What Is a Horizontal Tasting?

Are people always asking you how to get into wine? You've already done the research and drank the bottles but now you can host your very own Horizontal Tasting to teach those who are a little unfamiliar.  This is one of the easiest ways to teach beginner level wine drinkers about specific regions of the world. 

All you need to do is set-up a tasting with one grape varietal, such as Pinot Noir, to showcase how different weather, temperature, and soil can create a big difference of aromatics and flavor in your glass. You and your group will taste through each wine recognizing characteristics like aromatics, texture, acid, tannin, and flavors and as you move to the next wine each guest will see, smell and taste the change in region.

Below is our selection of wines for you to try during your next horizontal tasting. Feel free to get creative make your own Horizontal Tasting using other types of wines.

California- Sonoma County Region: St. Francis Winery Pinot Noir 2014v

St. Francis Winery & Vineyards source their Pinot Noir fruit from the cooler areas of Sonoma County where fog from the Pacific Ocean rolls in at night during the summer, dropping temperatures substantially. This natural air-conditioning allows the grapes to develop deep flavors while retaining natural acidity. To capture the distinct varietal characteristics of each vineyard, the lots are fermented separately starting with a five to ten day cold soak to extract optimal color and flavor. 

Food Pairing: Pairs well with salmon, roast chicken, grilled vegetables and light pasta dishes.

Argentina- Río Negro Valley Region: BARDA BY BODEGA CHACRA 2014v 

Barda is 100% Pinot Noir. The fruit is produced at “Treinta y Dos” and “Cincuenta y Cinco” vineyards, with 20-year-old vines. The fruit is hand harvested with no automated mechanization used at any stage of the production process.

Food Pairing: Pairs well with roast beef, salmon, swordfish, and pasta's with meat or seafood sauces.

Burgundy Region: Maison Louis Jadot Gevrey-Chambertin, Clos Saint Jacques Premier Cru 2013v 

There are 26 Premiers Crus in Gevrey-Chambertin, of which half are located in the valley called Combe de Lavaux, on calcareous and clay soil with marl. Clos Saint Jacques is oriented to the southeast and has only five owners. The Pinot Noir grapes are fermented in vats for up to 4 weeks, and then the wine is matured in oak barrels for 18 to 20 months.

Food Pairing: Serve with game, meats, mushroom dishes and strong cheeses.

Barda 2014

Gevrey-Chambertin Clos Saint Jacques Premier Cru

Willamette Valley Pinot Noir 2014

5 Drinks To Quench Your Thirst This Labor Day Weekend

Cucumber Fizz

Labor Day: herald as the last hurrah as summer ends and autumn starts in full swing. So for whatever you're doing this labor day, whether it's heading to the beach for one final swim or staying at home to chill out Monday, here are some cocktails to celebrate Labor Day. 

Cucumber Fizz - By Patti Scarff, Kalamazoo, MI 

• 2 basil leaves 
• 3 thin slices of cucumber 
• 1 oz gin 
• 1 oz simple syrup 
• 3 oz Mionetto Prosecco DOC Treviso Brut

Muddle basil and cucumber, and then shake with gin, simple syrup, and ice.  Strain into a coupe and top with Mionetto Prosecco. Garnish with a basil leaf.

Gin Blush - Created by the mixology team at The Palm Court at The Plaza Hotel and available at The Palm Court at The Plaza Hotel

• 2 oz. NOLET’S Silver Gin
• 1 oz. Chambord
• 1 oz. Raspberry Puree
• 1/2 oz. Lemon Juice

Shake all ingredients with ice, strain and serve in champagne flute or coupe glass and garnish with a raspberry.

Frozé - Created by James Cottenham and available at Infirmary in NYC

• .25 oz. Campari
• 4 oz. Janeil Rose
• .25 oz. Giffard Pamplemousse
• .5 oz. Amaretto
• .5 oz Orzata Syrup
• 1 oz. Fresh Grapefruit Juice

Juicy Fruit

• 3 oz Sam Adams Rebel Juiced IPA
• 2 oz Aperol
• 1 oz Grapefruit Juice

Build in wine glass, add ice and garnish with half Grapefruit wheel.

Campari Froze

Gin Blush 

Juicy Fruit

Daybreak Roaster

Daybreak Roaster

• 1 oz. DEWAR’S 12 Blended Scotch Whisky
• 1 oz. coconut water
• 1 oz. cold brew coffee
• ½ oz pandan syrup (recipe below)
• 1 pinch malic acid (or ⅓ oz. lemon juice)
• 2 oz. tonic

Mix all ingredients with ice in a rocks glass. Top with tonic.

To make pandan syrup:

Boil 3-4 pandan leaves in 2 cups of water. Add 2 cups of sugar and stir to dissolve. Strain into a glass bottle and keep refrigerated for up to one week. (You can buy pandan leaves online or in many Asian supermarkets.)

Our favorite Mayweather vs. McGregor viewing parties in NYC

One of the most anticipated events is happening this Saturday in Vegas, being the much hyped Mayweather vs. McGregor match. While you weren't quite able to secure tickets for the weekend, you can still watch in style and still catch your Sunday morning appointments.

We've dug up some of the best viewing parties happening in NYC, to make sure you don't end up overpaying in a bad location.

You'll want to remember the match is on the west coast and will start Aug. 26 at 9 p.m. So unless you're willing to host yourself here are some of our top spots to watch the match.

Photo via @alphasportz

For those who are looking for a once in a lifestime experience  Sushi by Bou, Chef Takeshi Sato will host a special one-night-only omakase experience on Saturday, August 26th beginning at 9pm at Sushi by Bou beneath The Sanctuary Hotel. The pro-boxer turned acclaimed sushi chef will showcase his knife skills during the Floyd Mayweather Jr. vs. Conor McGregor fight.  Sixteen diners will get to partake in a $250 per person all-inclusive experience, including an intimate screening of the fight complete with an unforgettable 90-minute dinner and drinks. 

The dining experience will reflect the veteran sushi chef’s philosophy and spin on the NYC-meets-Tokyo omakase and will feature 14-16 pieces, along with a hand roll, of the best fish selections from the Tsujiki market. After the fight an open sake, beer and a specialty cocktail bar will be available from 9pm-midnight. 

Located at The Sanctuary Hotel (132 W. 47th Street. To make a reservation, text 917-348-5737.

The Ainsworth will be showing the fight in both Chelsea and Midtown locations. No RSVP required, door will be first come first in with door cover of $40 per person which will include the first drink on the house.  The menu includes a selection of signature passed and stationary American fare, as well as handcrafted cocktails. If you are unfamiliar, The Ainsworth is famous for theirMac & Cheese Burger (panko crusted mac & cheese patty, beef patty, mac & cheese, sesame bun)!

• Ainsworth Chelsea:122 W 26th St, New York, NY 10001
• Ainsworth Midtown:45 E 33rd St, New York, NY 10016

Ainsworth Chelsea

With 80 HD TV's, more than three dozen beers, and a completely open-air space, Bowery Beer Garden (93 Bowery) is the best place to take advantage to this Summer fight. General Admission entry is $40 and entry fee for guests with a table reservation is just $30.

For those watching with a crew, treat yourselves to a Silver Package (a bottle of premium liquor for $300 for up to 4 people) or splurge on Platinum Package (two bottles of premium liquor and Prosecco for $650 for up to 10 people). Fight aside, everyone wins with $30 Beer Buckets, the $10 specialty Knock-Out Cocktail, $35 one-hour open bar, and a $49.99 Sampler Menus that serve up Crispy Fried Chicken Wings, assorted Bowery Sliders and Mac & Cheese Bites.

If you’re more interested in a convenient excuse to go out for delicious drinks and food, head to Boulton & Watt (5 Avenue A) where the fight will be shown for just $10 for pre-reservations or $15 at the door.

Pull up a barstool or grab a table in front of one of their 7 widescreen TV’s while you and your friends bite into Crispy Chicken Sliders, Mahi Mahi Fish Tacos or perhaps their classic Mac & Cheese with bacon and wild mushrooms. They’ll also have the homemade Picklebacks lined up for just $7. Fight fan or not, whiskey and pickle juice is a one two punch everyone can get behind!

Boulton & Watt

Fight Night at Professor Thom's (219 2nd Ave) can be as low key or revved up as you please. For their upstairs VIP party you can roll with the punches with bottomless nachos and an open bar (including well drinks, draft beer and house wines) from 9pm till the end of the fight. Tickets are $75.

Otherwise you can join the bar scene and view the fight downstairs for just $20 general admission at the door.

Professor Thom's

Cocktails To Celebrate National Rum Day

You don’t have to be in the caribean  to enjoy a refreshing rum based cocktail

With National Rum day today, we are gathering our favorite cocktail recipetes to celebrate the day through the summer sunset.

“My favorite variation of the Classic Daiquiri, this is inspired by the Floridita cocktail but uses aged Flor de Caña rum instead of white rum for a bit more complexity.  I add in a thin orange twist to brighten the citrus notes.” – Ashela Richardson Flor de Caña Ambassador

For a Classic Rum Cocktail: 

Daiquiri al Marrasquino created by Ambassador, Ashela Richardson

• 1.5 Part Flor de Caña 7
• ¾ Part Fresh Lime Juice
• ½ Part Simple Syrup (1.5:1 Sugar: Water)
• ¼ Part Luxardo Maraschino Liqueur
• Shake Vigorously and strain into Coupe
• Garnish with Orange Peel
• Daiquiri: Coupe Glass

For your Piña Colada Lovers: 

Piña Colada Fresca created by Ambassador, Ashela Richardson

• 1 ½ parts Flor de Caña 7
• 1 part coconut water
• 1 part fresh pineapple juice
• ½ part fresh orange juice
• Swizzle over crushed ice and top with nutmeg and orange slice

For those looking for something NEW: 

Agua Colada created by Ambassador, Ashela Richardson

• 1 ½ part Flor de Caña 7
• 1 part coconut water
• ¾ part fresh orange juice
• ¼ part fresh lime juice
• ½ pineapple gomme syrup
• Serve: pebble ice
• Garnish: grated nutmeg

Stormy Night

Created by Nils Boese, Jägermeister Global Brand Ambassador, Hildesheim, Germany

• ½ part Jagermeister
• 1 part Rum
• ½ part Fresh Lime Juice
• Ginger Ale or Ginger Beer

Build in Collins glass and top off with ginger ale or ginger beer.

The Salty Bird - Created by Lauren Schell

•  .75 oz. Campari
• 1.5 oz. Cruzan Black Strap Rum
• 1.5 oz. Fresh Pineapple Juice
• .5 oz. Fresh Lime Juice
• .5 oz. Simple Syrup
• Pinch of Salt

Combine all ingredients, shake and strain over fresh ice. Garnish with a pinch of salt, dehydrated pineapple.

A Break From Rosé We're Drinking Red

On most summer day and nights we have been guzzling #RoséAllDay but wanting to drink a red that'll satisfy even the biggest Brosé. 

Hard to hear that one can pass up a Whispering Angel for a red? Even red wine can be described as light and fruity and make for a great summer drink while chilled. Check out our suggestions for you to drink tonight. Sangria anyone?

Chilean wine is known for its high-quality product but low and affordable prices. For the best summer red, we recommend Carménère as its herbaceous peppercorn-like flavor both compliments and brings out the smoky flavors you would often find at your typical summer BBQ. Instead of adding to the richness and sweetness of BBQ foods,  Make sure to grill up some succulent meats and crisp veggies and pour yourself a glass (or two) of Carménère at your next BBQ for the ultimate summer 

“The keys to summer reds are three fold: lighter fruit flavors, high acidity to keep the wine refreshing, and wines that you serve cooler (like 50˚F). There is a distinct set of wines that fit the bill and they, themselves come from cooler climates (which usually produce lighter reds with higher acidity). I love lighter style Zweigelt or Sankt Laurent from Austria, German Pinot Noir (called Spätburgunder), Beaujolais from Burgundy, and Pinot Noir from Sancerre in the Loire Valley. Mencía from Spain can be fantastic too, if it’s the more berry, minerally style (versus a spicier version that may be too much for summer). Each of these has a “lightness of being” about them that makes them lively and fresh. 

And here’s a shopping tip for the readers: If you’re not sure if something will be heavy or light, take a look at the alcohol level. Any red above 13.5% ABV is going to be a bit too heavy to qualify as a summer red! "

— Elizabeth Schneider host of the popular "Wine for Normal People" podcast and author of a forthcoming, reimagined basic wine book, called "Wine for Normal People."

Beaujolais is light-bodied, low-tannin, refreshing, and best served chilled. made with iconic Beaujolais producer Georges Duboeuf, whose wide portfolio of appellation-driven Flower Label wines and Cru Beaujolais bottlings are ideal for summer. The Flower portfolio is the 2015 Beaujolais-Villages, a vibrant, fruit-driven wine which over-delivers for the cost, and serves as an excellent introduction for anyone interested in exploring the high-quality side of Beaujolais. 

Beaujolais

Carmenère

Riunite

Light and well-balanced, Riunite Lambrusco is perfect for every occasion. Enjoyable and straight forward, its easy drinkability make it a favorite with a wide variety of foods, including spicy fare.

Looking to learn how to make a great sangria? Check their recipe below.

Classic Red Sangria
1 750ml bottle of Riunite Lambrusco
1 lemon, 1 orange, 1 peach, 1 ripe green apple, sliced
½ cup orange juice
¼ cup Brandy (optional)
¼ cup Triple Sec
1 can of lemon-lime soda

Combine the sliced fruit, brandy and triple sec in a pitcher. Add Riunite Lambrusco, orange juice and lemon-lime soda.

Patrón Reveals New $399 Bottle With Partner Guillermo del Toro

Today Patrón announces it's newest partnership with Guillermo del Toro with a bottle pricing at $399. This partnership marks one of the first collaborations in which del Toro has engaged outside of the entertainment industry, and among a handful of partnerships carefully selected by Patrón over its long history.

The Patrón x Guillermo del Toro partnership includes 2 new bottles. one of them being a limited-edition 750ml bottle of extra añejo tequila sits upside down as the “torso”. This  includes a blend  of rare Patrón tequilas aged for an average of more than five years in a combination of different new and used oak barrels

Patrón

While a 100ml bottle is also available with aged orange liqueur, sits on top, a skull exquisitely carved into the crystal. Complementing that tequila is the smaller bottle, a first-of-its-kind aged Patrón orange liqueur produced from aged Patrón tequila. 

The blend is much different from your go to Silver Patrón, as this has a bright golden color with sweet notes of honey, raisins vanilla and oak. While the orange liqueur has a sweet aroma of citrus and French Toast.

Only a very limited number of sets were produced, and are currently available at fine spirits and liquor retailers across the country for the suggested retail price of 399.

How To Celebrate Bastille Day Without Leaving Home

The fourteenth of July marks Bastille Day, the start of the French Revolution and the end of the monarchy. Although you may not want to go out for a French dinner, we've conducted the best way to celebrate in the comforts of your own loft. Check out this guide to celebrating like the French person you want to be, at least for a day.

The New Whispering Angel

Coming from the Whispering Angel family, Rock Angel is transparent pale in color and has delicate red berry aromas on the nose. On the palate, it has floral notes with a touch of spice; complemented by a long, dry finish. With greater intensity and more richness than Whispering Angel, Rock Angel is a food-driven wine that will pair well with a variety of hor d’oeuvres and entrees.

Originating from Château d'Esclans, a prestigious estate and winery in Provence, France producing some of the finest and top-selling rosé wines in the world. Château d’Esclans celebrates its 10th anniversary vintage of its flagship Whispering Angel under the leadership of Sacha Lichine, who has elevated these wines to the premium, prestigious level he envisioned for Provence rosé. 

Patte From Dean & Deluca

Exclusively at Dean & Delcua, Dufour Gourmet by Chef Aurélien Dufour is proud to present the finest handmade pâtés, sausages and specialty meats that will delight all food lovers’ taste buds. Each product is handcrafted with care by Chef Aurélien using traditional French techniques and the highest quality of meats. 

Our pick to try is the Duck & Fig Pâté. A modern combination of sweet and savory coarsely ground duck pâté perfectly balanced with dry Turkish figs and caramelized shallots in red wine.  Ingredients: pork meat, duck meat, shallots, Turkish dry figs, salt, ground pepper, nutmeg, sugar, brandy, cream, eggs.

Dean & Deluca, 560 Broadway, New York, NY, 10012

Cheese From Murrays

Who doesn;t love a cheese plate? While there are so many selections Murray's offers a complete French cheese selection for you to pick up, without being mistaken for another country like last year.

Murray's Cheese, 254 Bleeker St

Ladurée Macaroons

There's nothing quite as enticing as these crispy, yet chewy, French pastries. Hopefully you already waited in the infamous Ladurée line to pick up a box for your friends, otherwise you may want to postpone your holiday festivities. Atleast with the Summer heat François Payard offers a macaron ice cream sandwich to keep you cool, go ahead and grab one (or five).

Maison St-Germain VIP Opening Night Hosted By Lily Kwong

Last night in New York, Chloe Wise, Ben Bronfman, and Kate Foley celebrated with model-turned-landscape artist, Lily Kwong, to kick off the first day of summer at the VIP Opening of Maison St-Germain. In celebration of the thousands of delicate elderflowers harvested once a year to create St-Germain French liqueur, Lily Kwong created a geometric hedge maze and canopy of fresh flora and fauna with Dan Flavin-inspired luminosity for the exclusive private event which took place on the High Line.

The bohemian-chic crowd mingled throughout the immersive installation, sipping on St-Germain cocktail pairings by St-Germain Global Ambassador Camille Ralph Vidal, with beats by DJ Mia Moretti, while fabulous French hors d’oeuvres were served throughout. The evening was layered with performances by Artistic director Mafalda Millies and choreographer Nathan Mitchell, who teamed up to present the The-Solar-Do-Nothing-Dance. In honor of the longest day of the year when the earth’s axis is most aligned with the sun, their spinning and sparkling performance-take-over, paid homage to one of the first devices to convert solar energy to electricity: Charles and Ray Eames' Solar-Do-Nothing Machine (1957).

Notable guests included: Jenné Lombardo, Cleo Wade, Ben Bronfman (musician),Rushka Bergman, Timo Weiland, Sabine Heller, Kate Greer, Margot, Kate Foley, Ben Pundhole, Eddie Granger, Martha Hunt, Jacquelyn Jablonski, Georgia Fowle, Brianna Lance, Britt Maren, Mariah Strongin (model), Mari Malek, Aurora James, Browne Andrews, Cara Santana, Garrett Neff, and socials, TK and Cipriana Quann, Kelly Framel, Jenny Albright, and Julia Loomis.Following the VIP opening, the installation will be up for select consumers the next day before florals and foliage are donated to non-profit organization, Roots of Peace, which is led by model-turned philanthropist Kyleigh Kuhn.

Photos courtesy of BFA

Looking to bring this type of party in your own home? Make one of their signature cocktails the Printemps

• 1 oz Oxley gin
• 3/4 oz St-Germain French elderflower liqueur
• 3/4 oz Martini Ambratto
• 2 dashes orange blossom salive solution
• Rock glass – basil flower (or just basil)

“The Printemps cocktail is fresh like spring – incorporating basil, orange blossom, and of course St-Germain. There is an interesting blend of botanical and floral notes with a slight bitterness.” – Camille Ralph Vidal, St-Germain Global Ambassador

National Rosé Day is finally here and this is what you need to drink

You know we love a good rosé, and today may be our favorite holiday with National Rosé Day. As the second Saturday of June approaches, it is officially National Rosé Day and we want to make sure you're prepared. These wines will pair with a summer salad, fish plate or even a hotdog. Rosé is your one friend that no one will be upset is there

From our favorite real estate brokers, new rosé to the iconic Whispering Angel and Chandon’s Limited Edition American Summer bottle - these rosés will cover be ones to grab for our favorite holiday. If your unsure where to go, we've compiled the best deals in the city.

@Fredrikeklundny

High Kick Rosé -a light, fresh and elegant rosé with notes of strawberries, citrus and herbs. Serve cold with elegant dishes of seafood or Salad Niçoise with grilled tuna or enjoy on its own with good friends.

Barrymore by Carmel Road Rosé of Pinot Noir 2016 - On the palate, the wine is delicate with floral and light citrus aromas. Flavors of fresh red fruits, along with notes of peach and apricot intertwine with bright, mouthwatering acidity, leading to a crisp and vibrant finish. The easy drinking rosé pairs great with burgers, sushi and spicy dishes.

Chateau d’Esclans Rosé - prestigious estate and winery from Provence, France producing some of the world’s leading rosé wines. The portfolio includes four premium rosés with an array of depth and flavor. In 2016, Château d’Esclans celebrated its 10th anniversary last year under the leadership of Sacha Lichine, who has elevated these wines to the respected, prestigious level he envisioned for Provence rosé, helping to initiate a massive rosé export boom.

Chandon American Summer Rosé - Grab your #ChandonSquad and celebrate National Rosé Day with Chandon’s 2017 Limited Edition American Summer. This festive bubbly bottle’s pink and red stripes mimic ocean waves to celebrate the summer season. Perfect for chic sipping, the rosé is filled with aromas of ripe strawberry, juicy watermelon, and fresh red cherry fruit interwoven with flavors of apple, pear and stone fruit. On the palate, the wine is creamy and seductive, with defined structure from the addition of still Pinot Noir at triage.

“Chandon Rosé, our refreshingly fruity wine is dry, and has the best balance between complexity and fruitiness, making it a great pair for a variety of light foods perfect for summer including seafood - especially grilled salmon and shellfish.”

— -Pauline Lhote, winemaker for Chandon

La Vigne du Roy Costieres de Nimes Rosé - – “Rhone, France A full-bodied, cherry colored Rosé from Costieres de Nimes in the Rhone Valley. Rich, balanced and fresh with notes of white flowers, cherries and spice”  (Exclusive to Stew’s Wines.)

Henriette Côtes de Provence Rosé – “Tastes like a bowl of crushed summer berries. This Provence style rosé is dry, crisp and refreshing”

 Wolffer Rosé – “Lush with aromas of peach, orange, citrus and lychee.  A gorgeous wine with oysters!”

“Rosé is my go-to wine in the summer! It’s great on its own and it’s also a food-friendly wine. These are some of my favorites from France and the USA. They all over-deliver on quality for the price!”

— Blake Leonard, Wine Brand Manager at Stew Leonard’s Wines

Where to go?

@PergolaNYC

Pergola (36 West 28th Street) will offer half-price Rosé bottle specials from June 5th-June 10th in honor of National Rose Day.  Offerings include Whispering Angel, 2016 Provence for $28, Montrose, 2016 Provence for $24, Chateau De Pourcieux0, 2016 Provence for $20 and Rodney Strong, 2016 Russian River for $24.

Mel’s Burger Bar on Upper East Side (1450 Second Avenue) will add Rosé to their bottomless brunch offering weekly, beginning on National Rosé Day for $40. The price includes a choice of entree and all you can drink Rosé for up to three hours.

SideBAR (118 E. 15th Street) in Union Square will serve up $5 Rosé by the glass all day for National Rosé Day

Bagatelle (1 Little W 12th Street) is serving Rosé in the biggest way possible for National Rosé Day. Since Bagatelle does everything bigger, it’s time to go big or go home with Magnum bottles starting at $130 with Côtes de Provence, Château Real Martin “Perle de Rosé”, or for a night to remember a magnum bottle of Louis Roederer, “Cristal” Rosé for a price of $3,400.

Kellari (19 West 44th Street) is debuting a new Rosé All Day menu on National Rosé Day with a selection of Rosé’s from around the world. Options include Domaine Costa Lazaridi, Mas de Gourgonnier, Moraitis Estate Rosé and seven others available by the bottle, carafe and glass. Prices range from a bottle of Fritch at $40, to a bottle Chateau Sainte Marguerite Rosé Symphony at $65. Carafe’s prices range from $28 - $32 and glasses range from $12-$15. For the day, Kellari will offer 20% their entire Rosé menu.

How To Celebrate Negroni Week In New York

@BrendanFallis

To celebrate the fifth annual Negroni Week, participating bars will be seeing red through Sunday with this delectable Summer drink. Presented by Imbibe Magazine and Campari.Negroni Week launched in 2013 as a celebration of one of the world’s great cocktails and an effort to raise money for charities around the world. 

This year Negroni Week takes place from June 5-11, 2017, when once again, bar and restaurants will be mixing classic Negronis and Negroni variations for a great cause. Here is a list of our favorite spots to go to. Try one, try all it's for charity.

Grand Banks West St & N Moore St, New York, NY  - A celebrated oyster bar aboard the historic wooden schooner, Sherman Zwicker. Inspired by the floating "oyster barges" that lined Manhattan's waterfront in the 18th and 19th centuries, Grand Banks features sustainably harvested oysters, nautically inspired cocktails, and awe-inspiring views.

STK Meatpacking 26 Little W 12th St, New York, NY - STK artfully blends the modern, steakhouse and chic lounge into one - offering a dynamic, fine dining experience with the superb quality of a traditional steakhouse.

Momofuku Nishi 32 8th Ave, New York, NY - Momofuku Nishi (which means “west”) opened in January 2016 and is Momofuku’s first restaurant on the west side. Located in New York City’s Chelsea neighborhood, guests can choose from a la carte offerings for lunch or dinner. Nishi’s Bo Ssäm and Pok Pok x Nishi Fried Chicken meals meant for sharing are also available for dinner.

Try a #FroGroni

#FroGroni Created by Julie Reiner, and served at Clover Club (NYC) during Negroni Week (June 5 -11)

• 0.75 oz. Campari
• 2 oz. Bulldog Gin
• 0.75 oz. Cinzano 1757 
• 2 oz. Lemon Juice
• 1.25 oz. Simple Syrup
• 2 whole Strawberries 
• Blend all ingredients (making sure tops of strawberries are cut off) with 1.5 cups of ice until smooth and pour into a tall glass. Garnish with a strawberry and orange twist.

Don’t forget to keep tabs on the Negroni Week action on Imbibe’s Instagram and Twitter feeds (@imbibe) and by following the #NegroniWeek hashtag. And, of course, be sure to mix yourself a Negroni!

@CampariUSA

For more information on where to drink go to Negroni Week. Cheers!

The 5 Best New York Burgers To Celebrate National Burger Day

New York has a ton of burger spots. And finding the best — the juiciest, the biggest, the most gaudily topped ones — isn't easy. Whether you want a hamburger with exotic meats or the one that comes with a beer, this is the time to step up your hamburger game.  As we close National Hamburger Month with National Hamburger Day this Sunday (28th) be in Memorial Day Weekend, there is no bettter time to grab one of these delectable meals.

Need a guide to the best deals and burgers around? Here are just a few of New York City's most delicious burgers to celebrate this food holiday:

Atrio at Conrad New York

In honor of National Burger Day, Atrio Wine Bar & Restaurant at Conrad New York is offering a complimentary beer with the purchase of an Atrio Burger to any guest who posts a photo on Instagram using the hashtag #ConradFoodies on Sunday, May 28. Made with “Niman Ranch” Grass Fed Beef, Vermont Cheddar and Roasted Onion Mayo, and served with Bread and Butter pickles, the Atrio Burger is sure to hit the spot for any hungry tummy working up an appetite around Battery Park City. 

STK

Who says burgers can’t be classy? Artfully blending the modern steakhouse and chic lounge into one, STK is celebrating National Burger Day in style! Featuring reimagined classic American cuisine, STK is offering a special variation of one of its most popular signature dishes - the Lil’ BRGs. Adding an elevated twist the bite-sized burgers, the National Burger Day special is made with a blend of Wagyu beef stuffed with Foie Gras, topped with shaved truffles and red wine caramelized onions. The special Lil’ BRGS will be available at all STK locations including New York – Midtown, New York-Downtown, Miami, Atlanta, Chicago and more on May 28 only.

Mel's Burger Bar will offer up one of their all-time favorite specialty burgers, the Pizza Burger, made with mozzarella, marinara, pepperoni for National Hamburger Day for $12.75

@melsburgerbar

SideBAR (118 E. 15th Street) will give away a free Bud Light with a purchase of a Mac and Cheese Burger in honor of National Hamburger Day

@Sidebarnyc

e's BAR (511 Amsterdam) which just reopened this week after a building fire three months ago will serve up $5 e's burgers all day long on Sunday in honor of National Hamburger Day.

Why You Won't Mind Waiting Around Grand Central

One of our favorite spots is back in action, The Campbell, operated by The Gerber Group, the long-anticipated revival of the former Campbell Apartment, located in Grand Central Terminal. A New York City institution since its days as Jazz Age financier John William Campbell’s private office and reception hall, the space has been thoughtfully and meticulously restored in partnership with internationally renowned design firm Ingrao Inc.

0Maintaining the integrity of the property’s historic architecture while introducing contemporary design elements. Gerber Group has created a refined, yet approachable atmosphere that is complemented by a distinguished bar program and menu of elevated bar fare, making this the new place to go whether you're waiting for a train or meeting with a potential buyer.

“Whether stopping by for a quick drink before catching a train, or making The Campbell a destination for a night of cocktails and great food, we are very confident that commuters, locals and tourists who visit Grand Central Terminal will be pleasantly surprised.”

— Scott Gerber, Principal and CEO of Gerber Group

Hidden in plain sight, The Campbell is tucked in the southwest corner of Grand Central Terminal. Paying homage to the history of the space as a salon for entertaining in the truest form, Gerber Group has divided the venue into three principal areas that provide distinctive guest experiences:

The Campbell Bar, the timeless office featuring a stunning bar topped with green quartzite, custom brass sconces that illuminate the magnificent hand-painted ceiling, custom mohair and leather furnishings, and a mezzanine offering a look over the action below.

The Campbell Palm Court, an indoor lounge with Rattan bar stools and high top café tables surrounded by towering palm trees with a view into the main terminal; and The Campbell Terrace, a sweeping outdoor covered veranda complete with a full bar, where guests can enjoy the weather as well as the bustle of Midtown.

“As soon as you enter The Campbell, the sense of history is palpable,” said Randy Kemper of Ingrao. “We focused on restoring the space’s original features, while utilizing traditional materials and design features whenever possible. The end result is a breathtaking revitalization that brings the historic venue seamlessly into the 21st century while paying homage to its storied past.”

Located at 15 Vanderbilt Avenue (Off 43rd St) The Cambell is open daily from 12:00 p.m. - 2 a.m. For reservations and information on private events, call 212-297-1781 or visit www.thecampbellnyc.com.

Ecco Domani Launches Designer bottle by Christian Siriano

Fashion Designer Christian Siriano is known for his flair and colorful collections and is now bringing his designs to your wine. Siriano has collaborated with Ecco Doman with the creation of his Palm Springs inspired bottle that was inspired by his 2016 Resort Collection that the models were dressed in.

Guests were greeted by Christian Siriano while enjoying sipping on the new wine and a specialty cocktail. Models then performed a special runway show wearing the designer's 2016 resort collection, with a bottle in hand. The bright colors and floral pattern can be seen on the Pinot Grigio that offers a delicate floral aroma and a crisp, refreshing finish.

The Ecco Domani delle Venezie IGT Pinot Grigio is made primarily from hand-harvested grapes grown in the high-altitude region of delle Venezie. This signature wine has fruit complexities on the palate of lemon, apple, apricot, and pineapple.  This year’s Pinot Grigio blend gave this wine unique characteristics. With this vintage, Ecco Domani Pinot Grigio presents itself as a rich and mature wine.

Do you have what it takes to enter the Mionetto Cocktail Challenge

@MionettoProseccoUSA

Looking to be featured in Food & Wine for your cocktail mixing skills? While your friends may call your signature drink a classic, now is your chance to see what you're really made of by entering the second annual ‘Mionetto Cocktail Challenge.’

In collaboration with Food & Wine, Mionetto Prosecco USA announces the call for submissions for contestants across the country to submit an original Mionetto sparkling cocktail recipe into one of two groups: bartending professionals and consumers (intended for the general public).

After narrowing down the submissions, the top three finalists in each category will be invited to a special mix-off event at the Food & Wine test kitchen in New York City. The professional champion will be featured in Food & Wine and the consumer champion will receive a trip for two to Italy to visit the land of Prosecco. Finalists will be determined by Justin Noel, top NYC-based mixologist, Food & Wine editor, and Enore Ceola, managing director and CEO of Mionetto USA.

““This is a passion project of mine and I am truly honored to be involved in the search for the best Prosecco cocktail recipes from across the U.S. These contestants share our passion for Mionetto and crafting high-quality Prosecco and sparkling cocktails.” Prosecco can bring to a cocktail,””

— Justin Noel

Wine and Spirits

News on what to drink, what's trending in wine, beer, and cocktails.

The inaugural challenge in 2016 received over 600 entries, but ultimately two cocktails reigned supreme. On the consumer level, Dassy Pawlik from Buffalo, New York won with her inspired recipe, “Pompelmo Spruzzo,” which took Mionetto’s Brut Prosecco to another level. Meanwhile, the professional winner Patti Scarf from Kalamazoo, Michigan took a refreshing approach with the “Cucumber Fizz,” pairing the flagship Mionetto Prosecco Brut with cucumber, gin, and simple syrup.

Submit your recipe today at mionettococktailchallenge

Beyond Sushi Expands In Herald Square

Forget the boring sushi with a questionable expiration date. As we head into warmer weather we can enjoy the warm weather without worry of spoiling the fish, with Beyond Sushi's vegan rolls.

@BeyondSushiNYC

Opening May 10th Beyond Sushi will be expanding from the Union Square, Chelsea Market, and Midtown West to take hold place in Herald Square. Founded by renowned chef, Guy Vaknin (From Hell's Kitchen) and his wife Tali, Beyond Sushi offers an assortment of nutritional and Instagram-worthy staples. Chef Guy and his culinary team fuse unconventional pairings of fruit and vegetables with whole grains to create sushi rolls, rice paper wraps, hand rolls, salads, healthy sweets, and hand-pressed juices. 

A Signature Beyond Sushi dish is the Sunnyside Roll made with black rice, braised fennel, sundried tomatoes and avocado topped with butternut squash and an almond pesto sauce and the Spicy Mang with black rice, avocado, mango and English cucumber topped with spicy vegetables and a toasted Cayenne sauce.  The new Herald Square location will also offer signature desserts to include an espresso pound cake with caramelized cumquats, chocolate oat disc, whipped coconut cream, caramel sauce, and orange zest.

You might be confused on how sushi could be veganized, as its main ingredient tends to be fish. According to Keep It Vegan's Sushi Guide, "There are, however, some amazing fillers for sushi, such as avocado, cucumber, shiitake, mushroom, bell pepper, and carrot."

@BeyondSushiNYC

While Beyond Sushi will include juices the new Herald Square location will feature a curated list of sakes and healthy craft cocktails, made with the freshest ingredients, to sip at their wrap around bar this spring.

The designers of the 37th st. Atal Design Group incorporates what Beyond Sushi's guests will see in all future eateries, like the FiDi one in June. Colors including vibrant oranges and greens and have selected materials that complement multitudes of textures, shapes, hard and natural surfaces. The back drop of the eatery also has an element of surprise incorporated into the atmosphere to include Beyond Sushi recycled number 10 cans.  

Beyond Sushi, 134 W. 37th St. New York, NY, 212-564-0869, opening May 10th hours are 11 AM to 11 PM.