My Favorite Things - New York Style

Mac n' Cheese and Bourbon come close to cupcakes on my list of beloved foods. Last weekend, during the first snow storm, I managed to escape to New York, where I tried Manhattan's authentic take on my favorites.

Given that Magnolia Bakery started the cupcake hype, I originally planned to have my New York cupcake there. But a friend and former New Yorker tipped me off that Crumbs Bake Shop was the way to go. I was impressed with the whimsical variety of jumbo cupcakes - Oreo, grasshopper, cookie dough, white hot chocolate - most of which had a matching butter cream filling:


I went for the peanut butter cup - it was decadent, almost too sweet, but still wonderful.

Later I checked out The Smith a bar in the Village, which has an impressive bourbon and whiskey selection. Its menu includes a variety of classic cocktails, all made from fresh ingredients. My favorite was their Perfect Manhattan.

I also had the chance to revisit one of my favorite New York places, the Olive Tree Cafe. I'm convinced they make the best Mac n' Cheese in the world.