The Critique

A city-loving, jersey girl who will try anything once and always leave a review. With a love for eating, drinking and having fun, nothing tops off an experience like giving your critique. From restaurants and bars to events and activities to everything in-between, The Critique offers reviews and ratings of businesses and services in Manhattan, Jersey and beyond. Connect with The Critique: http://www.facebook.com/TheCritiqueEast http:/www.twitter.com/TheCritiqueEast

[thecritiqueeast]

To Market, To Market... JC Project: Market

One of my favorite things about Jersey City is the pride us residents have. Nothing ignites JC folks' passion for this city like The Jersey City Project's quarterly markets, #JCProjectMarket.

Filled with food, shopping and fun, the markets' feature the best of the best Jersey City businesses. Vendors offer up everything from delicious eats to fabulous fashion to specialty home decor. Despite the rain, this year's holiday market shined. Vendors and patrons were out in full force selling and savoring delicious food and one-of-a-kind, locally-made gifts. The only hard part of the event: not buying everything for yourself.

My husband and I scored big. First, we enjoyed apple cider bellinis from The Hamilton Inn. Next, we tasted Jersey City's newest tapas hotspot coming In early 2015, Raval JC. Our taste-buds were tickled by their oxtail empanadas and sopressa and manchego sandwich. From Spanish fare to Japanese cuisine, we tried Koro Koro's spicy salmon rice ball with cooked salmon, kimchi and chili mayo. To top it off, we had The Cow and Curd's amazing cheese curds with chipotle mayo dipping sauce.

It's hard to stick to a shopping list when you want everything you pick-up. But, we managed..with a few gifts for ourselves, of course. For family and friends, we got unique items from Another Man's Treasure vintage shop and L.O.V.E Furniture. For ourselves, we took home heavenly-scented candles from The Lucky Honeybee, an amazing Jersey strong mirror from Turnstyle Art and a treat for myself from Republic of Pigtails. To end the outing, we had sweet treats from JC dessertary, Milk Sugar Love.

With so many fabulous options, it was hard not to get something from every booth. However, the mix of adorable, affordable gifts and treat yourself (or someone else), more expensive items, there really is something for everyone at Project: Market.

If you didn't make it out today, the bazaar is open tomorrow from 11-6 at Jersey City Hall.

Get more info, meet the vendors or do a little pre-persusing: T: @jerseycityproj FB: The Jersey City Project I: The Jersey City Project

[thecritiqueeast]

It's About Time We Talked About Downtown Taqueria

There is one spot in Jersey City where, by the look of it, you'd never expect a line, but there always is one. Located on Grove and Grand, Taqueria Downtown serves up inexpensive, classic mexican cuisine that is worth wanting for.

The tiny joint sits in the basement level of a brownstone. Entering the small restaurant, your immediately greeted by colorful decor featuring sombreros, knickknacks and photos as well as a variety of chachkies and stickers. If you're not enticed by the bright decor, the smell of fresh mexican food will keep you in line. The place is filled with aromas of onions, lime and fresh-made tortillas.

Whether you're seeking a hangover cure, craving fresh guac or are in search of a strong margarita, Taqueria offers all the mexican food favorites. From tacos and rice and beans to cheesey quesadillas to tamales, you can't go wrong with anything on the menu. My favorites include the chorizo quesadillas, steak tacos and tasty margaritas.

The warm, inviting atmosphere, high-energy 80s music and long wait, creates a social, friendly neighborhood seen. Waiting patrons are often friendly, sharing menu recommendations and getting to know their fellow JC folks. 

Some points to remember when you visit this must-try Jersey City staple:

- You're going wait, so don't come hangery

- It's cheap, cheap, cheap - so eat up!

- Ask to sit on the patio, it cozy, laid-back and the perfect spot to hang on nice weather days

[thecritiqueeast]

Two Aprons, Tons of Fabulous Food Options

Waking up late on a Saturday morning, my first thought is often: "I need sustenance and coffee." I'm usually want something large, iced and with carbs. With so many great coffee shops and brunch places in Jersey City, choosing a spot for my first meal weekend meal often involves some indecisiveness. Less than two blocks away, I generally go with Legal Grounds for my morning brew and buttery croissant, shared with my husband of course. However, swimming in the Hudson and playing in the Morris Canal has become a favorite summertime pastime of my pups. Leading us on a different path to pick-up our Saturday Morning Joe. I first tried Two Aprons mistakenly after stumbling upon it on my search for pie. Pecan to be exact. I'm generally more of a salty foods kind of gal, but after a particularly glum start to the weekend, I was craving something sweet.

When I passed by Two Aprons, at Warren and Morris, I popped in out of curiosity. The tiny coffee shop/cafe/bakery is inviting with a homey decor featuring vintage appliance and a cozy square footage that makes you feel right at home. Deep in my sweet tooth craving, I grabbed a slice of pie to-go. To say that I was pleasantly surprise is an understatement. Honestly, it's one of the best pieces of pecan pie I've ever had. Sweet, but not overly indulgent, with a flaky crust that's not too buttery. Since stopping by for pie, I've done a little research and discovered the Paulus Hook hole-in-the-wall has a whole lot more to offer than pie. The Mediterranean eatery serves up breakfast, lunch and dinner options ranging from fresh-baked pastries on-site to whole chickens roasted right there.

My new favorite from Two Apron are whole-wheat, poppy-seed croissants. Healthy isn't the first word that comes to mind when we're describing buttery pastry options. However, Two Aprons whole-wheat option is a little less bad for you than other decedent breakfast treats.

So, next time JC eateries are packed or you're looking for a quick, quality dinner to-go, stop by Two Aprons. What to expect: - Super affordable! Last weekend, I got a croissant and iced-coffee for $4 - Check out their many drink options. They keep fresh-squeezed juices and variety of fun sodas in the fridge - If you're on a diet or health-conscious, Two Aprons offer a ton of healthy eats. For instance, try Carlos' Protein Wrap - egg whites, rotisserie chicken, tomato, red onion and aioli- or the Big Blue Tartine - tuna, capers, scallions, tomato and aioli on whole wheat, sundered tomato or plain panini.

[thecritiqueeast]

Back at it with a Critique on a JC Classic

I'm baaacccckk! I know, i've been slackin', majorly. I've been indulging in the sun, enjoying the many summer happenings in downtown Jersey City and immersing myself in my spinagogue, SoulCycle.

But the blog calls, and with all the amazing things coming to and going on in JC, I've got a whole lot to write about. What better way to get back in the swing of things than with a critique of Jersey City classic, Light Horse Tavern.

I have a love/hate relationship with this place. One thing I always love is the decor - a mix of exposed brick, wood and titling. The place has the feeling of vintage mansion meets a modern day eatery. With tons of beautiful outdoor space, surrounded by colorful fresh flowers and umbrella-shaded tables, the exterior is inviting and the perfect place for weekend brunch.

The food, awesome. The cocktails, strong and tasty. Brunch favorites include:

- The variety of Benedicts, choose from salmon, lobster, spinach and Canadian bacon 

- Bourbon vanilla fresh toast (it revivals the cronut!)

- The special, which ranges from an herbed lamb sandwich to a serrano ham omelette to a soft shell crab sandwich

For dinner, try:

- Fresh oysters, presented beautifully and of the freshest variety

- Bacon-wrapped meatloaf, need I say more

- The burger, juicy, delicious and comes with fries served with a yummy mayo dipping sauce

The decor and the food keep me coming back, but the service always makes me hesitant to sit down. The manager is always very short and rude. The staff take their time and are often more concerned with chatting than serving. While the food and ambience is generally worth it, the wait and lack of concern by the staff is frustrating.

If you can stand to wait, and aren't easily annoyed by poor service, the food may be worth giving the place a try. Some things to note:

- The place is pet-friendly, the patio is perfect for dining with your pup

- Great for groups, Light Horse has plenty of space for larger parties or a group of 2

- Mildly pricey. Some items are well-priced, others are a little much for what they offer

Light Horse on Social:

F and T

[thecritiqueeast]

Summer Sweet Tooth Satisfaction

This time of year, without fail, my sweet tooth goes into overdrive. I don't known if it's the warm weather, longer days or the smell of summer, but by 7 or 8 o'clock, I'm craving something sweet. Thankfully, I live two blocks from one of Jersey City's best sweet treat spots, Tommy 2 Scoops.

Located on Marin and York, Tommy's serves up cafe classics like sandwiches, wraps and salads along with some of the best tasting gelato I've ever had. With flavors ranging from coffee to strawberry cheesecake to melon to cannoli, Tommy has a flavor for every palette. While I'm partial to pistachio, I like to sample everything in the case. Thankfully, the friendly staff at 2 Scoops is more than willing to let guests sample away.

The atmosphere is laid-back and casual with a fabulous outdoor garden where you can eat with friends, family and even your pups. Out front, there's an old school ice cream cart and chairs for schmoozing while you enjoy your sugary treat.

On the shortlist:

- Portions are plentiful, so opt to share

- You can mix and match. Even with one scoop you can get a little bit of this and a little bit of that

- Check out Tommy's sister restaurant, Brightside Tavern. They even have a shuttle to take you to and fro

Connect with Tommy's:

FB and T

[thecritiqueeast]

Beyond the Carryout Container: A Glimpse Inside Hamilton Inn

My husband and I order from Seamless more often than I'd like to admit. But after a long, hard day, all I want to do is sit on the couch with a glass of wine, my pups and some good food (while binging on Netflix, of course). For the nights we do stay in, the menu has to be just right. One place that delivers every time is Jersey City's Hamilton Inn. In fact, their takeout is good, we never actually made it to the restaurant until recently. Located in Jersey City's Hamilton Park neighborhood, the Hamilton Inn sits sweetly on a corner lot among beautiful brownstones and the park. The one-room restaurant offers a quaint, homey feel with exposed brick and hardwood floors. The well-dressed bartenders serving up cocktails in mason jars and old-school cocktail glasses give the place a vintage vibe.

I knew the food was phenomenal, but I was happy to learn they're also serving up cocktails with my favorite booze, Tito's Vodka. For brunch, they have all the favorites, like bloody Marys and mimosa. You can also get classic and signature cocktails, along with a variety of beers and wines.

I couldn't stop by without ordering my absolute favorite salad, the Candied Pecan. I get it every time - field greens, pears, warm goat cheese with balsamic. I can't get enough of the breaded, lightly fried goat cheese balls that top the salad. I'm a goat cheese junkie, so I also usually get the Potato & Goat Cheese Pierogies to go with it. These are an absolute must try! They offer the perfect cheese to potato ratio along with cooked-to-perfection caramelized onions.

My husband's favorite dish is the Crispy Chicken Wings. He gets them Asian BBQ-style, but they also offer them with buffalo sauce. They're doused with a sweet, teriyaki-style sauce that is killer for anyone with a sweet-tooth. We brought my father-n-law, and he opted for the Chopped Greek with hanger steak. The serving of steak was huge, and cooked-to-order. The feta and dressing is cool and creamy.

On the shortlist:

- Items get a little pricey with add-ons - a $9 salad becomes $16 with steak

- Dine in, take-out, delivery, the food is great regardless of where you eat it

- No need to go top-shelf, their house vodka is the fabulous Tito's

Connect with the Hamilton Inn: FB and T

[thecritiqueeast]

Serenity Now in Jersey City

Early this week, my husband and I celebrated our three year wedding anniversary. To celebrate the milestone, we took the day off and enjoyed a beautiful 70 degree day out and about in Jersey City. We took the dogs to Van Vorst Park Dog Park, had a late lunch at Amelia's, went shopping and, of course, no anniversary would be complete without a couples massage.

For our celebratory spa services we spent the afternoon at Serenity Day Spa. The tucked away day spa is located at Grand and Grove in Jersey City. Serenity offers massages, facials and other body treatments.

My favorite part about Serenity is it is intimate and quiet. You never know how busy they are as the place is always clean, inviting and tranquil. They also offer great monthly specials, like a $65 60-minute hot stone massage or $95 couples massage.

As far as the quality of the treatments, it really depends on the therapist. I've had both incredible and not so great massages at Serenity. I'd recommend booking with Angel - as she's just that! She's sweet, friendly and gives an amazing massage. She really has a knack for creating a custom massage experience for each person. My husband needs strong hands that can workout tough knots, while I need a light pressure as I'm extremely sensitive. We've both had massages by Angel and felt great afterwards.

I hate to call out specific people, but as I said, it's all about the therapist. This time around, I had Fonda. While she was nice, she was also a little impatient and short. Additionally, she rushed through the service, and didn't do a very good job. It was especially disappointing when my treatment was up 10 minutes before the 60 minutes. Maybe she is new or having an off day, but I won't book with her again.

On the shortlist, here's what to note when booking with Serenity.

- Book in advance. They tend to fill up fast, especially on the weekends

- Check their website before scheduling for the latest special

- Peruse their packages. You can get a discount on services when you purchase in bulk Connect with Serenity on social: FB and T

[thecritiqueeast]

Hair from Heaven: Blow Out Jersey City

Hairstylist: "Hi, my name is Angel." Me: "Why wouldn't it be?" I took my first conversation at Jersey City blow dry bar Blow-Out as a sign that I was in for a heavenly hairstyling experience.

Blow-dry bars are all the rage in Manhattan. I mean what busy city girl doesn't love a fabulous blowout, on-the-go for $40? When the trend made its way across the river, I couldn't wait to try JC's first-ever hair bar and beauty lounge.

Blow Out specializes blowdrys, but it's a full service salon offering colors, cuts, manis and pedis with make-up applications coming soon. Located just a few blocks from the Grove Street PATH stop, the blow-dry bar is the perfect spot to stop before a night on the town. With a night in Manhattan planned and my best friend in town, I decided to do just that.

When my friend and I stopped by to check availability on a busy Saturday afternoon, we were thankful to learn they still had a few spots available. When they agreed to honor our expired coupon, $10 off each blowout, we were even more excited. 

The salon is huge with modern, white-washed decor featuring pops of color and grand chandeliers. The staff is extremely friendly and keep the appointments entertaining. The fun, top 40 music and videos playing, makes for a fun, relaxed atmosphere.

With styles ranging from from the big-hair-don't-care Jersey Girl and the loose-waved Soho Chic, Blow Out offers a variety of styling options. For my big night on the town, I went with the voluminous Jersey Girl.

As someone with thick, coarse, long hair, I'm always nervous to let someone new touch my locks. Fortunately, Angel has the magic touch. He was patient, precise and perfected every strand. He used a mixed of blow-dry techniques and a curling iron to give me flowing waves. I was also obsessed with all the incredible smelling products he used. Most of which were from the Moroccan Oil line.

On the shortlist:

- Try and make your appointment in advance. They tend to book up fast, especially on the weekends

- You can only tip in cash, so be sure to bring some

- Come thirsty! They offer a variety of wines to sip while you get styled

Connect with Blow Out on social:

FB and T

Instagram

[thecritiqueeast]

Grove Street Glam: Tia's Place

Boutiques are my favorite places to find hidden gems. From one-of-a-kind accessories to that perfect gift to a diamond-in-the-ruff outfit found on the sale rack, boutiques make a shopping experience special.

One of my Jersey City favorites is Tia's Place on Grove Street. Located on Montgomery and Grove, a few blocks from the Grove St. PATH stop, Tia's offers a mix of colorful accessories, clothes with flair as well as bags, intimates and shoes. Whether your looking for a casual day look or an outfit for a night on the town, Tia's has a wide variety of attire.

Post brunch, it's one of my favorite spots to peruse. The over-sized store is filled with hidden gems. You really have to start slowly at one end and work your way around. Some of the best pieces I've found were hidden in the racks. My favorites include a navy and burnt orange peplum leather top, olive green vest with faux fur and a fab LBD.

When checking out Tia's, there's a few things to note. On the shortlist...

- They're a little pricey. I find many items are priced a little too high, especially in comparison to neighboring boutiques

- The music can get obnoxious. While they're trying to create a fun and funky atmosphere, the blasting Top 40 can be too much

- Ask for help. The staff is extremely helpful and knowledgeable. Lean on them if you're looking for something

Connect with Tia's on Social:

FB and T

[thecritiqueeast]

NYC Bagels Meet Their Match

The New York City bagel is widely regarded as the bagel that all bagels are compared against. It's a manhattan morning staple and defines how bagels across the country should taste. While they're made all the more enjoyable with schmear, lox or bacon, egg and cheese, a true NYC-style bagel needs no toppings to hit the spot. 

While the city will always have the notoriety for the best tasting bagels, it's just across the river where the best bagels are actually crafted - at Jersey City, New Jersey's Wonder Bagels. It's a big accusation to make, but New Yorker after New Yorker that tries one, admits it may be the best bagel they've ever had.

Located just a few blocks from the Grove street PATH stop, Wonder Bagels is the place to be on weekend mornings in downtown Jersey City. The line is always out the door and going there is somewhat of an event. Once you get inside, you're immediately overwhelmed by the intoxicating smell of baking dough, a fast-moving mob of patrons and workers and the adorable bagel shop cat that keeps an eye on it all.

So what makes Wonder Bagels the best? They're served up oversized and fresh out of the oven. The crust is flavorful and flaky, and the inside is a warm, soft cloud. The most-talked about variety is salt, but you can't go wrong with any flavor. My favs include everything whole wheat, sesame and poppyseed. 

Beyond the bagels, the Jersey City breakfast spot is serving up a huge selection of a.m. eats. From eggs, bacon and potatoes to a wide array of schmears to lox and tuna fish, the menu is diverse and sure to please everyone at the breakfast table.

On the shortlist:

- Prices vary. Whether your stick to the same order or constantly mix things up, the cost of things always seem to change. But don't worry, it always cheap

- If you're looking for a healthful option, try the carrot juice. They make it fresh

- Don't let the line deter you, it moves fast

[thecritiqueeast]

L'Chaim, Mazel and Vodka on Ice: Sammy's Roumanian

I hate to keep talking about my birthday, but let's be real, it's a girl's favorite holiday. This year for my day of birth extravaganza, I went with a New York City night on the town. This year, I mixed things up at one of NYC most notable celebration spots, Sammy’s Roumanian Steakhouse.

I've been describing the Lower East Side spot as "a bar mitzvah over dinner." But to truly understand the Sammy's experience, it's one of those things you just have to see to believe. 

There are two things about Sammy's that EVERYONE talks about - the bottle of vodka served in a block of ice and the maple syrup container of schmultz at every table. Other unforgettable features of the steakhouse include:

-A cheesy, sleazy and inappropriate DJ that plays all the party songs favorites. Think the Horah, Sweet Caroline and Brown Eyed Girl

- It's the BEST chopped liver you'll ever have, along with other jew food favorites like latkes, stuffed cabbage and kreplach. Oh, and EVERYTHING is cooked in schmultz 

Unlike a real bar mitzvah, you don't have to get dressed up for the occasion. The servers are dressed in logoed Ts and baseball caps, and the walls are covered floor to ceiling with business cards and photographs. Plan to sit on folding chairs, sit back to back with your neighbor and schvitz a little bit (you'll work up a sweat with all the dancing, and the lack of air conditioning). 

The family-style seating and portions make sharing easy. The food is heavy, so pace yourself and don't make big plans afterwords. As far as taste, the apps are outstanding. The entrees leave a lot to be desired.

There's so much to say about Sammy's but on the shortlist:

- If you want it, you have to ask for it. Just because you ordered the vodka in ice, doesn't mean you get mixers and ice to go with it. These items come by request 

- It's casual, but not cheap. If you plan to really indulge, expect to spend $75-$100 a person

- Let loose. How often do you get to do a group dance with fellow diner? Get out of your chair and do the Horah!

[thecritiqueeast]

Happy Adopt-a-versary, Theodore Milton!

Like many women, my birthday isn't just one day of the year, it's THE day of the year, and usually a month-long extravaganza. This year was made all more special as it was the one year adopt-a-versary of our little prince, Theodore Milton Libby.

After nearly two years of searching for the perfect companion for our first furry baby, Lola Jean, I met our little pekingese/terrier mix while shopping for my birthday outfit at Kanibal Home. While perusing the dresses, I heard the tap, tap, tap of little paws behind the register. I peaked over the counter, and it was love at first sight. 

I've been following the Jersey City dog rescue See Spot Rescued since I first moved to the area. I fell in love with all the adorable puppy pics on their Facebook page. I found myself constantly checking their page for not only the pics but also to learn all cute celeb name of their rescues. See Spot is famous for naming their pups after celebrities like Lucille Ball, Blake Lively and Farah Fawcett.

See Spot Rescued saves all their dogs from shelters in the South. They partner with Pilots N Paws to fly the dogs up to JC. The pups then stay with foster families until they find a permanent home.

One of my favorite parts about See Spot is its deep roots in the community and partnerships with JC businesses. Jersey City doggy daycare K9dergarten helps out with intake, daycare, supplies and much more. Local businesses like Kanibal and Hound About Town as well as JC events and festivals play host to adoption events. The 501(c)3 non profit really is a pillar of the Jersey City community.

The rescue recently extended its reach to the nation spotlight when the face of Bravo TV Andy Cohen adopted SSR pup Wacha (formally Johnny Knoxville). Since then, See Spot has been featured on Watch Happens Live, the Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon and a variety of national publications and news outlets.

Beyond capturing national attention, saving thousands of dogs and making Jersey City a better place, See Spot makes the adoption process easy, fast and hard to take home just one. SSR dogs come up-to-date on shots and vet visits.

On the shortlist of things to note about SSR:

- Dogs are seen via appointment only. Email [email protected] if you'd like to meet a particular pup

- You can apply to adopt a SSR dog online, apply at http://bit.ly/SSR-1113 

- If you're not sure about adopting just yet, you can volunteer or foster. Use the above email for more information

See all the adorable See Spot faces on social:

FB and T

Instagram

Tumblr

[thecritiqueeast]

Sweat Out Your Insecurity - SoulCycle Spotlight: Jason

Last week, I struck gold in finding my SoulCycle instructors. On Thursday, I met the soulful and badass Stevie. On Saturday, I got my ass kicked by the sassy and mega-motivational Jason.

One of the reasons I love SoulCycle so much is that each class is it's own experience - with different moves, music and motivational messages. While some instructors focus on form and nailing each move, others are all about fun and making sure each rider makes the ride their own experience. Jason offers a little bit of both.

I met a girlfriend for my weekly Saturday #Soulspiration at the Union Square studio. Neither of us had heard much about Jason prior to taking his class, so we went in with an open mind. When he started the class with an upbeat Top 40 mix, a fast sprint and the quote "sweat out your insecurity", I knew it was going to be an amazing class. 

If you're not in the mood to sweat, push yourself or stay focused, Jason's class isn't for you. He integrates arm work with a variety of push-ups and bicep-burning weight work. Don't expect to stay in the saddle for long, you'll be in 3rd position for the majority of the ride. And, get that booty back; you'll be jumping and tapping back for a good portion of the class.

Finding your Soul with Jason is fabulous. Here's the shortlist of things to note if you take his class:

- It ain't for the faint of heart. Jason classes are hard. You'll play with all sorts of resistance and speed that will force you to push yourself

- Listen carefully. He throws out some awesome motivational messages. My favorite of the class was: "A choice is a chance and it's yours"

- Scream, shout, singalong, let it out once in awhile in his class (esp. when he says:"it's time for Beyonce). It makes the ride all the more fun

Give Jason a shoutout on Twitter.

[thecritiqueeast]

Finding My Soul-Mate - SoulCycle Spotlight: Stevie

Finding the right Soul Cycle instructor is like finding the right partner. You want someone that pushes you but shows you the love. Like the right partner, the right Soul instructor will challenge, motivate and inspire you. With the "one", you'll experience love, hate, pain and an endorphin higher all in one incredible 45-minute session.

I found my love for Soul Cycle a few months ago. Since then, I've been searching for my perfect Soul-mate. With some instructors, I was only into their tunes. With others, I just liked their moves. In between, I was disappointed by a few and majorly motivated by others. However, sessions after session, I never quite felt like I found MY instructor. Until tonight.

This evening, I ventured to the West Village studio. I'm always anxious about new experiences, so with a new instructor and location, I was weary. Going into tonight's sweat sesh, I was also a little extra nervous as I heard the instructor, Stevie, was an award-winning NYC bike messenger.

My fear quickly faded with Stevie's welcoming warming up. She was upfront that she points and walks up to folks, but made it clear that each person's ride is truly their own. With a focus on form and fun, Stevie's ride was upbeat and incredibly motivating.

WIth a playlist featuring Tupac, Jay-Z and Rihanna as well as upbeat summer jams, the music was on-point. Stevie is all about spicy arms and integrates a lot of push-ups and killer weight work. She's big on jumps for an amazing booty and does a great job of keeping the class on pace. With quotes like: "take the drama out on the bike, not life", Stevie's messaging is motivating and inspiring. One of my favorite parts about her class is that she gives riders plenty of "me" time, allowing cyclers to just feel the song and their stride.

*Photo courtesy of caketokale.com

On the shortlist, here's a things to note about finding your Soul with Stevie:

- Like her bio says, she's "Thunderdome meets Namaste", so expect to ride hard and feel zen

- She teaches at studios across the city, so check her schedule

- Don't feel ashamed to ride at your pace, Stevie is great at making riders at all levels feel comfortable

Connect with Stevie on Twitter

[thecritiqueeast]

Brunch and the City: The Smith

I've shared my affinity for brunch before. There truly is nothing better on Sunday morning than mimosas (minus the OJ) and great conversation over great food with great friends. Last weekend, I had the opportunity to try one of Manhattan's brunch landmarks, The Smith.

Accommodating a party of 12 is never easy, but the staff at The Smith made the experience seamless. From seating us quickly at prime table to quick and friendly service to splitting up the check into six separate bills without error, the staff at The Smith Midtown were on it.

One of my girlfriend's prepped me on the menu - "you can't go wrong with the oysters and mussels", "the grits are to die for" and "the gnocchi is the best in the city". I'm a huge gnocchi fan, so I had my heart set on the Ricotta Gnocchi with truffle cream. Unfortunately, The Smith's brunch menu doesn't feature the dish, so I had to go with something else.

The best part of going out to eat with a large group is you get to try a little bit of everything. While I went with the Fried Oyster BLT Sliders, I also got to taste the cheese grits, lobster roll, fries, Ranchero Scramble (chipotle salsa, black beans, tortillas, cheddar and avocado) as well as the Potato Waffle Benedict (creamed spinach, poached eggs on a potato waffle). It was definitely one of those treat yourself meals.

The sliders were good, but the serving size was small. The potato bun was super fresh, crispy on the outside and soft in the inside. The crispy bacon complimented the salty, deep-fried oyster well. The grits were to die for, creamy and cheesy with a little bit spice. The best dish of the meal was the Potato Waffle Benedict. It's basically latkes topped with creamed spinach and a poached egg. Add a little bit of bacon, and it would have been perfection.

On the shortlist:

 - It ain't cheap. Entrees range from $15-$27 and drinks start around $10

- Take a moment to appreciate the decor. From floor to ceiling subway title to a photobooth and shoeshine station in the bathroom to the cool downtown feel of the overall ambience, The Smith is the place to be and be seen

- Reservations are a must, make one as far in advance as possible

Get social with The Smith:

FB, T and Instagram

[thecritiqueeast]

JC by the Slice: The Jersey City Pizza Scene

Plain cheese, pepperoni and mushroom, margarita...name your slice. When it comes to pizza, we all have a favorite pie and a place. While Jersey City is across the river from the city famous for its pizza, our little town holds its own. From gourmet thin crust to over-sized Manhattan-style slices to pies with toppings to the brim, Jersey City is home to a diverse selection of pizza pies.

Grab n' Go

When you're hungry, in a hurry and just want something hot and delicious to eat, Stella's on Grove Street is your spot. With indulgent flavors like buffalo chicken, baked ziti and philly steak along with the classics like white, plain and pepperoni, Stella's has a slice for everyone. If you're on a health kick, opt for the whole wheat crust.

An Artisanal Art Form

*photo courtesy of NJ.com

Some of the best pizza I've ever had comes from Grove Street's Razza Pizza Artigianale. The crust is paper-thin and has this sweetness that makes you eager for every bite. What makes the dough truly special is it's fermented and leavened with a wild yeast culture to create truly artisanal pizza. The Razza pie experience is rounded out with homemade mozzarella, tomato sauce and fresh toppings like arugula, asparagus and shaved onion.

While pizza is the restaurant's claim to fame, menu items like the kale Caesar and Polpette Al Forno (coal-fired meatballs) also shine. As for drinks, Razza has a great wine, cocktails and local beer menu. Don't forget to also appreciate the ambience. It's dark lighting and wood-laden floors, furniture, tables and bar give the place a cool downtown feel.

Get a glimpse into the place on FB and T

A Little Taste of New York

You don't have to head into the city for a slice of NYC-style pie. John's Pizzeria offers Manhattan-style slices in JC's Paulus Hook neighborhood. From traditional to gourmet to even gluten-free, John's menu features a variety of topping combinations and sizes. If you're in the mood for more than just pizza, check out their appetizer's entrees and sides.

Get saucy with them on social: FB and T

A Toast to Toppings

If you prefer to get adventurous with your pizza toppings, check out Paulus Hook Brick Oven Pizza. The pizza shop carries pies topped with everything from buffalo chicken bruschetta to rustique vegetable to Mediterranean favorites. The toppings are fresh, full of flavor and made all the more delicious atop bubbling mozz.

[thecritiqueeast]

Sunday Funday Redefined: Park & Sixth Gastropub

I'm a sucker for a good pretzel bun. There's just something about the starchy bread and satisfying taste of salt that makes a good sandwich on freshly-baked pretzel roll so irresistible. So when I visited, Park & Sixth Gastropub in Jersey City's Paulus Hook neighborhood, I had to try their widely raved about Waygu Burger. I mean, it's 8 oz. of dry-aged Waygu blend, mustard onion jam and Brie cheese on a pretzel bun. You can't turn that down!

The original Park & Sixth has long been a staple of the Jersey City community. With it's friendly staff, funky decor and decadent eats, it's the kind of neighborhood joint that you recommend to locals and visitors alike.

The Gastropub is the cool kid brother addition to the Park & Sixth family. From classic photos of old school mobsters to sports memorabilia to prohibition-style Moscow mule mugs, everything about the Gastropub makes you not only want to eat there but hang there too.

I'm also a fan of any place that brings you a bottle when you order Prosecco. The drink specials at the Gastopub are awesome! You can't beat $4 bloodies, bellinis and mimosas. And, for Gastropub goers who aren't that hungry, the small plates menu offers a variety of yummy lighter fare options - I recommend the muzz, beets and risotto.

On the shortlist:

- Go on a cheat day, you're going to want to treat yourself

- The Gastropub is a little pricer than the Grove St. location, expect to spend a few bucks more

- Perfect for Sunday Funday, there is a TV or two on every wall

They're as cool in person as they're on social:

FB and T

Instagram