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62 East 4th Street has had a fascinating history. At its inception in 1889, it served as a social hall housing a musician’s union known as Astoria Hall, as well as hosting meetings of the International Ladies Garment Workers Union. In the 1930’s, the ballroom was revamped as a theater and television … read more
Why not consider staying in a lovely inn on a side street of Manhattan where you can step outside and find so much to see and do? Built in 1848, this elegant fifteen room brownstone has virtually no signage outside. From the European feel that transports you back in time to the gas fireplaces, flat screen … read more
Irish Whiskeys, Scotches and Bourbons are some of the favorites served at this Irish Pub, as well as their many choices of beer on tap and over sixty in bottles. As literary people, we were particularly attracted to the walls as they pay homage to the classic novel, Gulliver’s Travels, and its … read more
Surrounded by high-rise condos, with another on the way, and graffiti tagged buildings, this landmark relic of the past made it to the top of my sidekick Brandhi’s must-do lists just in time for her birthday. She knew that a large and very wealthy New York family and their four Irish servants once inhabited … read more
The history of the Village’s favorite park involved an attack on Native Americans, slave land ownership and a burial ground for the city’s destitute. It sounds like an urban legend, but Washington Square Park, adored for its arch monument, towering water fountain, chess games, live performances, children’s … read more
Down a few steps on West 4th Street there is a shop where mother and daughter have teamed up to run an outstanding secondhand maternity and children’s clothing boutique. Included in their selections are numerous pieces by a variety of designers, and one-of-a-kind hats made by Myrle, the mom/grandma. … read more
The 1982 film The Beast Master spotlights a hero who saves the world with his ability to communicate with animals. The movie is a perfect namesake for this downtown doggy daycare, which only hires people with a seemingly superhuman ability to figure out what dogs need and want. Unlike other kennels that … read more
We, literally, came in out of the rain to have a drink here late one Saturday afternoon. What a nice experience we had while sampling their “kick ass” bloody Mary and a refreshing pint of Guinness. John, the bartender could not have been kinder sharing the history and philosophy of this eight year old … read more
Since 1983, Burrito Loco has sustained an intimate, yet fun atmosphere for casual occasions through a pleasant mix of dim lights and colorful elements, including stained glass windows. The food itself is as authentic as one can get in Manhattan, but it also manages to balance its culinary tradition with … read more
Home of vaginal pumps, glass dildos, and vibrators as far as the eye can see, the “Toy Room” is the epicenter of female pleasure at the Pink Pussycat. Despite the unusual surroundings, Mayury Vallecillo, the shop’s manager, answered interview questions for Julia, a member of the Manhattan Sideways … read more
