Holiday season is here! Finding outdoor activities close to your Glenwood apartment for you and your family will help make lasting memories! Visiting the Rockefeller Tree this year is a fun, distanced activity that is enjoyable for all! If you saw pictures of the tree when it first arrived, you may know it came in looking a bit disheveled- but don’t fear, it has gotten branch extensions (yes apparently that is a real thing!) and it now looks full and beautiful. Keep reading to find out more about visiting the tree this year.

History Of The Rockefeller Tree

This is Rockefeller Center’s 92nd annual Christmas Tree! The first tree was back in December of 1931. The workers paid for a 20-foot-tall tree to lift spirits! They even created their own tree ornaments and garlands. Holiday cheer can lift spirits- which is especially important this year! 

When To Visit

The 74-foot tree will be on display through the beginning of January and you can visit from 6am to 12am. On New Year’s Eve, you can only visit until 9pm. It can get crowded, so if you have the chance to visit during an hour that isn’t so popular, try that to get the closest and best view possible!

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Where Did This Year’s Tree Come From

This year’s tree is 74 feet tall and came from West Stockbridge, Massachusetts. When the tree is taken down, the wood becomes used for Habitat For Humanity. Then, the search for the following year’s tree begins again- it takes months to locate the perfect tree! 

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Loaded Sweet Potato Bites

This delicious, bite sized appetizer is healthy and tasty! This recipe comes from acouplecooks.com.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds sweet potatoes
• 1 ½ tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• Hot sauce
• Monterrey Jack and cheddar shredded cheese (Mexican blend)
• 3 green onions
• sour cream

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 450°F.
2. Cut the sweet potatoes into ¼-inch slices. Place the slices in a large bowl, sprinkle with 1 ½ tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon chili powder, and 1 teaspoon salt, and stir to thoroughly coat both sides of all slices. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, taking care that the rounds do not overlap (if possible). Bake 10 minutes on one side, then remove from the oven, flip all rounds, and bake another 10 minutes until soft.
3. While the potatoes bake, thinly slice the green onions.
4. When the potatoes are done, remove them from oven and add a dot of hot sauce on each round (or more if desired). Top each round with shredded cheese and wait a few minutes for the cheese to melt (the potatoes will be hot enough at this point to melt the cheese).
5. To serve, place the rounds on a platter. Add a dollop of sour cream on each round, and garnish with sliced green onions. (Tip: To make the sour cream easier to dollop, mix it in a bowl with a few drops of water to loosen it).

Sweet Potato Skins

Replacing the potato chips on the table with a healthier, savory snack will be a hit! These sweet potato skins are still loaded with salsa and cheese, but the ingredients used to make them are healthy. Try this recipe from the foodnetwork.com out! 

Ingredients

-6 medium sweet potatoes (about 2 1/2 pounds)

-3 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

-1 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella

-2 tablespoons grated Parmesan

-2 scallions, thinly sliced

-1/2 cup salsa verde

-1/2 avocado, pitted and cut into small pieces

-1 cup black bean chips, crushed

Directions

1. Position an oven rack in the top of the oven, and preheat to 350 degrees F. Put the sweet potatoes on a rimmed baking sheet, and bake until fork-tender, 40 to 50 minutes. Let cool completely. (The potatoes can be baked, cooled and refrigerated a day ahead.) Split each in half lengthwise, and scoop out most of the flesh, leaving about a 1/4-inch border all around. (Save the scooped-out flesh for making mashed sweet potatoes later.)
2. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Put a rack on a rimmed baking sheet. Arrange the potato skins skin-side up on the rack, and brush with 2 tablespoons of the oil. Bake until the skins are slightly browned, 20 to 30 minutes. Let cool completely, then cut each in half crosswise.
3. Arrange the pieces skin-side down on the rack, and sprinkle each with mozzarella, Parmesan and scallions. Bake until the mozzarella melts, 8 to 10 minutes. Remove the potato skins from the oven, and drizzle with the remaining tablespoon of oil. Top each with some salsa verde and avocado. Sprinkle with crushed chips.

Vegetarian Green Beans in Blankets 

Pigs in a blanket are a favorite in my household, but this year I will be putting a healthy spin on them. With replacing the hot dog meat with green beans, you get a nice flavor profile and crunch in every bite! This recipe from foodnetwork.com is delicious! 

Ingredients

-3/4 pound (12 ounces) green beans, trimmed and halved crosswise

-1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil

-Fine salt

-2 cups whole-wheat pastry flour, plus more for kneading

-1 teaspoon baking powder

-1/2 teaspoon baking soda

-4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes 

-2/3 cup low-fat milk

-4 ounces dill Havarti cheese, shredded

-1 large egg, lightly beaten

-1/2 teaspoon caraway seeds

-2 tablespoons country Dijon mustard

-1 tablespoon sour cream

Directions

1. Position 2 oven racks in the upper and lower thirds of the oven, and preheat to 375 degrees F. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment. Line a rimmed baking sheet with paper towels.
2. Put the green beans in a large microwave-safe bowl with a splash of water, cover and microwave until bright green and crisp-tender, about 5 minutes. Drain the beans on the paper towel-lined baking sheet. Let cool, then toss with the oil and a large pinch of salt.
3. Meanwhile, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda and 1 teaspoon salt in a medium bowl. Add the butter, and work it into the flour mixture with your fingers until the butter is broken down into very small pea-size pieces. Make a well in the center, and pour in the milk. Stir the dry ingredients into the wet with a fork.
4. Once the dough comes together, knead it gently a couple of times on a well-floured work surface. Roll it out to a little thinner than 1/8 inch. Cut it into as many 1 1/2-by-3-inch rectangles as you can; discard any scraps. On each rectangle, lay 4 green bean halves crosswise (the tips should poke out a little) and top with about 1 teaspoon of the cheese; roll the rectangle up, making sure the ends overlap; seal and arrange, seam-side down, 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. Brush each with egg, and sprinkle with caraway seeds.
5. Bake until golden brown, 15 to 18 minutes. Let cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes.

Meanwhile, stir together the mustard and sour cream in a small bowl. Serve on the side as a dipping sauce.

Baked Buffalo Wings with Blue Cheese-Yogurt Dip

It wouldn’t really be Super Bowl Sunday without chicken wings, would it? Try this great recipe featuring a blue cheese yogurt dip! With a healthier dip, you are free to double dip your chicken wings (since this year it would be a good idea to serve everyone with their own side dish of dip to prevent germs from spreading even within your own household!) This recipe is from the foodnetwork.com.

Ingredients

Dip:

-3/4 cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt

-1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese

-2 tablespoons mayonnaise

-1 small clove garlic, chopped

-1 tablespoon skim milk or buttermilk

-Juice of 1/2 lemon

-Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper

Wings:

-Cooking spray, for the baking sheet

-3 pounds chicken wings, split at the joints, tips removed

-4 stalks celery, cut into thirds

-4 carrots, cut in half

-2 bay leaves

-1 cup fat-free low-sodium chicken broth

-1 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce (or 1/2 cup other hot sauce)

-2 tablespoons paprika

-2 tablespoons unsalted butter

-1 tbs honey

Directions

1. Make the dip: Pulse the yogurt, blue cheese, mayonnaise, garlic, milk and lemon juice in a food processor until combined but still chunky. Season with salt and pepper. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
2. Make the wings: Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. Coat a rimmed baking sheet with cooking spray. Put the chicken wings in a deep skillet; add 3 pieces of celery, 3 pieces of carrot, the bay leaves, chicken broth, hot sauce, paprika, butter, honey and 1/2 cup water and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Simmer until the chicken is almost cooked through, about 18 minutes. Transfer the wings to the prepared baking sheet and arrange in a single layer; reserve the sauce in the skillet.
3. Bake the wings, turning once, until the skin is golden and crisp, 30 to 35 minutes. Meanwhile, simmer the reserved sauce over medium-low heat until slightly thickened, about 15 minutes. Discard the celery, carrot and bay leaves. Reserve one-quarter of the sauce for serving. Return the wings to the skillet and toss with the remaining sauce. Serve the wings with the blue cheese dip and reserved sauce; cut the remaining celery and carrot into sticks to serve on the side.

Cauliflower Wings

Or, if you want to sub the chicken with cauliflower, try this fantastic recipe from acouplecooks.com!

For the cauliflower wings

• 1 medium head cauliflower
• 1 ½ cups all purpose flour, divided
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika*
• ¼ cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 ½ cups club soda

For the buffalo sauce

• ½ cup Frank’s red hot sauce
• ¼ cup melted coconut oil
• 1 teaspoon white vinegar
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon sugar

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Cut the cauliflower into bite-size florets.
3. Mix 1 cup of the flour with garlic powder, smoked paprika, cornstarch and salt. Pour in the club soda and stir until a smooth batter forms.
4. Add the remaining ½ cup flour to separate bowl.
5. Place the parchment paper on two baking sheets and place two baking racks on top. Dredge each floret in flour and then dip it into the batter. Place each floret on top of the racks (the batter will drip below, which is ok).
6. Once all the florets are covered, place the baking sheets with racks on top in the oven. Bake for 15 minutes, then rotate the sheets and bake for 10 more minutes until crispy.
7. Meanwhile, make the sauce: Place the ingredients for the buffalo sauce into a small saucepan. Heat over medium low heat and whisk until smooth, about 1 to 2 minutes.
8. When the cauliflower wings are done, cool for a few minutes. Then slide a spatula under them or use your fingers to remove them from the baking racks — some of the breading will come off of the bottom, but that’s okay (you won’t notice when they’re coated in sauce). Then in a large bowl, pour the buffalo sauce over wings and turn gently with a spatula until they are fully covered.

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If you have wanted to experiment with healthy side dishes to balance out your Thanksgiving meal, this is a great year to get started! Since this year calls for Thanksgiving to be celebrated with just those in your immediate household, you don’t have to worry about everyone in your extended family’s meal preferences. We have found some great recipes for you to try to make in your Glenwood kitchen! Keep reading to find out more.

Vegan Creamed Spinach

Creamed spinach is one of my most favorite fall and winter side dishes! But, I know it is far from healthy, so this year I have found a great recipe from Bon Appétit that is vegan and I won’t feel as guilty going for that second serving! This recipe will serve approx. 4 people.

Ingredients:

• 11 4oz packages silken tofu, drained
• ¼ cup grapeseed, vegetable, or other neutral oil
• 8 scallions, thinly sliced
• 13″ piece ginger, peeled, finely grated
• 1 chile (such as serrano or Fresno), thinly sliced
• 5 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
• 4 bunches mature spinach (about 2 lb.), trimmed, torn into large pieces, pinch of Kosher salt

Directions:

Step 1:

Purée tofu in a blender until smooth and the consistency of heavy cream. Transfer to a small bowl.

Step 2:

Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium. Cook scallions, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 3 minutes. Add ginger, chile, and garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until garlic is softened and mixture is fragrant, about 2 minutes. Working in batches, add handfuls of spinach, letting it wilt slightly before adding more and stirring occasionally, until all the spinach is in the pan. Cover and cook until spinach is wilted and bright green, about 3 minutes. Uncover and reduce heat to medium-low. Stir in tofu mixture and cook until warmed through, about 2 minutes. Taste and season with salt.

Quinoa Salad With Sweet Potato and Kale

A beautiful, richly colored salad that has a fall flavor spectrum is a perfect side dish for your Thanksgiving meal. This recipe from Cookie and Kate is as delicious as it is healthy.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium sweet potatoes (about ¾ pound total), peeled and diced into ½-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 1 ¾ cups vegetable broth
• 2 cups stemmed and finely chopped curly kale
• ½ cup roasted, salted sunflower seeds*
• ⅓ cup thinly sliced fresh basil

Pesto dressing (yields about 1 ½ cups, so you’ll have extra leftover)

• ½ cup firmly packed fresh basil leaves
• ¼ cup firmly packed fresh parsley leaves
• ½ cup olive oil
• ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, roughly chopped
• 1 teaspoon maple syrup or agave nectar
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• Pepper, to taste

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a large, rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. To prepare the sweet potatoes, transfer them to the prepared baking sheet and toss them with 2 tablespoons olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper and arrange in a single layer. Bake for 10 minutes, then toss and bake for 10 to 15 minutes longer, until tender and browning. Set the pan aside to cool.
3. Meanwhile, combine the rinsed quinoa and broth in a medium saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then decrease the heat to maintain a simmer, cover, and cook until the quinoa has absorbed all the liquid, about 20 minutes. Fluff the quinoa with a fork and set aside to cool.
4. To make the vinaigrette, combine all of the ingredients in a blender or food processor and process until mostly smooth, but with small pieces of herbs still visible.
5. Transfer the chopped kale to a large serving bowl. Sprinkle with a dash of salt and then use your hands to “massage” the kale, grabbing big handfuls at a time and gently squeezing them in your fist until the kale is darker in color and more fragrant, about 15 seconds.
6. Add the sweet potatoes, quinoa, kale, sunflower seeds and sliced basil to the bowl. Drizzle with about ⅓ cup dressing and gently toss until all of the ingredients are evenly coated. Taste and mix in more dressing if desired.
7. Serve the salad at room temperature or cold. Leftovers will keep well in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 2 days.

I made this dish and loved it! I added some pomegranate and chickpeas because my husband loves them and served it inside a roasted squash!

Devilish Eggs

Deviled eggs are a great appetizer to put out for your family while you finish preparing your Thanksgiving meal! This deviled egg recipe by Ellie Krieger found on the Food Network has the same great flavor, but is in fact healthier!

Ingredients:

• 1 dozen eggs
• 2/3 cup silken tofu, drained
• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce, plus more to taste
• 2 teaspoons prepared horseradish
• 2 tablespoons chopped chives
• Salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika

Directions:

1. Place the eggs in a large saucepan and cover with water. Place over high heat and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 9 minutes. Remove the eggs from water and run under cold water for about 1 minute or until cool enough to touch. Peel eggs under cold running water.
2. Slice the eggs in half lengthwise. Scoop out the yolks and discard 6 of them or save for another use. Set aside the whites.
3. Place the remaining yolks in a medium bowl and mash with the tofu, mayonnaise, mustard, hot sauce, horseradish and chives. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Spoon the mixture into the corner of a plastic bag and snip off the end. Pipe the yolk mixture into the egg whites. Arrange on a platter and sprinkle with paprika.

Beet And Apple Salad

This recipe from Food & Wine by George Mendes blends fall flavor and color into a light, healthy salad perfect for your Thanksgiving table!

Ingredients

• 4 large beets (2 1/2 pounds) 
• 5 thyme sprigs 
• ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil (plus more for drizzling) 
• Salt and freshly ground pepper 
• ¼ cup apple-cider vinegar 
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard 
• 3 tablespoons prepared horseradish 
• ⅓ cup salted pistachios (chopped) 
• 1 green apple (thinly sliced) 

Directions

Step 1:

Preheat the oven to 375°. In a baking dish, lightly drizzle the beets and thyme with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. Cover with foil and roast until the beets are tender, about 1 hour and 45 minutes. Let cool, then peel the beets and cut them into 3/4-inch dice.

Step 2:

In a large bowl, whisk the vinegar with the mustard. Whisk in the remaining 1/2 cup of oil until emulsified. Add the horseradish and season with salt and pepper; toss with the beets and pistachios. Transfer the beets to a platter, top with the apple and serve.

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Kusama: Cosmic Nature is on display at the New York Botanical Garden from Saturday, April 10^th through Sunday, October 31^st.  The expansive outdoor and indoor installation is a perfect activity for this spring, summer, or fall! Glenwood residents, be sure to get tickets online now as they are selling out quickly, especially on the weekends. Keep reading to find out more. 

Kusama: Cosmic Nature

Kusama’s exhibition explores her relationship with nature throughout her life. Walking through the NYBGs, you will be able to view new sculptures of hers from 2020 that are on display for the first time! You wont run out of things to view strolling through the 250 acre grounds. If you are an art lover or Kusama enthusiast, this exhibit is not to be missed! 

An Appreciation For Nature

If you are looking for weekend tickets, you should purchase them now! With social distancing, admission is restricted. This is a great activity for friends, couples or families to partake in as the weather gets warmer! In addition to exterior works, an interior exhibit for Kusama’s Infinity Mirrored Room will become complimentary to your ticket when the interior exhibit can open. Nature has played a large role in many of our past year, so this exhibit is beautiful, meaningful, and great for kids or adults of all ages! 

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Ladurée

World famous Parisian macaron and pastry shop Ladurée, founded in Paris in 1832, has one of the best hot chocolates in all of New York City! This is for the true chocolate lover who craves that thick, silky hot coco. Grab a seat in the beautifully decorated pastry shop and order some macaroons too! The Marie Antoinette-like decor is just emanating through the bakery! With two locations, on 864 Madison Avenue and 398 West Broadway, whether you live uptown or downtown, there is a spot near you.

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The Andover – Upper East Side Luxury Apartments

Located in the quaint village of Gracie Point, The Andover boasts spacious apartments and first-class amenities. With units specifically designed for small and growing families in mind, browse available apartments today!

Sant Ambroeus

Sant Ambreous is a great Italian restaurant with locations both uptown and downtown. They have delicious hot chocolate that is very rich and creamy! I highly recommend trying it! You can also grab a small panini to go as well! Their uptown location is 1000 Madison Avenue and they are located downtown at 259 W 4th Street.

Starbucks

This holiday season, maybe giving up caffeine is one of your New Year’s resolutions! Don’t fret, you can still enjoy the Starbuck’s holiday cups by ordering a hot chocolate with whipped cream! The holiday cups are here, and thy add that little extra winter cheer during long winter work days! Starbucks also has cute and tasty winter snacks like the red and white cake pops to pair with your hot coco! Your kids are sure to love the cake pops as much as you do!

In the comfort of your home!

Sometimes you just want to curl up at home with a good book or movie and a hot chocolate! With a little secret tip, we are sure to help you enjoy a great at home treat! To avoid a watery flavor, use milk or milk substitute like soy milk as the base of the drink. If you want that extra silky chocolaty taste, put a Hershey kiss in the bottom of you mug and let it melt before adding in the hot coco powder. Now you have a perfect at home mug of hot chocolate! This is great for those times you are stuck in your apartment due to a snowstorm! You and your entire family are sure to love this at home winter treat!

What are your favorite hot chocolate spots? Let us know on Facebookand Twitter!

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With summer officially kicking off later this month, sitting outdoors to enjoy a meal or two is probably on your weekend to-do list! While there’s certainly no shortage of sidewalk cafes in the city, I recently discovered a true outdoor gem that just screams summer in the city. From white washed exposed brick walls to colorful rugs and bright decor, Loosie’s Kitchen is more than just a meal – it’s a summertime memory in the making.

Located in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, Loosie’s is located at 91 South 6th Street – just a few blocks from the East River waterfront. While the decor holds true to Southern California vibes, the menu has a definite New Orleans flair to it. Best of multiple cities without leaving New York… talk about the perfect staycation!

To Drink

Get ready to bring your summertime rosé game to a whole new level.

Loosie’s features wine that is natural, organic, biodynamic, and sustainable (try saying that five times fast!) A bottle of Summer Water from California will set you back $50, and you can drink knowing you’re in good health. Their cocktail game is strong, too. I particularly took to the Mexcolada ($12), which is a mix of Mezcal, coffee, coconut, and a touch of Pedro Jimenez – the perfect energetic drink to enjoy before heading out for a night of dancing or watching a summertime flick under the stars!

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Manhattan’s West Side vs. East Side

Believe it or not, there are quite a few differences between the West and East Sides of Manhattan! From family-style mom and pop shops to vibrant nightlife, which neighborhood best suits your lifestyle?

To Start

Four words: Homemade ricotta and cornbread. This dish was so delectable I could have easily ordered a few rounds of this and been completely content for the night! The ricotta is mixed with a pistachio basil pesto and sprinkled with pine nuts. It’s the perfect light summertime app, priced at $11. If you want to bring a bit of the Big Easy into your starter course, go with the Cajun Blackened Fluke Lettuce Wraps, which are complemented with candied peanuts, roasted pineapple, spicy pickles, and cilantro ($12).

Entree

Staying true to its southern roots, we suggest you go with the famous Loosie’s Fried Chicken for your main event, which is half a chicken complimented with house cucumber pickles and hot sauce, priced at $18. If you’re a vegetarian, I suggest going with the Mac and Cheese for $11. Even though it’s technically a side dish, it’s massive, ooey and gooey, and absolutely delicious. Share a side of hand cut cajun french fries at $6.

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Dessert

Just like you wouldn’t go to New Orleans without having a beignet, you definitely don’t leave Loosie’s without ordering their Nutella Beignets ($10). Served with homemade whipped cream, these are perfectly fried little pieces of dough that will leave you satisfied without being stuffed. So ideal for summer, right?

The Extras

In addition to being the perfect summertime spot to dine, Loosie’s has a sister property on site.

Loosie Rouge is the hip and happening bar, which can be found directly in front of Loosie’s Kitchen. Every week, you can find live music happening here, and here’s the schedule:

• Piano playing on Mondays 9pm-12am
• Open mic night Wednesdays 9:30pm to 12:30am
• Jam sessions on Sundays from 7pm to 11pm

So order that coffee cocktail as your after dinner drink, and head to Loosie’s Rouge for the after party! A perfect summer soiree, indeed!

From the vibrant colors, absolutely delicious food, and entertaining live music, what’s your favorite thing about Loosie’s Kitchen? Connect with us on Twitter and Facebook and let us know!

The post June’s Restaurant of the Month: Loosie’s Kitchen appeared first on NYC Luxury Apartments for Rent | Glenwood Management.

One of my favorite traditions to do in NYC when the weather warms up is to take the tram to Roosevelt Island for an afternoon. Not only is it fun getting there (the views of the city are spectacular), but being on a tiny 2 mile island outside of the hustle and bustle of Manhattan feels like a mini vacation. Below you’ll find our top things to do once you’re on the island. Happy exploring!

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Attend an Event at Four Freedoms Park

Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park is a lovely memorial dedicated to the former President. This beautiful green space is perfect for warm weather activities, located on the southern tip of Roosevelt Island. You’ll find it’s one of the most pristine parks in the city, with some of the best views, too!

Besides being a perfect spot for a picnic, an outdoor workout, or a space to watch the sunset, Four Freedoms Park has an excellent lineup events for the summer. You can view the calendar here, but some of our favorites include a pop-up imagination playground for kids, a sunset garden party, and plenty of live music events.

Take A Swim or Workout

You don’t have to leave NYC for a summer swim, just head to Sportspark on Roosevelt Island! This place is the ultimate facility for the sports lover, with the following options to keep you active on the Island at a very affordable price:

• A swimming pool
• A full-size basketball court
• Ping pong room
• Fitness classes – including $5 Zumba and yoga drop classes

The Olympic pool has plenty of open swim hours, and also features water aerobics and swim classes. Sign us up!

Watch a Summer Movie Under the Stars

While the exact lineup of films hasn’t been announced yet, the calendar of dates has! From June through August, you have 6 opportunities to watch a film under the magical NYC stars of Roosevelt Island’s own Firefighter Field. A little secret? Since this is a bit more under the radar than popular outdoor film series, such as Bryant Park’s HBO Movies, there’s a lot less of a crazy crowd. This means you can easily pack your picnic, spread your blanket, and make an enjoyable date night under the stars of it – without having to arrive 3 hours early to claim your space!

Last year there were food trucks on site, too, which is good to know in case you don’t have time to pack a basket!

See a Show

Roosevelt Island’s Main Street Theatre and Dance Alliance is famous for hosting Broadway productions for a fraction of the cost. This month you can catch their showing of Pippin, where tickets go for only $20 (or $15 for students and seniors.) They also host regular improv comedy nights, which are family friendly!

Take a Bike Ride Around the Island

I love bike riding, but not on the wild streets of Manhattan! Roosevelt Island may be the one place in all of NYC where I wasn’t fearing for my life while pedaling around!

If you don’t have your own wheels, stop by Citi Bike before you get on the Roosevelt Island Tram (the nearest location is located at 58th Street and Second Avenue.) Day passes are available if you don’t have an annual membership, which makes this perfect for tourists as well as locals. You can safely bike around the island, taking in the views, the lighthouse at the north tip of the island, and ending at the south end at Four Freedoms Park.  An escape from NYC without leaving NYC!

Stay Up To Date on the Latest Events

The Roosevelt Islander is an online newspaper which keeps locals up to date on news, information, and resources for the island… basically everything! One of my favorite travel hacks is to find small local newspapers or bloggers, because I truly believe you’ll get the best “insider” information that way, rather than sticking only to the big publications.

A quick perusal through the Roosevelt Islander cued me in on a Farmers Market that happens on the island every Saturday, toddler story time happening weekly at their library, and a bonfire celebration – all things I would love to attend!

How do you spend a day on Roosevelt Island? Let us know on Facebook or Twitter!

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As we head into the end of August and say goodbye to summer, the first glimpses of fall in New York seem to cause anticipation for outdoor festivals, local events, and of course beautiful sights. The weather is comfortable, and occasionally you’ll need a sweater for those crisp, cool mornings. While warm weather is still with us, fill your fall weekends with things you want to do. As the leaves begin to change, why not have a change of scenery and venture to a festival in a new borough or explore the upstate area. We’ve rounded up a few favorites, both in and outside of NYC, so get your booties, beanies, and cardigans ready!

Festivals Within New York City

Kite Festival: September 10th, 2016

It that a bird… A plane… Or a kite!? Brooklyn Bridge Park is THE ideal location to host the Kite Festival on Harbor View Lawn. With perfect views of the Manhattan skyline, bring your family out for a fun day of flying high in the sky. Guests are encouraged to bring their most colorful kite to fly. Don’t have a kite of your own? Don’t worry! Kites will be available to purchase from attending vendors on the lawn.

Unicycle Festival: September 1st-4th, 2016

Now in its seventh year, the Unicycle Festival is celebrated across the city, from Battery Park to Central Park and Brooklyn Bridge to Coney Island. The festival brings together world-class performers, recreational riders, and circus enthusiasts! There will even be a learn-to-ride area for beginners to catch their balance and a basketball court to shoot hoops from a unicycle! It sure does sound like this festival will guarantee fun for riders and spectators alike. It promises to be quite a spectacle, so even if you won’t be joining in on the ride, make sure to snap a photo to share with us!

Medieval Festival at Fort Tryon: September 18th, 2016

Shining armor, damsels in distress, and the ever-famous turkey leg on a stick! If you’re a Medieval times fan, play the part at the Medieval Festival at Fort Tryon. With activities ranging from jousting to medieval dance performances and themed craft tables, this free festival is a fun way to spend a Sunday! Your kids are sure to love Marco the Magician’s exciting tricks and then taking part in Muggle Juggle juggling lessons. And for the foodies out there… We hear you. Try steak or sausage on a stick with a side of Peter Piper’s Pickles to go along with your favorite craft beer. With all the food and fun this event has, the only thing you need to bring along is comfy shoes and a Medieval costume!

Festivals Outside of New York City

Bethel Woods Harvest Festival: Every Sunday in September

Located about 2 hours north of Midtown Manhattan, visiting Bethel Woods Center for the Arts makes for a wonderful day trip. Head up to the beautiful Hudson Valley where the 1969 Woodstock Festival took place and get yourself into the fall spirit! Every Sunday throughout September, the Bethel Woods Harvest Festival runs from 11 am to 4 pm, which includes a unique blend of farmers market, artisans and crafters, live music, fresh food from the Hudson Valley, special events and giveaways, and children’s activities. The festival is free for all, but look into doggy daycare, as pets are not allowed on the grounds.

Woodstock-New Paltz Arts & Crafts Show: September 3rd-5th, 2016

Taking place of Labor Day weekend, the Woodstock-New Paltz Arts & Crafts Show arts and crafts show has been going strong for 35 years! It’s somewhat of a destination for artists and crafters across the country, as well as the patrons of these fields. Besides finding the next big statement piece for your apartment (at a much better price than the Brooklyn Flea), you’ll  be able to enjoy live music and plenty of local wines and specialty foods. At an hour and a half from the city, this festival can be conquered in a day trip. Again, no pooches allowed, so plan accordingly.

Hudson Valley Food & Wine Festival: September 10th-11th, 2016

If you’ve been meaning to explore local vineyards to NYC, the Hudson Valley Food and Wine Festival is the perfect place to discover local wine, find your favorites, and then plan weekend trips to local vineyards! This festival is also a great opportunity to load up on favorite bottles for the upcoming holiday entertaining. Besides eating and drinking til’ your heart’s content, you can also enjoy cooking demonstrations, live music, and shopping from local vendors. It’s the perfect time to knock out some of your holiday shopping – everyone will love that you bought local! The festival will take place in Rhinebeck, and is about an hour and a half drive from the city. Totally doable within a day, but there’s no shortage of local B&B’s if you want to make a weekend out of it!

Any fall festivals you’re most looking forward to? Share your favorites with us on Twitter and Facebook!

The post Fall Festivals In and Around NYC appeared first on NYC Luxury Apartments for Rent | Glenwood Management.

When you think of where to find a “hidden gem” with “authentic French cuisine,” the theater district wouldn’t be your first guess, right? Well, after discovering Chez Napoleon on 50th Street between 8th and 9th Avenues, we were welcomed by the Bruno family – who is the third, yet longest, family to own Chez Napoléon – and served a perfectly crafted menu that showcases France’s most delectable culinary delights.

With the perfect location in the Theater District without the hustle and bustle of chain restaurants, Chez Napoleon is ideal for a pre or post-theater dinner. What’s the secret behind this tiny French spot’s success? While it may not be flashy, the combination of being family run, fresh and authentic French food (yes, like the kind you actually find in France), and their secret sauce will keep you coming back to taste Chef “Grandmere” Marguerite Bruno’s dishes. Here’s what we love about Chez Napoleon: August’s Restaurant of the Month.

Stop by for Lunch

From fresh greens with homemade dressing to a cup of authentic onion soup, Chez Napoleon’s lunch options will make you come back again and again to try new dishes. If you’re looking for a light lunch, you can never go wrong with Salade de Mesclun, a medley of nine different lettuces topped with house vinaigrette.  If you’re a cheese lover, try the Croque Monsieur, which is a French-style grilled ham and cheese sandwich. Sounds fancy, right?! The lunch menu is served Monday-Friday from noon to 2 pm.

The Dinner Menu

A few favorite items on the dinner menu are classic dishes you’d find at any cafe in Paris, such as Beef Bourguignon, which is classic beef stew with carrots, pearl onions, and fresh mushrooms. In the mood for seafood? Try the Coquille St. Jacques with sea scallops in a cream sauce, topped with melted cheese. For an authentic deal of it’s own, consider the Prix-Fixe Menu. For $34 you can create your own three-course meal from the following options:

Appetizers- your choice of Salade de Mesclun or Soupe du Jour

Entree- selected specials of the day

Dessert- your choice of Mousse au Chocolat or Creme Caramel, served with a cup of coffee

The Real Hidden Gem

Our favorite touch to this restaurant? Grandmere Marguerite’s secret sauce, Chez Napoleon House Vinaigrette, which tastes NOTHING like any dressing we’ve ever eaten before! If you can’t get enough of the sauce during you visit, buy a bottle to bring home with you! It adds delicate flavor to crusty baguettes, a crisp salad as a dressing, and as a dip for vegetables.

While Chez Napoleon is a bit hidden, it does have a regular following, so be sure to make a reservation so you can snag yourself one of their coveted tables. Lunch is served Monday-Friday from noon to 2 pm, and dinner seating begins at 5:00 pm… Right in time before a show!

Report back to us on Twitter and Facebook about how much you love their secret sauce! Bon appetit!

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The Spring season is finally sneaking up on us. Although it’s getting a bit chilly at night, the weather is generally warm and sunny. After all, New York wouldn’t be the same without some irregular weather changes. While March tends to focus on St. Patrick’s Day events, flower shows, and Easter celebrations, April is filled with several diverse, Spring-themed activities to guarantee that no New Yorker is left out. From beer festivals and park events to theater performances and a popular film festival, here is a recap of things to do this Spring.

At the Parks

Admirer of Japanese culture or unfamiliar with it? Welcome Spring at the 35th Sakura Matsuri, Brooklyn Botanic Garden’s annual cherry blossom festival from April 30th to May 1st! The cherry-blossom fever won’t stop, as the two-day fair includes more than 60 events and performances praising traditional and contemporary Japanese culture. To honor the end of Hanami (the Japanese seasonal tradition of blossom appreciation), there will be a cosplay fashion show, bands playing traditional tunes, dance performances, and obviously lots of pink-and-white petals. Tickets are free for children (under 12) and BBG members, but cost $25 for adults and $20 for students and seniors (65 and over). Visit the Brooklyn Botanic Gardens website to purchase tickets.

Central Park also has something to offer. German artist Isa Genzken took the liberty of revealing her gigantic display of 34 x 28 feet orchids (photo above) on March 1st at Doris C. Freedman Plaza, the entrance to the southeastern section of Central Park showcasing a series of installations authorized by Public Art Fund. Knowing the white orchid is mass-produced and open to interpretation, Genzken aims to show an idealized version of the plant that represents our generation. Not to forget, the art piece was installed last year at the Venice Biennale. You can see it any time until August 21st, so check out the Public Art Fund website for more info.

https://youtu.be/1u_64TledP8

Cirque Du Soleil: PARAMOUR

The dream has become a reality: After wooing audiences around the world for years, Cirque Du Soleil is setting foot in Broadway with its groundbreaking and touching play, PARAMOUR. Starting April 16th, a 38-member group of actors, dancers, aerialists, acrobats, and jugglers join to tell an exciting tale of a pretty young actress in Hollywood’s Golden Age. First you need to make reservations, then prepare yourself for a roller-coaster ride of emotions. Hurry up to benefit from the $55 ticket price!

Tribeca Film Festival

Film lovers, you certainly don’t want to miss this: The 15th Tribeca Film Festival (founded in 2002 by Jane Rosenthal, Robert De Niro and Craig Hatkoff) returns to New York City to cast the light on local indie films, documentaries, and foreign films. Audiences will see the newest films from well-known actors and the best from rising filmmakers. Watch two sisters adjusting to adulthood in Adult Life Skills, a mother and daughter becoming stronger together in Katie Holmes’ directional debut All We Had, and the street art world illuminated in The Banksy Job. The Spring festival will take place across Lower Manhattan from April 13-24.

Bacon and Beer Classic

The title is enough to stir your appetite! Restaurants (e.g. Tuk Tuk Go, Tres Carnes) and breweries from all five boroughs unite in this festival from April 22-23, so you can enjoy 50+ bacon-infused dishes by the best local chefs in addition to over 100 craft beers by local, regional, and national breweries. Moreover, you’ll get to explore the iconic Citifield sports stadium on a non-game weekend, partake in various games (giant Jenga, bungee run, posing at photo booth, branding yourself with bacon and beer-inspired tattoos, etc.), prove your unbreakable bond with pork in the infamous Bacon Eating Contest, and vote at the People’s Choice Booth for your favorite bacon-infused platter. Interested? Buy your tickets now!

What are you doing in April? Tell us on Facebook or Twitter.

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