Brooklyn, I'm Trying

An Alternative Weekend Guide | Equality Edition

Liz Norment — Fri, 12 Jun 2020 18:50:34 +0000

Last week I promised to use my weekend guides as a resource to get involved in this pinnacle part of history that is necessarily enveloping our borough. Because there is the need to feel this, to act, to show support, to come together to form a new reality and to force this country to change the social fabric that we have been accepting for way too long.

I will continue to update this post with new information, and to provide weekly events that support the Black Lives Matter movement in all its facets, and for the month of July, those that highlight and support the continued mission of the LGBTQ community.

So use this as a resource. Decide what you feel led to do. Find the best way to memorialize, to speak out and to show your city and country that this is unacceptable. But make sure you do something and feel something. This might be the most historic time we live through- so let’s actively live in it.

Here are the ways you should get involved this weekend and for the foreseeable future, until we create a future we want to live in.

Check your neighborhood for protests.

In the words of Marsha P Johnson, an African-American LGBT Rights Activist, “No pride for some of us without liberation for all of us.”

First, make sure you’re prepared.

The police have been aggressively arresting peaceful protestors for a number of reasons, forcing hundreds to spend the night in cramped jail cells nightly, confiscating their phones and belongings (forcing many to have their bikes inevitably stolen) and completely dismissing the threat of COVID-19. Know your rights and be prepared by reading this first. And then, let your voice be heard.

Neighborhood Protest Resources

Bushwick – @assemblywomandavila. At Maria Hernandez Park and Bushwick Daily for daily protest updates.

Greenpoint – @greenpointers for info on vigil’s at McCarren Park and where to head from there.

Williamsburg – @yeswilliamsburg nightly marches leaving from McCarren.

Jamaica, Queens – at Council Member Adrienne Adam’s Office

For everything else, follow @justiceforgeorgenyc

Or use this full map of Protests for George Floyd, worldwide.

Do some research and then donate to help support the cause that speaks to you.

Support and Donate to SATC Campaign for NAACP Foundation

Black Lives Matter Prints by local artist Eva Woolridge, all proceeds go to Bail Out Funds

Make Calls for George – 612.324.4499

Donate to Breonna Taylor‘s family’s GoFundMe here.

And sign Breonna’s petition here.

Support the 15 Percent Pledge – @15percentpledge to help black-owned businesses survive

Look through this very thorough list of Racial Justice Organizations and Resources

Sign Petitions here.

Make the Call – Follow these to make calls for change.

Donate to the cause that speaks to you – blacklivesmatters/donate

Black Women’s Blueprint – Support equality and opportunity for every black woman – @blackwomensblueprint

And see so many more resources HERE and HERE.

Check out these Local Events and Businesses who are Supporting the Movement

Archestratus Fire Wall Community Cookbook

I cannot applaud Paige enough for always evolving and being a prominent voice in our community and city, as a business owner and entrepreneur. She pivoted flawlessly when the pandemic hit by turning her cookbook store/cafe into a contactless-marketplace with lines around the block, and now to help bring us all closer and to focus on the burning issues affecting us all right now, she’ll be publishing “Fire Walk With Us”, the first volume of a community-built cookbook and zine to expose current issues and generate conversation and recipes, with all proceeds going to Black Lives Matter. In her words – “Historically, pamphlets were used as a weapon to inspire much needed political disorder. Let us use OUR pamphlets to create a new system, a new model for investment, and let it also serve as a public space where we take care of everyone” This will be an ongoing project, always donating to BLM. Read more details here and submit your words and recipe to support this movement.

Stylist Anthony Payne wants to make you look and feel better.

Because we’re all gettin’ realllll scraggly, local hair magician Anthony Payne has moved his salon beneath the Williamsburg Bridge until we reach whatever phase allows us to get haircuts again… so support this amazing artist and entrepreneur and look better while doing it. Oh, and, he’s donating 100% of your donation-based payment to Black Lives Matter. Look better, feel better, do better. Then go march. Info here.

Watch Thee Debauchery Ball with Sol Cinema Cafe

Our favorite black-owned cinema in the city is bringing the debauchery to your house this weekend. They’ll be showing this film, a documentary that celebrates black lives sexuality and house music, plus hosting DJs all weekend to help you #revelwithacause – they’ll be donating to help multiple facets of the BLM movement. Tickets and schedule here.

Esme To-Go, all weekend- for a cause.

Local darling Esme immediately pivoted to provide meals for essential workers immediately when the pandemic hit, but felt led to open up their doors last Sunday to provide the community with fried chicken and signature sides with all proceeds going to organizations supporting Police Reform, Legal Counsel and the health of the Black Community. They raised over $11,000 last Sunday alone and have set a goal for this weekend of $50,000- help them get there. They’ll be open for to-go starting Thursday and will be donating 100% of proceeds on Sundays, all month. Info here.

Achilles heel might be the place I miss being inside the most. Somehow, they’re still delivering the warm, comforting feeling of sitting at the bar, sipping red wine out of a juice glass and sampling a few adventurous small plates with one of my favorite to-go menus and donating 25% of all profits to @campaignzero which not only is a substantial sacrifice given the unreliability of restaurant business right now, but it’s one that’s guarantee to taste damn good. Check out their weekend menu here https://www.instagram.com/achillesheelbk/ and don’t forget to throw in a few bottled cocktails.

Show your Pride Saturday with The Carry Nation

The Carry Nation will be returning for their Good Room residency in your living room! They’ll be hosting a saucy little competition as they face-off against Fatherhood in a DJ-dance party that will have you lip-synching and moving and grooving for 9 hours this Saturday. And if you think you don’t have it in you, you do- you’re in quarantine. You have the energy. And plus, all proceeds from the event will raise money for G.L.I.T.S., an organization that provides housing for the black-trans community. So #revelwithacause and show your pride and power this Saturday night. Info here.

Protest and Party with House of Yes

Stop by House of Yes this weekend to make signs for rallies & protests! They’ll provide materials, just wear a mask and practice social distancing. They’ll also have some legendary HOY decor for sale, and all the proceeds from the sale will be donated to Loveland Foundation’s Therapy For Black Girls initiative. Then march along with them to feel the pride and power of this movement. Keep the party going Saturday night with @soulsummitmusic spinning via the virtual club.

Score Some Vintage Finds for a Cause

Dusty Rose Vintage is allowing one customer at a time to browse through their bins of pure magic, this neighborhood mainstay of vintage discoveries will be donating 20% of sales will go to @eij_org, an organization working to end mass incarceration, excessive punishment and racial inequality. ⁣⁣So go find some threads that will make you stand a little taller as you march this weekend. ⁣

Picnic in multiple parks, for a cause.

You know you’ll be picnicking in the park this weekend, and if you’re not getting ham (and other fine charcuterie and cheeses) first at &Sons and heading to Prospect Park, then sign up to have a Hampton Water picnic. This fancy little rose has teamed up with Versa NYC to be delivering you the picnic of your dreams (or at least one that will impress your friends) and donating a portion of their proceeds to The Bail Project and No Child Left Hungry. Choose your picnic and your park and #revelwithacause this weekend

Take a Look at your Life

Having trouble finding your role in all of this? Use this AMAZING resource to understand how to best use your talents and energy for change.

Seek out the resources we can use to support black-owned businesses.

Source books from your local bookshop or library that will help us understand racism.

Follow these activists and groups that we can follow to help change our influences and thus our conversations- @mspackyetti @nowhitesaviors @soulsummitmusic @yourrightscamp @btfacollective @changethenypd

Examine the small and big changes can we make in our lives, in our social circles, and in our everyday interactions.

Let’s listen to some of our favorite local partners on how they are speaking up and reacting to help us understand how to help. Our friends at House of Yes, The Infatuation, Nowadays, and Archestratus. Make sure that the resources we rely on are doing more to help us all move forward.

I promise to use my voice to help promote and elevate black-owned businesses and voices, and not to let this conversation end until there is change; actual change. I pledge to be a resource to help promote and protect this movement. Here is a reflective piece I wrote about our understandings of cities during times of distress and necessary unrest in an effort to capture this confusion and compassion, in so many words. And here is a list of my favorite black-owned Brooklyn businesses that (I hope) will help you show support.

Brooklyn, let’s all try harder, together.

The Weekend Guide, Quarantine Edition | The Eighth Weekend

Liz Norment — Fri, 01 May 2020 18:43:36 +0000

Brooklyn, I’m trying to keep you sane, to let you safely socialize, to help you learn something, to keep you fed, to feed your curiosity, and to keep your community alive and well. Help me help you get through this, together. I’ve found all the best ways to quarantine (and quarantini) this weekend. Let’s be alone, together, until this is all over.

Party at Home

I mean this is kind of the best kind of weekend partying… You can commit to a number of plans, and then do them all a little bit while not wearing pants, and then just fall right into bed without having to decide whether or not you deserve to take an Uber home. And best of all, most of these parties are actually benefitting some group or business, so #revelwithacause all weekend. Get to it.

This Weekend

Agave Tasting with Duke’s Liquor Box – POSTPONED TO NEXT WEEK!!

It is not too late to RSVP for this agave tasting with Duke’s Liquor Box Friday afternoon. Because you know you’re tequila knowledge beyond “yes, I’ll have one,” needs some brushing up before Cinco de Mayo, and also that you kind of need an excuse to start drinking mezcal at 3pm. Well, I just gave you one. Sign up NOW, learn something, and let’s ease right into the weekend together. Oh, and head to Duke’s to get a few bottles beforehand because a dry agave tasting just sounds like a type of torture none of us need right now.

Celebrate the 146th Annual Kentucky Derby, from home!

For those of who don’t know, this Saturday would be the 146th running of the Kentucky Derby. And if you didn’t know that, then you likely also don’t know that I fucking love the Kentucky Derby. And even though it’s been unceremoniously rescheduled for September, let’s all celebrate as if it’s still happening by doing the following: Since we can’t all watch the race on the big screen while drinking bourbon at the Moonlight Mile, support them instead by buying merch (t-shirts! Sweatshirts! Hats! Totes!) share some love on their Instagram, and raise your glass to this fantastic neighborhood bar.

Pick up a bottle of bourbon from Duke’s Liquor Box and make your own Mint Julep! My favorite way to make it? Pour bourbon in glass. Garnish with mint. Voila.

Have my mom sing you My Old Kentucky Home- she knows all the words. DM me, I’ll put you through to her.

And find some inventive ways to race and bet, via zoom. Such as, who will have the hardest time signing off! And how many minutes will it take your parents to unmute themselves! Who will be the first to grab their pet and shove it into the camera! And how many beers will your brother-in-law attempt to slyly drink off frame? It’s (almost) as fun as the most exciting 2 minutes in sports. Almost.

Also, um… I have this joke that I only tell once a year, on Derby Day. If you want to hear it, holler at me. It’s awful.

Joe Russo’s Almost Dead, Live this Weekend

Because both Brooklyn Bowl and Joe Russo aren’t dead yet, keep them alive this weekend and be oh so grateful you’re not dead too. Proceeds go to Brooklyn Bowl staff so #revelwithacause and jam out to this amazing band that ALWAYS sells out when they play in Brooklyn, with no lines or lack of tickets, right here. Oh, and if you want to make sure you’re lookin’ groovy, tie-dye some of those dingy whites and get all those stains far out of your mind, baby. (If you need help, I have a surprising amount of dyes at my house. Holler at me. Because if we can’t dye together, we will certainly die separately!)

Dance Away the Distance

This weekly social disdance party will bring you closer, socially. Tune in Tuesdays and Fridays at 8pm, and Sundays at 5pm and get down, apart, together. Let your body let out all of the deep distanced woes it’s been harboring for six weeks now. Dance hard, dance long, dance fast. Let it all go, and let ‘dis dance be the one that saves us. Tune in here.

Let the Lot Radio make your Zoom party a Lot cooler.

Because they’re bringing you live sets from local favorites and friends from around the world, so whatever is buzzing in the background of your screen will help mask those awkward silences and let you test your new dance moves in front of a much smaller, and semi-captive, audience. Tune in here and stop by their magical little triangle lot for beer and wine, now reopened!!

Feel the Pleasure times 7 this Friday Night.

Give yourself the pleasure this Friday night of partying, digitally, with Pleasure Jams. This local DJ collective is guaranteed to make your living room look cool, and will make you into a disco queen… even in your jammies. Jam out this Friday to benefit local photographic talent, so tune in here at 9pm and #revelwithacause.

Ongoing

Get Wet, Bathhouse-Style.

Because it may be a while until we can immerse ourselves into this sensual palace in Williamsburg, recreate the energy and experience at home. Bathhouse has posted a few great scrub recipes (including one that helps you get rid of old bananas in a much healthier way than making banana bread) and offers you a seductive playlist to accompany your steamy bath session. Drag your quarantine buddy in with you, or go solo. Bring a cocktail. Immerse yourself and escape from whatever real life is now.

Nowadays has live streaming DJs nightly starting at 8pm!

Yep. Every night, it’s virtually Nowadays. Tune in while you’re cooking, while you’re “working”, while you’re getting frisky or doing whatever else you’re doing over there. And dance like no one’s watching because… no one is, except maybe the cat.

Saturday Night Virtual Dance Parties with House of Yes

There are rules for this virtual dance party, and they are rules that you’ll want to follow. You must wear a costume. You must be moving (and not lurking). You must keep the lights up enough to be seen. And pretty much annnnything else goes. Need proof? They got in big trouble with Twitch two weeks ago. So cure that kinky itch of yours and RSVP then tune in at 8pm, every Saturday.

Or, bring your favorite club into your house…

House of Yes IGTV is coming at you nightly, so learn to twerk in the comfort of your own home, get into some amateur burlesque, or see whatever else they dream up. Tune in for all of the weird, wild, and wonderful that you’ve been missing, and thankfully, without that creepy bathroom with all the bugs crawling all over the walls. Info here!

Go on a Neighborhood Bar Crawl, from a safe distance!

Local bars need your support now more than ever. After a string of break-in attempts on Franklin Street this week, BiT favorites Brooklyn Safehouse and Brokenland were both victims of vandalism and robbery recently. So go let these wonderful establishments know you’re there for them. A few other neighborhood favorites that have been victim to the patronage of this #sidewalkregular include Threes Brewing, Brew Inn, 21 Greenpoint, Elder Greene (Open until 10pm daily!!) and Diamond Lil. Air cheers, to you.

Get a Move On

Because “shelter in place” doesn’t mean being completely stagnant. You can responsibly keep yourself moving in some very creative ways.

photo by the lovely @brooklynbybike

Explore Brooklyn by Bike!

It’s going to be gorgeous this weekend, and while joggers have come under fire recently, biking is the best way to cover more ground, responsibly, and to see so much more of the borough! The lovely Jacqueline VanDusen via @brooklynbybike has explored (nearly) every single block in Brooklyn by bike. Check out her recommendations for awesome rides here. I’ll see you out there! Especially once streets are closed to cars come may!

Stay Flexible, even while you Stay Put.

I’m a huge fan of the Downward Dog app, but it’s been so much more rewarding to explore and support local yoga studios that are offering free or super low-cost classes- donations always appreciated! For a few of my favorites, check out Yo.Bk, Brooklyn Yoga Project, and Hosh Yoga.

Or, go on a COVID-safe staycation with Collective Retreats

Who says you can’t still travel… our favorite clampers at Collective Retreats have worked to get you safely to their campsites (via private ferry) and have spaced out tents, activities, and mealtimes so that you can talk and share your experience without sharing any potential danger. And this weekend is the perfect weekend to sleep under the stars, right here in your city. Check them out here, and tell them I sent you! See what happens! Then let me know!

At-Home Chef

We have all been cooking. A lot. And there is nothing more lovely than exploring a new recipe and sharing it with loved ones, or even the roommates that you really pissed off earlier and this is the only way you can think of to say “I’m sorry for being an asshole. I’m losing it.” Here are a few of my pics. Get cookin’, good lookin’.

This Weekend

Be a Chef without actually Cooking.

Local favorite La Fond has been holding weekly menu contests, meaning you dream up the foods and flavors, and chef Jake will turn it all into magic, for curbside pick-up! See just how culinarily creative you can be, without dirtying one dish. This week’s menu is already set, but submit your suggestions right here.

Queer Soup Making Class and party, Saturday!

Let your soup pot get a little queerer this Saturday with the lovely, local, Liz Alpern of Queer Soup Night! She’ll be teaching you how to make one of her favorite soups and some fresh bread to go along with it. There will be some surprise guests, some surprise quests, some surprise stocks, some surprise flotsam, and an all-inclusive event that is guaranteed to bring more life into your apartment than that formerly scheduled Zoom programming. Sign up here, soup starts at 5:30pm.

I know this isn’t hiding in your pantry… but this is a nice showing of what Chef Turnbull can do.

Local Chef John Turnbull Wants to Save your Pantry

The chef behind neighborhood newcomer turned favorite Madre will also be accepting the challenge of making a menu out of whatever is currently in your pantry. So before you mask-and-glove-up and prepare yourself to wait in socially distanced lines outside of the grocery store, put him up to the challenge of using what you have. And then let’s all meet for happy hour and get really fucking happy when all of this is over. Check it out here.

Or get let a whole Catering Team into your Pantry

Need some recipe information but want to avoid going to the grocery store? Send a picture of your pantry to the amazing team with @chefanienass and they’ll design a meal for you. You’ll be surprised how much you can do with… (gets up, checks cupboard) Sea Crunchies, cannellini beans, steel-cut oats, chicken stock, and crushed tomatoes! (At least, I hope to be!) Come on, give them a challenge.

Bring Italy into your Home with Opera in the Kitchen

Sign up for an Italian cooking class, live streaming from Chianti! Opera in the Kitchen is one of the coolest experiences I’ve ever been a part of, and taught me so much more about Italian cooking. Plus, they were just selected as one of the top 50 Airbnb Experiences in the world and the top 6 in Italy to be available online to help you get through the quarantine. Open your kitchen up to all of the beauty of Italy, virtually. Sign up here, and then bring your own opera by singing into the spatula (you know how to do it…)

ACME’s Fish Fridays are still happening!

and now you’re actually able to participate! Order online here and then pick-up curbside at 30 Gem Street. Then, cook up something funky using these smoked fish recipes I’ve procured, just for you, my fishy little friend.

mmmmm, sweed

Learn to Bake Some Swedish Sweets

I mostly want to come out of this being a much better entertainer… because I want all of you coming over to my house and sharing meals and stories and sitting way too close and reaching over each other and laughing in the same air. And that means, I need to keep expanding my repertoire of party-worthy recipes so you’ll accept my invitations. This one is perfect for a brunch party- nothing says, “I care about you and I love you” than the rich Swedish tradition of cardamom buns. Tune into this baking class via Airbnb and right into a Swedish kitchen and learn how!

Scrub Up All Over.

Handwashing has stopped being fun even with the help of creative TikTokers and Bill’s weekly song on Wait, Wait Don’t Tell Me… but skin scrubs still can be, if you learn to make them at home. Sign up for this amazing skincare workshop and slough away all of your sins, and germs, and come out looking cleaner, younger, leaner, and way smoother.

No More Milk Waste

Because nothing is more upsetting than seeing farmers dispose of millions of gallons of milk they can’t distribute to food banks and needy Americans, do your part to use your own almost-too-old milk and turn it into an amazing ricotta. Tune into this ricotta cheesemaking class in Sonoma and stop crying over spilled milk.

Ongoing

Learn (almost) all of Ovenly’s Secrets

Local favorites Ovenly are sharing some of their unbelievable secret recipes via IGTV daily, so tune in and try your hand at their famous Sea Salt Chocolate Chip Cookies, their Blackout Cake, and (maybe soon?) their Hot Chocolate Cookies. Say thanks by contributing to their employee GoFundMe and let’s keep this amazing bakeshop going. Plus, pre-order your Mother’s Day goodies and send her something sweet!

Milk Bar Baking Hour with Christina Tosi, daily!

Of all the skills I want to have “when this is all over”, top of the list is the ability to make birthday cakes like @ChristinaTosi because that will inevitably lead to more birthday party invites. To do so, I’ve been tuning into her daily baking classes (ok, well, some of them…) and you should too. Then we can both bake cakes together and go to all the parties.

Get On the Sourdough Train.

Yep. Everybody’s doing it. I picked up a sourdough starter from the stoop of a friendly neighbor and I’m happy to share! Let’s show this precarious yeast shortage who’s boss, and try to learn the secrets of our pizza heroes. Just holler at me if you want some, let’s start something together.

Get Cultured.

There is more available at our fingertips right now than ever before, and I don’t mean whatever stockpile of filtered images influencers have scheduled to roll out to you this month. Check out my favorites below and learn something while you’re “stuck inside”.

This Weekend

A/D/O is closing at the end of the month…

So take advantage of their amazing global programming while you still can. Like this origami workshop!

Or this daily Italian design discussion called Decameron buy Triennale Milano.

Or this 3-part sustainability course Because when the world opens back up again, let’s try not to shut down the forced progress we made.

Test your Obscure Knowledge Friday Night

Our favorite way to (locally) learn about the world, Atlas Obscura, will be testing your knowledge of all of the world’s strangest facts, with teams from all around the world! Join them for five rounds of brain-teasing trivia and likely just take your best guess, each time, and realize you’re going to learn way more than you’ll win. Sign up here!

Find Something that Speaks to you via All Arts

Music, film, theatre, dance, words… yep, you officially have no excuse not to find inspiration via this public media-powered resource that is bringing so much talent and creative energy into your home, every day. Tune in and find something that speaks to you and get yourself out of that creative quagmire and into a new project that makes you feel un-quarantined.

Let Green-Wood Cemetery make you feel Alive

Perhaps it feels odd to appreciate life while sitting among the dead, but taking an afternoon to wander the sprawling grounds of Green-Wood Cemetery will help you feel grounded about this pandemic somehow just being part of the history that humanity has experienced and withstood throughout time. They’ve extended their hours, so pass through the stunning gothic arches and get lost anytime between 7am and 7pm. Oh yeah, and make sure you pass by Boss Tweed’s grave and let him know how much you like Cuomo’s unabashed and relatively uncorrupt leadership.

Admit It, You Miss the Subway

Tune in to live virtual discussions and explore (now) closed exhibits with the NY Transit Museum. Our transit workers are so essential to our city, now and always, and their workforce has been affected exponentially more than other industries by this virus- 68 have now died. Dive into the archives and appreciate this amazing system that connects our city and its citizens, and donate here to help keep the Transit Museum moving, and make your voice heard to make sure that these “bailouts” include money for states and thus the cities and the ways in which we move within them.

Ongoing

Gallery Hop around Chelsea with David Zwirner

These are the Saturday’s I miss most- dodging tourists on the Highline (but still loving every inch of this glorious promenade) and then gallery hopping through Chelsea. David Zwirner wants to bring that energy back and let you visit some amazing galleries, plus tune in to artist interviews and discussions to bring you further inside the art. It’s all here for you, tourist-free.

Meet Your Friends at the Cinema

So Netflix is now letting all of us go to the cinema together, at home, with this Party feature. Choose a film to watch together, at the same time, with your friends while laughing and discussing the film without being shushhhh-ed by serious theatergoers. If you need help choosing a film, I use a damn impressive bracket system that was dreamt up by a friend to help create an impartial voting system. Holler at me and I’ll explain. See you at the (virtual!) cinema!

Paint Classes through Happy Creative Dig

My favorite little creativity nook is taking their coveted wine paint nights online, for free! Learn to paint alongside a bunch of strangers, virtually, who won’t judge you for refilling your wine glass every time you clean your brush. This Sunday’s lesson hasn’t been announced yet, so just pair it with your favorite bottle and get ready to find Pepper the cat somewhere in the desert. Sign up and see the full schedule here, and choose from general admission (free!) to painter package (have supplies mailed to you!) or ‘Taste of the World’ which includes an assorted food box. Cheers, future painters! or just drinkers with paint-covered hands!

Live, Local Comedy this Weekend!

There is so much good local comedy that you can access from home right now while supporting local artists too. Find some via the Brooklyn Comedy Collective this weekend and have a laugh. We all need it.

Photo by the immensely talented @johnnycirillo

Be a Peeping Tom.

There’s something about the 7pm clap that gives us these little peeks into the lives of our neighbors, through their windows. Local photographer @johnnycirillo has been capturing that magic through this NYC Quarantine portrait series. Scroll through to find someone you likely know, and send him a DM to be captured during your intimately noticeable moments.

Help Dr. Fauci Get Revenge

I’ve never been a gamer, but I have always been one to #revelwithacause and to seek entertaining ways to do philanthropic work. And this, my friends, is a great one. Fauci’s Revenge is a videogame from Brooklyn’s Beat the Bomb team and is a part of the #BeattheVirus campaign to raise $25,000 for NYC Hospitals and first responders, and it’s darkly hilarious. Play now and show your support.

The New Museum, home delivery!

Curious? That’s Natural, baby.

Check out the archived photos from the Museum of Natural History because we’re all a little bored of staring at our house pets. Big cats are better. Check out some amazing images of how they put together the dinos (I like to imagine while singing “the leg Bone’s connected to the… HIP BONE!”) and all of those spooky dioramas. Seriously, check them out here.

Watch old Broadway shows via the Museum of the City of New York.

Well HELLLOOO Dolly! (I have no idea if that’s part of the play at all… but, I’m about to find out.) The MCNY now has a TON of amazing cultural interests from our city’s history available online, like hundreds of Broadway plays! So stop mindlessly scrolling through Netflix. Watch these instead.

Watch this New York City Documentary on Amazon

Don’t we realize that this city is the reason why most of us are here? Our families, our heritage, our curiosity was all, likely. led to the promise of New York. Our ancestors fought to get here and to make moves here and so many of us have returned to find ourselves here. Don’t let that be lost. Watch this amazing Ric Burns series. Find your heritage here and ask your parents to connect with your eldest living relatives. Let’s carry on the torch.

Photo: Jonathan Tichler/Metropolitan Opera

Tell Spotify You Have Other Plans.

Because the Met Opera is bringing Opera into your home, every day. Opera everyday via @MetOpera, So tune in and feel cultured, without even dressing up. Different performances nightly, but I guarantee you’ll like them each better than the Pirates of Penzance.

Or, head East from the UWS and travel to Paris instead by tuning into the Paris Opera, for free! Pair with a rich Bordeaux and some foi gras and that beret you’ve never been able to get quite right and sink into your inner Francophile.

Atlas Obscura’s Wonder From Home

All the best ways to get lost and feel better on the internet are waiting for you right here via Atlas Obscura. Because mindlessly scrolling never really led anyone to where they wanted to be anyway, here’s the anti-Instagram black hole.

Show Your (local!) Support

One of the most important ways we can spend our time and hard-earned government paychecks is by funneling that money back into our communities and supporting local businesses. Don’t let them shudder once we all decide to “open back up”.

This Weekend

Buck a Beer at Brouweij Lane, for the North Brooklyn Angels

They’re donating a dollar from the sale of every single beer to help support this amazing local charity. Plus, pre-order your flank steak sandwich and visit their other beer shop, at Greenpoint Beer and Ale! Cheers, you lovely local drinkers!

Bakeri Brooklyn Contactless Pick-Up on Sunday!

This amazing woman-owned bakery who also has by far the best sandwiches in town has just announced a one-day curbside pick-up! Get your orders in ASAP then put on your jumpsuit and bandana and feel a lot happier.

Help Your Community

Download Deed and find volunteer opportunities in your community that will directly help food banks, essential workers, undocumented residents and small businesses, like packing and delivering food and thus spreading joy with the North Brooklyn Angels! Sign up with New York Cares for both community-based and city-wide volunteer opportunities. Can’t volunteer your time? Help the helpers by supporting the restaurants who have transitioned into full philanthropic endeavors but preparing and delivering meals to essential workers. See the list here and help them keep helping.

Rooftop Reds’ Local Shop Keeps Expanding – Now, with puzzles!

Which means this magical little rooftop vineyard has become your one-stop market to help support tons of local restaurants, breweries, distilleries, butchers, and makers. Find their full list here and fill your box with whatever mix of wine, whisky, beer, kimchi, cured meets, cheeses and sake makes your heart content.

Get Coffee Locally

Try switching up your daily cup a few times a week by patronizing your local shops. In Greenpoint, neighborhood darlings Odd Fox and The Early just curbily reopened this week, and favorites Cafe Grumpy, Pueblo Querido, Champion, and Sweet Leaf are consistently serving up some of the best beans and brews in this neighborhood that seems to be the Mecca of independent coffee shops and laundromats. Buy a cup, buy some beans, tip your baristas, show them how much you love them… and maybe how much you appreciate the number of hours you’ve sat and slowly sipped on one cup of coffee over an 8-hour “work day”… (Shame on you. Get two!)

Local Mother’s Day Gifts and Puzzles, at Upstate Stock

Remind your mother of her pride for her child sticking it out in the epicenter up here with some amazing New York schwag- t-shirts, blankets, pennant flags, locally made soaps and candles and hot sauces and so much more. Plus, pick up a puzzle for yourself, and tons of other locally made goods. Visit them at 2 Berry St.

Turn Off Netflix, and tune into Ladies Rocking the Lens Fest

This annual festival is not only offering access to all of this year’s amazing films online, but also donating all proceeds to the Global FoodBanking Network and the World Central Kitchen. Get inspired by over — award-winning independent films and feel good while keeping yourself entertained this weekend. Netflix will be there when you’re done. Promise. #watchforacause

Ongoing

Get a hold of all my beauty favorites, from Zoe’s in Greenpoint

Makeup for Lost Time with Zoe’s Beauty

There is no better way to show your support for small businesses than in a way that makes you look, and feel, better. Personally, I think it’s extremely important to make sure our eyes our expressive when they are the only part of our face we can share with the outside world. Our eyes need to say both,“Hi! How are you! I love you! Stay safe!” to everyone we pass, and also, “daaaamn right you can’t wait to see what I’m hiding beneath this hazmat suit” to a select few. The best way to make your eyes talk, your face glow, and your heart feel better for supporting this amazing place is by placing an order (DM them here!) and then picking up, curbside, on Fridays. Orders of $50+ qualify for free shipping. Let’s makeup for lost time, together.

Tend Greenpoint Pick-Up!

Because bringing a little life into your home while in isolation lifts everyone’s spirits. Check out their selection via Instagram and call in an order to pick up!

Step Up your Virtual Cocktail Parties with St. Agrestis + Greenhook Gin Negronis, plus hand sanitizer!

As if I couldn’t love these two distilleries and the magic they make together when stirred in a glass, Greenhook has been donating hand sanitizer to our local sanitation workers, who are ALSO on the front lines but too often forgotten about. Their spirits are available for curbside pick-up or local delivery, get a little tipsy and stay clean while you do it.

Help the businesses that are Helping the Helpers

There are so many AMAZING businesses that are using their resources (supplies, workers, time) to prepare food to donate to essential workers. Which is just about the best reason I can think of to order food from any of the businesses on this list (offering free meals to families in need!) or through this project from the Taralucci family or this one from Jose Andres (although he won my heart as the moment I stepped foot into Mercado Little Spain). Plus, local favorites Pies ‘n Thighs, Van Leeuwen, Dar525, Eagle Trading, Vinnie’s, Bierocracy, Gertie, The Olmsted, and The Wheelhouse are all donating locally, to hospitals, fire departments, and families in need. And as always, the North Brooklyn Angels are always deserving of support, especially now.

Barano Brooklyn, dinner + wine pairing

Offering their full menu and custom wine pairings through neighboring bottle shop Spirit Animal, wine and dine yourself finely tonight. All info here.

Edouard Massih Quarancatering

This Greenpoint local chef is posting his daily recipes for a homecooked, catered meal to help feed and connect you to your community from the comfort of your own mess-free kitchen. Follow him here and join in this week’s menu options, complete with a mocktail ready and waiting for your favorite liquor to be added.

Archestratus Contact-less Market!

Your favorite cookbook store and cafe has been working with local makers and markets to bring you this, a contactless market open this Saturday! Order online and pick-up right outside of the store, from 1-3pm. 160 Huron St.

Pour one out for your homies…

And please, support your favorite local businesses by contributing to their staff’s GoFundMe. There are 321,000 restaurant industry workers who are now, all, unemployed and potentially without jobs once “all of this ends”. Contribute the extra cash you have in your pocket that you haven’t been using as tips to help them get through this indefinite period of confusion. Le Fanfare in Greenpoint has been my family and livelihood for nearly 3 years now, and also provides the means for me to create all of this, for you. Show your support, to us, to them, to everyone.

Ponyboy Bottled Cocktails and new Mexican To-Go Menu!

Featuring the work of local artists, 10% of each sale goes to the artist. #revelwithacause

For a few other creative ways to show your support, by one of these amazing t-shirts from Moonlight Mile, get some amazing French wines at a discount from Sauvage, and buy one of these charming tote bags from Anella.

And Finally, what to Avoid like the Plague (and the virus) during Quarantine

Reserve a table with bottle service for you and up to 9 friends at this virtual club where you’ll be able to ‘skip the line’ and ‘switch DJ cams’ whenever you want!! BEST BIRTHDAY EVER!

QuaranteeNYC can Suck It.

Anyone who is choosing to ruthlessly profit as a result of this pandemic can go fuck themselves. And even worse if your marketing is this out of touch. Can I report this disgusting party foul to the Chief of Nightlife? Virtual For-Profit Parties Like QuaranteeNYC which has a dress code, ticket price, VIP tables and bottle service… What the fuck. Please just read what you get with your Premium VIP Table- For $200.00+$13.80 tickets provide private space for you and your company on the virtual premises of Quarantee. You can freely move back and forth between the table and the dance floor(via camera). You will be able to listen to the DJ, watch all performers and artists, and engage with your friends through video chat. A dedicated host will support you in making your virtual clubbing dreams come true. For groups up to 10 guests.

Yeah. Fuck you guys. Instead, choose from ANY of the amazing event options above. Party on, Brooklyn.

The Weekend Guide, Quarantine Edition | The Sixth Weekend

Liz Norment — Sat, 25 Apr 2020 00:06:13 +0000

Hey Brooklyn. I’m just sitting here hoping and wishing for the time when we can all be together again, dancing and sweating and laughing and sharing food and wine and stories around a big communal table. But until then, I’ve found all the best ways that we can be alone, together. So get cultured, become a home chef, turn your apartment into a dance club and support the community and city you love so much, right here in your weekend guide.

Stay safe, stay sane, and party on, Brooklyn.

Party From Home

This Weekend

Joe Russo’s Almost Dead, Live this Weekend

Juan McLean at Good Room Friday Night

The Good Room has always been my favorite place to do bad things, and this Friday they want to bring that same mischief into your home. Local DJ Juan McLean will be spinning tunes from 5pm so light up the disco ball put on any of the party clothes you forgot you owned and hop on the good foot and do the bad thing. Why? Because you need to transform your space from the kitchen/office/bedroom/study space it has been all week into one Good Room. RSVP for free (and add a donation!) See you out there/in there, you party animal.

Because the Music Must Play On

It’s been hard to have those “show canceled” emails trickle in and seeing the reality of my summer melt away without the reality of wild nights at Brooklyn Steel, Music Hall of Williamsburg, intimate shows in that magical backroom at Rough Trade, absorbing all the weird wonder at TV Eye and the exotic nights that end in kebabs at the Sultan Room. The Play-On Fest is here to help make you feel better. This weekend-long streaming festival will bring you live shows from Death Cab, The War on Drugs, Honne, David Guetta, Weezer and a TON of other artists, and best of all, you won’t feel judged for the relative skimpiness of your festival ‘look’ or have to wait in 40 minutes lines for portapotties. Because it’s an at-home festival. Stream it all weekend and fill your space with music and let your spirits be lifted.

Friday Night with C’mon Everybody

Saving small businesses can be downright funky. Need proof? Get your groove on Friday night with an Everybody, Everybody dance party with all your favorite 80s, 90s, and 00s tunes to support the staff at C’Mon Everybody, our favorite little funk palace in Bushwick. They’ll be spinning from 6-8pm (plus other parties this weekend) all to benefit this amazing space, so feel good and #revelwithacause. Tune in here.

Dance Away the Distance

Let the Lot Radio make your Zoom party a Lot cooler.

Feel the Pleasure times 6 this Friday Night.

Give yourself the pleasure this Friday night of partying, digitally, with Pleasure Jams. This local DJ collective is guaranteed to make your living room look cool, and will make you into a disco queen… even in your jammies. Jam out this Friday to benefit RAPP- Release Aging People in Prison, so tune in here at 9pm and #revelwithacause.

Ongoing

Get Wet, Bathhouse-Style.

Nowadays has live streaming DJs nightly starting at 8pm!

Saturday Night Virtual Dance Parties with House of Yes

Or, bring your favorite club into your house…

Go on a Neighborhood Bar Crawl, from a safe distance!

Local bars need your support now more than ever. After a string of break-in attempts on Franklin Street this week, BiT favorites Brooklyn Safehouse and Brokenland were both victims of vandalism and robbery this week. So go let these wonderful establishments know you’re there for them. A few other neighborhood favorites that have been victim to the patronage of this #sidewalkregular include Brew Inn, 21 Greenpoint, and Diamond Lil. Air cheers, to you.

At-Home Chef

This Weekend

I know this isn’t hiding in your pantry… but this is a nice showing of what Chef Turnbull can do.

Local Chef John Turnbull Wants to Save your Pantry

Or get let a whole Catering Team into your Pantry

Bring Italy into your Home with Opera in the Kitchen

ACME’s Fish Fridays are still happening!

Learn to Bake Some Swedish Sweets

Scrub Up All Over.

No More Milk Waste

Ongoing

Learn (almost) all of Ovenly’s Secrets

Local favorites Ovenly are sharing some of their unbelievable secret recipes via IGTV daily, so tune in and try your hand at their famous Sea Salt Chocolate Chip Cookies, their Blackout Cake, and (maybe soon?) their Hot Chocolate Cookies. Say thanks by contributing to their employee GoFundMe and let’s keep this amazing bakeshop going. Plus, stay tuned for their next pop-up shop to get all of the goodies (yep, we both missed the one today…)

Milk Bar Baking Hour with Christina Tosi, daily!

Get On the Sourdough Train.

Get Cultured.

This Weekend

Let Green-Wood Cemetery make you feel Alive

Admit It, You Miss the Subway

Gallery Hop around Chelsea with David Zwirner

Wax Poetic with this Saturday Line-Up

Tune into Rupi Kaur’s weekly 12pm poetry workshops, then have a mind-bending afternoon with Pioneer Works’s event titled “The Universe in Verse,” featuring astronomers, physicists, astronauts, authors, poets, and other spiritually inspired and spatially connected beings who will be bringing you poetry readings that will help you understand the physical universe we inhabit. And anytime, get a poem chosen and delivered especially for you via The Poetry Foundation. Let’s take the time to appreciate where we are, who we are, and where we’re going, in so many words.

Travel the World through the Portals of Artists’ Studios

Having trouble envisioning your space as a studio? I get it. Somehow my attempts at at-home wine-and-paint nights end up just drunk and messy. And as much as I like to pretend I’m at the peak of productivity being creative at home, all of my projects are somewhat joyfully interrupted by my cat. Come on this virtual tour of artists’ studios all around the world and get inspired on how to change your space, creatively. Plus get an inside look at the process that brings us so many masterpieces. Tune in here.

Meet Your Friends at the Cinema

Paint Classes through Happy Creative Dig

My favorite little creativity nook is taking their coveted wine paint nights online, for free! Learn to paint alongside a bunch of strangers, virtually, who won’t judge you for refilling your wine glass every time you clean your brush. This Sunday’s lesson will take us farther west than the West Village, all the way to Antelope Canyon in Arizona, so pair it with a nice dry white and get ready to find Pepper the cat somewhere in the desert. Sign up and see the full schedule here, and choose from general admission (free!) to painter package (have supplies mailed to you!) or ‘Taste of the World’ which includes an assorted food box. Cheers, future painters! or just drinkers with paint-covered hands!

Live, Local Comedy this Weekend!

Ongoing

Decameron, Daily- Streaming Stories from an empty Italian Museum

As a response to the country-wide lockdown in Italy, Triennale Milano (an amazing design-focused museum in Milan) started a moving Instagram Live event series called Decameron: streaming stories that invites artists, designers, architects, intellectuals and other creatives to enter the empty museum and “develop a personal story”. If you’re over hearing Cuomo say the word “ventilator” or using metaphors about grinding gears, change up your 11am tune-in to this one. Livestream daily here, through April 30th.

Photo by the immensely talented @johnnycirillo

Be a Peeping Tom.

Help Dr. Fauci Get Revenge

The New Museum, home delivery!

Curious? That’s Natural, baby.

Watch old Broadway shows via the Museum of the City of New York.

Watch this New York City Documentary on Amazon

Photo: Jonathan Tichler/Metropolitan Opera

Tell Spotify You Have Other Plans.

Atlas Obscura’s Wonder From Home

Show Your (local!) Support

Help Your Community

Rooftop Reds’ Local Shop Keeps Expanding

Get Coffee Locally

Help Yourself Stay Steady with these Goods

Sick of trying to snag a puzzle online? These guys are making iconic New York jigsaws, and tons of other amazing locally made goods that you need right now, right here in the Navy Yard via Steady Goods. Check out the site and choose whatever you need to keep your ship steady, and feel good about helping to revive and let survive the new industries in the historic Yard.

Turn Off Netflix, and tune into Ladies Rocking the Lens Fest

Ongoing

Get a hold of all my beauty favorites, from Zoe’s in Greenpoint

Makeup for Lost Time with Zoe’s Beauty

Tend Greenpoint Pick-Up!

Because bringing a little life into your home while in isolation lifts everyone’s spirits. Check out their selection via Instagram and call in an order to pick up!

Step Up your Virtual Cocktail Parties with St. Agrestis + Greenhook Gin Negronis, plus hand sanitizer!

Help the businesses that are Helping the Helpers

Barano Brooklyn, dinner + wine pairing

Offering their full menu and custom wine pairings through neighboring bottle shop Spirit Animal, wine and dine yourself finely tonight. All info here.

Edouard Massih Quarancatering

Archestratus Contact-less Market!

Pour one out for your homies…

Ponyboy Bottled Cocktails and new Mexican To-Go Menu!

Featuring the work of local artists, 10% of each sale goes to the artist. #revelwithacause

And Finally, what to Avoid like the Plague during Quarantine

Reserve a table with bottle service for you and up to 9 friends at this virtual club where you’ll be able to ‘skip the line’ and ‘switch DJ cams’ whenever you want!! BEST BIRTHDAY EVER!

QuaranteeNYC can Suck It.

Yeah. Fuck you guys. Instead, choose from ANY of the amazing event options above. Party on, Brooklyn.

The Weekend Guide | 27-1 March 2020

Liz Norment — Thu, 27 Feb 2020 21:07:44 +0000

All the best ways to celebrate the resurfacing of Leap Year, the relentless recurrence of NYC Beer Week, and how to stay cool and get hot this weekend. Get going, Brooklyn.

Things to do in Brooklyn on Thursday

Astoria Bar Crawl with Big ALICe Brewing

Bar crawls are something you outgrow after your last friend turns 21 in college. But, if those crawls evolved into a highly-curated beer discovery led by some of the best brewmasters in town, then perhaps we should all agree that we can regress a little to progress forward, together. In celebration of NYC Beer Week, the lovely folks at Big ALICe want to lead you and your pals around Astoria to show you their favorite haunts, dives and watering holes. So come thirsty and leave later than you intended and in a cab. Info here. 6:30-10:30. (also, there’s this other bar crawl I keep hearing about…)

Grand Street Restaurant Week Ends This Weekend

Ah, restaurant week in New York- a highly anticipated and seemingly a great way to have a new experience for a great value! …And then you get there and it’s overrun with people who don’t know how to dine out and the food lets you down and everyone is on top of each other and you order too many drinks to deal with your frustration and then you’re paying way way more than anticipated for a mediocre experience… which I guess is also exactly what it’s like to live in Manhattan. Let’s just do this shit our own way. It’s Grand Street Restaurant Week, and just as every time you’ve ever subbed one experience for another across the river, it will be so much grander on our side. 15 amazing restaurants and this is the last weekend, so go. all info you need is here, including menus! Along Grand St.

The Princess Bride Entirely From Memory at Littlefield in Gowanus

How much do you really remember about most of your nights out? Or, I don’t know, from last weekend, let’s say? The crew from Ten Bones Theatre Company totally feels you, and will hit the stage to blindly act out one of our favorite childhood films completely from memory after watching it just once, and requiring that they incorporate lines from the audience and also whatever sound effects are played by the tech booth. Goddamn, that’s hilarious. In the words of Ten Bones, “Love the movie? We got you covered. Never seen it? We got you covered. You think you saw it once and you kind of remember it? You’re probably in the show.” You don’t want to miss this. Tickets, $10 available here. Doors at 7:30pm. 635 Sackett St.

Sputnik Disco Yoga and Immersive Dinner at Bogart House in Bushwick

I mean… isn’t it immersive enough to be stacked tight and downward-dogging with strangers in a rather confined space while being asked to perform some sort of circular breathing ritual? Well, if it isn’t, head to this yoga event with an immersive dinner to follow, and, obvs, a hip-compromising dj-induced playlist to ensure that this night is absolutely more than you asked for. Get down, deep, and dirty immersed with some new friends and future lovers, because you’ll be seductive and flexible come dancing time. Tickets, $50 available here. Doors at 6:30pm, 230 Bogart St.

Last Chance to see Cat Video Fest at Alamo Drafthouse in Brooklyn

And also, a good chance to have what will likely be a last date with someone. This national cat video festival is, well, adorable. And entertaining. And honestly polarizing for anyone who is just kind of luke-warm about cats. Choose your date wisely but don’t miss the very last night of this rabble-rousing cinematic adventure. Tickets to see it at the Alamo are available here right now. 445 Albee Square West

Things to do in Brooklyn on Friday

Underground Soundsystem and friends play the Sultan Room in Bushwick

Dance the night away at this seductive venue hidden above what could be Brooklyn’s most unique dining experience- a supper club that was physically transplanted from rural Wisconsin. But it isn’t the novelty that will make this show the best music experience of the weekend- it’s the absolutely irripressible sounds from Underground Soundsystem and the perfect accompaniment of bands that are equally pushing the sonic boundary to bring you a night of wildly dance-worthy disco grooves. This is the party you are looking for this weekend. Get tickets here now. 235 Starr St.

Into the Jungle at House of Yes in Bushwick

To refer to this city as the Concrete Jungle Where Dreams are Made is quite a euphemism. I feel like it’s more of a cement maze with a relentless dangling carrot ahead of you and a nagging need for weather-proof yet trendy shoes and one too many mindless distractions in the form of societally-pretty sex objects saying phrases like “hey baby, let me buy you a drink” all the while luring you into a deep, dark corner… this, however… this is that jungle that you wished you’d found here, complete with costumed revelers and all of the things that you wish you’d heard here- afro-funk beats, flirty people’s advances, bartenders making drinks while dancing and winking at you, and a pandemic of jungle fever. Get into the jungle Friday night in NYC like Jay-Z always promised it would be. Info here. 10pm-4am, 2 Wyckoff Ave.

Sicilian Dinner at Archestratus in Greenpoint

Let’s face it- most of this city is filled with transplants. Which means, more often than not, we might get a little sad missing the comforts of home. My favorite way to cure said homesickness is with the warm and inviting dinners Paige LiPari hosts in the back of her charming little cookbook shop in Greenpoint. Using her grandmother’s recipes and opening her doors to the community, your $35 ticket will get you a full plate and a homey feeling you can’t get anywhere else in this city. Beer and wine available for purchase. Tickets and info here. 6:30-10pm, 160 Huron St.

Dance the Night Away at JJ’s Hideaway in Williamsburg

Hey there sneaky. Tryin’ to get your dance on this Friday night but you want to do it right? Come on down to JJ’s Hideaway and disco-dance the night away on their light-up dance floor. Because you don’t want to hide those moves- you want them to be illuminated from beneath and radiated from within and felt loud and proud. Don’t waste your time or your energy on dull dance floors- let your spirit come alive at JJ’s Hideaway. DJs spinnin’ all night, and the dance floor is lined with church pews in case you feel the need to repent. (and, I hope you do feel that need) Info here. 97 N. 10th Ave.

Things to do in Brooklyn on Saturday

This is the last 29th of February for the next 4 years, meaning also, that you’ve only experienced this day 25% of the number of times you’ve experienced all the other days. Damn. Wild, huh? So spend this Friday doing something completely out of your comfort zone. Be bad, intentionally, knowing that 75% of this will be forgotten completely. Don’t bother talking to your statistician friends about this, no need for them to confirm my logic. Also, actually, no need for you to talk to you statistician friends anymore at all. Fuck them and their ‘theories’. Tonight is the night to get 4 times as crazy as you intended. Dance all night. Stay up ’til dawn. Don’t do the math as you try to set your alarm with one hand over one of your eyes. It’s too late. Whatever. Who cares. Here are some very out-of-the-ordinary, leap-year-worthy things to do to get you to that bleary-eyed, alarm-setting state of utter discomfort.

Get Cold then Hot at the William Vale and A Bathhouse in Williamsburg

It’s actually going to be damn cold on Saturday. Which means it will feel like winter. Which means you should find ways to embrace it, in all of your extremities, with all of its extremities. Do so by ice-skating atop the tallest non-private building in Brooklyn, and then descending way down beneath the borough and into the steam at the Bathhouse. Ice-skating tickets are available here, and day passes to the bathhouse are right here. Get cold. Stay hot.

Ribbon Cutting of Greenpoint Pizza in the old Carmine’s

Do you think, in your lifetime, you’re more likely to perform a ceremonial ribbon-cutting or christen a ship with a bottle of champagne? I sincerely want to know. And, since there’s a ribbon-cutting this Saturday in Greenpoint, I might ask the ribbon cutter if he’s also christened a ship. Maybe these things go hand-in-hand. Maybe once you start doing ceremonies to introduce something new into the uncharted waters of the ocean or, say, the New York City pizza scene, you kind of can’t stop. Once I get my answer, I plan to sink my teeth into what (I hope!!!) will be a pizza finally worthy of the old Carmine’s spot. Yep, they’re bringing pizza back to 93 Norman Ave and once that daunting little ribbon is severed, we can partake. See you there, and probably drunk late-night lots in the future. (The cut will happen at 10am)

Hartstop Leap Day at Rubulad, location TBA

There are very few rules to the party scene in Brooklyn – but one you should follow is this: if Rubulad is having a party, that’s where you should go. These guys have managed to keep their party group alive and underground for over a decade now, and it hasn’t lost any of its edge. They’ll be taken over by Hartstop this leap year to bring you a night worthy of this very painful 4-year wait. DJs spinning all night, plus tattoo artists (special 4-year disappearing ink!), handmade artisanal things to buy, grilled cheeses, and more. $8-10 entry, 5pm-late. Info here, RSVP for address (It’s off the Jefferson L).

Banter Bar’s 9th Anniversary in Williamsburg

There are few places I like to drink more during the day than at Banter Bar in South Williamsburg. There is something about a European-focused soccer bar that brings the spirit of a 3pm rival game in Madrid to a 10am, bleary-eyed band of misfits that are barely hanging on that holds a very special place in my heart. Go, celebrate their 9th anniversary along with Finback Brewing and KCBC a bunch of soccer fans yelling and chanting and drinking the day away. Info here. 132 Havemeyer St.

A Good Bar Just Opened in Greenpoint

That fateful little triangle spot at the very beginning of Bedford Ave, the longest road in the city of New York (yep, cool huh?) has once again changed hands, hoping to settle into a following as relentless as Frankel’s, the overly famous deli that occupies half the base of this isosceles space. They’ll reopen this weekend as Good Bar, thus enriching Greenpoint’s penchant for intentionally vague establishment names (A Bar, No Name, Good Room, The Place), Good Bar promises to bring us good music, and we can trust them, because it’s the Good Room people who are behind it. Come, listen to good tunes. Get a good burger. Have a good time. Happy hour is 5-7pm daily, music will be spinnin’ until late. Info here. 1 Bedford Ave.

Big shout-out to that Pink Pearl graphic eraser

The Day that Doesn’t Exist at Threes Brewing

It’s easy to pretend that nothing ever happened if there isn’t a paper trail. So what, so maybe you smell like beer and treats from the Meat Hook and disappeared with friends for a few hours on Saturday… but, there’s no record of it. So did it actually happen? Roll the dice this Leap Day and head to Threes Brewing. Enter a raffle to have your entire bill erased. Discuss alibis over beers anyway, just to be safe. Info here. 333 Douglass St.

Things to do in Brooklyn on Sunday

Spend a Day in the Brooklyn Navy Yard with Rooftop Reds

It’s opening day at Rooftop Reds and that means it’s a great excuse to spend the day in the Navy Yard. Pop into the Gatehouses for made-on-site whiskey, get lost for a bit trying all of the samples at Wegman’s, celebrate the finale of NYC Beer Week at the new Transmitter Brewing, and sip wine and play games at a rooftop vineyard at Rooftop Reds. Reserve your spot there here first, the rest is on your own.

Bern Fest at Baby’s All Right in Williamsburg

Now is the time, guys. Now is the time to show our support for Bernie Sanders and show the city and state that this is our candidate. All proceeds from this party and concert will go towards his 2020 campaign and you’ll spend the day building confidence and energy with like-minded people. Get your ticket here now. Party starts at 4pm. 146 Broadway.

Photo borrowed from @fordmedialab

Come Drink With Me This Sunday in Greenpoint

If you’re looking for me this Sunday, find me at brunch at Le Fanfare (serving bloody mary’s, not exactly partaking… because, fuckbrunch ), sipping cold brews on a cold rooftop at Greenpoint Beer and Ale, enjoying a hyperlocal negroni at The Greenhook Gin + St. Agrestis Tasting Room, and inducting a few new members into the Sneaky Spirit Social Club. Does this sound cool to you? Book a tour here. Come along and drink with me. I promise things will get weird.

The Weekend Guide | 20-23 February 2020

Liz Norment — Thu, 20 Feb 2020 23:43:30 +0000

I see you out there, Brooklyn. Looking for trouble in all the right places. Chasing the sunset until it rises again. Drinking more tequila than you will ever own up to, especially not to your hangover the next morning (“I only had like two drinks last night…”) I see you out there, and I like you. I like your spirit. I like your song. I like that little dance you do when you think no one, or everyone, is watching. And I’ve made plans for you this weekend- the only kind of plans that are worthy of your time.

Just trust me and dive in to your weekend guide, then get going. It’s all out there waiting for you.

Things to do in Brooklyn on Thursday

Eat a Paczki in Greenpoint for Fat Thursday

It’s Fat Thursday. Which is the non-Americanized way to celebrate Fat Tuesday. Which means if you live in Greenpoint, you indulge in round little sugary delights called paczkis before holy week and fasting and such begins. But more than anything, it’s a damn good excuse to connect with the cultural heritage of the neighborhood… maybe, with a side of borscht at my new favorite little pierogi spot. Make yourself a little fatter and get your paczkis today at Peter Pan, Polka Dot, Old Poland Bakery (it’s on Manhattan and Kent), Pierozek, or in Williamsburg at Northside Bakery.

Bingo Night with Lukas Volger at Archestratus in Greenpoint

What if Marie Kondo could also get inside of our refrigerators and kitchen cabinets and help us weed out all of the nonsense to leave only, simply, the foods that bring us joy? Well, she kind of is, in the form of Lukas Volger this Thursday night in the back of a cookbook store in Greenpoint. Volger’s new book Start Simple: Eleven Everyday Ingredients for Countless Weeknight Meals, will show you how to do a whole hell of a lot with a little. And comedian Mike Albo will help give you a little hope, in a few rounds, during Bingo! Free arancini ball with the purchase of beer or wine, so dinner’s on the house. Info here. 6:30-8:30pm, 160 Huron St.

Things to do in Brooklyn on Friday

Grand Street Restaurant Week, Williamsburg

Ah, restaurant week in New York- a highly anticipated and seemingly a great way to have a new experience for a great value! …And then you get there and it’s overrun with people who don’t know how to dine out and the food lets you down and everyone is on top of each other and you order too many drinks to deal with your frustration and then you’re paying way way more than anticipated for a mediocre experience… which I guess is also exactly what it’s like to live in Manhattan. Let’s just do this shit our own way. It’s Grand Street Restaurant Week, and just as every time you’ve ever subbed one experience for another across the river, it will be so much grander on our side. 15 amazing restaurants, now through March 1st. all info you need is here, including menus! Along Grand St.

Carnaval at House of Yes in Bushwick

Consider that round little sugary ball of dough you took as a sacrament on Fat Thursday as your entry into the sinful world that will be overtaking House of Yes this Friday night. Because after all, how can we abstain and truly repent if we don’t indulge to the utmost? All of the colorful magic and life of Brazil will be poured into the wild warehouse walls in Bushwick to let you dance and sing and love and feel alive. And do it all dressed in costume. Looks, inspiration, and all the other info you need is right here. Free before 11pm with an RSVP and a good getup. 10pm-4am, 2 Wyckoff Ave. #getuptogetdown

Mean Jeans, Dirty Fences, and Bower at TV Eye in Ridgewood

Oh, hey. It’s you. I know you. You. that person who wants to be the first of your friends to discover the hottest new spot in town. And I know why you’re here- because you trust me to hip you to those places. Enter, your Friday night plans- you and your crew going to see Mean Jeans, Dirty Fences, and Brower at TV Eye in Ridgewood. Because finally, Brooklyn is bringing back the bar/venue combos that formerly allowed us to drink and float fluidly between chilling and rocking out (I miss you, Cameo Gallery. Spike Hill, Glasslands) and this is the one you should have on your radar, from now until death by gentrification due us part. Get tickets here now. Get dinner and cocktails before the show at Bun-Ker.

Pschemagik and Love Tempo at Good Room in Greenpoint

Sometimes you just want to have a wild night with your friends that just kind of happens that way. Not too much planning, no required costumes or dress code, no necessary logistical coordination, just your pals and some booze and whatever other things you prefer to ingest and some damn good dance music, all night. This is the party that will make that night happen tonight. BIT favorite Love Tempo (Justin Strauss + Billy Caldwell) joins Psychemagik and friends at Good Room, my favorite place to do bad things. Get your tickets here (they’re cheaper than at the door) then meet at Lake Street and walk over. And do bad things that feel good. 98 Meserole St.

Battle of the Bands at Our Wicked Lady or anything else at Cobra Club

It’s Saturday. You find yourself stumbling somewhere around in Bushwick, trying to find something worthwhile or at least that doesn’t require a wild burning-man-esque costume or your dodging finance douchebags who wanted to “Brooklyn” tonight. Does adding some heavy rock music and a little additional combativeness to your evening sound better? Head to Our Wicked Lady for their Winter Madness battle-of-the-bands competition. And then head across the street at the Cobra Club for shots. Of whisky. And likely unwelcome conversation that you’ll pretend to forget in the morning or, a damn good time that starts in the bathroom. Our Wicked Lady is located at 153 Morgan Ave, and Cobra Club is down the street at 6 Wyckoff Ave.

NY Beer Week Kickoff at the Expo Center in Greenpoint

Yeah. I know. I usually hate these festivals. But our city and state are brewing some damn good beers, and to have (almost) all of them under one roof, being poured by the brewers who will be able to tell you all about the passion behind their pilsners and the love in their lagers is not something you want to miss. It’s the kickoff to NYC Beer Week which also means, now is not the time to restart that carb-free New Year’s Resolution. It’s happening at the Expo Center featuring 75+ breweries, unlimited tastings, a locally-sourced food court, games, music, and the best by-the-slice pizza shop in town just across the street to soak up all those suds after. Tickets and info here. 72 Noble St.

Beer Week Kick-Off After-Parties, at Brouwerij Lane and Threes Brewing in Greenpoint

For those of you who take this really seriously or at least don’t mind being around people who do the same, head to Brouwerij Lane after the fest for unique sips and telling drunk stories that you disguise as “beer experiences”. Info here, 78 Greenpoint Ave.

Or, head to Threes Brewing… for a slightly more low-key yet still very celebratory after-party. Show them your Beer Week badge for $5 Vliet Pilsners all night. The DJ starts at 8pm so pace yourself. Or, don’t. No sweat really either way. It’s your Saturday. Party starts at noon and doesn’t end until you do. Info here. 113 Franklin St.

Photo courtesy of the wildly talented @fordmedialab

Tasting Room at St. Agrestis and Greenhook Ginsmiths in Greenpoint

Listen. Fuck Brunch. For real, it’s lame and just for people who feel the need to find an excuse to start day drinking and who also don’t know how to make eggs at home. Make eggs at home. And then decide you need no excuse to drink whenever you want, but you do need to take advantage of one of the coolest and still semi-undiscovered watering holes in Brooklyn. Because it’s only open to the public on Saturdays and Sundays and it’s guaranteed to lift your spirits by stirring theirs together and into a glass just for you. Stop by anytime between 1-6pm or sign up for the tour at 2pm. 233 Eagle St.

Rhymes with Opera at the Brooklyn Conservatory of Music in Prospect Park

I’m a big, big fan of opera in intimate spaces. This past summer, I was fortunate enough to be dining atop a mountain in Tuscany while a harpist and opera singer performed for just the 6 of us, and had us all in tears within minutes, and I’m anxiously awaiting the return of LoftOpera. For now, I’m so excited to see Rhymes With Opera this Saturday. An intimate performance that is part of the Brooklyn Conservatory’s Parlour Room Sessions, it will bring you through what promises to be a beautifully orchestrated emotional roller coaster. Get tickets here now. 5:30-7pm. 58 7th Ave.

National Margarita Day, everywhere apparently.

Don’t you hate it when social media decides it must designate a day for every fucking thing and then push it off into the trend surf and watch everyone lose their minds while their Instagram feeds all become some cohesive slop of feigned artistry while their lives are completely and utterly unchanged? Yeah. Me fucking too. In other news, it’s National Margarita Day. Here’s a link to where you can mindlessly pretend that’s a thing while you get drunk.

Things to do in Brooklyn on Sunday

Hotbox Mobile Sauna Pop-Up in Bushwick

Was your red-hot weekend of love a little lukewarm this year? Don’t fret it, baby… sweat it. Our favorite little hot box will be opening its doors (but you know, just like for a quick moment each time) this Sunday so you can get hot with some strangers. Hot Box is a traveling sauna and it’s guaranteed to cure those winter blues and the chill in your bones and potentially the loneliness in your heart. Reserve your spot here, and maybe just hold onto your sauna hat unless you see other people wearing them. 2-6pm. 26 Vandervoort Pl.

Pale Ramon at Threes Brewing in Gowanus

On Fridays, I like to be taken to dinner and have long conversation over and endless bottle of wine, followed by tequila at some dark, seductive little dive bar. On Saturdays, I like to drink negroni’s a little too early and end up dancing too late into the night to retain my dignity. And on Sundays? Well on Sundays, I like to go see live music. Often, it’s Stephane Wrembel at Barbes in Park Slope or honky-tonk at Skinny Dennis, but this Sunday it’s Pale Ramon at Three’s Brewing in Gowanus. Because there’s nothing more enticing than the raw, melodic sounds of this Brooklyn-based band, especially with a beer in hand. They’re playing with other people, but I’m going for them. Info here. Doors at 7:30pm. 333 Douglass St/

Petitioning Pick-Up at Teddy’s in Williamsburg

Between the heated on-stage debates and the unavoidable at-bar debates we’ve all been having as the presidential race heats up. Let’s keep in mind that so much of what affects our daily lives can be changed right in our own neighborhoods. Teddy’s, everyone’s favorite little neighborhood bar in Williamsburg, wants to help you have the last word in any heated political discussion (“I just know that I’m doing everything I can right here, in my neighborhood”) by giving you petitioning packets to help you Rep Your Block and have a say on who is on our County Committee. Because when the future of our political landscape feels as intangible as Amy Klobachar’s hairstyle, we need to take it to the streets. Stop by anytime from 2-6pm. Info here. 96 Berry St.

Come see me and Ceri at Elder Greene!

That’s right, I’ll be working alongside my partner-in-crime at one of our favorite local haunts in Greenpoint. Why? Well because Ceri kind of works everywhere, and she needed back-up… and while things can only get so crazy working behind the bar at Le Fanfare, semi-soberly slinging shots on a Sunday until 4am is bound to leave me with some great new material! Note: your entry counts as permission to be used unknowingly in some story on Brooklyn, I’m Trying, and gives me the right to do anything I can to loosen those lips of yours. 160 Franklin St.

The 2020 Brooklyn Valentine’s Day Guide

Liz Norment — Wed, 12 Feb 2020 20:57:20 +0000

Hey Brooklyn. Regardless of your relationship status, I can help you celebrate Valentine’s Day in Brooklyn this year. Just as our love affair with this city bounces from complete dedication to absolute disdain on a nearly daily basis, our relationship statuses tend to flip and flutter nearly as much. So let’s check-in here.

Where do you find yourself this Valentine’s Day? Where is your heart? Who is laying there beside you? Who was just in your dreams?

In whatever state of love or longing you find yourself this Valentine’s Day, I’ll help you navigate the city of romance (hahaha jk) in all the right ways. And if you need it, I’ll be here to recommend the best cafe to take her to the next morning. Seriously, DM me. You can’t waste all of that on a bad croissant.

Let’s step on the good foot and do the bad thing. Wear your heart on your sleeve. Intentionally forget to wear undies and tell him at dinner. Put it all out there, because your lover’s next lover is just a swipe away. And we don’t want that to happen.

Here’s how to spread your love, all over town.

For the Newfound Love

Oh you know those precious first few months. The ones when you still get a little nervous before you meet up, when you still delicately choose what stories you tell him, the ones where getting wasted together doesn’t ever end in fighting, just fucking.

This fledgling love, full of beauty and potential deserves a night that starts with cocktails, evolves into a hip dinner experience, and devolves drunkenly into some intimacy-inducing entertainment. Choose places that say, “I know my neighborhood. I want to get to know you now. And later.”

In Greenpoint, go for cocktails, dinner, and dancing.

Grand Republic Cocktail Club

Because everyone is going to be at Ramona and you aren’t everyone, this tucked-away cocktail bar has some of the most inventive yet unpretentious drinks in town, made by bartenders that embody the same energy. Plus it has free popcorn in case your tummy is grumbly before dinner. Because that’s still embarrassing in the beginning of things. 19 Greenpoint Ave.

Dinner at 21 Greenpoint

Just avoid the conversation about it being Bill Murray’s son’s place. Because in this town, ya don’t really just get a handout because you’re some star’s kid. Homer Murray has a lot more to boast about, from an inventive, evolving menu and damn impressive wine list, plus a Bib Gourmand award that has no addendum for relative fame. 21 Greenpoint Ave.

In Williamsburg, have wine, dinner and a show, then a little late-night competition.

photo borrowed from The Infatuation

Wine and Small Plates at Four Horsemen

Impress her with your wine knowledge, or at least your knowledge of hip bars owned by rock stars. Four Horsemen has some of the rarest and most natural wine menus in town, and some of the most delicate small plates to accompany them. Don’t skip the mangalitsa. Don’t stare at the James Murphy. 295 Grand St.

Dinner and Music at St. Mazie

For dinner and some damn good tunes, reserve a table down the street at St. Mazie. With separate performances and menu options downstairs and up, choose your own adventure. And by that I mean look up which one you know she’ll like best. 345 Grand St.

Photo snagged from brokeassstuart.com

Pool and Whisky at Midway

Nothing juxtaposes a hip wine bar and vintage-esque supper club than a dingy dive bar with a free pool table. Show off your skills, incite a little seductive competition, and smooth it all over with some cheap tequila. Sneak into the bathroom together to settle your bets. Trust me, everyone else is doing something like that too. 272 Grand St.

In Bushwick, have a meal guaranteed to spice things up, then dance it all back off.

Mission Chinese Bushwick

Spicy and hip, (which basically sums up the About Me in your Happn profile), this impossible-to-get-into Manhattan mainstay has opened up a neon-lit off-(bamboo)shoot beneath the already mesmerizing roof of Elsewhere. Which means that after your adventurous pre-fixe, you can find yourself along three different stages and shows. Or of course, go elsewhere. 599 Johnson Ave.

Dance yourselves dirty and clean again at House of Yes

No better time to bring up or act out your sexual proclivities than at this sex-positive discoteca in Bushwick. Valentine’s Day night they invite you to celebrate love and dance all night at their infamous House of Love party where costumes are required and you won’t have to wait to take each other home. Info here. 2 Wyckoff Ave.

How to Celebrate Valentine’s Day if you’re Dating, seriously.

You’ve both deleted your dating apps. You’ve been upstate together. You’ve met or at least facetimed each others’ families. Getting wasted together half the time ends in fucking, the other half it’s fighting and then really good morning sex. Find your new go-to neighborhood spots. Reliable, slightly unknown, and the type of place that will remember you as you make memories there, together.

A Very Parisien Dinner and Theater Experience in Bushwick

Dinner at Le Garage in Bushwick

Because you can never forget the time you were in Paris together, avoiding tourist traps and instead dining in hidden cafes far from the Champs Elysees. Le Garage is the embodiment of a every experience you discovered wandering around Montemarte. Tucked in the non-glamorous but distinctly bohemian neighborhood of Bushwick, this approachable bistro is serving some of the most exquisite French fare in the city. Their Valentine’s Day pre-fixe menu will have you slipping right back into your Parisien love story. 157 Suydam St.

Catch a very sexy show at Company XIV

You don’t see enough theater in this city because well if you live here, it’s part of the pedigree as a “New Yorker”. How are we supposed to weed through all of the off-broadway and off-off-Broadway to find something worthwhile? And that means worth all of our precious New York minutes… You start by finding a theater company that is doing it differently, that is showcasing some of the best talent in the city on an intimate stage with productions that mix burlesque and ballet in a way that is delicate yet undeniably risque. Company XIV is that company. Their theater in Bushwick is the perfect place to sit and sip and be completely floored by the talent and stories as they all unfold onstage. Check their performance schedule here. 383 Troutman St.

Dinner and Dancing (if that’s what you want to call it) in Greenpoint

Sardinian-Inspired Italian Fare and Live Music at Le Fanfare

There are those places that do always execute their mission perfectly, simply, consistently, and flawlessly, and somehow without much…. well, fanfare. This gem of a restaurant located in NoGreePo is the lovechild of three Sardinian natives who have created a menu and experience that is reflective of their homeland. Exciting and inventive, and a keen concentration on service and the experience created make every moment here one you won’t forget. Their pre-fixe menu is littered with aphrodisiacs that will have you and your lover slipping slowly into the seductive sensory experience that has become inherent in this space. Plus, the funky sounds of Seth Kessel’s honky-tonk band will be filling your ears all night, and trust me, it’s surprisingly seductive. Make a reservation by emailing reservations.lefanfare@gmail.com now. 1103 Manhattan Ave.

Go Do Bad Things at Good Room

It’s my favorite place to do bad things, and for good reason. Or maybe at least bad reasons with good intentions. This no-frills nightclub is small enough to not get lost in but big enough for your wildest dreams. Showcasing the best local djs and plenty of international names from outside our fair city, go. Dance. Lose yourself, but not your lover. 98 Meserole St.

Michelin-Star Dinner and an intimate show in South Brooklyn

Tapas at La Vara

Because Michelin star Spanish without the pretentious atmosphere kind of feels like your love story. Unexpected and dynamic, indulgent with staying power. And besides, the two of you are always just a plane ticket away from moving to Mallorca. Get a little taste of the good life here. 268 Clinton St.

Music in the back room at Barbes

There are few places more romantic and unexpectedly intimate like the back room at Barbes. Squeeze in along the back wall and be enamored with the acoustics, the talent, each other. Drink red wine. Check the schedule here. 376 9th St.

So You’re Married, huh?

You did it. You decided to commit to your love forever here in a city where the only consistency is an inability to agree on the best by-the-slice joints in town. That deserves respect, recognition, and a damn good excuse to celebrate. Go for dinner and some theater at a place with reliably good service, consistently excellent food, one that isn’t accompanied with a mostly Kygo playlist or girls who drastically overuse the word literally but deny it a syllable.

Italian Fare and Intimate Cinema in Greenpoint

Dinner at Naked Dog

Naked Dog serves consistently amazing Italian food in an unpretentious setting with cocktails that you’ll both understand and want more than one of. This place is a not-so-hidden gem that gets it right, every time, without all the gentrified riffraff. Don’t skip the burrata, the meatballs, the braised shortrib. 47 Java St.

Catch a movie at Film Noir Cinema

An antique theater hidden on a residential street specializing in noir films often with a live score? This is unexpected yet somehow just what you’ve been looking for. The vintage wooden seats might seem uncomfortable but all the more reason to lean on each other. Thursday night they’ll be showing Secrets of the Heart, at 9pm. Tickets here, 122 Meserole Ave.

Or try an adventurous Pan-Asian dinner, and a movie, in Williamsburg

Dinner at Monarch Theater Restaurant

I often find restaurants this beautiful too much of a production, and perhaps a distraction, from the food. But trust that even in this absolutely pristine, minimalist setting, the bold flavors take center stage. Read my review written just a few weeks after they opened their doors here, but trust that I’ve checked back in on them often since then, and it seems to keep getting better. 146 Metropolitan Ave.

Film at Nitehawk Williamsburg

There’s simply nothing better than munching on some gourmet popcorn and sipping drinks delivered to you by an elusive, scurrying server in an intimate theater while watching just about anything on the big screen. So make that happen this Valentine’s Day. Get tickets here now. 136 Metropolitan Ave.

New American Fare and a Film in South Slope

Dinner at Camperdown Elm

I can’t say enough about this restaurant. Camperdown Elm is providing an explosion of flavors, textures, spices, and bold new dishes that create an experience that is anything but familiar. It’s intriguing, it’s ambitious, it’s bold and oh-so-good for the soul, like both your first and last lover (but no need to mention them tonight, eh?) Read my full review here, and just make sure you don’t miss the oysters, the rib eye, the sea buckthorn pie. 441 7th Ave.

Catch a film at the new Nitehawk in Prospect Park

Yep, there’s a new Nitehawk with more theaters but each one is just as intimate and inviting as the original in Williamsburg. Catch up on some Oscar noms or see a throwback romance. Check the schedule here, 188 Prospect Park West.

Catching Up with an Old Flame

Avoid the pre-fixe or any indication that this was a good idea. This was probably not a good idea, but you knew that anyway. Find a place to eat that’s loud enough to drown out any utterances of your past wrongdoings and has minimal service to interrupt, but the food and atmosphere says that you’ve still got it. I mean, that you’ve still got that knack you have for picking out great spots that always made her swoon a bit. Grab a bite then head to a dive bar where no hand-checks are required, ever. And also where slaps in the face rarely raise an eyebrow.

Grab a Slice and Shots in Greenpoint

Photo via Eater NYC

Pizza at Pauli Gee’s Slice Shop

Because nothing replaces an awkward silence like a good-natured New York pizza slice debate, you’ll be guaranteed to have something to playfully fight about and plenty of pizza to stuff in your mouth suddenly if you sense things might be escalating. Also, sports- the universal distraction from reality! 110 Franklin St.

Shot and Beer Specials at Lake Street

The best dive bar in the neighborhood, specializing in shots of whisky, cheap beers, agreeable music, and a bathroom with a sexual zodiac wheel that will stay in her mind when things start getting a little looser. The lighting is always low and they never ask for hand checks. 706 Manhattan Ave.

A Quick Bite and a Battle-of-the-Bands or Dive Bar-ing in Bushwick

Tacos at Los Hermanos Tortilleria

Because it’s just casual enough to make it feel like this isn’t really a thing, plus it’s BYOB. Get a smattering of tacos and a 6-pack to keep things stress-free that will easily accompany the lighthearted conversation you hope you’ll have. 2 Knickerbocker Ave.

Battle of the Bands at Our Wicked Lady or anything else at Cobra Club

From here, take a mental litmus test of how things are going. Feel like adding some heavy rock music and a little additional combativeness to the evening? Head down the street to Our Wicked Lady for their Winter Madness competition. Or if you two need to keep drinking and talking, go across the street to the Cobra Club for shots. Of whisky. And likely unwelcome conversation that you’ll pretend to forget in the morning or, a damn good time that starts in the bathroom. Our Wicked Lady is located at 153 Morgan Ave, and Cobra Club is down the street at 6 Wyckoff Ave.

Spending Valentine’s Day Alone?

You know what’s great about being alone on Valentine’s Day? There will be no lover’s spout, there will be know unfulfilled expectations, there will be no Russel Stover chocolate sampler that makes you wonder if he’s ever listened to a fucking word you said. Because fuck that chocolate.
There will be you and your heart full of wonder and red lipstick. I recommend red lipstick, that equally sends a “come hither” and “back the fuck off” message to passersby

Leave your mark and wine and dine yourself in DUMBO

Photo source darrable.com

Wine and Small Plate(s) at Olympia Wine Bar

Because you don’t know if you want cheese or a few small plates or maybe something that requires more of a commitment. You don’t know and no one is sitting there waiting for you answer, asking if your parents are still together and if you’ve always had commitment problems. This charming wine bar let’s you sit and sip and nibble until your heart is content (which it has been all along.) 54 Jay St.

Leave Your (virtual) Mark with a Love Lantern

Have a wish you want to put out into the universe? Maybe a few things you realized you should have said too late? Or even a few grievances about your last lover? Download the new VR experience from DUMBO-based Juniper Jones that lets you hang a love lantern with a message all over iconic Washinton Street. Read the love notes of others, feel your heart get a little lighter, and feel alive knowing that his wonderous city is filled with so many people with so many stories and so many heartbeats. And the best thing about this project? Your selfish wishes aren’t going to weigh down some beautiful piece of architecture.

Celebrate No One to Hold You Back in Bushwick

Sit at the Bar at Roberta’s

Yes, Roberta’s is nearly impossible to get into, but the bar is first-come-first-serve and very low on the romance scale. Which means it’s primed and perfect for your solo ass to slide up and indulge in some of the best pies in the city. Which means in the world, because this is New York. Get two, save your leftovers, because, well, nothing is sexier than a stranger with Roberta’s to give away. 261 Moore St.

Find Love at House of Yes

Because going to a sex-positive discoteca with your lover really sucks, enjoy having the shackles removed and only voluntary restrains put upon you. House of Yes will be hosting their monthly fetish party this Friday which means really whatever you want it to mean. Live out your wildest fantasies or play a part in someone else’s, with consent. Choose your poison here. 2 Wyckoff Ave.

The Weekend Guide | 19-22 December 2019

Liz Norment — Fri, 20 Dec 2019 04:20:02 +0000

I’ve found all the best ways to secure your position on Santa’s naughty list this weekend.

Get to it, there isn’t much time.

Things to do in Brooklyn on Thursday

Hartstop Disco Dance Party at Venus in Furs in Williamsburg

Disco isn’t dead and neither am I and neither are you. You know how I know? That little heart of your is still in there beating, likely to its own drum… but let’s let all of ours beat together, and our hips move and groove together, this Thursday night at Venus in Furs in Williamsburg. They’ll welcome back the Hartstop Disco Dance Party and all of you and your disco-fab friends to dance all night. Dico getup welcome, it makes conversation-starting easier (and you know it). $8/10 suggested to enter. Info here. 9pm ’til late. 990 Broadway.

Morbid Hour: Celebrating the Darkest Day of the Year at KCBC Brewery

Friday is the darkest day of the year (or I suppose it’s Thursday to Friday?), and that means we’re all tempted to join the dark side, to succumb to the deep dark cold of winter, to relinquish all of our best intentions for evil, to pretend to like Star Wars. Our friends at KCBC want to help envelope you into darkness with their Darkest Day of the Year celebration, featuring their new Morbid Hour dark beer on tap and in collaboration with St. Vitus and Traze Pizza, so things will be dark and metally and delicious. The lights will be low, the music will be low, and there will be no hand checks. Info here, it all happens 5-11pm at KCBC, 381 Troutman St.

**NYC DSA Debate Watch Party at Magazine* in Greenpoint**

I haven’t been one for political ‘watch’ parties ever since I attended one at Lake Street one fateful Tuesday night that had us all clutching our beers and taking obscene amounts of whiskey shots, unable to believe our eyes, and in my case, convincing myself it didn’t actually happen so I could finally fall asleep around 4:30am. But, one of the best things about a debate watch part is that we get to see where all of us actually stand, and feel our voices heard at least among our peers in order to shape a stronger one come election time. The best place to do it is at Magazine* Greenpoint. They’ll have the debate with sound on the big screen, all-night drink specials, an impartial disco ball, and as always, free popcorn. RSVP here. 130 Franklin St.

*Disco Shayz

House of Yes Xmas Spectacular in Bushwick

This is one of my favorite New York holiday traditions. The Christmas Spectacular at House of Yes is a festive, immersive holiday adventure that combines traditional songs and stories and then completely flips them upside down and strips them away and interprets them with aerialists, dancing gifts, sexy reindeer, Mariah Carey, milk and cookies, and so many surprises under the tree you’ll question whether or not you’ve actually been good this year. (Trust me, you haven’t.) Tickets, $30-80 are available here. Shows are Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, 7-10pm. 2 Wyckoff Ave at House of Yes, the place for naughty boys and girls.

Dirty Thursday: Office Holiday Party at House of Yes in Bushwick

After the Spectacular, roll right into the office holiday party the way you always wanted it to be- with no awkward conversations with slimy old executives who feel comfortable holding their hand on your lower back, without cheesy games or giveaways or speeches you have to pretend to give a fuck about, and with overall way better-looking people. Come and forget office politics, forget being afraid of making a fool of yourself. Make copies of your private parts. Hook up in a not-that-dark corner. Have no regrets. And honestly, I bet if you reached out to Jim from finance in an after-hours email he’d have no qualms about meeting you for a late-night budget constraints review. It’s free all night. Dress up, it’s more fun. Info here. 2 Wyckoff Ave.

Things to do in Brooklyn on Friday

Good Room Holiday Party in Greenpoint

I at least want to pretend that I was good this year; that even my worst decisions started with good intentions. Well, it’s time we threw all of that shit out the window this Friday because to be honest, it’s way too late. Let’s just admit that we’re a bunch of fucking heathens. Celebrate your hedonistic longings at the Good Room’s holiday party. Get merry and dance with your friends all night to some of the city’s best DJs, in both the Good and Bad rooms. Free for Good Room members, $10 with RSVP right here. 10pm-4am, 98 Meserole Ave at Good Room, where no good can come of it.

Light Side about Darth Vader at Film Noir Cinema in Greenpoint

I’m kind of one of those people who doesn’t really get the whole Star Wars thing. I understand it’s a fantastic story, I get that the graphics were really profound for the time, and they caught Harrison Ford at his very best… but beyond that, I find myself searching for a little more. Which is why I’m so into this event, that will show you a deeper (not darker) side of the whole story. Film Noir Cinema, that captivating little antique theatre in Greenpoint, invites you into a journey with David Prowse, the British actor who originally portrayed Darth Vader, through his new documentary Light Side. It will give you a fresh and different perspective into the trilogy. Come. Listen. Learn. Be tempted toward either side but also, develop an understanding into what it means to be a celebrated villain. I’ll be there mostly because maybe now I can finally stop aggressively sipping my coffee while I pretend to listen to my boyfriend get so damn excited when we see a “dolorian” poster as wait for the G train. Tickets are in limited capacity- get yours here now. It’s happening from 8:30-10:30pm at 122 Meserole Ave.

Michael Alan’s Holiday Sale at his Studio in Bushwick

What do you get for that one person on your list who still remains an enigma? That person who has such specific taste but still somehow astounds you every time you go to their apartment and think, how the fuck did you think to put that here? And also, I think that taxidermied creature is still breathing… This is the place to find that special something for that special someone. Renowned performance artist and Brooklyn resident will open his studio for a sale this Friday night. Come to get an inside look at the creative process of this profound artist, and pick something crazy out for yourself or a friend. Info here. Address revealed with RSVP.

Holiday Island at House of Yes in Bushwick

Look at your skin right now. Ugh. Squalled, right? And that sweater? Remember when it was a shirt that said “hey, I just came to party!” instead of, “hi, my office is usually pretty cold and I just wanted to make sure I could get through the financial reports without an undue amount of discomfort.” There’s still a chance to change that around. There’s still a way to say, “Hey baby, is it warm in here, or is it just me heating up the dance floor?” It’s all happening Saturday night, at House of Yes. They’ll be having their Holiday Island party, so give the gift that keeps you living. So save yourself. Get out of your winter skin. Shed a little light on that timeless summer glow. Be cool. Get hott. Get tickets here right now. 10pm-4am, 2 Wyckoff Ave.

Muppet Christmas Live Reading and Sing-Along at the Creek and the Cave in LIC

I really love holiday traditions for the sake of just helping you fall right into that cozy holiday spirit. And there’s no doubt that watching Muppet Christmas is one of them. So let’s all head to the Creek and the Cave Friday night and hold hands and sing along and cheer on that Kermit the Frog Tiny Tim. You $5 will be donated to Coalition for the Homeless so go, #revelwithacause. Info here. Head to Bierocracy after, and get a mojito from Zach. He makes ’em best.

Things to do in Brooklyn on Saturday

BK Queer Flea Market at 3 Dollar Bill in Bushwick

Not sure what to get the staunch republicans on your list? Get the something interesting and handmade at this holiday market in Brooklyn, and then let them know proudly that their gift also supports LGBTQ rights and the community’s creative endeavors. Find the full list of vendors here, and then be there from 3-9pm at 3 Dollar Bill in Bushwick. 260 Meserole St.

Nutcracker Rouge at Company XIV in Bushwick

Be honest with yourself. There’s no more need for the “naughty or nice” bit this year. You’re getting coal and switches (ooh!) this year and that was pretty much determined before the end of 2018. So let’s get really good and naughty here as Christmas approaches by going to this dirty iteration of a Holiday classic. It’s the Nutcracker Rouge, a kinky burlesque cabaret ballet that reinterprets the classic coming-of-age tale as one of sexual awakening. It runs now through 1/13 but go before Christmas. Don’t ruin it for yourself next year. Tickets are $75 and are available here. 383 Troutman St.

Greenhook Ginsmiths and St. Agrestis New Tasting Room is Open!

If you haven’t read my piece on Duke’s Liquor Box yet then maybe you don’t exactly realize how much we should appreciate the fact that New York has relatively recently opened up its regulations for small-batch distillers. That means that even just in Greenpoint, we have a handful of amazing distilleries to visit, learn from, and sip with. And two of the best just got together to open a charming little tasting room, on Eagle Street. Greenhook Ginsmiths and St. Agrestis Amaro (ps, St. Agrestis is basically the saint of wild ex-pats, which is all of us here), and they’re only open for walk-ins on the weekends. So you should go this Saturday, experience the magic these two spirits make when combined, get a little loose then go (kind of) finish your shopping at the Renegade Craft Fair, at the Expo Center! Find the tasting room at 233 Eagle St.

Renegade Craft Fair at the Expo Center in Greenpoint

Crafts are dangerous again! Or, I mean a little. These “renegade” makers are bold enough to go beyond the store and sell their wares from charming little booths that are like pockets of passion and hard work for you to peruse and decide if their blood, sweat, and tears have a place under your tree this year. (HInt: they do.) Go. Buy. Support local makers. Info here. Go Saturday or Sunday, starting at 11am. 79 Franklin St.

Winter Soulstice at House of Yes in Bushwick

I’m pretty sure Winter arrived on Wednesday in a big old squall that came storming over us from the West… but, we shall formally welcome it into our house this Saturday night, at House of Yes. In their words, “Radiate your light on this darkest night and feel connected to the stars, the sun… and the future of you. Nurture your nature. Celebrate your celestial soul on Winter Solstice, through heartbeats and body rolls on our dance floor. Change the season. Change your life.” Yep. Any other info is here. 10pm-4am, 2 Wyckoff Ave.

Things to do in Brooklyn on Sunday

Stay tuned!!!

24 Hours in Brooklyn | City Guides for Urban Nomads

Liz Norment — Mon, 12 Aug 2019 17:44:30 +0000

Twenty-four hours is never enough in any city, but sometimes it’s all you have. And if you want a truly localized experience but only have a day in Brooklyn, here’s where to go, what to do, and how to best experience it, in one day.

Coming from Manhattan, first make your way down to lower Manhattan and walk across the Brooklyn Bridge. Yes, it’s touristy but it’s stunning and should be missed. This piece of architectural magic was the first to unite these two pieces of land, for foot traffic, horse-drawn carriages, and bicyclists at the time it opened in 1869.

The Brooklyn side of the bridge ends in DUMBO, a very historic and quite trendy neighborhood that stands for “Down Under The Manhattan Bridge Overpass”. Both the Manhattan Bridge and Brooklyn Bridge end in this neighborhood within a few blocks of each other, offering iconic views of both boroughs and picture-perfect frames for the infamous skyline (you’re probably familiar with the one above?).

Manhattan skyline, Brooklyn Bridge and the East River from Brooklyn Bridge Park, New York City, New York, United States of America, North America

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Walk around Brooklyn Bridge Park, which has the best views of lower Manhattan. There’s a fairly hidden bar within the park, as well as a historic schooner-turned-oyster and cocktail bar just off the park in the river, in case you get thirsty (and I recommend that you do). Spend some time exploring the shops and cobblestone streets of DUMBO, but avoid Grimaldi’s. It’s not even close to the best pizza in town, and you don’t want to be one of those mindless tourists spending an hour in line for a sub-par slice.

From there, catch the NYC Ferry from DUMBO up to Williamsburg. Get off in South Williamsburg and walk under the Williamsburg Bridge and into Domino Park. Great waterfront views and my favorite taco spot in town, Tacocina. Owned by some of the best restauranteurs in town (think Union Square Cafe, Gramercy Tavern, Manhatta…) this sneaky little shack is serving some of the best tacos in town, right on the water, for less than $4 a pop. From there, walk up Kent to North 7th- There you’ll find Smorgasburg, a massive, weekly food festival (on Saturdays!) and their new Food Truck Fridays (on… Fridays!) in East River State Park, right on the water. Both will be crowded and full of “influencers” precariously positioning pineapples in Portrait Mode, but also a great way to experience some amazing local fare.

From there, walk East to Bedford Ave (the main drag in Williamsburg) for shops and such. Ideally you’ll find yourself close to sunset and also both the William Vale and Wythe Hotels around the same time. The William Vale is the tallest publicly-accessible structure in the borough, and thus offers unmatched views of the skyline, and damn good cocktails. It is, however, a scene. The Wythe Hotel, just across the street, is tall enough to see it all and has a much more localized vibe.

Make your way north into Greenpoint (the best neighborhood in Brooklyn) and explore the amazing shops along Franklin Street. Get dinner at any of my favorite spots- Chez Ma Tante (French Canadien/British inspired, and probably the best food in north Brooklyn right now), Le Fanfare (Sardinian-Italian spot where I work! Amazing fresh pastas and seafood), Oxomoco (one of two Michelin Starred Mexican places in the city. AMAZING food), Paulie Gee’s (the only pizza spot you need to know about. Unbelievable, and a neighborhood institution.) Cherry Point (mostly British, meat-centric, insanely talented chef) of El Born (authentic Spanish tapas and paella!) I recommend making a reservation ASAP at any of those places! Then go get drinks at Ramona, Troost, or Moonlight Mile,

thanks for the photo, eventbrite!

Still want more? Work off that extra energy and tear up the dance floors at Good Room (edgy, techno-centric club with world-class DJs but an approachable vibe) or Pony Boy (wild dance parties for a youngish crowd that you still can fit right in, at any age) in Greenpoint. If you really want to burn the midnight oil- grab a cab and head to Bushwick to hit up a crazy dance party at House of Yes (part circus, part dance club, this eccentric space was started by a few Burning Man revelers who want to keep the Playa vibes going all year) or Brooklyn Mirage (MASSIVE indoor/outdoor space that is the best place to party outside of Ibiza.) until the wee hours.

The Weekend Guide | 8-11 August 2019

Liz Norment — Thu, 08 Aug 2019 19:51:11 +0000

Yep, Brooklyn, that’s about to be your summer. Smashed to bits and left for dead somewhere in McCarren Park, wishing that just moments before it was all over, someone embraced it and used it for their own enjoyment, as it was intended.

Now is that moment. Don’t let your summer die for no reason. Let it live, let it pour juice all down your mouth and make your hands sticky and give you a reason to have spitting contests with your friends. I’ll show you all the best ways how, just below, in your weekend guide.

Come on now, let’s go.

Stargazing in Transmitter Park in Greenpoint

It’s easy to get distracted by the shining, shimmering skyline as you let nightfall upon you in Transmitter Park. Let’s not soon forget that there’s a whole solar system of stars and planets and likely some inhabitants that don’t assume the body of common Manhattan douchebags… instead of gingham shirts and smart chinos and a smirk, they all wear that skin-tight glittery latex number that zips up the back and all decided collectively to stop smiling way back before our time. At least, that’s how I picture them. See for yourself and look into the great beyond this Thursday night by stargazing in Transmitter Park. The Friends of Transmitter Park will be there to provide telescopes and all of your answers about the Great Beyond*. Info here, arrive at sundown/8pm-ish. 2 Greenpoint Ave.

*this does not include any answers as to why Murray Hill is devoid of any human life at all, yet many bodies.

Jaws Sighting in Long Island City

Not sure if you’ve heard, but a great white fucking shark has been sighted off the shores of Montauk, heading West. I’m not kidding. And they’re saying this is good news, because our water clean-up efforts are finally working, and now the predators have returned! The waters are so clean, we have to stay out of them! If you didn’t click on the link I inserted and you still aren’t scared, let Steven Spielberg reinstate your fear tonight off the just-clean-enough shores of the East River, in Long Island City. They’ll be playing Jaws on the big screen, with an encore performance of Dave Matthews telling you to not drink or go into the water, in so many words. The film is free, so are most of our beaches. Info here. Film starts at sundown, 52-10 Center Blvd.

Do Things My Dad Likes Because It’s His Birthday

Today is my dad’s birthday, and while he doesn’t live here and thus we can’t hang, I always like to do things he likes to do on this day. Which means kayaking, eating oysters, drinking wine, and telling stories while sitting outside and sipping on something. If this sounds like something you’d enjoy too, partake. And wish him a happy birthday while you do it. And if not, do things that your dad likes. And let me know what they are, in the comments section below.

Things to do in Brooklyn on Friday

Cruel Summer at the Bell House in Gowanus

The only thing cruel about summer is when it leaves us. So don’t let it leave us. Go and revel in everything it’s about, 80s style- so make sure you don a summer outfit. It’s being brought to you by the shiny happy people at The Skint. $10 at the door, $5 in advance with promo code “summertime” exclusively for BiT readers. Get your tickets here then be there, with bells on, at the bell house. 149 7th st. at the Bell House, I’ll be there with bells on (and almost nothing else)

Hong-Kong Tapas and Art in Carroll Gardens

Maybe you’re sick of me always talking about and inviting you to join me at El Born but you aren’t yet sick of tapas. Well then maybe this event is for you. It’s the last installment of the inventive, enticing, and all-around artistically inspiring tapas and mural event, in Carroll Gardens! There’s a mural, there are Hong-Kong-style tapas, there are seasonal drinks, there will be you and all those other people who refuse to join me at El Born, and it will be damn delicious. Seating is limited, so reserve yours here. Be there at the time you chose. 371 Court St.

Flying High at House of Yes in Bushwick

Sometimes, I just let House of Yes say it best: Lift your spirits, elevate your life. Take off, blast off and get high in the friendly skies with Yes Air and Big Imagination! Aerial aviation of the highest altitudes, soaring spectacles beyond the stratosphere and beautiful beats to keep you flying and floating through the solar system & dance floor all night long. Come dressed as a flight attendant. Renew your membership to the Mile High Club. Do bad things with good intentions. Your plane is boarding, and you just got bumped up to first class… or, at least, you feel like you just did. Tickets, here. 10pm-4am, 2 Wyckoff Ave. Also, if your curious if this is a fundraising event for that airplane art car at Burning Man, yes. Yes it is.

Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind on Governor’s Island

(Meet me in Montauk) oh, I mean… (meet me on Governor’s Island) yeah, pay attention to that second delicate whisper. If you didn’t know, our favorite brewery has an outpost on Governor’s Island. Yeah, Governor’s Island- you know, that place that is suddenly blowing up that is the last place you’d expect to blow up, since Industry City. So go be part of the action and drink all of the amazing beers Threes is brewing while watching one of the best films ever, al fresco. It’s free and it’s summertime and you should be on an island somewhere. Info here.

Boy Band Sing-Along at Union Hall in Park Slope

It’s annoying enough already when you accidentally lock eyes with that guy at any wedding and he decides to dramatically lip-synch “but I want it thaaaat way!” complete with whatever motions he decisively makes his arms do. Avoid this event, where that guy at any wedding is every person inside Union Hall. Unless, of course, you are that guy or you like that guy. Then, go. It’s a “judgement free” boy band sing-along and you won’t find me there. I’m not that girl. Info here, 9:30-midnight, 702 Union St.

Things to do in Brooklyn on Saturday

Beers With(out) Beards at the Well in Bushwick

We are living in an age of breaking boundaries, shattering glass ceilings, blurring lines and bashing stereotypes. Women like beers. Women brew beers. Women also sometimes burp when having beers. And we’re still fucking sexy as hell. Come and celebrate all of those things at the Beers Without Beards Craft Beer Festival, at the Well. Drink beers brewed by women, with women and men and everything in between. 23 breweries, 4 hours, unlimited beers. And yes, there will be some beards there. This is fucking Brooklyn. Tickets, $50 available here. Noon-4pm, 272 Meserole St at The Well. Be like Timmy, Fall in the Well.

Yaki Tiki Weekend Barbecue at A/D/O in Greenpoint

We’re all a little sad that the Norman left us earlier this summer… drink away your sadness and do your best to forget all about it at the Yaki Tiki barbecue, in the same space (and the backyard too!). The amazing team behind Okonomi and Yuji Ramen have moved into the space and brought with them a Polynesian party that you’re invited to, every weekend. So go. Drink. Eat things on sticks, with multiple sauce options. Don’t bring up the Norman and make people sad. That’s a rude thing to do at Barbecues. Info here, starts at noon. 172 Banker St.

Backyard BBQ at Nowadays in Ridgewood

Because all of those friends you have with backyards and grills and promises of cookouts “every day this summer!” suddenly become scarce once summer hits, Nowadays says fuck those friends. You deserve to have your hotdogs and beers and music and open-air without them. Come to their backyard BBQ this Saturday for bocce ball and ping pong, cold drinks, groovy tunes, Italian hot dogs (??) and rotating BBQ fare (???) and Republic of Booza ice cream (!!!!). It starts at noon and goes, if you want, until Mister Sunday greets you the next day. Info here. 56-06 Cooper Ave.

Bomba Estereo in Prospect Park

Summer is ending folks. So stop not going to see live music outside. Seriously, stop. Start stopping Saturday night at the wondrous Prospect Park bandshell with Bomba Estereo, the hottest cumbia superstars of our time. They play a FREE shot with fiery Colombian expat outfit Delsonido, so get there early and find an inventive way to sneak in some wine. Let me know what you come up with. I’ll be the one drinking out of a leather Spanish wine sack in the back. Gates at 6:30, show at 7:30 but it’s free so just leave now. Info here.

PS1 Summer Warm-Up, Long Island City

This LIC summertime party institution also has a permanent residency on my weekend guide, from now through labor day. So I recommend checking the schedule and either choosing based on the tunes or your own availability (this is not a “oh I have a few hours, I’ll check it out” kind of affair. it will take all of your Saturday and at least 3/4 of the mental space of your Sunday. And it will all be worth it.) tickets here. I’m already heatin’ up.

Young Adult Friction Indie-Alt Dance Party at the Brooklyn Bazaar in Greenpoint

Your favorite weekend rub down, for those of us who are looking for the anti-rave. Young Adult Friction, the indie-alt dance party that gets you to dance yrself clean and then dirty again in Brooklyn and will be heating up the dancefloor at the Brooklyn Bazaar Saturday night. Leave the hypnotic trance-dance warehouse scene behind in exchange for all of your favorite indie pop, alt rock, post punk, dance punk, and oldies, all night. Tickets and love are free. Dance all night and leave with a new lover. Info here, 11-3am, 150 Greenpoint Ave.

Would You Rather Live at Friends and Lovers in Crown Heights

Hey, so, the debates! The goddamn the debates. What a mess we’ve made, huh? If they’ve left you feeling like you don’t want to participate in seeing all of these very pressing questions being answered with basically a WWF-style of entertainment, just with added suits and podiums, then come on down to Friends and Lovers Saturday night. They’ll be answering the more important questions, if not more politely, at least in a way that we can all laugh about together, instead of with Bill Maher later. It’s Would You Rather, Live! A comedy show that will have you wondering what you would really do if you really had to choose between never dreaming again, or having to watch all of your dreams on TV every morning with your entire family watching along. Yeah. Think about it. Then head to 641 Classon Ave. Info here.

Petite League (Album Release!) at the Sultan Room in Bushwick

If you haven’t yet heard of the Turk’s Inn, then make sure you tell everyone you heard it here first. (I mean it, tell them.) The Turk’s Inn was a kitschy supper club in Northern Wisconsin for 80 years and when it shuddered its doors in 2014 after the owner died, best friends Varun Kataria and Tyler Erickson bought as much of the decor and ephemera as they could at an estate sale and have been working for 3 years to reopen it, in Bushwick. This kitschy, dreamy, and not at all authentic Arabic adventure will transport you, if not anywhere, to the magic of the 1960s midwest. Best of all? They have a music venue on the top floor and Saturday night they invite Petite League (for their album release!) along with DJ Bailey Leiter and Jonathan Something to the disco-fabulous stage. Tickets available here. Go early, have dinner. Stay late, get a Kebab. 234 Starr St.

(Untitled) Green-Wood by Pioneer Works, in Green-Wood Cemetery in Sunset Park

I don’t know about you, but I’m always looking for different ways to interact with cemetery spaces. Let the creative geniuses behind everyone’s favorite gallery and free-form mixed-use space in Red Hook show you a new way to be living among the interred. Pioneer Works brings us the inaugural performance of their partnership with Green-Wood cemetery this Saturday night with Untitled (Green-Wood), an immersive performance that will allow you to follow and watch as performers build and collapse mobile structures. Let their lithe movements blur the lines between art and OH FUCK I THINK THAT’S ACTUALLY A GHOST. Put yourself in there. You never know. Tickets are $25 and available here. 7-9pm, 500 25th St.

Things to do in Brooklyn on Sunday

Bikini Sundae Pool Party at House of Yes in Bushwick

This is the pool party you want to be at. House of Yes invites you to strip down and dive into their pop-up pool, their rooftop jacuzzi, and all over their indoor and outdoor dance floors this Sunday, with ice cream and booze too. Come, dance, splash in your speedo. Arrive early and #revelwithacause as you party down the sidewalks of Bushwick, helping LitterRally keep the streets clean. All info here. The party is free, just like you and me. 2 Wyckoff Ave.

The Weekend Guide | 20-23 June 2019

Liz Norment — Thu, 20 Jun 2019 23:47:50 +0000

Hey Brooklyn. You lookin’ fly out there with your crew, going intently in some direction, seeking mischief and mayhem and margaritas in dangerously unbalanced proportions. Let me help give you some direction. Your weekend guide is here and it’s just what you, and all of your friends, have been waiting for. Get in there.

Live Under the Archway 10 Year Anniversary Party in DUMBO

The Manhattan Bridge was finished 110 years ago, but we’ve only been (officially) partying under its epic archway for a decade. Celebrate tonight with music. food, art, drinks, and friends all within this archestectural masterpiece. Plus, a hula hoop troop! It’s free and fun. Info here, 5-9pm.

Cake and Art Garden Party at Ovenly’s Studio One54 in Greenpoint

Cake or Death? Cake or art? Cake or charming garden party behind a charming little baking studio in Greenpoint? Thankfully the lovely people at Ovenly are making it so you don’t have to choose. Tonight they host a garden drawing party with cake and art and friends and drinks and one of those magical combinations of happenings that you just might die over. Tickets are $25 and going fast. Get yours here now, and see you there from 7-9:30pm. 154 Franklin St.

Future Generations and Petite League at Elsewhere Rooftop in Bushwick

I know I know, you’re sick of this weather. And consequently sick of your plans being rained out. Hedge your bets tonight and head to this show on the rooftop at Elsewhere. Future Generations and Petite League will be showering you with affection and tunes and if the sky opens up, just below you is the best multi-use performance space and music venue in Brooklyn. You’ll find something to keep you occupied. Get tickets here now. 599 Johnson Ave.

LIC Gallery Nights Opening and Mojitos!

Thank you, Jeff Bezos, for having a bit too much pride to takeover one of our neighborhoods when you realized that we didn’t appreciate your presence enough… because now our Long Island City can be whatever we want it to be. Discover just how this neighborhood is evolving artistically at LIC open studios this weekend. It’s the first night of LIC Gallery Nights, so bounce around from 6-9pm and then head to Bierocracy for the special Mojito after-party. Just ask for Zach, he makes them best! Info here. The Factory is at 30-30 47th Ave, and Bierocracy is 12-23 Jackson Ave.

Things to do in Brooklyn on Friday

We Are La Cocina Pop-Up Dinner at Archestratus in Greenpoint

Come, #revelwithacause in the most delicious way possible at Archestratus Friday night. They invite the amazing people behind La Cocina, a San-Francisco based non-profit that works to solve problems of inequity for women, immigrants, and people of color by cultivating low-income food entrepreneurs as they formalize and grow their businesses. They’ll join local chef Yewande Komolafe for a 4-course meal inspired by their new cookbook, so you’ll be basking in the flavors and philanthropy while sitting among friends and community in the cafe hidden in the back of a cookbook shop in Greenpoint. Tickets are only $65 and available here. 7-9:30pm, 160 Huron St.

Quantic DJ Set at Good Room in Greenpoint

Quantic, aka Will Holland, is a DJ and multi-instrumentalist who performs under several pseudonyms, including one of our favorites, The Quantic Soul Orchestra. This incredibly talented English artist, now living in New York, has the capacity to write some of the catchiest ear worms in the lounge, trip hop, bossa-nova jazz genres. Don’t miss your chance to dance your ass off to his DJ set in Greenpoint this Friday night, at the Good Room, my favorite place to do bad things. Tickets and info here. 98 Meserole St.

There’s A Place for Us | The Moth, Live show in Green-Wood Cemetery

Telling spooky stories in a graveyard after dark is nothing new, but watching storytelling experts compete on a theme all from New York’s famous podcast The Moth in the middle of the historic and inherently spooky cemetery is, well, something you want to be a part of. The Moth descends delicately and undeadly upon Green-Wood Cemetery to bring you the city’s best storytellers and an enchanting night of words among the dead, and living. Tickets are going fast, get yours here now. See you there, 7pm. 500 25th St.

Improv Everywhere brings the MP3 Experiment to Prospect Park

Maybe you haven’t heard of Improv Everywhere, but you’ve likely sensed their presence. They’re the group behind the No Pants subway ride, and a bunch of other hilarious, planned, “impromptu” public stunts meant to freak people out. Be a part of one tonight in Prospect Park as they hold an experimental concert that we will all be a part of. All you need to know is right here. It’s free, but don’t be late and ruin it, k? It starts at 8:30pm.

Films on the Green at Transmitter Park, Greenpoint

Transmit all of that potential energy you’ve been storing up all week at your thankless desk job and use it to absorb some culture, river air, and sunset silhouettes of the skyline Friday night at transmitter park. The first of their films on the green series, Friday’s selection is the French drama Peppermint Soda that that is stirring, romantic, and just chic enough. Movie is free, 830-10:30pm. Info here. Transmitter Park, at the intersection of Greenpoint Ave and the East River. Transmitter Park- for all generations!

Go to this Pop-Up Lego Bar in Bushwick

There’s a Lego themed pop-up bar in Bushwick opening this weekend because, well, of course there is. What does that mean? Well, they built a Lego bar within another bar and they’ll have legos for playing, legos for wearing, lego burgers for eating, lego my eggos, l’eggs hosiery, and people with aptly immobile, can-sized lego hands for beer holding. Listen, you know this will be fun. So go, it’s only here for a while. Just like your childhood was. Info here. 230 Bogart St.

Things to do in Brooklyn on Saturday

2017 Prospect Park Soiree Brooklyn, NY – 2017.06.24 Credit: J Grassi

The Prospect Park Soiree

Haven’t heard of the Diner en Blanc? It’s a super French, secret, invite-only, spontaneous dinner party where everyone brings their own food, table, white tablecloth, and friends for a “chic picnic” in a destination that is announced just an hour or so before. And yeah, it’s lovely. But quite exclusive. And so what is the Prospect Park Soiree? Well it’s the Diner en Blanc minus the pretension and invites and the frenchiness. Everyone’s invited to wine and dine under the moonlight, wearing their chiciest, cheekiest getups and celebrate one of our most iconic public spaces. Tickets and info here, 5-10pm.

The 39th Annual Mermaid Parade in Coney Island

A celebration of the diversity, creativity, and audacity of this amazing city. It’s the 39th annual Mermaid Parade at (where else?) Coney Island. Go dressed in your best undersea getup (or however you wish to interpret it) and dive in to this wonderfully imaginative event. Trust me, if you think you’ve seen some wild things in this city, go to this event. I don’t know where these people come from or where the hell they shop, but I love every minute of it. Don’t hold back, now’s not the time. Info here. 1-4:40pm.

Atlantis: The Mermaid Parade After Party at House of Yes in Bushwick

Happily collecting all of the freaky spillover from the Mermaid Parade is our beloved house of love, house of life, house of literally anything goes here. Especially if it goes down under. Come in your wildest undersea interpretations. When in doubt, add more glitter. Tickets, $35 available here. Costumes required. 10pm-4am. 2 Wyckoff Ave.

Queens Night Market in Corona, Queens

If America is a melting pot, Queens is the epicenter. The most diverse and culturally rich of the boroughs brings it all to the table, to the grill, and inevitably to the pot this Saturday night with the Queens Night Festival, a celebration and showcase of all of the bright flavors of the world, concentrated in one borough. Live music and DJs all night will be keeping the party alive. It’s happening from 6pm-midnight, so treat it as your pregame, just you know… bring some Tums. Info here.

Backyard BBQ at Nowadays in Ridgewood

Because all of those friends you have with backyards and grills and promises of cookouts “every day this summer!” suddenly become scarce once summer hits, Nowadays says fuck those friends. You deserve to have your hotdogs and beers and music and open air without them. Come to their backyard BBQ this Saturday for bocce ball and ping pong, cold drinks, groovy tunes, Italian hot dogs (??) and rotating BBQ fare (???) and Republic of Booza ice cream (!!!!). It starts at noon and goes, if you want, until Mister Sunday greets you the next day. Info here. 56-06 Cooper Ave.

Funk Style Quality at Ponyboy in Greenpoint

This is where you want to be dancing Saturday night, if your mermaid costume is at the cleaners. Show up in whatever you want just keep those feet movin’ and hips groovin to all of the funky delights spun by FSQ all night, baby. RSVP ASAP right here because this place fills up fast. And you don’t want to be that person who ends up at Irene’s Pub optimistically scrolling through that mostly-Polish juke box instead. 10pm-3am.

Things to do in Brooklyn on Sunday

The Renegade Craft Fair at the Expo Center in Greenpoint

Oh you little rascal you. Always zigging when you should be zagging, leaving nothing but mischief and whiskey in your wake. Purveying an addictive attractiveness all over town and giving everyone and no one a chance. You’re frisky and risky and embody that whole renegade thing going… and luckily, there’s a craft fair just for you. The Renegade Craft Fair, where crafts are dangerous again! Head to the Expo Center to peruse among booths and tables of patiently created and curated goods that are guaranteed to charm the pants right off of you. Which of course is fine because there are plenty of hand-crocheted undies to keep you covered. Full schedule and details here. 11am-6pm, 72 Noble St.

Brooklyn, I'm Trying

An Alternative Weekend Guide | Equality Edition

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Do some research and then donate to help support the cause that speaks to you.

Check out these Local Events and Businesses who are Supporting the Movement

Archestratus Fire Wall Community Cookbook

Stylist Anthony Payne wants to make you look and feel better.

Watch Thee Debauchery Ball with Sol Cinema Cafe

Esme To-Go, all weekend- for a cause.

Show your Pride Saturday with The Carry Nation

Protest and Party with House of Yes

Score Some Vintage Finds for a Cause

Picnic in multiple parks, for a cause.

Take a Look at your Life

The Weekend Guide, Quarantine Edition | The Eighth Weekend

Party at Home

This Weekend

Agave Tasting with Duke’s Liquor Box – POSTPONED TO NEXT WEEK!!

Celebrate the 146th Annual Kentucky Derby, from home!

Joe Russo’s Almost Dead, Live this Weekend

Dance Away the Distance

Let the Lot Radio make your Zoom party a Lot cooler.

Feel the Pleasure times 7 this Friday Night.

Ongoing

Get Wet, Bathhouse-Style.

Nowadays has live streaming DJs nightly starting at 8pm!

Saturday Night Virtual Dance Parties with House of Yes

Or, bring your favorite club into your house…

Go on a Neighborhood Bar Crawl, from a safe distance!

Get a Move On

Explore Brooklyn by Bike!

Stay Flexible, even while you Stay Put.

Or, go on a COVID-safe staycation with Collective Retreats

At-Home Chef

This Weekend

Be a Chef without actually Cooking.

Queer Soup Making Class and party, Saturday!

Local Chef John Turnbull Wants to Save your Pantry

Or get let a whole Catering Team into your Pantry

Bring Italy into your Home with Opera in the Kitchen

ACME’s Fish Fridays are still happening!

Learn to Bake Some Swedish Sweets

Scrub Up All Over.

No More Milk Waste

Ongoing

Learn (almost) all of Ovenly’s Secrets

Milk Bar Baking Hour with Christina Tosi, daily!

Get On the Sourdough Train.

Get Cultured.

This Weekend

A/D/O is closing at the end of the month…

Test your Obscure Knowledge Friday Night

Find Something that Speaks to you via All Arts

Let Green-Wood Cemetery make you feel Alive

Admit It, You Miss the Subway

Ongoing

Gallery Hop around Chelsea with David Zwirner

Meet Your Friends at the Cinema

Paint Classes through Happy Creative Dig

Live, Local Comedy this Weekend!

Be a Peeping Tom.

Help Dr. Fauci Get Revenge

Read more. A lot more.

The New Museum, home delivery!

Curious? That’s Natural, baby.

Watch old Broadway shows via the Museum of the City of New York.

Watch this New York City Documentary on Amazon

Tell Spotify You Have Other Plans.

Atlas Obscura’s Wonder From Home

Show Your (local!) Support

Buck a Beer at Brouweij Lane, for the North Brooklyn Angels

Bakeri Brooklyn Contactless Pick-Up on Sunday!

Help Your Community

Rooftop Reds’ Local Shop Keeps Expanding – Now, with puzzles!

Get Coffee Locally

Local Mother’s Day Gifts and Puzzles, at Upstate Stock

Turn Off Netflix, and tune into Ladies Rocking the Lens Fest

Ongoing