East Harlem - East Harlem Restaurants and Events

All the Answers Can Be Found in East Harlem

2011-07-29T11:49:00.005-04:00

An Urban Education.

This Carton Contains The Book of Knowledge

Earl's Named Best Cheap Eats

2011-07-11T11:57:00.005-04:00

The little beer bar that could, Earl's Beer and Cheese, has been the darling of New York City publications. I first wrote about Earl's back in April for New York Press and a few weeks later New York Magazine sang the joint's praises. Now, New York has named it The Best New Cheap Eats Joint of 2011. Wow! Quite the honor. Congrats to Earls!

Summer Sunset

2011-06-28T09:00:00.001-04:00

The soft pink of sunset was a cool contrast to the gritty streets.

East Harlem in NBC's New York Nightly News

2011-06-27T09:30:00.001-04:00

You'll find many different nationalities, but “hipsters … you won’t get any of that here." Notes on a changing neighborhood:

View more videos at: http://www.nbcnewyork.com.

This video, by NBC’s senior correspondent Gabe Pressman, touches on the diverse cultures and demographics represented in in East Harlem as well as what the residents feel are the pros and cons of the ever changing landscape.

East Harlem Restaurants

2011-06-26T16:47:00.000-04:00

Piatto d’Oro
Café Ollin
Earl’s Beer and Cheese
Joy Burger
Moustache
El Paso
Patsy's Pizzeria
Aurum
Walkerswood Caribbean Restaurant
Savoy Bakery
Yo In, Yo Out
The Duck
Orbit
Ricardo Steak House

The Lunch Quadrant Hits East Harlem

2011-06-26T16:12:00.005-04:00

The Gothamist’s Lunch Quadrant (“where we offer you four lunch options (two standing, two sitting) by a given subway stop.”) ventured up to 103rd Street’s station last week and covered lunch options at Yo In, Yo Out, Joy Burger Bar, El Pasco Taqueria and Moustache Pitza.

Read the full article here.

Hat tip: Rachel

110th Street Almost Smoke-Free

2011-06-09T14:05:00.003-04:00

The Daily News reported today that 110th St. between Lexington and Third Aves became the city's first "smoke-free" block, in a program organized by the East Harlem Asthma Center. But, it's not entirely smoke-free yet, the News notes, "The only holdout was the U.S. Post Office branch, where many workers smoke, organizers said." Have you ever had the misfortune of waiting in line here? According to the News "Fifteen businesses - including the Savoy Bakery, Young's Fish Market, Expo Liquor and RAZA Records - as well as The Mirada condominium and a neighborhood public library branch agreed to join the voluntary project."

Read the full article here.

Hat tip: Rachel

East Harlem, Beirut

2011-06-06T13:45:00.005-04:00

Music blog LYFSTYL announced the band Beirut's new single today, and although I am the furthest thing from a music blogger, the song's title (not to mention the lovely rhythm that's now permanently stuck in my head) caught my attention. Listen to Beirut's song East Harlem below.

Beirut - East Harlem by Revolver USA

Lexington Sugar Rush

2011-05-20T09:09:00.001-04:00

Two bakeries have opened on Lexington Ave in East Harlem. Lloyd's Carrot Cake has opened their second location in East Harlem. The new shop is located on Lexington, between 99th and 100th Streets, next to Vinyl Wine. And, Giovanna's, the Italian restaurant on Lex between 100th and 101st streets, has opened a bakery next door to their original outpost. Sweet!

See the East Harlem NYC Lloyd's Carrot Cake review.

Lost Cat Found

2011-05-19T22:50:00.004-04:00

A bit of good news on this rainy week...or a humorous hipster sign...I really can't tell.

Piatto d'Oro

2011-05-19T14:47:00.009-04:00

Sauce and Lady

Walk East on 109th Street, and keep going…and going a bit further –– just pass the giant brightly-lit car wash that floods the street in an eerily glow sits Piatto d’Oro. This Italian restaurant is a quirky hidden gem, decorated with lots of pinks and mint greens, plenty of those classic black and white snapshots, and pink roses on the tables. The décor, the tunes (Louis Prima, of course) and the adorable and attentive Italian staff are staples of many Italian joints, and truth be told I was having a bit of déjà vu. But, “What was it exactly that was making me feel like I’ve been here before in the best way?” I asked myself. Well, I knew instantly what Piatto d’Oro reminded me of when my meal was placed in front of me, and I suddenly wished I had ordered spaghetti and meatballs so my date and I could spaghetti kiss a la Lady and the Tramp. If the waiter came out with an accordion I would have done a few Lady-like shy blinks and kept right on eating.

As any respectable Italian joint knows, it’s all about the sauce, and Piatto d’Oro delivers on that and more. My date and I tried the fried zucchini appetizer ($5.95), penne with vodka sauce ($10.95) and the chicken Sophia Loren ($15.95) (yeah, it's a big breast of chicken (get it?!), and it's stuffed with prosciutto and mozzarella with a shiitake mushroom brown sauce). Everything was completely devoured and then the sauces were soaked up with bread. Go here with someone you're comfortable eating a lot in front of.

Piatto d'Oro
349 E 109th Street (near 1st Ave)
212-828-2929
They also do take-out and delivery.
Also see New York Magazine's review.

I apologize that these photos are a bit "Law and Order" crime scene-esque. The Hipstamatic App can be a bit addictive.

Digging into the fried zucchini.

A complimentary shot of sambuca.

Italian Harlem Relic to Close

2011-05-15T15:52:00.004-04:00

In the Papers

The New York Times profiled Claudio Caponigro's East 116th Street barber shop this week, and it seems that this 60-year-old Italian Harlem relic will be closing very soon.

The Times Writes:

It has become a beloved museum of the old-fashioned barber trade, attracting political leaders, entertainers and underworld bosses who mixed with the neighborhood’s declining corps of Italian men, as well as the generations of Puerto Rican and other Latino men who have displaced them... But now the rental pressures of a gentrifying neighborhood are threatening to close his shop, which along with Rao’s celebrity-packed restaurant, is one of the last relics of Italian East Harlem.

Read the full article here.

Do any of you go to Caludio's for a trim or a shave? Do you know of any other Italian Harlem relics in danger of closing?

Photo Ozier Muhammad/The New York Times

Follow me on Twitter for more East Harlem news @GloriaDawson

Do We Live in the Desert?

2011-05-09T09:19:00.000-04:00

The USDA's new Food Desert locator map was dissected by the Village Voice this week, and it turns out that East Harlem is not considered a food desert after all, at least not according to the USDA. According to the Village Voice, this may have something to do with the how the USDA identifies food deserts and that the USDA may consider efforts like fresh produce carts acceptable access to produce. The Voice notes, "if it's hard to identify food deserts across the country using nothing more than algorithms, then within New York City, where "grocery store" can mean "corner deli" and "mile" can mean "two trains and a bus ride," it's virtually impossible."

Read the full piece in the Village Voice here .

I certainly think East Harlem could use a few more grocery stores. What do you think?

An East Harlem CSA

2011-05-08T10:20:00.003-04:00

A community supported agricultural share or CSA is a great way to support local farms and get very affordable farm fresh produce. New York City offers plenty of options for CSAs, but I've never heard of a CSA up here in East Harlem. Now, the produce isn't grown here, of course, it's grown Upstate, but the pick up is at La Marqueta and supports the farms that sell their produce at that market. Breezy Hill Orchard, one of the vendors at La Marqueta, is offering shares for pick up from June to November. Vegetable and fruit shares including strawberries, carrots, apples and egg shares and pasta shares are available. A full vegetable share costs $375 for the 20-week season, a full fruit share is $220 and a half is $110, the egg share is $75 and the pasta share is $85. For more info head up to La Marqueta at 1590 Park Avenue and 116th St, or call Ann the CSA coordinator at (845) 2266-3979.

A Message Just for You

2011-05-02T11:00:00.001-04:00

I imagine everyone who walks by one of James De La Vega's impromptu works of art thinks that the message speaks just to them.

Lunch at Cafe Ollin

2011-05-02T09:05:00.001-04:00

Small Mexican joints line the streets of East Harlem and many are worth stopping in for a torta or taco to go, but Cafe Ollin is a place where you can and should sit and stay for awhile. Walking inside the nondescript restaurant you'll no-doubt immediately notice the bright blue painted walls. The walls don't look jarring, as you might imagine, instead they are fun and festive and welcoming, as is the overall vibe of the place. Let that festive feeling dictate your beverage choice and pick out one of the brightly colored drinks from the case in the back. There's no alcohol here, but you can get your fill of Mexican style fruit and even Sangria flavored colas as well as traditional soft drinks. Now it's time to start snacking, and you can't go wrong with a crispy tostada to start. For your main I'd suggest trying a torta or cemitas, they come filled with traditional ingredients like beef, chicken and chorizo, or you can go more experimental with ham, pork and pineapple or cactus and potatoes. I've been working my way down the sandwich choices on the menu and haven't been disappointed yet.

Have you been to Cafe Ollin? What's your favorite sandwich?

Cafe Ollin
339 East 108 Street
New York, N.Y. 10029
(212) 828-3644

East Harlem at Tribeca Film Festival

2011-04-28T09:00:00.000-04:00

DNAinfo.com has a great piece and accompanying video about the film Nightlife, which is part of the Tribeca Film Festival. The film centers around the "unexpected bond between a pair of Manhattan teens — one from a Harlem project, the other from the tony Upper East Side."

Read the full piece here.

Nightlife is playing Saturday, April 30 at 4 p.m. (AMC Loews Village) and Sunday, May 1 at 7 p.m. (Tribeca Cinemas Theater).

New Harlem East -- Another Nickname for East Harlem?

2011-04-27T19:00:00.010-04:00

We just recovered from SpaHa (short for Spanish Harlem) and now the Wall Street Journal notes that new business owners are starting to call the eastern side of 125th St, where new businesses are popping up like Wild Olive Market and Sade Skincare, "the New Harlem East." "It contrasts with the many cellphone-, linen- and sneaker-store-lined strips nearby."

Neighborhood nicknames always remind me of an episode of How I Met Your Mother where two characters are convinced of the merits of a certain area of New York City called DoWiSeTrepla. They are told it's "the hottest neighborhood in NYC. The deals are amazing. Much more affordable than Dumbo or Tribeca." They later find out DoWiSeTrepla stands for "Down Wind from The Sewage Treatment Plant." Neighborhood nicknames make me nervous.

Read about the new businesses in New Harlem East, East Harlem or whatever you want to call our neighborhood here.

I love the new stores, but I'm not sure about the new name. What do you think about SpaHa or New Harlem East? Do you like these nicknames or does East Harlem work for you?

New York Magazine finds Earl's

2011-04-18T17:28:00.006-04:00

In the latest edition of New York Magazine the Underground Gourmet guys make their way up to East Harlem's Earl's Beer and Cheese, and they give it a stellar review!

...on several forays to this northern hinterland, we found much more: an ebullient but civilized young crowd mercifully free of frat-house yahoos, good tunes played at conversation-friendly decibel levels, and a bar-food menu that never failed to surprise or satisfy. Having said that, culinary pilgrims should note that the space is tight and, unlike most of the city’s so-called gastropubs, it’s decidedly a bar rather than a restaurant. You are kindly asked to order from the bartender, and depending on the night and the hour, if you’re not lucky enough to wriggle into an inside seat at the single communal table...

And you thought it was crowded before! Here's hoping East Harlem residents can still squeeze into our favorite pint-sized pub!

Read the full review.

Earl's Beer and Cheese
1259 Park Ave
(between E. 97th & E. 98th sts.)
212-289-1581

James De La Vega Edited

2011-04-18T17:12:00.004-04:00

I AM Becomeing ~~Your~~ MY Dream

It's a Beautiful Day for a Woodland Walk

2011-04-14T09:44:00.003-04:00

Central Park Conservancy organizes monthly Harlem Meer Social Hours and this month's event, a Woodland Walk, is scheduled for this evening. Get to Central Park's Charles A. Dana Discovery Center, located inside the park near 110th Street between Fifth and Lenox Avenues, by 6:30, and you'll experience the beauty of the park at dusk. The walk is guided by Central Park Conservancy horticulturalists.

Next month's event is Seasonal Picnic Recipes. Meet at the same spot on Thursday, May 12 at 6:30 and Chef Margaret Hoffman will show you how to incorporate fresh Greenmarket products into picnic menus. Complimentary refreshments will be provided.

See the Central Park Conservancy Website for more information.

Earl's in New York Press

2011-04-11T07:27:00.004-04:00

I'm very excited to have my review of Earl's Beer and Cheese, the new bar that opened on Park Ave between 97th and 98th aves, in the latest issue of New York Press.

If you haven't been to Earl's yet, perhaps this preview of the piece will entice you:

If the allure of microbrews and the 1970s basement vibe isn't enough to draw you uptown, perhaps the seasonal pickle plate ($6) and selection of local cheeses ($9-$15)—what Earl's humbly calls "bar food"—will. Cescari and co-owner Adam Clark originally thought they'd serve only cheese-focused bar food, but when they gave free reign over the menu to chef Corey Cova, who recently spent time in Momofuku Ssam Bar, the menu was upgraded. Cova is constantly trying out new dishes, but one semi-regular standout is the Beer-Cheese ($6). Inspired by a dish Cova had in a beer hall in Prague, it's a basket of toast with raw garlic to rub over it, served with a spicy cheddar and cream ale sauce. Another standout is the grilled cheese with cheddar, kimchi, pork belly and a fried egg ($8).

Earl's Beer and Cheese
1259 Park Ave
(between E. 97th & E. 98th sts.)
212-289-1581

James De La Vega, Running Coach

2011-04-04T18:40:00.003-04:00

While running the women's half marathon in Central Park yesterday it seemed that every time I looked down I saw James De La Vega's motivational message written out in caulk. These little notes all along the running loop kept me going strong.

(Updated) James De La Vega's East Harlem

2011-04-04T12:30:00.000-04:00

A collection of artist James De La Vega's work throughout East Harlem.

James De La Vega, Running Coach

Here Comes the Sun

Mattress Message

De La Vega Fine Art

Swimming Up Stream

Dresser Dreams

Spring Awakening

Among the Snow and Trash

A Busy Day

Dreams Nearly Washed Away

The Sidewalk Philosopher Strikes Again

Become Your Dream…

Recession Advice from an East Harlem Couch

The Original Patsy's

2011-03-31T10:55:00.004-04:00

Taken the other week while having an Italian Harlem adventure.

Patsy's Restaurant Review

Location:
Patsy's Pizzeria
2287 1st Ave, near 118th St.
Phone: (212) 534-9783
Cash Only

East Harlem Gets Its Groupon

2011-03-22T09:08:00.000-04:00

Cafe Ollin is the latest East Harlem establishment to offer a deal on Groupon. It's great to see uptown joints getting in on this great marketing tool. The coupons are sure to bring new customers up to the area with these fantastic deals. In the last few weeks I've purchased Groupons from East Harlem Cafe and Lloyds Carrot Cake Cafe. It's entirely possible that I'll be paying for meals solely with Groupons this weekend.

Café Ollin Gets the Serious Eats Treatment

2011-03-14T16:12:00.005-04:00

The foodie Website Serious Eats has found their way up to East Harlem, and they are loving the sandwiches at Café Ollin.

"About the size of a catcher's mitt and packed with enough ingredients to stock a small bodega, the juancho cemita ($10) at Café Ollin in East Harlem is closer to a meal than a grab-and-go sandwich."

I'm partial to the tortas myself. Whatever you order Café Ollin, chances are you'll love it too.

Café Ollin
339 East 108th Street, New York NY 10029
212-828-3644
http://www.cafeollin.com/

Here Comes the Sun

2011-02-25T09:09:00.001-05:00

A little bit of sunshine from James De La Vega on this rainy day.

Carrot Cake Coming Soon

2011-02-21T19:24:00.003-05:00

It looks like Lloyd's Carrot Cake will be expanding to a second location in East Harlem. The new shop will be located on Lexington, between 99th and 100th Streets, next to Vinyl Wine. That is going to be a pretty delicious block.

See the East Harlem NYC Lloyd's Carrot Cake review.

East Harlem, The Basics 4 (Vintage Style Edition)

2011-02-17T17:50:00.005-05:00

Entrepreneur, writer, editor, vintage stylist, life enthusiast and all around creative gal Sammy Davis has some great advice for East Harlemites.

Pizza: Sam's Famous Pizzs
116th & Lexington

Coffee: SpaHa Cafe
between 116th & 117th on Lexington

Brunch: Orbit Cafe
2257 1st Ave., at the corner of 116th St.

See the East Harlem NYC Orbit review.
As noted by Levi in the comments, Orbit is closed indefinitely for renovations.

Groceries: Pathmark @ 125th BUT there is an Asian fruit market I love on 3rd avenue between 115th & 116th called Lee's Fruit Market

Laundry: I forget it's official name ... on 115th between 3rd & Lexington

Take-out: oh oh! you gotta visit these guys! Makana's Hawiaan BBQ & Sushi! It's on 1st Avenue between 115th & 116th -- JUST opened

And then specifically for you, best thrift store or shopping locations?
Goodwill at 123rd & 3rd Avenue.

Take a look at Sammy's site. http://sammydvintage.com/

If you're an East Harlemite and would like to tell us your "Basics" shoot me an email. Gloria.Dawson@gmail.com

East Harlem NYC in the New York Daily News

2011-02-17T08:32:00.006-05:00

This blog is featured in today's Upper Manhattan section of the New York Daily News. Pick up a copy or check it out online. I'm thrilled to be included! A big thanks to reporter Clem Richardson for reaching out to me for the piece.

Love is in the Air at Earl's

2011-02-08T13:00:00.000-05:00

Have you been to East Harlem's (or is it in the way Upper East Side?) awesome new bar Earl's Beer and Cheese? Yes, your prayers for a local bar have finally been answered, and the food is way more than you could have imagined...unless you imagined pork belly, kimchi grilled cheese paired with obscure but awesome microbrews –– because that's exactly what they've got.
If you haven't been to Earl's yet, you must check it out, and there's no better time than Valentine's Day (gentlemen,that's February 14th, please note). They have a fantastic meal lined up with wine pairings from their brother shop Vinyl Wine. The second course of pork belly confit (hmmm, does someone have a thing for pork belly? I think yes.) braised in duck fat with avocado puree and pickled red onion has my mouth watering. $50 a person, give them a call 212-289-1581. As Michael Faircloth, co-owner of Vinyl Wine said on Facebook yesterday, "Every Kiss Begins With Earl's!" I couldn't agree more.

Earl's Beer and Cheese
1259 Park Ave
(between 97th St & 98th St)
Manhattan, NY 10029

The New New Harlem in New York Mag

2011-02-08T10:00:00.000-05:00

File this under: Not quite East Harlem, but it's still nice to see uptown getting some love. After spending an evening at Harlem's Bier International, I was excited to open my new issue of New York Magazine and see an extensive feature on Harlem. Bier International (definitely worth heading over the west side and checking out), Red Rooster, Aloft Harlem hotel and dozens of other hot spots are reviewed. The issue is worth picking up so you can explore the other new new Harlem.

Furthering Your East Harlem Education

2011-02-06T11:50:00.006-05:00

Are you the sort of East Harlemite who loves to impress friends on walks around the neighborhood with your stories of famous figures who've lived here? Or maybe you're a new neighbor and want to learn about the history of East Harlem. Then there are no better books for you to own than Christopher Bell's East Harlem and his follow up book East Harlem Revisited. They offer readers a visual tour of the emerging area from the early 1900's to today. Bell, who was raised in East Harlem, strings together the complex and ever changing history of the neighborhood. My favorite sections were the stories of Italian Harlem, I love to think about men playing bocce in the parks around here. I was also excited to learn that playwright Arthur Miller and actor Al Pacino were both East Harlemites.

East Harlem and East Harlem Revisited are published by Arcadia Publishing.

Full Disclosure: Arcadia Publishing sent me East Harlem Revisited and my dad lent me East Harlem, which he owned, when I moved into the area. Hmmm, he probably wants it back.

Two Sides of East Harlem

2011-02-06T11:26:00.008-05:00

No where else in East Harlem is the area's status as emerging neighborhood more clearly defined than it is on Lexington and 110th Street. An abandoned building, with boarded up windows, sits around the block from one of the largest, and for lack of a better term most luxurious, luxury buildings around. The juxtaposition always startles me.

East Harlem, The Basics 3 (With Special Tips for East Harlem Dog Owners!)

2011-01-22T17:07:00.007-05:00

Heather and her two dogs have lived here in East Harlem for three years, and she has some great suggestions and tips for East Harlemites and their pups! Thanks so much, Heather!

Coffee: Savoy Bakery is amazingly good (and super fresh) pastries, bread, pork buns (!!), coffee, lattes, iced coffee, etc. Worth every penny.
170 E 110th St (between Lexington Ave & 3rd Ave) www.savoybakery.com

Check out the East Harlem NYC's Savory review.

Take-out/Delivery: Dreamers Pizza is a custom/gourmet pizza/Italian/American food place. The food is always delivered in a timely fashion, and I’ve never had a “bad order.” I'd recommend the lasagna pizza, penne ala vodka, calzones, hero sandwiches and more.
1850 3rd Ave (between 102nd St & 103rd St) http://dreamerspizza.com/

Pizza: A slice at Patsy's is by far the best “experience” of a slice of in NYC –– coal oven, delicious, and thin. Buy a pie ($11) vs. buying 2 slices ($3.50) as you can heat it up and eat it later! Note: cash only! And, this is the REAL deal / old school Patsy’s.
2287 1st Ave (between 117th St & 118th St)

Check out East Harlem NYC's Patsy's review.

Another slice that is rated in the category of “more bang for your buck” would be Sam’s Famous Pizza. HUGE slices at a cheap price. And, right next to the subway.
150 E. 116th St. and Lexington

Mexican Food: El Paso Taqueria is an authentic/gourmet Mexican restaurant with cute back patio area.
237 E 116th St, (Btwn 2nd & 3rd Ave) http://www.elpasotaqueria.com/

Nails: Fierce Spa! I have spent the past 3 years looking for a nail salon that is priced accordingly for the neighborhood, doesn’t stink like acrylic when you walk in the doors, and is CLEAN … this brand new salon (opened in Sept. 2010) fits the bill. Cute, pink décor and priced right. Book an appointment with Guadalupe.
349 E 117th St (between 2nd Ave & 1st Ave) http://fiercespa.com/

Nice View of Manhattan:vMarcus Garvey Park – upper level. Take the stairs up on a nice day. You can see downtown, uptown, etc.
Madison Avenue and East 120th Street

Groceries: Target, Costco, Pathmark, Associated, etc. Tons of supermarkets in the neighborhood. I shop at all of them as I check sales and like the variety of offerings each has.

Especially for the Dog Owner: from 9pm to 9am (everyday) dogs can be off-leash in Central Park. A nice community of dog owners meet up in the off leash areas every morning. I have met numerous new friends via the off leash areas as all the owners talk to each other as their dogs play
Check out this handy map on off leash Central Park areas (a must for Harlem dog owners!) http://www.centralparkpaws.org/DogAccessGuide.pdf
I take my 2 dogs (off leash) to the Harlem Meer (enter at 110 Street and Fifth Ave), Great Hill, etc. almost every morning.

Randalls Island Park has off-leash hours from 7am to 3pm (everyday). And, killer views of Manhattan top off this experience of letting your dog(s) run free on this island.
To get to Randall’s – either take Triborough bridge (aka RFK Bridge) pedestrian walkway or the 103rd Street Pedestrian Bridge on the East River. (note: 103 street pedestrian bridge is under construction till mid-2011 – check http://www.randallsisland.org/ for updates)

If you're an East Harlemite and would like to tell us your "Basics" shoot me an email. Gloria.Dawson@gmail.com

De La Vega Fine Art

2011-01-22T16:47:00.004-05:00

You may have noticed that James De La Vega has been quite prolific lately. "Become Your Dream" has been sketched everywhere from the Upper East Side to way up in Harlem, and the slogan has been on everything from from toilets to all sorts of trash that piled up during the snow storms. Sammy Davis (not JR) the vintage fashion stylist and entrepreneur spotted an object d'art on her street corner and snapped it up to decorate her pad.

Sammy says:
The artist, De La Vega, does this to things around the city that are in the "trash." Pieces of furniture, mattresses ... the sidewalk with chalk ... etc. I see it often just at the right moment. Once I saw "Become Your Dream" after finishing a run in Central Park, chalked on the sidewalk as I left the 110th street entrance. It's a beautiful thing and I thank De La Vega for passing along his message with such guerrilla tactics!

Check out Sammy Davis Vintage.

Vinyl Wine in Edible Manhattan

2011-01-09T22:33:00.005-05:00

East Harlem has been in desperate need of a a good wine shop for some time, and this past summer we finally got one -- Vinyl Wine. After checking out the store's great selection and awesome vibe, I thought the shop, and the story of the changing East Harlem scene, would make a great piece for one of my favorite foodie magazines Edible Manhattan. Luckily for me, Edible's editors agreed, and my article is in the newest issue, on newsstands now!

Here's a preview of the piece:

Axl Rose and his glass of wine hold court on one whitewashed brick wall, a record player in the corner plays Sharon Jones then Arcade Fire, the cash register sits on a desk embedded with speaker parts, and behind that desk sits a floppy-haired guy you'd expect to own a record shop. But the wooden bins and plastic crates that line the walls of this narrow store are filled not with records but with organic and natural wines made by small, relatively unknown producers. And, instead of being located on Bleecker or in Brooklyn, the aptly named Vinyl Wine sits between 99th and 100th streets, right on the cusp of East Harlem.

If you haven't checked out Vinyl Wine already here are the details:
Vinyl Wine
1555 Lexington Ave
(between 99th St & 100th St)
Manhattan, NY 10029

Merry Christmas East Harlemites!

2010-12-24T12:44:00.006-05:00

The Last Minute East Harlem Gift Guide

2010-12-24T10:31:00.001-05:00

Stumped on what to buy your favorite neighbor? Want to show your downtown friends how cool your hood is this holiday? Or, maybe you just don't want to venture too far away in this frigid weather. Try one of these East Harlem gifts.

The Coolest Case: Vinyl Wine offers a 15% discount on any case of wine, even mixed cases and sparklers. Pick up 12 bottles and you'll be good until New Year's at least.
Pick it up at Vinyl Wine, 1555 Lexington Ave

Old-School Shoes: Goliath RF has urban gear and cool kicks for anyone on your list. Last time I was in I saw Reebok Pumps for $30. What a deal!
Pick them up at Goliath RF, 175 E 105th Street

Harlem in Images: The Studio Museum along with SkiraRizzoli has published a new photography book celebrating Harlem's diverse and distinct landscape in images. Harlem: A Century in Images is the perfect coffee table book for any uptowner.
Pick it up at The Studio Museum, 144 West 125th Street.

A Pass to the Neighborhood: Give the gift of art in a pass to El Museo Del Barrio, and they'll visit you up in East Harlem all year long. $50 for a single year pass.
Pick it up at El Museo Del Barrio, 1230 Fifth Avenue

And don't forget we have the city's only Costco and Manhattan's only Target here in East Harlem –– both shops are perfect for last minute gifts.

Happy Holidays, Harlemites!

Update: Either Yo In, Or Yo Out

2010-12-24T09:54:00.000-05:00

As of late December 2010, Yo in, Yo Out now has a liquor license. French food and wine...is there anything better?

Your Neighborhood French Bistro

Speaking of French bistros. Oh, we weren't? Sorry, I'm always thinking of French Bistros. I am a lover of all things French, and now we have another piece of France in East Harlem (have you been to any of the French bakeries around?). An adorable bistro/coffee shop has opened on Lexington. It's been open for only a week or so, but I can see it growing into a great spot for coffee, brunch or a small meal. The decor is whimsical: old-fashioned chandeliers, oversized coffee cups with fun designs and a ceiling painted blue with puffy clouds. I know that East Harlem is called Spanish Harlem, but the area is full of ex-pats from France as well as Puerto Rico and Mexico. We were surrounded by French speakers at this bistro – definitely adding to an authentic French vibe.

Location: 1569 Lexington Ave, between 100th and 101st Sts

Phone: (212) 987-5350

Recommended Dishes/Drinks: Chevre Roti au Miel (Goat Cheese Salad), Truffle Croque Monsieur and Chocolate Chaud (Hot Chocolate)

Average Dish Price: $9

-Gloria

East Harlem, The Basics 2

2010-12-06T22:33:00.004-05:00

Levi Fishman, writer, four-year East Harlem resident and this blog's first fan, has agreed to give us his East Harlem basics. You might remember Levi from his AM New York piece on East Harlem –– definitely worth a read if you haven't already.

Coffee: The Love Cafe. The owner (Pat) grew up in the neighborhood, so along with your coffee you can get some great stories of what the neighborhood was like back in the day.
283 Pleasant Avenue
(between 115th St & 116th St)

Haircut: Claudio's Barber Shop. Hang out there long enough and you'll get some stories of what the neighborhood was like when it was run by the Italian Mafia.

Mexican Food: Cafe Ollin has probably the best Cemita in the city.
339 E 108th St
(between 2nd Ave & 1st Ave)

Brunch: Itzocan Bistro for a full meal, Pleasant Pastries if you're looking for a muffin to go.

Take-out/Delivery: I agree with Polash. It's just as good as any of the Indian places down on Curry Row. For Chinese delivery, Chinatown East. They're down on 92nd and 3rd, but they deliver all the way up to 120th.

Laundry: The place at 118th and 1st has $1 machines in the back. And it's half a block from Patsy's.

Groceries: Costco. Or Fine Fare. Over the summer, there is a nice fruit stand on 120th and 1st.

Nice View of Uptown Manhattan: Top of the East Harlem Plaza parking garage.

If you're an East Harlemite and would like to tell us your "Basics" shoot me an email. Gloria.Dawson@gmail.com

Quesadillas, Even in the Cold

2010-12-06T17:21:00.003-05:00

NYC food blog Eating in Transition has a great write-up on a quesadilla stand on 116th St that's open all season. Seems like it's definitely worth checking out. Read the review at Eating in Transition.

East Harlem, The Basics 1

2010-12-01T07:20:00.005-05:00

When you first move to any neighborhood in Manhattan there's always a few things you'd like to ask the local, like, "Where do you get a great slice of pizza?" and "Where can I get a great cup o' joe?" So, here is the first in a new feature, I'm asking East Harlemites where they find their NYC basics. Think of it as East Harlem 101. I'm starting with five year East Harlem resident Craig Nelson. He's a bit of an expert when it comes to suggesting places to eat and things to do, he's the managing editor of Not For Tourists. It's the online version of those awesome little black books.

Craig Nelson's East Harlem Basics:

Pizza: Slice at Patsy's take out window ($1.75 and best in NYC)

Coffee: East Harlem Cafe (but sometimes bodega coffee oddly hits the spot)

Brunch Spot: Not a big brunch person, but getting pastries at La Tropezienne is a weekend morning tradition

Groceries: When in season, local farmers markets and out of season Fine Fare or Met Foods (or Whole Foods on the west side)

Laundry: Place on 105th b/w Lex and 3rd

Takeout: La Fonda Boricua, Sandy Restaurant, or Polash Indian

Thanks for the tips, Craig!

If you're an East Harlemite and would like to tell us your "Basics" shoot me an email. Gloria.Dawson@gmail.com

An East Harlem Hero...Whatever His Reasons

2010-11-29T22:10:00.002-05:00

Carlos Flores just wanted to go to work and get his overtime pay. So, on Sunday when Flores was waiting at the 103rd Street subway station and noticed a man had fallen on the tracks and needed needed help, he jumped in and saved him. According to the New York Daily News, "I was thinking, if he gets hit I can't go to work. It's Sunday. I can't miss out. It's a time-and-a-half day," said Flores.
By the way, he made the train and got to work. Phew!

An honest hero...I can't decide if that's refreshing or not. But I wouldn't have turned him away if I was the one in trouble.

What do you think of the Honest East Harlem Hero?

Hat tip: Rachel

Cafe Saint Germain, Your New Brunch Spot

2010-11-21T21:52:00.004-05:00

You could easily miss Cafe Saint Germain's store front as you walk down Lexington Avenue. It's quite tiny and the scaffolding currently covering the shop doesn't help with their visibility issues. But, this cafe is worth finding. The look inside is Harlem Renaissance with dark wood and prints from the 30s, like the one of Josephine Baker. The food is modern, healthy and super fresh. Try one of the salads -- I love the La Chevre. The sandwiches and breakfast options are also great and change often.

This restaurant seems to still be getting it's footing; when I visited the credit card machine was down and although 'Wi-Fi' was boldly printed on the front window, it will not be working until later in the week, I was told.

Other than the food, the eclectic tunes and truly fascinating owner, Mario Douge, are worth taking in as well. I can definitely see myself coming here often for brunch, and maybe once the Wi-Fi is up, spending the day sipping a cappuccino, surfing the web and chatting with Douge.

Cafe Saint Germain
1695 Lexington Ave. (bet 106 and 107th Sts)
(212) 286-2466
Mon - Fri:
10:00 am - 6:00 pm
Sat - Sun:
11:00 am - 6:00 pm
Cafe Saint Germain Facebook Page

Mattress Message

2010-11-08T07:48:00.004-05:00

Is this inspiring message from James De La Vega brought to us courtesy of the bedbug epidemic?

The Marathon Uptown

2010-11-07T22:04:00.003-05:00

Musical duo cheering on the runners in East Harlem during the New York City Marathon.

Video: A Fresher Harlem

2010-11-07T22:01:00.002-05:00

A Fresher Harlem from The Uptowner on Vimeo.

A great new video about the food desert we call home. Read the full piece on the Uptowner, a Columbia University Journalism School website.

Will Wallmart Join the Big Box Stores in East Harlem?

2010-11-07T21:49:00.004-05:00

Crains New York Business reports that Wallmart is looking at store locations accross New York City. “They're looking all over,” says Faith Hope Consolo, chairwoman of Prudential Douglas Elliman's retail group to Crains New York. “This is aggressive now. This is not just thinking about it and dabbling. They're dancing around the city.” It appears that real estate in East Harlem and East New York, Brooklyn, are in the running...Which of the Easts will get a Wallmart?

What do you think of all the big box chain store development in East Harlem?

Swimming Up Stream

2010-10-10T12:30:00.002-04:00

A quick sketch by James De La Vega.

The Two Sides of Harlem Cuisine: Culinary Destinations and Food Deserts

2010-10-10T11:53:00.010-04:00

The first issue of Gourmet Live, Gourmet Magazine's new life as an online app, has a great profile on Marcus Samuelsson. The restaurateur and "Top Chef Masters" winner's much anticipated Harlem restaurant Red Rooster seems even closer to opening.

Samuelsson and the author discuss some of Harlem's blossoming culinary destinations: Chex Lucienne, Cafe Latte and Settepani, but Samuelsson is is aware that Harlem residents suffer from high levels of obesity and diabetes. He's hoping his restaurant can be an agent of social change.

Also, this week in food news of Harlem the Harlem Harvest Festival and Fresh Foods Summit took place on Saturday. The program was set up, because as their website states, "Our community, Harlem, suffers from the highest rates of heart disease, hypertension, type II diabetes, high blood pressure and obesity in New York City. Our lack of adequate choices for fresh food and vegetables and an over-saturation of fast food options is shocking and characterizes Harlem as what is often called a 'food desert.'"

Hat Tip: Jonah

Here's What Harlem Thinks of Their Food Justice Situation:

More About that East Harlem Starbucks

2010-09-26T23:35:00.004-04:00

Curbed writes that the East Harlem Starbucks will be Leed-Certitfied (that means it's green building), but that "the appearance of the ubiquitous mermaid logo has served as the official stamp on a neighborhood's gentrification for years..."

Has anyone been getting their (tall, grande or venti) cup of joe there?

An Italian Harlem Time Capsule

2010-08-22T20:06:00.007-04:00

In today's New York Times the Real Estate section has a great piece on a couple who has lived in their East Harlem apartment for 35 years. Their home is a time capsule, full of memories from the time when Italian immigrants were coming to the United States and and living in East Harlem. The couple's relatives were some of those immigrants. East Harlem was known as Italian Harlem back in the early 1900s, some of the last remnants of that time are Patsy's, Rao's and this couple's brownstone. The article is a great history lesson and also a wonderful profile on an interesting couple.

Hat tip: Dad

A Starbucks Coming to the Edge of East Harlem

2010-08-22T19:27:00.007-04:00

As I got off the bus at 96th St and Lexington, I gasped, said "Oh, No!" and covered my mouth. A Starbucks would be opening right there on the cusp of East Harlem. Is this bad news? My initial reaction was obviously, "Yes." But this could just be another sign of the neighborhood changing. Change is not necessary a bad thing, if it comes with the amenities we need in the area. On the subject of amenities, I'm hoping for larger supermarkets that stay open late and offer more fresh produce. Regarding Starbucks specifically, it would be nice to have a coffee shop with later hours as well (the East Harlem Cafe has fairly limited hours). I'm torn about how I feel about this Starbucks. What do you think? Will you be grabbing a cup o' joe there once it opens in September, or do you prefer supporting a local establishment?

East Harlem Pride Cemented

2010-07-31T15:37:00.001-04:00

Videos: The East Harlem Target Opening

2010-07-31T15:16:00.004-04:00

The official East Harlem Target opening took place on Sunday July 25 in the early morning. A long line of shoppers eagerly lined up on the second floor of the East River Plaza, and the first 5,000 lucky customers received reusable wheeled Target bags. Marshalls, Old Navy, Best Buy and Kidstown also opened at the East River Plaza on Sunday. Did you show up for the grand opening? What do you think of the new stores?

Thelma Golden of the Studio Museum at the Target East Harlem Opening

Matthew Washington, Chair of Community Board 11 of Manhattan at the Target East Harlem Opening

The Ribbon Cutting

Dresser Dreams

2010-07-31T15:01:00.003-04:00

James De La Vega's furniture design.

Joy Burger Heads Downtown

2010-07-31T14:39:00.004-04:00

Joy Burger, the home of the burger sauce, is opening up a new location. So, when you venture downtown, specifically to the West Village, you'll get to enJOY :) your favorite East Harlem burgers.

Joy Burger Bar West Village
361 Sixth Avenue
Opening Soon

Mouth of the Border Finds East Harlem's Best Tacos

2010-07-03T22:46:00.003-04:00

A few weeks ago I met the fantastic food blogger Emily Cavalier of Mouth of the Boarder. She (and a few fellow foodie bloggers) had recent discovered some great tacos up in East Harlem.

Here's their taco tour:
El Aguila
136 East 116th Street
New York, NY 10029

El Paso Taqueria
237 E 116th St
New York, NY 10029

Cascabel Taqueria
1542 2nd Avenue (at 80th)
New York, NY 10075

Get all the details at Mouth of the Border.

Did they miss any great taco joints?

A Target Just for East Harlem

2010-07-03T22:22:00.005-04:00

The East River Plaza Target will officially be opening on July 25, and the store will be adding touches that make East Harlemers feel right at home. The East Harlem Target will offer lots of Spanish language items, apartment-sized merchandise and 400 jobs for the locals. The store will also be the first to hold the Harlem Designer Collections with items by Isabel and Ruben Toledo, renowned designer Stephen Burrows, and chef Marcus Samuelsson. Here's some information about the collections from the Target press release:

The IsabelandRubenToledo for Target(R) collection marks the first time Isabel and Ruben have partnered on a retail collection. The collection includes a beautifully psychedelic swim assortment with suits and towels in cerulean blues; cutouts and asymmetry make bold statements on one-piece suits ($17.99--$34.99). The Stephen Burrows for Target(R) collection provides an unexpected assortment of knits that embody an urban-street aesthetic, shown in the zip-front pocketed hoodie dress ($19.99--$34.99). The Marcus Samuelsson for Target(R) collection offers a range of aprons, placemats, kitchen towels, potholders and napkins, and features a pleasantly surprising assortment of men's, women's and kids' tees which will only be available at the East Harlem Target store ($3.99--$19.99).

Each collection will honor Harlem while giving to the local Harlem community. Target will donate 5 percent of each product's purchase price to a non-profit of the designer's choice. The non-profit selected by the Toledos is El Museo del Barrio [http://elmuseo.org]; The Fund for Public Schools in support of the library at The Young Women's Leadership School of East Harlem [http://schools.nyc.gov/site/M610] by Stephen Burrows; and The Fund for Public Schools in support of the library at Harlem PS 180: Hugo Newman [http://schools.nyc.gov/site/M180] by Marcus Samuelsson.

Hat Tip: Levi

amNew York Features East Harlem

2010-07-03T21:58:00.008-04:00

This post is a little late, but in case you missed it: East Harlem was featured in the City Living section of amNew York early last month. The section was written by one of this blog's first readers, Levi Gibian Fishman. Levi interviewed me for the story and included a quote from me, "The area feels real. It's the sort of area that I always imagined living in when I thought about living in New York City." The section covers some of the haunts you've read about in this blog and a few new places you should check out. Take a look at the full article in amNew York (PDF).

Great article, Levi!

The Secret to Museum Mile

2010-06-06T17:05:00.002-04:00

This lovely city has plenty of free events, especially in the summer months. Free, of course, is awesome, but crowds (especially on a hot June day) are not. But, don't let the fear of long lines deter you from Museum Mile, that summer evening when nine museums along Fifth Ave open their doors free of charge. Here's the secret to a slightly less crowded experience: check out the museums uptown. The Museum of the City of New York and El Museo Del Barrio are often the less visited museums during the event.

There's lots going on this Tuesday, June 8th from 6-9pm for Museum Mile. At the Museum of the City of New York all of the current exhibits will be open for you to view including their collection of New York City photos and the New Yorker cartoonist Charles Addams' illustration exhibit.

At El Museo Del Barrio most exhibits will be open, including a permanent collection show. The Museo and street artist James De La Vega (who makes regular appearances on this blog) will host chalk coloring activities along Fifth Ave. Finish your Museum Mile experience with a trip to the the Museo's cafe. I was invited to dine at the cafe this Saturday, and I was impressed with their fare. Try the ceviche or the Chile Relleno con Vegetales ($7 and $5). Relax with a glass of tamarind juice, a beer or soda -- the museum has beverages from all over Latin America -- while listening to one of the performances scheduled for Tuesday evening.

Museum Mile
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
6:00-9:00PM
5th Avenue between 82nd & 105th

The Smurfs Are Coming to East Harlem

2010-06-06T16:10:00.003-04:00

Spotted on 104th between 5th and Madison

Spring Awakening

2010-06-02T17:20:00.004-04:00

James De La Vega seemed to hibernate for some of the winter, but he seems to be back in full force now that spring has arrived.

Spotted this morning....

A Toast(er) to You and Your Dreams

Things May Be Upside-Down But at Least You Have Your Dreams

Join the East Harlem Facebook Page

2010-05-28T10:59:00.004-04:00

It's got a small following so far, but hopefully soon the East Harlem Facebook page will let East Harlemers connect and share info.

18th Annual Ethnic Festival of El Barrio

2010-05-21T17:06:00.003-04:00

Celebrated the diversity of East Harlem this Saturday at the Annual Ethnic Festival of El Barrio at 104th St. between 2nd and 3rd Ave. Come out between 11am and 6pm and you'll enjoy music, art and food from a wide vary of cultures including Mexican, Puerto Rican, South American, West African, Caribbean, Arabic and African-American.

Find out more information at the Union Settlement Association Website.

More on the East Harlem Media, Entertainment and Cultural Center

2010-05-20T10:18:00.006-04:00

According to a press release from the New York Economic Development Fund the development will include:

* 30,000 square feet of cultural space celebrating East Harlem’s unique and diverse cultural heritage;
* More than 800 total housing units, 600 of which will be affordable to individuals or families with moderate or middle incomes;
* A mid-block public plaza;
* A minimum of 24,000 square feet of landscaped open space;
* 50,000 square feet of retail space reserved for locally-owned businesses at below market rents;
* 250,000 square feet of class A office space;
* A 98,000-square-foot hotel; and,
* A $10 million local investment fund to assist small businesses and entrepreneurs that locate in the new development.

What do you think? Would you want to live in this complex?

East Harlem Media, Entertainment and Cultural Center

2010-05-18T09:36:00.004-04:00

A massive $700 million project has broken ground on 125th St and 3rd Ave in East Harlem. GlobeSt and Curbed report that the East Harlem Media, Entertainment and Cultural Center has started construction. The multi-use building will have 800 housing units, a cultural center, office space, retail space for local business and more. The building is expected to be LEED certified.

At the start of construction, GlobeSt quoted Mayor Bloomberg saying, Today's groundbreaking, along with the other projects taking shape along 125th Street, are helping sustain the momentum of Harlem's ongoing renaissance. This major multi-use development –– a major investment and show of confidence in Harlem's future –– will serve the community in a variety of important ways: by creating needed affordable housing, valuable community and cultural space, and new office and retail space. Most importantly in today's economy, it will create thousands of permanent and construction jobs.”

Who Even Knew There Was a Catholic Museum in East Harlem?

2010-05-18T09:13:00.005-04:00

Yesterday's New York Times has an article on the rise and fall of the National Museum of Catholic Art and History, which believe it or not was in East Harlem. You didn't know their was a Catholic Museum in East Harlem? Well, that could have lent to the museum's struggles. In case you weren't one of the museum's few visitors, when it was open from 2003 to 2007, the museum was located on 115th St and the building is now for sale. The museum was plagued by money issues as well as other problems, but the museum's director had friends in high places who helped keep it afloat.

Photo: Michelle V. Agins/The New York Times

Welcome the New Neighbors…the Artists

2010-05-09T17:05:00.002-04:00

Architect’s Newspaper reported that East Harlem's Public School 109 -- on the far east side of 99th St -- will be the future home of 72 artist’s residences. Artspace, a non-profit that creates affordable housing for artists, is working with financial backing from the Ford Foundation on the the project, which is expected to break ground later this year.

Urban Legends in East Harlem

2010-04-30T13:42:00.002-04:00

Have you heard the one about the alligator found in the sewer? Well, that really happened -- and in East Harlem!
Get the full scoop in the most recent episode of This American Life.

Friday 4 the Foodies: East Harlem Eats

2010-04-19T15:03:00.003-04:00

There's a great post on the music blog Roll With It on places to eat in East Harlem.

"This week I thought I’d take everyone on a visual tour of what I feel is a neglected foodie area of New York City for some people – Lexington Avenue from 96th Street to 104th street in East Harlem."

They've covered some great spots...definitely worth a look.

East Harlem Rated 54th

2010-04-19T14:38:00.004-04:00

East Harlem was ranked 54th out of 60 neighborhoods in New York Magazine's Best Places to Live listing. I've always thought of East Harlem as an "up-and-coming" place to live, so I was surprised it was so low. To me the neighborhood gets points for diversity, Mexican food, Central Park and the museums. Why do you love East Harlem? What makes it the area for you?

Virtual Tour: Demolition Depot

2010-04-15T21:02:00.006-04:00

Last week when I posted the New York Times Local Stop article about places to check out in East Harlem, Levi made some suggestions of his own. One of those was Demolition Depot because "they have three floors of porcelain bathroom fixtures" he commented.

Even if your not in the market for some home fixin', it's a fun place to visit.

Demolition Depot
www.demolitiondepot.com
216 East 125th Street
New York, NY 10035-1738
(212) 860-1138

Charles Addams's New York

2010-04-10T13:00:00.010-04:00

Smart, Very New York Humor

New Yorker magazine articles tend to be long. Sometimes, perhaps, your mind needs a break. You take your relief in the form of a glance at the cartoons. Refreshed you're ready to tackle that article again. Now imagine rooms filled with these moments of relief, those smart quick laughs, the very New York humor that is a New Yorker cartoon. You want to go to there, don't you? Well, you should.

An exhibit of Charles Addams's cartoons is up at the Museum of the City of New York until May 16th. He is the most well-know New Yorker cartoonists -- starting his work for the magazine in the 1930s. He is also famous for creating the Addams Family, and it is very interesting to see the Addams Family become the iconic ghouls they are today throughout his drawings.

The exhibit is curated with thoughtfulness and humor. When the stories that Addams told in his cartoons are placed side by side on the museum walls they lead to even more laughs and smiles. The cutouts of Addams's characters frolicking on the walls add to the whimsy and fun.

Seeing so many of the illustrations together you realize what a great commentary these cartoons were, and in many cases still are, on society, specifically New York City's society. My favorite is the one with the barricades around a banana peel on a city street. Smart, fun humor. Go see for yourself.

Museum of the City of New York
1220 Fifth Avenue at 103rd St.
New York, NY 10029
Remember East Harlem residents get in for free.

All images © Charles Addams
Permission of Tee and Charles Addams Foundatio

Local Stop: East Harlem

2010-04-10T11:12:00.007-04:00

Earlier this week the New York Times covered East Harlem in their Local Stop section. They visited El Paso Restaurant, the Graffiti Hall of Fame, Metropolis Studios and the Raíces Latin Music Museum, among other stops. I think I would have chosen the Museum of the City of New York and a more off-the-beaten-path restaurant, but nonetheless it's great to see the hood getting some coverage.

What East Harlem stops would you have covered?

Take a look at their slide show of East Harlem haunts.

Photo: Suzanne DeChillo/The New York Times

Hat Tip: Levi

Dreams Nearly Washed Away in the Rain

2010-03-16T17:40:00.002-04:00

James De La Vega takes a less permanent approach.

Super Weather: Spring is Almost Here

2010-03-07T12:18:00.007-05:00

This weekend gave us the most amazing weather. Walking around Saturday at dusk it almost felt like spring. Lots of people were out and about, music playing from open windows mixed with the sounds of a basketball game. It almost made me want to plan a barbecue or slip on my flip-flops. Almost, almost, spring is certainly close.

Become Your Dream

2010-03-01T20:51:00.014-05:00

Dreams Were Everywhere Today:

In the trash in the morning....

and again in the evening.

James De La Vega was busy today.

Chef from Aquavit Comes to Harlem

2010-02-22T19:43:00.003-05:00

"It is Very Important to Bring a Restaurant to Harlem." - Marcus Samuelsson

The New York Times interviewed Marcus Samuelsson, known for his culinary achievements at Aquavit, about his yet-to-open Harlem restaurant, Red Rooster Harlem. It will be located on 125th St in Central Harlem which is a bit outside of the East Harlem demographic, but it's still exciting to get such a great chef opening up a restaurant uptown. Expect to see fresh local foods on the menu.

See the full article.

Photo by Casey Kelbaugh for The New York Times.

Hat Tip to Dad.

James De La Vega, "Become Your Dream"

2010-02-16T22:52:00.003-05:00

A little snow didn't stop James De La Vega from hitting this old bookshelf with his signature tag, "Become Your Dream." I'm dreaming of another snow day...

Spotted on Lexington and 103rd.

Has anyone else seen De La Vega's work? Let us know where.

103rd St Mural

2010-02-15T21:56:00.002-05:00

A New 24 Hour Mexican Restaurant to Open in East Harlem

2010-02-15T21:30:00.004-05:00

Maybe you've noticed that shuttered restaurant just as you head up from the 103rd 6 train. It used to be a 24 hour diner -- a rare place to get a late-night bite in the area -- until last summer when it closed. But, by next week we should have a place for our midnight-snacks once again. I've been noticing some movement going on in the restaurant for the past couple of weeks, and today my suspicions were confirmed when I popped my head in to ask what was going on: the restaurant will be opening next week. It will now be a Mexican restaurant, but it will continue to be open 24 hours. Let me know if you visit La Fonda on Lexington and 103rd and what you think of the new place.

East Harlem: Where the Wild Things Are

2010-02-03T21:47:00.005-05:00

When you walk into Legacy: The Preservation of Wilderness in New york City Parks, on view at the Museum of the City of New York, you are surrounded by huge images of the Bronx River Park. You weave through the "river" and move on to more large-scale park images organized by borough: Manhattan, Staten Island, Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx.

Here's the full piece and slideshow I wrote for The Daily Green on the exhibit. Check out the show this weekend. Say "I'm a neighbor" and get in the museum for free.

One of My Favorite Authors Lives in Harlem

2010-02-01T17:51:00.007-05:00

In this Saturday's New York Times Real Estate section there was an article about a family living in the Sugar Hill section of Harlem. I soon realized that family was the Kogans and Deborah Copaken Kogan, the mother, photographer and writer in the article was non-other then the author of Shutterbabe. Shutterbabe is a fantastic novel about Deborah working as a war photographer and struggling to find balance in her life. As a photographer and writer myself, Deborah is an inspiration to me, so, I was very excited to see that she lives near by. Perhaps we'll bump into each other.

Here's a slideshow of their home.

Hat tip to my dad for showing me this article. Thanks Dad!

Photo from The New York Times, Chester Higgins Jr./The New York Times

A New East Harlem Novel

2010-02-01T17:38:00.004-05:00

INFINITUDE8 sent me a tip about this book.

A new novel is out about East Harlem in the 1960's. The Hierophant of 100th Street seems fascinating as does the author, Cullen Dorn, who grew up in East Harlem. The book is partially autobiographical.

Here's a brief description from the publisher:

The Hierophant of 100th Street is a remarkable, unusual book: a metaphysical novel set in a violent world of slums, gangs, and prisons. Drawing on the author's experience of growing up in the infamous East Harlem neighborhood of 100th Street in the 1960s, the story follows 17-year-old Adam Kadman and his 9-year-old brother John through their respective initiations into the realities of street life while simultaneously introducing real-life characters who dwell in the life of the spirit.

Veiled in the guise of fiction, most of what appears in the book is actually a truthful account of the author's real-life experience. Like the author, the young Adam also ventures out from the slums of New York to discover the meaning of life amid the horrors of existence, and finds romance, mysticism, and purpose.

Buy The Hierophant of 100th Street.

The Sidewalk Philosopher Strikes Again

2010-01-19T09:18:00.005-05:00

On my last posting about The Inspirational Marker Wielding East Harlemer, Joe commented on the postletting us know that the artist was James De La Vega. Here's another one of De La Vega's masterpieces that I spied this morning on my way to work. Now, you or I might see mattress on the sidewalk and think, "Eeek, bedbugs!" But De La Vega thinks, "Canvas!" And I love him for that.

Spotted on 102nd St

Costco Opening Video from Northhattan

2010-01-17T12:37:00.001-05:00

After Long Wait, East Harlem’s Costco Opens from Bradley Gallo on Vimeo.

Thanks Bradley!!

East River Plaza: My Great Costco Visit

2010-01-14T18:39:00.009-05:00

Last night I finally hit up the East River Plaza on 116th near the FDR. The only store that's open yet is Costco. I live in a tiny studio apartment that I try not to get too cluttered, so I wasn't sure if the store that sells everything in bulk would be the right fit for me or my apartment. But I did get a free yearly membership to Costco (normally $50) so I gave it a try.

Coming Soon: The East River Plaza Directory.... lots of stores labeled "coming soon" like, Old Navy and Marshalls

Look for Target this summer

The View of the FDR from Costco

Some of My Loot

East Harlem Christmas Eve Dinner

2010-01-04T22:23:00.005-05:00

According to the Post Governor Paterson spent Christmas Eve having dinner at the famous East Harlem Italian eatery Rao's. The real news (according to the Post at least) was that he was eating with private eye Bo Dietl, but for me it was where he was eating that was exciting. I would love to eat at Rao's, but reservations are impossible to get. Supposedly you can go and have a drink at the bar without a problem. That's something I'll have to check out.

Become Your Dream....

2010-01-04T20:27:00.006-05:00

The Inspirational Marker Wielding East Harlemer (possible code name "IMWEH"?) was out again last night, and I spotted these words of wisdom this morning.

Check out IMWEH's previous work.

School Aide Cuts Hit East Harlem

2009-11-23T22:02:00.003-05:00

School Aides Cut Citywide; East Harlem Feels the Loss from Mary Plummer on Vimeo.

Thanks to Bradley Gallo at Columbia Journalism School. This video was originally published on Northhattan.

No Smoking in East Harlem

2009-11-17T10:03:00.003-05:00

Turns out that huge apartment building I've watched going up on Lexington between 97th and 98th St will be a non-smoking apartment building according to WCBSTV.

The building is located at 1510 Lexington Avenue and is set to open early next year.

Art and Booze Make Change

2009-11-16T22:25:00.003-05:00

101st St Near Lexington

The Wait Is Over: Costco Is Open!

2009-11-13T17:13:00.006-05:00

Has anyone checked it out yet? What did you think?

Found this cute video online of opening day.

Also see NY1's video and article.

And here are some photos. This place looks HUGE!

You're Invited! East Harlem Costco Opens

2009-10-31T04:21:00.007-04:00

I'm sure I wasn't the only East Harlem resident who received a mailer from Costco in today's mail. The mailer announces the opening date, November 12th, along with coupons and special offers. There has been so much excitement, controversy and delays surrounding the East River Plaza that it's hard to believe it's actually happening.

Are you planning on becoming a member of the new East Harlem Costco? Will you be there on opening day?

116th St Costco
527 E 117th St

Carrot Cake Cafe

2009-10-27T23:33:00.007-04:00

I love that New York City can support entire stores and districts devoted to such specific products; there's a flower, lighting and restaurant supply district in Manhattan. Not to mention the a Phlli Cheese Steak shop and the Cheese Cake bakery downtown. East Harlem is no different, over here it's our carrot cake cafe, Lloyd's. Lloyd's prides itself on its fresh ingredients, according to their Website, "In a world of artificial industrial mass-produced products, Lloyd's Carrot Cake stands out as one of the few all-natural wholesome and artesian bakeries worth fighting to preserve."

I picked up one of these all-natural wonders a few weeks ago for an early Halloween party. I knew the cake was dense right away as it made my short walk home very uncomfortable while carrying my small but heavy cake. It was worth it; the cake was a huge hit at the party, moist and perfectly frosted. Now, this could be a plus or minus for some folks, but in the past I've had a few carrot cakes that have had strings of carrots throughout the cake, I'm not the hugest fan of this, and I liked that this one was more blended more cake-like less actual pieces of carrot. If you are a fan of this cake-like style definitely think of picking up a cake for Thanksgiving, it's such a perfect fall dessert. If you can't finish a whole cake they also sell slices at the shop.

Lloyd's Carrot Cake Cafe (note the East Harlem shop is not on the site)
2051 Second Ave
212-831-9156

EnJoy!

2009-10-27T22:32:00.008-04:00

After a grueling, yet disappointing volleyball game my team hit Joy Burger for some burgers and beers. The joint has a great 1950's vibe -- vintage Coke ads, retro bar stools and the guys working the grill line have these great mechanic jump suits that are right out of Grease. They serve classic "road side" burgers, but if you're interested in mixing it up a bit order one of their sauces like garlic mayo. The team loved the burgers, the milkshakes and the fantastic prices. The burgers start at $3.50 (they come in three sizes depending on your craving) and the beers are $3.75. We also got some Patatas (they're sweet potato fries served with maple syrup) on the house. Score! Our dinner was way more successful then our game!

Joy Burger
1567 Lexington Ave at 100th St
(212) 289-6222

Virtual Tour of the New Museo del Barrio

2009-10-13T19:26:00.007-04:00

Rendering of the new El Museo del Barrio New York. Reopening October 17, 2009.
Courtesy of El Museo del Barrio, and Gruzen Samton Architects.