The Amazing New York Blog

Which city was never home to a Central Perk cafe?

2011-12-15T19:18:00.000-08:00

And the answer is ...

c) Rome

Friends inspired fans all around the world to seek the Central Perk spirit, so perhaps it's no surprise that business owners saw a golden opportunity to use the name. Two years after the series ended, a Central Perk cafe opened in Dubai, United Arab Emirates; it was so akin to the original that James Michael Tyler, who plays the cafe's manager in the show, was on hand for its opening. A pop-up copy in London appeared briefly in 2009, and in 2010 another shop opened in Beijing. The original set is housed in the Warner Brothers museum in Burbank, CA.

New York Trivia Tuesday

2011-12-13T19:09:00.000-08:00

One of the most iconic TV sets from the 1990s was the Central Perk cafe, where Friends characters Rachel, Ross, Joey, Monica, Chandler and Phoebe would all gather together for a cup of joe. Don't go looking for the coffee shop in New York; it's fictional. But the fake cafe has inspired several fans around the world to create tributes modeled after the convivial hangout, down to the name itself.

Which of these cities was not home to a cafe called Central Perk?

a) London
b) Dubai
c) Rome
d) Beijing

Check back on Thursday for the answer to this week's trivia question!

Best of New York: Holiday Gifts Under $40

2011-12-12T19:32:00.000-08:00

The holidays are fast approaching, but if you haven't finished your shopping there's still ample time to figure out the perfect gift for the New Yorkers on your list. For the die-hard city boys and girls, we created a list of our few holiday gifts that will be sure to crack a smile - but won't break the bank. Take a look at our top 5:

Subway Line Merch

New Yorkers are infinitely proud of their subway lines: it’s one of the most expansive subway systems in the world and trains run all night. It’s one of the reasons why they say the city never sleeps. So why got get a gift that celebrates one of the iconic things about NYC? There is a lot of subway merchandise floating around, but we especially like these graphic interpretations of the city subway map from lineposters.

Barney Greengrass Tote Bag

For New York brunch enthusiasts, Barney Greengrass is a temple to food. Celebrating its 100 year anniversary in 2008, the Upper West Side staple was started by Barney, otherwise known as "The Sturgeon King." A slice of old New York, Barney Greengrass is the go-to place for Nova Scotia salmon, caviar, whitefish, and everything else that makes a bagel sandwich special. Grab one of their tote bags for your NYC foodie friends - you'll have enough dough left over to put a few bagels in there too.

Momofuku Gift Cards

David Chang's Momofuku empire has included some of New York's hottest - and yummiest - restaurants for several years running now. The pork buns are legendary. The fried chicken is out of this world. But the place that really gets us coming back again and again is Momofuku Milk Bar, headed by pastry chef Christina Tosi. When Milk Bar launched, Tosi created the Compost cookie (filled with salty-sweet treats like butterscotch chips and pretzel crumbs), and new offerings are always added. A gift card there will go a long way - although it might put you into a coma of deliciousness.

Noise-Canceling Headphones

Whether you’re on a busy street or in a crowded subway car, the noise of the city is never too far away. Sometimes that’s what makes New York so exciting – but occasionally you need the privacy of your own little world. Noise-canceling headphones are great for traveling around the city or on trips outside of it. If you get an earbud version, like these Sennheisers, you can even wear them at the gym or running around Central Park.

The Amazing New York Race

The great thing about New York is that, whether you've lived here for two years or 20, you're never done exploring. For a unique city experience, get a present that promises a day of adventure on the town. The Amazing New York Race is half scavenger hunt, half obstacle course, and all NYC. Teams follow clues to local landmarks and hidden destinations, taking pictures along the way. Based on the famous TV show, this is a present even the most jaded New Yorker will always remember.

What was the Rockettes original name?

2011-12-08T19:32:00.000-08:00

And the answer is ...

d) The Rockets

When the now-famous dance troupe was founded, they were christened "the Misourri Rockets." Coincidentally, when the troupe moved to New York, their first home was in the old Roxy Theatre, so the group's name was tweaked to "The Roxyettes." When they finally settled now in their current Radio City location, a compromise was made, and the "Rockettes" were born.

New York Trivia Tuesday

2011-12-06T11:47:00.000-08:00

The Radio City Christmas Spectacular is one of the most-viewed live performance in the United States, with over 2 million people coming to see it every year. The show has been running during the holiday season every year for the past 77 years. And the stars of the show are the Rockettes, a dance troupe known for their high-kicks and precision choreography.

Although they've become icons of New York City, the Rockettes actually began in St. Louis, Missouri in 1925. They weren't known by their current name, however, until 1932, when they moved to Radio City. What was the Rockettes original name?

a) The St. Louies
b) The Missouri Misses
c) The Roxyettes
d) The Rockets

Best of New York: Winter Cocktails

2011-12-05T12:42:00.000-08:00

Nights are getting chillier, but your nightlife doesn't have to! NYC bartenders are capturing the comforting flavors of winter in a cup - apple, cinnamon, pumpkin, chocolate, and more - so you can warm up on your evenings out. Why not stop by and sample one of our 5 favorite winter cocktails in NYC:

Hot Chocolate Martini (Gramercy Tavern)

Hot chocolate tends to bring back memories of childhood, sitting by the fire after a long day of sledding. Gramercy Tavern makes a grown-up version that’s more sophisticated, but no less satisfying. The chocolate is thick and not too sweet, spiked with shots of amaretto and Stoli Vanilla. Plus, the bartender will keep half your drink in a teapot, so it stays warm while you nurse your first glass.

$13; 42 E 20th St, Manhattan
212-477-0777; gramercytavern.com

Fell’s Point Eggnog (Mas)

What are the holidays without a mug of ‘nog? At Mas, the classic winter drink – with eggs, milk, and rum – is spiffed up with a touch of Valhrona bittersweet chocolate and Madeira. The resulting drink has the rich creaminess of eggnog, with the added bit of acidity and notes of plum from the wine. Plus, the rum is top-notch Diplomático Reserva, which alone probably makes it better from what your mom might tipple from on Christmas eve.

$10; 28 Seventh Ave, Manhattan
212-255-1795; maslagrillade.com

Clement's Shrub (Prime Meats)

Prime Meats takes your typical apple cider to a whole new level with this welcoming winter brew. Along with cider, bourbon, cinnamon, and lemon, the bartender adds a series of little twists: fig preserves for nutty sweetness, apple cider vinegar for tartness, and a touch of black pepper for spiciness. You’ll discover a new flavor profile with every sip of this winter cocktail.

$13; 465 Court St., Brooklyn
718-254-0327; frankspm.com

Asaam Toddy (Fatty Cue)

When the frosty air has got you down, a hot toddy is the perfect winter warmer. Fatty Cue’s version takes the traditional toddy (often made with whiskey, boiling water, sugar, and a few aromatics) and puts an Indian spin on it. Starting with a rich base of cognac and tea, he adds an exotic blend of anise and tamarind to the cup. Some fresh mint awakens the palate, and keeps you from slipping into a comfort-induced nap.

$11; 91 S. Sixth St, Brooklyn
718-599-3090; fattycue.com

Spiced Pumpkin Flip (Saxon + Parole)

Thanksgiving may be over, but you keep enjoying your pumpkin pie all winter long, in drink form. This cocktail, at the just-opened Saxon + Parole, combines amaretto and bourbon with pumpkin ale and pumpkin butter. Topped with a foamy egg, this drink makes a good entry point for the bourbon-averse; the W. L. Weller bourbon used is wheat-based, rather than rye-based, and is content with playing second fiddle to the other flavors in the mix.

$13; 316 Bowery, Manhattan
212-254-0350; saxonandparole.com

What was the original name of FAO Schwarz?

2011-12-01T16:55:00.000-08:00

And the answer is ...

a) Toy Bazaar

Frederick August Otto Schwarz started adding his initials and surname to advertising for Toy Bazaar in 1889. But the name stuck, and when the store moved to 23rd Street in 1897, the Toy Bazaar part of the name was dropped.

New York Trivia Tuesday

2011-11-29T16:49:00.000-08:00

FAO Schwarz is a classic holiday destination for both New Yorkers and tourists alike. All the way back in 1883, the toy store started featuring a seat for Santa Claus, where visiting children could request their Christmas wishes. Now, the store is especially known for its giant piano, where the movie Big was filmed.

The store was founded in Baltimore by a German immigrant, Frederick August Otto Schwarz, but was opened under a different name. What was the original name of FAO Schwarz?

a) Toy Bazaar
b) Toy Land
c) Kid Kingdom
d) Child's Play

Check back on Thursday for the answer to this week's trivia question!

Best of New York: Food Trucks

2011-11-28T08:40:00.000-08:00

We're big fans of NYC street food, and we're not alone. With new food trucks arriving all the time, it seems that New Yorkers can't get enough of meals on wheels. But what trucks should you seek out while you're in the city? Here are our 5 favorite new food trucks to hit the NYC scene:

Korilla BBQ

Los Angeles has experimented with Korean-Mexican fusion for a few years, but this NYC-born food truck puts earlier attempts to shame. If you spot their tiger-striped truck, head over for an inspired combination: Korean-style barbequed meat and kimchis packed into a burrito or taco. Add a variety of sauces, from Korean hot sauce to a more traditional BBQ, and you’ll get one of the most flavorful dishes in town for less than $10.
Website: korillabbq.com
Twitter: @KorillaBBQ

Coolhaus

Ice cream sandwiches have been all the rage, so when the LA-based Coolhaus truck decided to expand to NYC, it was one of the most anticipated arrivals this year. And for good reason: The offerings from this truck quickly became one of our favorite ice cream sandwiches in the city. The massive cookies are soft and pliable, so they bend with your bite rather than breaking. But the best part is the ice cream: organic, perfectly creamy, and with unique flavors like butterscotch with rosemary, roast pear, and brown butter with candied bacon.
Website: eatcoolhaus.com
Twitter: @CoolhausNY

Souvlaki GR

They say that if you want Greek food in New York, you have to head to Astoria, but that was before the Souvlaki truck came to town. The street food classic of Greece, the char-grilled meats known as souvlaki are deliciously prepared here in the perfect sandwich: inside a pita, with tomato, onion, tzatziki and French fries served right inside the warm bread. It’s the best sandwich under $5 you’ll find in NYC, we promise.
Website: souvlakigr.com
Twitter: @souvlakitruck

Kelvin Natural Slush Co.

You’ll have to wait until 2012 to try Kelvin Slush – they’re off the streets for the winter – but it will be well worth it. Voted the best new dessert food truck of 2010, the treats at Kelvin will both refresh and indulge. Here, the slushee of your youth goes upscale: Choose a base flavor, then pick a variety of fresh fruits and herbs to mix in with it. We’re already thinking of what new combination we’ll order when the truck returns for the spring.
Website: kelvinslush.com
Twitter: @kelvinslush

Frying Dutchmen

One of the newest additions in the NYC food truck scene, the Frying Dutchmen started making the rounds just this summer, and has already gotten some great feedback. Co-founded by Dave Martin, of Top Chef fame, the truck serves all manner of fried things but specializes in fries themselves: Belgian-style frites and sweet potato fries with over a dozen gourmet sauces. Forget the mustard or mayo (those come free). Try the pricky pear mustard or the white truffle and parmesan cream.
Website: fryingdutchmen.com
Twitter: @frying_dutchmen

What city has the oldest Thanksgiving Day parade in the US?

2011-11-24T20:56:00.000-08:00

And the answer is ...

b) Philadelphia

Philly has New York beat, at least when it comes to Thanksgiving Parades; their festivities began four years earlier than NYC's iconic celebration. Originally run by the famous Gimbel's department store to attract holiday customers, it was the model for the Macy's parade, with floats, bands, and Santa Claus arriving at the end.

POGO Events wishes you a very happy Thanksgiving!

New York Trivia Tuesday

2011-11-22T20:55:00.000-08:00

The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade is one of New York's most beloved traditions, one which began all the way back in 1924. But that doesn't make it the oldest Thanksgiving Day Parade in the country - it's tied for second with Detroit's parade. What city can claim to have the oldest parade in honor of turkey day?

a) Boston, MA
b) Philadelphia, PA
c) Chicago, IL
d) Buffalo, NY

Check back on Thursday for the answer to this week's trivia question!

Best of New York: Cheap Haircuts

2011-11-21T08:49:00.000-08:00

When it’s easy to drop over $100 for a haircut in NYC – and that’s not including color, blowouts, or tip – where can you go for a cut that won’t break the bank? If you're looking for a new look this holiday season, you can impress your friends and family with a fantastic haircut from one of our five favorite spots, and still have enough dough left over for presents!

Astor Place Hair

Down a flight of stairs in the middle of bustling Astor Place, this huge basement space is famed for turning out cheap, quick haircuts that look like they came from a fancy salon. Don’t be fooled by the no-frills setup and take a seat in one of the dozens of chairs and wait for the stylists to work their magic. A basic cut doesn’t include a wash or dry, but if you forgo them, you can be out with a gorgeous new ‘do in ten minutes.

Basic cut: $20

2 Astor Pl, Manhattan; 212-475-9854; astorplacehairnyc.com

Aveda Institute

You’ve probably seen Aveda’s botanical hair and beauty products at your nearest fancy salon, and their hairstylists are on the same high level. Haircuts in their New York outlets cost a pretty penny – but you can get a great deal by booking an appointment through their training institute. All the students here are closely monitored by their professional profs, so you’ll get a high-end cut at a low-budget cost.

Basic cut: $20

233 Spring St, Manhattan; 212-807-1492; avedainstituteny.com

The Beehive Salon Brooklyn

This Williamsburg spot is a favorite among both locals and Manhattanites who come over the bridge for a new look. Although cuts with the salon's top staffers can top out around $100, on Mondays and Wednesdays you can stop by for a consultation and cut with one of their junior stylists for less than half that price. The team has also opened a beauty parlor around the corner, so you can get a mani-pedi while you're at it and make your transformation complete.

Basic cut: $40

115 N 7th St, Brooklyn; 718-782-8376; thebeehivesalon.com

Tomcats Barbershop

For a throwback to the vintage barbershops of yore, head to Tomcats in Greenpoint. At $20 for a basic cut, the price is what gets you in the door, but the vibe is what keeps people coming back. With a 1940s/early noir feel, the shop feels like it stepped out of an earlier era, with hospitality to match (if you have to wait, you'll probably be offered a beer while you do). Kick back and relax: you'll start to feel right at home here.

Basic cut: $20

135 India St, Brooklyn; 718-349-9666; tomcatsbarbershop.com

Maria's Hair Salon

Is Maria's the best deal in New York? It's definitely high on our list. This Polish outpost in Greenpoint rings in at only $15 a cut; with a wash and blowout, it's still just $35, far less than what you'd pay for the minimum treatment at most other salons. Best of all, reviewers praise the way stylists Maria and Kasia actually listen to your preferences: Ask them to take off three inches, with layers, and that's exactly what you get.

Basic cut: $15

119 Meserole Ave, Brooklyn; 718-389-3324

Best of New York: Macarons

2011-11-07T19:24:00.000-08:00

Macarons are the hottest desserts in New York right now: They’re being called the cupcakes of 2011. Crispy on the outside, soft and pillowy on the inside, they are a couple bites of bliss if done right. And with the opening of Paris import Ladurée in Manhattan, the bar has been raised for quality macarons In NYC. Here are our 5 picks for your pastries.

Ladurée

Paris is the capital of macarons, and Ladurée is the macaron capital of Paris. When they opened a New York store this year, they still decided to fly them over from the homeland, so all the macarons here are made first in France. You’ll have to wait in a line, but it’s worth it for the airy texture, perfect crust, real ingredients and clean flavors that are just sweet enough without being sugary. Try the salted caramel – it’s our favorite.

1018 Madison Ave, Manhattan; laduree.fr

François Payard

There are some hits and some misses at Payard, but we included it in our best macaron roundup because it has one of our favorite flavors in the city: passionfruit. Although the exotic fruit has become a classic macaron flavor, nobody does it better than Payard. The pleasingly tart taste melts on your tongue, letting you feel like you’ve indulged yourself without the heaviness that comes from a stouter flavor like chocolate.

116 W. Houston, Manhattan; payard.com

La Maison du Chocolat

But if you DO really want to indulge, this is the place. All of La Maison’s macarons contain, as you might expect, chocolate. And with practice comes perfection. All of the chocolate combinations - including chocolate raspberry, chocolate caramel, and just plain chocolate - are creamy and decadent, without the chalky flavor of lesser macarons. Like Ladurée, the cookies are made in France first.

864 Madison Ave, Manhattan; lamaisonduchocolat.com

Mille-feuille

With a baker who trained at the legendary Pierre Herme in France, these macarons are made at home in NYC but come with a fantastic pedigree. Although they're denser than most, the flavor really packs a punch. Take a look at the salted caramel: There are even flecks of caramel on the outside of the cookie, for that little extra that takes the traditional macaron to the next level.

552 Laguardia Pl, Manhattan; millefeuille-nyc.com

Vendome

But maybe the best macarons in NYC aren't made in France at all. They're made right here in Brooklyn, by chef Taryn Garcia. Garcia's fell in love with macarons on a trip to France, but she merges her French inspiration with New York sensibilities, having trained at both Ecole Superior de Cuisine Francaise in Paris and the French Culinary Institute here in NYC. With unique flavors like campari and grapefruit, or thai basil and kaffir lime, eating one of Garcia's creations is a lesson in what a macaron could be.

Sold at Charbonnel et Walker in Saks Fifth Avenue, 611 Fifth Ave, Manhattan; vendomenyc.com

Who Was the Lipstick Building's Most Famous Tenant?

2011-11-03T18:50:00.000-07:00

And the answer is ...

d) Bernie Madoff

The Ponzi schemer Bernie Madoff leased several floors of the Lipstick Building, before his scheme was discovered. He's now the iconic building's most infamous ex-resident.

New York Trivia Tuesday

2011-11-01T18:26:00.000-07:00

It's not one of NYC's most iconic buildings, but 53rd at Third, otherwise known as the Lipstick Building, has its own reasons for standing out. The building, which was finished in 1989, is shaped like a lipstick tube and is made of red enameled granite, giving it an unusually glamorous vibe.

The Lipstick Building is largely occupied by a local law firm, but has had one particularly notable tenant. Who is it?

a) Barry Diller
b) Donald Trump
c) Graydon Carter
d) Bernie Madoff

Check back on Thursday for the answer to this week's trivia challenge!

Best of New York: Singles Bars

2011-10-31T15:47:00.000-07:00

If you're looking for love in NYC - or even just someone to share a cab with - you're not alone. The city is filled with fellow singles looking to meet someone on a night out. So where are they exactly? We've compiled our list of our 5 favorite singles bars, so you can snuggle up this winter with someone special.

Spitzer’s Corner

It’s like your friendly corner bar – only way better. Instead of the regular three or four beers on tap, Spitzer’s has over 40, and that’s not including the 40 other international offerings. The space is filled with long, communal wooden tables and is pleasantly crowded, which makes it really easy to sidle up to that cutie next to you and make an intro.

101 Rivington St, Manhattan; 212-228-0027

The Jane Hotel Bar and Ballroom

For a dash of old-world charm, head to the Jane Hotel, which gives you the feeling you’ve stepped back into a Victorian-era mystery novel. Grab a drink and lounge on the velvet loveseats underneath sparkling crystal chandeliers. Then head to the expansive ballroom floor for some of the best dancing in the city. Be warned: the door policy here is tight, so pull out all the stops and look your best.

113 Jane St, Manhattan; 212-924-6700

Barcade

It’s not your regular singles bar scene, but Barcade offers the perfect way to meet other people: engage them in an old-school video game battle. The warehouse-like loft space in Williamsburg brings in a hipster crowd, as well as those guys who’re looking for their weekly dose of vintage arcade games. Drink one of the microbrews on tap, many of them local, and challenge a rival to a duel.

388 Union Ave, Brooklyn; 718-302-6464

The Boiler Room

There are a lot of gay clubs in Chelsea, but where can you go if you just want to have a casual drink and scope out the crowd? Turn to the Boiler Room, a no-frills outfit in the East Village that promises a good time in a low-key locale. Regular patrons cite their three favorite things: a friendly crowd, a well-stocked jukebox, and unbeatable drink prices. Paying only $3.50 for well drinks means you’ll have plenty of liquid courage to approach the single you’re eyeing.

86 E 4th St, Manhattan; 212-254-7536

Pianos

Music lovers flock to the Lower East Side staple for a mix of local bands and DJs. For those who just want a drink, there’s no cover to sit and chat in the front room, which used to be an old piano shop. For prime singles mingling, come here for happy hour, when the drinks are cheap and before groups descend on the bar, looking for some serious party action.

158 Ludlow St, Manhattan; 212- 505-3733

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New York Trivia Tuesday

2011-10-25T20:05:00.000-07:00

The Rocky Horror Picture Show has made its name the world over as a cult classic, especially around Halloween - but it wasn't always that way. In fact, when it opened in 1975, it had poor audience turnouts in Los Angeles, and its opening in NYC was canceled. It wasn't until New York's Waverly Theater began showing the film in midnight screenings the following year that people kept showing up, and then started dressing up as well.

On what day in 1976 did Rocky Horror first play at the Waverly?

a) Valentine's Day
b) April Fool's Day
c) Halloween
d) Thanksgiving

Check back on Thursday for the answer to this week's trivia question!

Best of New York: Halloween Events

2011-10-24T19:09:00.000-07:00

What’s happening in NYC this Halloween weekend? From spooky movie screenings to lit parties to laugh fests, you’ll find just the right event to celebrate the scariest night of the year. Put on your costume, get our your vampire fangs, and head out to one of these Halloween hotspots.

A Haunted Hot Tub Halloween

Hilarious duo Kristen Schaal (You’ve seen her on Flight of the Conchords) and Kurt Braunohler regularly host this comedy night at Littlefield, but for their Halloween edition they’re bringing along some special friends, including John Darnielle, lead singer of indie favorite The Mountain Goats. There are a lot of guests still to be announced, so you can expect a lot of tricks (and maybe some treats) up their sleeves.

Saturday, Oct 29, 8:30 p.m.
Littlefield NYC, 622 Degraw St, Brooklyn.
www.littlefieldnyc.com

Dances of Vice: Beyond the Veil

Part murder mystery game, part performance art, part crazy dance party, this is sure to be an unforgettable night. Join other revelers underneath the vaulted ceiling of Riverside Church, where a Victorian murder mystery is taking place. Interact with the players, dance to Brian Carpenter’s Ghost Train Orchestra, and enjoy what is sure to be a spectacle in a gorgeously spooky setting.

Saturday, Oct 29, 8 p.m.
Riverside Church, 490 Riverside Dr, Manhattan
www.dancesofvice.com

Labyrinth Sing-Along

Watching The Rocky Horror Picture Show on Halloween has been done. Instead, head over to the 92 Street Y for another cult classic from a decade later. Sing along with Jennifer Connelly, David Bowie, the Muppets, and David Bowie’s hair as you relive some of the movie magic. A beer comes with the ticket price, and might get you in the mood to join the costume contest after the show.

Friday, Oct 28, 10:15 p.m.
92nd Street Y, 1395 Lexington Ave, Manhattan.
www.92y.org

The Housing Works Horror

For those looking for some literary frights, join Housing Works and Granta, king of the lit mags, for a reading from Granta’s latest issue, special spooky food and drinks, and trick-or-treat bags filled with bookish goodies. Points if you come in a literary costume; extra points if it’s so obscure, no one else can guess what it is.

Monday, Oct 31, 7 p.m.
Housing Works Bookstore Café, 126 Crosby St, Manhattan

Procession of the Ghouls

There’s a crypt downstairs in St. John the Divine, so you can bet it’s packed with ghosts on Halloween night. Watch a procession of the spooky specters, then enjoy the gothic surroundings of the cathedral while watching the original Phantom of the Opera, complete with accompaniment from the Grand Organ. Don’t be scared if a ghoul sneaks up behind you while you’re staring at the screen; they’ll be lurking in the shadows all night.

Friday, Oct 28, 7 p.m. and 10 p.m.
The Cathedral Church of St. John the Divine, 1047 Amsterdam Ave, Manhattan
www.stjohndivine.org

What famous ghost story writer's first book was a history of NYC?

2011-10-20T20:30:00.000-07:00

And the answer is ...

b) Washington Irving

Irving has become famous for his stories set further upstate, including the Halloween classic The Legend of Sleepy Hollow. But he was born right here in the city, on what is now called Irving Place, and hist first major work was A History of New York, a satire of local politics. What's more, Irving even coined the term "Gotham" (or "Goat's Town") as a nickname for NYC, which first appeared in his writings in 1807.

New York Trivia Tuesday

2011-10-18T18:34:00.000-07:00

Among the thousands of famous writers who have called New York home are some of the spookiest. Some of the most bone-chilling stories in literature had authors who lived in NYC, from The Legend of Sleepy Hollow to The Turn of the Screw. But only one author known for his ghost stories was first famous for writing a history of New York. Who was it?

a) Edgar Allan Poe

b) Washington Irving

c) Henry James

d) Edith Wharton

Check back on Thursday for the answer to this week's trivia question!

Best of New York: Cheesecake

2011-10-17T20:45:00.000-07:00

New York cheesecake is one of the city’s most iconic indulgences. Distinct because of its use of heavy cream and cream cheese, it can be light and fluffy or dense and luxurious. It all depends on where you get it – so here are our favorite five places for a slice.

Junior’s

Ask anyone about New York style cheesecake, and they will probably mention Junior’s. Started as a family diner in Brooklyn over 60 years ago, it now serves its most famous cake in four different locations around the boroughs. Fairly dense, with a very cream-cheese taste and texture, it’s what many people think of when they think cheesecake. It even has an official celebration: In 1982, Governor Mario Cuomo declared May 27th to be Junior’s Restaurant Day.

Multiple locations; 718-852-5257
Juniorscheesecake.com

Two Little Red Hens

Less well-known than Junior’s, Two Little Red Hens might have the biggest name among NYC foodies. That’s because, since it opened in the early ‘90s, it has been winning cheesecake taste tests non-stop, beating city staples like Junior’s. Not too dense but not too fluffy, it is perfectly satisfying and looks beautiful, with a golden brown top. It’s a cake you can take home to mom.

1652 Second Ave, Manhattan; 212-452-0476
Twolittleredhens.com

Eileen’s

For those who prefer their cheesecake light and fluffy, rather than rich and dense, Eileen’s Special Cheesecake is where to go. Compared to the other bakeries on this list, Eileen’s are huge and homey-looking, without the clean edges of many cheesecakes. The crust is buttery and thick, while the cake itself practically floats on your tongue.

17 Cleveland Pl, Manhattan; 212-966-5585
Eileenscheesecake.com

Mona Lisa Pastry Shop

Take the train out to Bensonhurst for some true Brooklyn cheesecake. Mona Lisa puts Junior’s to shame, at least in terms of longevity; it’s been here for nearly a century. Everything here is done the Italian way, and you can tell just by watching the cheesecakes cook; they’re all baked in the original coal-fired brick oven, just like a pizza. The result is a custardy, orange-scented cake that has one of the most delicious crusts around.

1476 86th St, Brooklyn; 7 18-837-9053
Monalisabakery.com

WD-50

Okay, so this isn’t your typical New York cheesecake, but it is an experience that is unique to New York. Wylie Dufrene’s new classic restaurant aims to transform your traditional flavors into something magical. His take on cheesecake pairs tiny bites of Manchego cheese and familiar graham cracker with foamed pineapple and thyme. It’s often heralded as the best dishes on the menu, and one of the best desserts in the city.

50 Clinton St, Manhattan; 212-477-2900
Wd-50.com

Why Did Grimaldi's Open in Brooklyn?

2011-07-28T16:01:00.000-07:00

And the answer is …

c) You could use coal ovens.

Although Patsy Grimaldi intended to open his pizzeria in Manhattan, a new city ordinance forbid the installation of new coal brick ovens. Convinced that coal brick ovens produced the best pies, Grimaldi moved to Brooklyn, where his pizza made him famous.

Check out our Pizza Crawl Race on August 27 to build up your knowledge of the NYC essential food, and taste slices from around the city!

Congratulations David Kaplan, who wins 50% off the Amazing New York Race of his choice for his correct answer. Email nicole@pogoevents.com with your preferred date.

New York Trivia Tuesday

2011-07-26T18:40:00.000-07:00

If you're the first person to comment with the correct answer on Trivia Tuesday posts, you'll get 50% off the Amazing New York Race of your choice! Feeling smart? Then answer this week's challenge:

Grimaldi's is known as one of the best pizzerias in New York. Regularly rated #1 for pizza in Zagat, the location under the Brooklyn Bridge regularly sees lines forming all the way down the street. The founder, Patsy Grimaldi, learned to make pizza from his uncle before deciding to open his own restaurant. But although he wanted to open in Manhattan, he didn't.

Why did Grimaldi's open in Brooklyn instead of Manhattan?

a) The rent was cheaper.
b) There was less competition.
c) You could use coal ovens.
d) The water made the pizza taste better.

Check back on Thursday for the answer to this week's trivia question, and to see if you're the winner!

Best of New York: What to Do When It's Hot

2011-07-24T18:58:00.001-07:00

Last week's heat wave had New Yorkers asking the perennial summer question: What do you do in NYC when it's hot? While warm summer weather is perfect for barbecues, beach days, and rooftop drinks, weather like this finds many people inside in front of the air conditioner. But for those who are searching for ways to beat the heat, try one of these activities that are fun no matter what the weather.

See the Sea Life at the New York Aquarium

An aquarium is the perfect way to enjoy the cool water without having to endure the hot sun that goes with it. At the New York Aquarium, you can watch sting rays soar, see jellyfish float by, and even watch sea lions show off for the crowds. Plus, you can finish your trip by stopping by Coney Island across the street and taking a quick dunk in the water yourself.

Surf Ave and W 8th St, Brooklyn. nyaquarium.com

Catch a Film at the Ziegfeld

Why go to the movies when you can be a part of theater history? In this historic setting, you can see films where the Ziegfeld Follies used to play, and where the Broadway musical Show Boat opened in 1927. Reopened as a movie theater in 1969, it remains one of the most opulent houses in the city, with a crystal chandelier and gold trim. You can't see the last Harry Potter in just any old theater, after all.

141 W 54th St, Manhattan. clearviewcinemas.com/zigfield
Throw a Strike at Brooklyn Bowl

Bowling is a classic "I'm bored today" solution, but Brooklyn Bowl takes the activity to a whole new level. Sure, you can join a few friends for a few frames, but then take a break and enjoy the extensive lunch and dinner menu (where they just shot a segment for Food Network's "Best Thing I Ever Ate"). Spend another half hour on the lanes, then enjoy one of the concerts the Bowl hosts every night of the week. Afterward, treat yourself to a Bourbon Street Milkshake, served with a scoop of Nutella and a shot of bourbon. You won't even realized you've spent the whole day there.

61 Wythe Avenue, Brooklyn. brooklynbowl.com

Take a Food Tour at Chelsea Market

Outdoor markets are fun, but in the heat it's hard to get excited about wilted produce. So head over to Chelsea Market for a delectable - and air conditioned - food excursion. Check out the amazing array of Italian delicacies from Buon Italia, and watch loaves be kneaded and baked at Amy's Bread. Best of all, the Market hosts stands from Ronnybrook Milk Bar, L'Arte de Gelato, and People's Pops, all of which will give you a much-needed and delicious brain freeze.

460 W 16th St, Manhattan. chelseamarket.com

Make a Splash at Splish Splash Water Park

Sometimes, nothing will beat the heat except a dunk in a (very chlorinated) pool. If you're feeling the urge, your best bet is Splish Splash Water Park. With slides like the Tunnel or Terror, the Dragon's Den, and Shotgun Falls, you can have a heart-stopping good time, or you can take it easy on the circular Lazy River and bob around in the Wave Pool. And if you're coming from New York, Long Island Railroad offers round-trip packages, including park admission and shuttle service, all summer long.

2549 Splish Splash Drive, Calverton, NY. splishsplashlongisland.com

What Famous Superhero Hails from Hell's Kitchen?

2011-07-22T13:22:00.000-07:00

And the answer is ...

c) Daredevil

The Daredevil comics were largely set in NYC, since the title character, otherwise known as Matthew Murdock, was raised by his father in Hell's Kitchen. Over the years, Daredevil encountered several other NYC-based superheroes, and became particularly close with Spiderman, who famously hails from Forest Hills, Queens.

Congratulations Brian Levine, who wins 50% off the Amazing New York Race of his choice for his correct answer. Email nicole@pogoevents.com with your preferred date.