Greeks in Manhattan
“I find the family the most mysterious and fascinating institution in the world.” – Amos Oz
When one of my nieces, Elpida and her boyfriend, Ody, visited the United States from Athens, Greece, we hoped to connect while they were in New York City. Luckily, we happened to be there at the same time. We both had other commitments, but we managed to steal a few moments together.
Elpida wanted to see areas outside of Manhattan. She gave me the location, then I asked around for recommendations. When time permitted, we hung out together.
First up was Jack the Horse Tavern. This was a quaint spot in Brooklyn, where the food was tasty. This was a recommendation from my friend, Erin, and it ended up being a hit.
The venue was located close to the Brooklyn Bridge, which Elpida wanted to see. I pulled over to the side of the street, and she ran out to snap some pictures. I was told I was not supposed to be parked there, but I was willing to bend the rules a bit for her happiness.
My sister, Maria, joined us for a few nights. Brooklyn was the easiest spot for her to meet us, and Elpida wanted New York pizza. I asked for the best pizza spot via Facebook, and several friends recommended Grimaldi’s. I met Elpida and Ody there, and we shared some absolutely amazing pizza.
Travel tip: Bring money or a debit card to Grimaldi’s, as they only accept cash. Luckily, they do have an ATM within.
Additional restaurant recommendations I received for Brooklyn:
- Jacque Torres – “great chocolate and dessert”
- Peter Luger Steakhouse – “old school”
- River Cafe
Maria could not join us for pizza, but we were able to grab a quick drink and walk to the bridge before ending the evening. Although Manhattan is open all night, Brooklyn nods off on the earlier side. The cool thing about the location is that it is a perfect photo opp of the Brooklyn Bridge and Manhattan. We had fun walking around and catching the views.
Travel tip: If you are looking for the best New York pizza, go to Grimaldi’s. Afterwards, walk down to the Brooklyn Bridge to capture pictures that will make your friends envious.
The following evening, the four of us met at the Knickerbocker Hotel for a quick drink on their rooftop bar. Afterwards, we walked through Times Square, grabbed some dinner, then ventured off to find a cool, little spot we heard about, The Heights rooftop bar at Arlo NoMad.
Why Arlo NoMad? First of all, it was recommended by Maria’s friend, Vicky, who has impeccable taste. Secondly, the bar offered a challenge to test your courage by standing on the glass bottom floor and gazing down thirty-one floors. Thirdly, the rooftop bar promised spectacular views of the Empire State Building.
When we arrived, we had to be hotel guests to go to the top. We found some nice people who had a room key and swiped us in. The views were spectacular. The glass bottom floor was freaky cool. I am afraid of heights. I felt my stomach flip flop every time I stepped on the glass and looked down. We were up so high. The feeling was exhilarating, fun, and new. I would definitely recommend this place as a must-do in New York City.
Additional rooftop bar recommendation I received for Manhattan: 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar, “a great place in Midtown.” Note: I want to check this place out. I love igloos, which they have in the cooler months. This place also looks super fun.
Arlo NoMad closed fairly early though. We still had loads of energy to burn off. My niece was staying in Astoria. On the way back, we found a little dance club, and us three girls continued our evening, dancing the night away.
By the time we were ready to head back to our hotel, in the outskirts, the train station had closed. We grabbed an Uber, and shared the fare with some random guy. He entertained us with stories of his roller coaster relationships.
The next morning, Elpida asked us to join her in Astoria at The Corner Spot Cafe. She had been eating breakfast there every day. The place was owned by Greeks, and Elpida and Ody made some new friends.
The food was delicious and fresh, exactly what you would expect from a neighborhood cafe owned by Greeks. I grew up in a family of amazing cooks, who make amazing Greek dishes. Yet, I was impressed. My taste buds danced as the flavors burst in my mouth. I would definitely hit this place up again. And, the folks were super friendly. This was such a cute, little place to grab a meal and satisfy my sweet tooth.
At this point, Maria had to to head back home. I got to stay and play a little longer. Elpida wanted to go shopping, so that’s what we did. The brand names are much less expensive in the States than they are in Greece. She had been shopping all week and stocked up a suitcase full of goodies.
The clock was ticking, and we had time for one more meal before I had to drop them off at the airport for their flight back to Athens. We looked online and stumbled upon Adriaen Block in Astoria, Queens.
Adriaen Block was described as the first CBD restaurant and bar in New York City. This intrigued me, and I asked my guests if they were game. They were, so off we went.
I was curious. What would it be like to have a cocktail made with CBD oil? Would I feel high? I do not think CBD oil actually gets you high, but I wanted to test the theory. I do believe CBD oil has some medicinal properties to it. There is so much controversy around CBD oil that I wanted to experience all the hype.
My drink was super tasty, but I did not feel anything out of the ordinary. I started to question all of the concerns around the oil. Next, our meals arrived. I ordered duck, which was superb.
We concluded the night with cake to celebrate Elpida’s birthday. What a great place to end our New York adventures together!
We had a wonderful visit, and I was happy we got to spend so much time together. We shared some great meals, stories, laughs, and dances. We created memories we will have forever, as we explored some great venues in New York.
Read about my New York adventures.
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