Author Archives: Sarah

36 Hours in Manhattan, Below 59th Street – Sarah Adams

36 Hours in Manhattan, Below 59th Street

By SARAH ADAMS  DEC. 1, 2016

The power of the “City That Never Sleeps” has never been more apparent. Whether you are an early bird or night owl, there isn’t one adventure this elegant and lively city cannot accommodate to. Pack up your belongings and take a journey that will fill your stomachs, hearts, and minds with all the historical elements that Manhattan, 59th Street and below has to offer.

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(photo credit: Gabriel Araujo)

Astronomical rents and roaring, rapid roads have never deterred a New Yorker or its tourists from experiencing the city’s finest components. Whether wanting to enjoy a quiet stroll along Central Park or hitting up night clubs in the Lower East Side, New York’s accessible MTA subway system has made transportation a financially feasible possibility for all. Strap on your helmet with a map in hand and your savings account in your pocket, for a swift excursion through the roads less travelled by.

Friday

  1. Early Bird Gets The Worm 8 A.M.

Tucked away in the madness of downtown and at the heart of Greenwich Village, lies Washington Square Park. As a great significance to our culture, the park is a gem that merges the history of our city with the social and cultural significance of the 21st century. With the evolution of the Washington Arch, designed by Stanford White between 1890-1892 and the monumental fountain, this park was redesigned to close traffic from Fifth Avenue. Grab a cup of coffee at the various cafes along MacDougal Street or admire the unique viewpoint of The Empire State Building to the North and The World Trade Center to the South. No need to spend time waiting around in interminable lines when all you need is an eclectic park to relax and unwind – these experiences are the little things that make the Village unforgettable.

2. Pit Stops 1 P.M

“A mind is a terrible thing to waste.”  This noted saying by Arthur Fletcher is one of the many quotes you can find in a book at The Strand. Extend your morning stroll by walking a few blocks North up Broadway to browse through the 18 mile long, ceiling-high rows of novels. 90 years later and still standing, The Strand Bookstore contains books from as early as 1480, and the first editions of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland – a book with extremely limited stock. Established in 1927, The Strand Bookstore is the largest and cheapest secondhand-book store in the downtown area.

Going with a date? Beauty and brains are an impeccable combination to make your significant other smile. Ask one of the 200 employees to help you find a the right read. But even if books aren’t your niche, don’t miss your chance to embrace all the historical aspects attached to The Strand Bookstore.

3. Drink, Drank, Drunk 10 P.M.

Abraham Lincoln, Teddy Roosevelt, and Babe Ruth weren’t the only people guzzling down 8-oz beers on a Friday night. Located around the corner from Astor Place in front of the Cooper Union, McSorley’s Old Ale House is the oldest remaining bar in New York City. Learn about all its history, dating back to its establishment in 1847 while sipping on bubbly – and lots of it, especially given the fact that the beers are surprising affordable at $5 a glass!

Wondering why Elizabeth Blackwell or Susan B. Anthony couldn’t join the party? McSorely’s Old Ale House only opened its business to women starting in 1970. So ladies, gentlemen, and all beer-fanatics, come snag a seat at McSorley’s Old Ale House before hitting LOUNGE 27 and Pianos for a night you probably won’t remember, but definitely won’t ever forget.

Saturday

4. The center point 11 A.M

New York City’s MTA subway system offers efficient transportation to take you to the next destination on the list. Purchase a 7-day unlimited metro pass for only $31 then squeeze yourself into an A, B, C, or D train. Next stop – Columbus Circle.

Winner of the Rudy Burner Award for its reconstruction, Columbus Circle has created a throughway for more than 60,000 cars per day via an intricate circular intersection, hence the name. This historical monument is a dedication to Christopher Columbus’ arrival in America in 1492. Fast forward 400 years later and the construction of Columbus Circle came full circle with the addition of a fountain gifted by the Delacorte Foundation in 1965.

For all art enthusiasts and aspiring photographers, the hand crafted, Carrara marbled statue of Columbus can be found in the center of the circle. Adjacent to this statue, one can easily spot the magnificent, 30-foot wide globe – a staple to the Time Warner Center where shopping and food are the cure to your Friday morning hangover. Known as the center point where all distances are measured from New York City, Colombus Circle is a site worth seeing.

5. What a time to be alive 9 P.M.

You can’t have dinner without dessert. Veniero’s Bakery is a special find in a big bustling city. Based in the East Village, Veniero’s first opened in 1894 and has flourished ever since. Cakes, cannoli’s, and tartes help fill the air with the sweet smell of pastries. Not to mention – it was an infamous getaway for locals to destress from the depression of The Great Depression during the 1930s. No reservations needed for this joint – grab a ticket and wait for your number while pondering what decadent dessert you want to dive into next.

Sunday

6. All night long 4 A.M.

After dancing and drinking because lets face it – you’re still on vacation – pierogis from Veselka are an essential end to a Saturday night out. Stumble into Veselka, open 24/7, and indulge in authentic, flavorful Ukrainian cuisine. Get a plate of seven pierogis for $12.95 and if you don’t think that’s enough, the potato pancakes are just as delicious for $10. Questionably one of the most beloved diners in town, Veselka helped start the movement of Ukrainian food into the East Village.

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(photo credit: Gabriel Araujo)

7. At sea 12 P.M.

Take a taxi or if it’s not too cold, use NYC’s Citibikes which are ubiquitously located all over Manhattan and smell the ocean – or should I say, the seaport. Located along the East River, the South Street Seaport has picturesque views of both the Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridges. Walk along the historic paths and discover the oldest buildings under the Brooklyn Bridge. If you’re lucky enough to walk along the cobblestone roads–once transportation areas during 1890 to the 1900s–then take a wander inside the Fulton Fish Market. Hold your nose and take a chance in discovering what makes Sound Street Seaport a must when in New York City.

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(photo credit: Gabriel Araujo)

8. NYC’s finest 3 P.M.

If you can muster up the courage to take another 30 minute subway ride uptown on the NQR line, exit at 23rd street to view the Flatiron Building. Designed by Daniel Burnham in 1902, the Flatiron is situated on the triangular parcel of land bordered by 5th Avenue, 22nd Street, and Broadway. Upon its completion, the Flatiron distinguished itself from other Manhattan buildings despite being only 22 stories tall. The structure stands out with its perplexed and intricate architecture, and office-oriented floorplan featuring a signature triangular office on each floor. Critics from all around the world were initially doubtful about the Flatiron’s ability to withstand natural disasters. Thanks to the building’s steel structure, all doubts were put to rest.

After captivating the French and Italian influences that helped make the Flatiron District come alive, cruise through Madison Square Park and discover the original Shake Shack. Treat yourself to a burger, but don’t miss out on trying one of their infamously delicious milkshakes! For the record, calories never count on the weekends.

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(photo credit: Gabriel Araujo)

9. Last Stop 5 P.M.

Before the 1980s, High Line Park was an effective railway used to transport industrial goods. However, the historic railway became nothing but abandoned space until 2002 when residents decided to turn the neglected space into an NYC treasure. Fast forward 13 years later and the High Line Park has become one of Manhattan’s greatest free attractions.

Whether you want to catch a glimpse inside Manhattan’s multimillion dollar condos that overlook the park or participate in a tour to go deeper into its history, High Line Park embraces all – from joggers, to photographers, and tourists.

Lodging

A present to New York City and amid the breathtaking views of Central Park is the Plaza Hotel. The Plaza Hotel has been a staple to New York’s City’s hospitality industry for over 100 years. From celebrity sightings to its $450 million dollar renovation in 2008, The Plaza Hotel has a significant history that has made it a world-renowned hotel and has been apart of The National Register of Historic Places since 1978.

Originally constructed in 1883, The Plaza Hotel stretches between 58th and 59th street along 5th Avenue. This classic hotel offers single rooms that are worth quite a penny, especially during this holiday season.

Book here in advance to secure a room for as low as $671 a night for a deluxe room. If you catch yourself feeling like a King or Queen, spend a minimum of $1,796 a night for suit. Who knows, maybe you’ll be the an extra in the next Home Alone or The Great Gatsby iteration…

(2016). Retrieved December 5, 2016, from https://www.instagram.com/gabearaujo/

All pictures used for this article are by Gabe Araujo

Award Winners. (2007). Retrieved December 5, 2016, from http://www.rudybruneraward.org/ winners/?res=columbus-circle-public-plaza

Columbus Circle. (2016, December 03). Retrieved from https://www.nycgovparks.org/parks/ central-park/highlights/7738

Columbus Circle. (2016, December 5). Retrieved from http://www.aviewoncities.com/nyc/ columbuscircle.htm

Flatiron building. (2010). Retrieved December 6, 2016, from http://www.history.com/topics/ flatiron-building

History. (2015). Retrieved December 2, 2016, from http://mcsorleysoldalehouse.nyc/history/

History. (2016). Retrieved December 2, 2106, from http://venierosnewyork.com/history/

Martinez, I. (2015, March 3). Columbus Circle – Globe Sculpture at 59 St and Columbus Avenue Central Park. Retrieved December 2, 2016, from http://www.360cities.net/image/ columbus-circle-globe-sculpture-at-59-st-and-columbus-avenue-central-park

Prakash, A. (2014, September 1). These Are Manhattan’s Oldest Bars. Retrieved December 2, 2016, from https://www.thrillist.com/drink/new-york/oldest-bar-nyc-mcsorleys-old-ale- house-petes-tavern-and-more

Stern, G. (2016, June 15). Cannoli economics: How Veniero’s keeps its sweet success going. Retrieved December 1, 2016, from http://www.bizjournals.com/newyork/news/ 2016/06/13/canoli-economics-how-venieros-keeps-its-sweet.html

The History of South Street Seaport. (2014, April 4). Retrieved December 2, 2016, from http:// www.boweryboyshistory.com/2014/04/the-history-of-south-street-seaport.html

Veselka. (n.d.). Retrieved December 5, 2016, from http://www.nytimes.com/1996/10/27/ nyregion/new-yorkers-co-982520.html?scp=6&sq=veselka&st=cse

 

Sarah, Lily, Neil, Karen (Tuesday Class)

Sarah: The food and beverage director oversees every employee within this service of a company. She is in charge of making sure everything goes smoothly and according to schedule and that every guest’s need is met.

Karen: Restaurant Managers must combine strategic planning and day to day activities. The role is both business-like and creative in terms of marketing and business development. Restaurant Managers take responsibility for promotional events and discount schemes; prepare reports at the end of the shift/week including staff control, food control and sales; create and execute plans for department sales, profit and staff development; set budgets or agree them with senior management; plan and coordinate menus; coordinate the operation of the restaurant during scheduled shifts; recruit, train, manage and motivate staff; respond to customer queries and complaints, meet and greet customers, organize table reservations and offer advice about menu and wine choices, maintain high standards of quality control, hygiene, and health and safety.

Neil: Executive chef responsibilities are critical when it comes to the kitchen. The Executive chef is in charge of training and managing the kitchen personnel and supervising all culinary activities taking place. The Executive chef must purchase food; develop recipes; ensure efficient quality; estimate food consumption; demonstrate different techniques that need to be used; demand safety and sanitation in his/her kitchen.

Lily: An assistant director of food and beverage looks after the administration of the hotel staff, which caters to the needs of the customers. Part of the assistant’s job may include working with contractors the facility uses. Their responsibilities include: to discuss the budget and accordingly plan the inventory, chart menu cards along with their prices in the approval of the director. Supervise over the activities of the staff to get the taste that the customer’s desire. Take the approval of the directors if there are large orders, such as organizing of parties and marriage banquets. Oversee the duties carried out on day to day basis; provide the inventory and funds required on need.

For the Food and Beverage Management: Research and Development, in the first activity: Restaurant Management R&D we didn’t feel too welcomed by one cafe cashier at the register when Sarah was purchasing breakfast. We also witnessed the 5/10 foot rule when our group were walking up to the restaurant and the two hosts instantly stopped conversation going and greeted us.

For the menu analysis activity, we confirmed that the material that cafe’s used were different from the materials at sit-down restaurants used in that at the cafe’s, the menu was very basic and they used chalk boards. At the sit-down restaurants, menus were laminated and we were each given an individual menu. Another point noticed from the menu analysis activity were the prices. All cafe’s were priced about the same, however the sit-down restaurants were about double of what you would be paying for a similar item at a cafe.

The beverage activity helped us see the different types of drinks they served at Le District. There were a variety of breakfast beverages including coffee and natural juices. After discussing which would be better, we came to the conclusion that the natural juices are the healthier option but at the end of the day, it all depends what you prefer. Natural juices, although expensive we filled with lots of nutrients needed to start your day. We also noticed that Le District had a large selection of wine which would could be perfectly paired with cheese.

Sarah Adams: Washington Square Park (Tuesday Class)

Exclusive to New York City, Washington Square Park has a great significance to our culture as it is a common ground for locals, tourists, musicians, and performers from all around the world. As the center of New York University, Washington Square Park is a gem that merges the history of our city with the social and cultural significance of the 21st century. With the evolution of the Washington Arch, designed by Stanford White between 1890-1892 and the monumental fountain, this park was redesigned to close traffic from Fifth Avenue. The reason why I have chose Washington Square Park is because it’s home to the peaceful area of Greenwich Village which is one of my favorite neighborhoods. The weight that Washington Square Park holds to the history of New York City is something that I want to discover so I can teach the people who come to visit more about our culture. Although Washington Square Park receives many visitors each day, I do not believe people understand the importance this park has compared to others in the city.

Washington Square Park. (n.d.). Retrieved October 29, 2016, from https://www.nycgovparks.org/parks/washington-square-park/history

 

Tourism on the BK Waterfront

Group: Sarah, Karen, Marisol, Lisbel – Historic & Heritage Tourism

Historic and heritage tourism is the act of traveling to experience different places, artifacts, and activities that authentically represent stories and people of the past. A country’s culture, historic monuments, and natural resources are just a few things that are relevant when speaking about this type of tourism.

Along the Brooklyn Waterfront, there were many destinations spoken about that were relevant to the topic we had. First, we learned about the significance about Atlantic Avenue and how it had always been a gateway and refuge for immigrants. Irish and Scandinavian families settled and worked on Brooklyn’s waterfront. Years later, Arab, Spanish, Italian, and Puerto Rican newcomers made roots in the western end of Atlantic Avenue near Pier 6 at Brooklyn Bridge Park. The ferry line which use to connected Atlantic Avenue to South Ferry help Arab American families leave crowded tenements of “Little Syria” in lower Manhattan for new homes in Brooklyn. Atlantic Avenue played an important role in Brooklyn’s history.

The Brooklyn Bridge pier was another place that was visited that pertained to Brooklyn’s history. Hundreds of ships used to be docked and as Brooklyn and Manhattan became major cities, these docks were removed in order for the A train to be created. This is important to Brooklyn’s history because it shows the advancement of technology and how Brooklyn and Manhattan had to adapt in order to cater to an increase in population.

Brooklyn’s historical society consists of different exhibitions that encompass both tourism and heritage. “In the Pursuit of Freedom” explores Brooklyn’s anti-slavery movement from the end of the American Revolution through the early days of Reconstruction through photographs, local newspapers and more.

Along the Brooklyn Waterfront, The River Cafe is also considered to be a historic site as it was one of the first restaurants established on the Brooklyn waterfront. When the waterfront was known as a rundown area just a few years ago, The River Cafe was established and during this time it was a hidden gem.

Sarah Adams (EDIT)

I am a determined, hardworking, and professional student. The hospitality industry encompasses all of my passions and strengths into one field. My lifetime goal is to become an international food critic, travel the world, and have my own wine. My short term goals are to understand each sector of hospitality to help me develop the knowledge I need to get ahead in the working environment.