#turkish restaurant in brooklyn

[ademxozerk]

( ALPEREN DUYMAZ, CISMALE, HE/HIM ) ADEM ÖZERK the THIRTY-TWO year old is said to remind people of WORN IN LEATHER JACKETS + KNUCKLES BLOODIED BY BATTLES WON. they are known to be RESILIENT and CLOSED-OFF which makes sense when you think about how they are a OWNER OF THE PLAYPEN who lives in WALNUT PARK. 

TRIGGER WARNING: cancer, alcohol abuse, infidelity, parental death

𝐁𝐀𝐒𝐈𝐂𝐒.

name: adem mustafa özerk nicknames/alias: absolutely not

faceclaim: alperen duyamaz

age: thirty-two gender: cismale sexuality: ass is ass date/place of birth: january 5th / brooklyn, new york currently: deadwood, south dakota

positive traits: resilient, adaptable, intelligent negative traits: closed off, short-tempered, crass astrological sign: capricorn archetype: the heel occupation: owner of the playpen

𝐁𝐈𝐎𝐆𝐑𝐀𝐏𝐇𝐘.

january 5th, 1992

just like most who end up haunting the streets of deadwood -- you were born screaming in agony. born to a pair of turkish immigrants who never intended to have children, you learned your place quickly. as a child you were quiet, even going as far as not to say a single word from the time you were five until the time you were seven. there was never a specific reason, you simply did. as you grew into your teens you got louder -- returning to the state you once had. more self-assured, more confident in your voice. but this time, you used your voice as a weapon against the people who never wanted you. you would push them to the ends of the earth if you had to.

trips to the principal's office were more common than breathing. it started off as schoolyard fights, before escalating to skipping class by fourteen. then came the loss of your mother, who showed you more grace than your father had in the tip of his thumb -- who was soon pushed out of the picture by a strange woman you had never seen before who appears closer to your age than his. she's going to be your stepmother, adem, he utters to you in private -- days before your mother is to be put in the ground. show her some respect. within the year, you also left the chaotic solace of new york city behind for the middle of nowhere. all for her. all for this woman, who was barely a being in your eyes. to be near her family, when you had all too recently lost your own.

it's not that you settle quickly into your new home -- you simply decide you're going to connect with those who hate it just as much as you do. you become hell for your father, your stepmonster and the rest of deadwood, beginning to develop a record by the age of sixteen. if they hate you as much as they say they do, may as well give them a reason. lean into it, let it wash over you. you learn quickly that your stepmonster only cared when you were interrupting her time finding solace at the bottom of the bottle -- something that was easy for her to hide from your father. he truly did only know how to neglect, no matter how much he said he loved you.

june 2010

you graduate high school by the skin of your teeth -- and also leave your house behind, much to everyone's relief. are you prepared financially? far from it. you simply have so much hate in your heart for the world that you live in that you just can't take it anymore, even if some of it was your own creation -- you never wanted it to be this way. you need to find yourself on your own, without such tension looming over your shoulder. you live on friend's couches for a while as you search for something to sustain yourself -- bouncing from serving job to serving job until things start to fall into place.

every restaurant in deadwood feels a release in their shoulders the second you turn twenty-one and begin bartending at the playpen. not only because it's a much better fit for you, serving alcohol, because then-owner giancarlo lombardi seems to be the only one who can handle you. he puts you to work, even allows you to begin crashing in his guest room for a small monthly fee. he sees something in you that allows you to pause, to self reflect. you are not the man your parents wanted you to be, something that you then begin to accept instead of deny. on to the next stage of grief for the boy you never were.

february 2018

giancarlo lombardi passes in a freak car accident.

the second the news hits the headlines, you believe yourself to be fucked. you don't expect to get anything out of his will, having grown slightly disconnected since you finally found yourself leaving the nest at the age of twenty four. it's perhaps the last thing anyone expects when his lawyer hands you the keys. it's yours now. you've helped him with operations before -- have a second grader's understanding of how to run a buisness, but you have something lombardi never had, a work ethic just as strong as your anger. thus, you plan to keep his legacy going -- in many ways. he was in deeper than you knew and as much as he told you how much be cared about you and believed you to be like a son, you inherited not just his buisness, but his debts. debts that were owed to people who would raise hell to have them paid.

thus, you're forced to keep your head on a swivel. raise your hands to those who dare to come after you.

even still, you get by. you live a solitary life -- but you intend to repel most people anyway. even when it isn't by choice, that's what you tell yourself. you are a hurricane, poised to strike down anything and anyone in your path. it's best if you keep to yourself -- go to work, create a further indent in your usual bar chair, smoke your cigarettes next to your trailer window. it's better if your a danger only to yourself.

𝐇𝐄𝐀𝐃𝐂𝐀𝐍𝐎𝐍𝐒.

not a serial cheater -- but avoids manogamy like the plague. simply just doesn't have the emotional capacity to love or be loved.. at least, that's what he believes.

he's much softer than he lets on, but only when it comes to a very select group of people. he's good to the girls at the club -- making sure they have everything they need and that no one dares to mistreat them.

as expected... a lover of the typical biker look. basic tshirts, ripped jeans or leather pants, motorcycle boots and a leather jacket to match. his hands are also littered with silver rings he's purchased at various secondhand shops, mimicking the appearance of silver knuckles.

MORE TO COME.

[abracadabramagicfood]

In 2004, Dilara Erbay Bugdayci, a cuisine artist, and Ahmet Bugdayci, the creative director, launched Abracadabra Magic cuisine in Istanbul. Abracadabra Istanbul, the forerunners of New Turkish cuisine, was named one of the world's 50 greatest restaurants by Conde Nast Travel in 2010.

They have been providing conscious food, farm-to-table pop-ups, catering, wellness, organic farming, sacred plants, kambo medicine, and retreats at Abracadabra Magic Farm in Hudson Valey, NY, and Abracadabra Magic Deli in Brooklyn, NY, since they relocated to New York in 2012.

[hotelfurnitureturkey]

İş insanı Metin Durmaz, Fildişi Sahili'nde 50 milyon dolarlık yatırımla AVM kurmaya hazırlanıyor

Metin Durmaz, the Chairman of Sagist Group, representing Turkey with furniture decoration works in the homes of world-famous stars, CEOs, and even sheiks. Besides their main business of furniture decoration, they have invested in the cosmetic and coffee industries. They invested 6 million dollars in coffee, with plans for sales through Amazon and distribution deals in Qatar.

According to a report in Dünya newspaper by Hamide Hangül, as part of their global growth strategies, they have started an AVM (shopping mall) investment in Abidjan, the capital of Ivory Coast, with a local partner. Metin Durmaz shared the following details about the project:

"In Africa, we acquired the most prestigious land in Ivory Coast, in the most prestigious bay. It will be the only AVM with direct sea access in the world. Half of the construction, including the multistory parking lot, is completed, and the building construction has begun. It will be completed by March 2024.

The project, designed in the shape of a ship, is being carried out with 50% local partnership. It will be able to accommodate 4,000 people simultaneously. There will be a special restaurant on the roof for VIP guests, accommodating 1,500 people at the same time. It will feature exclusively luxurious brands and international electronic brands. They will also invite some prominent Turkish brands. A section of the AVM will be dedicated to organic foods. The investment budget is 44 million dollars, but it is expected to reach 50 million dollars upon completion. Our AVM investment will become the newest attraction center in West Africa."

Metin Durmaz also mentioned their plans for the renovation of Brooklyn Tower and their collaboration with Porsche Design for active sales in the United States. Additionally, they will be involved in the decoration of 12 villas for Tiger Woods in the US. #jlo #rihanna

https://www.patronlardunyasi.com/haber/is-insani-metin-durmaz-fildisi-sahili-nde-50-milyon-dolarlik-yatirimla-avm-kurmaya-hazirlaniyor/285635

[vipcabinetss]

Luxury Robes For the Gold Coast

You can’t go wrong with a classic terry robe. Brooklinen’s Brooklyn Super-Plush Robe is minimalist and gender-neutral, with a dainty waist tie and side pockets. However, it’s not terribly absorbent.

Graccioza’s Mabel bath linens are made from superior combed cotton and come in a range of colors. You can request color swatch samples before ordering.

Luxury bathrobes

Luxury bathrobes offer the ultimate in comfort, softness, and style. They are perfect for hotel guests, spas, beauty clinics, and more. Robemart offers a wide selection of styles and fabrics, including 100% Turkish cotton, silky soft satin, and ultra plush microfleece. Some models can even be customized with monogramming for a thoughtful gift or bridal party gift.

Strategist writer Latifah Miles calls this robe a “social-media darling” for its sleek design and deep shawl collar, which she says makes it feel “cocoon-y.” She also appreciates that it’s lower-maintenance than silk, as it can be machine-washed with cold water or delicate cycle.

The Four Seasons is known for its luxurious amenities, and this robe is no exception. It’s made from a thick, plush fabric that will keep you warm and comfortable. The oversized fit and generous front wrap ensure a premium finish. The robe also has convenient side pockets, which are perfect for carrying your tummy cream and lip balm.

Versace bathrobes

Forget about wearing a towel turban around your head – it’s time to upgrade your #bathleisure game. Enter the Versace Barocco bathrobe. With contrasting Versace logo print sleeves and self-tie belt, this long terry cotton style is the new must-have item for your Instagram feed. According to fashion search platform Lyst, searches for the robe have increased 240 per cent in the last year.

The Palazzo Versace hotel offers opulent lodgings with furnishings by the namesake Italian fashion brand. Its Queensland location features a serene lagoon pool, an opulent spa and meeting facilities. The hotel also has a private marina and is close to restaurants, shopping, and the beach. Its rooms feature a Juliet balcony and are filled with Versace designs. Guests can dine at acclaimed restaurants and sip cocktails in the lobby bar.

Graccioza bath linens

Graccioza offers luxury bath linens that offer a combination of softness, durability and practicality. Their towels, mats and robes Gold Coast are made from natural or manmade fibres. The company’s products are available in a wide range of colours to match any decor. Some of the collections also include matching bath rugs and sheets.

Using the finest cottons, Graccioza has designed several collections to suit any lifestyle. The Bee Waffle collection is eye-catching with a textured surface that has an exfoliating feel, while the Egoist towels are woven from 800gsm Extra Long Staple Egyptian Giza cotton. They have a luxuriously soft, spa-like texture and are pre-washed for enhanced absorbency.

The company has also designed a line of eco-friendly towels that are GOTS certified. This is the highest level of textile certification that limits toxic bleaches, dyes and chemicals. Graccioza’s innovative designs are based on years of experience, know-how and tradition. One such example is their new Spa Sponge memory foam bath rug, which combines comfort with practicality.

Homebodii bridal robes

Homebodii offers a covetable collection of bridal robes, sleepwear, intimates and occasion dresses. The brand’s discerning feminine aesthetic and passion for detail is evident in each piece. The company’s continuous modern fusion of sleepwear, loungewear separates and bridal intimates is the foundation of its global success. This is also apparent in its partnership with Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, Bergdorf Goodman and Nordstrom JWN +0.99%, among other leading retailers.

Brides will love our curated selection of bridal robes in dreamy colors that can be worn long after the wedding. These are pieces you and your girls can wear on your honeymoon or in romantic evenings at home. Choose from delicate lace bridal robes in soft powder pinks, ethereal floral prints, and even a sophisticated black. Embroidery options are available to make your robe truly personal. We even have a lingerie set that will complete your ensemble. The Ultimate Lush Plush Robe is the perfect choice for any bride-to-be or anyone who loves to feel sexy in their robes.

[travelingbytastebuds]

NEW YORK CITY CULTURAL RESTAURANTS I only picked one restaurant for each country, but there may be several for that particular ethnic cuisine. I have not gone to all of these, so I can’t stand by how good their food may be. And since restaurants unfortunately close all the time, please Google them before just showing up to see if they’re still operating (and what hours they are open as well. Afghanistan - Ariana Restaurant - 787 9th Ave, New York, NY 10019 Albania - Dua Kafe - 520 E 14th St, New York, NY 10009 Argentina - Buenos Aires - 513 E 6th St, New York, NY 10009 Australia - The Australian NYC - 20 W 38th St, New York, NY 10018

Austria - Wallsé - 344 W 11th St, New York, NY 10014 Azerbaijan - Baku Palace - 2001 Emmons Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11235 Bangladesh - MILON - 93 1st Avenue # 2, New York, NY 10003 Belarus - Belarussian Xata - 1655 Sheepshead Bay Rd, Brooklyn, NY 11235 Belgium - BXL Zoute - 50 W 22nd St, New York, NY 10010 Bolivia - La Perla Del Pacifico - 4410 48th Ave, Woodside, New York 11377 Bosnia and Herzegovina - Cevabdzinica Sarajevo - 37-18 34th Ave, Long Island City, NY 11101 Brazil - Churrascaria Plataforma - 316 W 49th St, New York, NY 10019 Burma - Burmese Bites Food Cart - 5 Ct Square W, Long Island City, NY 11101 Cambodia - Angkor - 408 E 64th St, New York, NY 10065 Chile - La Roja De Todos - 108-02 Northern Blvd, Corona, NY 11368 China - Café China - 13 E 37th St, New York, NY 10016 Colombia - Dulce Vida Latin Bistro - 1219 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10028 Costa Rica - Olga's Place - 214 LT Glenn Zamorski Dr, Elizabeth, NJ 07206 Côte d’Ivoire - La Savane - 239 W 116th St, New York, NY 10026 Croatia - Dubrovnik Restaurant - 721 Main St, New Rochelle, NY 10801 Cuba - Cuba - 222 Thompson St, New York, NY 10012 Cyprus - Zenon Taverna - 34-10 31st Ave, Astoria, NY 11106 Czechia - Bohemian Spirit - 321 E 73rd St, New York, NY 10021 Dominican Republic - Lali - 630 10th Ave, New York, NY 10036 Ecuador - Ñaño Ecuadorian Kitchen - 691 10th Ave, New York, NY 10036 Egypt - Horus Cafe - 93 Avenue B, New York, NY 10009 El Salvador - La Cabaña Salvadoreña - 4384 Broadway, New York, NY 10040 Eritrea - Massawa - 1239 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10027 Ethiopia - Awash - 338 E 6th St, New York, NY 10003 Finland - Smorgas Chef - 58 Park Ave, New York, NY 10016 France - La Grenouille - 3 E 52nd St, New York, NY 10022 Georgia - Pirosmani - 2222 Avenue U, Brooklyn, NY 11229 Germany - Hofbräu Bierhaus NYC - 712 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10017 Ghana - Accra - 2065 Adam Clayton Powell Jr Blvd, New York, NY 10027 Greece - Pylos - 6100, 128 E 7th St, New York, NY 10009 Grenada - West Cuisine-Organic Grenadian Cuisine - 916 Clarkson Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11203 Guatemala - La Esquina Chapina - 39 Broad Ave, Palisades Park, NJ 07650 Haiti - Le Soleil - 858 10th Ave, New York, NY 10019 Honduras - La Perla Del Ulua - 354 Melrose St, Brooklyn, NY 11237 Hungary - Budapest Cafe - 1631 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10028 India - Tamarind Tribeca - 99 Hudson St, New York, NY 10013 Indonesia - Kopi Kopi - 68 W 3rd St, New York, NY 10012 Ireland - Molly's - 287 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10010 Israel - Bar Bolonat - 611 Hudson St, New York, NY 10014 Italy - L' Artusi - 228 W 10th St # 1, New York, NY 10014 Jamaica - Miss Lily's 7A Cafe - 109 Avenue A, New York, NY 10009 Japan - Hakubai - 66 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10016 Korea - miss KOREA BBQ - 3815, 10 W 32nd St, New York, NY 10001 Laos - Khe-Yo - 157 Duane St, New York, NY 10013 Lebanon - Naya - 1057 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10022 Malaysia - New Malaysia - 48 Bowery, New York, NY 10013 Mexico - La Contenta - 102 Norfolk St, New York, NY 10002 Moldova - Moldova Restaurant - 1827 Coney Island Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11230 Morocco - Cafe Mogador - 101 Saint Marks Pl # 1, New York, NY 10009 Nepal - Cafe Himalaya - 78 E 1st St, New York, NY 10009 New Zealand - The Musket Room - 265 Elizabeth St, New York, NY 10012 Nigeria - DF Nigerian Food Truck - http://www.divineflavoredcatering.com Pakistan - Dera Restaurant - 103 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10016 Paraguay - Sabor Guarani Restaurant Bar - 40-04 Bell Blvd, Bayside, NY 11361 Peru - Mission Ceviche - 353 W 14th St, New York, NY 10014 Philippines - Maharlika - 111 1st Ave, New York, NY 10003 Poland - Karczma - 136 Greenpoint Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11222 Portugal - Macao Trading Co - 311 Church St, New York, NY 10013 Romania - Romanian Garden - 43-06 43rd Ave, Long Island City, NY 11104 Russia - Mari Vanna - 41 E 20th St, New York, NY 10003 Senegal - Joloff - 1168 Bedford Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11216 Serbia - Kafana - 116 Avenue C, New York, NY 10009 Singapore - Chomp Chomp - 7 Cornelia St, New York, NY 10014 Somalia - Safari - 219 W 116th St, New York, NY 10026 South Africa - Madiba - 195 Dekalb Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11205 Spain - Manolo Tapas - 4165 Broadway, New York, NY 10033 Sri Lanka - Lakruwana - 668 Bay St, Staten Island, NY 10304 Sweden - Smorgas Chef - 58 Park Ave, New York, NY 10016 Switzerland - Cafe Select - 212 Lafayette St, New York, NY 10012 Taiwan - Taiwan Pork Chop House - 3 Doyers St, New York, NY 10013 Thailand - Thailand - 856 10th Ave, New York, NY 10019 Trinidad and Tobago - Ali's Trinidad Roti Shop - 1267 Fulton St, Brooklyn, NY 11216 Turkey - Turkish Kitchen - 386 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10016 Ukraine - Veselka - 144 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10003 United Kingdom - Jones Wood Foundry - 401 E 76th St, New York, NY 10021 Uruguay - Charrúa - 131 Essex St, New York, NY 10002 Uzbekistan - Taste of Samarkand - 62-16 Woodhaven Blvd, Middle Village, NY 11379 Venezuela - Patacon Pisao - 139 Essex St, New York, NY 10002 Vietnam - Vietnaam - 1700 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10128 Yemen - Yemen Café - 176 Atlantic Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11201

[tpell514]

Awesome #beytikebab #entree from @tacisbeyti #lamb #rice #vegetables #dinner #tacisbeyti #brooklyn #turkish #restaurant #feastbigornotatall #avisualstimulant (at Taci's Beyti) https://www.instagram.com/p/BwQA79Nl8xA/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=yb0w78jiyyrn

[canaryrecords]

Amalia Bakas was born Mazaltov Matsa in 1897 in present-day Ioannina, Greece (then Janina, Turkey). She was part of a 2,000 year old community of Romaniote Jews from Ioannina. Since the holocaust, their population there has dwindled to only dozens of individuals. Amalia was apparently the only Romaniote Jew to have ever recorded, albeit in the New World.

A beautifully researched biographical essay by David Soffa appears in the notes of the CD that he produced of her, Amalia!: Old Greek Songs in the New Land, 1923-50 (Arhoolie, 2002). Despite my best efforts to add to his work, I have largely failed to improve upon it. What follows is drawn almost entirely from his research.

She was sent to the U.S. at 15 years old in 1912 and just under a year later, she was married to Jack Saretta with whom she had two daughters Esther and Diamond (b. July 23, 1918). They lived in the Jewish Lower East Side, close to the Romaniote synagogue on Broome Street (the only one in the Western hemisphere). Mally, as she was known to her friends and family, worked initially in a garment factory, but by her early 20s she was earning a living singing in the emerging coffee houses and nightclubs patronized by Greek and Turkish speaking immigrants.

By about 1922, she had started recording under the names Amilia or Amelia, initially ten sides for the small independent labels for the New York Armenian-owned Parsekian and Sohag labels and then six sides for the Chicago-based Greek Record Company. Her career as a performer was far removed from the traditional role of a woman in her community, and her husband divorced her and sent her daughter Esther away to Greece. Diamond later used the word “kidnapped” to describe her sister’s removal. Diamond and Amalia remained very close, often working together in nightclubs and touring as a duo. In her younger years, Diamond’s babysitter was an emerging star of Greek music in New York, Marika Papagika. (Amalia had a short-lived cafe of her own on 8th Avenue around 1930, just around the corner of Papagika’s club.)

It is not out of the question that it was Papagika who brought Amalia to Victor Records, where she recorded 10 12” discs between April 1927 and February 1928. By that time, Amalia had converted to the Greek Orthodox Church to marry Gus Bakas (b. 1889; arrived in the U.S. 1910) and had taken his surname. In early 1929, she made three more 12” discs, this time for the Okeh company, accompanied by the brilliant violinist Nishan Sedefjian (with whom she worked off and on for decades) and cymbalom player Louis Rassias.

Amalia and Diamond spent the Depression playing the “oriental” nightclubs of 8th Avenue and touring - Detroit, Gary IN, Philadelphia, the Catskills, and Chicago - often with the guitarist, singer, and composer George Katsaros. An exceptionally independent woman, Amalia lived the nightlife, gambling and swearing with the men and performing flirtatiously. By 1940, she was living in Chicago’s Greektown, but within a couple of years, she moved back to New York and started recording again for the Balkan/ Metropolitan circle of labels for whom she made at least seven discs with a rotating cast of accompanists. She and Diamond performed as a mother-daughter act until 1960 when Diamond moved to Tarpon Springs, Florida where she opened a restaurant. Amalia retired from performing in the early 1960s and joined Diamond in Florida in 1974. She died there in 1979. Diamond died March 13, 2013.

======= Sarah Behar recorded only two songs - one disc - some time in the 1940s. At least three different women by that name, all born in Turkey between 1899 and 1910, appear in the 1930 and 1940 census records in the Bronx and Brooklyn. Two of the three were native speakers of Ladino, the uncommon dialect of Spanish specific to Sephardic Jews of parts of Turkey and Greece. (The language was brought to the Ottoman Empire during the late 15th expulsion of Jews from Spain.) For the time being, we remain unclear who she was.

======= In the 1940s Victoria Hazan recorded eleven songs in Turkish (plus one as a backing vocalist for Marko Melkon), two in Greek, and ten in Ladino. The Ladino language discs remain relatively scarce but fortunately can be heard on YouTube and were issued on a CD of her complete works titled Todas Mis Esperansas (Global Village, 2001). The thumbnail biography of Hazan at the sephardicmusic.org remains the best published source, although we hope to expand on it in the near future.

She was born April 15, 1896 in Salihi, Turkey. Her family (two siblings and her parents Moshe and Rivka Ninio) moved 100km due east to the port city of Izmir when she was 15 and then to New York City in 1920, shortly before the September 1922 catastrophe killed tens of thousands of Greeks and Armenians. From about 1925 to ’36, she was married to Israel Hazan. She sang and played out in her synagogue in the Bronx. When it was initially suggested that she should make records, she saw no reason to, saying that her husband “made a good living.” After her first husband’s death, she remarried Joe Rosa, and with his permission, she recorded for the Kaliphon and Metropolitan labels with Marko Melkon (who was just a year or two older than her and from Izmir himself) and his circle accompanying her.

She continued to sing within her community until her death in Brooklyn, November 21, 1995. She’s buried near family in Cincinnati, Ohio.

[purplesurveys]

812

Is there anyone you work with that you don't get along with? Why? I'm always civil with everyone, and when I get mad at someone I make sure it’s because they really fucked up on a task, and not just because I don’t like their personality or whatever. I’ve always just felt like butting heads with someone is only going to affect my work, so I try not to clash with people. If I don’t like someone for any reason, I usually just minimize my interactions with them. Have you ever been romantically interested in a coworker? ...Does a classmate count? I started crushing on Gab back in high school lol. Have you ever been romantically involved with a coworker? ^ Same question. Do you have any thoughts on a 14-year age-gap? Not a fan. Age gaps in general scare me away, though I think it’s because I’ve only been with someone of the same age. What is the game you're currently playing most often on your phone? Bitlife. It’s like a simpler Sims.

What is your go-to Starbucks order? MAN OH MAN does this question make me miss coffee shops. I get a grande iced caramel macchiato. I get it as is because having so many customization options just makes me overwhelmed. Do you have any friends that you're drifting apart from? I don’t think so. We all just have to be apart right now but once we can see each other again, I’m 110% sure it’ll only be like we hadn’t seen each other in a day. Are you close to someone who is mentally unwell? I think all my friends aren’t mentally okay to some extent. It’s pretty common in our age group. What phone do you have? iPhone 8. What is the last thing you ordered for delivery? Andrew and I had Chinese food delivered to Skywalk after a particularly brutal verbal beatdown from our thesis adviser who had told us to revise big chunks of our thesis ASAP. I was super stressed so I allowed myself to splurge on the Hong Kong noodles I really liked and I specifically asked for three fucking packets of peanut sauce to drown my noodles in lmao. Do you have an opinion on adopting/purchasing a pet? It’s my preferred way of getting a pet. Adopt and don’t shop, plz. What's your favorite chain restaurant? YABUUUUUUUU. If I reach the point where I only had ₱400 left to my name, I’d still most likely spend it on their katsu.  Have you ever dated someone who was of a foreign origin? No...well, Gabie is part Turkish, so kinda? She’s still mostly Filipino though. Have you ever read any of your idol’s books/autobiographies? Out of all the people I fangirl over, only AJ has produced an autobiography and yes, I have her book. Oh I have One Direction’s first book too, but I haven’t been able to buy the next ones that came out. Do you own any succulents? Nope. Can’t take care of plants to save my life. When was the last time you climbed a tree? I’ve never done that, all the trees here have red ants. :/ If you have any pets, how would you describe their personalities? Kimi’s an absolute diva and chooses to follow, listen to, and be sweet with only me. He’ll be super nice when he’s asking for food, but will be quick to stop minding you completely once he’s gotten enough food from you. We give him a pass since he’s a senior dog now, but he’s definitely the snobby type hahaha. What is your phone's background? My home screen is of Hayley Williams; my lock screen is of Beyoncé and Jay-Z on stage. Who played at the last concert you went to? Paramore. Who is playing at the next concert you're attending? I’m really fucking hoping it’s going to be Beyoncé because she’s the only artist left I have yet to see lmao but if not, I’m most likely going to see Paramore again. What's your favorite amusement park ride? I like riding the octopus, but only the one in my high school’s fair. What's your favorite deep-fried food item? Corndogs, for sure. Why were you last pulled over? I got confused with the road rules in Alabang and ended up stopping at a red light albeit over a pedestrian lane. Stilllllll pissed about that instance to this day and I’ve never gotten over how rude the traffic enforcer was towards me. Do you have any friends that own a private lake? I don’t think so, we don’t have a lot of lakes here to begin with. What was the last thing you've done on the water? Take a shower, if I understood this question correctly. Canoeing or kayaking? I kayaked in Palawan when we were there and it was so peaceful and felt like absolute heaven. I’d relive that experience over and over again. What's your favorite lake? Like I said, we don’t really have a lot of lakes here. I don’t even know enough to pick a favorite. Are you cool with swimming in a lake? Sure, why not. Do you have a drone? I don’t. I’m not interested in having one. Do you have a smart watch? Nope. I’d love one but tbh I end up losing every watch I ever try to wear, so buying one would be pointless. What's your favorite hole-in-the-wall restaurant? It’s a bar rather than a restaurant, but Exile was such a fun place to be in. I still don’t understand why they had to close down so suddenly when sooooo many college kids were going there every single day. It’s since been replaced by this random shrimp restaurant, though I think that already closed too since no one ever went there because EVERYONE PREFERS EXILE. It was a very important part of my early college years and it helped me get out from my slump, so I’ll always be grateful that it was around at some point. What do you order from there? I don’t even remember anymore, it shut down two or three years ago. I’ll see if their menu is still up on Zomato... andddd it’s not. It’s like it never existed, sigh. What's your favorite ice-cream flavor? Cookies and cream. They jack up the prices for Ben & Jerry’s here like CRAZY so even though I’ve wanted to try so many of their flavors, I’ve never gotten to try it. I’m not paying ₱500-₱600 for ice cream. Do you have any t-shirts from any local businesses? Yes, I have a couple of shirts from this local business called Artwork. Their employees, who are also artists, produce original designs on t-shirts, bags, pins, shoes, wallets, etc. every week so every time I visit the store, the selection is almost always completely brand new. What is your prettiest friend's first name? Gabriela, hehe. Who is your favorite comedian? Not really into comedians. I like Andy Samberg’s work, but mostly only for Brooklyn Nine-Nine. What's your favorite Netflix series? Queer Eye or Black Mirror, if we’re talking about original Netflix series. Do you listen to any talk shows or podcasts? I regularly tuned in to a morning radio program when I’d drive to school before quarantine started, but that’s it. Do you know anyone who's had their own podcast? Nope, but I have friends and acquaintances who have released other stuff, like vlogs and EPs. Where were you the last time you stayed in a hotel? Cavite. What are you looking forward to, today? Mom bought shawarma so I can’t wait to eat them tonight. What are you looking forward to, in the next few months? For this Covid mess to finally blow over so I can have an actual, tangible graduation and see all my friends again. Are you a dog or a cat person? Dog. Without. A. Doubt. Do you know anyone who is freaked out by cats? Me. They never liked me no matter how nice I am with them, so I can never be around one for more than a minute. There’s only one cat that’s been nice to me – one of the cats that roam around the college, we call him Ginger – but even then, sometimes his claws can get super sharp when we play and it pierces my skin and I get scared, ahuhu. I’m sure cats are super nice and that they make for great pets, but we just can’t ever bond lol. Do you know any with Crohn's disease? No.

[marlene-steiner]

What I Love About New York

To start with, I'll be discussing everything about everything!

First up: What I love about New York. I have lived here since forever! That's right.  I have seen a lot, done a lot. I am raising my family here. New York is my home and I love it much more than I hate it.

So what do I love about it?

For one, it is a city where there is something happening every day, every night, every minute.

Do you like food? I do! you can't go 20 steps without finding ten different restaurants; Italian, Chinese Thai Japanese, Spanish, French, American, Greek, Lebanese, Turkish, Caribbean.

Vegan (is that even a country?)

So, we have Restaurant Week! Take advantage and get to know some new restaurants: https://www.nycgo.com/restaurant-week/

Is there something you want to learn about? How about coding and weaving?It's happening in Brooklyn in February. I'm really tempted even though I know next to nothing about coding - it sounds very interesting. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/weaving-and-coding-workshop-tickets-80530116747

Of course, there is Chinese New Year, so colorful.  Have you seen the decorated trees around town?

It's the year of the rat and I am scared of rats even though my son says they are more scared of me and my blood curdling screams. He claims I abuse rats and have given them heart attacks. So much for filial piety! Check out the festivities here: https://www.nycgo.com/articles/lunar-new-year-guide-nyc

Last Night’s Super Bowl

What did you all think of the Super bowl? It was something right? I loved Shakira and J. Lo.  How fabulous are they?! ...But just a tad too sexy. Am I jealous? Not a chance. Look at the bread I bought for the occasion from Breads on 16th between 5th and union Square. and the spicy Poppers were pretty good too. but we ate them so you can’t see them. 

Talk about football literacy !

Art in NYC

Let me count the venues but I want to share a secret:

May I present Arlene Needleman Robbins!

Arlene is a super talented painter. and water colorist. Her works are so real and have that “je ne sais quoi!” She is having a show at the Salmagundi club on 47 Fifth Avenue February third through the 21st. but get over there as soon as you can.

A note from Arlene:

“Two of my watercolor animal portraits have been accepted to the Animal Attraction Exhibition at Salmagundi Club 47 Fifth Ave., NY, NY.  One is included here. The Exhibition will be open to the public Feb. 3 thru Feb 21, 2020. Reception February 13, 6:30-9:00PM.  Please join me to celebrate our special animals.  For more details, visit my website arlenerobbins.com and on Instagram @arlenerobbins49. Accepting commissions for watercolor or graphite portraits and will work from your photos for lasting memories.”

Love is in the air!

Valentine’s Day is around the corner and I have a great recipe for Chocolate Brownie with rose water and cranberries or pomegranates. If you are interested, ask me and I will send the recipe:

My daughter's Principal at Frank Sinatra HS begs me to stop sending them because they are creating havoc with his diet but they always sell out at performances. What are you doing on Valentine’s Day? Get some ideas here: https://www.timeout.com/newyork/valentines-day

There is so much to do in NYC this February it is making my head spin.

I invite you to read our market report: 

https://www.compass.com/research/static/assets/Manhattan_Quarterly_Market_Insights_Report_Q4_2019.pdf 

The market is getting busy. Spring is  around the corner and these great prices are not going to be here forever.

I am happy to answer your questions. Keep them coming and enjoy February. Please take a look at this beautiful home on the 31st floor! 

Find more information here: https://www.compass.com/listing/401-east-60th-street-unit-31b-manhattan-ny-10022/431849809197662761/?origin_type=Listing%20Card&origin=my-listings

[abracadabramagicfood]

Abracadabra Magic Food was founded in Istanbul in 2004 by food artist Dilara Erbay Bugdayci and creative director Ahmet Bugdayci. The pioneers of the New Turkish cuisine, Abracadabra Istanbul has been one of the best 50 restaurants in the world by Conde Nast Travel in 2010.

Since they moved to New York in 2012 They  offer conscious food, farm to table pop ups, catering, wellness, sacred plants, organic farming, kambo medicine, retreats at Abracadabra Magic Deli in Brooklyn, NY and Abracadabra Magic Farm in Hudson Valey, NY.

[operacafelounge-blog]

Finding Ethnic Turkish Restaurant in Brooklyn, NY?

Opera Cafe & Lounge  is the largest Mediterranean Turkish restaurant in Brooklyn. They are proud of their selves on serving the best Turkish Mediterranean food, family-recipies, authentic turkish dishes and specialty cocktails. Contact them at 718-676-2992.

[whereyoubeenmate]

New York City Recommendations

1. Empanada Mama

Address: https://goo.gl/maps/1pv3Sez9JyjGacti7

First time having empanadas, you’re met with a huge menu of different versions and flavours from savoury to sweet. I thought it was really lovely and very, very reasonably priced. The ones that I enjoyed the most seemed to be the more traditional ones. I got 3 or 4 of these. 

My recommendation: Fig and cheese empanada was top tier tastage. 

2. Kellogg’s Diner

Address: https://goo.gl/maps/fnHy1ivu7nnoduXVA

A diner located in Brooklyn, literally my first meal in NYC so will always try to eat there when I’m out there. Classical American diner (or what I think one would look like) - I’ve only ever ordered the pancakes there which I munched willingly, mates and Saja have ordered other things which all looked delicious. Very reasonably priced - nice little brunch spot in a nice part of Brooklyn.

My recommendation: Blueberry pancakes 

3. Orion Diner

Address: https://goo.gl/maps/RAUMkfAseVQBHZRp6

This is in Gramercy, if you ever find yourself there in Manhattan. I came here after a night out and was really, really hungry. Got a pastrami sandwich with fries - the sandwich was ok/good (bit too salty for me) but the fries were the greatest fries I’ve ever tasted in my life. Fries par excellence. 

Apparently diners are owned by the Greeks so I hid my Turkishness from them. 

My recommendation: Fries

4. Minnie’s on Clinton

Address: https://goo.gl/maps/CGxNLTunM5StHUNm6

Initially came here as Clinton Street apparently has a banging bakery and I wanted to scope the competition - that was completely full and busy but did get a slice of a chocolate cake which was ok at best (I’ve baked better).

Almost directly opposite was this brunch spot. Quite small inside but there were plenty of tables etc ended up having brunch here. Food was genuinely delicious - some might say sumptuous as you can’t have a food blog/recommendations without saying that word. Went for the Les croque madames. Huge - pastrami was incredible, it was eggy and bready and meaty - just a lovely combination. Would hugely recommend going.

My recommendation: Les croque madames

5. Joe’s Pizza

Address: https://goo.gl/maps/ShYKUUR1zBq6GHEG7

Just go please - I have to get a slice from them whenever I’m there. This is the one in the financial district but there’s a few of them dotted around in Manhattan. I always feel like they’re about to tell me off or judging me for ordering a slice like I’m inconveniencing them but fight through that feeling of discomfort and get a few slices. 

I know it sounds like a typical tourist nonsense or wanting to become a New Yorker but the pizza is truly banging - first thing we do it pay homage to grab a slice. First think Saja wanted to do when we were in NYC in November was get some Joe’s.

Joe’s forever.

My recommendation: everything and anything

6. Citizens of Gramercy 

Address: https://goo.gl/maps/24998j378N2ii6pi9

Didn’t realise that it was an Australian chain but nice and hip looking cafe in Gramercy (my mate lives near there). Was almost certain it had Shakshouka on the menu but I’ve clearly made that up. Good food, teeny tiny bit pricey but my mate usually paid for me (I’d say typical New York prices for this one).

Not expecting you to be in Gramercy but if you are, could be a place to eat at.

My recommendation: Cast Iron Baked Eggs

7. Pasquale Jones

Address: https://goo.gl/maps/pnqXTfDXSYdpRHrq7

Classy little restaurant in SoHo - went for din dins and it was really, really lovely. I had the warm braised leeks with some pasta dish - Saja went for some sort of fishy thing. It was bangage regardless and we should have ordered more food. I’d say order a pizza along with any of the dishes that you do go for - they place it on a little stand too. Expensive but I wasn’t paying (and I didn’t take full advantage).

Note of caution - they’re very particular about the reservation times so don’t be late!

My recommendation: it was all banging. 

[spatialstudioorla]

Research:  Dezeen  https://www.dezeen.com/2019/11/30/williamsburg-soda-factory-bathhouse-spa/ 

Artical : Bathhouse spa with sensory deprivation tank opens in old Williamsburg soda factory

Paul Jebara | 30 November 2019 

Founders Jason Goodman and Travis Talmadge with help from Verona Carpenter Architects. 

- "600-square-meter underground spa" is located in an old Brooklyn "1930s soda factory". This space is influenced by Scandinavian, Russian, and Turkish bathhouse cultures including changing rooms separated by gender. 

- I thought this is a similar location to our allocated area as it is on lower ground levels. I believe they utilized and designed the space well. Instead of trying to brightly light rooms to give the illusion of natural daylight, from the images, I assumed they used strip LED's, spotlights and lit the bathing pools. Though dark, the lack of light could ease people into relaxation quicker than in a brightly lit room.  

- Finishing includes existing brickwork and mural referencing roman bathing rituals and other rooms include “heated marble” tiles. 

- Something I was unfamiliar with were the two saunas and the purposes of different lights. One sauna is more "tropical" and the one that holds "less moisture that is more typically Finnish-style".

- There is a range of modern and ancient health rituals including "athletic massages, stretching, head-to-toe scrubs and cryotherapy". 

- I found the most interesting element of this bathhouse to be the "deprivation chamber" including an "isolation tank". In this tank Epsom salts are used to assist bouncy and "create a feeling of weightlessness". These rooms block out noise and ease you into a deeply relaxing state, soaking up the benefits of the magnesium. I have personally used Epsom salts as recovery to smooth aching muscles and was planning to use these salts in my bathhouse to also mimic salty ocean water. 

- Including "10 private treatment rooms" this bathhouse offers a range of water temperatures and treatments. Located on the upper levels of this building is a restaurant that is easily accessible for people once finished in the bathhouse. This design made me consider if bathing practices are designed to be more private and the traditional social element of this bathhouse is included in the restaurant above. 

[abracadabramagicfood]

Food artist Dilara Erbay Bugdayci and creative director Ahmet Bugdayci established Abracadabra Magic Food in Istanbul in 2004. Selected by Conde Nast Travel as one of the world's 50 greatest restaurants in 2010, Abracadabra Istanbul is the forerunner of New Turkish cuisine.

[operacafelounge-blog]

Exploring the Best Restaurant Lounges in Brooklyn, NY

Brooklyn offers a fulfilling touring experience; and if you love tucking into the authentic American and fusion cuisine; you will find this awesome city a Gastronomic Giant. https://goo.gl/iU2p7Q