What's Happening New York City
The boutique dumpling favorite has announced its monthly special: a popcorn chicken dumpling, created in partnership with Sunday Bird's Deuki Hong. Hong helped launch Kang Ho Dong Baekjong in NYC before moving to San Francisco to launch his own Korean fried chicken joint. The dumplings ($9.25 for 6) are quick-fried and stuffed with ginger-and-scallion chicken and served in a Chinese food take-out box with Korean rice cakes. A gochujang sauce is served on the side.
Last weekend, the Alphabet City favorite introduced Saturday brunch. Swing by between noon and 3 p.m. for a classic brunch menu of Dutch pancakes ($15) and duck confit hash ($16) as well as chef Matt Conroy's popular burger ($16). Pair it with a gin-instead-of-vodka Bloody Mary ($12) to complete the meal.
A new cocktail lounge has opened on the Upper East Side. The retro speakeasy is designed to evoke retro Havana. Snack on bites like lobster arepas and, yes, Cubanos while sipping on the brightly colored cocktails — one charcoal-infused drink is an inky black, while another made with golden beet is a vibrant orange. Heads up: This is one of the seven spots in the city that allows late-night smoking.
This Upper East Side Brazilian bakery is now accepting Passover orders of flourless desserts and breads. Try a traditional flourless chocolate torte ($32) or opt for delicious Brazilian cheese bread, which can be bought fresh ($32) or frozen ($15). Preordering is recommended, but some desserts will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis.