Live, From New York, It's...
Taylor Lehman - New York City - 06/10/2007
It's been just over a week now (probably about a week and 4 hours) that I've been in New York City. As I'm sure many of you who read this space know, I'm working for Morgan Stanley's as an intern in the information technology summer program. I live near the South Seaport in the financial district. This is my first time living in New York City, and it has taken significant time and effort to get adjusted to. While the adjustment process has been noticable, I am thoroughly enjoying my time here and expect to learn a lot (both in and out of work) this summer. Let me share with you some NYC beta.
For those who enjoy running/biking/roller blading (I personally prefer the former), there is a bike path which extends from battery park up the entire West side of Manhattan. From anywhere on the West Side (or basically anywhere in the financial district), it is very accessible. It's in very good condition, and is patrolled by the NYPD in the evening. Because it is so long, it usually isn't very crowded and you can move as fast (or as slowly) as you want.
I've been to a number of Restaurants since I've been here. Charlie's Mom is a Chinese restaurant in the West Village. The portions are large, and the place is normally nice and quiet, but the food itself, while not bad, is nothing to write home about. China Grill is a nice asian place in midtown. This is a nice upscale place, but the atmosphere is relatively cold. The food is eclectic, and good. The Calimari salad features steamed (rather than fried) calimari, which I had never had before. The dessert sampler is delicious and includes a number of uniquely shaped and tasting deserts. The chocolate cake is particularly good. Gigino's at Wagner Park is another nice restaurant in battery park with a phenomenal view of the harbor and statue of liberty. I went out on a limb here and ordered the Parmesan appetizer, and was surprised to be eating a semi-circular piece of Parmesan cheese. It was actually quite good with the peppers and tomatoes it was served with. Pongsri was one of my favorite dining experiences in the city. This was by far, the best Thai food I have ever had. The Thai iced tea was delicious, and the Panang pork was spiced perfectly. I'll definitely be doing lunch here again. The Grey Dog is the only place I've been that is better than Pongsri. Nate Chapin and I went here to kill some time before we saw Oceans 13 last evening. The iced-tea is only so-so, but the turkey club is amazing. The sandwich is huge, and oh-so tasty. This place sells all sorts of drinks (from wine to smoothies, coffee to iced tea) and a nice selection of food to go with it. It's not too pricey, and the atmosphere is very relaxing. I'll definitely be hitting this place up on my way home from work many times this summer.
In terms of relaxing after work, anyone in the down town area should most certainly check out the pier at the South Seaport. Most of the bars have happy hour that extends until 8PM, and you are allowed to take your drinks anywhere on the pier. It's a great place to hang out and enjoy a great view of the east river, Brooklyn, and the numerous bridges which cross the river as the evening shadows extend themselves across the pier.
There are other things to share as well. For getting around the city via the subway, there is nothing better than HopStop and Gypsy Maps. Both of these sites allow you to enter your starting and ending location and give you walking/subway directions. These have been priceless as I learn to navigate myself around the city (proud to say I haven't taken an incorrect train yet!). Subway riders should be prepared to do something during the wait/ride. Music is always good, and a book is even better. I've begun reading a book titled Under the Overpass while I wait, and it has really helped the time pass. Instead of willing the trains to arrive - I hate when they arrive because now I have to put my book down. It really is a distinct change in mindset.
Ah, and one last thing before I finish. The theater that Nate and I saw Oceans 13 had a balcony. That's correct, a movie theater with a balcony. I'm sure not in Lancaster anymore!