nyc

NYC’s John Lennon Memorial Impacts All

Springtime in New York City’s Central Park is filled with a rebirth of life, peace, hope, and nostalgia. Take, for example, Strawberry Fields. The Quiet Zone, across the street from the Dakota Apartments, is dedicated to the memory of former Beatle, John Lennon, whose life was tragically taken too soon. Named after the popular song, “Strawberry Fields Forever”, the landscaped area appropriately resembles the shape of a teardrop. A black and white mosaic is the focal point which draws tourists and music enthusiasts alike while boldly proclaiming the powerful message of peace: IMAGINE. Sit on a bench awhile and reflect on the peaceful surroundings. Then appreciate the tribute and take a little bit of easy living away with you while humming “Strawberry Fields Forever.” 🍓

Dining Outside the Home: The View Restaurant and Lounge at Times Square in Manhattan, New York City, New York!

Dining Outside the Home: The View Restaurant and Lounge at Times Square in Manhattan, New York City, New York! This is where to go for a perfect vantage point of the Manhattan skyline at sunset. The View is a revolving rooftop restaurant inside the Marriott Marquis, and the only one of its kind. You really don’t want to pass up a rich culinary experience against an unforgettable backdrop. Take your time to locate points of interest as well as landmark skyscrapers. The revolving floor makes a 360° turn every hour. The Three-Course Prix-Fixe menu offers an unsurpassed Beginning, incredible Main attractions, and a stunning Finish to the meal. Don’t forget to order a signature Manhattan Cocktail. After all, it’s a toast to Manhattan!

Dining Outside the Home: Virgil’s Real Barbecue in Times Square, New York City, New York!

Dining Outside the Home: Virgil’s Real Barbecue in Times Square, New York City, New York! Stacked next to the door is a crib of split logs, ranging from hickory to oak, and fruit trees. But that’s what you do when you own a restaurant that smokes meat at a low temperature for up to 10 hours. Virgil’s Real Barbecue means business. The House Classics include pulled pork, Carolina pulled chicken, Texas beef brisket, Memphis smoked spare ribs, and smoked BBQ chicken. I think you get the idea. Perhaps that’s why no one is embarrassed to order the Pig Out Platter. You’re among friends. 

Dining Outside the Home: Mama’s Pizza in Manhattan, New York City, New York!

Dining Outside the Home: Mama’s Pizza in Manhattan, New York City, New York! When it’s late at night, in the city that never sleeps, stumbling across a no frills food court filled with oven-fresh New York-style pizza-by-the-slice is shear heaven. No reservation needed in this counter-served eatery, known as Mama’s Pizza. The challenge came in choosing which toppings to indulge, on a crust that was crisp along the edge and soft enough in the middle to fold in half to eat. That’s the way it’s done in New York City. In the end, I went with a four-cheese and fresh basil White Pizza. The hubs stuck to the classic standby, Pepperoni. And then we satisfied our sweet tooth with a chocolate chip cannoli for dessert. Yum!

Dining Outside the Home: Playwright Celtic Pub in Manhattan, New York City, New York!

Dining Outside the Home: Playwright Celtic Pub in Manhattan, New York City, New York! On a beautiful night, head up four flights of stairs to the rooftop in the heart of NYC’s Theatre District for a classic Irish pub experience. This is Playwright Celtic Pub in Hell’s Kitchen, where patrons rave about the best Fish ‘n Chips in the city and the brews to match. The beverages are ice cold, the music is loud and lively, and the skyline is unbelievably Manhattan. Absorb the ambiance. Appreciate the tradition. Wet your whistle. Grab dinner under the stars. It’s all about the journey. 

Dining Outside the Home: Sardi’s Restaurant in Manhattan, New York City, New York!

Dining Outside the Home: Sardi’s Restaurant in Manhattan’s Theatre District, New York City, New York! Step inside the doors and be surrounded by hundreds of celebrity caricatures adorning the walls from top to bottom dating back to the 1940s. Be amazed as you sit in the company of greatness. Some you will recognize, others you’ll find simply intriguing. And because Sardi’s is a great place for pre-and post-theatre activity, you never know who you’ll find dining at the table next to you. Don’t forget to eat. For openers, try the Sardi’s Special Appetizer plate: Bruschetta; Prosciutto and Melon; Asparagus rolled in Smoked Salmon; Roasted Bell Peppers; Mozzarella and Capers; Truffled Chicken Liver Pâté; and Grilled Shrimp with Green Olive Tapenade. I know, right! Is it any wonder celebs are drawn to this legendary Times Square restaurant?

Dining Outside the Home: Plaza Hotel Food Hall in Manhattan, New York City, New York!

Dining Outside the Home: Plaza Hotel Food Hall in Manhattan, New York City, New York! Located on the Concourse Level of the Plaza Hotel at Central Park West, is a diverse collection of specialty food stations inspired by European traditions. Look around at the mosaic marble floors, the bistro tables, and seasoned chefs. Whatever your mood, be it succulent seafood, decadent desserts, savory pasta, artisan breads, or high quality tea blends, it’s all there. My word of advice? Share. After all, a sampling of several items can be very satisfying. 

Dining Outside the Home: Tavern on the Green in Manhattan, New York City, New York!

Dining Outside the Home: Tavern on the Green at Central Park in Manhattan, New York City, New York! Be captivated by a breathtaking view, in a bucolic setting, while dining al fresco in the beautifully manicured floral gardens of Tavern on the Green. Catch a glimpse of a horse-drawn carriage meandering by. The muscular draft horse practically nods its red-plumed headpiece as its melodic hooves clip-clop past the charming landscaped terrace. Sunlight dapples the outdoor tables in anticipation of quiet celebrations and romantic interludes. In the flurry of New York City, pause long enough to embrace the history of such an iconic landmark. It is definitely worth bookmarking in your travel journal.