There is such thing, as too much of a good thing…

In the past 6 weeks I have travelled to Great Barrington, Massachusetts, Louisville, Kentucky, Charleston, South Carolina, Portland, Maine and New Orleans, Louisiana. I have eaten some of the tastiest meals and drank plenty to wash them down. I’ve done a lot of dancing. (And in my spare time I left the company I worked at for over 5 years and started my own business…)

I have eaten (quite) well and travelled (very) often, potentially maxing out my own life’s motto of “une view a plein bord” and now it’s time to reset. I need to get back to some sort routine, or figure out a new routine as the case may be (perhaps each work-from-home-day should still start with brushing my teeth!?). I need to start taking better care of myself including making time for eating right and exercise (because I’ve blown through my entire supply of elastic waist-band pants). And because taking on any daunting task is better with a buddy… I’m bringing y’all with me. Welcome to Wellness Week my friends, where each day we are going to commit to do 1 thing we’ve been meaning to do that’s good for us.

Wellness Week Day 1 - Schedule those Appointments

We’ve all got the health appointment we’ve just been “too busy” to schedule. The dentist or dermo or orthopedist to check out a nagging pain... well the delaying stops now. Today, commit to making that call and scheduling your overdue checkup. Make it a priority. I promise, your body will thank you!

"Chicago, Chicago I will show you around..."

Visit!

Guess who's baaaack!!!? Did you miss me? Apologies for the unannounced radio silence at the end of last week, but I was travelling for work and just couldn't pull off the juggling act. But now that I am back in action, I thought I'd give you a fun little detour from my usual "all about NYC" posts and share some favorites from Chicago.

First off, let me just say that I LOVE Chicago. Granted I have never been in the dead of winter, but with each visit I make to Chi-town, I fall a little more in love. I'm a sucker for a good cityscape and the architecture in Chicago is unrivaled, plus much like NYC (and other "I could live here" favorites like Boston and DC) the city is truly urban, with people walking from place to place, using public transportation, enjoying beautiful parks and living all throughout (as opposed to cities where people primarily live outside the urban center). Having visited several times now, here are some favorite eats and adventures from lovely Chicago. Any of you have something to add to the list!?

Eats

I have had a lot of awesome meals in Chicago and think it's safe to say that their cuisine rivals (in both diversity and deliciousness) the best Manhattan has to offer. 

* Homestead - Ate here on Saturday night, can't remember the last time I loved a meal so much! This farm-to-table spot has an inventive menu intended for sharing so you can taste tons of unique dishes in just 1 visit. Every ingredient is fresh and dishes are served at a leisurely pace so you can enjoy every bite!

* Piccolo Sogno (due) - For straight up awesome Italian eats, from antipasta to pizza or pasta, head to Piccolo Sogno or its second location Piccolo Sogno Due.
* Lou Malnati's Pizzeria - NY and Chicago may not be able to agree on how to make "the best" pizza, but there is no denying the incredible deliciousness of a tasty Chicago deep dish pie. Check out one of Lou's many locations to judge for yourself.

* Rudy's Bar and Grille - After strolling Millennium Park, you're probably going to need a place to throw back a few beers and watch "the game" (whatever sport may apply!) Rudy's is located just off the park, has lots of tvs, a great beer menu and their bar food is totally top notch (the Breakfast Burger anyone!?). Plus they serve most of their burgers and sandwiches on pretzel buns (YUM).

                                                                                     To Do

"The Bean" in Millennium Park is a Chicago landmark

There's no shortage of activities, planned or leisurely to do in Chicago, whether you're young or old, into being outside or in.
* Architectural Boat Tour - if you do one touristy thing in Chicago, I say do this. With the Chicago River flowing right through the middle, the best way to learn about the history of the city and its beautiful buildings is on one of these boat tours. There are tons to choose from, just click HERE.

* Millennium Park - This park has it all: green spaces for lounging, cool sculptures, art and plazas, an awesome stage for performances and a super convenient location. Be sure to visit Millennium Park if for no other reason than to snap a fun picture of your reflection at Cloud Gate (aka, "the bean"!) 

* Wrigley Field- It doesn't get more iconic than a Cubs game at Wrigley Field. Built in 1914 and now the second oldest MLB park still in use, check out a game from inside the stadium or watch from one of the perfectly situated rooftop bars surrounding it.

* Navy Pier (and Children's Museum) - Located along the shoreline of Lake Michigan (the only lake I've encountered that's so big it doesn't skeeve me out!) the Navy Pier has an awesome collection of carnival games, rides, restaurants and even a Children's Museum (never been but read great things).

* Shop the Magnificent Mile - Just like 5th Avenue, but in Chicago. An awesome mix of affordable and "just looking", stroll the Magnificent Mile down Michigan Ave and shop until you drop!

* Walk around - Chicago is a walkers dream. Lots of wide, clean sidewalks, public parks, bridges, beautiful buildings and unique, distinct neighborhoods make Chicago the perfect place to spend an entire day wandering. Biking more your style!? Just like NYC's Citi Bikes, Chicago has a bike share program with racks throughout the city.

* Still on my "to do" list: The Shedd Aquarium and The Art Institute (because obviously I need reasons to come back!)

Hump Day Distractions

The Mystery Section.

Welcome to Hump Day, the one day of the week when just getting through it is considered a major victory. Is Friday in your sites yet!? I've got an awesome weekend in the queue so every spare second is being spent daydreaming about my niece and nephew, a mexican dinner, little orphan Annie (on Broadway!) and a big girls tea party (awesome right!?) Here to help bring our daydreams just a little closer to reality are some distraction from around the web. Happy Wednesday!!!

* Beautiful and terrifying at the same time... if you love the ocean, THESE are for you

* Soooo, when can I move in?
* Slim-Fast wants dieters to look good doing the reverse cowgirl. Honesty is awesome.

* Lookin sharp NYC.

* I want to visit THIS bridge real bad (<-- something I never thought I'd say!)

* Dishing some ((un) warranted) celebrity hater-aide.

* No sh*t (better get some more water cups!)

* Fabulously adorable birthday dinner decor

* I would eat that "Walk Off" and that "Stratsburger" too.

* This is what diversity in fashion looks like.

* Just when you thought you knew the lowest depths of a Bridezilla...

* Dancing babies in fashionable adult-wear aka, adorable.

* Beauties in bloom.

* Sometimes you've just gotta dance. Hardcore.

* "Caution. Slippery Bacon"

Eat, Drink and be Merry!

Ice cream season is coming!!!

Well if this wasn't the longest 3-day week EVER! Between the cold and then the construction  debacle and getting absolutely beasted by a post-vacation deluge of work, I'm ready for the weekend big time. Maybe it will even be warm and sunny enough to warrant my first visit with Mr. Softee!? I could use some Mr. Softee... Here to ensure a fun few days ahead are some eats, a drink and a little something to make you smile. See you next week!!

Superfood Quinoa Salad. YUM.

I always struggle to find ways to kick quinoa up a notch (it's like pasta's healthier, bland cousin) but this shrimp quinoa salad looks like it just might do the trick.  Click HERE for the full recipe, including homemade lemon vinaigarette dressing (which is so easy, I can't wait to try it!) 

Tuxedo Greyhound

Could there be a cocktail more spring-y looking cocktail than these "Tuxedo Greyhounds"!? Comprised of grapefruit juice, simple syrup (granulated sugar and water), vodka and champagne (precise mixology instructions HERE) I might have to channel my inner Megan Draper and sip one of these lovelies while watching Sunday night's Mad Men season premiere (anyone else SO excited!? Full recap of last season to get you ready courtesy of Rolling Stone mag HERE). So very Zou Bisou Bisou.

Be merry!!

Dinner & a Movie (at the same time)

Relax and enjoy more than just the show!

Dr. H and I are what I like to call "seasonal movie goers". Prone to avoiding movie theaters through most of summer (superheros and action-packed blockbusters aren't usually our thing) we binge on movies throughout fall and winter as film festival/awards season favorites hit the screens. This year, seeing lots of movies in close succession left me a little bored of megaplex popcorn and fountain soda (and I love fountain soda)... I wanted something more fun and interesting for movie date night and perhaps maybe a beer!? Enter Nitehawk Cinema, 

The bar/waiting area before entering your theater.

Nighthawk Cinema, located in Williamsburg, Brooklyn just a few blocks off the Bedford Ave. L train stop is a total treat. Their three small theaters include triangular tables situated between every two chairs and the menu, designed by the owner of (the exceptionally well reviewed) Saul, includes a selection of funkified classic snacks, as well as full entrees and dessert. There are also specials inspired by the films. You don't have to eat dinner, though I highly recommend it - the eats were TASTY. Additionally, Nitehawk's unique popcorn is an absolute MUST. Topped with a delicious mix of lime juice, mild cotija cheese and cilantro, the plentiful $5 snack (served in a stainless-steel bowl, infinitely better for flavor and warmth preservation than a paper bag) was unlike anything I've ever tasted.

Yum

And since I'm sure you're are wondering, YES, you can order food throughout the film and NO, it does not hinder your movie-going experience. Servers are seasoned in the art of the "crouched-down walk" and orders are taken by placing a piece of paper with your food/drink items written down, in a little slot on your tray table. No need for whispering. Nitehawk has everything pretty much down to a science, even strategically timing presentation of your bill so that you can  be fully paid and can leave right at the end of the movie.  If you're looking for a way to spice up movie night (and enjoy a tasty meal at the same time!) I highly recommend a trip to Nitehawk Cinema!

Visitor's Notes: Arrive early (at least 30 minutes, but I'd say more like 45) to ensure a good place in line for entry into the theater. Pretty much the whole capacity queues up in advance and then files in all together * There's a bar where you wait so beer and small talk pass the time! * There's a bar downstairs which Dr. H and I did not check out, but it had live music and looked awesome * Shows sell out for Fri and Sat nights. Buy your tickets well in advance.

Celebration

Hooray!

Do you know what Sunday is? Sunday is Seektobemerry's FIRST BIRTHDAY! Remember this:

HELLO!

I'm Meri and this is my blog. I live in Manhattan and I am constantly exploring and searching for the beautiful and interesting things in life. I seek to be merry at all times and this blog is a collection of the thoughts and ideas I hope will take me there.

*   *   *

Well, one year and 252 posts later (I only missed like 10 days! Speaking of which, sorry about yesterday:) here we are. When I started this little side project, I had no expectations. I wanted a place to be creative, to write and to share internet goodness of the adorable, amusing, trendy and tasty varieties. Mission accomplished. And the best and most unexpected part!? YOU GUYS. Way more people than I'd ever imagined are reading STBM and the friendly feedback and fun comments I get from all of you make my day every.single.time. It seriously rocks. So thank you for reading - I hope the year ahead brings more merriment for us all.

To celebrate, here's a collection of some of my favorite, and some of the most popular, posts from the past year. I have no idea how I'll keep it interesting next year, so let's just enjoy this original content and worry about that later!! xoxo, m

* How much is too much? * Big solutions start with small actions * Just a little comfort (object) * Valens * I Moustache you a question * You look tired * A Tribute * Dare to Bare? * My absolutely ridiculous b*tch list * Quirk it! * I'm in love with Joe * I want it all * Funnies for your Friday * It's better with a theme * Coming undone * A Stinky Situation * I want to go to there * On Vanity * Sit the F down * Going Bananas (b-a-n-a-n-a-s) * Pet Panic * Happily Ever After: Year One * Where the curvy girls at? * Something to smile about * Love in a digital age? * 

And of course, everywhere I've told you to go eat: Sammy's Roumanian Steakhouse, Meatball Factory, Oriental Gardens (Dim Sum), Chat n Chew, Socarrat Paella Bar, FRANK, Do Hwa, Miss Lily's, The Smile

My All You Can Eat Weekend

Just your typical Saturday night meal
(image not to scale)

This past weekend Dr. H and I ate very well. Like ridiculously, deliciously, excessively well. What started as a smattering of plans with friends ended up being a marathon of one fantastic meal after another, complimented by visits to several excellent drinking spots. As the great Erma Bombeck once said "I am not a glutton - I am an explorer of food." Explore with me:

* FRIDAY - Do Hwa & Little Branch

Do Hwa

Thanks to a favorite friend who now works behind the bar, I've discovered the insane deliciousness of home-style Korean cooking, served up spicy at Hwa. Located on Carmine Street in the West Village, order anything from basic dumplings and lettuce wraps to one of the many Bibimbop or noodle dishes. I've never ordered the same thing twice and I've never been disappointed (killer cocktails too, tell the bartender I sent you!)

Intentionally discrete signage

Located at one of those "only in the West Village" triangular corners, it's easy to walk right past Little Branch, but don't. Down a steep flight of stairs is a speakeasy style bar, inviting you to sit in a cozy booth for hours with friends over great cocktails and conversation.  Lively but not loud, it was last call before Dr. H and I were willing to tear ourselves away.

* SATURDAY - Miss Lily's & The Smile

Miss Lily's is adjacent to the radio station it runs next door. Fo reals.

I freaking love brunch and my spontaneously planned meal at Miss Lily's is a perfect example of why. Miss Lily's is like a sexy Jamaican diner and the menu is packed with unexpected, yet perfectly executed combinations of island-flavor cuisine. I didn't know over easy eggs could taste so good (I'm already eager to go back for jerk chicken at dinner). And just in case we didn't already feel so damn cool chowing at Lily's, Questlove was dining in the back room. amazeballs.

The Smile

Nestled in Noho, a neighborhood which seems to get a new delicious restaurant every week, is the dimly lit and charming The Smile. A quaint and cozy spot with a limited, but somehow perfectly well rounded menu, The Smile was perfect for my group, but could also make for a lovely date night. Everything from the goat cheese and mussels to the bolognese and squash was perfection.

* SUNDAY - Dim Sum & DIY
On day 3 of our eat-a-thon, Dr. H and I went down to Chinatown with Sis and her awesome dude for a little shumai/porkbun/dumpling-fest on Sunday morning. Always a great meal, if you want to read more about my favorite dim sum spot, visit the Seektobemerry archives HERE.

3 for $5 pomegranites. Worth the work!!

And because obviously I cannot survive on just 1 meal a day, Dr. H and I capped off the weekend with some home cooked seafood, vegetables and fruit purchased on Canal Street. A great deal and deliciously fresh, consider Chinatown next time you're looking for a unique market experience (and great deals!).

Going Bananas (b-a-n-a-n-a-s).

Hooooray! Bananas for everyone (even me!)

I'd like to tell you the story of the time I forced myself to like bananas. Forced myself as in, I ate the first full banana of my life in August (2012) and now I eat one almost every day. Banana party ova here!

You see, not too long ago, I decided that twenty-eight years of a banana free existence was no longer acceptable because though my tummy needs a constant intake of food to be happy, my bountiful booty requires that I monitor this intake closely. "Have a banana!" everyone says. "They're filling, sweet and so good for you" (ZERO weight watchers points!) So I decided, despite my dislike of the flavor and hesitation about their awkward consistency (so mushy!) to force bananas into my diet. Slowly but surely I managed to eat them without cringing and eventually (almost) enjoy them. When my tummy rumbles at 4pm, I'm thrilled to have a guilt-free solution that avoids a trip to the office snack machine! 

Now I admit, there were hurdles along the way - like the time I tried a greenish banana (I'm more of a brown spots gal apparently) or the time I unknowingly purchased a plantain and spent all morning remarking how "difficult to peel and funky tasting this ginormous banana is!" (live and learn:) But the moral of the story is that food may be more mind over matter than I first thought. I wanted to like bananas because they are a truly filling, healthy snack (move over grapes, there's a new fruit in town!) and though it may take me anywhere from 5-10 minutes to do it, I now eat them on a regular basis. So I challenge you to bring something new into your diet this fall - who knows, maybe you'll go bananas for it ;)

Feed your face at FRANK

Frank Restaurant & Vera Bar
"A Place to Eat"

A few years back Dr. H received a gift certificate to a little Italian place in the East Village. Discretely located off the corner of 5th St on 2nd Ave is FRANK, now one of our absolute favorite burrata/bolognese/vongole/fresh pasta/whatever you order it will be amazing restaurants in the city. Frank is a tiny spot with a cozy atmosphere, ridiculously good dishes (a menu posted on their website and changed daily!) and hearty (but not glutinous) portions. Outdoor seating and a solid bar menu are icing on the cake. 

Holy yum.

Frank is where I discovered burrata, which is essentially your standard fresh mozzarella on crack (and by crack I mean, with cream (and who knows what other awesomeness) added to the inside). Combine with some "where on earth did they grow these!?" tomatoes and Frank's Buratta appetizer has made it hard for me to consider any other options (though the menu has plenty, including a once tried and truly delicious Arugula Salad).

Eat the bolognese. Just do it.
(Full disclosure, this is NOT Frank's dish, but a google-sourced replica
of the ridonky gnocchi bolognese lunch I ate on Saturday)

Squid ink pasta w/ seafood is often a part of "Today's Specials"

FRANK’s amazing daily additions to the standard menu make it nearly impossible to select a main course. Though I’m willing to bet (and stake my restaurant recommending reputation) that the non-pasta entrees are delicious (I was eyeing the meatloaf this weekend and almost went for it) I have only ever ordered pasta at FRANK because it’s too freakin good not to. More than enough to share, but not so much that you can't take a dish down on your own, good luck making it to dessert (homemade tiramisu anyone!?)

www.frankrestaurant.com

Given the massive deliciousness I just mentioned, I suggest dining at FRANK on "off hours" (Dr. H and I popped in around 4pm on Saturday) or planning a little wait-time into your visit (they do take reservations for groups of 8 or more). The only other "know before you go" thing to mention about FRANK is that they are cash only. Though this can be annoying, I promise the meal will be totally worth your trip to the ATM beforehand!

My midday meal slump...

My lunch rarely looks this glam

What are you eating for lunch? I find myself eating the same half dozen or so lunches ad nauseam (hehe) out of a combination of habit, convenience and lack of creativity. I try to make lunch 4 of 5 days every week (though I'd say I average only 3 days) because my homemade lunches are healthier and eating out can be expensive ($8-15 per day adds up fast!!) You'd think that because I am the creator of my lunches, I'd get creative, but the reality is that I throw lunch together in a maximum of 10 minutes before I run out the door each morning (I have no interest in making tomorrow's lunch after making dinner each night) and when I buy lunch, I gravitate to the same handful of places where I order the same handful of foods. Here's what's on the menu:

Homemade: turkey sandwich (occasional variation of turkey type and condiment); tuna sandwich (both on "lite" bread with no lettuce or tomato - too soggy by 1pm); green salad w goat cheese and avocado; "sides" are almost always carrots and hummus, fruit, Popchips/Special K crisps and sugar free pudding snacks (might as well bring a lunchbox with a note from my mom right!?)

When I buy: udon soup; chicken salad sandwich; make your own salad (and I "make" the same exact salad 90% of the time!); veggie dumplings and egg drop soup

Perhaps for some this is a lot of variety, but after years of the same things, I'm looking to mix the routine up a bit. What are your favorite quick/easy/filling lunches? Healthy (specifically PointsPlus friendly) suggestions are welcome (leave a comment! share the tastiness! talk amongst yourselves my hungry, merry readers!) Plus, have you ever tried the "Wheel of Lunch"!? 

Hump Day Distractions (Beach Bum Ed.)

Use SPF. No doubt.

Well it's a good thing I'm blogging about sunshine this week because the real world is giving me nothing but rain! It's been a rather grey May here in NYC so my fingers are crossed for a bright and sunny June. In case your week-before-the-long-weekend is going as slowly as mine is, here are some distractions to get you over the hump!

* I am shore you are going to sea the humor in THIS.

* Send some seasonal wit and sarcasm to your best buddy's inbox.

* Hooray! A way to get your bod bikini ready without giving up brownies (Weight Watchers points plus value included!)

* Show off some awesome tats at the beach.

* Want to throw the chicest BBQ on the block? Chill the water with THIS (or THIS) and wow your guests pre-burgers and dogs with THIS and THIS.

* Because a pint just isn't big enough to share (and some roommates cannot be trusted!)

* A genius trick for your at-home experimentation with neon nail polish? 

* I don't go to the movies very often in the summer, but for a new Wes Anderson flick, I might have to make an exception (love me some Bill Murray!)

* BONUS Distraction: This one's for you Sis.

A serious case of The Eats

Talking & Eating. Two of my favorite things!

Do you ever get "The Eats"? The Eats are more than being hungry, The Eats are when you eat and eat and eat... and somehow, you're STILL hungry! This week I gots a serious case of The Eats  (perhaps because I consumed my body weight in delicious dishes last weekend!?) so I'm thinking that a trip to one of my favorite NYC spots might be exactly what I need to calm the beast (aka, my stomach). 

Chat 'n Chew is where you go if you want some down, dirty and delicious home cooking. Located just off Union Square on 16th btw B'way and 5th, the restaurant is awesomely casual, reasonably priced and a great choice for big groups. The vibe is retro-divebar-chic and just when you thought it couldn't get any better... they have outdoor seating!!

There's often a wait; that's what the bar is for!

The worst part about going to Chat n' Chew is actually deciding what to eat. There are SO. MANY. AWESOME. DISHES. and like the glutton that I am, I dig their ridiculously huge portions. MENU highlights include:

The "Quintessential Macaroni & Cheese"

This might be my favorite mac cheese in all of NYC which you know coming from me, means a lot. Crunchy on top, loaded with cheese inside, I struggle to ever order anything else!

Yes, yes that is chicken fried steak.

TV Dinner: Chicken fried steak, green bean casserole & skin-on "smashies" with country gravy. I mean.... 

Cajun Catfish po'boy: warm loaf with lettuce, tomato and 
Old Bay tartar. Not surprisingly, their fries are also epic.

I also love (but can't find images of): Thanksgiving On A Roll (Fresh roast turkey, awesome stuffing, cranberry sauce and mayo on ciabatta); Not Your Mother’s Meatloaf (with skin-on smashies with mushroom gravy & garden veggies); and Panchos Nachos Grandito (with all the works). If you aren't actually salivating by now, I'm not sure you're human.

As for sweet treats, I must confess that I have never made it to dessert at Chat n' Chew (if that's not a sign of awesome food, I don't know what is!) but I can tell you from watching them go by, that the menu has plenty to offer.

That'll do it.