Office-to-evening fashion in this hip SoHo shop. Lim, a renowned top designer, showcases his designs in this serene, aesthetic shop on Mercer Street. Customers have now found it easier to purchase his creations rather than searching for limited pieces of his line in larger retail shops. Philip Lim is known for his understated details… a favorite of mine is a classic navy cashmere dress adorned with his exquisite touch of pearls. Lim’s accessories include shoes, belts, handbags, eyewear and seasonal runway jewelry that was recently featured at Fashion Week! His everyday classics have touches of cool, chic looks… appealing to both the downtown and uptown shopper!

I’ve been a fan of the A.P.C. SoHo store for years, and was therefore excited to visit the recent opening of their shop in the West Village. Since I lived in the West Village, I couldn’t be happier about the retail revival on Bleecker Street! The opening of A.P.C. (‘Atelier de Production et de Creation’) has been the talk of the neighborhood. The French brand’s ready-to-wear retro denim jeans are both minimalist in design, yet classy. For you denim lovers, try their line of Butler jeans. I did… and they’re now a staple in my wardrobe. Stay tuned for the second shop opening on one of my favorite streets in the city this summer… 4th Street!

Had Ruia been around during the filming of Sex and the City, I’m sure that SJP would have been seen walking out of the shop with a few purchases! This high-end British shoe company has recently opened a European luxury shoe boutique in the heart of SoHo. The uniqueness of Ruia is that all of the shoes for New York trendsetters are collections that can’t be found anywhere else in the city! Ruia displays their shoes and boots on dining tables, dressers, and on other beautiful furnishings. The Loriblu pumps are exquisite, along with the Dibrera line. All shoes are entirely handmade, reflecting the passion and mastery of the Italian craftsmen. Should you bring along a male companion, I promise you… he won’t be bored. Complimentary drinks are served in a comfortable setting featuring daily sports programs!

As the saying goes, “everything changes in a New York minute.” Thomas Sires opened after we completed our January NoLita edition. The clothing is described as “effortless cool meets structure.” This new kid on the block in the neighborhood of NoLita, is the vision of Fiona Thomas and Alison Sires… not a gentleman’s shop as the name might denote. Thomas Sires is a one-of-a-kind shop featuring minimalistic women’s ready-to-wear collections and curated trinkets such as Lucite necklaces, Japanese hand towels and a soap line made in Red Hook, Brooklyn. Together the co-owners have created lovely silk blouses, cropped pants and tops. I especially liked their olive silk jumpsuit, a very versatile piece. Thomas Sires is a lifestyle store… and to quote the owners, “a boutique turned gift shop.”

When I first noticed their website, I thought it was a throwback to a vinyl collection. I was pleasantly surprised to find out that 45R is a specialty shop featuring world renowned Japanese designed denim. Since jeans are a NY staple, I decided to stop by. The bi-level tranquil atmosphere is enhanced with incense, retro accessories and a water based rock floor! I was impressed that 45R handles the tedious process from cotton spinning to dyeing, and each jean is painstakingly hand-distressed by these Japanese masters. There is a significant price range, so I was pleased to find a pair that worked within my budget. My jeans feel more like art than apparel… definitely a pair of “to dye for” jeans.

New on the scene… Agent Provocateur meets Madison Avenue. As a fan of their SoHo shop, I decided to visit their new flagship store on Madison Avenue the other day. The interior is reminiscent of a boudoir-like space – black lacquered furnishings and hand painted silk walls adorned with an exquisite vintage chandelier. Although a French sounding name, the line is British… co-founded by one of my favorite designers, Vivienne Westwood. Don’t be intimidated walking in; the staff is friendly and approachable. Agent Provocateur is a high-end boutique of frillery… beautifully made luxurious lingerie. Pieces are sizzling, yet sophisticated. The shop also carries romance-inspired beauty products. It’s a must for that special occasion, and a great place for celebrity sightings!

Artisanship meets fashion. Milanese based Cesare Paciotti has been handcrafting shoes since 1948… shoes that are true works of arts. His women’s collection ranges from stiletto heels to boots, many that fashionably stretch over the knee. As with any Italian shop, setting is equally important. The white crystalline marble floors and minimalistic design showcases his monochromatic collection of shoes, handbags, small leather accessories and eyewear. The old century tradition of craftsmanship is apparent in each piece. I couldn’t resist a pair of lace-up heels… perfect for my spring wardrobe. Sexy and glamorous, Cesare’s spring collection is fashion forward. Besides Blanicks and Choos, be sure that a pair of Cesare Paciotti is on your uptown list for the upcoming season.

The simplistic silhouettes of Chloe’s line masks the detailed precision tailoring of each piece. The quirky, yet sophisticated look of this French label consists of casual t-shirts to evening wear… all possessing unassuming elegance. Chloe is a favorite among fashionistas, those not looking for complicated avante garde styles. I was in awe over her spring runway collection – subtle, elegant and feminine pieces focusing on palettes of white, black and flesh tones. The designs are a playful homage to ballerinas… how timely with the buzz over “Black Swan.” Draped skirts, simple stretch knit tops, and sheer tulle skirts comprise most of the spring collection. I especially liked how Chloe accessorized the spring line with flats… those that can transform from city streets to the sands of summer beaches.

A perfect integration of a restaurant and bar.  Next door owner of Tribeca‘s RBC Coffee Shop, recently opened Compose, a multi-course culinary journey serving American contemporary cuisine.  What RBC is to coffee, Compose is to bar food!  A limited number of nightly guests (10 in total) are offered a one-of-a-kind dining experience.  The restaurant’s horseshoe bar offers a 10-course tasting menu.  I was glad to see that an additional 20 guests were seated throughout the bar enjoying seasonal food and drinks.  Every dish is a conservation starter… all personally served by chef, Nick Curtin. Since the menu changes daily, I won’t even begin to write about my favorite tastings. Reservations are  accepted at 8am daily.  You can also email bar@composenyc.com and list your name, phone number and size of party… of course keeping in mind that there are only 10 seats.  Compose exceeded my expectations and it was hard to retain my ‘composure’ as I ventured home!

A new hip spot where rustic meets Italian glamour in the charming neighborhood of NoLita.  Rubirosa is operated by Angelo Pappalando, former chef at Esca.  Angelo, known as A.J., began as a young boy making pizza at this father’s Staten Island restaurant Joe & Pat’s Pizzeria.  Their famous thin crust pizza for over half a century is cooked in the same ovens at Rubirosa.  Why change when you’ve achieved perfection!  Last week I tried the arugula pizza with fresh tomatoes and give it a 10!  Rubirosa also offers a non-pizza menu.  Stuffed artichokes and their hand-rolled manicotti are my top picks!  For you Beatrice Inn fans, you’ll be greeted by the familiar face of doorman Angelo Bianchi. The atmosphere embraces the homeland… tin ceilings, vintage maps and photos of Italy’s past.  My grandmother would have marveled at the authenticity of Rubirosa.

Spasso’s buzz is “a rustic Italian date spot in the West Village.”  Although I usually feature different cuisines for each uptown and downtown monthly restaurants,  I wanted to write about the amazing dining experience I had at Spasso the other evening. Both traditional and contemporary Italian dishes are served. My date ordered the Ricotta Gnocchi and I felt compelled to order the Cannelloni alla Norma! The decor is elegant, yet homey.  We sat near the open kitchen and later had an aperitif at the barn wood bar and chatted with my former West Village neighbors. Spasso specializes in rustic fare such as hand rolled pastas, house cured meats and freshly baked breads. Spasso, the Italian word for ‘amusement,’ scored high in my top ingredients of atmosphere, food and service!  For the sparkling wine aficionados, there are 20 offerings of Italian sparkling wines by the glass. I can’t wait for this new spot to open their European sidewalk café!

Located in the hip Ace Hotel in the Flatiron neighborhood is The Breslin, an authentic gastro pub in both architecture and food.  Be prepared to wait since The Breslin does not take reservations.  You’ll have lots to keep you intrigued since there are two bars… one upstairs and one downstairs, a cool lounge for celebrity sightings, and one of my favorite city shops, Opening Ceremony. The restaurant is the brother of the acclaimed Spotted Pig, so don’t be surprised that the menu’s focus is primarily meats. Their lamb burger is definitely on par with the Spotted Pig, and make sure that you try their Pear and Escarole Salad. The setting is casual… equal parts pub and restaurant, reminiscent of a vintage British pub.  Century old ceilings divide the space into intimate nooks and crannies. For a special occasion sit in their leather clad curtained off booths  Waiters don’t stop by until you push a button! It’s quite impressive that this new kid on the block recently received a Michelin Star!

Chef Michael White of Marea and Osteria Morini, has recently opened Ai Fiori in The Setai Fifth Avenue Hotel in Midtown West. Ai Fiori is fit for foodies and is a neighborhood gem. In an area where there are few top restaurants, Ai Fiori is a welcome addition. When I had dinner last week I was impressed that the restaurant’s gracious services matched their superb menu. The setting is open and airy… a glass-enclosed space with a dramatic sweeping staircase. Ai Fiori focuses on Italian Mediterranean cuisine… seafood at its best. I recommend the crab salad with avocado and grapefruit and the seared scallops and risotto. For dessert, try the olive oil cake which is sublime. This is a ‘must go to’ place.

Graffit, a “fusion of unconventional art and food,” is a new-on-the-scene Upper West Side (UWS) Spanish restaurant near Lincoln Center that is a treat for the eyes and the palette. Owner and chef, Jesus Nunez, stopped by our table and explained how he fuses old world recipes with new world preparation. His dishes are colorful creations….dishes that are visually bold. In the kitchen he draws upon his love of street art. How fitting, since Nunez is a graffiti artist turned chef! The restaurant’s ambiance reflects a vibrant decor – bright yellow accents and spray painted murals encase a tapas room, dining and garden room. Favorites of the evening included savory tapas of croquettes de jamon, signature meatballs and tortillas in a martini glass. Be sure to try their white sangria with bits of jalapeno! Nunez’s differentiates himself from other chefs by believing that he has the heart of a child… always desiring to discover more.

After ten years as the general manager at the noted Le Bernardin, Sally Chironis felt it was time to open a modern midtown bistro in Hell’s Kitchen, serving fine French food with global accents. Global indeed since she and her partner strove to create a multicultural representation of NYC with a staff including a French executive chef, an Italian chef de cuisine, a Japanese sous chef, a Chinese pastry chef and a German sommelier! The halibut with caper vinaigrette and the black truffle potato soup received a thumbs up at my table. La Silhouette’s space holds a petite bar, a sunken dining room and an outdoor terrace for the warm weather we’re all longing for! The restaurant is decorated minimally with earthy colors. Its laid back atmosphere is created by French Indie music and contemporary decor… a great spot to celebrate a birthday, anniversary or a first date.

Located in the heart of Harlem, the hip new Red Rooster serves comfort food, celebrating the roots of American cuisine and its diverse culinary traditions. Chef/owner Marcus Samuelsson is the quintessential celebrity chef, having cooked for Barack Obama’s first White House state dinner! A resident of Harlem, Samuelsson’s Red Rooster restaurant features an expansive copper horseshoe-shaped bar and communal table, a breakfast café and grocery. Fried Chicken and Lobster Macaroni and Cheese are two of his signature dishes, along with his grandmother’s recipe for meatballs. Try the Apollo drink, named for the famous theater around the corner, or another great selection… the Brownstoner. Bartenders pay homage to the mixed drinks in Harlem’s Renaissance. As the former executive chef of Aquavit, Samuelsson circles back to his roots, bringing modern soulful fare to Harlem.

James Moody has performed his melodius sax with Count Basie, Dizzy Gillespie, and many more. He’s done shows for Bill Cosby, Ann-Margaret, John Davidson, Glen Campbell, Liberace, Elvis Presley, The Osmonds, Milton Berle, Redd Foxx… head to Greenwich Village’s famous Blue Note for this one-night show MC’ed by Bill Cosby, benefiting the James Moody Scholarship for Newark Youth. Check out the website to see who will be performing… there will also be some surprise guests. Get your tickets before it sells out!

You won’t see Mr. H on the hotel’s website… that’s how new it is! The hotel itself is all the buzz and it’s new speakeasy-type lounge is the next big thing! I stopped in during it’s soft opening and the words I would use to describe it are: sultry, sexy, hot! Inspired by Shanghai circa 1930, it’s described as “a place where Humphrey Bogart would head for a nightcap when he knocked off work as a gumshoe.” Deep red lighting, velour beds, checkered floor, flickering lanterns… are you still stuck on the beds? Me too… can’t wait to head back!

A modern spin on the traditional sports bar. The necessaries: 16 televisions, 8 draught beers, 20 bottled and craft beers, full bar. The modern: mahogany doors, dark leather couches, 20-foot long LED tricolor SNAP Ticker, scrolling a constant flow of sports scores, fantasy stats, news, and messages. This is not your typical sports bar as you won’t find a sticky floor, a plethora of college kids, or 50 cent chicken wings! Weekly events include celebrity athlete hosts, fantasy sports tournaments, video gaming competitions, karaoke, and networking functions. “Turn-of-the century décor meets live entertainment, for a mix that can only be summed up as the ultimate Sports Nightlife And Pastime.”

A new contemporary wine bar in the Cooper Square area… might be hard to find (look for the Gwathmey Siegel apartment building), but that’s half the fun! The name refers to the French term for an above ground wine cellar and with over 1,500 bottles of wine, it surely is! The setting is intimate yet roomy, upscale, with high ceilings and candlelight. Small plates include cheeses, charcuterie, foie gras, deserts and chocolate… the selections come from Murray’s Cheese and Bouchon Bakery, to name a few. A sophisticated spot in the hip East Village ‘hood.

March brings a treat at Birdland – the Kevin Eubanks Trio! Of course you recognize the name from the Tonight Show with Jay Leno, where Kevin Eubanks has led the TS band for years. He and his cohorts have talent and loads of it. They guarantee a wonderful night of entertainment… as is always found at Birdland. March 29 – April 2

Also at Birdland every Sunday in March – Chico O’Farrill Afro-Cuban Jazz Orchestra… more great sounds to enjoy!

Don’t miss this one: On March 3, between 5:30 and 8:45 at Café 2 – DJ Alex Pasternak will entertain at MoMA Nights – Put MoMa Nights on your calendar for the first Thursday of every month for interesting food selections, cocktails and an abundance of great music! Alex Pasternak plays a mix of international music that delivers an excellent eclectic variety of sounds – Samba to sultry Turkish to reggae – it’s perfect for the MoMA setting. If you miss this one in March, mark it on your calendar for April 7th… and bring friends!

“And the night shall be filled with music…” by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow… Poetry is in the air and on the walls of this cozy Upper West Side bar… but beer is the order of the day at this spot! The draught beer is great, but also check out their specialty beer selections – you might want to try the appropriately named Three Philosophers or Rogue Shakespeare Stout. The atmosphere is comfortable; yet it gets busy especially on the weekend. Bring friends and Cheers to a great time!

This cozy wine bar with incredible wooden beams and exposed brick décor is a quiet haven on bustling 9th Avenue – look for the amazingly intricate wooden doors! With over 500 Italian wines, they feature over 45 by the glass in all price ranges. The list may sound overwhelming, but rest assured, the staff is more than happy to give you a terrific sampling and a description of the most prized varietals Italy has to offer! They also have excellent small plates to pair with the wines including delicious San Daniele proscuitto and savory Italian cheeses. Stop by and take some time to sample it all!

Set in 1951… this play is an unfolding of a provocative account of the 20th century. The playwright presents a complex portrayal of an untold dimension of Anne Frank’s powerful legacy. The play’s star, Mandy Patinkin, is flawless in his execution of his obsession with the Diary of Anne Frank. His descent into paranoia is both chilling and thrilling as he’s driven to bring Anne Frank’s story to life. The play’s intensity is enhanced by the intricate manipulation of the haunting puppets that are used to enact dramatizations of the scenes. This enthralling drama of immense imagination is riveting… brilliant casting by the compulsive artist of Patinkin! Through March 13

Dance Conversations
A festival of dance featuring cutting edge works by 32 choreographers. Each event in the series features the works of emerging and mid-career choreographers with open discussions between the artist and audience. Through March 13
Music with a View
A music festival devoted to the discovery of new fresh sounds created and performed by contemporary musicians. Each event features the works of 2-3 emerging and/or mid-career composers from all over the world and is followed by an open discussion between the artists and the audience.

I plan to attend both festivals and I’m looking forward to the performances of many undiscovered talents! Admission is free to both the dance and music festival! March 22 – April 3

As a fan of Academy Award winner Geoffrey Rush, I was once again in awe with his performance in Diary of a Madman. Rush comes unglued before our eyes as we watch his portrayal of a lowly civil servant driven mad by bureaucracy in this dark comic tale. His role of a burnt out paper pusher making meager wages in czarist St. Petersburg is a knockout… mesmerizing and heartbreaking! Immobilized by a rigid social hierarchy, Rush’s character brutally separates from reality, fantasizing himself way above his station in life, sinking deeper and deeper into delusion. Emotions of rage, laughter, sadness and hope are woven throughout… attempting to bridge the gap of who we are and who we think we are. Through March 12

Playwright A.R. Gurney’s Black Tie is a delightful comedy about how values change from generation to generation! The father of the groom (Curtis) simply wants to make a memorable toast, but before he’s able to do so, he must defend his attire of wearing the tux of his late father. “Sometimes your dad’s old hand me down suits need altering, sometimes his advice does too.” Throughout the twists and turns of the play, Curtis realizes that trying to balance the standards of his late father and the needs of his future family, may prove too difficult for this Black Tie affair. The makings of a sad commentary on life actually end up fine as the final curtain falls. The playwright expertly explores the various social and psychological legacies that fathers bestow on their sons. Extended through March 27

This play by Mark St. Germain has been around since June 2010, but if you haven’t seen it, now is the time! The best thing about this play, apart from being funny and intelligent, it is excellent theatre on many levels. In the play, Freud and his young associate, C.S. Lewis, discuss war, religion, psychiatry and life. But of course, this is Freud, and with Freud comes banter and intellectual sparring. It’s fun, stimulating and thought-provoking (after all, ‘sometimes a cigar is just a cigar’). Do not miss this one! Through October 31

What a treat to see Frances McDormand on stage… and to be expected, she is wonderful. This is a short run, so plan in advance. The story is about a hard luck case in South Boston living from paycheck to paycheck. When her luck runs out and she loses her job, she sets her sights on a possible exit strategy… then the drama begins! It is romantic, sad, happy and full of possibilities. Enjoy another excellent example of good theatre by David Lindsay-Abaire! Through May 8

Oddly enough, this performance started at the New York, New York Hotel in Las Vegas, and now has made it to the real New York City. Entertaining to say the least! It is good old Rock & Roll that absolutely makes you want to sing along… so don’t be shy, join right in! Anything is possible with this performance, as it changes all the time. Needless to say, the performance was invigorating in true Las Vegas fashion – energetic, unique and totally entertaining! Suggest you see it for yourself!

March 17 – 20, 2011
If you love photography, the Association of International Photography Art Dealers’ (AIPAD) show is for you! An impressive gathering of over 70 photographic art dealers around the world, this show displays work from top photographers each year – and it is quite an extraordinary event. New techniques that push the creative envelope are on view in one dynamic setting! Contemporary… modern… 19th century photographs… video too! All of this for only $25 at the door.

March 18 – 26, 2011
This is not the typical art show, but more of a gathering of Asian art specialists focusing their energies on the appreciation of Asian art, modern and historical. The show is not in one place; it is around the city at key Asian museums, auction houses and venues. Check out the extended guide and attend the featured events that strike your fancy… from a fair on the Arts of the Pacific on Tuesday the 22nd, to gallery talks throughout the city. You can learn so much about fine Japanese art, Indian & Southeast Asian works and Chinese ceramics to name a few.

Vienna 1900: Style and Identity (Through June 27, 2011)
This exhibit is a full view of an era and is definitely a bit out of the ordinary for the Neue Galerie. Paintings, architecture, decorative arts and drawings are displayed… all looking at the distinct style of a very interesting era – a view of the 1900s from a fashion perspective. Spanning 3 floors, take time to enjoy this stroll through a very complex cultural period and take in how that complexity is shown through the eyes of Klimt, Koloschka and other greats.

March 3 – 6, 2011
It’s that time again… the Armory Show is back in town! This is the leading annual Art Fair in New York and galleries around the world converge in the city to show the best of the best in art. As always, the show is broken out into Contemporary at Pier 94 and Modern at Pier 92. The art will be amazing and will chronicle the latest trends in the art world today. Every year a new crop of exciting artists are featured, so block enough time to enjoy the creativity.

Check out Armory Arts Week, special events and exhibits throughout the city, including special receptions, open studios, museum and educational events.

March is a transition month from a seasonal standpoint, and according to the Ground Hog, spring will arrive early! With that in mind, there is no time like the present to try a challenging exercise program to prepare for the great outdoors – a rock climbing class for beginners! Now, they have advanced climbing programs as well, but there will be a test for that! Brooklyn Boulders (known as BKB) is an energetic place so you will need the Nike approach – ‘Just Do It!’ They say that ‘if you can climb a ladder, you can climb a rock wall’ so go see for yourself and sign up!

Day Trip
Outdoor Bound continuously offers exciting options for city dwellers, and they did it again – Horseback Riding & Wine Tasting – next opportunity is March 19th. Imagine riding through fields and forests from one vineyard to another, then sipping local wine or cider. This excursion outside the city is an absolutely brilliant idea that cannot go without a notable mention and a strong recommend. Sign up now and get ready for a great escape outside the city. You will want to know how to ride a horse to get the maximum benefit – saddle up and enjoy!

NYC Events
Outdoor Bound a bit closer to the city – try a photographic adventure! Grab your camera and be prepared for some incredibly orchestrated shots of Central Park and the Conservatory Garden. The locations and the subjects are perfect for a bit of practice and the instructors will give you a vantage point that will surprise you. Snap away!

This Chelsea dance studio is all about impact! Belly dancing is my favorite, but don’t stop there, the studio specializes in the non-traditional dance moves. Salsa, Hip-hop, Bollywood, Zumba (which is amazing) and all levels of pole dancing. Everything is with a twist at this studio, so sign up for a lesson as soon as possible. It’s a workout AND it’s fun…

While we’re on the subject of early cultural learning… arias, cantatas, falsettos – start your child young so that he/she can accompany you at the opera! Every Saturday, Torly Kid offers an opera workshop to introduce your tykes to the joys of opera. Learn about the characters, the sounds… different operas from different countries, the theme of love within opera – even talk about similarities between Disney heroines and opera heroines. At the end, they can perform their own production, complete with props! And when you pick them up, take a stroll around the store for cute clothes and gifts for kids.

Did you ever dream of being a prima ballerina? If you’ve ever taken ballet, then you’ll be just as excited as your kids will be to watch little Angelina step on stage. This show, based on the animated series, is sure to have the whole family dancing in the aisles. Things have changed since I was little – it’s not just ballet any more. Hip-hop, modern dance, even the Irish jig! Watch those mice dance with glee — your kids will thank you for the experience… in their own way.

Rain or shine, head to Prospect Park for this monthly gathering of pups and their owners. Warm up with some coffee and pastries (and of course, doggy biscuits!). What can be better than a free gathering… where pets are allowed! Take the leash off and let him roam free with the other dogs. Get up early, as it starts at 7am, but it’s worth the trip for this “pupnic,” held monthly by FIDO (Fellowship For The Interests of Dogs & Their Owners).

This boutique is about dogs AND babies… the first of its kind, carrying matching puppy and baby clothes! How cute… designer clothes for both your baby and your puppy. And if your puppy IS your baby, it’s still worth the shopping experience. ‘I Love NY’ vintage hoodies, dog carriers, collars, toys… there’s plenty to buy to make any puppy happy.

In the age of celebrity pets and fancy puppy carry cases, it’s not at all odd to hear the word ‘ritzy’ to categorize a dog shop. “No Request Will Be Unaddressed” is the theme here, so I was not surprised to find out that they have a Presidential Suite, a roofdeck, and of course, excellent room service and a spa! Not dropping Fifi off for an overnight visit? Drop by for a massage (no, not for you… for her!), or stop into the designer boutique to grab a gift just to tell her that you love her!

From uptown to downtown, there’s no shortage of doggie shops in NYC. Here’s another one-stop shop for pups and felines in SoHo. Dog walking, daycare, boarding… even puppy kindergarten and summer camp! The boutique features organic treats and a signature clothing line. And don’t forget the full service spa and salon! Not just grooming and massage, but acupuncture, gland expression and deep treatment cream rinse. You may be jealous of the treatment your pet receives… but there are plenty of spas for you in SoHo and beyond. Check out Urban Expeditions for some neighborhood spas for people!

Bobo’s Rooftop Farm
181 West 12th Street (at 7th Ave)
(212) 488-2626
I love this quaint restaurant… I walked by it many times before realizing there was a doorway there! Now they’re looking to open a rooftop farm in about 9 months. Can’t wait!

Danny Meyer
3 new restaurants in Battery Park City to open! Another Blue Smoke and Shake Shack… plus one! Not only that, he’s opening one in the Whitney Museum… will open in March and be called Untitled… how fitting!

Christina Lehr
Daughter of famed Henry Lehr will soon open her first boutique in Tribeca.

Harry Connick Jr. is Coming to Broadway!
On a Clear Day
Hear him croon in this classic show. Coming this fall.

Outdoor Bistro in Financial District
This spring, an outdoor eating spot downtown… 200 outdoor seats, cheap eats. Keep your eyes peeled!

Tiny’s
135 West Broadway (Thomas & Duane St)
‘Where everybody knows your name’… that’s what this spot by the owners of Warren 77 and NY Rangers Henrik Lundqvist. A ‘tiny’ upstairs bar with a lot of personality!

In Fashion
Alexander Wang
103 Grand Street (at Mercer St)
(212) 977-9683
One of my favorite designers recently opened its Flagship stores in SoHo!

Bar III
156 5th Avenue (at 20th St)
Through March 6th, this pop-up shop features hip fashions from emerging designers… modern yet diverse clothing. I walked in to check it out and it’s worth he mention… and the trip!

Helmut Lang New York
93 Mercer Street (Spring & Broome St)
(212) 242-3240
So long Lang… the Meatpacking District boutique has moved to SoHo! And IMPROVD has moved in its former space!

TenOverTen
112 Reade Street (Church St & Broadway)
(212) 406-1010
Hot new nail salon with a hot new owners… One of the owners, Nadine Ferber owns Mick Margo (a West Village hot shop)… her husband, Matt Abramcyck, owns the 2 popular Tribeca bars Smith & Mills and Warren 77 and is planning to open a restaurant underneath Nadine’s shop. This salon has airy, high ceilings, sliding loft doors, comfy arm chairs. A sophisticated nail salon with prices “between a bargain basement service and a big spa splurge.”

What Happens When
25 Cleveland Place
(212) 925-8310
Pop-up is the new black! Not only shops, now a restaurant! For 9 months only, this eating jewel will be open… from the owners of Dovetail.

Eat & Drink
19 Charles Street
Ordering dinner isn’t so unique. How about ordering a ready-made gourmet dinner for you and your guests along with the recipes! Each week, choose from 4 new recipes, place your order… they do all of the shopping for you and bring it to your door, along with the unique recipe! Vendors include Murray’s Cheese and Union Square Greenmarket.

Apt 4
Sign up for the alerts. Wait for an email announcing the next event. Sign up quickly. Hope to be accepted. Each event takes place at a different spot in the city… a celebrity apartment, a basement nook… delicious dinner with complete strangers. I just signed up and I’m waiting impatiently for the next invite!

Brucie Drop-off Service
234 Court Street, Brooklyn
(347) 987-4961
Is cooking not exactly your strong suit? Or not enough time to slave over a hot stove? Just drop off your lasagna pan at Brucie… go to work… then pick it up on your way home, home-made (well, not your home) and ready to eat! Now that’s what I call service!

Dell’ Anima Late Night Pasta
38 8th Avenue (at Jane St)
(212) 366-6633
Hungry but not in the mood for greasy pizza or diner food? From midnight to 2am, head to this West Village pasta spot for a $25 ‘pasta fixe’… mangia!

Ditch Plains
100 West 82nd Street (at Columbus Ave)
(212) 362-4815
The West Village casual spot has opened its 2nd location on the Upper West Side. Scheduled opening mid March… Hang 10!

Hudson Street is back!
One of my favorite streets on the city is reviving itself with newcomers Caliu, Meme, Lievito,, Irene’s Dolci, and Spasso! Check out the Big Apple Bites section for my Spasso review…

Imperial No. Nine
Mondrian SoHo – 9 Crosby Street (Grand & Howard St)
(212) 389-1000
Hip new restaurant inside the hip new hotel with a dramatic glass roof… elegant, hip, new.

Jazz Nights at Kastel
246 Spring Street (Varick St & 6th Ave)
(212) 842-5500
Wednesday nights, head to the Trump SoHo for some jazz entertainment!

Kava Cafe
Great new spot that just opened. Stopped by and had some great coffee!

La Petite Maison Brunch
15 West 54th Street (5th & 6th St)
(212) 616-9931
Recently launched a delicious brunch menu… another great brunch spot!

Malaparte
753 Washington Street (Bank & Bethune St)
(212) 255-2122
Want some artichoke and prosciutto pie? Head to Malaparte, owners of Malatesta, another of my downtown haunts!

Mrs. Cupcake
41 Murray Street (West Broadway & Church St)
(646) 580-9696
Plenty of cupcake shops in NYC, we know… Opening on St. Patrick’s Day, this shop will feature an express window where moms can park their strollers, grab a cup of coffee and a mini cupcake while the little ones continue to nap. Moms converge!

Stellina
95 Allen Street (at Delancey St)
(212) 274-9555
Housemade gelati… hot chocolate… even dessert delivery! Need I say more?

All month – Divinale Festival – A Month of Women, Wine, and Song
City Winery – 155 Varick Street (at Vandam St)
(212) 608-0555
A month-long festival celebrating women, music and arts. Tastings, dinners, educational events, and musical performances. Features wines by the glass from female winemakers and winery owners.

March 3 & 4 – America’s Next Great Restaurant
Grand Central Terminal – Vanderbilt Hall East
Get a sneak peak at NBC’s new show “America’s Next Great Restaurant”… food tastings inspired by restaurant concepts from the show and for every bite served, NBC will help City Harvest feed New Yorkers in need!

March 3 – 13 – Rendez-vous with French Cinema 2011
Various Locations
This annual event is great for film lovers. French films throughout the city to sink your teeth into… Ooh La La!

March 5 – Randy Newman
The Town Hall – 123 West 42nd Street (6th Ave & Broadway)
(212) 840-2824
He just won an Oscar, now go watch him perform! A musical legend…

Mondays – Saturdays “Bubbles after Broadway”
Aureole
135 West 42nd Street (6th Ave & Broadway)
(212) 319-1660
Special menu from 10pm-11:30pm… after the show, head for some great food at a great price!

1. New York City St. Patrick’s Day Parade
Starting at 44th Street, marching up 5th Avenue all the way to 86th Street. Since 1762, this parade has been marching in NYC… this is the 250th anniversary! Look for information on buying tickets for the March 15th 250th anniversary celebration gala.

2. Irish Whiskey Class
At the Chelsea Wine Vault, taste a full range of Irish whiskeys to celebrate Ireland — a must is to try the Jameson 18 year old! Then head out and continue the celebrations… you’re sure to see plenty of green and ‘Kiss Me I’m Irish’ t-shirts.

3. BLACK 47 St. Patrick’s Day Show
B.B. King Blues Club & Grill – 237 West 42nd Street (7th & 8th Ave)
(212) 997-4144
This annual celebration features an Irish rock ‘n’ roll band that writes songs about political themes in Ireland and NYC. Grab your tix!

4. Worth Kitchen Dinner Party
On March 17 & 18, Worth Kitchen is holding a special dinner party… 5-course dinner with wine pairing. The location? that’s the buzz! “Somewhere in the streets of NYC, in a small one bedroom apartment in Tribeca, is a kitchen that serves 3, 4, 5 and even 6.” First come first serve, so get your tickets!

March 17 – 20 Architectural Digest Home Design Show
Pier 94 – 55th Street at West Side Highway
This 10th annual show is worth the visit. Design seminars, celebrity chef cooking demonstrations, artist sale and exhibition… learn about designing a kitchen, using color in your home, and more!

March 21 – 31 Dine in Brooklyn
Various Locations
(718) 802-3846
$25 for dinner, $20.11 for lunch… Brooklyn’s own Restaurant Week!

March 25 – Don McLean
The Town Hall – 123 West 42nd Street (6th Ave & Broadway)
(212) 840-2824
‘Bye Bye Miss American Pie’… head to The Town Hall to see another musical icon!

March 31 – Opening Day at Yankees Stadium
‘Take me out to the Ballgame!’… it’s finally baseball season! Watch them play the Detroit Tigers… still tickets available (if you haven’t already been, the new stadium is a day trip on its own!), or just head to any of the wonderful sports bars in the city to watch the game (see After Bites for my monthly pick, Snap.