Sunshine Girl

City Favorites: La Bottega

Happy Wednesday, readers! While I usually do a Wishlist Wednesday post to mark the middle of the week, I'd like to introduce a new series here called "City Favorites," where I introduce you to some of my favorite bars, restaurants and shops around NYC. I love where I live and hope that this series can act as a guide for your future visits here. Or, if you are a New Yorker, maybe this will open up some new places to check out.

I'll be alternating between this series and Wishlist Wednesday each week (at least that's the plan) so I hope you enjoy it. Let me know what you think about this first installment of City Favorites, featuring one of my favorite summertime spots, La Bottega. I recently attended a lovely birthday dinner here, and it has a great patio for post-work drinks. I love the fun, round lanterns too. Summer's around the corner and this is a great stop for a hot day.

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Snaps from Williamsburg and the Weekend

I had a really nice leisurely long weekend during my birthday, and got to spend some time exploring new areas too. Specifically, I took a stroll to the Williamsburg waterfront last Friday and it was so modern and beautiful, a big change from the neighborhood a few blocks away (which I also love), but I was certainly taken by surprise at the development happening on the water. That third shot almost looks like a rendering, doesn't it?

On Saturday, I stopped by the Hester Street Fair in the LES, and it was fun to look around at the vendors. I thought that the pocket-knife necklace was pretty sweet. Just wanted to share a few snapshots from the weekend with you. I think this weekend is going to be just as beautiful, and I'm looking forward to it.

the meatball shop

easily one of my favorite restaurants in nyc, the meatball shop is now just a few blocks away from my new apt! lucky for me, but unlucky for my diet. regardless, the place really has everything going for it--perfected, delicious meatballs (the beef bolognese special meatball is to die for), amazing sides, homemade ice cream sandwiches for dessert, friendly staff and the prices are super reasonable too. i love the vibe here as well--dark with lots of wood, a long communal table, and soft lighting.

photos via here

my menu pick: spicy pork or beef bolognese meatball (if they're available as a special) smash, side of polenta or risotto, ice cream sandwich with coconut macaron cookie

and note: it gets crowded late at night and they don't take reservations, but if you decide to wait, i think it's worth it. so, so worth it. get yourself on over there asap!