9/2 - Reading David Kinch
And how Miss Congeniality could disrupt New York City nightlife.
Restaurants:
Find previously recommended spots here.
Insightful article outlining Tishman Speyer’s restaurant investments at Rockefeller Center. The real estate giant convinced restaurants like Estela and Atomix to open additional concepts in a hospitality deadzone.
NYT piece on the rapid unfurling of Blank Street’s massive and annoying existence. A proper case of “craft washing,” Blank Street poses as boutique and local despite its substantial private-equity backing and steadfast commitment to serving uninspired, shitty coffee.
Books:
Recently picked up former three Michelin Star chef David Kinch’s “at home” cookbook and oh, is it a banger. A renowned keeper of the vibe, when he isn’t surfing or sailing or staying at his house named the “the pink palace,” Chef Kinch spends his time making four of five ingredient meals that are accessible, beautiful, and delicious. Could not recommend this book enough if you’re trying to cook more or want someone you know to start cooking better.
Podcasts:
In the latest episode of his podcast, David Chang retraces the stylistic history of plating to forecast coming restaurant trends. The episode is ripe with nuggets of culinary history, including a delightful dissertation on the emergence of comically tall food in the 1980’s. However, his ultimate conclusion is ominous: expect New York City dining to get more exclusive, more expensive, and more formal.
My One Point Plan To Disrupt NYC Nightlife: A Miss Congeniality Case Study
I watched Miss Congeniality for the first time last week. While appearances from Michael Cain and William Shatner are from well beyond left field, the biggest surprise was finding the bar of my dreams in this otherwise forgetful movie.
Black light, lots of neon paint, and a drum section that you can get #involved with. This is perfect. Also– and this is what truly matters – you can tell that shorts and a hat wouldn’t just be accepted there, both would be encouraged.
If you think this is a bit (it’s not), I’d have you know that there is a rich community of internet dwellers who also crave a night at this neon sanctuary. See Betty R and Guerra’s comments below.
Of course, paint and nightlife walk a very, very, fine line. I’m not suggesting we reinvest in this:
Or that all bars consult with glowinthedarkblog.wordpress.com for interior design.
However, I sure think Janice M. and friends do leave it all out on the floor every time they decide to glow. We should all strive to be a bit more like them. Here’s to getting a little messier, wearing more shorts and hats, and being content looking strange if it means you’re having genuine fun.
Happy Labor Day y’all.
Expect more real food content next week. Figured most people are traveling somewhere this week. Whether it’s to Long Island or the L-Couch in your apartment, enjoy the journey.