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NEW YORK - Grand Brasserie: Parisian Dining in Grand CentralDiscovering Grand Brasserie: A New Culinary Addition to Grand CentralRecently, a friend excitedly mentioned a new culinary addition to the iconic Grand Central Station: Grand Brasserie. Intrigued by the thought of a fresh dining experience amidst the historic setting of Vanderbilt Hall, I immediately agreed to join. The address, 89 East 42nd Street, places the restaurant in the heart of Manhattan’s legendary transport hub, blending accessibility with an invitation to explore a refined culinary landscape.The Elegant Ambiance: Where Parisian Charm Meets New York EnergyAccording to a glowing review from The New York Times, Grand Brasserie seats 400 patrons across an expansive, elegantly designed space that effortlessly merges the old-world charm of a Parisian brasserie with the energy of modern-day New York. What truly sets the ambiance apart is the creative genius behind the design—The Rockwell Group. Known for its impeccable work with iconic venues such as Coqodaq and the much-anticipated Seahorse at the W Hotel, they intended to evoke the feel of a Paris subway station within this culinary enclave. While I have yet to experience the Paris Métro firsthand, the restaurant’s sprawling layout and architectural intricacies captivated me. The vast space is artfully divided into two distinct sections: the more lively front area and the quieter, more intimate back portion, where my friend and I were seated.A Menu That Celebrates French GastronomyAs for the menu, it is a tribute to French gastronomy in its most accessible form, offering a medley of timeless favorites and contemporary interpretations. Whether you’re a connoisseur of French cuisine or simply seeking a flavorful and elegant meal, there’s something here for every palate. From classic escargot and decadent pâté to modern dishes infused with local ingredients, the menu brings the essence of Parisian dining to the heart of New York.Anticipating the Culinary Experience at Grand BrasserieThus, with anticipation building, I boarded the five train, making my way to Grand Central, eager to indulge in this uniquely crafted culinary experience. There is a certain thrill in the juxtaposition of one of the city’s busiest transit hubs and the quiet sophistication that Grand Brasserie promises, where every meal seems poised to transport you from the rush of New York to the timeless streets of Paris.Here is the iconic main hall of Grand Central Terminal. The iconic main hall of Grand Central Terminal in New York City. Photo by Sora VernikoffThe front entrance to the Grand Brasserie is just outside The Grand Hall. Entrance to Brand Brasserie in New York's Grand Central Terminal. Photo by Sora VernikoffHere is the elegant bar as one enters the restaurant. Elegant Bar seating at the Grand Brasserie in New York's Grand Central Terminal. Photo by Sora Vernikoff Comfortable dining at the Grand Brasserie in New York's Grand Central Terminal. Photo by Sora VernikoffHere is the back room of the restaurant where we dined. Intimate seating at the Grand Brasserie in New York's Grand Central Terminal. Photo by Sora VernikoffAnd so, what did I decide to order? I decided dessert was called for, so I asked for the Dessert Menu. Dessert Menu at the Grand Brasserie in New York's Grand Central Terminal. Photo by Sora VernikoffAfter much consideration, and since I don’t order dessert often, I got the Apple Tart Tatin with caramel sauce and a delicious cup of Black Coffee. French Apple Tart Tatin at the Grand Brasserie in New York's Grand Central Terminal. Photo by Sora Vernikoff Delicious, hot coffee with dessert at the Grand Brasserie in New York's Grand Central Terminal. Photo by Sora VernikoffInitial Impressions of the French Apple Tart at Grand BrasserieWhile I wouldn't classify the French Apple Tart at Grand Brasserie as the finest I've ever tasted, it certainly had its merits, providing a satisfactory conclusion to my meal. I had anticipated the delicate texture of thinly sliced caramelized apples gently glazed atop a buttery puff pastry—an iconic presentation in classic French patisserie. However, what arrived was somewhat unexpected: a smooth apple gel that replaced the more traditional layered texture. My initial reaction was surprise—almost confusion—prompting the question, "What exactly is this?"Embracing a Modern Twist on a ClassicYet, as I took a moment to adjust my expectations, I found myself appreciating the innovation behind the dish. The unconventional gel offered a concentrated apple essence, paired with a perfectly brewed cup of rich, aromatic coffee, pleasantly contrasted with the sweetness. In a city where reinvention often meets tradition, this modern twist on a French classic, while perhaps not my favorite, still managed to hold its own as a unique culinary expression. It wasn’t just about the tart itself but the entire sensory experience—the slightly bitter edge of the coffee complementing the sweetness, balancing the flavors into a quiet, reflective moment of indulgence.Exploring Grand Brasserie’s Menu OptionsSuppose you are in the Grand Central area and contemplating visiting Grand Brasserie. In that case, I’d suggest perusing the extensive menu displayed outside the restaurant. This simple yet effective gesture allows potential diners to familiarize themselves with the diverse offerings before entering. From traditional French fare to inventive modern interpretations, the menu caters to a wide range of tastes, ensuring that you'll find something to suit your appetite, whether you’re craving a hearty meal or a light pastry. It’s a thoughtful touch that speaks to the restaurant’s commitment to accessibility without sacrificing its culinary ambitions.Grand Brasserie: A Taste of Parisian Flair in ManhattanWhether you're seeking an immersive dining experience or just a quick pastry and coffee, Grand Brasserie offers an irresistible slice of Parisian flair in the heart of Manhattan. Hours for the Grand Brasserie in New York's Grand Central Terminal. Photo by Sora VernikoffFor fun, here’s one of my favorite dessert recipes.Sora’s French Apple Tart (Tarte aux Pommes) - An elegant dessert with a buttery crust, sweet apples, and a glossy finish.Ingredients:For the crust (Pâte Sucrée):- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour- 1/4 cup powdered sugar- 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cubed- 1 large egg yolk- 1-2 tablespoons ice-cold water- A pinch of salt- 4-5 medium firm apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are perfect)- 1/4 cup granulated sugar- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted- 1/4 cup apricot preserves or apple jelly- 1 tablespoon water- Prepare the Crust: Make the pâte sucrée, a classic French sweet tart dough. Pulse the flour, sugar, and salt together in a food processor (or by hand using a pastry cutter). Add the cold butter cubes and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs (small pea-sized butter pieces should still be visible, ensuring a flaky crust).- Prepare the Apples: While your dough chills, peel, core, and slice your apples thinly (about 1/8 inch thick). Place them in a bowl and gently toss them with sugar, cinnamon, and a touch of lemon juice. The lemon juice keeps the apples bright and prevents browning while adding a slight tang that balances the sweetness.- Roll out the Dough: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove the dough from the fridge and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a 12-inch circle, about 1/8-inch thick. Transfer the dough to a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom, pressing it into the edges and trimming any excess. If you don’t have a tart pan, a pie dish will work in a pinch—just be sure to adjust your presentation accordingly.- Assemble the Tart: Now for the fun part! Starting from the outer edge of the tart, arrange the apple slices in a concentric circle, slightly overlapping each slice. Continue working inwards until the entire tart is filled with beautifully layered apples. The goal is to create an almost flower-like pattern—simple yet elegant.- Brush and Bake: Brush the melted butter over the apples to add a rich flavor and help them caramelize. Place the tart in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes until the apples are tender and golden and the crust is crisp.- Glaze for a Perfect Finish: While the tart bakes, gently heat the apricot preserves and water in a small saucepan until warm and liquefied. Once the tart is out of the oven, brush this glossy glaze over the apples for a beautiful sheen and a hint of sweetness. This step is the secret to making your tart look like it came from a fancy French pâtisserie!- Serve: Let the tart cool slightly before slicing. If you feel indulgent, serve it warm or at room temperature with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of lightly whipped cream.Chef's Tip:The beauty of this French Apple Tart lies in its simplicity, but don’t be afraid to experiment. You can sprinkle some ground almonds or almond meal on the base before adding the apples for a subtle nutty flavor or try a mix of apple varieties to create a more complex flavor profile.Enjoy your Tarte aux Pommes! - This dessert is the perfect balance of crisp pastry, tender apples, and just the right amount of sweetness. Whether you share it with friends at a dinner party or enjoy a quiet moment with a cup of coffee, this classic French tart will never disappoint! Voilà! You’ve just created a French masterpiece that’s easy to make and enjoyable both to see and taste.Grand Brasserie: Parisian Dining in Grand Central89 E 42nd St. Vanderbilt HallNew York, NY 10017For Menus, information, and more, click HERE.Readers may also enjoy our reviews of Barbetta Restaurant in New York’s Restaurant Row, Celebrating The Paris Olympics on West 53rd Street, The Mark and the Met, Little Ruby’s Café East Village, The Smith and a Birthday Surprise, Pasta Bar in SOHO, and Laser Wolf in Brooklyn.https://youtu.be/mhoIyuA2e1Y?si=PwU6KJoTxNO17XeD

NEW YORK - A Backroads Adventure: Abe’s Buggy Rides in LancasterA few weekends ago, I had the pleasure of visiting Lancaster, Pennsylvania, with some friends. Having been there before, I was already fascinated by the rich Amish culture. This time, however, I was particularly excited to share the experience with friends who had never encountered this unique world. Naturally, we agreed that no trip to Amish country would be complete without a traditional buggy ride, so we headed to Abe’s Buggy Rides. A staple of Lancaster since 1967, it offers visitors the chance to explore the picturesque backroads of the Amish community.Holy ExperimentBefore diving into the details of our buggy adventure, it’s worth reflecting on the intriguing history and culture of the Amish. Their roots stretch back to the Anabaptist movement in Zurich, Switzerland, which began in 1525. Named after Jacob Amman, who broke away from the Mennonites in 1693, the Amish were persecuted in Europe. Seeking refuge, many immigrants arrived in Pennsylvania in the late 1600s, drawn by William Penn’s promise of religious tolerance in his "Holy Experiment." They still live by the Ordnung, an unwritten code governing their humble, minimalist lifestyle.King George IIAs we traveled along Route 340, a road steeped in history—built in 1733 by King George II and once known as the King's Highway—we passed through the charming town of Bird-in-Hand. Established in 1734, this town, like Amish culture, exudes a timeless sense of simplicity. Interestingly, Bird-in-Hand got its name from a sign at a local inn, proudly displaying a bird perched in hand—a symbol of certainty and contentment.Close Knit CommunityThe Amish lifestyle is both fascinating and admirable. Their hard-working, close-knit community shuns modern conveniences like cars and electricity, instead relying on horse-drawn buggies and lamp-lit homes. Their children attend one-room schoolhouses, where they learn grades 1 through 8. They study in both their native Pennsylvania Dutch dialect and English, which they begin learning when they enter school.It's a JourneyVisiting Lancaster and experiencing life through an Amish lens is more than just a trip back in time; it’s an opportunity to reflect on the values of simplicity, community, and contentment. Whether you’re intrigued by history, drawn to a slower pace of life, or simply curious about a world so different from your own, a buggy ride through the backroads offers more than scenic beauty—it’s a journey into a way of life that quietly inspires us to rethink our fast-paced, technology-driven world.Here are some photos from our Abe’s Buggy Rides experience. A welcoming sign for Abe's Buggy Rides on in Bird-in-hand, PA. Photo by Sora Vernikoff Signing up for Abe's Buggy Rides in Bird In Hand, PA. Photo by Sora Vernikoff Gift shop at Abe's Buggy Rides in Bird In Hand, PA. Photo by Sora Vernikoff A horse-drawn Buggy at Abe's Buggy Rides in Bird In Hand, PA. Photo by Sora Vernikoff A horse-drawn Buggy is ready to go at Abe's Buggy Rides in Bird In Hand, PA. Photo by Sora Vernikoff A driver at Abe's Buggy Rides in Bird In Hand, PA. Photo by Sora Vernikoff A view from the seats in Abe's Buggy Rides in Bird In Hand, PA. Photo by Sora Vernikoff A horse eating hay at Abe's Buggy Rides in Bird In Hand, PA. Photo by Sora VernikoffWe were fortunate to spend most of our time exploring the scenic backroads, and what an experience it was! Our incredibly kind driver even taught me how to handle the horse. He let me take the reins halfway to a charming local general store, and on the way back, my girlfriend had the chance to drive, too.At the general store, we discovered a treasure trove of authentic Amish treats, from the famous Whoopie Pie and Shoo-Fly Pie to a wide variety of freshly baked Amish bread. It was a delightful taste of the Amish way of life!Let’s take a look. Outdoor view of an Amish general store. Photo by Sora Vernikoff Whoopie Pies on display at the Amish general store. Photo by Sora Vernikoff Shoofly Pies on display at the Amish general store. Photo by Sora Vernikoff Freshly baked bread at the Amish general store. Photo by Sora VernikoffAnd let’s not forget the most unique, fresh, hand-rolled pretzels were made and sold on the store’s property. “Oh my,” is all I will say. Fresh, hand-rolled soft pretzels in Bird in Hand, PA. Photo by Sora VernikoffSuppose you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city or simply craving a peaceful day or two of adventure. In that case, I highly recommend taking a road trip to Lancaster and experiencing a buggy ride at Abe’s. It’s a journey offering more than just beautiful scenery—it provides a glimpse into a more straightforward, more intentional way of life. The entire experience was charming, as a visit to Amish country always is. Trust me, it’s a trip you won’t soon forget!A Backroads Adventure: Abe’s Buggy Rides in LancasterAbe's Buggy Rides2596 Old Philadelphia PikeBird-in-hand, PA 17505(717) 392-1794Readers may also enjoy our reviews of Katie's Kitchen in Amish Country, Inspiration and Sweet Adventures at Hershey Park, Pencil Works Studio, The Smith Restaurant and Birthday Surprise, Pasta Bar in SOHO and Laser Wolf in Brooklyn. https://youtu.be/E5F-O_19lSI?si=06ejLMPZZw0nC_bF

NEW YORK - Amish Dining: A Tasty Adventure at Katie’s KitchenLiving full-time in Manhattan, I enjoy excursions to new places that I can sample for my readers. Katie's Kitchen in Amish country is one of those special places I've discovered and now share with you.My friends and I were eager to experience authentic Amish cooking, so when we realized that most restaurants closed early on Saturdays, we quickly decided to head to Katie’s Kitchen, a place that proudly advertised its genuine Amish cuisine.What we discovered at Katie’s Kitchen was more than just great food—it’s an Amish-owned and operated family restaurant nestled along Route 896 near the charming town of Strasburg, Pennsylvania. As soon as we arrived, we were welcomed by a spacious dining room filled with cozy booth seating and a lunch counter that offered a peek into their bustling kitchen. For those who prefer the great outdoors, they also have shaded picnic tables where you can enjoy your meal in the fresh country air.Their menu is a delicious celebration of Pennsylvania Dutch favorites, offering a wide variety of breakfast, lunch, and dinner options. And yes, they even have takeout for those wanting to enjoy their Amish specialties on the go! With six years of serving traditional Amish food, it’s no wonder a long line of hungry guests was waiting to get in.The anticipation only added to the experience, and by the time we were seated, we were more than ready to dive into this unique culinary adventure. If you’re looking for an authentic taste of Amish culture, Katie’s Kitchen is a must-visit. Whether you're curious about Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine or just in the mood for a hearty, home-cooked meal, this hidden gem will leave you both satisfied and inspired!Here are some outside images of our Authentic Amish eating experience at Katie’s. An outdoor scene welcoming visitors to Katie's Kitchen in Lancaster County, PA. Photo by Sora VernikoffHere are some inside images at Katie’s. Before the photos, I want to add one interesting fact: the Old Order Amish believe that their women and girls should dress modestly and in solid colors, not cut their hair, and not wear jewelry. In addition, they are not allowed to go in public without their hair being covered by their prayer covering. You can see that by the servers in some of the images below. Indoor seating at Katie's Kitchen in Lancaster County, PA. Photo by Sora Vernikoff Servers and guests at Katie's Kitchen in Lancaster County, PA. Photo by Sora Vernikoff Authentic Amish Cooking at Katie's Kitchen in Lancaster County, PA. Photo by Sora VernikoffSo, what did I decide to order?Truthfully, all the choices were pretty plain and straightforward, so I got The Grilled Chicken Plate, which included two sides. For me, those two sides were a baked potato and coleslaw. The Grilled Chicken Plate at Katie's Kitchen in Lancaster County, PA. Photo by Sora VernikoffWas the food at Katie’s Kitchen extraordinary? I’d say it was more about simplicity, reflecting the straightforward, no-frills approach of Amish cooking. It was plain, honest fare, and I embraced it as part of the authentic Amish dining experience. I’m grateful to have had this opportunity because each new experience brings a fresh perspective. Simplicity has its charm, and learning to appreciate it teaches us acceptance and a deeper understanding of different ways of life. All in all, it was a memorable and meaningful visit.Amish Dining: A Tasty Adventure at Katie’s KitchenKatie's Kitchen200 Hartman Bridge RoadRonks, PA 17572717-687-533Readers may also enjoy our reviews of Inspiration and Sweet Adventures at Hershey Park, Pencil Works Studio, The Smith Restaurant and Birthday Surprise, Pasta Bar in SOHO, Laser Wolf in Brooklyn, Mother’s Day at Blackbarn, Rosemary’s, Gene’s Italian Restaurant, Le Rivage on Restaurant Row, Dowling’s at the Carlyle, and Ethos Greek Restaurant.https://youtu.be/Wm0aXvWoU-4?si=hEWdtk10w0CtKKPK

NEW YORK - Inspiration and Sweet Adventures at Hershey ParkAs a native New Yorker, I occasionally like to escape the hustle and bustle of Manhattan. In a previous post, I shared my wonderful experience in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, visiting the charming land of the Amish. While my friends and I were there, we realized Hershey, Pennsylvania, was only a 42-mile drive away. None of us had ever been to Hersheypark, so we made it a particular part of our Sunday adventure! Our first stop was The Hershey Story Museum, and let me tell you, it was nothing short of inspiring! We were all so moved by the story of Milton Hershey, a man whose vision, determination, and compassion left a lasting impact on the world.Milton Hershey’s journey is the perfect example of never giving up, even when the odds are stacked against you. By age 26, he had already faced two failed businesses and was left penniless. Many people might have given up at that point, but not Milton. Fueled by curiosity and a deep belief in his dream, he turned his life around. He eventually sold his caramel company for $1 million and poured his heart and soul into creating the world’s first affordable milk chocolate.Armed with a vision to make chocolate accessible to everyone, he bought equipment from the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition and began experimenting. Within a few years, he perfected the recipe, and by 1903, his factory was taking shape in the town we now know as Hershey. But Milton Hershey wasn’t just focused on building a business—he wanted to create a better community. Unlike other industrialists of his time, he invested in the people around him. He built homes, parks, schools, and transportation for his employees, enriching the town in every way. His heart was full of generosity and responsibility toward others.When Milton and his wife Catherine discovered they couldn’t have children, they turned their attention to helping others in a way that still inspires them today. They founded a school for orphaned boys, where young lives could find hope and opportunity. In 1918, Milton Hershey endowed that school with his entire fortune, making his legacy about so much more than just chocolate—it became about happiness, kindness, and helping others.Milton Hershey’s life reminds us that success isn’t just about personal achievement; it’s about lifting others along the way. Visiting the museum and learning his story left us feeling genuinely inspired, and I hope it also touches your heart. Here are some images of that experience. Elizabeth "Kitty" Sweeney Hershey and chocolatier Milton S. Hershey. Photo by Sora Vernikoff Exhibits in the Hershey Story Museum. Photo by Sora VernikoffThen, after a fascinating learning and interactive experience at The Hershey Story Museum, we walked a short distance to Hershey’s Chocolate World! Entrance to Hershey's Chocolate World. Photo by Sora VernikoffHershey’s Chocolate World is full of sweet surprises, starting with their free Chocolate Making Tour Ride. Trust me, after you see how that delicious Hershey Bar is made, you’ll never look at chocolate the same way again! You’ll also get to meet some of their fun candy characters, which is always a treat (and yes, it's free, too!). And if you’re ready to dive even deeper into chocolate heaven, you can try some fantastic experiences for a small fee. You can create your very own candy bar at the Make Your Own Candy Bar station, hop on the Hershey Trolley Works for a charming tour, or even craft your own Giant Reese’s peanut butter cups! Plus, the store is massive—full of Hershey goodies and unique items found nowhere else.Whether you’re there for the free fun or want to make your own chocolate creations, Hershey’s Chocolate World will leave you smiling and craving just a bit more sweetness in your day!Here are some photos of the inside of the area. A scene in Hershey's Chocolate World. Photo by Sora Vernikoff Lining up for Hershey's Chocolate Tour. Photo by Sora Vernikoff Chocolate Trivia in the Hershey's Chocolate Tour. Photo by Sora Vernikoff A "Twizzler" character in the Hershey's Chocolate Tour. Photo by Sora Vernikoff "Have a Sweet Day" as you leave the Hershey's Chocolate Tour. Photo by Sora Vernikoff So, for a delightful weekend, take a trip to Hershey!You'll learn a lot and have fun!Inspiration and Sweet Adventures at Hershey ParkHersheypark100 W. Hersheypark Drive,Hershey, PA 17033Readers may also enjoy our reviews of Pencil Works Studio, The Smith Restaurant and Birthday Surprise, Pasta Bar in SOHO, Laser Wolf in Brooklyn, Mother’s Day at Blackbarn, Rosemary’s, Gene’s Italian Restaurant, Le Rivage on Restaurant Row, Dowling’s at the Carlyle, and Ethos Greek Restaurant. https://youtu.be/b4wHnf9VTRk?si=zx2X1ZAGsDitgm_k

NEW YORK - Inspiration and Sweet Adventures at Hershey ParkAs a native New Yorker, I occasionally like to escape the hustle and bustle of Manhattan. In a previous post, I shared my wonderful experience in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, visiting the charming land of the Amish. While my friends and I were there, we realized Hershey, Pennsylvania, was only a 42-mile drive away. None of us had ever been to Hersheypark, so we made it a particular part of our Sunday adventure! Our first stop was The Hershey Story Museum, and let me tell you, it was nothing short of inspiring! We were all so moved by the story of Milton Hershey, a man whose vision, determination, and compassion left a lasting impact on the world.Milton Hershey’s journey is the perfect example of never giving up, even when the odds are stacked against you. By age 26, he had already faced two failed businesses and was left penniless. Many people might have given up at that point, but not Milton. Fueled by curiosity and a deep belief in his dream, he turned his life around. He eventually sold his caramel company for $1 million and poured his heart and soul into creating the world’s first affordable milk chocolate.Armed with a vision to make chocolate accessible to everyone, he bought equipment from the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition and began experimenting. Within a few years, he perfected the recipe, and by 1903, his factory was taking shape in the town we now know as Hershey. But Milton Hershey wasn’t just focused on building a business—he wanted to create a better community. Unlike other industrialists of his time, he invested in the people around him. He built homes, parks, schools, and transportation for his employees, enriching the town in every way. His heart was full of generosity and responsibility toward others.When Milton and his wife Catherine discovered they couldn’t have children, they turned their attention to helping others in a way that still inspires them today. They founded a school for orphaned boys, where young lives could find hope and opportunity. In 1918, Milton Hershey endowed that school with his entire fortune, making his legacy about so much more than just chocolate—it became about happiness, kindness, and helping others.Milton Hershey’s life reminds us that success isn’t just about personal achievement; it’s about lifting others along the way. Visiting the museum and learning his story left us feeling genuinely inspired, and I hope it also touches your heart. Here are some images of that experience. Elizabeth "Kitty" Sweeney Hershey and chocolatier Milton S. Hershey. Photo by Sora Vernikoff Exhibits in the Hershey Story Museum. Photo by Sora VernikoffThen, after a fascinating learning and interactive experience at The Hershey Story Museum, we walked a short distance to Hershey’s Chocolate World! Entrance to Hershey's Chocolate World. Photo by Sora VernikoffHershey’s Chocolate World is full of sweet surprises, starting with their free Chocolate Making Tour Ride. Trust me, after you see how that delicious Hershey Bar is made, you’ll never look at chocolate the same way again! You’ll also get to meet some of their fun candy characters, which is always a treat (and yes, it's free, too!). And if you’re ready to dive even deeper into chocolate heaven, you can try some fantastic experiences for a small fee. You can create your very own candy bar at the Make Your Own Candy Bar station, hop on the Hershey Trolley Works for a charming tour, or even craft your own Giant Reese’s peanut butter cups! Plus, the store is massive—full of Hershey goodies and unique items found nowhere else.Whether you’re there for the free fun or want to make your own chocolate creations, Hershey’s Chocolate World will leave you smiling and craving just a bit more sweetness in your day!Here are some photos of the inside of the area. A scene in Hershey's Chocolate World. Photo by Sora Vernikoff Lining up for Hershey's Chocolate Tour. Photo by Sora Vernikoff Chocolate Trivia in the Hershey's Chocolate Tour. Photo by Sora Vernikoff A "Twizzler" character in the Hershey's Chocolate Tour. Photo by Sora Vernikoff "Have a Sweet Day" as you leave the Hershey's Chocolate Tour. Photo by Sora Vernikoff So, for a delightful weekend, take a trip to Hershey!You'll learn a lot and have fun!Inspiration and Sweet Adventures at Hershey ParkHersheypark100 W. Hersheypark Drive,Hershey, PA 17033Readers may also enjoy our reviews of Pencil Works Studio, The Smith Restaurant and Birthday Surprise, Pasta Bar in SOHO, Laser Wolf in Brooklyn, Mother’s Day at Blackbarn, Rosemary’s, Gene’s Italian Restaurant, Le Rivage on Restaurant Row, Dowling’s at the Carlyle, and Ethos Greek Restaurant. https://youtu.be/b4wHnf9VTRk?si=zx2X1ZAGsDitgm_k

NEW YORK - Celebrating The Paris Olympics on West 53rd StreetI was meeting some friends from out of town this week, and in celebration of the 2024 Paris Olympics, what better way than to dine in a French Restaurant? I gave my friends several choices, and they decided on La Grande Boucherie, located at 145 West 53rd Street, a stone's throw away from Manhattan's Theatre District.The outside of the restaurant is on an arcade-like street with various outdoor dining and bar areas. Entrance to La Grande Boucherie on 145 W 53rd St, New York, NY 10019. Photo by Sora Vernikoff A view of the interior of the magnificent La Grande Boucherie on 145 W 53rd St, New York, NY 10019. Photo by Sora Vernikoff Seating at La Grande Boucherie on 145 W 53rd St, New York, NY 10019. Photo by Sora Vernikoff An exterior view of La Grande Boucherie on 145 W 53rd St, New York, NY 10019. Photo by Sora Vernikoff Dining area at La Grande Boucherie on 145 W 53rd St, New York, NY 10019. Photo by Sora Vernikoff Bar seating at La Grande Boucherie on 145 W 53rd St, New York, NY 10019. Photo by Sora Vernikoff So, what did I decide to order?After checking out the menu, I decided to keep it light!I ordered La Salade Nicoise with Ahi tuna, baby oak greens, haricot verts, potatoes, olives, anchovies, an egg, and red wine vinaigrette.But first came the ooh-la-la bread! You can find fresh French bread and creamery butter at La Grande Boucherie, 145 W 53rd St, New York, NY 10019. Photo by Sora Vernikoff And Voila, The Salade Niçoise… The Salade Niçoise served at La Grande Boucherie on 145 W 53rd St, New York, NY 10019. Photo by Sora VernikoffIt was très, très bon! Each ingredient was as fresh as it could be, and coupled with the red wine vinaigrette, it was a perfect humid summer evening dinner choice. So, if you're planning a trip to The Theatre District and want to feel like you're in a Paris restaurant, check out La Grande Boucherie and delight in the experience. Here is my favorite recipe to recreate the vibrant and delicious La Salade Niçoise at home. La Salade NiçoiseIngredients: - For the salad: - 4 small new potatoes, boiled and halved - 200g green beans, trimmed and blanched - 2 ripe tomatoes, cut into wedges - 1 small red onion, thinly sliced - 1 small cucumber, sliced - 4 hard-boiled eggs, quartered - 12-16 Niçoise olives (or Kalamata if unavailable) - 1 can (185g) tuna in olive oil, drained - 4-6 anchovy fillets (optional) - 2-3 radishes, thinly sliced - A handful of fresh basil leaves - For the dressing: - 4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil - 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard - 1 small garlic clove, minced - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to tasteInstructions:Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Set aside.Assemble the salad: On a large serving platter or in a wide, shallow salad bowl, arrange the potatoes, green beans, tomatoes, cucumber, and radishes in separate sections. Add the quartered eggs, olives, and tuna. Add the anchovies: If using, place the anchovy fillets on top of the salad.Garnish and dress: Scatter the thinly sliced red onion and fresh basil leaves over the salad. Drizzle the dressing over everything just before serving.Serve: Toss gently if desired or serve as arranged for a more traditional presentation. Enjoy the salad with crusty bread on the side.Notes: - You can substitute fresh tuna or seared tuna steaks (my preference) for canned tuna for a more luxurious version. - Adjust the amount of vegetables and protein based on your preferences.This salad is perfect for a light lunch or a refreshing dinner, especially in warmer weather. Bon appétit!Celebrating The Paris Olympics on West 53rd StreetLa Grande Boucherie145 W 53rd StreetNew York, NY 10019Hours: Open ⋅ Closes 12 AMPhone: (212) 510-7714Menu: boucherieus.comReservations: opentable.comReaders may also enjoy our reviews of The Mark and the Met, Little Ruby’s Café East Village, The Smith and a Birthday Surprise, Pasta Bar in SOHO, Laser Wolf in Brooklyn, Mother’s Day at Blackbarn, Rosemary’s, Gene’s Italian Restaurant, Le Rivage on Restaurant Row, Dowling’s at the Carlyle, and Ethos Greek Restaurant.https://youtu.be/D_WC2WOJkVc?si=2iW-_6S1oHuphUCw