Hiking The Breakneck Ridge Trail

Located about an hour and a half from New York City is some of the most epic picturesque hiking trails in New York. One of these hiking destinations is the Breakneck Ridge Trail. The Breakneck Ridge Trail is an absolutely gorgeous yet incredibly challenging hike that offers hikers spectacular views of the Hudson River and the mountains of the Hudson Highlands. Breakneck Ridge is a very popular trail with local residents, those who live in upstate New York and New Jersey, and those looking to escape New York City.

Breakneck Ridge Trail is located within Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve, an 8,000 acre preserve with over 70 miles of hiking trails. Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve is one of the most gorgeous state parks in not only New York State, but in the entire northeast. Within the parks 70 miles is Breakneck Ridge. Those heading out to the trail will be greeted by gorgeous views, rocky terrain, steep elevation, and areas where rock scrambling is your only option.

Hudson Highlands State Preserve is easily accessible by vehicle from all directions. However the coolest part is that you can take the train from New York City directly to the Breakneck Ridge stop and walk to the trailhead. The accessibility of the park and the hike make this one of the most ideal spots in the state for hikers.

Arriving at the Breakneck Trailhead

When you arrive at the road where the trailhead is located you will notice that there is not a parking area for the trail. You will see cars lined up on the street leading to the trail. Pick a spot and pull over as you will need to park on the side of the road adjacent to the railroad tracks. The beginning of the trail is located directly before the tunnel that will be before you. When you arrive at the beginning of the trail make sure you take a picture or take a map of the trail. This is pretty important as the trail intertwines with multiple trails and are color coded so it is important to know where you are going.

There are three trails that you can choose when doing the Breakneck ridge Trail. The Breakneck Short Loop which takes approximately 2 hours to complete. The second option is the Breakneck Loop which takes approximately 3 hours to complete. The last trail is the Breakneck Loop to Cold Spring (a town located near the trail) which takes approximately 4 hours to complete. From here you will make your choice and head own your way.

We chose the short loop as we were a little pressed for time. It was an awesome hike.

Getting Started

Unlike most trails out there, the Breakneck Ridge Trail does not offer a warm up stretch to get your legs under you. A few rock staircases greet you as you make your way leading directly to a steep ascent up the mountain. The first mile of the trail is a complete rock scramble up the side of the maintain where you will need to use your hands, have strong grip shoes, and not be afraid of heights or a challenge. The trail is a one way due to the challenging and strenuous terrain so you will not need to worry about hikers coming in the opposite direction.

The beginning of the hike is by far the most challenging, the most scenic, and most thrilling part of the hike. As you make your way up the first ascent, it turns into a complete rock scramble and leads to the first summit area, the Flagpole area. The views at this spot are truthfully breathtaking. The Hudson River below, and the surrounding mountains make the sweat and strain of the beginning of the hike completely worth it.

Continuing Your Ascent

After catching your breath and taking the sights and views at the Flagpole Area you will continue your ascent up the mountain. This next portion of the trail is difficult with some scrambling involved but far less difficult than the first portion of the hike. A few spots on the trail are marked with the regular trail markers and an “alternate easier route” trail marker which leads to a quick way around some scrambling areas. We like the challenges so we stayed on the regular path but you will have both options which is definitely nice.

Arriving at the second scenic viewpoint you will be greeted by even more epic views of the Hudson Valley and the river below. The area is a perfect spot to take a break and even have some lunch or food if you brought some with you. This spot does have some pretty cool and short little trails that branch off from the main trail for some even more stunning views. As you continue along the trail you will see that there are trail markers for the longer loop and the shorter loop. We chose to continue along the shorter loop.

Continuing on the Breakneck Ridge Short Loop

As we moved past the trail marker for the Breakneck Short Loop we were finally on the descent down the mountain. The trail is marked with a yellow marker with “Undercliff Trail” written on it. This is how you know you are on the Short Loop. Continue to the right and head down the steep rock steps. These rock steps last for a little while and are strenuous on the knees (at least for me) so hiking poles would be effective for this portion of the hike.

This section of the hike is shaded, filled with trees and rock faces with the descent being pretty gradual compared to the quick ascent of the beginning of the hike. You will continue along the trail until you reach an old abandoned cabin along the creek that runs to the Hudson River. You can stop and check out the cool structure as it is a pretty cool photo spot along the tail. Continue past the cabin and turn right to head down the “Green Blazed Trail”. Signs will let you know that you are heading in the right direction.

The End of the Trail

As you continue along the creek the terrain turns from rock steps to gravel and dirt. Along this section of the trail you will pass some more historic structures, a burned down building, and some signs explaining what the buildings were used for. The trail will lead you the road where you started but this time you will be on the other side of the tunnel from the start of the trail. Continue along the road passing through the tunnel and eventually you will arrive wherever you chose to park.

Choosing the Breakneck Ridge Long Loop or “Classic Loop”

We did not choose this portion of the hike but that does not mean that we did not want to. As I stated before we were pressed for time so we were unable to proceed on the Long Loop. If you decide to take the Long Loop you will do so at the second summit area. When arriving at the trail markers where you would make a right for the short loop, you will instead continue forward following the white trail markers.

This trail leads to another summit area that involves some rock scrambling and hiking in order to reach it. From what I have heard and can imagine, the views are even more awesome than the first two summits. From here you will start your descent into the forest to the end of the trail. Signs will guide you to the end of the the trail. The trail is well marked so as long as you follow the trail, you will reach your end destination.

Other Hikes in the Hudson Highlands State Preserve

Bull Hill Full Loop: This 5.4 mile moderately trail is a popular trail for hikers offering stunning view so the Hudson Highlands.

Cornish Estate Trail: This is a 1.9 mile out and back to the famed Cornish Estate. This is a great hike for an easy trek and pets.

Bull Hill Short Loop: This is the shorter of the Bull Hill Loops and features great views and moderate terrain.

South Beacon Mountain: This 9 mile loop is rated as hard due to the difficult terrain, rock scrambling, and steep ascent. Worth the go!

Anthony’s Nose: This is a 2.2 moderate out and back and is a popular spot for hikers. Great views of the Highlands are awarded to this who make the journey.

What To Pack For Your Breakneck Ridge Trail Hike

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Water Bottles: The Breakneck Ridge Trail is incredibly strenuous and depending on the time of year that you are doing the hike, water is essential for you to have.

Day Hiking Pack: Whether you are bringing water, food, or gear, a nice day pack is essential for this hike.

Trekking Poles: As stated before the beginning of the hike is not ideal for hiking poles as you will be using your hands. However, the descent tot he end of the hike can be al little strenuous on your knees. For his portion of the hike trekking poles would be incredibly useful.

A Breathable Hat: This is always a key part of going on hikes. The sun can be brutal so a nice breathable hat is always clutch.

Hiking Shoes: Womens and Mens. Normal sneakers will not be useful or safe of this hike. Hiking boots or shoes with a strong grip are an absolute must. This hike is not to be down without great hiking shoes.

Be sure to check out our camping checklist and hiking essentials here:

Hello 1960’s, it’s nice to meet you

The TWA Hotel located in Terminal 5 (JetBlue) of JFK International Airport is arguably one of the coolest and most intriguing hotels that I have ever experienced. This 1960’s themed hotel most famously known for its part in the movie “Catch Me If You Can”. The famous Sunken Lounge where the Beetles once played, is also a travelers delight. Sprawling staircases, 24 hour dining hall and cafe’s, a luxury plane bar, 1960 luxury cars, a rooftop bar and pool to watch planes take off, and the worlds largest hotel gym, make TWA a must visit when traveling through JFK.

History of TWA

TWA or “Trans World Airlines” was a major airline in the United States from 1930-2001. The airline was formed as a route from New York City to Los Angeles with stops in St. Louis, Kansas City and a few other cities. TWA was considered among the big four airlines during its time along with American, United, and Eastern.

TWA was known for its central dubbed based flight routes, and luxury designs aimed at making a luxury traveling experience for its guests. The airline opened its main hub at JFK in 1962 in what is today Terminal 5. TWA was a revolutionary airline during its time, but with financial issues and changing times, the airline was acquired by American Airlines in 2001.

About the Hotel

TWA Hotel is located in the iconic TWA Flight Center in Terminal 5 at JFK Airport in New York. Designed to inspire the 1960’s, the hotel features grand architecture and a funky feel that brings you back to the glory days of the 60’s. The original flight center closed in 2001 and was renovated to the today TWA Hotel and ore opened in May of 2019. The hotel is comprised of a main center where the dining halls, bars, and check in are located, and 2 buildings, the Saarinen Wing, and Hughes Wing making up 512 rooms for rent.

The hotel was labeled a historical landmark in 2005 by the city of New York. After visiting the hotel I can see why! The hotel features a grand concourse, sprawling staircases, a walkway connecting both sides and overlooking the lounge and dining hall, and the coolest part in my opinion are the two long narrow, round and red hallways connecting the two wings of the hotel to the main flight center. Be prepared to stop and take some cool pictures upon arrival at the hotel.

Saarinen Wing and Hughes Wing

TWA Hotel features 512 rooms fixed with 1960’s themed interior designs. The hotel rooms are in either one of two wings; The Hughes Wing, named after the record setting pilot and original TWA owner “Howard Hughes”, and the Saarinen Wing, named after the original TWA Flight Center architect “Eero Saarinen”.

Available are executive suites with runway views, TWA center views, and double, queen and king beds. Also available in the hotel is the Howard Hughes Presidential Suite with Runway views, and the Eero Saarinen Presidential Suite with historical TWA views.

Rooms are relatively expensive compared to local hotels, but features JFK’s Air Train which takes you to the hotel at terminal 5 and all other parking and terminal within the airport. The hotel is definitely convenient for travelers with a layover or overnight stay in JFK.

Connie Airplane and Cocktail Lounge

TWA Hotel features the iconic and famous “Connie” airplane and inside a fabulous cocktail lounge. Unfortunately for us, there was a private event taking place during our stay and we were not able to check it out. But we will be sure to next time!

The famous Airplane was commissioned in 1939 by Howard Hughes, Connie has a great history. The airplane broke the speed record in 1946 traveling from Burbank, CA to New York City, NY. The plane also served as Air Force 1 for President Dwight D Eisenhower during his terms in the 1950’s.

Connie has a height of 23 ft, and is 116 ft long. Originally featuring a 744 ft cabin, and traveling up to 300 mph, this luxury aircraft had a capacity of 74 for international travel and 64 for domestic flights. The plane flew her first flight for TWA in 1958. In 1960 the plane was dropped from commercial flights and carried TWA cargo until 1962.

For the next 5 years the plane was commissioned as an Alaskan Bush Plane used for carrying supplies throughout the state, and a marijuana drop plane before eventually being abandoned in Honduras, being sold to the highest bidder, and in 1983 going out of commission.

Today Connie is restored and back to its original beauty, she features a glamorous cocktail lounge “Connie Cocktail Lounge” within the plane. Located just outside of the main flight center windows for all to see, patrons must trek up the original stairs to the plane doors for entry to the lounge.

Hours: 4pm-10:30pm seven days per week

Walk-ins are welcome on a first come first serve basis. The lounge is draped with art work, navigation tools, a cock pit with channel access to air traffic control, and the original escape plane, A Rope!

Dining at TWA Hotel

The TWA Hotel features restaurants, coffee shops and bars within its walls. Whether you are looking for street fare, a bar food, light fares, breakfast, sandwiches, or grab n go food, TWA has what you need.

Food Hall: TWA’s historic food hall sits where travelers once checked in for their flights. The hall is comprised of old cars and terminal equipment for your viewing enjoyment, and quick grab n go food for you to take where you please. There are plenty of tables and booths for you to enjoy your food as well. Restaurants include Yardie Bistro, Metro Taco, TWA Corner Store, Fly-By Bagels, Vinny’s Panini NYC, Feltman’s of Coney Island, Mister Softee, and Crepes Your Way.

Paris Cafe by Jean Georges: this historic French eatery is newly renovated to resemble the original cafe in the TWA Terminal. The cafe serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner with reservations recommended. The cafe is open for breakfast every day 7am-11pm and 12pm-11pm for lunch and dinner.

Drinks at TWA Hotel:

The Sunken Lounge: This famous lounge sits in the center of the hotel with a rich history of famous parties, concerts, and luxury cocktails. Back in 1965 the lounge was the location where crowds gathered to watch the Beetles arrival to the states. Today the lounge features cocktails and small fares for your enjoyment. The lounge is open Monday-Wednesday from 4pm-11pm, Thursday from 11am-11pm, Friday and Saturday from 11am-12pm and Sunday from 11am-11pm.

Intelligentsia Coffee: This coffee spot is the official coffee of the TWA and is a Chicago- based coffee roaster. The coffee shop is open Wednesday-Sunday 7am-3pm year round.

During our stay, we had breakfast from the Yard Bistro and Coffee from Intelligentsia. Any of the above mentioned dining and drink options would be a great choice. The food looked appetizing whenever we passed by. Don’t forget to grab a cone and soft served ice cream on your way back to your room. it’s a great way to end the night if you are staying at the hotel.

Infinity Rooftop Pool, Observation Deck and Bar

TWA features an infinity pool with a first class look down to the runway where viewers can relax in the pool and watch planes take off and land every few minutes. With a very beach feel and relaxing ambiance, the pool is a great spot for hotel guests to relax and enjoy some views. Along with the pool, the rooftop is equipped with an outside bar that serves cocktails, beers, and food daily. Take in some sights on the observation deck with looks into the city and Queens beyond.

Fitness Center

TWA Hotel features the worlds largest Hotel Gym and Fitness Center. Their 10,000 square foot facility features a Peloton room with 14 bikes, treads, weights, machines and pretty much everything you would find in most gyms and more. The facility comes with a locker room with full showers and changing area.

They offer memberships and day passes for the frequent traveler or just pass through. Many workers of the hotel and flight staff that pass through the airport have memberships. The gym is pretty neat! Check it out to get a sweat in before you’re travels.

Other Amenities at the TWA Hotel:

TWA Hotel features a few other intriguing activities and rooms for guests to enjoy. Among them are the twister room, where you are able to play a life size room length game of twister, historical rooms with a museum feel, and replica rooms straight from the 1960’s. Fun facts about the 1960’s are littered throughout the hotel along with catchy phrases and clever one liners.

The TWA Hotel is a travelers delight and offers a splendid experience for all.

Hunter Mountain

Located about two and a half hours north of New York City, Hunter Mountain is a skier and snowboarders haven. I found myself with a free Thursday through Sunday and wanted to get one last run in before the winter season officially came to an end. I was looking for somewhere within three hours of NEPA that I could use my Epic Pass for. Hunter Mountain was my choice, and I really enjoyed my stay.

The Drive and Cottage

My trip from Northeastern Pennsylvania took about two and a half hours to get to Hunter. I brought my two little pups for the journey as the AirBnB I booked had a huge yard, and close hiking trails so the girls could have a nice getaway themselves. My place was located in Prattsville, a small village about 15 minutes drive to the town of Hunter. It is also 15 minutes from Windham, a cute little town with all you could ask for as well as a popular mountain.

The cottage I rented was very cozy and just what I was looking for. It was fairly priced and offered some great amenities. Huge yard, grill, deck, and laundry in the basement. The yard led down to the wooded area for the pups to do some exploring while chilling outside.

Rain, rain, and more rain on our first day in Hunter Mountain

Now, I know from the heading you might think why would you take a trip to snowboard when rain is expected? Fair question and I wondered it myself as I sat in the cottage pondering if I was going to be able to get up to the mountain. I figured maybe the rain would stop and I could find some time.

So, Day 1, the dogs and I hung out at the cottage, they played in the mud and really enjoyed the day. When it comes to food it was a little tricky finding some. Most places in the area close at 3pm and the ones that don’t, open at 4pm. I found myself searching in that hour gap. I ended up in the town of Windham at the Windham Diner. Open all day, it was a great stop for a sandwich, salad and some to go food for the evening. It was nice to sit down and relax for the evening and prepare for the upcoming weekend.

Windham Path and Huckleberry Point Trail

The next morning when I awoke, I was pleasantly surprised to see the rain had stopped. I was hesitant about the conditions of the mountain after the steady 2 day rain. I chose to hold off on the going to the mountain and go on some hikes with the dogs. The first hike we chose was more of a walk but nonetheless was worth it, was that Windham Path. Located off NY-23 in Windham, this 1.5 mile gravel path weaved through windy trees and bends, ran parallel to a river and crossed a large meadow with a picturesque Catskill backdrop.

From the Windham Path we headed for the Huckleberry Point Trail. Love that name btw! The trail itself was about a 15 minute drive from the Windham Path in Hunter. NY. The trail is a 4.5 mile road trip through the beautiful Catskills. The dogs, being a little exhausted from the previous trail, only made it about 1.5 miles. That was okay with me as we had a long weekend ahead of us.

Hunter Mountain Brewery

After the hiking adventures for the day, the dogs and I headed for some food. From everywhere I read and heard, Hunter Mountain Brewery was the place to go. Located just past the main strip of Hunter, the Brewery offers indoor and outdoor seating with a great view of Hunter Mountain Resort. The dogs enjoyed the shade from the benches and chilled as I sat down, reflected on the day, and got some much needed food.

Hunter Mountain Brewery is a definitely a popular local watering hole, as the cozy inside, fixed with a fire place and tv’s, seems like a great spot to enjoy some games and company. As far as food, I enjoyed a delicious shrimp Caesar salad and some local beers. From the Brewery, we headed back to the cottage to unwind and settle in for the night.

Finally, some Snowboarding, some very wet snowboarding at Hunter Mountain!!

The main reason I chose to come to Hunter, was to get some snowboarding in before the season came to an end. With the closing day for the mountain slated for that Sunday, and it being Saturday, it was now or never. The morning was filled with showers and I was very uneasy about the prospect of the mountain having good conditions and even some runs open.

After debating in my mind, I figured, “what the hell”? If I go and it sucks at least I’ll know. To my surprise there were a handful of snow goers who showed up for the last Saturday of the season even in the rain.

What a great decision to go for it. The bottom of the mountain was very rainy, but as you got half way up the mountain, it turned to snow. To say I was soaked would be an understatement. I went down 2 runs for the whole morning and afternoon. A blue (Belt Parkway) and a diamond(The Cliff to Racers Edge).

The terrain and conditions were pretty good even with all the rain. Mainly slush with some packed snow made for some good shredding. After about 6 runs, I headed to the lodge for a chicken sandwich and drink to fuel up for the afternoon runs.

I got back to the mountain and the rain picked up a little harder. I wasn’t fazed as I was already soaked, so I headed back to the summit and proceeded to snowboard for the next few hours practicing my jumps and edges.

The Taphouse Grille Windham and a Hunter Mountain sunset

After spending the better part of the day on the mountain I headed back to the cottage and a small hike with pups. Still recovering form the previous days hikes they wouldn’t last long. They are 11 and 10 so as to be expected. But don’t let that fool you, you would think they were 2 and 3. From there I got washed up and headed out for some dinner. I ended up back in Windham at the Taphouse Grille. Dimly lit with a bar and table top seating, it was exactly what I needed to sit back and reflect on the day. I enjoyed some local beer, another chicken sandwich and some buffalo cauliflower bites. It was delicious!

I headed back to the cottage, packed my stuff for next trip to New York City in the morning! I would highly recommend the Hunter area for your next stop in the Hudson Valley. Util next time,

Brick

Don’t let a little rain spoil your trip to New York City.

Let me start by saying that my personal favorite time to enjoy New York City, is a warm and sunny summer day. New York offers endless amounts of activities and sites to see when visiting. When I think of visiting the Big Apple, I think of the hustle and bustle from the city streets, walking the Brooklyn Bridge and going about my visit like a typical New Yorker. Additionally, New York has some of the countries oldest restaurants, bars and architecture for your enjoyment. But, when it rains, I, like most of you, tend to stay indoors. This visit gave me the perfect opportunity to explore some of the many things I would not do if the sun was shining.

A Rainy New York Day

Grand Central Terminal

I have been to Grand Central Terminal many times from catching trains, but I never took the opportunity to really explore it. So what better time to do so than when I have time to spare and no ambition to go outside. Located on 42nd street in the middle of Manhattan, Grand Central features some of the most stunning architecture New York has to offer. First things first, a much needed coffee. The dining concourse of the terminal offers more than 30 restaurants and an abundance of little coffee shops and carts. Joe Coffee Company, and their cafe mocha hit the spot. From there, I chose to weave in and out of the tracks accessible from the concourse.

Walking through the terminal, I couldn’t help but stop at every turn and take in the scenery. From the dining concourse I headed to the Grand Central Market. This market is solely and bustling by locals picking top their daily ingredients and fares. The European style market features stunning colors, baked and prepped goods, and meats and cheeses. Personally, my favorite part of the market if the giant hanging tree branches located right as you walk in the market from the street.

Main Concourse

Grand Centrals main attraction and rightfully so is the main concourse which is the beating heart of the terminal. This is where you will find all the information about departing and arriving trains, access to all the concourses and 2 grand stairwells to observe the happening below. The main concourse features 6 massive window structures, and a stunning zodiac ceiling above. No matter how many times I have been there I always stop and take in the scenery.

The Grand Central Clock is located smack dab in the center of the concourse and is the crown jewel of the terminal. If ever meeting someone in the Terminal, tell them to meet you at the clock. Side note, there is an Apple store located at the top of the east stairwell. Conveniently enough I was in the market for a new phone case so it came in very handy.

After taking in the main concourse and all it’s beauty I took some time to simply walk around Grand Central and take in all it has to offer. Grand Central is a prime New York destination but a rainy day offers a great time to discover and explore this New York staple of beauty, architecture, and history.

New York City Public Library

After exploring Grand Central Terminal I grabbed my umbrella and took off on the three block trek to the New York Public Library located on 5th Ave. This sprawling feat of architecture is a sight to see. From across the street you could take in all the beauty. Make sure to snap a couple pictures of the famous Lion statues at each end of the entrance stair case leading to the entrance.

Accessing the Library can be made from the front. Library security will check your bags upon entry, so be prepared to open up what you have. Entering the library will you come to the main area with staircases to your right and left, galleries, and bustling library staff going about their day. I took the stairwell to the right to the 2nd floor and checked out the galleries located there. The first gallery you will find is directly looking out on the main entrance, and is all about the history and those who were influential in building and for facilitating the library through out history.

Wander the Library

I recommend wandering throughout the surrounding galleries and taking all the art the library has to offer. Eventually I made my way up to the McGraw Rotunda, a large space located beneath archways and surrounded by very impressive art. Make sure to look up and gaze at the ceiling art! Access to the study rooms were available but the famous Rose Room, unfortunately, was not. If you are able to spend some time in the Rose Room please go ahead and do so. I will definitely be going back to check out the Rose Room as it is the Library’s most famous room.

After checking out the McGraw Tundra, I made my way down the stairs and came upon the INterSECTs exhibit, which was a really cool exhibit. The gallery focuses on the intersection between Anthropods and Homo Sapiens. Eventually, I meandered to the main lobby and exited the library to the front.

Luckily there was a little break in the rain

Bryant Park

With some luck, the sun was as out and the rain had subsided when I exited the Library, so I decided to check out Bryant Park. Bryant Park, located directly behind the library, is a buzzing and very popular park for city goers. You can grab a bite to eat and chill on the benches, walk through the little garden trails, or play some chess and ping pong against friends or strangers. The park is very lively and after the rain, many locals had the same idea as me.

Grand Central Park, Union Square and the GreenMarket

After meandering through Bryant Park, I made my way down to the flatiron district to check out the flatiron building on my way to Union Square. I was going to make the most of the break in the rain and spend some quality outdoor time. Coming up on the flatiron building I made way to Grand Central Park. The park has quite a bit to offer, including a great view of the flatiron building from the corner.

Exiting Grand Central Park I made my way down Park Ave and ended up at Union Square. When I arrived at Union Square the Greenmarket was taking place so it was very nice to check out all the booths and see what fresh local produce was being sold. The market is s staple of park and was very packed even thought the day was not the best. Union Square Park is relatively small in comparison to other parks sprinkled throughout the city, but is still a great place to enjoy some time outdoors.

Pre Dinner Drinks

MADE Hotel in New York City

Heading back to our hotel, MADE Hotel in the flatiron district, we had some pre dinner drinks in mind. Let me start off by saying that ambiance of the MADE Hotel was on point. They offer a coffee shop right past the entrance and some lounge areas to hang out. The rooms were a little small, but offered a great view of the city and had everything you would need for a short stay in the city.

After changing and getting ready, we made our way to Debajo, a tapas hangout located in the lobby of the hotel. Debajo, is small, but was exactly what we were looking for, We hung out at the bar and were able to chat without much disturbance. After our drink we wanted to check out the rooftop bar located on the 18th floor of the hotel, Good Behavior.

The bar was amazing! Great views, indoor seating as well as an outside area with benches, couches, tables and chairs looking out on New York’s Flatiron District. The drinks were on point. A margarita for Britt and a Polo for me. Once we sat and took in the scenery, finished our drinks, we headed out for some dinner.

Cosme

After my journeys from the day, Britt and I met up with some friends for dinner. We made reservations at Cosme, a contemporary medical cuisine restaurant. We had heard great things about the restaurant and were very excited they could squeeze us in.

Let me tell you, this restaurant was voted #22 in the world and I know why. It was absolutely delicious. The ambiance was great. The dimly lit space was perfect for enjoying company and a meal. Our waiter did a very good job of recommending what was on the menu as it a small menu. Their margaritas hit the spot for me! Cosme sure did live up to the hype.

Menu Recommendations:

• OCTOPUS TOSTADA, CHINTEXTLE, SORREL: Starter
• STRIPED BASS TOSTADA, JÍCAMA, NOPAL: Starter
• DUCK CARNITAS, ONIONS, RADISHES, CILANTRO: Main Course
• BURRATA, EPAZOTE, PINE NUTS: Main Course

New York City Night Cap

After enjoying one of the best dinners that I have had in a very long time we wandered over to Ampersand for some drinks before calling it a night. This dimly-lit cozy spot is a great for handcrafted cocktails and small plates. We enjoyed each others company in a corner table with a good view and room to talk and relax. It was a great way to end the night and my day in New York.

Until next time,

Brick