A Mushroom Primer

We've got some interesting mushroom species here in North America and fungi geek David Fischer takes you through the mysteries, smells and colors of a few of the coolest ones on his site American mushrooms.

Good Neighbors

Last night, I could smell the most delicious curry wafting through the hallway of my apartment building. I noticed my neighbor's door was open, and asked her if she was making curry. She immediately came to the door and invited me in, and made me a bowl full of rice and chicken curry. I was stunned. I'd never spoken to her before, and with just a few words, I had dinner in my hand and had made a new friend. Thanks, Angela!

Staten Island Adventure

Finally, here are photos of last month's Staten Island adventure. We took the free ferry over to a fantastic, hidden gem of a restaurant called Enoteca Maria where we enjoyed incredible delicacies, great wine, and great company! Mary was very interested in the history of the ferry -- apparently it's had quite a few accidents since starting in 1898. Still, we can't wait to go back. Oh, and at Enoteca Maria, I highly recommend the zuchini flowers stuffed with ham and mozzarella. I was skeptical that zuchini could taste so good, but Laura convinced me to get them and I wasn't disappointed!

Two work lunch faves

There's nothing like a steaming bowl of matzoh ball soup from Ben's Deli! My other favorite lunch spot near work is just a few doors down at Pick-a-Pita. A pita jam packed with falafel, tabouli, carrots, onions, cucumbers and pretty much anything else you can think of. At $5, it's pretty much the best lunch deal in this neighborhood. Both are on West 38th street between seventh and eighth avenues. They also both happen to be kosher. This area is an interesting mix of fabric shops, kosher food, and tourists looking for Times Square!