SceneTracker New York

Paper Magazine Hosts CB2 Eastside Store Launch Party

Fri, 28 Oct 2011 11:20:00 -0400

What I thought would be a mild mannered event turned into a who's who of New York City, as old school, new school and Hollywood converged at the Paper Magazine CB2 eastside store launch. The October 25th event was to celebrate the opening of the CB2 Eastside Manhattan store. Instead of just throwing a party for the sake of the opening of a store, CB2 along with Paper Magazine in a charitable partnership with The New Design High School, gave students a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to work with some of the most influential names in the New York street photography community.

Backyard Bill, Eddie Newton and Street Peeper were paired with selected students and notable NYC talent such as DARRYL "DMC" MCDANIELS of Run DMC fame, and Andres Dres Titus of the Hip Hop group Black Sheep for a full street photo shoot. These pictures were printed and displayed at a gallery exhibit at the Eastside CB2 store launch party and available for sale with proceeds benefiting the New Design High School. So a party for charity and awareness was much more fun and brought out charitable New Yorkers such as Maggie Gyllenhaal, Paper Magazines own Mr. Mickey and I SPY DIY blogger Jenni Radosevich. In addition DMC and Dres posed with event guest lounging in staged CB2 designed sets, while photographers took pictures of event guests to be shown on social media sites. Its nice when event producers think outside the box and create new ways to promote while supporting the communities they are involved in, Cudos.

Peruvian Night at SUSHISAMBA

Thu, 27 Oct 2011 10:29:00 -0400

Come one, come all, to SUSHISAMBA's authentic Peruvian Night! Dance the night away to live Peruvian music by Walter Purizaca, who will be performing traditional Andean music from 4-7pm. Take a break from the dance floor and swig back some Peruvian inspired drink and food specials and just tap your foot to the Peruvian beat. This will be one of the last Peruvian events at the venue...come November, SUSHISAMBA goes Japanese.

Don't quite know what Peruvian food is? Well me neither, but there's nothing wrong with trying something new! Pretend you are in Los Andes and learn a little something about the culture of Peru.

Circle Line's Phantom Masquerade Cruise

Tue, 25 Oct 2011 12:20:00 -0400

There’s nothing quite like your first Broadway show. Everything, from the booming show tunes to the intricate set design, is made to dazzle you. You can’t help but fill with a hope for magic, so tangible it is merely a stage away. Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises invites you to relive that same nostalgia this Halloween weekend, for a chance to win tickets to our most beloved Broadway sensation, Phantom of The Opera.

In awed celebration of its 10,000^th performance, you’ll don that impeccable costume you scoured for all month, and make your way over to Pier 83 for a naughty three-hour night cruise. There, you’ll delight on complimentary champagne (from B. Smith’s Restaurant), or if your tastes are skewed toward Oktoberfest, you’ll delight on Heartland Brewery’s top two brews, Smiling Pumpkin Ale and Grateful Red Lager. You’ll cruise the New York Harbor while dancing to top hits by VJ Randy Esulto, until the costume contest where the winner will receive a pair of tickets to the 10,000^th performance of Phantom. That’s right, for a $40 ticket, you’ll not only have an incredible Halloween Saturday night, you’ll also have a chance to see the best show on the Broadway block. Snag your tickets here.

Lexicon...

Tue, 25 Oct 2011 12:10:25 -0400

'Champagne Showers' -LMFAO f/ Natalia Kills

What was once the famed East Side den, Branch, is now Lexicon. Fellow Joonbugsters may remember our older siblings speaking of it on Sunday mornings over coffee, macaroons and even raspier voices. Happily, we can do the same for the next generation. And when I came here (as a last resort, mind you) it was well worth it. Totally beat the lines at Hudson Terrace, and gave the night that extra, 'UMPH!'.

The party that Lexicon provides is similar to what Snooki would like from her one Jersey Shore fav, Karma. Basically- gonna fist pump till my arm falls off!

When you step into the scene of Lexicon, you'll be in a wide corridor, with a bar taking up half the space. It doesn't stop there, this is just the foyer. When you follow the music, you'll see that it's not just any club- the dance floor has been hollowed out for you and your besties to dance the night away.

But for those that want a calmer evening, there's still a slim option for you. There are ultra comfy VIP's lining the main floor, and surrounding the dance floor. You also have a choice of having that VIP placed on the dance floor itself. Decisions, decisions...

CMJ Week Hangover

Tue, 25 Oct 2011 10:41:00 -0400

I have been running around all week from event to event as the CMJ festival has worn me out, physically and aesthetically and has left me slightly bored. If I have to listen to one more unoriginal band, rapper or DJ, I will keel over. Don't get me wrong, the festival was enjoyable and there were some beacons of light out there, but much of what I heard and experienced was the same old boring business as usual. My week began with my set at ADGs all female DJ showcase, then I was catapulted into CMJ mode. The most notable was Giant Step's showcase with the New York debut of DJ, producer, composer, musician and recording artist Mark de Clive-Lowe held at the 92YTribeca. Mark introduced the crowd to an eclectic mix of live jazz, and sampled electronic mixing, fused to create something unheard but pleasurable to the ear.

My CMJ week culminated in the Hip Hop label stand-off of Duck Down VS. Blacksmith at Music Hall of Williamsburg. Each label unleashed their talent battling for Hip Hop supremacy. Rap royalty included Talib Kweli and one of my favorite female MCs Jean Grae. But the thing that makes festivals like CMJ worth any wild, are the after parties. Again two notables of the week, were Gabby Mejia's annual Costume party extravaganza at Submercer. Gabby who is manager and booker at Submercer has introduced NYC to some of the best underground DJs and Submercer is the type of space that allows for dancing and lounging while maintaining a level of intimacy. The ride I was on made one last stop at the One Leg Up Halloween Masquerade Ball hosted by Palagia and her crew of musicians, artists and dancers, which included the sound styling of DJ Sid Vega. These parties give you the most sensual nightlife experience in NYC, a place where inhibitions are left at the door and clothing is sometimes optional. A bacchanal soirée that Caligula would have wanted to participate in and the highlight of my week.

The Naked Apple: Whitney's Sports Bonanza

Tue, 25 Oct 2011 10:34:00 -0400

Twitter- @thenakedapple

It's officially fall, it's getting nippy out and gets dark by 6pm. Sports definitely dominates everyone's weekends in the fall. No Sunday Funday could be complete without watching some football. My last week and this past weekend have been filled with nothing but sports. Last Monday I went to the Jets vs Dolphins game. It was breast cancer awareness day and both teams had their players wearing pink socks and cleats. Some guys even wore pink do-rags. Real men wear pink and it was really nice how these boys showed their support. And yes, that was the game that Revis ran for a touch down from almost half field. It was quite amazing, too bad I missed the best play of the season thus far because I was in the bathroom. What are the odds? Story of my life! The cast of Jersey Boys actually sang the national anthem and during half time they inducted Larry Grantham, Freeman McNeil, Gerry Philibin and Al Toon to the 'Ring of Honor'. On a side note, I don't understand what the big hype with Mark Sanchez is, I met him before and I think Tim Tebow is way better looking!

My next sporting adventure was going to the Bantam Boxing Championship; Donaire vs. Navaerz at Madison Square Garden. At around 115 lbs, these little guys can pack a punch. I am still in awe at how small they were! I was bigger than them! It was a pretty unremarkable fight, no blood or knock downs, which makes boxing so entertaining to watch. But I still had a great time because I was with such good company. Donaire won in 12, and kept his title. Michael Buffer the man with the famous words "Lets get ready to RUMBLLLEEEE" was there to announce the fight. I was actually lucky enough to meet Mr. Buffer at Catch (the new EMM group restaurant/lounge in the meatpacking) the night before the fight.

Like I stated before, no Sunday Funday could be complete without watching some football. Sunday, I went to the Ainsworth with a bunch of my girlfriends. We had so much fun. They have a DJ that plays music in between the games and during commercials that really gets the crowd pumped up and in the party mode. I always have fun here, and it's definitely my favorite place to watch any game --not just football. And I'm not gonna lie, I have a major buffalo wing addiction and they have some great wings and the disco fries are to die for. You never know who you might see at Ainsworth, everyone from athletes to Entourage T.V. stars come here. If you haven't been here yet, you really need to get with the program.

NYC's Latest Openings

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 13:30:00 -0400

This past week has brought a lot of new players to NYC's world of nightlife. From tapas to Indian, you're in for some exotic treats, as these four hot off the griddle hotspots enlighten your taste and tickle your tastebuds.

Patiala

If you’ve ever ventured into the decadence of Indian jewel, Junoon, and hungered for a cocktail equivalent, then we have the perfect surprise for you. Opened just next door is Patiala, the new gem on the Flatiron block. Decor is flawlessly executed, creating an Indian paradise right here in Manhattan. By blending modern accents like deep cushioned cream chairs, and simple wooden tables with iconic pieces like the intricately hand carved wooden swing, Patiala offers every patron a comfort zone while they take in each meticulous detail. With an incomparably warm atmosphere, and delicious spice-infused cocktails like the Tandoori Tequila- silver tequila with muddled Tandoori pineapple, lime, curry leaf, and pippali pepper- Patiala brings just enough adventure for you to feel temporarily transported to the lounge's namesake, delving into cocktails unknown, like the maharajah himself. For the slightly starving, they have options like the Seasonal Pakoras and the Dahi Wale Lamb Chops hailing from Junoon.

Mary’s Bar

Amidst the speakeasies and Manhattan-esque lounges, is newcomer Mary's Bar. This new Brooklyn hangout with its great, understated atmosphere, is sure to be your next favorite night-opener. A much needed breath of simplistic air, this bar houses a deep mahogany wraparound bar complete with gold coat hooks, cafe tables (all hand-built by the owner's brother), and pool for the game-fiends. The classic tin ceiling mixed with the funky chalkboard menu gives Mary's Bar an eclectic vibe, much like those found in all neighborhood bars done right. And with fun cocktails like the Stargarita, you'll be feeling like the star of your very own Cheers episode.

Ventanas

Partying along the High Line you may find yourself intrigued by the Spanish charm of Ventanas, Chelsea's hot new Latin lover. Hiding beneath the hustle and bustle of New Yorkers at play at our west side playground, this dapper nouveau restaurant and bar serves more than delicious tapas and sangria. The decor, unlike any in NYC, is reminiscent of some awe-striking Spanish cathedral, found along the streets of Barcelona. The bar itself adorned with colorful lit stained glass panels, and lacquered wood, gives Ventanas a playful yet sophisticated vibe, found solely below the High Line. Deep velvet couches line the wall, welcoming all within their plush embrace as they down a pitcher of fresh made sangria and tapas tasties like Gazpacho de Ostras and Zarzuela. And the best part? Not only is there a variety of live entertainment during the week (think sauntering belly dancers), on weekends Ventanas turns into a pulsing night club, complete with house DJ.

Flying Lobster

First introduced in a soft opening in late September, this newbie wine bar, is just what Doctor Brooklyn ordered. People are already flocking to Neil Ganic's newest venture, situated next door to his seafood haven, Le Petite Crevette. The namesake for this upcoming sensation plays on Ganic's own history, where in 2009 he tossed a fresh, live lobster in the face of a dubious customer. Lo and behold, The Flying Lobster, in all its bright red glory. Despite its sister restaurant, this wine bar takes a cue from the more lax society of BK, boasting an eclectic decor of red tin tiles, walls, and seating with nautical chachkas to pique your eyes as you sip options like the 2009 Carpinetti Capolemole and even wine-inspired cocktails.

Have a Ballin' Time Monday Nights at Alfama

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 12:36:01 -0400

We all know and love neighborhood haunt, Alfama, but get ready for tonight's opening of Ball Night Mondays (get your mind out of the gutter)! Fill your tummies with delicious eats and libations while you watch your favorite teams battle it out on the football field. Enjoy meatball and beer specials every Monday night on Alfama's flatscreen TVs in the bar.

Take your pick of three different meatballs --pork, shrimp and ginger, lamb or veal, and pair it with a Portuguese draft beer called Sagres for $12. And if you're feeling extra ballsy, feel free to order up additional meatballs for $3 a piece. If you want to stick with Alfama's Portuguese theme for the night, we recommend trying the pork, shrimp, and ginger meatball, which is a Macanese recipe from the Macau colony. Don't skip out on this great deal...all night on Mondays, starting now!

ADG Presents: Open Turntables for Women

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 11:25:00 -0400

As the CMJ Music festival ascended upon NYC, ADG presented its first ever "We Can Do It!" All Female, DJ Line-Up held on October 17 at Vig Bar. Hosted by Cristina DiGiacomo of ADG and Behind The Decks, the event showcased five of NYC's emerging Female DJs that included, Cat House, Miss Nixie, DJ Spin Diva, DJ Sambarella and yours truly DJ Mahogany. All the ladies showed their phenomenal skills on the decks and I can check this experience off my DJ Bucket List. Yep, there is a DJ Bucket List and I hit one of the items on mine. In my opinion every DJ should be able to set and change the mood of the crowd, besides making you dance. Mood changing might be a little difficult though when your in a room full of jaded DJs that are in networking mode.

True to form, I did what any DJ would do, I flipped the script and mixed some unlikely genre's together. Even breaking out a Gospel song (in its original form) at the request of the bartender who whipped up a great tequila cocktail and wanted to hear something out of the norm. A deal between Mixologists that I obliged, changed the course of my set but made the room go wild. People came in from outside to check out what was going on, and feel I did what every DJ intends to do --change the mood of everyone in earshot. Thank god for ADG bringing back NYC nightlife slowly but surely. ADG hosts events all over New York City (including the five boroughs) that offer cheap drinks, chilled atmosphere and great music presented by outstanding DJs. On October 31st they will be hosting a Halloween party at Vig Bar where the DJs are challenged to mix songs by recording artists who are dead, check it out.

Your Weekly NYC Party Guide

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 09:30:00 -0400

Okay NYC, it’s the last week of October. That means saying goodbye to our favorite cool days, partying like Marie Antoinette or Cleopatra (or whichever skanky swank costume you chose for H2011), and being able to walk a block without seeing Uggs. We know you’re itching for the weekend- and Halloween galore- to arrive but why not try something extraordinary today? Let’s see what the week has in store:

Monday October 24th

Lincoln Center Presents: A Night with Ralph Lauren Hosted by Oprah Winfrey

Transcend reality for a night with household names Ralph Lauren and Oprah Winfrey as they take the stage at Alice Tully Hall for a once in a lifetime peek into cultural icon Ralph Lauren’s mind and memories. Seated in a conversational setting, the one and only Oprah will ask Lauren questions about life, fashion, and all things personal. Darren Bagert, two-time Tony award winner produces this multi-media conversation, so you know it will be incredibly heartfelt. The ultimate luxury is for those who attend, with a preceding cocktail mixer and chic gala dinner, presented afterward. The talk will benefit The Ralph Lauren Center for Cancer Care and Prevention and Lincoln Center, so not only are you in for an awe-inspiring night, you’re also supporting two great institutions. Snag your last minute tickets by calling or emailing Mary Callaghan at 212-875-5460 or mcallaghan@lincolncenter.org.

Where: Lincoln Center

When: Monday, October 24^th, 7:00PM-10:00PM

Tuesday October 25^th

City Grit: State Fair Dinner

The exhilaration of taking that first bite into a funnel cake at the NY State Fair, sugar dust on your nose, is so satisfying it should be copyrighted and marketed as a meal. The treats that bring a smile to your face can all be found at a fair. But as you well know, this is NYC and anything is possible- at least, that’s what the chefs over at City Grit figured. So they brought the State Fair to you. For $45 you can nosh on a multi-course carnival-esque meal with tasty favorites like candied apples, and fried cheese sticks. For tickets go here. http://citygritnyc.com/#STATE

Where: 38 Prince St

When: Tuesday, October 25^th, 7:30PM-9:30PM

Wednesday October 26^th

White Roof Project Experience Auction & Raffle

If making your way in NYC means anything, it definitely has to be networking. Finding the right people, making the right choices, and selling yourself to every possible company. But what if you could sit, have a one-on-one with an Editor-In-Chief at a Brooklyn Bowl concert, or attend the Daily Show, in VIP status, with District Leader and Founder of W-Spin, Jenifer Rajkumar? You’re basing gaining access to pick the brains of our top young NYC leaders, the future people to know. And if bidding on awesome experience dates aren’t your thing, the raffle is sure to grab your support. With fash-tastic luxury prizes like a complimentary tastings & tour of the Castello di Borghese, and a 10 pack class gift certificate to Exhale Spa, you’ll be given tools and treats to make your own NYC experience date. For tickets go here. http://www.whiteroofproject.com/auction/

Where: Black Door

When: Wednesday, October 26^th 7:30PM-11:00PM

Thursday October 27th

The Vice Club Halloween Party

Alright so we know you’ve been waiting all month for this and it has finally arrived. The delightfully debaucherous NYC Halloween Parties. And why not start the ghoul fest early at this “spectacle” (complete with snake charmer and eclectic performers) DJs will fill White Noise with glam and disco beats for you and your girlies to party like its Ke$ha’s bachelorette bash. Fun gifts and prizes are to be distributed before and during the midnight lottery, so be sure to get there early and grab raffle tickets.

Where: White Noise

When: Thursday, October 27^th, 11:00PM-4:00AM

Friday October 28^th

Pink Soiree Masquerade on the Intrepid

The enchantment of walking up to an old Navy ship, dressed like Grace Kelly or Rose from Titanic (whichever heroine fits your fancy), readying your feet for the masquerade of a lifetime. Your mask ribbon tied tight, your pink and black costume- dazzling, all for mysteries sake, as you sip cocktails and rub shoulders with special guests like Paulo Costanzo, in support of the nation’s finest charity, Susan G Komen. To complete the royal experience, there will be dinner, dancing and a silent auction, and all to the gorgeous NYC backdrop, shown only on the decks of the Intrepid. For tickets go here. http://www.komennyc.org/site/Calendar?id=2981&view=Detail

Where: Intrepid

When: Friday, October 28^th, 7:00PM-10:00PM

Saturday October 29^th

Official Haunted Playboy Mansion

Don those sexy bunny tails ladies, and wiggle your butt over to the center of the madness amidst the partiers on Halloween weekend, Times Square, for the hottest Halloween bash Times Square has ever seen. Bowlmor Lanes is transforming into the most delectable fete risqué. With world renowned DJs spinning hip hop, dance, and 80s sets, and one hour open vodka bar, you’re bound to have a terroriffic time. For tickets go here. http://halloweenguide.com/newyork/NYCs-Official-Haunted-Playboy-Mansion-NYC-New-York/wK8O4emJe3L

Where: Bowlmor Lanes Times Square

When: Saturday, October 29^th, 9:00PM-1:00AM

Sunday October 30^th

PhantasmaGorey 2011: An Edward Gorey Halloween Brunch Spectacular

While you’re recovering from Saturday nights Halloween hot mess, why not spend the day at the lovely Highline Ballroom for a display of sexy and talented performers. This fright festival will feature performances of all mesmerizing spectacles. From NYC famed Miss Astrid to aerial ballerina, Gin Minsky, you’re eyes and imaginations are bound to be widened in awed splendor. Featuring a Macabre Pureville Fashion Show, and jewelry vendors for all your dark shopping pleasures. Also, there will be a costume contest, so slip into those red leather Britney suits, because these prize gift certificates from Gothic Renaissance and Vampire Freaks are bound to go fast. For tickets go here. http://www.highlineballroom.com/bio.php?id=2116

Where: Highline Ballroom

When: Sunday, October 30^th, 12:00PM-4:00PM