There is an old Irish saying that reads, “Men are like bagpipes – no sound comes from them until they are full.”  This might explain why there is never a quiet (or dull) moment at 11377’s famous burger joint – Donovan’s Pub!  This lively Irish tavern has been a favorite among the locals for the past forty years – providing Woodside, Queens with the #1 rated hamburger in New York, 365 days a year.  The local landmark also makes their own fries – reportedly selling over 300 lbs. of fresh potatoes a day, and luckily for you there’s no potato famine in sight!  If you happen to find yourself in Woodside, be sure to step inside Donovan’s Pub and order their highly acclaimed hamburger.  For now, sit back and watch Show Host Christopher as he bites into some of Queens’ local flavor!

Donovan’s Pub

57-24 Roosevelt Avenue/11377

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You might be a hipster if, like Lola Wakefield, your research into this fascinating culture of indie rock fans, thrift store shoppers, and vegetarians, painted a picture of, well, you. Lola began writing Stuff Hipsters Don’t Like after moving to Williamsburg and hoping to try and document these strange skinny, night owls who never seem to work, only to discover she may actually be one. “’Oh the ridiculous hipsters,’ I would think to myself, smiling on the inside,” Lola explains. “But then something unexpected happened – I began to encounter people who described me – ME!- as a hipster. ‘Nonsense,’ I thought. But I began to worry that what they said was true.” Join Lola on her journey of self discovery and mocking on this biting and “hip” blog.

Tell us about your blog. It all began the second day I was living in New York. The guy I was subletting from introduced me to one of his friends who took me to the free movie screening of A Wet Hot American Summer at McCarren Pool. I was amazed because I had never in my life seen so many hipsters in one contained location before. I decided then and there that, lacking another writing outlet or any sort of employment for that matter, I would devote my literary energy to documenting hipsters in Williamsburg.

There was also the matter of my pseudo identity crisis, which I like to refer to as “My Hipster Dilemma.” Some people will tell me definitively that I am a hipster, citing various compelling reasons, while others assure me I am not. I got the conflicting responses when I was living in Ann Arbor, but it’s 10 times as bad in Williamsburg, leading me to believe I am, and probably always will, be a hipster fence-sitter. So, in making the decision to study the hipsters of Williamsburg, I embarked on a mission to learn about myself and what it really means to be a “hipster.”

What brought you to New York?

Journalism. The better question is, “What brought you to Williamsburg?”
I was talking to my friend who went to the Parson’s New School about what part of Brooklyn was best to live in. “What about Williamsburg?” I asked. “Ew, no. That place is crawling with hipsters,” she replied. Of course I started searching Craigslist the very next day.

What do you love about living in New York?

Everything. Throughout my youth, I’ve always been discontent with how slow things move, how boring people are, and how few options there always seem to be. I don’t have any of those complaints here, and I’ve never been happier.

What do you think makes a New Yorker?

New Yorkers are completely desensitized to the non-stop weirdness that happens around them. I’m pretty sure if you teleported one to a small town in Kansas or something, the displaced New Yorker would appear catatonic to the townspeople, while a small-towner from Kansas teleported to New York would be startled by everything and immediately have a seizure.

New Yorkers are constantly networking and seem to know everyone. At first I would walk around aimlessly, not recognizing a single face, but now when I walk down Bedford avenue, I get greetings both from people I have legitimately befriended and also the odd “Hey, Blogger Girl!” Also, New Yorkers are used to getting dripped on when it is not raining, whereas non-New Yorkers are alarmed by that.

What surprises you about New York or New Yorkers?

For how many people there are in this big city, I still find myself marveling at those “What a small world it is” moments. Before I moved, I figured that living here I would see people once and never again.

When you leave New York, what do you miss the most?

I haven’t left yet, and don’t expect to any time soon.

Best tips, tricks or insider info?

Hipsters are not as mean as they appear to be. In fact, it’s the ones who look the most intimidating (eg: angular haircuts, meaningless tattoos) that are the biggest softies. Though, this only applies if you don’t act like a total douchebag when you approach them.

Best corny tourist attraction that you secretly love?

Does McCarren Park count? Probably only for hipster tourists, but whatev. I actually enjoy going to most of the hipster stomping grounds that I write about. That’s why my job is awesome. I get to go out and have a great time partying with hipsters (who definitely know how to party) and get great material for my blog.

Best place to dine late night?

The Charleston or the Alligator Lounge. Both of those places give you a free personal pizza when you order a beer – which is not overpriced like I expected. I mean, I like beer, I like pizza, everybody likes FREE stuff. It’s a triple-win situation!

Best live music venue?

Well is WAS the McCarren Park Pool Parties, no doubt, but the hipsters kind of messed that one up by letting the anti-gentrification yuppies dominate the City Council meetings. Now, I would have to say the Mercury Lounge, although that’s not in Williamsburg. Hipsters seem to like the grungy basement of The Charleston as well.

Last cultural thing that you did (movie, museum, theatre, etc…)

I participated in the Mr. and Miss Williamsburg Pageant. What’s more American that good ol’ fashioned pageantry, right? That was pretty much a circus, but fun nonetheless.

Best kept secret (shop / restaurant / attraction) in your neighborhood?

I am fearful of disclosing this information, as it’s usually pretty relaxed when I go there late at night and I don’t want it to become overrun by hipsters in search of “cool.” But Maracuja on Grand Street is the best place ever. Everything aesthetic about the place is perfect and it’s run by this adorable couple who seem to still be completely infatuated with each other. They bartend, cook, play good music and are awesome to talk to. There’s also really good group seating and a magical garden in back.

Best cheap fashion steals?

BEACON’S CLOSET. You can find really hot designer dresses that still have their $300 price tags on being sold for $30. The catch is, that stuff is mixed in with the Forever21 and Urban stuff too, so you have to really dig. Also, I would say the Salvation Armies all over Brooklyn and Manhattan. Screw elitist assholes who say they’re dirty and stuff; those places are treasure troves!

Strangest New York moment?

When my blog stalker showed up to my work with gin and a bag of candy.

Favorite NY irony?

*That nobody from Williamsburg is actually from Williamsburg. It’s like a big University where the curriculum is sleeping until 4, drinking Bloody Marys and being unemployed!

*That you can’t buy liquor and chasers in the same store! I don’t know why but this one really confuses me.

stuffhipstersdontlike.com

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If you’re living with Celiac’s Disease you know that restaurant dining can be risky. However, a safe culinary experience is waiting to be had on Lexington Avenue at Lilli and Loo, a restaurant that works with the Gluten Intolerance Group to offer patrons gluten-free Asian cuisine in addition to their standard fare.

At this eatery gluten-free isn’t synonymous with flavor-free. Their reasonably priced and generously portioned GF dishes such as pad Thai, (stir fried rice noodles seasoned with tamarind and garnished with peanuts and lime) are as rich as the originals. Tasty appetizers like the Saigon rolls come with a spicy mint dipping sauce. And diners can request wheat-free soy sauce to be used for GF entrees, creating an extensive and diverse gluten-free selection.

In addition to the menu options, the atmosphere at Lilli and Loo is delightful. The space covers two floors, but still manages to feel cozy. It is designed around ornately sculpted, cherry-red walls, and modern furnishings – all of which gives it a contemporary twist on traditional Asian decor.

So, if you’re a Celiac looking for a place to relinquish your dining worries and you’re out and about in the 10021 area, grab some friends and head to Lilli and Loo. Your gluten-deprived taste buds will thank you.

Lilli and Loo
792 Lexington Avenue
www.lilliandloo.com

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They say the third time’s a charm, and nothing could be truer for the Lower East Side steakhouse Sammy’s Roumanian – the third Roumanian-Jewish restaurant to occupy the same address. Fate dealt New York a lucky hand when Stan Zimmerman won this modern-day institution in a poker game from Sammy himself in 1975.In this bi-level space that never fails to make you feel at home, you’ll be entertained by live music and serenaded by your waiters. Try the chopped liver or the signature Roumanian tenderloin, skirt steak from the diaphragm. Surrounded by the history-adorned walls, you’ll witness how kitsch meets karnatzlack – the latter an elongated sausage patty made of beef and veal, with a generous dose of garlic. Owner David Zimmerman likens the food here to that of Grandmother’s cooking, a major ingredient of which is schmaltz – 100% chicken fat. This is such a staple you’ll find a bottle at each table. You might even be fortunate enough to receive an egg cream made by David himself, who virtually grew up here and is now the self-proclaimed “Doctor of Schmaltzology.” If it’s family-style fun you’re looking for, go to the place where you have an experience, not just a meal. As their t-shirts suggest, “Schmaltz it up at Sammy’s”!

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Where Do You Go To Feel At Home?
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Trying to keep up in the city that never sleeps can often feel like taking two steps forward and one step back. If you find yourself doing the latter, there’s no better place to step back into than The Soda Shop – where old-fashioned dining and décor meet modern tastes. Boasting an authentic soda fountain, this shop serves more than the fizzy stuff. There’s no reason to stop at the malts, milkshakes, egg creams, and cherry lime rickeys. You become a kid in a candy store when you find yourself facing a wall of sweet treats like Smarties, Candy Necklaces, Razzles, Fun Dip Lik-m-Aids, Nik-L-Nips, Doscher’s French Chew Taffy, and Wonka Bars. You can also stop in for breakfast, lunch, or dinner – choosing from classics like the Tuna Melt and the Mac & Cheese, or neighborhood tributes like the Lower East Side Liverwurst or the Stuyvesant High Grilled Cheese. Offering a blend of cosmopolitan comfort, this Tribeca treasure is more than deserving of a visit – and you’re deserving of such a pure delight.

125 Chambers Street, 10007

www.sodashopnewyork.com

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In New York City, the stomach rules. Day or night, you can find culinary delights from every corner of the world and in every price range. Thankfully, the NYC Food Guy can help you savor every bite. Lawrence is a native New Yorker whose goal is to let people know where to find delicious and affordable food throughout the city. His Code Words column does just that with reviews, tips and tricks that will keep you sated.

Shorty’s Cheese Steaks: Creating Philly Perfection Even by Delivery

New Yorkers rejoice, Shorty’s has answered your cheese steak prayers. Midtown’s version of “wiz wit”, a cheese steak with cheese whiz and fried onions, is the truest version of the Philadelphia classic NYC Food Guy has encountered thus far. I’m yet to try 99 miles to philly or Wogie’s, but until then I’m ready to hand Shorty’s the crown for the best cheese steak and some of the crispiest fries I’ve had in this city.

I’m confident in that statement because I’ve never even eaten Shorty’s in-store, I’ve only had it delivered from their 9th Avenue and 42nd St. location to my office on 6th Avenue and 51st St.. With at least 30 separate orders to my office over the past few months, the three avenue, 9 block trek hasn’t yielded one unsatisfied eater. If that’s not a true barometer for success, what is? Read on to find out why Shorty’s is so delicious.

I’ve only had two Shorty’s sandwiches: The Classic Cheese Steak ($7.99), “wiz wit” style, and the Roast Pork Special ($9.50). The cheese steak (below) was awesome. An abundance of moist, thinly sliced sirloin mixed with sweet, flavorful fried onion, swimming in a perfectly portioned schmear of cheese whiz. The bread was the only weak point, slightly crisp, but nowhere near the point of cracking.

Shorty’s used to be a franchise of the Philly legend Tony Luke’s, but franchise fees are fruitless once you have a following, and that’s how Shorty’s was born. Unfortunately, this may have led to the death of their heralded Roast Pork Special (thinly sliced, seasoned pork in a spicy au jus, Broccoli rabe, and sharp provolone) which was a flavorless grease bomb. I strongly recommend you avoid it.

My co-workers have had everything from the Pizza Steak ($8.50) with pepperoni (+$1.50) to the Buffalo Chicken Steak ($7.99) and the Chicken Steak Club ($8.99, below).

Everyone’s been overly pleased with their order and a debt of that gratitude goes to the fries. Somehow these fries ($3.00) continuously survive the delivery and reach us crisp and piping hot. I’ve honestly never encountered such consistently amazing delivery fries. Forget the Italian fries ($4.00, below), mixed with Italian seasoning and Romano cheese and the Mozzarella triangles ($4.99, below), the latter of which are the only thing that failed the delivery.

Whether you’re a cheese steak lover or a novice, you can feel comfortable knowing that Shorty’s will provide you with the genuine article.

For more of NYC Food Guy’s delicious reviews click here.

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Where do you go to get a taste of home? Post a comment below!

Dining at Papatzul is like an adventurous escape south of the border. Head Chef and Mexico City native Thierry Amezcua brings his homeland to 10013 and gives it a modern twist. The Duck Enchiladas in Almond Mole sauce are delectably daring, and the Stuffed Poblano Chiles are a satisfying vegetarian alternative. Margaritas flavored with prickly pear and hibiscus juice are complimented by the extensive tequila list. Take it all in among black and white photographs of the Yucatan Peninsula done by Amezcua’s brother, and you’ll have more than a meal- you’ll have a true Mexican experience.

Papatzul
55 Grand Street, 10013
W Broadway/Thompson Street
www.papatzul.com

New York City is a melting pot of bakeries. Italian cookies and French croissants abound, but what if you want old-fashioned red velvet cupcakes, an apple pie or a sticky bun? That’s where Two Little Red Hens steps in. This American bakery concocts over 100 delectable homemade faves from scratch. Owner and baker connoisseur Christina Winkler opened this gem 5 and a half years ago, but has been at home in the kitchen since she was a little girl, watching her grandmother and great-grandmother pull perfect pies out of their oven on a farm in Iowa. “The feel, the touch, the hand, the ability to actually make the product comes not just from a gift that you’re given, but from hours of watching someone else doing it the right way,” says Winkler, who certainly has a special knack for baked goods. The specialty birthday cakes are guaranteed to please, but we would devour the red velvet cake for any occasion.

Two Little Red Hens
1652 Second Avenue
85th/86th Streets
www.twolittleredhens.com

Do you have a sweet tooth?

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New York City’s unofficial French mayor holds court in 10016, at the stove of culinary cafeteria Meli Melo. When owner and chef, Bernard Ros, opened in 1996, the surrounding neighborhood had little to offer, but Ros brought a vision for rich cuisine and a fresh, inviting setting. Despite early obstacles, which included having all his chairs stolen on the day of, Ros was undeterred, and today the area is flourishing. “Meli Melo” in fact means “a mixture of flavors,” and customers keep coming back for Ros’ unique fusion of French, Mediterranean, and Nouveau-American inspired dishes. Start with the colorful crabcakes or the onion tarte with gorgonzola and pancetta, the warm caramelized onions pair wonderfully with the pungent blue cheese. Ros does amazing things with his seafood dishes, and be sure to save room for dessert, as it is a sin to leave Meli Melo without it!

110 Madison, 10016
http://www.melimelorestaurant.com/

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The ingredients for success may vary from business to business, but one mother-daughter team put together a winning recipe in 10464. Irina Brandler and her mother Ina combined a little bit of sugar with a little bit of spice and found themselves with everything nice! Their catering business and dessert café on City Island in The Bronx is a successful testament to the touching moments and trying challenges that accompany working side by side with your immediate family. Irina, a French Culinary Institute graduate, handles all the baking while Ina oversees the lunches. And the advice on how to dress for tomorrow’s weather. A few of the current S&S specialties are homemade, heart-healthy granola and “kitchen sink” cookies – made with 3 kids of chocolate, cherries, coconut, walnuts, butterscotch, and, well, everything but the kitchen sink! This winning team does more than just satisfy the sweet tooths of New Yorkers, the bakery also runs community outreach programs that teach underprivileged children how to bake. CiNYC Hosts Shirley & Christopher stopped by to lick a couple wooden spoons at this cheap eats find.

Sugar & Spice
536 City Island Ave, 10464
sugarandspiceonline.com

See what else is cooking in The Bronx at www.coolinyourcode.com/tag/bronx.
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Try this delicious banana bread recipe at home, courtesy of the gang at Sugar & Spice:

2 Cups sugar
1 Cup butter
2 Eggs
½ Cup buttermilk
3 ½ Cups Flour
1 T Baking powder
2 t Baking soda
1 t Salt
1.5 T Vanilla or 1 vanilla bean
2 t Cinnamon
1 Cup raisins
1 Cup walnuts

1. Beat together butter and sugar, add bananas
2. Whisk together eggs and buttermilk
3. Sift all dry ingredients
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients
5. When mixture is incorporated add raisins and walnuts
6. Bake in a buttered and floured loaf or cake pan at 350° until test pick comes out clean

Are you sugar or spice? (Sorry, no one is everything nice all the time)…

Post a comment below and tell us what you’re made of.