New York City Entertainment
With Cathy Cunningham

Things to do & see in the big apple.


 

EDITORIAL OF THE WEEK

Bond and Brenner 

Less of a celebrity sighting and more of a celebrity road kill this week… Sauntering down Lexington Avenue on Tuesday afternoon I was, as always, multitasking and attempting to walk, send a text message and drink a coffee simultaneously. While looking down to negotiate my 3 tasks I crashed at full-speed into 7. 007 to be precise, former Bond star Roger Moore. Despite the incident being entirely my fault, Mr. Moore was gentlemanly enough to offer HIS apologies in his unmistakable deep drawl. I was indeed shaken and a little stirred by the handsome actor. I sit here writing this while enjoying my new favorite sinful breakfast; a $1 latte and chocolate waffle, courtesy of chocolate restaurant Max Brenner's (Broadway between 13 th and 14th). Essentially the closest thing to heaven on Union Square, the ethereal concept of a restaurant essentially serving chocolate with everything, chocolate pizza for example, is proving to be the hottest new attraction to the Square. Max Brenner's has a Willy Wonka-esque feel; the cocoa aroma arouses your senses the second you enter, while your eyes pop at the endless possibilities for indulging your sweet tooth. Although desserts are Max's specialty, savory food such as sandwiches, quiches and salads are also on the menu. My first experience of this restaurant was had with two calorie-counting friends – although adored, roughly as useful as a chocolate teapot. When visiting Max Brenner's I urge you to forget the calories and indulge in every chocolate whim! The melting heart cake with melted truffle sauce ($6.90) is decadent (but you're worth it), and even the hot chocolate with marshmallows, served in a hug-mug to cup with both hands, is a rich smooth treat. The $1 coffee and waffle deal runs until November 1 st, and is served until 11a.m – great value and delicious! I have heard the restaurant Dos Caminos (26th and Park) recommended on several occasions, but was previously apprehensive following the 'moderate to expensive' ratings awarded by various guides. I happened to be passing by one Sunday however, and noticed a very reasonable brunch menu (trust a Scot to spot a good deal!). Dos Caminos serves up traditional Mexican cuisine in a relaxing and sleek setting. The orange décor inside adds to the warmth, with hanging wooden lanterns providing a soft glow. Guacamole is made to order at the table; a welcome appetizer to prepare your taste buds, as you peruse the menu and sip a margarita or two. I opted for the mini tacos ($12) and my friend opted for the the steak ($15). Both options came with a choice of a free drink and so we opted for delicious frozen prickly pear margaritas. Although the portions are smaller than other brunch alternatives in the city, the food has an unmistakable superior quality and the menu is diverse and interesting. We were pleasantly full afterwards, and intend to return again soon. Will Smith fans may have heard that the actor is currently filming his latest (assumed) blockbuster "I am Legend" on the city streets. Filming is said to continue for the next 40 days – keep your eyes open! On Monday, 5th Avenue came to a virtual standstill as the crew repeatedly filmed him walking into St Patrick's Cathedral. I was amongst those attempting to continue with my journey. Long grass was strewn across 5th by way of props for the movie, bemusing businessmen and tourists who fought their way through the foliage. One gentleman ahead of me curiously picked up some grass before hiding it inside his jacket and hurrying away. Look out for that appearing on eBay sometime soon…. ~*~Cathy~*~

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