Alice's Tea Cup

Once upon a time in a whimsical borough called Manhattan there was a charming little place where friends could go enjoy the delightful tradition of afternoon tea…

Sounds curiously like a fairytale? Alice’s Tea Cup will have you thinking again. At Alice’s, which has three “chapters” all over Manhattan, you can enjoy afternoon tea with friends, not only in the afternoon, but anytime you darn well please.

Gossiping and gabbing with friends over tea has never been more of a guilty pleasure.
Once you make it through the gigantic list of over one hundred teas from around the world, you will find that Alice’s also has an enormous selection of scones, sandwiches and other irresistible goodies that will soon top your list of faves in the city.

Coming with a group of friends or family? It has never been easier to share, as Alice’s features multiple selections on the menu for pairs to split. The Madhatter, which is a perfectly tiered platter for two people, comes stacked high to your table with the freshest selection of scones, sandwiches, cookies and cakes.

Escaping to Alice’s little wonderland will soon become your new favorite weekend activity. Visit Alice’s Tea Cup on both the Upper East and West Sides. For more information and menus, visit www.alicesteacup.com

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Cafe Habana Shakes a Tail Feather!

No matter what time of day I've entered Cafe Habana, it's shakin'! It is always crowded and that is with good reason. For here, at Cafe Habana, you can indulge in a great brunch, a heavenly margarita, or one of the best Cuban sandwiches your tastebuds will meet. I love this place because it has one of the most vivacious and beautiful staff I've ever encountered. When you walk into Cafe Habana there is a sincere energy with which to tempt your hips to sway from side to side in a hypnotic state. It just kind of happens!

Cafe Habana hosts a great brunch including such staples as Juevos Rancheros and the savory Molletes. No Mimosas here, but they do make a mean margarita which is quite refreshing during the summer months. Although all the Cuban/Mexican dishes are delectable and authentic, you should, in fact I demand that you order the Mexican grilled corn. It is to die for with its ears dripping with cheese and topped with lime and chili powder. It is their specialty and trust me you do not want to pass on it.

Cafe Habana is a place to meet friends, but expect a wait as it's small. Its a good date place as well if you don't mind sharing your elbow room with others. You can always go next door to Habana To Go in case you just want to pick up and go. The greatest thing about the joint is that they are New York's first Eco-Eatery boasting the use of earth-friendly practices in their design, construction, and day-to-day operations. Its a warm place just like the culture it promotes. Everyone is always dancing and smiling and so very welcoming. You may have a little wait but it's well worth it. You may even spot a celebrity or two sitting at the bar or having a Cafe Con Leche cozied up to other patrons. The area is packed with small boutiques and street vendors and the restaurant makes a nice pit stop from shopping.

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The Very Best in Chicago????

I saw this restaurant featured on the Food Network last week and I just could not pass an opportunity to share it with you-as soon as I saw it memories of mouthwatering pizza just gave way, and I wanted some. I'm talking about the BEST (yes, THE VERY BEST) pizzeria in the greater Chicagoland area, BRICKS.

Most tourists go to the big, trendy "Chicago style pizza spots" like Uno's and Due's and Giordano's , but I'm telling you, the smallest spots are usually the best ones, because they take their time and do it right! I went last year with some friends and I was a little skeptical, because I'd lived in Chicago all my life, but both the restaurant and the neighborhood were very new to me. Nevertheless, I decided to give it a whirl.

The service and atmosphere is very pleasant, and the pizza was great! We had a traditional pie, but thrill seekers may want to try the "Painful" with spicy pepperoni, purple onion, fresh jalapenos, garlic, and mozzarella; the "Berzerkely" with smoked ham, artichoke hearts, sweet red peppers, and mozzarella; or the "Popeye" with fresh spinach, tomatoes, roasted garlic, feta, and mozzarella. The salad and appetizer menu are also well noted. Definitely a place to hang out with your friends and/or your sweetie.

1909 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60614 · 312-255-0851