Archive for the ‘FACES OF THE BRONX’ Category
10.28
08
by Simone ·
Well, the Bronx does! Who knew?!?
I have to admit being surprised at all the sushi places I have seen just in the last few weeks in the Bronx - from Mott Haven to Throgg’s Neck to City Island and even a temporary sushi bar this month at The Bronx Botanical Garden. And those are just the places I have seen first hand. I look forward to finding others to add to the list.
Tags: Green Dragon, Seashore Restaurant, Sushi, Toscas, Yamada Japanese Restaurant
Posted in BRONX RESTAURANTS, FACES OF THE BRONX | 4 Comments »
10.27
08
by Simone ·
The owners of the incomparible Roberto’s in Little Italy have brought another Zagat worthy establishment to the Bronx. The small bar in front belies the huge space these guys have “carved out” further back in the building. The food is scrumptious. They are known to excel in the pizza making department, but I opted for an arugula/goat cheese/grilled pears salad, followed by their Portobello al Forno - both were appetizers with portions so huge I should have asked for a doggie bag. But with food this delish, I kept on ’til the very end! For more adventurous gastronomes - tell me where else in the Bronx are you going to find “rabit cooked in tomato sauce with fresh Rosemary” or “free-range cornish hen” - FOR LUNCH?!? Check out their website for menus and photos. Oh, and if you are a lover of olive oil - snatch up a bottle of their private label. And don’t forget to say buon giorno to Tony, manager extraordinairre (pictured below in the bar).
Tags: LITTLE ITALY, Zero Otto Nove
Posted in BRONX RESTAURANTS, FACES OF THE BRONX, LITTLE ITALY | 3 Comments »
10.25
08
by Simone ·
PATRICIA’S II, Throg’s Neck
Gotta love a good brick oven when it comes to pizza. Read my Boogiedowner review “When The Moon Hits Your Eye…” to learn more about Patricia’s.

Manager Mark Caragliano (above) and Patricia’s dining room (below). The photo was taken before they opened which explains the empty seats - as you can see from their website, the place can get packed during lunch and dinner.
Tags: Mark Caragliano, Patricia's II, Throggs Neck
Posted in BRONX RESTAURANTS, FACES OF THE BRONX | No Comments »
10.20
08
by Simone ·
MoveOn.org Obama Calling Party - Parkchester
Thanks to host Manny Tacugue (pictured above), fellow Bronx residents and I had a great time at one of the many MoveOn.org Obama parties that went on a few days ago. Calling voters and other MoveOn members is a great way to get involved with the Obama campaign. And thanks to Manny, who recently relocated to Parkchester from Manhattan, and who knows how to put on a great spread, we not only ate and drank really well while there, but were given lots of goodies to take home! You rock, Manny! Can’t wait for your Victory Party on November 4th!!!
Tags: Manny Tacugue, MoveOn.org, Obama
Posted in FACES OF THE BRONX, PARKCHESTER | 1 Comment »
10.19
08
by Simone ·
SAVE THE DATE: Revolution!’s Bronx Halloween Bash, October 24th
South Bronx
It’s that time again! Time for another Save the Date for this month’s Revolution! party in Mott Haven at the Bruckner Bar & Grill. (See past party photos here)
Check out these great photos from last month’s party where Kissy Kamikaze, William Control (NSFW) and others performed, courtesy of Richard Scott:

Tags: Bronx Underground, Bruckner Bar & Grill, Kissy Kamikaze, Revolution!, William Control
Posted in BRONX MUSIC AND DANCE, BRONX RESTAURANTS, FACES OF THE BRONX, SOBRO, THINGS TO DO IN THE BRONX | No Comments »
10.10
08
by Simone ·
Yes, Sangrias…and great Mexican food!!! You have NO IDEA how fired I am about finding fresh and AUTHENTIC Mexican food right around the corner from my apartment! Growing up in Southern California, I crave this cuisine just about every other week and the many Dominican and Criolle eateries to be found in the Bronx just don’t always do it for me. (Even in Manhattan, great Mexican cuisine is hard to come by). Taqueria Tlaxcalli (run by a former Mexico City resident - Mauricio), therefore is to die for. And by the customers packing the place tonight, I’m obviously not the only one who believes they’ve just discovered a little slice of Heaven! (Read some other favorable reviews here.) And pssst….don’t pass up the fabulous Sangrias!
Judy (Go Fordham!) and Howard - Regulars at Tlaxcalli
Owner Mauricio - on the right - and his very talented kitchen staff.
Tags: Mauricio, PARKCHESTER, Taqeria Tlaxcalli
Posted in BRONX RESTAURANTS, FACES OF THE BRONX, PARKCHESTER | 2 Comments »
10.9
08
by Simone ·
The Bronx’s Little Italy is such a short bus ride from my home in Parkchester that I can’t believe I didn’t take advantage of it the first year and a half I was here. It was only doing research for TheBronxRocks, that I finally figured out where it is (in between Parkchester and The Bronx Botanical Gardens, which I have been visiting regularly since I moved to this borough). I posted about two fabulous restaurants early on here. But now I have to rave about the other shops one can enjoy during a stroll down Arthur Avenue. I coaxed my friend Isabelle to join me last weekend and being Swiss-Moroccan and having spent her early years in both Paris and Switzerland, I knew she would appreciate this little enclave. Reminiscent of the fromageries, boulangeries, chacuteries of the streets of Paris and other European villages, many of the shops of Little Italy specialize in their own…well, specialities – meat, cheese, bread, pasta, seafood and so forth. Our favorite (and something neither of us had seen before) was Calabria Pork Store where the ceiling is literally filled to the brim with hanging salamis and sausages! After lunch at Tino’s Delicattessen and capucinnos at a bakery close, by we shop-hopped all the way down Arthur Ave for supplies to have an evening picnic-style dinner. French baquette, camembert, grapes, figs, olives, sundried tomatoes and a bottle of wine? Heaven!
Calabria Pork Store
A Little Taste Of Cuba
Tags: Calabria Pork Store, LITTLE ITALY, Mount Carmel Wine, Teitel Brothers
Posted in BRONX NABES, BRONX RESTAURANTS, FACES OF THE BRONX, LITTLE ITALY, THINGS TO DO IN THE BRONX | No Comments »
10.3
08
by Simone ·
BRONX BLUE BEDROOM PROJECT - On the Bronx Cultural Trolley Tour
Mott Haven, South Bronx

Blanka Amezkua immediately reminded me of an artist channeling the spirit of the great Frida Kahlo. I had the good fortune to make a pilgrimage to Kahlo’s home in Mexico City (Casa Azul) years ago, and Blanka’s Bronx Blue Bedroom Project had the same feeling of the artist’s living space becoming an intertwining extention of the art and artist herself. The idea behind the BBBP is to showcase a different artist every month – giving them the run of her Tiffany-box blue bedroom as a gallery. They in turn bring dinner, snacks and drinks for the guests who show up. The artist this past Wednesday was the delightful Melissa Calderon. (Send me those pics, Melissa!) But Blanka’s own work is definitely worth a visit in and of itself. How often do you see in one collection a sculptural collage made entirely of multi-colored pipe cleaners, a figure made of several disparate and seemingly tortured doll parts and a framed thorned brassiere?!?
I highly suggest you visit this unique artist’s home, studio and gallery – I promise it will bring out the inner-bohemian in all of you!
(Following photos courtesy of Blanka’s Website)
Tags: Blanka Amezkua, Bronx Blue Bedroom Project, Melissa Calderon
Posted in BRONX ART and CULTURE, FACES OF THE BRONX, SOBRO, THINGS TO DO IN THE BRONX | No Comments »
09.28
08
by Simone ·
THROGGS NECK
After the delicious meal at Tosca and walking around the neighborhood of Throggs Neck, I ambled into a few other bars and eateries for a few drinks and cappuccino:
Fiorentina’s Italian Grill (Great wine, great conversation with other patrons, great service. I can’t wait to return for dinner one of these days)
The exterior of Alphie’s Place (Good Food Honest Whiskey) was so intriguing, I had to stop in. A true dive (in the very best sense!) - mostly guys who once I promised I wasn’t with the Health Department, The IRS or spies for their wives and girlfriends, I was welcomed in and had a few laughs with these jovial (and jokester) regulars. Aerosmith and other classic rock bands were blaring through the place. Love, love, love it! Perfect place to swill back a few beers, play some pool and listen to great music - the kind you don’t often hear anymore.
The very amiable Alphonso from Rino’s Ristorante (an establishment in business since 1983). As I only had a cappucino (delicious!), I can’t vouch for the food, but judging by the regular patrons - I’m sure the food was just a yummy as the service was friendly.
And since I’m such a sucker for those “Awww….” moments, I just had to interrupt this father and son game of catch to snap their photos. As are most every Bronxite I come across for TheBronxRocks, they were very willing and happy to pose. Thanks guys!
Tags: Alphie's Place, Fiorentina Italian Bar and Grill, Rino's Ristorante
Posted in BRONX NABES, BRONX RESTAURANTS, FACES OF THE BRONX, THINGS TO DO IN THE BRONX | No Comments »
09.26
08
by Simone ·
JOE’S PLACE - PARKCHESTER
I’ve already posted about
Zagat-rated Willie’s Steakhouse on Westchester Avenue (just outside the Parkchester Condo Complex) and I have to tell you about another place just across the street - the delightful
Joe’s Place - a true Bronx treasure that regular Joe’s (sorry!) as well as celebrities and local politicians continue to patronize for it’s authentic Caribbean flavored cuisuine, unbelievably friendly staff, homey decor and camraderie of fellow diners. A separate bar adjoins the restaurant where the lovely Eva tends bar. This is the type of place where the owner is as famous as his food - doesn’t he look like he’s got more than a few great stories to share! Check out Joe’s website for menu and directions.
(Photo of Joe Torres courtesy of his website)
Just a few members of Joe’s friendly staff! Thanks guys for a great evening!
Posted in BRONX NABES, BRONX RESTAURANTS, FACES OF THE BRONX, PARKCHESTER | No Comments »
09.25
08
by Simone ·
I posted this several weeks ago, but just had to remind all of you what a great time is to be had tomorrow night if you show up at The Bruckner Bar and Grill to catch these great acts! Have a blast!
(Photo courtesy of Elle Perez)
MOTT HAVEN - SoBro
For all you young and hip underground rock fans - here’s a SAVE THE DATE for you:
A REVOLUTION! Party - Friday, September 26th at Bruckner’s Bar & Grill
Connected with the same group that brought you the Bronx Underground (NSFW), Revolution! has finally brought the dance party scene to the South Bronx! Here’s what one of the organizers, Anita Colby, has to say: “Produced by a collective of Bronx native musicians and artists with a vision to mix live bands, art, nightlife and Bronx authenticity; the Revolution! Party exploded onto the scene this July”. And yes, Anita, we agree with you when you say that “The Bronx is burnin’ indeed!” She also says that this will be a monthly event at the Bruckner Bar & Grill! We think that’s great news for Mott Haven (and, of course, the Bronx in general)! You not only get great music, a fresh and hip party scene, but you get Bronx prices as well - A $7 cover and $3 shots! Show me any where else in NYC where you are going to find that combination! Yeah- I didn’t think so!
Take a listen to a few past and present acts from a Revolution Party: Fire and Reason, The Scene,
Kissy Kamikaze, and William Control. (NSFW)
Photos by Elle Perez from Revolution!’s last event:
Tags: Bruckner Bar & Grill, Mott Haven, Revolution! Party
Posted in BRONX MUSIC AND DANCE, BRONX NABES, BRONX RESTAURANTS, FACES OF THE BRONX, SOBRO, THINGS TO DO IN THE BRONX | No Comments »
09.17
08
by Simone ·
Check out he fabulous
G-Bar on the Grand Concourse! The food was great, the staff unbelievably friendly and the upscale decor very cozy and inviting! Stop in and see for yourself. And say hi to the very freindly Jessica, Remus and Fiona (pictured below). For more on the G-Bar, read my write-up on the
BoogieDowner.
Tags: G-Bar
Posted in BRONX RESTAURANTS, FACES OF THE BRONX, SOBRO | 4 Comments »
09.14
08
by Simone ·
BRONX MUSEUM
Besides the wonderful performances (above post) the Street Fair also presented visitors with great outdoor shopping, food vendors, a wonderful exhibit and Museum gift shop. Featured below were just a few of the artists offering their work.
Chanel
Malikka Style
Tags: Bronx Museum, Chanel, Kennebrew, Malikka Style, Star Nigro, Street Art Street Life
Posted in BRONX ART and CULTURE, FACES OF THE BRONX, SOBRO, THINGS TO DO IN THE BRONX | No Comments »
09.14
08
by Simone ·
THE BRONX EQUESTRIAN CENTER
Horses in the Bronx?!?! Shut Up! That’s exactly what I said when I passed the BEC on my way to City Island a while back. Located on Shore road next to the Pelham Split Rock Golf Course and surrounded by the beautiful woods of Pelham Bay Park, this equestrian facility will take you out on the trails, give you lessons, offer your little ones pony rides and even board your horses. An hour ride through the woods is a mere $30, and I popped for an additional $10 to take a lesson just to be able to get up to a trot and cantor. It is a wonderful way to spend the day (especially with kids as the families below can attest to!)
Isn’t there just SOMETHING about little girls and horses!
The family below was up from Manhattan for lessons. And all I can say about the little boy on the horse is….awwww!!!!

Benny, my trail guide and instructor.
Tags: Bronx Equestrian Center, Horses
Posted in FACES OF THE BRONX, THINGS TO DO IN THE BRONX | No Comments »
09.14
08
by Simone ·
Exhausted after horsebackriding, I ventured in to a couple of places that I have often passed on my way to City Island or Pelham Bay Park - Villa Barone Ristorante and Sophie’s Diner (both located adjacent to the Pelham Bay subway stop). These two places are favorites with locals, but are also worth a bus or subway ride if you are in the mood to check out a new place (and then maybe walk across the street to the park to walk off the wine, pasta or burger!)
First, Villa Barone. What a treat - great food (I had a delicious Fettucine in a white clam sauce), friendly service and great conversations with locals who are die-hard regulars here.
Anthony, Eddie and Roy provide diners with superb service!
I overheard these guys talking about The Bronx back “in the day” and I just had to stop by and say hello. Frank and Louise Santucci (married for 61 years!) on the right, and Frank’s brother Frank (yep!), his Finnish wife Torborg and their son, Vincent were all so wonderful and friendly I could’ve spent hours listening to their tales and knowledge of Bronx history. They are true Bronxites to the core! Thanks guys! And thanks to the two Franks for their service to our country; both are veterans of World War II, but sadly were sent to fight against their homeland - Italy. Ah, the stories of our elder generations…
And if you ever need to book a room for a private affair, check out the back room at the Villa Barone!
Now for Sophie’s Diner. After Villa Barone, I went looking for a cappucino and found the perfect place. Mary Raffa owns Sophie’s (and all it’s fab 50’s decor) after buying it from her former employer - the owner of The Station Diner. (Mary used to waitress at The Station 20 years ago!) And the name of the restaurant? Well, check out the photo below. Behind Mary is her neice named (you guessed it) - Sophie.
Tags: Pelham Bay, Sophie's Diner, Villa Barone Ristorante
Posted in BRONX NABES, BRONX RESTAURANTS, FACES OF THE BRONX | No Comments »
09.13
08
by Simone ·
ORVILLE DAVIS - BRONX EQUESTRIAN CENTER
I had the pleasure of walking by the Bronx Equestrian Center a few weekends ago while on my way to visit the Bartow-Pell Mansion (see post below) and having a great conversation with Orville Davis, a bad-ass rockin’ country musician who’s called NYC home for 20 years. Orville moonlights at the BEC as a horseback riding guide. Check out his sound, y’all! Having ties to the great state of Tennessee, I love this music!!!! (Several of his songs are already on my iPod - so check him out on iTunes!) Orville also hosts the Open Mic night Monday’s at Keenan’s Piano Lounge in Inwood/Washington Heights.
And for more on the Bronx Equestrian Center, stay tuned - I plan on another visit soon to get on a horse and go exploring through the beautiful wooded trails that surround the stables.

(Photo courtesy of Orville’s
website)
Tags: Orville Davis, The Bronx Equestrian Center
Posted in FACES OF THE BRONX, THINGS TO DO IN THE BRONX | 2 Comments »
08.30
08
by Simone ·
Mott Haven, South Bronx Bruckner Bar & Grill and Sweetwater’s Bar & Grill
After the wonderful brunch I had at Alexander’s Cafe (see post below), I mosied on over to two other great Mott Haven establishments for coffee and drinks - the famous, Zagat-rated Bruckner Bar and Grill and Sweetwater’s. First, Bruckner Bar and Grill: great atmosphere, reasonable prices and a fun and always-friendly bartender (link NSFW due to volume) who’s also a a pretty cool rock-n-roller!! (Who knew?!?) Because I had already eaten, I didn’t sample the food, but what I saw (and smelled!) coming out of the kitchen makes me vow to return quite soon. Oh, and P.S. - the best sighting in SoBro (bar none) was provided at The Bruckner - two nuns, eating burgers…drinking beers…out of the bottle!!! Priceless!
Sweetwater’s was next on my tour of Mott Haven - and what a great little surprise. The charming bartender Starr, though not the owner or manager, seemed to be the enterprising driving force of the restaurant/bar. When you stop in, try ordering her very own concoction - The Starr Bright! But be forewarned. She made one for the photo (see below) and it looked like it would knock you off your you-know-what!!!
Tags: Bruckner Bar & Grill, Sweetwater's
Posted in BRONX NABES, BRONX RESTAURANTS, FACES OF THE BRONX, SOBRO, THINGS TO DO IN THE BRONX | No Comments »
08.30
08
by Simone ·
Alexander’s Cafe - Mott Haven, South Bronx
A friend of mine living in Mott Haven turned me on to this little gem on Alexander Avenue (at Bruckner Boulevard). I ventured in for brunch and struck up conversation with fellow diners as well as with Mateo David and Chris Dimitriyadi - the two very friendly owners. This creative and dynamic duo has created a charming cafe with a wonderful, soothing ambiance and remarkably refreshing customer service. Oh, and the food? I ordered the Salmon Eggs Benedict and the very first thing I noticed after digging in (besides the overall deliciousness) was the amazing freshness and quality of the ingredients - right down to their freshly baked croissants - served in lieu of English muffins. Best croissants this side of Paris, I promise you! It is immediately apparent in this age of homogenized and processed food just how much these guys take pride in what they serve to each and every customer. And for all you beer lovers - stop in and sample a few of their 107 different types of beers!!!
And check out some serious international press for Alexander’s in this London Financial Times article: “Bonfire of an Urban Myth“. Not too shabby, guys! Keep up the good work. I will definitetly be back - see you soon! (For more, visit here and read my write-up - ”Culinary Delight in SoBro!”)
Pictured from top: Mateo David and Chris Dimitriyadi - owners; outside shot of Alexanders; patrons Tomas, Alex Abeles and Vered (Alex is the owner of The Bruckner Bar and Grill); and new Bronx visitors Dru and Josue, up from Staten Island to visit friends in the fabulous lofts in The Clocktower. They secretly confided that they (like many) had some trepidations about venturing into the Bronx. But after a few minutes here (and a few Mimosas!) they were all smiles. Yes, guys - you found out in a NY minute that those Bronx myths are so YESTERDAY! It was a pleasure meeting you all! Keep in touch!
Check back tomorrow for posts on The Bruckner Bar and Grill, Sweetwaters and other fun SoBro stuff!!
Tags: Alexanders Cafe, SOBRO, South Bronx
Posted in BRONX NABES, BRONX RESTAURANTS, FACES OF THE BRONX, SOBRO, THINGS TO DO IN THE BRONX | No Comments »