NYC Recession Diary

Free Stella Artois Chalice

2011-12-15T12:04:00.003-05:00

If you've got some extra time today, get a free Stella "chalice" (not a glass).

The line is often busy (invest in a waiting hotline, Stella!) but according to Hey It's Free it only took him a couple tried to break through to a rep.

Stella is one of my favorite beers and brands, and I love their chalices (glasses!) Since a roommate broke my first one, and then my boyfriend broke my second when he was drunk, I'm ready for my third.

-Katharine

Ugly Christmas Bar Crawl Tickets: Free with GoldStar normally $10!

2011-12-13T13:42:00.002-05:00

Get some use out of that ugly Christmas sweater in the back of your closet by wearing it proudly to the Ugly Christmas Sweater Pub Crawl. Start out at Village Pourhouse and hit up some of New York's best bars, all offering pub crawl participants $2 drafts and 2-for-1 well drinks from noon to 8pm!

Bring friends or come alone and make new ones. After all, it won't be hard to meet people with Christmas sweaters as an icebreaker.

Get your FREE tickets from Goldstar!

Village Pourhouse--Downtown 64 Third Avenue New York City, NY 10003

FREE Megabus Trips Jan 4 - March 1, 2012

2011-12-13T11:48:00.002-05:00

Megabus.com is having a sale, giving away FREE bus tickets with the code "GOFREE" on their booking site. Have @ it, friends.

Young Adult Movie Premiere: Free Tickets December 8

2011-12-06T10:30:00.001-05:00

Thursday, December 8th, 2011 @ 7:30pm at a Manhattan Theater.

To RSVP: E-mail your full name, your group’s name (Michael James), age and number of guests to:
YoungAdultPremiere@gmail.com

You will receive an e-mail confirmation when your name has been added to the list. Seating is first come, first serve so please arrive early. Location of event will be included in your confirmation e-mail.

Synopsis: Academy Award® winner Charlize Theron plays Mavis Gary, a writer of teen literature who returns to her small hometown to relive her glory days and attempt to reclaim her happily married high school sweetheart (Patrick Wilson). When returning home proves more difficult than she thought, Mavis forms an unusual bond with a former classmate (Patton Oswalt) who hasn’t quite gotten over high school, either.

“Young Adult” reunites Jason Reitman, Academy Award© nominated director of “Juno,” and Academy Award© winning screenwriter, Diablo Cody.

www.youngadultmovie.com

Lina Frey: Karaoke Thanksgiving Eve Party Open Bar 9-11pm

2011-11-21T14:47:00.004-05:00

Thanksgiving Eve Special French & English karaoke sponsored by Radeberger Beer!

Wednesday November 23rd

9pm until 3am

lina frey

201 E Houston street

RSVP: reservations@linafreynyc.com

Sing in many languages and pick from a 40,000+ songs list!

The sponsored open bar by Radeberger Beer is from 9pm to 11pm with fingerfood such as truffle fries, caviar, goat cheese baguette, cold cut and cheese platter available as specials.

Due to the limited capacity, please make your reservation in advance by emailing reservations@linafreynyc.com or by calling 212.995.5546.

FREE FOOD: GrubHub's Digital Food Festival 9.21 - 10.13

2011-09-21T17:56:00.005-04:00

Brace yourself, because today marks the launch for GrubHub's Digital Food Festival! Translation: free Restaurant Week.

All fall GrubHub has the hookup to a number of essential New York restaurants; places you simply have to try, places with lineups down the block, and places that don’t normally deliver. On a number of days throughout the season, GrubHub will feature a New York restaurant that will offer a certain number of diners an exclusive entrée. The restaurant designs the dish, GrubHub receives the order, the restaurant makes the dish, and GrubHub delivers it to the diner.

Today enjoy free ice cream from their first restaurant partner, Van Leeuwen Ice Cream. Just use GrubHub.com to order a free scoop of ice cream and pick it up between 12pm and 10pm from either their store (E. Village) or the truck (Little W. 12th and Washington).

Program Calendar:
• Van Leeuwen (September 21)
• DuMont Burger (September 22)
• Peanut Butter & Co. (September 26)
• Katz’s Delicatessen (September 27)
• Foodswings (September 28)
• H & H Bagels (September 29)
• Artichoke Basille’s (October 4)
• Smashburger (October 5)
• Spoonbread (October 6)
• Miss Lily’s (October 11)
• The Smoke Joint (October 12)
• A Salt & Battery (October 13)

Keep up on all the action online!

Twitter: @GRUBHUB
#Hashtag: #DigitalFoodFest
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/grubhub?sk=app_235622016473376

50% Off at Gristle Tattoo & Art Gallery, TODAY ONLY

2011-09-19T13:11:00.000-04:00

Thanks to the awesome folks at Scoutmob, we bring you this deal for half off at Gristle Tattoo & Art Gallery in Williamsburg. This place is not your typical tattoo parlor. Forget neon blinking signs and dated designs hanging on the walls- Gristle is in a league of its own.

Gristle is a lot more like an art gallery, the art being the impressive work of their tattoo artists. Another cool thing about the place? It's vegan, and "one of the only shops in the area capable of a tattoo process that's completely animal product-free."

Head on over to check out the deal for half off at Scoutmob, and remember, you only have until the end of today to grab it. It expires on 12/18/2011 and the deal is free, so why the heck not?

Click here for all the details.

-- Samantha Chin, NYCRD Contributor

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CHARITY EVENT: Kicking the Spectrum, Sept 15

2011-09-13T13:44:00.001-04:00

Via NY Social Agenda:

Our friends at Kicking the Spectrum are hosting a fundraiser Thursday that you wont want to miss! To give you a little background check – Kicking the Spectrum is a martial arts inspired program developed to teach and motivate students with special needs. This innovative program incorporates fitness and wellness into the fundamentals of Japanese Shotokan Karate.

Most recently Kicking the Spectrum won a grant courtesy of The Pepsi Refresh Program and to show their sincere thanks to their supporters, they are hosting a Thank You & Fundraiser Event. Please join them for amazing drink specials, free food, raffle for some incredible prizes (including two one night stays at an NYC hotel…staycation, anyone?!) and of course it wouldn’t be a party without some beer pong action!

Date: 9/15/11
Time: 5:30pm – 11:30pm
Location: Mad River Bar, 1442 3rd Ave
There will be a $10 cover at the door, which will be donated entirely to charity.

Free Ice Cream from Cold Stone Creamery, Sept. 27, 5-8 p.m.

2011-09-13T12:30:00.000-04:00

Even during the coldest of months, I never, ever, deny myself ice cream. It can be 12 degrees outside, but if there is a carton of Ben & Jerry's Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough (or Half Baked) in front of me, you'd better believe I will consume it. As it's getting a little chillier outside, and as the Fall kicks off, Cold Stone Creamery is celebrating Make-A-Wish Month, which happens to be September.

On Tuesday, September 27th, they'll be hosting "The World's Largest Ice Cream Social" to benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Between 5-8 pm, customers will be treated with a free sample of their Sprinkled with Wishes™ Creation™ , which consists of Sweet Cream Ice Cream, Brownie, Rainbow Sprinkles and Fudge. You can stop by any Cold Stone Creamery to make a donation any time this month and buying a Make-A-Wish paper star to show your support costs just $1.

10th Annual World's Largest Ice Cream Social
Cold Stone Creamery Locations
September 27
5-8 PM

-- Samantha Chin, NYCRD Contributor

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The National Academy: Opening Weekend Sept 16-18 includes free admission and art classes

2011-09-12T09:00:00.000-04:00

If you're looking for something different to do next weekend, the National Academy is celebrating their opening weekend with free admission and free art classes!

The National Academy
Experience America's Art
Fri-Sun, Sept 16-18, 11AM-6PM
http://nationalacademy.org/

Free Admission: On view in the newly renovated exhibition galleries, Will Barnet at 100, a retrospective of Barnet’s figurative and abstract paintings and prints and An American Collection, exhibitions from the permanent collection including great artists’ portraits from the 19-20th century, American post-war architecture, contemporary art and works by our National Academicians then and now.

Free Art Classes: Led by an outstanding faculty of professional artists and art educators, we are offering free art classes during the reopening weekend, Fri-Sun from noon to 5:00 PM. Bring out the artist in you and join our drawing, painting and printing sessions. Learn how to copy and recreate an old masterpiece, sketch from a live model or still life tableau. Enjoy art, make art. For artists of all ages.

Space for the classes is limited and will be offered on a first-come basis.

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SEASON OF SAVINGS: Broadway and Off Broadway shows up to 50% off

2011-09-09T15:00:00.000-04:00

Season of Savings, Broadway’s seasonal guide for New York theater discounts, is one of my favorite times of the year. I honestly can't think of many better holiday or birthday gifts than a pair of tickets to a show!

The program offers all different types of Broadway and Off Broadway shows for up to 50% off along with exclusive deals on parking and Times Square favorites such as Madame Tussauds. The goal of Season of Savings is to make sure the district remains busy while allowing theater to be affordable for every wallet.

Here's a SAMPLE from the Fall 2011 list (some with tickets as low as $26.50):

Adam's Family
Spiderman
Phantom of the Opera
Mary Poppins
Follies
Billy Elliot
Chicago
Sister Act
Zarkara
Rock of Ages
Blue Man Group
Stomp
Avenue Q

Scoop up your tickets before they sell out!

Also, if you're looking for a delicious bite before or after your show, Tony's diNapoli is an EXCELLENT family style Italian restaurant (with delicious sangria). Season of Savings kindly hosted myself and other NYC bloggers at Tony's for a special reception in honor of Season of Savings last week and honestly, I ate a few too many crackers beforehand (I was trying to kill off my unnecessary Hurricane Irene food stash) but I still managed to stuff myself with more food than was reasonable. And I liked it.

-Katharine Ricci, NYCRD Executive Editor

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BEST OF BRUNCH: Casimir's $19.99 Bottomless Brunch (and amazing bacon!)

2011-09-09T13:00:00.000-04:00

Alphabet City’s relative isolation fosters a unique quirkiness and sense of community, and Casimir fits the surrounding landscape perfectly. I got a chance to check out their new $19.99 bottomless mimosa/bloody-mary brunch over the weekend.

Now, if you’re like me, you’ve always associated French cuisine with snobbyness (which may be related to the fact that you never bothered to learn how to pronounce anything in French), but this restaurant has figured out a way to blend Francophilic food with a relaxing, laid back atmosphere. A walk through the medium-sized dining room accented by weathered chairs and tables will bring you to a sunny back patio where you can enjoy the shade of an umbrella or sit in the sun.

A friend and I chose patio table in the sun. In addition to (several) mimosas, my friend chose a dish featuring baked eggs and feta with potatoes on the side while I went with a bagel with salmon, tomato, onions and capers. We both opted for a side of bacon from the a-la-carte menu. My friend had nothing but good things to say about his dish, and the potatoes I poached from him (he’s a carbophobe) were perfect! I had my doubts as to whether a salmon bagel would satiate, but my selection was perfectly portioned and delicious! Oh, and the bacon: excellent.

Our waitress convinced us to try dessert, which isn’t an easy feat when you’re serving French to a lactose-intolerant consumer (which I happen to be). My friend got pistachio ice cream with a shot of espresso on the side, which he loved. And my black courant sorbet with fresh blueberries andstrawberry slices was a silky-smooth pallet cleanser.

If you get a chance, definitely check out this brunch. The prix-fixe menu along with the a-la-carte menu has a bit of something for just about everyone. The staff is laid-back yet helpful, and a good portion of the customers around us seemed to be regulars (always a good sign). Plus, there was no wait for our table!

The combination of the relaxing atmosphere, the service and thequality of the food makes this $19.99 bottomless brunch one of the best deals in the city!

Casimir
103 Avenue B
212-358-9683

--D. Kareem, NYCRD Contributor

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Allure Lounge at the Empire Hotel, Sept. 8-15

2011-09-08T15:12:00.003-04:00

If you have not yet noticed, NYC is crawling with fashionistas of all sorts this week. Fashion's Night Out is tonight, and New York Fashion Week has also kicked off at Lincoln Center. The fashion-saavy have come out to play, and even if you don't know consider yourself in the know, there are plenty of fun events that don't require any exclusive invites.
From today until Sept. 15, the Allure Lounge will be open inside the Empire Hotel. Open to the public from 9am-7pm, guests can enjoy free samples, hair & makeup consultations, mini-makeovers, and other goodies. Happy New York Fashion Week!

Allure Fashion Lounge at the Empire Hotel
63 Street (Broadway and Columbus)
Sept. 8-15
9 am-7 pm

-- Samantha Chin, NYCRD Contributor

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4food: 1 Year Anniversary, $1 Beer, Sangria, Sliders, Free Apps

2011-09-07T09:42:00.002-04:00

4Food is celebrating their one year anniversary today with a plethora of cheap and free goodies. Stop by starting at 5 pm, end time unknown.

BONUS: Read our review of the delicious 4food HERE. Dejunking fast food is delicious.

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R.I.P.N.Y.C Opening Party & Weeklong Art Event, Sept. 1

2011-08-30T10:00:00.000-04:00

From time to time, we bring you art gallery openings & parties, but this is definitely unlike anything we've ever brought you before. From September 1-8, visit R.I.P.N.Y.C. for an entirely new experience:

"R.I.P.N.Y.C. gestures to rip down the opaque veil that institutions such as Chelsea hide behind. We are concerned with the framing of our works in a context that speaks directly to floundering contemporary circumstance. Neither interested in increasing our market value nor bolstering the value of our investors’ collections, we are concerned with making Art that captures the energy of Now.

R.I.P.N.Y.C. features drawings, paintings, videos, photographs, prints, soundmixes, and performances by Andrew Birk, Solyi Suh, and Robert W. DeBois.

R.I.P.N.Y.C. is not a gallery, it is a store that sells artwork following retail-based protocol. The artists will be employed during store hours to answer questions and assist clients. There is no hierarchy between the space, the work, the artists, or the viewers."

R.I.P.N.Y.C. will continue for a week from 12pm-8pm each night, and visitors are also invited to attend the opening party on Sept. 1st, from 8-11 pm with live music by R.I.P.

R.I.P.N.Y.C.
33 Canal Street
New York, NY
September 1-8
12pm-8pm

Opening Party
September 1
8-11pm

For more info on R.I.P.N.Y.C., check out their Tumblr or click here.

See you there!

-- Samantha Chin, NYCRD Contributor

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NYC EARTHQUAKE: Bar, Restaurant and other #QUAKESPECIALS!

2011-08-23T15:22:00.020-04:00

We all felt that - a little rumble in our office buildings some mistook for aggressive typing, until some skimmed their Twitter feed and realized ZOMG, WE'RE IN AN EARTHQUAKE!

First reaction: everyone checked into Earthquakepocolypse on Foursquare (17,000+ NYCers strong!)

Second reaction: any earthquake bar specials?

[Loves it! Photo via Gusto1.com]

YES -- to celebrate our wholistic survival (NYC reported 0 deaths, 0 damage, 0 real sensationalism) bars, restaurants and bakerys across the city are latching on to the newscycle and celebrating with #QUAKESPECIALS!

Here's the NYCRD running list, admittedly a ton are from my pals WinedandDined's Twitter feed because no one thinks to tell me. Add your found earthquake specials into the comments, I'll include!:

THE DELANCY: 2 for 1 Vodka on Rocks with crushed lime and Cranberry, 9:30pm-11pm
BUTTERLANE: Buy-One-Get-One cucapkes, cakepops & Blue Bell ice cream
SUSHISAMBA @ Park Ave South: early Happy Hour specials, now through 7pm
SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY: 50% off all shaken cocktails at Southern Hospitality until 5pm
THIRD AND LONG:$1 Bud/Bud Lights @ThirdandLongNYC in Murray Hill
MACERELLERIA: 2-for-1 Ty-Ku Shochu Martinis all night.
HOP DEVIL GRILL: Earthquake Party tonight, $1 tacos
BONCHONMidtown: $3 chang beer bottles or $2 Coors Light drafts all night
MAIALINO: $5 birre & vini from 5-7:00 pm
SUSHI SAMBA on Park Ave: $5 caipirinhas and mojitos, $4 oyster sampler, $3 spicy tuna roll, $2 tempura
FOODPARC: Free Tanoreen Spread
DESTINATIONBAR: 1/2 off all drinks until 8
ATLANTIC GRILL: $1.50 oysters all day & night, 5.90 specialty drinks starting @5pm
BLUE FIN: $1.50 oysters all day & night, $5.90 specialty drinks starting @5pm
BLUE WATER GRILL: $1.50 oysters all day & night, $5.90 specialty drinks starting @5pm
OCEAN GRILL: $1.50 oysters all day & night, $5.90 specialty drinks starting @5pm
PRIMEHOUSE NY: $1.50 oysters all day & night, $5.90 specialty drinks starting @5pm
DOS CAMINOS: $5.90 specialty drinks starting @5pm
WILDWOOD BBQ: $5.90 specialty drinks starting @5pm
BILL'S BAR AND BURGER: $5.90 specialty drinks starting @5pm
FULL CIRCLE BAR (Williamsburg): $1 off all beers with 5.8 or 5.9 % ABV
Wheeler’s Bar (1707 Sheepshead Bay Road): BOGO Bud, Bud Lights and well drinks @ the bar (via Brokelyn!)
ACQUA AT PECK SLIP: Free Glass of Prosecco with dinner

HOTEL SPECIAL: If you're stuck in NYC due to the earthquake, GansevoortPark has got you covered with a secret deal. Tweet them!

Email specials to: nycrecessiondiary@gmail.com

Tweet specials: @ricebird @nyc_rec_diary

[Me +my office all tweeting about being in an earthquake, photo via Melanie Kwong]

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LEASETRADER.COM: Lease a Car for $199/month or LESS

2011-08-23T11:00:00.001-04:00

If you're sick NY transit's limitations and the expense of renting wheels in the city, I'm excited to share that it's not necessarily "expensive" to lease a car.

Leasetrader.com says inventory of its under-$199 per month vehicle category is at its highest point in history, meaning there's a plethora of cars available making your hunt easy. You'll find mostly Toyota, Honda, Nissan, Mazda and Volkswagen cars, along with the occasionally Mini Cooper (my fav!) sneaking into their available lease offerings.

After a reasonable downpayment (a few thousand dollars), you could have wheels for LESS than what it costs to take out a Zipcar twice a month, as 6 hours in a hourly rental can run you $150+ (not accounting for insurance, which depends on how wonderful/horrible of a driving record you have).

Take a look for yourself if you don't believe it!

Volkswagen Jetta S for $125 per month, Staten Island.

Nissan Altima 2.5 for $154 per month, Staten Island.

Nissan Maxima 3.5 for $199, in Staten Island.

Volkswagen Tiguan S for $199, in Brooklyn.

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The Hipster Puppies Pageant, Book Signing, Free PBRs, 8/25

2011-08-22T11:53:00.002-04:00

Do you have a dog? Does it only wear duds from vintage stores and thrift shops? Does it wear thick-rimmed glasses...not because they need them but just because? Does it hate anything that is considered "mainstream"? Does it only drink PBR... out of its vintage dog bowl? If you answered yes to any of those questions, you may have a hipster puppy. In which case, it would be perfect for Thursday's Hipster Puppies Pageant.

On Thursday, dress your pup up in the very best hipster gear and celebrate Hipster Puppies, a book by Christopher R. Weingarten. Weingarten will be there to sign copies and guests can enjoy free PBRs (naturally).

The Hipster Puppies Pageant
Thursday, August 25
The powerHouse Arena
37 Main St. (at Water St.)
7-9 PM

rsvp@powerHouseArena.com

-- Samantha Chin, NYCRD Contributor

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WHAT YOU MISSED: Hotel Thrillist LA at J.W. Marriott Los Angeles

2011-08-17T13:39:00.016-04:00

“Special” is a minimalist term to describe how I felt being one of 150 social influencers, mediatypes, VIPs and sweepstake winners nationwide who jetted off for a weekend-long showcase for Hotel Thrillist LA.

I spent a couple hours deciding on what to pack. I weighed the options of small carry-on bottles vs. paying a $25 baggage fee until I recalled how I went home with a full size Bacardi Cherry from Hotel Thrillist Miami. If I was to re-live that win, I obviously needed to check my bag. Goal set, full size toiletries, packed.

When I met my friend Maridel at JFK to get on our Virgin flight, she asked me “Are you ready for this”? I was not so much ready as willing.

Five hours and three time zones later, we arrived in the J.W. Marriott Los Angeles lobby to be greeted by a grinning Thrillist staffer with an over-stuffed gift bag for each of us. Why, thank you. When we ravaged the bags later the clear winners were the Nivea beach towel (so luscious!) and the well-made Bacardi cocktail shaker.

After some primp and prep, we took the elevator to the Ion Rooftop Pool Bar for the first event, “Dine-Around L.A. Live,” which featured delectable cuisine from some of the best restaurants in Downtown LA, including Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar, Katsuya L.A. Live, LA Market Restaurant by Kerry Simon, Rosa Mexicano, Trader Vic's Los Angeles, WP24 Restaurant & Lounge by Wolfgang Puck and Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill. We quenched our thirst with BACARDI Arctic Grape and BACARDI Rock Coconut, smartwater, Corona Light and Wines of Germany.

Post-feast we had the opportunity to have our faces read by the latest party trick, the Bumbys, brought to us by Nivea and their “Look Like You Give a Damn” campaign. Yes, I said “faces read.” Think palm reading, but based purely upon your tan, smile and hair. Whispers around the rooftop said they’re not always so nice, but thankfully Maridel’s biggest criticism is that they want to rename her “Gidget” and if I decided to be a restaurant manager, it would be of a “beautiful people” only establishment. Small success?

[The Bumbys]

Belly’s full and drinks on, the next piece of the night took place at the Club Nokia VIP Lounge nearby. We rubbed elbows with a man who claimed to be “Supreme” from the Wu-tang Clan. I remain skeptical of his identity. I wonder what the Bumby’s would have said?

The next morning Maridel awoke from her Bacardi Arctic Grape dead-induced hangover to attend Yoga for Athletes from YAS Fitness Center (presented by smartwater®, my new favorite water brand). I remained dead and only awoke after she returned and yelled “KATHARINE.” Apparently it was time for the mansion pool party.

Yes – that’s right, I said mansion pool party. Our next adventure entailed boarding a tour bus and heading for Hollywood Hills where Thrillist rented out a Spanish-inspired looking home that could be worth more than 500x my salary.

Needless to say, added décor included scattered Nivea beach towels (yes, I went home with like 5 of them), more smartwater than you could shake a hose at and plenty of Thrillist branded beach balls.

To “top” it off (hah), Top Chef Alums Marcel Vigneron and CJ Jacobsen were our featured celebs for the afternoon, with Marcel concocting delicious BACARDI cocktails using liquid nitrogen while CJ served roasted pig, succulent, thinly sliced melon and hot dogs you wouldn’t believe were hot dogs, among other earthly delights.

However, my favorite part of the daytime extravaganza was when synchronized swimmers, the Aqualillies Flash Mob, came out of nowhere with their flirty umbrellas, waterproof mascara, bright red lipstick and washboard abs. Can you tell I’m a fan / jealous?

[Click video to watch]

Before we reboarded the tour bus back into LA traffic, I was able to sneak a back massage from the Ritz Carlton Spa as part of the smartwater® Relaxation and Hydration Station. Even though I was a bad girl and didn’t sign up for the list, the kind spa staff still made it happen right before they closed shop! Three cheers for 5 star service.

Maridel and I catnapped when we got to our room, because before we knew it we were back to boozing at the newly vamped LA Production Studios where we danced hardcore to Deejay Reprise.

[Brain Sussman, Thrillist Staff]

[Drunken Bus Ride]

Things didn’t end there however, because the party continued on the bus back to the hotel and then in one of the suites where some of the Thrillist staffers has stashed up Bacardi Arctic Grape and kept pouring the drinks. Mingling at the after party, I caught up with Brian Sussman and recounted tales from Hotel Thrillist Miami just before I acquired my full-size bottle of Bacardi Arctic Grape (FTW, bitches!) and peaced out for my room no shorter than 6 a.m.

When I awoke a few hours later, I nuzzled my Bacardi between two Nivea towels in my suitcase, and tended to my bitter sweet hangover by chugging three smartwaters before the airport security checkpoint. The weekend clearly was, in a word, epic.

Thank you, as always, Thrillist. If dating a brand was possible, I’d choose you.

*Photos by Kat Goduco & Colin Young-Wolff

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Free Food from the Living Language Food Truck, 8/11

2011-08-11T06:38:00.002-04:00

It's food truck mania on NYC Recession Diary!

Today, you'll have the chance to grab some free food AND practice some language skills.
The Living Language food truck will be in front of Random House at 1745 Broadway (55-56 St) from 12:00pm – 5:00pm.
The truck will feature items such as grapefruit sorbet and pastries, all for free. But you do need to "say it right to get a bite". There will be various phrases in Italian, Spanish, German, and French that visitors will be asked to pronounce (correctly) in order to receive their free goodies.

For example, for the Watermelon & mint agua fresca, you will have to say "Agua fresca de sandía y menta (AH-gua FRES-ka day sen-DEE-a ee MEN-ta)".

If you succeed, not only do you get a treat for free, but "Every one who participates... will also be entered into a raffle for free Living Language Platinum product, Fodor’s travel guides to correlating destinations, and gift certificates to some of the most buzzed about and iconic Italian, German, Spanish, and French spots in the city like Eataly, Bierhaus, and restaurants Empellón, and Recette."

Living Language Food Truck
1745 Broadway (55th-56th St.)
12-5 PM

If you'd like to practice the pronunciations in order to avoid embarassment, here they are in all their glory:

Watermelon & mint agua fresca – Agua fresca de sandía y menta
(AH-gua FRES-ka day sen-DEE-a ee MEN-ta)

Grapefruit sorbet – Sorbet au pamplemousse
(sore-BAY oh pahmp-luh-MOOSE)

Sfogliatelle – A many layered pastry
(sfohl-ya-TEL-lay)

Pretzel with beet-horseradish mayo – Brezel mit rüben meerrettich mayonnaise
(BRET-zel mitt ROO-ben MEHR-re-TIC MY-own-NYE-seh)

Sounds easy enough to me, buena suerte! (I think that means "good luck" in Spanish-let's hope those six years of taking Spanish in school haven't failed me.)

-- Samantha Chin, NYCRD Contributor

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Pico de Gap Taco Truck, $1.69 Taco Deal & $20 Coupon for the Gap

2011-08-11T06:38:00.000-04:00

Another day, another food truck pops up on our NYC streets. The newest? A fashion-related taco truck. Fashion and...tacos? What? In an awesomely fun move, the Gap launched their very own taco truck, Pico de Gap (cute).

An effort to promote Gap's newest additions to its 1969 denim line, Pico de Gap will be offering a bunch of yummy deals and steals, including the following:

1st: Visitors can enjoy two tacos and a drink for $1.69. Yup, you read that right...$1.69!
2nd: Any proof of a same-day denim purchase guarantees your food is free
3rd: Any order at the Pico de Gap truck includes a $20 voucher towards the new Fall 1969 collection

Besides the amazing deals, the menu for Pico de Gap was created by celebrity chef and author Katie Lee, so you know it'll be good. Here is a tentative schedule for the Pico de Gap truck:

Aug. 17: movies in Riverside Park at 8:30 p.m.
Aug. 20 and 21: Afro Punk festival (VIP area) all day
Aug. 25: The Art of Brooklyn festival from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Sept. 10: Westside County Fair from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.

For more specific details on exact locations, check out the truck's official Twitter.
Happy Eating!

-- Samantha Chin, NYCRD Contributor

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WHAT YOU MISSED: Ciara South Seaport Concert sponsored by Malibu

2011-08-08T11:54:00.006-04:00

Hot nights in the city!

Ciara, DJ Skribble and the entire Malibu crew hit up the New York City stop of The Radio Maliboom Boom Station Invasion Tour last Wednesday and rocked out New York City’s Beekman’s Beach Club!

At the exclusive waterfront concert, attendees raised a glass to summer with Malibu’s signature Liquid Sunshine (1 ½ part Malibu, 1 part pineapple juice, 1 part orange juice, splash of club soda over ice) in hand, and got their Bu’ on as Ciara performed some of her greatest hits.

Photos + video below.

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JAMBA JUICE: New coupon for $3 off

2011-08-02T12:27:00.003-04:00

Chill out with a $3 off Jamba Juice coupon. Slurrrrrp. Expires today!

Free Burgers for a Week by Jennie-O & The Bistro Truck, 7/26-7/30

2011-07-26T14:19:00.000-04:00

Ah, burgers- one of life's simplest joys. Today until Saturday the 30th, The Bistro Truck and Jennie-O Turkey Store are teaming up to give away at least 500 free burgers per day, every day until Saturday.

Their delicious partnership hopes to sway people towards turkey burgers, which are leaner and healthier than the traditional red-meat burgers we know and love. I'm already a fan of turkey burgers, so it looks like I know what's for lunch this week.

Here's a list of locations and descriptions of the burgers at each respective spot, thanks to New York Street Food:

"Tuesday, July 26 – Hudson Street and King Street – The Mulberry Street Turkey Burger – A turkey patty topped with homemade marinara sauce, and finished with premium parmesan cheese.

Wednesday, July 27 – Union Square Farmer’s Market (15th St) – The Flatiron Turkey Burger – Made by thin-slicing portobello and oyster mushrooms, sautéing everything with a blend of herbs and spices, and placing it on top of a cooked turkey patty, which is topped with cheddar cheese and sliced avocado.

Thursday, July 28 – Old Slip Street and Water FIDI - The Brooklyn-Style Turkey Burger – A turkey burger sprinkled with oregano, cumin and chili powder, cooked, and fried red onions and cheddar cheese are added.

Friday, July 29 – 52nd Street and Park Avenue – The Bronx Turkey Burger – A turkey patty is placed on the grill. As it cooks, it’s topped with blackened poblano peppers and charred scallions. Then it’s served with spicy mayo and a creamy cheese sauce.

Saturday, July 30 – Washington Street and Gansevoort Street – The East Village Turkey Burger – A simple turkey burger patty mixed with panko (or “punko” as Yassir calls it) and parsley before cooking, then served with thin slice of cucumber, bean sprouts and brie."

Burgers will start being served at 11 am, so get there early to get your free burger! That Flatiron burger sounds amazing...nom.

-- Samantha Chin, NYCRD Contributor

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What You Missed: Milk St. Cafe Press Preview

2011-07-21T09:00:00.002-04:00

All of you who live/work in the Financial District, have you been to Milk Street Cafe yet? If your answer is no, drop whatever you're doing and go. Unless it's really late or you're not at work anymore, then don't...but whenever you get a chance, do it.

A little over a month ago, I had the opportunity to attend a press preview for the all new Milk St. Cafe, a gourmet food hall that calls 40 Wall Street home. The Financial District has recently been popping up with various food options, which is great for the formerly flavor-starved employees who have had to venture elsewhere for lunch. But Milk St. seems to offer a million options, all in one place.

First of all, the space is massive. At an impressive 23,000 square feet, Milk St. Cafe has more than enough room for hungry FiDi-ners. There are various areas to choose from, including 2 salad sections, fresh sushi, deli-style sandwiches, Asian specialties, rotisserie offerings, desserts and pastries, and much more.

[The space is large and airy, this is only the back of the room.]
Guests were invited to sample a lot of the food from various stations. There was a sushi chef working his magic, and the sushi was super fresh and delicious.

[Sushi master and the trays and trays of sushi!]

Milk St. Cafe has hot/cold breakfast stations, as well as a barista station.

[The delicious chocolate, strawberry, and vanilla drink offerings.]

[A few more shots of the space.]

[My friend Malaika and I]

Milk St. Cafe has it all. Everything's fresh, made on-site, and tasty. There are limitless choices and offerings. They open at 6:30 AM, in time for breakfast, and close at 9 PM on Mondays-Thursdays. On Fridays, they close at 3 PM. They offer Corporate Catering as well as delivery services. FiDi-ners, this one's for you.

Milk Street Cafe
40 Wall St. inside the Trump Building
Mon - Thurs: 6:30 am-9:00 pm
Fri: 6:30 am - 3:00 pm

For more information on Milk St. Cafe, click here.

-- Samantha Chin, NYCRD Contributor

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TIME OUT NY: On the Rooftop Event, $25 3 hour open bar July 18

2011-07-15T20:09:00.002-04:00

Time Out New York brought back their popular summer "On the Rooftop" series, and their second event of the season is set to take place on Monday, July 18, at The Delancey.

As always, admission is just $25 for a three hour open bar. This time, beverages will be provided by Stella Artois and DonQ Rum. A portion of the admission price goes to the Food Bank of New York City.

To purchase tickets, click here.

-- Samantha Chin, NYCRD Contributor

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Summer Get Down in Chinatown, Free Dim Sum, $2 Beer/Wine, July 27

2011-07-15T19:20:00.002-04:00

Without a doubt, Chinatown is one of my favorite parts of the city. I just came back from a month-long study abroad adventure in Shanghai, and even though I was in the Motherland, I found myself missing dim sum at the Golden Unicorn and late-night lo mein at Wo Hop. If you haven't had your own culinary adventures in Chinatown, it's a great time to start.

On Wednesday, July 27, enjoy Dim Sum and Drinks at Summer Get Down. A collaboration between Nom Wah Tea Parlor and Chinatown Chow Down NYC, there will be loads of complimentary dim sum and $2 beer and wine. The event will celebrate the brand new renovation of Nom Wah, which is the city's oldest Dim Sum restaurant (90 years old!), the launch of their new T-shirts, as well as the release of the Chinatown Chow Down NYC App on iTunes.

The Chinatown Chow Down App is an awesome guide to eating in Chinatown, perfect for those of you with iPhones and iPads, looking to explore this part of the city. Should be a fun event, and if you attend, don't forget to hit up Chinatown Ice Cream Factory afterwards for a yummy treat!

To check out the app, click here.
To check out Nom Wah Tea Parlor, click here.

Summer Get Down
Nom Wah Tea Parlor
13 Doyers St
New York, NY
7-9 PM

-- Samantha Chin, NYCRD Contributor

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Personal Consultations with Makeup Artist Matthew Vanleeuwen, June 17

2011-06-03T15:00:00.000-04:00

Celeb Makeup Artist Matthew Vanleeuwen is going to be appearing at the Clé de Peau Beauté counter at Saks Fifth Ave on Friday, June 17th. This is the perfect opportunity to get some expertise on some makeup do's and don'ts as well as some personalized advice. Vanleeuwen's clients include some of the most beautiful women in Hollywood (Heidi Klum, Salma Hayek, Jennifer Lopez, Sandra Bullock).

He'll also be on hand to celebrate the launch of the new Spring/Summer 2011 Clé de Peau Beauté Makeup Collection. The collection, titled La Beauté Metalique, will feature items with a metallic twist. Vanleeuwen will only be there Friday, June 17th from 10 am-6 pm.
There are limited appointments available, so to schedule a consultation, call 212-940-5305, ext. 2678. Get gorgeous, ladies!

Clé de Peau Beauté Counter at Saks Fifth Avenue (511 Fifth Avenue)
Friday, June 17th
10:00 AM – 6:00PM

-- Samantha Chin, NYCRD Contributor

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CABARETION 2.0: June 27

2011-06-01T11:35:00.000-04:00

Artsy party celebrating Charles Busch! He's an actor, playwright, novelist, screenwriter, director AND drag legend. This cabaret performance, eclectic crowd and 3 hour open bar will be totally worth the ticket. Who's in?!

INNOVATIVE THEATRE FOUNDATION CELEBRATES CHARLES BUSCH

The New York Innovative Theatre Foundation, the organization dedicated to celebrating Off-Off-Broadway, is pleased to recognize Charles Busch with the 2011 Innovative Theatre Luminary Award at their benefit CABARETION 2.0! [KA-ba-'RAY-sh-un !], noun - The fusion of contribution, performance, and celebration of the Off-Off-Broadway community.

Join them on Monday, June 27, 2011 from 6 - 9 pm at Therapy’s upstairs lounge, 348 West 52nd Street, at a performance to benefit The Innovative Theatre Foundation. Tickets begin at $40 per guest and can be purchased at www.nyitawards.com/shop.

In a special presentation by Julie Halston, the 2011 Innovative Theatre Luminary Award will be presented to Charles Busch. A luminary is someone who is an inspiration to others and has achieved eminence in their field.

As an Off-Off-Broadway alumnus, Busch knows the challenges that face artists in this sector. Busch was one of the founders of the legendary OOB company Theatre in Limbo in the 1980’s, where he honed his skills on such plays asSleeping Beauty or Coma and Psycho Beach Party. It was the Theatre in Limbo’s production of Vampire Lesbians of Sodom that first propelled Busch into the lime light. While he has reached great success, he continues to be a part of the OOB community. He was the first host for the Innovative Theatre Awards in 2006, celebrating the Off-Off-Broadway community and his roots. His productions of Shanghai Moon (1999) and The Divine Sister (2010) both premiered at the OOB house, Theatre for a New City. His dedication, generosity and numerous talents continue to be an inspiration to his fellow artists.

"I'm enormously touched to be recognized by the Innovative Theatre Awards,” says Mr. Busch. “From the beginning, my career has taken me on a twisted and frequently fascinating back road. I'm delighted if my experience has in some way illuminated that path for young artists to travel."

The $40 ticket includes:
The special award presentation
Cabaret performance
1 hour of passed hors d'oeuvres
3 hours of open beer & wine bar

CABARETION 2.0!
Monday, June 27, 2011
6pm to 9pm
At Therapy - The Upstairs Lounge
348 West 52nd Street (between 8th & 9th Avenues)

Tickets begin at $40 per guest and can be purchased at www.nyitawards.com/shop.

What You Missed: Mallory Musante "Shoe and Tell" Preview Event

2011-06-01T11:30:00.000-04:00

In 2009, designer Mallory Musante began her own line of beautiful hand-painted footwear. Her line began with kitten heels and has expanded to platforms, and also offers custom designed products as well as looks for brides to be and their bridal parties. Mallory's designs have been seen on the runways of New York Fashion Week, Real Housewife of NYC Alex McCord as well as former Real Housewife of NJ Dina Manzo. On May 18, she had a fabulous trunk show and debuted her Fall 2011 and Spring 2012 collections. I had the pleasure of attending the event, and I'm happy to report- girls got skills.

Hosted by celebrity stylist Yannique Joseph and held at SoHo boutique Ruia, guests munched on cupcakes from Craving 4 Cupcakes and drinks from Skinny Water.

The shoes were absolutely beautiful. Each and every pair is made with genuine leather and painted with acrylic paint, signed by Mallory herself.

My favorites included the "Emma" shoe, with great purple bow detail on the back (I have an unhealthy obsession with bows, by the way).

I loved the tribal pattern on the "Skyler" and the lace pattern on the "Evelyn".

My other favorite thing about the shoes? They're affordable! Prices range from $125-$175. Great, customizable hand-painted heels for under $200? Definitely a winning combination.

To buy a pair of Mallory Musante Shoes, click here, or to find out more about Mallory Musante and stay updated, visit her Facebook page here.

-- Samantha Chin, NYCRD Contributor

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May Meze Madness: Pera offers 3 appetizers (mezes) for $9 through May

2011-05-26T17:33:00.002-04:00

May Meze Madness is back with a vengeance, but there are only a few days left to take advantage of Pera Mediterranean Brasserie's deal!

For just $9, choose three items from their signature mezes menu and if you're in the mood for vino, add a bottle of wine for $30. The offer is valid until the end of May everyday from 3:30-Closing. To check out the full Meze Madness menu, click here.

Meze Choices:
cauliflower frito
feta-stuffed dates
beef and bulghur tartar
“çiğ␣ köfte” mediterranean olives
hand-rolled grape leaves
crispy phyllo rolls
warm hummus with lavash chips
roasted whipped eggplant
watermelon and feta salad
pera-style tomato and onion
soujouk lollipops
mediterranean meatballs
cheese selection ($6 extra)

This is one of our favorite deals and it's a must before the month ends. Last year, NYCRD'S Nora Devin checked it out and you can read her review here. So uh, what are you waiting for?

Pera Mediterranean Brasserie
303 Madison Avenue, between 41st and 42nd Streets
212-868-6301

-- Samantha Chin, NYCRD Contributor

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Aysha Saeed Sale: 50%-75% May 24 - 26

2011-05-23T13:00:00.000-04:00

Sick of your current spring/summer wardrobe?

Shop for some great new pieces from the current collection at the Aysha Saeed Showroom, with prices that are 50-75% off retail. Um, amazing. Bring a friend and be sure to make an appointment to check out the offerings. The super sale will take place from Tuesday, May 24-to Thursday, May 26 from noon-8 pm (perfect for a lunch break or post-work shopping trip).

An RSVP is required, email events@ayshasaeed.com with the date and time you're interested in.

AYSHA SAEED SALE 50-75% Off
Aysha Saeed Showroom
109 W 38st, Suite 301 (between 6th ave and Broadway)
May 24- 26th (Tuesday - Thursday)
noon - 8pm

-- Samantha Chin, NYCRD Contributor

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Every Wednesday in May: $1 Goodburgers!

2011-05-18T12:00:00.000-04:00

In honor of National Burger Month, NYC burger joint goodburger will be dishing up "Single for a $ingle" Wednesdays in May. Customers can come to any goodburger location from 3-5 pm every Wednesday in May and get a mouth-watering single burger for $1, "The Works" included.

That's $1 burgers, today and next Wednesday, May 25th.

Maximum of 5 burgers per customer, in-store purchase only.

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Rare Bird Lit Community Party: May 25, drinks

2011-05-18T10:33:00.006-04:00

The powerHouse Arena and Rare Bird Lit invite you to a Book Expo America party: Rare Bird Lit Community Party!

Immediately following the paperback launch of Emma Donoghue's Room here at the Arena, we join forces with Rare Bird Lit for what is sure to be an unforgettable Book Expo America party complete with music, special guests and book giveaways.

Rare Bird Lit, a Los Angeles based PR and marketing firm geared toward literary ventures, has landed in New York. Rare Bird’s New York based Director of Marketing and Publicity, Christina Galante (formerly of 826LA), is pulling together their community of New York friends old and new, for an evening of music, books, and mingling.

Members of Robbers on High Street will be spinning a '60s garage/soul DJ set, and attendees will get a chance to meet Rare Bird author Oriana Small (Girlvert) and others. Refreshments are free, but a $25 donation to 826NYC will get you access to private lounge and a giftbag with books and music from the sponsors. Another LA favorite, Coolhaus Ice Cream Truck, will be on the scene with their architecturally themed snacks.

Sponsors: Tijuana Gift Shop, Kensington Books, Melville House, 826NYC, FILTER Magazine, Smuttynose Brewing Company

Wednesday, May 25

9:30–11:30 PM
The powerHouse Arena
37 Main Street, Brooklyn, NY 11201
Please RSVP: http://rarebirdlitbea.eventbrite.com/

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100Cameras: Rooftop Party, May 16

2011-05-11T12:30:00.003-04:00

Behold, the return of the rooftop parties! As temperatures keep on rising, so do the number of New York City rooftop happenings, and I could not be more excited. Monday, May 16, enjoy a beautiful night at The Empire Hotel Rooftop with 100Cameras for a great cause.

100Cameras is a fantastic nonprofit organization that gives cameras to children who are living in not-so-wonderful conditions, allowing them to document their lives and capture what they see from day to day. Their photos help raise awareness and hope to promote growth within their community.

Boasting an amazing view of Lincoln Center, Columbus Circle and the Upper West Side, The Empire Hotel Rooftop is the place to be. And on Monday, guests are welcome to purchase some of the photos taken by these children, with all proceeds going to the partner organization. Admission to the event is free, so enjoy the view while also helping out children in need. Sounds like one productive Monday!

To RSVP, click here.
To learn more about 100Cameras, click here.

100Cameras Spring Photo Exhibition
Monday, May 16th
6:30-10:00 PM
44 West 63rd Street

-- Samantha Chin, NYCRD Contributor

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MISHA NICOLE: Sachin + Babi Trunk Show, May 12

2011-05-11T12:00:00.002-04:00

Ah, fashion and free drinks- some of a recessionista's favorite things (at least for this recessionista).

On Thursday night, MISHA NICOLE, a women's retail concept store, will play host to a Sachin + Babi Trunk Show, as well as a delicious cocktail party. Complete with informal modeling and yummy drinks, dance to music by DJ Taiga of The Remixologists and enjoy the amazing fashions from the Sachin + Babi duo.

Sachin + Babi Trunk Show and Cocktail Party
Thursday, May 12
6:30-8:30 PM
MISHA NICOLE
303 Bowery

To RSVP, click here.

-- Samantha Chin, NYCRD Contributor

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Ricky’s NYC’s Revolver Salon and Hair Rules: Free blowouts, 5/12

2011-05-10T14:01:00.003-04:00

Learn what products work best for your hair type and get a silky, smooth blowout – for free. If you buy any Hair Rules product, you'll also get a 2oz Hydrating Finishing Cream free! As the norm: first come, first served.

Ricky’s NYC Revolver Salon, Columbia University Location

Thursday, May 12th 2 – 6 pm
2906 Broadway (Between 113th St and 114th St)

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FREE SUMMER CONCERTS: Get your fill of Free Concerts

2011-05-10T11:47:00.000-04:00

Thank God the days of parkas, rainboots and bundling up seem to finally be behind us. Now that winter has passed, spring is under way and summer is approaching, I'm counting down the days 'til I can rock shorts and a tank daily. In the spirit of my favorite season, I bring you FreeSummerConcerts.com.

During the summer, FreeSummerConcerts.com lists hundreds of free concerts and events all throughout the city. There is a calendar of day-to-day events and if you sign up for their emails, twice a week you'll receive a listing of free concerts for that week. Everything from jazz festivals to concert series are listed, so it will be super easy to enjoy NYC to the fullest, for free.

Summer, let's get it on.

-- Samantha Chin, NYCRD Contributor

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Indie Couture NYC Magazine: Launch Event, cocktails & shopping, May 7

2011-05-05T15:30:00.003-04:00

Love me a summer launch party, NYCRD!

Celebrate the launch of Indie Couture NYC Magazine at The Soho Digital Gallery on Saturday May 7, from 7PM-12AM! Cocktails and shopping galore courtesy of Koonce Jewelers (www.kooncejewelers.com) and media partner Nichole Dossous of sugaRush TV.

Indie Couture NYC Magazine Launch

The Soho Digital Gallery

138 Sullivan Street in New York City

May 7, 2011

7PM-12AM

RSVP: events@indiecouturemedia.com

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ARCHIE COMICS: Free Comic Book Day 5/7

2011-05-01T08:00:00.000-04:00

Are you an Archie fan? If so, be sure to stop by your local comic book store for Free Comic Book day! Walk into a participating store, and you'll be able to choose a free selected comic book; it's that simple!

Check out the official Free Comic Book Day website for more info.

-- D. Kareem, NYCRD Contributor

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Foursquare: Check their NEW brand page for deals!

2011-04-08T11:45:00.000-04:00

This is especially exciting for all you social media masters/mavens: Foursquare has added a tool to the app that will ultimately help users find even more pretty sweet deals.

For those of you who aren't aware of the wonders of the 'square, Foursquare is an app that lets you "check-in" to a location, as well as see where your friends have checked in. You can add details and tips to that location and the more you use the app, you get to earn "badges". The more you visit a location, the more points you earn. Points can end up in special discounts and deals, just for Foursquare users. However even without frequenting a location a lot, Foursquare users get exclusive deals all the time. NYCRD reported a little while back a deal for free lipstick from NARS as well as a series of other specials.

Now that you've had a Foursquare tutorial, here comes the real news. Foursquare just added their Pages Gallery. This page lists hundreds of brands that are on Foursquare and allows you to Follow the brand and earn tips and even badges. Some of the brands listed are Bravo, MTV, Starbucks, Walgreens, and so many more. You can search for brands as well as check out what your friends are following. Another great tool to an already amazing one. Kudos to you, Foursquare, kudos to you.

-- Samantha Chin, NYCRD Contributor

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Maid Service: 50% off HouseWarmers Maids NYC

2011-04-08T11:21:00.005-04:00

I've been laying low on buying deals from Groupon and other sites, but today's LivingSocial deal struck a serious need!

My new apartment is riddled with dog fur. And it's not from my dog, because I don't own any pets (Sprinkles, my video cat, is an exception). The dude who lived in my apartment before me allegedly owned a giant German Shepperd and did not clean the apartment before he left. So, there's clogged fur stuck behind the refrigerator, in the radiators and attached to other random areas. Its smell also lingers.

My landlord offered to pay for cleaning service but only up to $100 (WHAT?!). We all know that's not enough $ considering the amount of work that needs to be done to clean this up.

Hopefully, my dear HouseWarmer Maids of NYC are up to the challenge. If they do well, I will tip them big!

To get your 50% off maid deal from Living Social, click here!

--Katharine Ricci, NYCRD Executive Editor

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WHAT YOU MISSED: Thrillist Martini Week

2011-04-06T11:30:00.006-04:00

I love Thrillist Martini Week!

Monday night Laura from 89th and Broke (and Von from Socially Superlative swung by later) and I stopped by their kick-off happy hour at The Kitchen NYC, where I found live demos from top mixologists crafting their own Bombay Sapphire and Grey Goose martini cocktails. Pretty waitresses in blue dresses also wandered around the venue, offering mini martinis and hors d’oeurves from Top Chef’s Cynthia Sestito, who could be seen hurriedly preparing her little treats behind an exposed kitchen.

In case you are ill-informed, Martini Week is a citywide celebration taking place from April 4-17th, 2011, during which 16 of Thrillist’s favorite bars and restaurants offer their own unique interpretation of a classic Gin or Vodka Martini. They all cost about $11, but price does vary from $8 - 24.

One thing that does puzzle me is why it's called Martini "Week" when it runs for TWO weeks. For future events I suggest, perhaps, "Festival" or "Fortnight," but as someone pointed out to me in conversation my ideas don't sound as good as "week." She has a point.

Anyway, to claim the deal, which runs each day from 5:30pm – 8:30pm, simply tell the bartender that you've arrived for your Martini Week cocktail.

[Laura from 89th and Broke and I. Please ask her why she Instagramed this. And no, I don't know where our martini's are. We were definitely drinking them]

Participating venues include:
48 Lounge
Abe & Arthurs
Aspen Social Club
Ava Lounge
Double Crown
Dylan Prime
INC Lounge at the Time Hotel
Merc Bar
Oceana, Public
Rayuela, Revel NYC
Tao
The Pierre: Two E Bar
VIG 27
Volstead

Photography (except for the Instagram) by: Michael Toolan

- Katharine Ricci, NYCRD Executive Editor

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FREE SHOWTIME: The Borgias, United States of Tara, Nurse Jackie premieres

2011-04-05T10:30:00.000-04:00

Showtime had a huge week with the premieres of 3 shows: Nurse Jackie, United States of Tara and their new period drama The Borgias. It sucks for those of us who don't have Showtime, though. Or does it...

The good folks at Showtime want to give you a taste of their new lineup, so they gave us the first episode of all three shows! You can watch them online, but only through Friday 4/8.

The Borgias

Nurse Jackie

United States of Tara

And, if you decide to take the plunge and order Showtime, you'll get $25 cash back. Check out the details: http://www.sho.com/order

--D. Kareem, NYCRD Contributor

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WICKED WEEKS: Martini Week with Thrillist and Yelp Drinks Week

2011-04-04T14:00:00.000-04:00

89th and Broke alerted us that this week is Yelp Drinks Week. This means bars all over NYC are offering 50% off three select drinks at their venue. Click here for the full list of participating bars.

Also, Thrillist is once again hosting Martini Week, starting today, going through April 14th. I'll be heading over to their kick-off party tonight, but if you're just oh-so-eager, you can check out coverage from last year's event here.

--Katharine Ricci, NYCRD Executive Editor

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LZ Project Space: E.M.F. Open Doors Art Opening, May 6

2011-04-01T10:00:00.000-04:00

Emrie Brooke Foster, also known as E.B.F., is one busy woman. Not only is the artist and painter about to release her new book, "Me and My Good Girl 2", as well as her new documentary "Art on The Streets"; her brand new paintings are about to be on exhibit in Open Doors, at the LZ Project Space.

Join her for the opening reception on Friday, May 6, 2011 at LZ Project Space. View her new paintings, as well as catch the first look at her new book and watch a sneak peak of the trailer for her documentary. Open Doors, the exhibition, will be on display from May 2 through May 15.

E.M.F. Art Show Opening: Open Doors
Opening Reception
Friday May 6
7 pm-Midnight
LZ Project Space @ NY Studio Gallery
164 Suffolk Street
New York, NY 10002
Live Music by Sulimon & Surprise Guest

-- Samantha Chin, NYCRD Contributor

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NYCRD REVIEW: Mother of God! ongoing through 3/26

2011-03-15T13:00:00.000-04:00

Mother of God! takes its title quite literally as a comical interpretation of the story of Jesus' mother. Miriam, a young Jewish maid finds herself betrothed to one of the richest and most revered men in her town, Joseph. It just so happens that Joseph is at least twice her age and pious to the point of absurdity. And as luck would have it, Miriam is seduced and impregnated by a messenger of God in human form on the day of her betrothal. And if you saw this human form, you wouldn't blame her.

Meanwhile, a con artist of a priest ropes in a trade merchant and a Chinese astrologist to convince the much unfavored King Herod that the new "celestial body" in the sky is the sign of the birth of a new king. The king pays them well to investigate the phenomenon (i.e., "follow that [st]ar").

Miriam has to deal with a well-meaning drunk of a father, a mother who pushes guilt like crack in the 80's, a fiance who is still dealing with the public shame of his first wife's infidelity, and the burden of telling them all that she's a pregnant virgin.

Did I mention her favorite aunt and confidante is the psychic ex-girlfriend of said fiancé?

The great thing about this show is how much it doesn't take itself too seriously. The production's nod to to classic silent film is most obvious in the set changes, which featured a hokey soundtrack and comically exaggerated exchanged gestures between characters. And the recurring description of the black Miriam as fair and pale became the show's running gag. While this show falls safely in the category of comedy, it has intense, heavy and even suspenseful moments. Furthermore, coming from a very religious upbringing, I appreciated the parallels to the biblical story as well as the creative liberties that the show takes with the original story lines.

Mother of God!

Richmond Shepard Theater

By Michele A. Miller

Directed by Melody Brooks

309 e 26th St

http://www.newperspectivestheatre.org/

Through March 26th
Wed—Sat, 8pm

Sun, 3pm

Tickets are $18 ($15 for students/seniors) and are available through TheaterMania or by calling 212-352-3101.

-- D. Kareem, NYCRD Contributor

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Time Out: 50 Ways to Make Money

2011-03-10T10:50:00.003-05:00

If you're looking for extra cash, Time Out NY has pulled together another one of their infamous lists letting you know how it's done. From guest bartending, to being part of a fake jury to taking baby pictures, there's no odd job uncovered in this extensive list.

Click here to read the article.

FOURSQUARE: Unlock new specials, starting TODAY

2011-03-09T17:38:00.002-05:00

Check it - Foursquare has just announced a series of new specials, designed to be unlocked when groups of people check in.

We've pulled all the good ones from their blog post, copy-paste style:

Sports Authority is running a Flash Special from 3/11 to 4/9. Each store randomly unlocks on one day for the first to check-in after 11am to score a free gift card, up to $500 in value.

This Friday at 10am at Barnes & Noble across the country be one of the first 10 people at any Barnes & Noble to check in after 10am to get $10 off a NOOK Color.

H&M is running an amazing Friends Special: check in with three foursquare friends and get 24% off any item.

At Whole Foods, check in with a friend at any participating location (it’ll say ‘Special’ in the app) and score a free cookie!

Go to any Chili’s nationwide and check in with three friends and your table will get a free appetizer.

When you go to one of over 500 Applebee’s restaurants nationwide, you can take advantage of their Swarm Special, with everyone in the Swarm getting free mozzarella sticks if 5 people check in after 9pm.

EXCELLENT.

-Katharine Ricci, NYCRD Executive Editor

$5.00 UNDERWEAR: Save $12.00 on Undergear's Physical Collection thru 3/7

2011-03-04T12:44:00.002-05:00

MEN: you really shouldn't be wearing tighty-whiteys. I mean, a nice pair of briefs is fine, but if you're still doing plain Hanes or FTL (or dark paisley boxers), it's really time to step up your game.

Luckily, UNDERGEAR is offering their Physical collection for $5 thru Monday, 3/7! These undies usually go for $17, so it's a real STEAL. I just purchased 4 of their items, and my total with shipping came out to just under $28 (including $7.95 shipping). That's about $43 for a week's worth of head-turning surprises for your significant other!

And most importantly, you won't be wearing the same underwear as your dad. You're welcome.

-- D. Kareem, NYCRD Contributor

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LA RECEPTION: A Search for Heartbreaking Beauty, March 5

2011-02-28T09:00:00.001-05:00

I love the name of Sonya Louise Barham's Kickstarter project, "A Search for Heartbreaking Beauty." It reminds of simpler times, where things were somehow more complicated than they are now.

On March 5 she is hosting a reception for her project in LA, where you can enjoy a glass of wine and consider purchasing a photograph to aid the young photographer in her quest.

A Search for Heartbreaking Beauty

Sonya Louise Barham
Reception: March 5, 6-9pm
March 4 - March 6, 2011

Fifth Floor

502 Chung King Ct.

Los Angeles, CA

A one weekend exhibition of photographs by Sonya Louise Barham. Proceeds will support her "Experiment About Experience" as she sells nearly all of her earthly possessions and takes off to explore the world and blog about her adventures. Find out more and follow along at herblog. Happy vicarious travels!

Editions of her photo prints will be for sale and 10% of all other store sales during the reception will also be contributed to her Kickstarter Fund.

You can also find the event on Facebook.

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JERKY TASTING: Williamsburg, free Brooklyn Brewery Beer Feb 25, 26

2011-02-25T13:44:00.002-05:00

Beef & Beer - the perfect weekend combo! If the rain keeps up like this, you'll need this pick-me-up in Williamsburg, happening all weekend.

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Bonobos Sample Sale 2/24 & 2/25

2011-02-24T19:39:00.000-05:00

Bonobos makes amazing pants for men. They run on the expensive side, but the fit is pretty damn perfect. So why am I writing about expensive pants on a Recession blog?

*Oprah voice*

Because they’re having a SAMPLE SAAAAALE!

Most sample sales are an absolute madhouse, and the one they had this summer was no different. But they offered great discounts, and they had free beer! Get there early for the best pickings and plan on a line. Bonobos also sells shirts, blazers, shoes and other apparel.

And if you can't make the sale, they're offering $50 off your first online purchase of $100 or more!

Bonobos Sample Sale

February 24^th & 25^th 6-10pm

59 w 19^th St., Suite 6B

-- D. Kareem, NYCRD Contributor

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WEEKLY WRAP UP: Free Showtime, "Naked" Cruise, & Cocktails!

2011-02-21T19:16:00.008-05:00

Deals and steals are everywhere in NYC! Here are the highlights from the latest postings.

The Manhattan Cocktail Classic includes a plethora of events taking place May 13-17^th. You can vote for the event line-up! Click for info.
Showtime has posted 3 episodes of their new series Episodes on their website. Check out Matt LeBlanc’s newest comedy venture. Click for info.
Get “naked” with the Coney Island Polar Bear Club and attend their Manhattan cruise for free! Click for info.

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WONDERLAND: Cheap Tickets

2011-02-12T19:22:00.002-05:00

EXCITING BROADWAY OFFER!

Here is an amazing deal, tickets to a new Broadway show- for $25! No joke!

On Monday, February 14, beginning at 10:00 am, the first 100 people in line can buy tickets at this special price for the new musical WONDERLAND on Broadway!

WONDERLAND is an exciting new musical based on the classic tale of Alice in Wonderland, but set in modern day terms, in modern day Manhattan. On her adventure, Alice meets a slew of interesting characters that help her remember what's really important. For more information on the musical, click here.

To redeem this Mad Hatter WONDERLAND ticket offer, make it to the Marquis Theatre Box Office beginning at 10 AM, try and be one of the first 100 people in line and get your tickets for $25. There is a limit of four tickets per person, and tickets are for preview performances 3/21 through 4/16. BTW, tickets originally cost $125.

-- Samantha Chin, NYCRD Contributor

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American Apothecary: Fall 2011 Runway Show and Cocktail Reception, 2/16

2011-02-10T14:00:00.001-05:00

At the last American Apothecary party the crowd was a little odd (for starters, I saw this little white haired man I see at almost every event I go to - anyone know his name), but these two model boys (cute, gay, makeup) and event details ("snow" everywhere, including fake $100 dollar bills to snort it up, a necklace gift for coming) made the event as a whole pretty lovely and amazing.

“Sweet meets Street”

American Apothecary’s

Fall 2011

Runway Show

Wednesday February 16^th, 2011

Restaurant i

893 Broadway

(between 19^th and 20^th Streets)

New York, NY 10003

7:00pm Cocktail Reception Hosted By Director/Producer ZM Wright

(open bar & catered hors d’oeuvres)

8:00pm Runway Show

9:00pm DJ Party

(open bar & catered hors d’oeuvres)

RSVP

Events@A-Apothecary.com

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TACO BELL: Free Taco for liking them on Facebook

2011-02-10T13:46:00.003-05:00

Due to a very curious class action lawsuit that claims "where's the beef?" in Taco Bell meat, Taco Bell is giving a free crunchy taco to all their Facebook fans.

Want yours? Go get it.

After 10 million downloads, the offer will cease to exist. I printed mine and it expires February 16 - your date might be different, however.

-Katharine Ricci, NYCRD Executive Editor

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"Naked" Polar Bear Cruise: Free Manhattan cruise!

2011-02-09T10:23:00.000-05:00

Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises and the Coney Island Polar Bear Club are teaming up at the end of February for the third annual "Naked" Polar Bear Cruise.

You may know Circle Line for their fun cruises that tourists (and yours truly) love to take advantage of, and you may know the Polar Bear Club as a group of brave souls who strip down to their skivvies and run into the cold ocean at Coney Island. Why are the two joining forces? For a good cause, namely the Wildlife Conservation Society.

The Wildlife Conservation Society oversees the Bronx Zoo and New York Aquarium. All of this year's proceeds will benefit them and unlike the annual Polar Bear Plunge, you needn't jump into the ice cold water. Those who would like to participate will get "naked" (swimsuits) and in exchange, ride for free. Spectators who would like to attend but don't wish to strip will pay the small $20 fee and "naked" participants are encouraged to seek support in the form of sponsors. Sponsorship will award passengers for each minute they're out in the cold, and whenever they need to get cozy, participants are welcome to enjoy free hot cocoa.

The third annual "Naked" Polar Bear Cruise will take place on February 26th at Pier 83 and boarding will begin at 10:30 am. This could be super fun to do with a big group...and it's for a great cause too!

To purchase tickets, click here and for sponsorship forms, click here.

“Naked” Polar Bear Cruise
February 26, 2011
Boarding Begins at 10:30 a.m.; Cruise Returns to Port at 12 noon
Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises
Pier 83, West 42nd Street on the Hudson River
New York, NY 10036

-- Samantha Chin, NYCRD Contributor

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Borders: Fashion Week Event Feb 10

2011-02-08T09:30:00.001-05:00

Ah, New York Fashion Week is almost upon us, taking place beginning on February 10th and going through the 17th. Here's a fab event to begin Fashion Week in style (and on the cheap):

On February 10th at Borders at the Time Warner Center from 5-6:30 pm, join author Wendy Goodman, author of The World of Gloria Vanderbilt as well as editor for New York Magazine, for a book signing and a presentation celebrating the life and work of fashion and style icon, Gloria Vanderbilt.

Afterwards, from 6:30-8, enjoy complimentary wine & hors d'oeuvres to celebrate Gloria.

Book Signing and Presentation
February 10th
5-6:30 pm
Borders Book & Music at Time Warner Center

Wine & Hors D'oeuvres
6:30-8 pm
Coca Cola Lounge at the Time Warner Center
The Shops at Columbus Circle
2nd Floor

To RSVP for this fabulous event, click here.

-- Samantha Chin, NYCRD Contributor

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Bath & Body Works: Free Travel Size Item with Purchase through Feb 22

2011-02-08T08:01:00.001-05:00

Next time you're at Bath & Body Works picking up some body mists or hand lotion, bring along this nifty coupon and get a free travel size item from their Signature collection with any purchase.

The coupon works for any item up to a $5 value and is valid until February 22nd.

-- Samantha Chin, NYCRD Contributor

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SIGNPOST: $15 blow dry at Jean Ferre Hair Salon

2011-02-08T08:00:00.001-05:00

From Signpost.com (only 20 available!):

Whether you are going out on a hot date or meeting your girlfriends for drinks, if you have a bad hair day, your entire night may blow. No matter if your hair is wavy, curly or almost straight, the skilled hair stylists at Jean Ferre Hair Salon in Greenwich Village can help combat any hair disasters, thanks to a $15 blow dry - worth $25, a savings of 40%! Armed with a blow dryer and flat iron, these stylists are ready to tackle your mane and get you ready for a night out on the town.

Click here to buy!

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FREE SHOWTIME: New Series Episodes Online Unedited!

2011-02-07T17:00:00.001-05:00

Cord-cutters rejoice! For the month of February, Showtime is offering the first 3 episodes of their new series, Episodes, totally free online! And the best part: it’s unedited! All the cursing… all the violence… all the nudity…

Okay, there’s almost none of the last 2, but that didn’t stop New York Magazine from calling it "the sharpest sitcom debut this year." And critics call star Matt LeBlanc “superb” and even “perfect” (Entertainment Weekly and The Boston Globe, respectively).

This is only available until 2/28, and with the snow outside, it’s the perfect time to stay in and try out a new show!

EPISODES 101
http://bcove.me/prrfogan

EPISODES 102
http://bcove.me/fukikhsj

EPISODES 103
http://bcove.me/cstzq520

Episodes airs Sundays at 9:30pm ET/PT (Just after Californication and before Shameless) on Showtime.

-- D. Kareem, NYCRD Contributor

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QUIZNOS: 2.99 Rib Sandwich with coupon

2011-02-07T16:34:00.001-05:00

No brainer - have at it!

BROKE ASS STUART: Park Slope Free Beer party, Feb 3

2011-02-02T18:14:00.004-05:00

Enjoy drinks and debauchery with the infamous Broke-Ass Stuart this Thursday night! Now you can't say no to that.

Broke-Ass Stuart is an expert on living on the cheap (our kind of guy) and on Thursday, February 3rd he is literally throwing a "Night of Drinks & Debauchery with Broke-Ass Stuart" in Park Slope.

Reasons to attend:
-It's free with an RSVP
-Free beer from 10-11
-Live DJs
-Live Performances
-Drink Specials

Reasons to not attend:
-N/A

To RSVP, email pulse.plush@gmail.com. If you don't RSVP, it is still only $2.

A Night of Drinks & Debauchery with Broke-Ass Stuart
Patio Lounge
179 5th Avenue, Brooklyn (btw Berkley & Lincoln)

-- Samantha Chin, NYCRD Contributor

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Manhattan Cocktail Classic: Vote for the lineup!

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

The Manhattan Cocktail Classic is back, and packing an even bigger punch.

The upcoming five-day festival that explores anything and everything cocktail related returns to NYC from May 13-17 - you even get to VOTE for the line-up!

Last year, Katharine, NYCRD Executive Editor, attended the conclusion of the preview weekend of the Manhattan Cocktail Classic, and was treated to a bevy of amazing cocktails and delectable food (read about it here). If that was just a preview, imagine what the actual festival was like!

From their website, The Manhattan Cocktail Classic is:

"Part festival, part fête, part conference, part cocktail party – the Manhattan Cocktail Classic is an annual celebration of the myriad points of intersection between cocktails and culture. With over one hundred events spread across five days and five boroughs, the Manhattan Cocktail Classic offers a vast array of unique experiences to enthusiasts and professionals alike, expanding the very definition of what constitutes a “cocktail event."

The events consist of tastings, brunches, workshops, screenings and a slew of other happenings. But what makes this year's Classic different from the last is that now, you have the power to vote for the event line up. You get to choose what kind of seminars end up on the schedule, and there are over 80 seminars to vote from. Click here to vote!

--Samantha Chin, NYCRD Contributor

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VICTORIA'S SECRET: Free Lace Panty

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

Get sexy for cheap this Valentine's Day! Victoria's Secret is giving away a free lace panty + a mini purse with any purchase. There's a limited supply so stop sooner than later...

Click here to get your printable coupon to redeem.

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WEEKLY WRAP UP: Free Wine, Drink Deals, & a Book Launch Party

2011-02-01T14:00:00.000-05:00

Deals and steals are everywhere in NYC! Here are the highlights from last week’s postings.

Get new recipes, free treats and free drinks at the launch party for chef Candice Kumai’s new book Pretty Delicious on Tuesday. Click for info.
Get a free glass of wine for Liking Ayza, a Manhattan wine and chocolate bar! Click for info.
Pad Thai is offering customers unlimited drinks and an entree for $25 9pm-close! Click for info.

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REVIEW: 4food restaurant is 4me and 4you

2011-01-31T09:00:00.002-05:00

4food is all about “de-junking fast food” and their claim to fame is tasty food with nothing artificial with a sustainable touch. Let me just say they make a damn good burger.

When I walked into their Midtown East location, the first thing I noticed was the LED menu, since their selection is constantly changing. Customers have the option of building their own burgers, skewers, and meals with a huge variety of ingredients, but I went with one of the pre-selected meals: a Gotham (a salmon burger on a bagel with a scoop of spinach and pinenut, onion, tartar sauce, tomato) with a side of coconut rice and a white peach tea. Most of the meals are $12, and the posted prices include tax (how considerate).

4food prides themselves on being a super social media savvy restaurant and it shows. As I waited for my food to be prepared, I checked in on FourSquare, and my check-in popped up on the LED wall in the back of the restaurant. They also stream Tweets about the restaurant (and I had a reply from their Twitter account before I left the premises). One of the tables on the first floor hosts iPads for customer use near the entrance (not so great for cold, windy days, but good exposure for the restaurant, I’m sure) though the wifi fluctuated somewhere between annoyingly spotty and marginally functional.

My food arrived in the coolest recycled cardboard polyhedrons (see below) and tasted absolutely divine. The combination of flavors in my burger bordered perfection. Their burger patties feature a hole in the middle where they stuff the veggie scoop, turning the experience into flavor discovery with the second or third bite. The coconut rice unexpectedly delighted me. The tea tasted like heaven - it was very sweet and contained slices of peach (which make a guilt-free dessert). I reluctantly sipped the tea while I was eating the burger because I didn’t want to miss out on either flavor!

The restaurant itself has huge dining space and at least 5 one-person bathrooms and the communal seating fits the “counter culture” of the establishment (their pun, not mine). There are separate bins for rubbish and recyclables, and they compost their waste.

I think 4foods is the ultimate restaurant win, and others will do well to follow their model. They excel at the basics: good food at a decent price (for $12, I got the best meal I’ve ever not regretted having to pay for, and I was satisfied when I finished… which is a godsend in Midtown East). But more importantly, they put emphasis on the customer. In addition to the prices including tax, the receipt has a break-down of the nutritional values of each element of your meal! Plus, they use fresh, local ingredients, which will make a difference in your health in the long run. On top of that, their use of recycled products and other eco-friendly policies show that they’re a socially responsible organization! All signs point to yes for this one, and as I told Katharine (Executive Editor of NYCRD), “You’re not allowed to eat lunch out until you get 4food.”

And the fact that they’ll tweet a response to this within a couple of hours of it's being posted is icing on the (all-natural-and-still-delicious) cake!

4Food
286 Madison Ave (at 40th St)
212-810-452

Bonus: Check out the 4food website for awesome extras like fully-cusotmizable online delivery orders and their rewards program for designing your own burgers! You can even earn 4food cash if your burger become popular. Register your 4food profile and get $5 for your next purchase!

-- D. Kareem, NYCRD Contributor

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Pretty Delicious: book launch party with tasty treats, Feb 1

2011-01-27T13:52:00.000-05:00

Come raise a glass to a super stylish cookbook at Bloom Beauty Lounge! Enjoy an evening of pampering to promote the new cookbook, Pretty Delicious. Mingle with author and enjoy tons of her TDF (to-die-for) treats all night!

You'll Enjoy:
- Special treats cooked up straight from her cookbook
-A homemade Mimosa bar with unique recipes that Candice concocted
-Learn how to pamper yourself from your pantry with a number of recipes for at home treatments and remedies.
-Gift Bags for the first 200 people that attend!

Bloom Beauty Lounge

140 W 19th St.

New York, NY 10011

7 - 10 pm
Tuesday, February 1st

You MUST RSVP in order to attend the party! Please call (212-255-9355) or e-mail (marissa@bloombeautylounge.com) us to reserve your spot! If you'd like to bring a guest, please mention them when you RSVP.

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AYZA: Free wine for liking on Facebook

2011-01-27T11:00:00.001-05:00

Ayza, a wine and chocolate bar (!!) located is offering a free glass of wine if you "Like" them on Facebook. Just become a fan and then click on the tab labeled "Register" to receive your confirmation.

Ayza

West 31st between 5th and Broadway

To visit their Facebook page, click here.

-- Samantha Chin, NYCRD Contributor

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WEEKLY RECESSION WRAP UP: BEP Book Signing & Some Insider Info

2011-01-25T09:00:00.002-05:00

Deals and steals are everywhere in NYC! Here are the highlights from last week’s postings.

Meet the Black Eyed Peas’ Taboo at his book signing on 2/9. Click for info.
ALERT: Black Board Eats is now charging $1 for pass codes for discounts to higher-end restaurants. Click for info.
Got a nose for deals? A flair for writing? A love for fun events and free stuff? Join NYCRD as an intern/contributor. Click for info.

Pad Thai: unlimited drinks and entree for $25

2011-01-25T09:00:00.001-05:00

Thanks to Signpost for listing this amazing deal:

Pad Thai, a Thai place on 8th Ave is offering unlimited drinks and an entree for $25 from 9pm-close, which is at about 11-11:30 PM. If you can't make it for this stellar deal, they also have happy hour from 4-7 PM. I've had a craving for Thai for the longest time...I know what what I'm doing tomorrow night.

Pad Thai
114 8th Ave Frnt
New York, NY 10011

-- Samantha Chin, NYCRD Contributor

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JELLY BELLY CUPCAKE CHALLENGE: Enter their $10,000 Cupcake Contest

2011-01-24T17:27:00.002-05:00

If you're an aspiring cupcake creator, enter you masterpiece into the Jelly Belly Cupcake Challenge! Just decorate a cupcake with Jelly Belly jellybeans to enter to win.

You can also peruse the cupcakes and vote on your favorites! Click the banner below to enter or vote.

This is an NYCRD Social Circle deal. We love our advertisers! Opinions our own.

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NYCRD: Intern positions available!

2011-01-21T16:01:00.003-05:00

We're looking for contributors and interns!

We're looking for people who:

-Love going to events and rarely stay in

-Scout the internet for deals, but have a love for beauty, lifestyle and luxury at the same time

-Want to fine-tune their writing

-Enjoy social media

-Want to break into blogging

If you have what it takes and can commit 5-10 hours a week to writing, attending events and other tasks, please email for the full job description: nycrecessiondiary @ gmail.com

IRISH EXIT: January babies drink FREE, half price drink for guests Jan 22

2011-01-21T11:00:00.001-05:00

The Irish Exit has another awesome deal going on (we recently reported about their Free Taco Deal. If you're a January baby, celebrate your birthday this weekend! On Saturday, the 22nd, birthday girls & guys drink free for three hours from 9 pm -12 am.

Bring all of your friends too, because they get half-price drinks! If that's not enough for you, there will also be $4 birthday shots. Happy Birthday to you.

To set up your birthday celebration, email mandi.irishexit@gmail.com or call 212.755.8383.

-- Samantha Chin, NYCRD Contributor

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ELEVATION BURGER: $5 for 2 burgers from Signpost.com

2011-01-21T10:28:00.006-05:00

I've heard whispers that Elevation Burger, a burger hot spot that just recently opened on 14th between 6th and 7th, is the "new Shake Shack." Since we all know the Shack is delicious, this place has gotta be good.

[Elevation Burgers, photo courtesy of foobooz.com]

To sweeten the savory, today and all weekend Signpost.com is offering a special deal so you can experience Elevation on the cheap before you fully commit your future burger dollars: $5 for 2 burgers!

For 5 simoleons, I'm in.

--Katharine Ricci, NYCRD Executive Editor

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Taste Napa NY: Free wine tastings at various NYC locations TONIGHT

2011-01-20T11:40:00.004-05:00

If you're looking for a lowkey event tonight after work, try one of these wine tastings at various NYC locations! Vintners from the Napa Valley will be pouring their wines at all these FREE tastings throughout New York City. While tasting, feel free to tweet using #TasteNapaNY and sharing your tasting notes with other wine lovers throughout NYC. At some locations your tweets will show up on Twitter walls!

The event organizers ask you to RSVP via EventBrite: http://tastenapany.eventbrite.com/. However, you are not required to RSVP.

Participating NYC Retailers and Wine Bars (All tastings from 6-8 PM, except where noted.)

67 Wine & Spirits
http://www.67wine.com
179 Columbus Avenue (at 68th St.)
(212) 724-6767
Wineries pouring: PEJU & Raymond Vineyards

Acker Merrall & Condit
http://www.ackerwines.com
160 West 72nd Street (bet. Broadway & Amsterdam Ave.)
(212) 787-1700
Wineries pouring: Cliff Lede Vineyards, Miner Family Vineyards & Oberon Wines

Bottlerocket Wine & Spirit
http://www.bottlerocketwine.com
5 West 19th Street (bet. 5th & 6th Aves.)
(212) 929-2323
Wineries pouring: St. Supery Vineyard & Winery

California Wine Merchants—TWITTER WALL
http://cawinemerchants.com
15 Bridge Street (bet. Broadway & Broad St.)
(212) 785-7285
Wineries pouring: Amuse Bouche Winery, Blackbird Vineyards, Coup De Foudre Winery, McCrorie Family Vineyard, Signorello Estate & XTANT

Chelsea Wine Vault—TWITTER WALL
http://www.chelseawinevault.com
Chelsea Market
75 9th Avenue (bet. 15th & 16th Sts.)
(212) 462-4244
Wineries pouring: Chappellet Vineyard & Winery, Schramsberg Vineyards

Custom American Wine Bar—TWITTER WALL (6-9 PM)
www.custom-newyork.com
644 Driggs Avenue (at Metropolitan Ave.), Williamsburg, Brooklyn
(718) 387-9463
Wineries pouring: Crushpad, Porter Family Vineyards, Tetra & Trefethen Family Vineyards

Elsewhere
(sister restaurant to Casellula Cheese & Wine Café)
http://www.elsewherenyc.com
403 West 43rd Street (bet. 9th & 10th Aves.)
(212) 315-2121
Wineries pouring: Gemstone & Lanier Meredith Vineyard

Heights Chateau
http://www.heightschateau.com
123 Atlantic Avenue (at Henry St.), Brooklyn Heights, Brooklyn
(718) 330-0963
Wineries pouring: Spring Mountain Vineyard

K & D Wines & Spirits
http://www.kdwine.com
1366 Madison Avenue (at 96th St.)
(212) 289-1818
Wineries pouring: Artesa Winery, Palmaz Vineyards

Morrell & Co. (5-7 PM - please call store for most up-to-date time)
http://www.morrellwine.com
1 Rockefeller Plaza (bet. 49th & 50th Sts.)
(212) 688-9370
Winerires pouring: Newton Vineyard

Vino
http://www.vinosite.com
121 East 27th Street (bet. Lexington Ave. & Park Ave. South)
(212) 725-6516
Wineries pouring: Stag's Leap Wine Cellars

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BLACKBOARD EATS: No Longer Free

2011-01-19T17:10:00.007-05:00

If you're reading NYCRD, you're probably aware of Blackboard Eats. In short, for a 24 hour window they offer passcodes for 15-40% off meals or free food to higher-end restaurants in multiple cites, including obviously, NYC.

Yesterday they announced via email to their consumer base that they are now charging $1 per passcode, or $20 for a yearly membership.

Here's the full email:

Dear Katharine,

Over the past year, we’ve really enjoyed bringing you the best handpicked deals at the top spots with reviews by our seasoned team of food editors. To keep up with our growing subscriber base, we will now be implementing a small service fee of $1 per passcode. Don't worry, you will only have to enter your credit card once and we will still send free specials your way from time to time.

Alternatively, you can purchase a BBE Annual Membership for $20, which covers a year's worth of service fees for specials in your city. Click here to upgrade to an Annual Membership.

As you have probably already discovered, you can save as much as $60 or even more with one passcode. Whether you choose the BBE Annual Membership or to pay-as-you-go, it's an unreal deal.

In other news, we have listened to all your feedback and will be introducing some convenient new features: Shiny new mobile apps are coming your way, and stay tuned for new specials called "Pop-Ups," popping into your inbox soon.

Thanks from everyone here at BBE for your continued loyalty and support.

See you at dinner,

BBE

I personally will not pay for the yearly membership, but I might pay $1 for a code if the deal looks really great. I'm definitely miffed that the codes are no longer free. I think we can all agree that world does not really need more Groupons, and this seems to be a step in that direction. Disappointing.

What do you think?

--Katharine Ricci, NYCRD Executive Editor

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BOOK SIGNING: Taboo of the Black Eyed Peas' Memoir Signing 2/9

2011-01-19T09:00:00.002-05:00

If I sang the phrase "I got a feelin'!" in a crowded room, 90% of the crowd would respond with a "Woo-hoo!" thanks to the ubiquity of the pop powerhouse group the Black Eyed Peas.

Taboo, one of the founding members of the group (the one who used to have the really long hair), will be signing copies of his memoir Fallin' Up at Powerhouse Arena on Wednesday 2/9! In the book, Taboo reflects on his East LA upbringing, his family (including his becoming a teenage father), and his struggles with addiction while with the Black Eyed Peas.

Fans are permitted to bring a piece of memorabilia to be signed along with the book. To attend the signing, RSVP to taboo@powerhousearena.com. I'm sure you'll have the time of your life.

powerHouse Arena,

37 Main Street, Brooklyn
718-666-3049

--D. Kareem, NYCRD Contributor

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Aysha Saeed: 70% Semi-Annual Sale and champagne, Jan 19

2011-01-18T10:30:00.002-05:00

Blow. Out. Sale.

That's all you really need to know right? Well on Wednesday, January 19 , Aysha Saeed is having their semi-annual blowout sale, in which all stock is 70% off. Stock is marked down to $50-$139, and the earlier you get there, the better finds you can snag. Plus, bring a friend and get an extra 5% off your purchase! There will be champagne, so sip on some bubbly and make it a fun friends shopping event.

Aysha Saeed
Wednesday, January 19th, 2011
6 - 8:30 pm
109W 38th Street Suite 301
(between 6th Ave and Broadway
RSVP : events@ayshasaeed.com

--Samantha Chin, NYCRD Contributor

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WEEKLY WRAP UP: FREE gym membership, FREE tacos, and open bar!

2011-01-18T08:00:00.001-05:00

Deals and steals are everywhere in NYC! Here are the highlights from last week’s postings.

Kickstart your new year’s resolution with a FREE MONTH at David Barton Gym in Astor Place and a free personal training session! This is an NYCRD exclusive offer! Click for info.
Check out Free Taco Tuesday at The Irish Exit: buy a drink, and they give you 2 free tacos! Click for info.
Join Time Out NY and VH1’s You’re Cut Off for their open-bar launch party this Wednesday 1/19. Click for info.
Get yourself some fresh, local produce through Winter Sun Farm’s special offer. Click for info.

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FREE DRINKS: Signpost.com's Open Bar at Village Pourhoue, 1/26

2011-01-17T23:30:00.001-05:00

So, you've heard of Signpost.com, right? The community where you can find and post discounts and deals?

Well, even if you haven't, just play along because there's free drinks in it for you! Signpost is hosting an open bar event at Village Pourhouse in midtown on Wed. 1/26 from 7-8pm! All you need to do is RSVP.

And while you're at it, create an account with Signpost.com. It's a great way to find out about "local deals you actually care about." Plus, if you find and post enough deals, you the perks that come with Signpost's Guru status!

Village Pourhouse
366 w 46th St
212-979-2337

--D. Kareem, NYCRD Contributor

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