New York City Affordable Places

For my Euro-trip 2009 bestie’s birthday, I wanted to do something special. Even in the ‘ol onion, a girl can be at a loss for ideas. She had an appointment in Tribeca, so I let my inner neighborhood guide me to a cozy spot on Duane called Duane Park. A nod to her N’awlins-based alma matter, chef Beau Houck cooks up creole and Cajun laced classics like the black-eyed pea roasted corn salad served with the BBQ quail and the peach pickled ramp relish served with the pork chop. The herb crusted fried potatoes are a crowd-pleasing side and creole mustard vinaigrette would taste good smothered on basically anything.

Thirsty? Please try the champagne Pom Pom cocktail. It’s celebratory deliciousness. Bored? Well, tighten your top hats ladies and gents because not only is Duane Park a beautiful space with understandable prices and a kind staff, it also has…drum roll please… a Friday night burlesque show.

Move over Moulin Rouge, we have a new Satine south of Houston! She twirls, she high kicks, she is your one-stop cellulite free Friday night fantasy. I kid, but I’m serious. The burlesque show at Duane Park damn near knocked our H&M colored tights off. The show begins at 11:30 and Duane Park offers a special late night menu for the occasion. The center of the restaurant turns into a stage and, I’m no burlesque connoisseur, but rumor has it they only book the best acts in town. In any other instance, this could easily turn trashy, but Duane Park’s pristine white tablecloths, seasonal floral arrangements, thoughtfully chosen mismatched wooden chairs and elegant wall decor make for a most delicate dinner dance show.

Duane Park  157 Duane Street between West Broadway & Hudson;  212-732-5555 for reservations; lunch Monday – Friday, brunch Saturday – Sunday, dinner daily. For Friday night burlesque info, please call Duane Park or visit their website www.duaneparknyc.com

WHAT: This exhibition brings together some of China’s most talented and thought-provoking artists. The vast array of subject matters, ranging from a critique of commercial culture to distant memories of childhood, address China’s politically loaded past and its ever-changing present.

WHEN:January 15th
6:oo PM – 9:00 PM

WHERE: Eli Klein Fine Art 462 West Broadway

COST: FREE

[WWD] Calypso founder Christian Celle is back on the retail scene with Clic Bookstore & Gallery. Never having the time to spend on her love of photography & art books, with the purchase of a large majority of stock in Calpyso by Solera Capital LLC, Celle is now able to focus on her passion. [WWD]

We’re all sophisticated, grown women here. We’re completely on trend, the image of style and poise, and we all know how to act like a lady. But every now and then, even the most posh Park Ave princess needs to roll up her sleeves and enjoy some real sloppy, home style BBQ cookin’ and leave the caviar at her penthouse.

I’m a  huge fan of Justin Timberlake and his restaurant Southern Hospitality (1460 Second Ave at 76thy, 212-249-1001). So when a foodie friend promised that Virgil’s served up a hearty helping of the best barbecque in town, I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to sample some.

With a menu consisting of Po’ Boys, Pork Ribs, Biscuits and homemade desserts like Banana Pudding and Sweet Potato Pie, you will not be disappointed by this sweet little spot. And don’t think this grub is just thrown together. The chefs artfully select the woods that the meats are smoked over, to enrich the flavors in these most decadent, delightful dishes. I couldn’t resist the pulled pork, shown here.

Come on down for a bite at their convenient midtown location- 152 W44th Street b/w 6th and 7th. If you’re still weary of getting sauce stains in your manicure, call 212-921-9663 and have yours delivered confidentially ;).