Arriving in New York a few days prior to Chef Jeff's big night at the James Beard House on October 19, the team had some time to take in the city...
Day 1
New York, what an amazing city!
On the recommendation of our friends at the Jade Hotel, first up was the acclaimed John’s Pizzeria on Bleecker Street. It proved to be a quintessential NY Pizza experience, with thin crusted pizza befit to fold and pictures of classic New Yorkers that stop by on occasion – including Al Pacino, who was last was seen at our very own SkyCity a week ago.
The night finished with a walk through Soho, Little Italy and Chinatown that included stops for Gelato, Cannolis, Chinese dumplings and espresso.
Day 2
This morning we met Chef Jeff, his lovely wife Christal, and their adorable 14-week old Samantha, as well as Collections Café Chef, Ivan Szilak. Together we took in the famed Ottomanelli & Sons Meat Market before setting off to the Chelsea Market. What a beautiful and inspiring place – overflowing with reclaimed wood floors, metal and steel, and a market spilling over with fresh produce, seafood, spices, ambiance and cool!
A trip to New York is not complete without a visit to the 9/11 Memorial. Space Needle Alumnus Sean Manning is now Director of Guest Services at the memorial and gave us a guided tour, which included a moment to reflect under the Survivor Tree.
More to come of our NYC adventure tomorrow!