Making Don Draper Proud

If you're looking for a unique mid-week scene to try with some friends, I highly recommend Hudson Bar & Books(636 Hudson, www.barandbooks.cz/hudson), a West Village cigar and whisky bar/lounge whose tagline is "The Most Refreshingly Civilized Place to Meet". I found myself there last Wednesday with a group of friends eager to embrace the "When in Rome" mentality. Because we had a larger group we were led to the back lounge area full of leather couches and low cocktail tables -- it was so casually civilized that I was certain Prince Harry or William would walk in at any minute. At HB&B, "doing like the Romans do" means sampling whisky and testing out one of their many cigar offerings. I asked the waitress for an "entry level" whisky to which she returned with a glass of Glenmorangie Original (from Scotland) - I enjoyed it! I took a few puffs of a cigar from the Dominican Republic that I shared with the girls - I didn't enjoy it quite as much, but it was all for the experience. All in all, a great place to try some new things and pretend you're on the cast of Mad Men for a night. Tuesday nights sound ideal - they have select whiskies for $10 and 20% off all tasting flights.


Fun Fact: Following in the footsteps of M&M's and Hershey, Pop-Tart has just opened a brand new Pop-Tart Store in Times Square. Customers will be able to eat PT sushi, order a customized PT or suggest new flavors of PT's to Kellogg. The shop's focus will be a cafe offering about 30 new PT treats. Perhaps the Fluffer Butter - marshmallow spread sandwiched between two Pop-Tarts frosted fudge pastries - will provide a reason to battle those Times Square crowds? Only time will tell...

Anchors Away

As a newcomer to the world of commuting, I've discovered it's always important to be on the lookout for the perfect pair of comfortable yet stylish flats that can easily help you transition from your morning commute to those post-work happy hours. Since my most recent post-work happy hours have turned into full-blown nights on the town, I was even more ready to find something that could add a bit of pizazz to a multi-part day. Say hello to the Sperry Top-Sider Metallic Boat Shoe (http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/2854834). While the company is originally known for its traditional preppy boating footwear, they've certainly crossed over into noticeable fashion brand with this fun new shoe, while still staying true to their nautical roots. Perfect with pants and skirts alike, I couldn't be happier with my most recent purchase, and it was the perfect shoe to wear yesterday for a seamless transition from work to happy hour at the Standard Biergarten (848 Washington, www.standardhotels.com/new-york-city/bars/biergarten) Tip: Definitely order a 1/2 size down if planning to buy.