4.12.2009

The Easter Parade

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People in fancy hats and outfits stroll up and down 5th Avenue every year for the Easter Parade. I have wanted to see this since I first saw the Judy Garland musical comedy by the same name, and this year I got to catch the end of the festivities. Some great and not so great outfits. Something you definitely must see (or participate in).

4.11.2009

Chowing down at the Shake Shack

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Slowly but surely the weather is getting nicer here in NYC. This means less time taking the subway and more time enjoying the walk to and from work and spending free times in the various parks and outdoor venues around the city.

If you are looking for an alternative snack to a hot dog from one of the numerous street vendors, I suggest checking out the Shake Shack.

With locations in Madison Square Park and the Upper West Side you should easily be able to access the deliciousness of the Shack.


Shake Shack

Southeast corner of Madison Square Park (Madison Ave. and 23rd St.)
or
366 Columbus Ave. (at 77th St.)



The food is reasonably priced with burgers, hot dogs, fries, drinks and custard ranging from $1.75-9.50, average price for a meal is easily under $10.

The burgers taste fresh and are surprisingly not too greasy for a place that calls itself a Shack. I highly recommend going with a Shack Burger to enjoy the awesomeness of the Shack sauce. Not really sure what it is, but it makes the burger taste way better than your average fast food joint.

Above and beyond everything else the Shake Shack has to offer, I highly recommend getting an order of the cheese fries. (I am a sucker for a good order of cheese fries, no matter how unhealthy. However, the Shack's special-made blend of real cheddar and American cheese sauce make this snack a true delight. Supposedly the fries also have %25 less fat than average fries and paired with the lack of artificial florescent orange cheese these fries could be considered downright healthy! Okay, maybe not, but they are delicious!)

The line at Shake Shack can be downright gigantic during busy times (The Web site has a live video feed so you can check the line situation at the MSP location) and there is definitely a protocol to ordering that can be intimidating. You want to have your mind made up and your money ready before approaching the order window. For newbies, I suggest going on a rainy day or during off-peak hours (3 p.m. on a weekday?) the first time if you are easily flustered.

Overall, I loved discovering this eatery this winter and I can't wait to truly enjoy the great food and drinks now that the weather is warming up.