|
|
|
|
Norma's Weekly Snapshot 
It's warming up in the city and we can finally enjoy the fresh air without heat lamps or coats. Sipping a refreshing cocktail makes the outdoors even more inviting, and a stunning view adds to the appeal. This week, I've included my top 10 outdoor bars so you can find your perfect oasis. Uptown, downtown, midtown... an outdoor cocktail awaits you as you take in the summer surroundings.
Norma Knows New York City
|
Send to other savvy New Yorkers and hip visitors, so they can
|
 General Events...
 Learn to RideOngoing biking clinics throughout the city. Visit the website for schedule.
May 31 Veuve Cliquot Polo Classic
In its third year at Liberty State Park, they're teaming up with City Harvest. Polo match, champagne bars, food trucks... a great mix for any taste.
June 1 Sunday Night Film Club: Noah
Dinner and movie for $55 per person at The Crosby Street Hotel (79 Crosby Street). Enjoy dinner and cocktails in The Crosby Bar, then at 8pm, the movie screening.
June 4 Yogamaya
Summer of Fitness is back with free outdoor yoga on Wednesdays by Yogamaya at 14th Street Park on the Hudson River.
June 5 Sunset Cirque
A kickoff to the "almost" start of summer at Brooklyn Bridge Park. Food and entertainment for the entire family.
June 6 70th Anniversary of D-Day
One million rose petals will be showered by the French on the Statue of Liberty in remembrance of the 70th anniversary of D-Day.
June 6 Making it Here: Brooklyn Navy Yard
"If you can make it here".... How many times have we heard those words when describing our city? On June 6 Open House NY will conduct a tour of the Brooklyn Navy Yard, home to our grandparents' workplace! The Navy Yard serves as a model for 21st century industrial parks.
ON THE RADAR:
June 14
Jazz Age Lawn Party
Saturday Night Fever will be the start to heating the summer up at Bryant Park! Stay tuned for my Outdoor Flicks Special Feature in the coming weeks.
|
Cultural Pursuits...
Through June 1 Frank Lloyd Wright and the City: Density vs. Dispersal The exhibition, at MoMA (11 West 53rd Street), examines the tension in Wright's thinking about the growing American city in the 1920s and 1930s...with a 12 foot by 12 foot model of one of his plans.
Visiting Hermes on Madison (692 Madison Avenue) delights all fashionistas. Experiencing an intriguing art exhibit by Miranda Lichtenstein in this magnificent showroom is an added treat. The exhibit represents 46 photographic images produced from 2012-2013. Through June 13 Jean-Michel Basquiat Drawing 22 works on paper and two paintings from the collection of Herbert and Lenore Schorr, who were the artist's devoted collectors, supporters, and friends. At the Acquavella Galleries (18 East 79th Street). Through June 13th. Through June 27 Pierre SoulagesFrench painter, engraver, and sculptor, Pierre Soulage's exhibit is on exhibition at the Dominique Levy Gallery on the Upper East Side (909 Madison Avenue). Through June 27th.  Kara Walker's "A Subtlety"Kara Walker says goodbye to one of the last remaining warehouses in Brooklyn, the Domino Sugar Factory through an installion of magnificent sculptures. Through July 6th at the Domino Sugar Factory in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. Everything: Part I First solo exhibit by the famed cartoonist, Lynda Barry, premiers at the Adam Baumgold Gallery (60 East 66th Street). Through July 11th.  Charles James: Beyond Fashion
At The Metropolitan Museum of Art (1000 5th Avenue); an exquisite exhibition showcasing James' sculptural and scientific approach to the creation of his ball gowns. Through August 10th. Self-Taught Genius: Treasures from the American Folk Art Museum A compilation of 100 of the museum's treasured works (2 Lincoln Square). Through August 17th. Lygia Clark: The Abandonment of Art, 1948-1988 Over 300 of her drawings, paintings and sculptures from the 1940s through the 1990s on display at MoMA (11 West 53rd Street) through August 24th.
Palaces for the People
Spanish immigrant Guastavinos' contribution in tile is seen in some of America's greatest public spaces. View his works at the Museum of the City of New York (1220 Fifth Avenue). Through September 7th.
Multiple Exposures: Jewelry and Photography
The exhibit at The Museum of Art and Design (2 Columbus Circle) showcases how contemporary jewelry artists transform images in this digital age. Through September 14th. ON THE RADAR:  June 10 Museum Mile Festival New York's biggest block party. All museums from 82nd to 105th are free and open to the public.
June 27 Jeff Koons: A Retrospective The Whitney Museum (945 Madison Avenue) presents this exhibit by the most controversial artist of the post war period. This is his first major museum presentation in NYC. Through October 19th.
|
.
Curtain Up...
 May 30 & 31 John Pizzarelli Quartet with Special Guest Jane Monheit Jazz guitarist, vocalist and songwriter, John Pizzarelli, performs at the Appel room (60th Street & Broadway) at Jazz at Lincoln Center.
Through June 1 Mal Paso Dance Company
Performances at the Joyce Theater (175 8th Avenue). The premier of this energetic and passionate group of dancers celebrates Cuban life and portrays the dreams, hopes and struggles of the daily life of a dancer.
June 1 Blue Note Jazz Festival In its fourth year, showcasing over 150 premier artists at more than 15 venues throughout the city. Visit their website to find your favorite artist. Through June 30th. June 3 The 6th Annual Hudson Square Music & Wine Festival
After Work Party returns downtown... sponsored by City Winery (155 Varick Street). Starting this Tuesday through the summer; enjoy great music and wine after a day of work. June 3 to 8 A Midsummer Night's Dream
The NYC Ballet presents a magical forest and its love triangles...sure to entangle and enthrall.
June 6 to 14 Chelsea Music Festival
100 artists from around the world gather in the eclectic neighborhood of Chelsea to celebrate a German and Brazilian program through music, food and art.
Through June 7 Megan Hilty One of my favorite Broadway performers will debut at the Café Carlyle (35 East 76th Street). I first became a fan of Megan when she starred as Glinda in the award winning play Wicked, and continued being mesmerized by her voice as the star of the TV show Smash. Through June 7 New York Philharmonic Biennial Besides the majestic venues of Lincoln Center and the MET, a kaleidoscope of 50 contemporary composers from over 12 countries will perform at other various venues throughout the city. Through June 8 New York City BalletThe spring season opened on April 29th at the David H. Koch Theater (Lincoln Center). American Ballet TheatreThe Spring Season at the Metropolitan Opera House (Lincoln Center) has begun! From Cinderella to Don Quixote... Performances through July 5th. Lady DayTony award winner, Audra McDonald, takes on the role of legendary Billie Holiday in a fantastic performance at the Emerson Bar and Grill in Circle in the Square (1633 Broadway). Through August 10th. THEATER & FILM:  June 3 Shakespeare in the Park: Much Ado About NothingI always know that summer is approaching when Shakespeare in the Park begins! It will be worth standing in line at The Delacorte Theater (81 Central Park West) for the free performances of Shakespeare's classic tale. Through July 6th... and later this summer, King Lear! 
MACBETHThe Park Avenue Armory (643 Park Avenue) hosts the magnificent and fast paced performance of actor, Kevin Branaugh, in Macbeth; a classic tale of treachery and ambition. You can purchase tickets for the June 5th Opening Night Benefit. Performances through June 22nd.
Under My Skin
For those of you that have enjoyed movies like Working Girl and Big, you'll enjoy this uproarious comedy. Through a twist of fate, a successful yet arrogant business man and a single mother switch bodies thanks to the help of an angel...seeing things from the "other side." Through July 6th at the Little Shubert Theatre (422 West 42nd Street).
Cabaret
I experienced the most amazing New York evening recently when I saw Cabaret at Studio 54 (254 West 54th Street). Both Alan Cumming and Michelle Williams are show-stoppers, and the Kit-Cat band is superb! A magnificent revival with performances through July 11th.
Of Mice and Men
A limited engagement of the revived literary Steinbeck classic. Actors James Franco, Chris O'Dowd, and Leighton Meester make their Broadway debuts in this emotional American Depression-era tale. At the Longacre Theater (220 West 48th Street) through July 27th.
Bullets Over Broadway
Famed Woody Allen film hits Broadway at the St. James Theatre (246 West 44th Street). Marin Mazzie and Zach Braff deliver outstanding performances! The musical comedy is loaded with laughs and colorful characters. Through September 28th.
If/Then The Musical
A favorite performer of mine, Idina Menzel of Wicked, stars in this musical about a woman that returns to life in NYC discovering endless possibilities where chance and choice collide. At the Richard Rodgers Theatre (226 West 46th Street). Through October 12th.
Beautiful: The Carole King Musical
I'm looking forward to seeing this again later this month. If you enjoyed Jersey Boys as much as I did, you'll be equally entertained watching this musical as she sings songs from her early days as a Brooklyn teenager to those well-known hits as a top recording artist. Through November 16th at the Stephen Sondheim Theatre (124 West 43rd Street).  Rocky We all know the story of Rocky Balboa, and I have to say that I was skeptical about how this could transfer from screen to Broadway... but I was taken by surprise. Rocky knocks it out of the park with the scenic showplace, the sound and lighting, and a terrific cast. At the Winter Garden Theatre (1634 Broadway) through November 23rd. Visit previous snapshots for more favorites in theater.
|
For the Foodie...
Before we know it, Summer Restaurant Week will be here and it will be time to pick out my Top 10 again. In the meantime, I'll be writing about New on the Scene hot spots, but below are upcoming events and a few summer teasers.  Red Hook Lobster Pound 16 Extra Place (2nd Street between 2nd Avenue & Bowery) They have finally opened in Manhattan featuring a big counter, high top tables, and outside seating. It's tucked away at the end of a small alley in the East Village...but you'll find it! Charlie Bird 5 King Street (at 6th Avenue) Here's a summer teaser... a top spot, Charlie Bird has just added 50 outdoor seats for outdoor dining in SoHo. The other day I had a terrific glass of Rose and oysters while people-watching in this trendy hood. Both small and large plates are offered depending on your dining pleasure. Next week I'll reveal all of my top outdoor dining spots. May 31 New Amsterdam Market The New Amsterdam Market will make its seasonal debut this Saturday with nearly 60 vendors! The market operates monthly on Saturdays and Sundays through the end of the year at the ever-changing South Street Seaport. A 7th annual celebration of prominent chefs of the UWS, supporting the maintenance of Theodore Roosevelt Park (Columbus Avenue and West 79 Street). This year, it will be hosted by Alex Guarnaschelli of Butter Restaurant! June
June 1 "Main Squeeze" Rooftop Lobster Bake
Every Sunday this summer, attend a Maine-style Lobster Bake including 1 whole lobster, steamed little neck clams, baked red russet potatoes and farm fresh corn on the cobb for just $29.92 per person. DJ will be spinning music on Hotel Chantelle's (92 Ludlow Street) rooftop.
June 7 & 8 Big Apple Barbeque
12th annual event at Madison Square Park. Celebrate a long standing culinary and music tradition with live performances from emerging and established rock, blues and soul artists.
ON THE RADAR:
Grand Banks
Scheduled to open any day on Pier 25, the raw bar will serve a variety of oysters and sides like poached salt cod on toast, french fries and hush puppies.
|
Special Feature: Cocktails... Al Fresco  The Library Hotel - 299 Madison Avenue (at 41st Street)
Rooftop Lounge and Terrace with cityscape views from its wrap-around terrace... Added feature is a glass-enclosed greenhouse.
44 West 63rd Street (at Broadway)
A great spot on the Upper West Side after concerts at Lincoln Center. Majestic views of Lincoln Center and Central Park. La BirreriaEataly - 200 5th Avenue (23rd & 24th Streets)
After stocking up on Italian specialties, head up to the massive rooftop brewery and restaurant with breathtaking views. 
La Piscine
Hôtel Americano - 518 West 27th Street (10th & 11th Avenues) Located in Chelsea, you'll feel like you're at a resort in Mexico. Terrific décor.
The Refinery Hotel - 63 West 38th Street
(5th & 6th Avenues)
One of NYC's newest hotels adds one of its hottest outdoor bars!
The Roof
Viceroy New York City - 120 West 57th Street (6th & 7th Avenues)
You'll feel like you've stepped onto a yacht in the sky... the decor feels like you're at sea, but take a look at the view and you'll know you're in Manhattan. When you're feeling a little rebellious, try the Trouble Maker or the Purple Haze cocktails.
Roof Garden Café and Martini Bar
Metropolitan Museum of Art - 1000 5th Avenue (at 82nd Street)
Lite fare and cocktails in a breathtaking outdoor setting on the Upper East Side. I enjoy visiting the café after I tour the European sculptures and decorative arts galleria on the floor that houses the entrance to the rooftop. Dan Graham's exhibit is sensational - part garden maze, part modernist skyscraper! You'll understand the art of looking as you view glimpses of your own reflection in this magical maze.
The Peninsula Hotel
700 5th Avenue (at 55th Street)
Rooftop bar with décor reminiscent of Shanghai in the 1930s. Stylishly chic! The Ning Sling is their signature drink. Garden at David Burke  The James New York Hotel - 23 Grand Street (at 6th Avenue) Grab a small bite and a delicious cocktail while in a majestic setting in the middle of SoHo. What else would you expect from David Burke but perfection? Upstairs at the Kimberly The Kimberly Hotel - 145 East 50th Street (Lexington & 3rd Avenues) Located on the 30th floor of The Kimberly Hotel, sweeping views of the Manhattan skyline and even twinkles at night to set the mood. The drinks are superb, a great mix of classic favorites and cleverly mixed new ones.
|
|
|
| Norma Knows New York City/ East 76th Street / New York, New York 10021 |
|
|
|
|
