Once You Go Matte... You Never Go Back.

Recently I got my nails done at Valley, where any girls manicure dreams can come true. They also have a full menu of Spa procedures and a cute little clothing shop in the front, making it a great place to have a girls day when in need of one. Now, I'm not one who's loved crazy nail art, but these ladies can make anything you want appear at your finger tips, literally. With books and books filled with different designs, boxes of different stones & studs and shelves filled with all sorts of colored polish, the craziest nails you thought could never happen - actually can! My choice? Black matte nail polish, two rhinestone skulls and silver studs on my pinky's. I was going for the motorcycle jacket inspiration. But besides that, it was my first experience using Knock Out's Flatte nail polish, and well... I fell in love. Go out and buy yourself one or five of these polish's, there's something so sexy to the no-shine colors and you'll definitely be the only one of your friends rocking this look. Just how you don't want your face to be shiny, start taking that approach with your nails too!

Caffeine Fix.

New York City's population relies on coffee on a day to day basis to get by in each working day. Here are a few places that serve up some of my favorite cups in this town, and are more than worthwhile to try.

1. Porto Rico Importing Co.

A cup of plain black coffee from Porto Rico will have you set and alert for the whole day, with the aroma of exotic beans lingering in your nose while sipping. Imported from all around the globe, each blend and roast is unique to taste and will have you remembering that plain old coffee is still delicious without whippy, frappy, chippy things added on top.
40 1/2 St. Marks
(b/w 1st and 2nd Ave.)
Mon - Sat: 9 am -8
Sun: 12 pm -7
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2. The Smile

A lot of people can say that a latte is a latte and tastes the same everywhere. I've discovered that this is in fact false. Many coffee shops can add too little milk or too much for that fact, diluting the actual taste of espresso that's in your drink. I don't know if it's the way they brew their coffee, or that they've concocted this perfect balance of milk and espresso, but The Smile definitely delivers one of the cities best lattes. Also be sure to check out the concept store in this little spot, where you can pick up anything from books, stationary and knitting wool, allowing you to sit, sip and knit!
26 Bond Street
(b/w Broadway and Lafayette)
Mon - Fri: 8 am-6
Sat - Sun: 10 am-6
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3. Mud Cafe

Many of you have probably seen the Mud trucks all around Manhattan, bringing a whole new meaning to coffee on the go. But in the East Village lies the actual cafe where I can find my favorite "treat-like" coffee, without all that whip cream non-sense taking over my drink. Mud Cafe's Maple Latte is so delicious without being too sweet that you feel like you might get a toothache. The maple flavor makes it unique, and exceptionally seasonal for this time of the year! So the next time you're walking by stop in, pick one up, and sit on their outside bench with a book, enjoying the fall weather.
307 East 9th Street
(b/w 1st and 2nd Ave.)
Mon - Fri: 8 am-Midnite
Sat- Sun: 9 am -Midnite

Live From New York...

After a two week break Saturday Night Live returns again this weekend with host AND musical performer Taylor Swift, who is without a doubt my biggest guilty pleasure. I love this adorable, 5' 11", 19 year old Pennsylvania girl, and how could you not? Without fail I think she'll be able to make up for this seasons past two female hosts, Drew Barrymore and Megan Fox, who - to put it nicely - both were the most boring component to each of their shows. Hopefully with Taylor Swift's quirky charm and musical fame we can also expect a new hilarious digital short from Akiva Schaffer, Jorma Taccone, and Andy Samberg, also known as The Lonely Island. So to get you in the mood for Saturday's upcoming show here's a short that aired, on host Ryan Reynolds' episode, last month called, "On The Ground." If you haven't seen this, watch it now! The styling in this video is so key, taking a stab at some of the awful hats and leather trim jackets that can be seen in countless R&B videos from 1995 to present day.

What Girls Dreams Are Made Of.

If anybody would like to donate money into my Balmain Spring 2010 RTW jar, you're more than welcome. Images from each collection in the recent years has left my jaw dropped and my body screaming in need. I die - and it's death by military leather and skinny metallics, could you ask for a better way to die? I didn't think so. This is what I dream about at night, for the record.

Love Is In The Air

After a year, Lovely Day has finally reopened! Had my first lunch there today with the one and only Ian Bradley, where not much has changed in this favorite NoLita hideaway - and that's the way I'd like to keep it! So pop in, out of the chilly weather, for some Ginger Fried Chicken or even just a glass of wine, while enjoying a magazine or the close company of friends.

Holiday, Celebrate!

So Halloween has now passed, which means the season for Holiday parties is right around the corner. In New York City there are countless amenities at your fingers tips that make you capable to throw the perfect soiree for friends, co-workers and family. These next products are a few ideas I've stumbled upon and think can help you make your party the cutest in town!

1. Brownie Pops.

These little treats are not only adorable, but delicious as well. Having them on any serving platter or food table will have all your guests smiling. And for those with fashion savvy friends, they'll be happy too! They're less crumby and leave no chocolate leftover on your finger tips. They come in all different flavors, and seasons, to perfectly accompany what it is your celebrating! (Available at Brownie Pops)

2. Bubbles.

With 2010 not far away, you have to start figuring out your New Years Eve plans! These little party favors are so cute for when the clock strikes 12, and are bound to be even more fun once you and your friends have had some actual bubbly in you. (Available at Beau-Coup)

3. Super Bowl Party!


There's nothing I love more sometimes than Super Bowl Sunday. Good friends, cooking, laughing and the obvious... drinking. But why not this year make your party have a few extra touches to get your friends really excited for the game, and see the effort you've put into making it a great day for them. Plum Party has some great accessories to decorate your house, and also to serve your friends the drinks and grub they can't wait to get their hands on. This grass table cover and these football cups will definitely get the mood going right as you cheer for your team. (cough cough Giants cough)

4. Hot Cocoa and Cider.

When the weather starts to grow frigid, it's a nice to be able to treat your guests to something heartfelt and warm. William Sonoma has always been a favorite go to for me and my family when it comes to products that we keep in our kitchen. Their peppermint hot chocolate is always one that brings a smile to my face and the warm hearted feeling of the holidays to mind. Buy some of this mix and add with it some Peppermint Schnapps and you'll be sure to have some happy guests. Also a yummy winter drink to have people feeling the season is make some hot apple cider mixed with a little Jameson, trust me, it's delicious.

Fall Has Fell.

I wrote this memoir about a year ago. The time and weather has it feeling right to put it out there for your eyes to see.


South Street Seaport
It's one of those days in fall where it's hard to differentiate if it is in fact about to be winter soon or if it is a warm day in spring, with summer not far in it's shadow. I know for a fact though that a bitter winter is well on its way and this warmth will soon be packaged away for days in May. Groups of tourists begin filling the seaport's wooden decks, snapping photos of their loved ones, while I gaze out at the one thing I love in this moment - my city. With lunch hour approaching restaurants on Fulton Street begin to bustle with hungry pedestrians, causing my thoughts for the moment to take a backseat as my stomach begins rumble. I look at my watch to check the exact time, not surprised that my friend is late to meet me for lunch, as his deliberation to either wear a fedora or a fitted baseball hat is probably taking exaggerated time in front of a mirror. It's then I light a cigarette to curb my hunger, watching the sunlight reflect off the choppy tide with the red vessel, the Ambrose, rocking graciously in its current. Buildings stand tall, as though they are protecting the brick townhouses & pizza parlors right across the Brooklyn Bridge, like a mother city protecting her young. My friend is now here, I stand up and walk away from the river quietly humming, "New York State of Mind."

Home is Where the Kimchi Is.

Momofuku is the successful restaurant group owned by Korean American chef, David Chang. The cookbook, which was released in stores today, consists of three sections: Noodle Bar, Ssam Bar, and Ko, all of which are the names of each restaurant in New York City. The book is the developing story of the simple beginnings of a small noodle bar in NYC serving a creative conglomeration of world cuisines ranging from Korean kimchee, Chinese Pork Buns to French shaved foie gras Chinese lychee and pine nut brittle. So the next time you're craving one of the restaurant's famous Pork Buns, try and make some yourself! If that fails, you can always order in from the chinese place up the block and park a seat on your couch.

Every Man/Every Woman

Thanks to Tess Brokaw... I discovered this heaven sent piece of music. Just fucking enjoy it, I know you will.

A Place I Love.

The American Flags circling the ice rink and Rockefeller Plaza.

Michael & Michael Have Issues.

About two weeks ago Comedy Central aired it's new show starring two of my all time favorite comedic writers and actors, Michael Showalter and Michael Ian Black. I was lucky enough to be able to go to the launch party / live stand up by the 2 stars / premiere of the show, which airs at 10:30 every Wednesday. The hysterical quarrelsome humor that takes place through out the show is also mixed with original sketches by the two, revolving around anything from drug deals to high schoolers who take the virginity pledge. I would post a clip from the show for everyone to see, but I think it's best you watch this show in full so you can appreciate every single hysterical moment within the 30 minute block. Instead here is a clip of Michael Showalter's "the Michael Showalter Showalter" from a College Humor original video, with guest.... Michael Ian Black.

See more funny videos and funny pictures at CollegeHumor.

Tigers Love Pepper, They Hate Cinnamon.

For those who have seen "The Hangover," "Out Cold," or just know him from his grizzly beard, Zach Galifianakis is by far one of the greatest comedic genius' of our generation. But I truly believe in order to really understand Zach... one most get to know his brother, Seth Galifianakis.

TEAM PEREZ.

Recently Perez Hilton was physically attacked by a crew member of the Black Eyed Peas. Usually, online, when people see drama they choose to post about it in the negative, or gossiping matter. But I am here to stand by a fellow blogger, who is one thousand times more famous than I am. Coming from a once New York City private school girl, Perez has a blog I've been reading daily for years (deal with with it). His "Hollywood Gossip" - if you will - situation involving the Black Eyed Peas member should not have ever turned in to physical violence. After reading Perez's statement to the world on his site, I fully stand by it. Whatever, maybe he is a blogger, maybe he did have someone write it for him - who knows (I don't) - it's a beautifully written statement to everyone. And if you actually read it - with a fully open mind - you'll understand. This is the statement recently released on Perez Hilton's infamous site:

"Words can hurt. I know that very well, from both sides of the fence. The other night in Toronto, after feeling physically threatened by a verbally abusive Will.I.Am of the Black Eyed Peas, I chose the most hurtful word I know to hurl at him. I was in an out-of-the ordinary situaton and used a word that I would not utter under normal circumstances. My intention - however misguided it may have been - was to stand up for myself and tell this belligerent man that I had enough of his badgering and was not going to continue to let him berate and intimidate me. I wanted to hurt him with the word I chose, not anyone else. Unfortunately, the one who got hurt was me and, subsequently, a lot of other people. I wish none of it had happened. I can't take it back. I did what I thought was best at the moment to stand up for myself in a non-violent yet still assertive way. Clearly, I am not homophobic. Also, I am not nor have I ever claimed to be a spokesperson for the gay community. I am just speaking for myself, a gay man. One who is labeled "flamboyant" in the media. An American that is not granted equal rights under the law. I will continue to speak out for equality and I will continue to say things that upset both gay people and straight people. Who I am as a person and what I do for a living are two separate things. I've come to terms with all my incongruities and am proud of who I am and what I do. In closing, words can hurt. But words should not provoke someone to violence. Stripped away from the mask of Perez Hilton, I have been extremely bothered by the public reaction to my assault. Violence should never be condoned with such statements as "It's Karma" or "I don't believe in violence but….". In fact, several television and radio shows over the past couple of days echoed the sentiment "He had it coming". Would they have said the same thing if I was a woman? Would I have "deserved it" if I had been stabbed? Or shot? Or killed? I was attacked from behind without warning and repeatedly punched in the head in a cold, disgusting and unnecessarily violent manner by Polo Molina, the road manager for the Black Eyed Peas, who I did not even speak with that evening. I did not share any words with him and his assault on me was completely unprovoked. I feel like everything happens for a reason and I leave this traumatic experience as person with more compassion. Specifically, there was an instance last year when actor Jesse Metcalfe was attacked outside of a Hollywood nightclub by a fellow entertainer. I did not condone the violence, but I did make light of that situation. I regret that. Sincerely. There are many ways to deal with disagreements, both good and bad, but violence is never the answer. Never. I now know that first-hand. It should not be condoned, promoted or accepted. No one "deserves" to be the victim of violence. No one "has it coming." NO ONE. And victims should not be ridiculed. I look forward to marching for equality in Washington, D.C. this October. And I look forward to standing up for my rights in a Toronto courtroom shortly, as I fully intend to seek every lawful remedy against the man that attacked me." - perezhilton.com/

I WILL BE THERE IN OCTOBER! FOR OUR CITY, FOR OUR COUNTRY, FOR THE FUCKING FACT THAT WE ALL DESERVE LOVE EQUALLY ON ANY CIRCUMSTANCE.

oh and if you comment negatively, i really don't give a shit.

Goodnight, Season.

I promise to talk more fashion and gossip of New York City in upcoming posts, but I had to share this with everyone. I said in a previous post how when Will Ferrel hosted this past episode and season finale of Saturday Night Live it was filled with pure comedic and improv genius from classics to new skits. Well this video is from that episode, but has been taken down on most other websites, I'm guessing copyright laws for the song. But the next time you reminisce about a past vacation to Vietnam, I vow you break out into song and celebrity posse to back you up. Or maybe just Tom Hanks on sax.


What a great way to end a season.

NY NY Sports Sports.

This commercial is actually really funny, and pretty accurate.

And I Say Yes, You Look Wonderful Tonight.

Dear Conan,
New York misses you. We are hurt that you left us for the west coast. Please come back.
Sincerely,
Megan.

A new Conan O'Brien will air on June 1st, replacing Jay Leno on his LA filmed, "The Tonight Show." But will it be the same watching Conan and knowing it was filmed 3,000 miles away? I'm just not sure, only time will tell. You're breaking my heart, O'Brien.

Ma, the Meatloaf!

It's a rainy night in NYC and I decided to stay in, and a few old friends came over for a bit to watch the Season Finale of SNL with host Will Ferrell. Long story short, the man's a genius so I wanted to post my all time favorite video of Ferrel as our former President (wow, even writing that felt good) George W. Bush called "White House West." Devil horses, Dick Cheney and air guitar, for some reason that sounds oddly a lot like the past 8 years in the White House, probably because it just doesn't make sense. But that's the past, Obama is the future, and Will Ferrel from politics to Frank the Tank will continue to make America laugh.

White House West: Bush on the Ranch | Viral | SPIKE.com

The Big Apple Pie.

You might believe that since I'm from New York doing anything involving the word "tourist" would give me post traumatic stress, and then an overpriced session with my shrink. Though usually doing anything touristy isn't on the top of my list, the sun shining and smell of summer must have had an affect on my "anti-tourist" receptors recently. I stumbled, literally, upon a guided tour the other day that seemed pretty epic and fun for just about anyone with a spontaneous bone in their body and little cash in their wallet. Scott's Pizza Tours go around the city to some of its famous and historical pizza places, where even the most knowledgeable New Yorker can learn a thing or two, and just be able to have fun. So if you're hungry and want a change of pace just grab a friend, have a few slices and laugh your spontaneously cheesy (get it?) afternoon away. Nobody ever said that staying cultured had to involve going to the MET or reading the Sunday Times every weekend. Go have a slice!

Meg's Tourist Tip:
I'm not going to lie, there have been a few times where I've had to weave my way around families or groups walking in SoHo wearing matching colored shirts and sporting oversized video cameras, and I've mumbled my frustration out under my breath. To avoid annoying fast-paced New Yorkers any further, if you're going to be visiting, do yourself a favor and write this down: leave all coordinated outfits, camera neck strap's and fanny pack's at home. Trust me, as we're approaching a season when it's easier to spot tourists than it is to find bodegas, this is for your own good.

Bryant Park or Bust!

I went for a walk yesterday from Union Square up to Bryant Park with my iPod, book and a really big bottle of water. If you're looking for a place to go sit and read this summer, while soaking in some sun, this is where you should do it. So why are you still sitting inside today? Go grab your book and make it happen. Don't worry - you can just thank me later.

New York Politics: Anything but New Jersey.

Sometimes a political New York, when seen in certain lights, is absolutely hysterical. Actually in any light and at anytime there is a way to make fun of politics, Saturday Night Live can just do it better than anyone else. Bill Hader, one of my all time favorite comedic actors, and Fred Armisen, whose impressions are always effortlessly priceless, completely out did themselves on the Weekend Update from this past weeks episode of Saturday Night Live, with host Justin Timberlake (the Motherlover episode, not D in a B). It's skits like this that prove Lorne Michaels has still got it when choosing his pick of the pack from the cast to the hosts. Remember boys and girls, timing is everything in comedy and now here tonight - Horn Dog & Blurry, so wrong... but so right.

The Good, The Bad & The City; We're in New York Baby.

Shopping, music, art, comedy, bagels, the great lawn, cab rides at 5 am, pizza, The Warriors, Lady Liberty, they're all the "original" Ray's, bottle of red, bottle of white, Bobby Dinero, "cheeseburger, cheeseburger, cheeseburger!", the Wonder Wheel, Annie Hall, Letterman, 2nd Avenue Deli, public transportation, punk rock, the blackout of '03, the Bowery, the winter windows at Saks... I think you get it.

New York is the news capital of the world, and she is my heart and soul. There are things going on in this city every minute of everyday, and sometimes we can forget all the little things she has to offer. I bring you, "The Good, The Bad and The City," as my tribute to New York and all her best qualities, but also some opinions, views, likes and dislikes coming from a born and raised in the city gal. New York is a town that wasn't built for the weak, but for the bold, the spontaneous and the open-minded. Yes, she does have her flaws, but if there wasn't a balance of good and bad, then this wouldn't be New York. Let's have some fun.

-Meg