One Hand in the air for the big city

This past weekend I visited NYC to show my Chicago roommate the city of lights as well as visit with friends.  Fortunately, I worked a summer in Manhattan interning with NBC Universal at 30 Rock and know a little bit about the place.  Below are the top three sights I recommend one see when visiting New York City.

1.  Run around Times Square

If you are a NYC first-timer, it is a must to go to Times Square.  The ads, the people, the stores, and the hustle and bustle is like no other.  I recommend visiting the hershey store for a free candy, go to the M&M store to see the unique colors that they don't have in the bags, and walk through the Barbie dreamhouse in the 3-story Toys R' Us.

2.  Eat in Little Italy 

Little Italy is a delicious place.  My family and friends met up at our favorite restaurant, Il Cortile.  I intentionally did not take any photos of my dish because it would not do justice to the taste-- I had an amazing gnocchi plate.  After dinner, head across the street to Canolli King for dessert.  

3.  Walk the Brooklyn Bridge

It was my first time walking the Brooklyn Bridge.  It was very scenic and fun for an afternoon activity.  I highly recommend doing it if you have never tried it.  A free way to see a great view of the skyline. 

First bake the strudel then sit down and ponder

“First bake the strudel then sit down and ponder” is an Austrian proverb.  Last night I enjoyed a bite with my roommate at Austrian Bakery located in Lincoln Park.  We made our way inside and sat in the corner propped on stools at the window sill, ideal for people watching.  

Upon arrival, my sweet tooth was attracted to the display of cookies, cakes, and torts.  I decided immediately that I needed to save room for dessert.  I began contemplating my decision between the red velvet cookies, chocolate cake topped with a raspberry ganache, and giant heart shaped flakey pastries. 

It was a quite frigid out, so soup was perfect for the evening.  We ordered Frittaten soup, which is a traditional Austrian dish composed of savory vegetable broth with thins slices of Frittaten (pancakes) on top with a touch of diced green onion.  It tasted similar to a chicken noodle soup, except this had no chicken and noodles were substituted with sliced pancake.  It hit the spot.

Austrian Bakery really had a comfortable feel inside.  It was very European and welcoming, quite different from most mainstream delis and bakeries in the city.  In my opinion, it’s perfect to warm up on a cold winter night with a friend. 

As mentioned, I had to save room for dessert.  With Valentine’s Day around the corner, I went for the heart pastry.  When I received the check, I realized that heart pastry I ordered was actually a “Big Ear.”

Let me know your thoughts after visiting this spot!

Neighborhood:  Lincoln Park

2523 N Clark Street
(between Deming Pl & St James Pl)
Chicago, IL 60614

Hours:  Mon-Sun, 8am-8pm

Website:  www.AustrianBakery.com

Menu: Soup, deli, bakery

Perfect for:  A casual bite for 2-4 people

Price Range:  $

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Peace & Love,

Diana