Get Ready for Spring: Best Restaurants with Outdoor Seating

Best Restaurants with Outdoor Seating around NYC

Now that the warmer weather is right around the corner, you’ll notice that many more people are opting to dine at restaurants with outdoor seating. After all, there’s something nice about enjoying your meal outside, where you’re able to take in the views of the area around you while taking full advantage of the beautiful weather. If you’re in New York City or have ever visited the Big Apple, then you’re very familiar with the fact that NYC is an almost absurdly massive city. With approximately 304.6 million square-miles of this concrete jungle to explore, finding a place to settle down in for a simple meal can seem like a strenuous. Now, take the number of restaurants present in New York City and narrow it down to eating spots that have outside seating. The results will seem overwhelming to you, but rest assured: we have a few suggestions here. Here are the best restaurants with outdoor seating around New York City.

Industry Kitchen

Considering the fact that Industry Kitchen was named the winner of OpenTable’s 2016 Diners’ Choice, it comes as no surprise that this restaurant offers delectable dishes and stellar seating. Industry Kitchen provides diners with modern American cuisine that is based on seasonal ingredients. With stunning views of the Brooklyn Bridge and East River, there’s no way that you can have a bad seat at this restaurant.

Gemma At Bowery Hotel

It’s widely accepted that it isn’t truly springtime until outdoor seating is available at this fabulous Italian restaurant located on the ground floor of Bowery Hotel. The outdoor seating at Gemma provide diners with views of the busy city scene, creating an atmosphere that is conducive of stylish downtown dining.

Le District

This French shopping district is also a huge food hall, where visitors can come experience the authentic taste of Paris. Le District market sits right outside of many New York’s popular family-friendly activities that include across-the-way views of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. According to Le District’s website, they are dedicated to delivering the best French cuisine with the best quality and service. One restaurant that can be spotted in Le District is Beaubourg, a ritzy French spot perfect for a meal with your family, friends, and coworkers. In warmer months, Beaubourg is a fantastic place to go to for lunch, as they offer terrace seating. The outdoor seating provides picturesque views of the Hudson River, making Beaubourg a wonderful eating destination for those who like their meals with a view.

Barbuto

This Italian eatery serves up rich and flavorful cuisine and a dining experience truly unlike any other nearby. The garage-style doors, when opened, blur the lines between indoor and outdoor seating. Whenever you’re sitting in this restaurant, regardless of where you are, you will feel as if you are sitting directly outside, enjoying your food and the gorgeous weather.

Shake Shack

You probably weren’t expecting to find a burger chain on this list, but this isn’t just any Shake Shack. It’s the original Shake Shack, which is located inside Madison Square Park. This particular chain was first started in 2004 and was originally presented as a food cart. Today, you can still enjoy a burger and shake at the OG Shake Shack in Madison Square Park and take in the beauty of the park. There isn’t a culinary experience quite like a food cart, so if you’re around this one, definitely take the opportunity to try it out.

Seamore’s

This spot is the perfect place to hit up during the summer months, as its light and beachy atmosphere perfectly fits the gorgeous summer weather. With it’s hardy clam chowder, fresh poke, fish tacos and happy hour oysters, Seamore’s is fantastic for seafood lovers everywhere. The outdoor seating area suits the overall beach-themed vibe of the restaurant, as the colorful patio is embellished with striped beach umbrellas.

Rosie’s

If you’re ever in the mood for the robust flavors of Mexico, Rosie’s is the perfect fit for you. During the warmer months, tables are spread out from the restaurant’s garage-style doors onto Second Avenue. Rosie’s is a colorful and vibrant culinary experience with an impressive array of beloved Mexican dishes.

Cecconi’s Dumbo

This spot is a classic Italian restaurant that serves up lunch, dinner and weekend brunch. Join them for a wood-fired pizza, pasta, and other delicious Italian dishes. Located in Brooklyn Bridge Park, this upscale eatery only offers diners the best dining experience with quality Italian cuisine and service unlike any other restaurant in town. Cecconi’s Dumbo offers both indoor and outdoor seating; however, the place you’ll want to be enjoying your food is outside, as the restaurant provides waterfront views of the iconic Manhattan Skyline.

Grand Banks

Named “Best Outdoor Dining in NYC” by The Village Voice and the “Best Oyster Bar In NYC” by the New York Observer, Grand Banks is definitely the most ideal outdoor eating spot that you can visit in New York City. The seasonal oyster bar serves fresh seafood entrees and drinks aboard the historic wooden schooner, Sherman Zwicker.

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For more information on local cuisine in your potential new neighborhood, contact your local real estate agent today!

Guest Blog by Jeremy Alderman

7 Mistakes First-time Homebuyers Make

Buying your first home can be one of the most stressful decisions as it is most likely the largest purchase of your life. As a first-time buyer, you feel pressured to have everything go exactly as planned, ultimately ending up in your dream palace in the sky. Throughout the purchase process, we see first-time buyers make mistakes that affect his or her ability to land the property of his or her dreams.

Below is a list of 7 mistakes frequently made by first-time buyers. Partner yourself with an educated broker, and you will soon be on the way to calling your dream house home!

1. NOT HIRING A BROKER:

First-time buyers, especially those that are unfamiliar with transacting in real estate, have a large misconception that if they hire a broker, they are going to have to pay. This is not the case. When it comes to buying, unlike renting, the seller’s agent splits the commission with the buyer’s (your) agent. With that being said, you only stand to gain with partnering with a reputable broker when conducting your home search.

2. LACK OF PRE-APPROVAL:

If you are planning to finance the purchase of your home, it is imperative that you get a pre-approval letter from your mortgage company. This will help you in two ways: 1) you know that you will even get approved and 2) what amount the bank is willing to lend to you. For the latter, some are pleasantly surprised that they are approved for more than they originally thought, while sometimes, the approval may come in lower than expected. This is important, however, so you know at what price point you can shop. Many first-time buyers feel that this is not urgent and say “I will get it later!” The sooner you have your pre-approval in hand, the sooner you will be a competitive buyer in the marketplace. Mortgage pre-approvals are generally valid for 3 months, so even if you don’t find an apartment immediately, you are better prepared for the search by getting the letter from the start.

3. BROKER ACCESS TO LISTING:

This relates to mistake #1 in that, often, first-time buyers believe that they have to go direct (without a broker) to a listing that they are interested in because it is that listing agent’s listing. All brokers have access to all listings. So no matter what broker you partner with as a buyer, they can take you to any listing throughout the city. You will not get a better deal by going alone!

4. INDECISIVENESS:

Buying your first home will probably be one of the most stressful purchases of your life. First-time buyers can suffer from indecisiveness, especially in the Manhattan market which offers so many options. If you find what feels to be the perfect home, bid on it and focus on that apartment. Too often, first-time buyers cannot commit to a property and miss out on a deal that meets their criteria. 

5. EDUCATION:

Hiring a reputable broker is 90% of the equation while the other 10% is on you as the buyer. Be sure to do your homework regarding all the components that go into purchasing a home. How much will insurance be? Utilities? The more you understand what expenses are involved and what the state of the market is, you will know what you can realistically afford and focus your search accordingly. 

6. BUYING DIRECT WITH THE SELLER’S AGENT:

This, too, related to mistake #1- notice a theme? Too often, first-time buyers buy direct (without a buyer’s broker), which can hurt them in the end. It is important to understand that while the seller’s agent is thrilled with a double commission, throughout the entire purchase process they are legally obligated to the seller, not you. the buyer. This means that the seller’s interests are prioritized before yours. Make sure you are represented by a broker that has your best interests at heart so you can feel confident that you received the best deal.

7. UNDERESTIMATE THE COMPLEXITY OF THE PROCESS:

Often when dealing with something we have never done, we have expectations or assumptions of how to approach it and handle it. We see many first-time buyers that underestimate the complexity of the real estate transaction process. The steps of going from offer submission to the closing table is like navigating a minefield. There is a myriad of things that can popup between contract signing and closing that may complicate the deal or threaten it, often things you would not anticipate as a non real estate professional. Your broker will seamlessly guide you throughout the process. 

Valentine's Day: Fall in Love with New York City

We love New York City for many reasons. It is the place we call home and live our passion - real estate. It is also full of so many cultures and experiences. Falling in love with New York City is easy, although everyone loves it for a different reason. Perhaps it is your neighborhood, the restaurants, the array of different types of people you meet, museums, or shopping.

Below are some ideas of ways to celebrate the day that is all about love - Valentine's Day. If you are single this year, that doesn't mean you can't have some fun. Grab a friend and take one of our suggestions to fall in love with New York City!

Romantic Things to Do:

Ice Skate in Wollman Rink - Wollman Rink is one of the most iconic skating rinks in the city. Set just inside Central Park off of Central Park South, therink is positioned to take in beautiful skyline views of the 57th Street corridor. Wollman is hosting a Valentine's Day special which includes admission for 2 adults and 2 skate rentals for $35.

The Love Of Chocolate Class - The L'Ecole Valrhona in DUMBO will be hosting a "Love of Chocolate Class" which will teach attendees how to make treats such as macarons and bonbons. The class will be led by an expert chef who will guide attendees as they enjoy chocolatey cocktails, share hors d'oeuvres, and make a Valentine's dessert. For $119 the class includes champagne, a recipe book, apron, and 20% off the Valrhona website.

Romance Under the Stars- This swanky soiree will be held at the American Museum of Natural History’s Rose Center for Earth and Space. It will feature an open bar with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres with a jazz quartet before the show. After mingling, guests will move to the planetarium while Astronomers tell love stories based on the methodology of the cosmos.

L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon: Mr. Robuchon was anointed “Chef of the Century” in 1989 and has become the most awarded chef alive. After his Atelier closed in New York City in 2012, he is back in the Meatpacking District! Those who have gone have described the experience at Atelier like none other, finding themselves smiling the entire time throughout the dinner. There are tables that offer views of the kitchen so you can see how the magic happens. Additionally, the interiors are outfitted with a red and black geometric design, perfect for the occasion. A special 4-course Valentine’s Day menu with optional wine pairing is available for $275 per person.

Gift Ideas:

Landeau - Landeau has made 25 the new dozen when it comes to giving a "dozen" roses. The delivery will arrive in a Parisian-style hatbox that makes quite the statement. Roses are available in 8 different colors and varieties. The box is also perfect for reusing as storage or a chic addition to a room's decor.

Vosges Chocolates - Haut Chocolate house led by founder Katrina Markoff who, while studying at Le Cordon Bleu in Paris, became inspired by Truffle Beignets at Place Des Vosges. This, in addition to her travels throughout Europe, inspired her company here in the States and her Travel the World Through Chocolate collections. She has won numerous awards, and Vosges Chocolates is now best known for its use of exotic ingredients such as spices, flowers, roots, and herbs.

Fragrance: Treat your loved one to a new fragrance. Perhaps is your favorite on them or their favorite. We love Creed Aventus for Men with notes of Bergamot and Blackcurrant Leaves and apple. For her, we pick Kilian Straight to Heaven. This sensual fragrance features base notes of Amber Gris and Cedar. It comes in a lockable display case.

Creed Aventus: Creed

Kilian Straight to Heaven: Saks

Fall In Love with New York at The Arcadia

408 East 79th Street, 17AB - 4 Bed (convertible 5) | 5 bath | $7,395,000

Fall in love with New York City with our beautiful listing at the Arcadia on the Upper East Side. Enjoy the exquisite interior design from Weitzman Halpern set against the backdrop of floor-to-ceiling windows with skyline views throughout.

Views from apartment 17AB

Ready to Fall in Love with New York? Arrange a confidential appointment with us to find your perfect home.

NYC Restaurant Week: Everything You Need to Know

Everything You Need to Know About NYC Restaurant Week

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If you have ever been to New York City, New York, you know that there is prestigious food at every corner. But for a price. The city that never sleeps is saturated with many people which means high demand, and ultimately, higher prices on food and things to do around the city. No need to worry. The food is incredible. New York City knows this and wants to allow people to be able to get the incredible savory food for a cheaper price. This is where New York City restaurant week comes in. Twice a year, the New York City restaurant week is held to allow people from all over to come and try delicious food for a fair price. However, there are many things to consider when attending the restaurant week.

What qualifies a restaurant

There are just about 400 restaurants that participate in the infamous restaurant week. Not every restaurant is able to participate though. In order to participate, NYC takes a few things into account. The chef’s background, the overall restaurant rating and reviews, and awards or other information. This makes it something that restaurants desire to become a part of. On top of that, the restaurant must offer a discount of 20 to 50 percent off the regular menu price to be picked.

The discounted food is pre-chosen

The menu will be chosen by the restaurant which is known as a prix fixe menu. It must include a three course meal and three choices for appetizers, three choices of entrees, and at least two dessert options. All participating restaurants will price their three-course prix fixe menus at $29 for lunch and $42 for dinner. You should be aware that not all restaurants will offer dinner and lunch at a special price. That’s why one should check ahead of schedule. You could also come across some restaurants with discounts on drinks as well. It is delightful to be able to have a choice of what kind of food you can have. You will also be able to find the NYC restaurant week dining guide in all participating restaurants a week before the event. Just keep in mind that beverages, gratuity, and taxes are not offered in the price.

Times

Restaurant week will take place from January 22, 2018 to February 9, 2018. During this time, you will find all the affordable, awesome meals. Just be sure to reserve your spot because all restaurants will most likely be very packed. Just in case one is looking to walk in, the discounts still apply.  There is a little bit of a catch. The restaurants will not offer the discounts on Saturdays, and Sundays are completely optional.

How to ensure a good time

Restaurant week is packed and hectic. You want to be sure that you could have the best possible experience. Most would start with choosing the kinds of foods they would desire to eat. This will help you get closer to which restaurants to choose. If you already have a specific restaurant in mind, then you should set your sights on it. Once reservations open (January 8th) you should try to book that specific restaurant immediately. Try to keep your options realistic. It might be very stressful to get a restaurant that is very prestigious and just ruin the thought of it all together. When you make your reservation, try to confirm what exactly they will be serving so you have an idea. Most menus are available for viewing online in advance. 

The best restaurants to visit

Most restaurants are going to be very rewarding when you take in their savory flavors, but you might want the challenge of getting to taste the best of the best. There are lists that you can find all throughout the internet of which restaurants should be chosen. Maybe classic New York City restaurants are on your mind and your taste buds, or perhaps those ranked as the best experience, and taste. There are even lists for getting the options that only go for lunch. No matter what you choose, you are going to find some incredible meals.

The Victoria Shtainer Team Picks:

• Tao Downtown
• Lavo
• Bagatelle
• Fig & Olive
• Mr. Chow

Broadway

How about a dinner and a show? Luckily, this year, broadway week is going on during the same time as New York City Restaurant Week. This will create the ultimate dinner and a show date scene. Tickets will be two-for-one to the best Broadway shows you can think of! This combination of 380+ restaurants and 19 Broadway shows will have you and a partner hitting the city almost every day. Try out this guide to see some awesome combinations of food and Broadway shows. It’s all about the experience in the end. 

All-in-all, the Restaurant Week in New York City is an incredible time. You get to enjoy food from all over that most never thought they could afford. So, whether you live in New York City, or live far away, attending the experience of restaurant week should really be considered. Hopefully, you  will have a wonderful time in the city that never sleeps.

Guest blog by Jeremy Alderman

6 New Year's Eve Parties to Ring in 2018

It is hard to believe it is time to say farewell to 2017 and raise a glass to welcome 2018 with open arms. New Year’s Eve parties will take place in cities around the globe, from New York to Tokyo. Everyone rings in the New Year a bit differently, from quiet dinners to champagne parades as clubs and everything in between!

Deciding on New Year’s Eve plans can be stressful, especially if friend groups want to head in different directions. If you are looking for a way to say goodbye to 2017 and hello to 2018 in New York City, we have curated a list of a few happenings around the city. Of course, these are just a drop in the bucket of all the events taking place on New Year’s Eve in NYC.

Top of the Standard with Gloria Gaynor

Singer Gloria Gaynor will be hosting a NYE Bash on the top of The Standard Hotel in the Meatpacking District. The glitzy black-tie party will feature DJs all evening as well as a countdown and performance by the Disco legend herself. The venue is sure to offer a backdrop of spectacular skyline views in all directions. Tickets start at $275.

Spa of Sensorium

NYE at a secret spa in Brooklyn? That is an option! Drink, Dance, and even detox at Spa of Sensorium. The Russian Turkish bath house will be transformed into a Sonic Jungle. Party goers can recharge in saunas, steam room, Jacuzzi, and cold plunge pools, and then dance the night away with 2 rooms of music. Tickets start at $125.

The King’s Winter Masquerade

The McKittrick Hotel, of Sleep No More Fame, will be hosting their final masquerade of 2017. The opulent masked soiree will include a large feast, open bar all night, live entertainment, and other curiosities throughout the hotel. Tickets start at $295.

Gatsby Party at Catch Rooftop

Say goodbye to 2017 in Gatsby style at Catch in Meatpacking. The party will be Gatsby themed with 1920’s style cocktail attire and décor. Wear your glitziest and most glamour attire as you enjoy a 2-hour open bar. Tickets start at $125.

Black Tie Gala at The Carlyle

Head to the Upper East Side and ring in 2018 with Steve Tyrell at Café Carlyle. Enjoy a four-course prix fixe menu that will be followed by dancing in the lobby with the Peter Duchin Orchestra. 8pm and 8:30pm seatings are available. $730 per person.

Midnight Run

Partying not your thing? Dancing in Central Park and take a run that event counts as credits towards the NYC Marathon with NYRR. The evening starts at 10pm with dancing, then at midnight hundreds of festive joggers embark on the run while taking in the Central Park fireworks. Participation starts at $45.

6 Things To Do in New York This Winter

Things to Do in New York City this Winter

We know it’s cold outside and there are fewer things nicer than watching New York City streets through your frosted window while you cuddle under a fuzzy blanket and drink hot cider, but New York City in the wintertime is worth venturing out into the cold for.

Chill is in the air, but holiday music can be heard on every street corner and the city is aglow with lights and winter decorations that you won’t soon forget. So, tip your doorman and leave the building. Venture to 1251 Sixth Avenue, near Rockefeller Plaza and look out for the glowing giant red orbs reminiscent of pomegranates, or the gigantic Christmas tree ornament sculpture popping out of a city fountain on 6th avenue. There are endless events and festivities as the new year approaches, and unless you have a friend who can get you into The Metropolitan Club, it can be difficult to choose where you’ll spend your time. That’s why we’ve done all the work for you and put together a list of some of the most exclusive activities and events in and around Manhattan and New York City to keep you in the know this winter.

Window Shop on Saks 5th Avenue

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One of the best things to do in New York City during the holiday season is wander through Midtown to check out extravagant window displays at stores like Macy’s, Bloomingdale’s, Saks Fifth Avenue, and more. Every winter, the shops on Saks 5th Avenue compete for the best window display by bringing to life fairy tale panoramas, winter wonderlands, and otherworldly scenes of grandeur and winter cheer. Curbed, a New York Neighborhood guide, curated this user-friendly map of the best holiday window displays in the area, so they’re easier to find than ever.

See the World-Famous Nutcracker Ballet

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Ah, a night of beautiful dancing, magnificent costume design, and high-end musical composition is in store for you at the NYC Ballet’s rendition of the Nutcracker. Running until December 31, this globally acclaimed ballet will delight and surprise regardless how many times you’ve seen the ballet before. All 90 dancers, 62 musicians, 40 stagehands and more than 125 children, in two alternating casts, from the School of American Ballet join forces to make each performance as magical as possible. Tickets range from $89-290, depending on the seats you choose. We recommend sitting as close to the orchestral pit as possible, to get a glimpse of both the dancers and musicians alike.

Enjoy a festive dinner at Old Homestead Steakhouse

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The Old Homestead is the perfect place to flock to on a wintery night with friends and loved ones. Located in the heart of the former meatpacking district, this old-world steakhouse was made famous as the first restaurant in the United States to import Japan’s fabled kobe beef for use as the feature in its sumptuous steak dishes. The interior is plush and comforting, perfect after a chilly evening trek through the city.  Menu features include the Oyster Rockefeller Royale topped with a simmering pernod cream, the filet mignon for two with golden Yukon potatoes, aged cheddar spinach, sour cream and Asian vegetables, and the deliciously famous Homestead chopped salad.

Escape for a Weekend at the Windham Mountain Resort

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The Windham Mountain Resort, a true gem hidden away in the great northern Catskills, is only three hours from New York City and offers everything from skiing and boarding to spa relaxation and delicious dining opportunities. It’s the perfect place to escape for the weekend when you need a break from the droves of winter tourists flocking to New York to see the famous city decorations and the NYE festivities. Packages are varied, so whether you need to play hooky in the middle of the week or want to embark on a weekend getaway, Windham has an option for you to enjoy.

Get Your Groove on at NYC Winter Jazzfest

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Each January, Winter Jazzfest hosts the genre’s top talent over the span of several evenings. Its signature two-night Greenwich Village marathon brings vets and up-and-comers, hordes of music fans and a palpable air of excitement to an array of cozy downtown venues. The shows aren't individually ticketed, so a wristband grants you access to any of each night's shows—as long as venues don’t fill to capacity. This is a model built for venue-hopping and exploration. If your preferred show is full, pull out the schedule, and head to one of the nearby spots for something unexpected. This event happens after the New Year celebrations, which can be a downtime for happenings around the city. So grab yourself a ticket before they sell out and get your winter groove on to combat the post-NYE blues that can set in.

Drink in a Rooftop Igloo

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This is one experience you won’t want to miss. 230 Fifth declares itself “New York's largest outdoor Rooftop Garden and fully-enclosed Penthouse Lounge.” One floor is fully enclosed, while the rooftop garden is open to the sky. If it’s raining, the venue will provide umbrellas and keeps it cozy by heating the place on cooler evenings. This venue is a marvelous place to sip cocktails before making your way to one of many New Year’s Eve happenings around the city, if you need a pre-party.

Guest Blog by Jeremy Alderman

How Much Should I Tip? - NYC Holiday Tipping Guide

The holiday season is always a time to give back to those that had a positive impact on our lives over the past year. One question that always comes up, especially in New York City, is how much to tip the building staff and those that are intimately involved in day-to-day life?

Holiday tipping is an opportunity to give back to those that make running our daily lives a bit easier. Thus, it is important to say that it is highly encouraged, but not required. As December rolls around, many begin to get anxiety about who to tip, how much to tip, and if he or she should even tip at all. 

Our friends at Brick Underground publish a go-to holiday tipping guide, which has been circulating since 2013. We condensed it, and put our take on what is appropriate as you budget for your holiday tipping. Remember, these are simply guidelines. There are many factors that can influence the tipping decision such as the size of the building (a larger staff equates to smaller individual tips), level of service, seniority, and time in building. 

Renters: Tips do not have to equate to the dollar amount you are paying each month for rent. If you receive a lot of packages, have a stroller that is carried in and out of the building, etc., factor this into your tip. 

It is recommended that you tip in cash. Doorman, Concierge, Supers, etc. all of bills to pay like you and I- they are not looking for fruit cakes, cookies, or homemade gifts at the holidays!

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Tipping Guidelines

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Super: $150-200
Doorman/Concierge: $100-150
Nanny: 1 Week Salary
Housekeeper: 1 Week Salary
Dog Walker: 1 Week Salary
Driver: 1 Week Salary
Personal Trainer: $100
Chef: $300-500
Personal Assistant: 1 Week Salary
Hairdresser: $50-75
Manicurist: $25

Something to Consider: If you have been tipping throughout the year utilizing a "pay as you go" method, it is customary to tip on the lighter side during the holiday season.

Thanksgiving Tradition: Macy's Parade & A Favorite Recipe

Thanksgiving: a time to gather around the table and forget about the gifts while enjoying the company of friends, family, and relatives. Thanksgiving is a time where many come together and reflect upon all the things to be thankful for - family, careers, a home. A common theme weaves its way throughout the Thanksgiving holiday, namely traditions. Traditions are a big part of Thanksgiving from that favorite recipe to all gathering around to watch the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. 

Read below for some of our favorite Thanksgiving traditions including the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade and a favorite recipe that is sure to be a crowd pleaser.

Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade

The parade is a city tradition dating back to 1924, making it the second oldest Thanksgiving parade in the country, which attracts more than 3.5 million to the streets and an even larger audience via television. This year marks the 91st parade, and Macy's has set up a special interactive website to browse through the parade over the decades and get a look at this year's lineup. The parade is, perhaps, best known for its large balloon class which has featured many cultural icons over the decades. This year, the lineup is slated to include the likes of the Pillsbury Dougboy, Ice Age's Scrat and his Acorn, and Angry Birds to name a few. The parade route is 2.65 miles long, starting at 77th street and Central Park West.

Route: 77th at Central Park West south to 59th Street.
East on 59th Street to 6th Avenue.
South on 6th Avenue to 34th Street.
West on 34th Street to 7th Avenue.

The admission is free to the Parade. The best place to view it is between 72nd and 61st Street and Central Park West.

The viewing areas along the route gets incredibly crowded. It is recommended that you arrive no later than 6:30am if you plan to scout out a good viewing spot along the route.

Sour Cream and Chive Mashed Potatoes 

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The perfect compliment to the Thanksgiving turkey? Mashed potatoes. This recipe takes traditional mashed potatoes to a new level with sour cream and chive. They are sure to be a crowd pleaser and will have guests coming back for seconds!

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes 
• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted  
• 1/2 cup half-and-half  
• 1/2 cup sour cream 
• 1/4 cup chopped chives  
• Salt & Pepper to Taste

Bring potatoes to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook until the potatoes are fork tender, about 20 minutes. In a small pot over low heat combine half-and-half and butter. Heat until hot but not simmering. Drain the potatoes in a colander. Wipe the saucepan dry. Add the potatoes back to the saucepan and mash. Give it a quick mix with a hand mixer to incorporate some air and ensure a smooth texture. Fold in the melted butter and half-and-half mixture until just incorporated. Fold in sour cream and 1/4 cup chives and season with salt and pepper.

Of course, it is important to remember what we are grateful for and share that with others. We are so grateful for good health and loyal clients that allow us to do what we love, in one of the best cities in the world!

Happy Thanksgiving!

-The Victoria Shtainer Team

Summer at the Seaport District

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In the heart of Downtown Manhattan, the Seaport District has been undergoing a large revitalization and transformation. We previously wrote about all the exciting things happening in the Seaport. This summer, however, the heat has been kicked up another notch at the waterside neighborhood with the “Summer at the Seaport” sponsored by Chase Sapphire.

Have you explored any seasonal spots this summer in the city? With many looking to get in a last vacation day or Summer Friday before Labor, the Seaport is the perfect spot to enjoy a summer afternoon or evening downtown. For Summer 2017, the Seaport is serving as a destination for highly curated culinary, music, retail, and cultural experiences.

There may only be a few weeks of summer left, but there is still a lot happening at the Seaport District to checkout.

Not convinced? Check out this wonderful video from our friends at South Street Seaport:

The Garden Bar

Perhaps the main focal point of the Summer at the Seaport installation is the Garden Bar sponsored by Chase Sapphire with special VIP access for card members. The bar is situated in the middle of the iconic cobblestone streets of the neighborhood, stretching 78 feet long and draped with greenery and palms. The setting feels like a garden oasis in the middle of the bustling city. The Garden Bar will be serving up selection of rare beers, rosé, and cocktails.

Additionally, The Garden Bar is located directly adjacent to a lush stage where live performances have been happening all summer long. Outdoor drink + live music…what is better? The lineup for the rest of the summer is as follows:

Thursday August 10th at 6pm: Breanna Barbara

Saturday August 12th at 6pm: Gedeon Luke and the People

Thursday August 17 at 6pm: Southern Avenue

Saturday August 19 at 6pm: Behold the Brave

Thursday August 24th at 6pm: Annie Hart

Saturday August 26th at 6pm: Showtime Goma

Thursday August 31st at 6pm: Calvin Love

Thursday September 7th at 6pm: The Alpaca Gnomes

The Chase Sapphire Lounge is reserved exclusively for Chase Sapphire members and offers a special menu of beverages and food.

Food Lab

Speaking of Chase Sapphire, members will also be able to get exclusive access to tickets at the Food Lab which has been hosting some of the most renowned chefs all season long. Each cehf will take up a 2-week residency at the Seaport, offering guests a taste of their signature culinary dishes. With guest chef’s coming in through early fall, you are sure to catch a unique experience before the summer ends.

Alon Shaya is currently in the Seaport until August 12 with Jessica Koslow, of Sqirl fame in Los Angeles, arriving on August 20th.  A partnership with Sixpoint Brewery has allowed each guest chef to create a custom beer for their time in residency. The remaining schedule for The Food Lab is as follows:

Jessica Koslow – August 20th – September 2nd

Dale Talde – September 20 – 23rd

Wylie Dufresne – September 29th – October 11th

Other Attractions

The Seaport is home to other attractions to enjoy a summer day or evening. Check out these popular spots to grab a cold drink or a good bite:

• Clinton Hall: The popular pub has opened a location right on the heart of the Seaport. Clinton Hall is known for its 20 rotating draft beers alongside 20 burgers. There are also table games
• Front Row Food Trucks: Various food trucks are rotating into front street, parking in a Smorgasburg-style street food display.
• Mr Cannon: There is not much description provided on this new Speakeasy, aside from its inspiration. The address is not published on the website, but rumor has it it is located at 206 Front Street.

6 Rooftop Bars to Visit this Summer

Outdoor space is highly coveted in the city, especially during the warmer weather months when long days lead to beautiful sunsets over the skyline. We look for outdoor space in apartments, and we also desire it when deciding where to go for a cocktail.

Below is a list of 6 of the best rooftops to hangout in New York City and enjoy a cocktail (or 2) and skyline views from different vantage points. Perched in the sky, you might even catch a breeze to cool you down. Don’t take our word for it, and check out these place:

The Roof

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Situated atop the Viceroy Hotel, The Roof offers a sophisticated space to escape Midtown to enjoy a cocktail and view. The space faces North, offering views of the classic Central Park South skyline as well as the park itself. The interior of the lounge is reminiscent of an old luxury airliner with a menu offering up craft beers, global wines, and classic and modern cocktails that rotate to utilize the freshest ingredients.

The Viceroy Hotel 124 W 57th Street

The Roof at Park South

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Take in views of the Chrysler and Empire State buildings while sipping on quality cocktails at the roof of the Park South Hotel. The space not only offers good views and good drinks, but also good DJs. The menu breaks down cocktails into categories such as “Effervescent and Easy Drinking” and “Fancy”. The space is outfitted with copper siding, orange canopies, and a fireplace.

The Park South Hotel 125 E 27th Street

1 Hotel DUMBO

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Looking for views of the skyline from a different perspective? DUMBO offers the perfect vantage point and the chic 1 Hotel offers the perfect spot from which to gaze. Grab a cocktail or glass of wine and take in sweeping views of the Manhattan skyline from the rooftop.

60 Furman Street

Salon De Ning

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Head to the Peninsula Hotel on 5th Avenue and make your way to the roof for a sophisticated setting to enjoy a drink while looking over the iconic stores of 5th Avenue. Salon De Ning was recently renovated in 2016 and features Hampton-esque aesthetics. The two outdoor spaces are complimented by an interior bar. The space operates on a first come first served basis.

700 5th Avenue

The Press Lounge

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Tucked away in Hell Kitchen on Manhattan’s West Side is the Kimpton Ink 48 Hotel which is home to The Press Lounge. The Press Lounge is a fan favorite for rooftop bars in the city, offering up a swanky space and panoramic views of both the Manhattan skyline and Hudson River.

653 11th Avenue

PHD Terrace Midtown

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Check out the newly expanded terrace of the Midtown outpost of PHD, the popular rooftop of the Dream Downtown in Meatpacking. PHD Terrace, at the Dream Midtown, allows guests to enjoy a different perspective than its sister, namely views of Midtown and Times Square. Word on the street is they serve a 164 oz. Moscow Mule!

210 W 55th Street