Benjamin Prelvukaj and Benjamin Sinanaj on Benjamin Restaurant GroupMay 16, 2023Benjamin Prelvukaj and Benjamin Sinanaj both came to New York from Europe and began working as waiters at Brooklyn’s Peter Luger Steakhouse. It was there that they met and learned the ins and outs of running a successful steakhouse, driving them to join forces and eventually open their own.
We sat down with Prelvukaj and Sinanaj to chat about their restaurants, steak, and how they got to where they are today.
Master Mixologist: Beverage Director Ivan Papic on GG Tokyo near NomadApril 10, 2023GG Toyko is a trendy Japanese cocktail lounge and restaurant nestled between Nomad and Murray Hill serving up innovative drinks and dishes in an art-splashed space. We got a chance to chat with Papic about his career and GG Toyko for our 'Master Mixologist' feature.
Interview: Heather Alicia Simms Chats About the Premiere of DES MOINESJanuary 5, 2023Des Moines is the final play written by the late Denis Johnson, a legendary author, and playwright, and recently opened at Polonsky Shakespeare Center in Brooklyn. We spoke with Heather Alicia Simms, who plays Mrs. Drinkwater, about what it's like to be in this show, the challenges that came up, and why it's important that this play is out right now.
Interview: Gail Tierney and Paola Sanchez Abreu Talk Sketch ComedyDecember 4, 2022Gail Tierney recently produced the sketch show Nearly Dying with co-writer (and best friend) Paola Sanchez Abreu on the mainstage at Brooklyn Comedy Collective. Now, the two will be holding an hour-long sketch show in January, bringing more laughs during a much longer set.
Review: POWERHOUSE at Jeffrey and Paula Gural TheatreOctober 12, 2022David Harms' new play POWERHOUSE recently opened this month at Jeffrey and Paula Gural Theatre (part of A.R.T./New York Theatres), dissecting the gender roles in the workplace in a daring but comedic story.
Interview: Austin McCormick and Sam Urdang Talk COCKTAIL MAGIQUEOctober 12, 2022Cocktail Magique is the latest show from Company XIV in Brooklyn, combining magic and mixology in one opulent new space. Located down the street from its sister venue, Théâtre XIV, Cocktail Magique Theatre is just as enchanting with a few different tricks up its sleeve.
Review: Chai for Authentic Beijing Cuisine in the Theatre DistrictSeptember 8, 2022When you're craving authentic Beijing fare served in an intimate setting, Chai is the place to be. Located in the always busy Theatre District, it may be hard for the locals to push themselves to dine in the area unless going to a show, but we say it's worth every crowded subway and street.
Review: LA BRASSERIE-A traditional French brasserie on Park Avenue SouthAugust 29, 2022La Brasserie lures you in with the promise of something spectacular as it sits in the former Anthony Bourdain's space once known as Brasserie Les Halles. Luckily, it does not disappoint. Located on bustling Park Avenue South in the popular Nomad neighborhood, La Brasserie offers authentic French cuisine in its upscale digs without any attitude.
Lamia's Fish Market for Fresh Seafood on the Lower East SideAugust 16, 2022If you’re a seafood lover, Lamia's Fish Market will not disappoint. Between its extensive menu of fresh seafood offerings to its playful marine-like ambiance, Lamia's Fish Market makes for a well-rounded enjoyable experience.
Magic Hour Rooftop Bar & Lounge for a Sparkly Rooftop BrunchJuly 29, 2022For brunch or late-night drinks, Magic Hour Rooftop Bar & Lounge “makes for a fun experience.” Located in Moxy Times Square, the all-season hotel rooftop has an amusement park theme fully equipped with a mini-golf course. It’s a great place to go with a group to sip on fancy cocktails while checking out “epic Empire State Building skyline views.”