CheapAndChicNYC

Coast to Coast and Around the World

2011-07-05T20:53:00.002-04:00

Is it July already? Our bloggin' skills have been a slackin'.

We had a busy and very eventful winter - but it takes craziness and life changes to help you appreciate what really matters, right? Jeff is feeling better and we have taken advantage of his ability to now drive and be able to ride in the front seat again.

As soon as Jeff got the green light from his doctors in NYC - we headed to Arizona, dropped off Maya and Gabriella (with their grandparents!) and then headed to California. Alecia had a business trip which had her staying at the Beverly Wilshire for 6 days, so Jeff had to come check it out. On the way to the Reg Bev Wilshire, we stopped at Disneyland for Jeff's birthday and met up with good theatre friends from Oneonta - Tommy, Kat (and her boyfriend Jeff). Then we saw a movie - which does not seem like a big deal - but we have not seen a movie in a theatre in awhile - so it was a really special day.

While Alecia worked at the Bev Wilshire, Jeff toured LA and Hollywood. We did see a few famous people along the way. Lainie Kazan from Big Fat Greek Wedding. and Bethany from Real Housewives.

The hotel was amazing and I swear if they were not looking - Alecia would have taken the bed and put it on top if the rental car.

We then headed back to Arizona and rejoined our girls and grandmom and grandpa Heidecker. Lots of shopping, a visit to a cool science museum and a big steak dinner for Grandmom and Grandpa's 41st anniversary on June 14th.

It was amazing to have some time together and then together with our girls - who just started preschool on the 27th of June. They are the tiniest girls in the class - but seem to be olding their own and having fun. Maya and Gabriella continue to say funny things (Gabriella telling me she was married - married to a little lamb) and Maya telling Jeff that she did not have grass her - but "mulch daddy". They love wonder pets, their babies and music.

So, here is a summer full of wonder, music and babies - who are growing up fast!

Note = the pic of Ella napping - is after the red eye flight. She just crashed after being up a loooong time.

Indian Rowe-East Village

2007-01-28T22:59:00.000-05:00

Have you been to Indian Rowe lately? Well-check it out-still lots of great places to eat with tacky decorations-but a couple of new places have popped up. With bars!! No more BYOB in all of Indian Rowe. 6th street, between 2nd and 3rd.....the mystery of Indian cuisine awaits you. Cheap, good eats....that fills your hungry belly.

ox

Cuppa Tea Luv?

2006-09-08T14:29:00.000-04:00

We had a little Cheap and Chic get-together last night and since I'm fighting a cold, I ordered a cup of tea. We were at an Irish place so I thought they'd make a decent cup. Sadly, it was cold, weak and -- served in a coffee cup! Horrors! Serious tea drinkers will understand my displeasure.
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This made me think of one of my favorite places in The City ... Tea and Sympathy on Greenwich Ave. They know how to brew great cup of tea and they have a great menu. Most lunch dishes are under $10 unless you want to treat yourself to High Tea. It is all terribly British. They offer catering, tea over the Internet and have a store next door - A Salt and Battery.
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Lovely!
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Tea and Sympathy
www.teaandsympathynewyork.com
open Mon - Fri from 11.30am - 10.30pm and Sat - Sun from 9.30am - 10.30pm
In the West Village at108 Greenwich Avenue
New York, NY 10011
between 12th & 13th Street opposite the entrance to Jane Street
212 989 9735, email at

Mexican Delight

2006-08-16T11:31:00.000-04:00

Cheap Margaritas and Cheap Food. But, delicious margaritas and delicious food. Check out Blockheads where the portions are plentiful and their cheap refreshing drinks will get you tipsy. I had a chicken quesadilla filled with rice, beans, lettuce, chicken, guac…for $11.99 and it was AMAZING and did not burn a hole through my pocket. (o jokes here, please!) The frozen sangrias are divine and at $3.50 a pop, you can’t just have one! Blockheads offers traditional Mexican fare at reasonable prices that will fill your belly. Check out their sun deck-the perfect place to hang out with friends while sipping their deliciously cheap drinks and devouring their endless supply of salsa and chip. Hmmmm…chips!

I wish I was in Mexico right now, but alas I am not. So, Blockheads is where I will drink delicious cheap margaritas and hang out on their sun deck until it gets cold outside.

Blockheads

499 Third Ave
Between 33rd Street and 34th Street
(212) 213-3332

Theatre for the New City Takes Its Message to the Streets

2006-08-07T17:07:00.000-04:00

Summer has arrived in earnest, and at TNC, that means one thing: STREET THEATER! This Summer, TNC's Award-Winning Street Theater Company is set to begin their tour of New York City with their new Musical, TAP DANCE. Written and Directed by Crystal Field, with Music Composed and Arranged by Joseph Vernon Banks, TAP DANCE features a cast of 30 actors, a 10-person crew, Stage Managers, 3 Assistant Directors and a 6-piece Band, all set to delight crowds all over the City. TNC's Street Theater is Free for all, and is one of New York's Can't Miss Summer Events!Next weekend marks the opening of TAP DANCE, as we perform Saturday in our own East Village and Sunday in Harlem. If we're not in your neighborhood this weekend, don't worry! We'll be there soon enough!

TNC'S AWARD WINNING STREET THEATER COMPANY

In their Annual Summer Tour
TAP DANCE
An Operetta for the Street
Written and Directed by CRYSTAL FIELD
Musical Score Composed and Arranged by JOSEPH VERNON BANKS

"It's all in the wrist! Let's hit a Home Run for the Homeland!"

ABOUT TNC STREET THEATER
TNC's award-winning Street Theater always contains an elaborate assemblage of trap doors, giant puppets, smoke machines, masks, original choreography and a huge (9' x 12') running screen or "cranky" providing continuous movement behind the actors. The company of 25 actors, twelve crew members, two assistant directors and five live musicians shares the challenge of performing outside and holding a large, non-captive audience. The music varies in style from Bossa Nova to Gilbert & Sullivan.

S C H E D U L E
Sat, August 12th - 2PM - Manhattan - St. Marks Church, E. 10th St at 2nd Ave
Sun, August 13th - 2PM - Brooklyn - Herbert Von King Park at Marcy & Tompkins
Fri, August 18th 8PM - Brooklyn - Coney Island Boardwalk at W. 10th St.
Sat, August 19th - 2PM - Bronx - St. Mary's Park at 147th St. & St. Ann's Ave
Sun, August 20th - 2PM Manhattan Central Park Bandshell, 72nd Street Crosswalk
Sat, August 26th - 2PM - Brooklyn - Prospect Park Concert Grove
Sun, August 27th - 2PM - Staten Island Clove Lake Park, Clove Road & Victory Blvd.
Sat, September 9th - 2PM Manhattan - Wise Towers at W. 90th St bet. - Columbus & Amsterdam
Sun, September 10th - 2PM Queens Travers Park, 34th Ave between 77th & 78th Streets
Sat, September 16th - 2PM - Manhattan - Tompkins Square Park at E. 7th St and Ave. A
Sun, September 17th - 2PM - Manhattan - Washington Square Park

THEATER FOR THE NEW CITY

155 1st Avenue

New York, NY 10003
For reservations call (212) 254-1109

Company has cool cocktails and a great place to bring some good company!

2006-08-06T20:43:00.000-04:00

So, it's hot in NYC. The best thing to do is get an ice cool cocktail in a hopefully air-conditioned place. I had some mean martinis in a place called Company. Located on 10th Street between 1st and 2nd. It is happy hour from 1pm-10pm every day, so all beers and well drinks are 2 for 1 and martinis are $5. Plus they have some delicious-low cost snacks to sober you up between ice, refreshing drinks.

So, grab some Company and have some afternoon delight at Company. It's important to hydrate in this heat. Let me know where you stay cool in this heat. Cheers!

Shameless Self-Promotion

2006-04-30T01:16:00.002-04:00

My group, the Westchester Symphonic Winds, will be performing on Saturday, May 13 at 8pm at Fordham's Marymount College Spellman Auditorium in Tarrytown, NY. We are a concert band of around 70 musicians from the NY tri-state area, currently "ensemble-in-residence" at Concordia College in Bronxville, NY, and play several concerts each year, often at SUNY Purchase and The Tarrytown Music Hall.

Our concert on May 13th will feature classics such as Gershwin's Rhapsody in Blue, Copland's Lincoln Portrait and El Salon Mexico. Marymount is easily accessible from Manhattan via the Metro North railroad's Hudson Line, convenient to the Tarrytown station. Come join us for an evening of great music in the 'burbs!

Oh, and listen to our podcast of a selection from one of our recent performances: Copland's Fanfare for the Common Man. Click here to listen.

Springtime and Outdoor Seating. Livin' the Hi-Life!

2006-04-29T01:18:00.000-04:00

Now that Spring has sprung and the ice salt seems to have vanished, grab a friend and enjoy the outdoors in NYC. So much to do and so much to eat. Start the day off with a jaunt through Central Park. This park is huge and there is so many fun hiking trails and areas to explore. Plus, there is a zoo and canoes to rent. After a busy day, you have to be hungry? I'm hungry just writing this blog. I found a great place, for drinks, food and wonderful outdoor seating. The menu, which features steaks, burgers and pasta in addition to sushi. Starters include potato skins, slathered in cheese and bacon bits and a warm goat cheese salad. Salads and pasta are listed under "Big Bowls"; sushi is half-price on Mondays and Tuesdays. Let me know what you think.

Hi-Life Bar & Grill
477 Amsterdam Ave
New York, NY 10024
(212) 787-7199
Cross Street: 83rd Street
Directions: 1, 9, at 86th St
http://www.hi-life.com/

2006-04-23T21:24:00.000-04:00

A Good Find!

Discounts on designer handbags, shoes, and women's clothing. The Find Outlet is really more like a boutique, with discounted finds from designers like Chloe and Paul& Joe.

The Find Outlet is a bargain hunter's favorite place for new spring arrivals. With monthly samples sales, you'll "find" tunics and dresses from Vivienne Tam, cropped pants from Chaiken, and sweet styles from Myth & Ritual, Alice & Olivia, and others.

Maya cashmere sweaters start at $12... yes, one two.. twelve dollars. And the shoes... mostly samples sizes, though you can find the strappy friends for $75-150... originally $250-$550.

You'll find trendy tops adorned with quartz, jade and crystals for just $69... a deal compared to the others shops where they start at $169.

No more excuses... it's time to go shopping and Find your spring wardrobe. And even better, New York City has two locations...

Find Outlet Chelsea
361 W. 17th St.
New York, NY 10011
PH: 212-243-3177
Hours: Thurs - Sun, 12:00pm - 7:00pm

Find Outlet Nolita
229 Mott St.
New York, NY 10012
PH: 212-226-5167
Hours: 7 days, 12:00pm - 7:00pm

Find Outlet Los Angeles at HD Buttercup
3225 Helms Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90034
PH: 310-945-5052
Hours: Mon - Sat, 10:00am - 7:00pm / Sun, 11:00pm - 6:00pm

Free Ice Cream in NYC - Yipppeeee!

2006-04-20T23:21:00.000-04:00

The weather is warmer, Central Park is blooming, sidewalk cafes are popping up. It's Springtime in NYC. What makes it better? Free Ice Cream. Ben & Jerry's is having their annual free cone day on April 25th, so stop by and have some Chunky Monkey, Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough, or my favorite Coffee Coffee BuzzBuzzBuzz. It's all delicious and on this one special day...it is free. So grab a friend and go get a free cone at the following participating Ben& Jerry's stores.

Ben & Jerry's 104th & Broadway
2722 BroadwayNew York, NY 10025
212-866-6237

Ben & Jerry's Atlantic Ave
191 Atlantic AveBrooklyn, NY 11201
718-488-5529

Ben & Jerry's Bleecker Street
154 Bleecker StreetNew York, NY 10022
212-475-2000

Ben & Jerry's Chelsea
263 W. 23rd StreetNew York, NY 10011
212-206-7651

Ben & Jerry's
Rockefeller PlazaConcourse Level
New York, NY 10020
212-218-7843

Ben & Jerry's Third Ave
41 Third Avenue
New York, NY 10003
212-995-0109

Ben & Jerry's Times Square
680 8th Avenue
New York, NY 10036
212-221-1001

cheap and free new york, cheap eats new york, broadway,

Theater Thursday - Sort of

2006-04-20T12:52:00.000-04:00

Yes, once again I was bitten by the "let's play tourist" bug so I headed down the Life Cafe.
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Yes, THE Life Cafe featured in the Broadway musical and recent movie RENT. This is the infamous spot where Jonathan Larson sat in a corner and worked away.
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It is a bit of a hike from the subway but it is amazing to see the clashing cultures as you walk by - but isn't that one of the things that we love about New York?! movin out theater
Skater kids, chalk graffiti, expensive bistros, a real legitimate Turkish bath house, housing projects, community gardens.
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There on the corner by Tompkins Square Park (which looks soo nice now if you can remember the days of the riots) is the Life Cafe. The staff was very friendly but brought me my dinner without a fork. I'll forgive them though because my dinner was about $10 and that includes my hot soy almond beverage, small salad and grilled chicken with a smoky chipolte sauce.
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There are some small tables on the street for people watching (I wonder if Jonathan Larson did that to create the characters in RENT), seating inside is comfy but I really wished that I had sat in the back in the garden. The garden seating is hidden so you can get some privacy and quiet. There is a canopy of greens and best of all -- it is heated!! They sell hats, mugs, etc. to commemorate your visit but they also have free postcards. After all this is CheapAndChicNYC that you came to!
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www.lifecafenyc.com
Sun - Thu 10am-1am
Fri & Sat 10am-2am
MC, V, DC, Discover
10th St & Ave B
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So what was your favorite part of RENT? Do you prefer the Broadway or movie version?
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It’s not Breakfast or Lunch. It’s Brunch in NYC and it's Good.

2006-04-14T22:55:00.000-04:00

I had a great Sunday brunch in New York City at the Eatery. Let me tell you about it! The music playing was funky-got me in a hip and happening mood. Then, I started with a Bellini, which is champagne with peach puree. Refreshing and the great way to get started with a good brunch. For my meal, I had Stuffed French Toast. OMG-this was heaven on a plate! French Toast perfectly cooked, crispy on the outside and soft in the center. Then, filled with pure magnificence, which is a combination of chocolate and banana, drizzled with syrup and a side of vanilla ice cream. Delicious and enough sugar to give you endless energy for a day of NYC sightseeing. If you love good cooking that can fill your belly then the Eatery is a great place where you can Eat your heart out with fine food and libation. This place serves lots of delicious meals for brunch, lunch and dinner. They do not take reservations for brunch, so be prepared to wait awhile-but the food is worth the wait.

Check out their web site at http://www.eaterynyc.com/

This hopping place is located at 798 9th Avenue and 53rd Street. Phone is 212 765 7080.

Our friends at CitySearch also have some fun and frugal suggestions of great places to get brunch in NYC. Check it out at
http://newyork.citysearch.com/bestof/winners/brunch

Have a suggestion of a fun place to dine, shop, or see a show. Let us know, we would love to hear from you at Cheap and Chic NYC

Theater Thursday - Sort of

2006-04-13T13:20:00.000-04:00

I decided to be a tourist the other day and check out Serendipity 3. The restaurant is in one of my favorite movies and I always wanted to go but never made it there. It became famous when Andy Warhol announced it was his favorite sweet shop.
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Reservations are highly recommended because this is the kind of place where you need to keep an extra $20 handy. Two women in front of me left in a huff because they were told it would be a two hour wait. They frequently tell groups of three or more to check back every 45 minutes because they have so few tables. Welcome to NYC! When I smiled and asked how long the wait was for one, "shh ... don't tell anyone but I can seat you right now."
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It is a sweet enough place with the white octagon tile floor and a zillion stained glass light fixtures over each table. The downstairs is pretty cramped and busy so see if you can sit upstairs. I ordered a small banana split which could easily satisfy two. Unfortunately, it was $12 and wasn't that amazing. I could have made the same thing at home. Better yet, I could have gone to this little gelato place in Connecticut and had some amazing dessert! The frozen hot chocolate is the signature dish and the service was so good that maybe I'll go back one last time.
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Serendipity 3
225 East 60th
btwn 3rd and 2nd avenues
212-838-3531 - reservations
http://www.serendipity3.com/
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The People's Market of SoHo

2006-04-09T20:43:00.000-04:00

Love this place! It was quite a surprise to stumble upon the Pearl River as it certainly doesn't fit the typical profile of a SoHo boutique. Located at 477 Broadway between Grand and Broom, this Asian market is filled to the brim with inexpensive treasures ranging from Chinese green teas to herbal products to beautifully crafted chopsticks to colorful paper lanterns.

The aroma of Sandalwood fills the air as you browse through the brocade satin slippers and sleeveless Mandarin dresses. Shoppers can't resist the tempation of trying their talents with the handmade brass gong as notes from bamboo flutes and violin concertos play overhead.

Mahagony and jade buddhas line the shelves along with lucky bamboo and feng shui windchimes that promote peace, harmony and imagination.

The vast assortment of kitchenware can't be passed by... woks, steamers, Chinese cleavers, placements, rice cookers... you name it! Personally, I couldn't leave without a blue ceramic sake set and a matching set of rice bowls.

On your way out, don't forget to pick up some Ginseng Pain-Relief Bath Salt... you'll need it after carrying home all the treasures you couldn't resist from the Pearl River!

Pearl River
477 Broadway, NYC
PH: 212-431-4770
Store Hours: 10 AM to 7:20 PM, including weekends and Holidays
www.pearlriver.com

Cupcakes and Sweet Treats-just in time for the Spring Holidays!

2006-04-09T00:07:00.000-04:00

Here comes Peter Cottontail, hopping down the West Village holiday trail, eating lots of cupcakes along the way. After a great dinner in the city this week, I came across The Magnolia Bakery. This tiny establishment is filled with delicious cupcakes and famous banana pudding. The lines are long, but the sweet treats you find in this place are fun to surprise a family member or loved one with and are just so darn tasty-you need to buy two for yourself for the road. Grab a box of cupcakes or one of their other pastry delights and you will be a hit at the Easter table. Now for my Jewish friends, this is the place to break the "Passover, unleavened bread, no flour" holiday. Or asI did, had a few before the holiday begins! I purchased a few fun cupcakes with pastel frostings, and two chocolate cupcakes with cream cheese frosting. Yumilicious!!!! The staff was friendly and although this tiny place can get crowded, the lines are quick and the service efficient. My 6 cupcakes ran about $11.00, but for a special treat for you or someone else...it is well worth it. This is coming from a sweet tooth, just remember that.

Check them out and go treat yourself…aren’t you worth it??? I think you are:)

401 Bleecker St
New York, NY 10014-2452
(212) 462-2572
Cross Street: 11th Street
Directions: A, C, E; L at 14th St-8th Ave

cheap,fun,new york city, NYC, restaraunts, broadway, theatre, eat cheap in New York, travel,hotel,museums, everything new york.

Theater Update - review

2006-04-07T17:07:00.000-04:00

Hey, hey - this is Cait with a review of this amazing show that I saw last weekend in previews.
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This great little show is called Seven.11 Convenience Theater and is running at the Kraine theater. I laughed, I cried, I couldn't get the closing number out of my head and that was all within 90 minutes or so.
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This show is a series of 11 plays that run for 7 minutes and are set in various 7-11 stores. Get it? Isn't that clever! 7-11 in 7-11s. They even had a 7-11 on Broadway help with publicity.
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Now the best part - that I didn't realize before I decided to go - each show deals with race relations from an Asian point of view. These six actors were so wonderful taking on different believeable roles and ethnicities at such a quick speed. The roles included a kung-fu hustler, run-away teenagers, a hilarious futuristic free-for-all for Manhattan, and not one but TWO original pop musicals.
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As an added bonus, there is a bar upstairs and chats after the matinees.
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I can't wait for their 5th season of Seven.11 convience theater! For more info - check out www.desipina.org
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Seven.11
Thursday-Saturday at 8pm; Sunday Matinee at 2pm
The Kraine on 85 E. 4th street
$17 Adults, $11 Student rush tickets (at the door only) Use the box office on the left.

If you see the show, leave me a comment to let me know what you think!

Playball! Yankees and Mets Ticket Discounts

2006-04-07T11:54:00.000-04:00

Ahhh, you know spring is really here once the baseball season begins. Even those of us who may be big fans of the Yankees and Mets, however, can be turned off by how ridiculously expensive the tickets have become. Sure, you can watch them on cable TV, but it's just not the same as spending a few hours with friends at the ballpark, enjoying a few dogs and a Bud, and feeling the electricity of the crowd at a live game. The good news is, as expensive as the regular price tickets may be, there are still lots of special deals to take advantage of that'll put less of a dent in your wallet.

Check the team websites for more details, purchase information, and transportation options.

YANKEES (http://newyork.yankees.mlb.com)

Con Edison Tuesday Nights at the Stadium
All $20.00 Tier-Reserved tickets will be discounted to $16 for all Tuesday games (excluding all premium games). The $20 Tier-Reserved tickets will also be discounted to $16 on selected Monday-Thursday night games in April, May and September.

Verizon Wireless Family Nights
For designated Tuesday - Thursday night games in April, May, and September all Tier Reserved seats are $16.00. This offer excludes all premium games and half-price group dates.

Student Games: Half-Price Tickets
Present your high school or college ID card at the Advance Ticket Windows when purchasing tickets for any Wednesday game and receive a Tier Reserved ticket for half-price. Tickets pursuant to this offer may be purchased ONLY on the day of game, subject to availability.

Poland Spring Youth Games
All fans 14 and under, when accompanied by an adult, can purchase half-price tickets in the Main Reserved, Tier Box, Tier Reserved and Bleachers for all Saturday games. (excluding all premium games) Ticket pursuant to this offer may be purchased ONLY on the day of game, subject to availability.

Fujifilm $5 Dates
On selected games, all Tier Box, Tier Reserved and Bleacher seats will be $5.00.

Coca-Cola VALUE PACK GAMES
For 16 selected weeknight games, you can get a special value pack that includes four (4) Tier Reserved tickets, four (4) food vouchers, (valid for one (1) hot dog and one (1) Coca-Cola product) and one (1) voucher good for one (1) New York Yankees Yearbook for only $80.00.

METS (www.nymets.com)

MasterCard Grand Slam Ticket Pack
Purchase (4) discounted Mezzanine Reserved/Upper Level Box tickets at $12.50/seat or (4) discounted Upper Level Reserved tickets at $6.00/seat - plus $20 in Mets Money - with your MasterCard card on any of the (18) designated ticket package dates.
• 4 Mezzanine Res./Upper Level Box + $20 Mets Money = $70 (A Savings of 42%)
• 4 Upper Level Res. + $20 Mets Money = $44 (A Savings of 21%)

All Aboard to Shea Stadium
Even if you don't ride the Long Island Railroad, just say you do and get the discount!
Mets fans who ride the Long Island Railroad will enjoy the "All Aboard to Shea Stadium" Program. LIRR customers who mention "LIRR" when purchasing their Mets tickets for 20 select games this season will receive a $10 dollar discount per ticket on Mezzanine Reserved and Upper Box tickets.

Mets Hot Hometown Night Package
$19 TICKET WITH A COUPON FOR A FREE HOT DOG & SODA!
Purchase Mezzanine Reserved seats for select Mets home games in April or May,
and you will receive a voucher for a free Nathan's hot dog and a Pepsi.

Value Dates
For 15 selected weeknight games, Upper Reserved tickets are available for $5.

Eat, Drink, and be Merry!

2006-04-01T17:22:00.000-05:00

Dinners in NYC can get very pricey, especially with large groups. So, if you have a family or a large group of friends and are fearful of where to go or what the cost might be, let me tell me tell you about a few family style restaurants where the food is tasty and the price is just right. I had a great experience at Carmine’s in NYC. They have several locations-but I went to the one in the theatre district. If you like Italian food and you have a large group-this place delivers robust and plentiful food with a price tag that will not pinch your pocket. We were with a group of about eight people, so we ordered four dishes and a few appetizers to share amongst the group. Then the feast began: from salad with calamari, to tomato and mozzarella, then on to meatballs, ziti and chicken dishes galore, we gobbled up every last bite and were satisfied with our bellies full. Each of the dishes at Carmine’s is enough to feed 3-4 people, so be careful not to over order or you will be bringing a big ol’ doggy bag home. I love leftovers-but be forewarned. Oh, and do not forget to leave room for their desserts….well that’s if you have room. But, there is always room for dessert! Don’t forget to make reservations-all these places get busy!

Carmine’s
200 W 44th StNew York, NY 10036-3906 (212) 221-3800Cross Street: Between 8th Avenue and BroadwayDirections: A, C, E at 42nd St

Miss Williamsburg Porta Via
228 E 10th StNew York, NY 10003 (212) 228-53551 212 228 5064 (Fax)Cross Street: Between 1st Avenue and 2nd AvenueDirections: 6 at Astor Pl; L at 14th St
Cash Only.

Tony’s Di Napoli
1606 Second AveNew York, NY 10028-4175 (212) 861-8686Cross Street: Between 83rd Street and 84th StreetDirections: 4, 5, 6 at 86th St

Celeste
502 Amsterdam AveNew York, NY 10024-3943 (212) 874-4559Cross Street: Between 84th Street and 85th StreetDirections: 1, 2; B, C at 86th St

Theater Update

2006-03-31T09:09:00.000-05:00

Hi there! Here are some cool and cheap tickets that are coming up this weekend. I might even see you at one. Please leave us a comment and let us know what you think of these shows.
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Seven.11 Convenience Theatre
The Kraine 85 E 4th StNew York, NY Greenwich Village
A series of seven 11-minute plays set in the American convenience store. Price Info: $11-$17 Thu-Sat 8pm, Sun 2pm. In previews, opens April 6, extended, thru April 23 Call for this event: 212-868-4444 Fri, Mar 31, 08:00 pmSat, Apr 01, 08:00 pmSun, Apr 02, 02:00 pmThu, Apr 06, 08:00 pmFri, Apr 07, 08:00 pmSat, Apr 08, 08:00 pmSun, Apr 09, 02:00 pmThu, Apr 13, 08:00 pmFri, Apr 14, 08:00 pmSat, Apr 15, 08:00 pmSun, Apr 16, 02:00 pmThu, Apr 20, 08:00 pmFri, Apr 21, 08:00 pm movin out theater
Hell
P.S.122150 1st AveNew York, NY 10009East VillagePhone: (212) 477-5288
Sure, the East Village has long since lost its indie cred to creeping gentrification and sky-high rents, but we wouldn’t call it “hell” or anything. Nevertheless, the neighborhood’s playing host to an operatic adaptation of Dante’s Inferno by Michael Webster and Eileen Myles. This new work compares a familiar, ashes-strewn New York to Dante’s roiling landscape. Price Info: $10-$20 Wed-Fri 8pm, Sat 5 & 8pm, Sun 5pm, thru April 9 Call for this event: 212-352-3101 Fri, Mar 31, 08:00 pmSat, Apr 01, 05:00 pmSat, Apr 01, 08:00 pmSun, Apr 02, 05:00 pmWed, Apr 05, 08:00 pmThu, Apr 06, 08:00 pmFri, Apr 07, 08:00 pmSat, Apr 08, 05:00 pmSat, Apr 08, 08:00 pmSun, Apr 09, 05:00 pm
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Messiah
WorkShop Theater 312 W 36th StNew York, NY 10013West SidePhone: (212) 6954173
A revival of Martin Sherman's play, which previously played in 1983 at the Manhattan Theatre Club, about a group of Polish Jews in 1690 who believe a homely young woman is their messiah. Price Info: $15 Tue-Sat 8pm, thru April 8 Call for this event: 212-695-4173 Fri, Mar 31, 08:00 pmSat, Apr 01, 08:00 pmTue, Apr 04, 08:00 pmWed, Apr 05, 08:00 pmThu, Apr 06, 08:00 pmFri, Apr 07, 08:00 pmSat, Apr 08, 08:00 pm
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The Adventures of Charcoal Boy
HERE Arts Center145 6th AveNew York, NY 10013TribecaPhone: (212) 647-0202
A dark, musical puppet play by Eric Novak and Sarah Provost about the adventures of a tree branch. Live music by Elyas Kahn of the gypsy band Nervous Cabaret features. Price Info: $20 Check here.org for schedule, thru April 17 Call for this event: 212-868-4444 Sat, Apr 01, 08:30 pmSun, Apr 02, 04:00 pmSun, Apr 02, 08:30 pmMon, Apr 03, 08:30 pmTue, Apr 04, 08:30 pmWed, Apr 05, 08:30 pmWed, Apr 12, 08:30 pmThu, Apr 13, 08:30 pmFri, Apr 14, 08:30 pmSat, Apr 15, 04:00 pmSat, Apr 15, 08:30 pmSun, Apr 16, 04:00 pmSun, Apr 16, 08:30 pmMon, Apr 17, 08:30 pm
movin out theater
For next weekend
Skin Tight
Looking Glass Theatre422 W 57th StManhattan, NY 10019West SidePhone: (212) 3079467
A hit at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, New Zealand writer Gary Henderson's play is about the intimacy shared by a rural married couple. The production contains full nudity. Price Info: $14-$25 Wed-Sun 8pm. Opens April 5, thru April 23 Call for this event: 212-868-4444 Wed, Apr 05, 08:00 pmThu, Apr 06, 08:00 pmFri, Apr 07, 08:00 pmSat, Apr 08, 08:00 pmSun, Apr 09, 08:00 pmWed, Apr 12, 08:00 pmThu, Apr 13, 08:00 pmFri, Apr 14, 08:00 pmSat, Apr 15, 08:00 pmSun, Apr 16, 08:00 pm Wed, Apr 19, 08:00 pmThu, Apr 20, 08:00 pmFri, Apr 21, 08:00 pm

More Cheese Please!

2006-03-25T11:06:00.000-05:00

I don’t know how the lactose intolerant do it. I am dairy, milk shake, chocolate milk, extra cheese kinda girl. For instance, I ordered a vege burger yesterday con queso (with cheese!!!) There is nothing better than pizza: cheesy goodness, sauce, dough, toppings galore. Yummy. As I was romping (don’t you romp? ) around New York surrounded by a Mecca of pizza places, I thought, who has the best pizza in New York? Well, I have devised a list of some of the tastiest pizza places in New York City. Please let me know your favorite and send a pizza this way. ‘Cause I am stuck in this blog and I am hungry. Extra cheese please with meatballs….and don’t forget the sauce. That’s amore.

Famous Joe’s Pizza
7 Carmine Street
New York, NY 10014
212 255-3946
Cross Street: Bleecker StreetDirections: A, C, E; B, D, F, V at W 4th S

Sal’s and Carmine Pizza
2671 Broadway
New York, NY 10025-5025 212 663-7651Cross Street: Between 101st Street and 102nd StreetDirections: 1, 9 at 103rd St

John’s of Bleeker Street
278 Bleeker Street
New York, NY 10014
212 243-1680
Cross Street: Between Jones Street and Morton StreetDirections: A, C, E; B, D, F, Q at W 4th St; 1, 9 at Christopher St

John’s Pizzeria-Times Square
260 W 44th Street
New York, NY 10036
212 391-7560
Directions: A, C, E; N, R; 1, 2, 3, 9 at 42nd St-Times Sq

Lombardi’s
32 Spring Street
New York, NY
212 941-7994Cross Street: Between Mulberry Street and Mott StreetDirections: 6 at Spring St

De Marco’s
145 W Houston Street
New York, NY 10012
212 253 2290
212 253-2290Cross Street: MacDougal StreetDirections: A, C, E; 1, 9 at W 4th

No 28 Carmine
28 Carmine Street
New York, NY 10014
212 463 9653
Cross Street: Between Bleecker Street and Bedford StreetDirections: A, C, E; B, D; F, V; Q at W 4th St

Patsy’s Pizza
2287 First Avenue
New York, NY 10035
212 534 9783
Cross Street: Between 117th Street and 118th StreetDirections: 6 at 116th St

Una Pizza Napoletana
349 12th Street
New York, NY 10003
212 477 9950
Cross Street: Between 1st Avenue and 2nd AvenueDirections: L at 1st Ave

Opera Update

2006-03-24T09:48:00.000-05:00

We ran into an opera fan on Wednesday night so I thought I'd include some tips for her.
movin out cheap tickets
Metropolitan Opera
movin out cheap tickets
Standing room tickets for the following week's performances go on sale Saturday mornings at 10am. To vie with in-the-know standing room regulars, line up outside the Metropolitan Opera Box Office at least an hour in advance. Orchestra standing room tickets sell for $20 and Family Circle for $15, with a limit of one ticket per person for each performance. Extra tickets are sold at the box office until show time. Cash only.
Students (29 and under) may purchase discounted tickets to select Metropolitan Opera performances. Weekday shows are priced at $25 while Friday and Saturday shows go for $35. Tickets must be purchased at the box office with a current student ID and there is a two ticket per student limit. • 64th St. and Columbus Ave.; 212-362-6000 or metopera.org
movin out cheap tickets
New York City Opera
movin out cheap tickets
Students can purchase half-price tickets up to a week in advance at the New York State Theater Box Office, through CenterCharge (212-721-6500), or online at nycopera.com. Last-minute Student Rush tickets are also available for same-day performances at $16 with a two icket per student limit. Call the hotline for availability.• 63rd St. and Columbus Ave.; 212-870-5630 Student Rush hotline; nycopera.com
movin out cheap tickets
The Juilliard School
Juilliard's exemplary Music, Drama, Opera, and Dance divisions all put on student performances at little or no cost to the public. Opera: $20 general admission; $10 students and seniors. Tickets are required for all performances and can be obtained at the box office beginning two weeks before the show. A standby line forms outside the theater an hour prior to showtime. You may request to be placed on the mailing list for information on a division and its performances.• 60 Lincoln Center Plaza; 212-769-7406; juilliard.edu
movin out cheap tickets
BAM Student/Senior Rush Tickets
The Brooklyn Academy of Music offers $10 tickets to students (full- and part-time under 25 years old) and seniors with valid ID. Tickets for unsold seats may be purchased at the box office 90 minutes prior to showtime. There is a two ticket per person limit. No checks. • For shows at BAM Howard Gilman Opera House, visit 30 Lafayette Ave.; for ticket availability, call 718-636-4100, ext. 1; bam.org

Get to NYC - Cheaply!

2006-03-22T23:59:00.000-05:00

Many out-of-towners have asked us at CheapAndChicNYC for suggestions on the best way to get here cheaply. Well, here are a couple of resources to check out:

Kayak.com
Created by dudes who used to work for Orbitz, Travelocity and Expedia, Kayak.com is a meta-search engine, or search "aggregator", focused on travel booking. In other words, it scans all the travel websites for you, and automatically finds the best deals available. All your comparison shopping can be done from one site! Kayak.com works for airline travel, hotels, and car rentals. It is free to use, and they don't pad their results with booking fees or markups, either. It is THE place to shop for travel deals online, whether you're going to NYC or anywhere else. I posted a link on our blog where you can do dynamic searches directly from our site -- so go ahead and try it!

Hotwire.com
If you insist on going directly to a site where you can book without using Kayak first, I'd go to Hotwire.com. They are basically a clearinghouse for unsold travel inventory - empty seats on flights, empty hotel rooms, and unrented cars - at big savings. Because you don't see the name of the travel partner until after you book, Hotwire can get you deals that are significantly below published prices. You might not get the best flexibility or selection, but you will find bargain basement rates and fares, many times up to 50% off the published rates.

Cheap Date?

2006-03-20T22:14:00.000-05:00

Check this out... this week NBC's "The Today Show" is doing a series on "the cheapest date in America". They're sharing our stories on the cheapest date we've ever been on or hosted.

So, Katie Couric and Matt Lauer -- how about the cheapest and most chic date? Here at CheapandChicNYC, we'd love to hear about the cheapest and most chic date you've ever been on... or better yet, hosted. Tell me if I'm wrong, but is there anything more romantic than someone that has put their imagination to work and has taken you off the beaten track of expensive dinners, Broadway plays, and/or cocktails at the most trendy (and expensive) wine bars in New York in an effort to sweep you off your feet?

Now, it's not necessary to video this romantic event that should only be shared between you two love birds. However, we'd certainly like to hear your story. Respond here and let us read in envy your most romantic (and inexpensive) date.

Or feel free to send us a video of yourself describing your amorous rendevous. And to better convince us that the cheap and chic method works, send us a video of the lovely couple describing the cheap and chic date that led you to fall head-over-heals for one another. You can email your videos to digimarkgroup6@gmail.com.

Also, don't forget to check out this week's Today Show to watch the top contenders of the cheapest dates in America... Monday — Friday (7am - 10am ET) on NBC.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/11503894/

I’m hungry, let’s go to Grand Central Station! What?

2006-03-18T00:36:00.000-05:00

While walking through Grand Central Station, I noticed all the amazing foods you could delight in. First, you have the Grand Central Market where you can purchase fine European chocolates (Li-lac chocolates), a challah bread with raisins (Zaro’s Bread Basket) or the finest fresh and smoked fish (Pescatore Seafood Company). The Grand Central Market is full of some of the finest foods and does not take a great deal of searching to find some excellent deals.

Want to sit down and grab a snack or lunch/brunch/dinner? Well, there are many choices on the lower level of Grand Central Station to tantalize your tummy. Now I have a sweet tooth, so I have to say I am partial to Junior’s Cheesecake. You can get a piece big enough to share for about $5.50 and don’t forget to get a chocolate egg cream-they are delicious. I have not had an opportunity to taste everything in Grand Central Market (my waste line would revolt) -but it is a vast world of international food delights. Some of my favorites include Eata Pita, where you can get a satisfying meal for about $8.00 and you can finish off your meal with one of the gazillion flavors of gelato and sherbet at Ciao Bella Gelateria. Oh, and I did mention I had a sweet tooth, right? Well, there is no tastier chocolate chip cookie than the one you find at Zaro’s Bread Basket…and don’t forget to bring a pie from the Little Pie Company…a culinary delight sure to please and surprise your favorite person. Let me know your favorite place to grab a bite at Grand Central! Oh, and while you are there be sure to take the Grand Central Tour, it’s only $5 a person and you can have a fully guided historical tour of one of the oldest and prestigious train stations. Before you go on the tour, check out the interactive map tour of Grand Central on their website and then you will know all the hot spots to check out before you get there. Take a train or a tour…and fill your tummy at Grand Central Station.

Junior's cheesecake, new york, cheap new york cheap hotel cheap restaurant, fun fabulous

Theater Thursday from Cait

2006-03-16T21:25:00.000-05:00

We were talking the other night about a new reality show called Black and White. If you would prefer to see something similiar with that immediate atomsphere -- that energy you can feel with the stage -- you know what I mean.
movin out theater
Breathe
Lark Theater Studio
939 8th Ave, 2nd flr
West Side
Phone: (212) 2462676
movin out theater
Javon Johnson's new play tells the story of two teenagers, one black, one white, who commit separate crimes but face different consequences because of the color of their skin. Price Info: $15 Mon-Sat 8pm. Opens March 15, thru March 25 Call for this event: 212-352-3101 Thu, Mar 16, 08:00 pmFri, Mar 17, 08:00 pmSat, Mar 18, 08:00 pmMon, Mar 20, 08:00 pmTue, Mar 21, 08:00 pmWed, Mar 22, 08:00 pmThu, Mar 23, 08:00 pmFri, Mar 24, 08:00 pmSat, Mar 25, 08:00 pm
movin out theater
For the little ones who love animals
movin out theater
Snoopy!: The Musical
Brooklyn Family Theater at the Church of Gethsemane
1012 8th Ave Brooklyn
Park Slope
Phone: (718) 670-7205
movin out theater
Charlie Brown may not be such a good man, as he’s portrayed in the recently shuttered Dog Sees God, but the bald-headed six-year-old and his faithful canine companion are back to their family friendly antics. This pastiche children’s musical features a search for the Great Pumpkin and the equally great beagle. Price Info: $12 Fri 8pm, Sat 4 & 8pm, Sun 5pm (no performance March 17), thru March 26 Call for this event: 718-989-2449 Sat, Mar 18, 04:00 pmSat, Mar 18, 08:00 pmSun, Mar 19, 05:00 pmFri, Mar 24, 08:00 pmSat, Mar 25, 04:00 pmSat, Mar 25, 08:00 pmSun, Mar 26, 05:00 pm
movin out theater
Several of you asked me if Lion King is as good as they say -- it is bettter. The costumes are actually full-body puppets and the staging is just AMAZING!!! Save your pennies and go!! Leave us a comment to tell us which part was your favorite : )

Take a Bite out of a Burger in the Big Apple

2006-03-12T22:40:00.000-05:00

Ok, I love alliterations and sometimes I just need a little meat. OK, dirty minds. I am talking about the lean and mean burger type, juicy and delicious to the last morsel. Now what’s not cheap and chic is the most expensive burger in NYC. This burger is big and brawny and if you finish it, you don’t even get a free t-shirt. Celebrity chef Daniel Boulad’s Burger Royal is a prime grade sirloin burger stuffed with braised short ribs, foie gras and black truffles. You can have this burger delicacy for $99. Yes, that’s $99, I did not miss a decimal point.

It is burger heaven and can be found at:

DB Bistro Moderne
55 West 44th Street
NYC 10036
212 391 2400

These burger places are sure to fill your tummy and will not break your bank account. Remember when you are at the toppings bar, accessorize your burger, but don’t drown it in a sea of endless pickles, relish, etc…some of these burgers just sizzle on their own.

Blue 9 Burger
92 ThirdAve
NYC 10003
212 979 0053
Cash Only ($3-$8)

Burger Joint
Le Parker Meridien
119 W 56th Street
New York, NY 10019
212 245 5000
(Get a burger, beer, fries and a milkshake for less than $15)

Corner Bistro
331 W 4th Street
New York, NY 10014
212 242 9502
(burgers less than $6)

Island Burgers and Shakes
766 Ninth Avenue
New York, NY 10019
212 307 7934
(no credit cards, less than $10. Try the cowboy)

Paul’s Place
131 Second Ave
New York, NY 10003
212 529 3033
(Cash only, great for lunch or a quick bite at night)

Pop Burger
58-60 Ninth Ave.
New York, NY 10011
212 414 8686
(Yummy, hamburgers, hot dogs and more)

Variety is the spice of life, so let us know where your favorite burger joint is at. Have a Happy St. Patty’s Day. Remember green beer and burgers are a true Irish delicacy.

New York eats. Irish. St. Patrick's Day. Burgers. Restaurants. Eat NYC. Cheap NYC. Irish Irish Irish in New York.Irish, Irish, Irish, Irish, Beer, NYC, New York City

A Week of Irish Music Sessions

2006-03-11T21:07:00.000-05:00

As you ramp up for St. Patrick's Day this Friday, here are some pub events in Manhattan this week to experience some of the best Irish music sessions in town, best enjoyed with a few pints of Smithwicks or Guinness. Most are held every week, and most are FREE!

Sunday
5-8pm, Blaggard's Pub (8 West 38th St. at 5th Ave.) - Traditional Irish music session hosted by The Manhattan Branch of Comhaltas Ceoltoiri Eireann. Great musicians and dancers in the heart of Manhattan with good food & drink. NO COVER and no amplification.

Also highly recommended is O'Neill's (see below)

Monday
11pm-3am, Mona's (Avenue B @ 14th St.) - This East Village dive-bar is highly regarded for its Guinness, its world-weary bartenders and the Monday night Irish music session. NO COVER.

Tuesday
9pm-1am, Swift (4th St. @ Bowery) - A "must see" in the East Village, this is a big beer hall that pipes its live music throughout the premises. Excellent selection of beers and whiskey. Their Midleton whiskey is guaranteed to increase your enjoyment of Irish music. They say if you drink enough Midleton, even 50 Cent raps with a brogue! A great traditional Irish music session Tuesday nights with NO COVER.

Wednesday
8pm-11pm, The Baggot Inn (W. 3rd St. @ Thompson) - Always jam-packed with supporters for the acts on stage. In NYU territory, it is long and dark with an excellent stage at the back. The Baggot is one of the most refreshing live music venues in town. Subway: W 4 st, ACEBDV trains.

Thursday
10pm-1am, Paddy Reilly's Music Bar (2nd Ave. @ 29th St.) - This session features the talents of Tony DeMarco & Eamon O'Leary, two of the finest traditional musicians working in the city. Paddy's is a good venue - dark & atmospheric and the Guinness is good. Subway: 28st @ Lex - 6 train.

Friday - This is the big day, folks!
3pm - ??, Hurley's Saloon (232 W. 48th St.) - Starting at 3pm, One of New York's Best new Irish Rock Bands, "Sullivan's Jack" will be performing at Hurley's Saloon just outside of Times Square.

The Chieftains are playing Carnegie Hall and Celtic Woman is at Radio City, but they're expensive, and wouldn't you rather be at a pub having a few pints on St. Paddy's Day anyway?

Saturday
9pm-1am, O'Neill's (3rd Ave. @ 45th St.) - O'Neill's plays host to some of the top traditional Irish musicians in NYC. You never know who will play in O'Neill's but you know it will always be good. An excellent venue where you can have dinner or relax with a pint of Guinness. They also have a session on Sunday nights starting at 7:30pm. Highly recommended. NO COVER and no amplification.

Hot Chicks

2006-03-11T20:49:00.000-05:00

We here at Cheap And Chic NYC have received much advice about maintaining a successful blog. Most of the comments have been akin to such brilliant insights as "less words, more pictures." I have learned that the key to a good blog is in showing "lots of hot chicks." Okay, then, here you go -- are these chicks hot enough? Let's see where this one gets us.

Never fear. More ontopic posts to come...

Theater Thursday!!

2006-03-09T21:45:00.000-05:00

Okay fans
Here is something unusual for this week's update - Movieoke!!
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You can act out your favorite movie scenes with your friends in the audience or you can make up your own lines. It takes place every Wednesday from 9pm to Midnight. It's located in The Den of Cin, which is underneath Two Boots Video and Pizzeria, 3rd St & Ave A. The space is a cozy basement room with tables, couches, and a bar. For those 21 and over, rumor has it that the first beer is free. Just remember that the stage is a bit small. For more info - www.movieoke.net. The fun has been covered by AP, Reuters, the New York Times, Yahoo and even CNN. If you go, please leave us a comment!!
movin out theater
Something special for you out-of-towners - I have had great luck finding cheap travel deals on www.expedia.com and www.hotwire.com. Also, you can check out reviews on hotels, attractions (anything we don't cover) on www.tripadvisor.com. You can look at www.orbitz.com and www.travelocity.com as well. movin out theater

Irish Eyes are Smilin’ and Drinkin’ a wee bit: St Patty’s Day in NYC

2006-03-05T22:04:00.000-05:00

New York is full of spirited people proud to show their culture and heritage. There is no greater time during the year, than good old St. Patty's Day to grab a pint, watch a parade and make a few new friends..and being a true Irishman is not required. Start your day off on Friday March 17th with the 245th St Patrick's Day parade which begins at 11:00am at 44th and 5th Avenue, then you will be all geared up for the great New York City St. Patty's Day pub crawl.

Thanks to The Definitive Guide to the Irish Pubs of NYC, CitySearch and About.com for confirming that it does not take luck o' the Irish to find a thirst quenching pint of ale and cheap eats on St Patty's day in good old NYC.

Lunasa
126 First AveNew York, NY 10009 (212) 228-8580
Directions: L at 1st Ave; F at 2nd Ave

Paddy Reilly's Music Bar
519 2nd AveNew York, NY 10016 (212) 686-1210
Cross Street: 29th StreetDirections: 6 at 28th St

McSorley's Old Ale House
15 E 7th StNew York, NY 10003-8001 (212) 473-9148
Cross Street: Between 2nd Avenue and 3rd AvenueDirections: 6 at Astor Pl.

Molly's Pub & Restaurant, Shebeen
287 3rd AveNew York, NY 10010 (212) 889-3361
Cross Street: Between 22nd Street and 23rd StreetDirections: 6 at 23rd St

Failte Irish Whiskey Bar
531 2nd AveNew York, NY 10016 (212) 725-9440Cross Street: Between 29th Street and 30th StreetDirections: 4, 5, 6 at 28th St

Puck Fair
298 Lafayette StNew York, NY 10012 (212) 431-1200
Cross Street: East Houston StreetDirections: F, B, D, Q at Lafayette St; 6 at Bleecker St; N, R at Prince St

Maggie's Place
21 E 47th StNew York, NY 10017 (212) 753-5757
Cross Street: Between Madison and Fifth Avenues.Directions: 4, 5, 6; 7, S at 42nd St.-Grand Central Station.

Fitzgerald's Pub
336 3rd AveNew York, NY 10010-3704 (212) 532-3453
Cross Street: E 25th StreetDirections: 6 at 23rd St

Alecia's Crazy Irish tip #17: As you merrily bounce from pub to pub, remember to wear green and not turn green. Have an intoxicating, yet safe and Happy St. Patrick's Day.

cheap eat St Patrick's Day hotel new york city vacation in new york

Real Life "Fame"

2006-03-02T22:51:00.000-05:00

This is Cait with your Theater Thursday update. One of my favorite things about New York City is the commitment to the arts which is exemplified by the Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and the Performing Arts - best known as the school in Fame!! According to their site "It is important to note that LaGuardia Arts was the first school in the nation to provide a free, publicly funded program for students with unique talents in the arts. This model has been replicated in most major cities throughout the country." Why not support the arts, give some kids a boost and stay on your budget all at the same time! Here is the events schedule - movin out theater http://www.laguardiahs.org/downloads/Performance_Schedule.pdf

Concert Hall - The La Guardia Concert Hall serves as the school auditorium and is used for school assemblies and dress rehearsals, which are open to all students, schedules permitting. Evening performances open to students, their families, friends and the entire community, are held throughout the year. They include concerts by the LaGuardia Arts orchestras, bands, choruses and vocal groups, as well as performances by dance and drama students and the Rising Stars production.
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Theater - The LaGuardia Arts Theater, located at the east side of the lobby, is an open Greek-style Theater used for the Spring Drama Festival and for dance recitals.
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Tickets to most events are $10.00 each. movin out theater

Cheap and Fun Nightlife for the Mildly Disturbed

2006-03-02T16:54:00.000-05:00

Up for something a little different? Check out the events calendar for The Slipper Room on the lower east side (187 Orchard St.) and head over for a night of quirky fun. Most of the time there's only a $5 cover. You can get to see Doctor Donut (pictured), Scotty the Blue Bunny, a wacky burlesque show, or their latest production, Shit and Champagne, self-described as "a whitesploitation comedy with dance." Okay, then...

Also, on Mondays you can let your heavy metal hair down at Arlene's Grocery (7th Ave and Stanton St.) and belt out your favorite Whitesnake power ballad at their punk/metal karaoke night. There's NO COVER CHARGE or a song fee to hold you back. So go on, you know you want to -- we won't tell anyone that you still know the lyrics by heart!

Cheap Hotels

2006-02-28T21:19:00.000-05:00

This is a picture of the famous Plaza Hotel on Central Park South and Fifth Avenue, a New York City landmark and one of the world's finest hotels. Isn't it beautiful? Well, you're NOT staying there! It's closed until 2007 for renovations, but even if it were open, at four figures per night, only your rich uncle could afford a room there. As Manhattan is generally not cheap, the budget-minded traveller has to do a little work.

There are a lot of nice places to stay in Manhattan, from luxury to bargain basement, and a lot of travel sites promising great deals on accomodations like Expedia, Travelocity, Orbitz, or Hotels.com. Finding a hotel that's clean, cheap and in the right neighborhood, however, can be a bit of a challenge. Suggestion: in addition to checking out the popular travel sites and reading their summaries or going directly to a hotel's website, look for and read all the customer reviews you can find on any place you are seriously considering. Sites like Epinions.com are good for this. Although you'll run into the occasional guy venting about a particularly unlucky, bad experience, on the whole you will get a good feel for what a place has to offer, from a generally unbiased perspective.

That said, I've dug up a few decent options for those wanting to stay in New York City on the cheap. Beyond their being affordable, other important criteria were that they also are clean, safe, friendly and convenient. Here ya go:

Chelsea Star Hotel
If you're coming to NYC to party, then this is the place. The rooms are small, but many are waaay cool, with various themes -- like the Star Trek room or the Buddha room. There's the option of going the dorm-style route with a shared bath or getting an entirely private room. It's also just a block away from Penn Station, which means it's very convenient to the buses and trains. Dorm rates start at $25, private rooms at $75. Not bad at all for Manhattan.

Hostelling International
Uptown on the west side, near Central Park and Columbia University, this one also offers dorm style or private rooms, along with laundry facilities and big lockers. There's good local ethnic food in the area, and it's convenient to the subway. Beds start at $29.

Jazz on the Park
They're hostels, but good ones. They actually have three different locations now, at Central Park West and 106th street, "Jazz on the Town" on the lower east side (E. 14th st.), and "Jazz on Harlem" on the upper east side at 128th st. All are convenient to the subways, are clean and friendly and have good facilities like lockers, a lounge, and linens included. Beds start at $22, and the Central Park location offers private rooms too. Group rates are available as well.

Wherever you choose to stay, make reservations as well in advance as possible. This may be common sense to some, but the good places can fill up months ahead of time, especially during busy periods. You don't want to get stuck in some overpriced, rat-infested, droopy-mattressed hell hole -- which can happen if you're not careful.

International Bizarre

2006-02-26T18:22:00.000-05:00

For our viewer that appreciates Danish crafts, I thought you might enjoy visiting Salvior Kiosk. Though they don't currently feature Danish merchandise, the owners of Salvior Kiosk search different regions and frequently rotate their wares with the treasures they find.

The store is filled with unique and rare finds. Currently on display are items from Japan. Every three months the store celebrates a different part of the world. Next up... Sweden, April 1st - August 1st. Mexico, August 1st - December 1st.

Many of these items make one-of-a-kind gifts without having to travel the world to find them... and without spending a fortune. You'll find everything from whimsical jewelry, electronics, nifty gadgets, home decor, stationery, and my favorite... journals!

You'll find Salvor Kiosk at one of the busiest shopping arteries of Manhattan: 95 Spring Street, Second Floor, NYC, PH: 212-226-5155... or salvorkiosk.com.

楽しみなさい (Enjoy!)

Me gusto Mexican Food!

2006-02-24T01:42:00.000-05:00

New York is full of those taco places, that look like Chinese take out places, but serve mexican food. Yes, it's confusing. Ok, I digress. Those places are cheap and are good in a hurry, but don't provide you with the true Mexican flavor I crave. Let me take you to the East Village where delicious, belly filling cheap food is in abundance and you may even have money left over for a tattoo. Mary Ann's is a great Mexican restaurant with amazing food and no matter what you order, you will be satisfied. I have to give Mary Ann's the award for best salsa and chips-crunchy, yummy and you can't just have one. The menu is huge with a mix of traditional Mexican fare, to safer dishes like overstuffed burritos and taco platters. Don't forget to try their Margaritas, cause they are lip smacking good as well. Oh, and this place is great for vegetarians as well. They have several dishes including enchiladas, that are meatless and delicious. Mary Ann's opens at 5pm daily and they only accept cash. No credit cards...but there is an ATM on 2nd Ave/E 3rd, so cash is not too far away. Enjoy the music and have fun at Mary Ann's.

Mary Ann's is a local NYC chain and they have a few locations. I have only been to the East Village location-but heard they are all great.

Mary Ann's
86 2nd Ave/at 5th Street
New York 10003
212-475-5939

Also try the Mary Ann's at 2454 Broadway (212 877 0132)and 1803 2nd Avenue (212 426 8350).

http://www.menupages.com/restaurantdetails.asp?areaid=5&restaurantid=2479&neighborhoodid=0&cuisineid=43&home=Y

Cheap theater you say?

2006-02-23T12:43:00.000-05:00

Cait here with this week's batch of cheap tickets for hot shows in NYC.
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If you are feeling short on time and cash, try Too Much Light Makes the Baby Go Blind for $11 to $16 at The Kraine theater on 85 E 4th St. in Greenwich Village. The Chicago-based Neo-Futurists perform their collection of 30 short plays in only 60 minutes. The goofball concoction is the longest-running theater show in Chicago's history, with over 15 years of performances to its credit. Fri & Sat 10:30pm Call 212-352-3101 Fri, Feb 24, 10:30 pmSat, Feb 25, 10:30 pmFri, Mar 03, 10:30 pmSat, Mar 04, 10:30 pmFri, Mar 10, 10:30 pmSat, Mar 11, 10:30 pm
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Or if you want something more touching - Valiant - A multimedia docudrama in which 13 women detail their war experiences, presented by the Unofficial New York Yale Cabaret theater. It is playing at West Bank Cafe's Laurie Beechman Theatre 407 W 42nd St in Midtown Phone: (212) 695-6909 Price Info: $15 Schedule varies. Opens Feb 24, thru Mar 11 Call for this event: 212-352-3101 Fri, Feb 24, 08:00 pmSat, Feb 25, 08:00 pmFri, Mar 03, 08:00 pmSat, Mar 04, 05:30 pmSat, Mar 04, 08:00 pmSun, Mar 05, 02:00 pmThu, Mar 09, 05:30 pmFri, Mar 10, 08:00 pmSat, Mar 11, 08:00 pm
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In the mood for something more classical for your cheap tickets? A Parsifal at P.S.122 theater 150 1st Ave in the Village John Jahnke, a director with a splendid visual eye, presents the world premiere of Sontag’s script, which depicts a contemporary Parsifal engulfed in aimless cruelty. Price Info: $10-$20 Wed-Fri 8:30pm, Sat 5 & 8:30pm, Sun 5pm. Opens Feb 23, thru Mar 5 Call for this event: 212-477-5288 Thu, Feb 23, 08:30 pmFri, Feb 24, 08:30 pmSat, Feb 25, 05:00 pmSat, Feb 25, 08:30 pmSun, Feb 26, 05:00 pmWed, Mar 01, 08:30 pmThu, Mar 02, 08:30 pmFri, Mar 03, 08:30 pmSat, Mar 04, 05:00 pmSat, Mar 04, 08:30 pmSun, Mar 05, 05:00 pm
Phone: (212) 477-5288
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Remember to swing back soon for more great deals and leave us a comment!!

Music School Concerts

2006-02-21T22:31:00.000-05:00

Not up for forking over $80+ per ticket for decent seats to see the NY Philharmonic, or $30 each plus drink minimums for a measly hour-long set at the Blue Note? Frankly, 99% of the time neither am I! Fortunately, there's plenty of the finest music to go around for those on a budget.

NYC attracts many of the most talented music students in the world. Top notch classical, jazz, and experimental music can be heard for FREE or very little coin at the conservatories. The Juilliard School, for example, gives orchestral, small ensemble, and solo performances regularly at popular Lincoln Center venues like Alice Tully Hall, the Juilliard Theater, even Dizzy's Club Coca-Cola. The Manhattan School of Music, further up the west side in Morningside Heights, also has fine classical groups and fantastic jazz ensembles. If you're thinking downtown, there are great jazz programs to catch from NYU and The New School down in Greenwich Village. There are free (or very cheap) concerts of every conceivable variety that are open to the public and happening every day at these area universities and conservatories. Check 'em out.

MoMA Sale

2006-02-21T00:02:00.000-05:00

If you can’t find it in New York, it likely doesn’t exist. New York City has it all… culture, art, design, history, music, food, diversity, technology and not to mention shopping. And The Museum of Modern Art captures the essence of NYC.

It’s easy to spend an entire day in MoMA as it’s much more than a museum. A mecca for tourists and residents alike, the Midtown haven also offers two cafes, a restaurant and bar, a bookstore and a design store. Not to mention a second design store in SoHo.

And while we’re on the topic of stores… the MoMA store currently has several items on SALE. Posters are $3.95 (originally $17.95-$25.00)… what a great way to cover the cracked plaster in the studio apartment without spending a fortune. 2006 wall calendars are now just $1.00… with 10+ months remaining in the year, so worth the dollar investment. Personally, I have an obsession for journals and couldn’t pass up the Icons assortment consisting of a journal, sketchbook, address book, diary and a travel journal… each under $5. And check out this ingenious duffle bag… it folds flat into a circular pouch for ease of travel and storage… what makes it even better is it’s now just $4.95 (originally $30).

And if you become a member, you receive an additional discount of 10%.

If the sales weren’t enough to entice you, what would you think of FREE admission to the museum? Oh yeah… admission to the museum is FREE for all visitors during Target Free Friday Nights, sponsored by Target, every Friday, 4pm – 8pm.

The Museum of Modern Art
PH: 212-708-940011
West 53 Street, between Fifth and Sixth avenues, New York, NY 10019-5497
Museum Hours
Saturday 10:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.
Sunday 10:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.
Monday 10:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.
Tuesday closed
Wednesday 10:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.
Thursday 10:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.
Friday 10:30 a.m.–8:00 p.m.
Closed on Christmas day and Thanksgiving day

MoMA Design and Book Store
11 West 53 Street, New York, NY
PH: 212-708-9700.
Open daily Saturday–Thursday 9:30 a.m.–6:30 p.m.
Friday 9:30 a.m.–9:00 p.m.

MoMA Design Store
44 West 53 Street, New York, NY
PH: 212-767-1050
Saturday–Thursday 9:30 a.m.–6:30 p.m.
Friday 9:30 a.m.–9:00 p.m.

MoMA Design Store, Soho
81 Spring Street, New York, NY
PH: 646-613-1367
Monday–Saturday 11:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.
Sunday 11:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.

http://www.moma.org/

2006-02-18T16:43:00.000-05:00

Havana Alma de Cuba, where the flava of Cuba meets the taste palette of NYC

Let me take you to the West Village of NYC to a small restaurant where the taste and ambiance are out of this word. As you enter this tiny place, you are greeted with the sounds of a two piece band. The music adds that extra feeling of comfort to this place. You want to drink, socialize and stay for awhile. My friend and I started off with some sangria, which I tell you was the best sangria I ever tasted in my life. The combination of flavors and fruit kept me wanting more, 3 glasses to be exact. It was smooth and I felt no pain! Then on to the next order of business: the food. Instead of ordering a main entree we decided to go with a whole bunch of appetizers. Some of my favorites include the Papas Rellenas ($3.95 stuffed potatoes with ground beef and grated cheese) and if you are a true seafood lover the ceviche ($9.95) with red snapper was flavorful with fresh snapper, cilantro, lime and possibly a hint of spice. I also enjoyed the piping hot sopa de polla ($3.95) which was a mildly spicy mix of corn, chicken and avocado soup. Oh, I did order a side order of fufu de platano ($3.95) which was a sweet mashed plantains....Sinfully delicious. To finish off the marathon of food goodness we decided to order some dessert. I am not historically a big fan of flan, but I was strongly encouraged to try and I was so glad I did. It was sweet with a texture of coconut and caramel. I will never snub the flan again. The whole meal was incredibly declicious, but the flan was the perfect way to end a scrumptious meal. This restaurant is perfect for friends, coworkers or that special date. Havana Alma de la Cuba will fill your belly, but will not break your budget.

Havana Alma de Cuba, Cuban, Spanish, Latin American
94 Christopher St, New York 10014/At Bleecker St
Phone: 212-242-3800

They are easy get to a you can check out the menus at: http://www.havanavillagenyc.com/media/websitehavanavillage.html

I love to eat and try cheap and chic restaurants, but NYC is filled with so many good places to eat. Check out my favorite websites for all the best flavors of NYC, no matter where you are.
http://www.menupages.com/index.asp

Toodles for now,
Alecia

cheap eat restaurant frugal fun delicious chic new york city nyc tourist attraction

2006-02-16T22:50:00.000-05:00

Hi, Cait here with your weekly scoop for seeing NYC theater tickets on the cheap. Don't worry these discounts aren't just for students. movin out theater

I found some great advice that I thought you all would love. If you have used any of these organizations or have a tip of your own, please post a comment ... come on, its fat-free. movin out theater

Rush theater tickets to Broadway and Off Broadway shows can sell for as little as $10. Go to the box office of the theater on the day of the performance (most open at noon) and wait in line. Some sell rush theater tickets starting in the morning, others an hour before curtain. Many shows also offer discounted theater ticket rates for students and seniors. movin out theater

Discount theater tickets are available for same-day performances through Theatre Development Fund/TKTS, located in Times Square at 47th Street. The hours are Mon–Sat 3–8pm; Wed, Sat 10am–2pm (for matinee theater tickets); Sun 11am–7pm. Cash and traveler's checks only; no phone or credit card purchases. Don't assume that your show will be available; it's best to arrive with a few alternatives in mind. You can also visit TDF's lower Manhattan booth at South Street Seaport, located at the northwest corner of Front and John Streets. Hours are Mon–Fri 11am–6pm; Sat 11am–7pm; Sun 11am–4pm. At the Seaport TKTS booth, matinee theater tickets are sold the day before performance only. Check to see if you qualify for TDF's Mailing List Program. You could get theater tickets to Broadway shows for as low as $28; students, teachers, retirees and theater professionals are among those eligible. Visit www.tdf.org or call 212-768-1818. movin out theater

Discount codes—which can be used when purchasing theater tickets through Ticketmaster—can be found at www.broadwaybox.com. This useful site provides links and phone numbers that will help you purchase Broadway and Off Broadway theater tickets for up to 50 percent off.
Half-price theater tickets can also be purchased at box offices by presenting Hit Show Club vouchers, available at the club's office, 630 Ninth Avenue at 44th Street, eighth floor; call 212-581-4211 or visit www.hitshowclub.com. movin out theater

Coupons for discount theater tickets are also available through Broadway Bucks. Go to the box office at 226 West 47th Street between Broadway and Eighth Avenue, tenth floor; call 800-223-7565, ext 214; or simply visit www.bestofbroadway.com. movin out theater

Junior-high and high-school students: Some theaters offer special rates (Mon–Thu $5 for two tickets; Fri–Sun $5 for one ticket). For more information, call High 5 at 212-445-8587 or visit www.high5tix.org.movin out theater

Librarians, teachers and students can pick up vouchers for 30 to 50 percent off at the School Theater Ticket Program, 1560 Broadway between Sixth and Seventh Avenues, suite 1113 (Mon–Fri 11am–4pm). For more information, call 212-354-4722 or visit www.schooltix.com movin out theater

2006-02-12T18:10:00.000-05:00

Looking for somewhere fun to hang, have a few drinks, listen to some good jazz and blues, and experience classic Greenwich Village charm? Try Arthur's Tavern, at 57 Grove Street, just west of 7th Avenue South. Check a map to get around this part of the city, 'cause it's not like the grid around midtown and uptown in Manhattan, and can get a little confusing if you're not familiar with the area. Anyway, Arthur's has NO COVER charge, and music that's actually good to listen to and won't drive you deaf. There supposedly is a two drink minimum, but you're going there to have a few anyway, right? The joint features some rather eclectic decor, and can get somewhat crowded and loud, but it's a lot of fun and won't break your wallet. Check it out next time you're planning to head downtown. You won't regret it.

2006-02-09T22:07:00.000-05:00

Hey, Hey true believers ... this is Cait with some theater ticket picks that you won't believe for about $15. Don't forget to call ahead to confirm dates and times.

Laundry & Bourbon and Lone Star (classic Texas)
Theater 54
250 W 54 St - West Side theater tickets
212-591-2396

All-in-One (classic one acts)
Clurman Theater
410 W 42 St - Midtown theater tickets
www.theatrerow.org
212-239-6200

American Theater of Actors (Tony winner Trezana Beverley directs Oedipus in the antebellum South)
314 W 54 St - West Side
212-581-3044

Triple Threat (three new works by emerging playwrights) theater tickets
Theater 5
311 W 43 St - Times Sq
212-247-2429

Ham and Eggs (comedy sketches by chicks)
Under St. Marks theater tickets
94 St Mark's Place - East Village
btwn First Ave & Ave A
www.ththeater.org
212-868-4444

Paradise (three NYC couples and a priest) movin out theater
Access Theater
380 Broadway, 4th Flr - Soho
212-966-1047 movin out theater

Separating the Men from the Bull (Unofficial Yale Cabaret)
West Bank's Cafe 's Laurie Beechman Theater
407 W 42 st - Midtown
www.westbankcafe.com/theatre.html
212-695-6909

ENJOY!!! movin out theater

2006-02-08T16:25:00.000-05:00

American Idol said NO, but here is your chance to SING.

If you are in NYC tomorrow night (2/9), I just got a tip on a hip and fun thing to check out. I know its cold outside, but warm up those vocal chords and get over to:

A Piano gig where you can belt out all your favorite songs. Sing your heart out and Simon will not KICK you off the stage. Bring your inner fun and funk and belt out some Broadway. Don't be shy-your wanna be Broadway diva Alecia will probably be singing Annie or better yet, Fame. ;)

Marie's Crisis Cafe
59 Grove Street, just west of 7th Ave So.
212-243-9323
Take the 1/9 to Christopher St/Sheridan Square, walk one block south to
Grove and walk a short distance west. It's right next to Arthur's
Tavern, and you have to go down some stairs.

NO COVER! NO MINIMUM! CHEAP DRINKS!

2006-02-03T14:53:00.000-05:00

Fun and Frugal: Indian Rowe NYC with Alecia

If it's a little tacky decoration mixed with curry that you desire, head over to the East Village for some fine Indian cuisine. The food in every restaurant on 6th Avenue is deliciously inexpensive and you won't go away hungry. If it's real ambiance you desire, many of the restaurants offer tacky decorations and fine music. I actually prefer the restaurants that are a complete decoration fire hazard-adds an extra thrill to the dining experience. These restaurants cater to both small and large groups and are perfect for families looking for something different, while managing a travel budget to a great local place for a friends or couples to gather at. Most restaurants do not serve booze, but welcome you to bring your favorite alcoholic beverage and will gladly uncork it for you. There is a little liquor store on 5th Street between 1st and 2nd, that is perfect for a last minute wine pickup.

Some of my favorite dishes are Chicken Malei, chicken in an almond cream sauce or the banana pakora, banana wrapped in dough and fried. Don't forget to order bread-there are many choices to choose from including your basic nan to varieties stuffed with nuts and raisins. Try the dipping sauces they provide to you on the table and remember the green one is HOT!

Indian is fun and filling and if your are able to snag a coupon on the corner of 2nd Ave and 6th street, you might even feel guilty about how cheap your meal is.

Take the 6 to Astor Place. Indian or Curry Rowe is located on 6th Street between 1st and 2nd Avenues. You may even catch someone handing out coupons on the corner on 2nd Ave and 6th Street.

Some notable restaurants:
Brick Lane Curry House 306 E 6th Street
Havel 100 2nd Avenue
Banjara 97 1st Avenue