For the Habitually Chic Heather, inspiration and design are just two of the innumerable themes that can be found in abundance in both New York City as well as her blog.  Habitually Chic is the one-stop spot for the aspiring artist/interior designer or the curious New Yorker who is simply eager to seek out some new design tips for their ever-changing apartment and lifestyle.  Heather blogs about everything from fashion to photography and doesn’t stop there.  Anything that catches this trendsetter’s attention is worth writing about and spreading the word.  Whether you’re interested in broadening your artistic horizons or desperately needing to impress your high society friends with your knowledge of the latest in haute couture, this blog is certain to become your new go-to guide and addiction.

Tell us about your blog Habitually Chic and what you cover?

I am an interior designer and predominately cover inspiring decorating and designers on my blog (www.habituallychic.blogspot.com) but since I feel that all design is related, I also write about art, architecture, photography, fashion and books.  I am lucky to live in New York where I get to attend chic events and meet top designers and other influential stylemakers.  My readers love hearing about my adventures and appreciate my insider access, candor and humor.  Decorating is not always glamorous! 

Why did you start your blog? 

I was working for a top interior designer and would check out design blogs in my spare time.  I happened to read Style Court and The Peak of Chic who were both covering the soon to be opened Charlotte Moss Townhouse.  It got me thinking that if two bloggers in Atlanta were discussing something that I walked by everyday, then maybe I should start my own blog and write about the design world from the New York perspective.

What brought you to New York?

I had wanted to live in New York since I was little and was lucky to work for a company in Boston that had an office here which I transferred to August 2001.  Not exactly the best timing but it made me a real New Yorker right away!

What do you love about living in New York?

I love that you can get anything you want delivered at any time of the day!  I also love that magazines and movies come out earlier in New York than other cities so we get to see things first!  But what I love most are all the wonderful museums and galleries.  I could never live without art!

What do you think makes a New Yorker?

Having a dream!  I don’t think anyone would move into a shoe box sized apartment unless they were working toward a larger goal!  The fun part is meeting people and finding out what that dream is…fashion designer, famous movie star, successful business mogul or top model.  Since there are so many people living here who have already achieved their dream, it definitely keeps you motivated to keep going!

What surprises you about New York or New Yorkers?

That we really are nice and helpful! It may take a minute to get their attention but New Yorkers will gladly give a tourist directions or help someone in need.

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

The energy!  I miss the all the people and hustle and bustle even though that’s what sometimes annoys you when you live here!

What’s your favorite home store?

I have two favorite stores.  The first is Gracious Home.  It is the go to place for every interior designer in the city since they sell everything you could every possibly need including the kitchen sink!  And they deliver! My second favorite store is Pearl River.  They have great selection of Asian home accessories and tableware at a great price.  The rice bowls are perfect for displaying beaded necklaces or matches from all the New York restaurants.  The possibilities are endless! 

Best place to find a design bargain?

Talk to any designer and they will tell you how much they love the Housing Works Thrift Shops!  My best find was a matching set of gold rimmed champagne and wine glasses but you can find amazing furniture and art if you are lucky and get there at the right time.

Best place to find design inspiration?

I think that it’s important to visit the expensive antique shops even if you can’t afford anything so you can educate yourself and train your eye so you know what to look for when you go to the flea markets! 

Best place to get away from the tourists?

I love that just a few blocks over from Broadway in Soho, the streets are quiet and peaceful.  Elizabeth and Crosby Streets have wonderful little boutiques that are never crowded. 

What’s the last movie that you saw?

I just saw the Valentino documentary at the Film Forum and in the audience was one of the fashion reporters in the movie! 

Strangest/ coolest NY experience you have ever had?

I was walking to Bed Bath and Beyond when I looked over and saw a man in full cowboy regalia riding a horse down First Avenue!  And there was no camera crew following him.  It’s those crazy only in New York moments that make living here so much fun!

What are some of your favorite home decorating tips?

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In the warmer weather months when the sun is beating down on the New York City pavement and your body is being cooked from all angles, it is often difficult to remember that Manhattan is an island with easily accessible bodies of water.  Most people escape the city to avoid the heat and try to take advantage of natural surroundings elsewhere.  That is why the community-based organization Floating the Apple is working to alter New Yorkers’ impression of their island by promoting easy access to some of New York City’s greatest prized possessions.  Floating the Apple is a non-profit group located in Manhattan’s Hell’s Kitchen neighborhood and it has been in existence for over a decade.  Their Pier 84 location houses several 25-foot long row boats, which the students from the local High School of Graphic Arts work to maintain.  All you need to do is make an appointment with Floating the Apple, and you and a couple of friends can take out a row boat on the Hudson River for FREE!  The members of the Hell’s Kitchen community work together to maintain this one of a kind opportunity because it’s not often that New Yorkers get to experience Manhattan from its waterways.  Follow show host Shirley as she speaks with Floating the Apple naval instructor Robert Skibar!   

What are some other fun outdoor activities that you enjoy doing in New York City?

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New to New York City?  Unsure of how to start looking for an apartment? Curious about where you can start making friends?  For many of these answers, you can turn to New York City newbie, Mary Hilton’s blog.  She made the move to the city from Washington D.C. a few years ago.  Living in New York City had been a dream of hers for a while, and once she made the move she found that her friends and family were extremely eager to know how she was doing and how she managed to make all of the logistics of her move work.  In an effort to appease her friends and keep fellow “newbies” informed, Mary started a blog.  Newbienyc is an excellent source for NYC-centric How To’s, local events, and posts that remind you why this city is so great.  So whether you’re a native or a newcomer there’s something to learn from checking out this blog!   

Tell us about your blog and how you got started?

When I moved to NYC about two years ago, my friends back in DC kept asking about life here. So to avoid telling the same stories time and again, I started my blog. It really just grew from there. I started getting questions on specifically how to move here – find housing, make friends, etc. so I added some ‘how to’ info. And as my passion is arts, culture and theater, I also found myself an avid critic. The blog kept me sane while looking for work and having so much free time on my hands. 

What brought you to New York? 

I’d always wanted to live here, yearned for it. I had three major turning points in a short space of time – the death of my mom, the end of a relationship, and hitting 40. I realized that if I didn’t live my dream now, it would never happen. So I quit my job in DC, put my belongings on Craig’s List, and just became a New Yorker.  

What do you love about living in New York?

Certainly the excitement and the culture. This is a city that makes you feel alive every single day. The freedom to be truly, authentically yourself. But really, it is the people that make New York so extraordinary. 

What do you think makes a New Yorker?

The ‘f-you’ attitude of ‘this is who I am, take it or leave it.’ And an unabashed loyalty to and love of the city. 

What surprises you about New York or New Yorkers?

That at its heart, this city of 8 million really is a small town. There is a thread of connection that runs through all New Yorkers that is really quite extraordinary.

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

The noise, excitement, and ability to get ice cream at three in the morning. 

Best tips, tricks or insider info?

Accept every invitation without fail. You never know what you are in for. Someone may casually ask you to a gallery opening, and you find yourself among celebrities and your favorite artists. Go to an off-broadway show and you may wind up sitting next to the playwright. Most importantly, don’t be a wallflower. Talk to people, hear their stories, and connect. The only way to survive in this city is to have a personal and social network. 

Best corny tourist attraction that you secretly love?

I get a thrill every time I see the Empire State Building lit up in the skyline.  

Best place to dine late night?

Any diner. 

Best live music venue?

Cornelia Street Cafe. Or anywhere in Central Park in the summer.  

What’s the last cultural thing that you did?

The Peruvian movie ‘Oblivion’ at Film Forum, my favorite cinema in the city, followed by a walk around the Village for springtime people watching.  

Strangest/coolest NY experience you have ever had?

Being casually asked last-minute to a ‘little gathering’ at a Chelsea art gallery, showing up to discover a red carpet charity event where I got to interview Claire Danes for my blog. Again, accept every invitation, no matter how tired you are! 

Best area or neighborhood for fun on a budget?

The Lower East Side reminds me of the New York I fell in love with years ago. Raw in spots, there is an unbridled energy that has not been suppressed by chain stores or incongruous architecture. 

Best way to spot a trend?

For fashion, you’ll learn everything you need to know about coming trends across the country by people watching. Don’t fall into a dream state when walking to and from the subway, easy as it is to do. Look around, take in the people, and you’ll see patterns that will predict the next must-haves. 

What is the best advice you could give to someone who has just moved to New York City?

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“Break from the Norm” Burgers: Del Frisco’s, Ruby’s, Great Jones Cafe

By The NYC Food Guy

In this “burger obssessed age“, where beef on a bun is the restaurant industry’s lone recession-proof dish, NYC Food Guy is here to shed some light on three burgers that are a break from the normal fare.  One’s both beauty and beast, one’s from Down Under and the last is just a heart-stopper.  Read on for three different takes on an American classic…

Beauty & The Beast

10 oz. Prime Burger ($15.95, served at lunch only) with cheddar, lettuce, tomato & onion

Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steak House

1221 6th Avenue at 49th Street

New York, NY 10020

212-575-5129

If you’re looking to eat a beast of a burger in a beautiful atmosphere, Del Frisco’s burger is for you.  The burger arrived topped with sharp cheddar and complementary sugar-cured bacon which had been slow-cooked 4 hours.  The slightly-sweet bun was lightly toasted but remained airy and soft.

As a steak house burger, the sweet flavor of the beef shined through foremost, so much so that ketchup isn’t really necessary.   The fresh-tasting 10 ounce patty arrived a perfectly cooked to order medium rare but the slow-cooked bacon stole the show. It was incredibly savory and melted in your mouth, some of the finest bacon I’ve tasted.

The mildly sharp cheddar offered a flavor that didn’t meld with the clean-tasting burger.  The bun also had issues,  it was too flimsy to stand up to the juiciness of a burger this size.  As you can see below, the burger overtook the bun resulting in final bites that were all burger and no bread.

At $11.95 per order, the onion rings are sweet and crispy but unnecessary.  They failed to enhance the burger when placed on top and eaten in the sandwich and they stole valuable stomach space.  The homemade potato chips were similarly defeating, arriving room temperature and lacking any purpose of flavor.  Steer clear of both, in addition to the complementary bread offered at the beginning of the meal, if you want to get your moneys worth with the burger.

The Australian Burger

Whaleys ($12.50) Premium ground beef, tomato, lettuce, beet, pineapple, fried egg, ketchup

Bronte ($11) Premium ground beef, tomato, lettuce, sweet chili, mayo, cheese

Ruby’s Cafe & Bar

219 Mulberry Street b/t Spring St. & Prince St.

New York, NY 10012

212-925-5755

This easy-to-miss, 4-table Australian bar and cafe offers 5 types of burgers, two with chicken breast, in addition to some interesting pastas, paninis, salads and breakfast until 1pm.  No French fries or chips are offered.  The Whaleys, seen below, is the most unique burger on the menu but it’s diverse ingredients didn’t create any harmony around the meatloaf-like burger.

More aptly described as a massive meat sandwich, the Whaleys arrives on a crisp but untoasted ciabatta roll which hardly hugs the cumbersome ingredients.  It’s awkward texturally and poorly constructed, the entire sandwiched dominated by the sweetness of the pineapple and ketchup cut against the garlicky beef patty. The overcooked fried egg repelled from the burger and the cold beets, tomato and pineapple continued to detract from the overall unity.  Only the accompanying mixed greens salad dressed in a savory balsamic vinaigrette shined.

The Bronte burger (below), made famous at Kingswood, another Australian restaurant owned by Ruby’s proprietors, was more in tune overall.  Sweet chili sauce and mayo rest atop two slices of melted Swiss cheese which keeps the burger tied to the ciabatta.  I recommend this burger, which may be better as a chicken breast sandwich, over the Whaleys.

If I return to Ruby’s, it would be to pair a non-burger offering with one of their three Australian beers: James Boag, Coopers and Lucky.  Lucky ($7), which comes in a Buddha shaped bottle, was delicious, reminiscent of a lighter, more bubbly Red Stripe.

The Heart-Stopper

Chili Bacon Cheeseburger ($16)

Great Jones Cafe

54 Great Jones Street b/t Lafayette St. & Bowery

New York, NY 10012

(212) 674-9304

 My first impression: “Wow, I am a carnivore.”  This meat-lover’s burger, served in the cozy, dimly lit confines of this friendly bar and restaurant delivers 3 slices of well-crisped bacon and a light coating of “Mission” beef chili (beef, red beans, celery) crowned atop a massive, griddled beef patty.  It’s all sandwiched between an airy yet sturdy bun from Parisi bakery, the top half of which a healthy amount of cheddar is melted upon.

Overall this massive burger lacked the flavor punch one would hope for.  The juicy yet slightly overcooked burger would have benefited from a nice charbroiling, the flavor of smoke and fire would have added some much needed depth.  The bacon was superfluous, hearty but standard.  The “Mission” beef chili, one of a rotating menu of chili, was mild and thin.  After failing to create the spice I desired by adding some El Yucateco habanero hot sauce, I requested some chopped green jalapenos to add onto the burger.  The flavor of the peppers was a nice touch, but the spicy bite I desired to complement the sweetness of the bun, was missing.

Opt for the sweet potato fries, some of the best I’ve had, over the hand-cut fries below.  The sweet potato fries cut through the saltiness of the chili cheese burger but the heavily-salted regular hand-cut fries, made from a darker potato than your standard Idaho, didn’t complement the burger quite as well.   They would, however, make a great base for chili cheese fries.

I’d just as soon return to Great Jones Cafe to drink as I would to sample some of their other reasonably priced home-cooked offerings such as the Barbque Ribs or the Garlic Shrimp Sautee. A new menu of daily specials accompanies the quality beer menu, which during Happy Hour (5-7PM Daily) allows you to enjoy a $3 pint while listening to Bluegrass on the old school jukebox.

What’s the worst burger you’ve ever had in New York City?

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A caravan is most commonly known as a large group of traders or travelers who strike out on a journey together through hostile territories. In the jungles of New York City, it’s important for consumers to band together and do the same. It’s a dangerous world out there for the uninformed shopper, so sharing as many resources and tricks as one can is a necessity for survival in this city! This is why Caravan founders, Brian and Claudine Gumbel, are able to take such pride in the achievement of their fashionably acclaimed mobile shopping center. In June of 2005, Brian and Claudine converted an RV into a portable clothing store – carrying some of the most exclusive fashions in the city. The Caravan has been known to drive to hotels, apartment buildings, offices – and even Staten Island – to bring fashion & convenience to the most spontaneous of shoppers. Since its creation The Caravan has seen great success, and the result has been more permanent roots on the Upper East Side at a spin-off store called Caravan91. The Caravan is a fabulous attraction worth checking out, for even the laziest of shoppers. It’s an experience unto itself. So if you happen to catch the Caravan rolling by, be sure to hail it down and jump right in – which is exactly what our Dress Code host Sasha did in the Boogie Down Bronx!

Caravan91
128 E 91st Street, 10128
www.shopcaravan.com

What are some of your favorite alternative shopping destinations?

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With commercial real estate prices forever on the rise, landmark novelty shops like Dan’s Chelsea Guitars are slowly (and sadly) becoming a rarity in this fine city. Luckily for all of the city’s would be guitar heroes…Dan’s Chelsea Guitars is still standing! Located in the historically vibrant Chelsea Hotel, this shop has been in existence for 19 years under the ownership of Dan Courtenay – a native New Yorker himself. Dan and his staff of characters have been sustaining a love for the guitar among musicians and non-musicians alike, by living the store’s motto of “it all starts with a good guitar.” The store’s staff serves a litany of customers ranging from the true beginner to the string aficionado with an extensive stock of new, used, and vintage guitars. During the store’s lifetime, its walls have been blessed enough to have seen and heard the likes of music legends such as David Crosby, Keith Richards, and ZZ Top’s Billy Gibbons! Aside from it’s well renowned guitar collection, the store also boasts an elaborate supply of amps ranging from various decades – all of which aim to satisfy any guitarist’s feedback desire. So take in a piece of New York’s musical history and join show host Shirley as she ventures in to this one of a kind shop and busts out a guitar riff of her own!

Dan’s Cheslea Guitars

220 West 23rd Street, 10011

www.chelseaguitars.com

What are some of your favorite New York City novelty shops?

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Being a bargain hunter, with a taste for the finer things in life, is no less than a full time job; and most New Yorkers just can’t find the time in their already hectic lives. So what’s a thrifty shopper to do? Rely on the Guerilla Shopper – that’s what! The Guerilla Shopper has been “beating retail at its own game since the 80s” and with a repertoire like that, the Guerilla Shopper is sure to keep you abreast of the latest bargains and shopping trends! Check in with this blog once you’ve inevitably reached your wits end with your usual shopping haunts!

10012: Soho’s Hair Hideaway

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: Your hair is not a place to cut corners! (no pun intended) You may have to spend more money than you want to, or than your husband/significant other wants you to. Tough. Do it. It will make you look better, feel better and give you something to look forward to every 6 weeks or so…8 weeks at the longest. This is where you can spend the money that you’ve saved after utilizing effective Guerilla Shopping technique! So where should you go? Try Mario Diab salon (stylist Helik Torres is my favorite). Set in something of a mini-co-operative business space in Soho at 62 Crosby St., the salon is tucked in the basement. Completely outfit in black and white, this calm environment allowed me to get my hair done efficiently and effectively in front of a huge floor-to-ceiling mirror while drinking green tea. I was in, I was out and on my way. With my hair bouncing happily atop my head.

What is your favorite “Hair Hideaway”?

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Do you feel as if your iTunes library is lacking? Is Pandora no longer exciting your aural senses? Are your musical preferences the butt of your hipster friends’ jokes? If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, Burn the Bowery and it’s creator Steve are here to help. Steve’s indie music blog offers an extensive selection of independent and DIY artists to continually stimulate anyone’s musical tastes. This blog features up to date music news, concert listings, album reviews, and artist video interviews. Regardless of whether or not you are a wannabe or an already established music junkie, there is always something unknown and unheard of that is worth discovering on this site.

What brought you to New York?

One of those rare native New Yorkers, I guess. I was actually born and raised in the NY area. Have lived in Astoria for the past 7 years or so.

What do you love about living in New York?

Wow! There’s a lot of things, I love the accessibility of NY, just being able to get basically anything you want or need at any given time. Also there’s an endless amount to do or see & being a music fan it’s one of the best cities to see live music. Tons of great NY bands and everybody else usually comes thru the city when on tour.

What do you think makes a New Yorker?

Being resilient.

What surprises you about New York or New Yorkers?

Think we’re actually more patient then anyone gives us credit for. We put up with a lot throughout a day…

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

The energy of the city. Have traveled a decent amount and haven’t been anywhere yet that can match NYC’s energy.

Best corny tourist attraction that you secretly love?

The Statue Of Liberty/Ellis Island, there may not be a better place that captures the history of the city. Plus all my grandparents went through there.

Best place to dine late night?

Well I don’t know if you’d consider it “dining,” but one of my favorites after a good night being out on the town is Rosario’s Pizza on Orchard & Stanton. Could be the best slice in the 5 boroughs! Say hi to Sal if you’re there, the man is a NYC legend.

Best live music venue?

It’s a shame a lot of good one’s have closed down over the years, but Bowery Ballroom is still a great place to see live music.

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

Museum of the Moving Image

Strangest NY experience you have ever had?

It might be getting stuck in the middle of a fight between a pimp and a Kennedy Chicken worker armed with an electric knife.

Best area or neighborhood for people watching?

You really can’t go wrong anywhere in New York people watching, but Alphabet City has always been an old favorite.

Strangest NYC moment?

You mean besides the pimp fight?? Maybe watching a guy fall through a glass table and still managing to keep his cigarette lit.

burnthebowery.blogspot.com

Who’s your favorite band or musician this month?

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It’s no mystery that New York City is one of the most religiously diverse locales in the United States. A casual stroll around this metropolis will lead you to some of the most breath-taking churches, mosques, and temples in the world – all of them dotting this city’s street corners. Next time you find yourself next to the Manhattan Bridge, be sure to take a step inside the Mahayana Buddhist Temple. It was once the old Rosemary Theater but is now home to the largest Buddhist Temple in New York City. Upon entering, take note of the two golden lions that stand guard at the Temple’s entrance. These lions serve to protect the Temple against evil spirits. Once inside be certain to rub the belly of the largest Buddha statue in the city – since it is believed to bring luck, wealth, and prosperity. And before you leave, indulge in having your fortune read for only a dollar! Join Show Hosts Shirley and Brandon as they visit this sacred structure in search of inner peace…and hugs.

What are some of the most magnificent buildings in New York?

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What started as an innovative way for a public relations company to utilize the internet, has become an all encompassing source for arts and entertainment events in NYC. Termeh Mazhari not only uses New York Buzz to promote and endorse her PR clients, but also posts reviews of new shows, interviews with trendsetters, and info for all sorts of art exhibits. And Mazhari wants to hear from you. If you went to the Francisca Bastos Jewelry Show or caught a performance of Celebrity Autobiography at the Triad, tell her about it. If you want to spread the word about an event of your own, shoot her an email. Log on to see what all the buzz is about!

Tell us about your blog: New York Buzz is a perso-professional blog that reaches out to New Yorkers who want to hear about cool new happenings in their city (and occasionally beyond). I first launched the blog in April, 2008, soon after AMP3 Public Relations (an A&E-focused PR firm in NYC) hired me as their social media publicist.

The initial purpose of the blog was to offer an up-close-and-personal portrait of our clients (most of whom are in the entertainment industry), but it also featured their latest news and events. In September 2008, I decided to open up my blog to non-clients. So now, anyone who has an interesting New York event they want to promote can just shoot me an email and I might feature it on my blog.

What brought you to New York?

I work in the city, but actually live in Great Neck, Long Island, which is only a 22 minute express train ride away from Penn Station. I came to New York from Philadelphia in search of better work opportunities and a more exciting, multicultural environment. Does moving to New York ever really need a reason though?

What do you think makes a New Yorker?

Well, the obvious answer would be ATTITUDE – and, although that’s certainly true, I’d also add that it’s their open-mindedness and willingness to think outside the box.

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

The late-night store hours! It truly is the city that never sleeps.

Best tips, tricks or insider info?

I like to browse New York Magazine’s Sales & Bargain section for info on upcoming sample sales at clothing stores. I’m also surprised that more people aren’t aware that most NYC museums have “pay what you wish” days – check out here for details.

And lately, I’ve been loving Restaurant.com. They have hundreds of Manhattan restaurants in their database and you can get discounted coupons for dirt cheap! (another secret: there’s almost always a discount code to make the coupons even cheaper!). I just bought a 25 dollar coupon for only 4 dollars!

Best corny tourist attraction that you secretly love?

The Flatiron building! I walk by it every single day on my way to work and it never ceases to take my breath away! It’s simply stunning.

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

I went to see Celebrity Autobiography at the Triad theater! Abso-friggin-hilarious! Kristen Johnston’s spot-on reading of Zsa Zsa Gabor’s autobiography almost made me wet my pants!

Best area or neighborhood for fashion steals?

SoHo! On Broadway, between Canal and Houston – lots of small boutiques with great, fun finds that won’t break your wallet!

www.newyorkbuzz.org

What is Your New York Buzz?

Tell us all about it!