All Things New York – Concierge Corner: Marissa at Your Service
Do you ever sit there and wonder, “What in the city have I not accomplished yet” ? Between all of the different museums, gallery exhibitions from artists you have never heard of, drinking wine out of bottles at new hip restaurants, and other randoms – everyone has a new gig to get into. That’s why we are here. In the Concierge Corner, you get to put on your gloves and battle out some of your timidness of being a first-timer at a bunch of stuff. You also combat laziness, lameness and lewdness by staying in-the-know with my recommendations. So, get up, get out and get at it kiddies – the big vast rotunda of an apple, we refer to as NYC is just waiting for you to take a bite.
Also, check out my GREEN SHOPPING GUIDE post (coming later on). It will help you figure out what to get for the people on your list while you stay eco-chic.
The Week(end) Ahead:
Raising the ‘Bar’: This Wednesday, December 17th, get yourself drunk and baked. Baked goods, that is; Enjoy beer on the dessert table with the owners of Red Hook’s Baked. Sixpoint Craft Ales will be enjoyed as Jeff Gorlechen makes a pairing made in heaven with the delectable goodies. Check out this lecture and tasting, which make out for a pretty sweet evening. From 7:00-8:30 p.m., and for less than you would spend at the local bar ($40) go to The Bowery Culinary Center at Whole Foods, 95 East Houston St.. Call to register 866.462.2838 from the hours 9 am to 8 pm., or register here.
Ya ‘Heard’ it Here: Amadou & Mariam, Youssou N’Dour, and Peter Sarstedt all on one cd? Count me in. All of the proceeds go to Save the Children, so you know you have to support the movement. On top of that, one of the most favored designers du jour, Tory Burch (yes, that designer with the annoying logo everywhere) has created this limited-edition series and it can be found at her store: Tory Burch, 257 Elizabeth St. (between Houston & Prince Sts.). 212.332.3000. This is a fabulous present idea – and supplies are limited, so run that lil backside down to the store and wrap it in some recycled gift-wrap.
Rockin’ Restaurants: La Cave des Fondus. Don’t know what that means? I do…fondue basement. This stone-walled, romantic underground grotto offers more than just your typical hidden spot. The earthiness of chalkboard menus, intimacy of a six-seat bar and communal farmhouse tables make for a fun and laid back evening. With a small menu of dipping-dishes, fabulous cheeses, ridiculously good desserts and a small wine and beer selection – you should walk in the door without any expectations; Especially since they serve you your wine in baby bottles. No joke. Downstairs from Jacques, 20 Prince St (between Mott and Elizabeth). Call for hours and menu – 212.966.5073.
Cool Culture: This Sunday, December 14th, go ahead and put some cool back into your life. The Birth of Cool is showing at Barkley L. Hendricks‘ larger-than-life sized paintings are on display. This comprehensive exhibition includes many of the artist’s lesser-known and older pieces. The suggested donation is $7, so if you have less in your pockets, that may be OK too. However, it is well worth the money. The Studio Museum in Harlem at 144 W. 125th St. (near Lenox Ave). Call for more information 212.864.4500.
Watch This: Revolutionize your weekend. Beginning today, December 12th at a two-part biopic of Che’s Bolivian misadventure. The movie flaunts Benicio Del Toro’s amazing acting capacity, and is a great into to the life de Che Guervara. This thriller allows for one to think outside of American politics and submerge themselves in the injustices of others. Steven Soderbergh’s screening takes place at The Clearview Ziegfeld theatre at 7pm tonight. He will also host a Q&A afterwards, so see if you can get in! The Ziegfled is located at 141 West 54th Street. Call 212.307.1862 to see if you can snag some tickets. Do it quickly!
A La Mode: Funny woman, Amy Sedaris makes a local appearance on this Wednesday, December 17th at 7pm. Check out this freelance eccentric and comic actor while she reads from her new book, I Like You. The actor, comic, and freelance eccentric shares passages from her holiday party how-to. Find the funnies and the reads, at Borders – Time Warner Center, 10 Columbus Circle, 2nd floor (near 58th St.). It’s worth a chuckle.
Bee Here: Learn a redeeming skill set this week. Perhaps, have something truly interesting to talk about around the Christmas Tree. Studio Sweet Pea introduces you to the fine art of Floral Arrangement. No one has to know your real name, or you are there to pick women up. All they have to know is that you like Orchids, and you are in! Introductory Classes are held every Thursday from 6-8pm. Studio Sweet Pea is located at 1140 Broadway- Ste. 901 (between 26th & 27th Aves.). Call for more information – 212.684.6333.
Tags:a la mode, amadou, amy sedaris, baked, barkley l. hendricks, benicio del toro, borders time warner center, bowery culinary center, che guervara, clearview zeigfield theater, Concierge Corner, East Village, Events, floral arrangement, fondu, green shopping guide, i like you, jaches, la Cave des fondus, mariam, Marissa, midtown west, New York City, peter Sarstedt, Red Hook, Save the Children, sixpoint craft ales, soho, steven soderbergh, studio museum in harlem, studio sweet pea, the birth of cool, Tory Burch, whole foods, youssou n'dour
15. December 2008 at 1:54 am :
I love your site Marissa. You are in the know of where to go. I offer Eco Green Gifts of Wholistic Healing on site or in my downtown office. What does one need to do to get involved with your list? I offer Gift Certificates for people that don’t want any more items for the holidays. For those wanting to breathe deeper, stretch farther and be aligned in their bodies I am the Unwinding Body Master for you and your gifting needs. Jan...@UnwindingBody.com