crêpes on a rainy day

It's been chilly and rainy here in Paris. The kind of weather that encourages curling up with a pot of tea and studying the day away. It's not the kind of weather that condones scavenger hunts throughout the streets of the city though. And rather unfortunately, cold and wet, I spent yesterday morning wandering the medieval Latin Quarter with the French language class I'm auditing. The savory crêpe, sweet crêpe, and cider I had for lunch afterwards helped more than you know.

Crêpes originated in the northwest region of France known as Brittany. Savory ones are made with buckwheat flour (and actually called galettes), whereas sweet crêpes are made with white flour. Traditionally, both are served with slightly alcoholic apple cider as wine was less plentiful up there :). I've enjoyed two crêperies since arriving; most recently Crêperie Chez Suzette, and before then, Crêpes-Show. Good to know: the Latin Quarter and Le Marais are the best neighborhoods for crêpes.

A formule at a crêperie often includes a savory crêpe, sweet crêpe, and a drink for a fixed, affordable price. My favorite savory ones include the bistro (goat cheese, lardon, salad), the "pop-eye" (spinach, smoked salmon, over-easy egg | pictured above), and the complete (ham, gruyere, softly-fried egg).

As for my favorite sweet crêpe, I usually go for a nutella or chocolate filling, with or without banana. Yesterday I was feeling adventurous nostalgic for Northeast autumns though, and opted for a housemade apple compote filling with butter and cinnamon. It was beyond delicious. And although not the most nutritionally-sound of meals, for 9 euros and one warm, happy belly, lunches like these are so worth it.

neighborhood favorites

I was supposed to go explore Park Slope today with my friend. Instead, I'm doing laundry, relaxing and feeling generally unwell at my apartment. Not fun. Then again, it is nice to be home in theory. I love my neighborhood but it's a trek to get to for the majority of my friends so I usually find myself downtown or in another borough on work nights and weekends. Unless, of course, I'm hosting friends or family, which I'm lucky enough to do often.

My absolutely favorite brunch spot that is conveniently located a mere block and a half from me is Yorkville Crêperie. On weekends, they offer not just mimosas, but make-your-own mimosas which allows for economical sharing across the table. On weekdays, (Tuesdays, in particular) they offer bottles of wine for 50% off. And each and every day they serve crêpes, amazing ones, as sweet or as savory as you choose. I always struggle between ordering the Country crêpe (strawberry, banana, and nutella) or Spartan crêpe (spinach, ricotta, and fried egg).

For Thai, I venture to (or order in, as my roommates do) Land Thai. They don't serve the most authentic Thai cuisine, but they do put a creatively delicious twist on it. I love the Wok Cashew Nut with Shrimp. Speaking of seafood, whenever I want to relive the magic that is a Maine lobster roll, I visit Luke's Lobster. As far as great sushi is concerned, I still have some searching to do. But, at least I know where to go for the best margherita pizza: Gotham Pizza. 

My roommate, Catherine, and I often meet at Vespa Restaurant for a glass of wine on their garden patio. We can never resist ordering their tasting of cherry tomato, basil and ricotta fresca. It is incredible. As is their warm pear tart. In bad weather, however, I'd suggest Heidi's House by the Side of the Road. My friend, Ryan, and I met there for glasses of wine last week. It is the most friendly and unpretentious wine bar I've ever been to, and, their tuna tartare is beyond fresh. 

When I seek more health-focused food, as I often do, I take a walk down to the Green Bean Cafe for a fantastic sandwich, smoothie, juice, or salad bar creation. In other words, if it weren't for the fact that I don't have any quality ice cream or gelato in my neighborhood, I doubt I could ever be convinced to leave at all...

high lining

K visited this weekend, and thus, I had a phenomenal time. That just always seems to happen when we're together. I have so many adventures to catch you up on, but first, our Saturday morning and early afternoon reunion with C and Dani.

We began at HK. I  ordered an iced coffee upon seating followed by a bottomless mimosa. I was craving greens so I had a warm goat cheese salad. Oh, and a croissant with nutella. I was tired, hungry and a tad hungover at brunch :).

After a few leisurely hours of dining and chatting, we made our way through the Hell's Kitchen Flea Market, admiring quite a few things along the way.

And then, we climbed the stairs to the High Line. For those who are unfamiliar, here's a bit of fascinating history: "The High Line was originally constructed in the 1930s, to life dangerous freight trains off Manhattan's streets." 

Today, with plentiful fundraising and planing, it is on its way to becoming "a mile-and-a-half-long elevated park, running through the West Side neighborhoods of the Meatpacking District, West Chelsea and Hell's Kitchen."

It's design integrates wild flowers and other plants into modern, sustainable landscaping with"a water feature, viewing platforms, a sundeck and gathering areas." All in addition to the bird feeder above.

It was such a bright, sunny day, perfect for wandering like we did. I loved the juxtaposition of the plant life, old railroad construction, views of the Hudson and surrounding architecture from various eras.

It was also a really hot day. Near the downtown end of the park, there's a very shallow pool for such weather conditions. We jumped right in.

With our many photo opportunities taken, it took us about an hour and a half to reach the park's end. We wrapped up with window shopping and laughs.

Ha :) we're easily amused. Anyway, it is back to work for me now! Stay tuned tomorrow for a scandalous Friday lunch and night, a late Saturday feast, and a Sunday at the beach. I wish I had visitors every weekend.

the price of photogenic

Bonjour beautifuls! My apologies for the sporadic posting lately. Life has gotten so chaotic... mostly in a good way. To start off with the "bad," however, my little brother is leaving for college on Thursday afternoon. He'll be flying with my parents across the country to move into his dorm and kick off, what I know to be, the next most amazing four years of his life. It's going to be weird without him home and knowing he's far, far away will make me miss him that much more. Plus, I must admit I have the fear that he'll never come back, that he'll meet a girl out there and/or get a great job and become an official ex-New Yorker. That's not to say that I'm not proud of him though. He's brave and excited to turn over a new leaf and start anew in Arizona. It's going to be an incredibly wonderful character-building experience... not to mention a good time, which is what every single person is dying to remind me of when I tell them my brother is going to be a freshman at Arizona State ;). But as long as he doesn't do anything too stupid, and keeps his work in check, I'm in complete support of playtime. The entire experience is going to be such an overwhelmingly positive thing.

Whew! Somebody's got a case of the big sister syndrome, wouldn't you say? I just needed to get that internal dialogue off my chest. Let's change to the focus to a less-emotional development. A few weeks ago my Canon camera died. Usually, you'd think this would be a sad day, but actually I found it to be more frustrating than anything. I have the absolute worst luck when it comes to cameras! Already I think I've been through seven, and in the lifespans of the first four, I wasn't using my camera nearly as much as I use it now. This plate of grilled peppers and squashes paired with scrambled broccoli and eggs--the quick, cheap, and easy dinner of champions-- was the last photo I was able to successfully take on it.

For the next 15 days or so, I used my iPhone as a camera. Clearly, it just wasn't the same. Last Wednesday, I spent the day with my grandmother: we chatted at her house, ran a few errands, went shopping, and then stopped by Mrs. Greens for lunch-to-go... and I have one measly picture to show for it. I helped myself to a salad bar treat of mixed baby greens, bean salad, marinated cucumbers, tabouleh, and two cute little falafals. All was beyond stupendous and wonderfully refreshing in the midst of the hot and humid day we were having. Such a clean meal, mind you, was followed by copious amounts of wine and the best way to serve Nutella ever, but such is life. And I'm set on loving it.

In the last five days, however, I've been in the midst of a love affair with the my new cameras, the Nikon S8000. This pretty silver thing comes with amazing features like 14.2 megapixels, 10x wide angle zoom, 16 scene modes, and quick retouching, amongst others. Can you see the difference between the above three photos? The one of last night's dinner is far superior. Before hitting the town last night, I enjoyed a bowl of pasta salad with tomatoes and basil from our garden, farmers-market fresh fontina cheese, and kidney beans (of which I added later to increase the filling factor, although I must admit that I would've preferred pinto.) The macro shots on this baby are phenomenal! And they better be, I paid good money for my new toy and have put myself on a stricter budget to make up for it.

Thankfully, I was born into a family of generosity. Yesterday I came home to find two new shirts and that dress on my bed; I later took this picture in my sister's room. The dress is an exquisite French Connection with padded shoulders and gorgeous Grecian draping. Now all I need is somewhere to wear it :) it basically makes me feel like a million bucks. Speaking of, I've been wracking up a couple of free 7-day passes to various gyms and exercise studios. I only have a month left to enjoy organized recreation before my road trip and I deserve to make the most of it! I'm not the best when it comes to getting into a fitness routine because I don't nearly prioritize it enough, but I figure if not going to be able to wear my new dress everyday, I might as well find other ways to feel amazing. In the mean time, would you please inspire me: what's your favorite workout and why?

P.S. To win a Lonely Planet guide to New England, please comment on my most recent Go Backpacking post!

over wednesday wine

"I'm back on the market. But I don't really feel like being back on the market." said Glamour's Dating blogger, Erin Meanley. In my case, I've gotten used to my single status. I'm not always thrilled about it, not always happy, but usually I'm content with my independence. As far as being ready to mingle/see other people/date, however, I'm not so sure I'm interested. So! When she listed those 36 experiences "every singleton should savor" I must admit that I took note.

[a shared Cheese Tasting]

From the first ten, To build your confidence, I found three especially intriguing: Go to a movie alone, Train for (and finish) a huge physical test like a half-marathon, and Learn to stand up for yourself. Funny side note, her addition to that last one is, "If you're not naturally assertive, may I recommend moving to New York City? It did wonders for me." Hm, that's advice to consider :). I have yet to try the first (perhaps I might try Eat, Pray, Love) but have worked on the second two on my own to an extent and they've certainly been more than rewarding. Who knows, maybe I'll suddenly be inspired to Lift weights too. She says, "When I bench-press 45 lbs., I feel like the bomb." I wish I were that cool.

[the delightful Pinot Trio]

The next six are To be able to look back and say "I had fun." My favorite? Get drunk during the day, just because you can. Attend Santacon, the convention for Santas, or something similar. Is that a laugh out loud I hear? Not so sure I'll be at Santacon :) but I've been enjoying the just because I can part of things! Most recently, I've found, in the form of Sunday mimosas or midweek wine bars. Last night, for example, I had the pleasure of meeting Sagan at the Tangled Vine. I've been reading her blog for some time now so it was really nice to meet her, she's really just as lovely as she seems.

[the ultimate Beet Salad]

Sagan and I sat there chatting for nearly two and a half hours and not surprisingly touched on a few love life stories and advice. Whether or not I feel like actively pursuing things To make you appreciate the next guy (Do at least one Valentine's Day alone isn't too bad but I hope to avoid number 22, Date the creeps) I definitely agree with seeking out opportunities To Get Perspective. Road Trip, anyone? 

[one of the three four glorious bottles]

Jumping ahead a bit, the last one on the list To Appreciate Being Single is: Host a girls-only night. I think some coupled-up women forget how much we need each other. Last week, I met four of my best friends from high school at Pour Café and Wine Bar for a fabulous Wednesday night of heart to hearts. Consequently, this occurred after a day of bonding time with my grandmother and investing in a few things To Feel Sexy and Attractive. Since my personal bank account isn't exactly booming, she was generous enough to Buy something frivolous and expensive that you LOVE wearing. I cannot wait to debut my pretty new blouse.

[a comforting Warm White Bean Dip]

Between my old friends, and my new ones, I have also had more than enough chances To Make the Most of Your Free Time. Meaney's suggestions are to Finish all of your schooling if you can, check, and, Throw yourself into something time-consuming, like learning a foreign language. Since I can't taste wine all day, every day (or can I?) I would certainly not mind welcoming a new activity of dedication, I just have to figure out what it is first.

[the delectable Nutella Panini]

In the mean time, I can occupy myself with things To Make Myself a Better Partner in the Future, and I'd like to add, a Better Person in the Present. I'd love to Learn to cook well and I could definitely use a little bit of Get your finances in order. Investing in transforming my home into a go-to wine bar will could be more economical, for instance ;). The bottom line of all of these 36 Things, I think, is finding ways to not only enjoy being single, but to enjoy yourself. You've got your whole life to live with the ever-wonderful you, might as well make it worthwhile. 


So, my dear readers, I ask you, single or not, what things do you do just for you?

senior week, day 4 (in another paese)

I don't think you're ready for the Thursday that I am about to tell you about. I know I certainly wasn't; It was unlike other Thursday I have had. The world is truly a wondrous place.

As I mentioned yesterday, K and I visited Canada once again, this time to Niagara Falls/Toronto.

The falls were breathtaking, although I doubt that words or photographs can do their majestic beauty justice.

"The poetry of the earth is never dead." -John Keats

Serious awe, however, was broken when the wind and water blew us up like big blue blobs.

Eventually we deboarded the Maid of the Mist to grab a quick bite to eat before contining on to Toronto. I had a wrap with roasted vegetables and a side salad. It was mediocre and overpriced but views of this...

made it all the more worth it. Incredible.

Three hours later, we had made it into Toronto, stopped at our hotel, rested up, got ready, and were on our way to dinner and drinks. We began, as planned, at Fazooli's. K had been raving about it all week, many drinks were on special that night, but it was overall, devastating. Neither of us could finish our disgusting beverages nor our horrific appetizers. We quickly paid the bill, left most of our order, and went on our way to a nearby pub. Much to my dismay, we were carded, and I, of course, had forgotten to bring my license with me. Feeling more optimistic than ever (sarcasm) we moved on.

We walked until we stumbled upon the Second Life. A comedy club was just what the doctor ordered, right?! K and I were happy to find that it was free improv night too, so even though we walked in late, we were able to be seated right away. And then the lights came on. We only heard the punch line. Yep, everything seemed to be going in our favor.. Defeated, we walked up to King Street, our one last hope for Canadian fun to be had. This popular block is known for it's chic restaurants, bars, and clubs but nothing sparked our attention.

Suddenly, a man's voice called out as we passed him: "Why don't you ladies come in so I can buy you a drink?"  Great, we thought, not only is this night a complete bust but now we're being hit on by a creep. "No, really," he continued, "we just opened our restaurant and we're trying to drive in customers." Oh, well, in that case :) K and I turned around and strolled right on into serendipity at 333 King Street West.

The not-creepy man was Tony Loschiavo, the owner of the new-to-Toronto, Paese Ristorante, and the ever-successful L-EAT Catering. "Get these ladies a drink on me," he told the bartender who promptly passed us the bar list. Winos that we are, K and I ordered two glasses and were served two of the most spectacular wines we'd ever tasted. She had a Sauvignon Blanc that was crisp, fresh, and just zesty enough. Mine, a Cabernet Sauvignon, was absolutely divine, a warm, full-bodied mix of currants and berries balanced a sweet oaky finish. 

In complete and utter bliss at our vino luck, we chatted with our new friend, the bartender, who asked us where we'd had dinner. At admitting our embarrassing mistake, she laughed, quite literally, out loud. "Why would on earth would you eat there? You should've come here. What did you even order?" We actually hadn't eaten much at all, and just as we were sharing such disappointing news with her, she turned to the other end of the bar where Tony and three other unknown guests sat to tell them about our misfortune. "Oh, we're buying you a pizza."

Flabbergasted, we ordered the pizza funghi. K and I could not believe how beyond wonderful our night had become! And following our order, it got even better when we were served a not-yet-on-the-bar-menu appetizer courtesy of the kitchen. It was, according to the bartender, "their twist on chips and dip," but it was oh so much more. The small fried balls of the tater-sort were hardly over-salted but bursting with crunchy flavor, and the fantastic cream sauce was complete perfection.

It was at some point in these glorious moments that I shared my food blogging identity with our new friend, and before I knew it, was then introduced to their executive chef, Christopher Palik. After chatting for a bit, he offered to give K and I a personal tour of the restaurant, an offer we surely could not refuse.

He walked us into their main dining room (we had been sitting at the bar) which was decorated seamlessly with white and black accents against the natural wood tables and gorgeous exposed brick walls. Lights, both white and colored, added a warm and welcoming touch to the sophisticated atmosphere.

From there we entered the immaculate kitchen. Christopher explained how consciously he had designed the location of the different food prep locations and how he had chosen he staff. Over the three weeks since the restaurant had been established they'd worked diligently, making sure to take advantage of the slow but steady customer flow in order to become acclimated with their new atmosphere, system, and coworkers. 

He also motioned us towards their beautiful pizza oven that he had chosen from Italy. Although we did not order from their regular dinner menu, K and I learned that their food is a modern twist to traditional favorites. Items that I found especially intriguing include the roasted golden beets and goat cheese appetizer with pistachios and pomegranate, fettuccine with pesto pasta with green and yellow string beans, cannellini truffled honey. It all most definitely brings a whole new meaning to "holy yum."

Downstairs, Christopher showed us where they make their pastas, and breads, and pastries. It was amazing to see the area so clean and organized when it was surely bustling with noise and movement that very morning. Perhaps most impressive however, is not their culinary creations, but their food philosophy: everything on their menu is created daily from the freshest and highest-quality ingredients. I believe there was also a mention of local food? Either way, I was so impressed with his, and thus, the restaurant's values.

Health, is, of course, a primary concern of mine when it comes to nourishment but I also highly value pleasure. Knowing that the magnificent foods I had already eaten and would soon eat were made with such care and thought made the experience that much more enjoyable. 

Before heading back upstairs to our cooling pizza, Christopher also showed us their growing wine cellar. We were blown away! Each bottle behind the glass doors was chosen by their staff sommelier from all of the major wine regions around the world. "The great thing here," he told us, "is that even the best wines are affordable." Plus, they would need to purchase at least double what they already have to fill the space. I can't recall ever hearing anything so great.

Afterwards, we were welcomed back to our seats with this delightful creation. The superbly crisp, thin-crusted white pizza was topped with roasted mushrooms, thyme, and fontina cheese. I know that I often rave about good food, but my friends, let me just tell you that this entire pie was out of this world, better than nearly any other Italian-style pizza I have ever had outside of Italy. I would assume that the oil was truffle, and when paired with the other pure ingredients, to say that it was divine would be an understatement. 

The entire Paese staff truly brought generosity to another level. During the time that they had so graciously filled (and re-filled) our wine glasses, served us a complete meal, and explained the ins and outs of the entire culinary and service creation, we got a real taste of their genuine goodness. The restaurant business is a tough one, it requires talent and perseverance and, in my opinion, character. I can't imagine that this ristorante is going to be anything but ridiculously successful.

As a small token of our gratitude, K and I ordered the flourless triple chocolate torta with white chocolate mousse and hazelnuts in a better-than-Nutella sauce. It was, unsurprisingly at this point, absolutely outstanding and gloriously light. We could not have been anymore satisfied and comfortable and pleased.

Our experience at Paese Ristorante was phenomenal. I am so very thankful to Tony, Christopher, and all for the opportunity to have it and am anxiously awaiting our next visit. If you're ever in the area, I recommend it wholeheartedly, and a million times over. And when you do go, please let me know all about it.

It truly was "a kitchen away from home" complete with family, friends, laughter, and love.

Paese Ristorante
333 King Street West
Toronto, ON
416.599.6585