and costs.

The app is not limited to New York but also in several other cities and countries. I’ve just downloaded and it is very user-friendly. I look forward to using this as the weather gets warmer. Download now on iTunes App Store!

Let’s Get Eating!

Isaiah  [@Urban_Foodie14]                                                                                                         Editor

“Get Your Fry On!”- Village French Fry Favs

Greenwich Village, NY—

French fries are typically burger side notes: empty, cheap potato fillers that are used to use up plate space and make customers feel like their getting more bang for their buck. But what if fries could take on a whole new meaning? I’ve found three French fry experiences in the Village that have the distinct possibility of changing your life. They prove that when carefully crafted and eaten in the right atmosphere, fries can turn your lunch into an exceptional event that shockingly won’t cost you much at all. These aren’t your typical fried potatoes. They each provide something a little extra that turns your fry into a statement.

1) Pop’s of Brooklyn–167 N. 8th Street (corner of 8th St. and Green St.)

Pop’s, a cozy, grungy feeling burger joint near NYU, that only has two options for fries on the menu: cheese and regular. Clearly, the restaurant does not intend to make fries a focus. But aside from the ridiculously good Cholo Burger ($9.95 and highly recommended), the $4 cheese fries are star material. The skinny and wonderfully crispy fries are not just doused but positively drowned in gorgeous white cheese with green garnish. Perfectly greasy and deliciously over indulgent, they will send you over the edge. Sit and devour a bowl while enjoying good music blasting overhead and people watching at the busy corner. The waitresses are kind and atmosphere has a rustic feel. There are charming touches like a green glass bottle of water for each table, a bar, and brick walls. Forget your worries. Take minute to stop and smell the cheese.

2) Pommes Frites–123 2nd Ave

Pommes Frites is more famous for it’s sauces than it’s thick, wide-cut fries. The packed and tiny establishment feels more like an English tavern than a fry store with it’s dim lighting and wooden countertops. In the case of Pommes Frites, fries are the one and only item on the menu (the smallest size costs $4.50 but gives you plenty), with which you choose a variety of unique dipping sauces like Vietnamese Pineapple Mayo, a superbly thick and creamy Black Truffle Mayo, and Pomegranate Teriyaki Mayo. Each sauce costs a dollar besides the Black Truffle, which is $1.75 and worth it. Pommes Frites is fiercely popular, always with a line that goes out the door, and the space is limited for seating. But wait around long enough and you’ll get get one of the snug booths. One warning: don’t go to Pommes Frites for a quick snack. Go for a whole meal. These fries demand full attention and will rock your world and fill up your stomach faster than you can say “but they’re so unhealthy!” Don’t think. Just Eat.

3) Bao Haus–238 E. 14th Street (between 2nd & 3rd Ave)

Bao House makes your fries into a crazy culture fusion. Uncensored rap plays in the background, this superb restaurant is a mix of chinese and taiwanese street style food. The seating is simple and understated, with stools and counters, where you can stare at walls of images that weave traditional chinese photographs with cartoons, collages of basketball stars, and animated murals. Here, you aren’t just experiencing fries. You’re participating in a part of the urban melting pot, a historical and political space that speaks volumes. Order the Taro Fries ($3.50), which have a purple tropical root in them from Southeast Asia with a side of sesame sauce, or be daring and go for the Bao Fries (also $3.50), chunks of sweet fried dough coated with thick black sesame sauce, which redefine “fries” completely. Forget your typical Coke and be a part of the cultural experience by ordering an imported Chinese Apple or Chrysanthemum Soda, which will sweetly compliment the intense flavors. This is a part of urban life you don’t want to miss.

Gabriela Garcia                                                                                                                                   U.F.P Contributor

Smorgasburg Saturday

 

Williamsburg, NY–

No name is more appropriate for a huge parking lot full of gourmet food and drinks than Smorgasburg in Williamsburg. If you’re lucky enough to live nearby, I hope you are aware of the backyard treasure you possess. What could be better than a weekend spent sampling feel-good food while supporting independent chefs and local businesses?

Saturday brought some gusty wind but plenty of sunshine to this diverse collection of food, desserts and specialty vendors who all modestly hustle to sell their gourmet jams, mustards, taffy and even beer-making kits. As I walked through the buoyant crowd I was completely overwhelmed with decisions between lobster rolls, fried mozzarella and handmade s’mores–none of which was made easier with an empty stomach. But before I succumbed to dessert sampling I decided to stop by Saucy By Nature’s stall to check out their falafel offerings and ultimately landed on the Cilantro Lime with roasted hot pepper and fontina cheese.

 

At $4 for a bite size (one falafel and a piece of pita bread) it’s not a bad bargain. They’ll also give you a free “bite” if you buy two of their sauces. The falafel was cooked perfectly with a great crisp on the outside while the fontina added the right amount of richness to balance out the zesty lime sauce. If you’re seeking a heartier meal upgrade to the whole size and sip on their refreshing lemonade that can be sweetened with organic agave nectar. To top it off, they are seriously the friendliest workers who want you to be a happy eater.

While I tried some and restrained myself even more, I did scope out several of the dessert booths, but one took the cake–in the form of raw chocolate. Brooklyn-based Fine & Raw had little pieces of heaven on sample plates; namely, their chocolate truffles (pictured below).

Dense, moist, and rich with high quality cocoa flavor. If you have a sweet tooth that calls the shots you must at the very least visit their website and tantalize your eyes.

Smorgasburg is open from 11-6, every Saturday, rain or shine! To get excited about next weekend or more info on Smorgasburg visit their site: http://www.brooklynflea.com/smorgasburg/

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Diana Tsuchida                                                                                                                                   U.F.P Contributor

 

 

Going Organic at Yoga Integral Natural Foods

New York, NY–

A recent trend that has been on the rise is going organic. Many celebrities have gone vegan or all natural, and food ethics has been on everyone’s mind since galling photos came out of the “pink slime” meat manufacturers were selling to super markets and restaurants. In our everyday lives, how do we escape the corruption and chemicals present in today’s food industry? All natural food markets are a place to start.

Integral Yoga Natural Foods is smaller and more personable than your local Whole Foods or Trader Joe’s, and is strictly vegetarian and organic. There are fresh coffee bean dispensers with a grinder, large jars of beautiful raw summer honey, walls of gorgeous fresh spices, and rare products like Kombu Sea Vegetable, as well as packets describing the details of the rarer products and how to use them.

The best and most popular section of the store is the to-go food and juice bar. I try out a tiny but delectable Sweet Potato Muffin, so moist and perfect that I’d be happy to pay another $2.89 for another one, or try out one of the juices, which vary in price but go for an average of $7.00 a pop. The customers in line are all usuals, and when baited they go on about their love of Integral Yoga Natural Foods for days.

One customer buys the bakery goods as the treat portion of his diet, and raves about all the flavors, though he whispers to me under his breathe that “it’s a little expensive.” Indeed, he ends up blowing a hefty sum on a three very small items. Another woman says she shops there for ethical purposes, as she can trust what’s on the shelves. When the sprinklers come on in the produce section to hydrate the greens, and the tangerines in the front smell like God’s gift to the planet, I can’t help but fall in love. Integral Yoga Natural Foods may empty your wallet, but it will make your taste buds and conscience happier than they’ve been in months.

Photo Credit: Closetcooking.com

Shiitake Dashi (soup)

6 1/2 cups water4 slices kombu (4 inches long) 5 dried shiitake mushrooms 1 teaspoon light soy sauce (optional) 1 pinch sea salt (optional) 1 green onion Directions: 1) Place kombu in pot of water and slowly bring to a simmer over medium high heat, but do not boil; about 10 minutes on the stove. 2) Remove the kombu just before the pot boils and add the dried mushrooms 3) Boil for 1 minute, then turn off the heat and let the pot sit, uncovered, for 20 minutes 4) Remove the mushrooms and store the dashi for use in another recipe, or prepare it as a simple soup by adding the soy sauce, salt to taste and sliced green onion.
Visit Intregal Yoga Natural Foods at 229 West 13th St or http://www.integralyoganaturalfoods.com/
Gabriela Garcia                                                  U.F.P Contributor

2012 Easter Brunch Favorites

NEW YORK, NY –

Spring has finally arrived with flowers blooming and sun bright as can be! Easter is also very close, but not to worry we have selected our favorite Easter Brunch locations in New York City. These selected restaurants are perfect for an afternoon with friends or maybe a brunch date for two.

Roasted Red Beets Photo Credit: Bistro Chat Noir

Bistro Chat Noir

22 East 66th St (between Madison and 5th)

Reservations: 212-794-2428 bistrochatnoir.com

Pricing: 3 courses, all inclusive: $59 for adults, $35 for children 12 and under

 

 

With a beautiful venue, warm and cozy atmosphere, well-established menu (as well as celebrity clientele) Bistro Chat Noir is serving up a lovely Easter brunch with many of their classic menu items like the famous Floating Island and pistachio sponge Bagtelle cake. Other must-tries include the artichoke ravioli, truffle mac and cheese (a dense indulgence not for the faint of heart) and the seafood risotto. For those craving a traditional morning meal, the Bistro is also serving their eggs benedict, a crepe  bretonne and an egg white frittata laced with goat cheese, grilled artichokes and asparagus. Top the morning off with a Chat Noir’s Bloody Mary and toast to the start of Spring in the city.

Foie Gras Terrine Photo Credit: Dave H

Recipe

452 Amsterdam Ave (between 81st and 82nd)

Reservations: 212-501-7755 recipenyc.com

Pricing: A la carte, $10-15 a person

 

There’s no need to stray from the tried and true brunch menu of Recipe: every item is a winner especially on Easter. Touting rustic simplicity, Recipe is a delectable Upper West Side staple with homemade items such as locally roasted beets, seasonal jams with brioche and country bread toast and an organic poached egg salad. For those with a heartier appetite, tickle the tastebuds with their vanilla brioche french toast or their famed Hudson Valley Foie Gras Terrine with a black mission figs and apricot puree. Depending on the weather, choose from their refreshing Pear Sparklette or warm Big Apple Hot Mulled Cider.

Five Points

31 Great Jones (between Lafayette and Bowery)

Reservations: 212-253-5700 fivepointsrestaurant.com

Pricing: a la carte, $15-18 a person

 

Hot chocolate and churros? What better throwback to nostalgic amusement park days and sugary comfort food than this famous item from Five Points? Join this American-Mediterranean brunch spot for a special Easter treat as they serve up standard favorites such as lemon-ricotta pancakes drizzled with maple syrup and the fried chicken sandwich dressed with dijon mustard and bitter greens. Their simple menu needs no justification–they even published a cookbook on the art of brunching. So make sure to reserve a spot to get in this Easter Sunday.

Enjoy Your Weekend!

Diana Tsuchida                                                                                                                                 U.F.P Contributor

Soul Flavors with Chopped Champion Wayne

Jersey City, NJ–

A sunny afternoon I decided to take a walk down Grove Street in Jersey City and noticed a sign that read “TV’s Food Network Chopped Champion Chef Wayne” in bright colors right outside the window. Above it the awning read, Soul Flavors and it sparked the interest my friend and I to walk over to check out the restaurant.

As we proceeded to walk into the intimate 35-seat restaurant, we were warmly greeted by the Floor Manager, Willy who sat my guest and I promptly with a menu. As we reviewed the menu, it was apparent that it would be Soul Food but also had Caribbean dishes. The menu offered a large variety of appetizers, entrees, desserts, and even a $33 combo which seemed cost-efficeient as well as plentiful. The $33 combo included an appetizer, entree, side, and dessert. It is also noted that some entrees will take 25 minutes because they are made to order, which I could understand and appreciate.

Willy also served as our waiter who was ready to take our order. I decided on “Half & Half” [house made cornbread/biscuits]  as an appetizer, and for entree the Buttermilk Marinated Fried Chicken with sides Braised Collard Greens and Roasted Sweet Potatoes. My guest decided on the Buttermilk Marinated Chicken & Waffles [served with a maple cream reduction].

As we waited on my food, we were informed that it was a BYOB restaurant and that the nearest wine store was just across the street. I knew that the entrees that were ordered would take at least 25 minutes to be ready, as earlier noted. I ventured across the street to purchase a bottle of Relax Riesling and once returned the first course had just arrived.

The “Half & Half” was served warm with softened butter. Once I had taken my first bite of the biscuit it simply melted in my mouth with buttery and countless layers of flakiness. The cornbread, as I hoped favored a light yet dense pound cake with vibrant corn kernels nestled though out. It reminded me of great childhood memory, I was enticed and salivating for my entree.

       Once the entrees had arrived, I was awe by just the aromas and sight of succulent fried chicken, sweet smelling Belgian waffle, and mouth-watering side dishes. The chicken stared me down waiting for me to make the first move and I went in! Although I had eaten the chicken, I felt defeated because the moist, well-seasoned, crispy bird had brought me to its surrender. The BEST Fried Chicken I had ever had, so great it would make your mother jealous! As I tried the waffle it was  everything I ever wanted, sweet and moist inside yet crispy on the outside. The maple cream reduction complimented both the chicken and waffle so well. If that wasn’t enough both the collard greens and roasted sweet potatoes were great accompaniments to this well-orchestrated dish.

 I will frequently return to Soul Flavors for great food and genuine hospitality. It is recommended to make reservations at Soul Flavors via phone, fax, and their website, soulflavors.com as it attracts a wide demographic of all ages and races. It has caught the eye of Rapper Kanye West, where he hosted his own intimate birthday party and has listed Soul Flavors as his favorite New Jersey restaurant.

About The Chef:

Chef Wayne Lyons was featured on Food Network’s Chopped in 2010. Before his acclaimed fame, Queens native, had come from a rough lifestyle. He sparked his first interest in cooking as a child with making crepes and reading several cookbooks and magazines. From a young age to his adulthood he faced the worldly demons of drugs and alcohol, that almost took over his life. Once Wayne’s first child was born, he decided that it was time to turn his life around and “become a positive force in his son’s life”.

After Wayne got in himself back in order, luckily enough through his rough times he earned an architectural degree so he proceeded to continue doing that. After awhile, he grew uninterested and a family friend who worked with the Marriott Corporation introduced him to the culinary world. Wayne worked hard from bottom up to Executive Chef, eventually branching off into his catering business, Melange Caterers. He became very successful with his catering business, making great contacts. In 2007, he moved from Queens to Jersey City to open Soul Flavors, which started off rough because of the economy but as a result of him winning Chopped, it brought more business, great publicity, and a loyal customer base.

For more information about Wayne Lyons or Soul Flavors, visit soulfavors.com or come to the restaurant at 354 Grove Street Jersey City, NJ 07302. Call For Reservations at 201.217.3004 . Also follow him on Twitter @SoulChefWayne .

Thank You For Reading,

-Isaiah [@Urban_Foodie14]

Insider: Dawn Richard’s “Armor On” Album Listening Party

NEW YORK, NY –

Dawn Richards held a listening party for her solo album, “Armor On” at her listening party at Open House hosted by K. Foxx of HOT97. She released her entire album with singles that included “Change” and “Black Lipstick”. Dawn is best known from girl group sensation Danity Kane and recently left Diddy Dirty Money. She stepped out on her own which she thought was risky but felt confident enough in her music and her team. She chose “Armor On” as her album title as she explains that the industry has so many expectations, what to wear and how to look, and often many demons so she chose put her “Armor On”. The album has many up-beat party tempos and heart-felt songs which serves as a prelude to her following project “GoldenHeart Trilogy”.

I got the opportunity to chat with Dawn at the listening and asked her a couple questions.

IK: Considering that you travel so much, when in New York what restaurants do you favor most?

DR: “Well you know I’m a New Orleans girl, so any restaurant that may have that cuisine I’m there. I especially like Delta Grill.”

IK: Before any show are there any dressing room necessities or traditions that you must have before you go on?

DR: Yes, I like to have a very small shot of Patron Tequila and sometimes a “Hot Toddy” with Earl Grey Tea.

IK: Your body looks amazing, how do you stay in shape? Are there any personal trainers and strict gym schedules?

DR: I have none of that, I just LOVE to Dance. It keeps me tight!

Dawn excluded beauty, charm, humility, and great energy. “Armor On” is in stores now and you can download on iTunes!

Good Eats at Choice Eats

NEW YORK, NY –

NYC Foodies Assemble! Village Voice hosted their 5th Annual “Choice Eats” festival at the 69th Armory at Lexington Ave. The event included 90+ restaurants and 50+ beer/wine vendors, with entertainment from DJ Andy Rourke of The Smith. Prior to entering the venue I attended the VIP lounge, where foodies paid extra for an early entrance, cocktail hour, hors d’oeuvres, and a celebrity chef demo with Top Chef Texas Cheftestant, Ty-lor Boring. He prepared cubed watermelon with powdered olive oil.

As I walked into the event I was in awe at the number of restaurants that I was about to indulge in . Each vendor was plentiful with the amount of food offered which I enjoyed most. Steadily I began to get full and needed a beverage to wash it down. Some of my favorite vendors like Stella Artois and Tito Vodka quenched my thirst as well as others. Lastly, I ended my night with decadent desserts, but enough with my writing check out my foodie slideshow!

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If you missed Choice Eats this year, not to worry because Village Voice is also hosting Choice Streets which highlights NYC’s Food Trucks on Tuesday, April 24th at 7:00pm. I’ll see you there!

– Isaiah [@Urban_Foodie14]