La Cienega - Escape to Espana

In October of 2011 La Cienega opened its doors in New Rochelle to purveyors of upscale Latin cuisine.  Pedro Munoz and Vivian Torres the duo responsible for Luz in Fort Greene Brooklyn, decided to inject the aesthetic of cool up north.  La Cienega feels like the perfect first date restaurant. The walls are textured, tables varnished and lighting flattering to all complexions.

And just like a first date, some things just don't fit. While the food is good, the menu is an assortment of many Latin countries, with influences from Brazil, Columbia, Peru and Cuba. I cannot help but think that this good restaurant could be great if it focused on cuisine from one region. On Thursday evenings they have a live band which includes a Greek, Latino & African American keeping with the theme of harmonious melange. La Cienega is like passing through 4 countries on a quick trip to Espana: exciting, appetizing and a bit dizzying. 

Must: Any of the 4 Ceviches 

Bust: The restaurant is situated in dealership row

                                     www.cienegarestaurant.com

Consign it- Shop like Jackie O

                                    www.consignitonmain.com

Did you ever wonder what it would be like to shop at Jackie O's yard sale? Now is your chance at ConsignIt on Main. In existence since 2008, this 5000 square foot store has exactly what you need to give your home that finishing touch. From, oriental rugs, chandlers, chaise lounges, china, paintings and objects de art, ConsignIt has something for you. Candice Denslow and Dom Cioffoletti are there to assist with your selection as well as your interior design needs.

In addition to home furnishings, ConsignIt has a new designer boutique, Sweet Preserves in the rear of the store.  Amy Coleman has over 20 years in the haute clothing space. She commutes from Rye because she views New Rochelle as the ideal place to market her  high end goods. She has an impressive collection of designer brands including Gucci, Kate Spade, Pucci, Jones New York and Ferragamo.  Most impressive is an enviable collection of jewelry that was miraculously supplied by one owner.

Backstreet Gallery- All that Glitters

                                      www.backstreetgallery.com

Located on picturesque Lawton Avenue, is the Backstreet Gallery.  Ivar Hayden, the master framer with 35 years experience, has the perfect setting for a gallery. The intimate space has high ceilings and an artist mural on the exterior of the building. Enter and the neutral colored walls create the ideal canvas for an artist to showcase their work. Today Hilary Zelson was showing pieces from her  Dripping in Glitter collection.  For the pieces she used glitter on canvas in lieu of paint.

The room was abuzz with local art aficionados including New Rochelle Mayor Noam Bramson. While guests nibbled on gourmet appetizers and sipped champagne, Ivar worked the room engaging patrons in conversation. After 30 minutes one could easily forget that they are in New Rochelle and not SoHo.

                                   Hilary Zelson, Bubbles 2012 

Exterior Mural 

Jeff Schlager "Steal Away" 2008 

Kinckerbocker Press- Lofty Luxury

                                           www.knicklofts.com

This 122 year old printing press has the charm and history one could only get by residing in the New York Public library. The Dutch Colonial building served as a printing press for 30 years until the American White Cross moved in and occupied the space until the late 70's. The building then served as artists lofts in the 80's and 90's. Then was converted to lofts in 2007. Having maintained the integrity of the facade including a full restoration of  the ornate tower; the Knickerbocker Lofts is a must see. 

Downtown New Rochelle has undergone a transformation that's maintained the century old architecture while adding just a touch of modern improvements for the design inclined. This is why I tout New Rochelle as the Williamsburg of Westchester.  The Knickerbocker was added to the NY State list of Historical Places in 2000. So, why not Live-In history. 

Norman Rockwell- The New Rochelle Years

For 25 years Norman Rockwell called New Rochelle his home. His studio was on 360 North Avenue, he banked at New Rochelle Trust on Main Street and rented an apartment on Prospect Street. The work above Deadline was created in 1938, just one year before he moved to Arlington, VT. The reason this Manhattan born iconic artist spent; as he would later put it "the happiest years of his life" in New Rochelle, is simple. New Rochelle is special.

All of the works featured in this blog were created during his time in New Rochelle.

 No Swimming: June 4, 1921 - Features the son of a friend, Franklin Lischke (Middle boy)

 

Doctor and Doll: March 29, 1929 - This was Rockwell's 114th Cover of the Saturday Evening Post

AOC Wines- Grapes of Wrath

One third of the AOC wine franchise located in  Greenwich and Columbus Circle; this AOC  location could use a drink.  Despite being located on the busy corner of Huguenot and Division, this shop is typically empty most evenings. The tinted glass could give one the impression that they are not open to the public.  Or maybe it's the simplistic warehouse design that deters browsing or impulse purchases.  Whist the stock is adequate, an oenophile may find the selection meager. There are several organic wines that are a good value and worth a try. The store manager was helpful but, did not make any suggestions outside of the vintage I requested.
AOC offers wine paring suggestions and free classes once a month. While I think the location is perfect, they need to work on making the experience one that is fine like wine.

Must: There are many $20 palate pleasing wines
Bust:  The shop is unwelcoming and has a warehouse feel

Castle Gallery - Lords and Ladies welcome

                                                                                          

Are you looking for something the entire family can do together? Well look no further, The Castle Gallery (Formerly Leland Castle), located on the campus of The College of  New Rochelle is just what the King and Queen ordered.  Spend a few hours and get lost in the in the various exhibits. The exhibits change three times a year and the best part is that they are all free to the the public. This weekend is celebrate family fun day.  On Sunday April 29th from 1-4 on the Maura lawn. There will be food, magic and games for the entire family to enjoy.

      Must: The breathtaking exterior                                       

      Bust: The exhibits are not refreshed often enough                       

                                                     www2.cnr.edu/cg
                             http://www.facebook.com/pages/Castle-Gallery/128877797149973

Posto 22 - Italy comes to Division Street

Strategically placed in the center of Division street is Posto 22. On this unseasonably warm April evening the doors were open to create the illusion of a sidewalk eatery while exposing  smells from within. Hungry commuters jockeyed for position at the bar to watch the Knicks game and feast on complimentary rolls. The room is sparsely decorated and has an airy quality. There is an outdoor patio in the rear of the restaurant as well as a dinging room that could be used for private events. 

The scene is family friendly and  portions are ample.Tuesdays are 1/2 off bottles and glasses of wine and the selection consists of Italian favorites.If you go, try the margherita pizza and the cheese ravioli. carbs are not your enemy at Posto.

Must: Tuesday 1/2 off bottles
Bust: The room gets crowded and loud.

                                                          

                                                                    www.posto22.com

Alvin & Friends - Where everybody knows your name

A taste of the Islands in New Rochelle. Enter this Southern/Caribbean escape and the smells will intoxicate you.  Sit back and relax in this  upscale restaurant/ gallery where the walls are adorned with artwork by none other than the proprietor Alvin Clayton. When you go, order the fried chicken and save room for his take on pineapple upside down cake made with rum and toffee. The room is intimate and the host affable. On the night I visited there were many self-described regulars in the elegant dining room. As I got up to leave Alvin thanked me for coming and addressed me by name. I could not help but think of the Cheers theme song. The only thing missing was Sam and Diane. 

Must: The fried chicken
Bust: In contrast It would be nice to have lighter/calorie conscious  fare on the menu

                                  www.alvinandfriendsrestaurant.com

The Gnarly Vine- A Main Street Hideaway

A little after 10pm on Saturday I walked into the Gnarly Vine. The crowd was lively and considering it was a holiday weekend still reasonably crowded. I ordered a cheese plate and a glass  Sauvignon Blanc. The owner said that they typically have live music on Saturday and I must come back. No bother, I was content listening to the dance-worthy tunes streaming throughout the space. After 2 hours, and a few glasses of wine (not telling you how many) I left feeling like I just discovered a neighborhood gem.

Must: Try the cheese plate.
Bust: The space is quite dim and unnoticeable- you may walk past it.

                                            www.thegnarlyvine.com