Nice large group dinner -- between Mystic, CT and New Haven

I forgot to mention: we'll be a group of about 15 people (so the place must take reservations).

artim in Southern New England

Nice large group dinner -- between Mystic, CT and New Haven

I'm looking for a restaurant for my mother's 70th birthday dinner. We'll be in Mystic for the day and driving back to New Haven in the evening-- I prefer a place closer to Mystic b/c I don't want dinner to happen too late (we will have a toddler in tow). My father has insisted it be a "nice" restaurant but $30+ /entree seems a bit steep to me. Food-wise, my mother is not a big fan of seafood and there will be a couple of (otherwise not picky) lacto-ovo vegetarians. We like all kinds of "ethnic" food, but the food should really stand out. Or I've also looked at more casual places on the water (I think if the location is beautiful, the restaurant need not be so fancy) -- but again, there should be some non-fish and veg options. I'm trying to find a place that will feel at least a bit special but also meet everyone's needs & preferences. Thanks for any suggestions!

artim in Southern New England

Tangled Vine in UWS?

Any info about Tangled Vine in UWS would be appreciated. I'm thinking about taking my partner there for her birthday because she has mentioned wanting to go but I can't find any reviews. I especially would like to know about the quality of the food, as that is what she really cares about. Also, it would be helpful to know what the atmosphere is like (prefer a place that is not very noisy or claustrophobic) and if it is vegetarian friendly (I"m veg). Thanks.

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Tangled Vine
434 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10024

artim in Manhattan

Sripraphai child friendly report

Does anyone know if they have high chairs? We'd like to take our 10 month old, but holding her during meals can be quite difficult.

artim in Outer Boroughs

CSAs - Cascade Farms or 110th Street (W Harlem)

I'm wondering if anyone has information on CSAs (community supported agriculture) that use Cascade Farms (www.cascadefarmschool.org/), such as the West Harlem 110th Street CSA? I am considering switching to this CSA as it it closer to my home. I had a great experience with the Central Harlem (135th Street) CSA that uses Roxbury Farms last year and am nervous about leaving them. I'd appreciate any information anyone might have about Cascade Farms in general or this particular CSA. Thanks.

artim in Manhattan

Grocery stores near 105th and Central Park West

For what it's woth, there is a big grocery store on 110th street just west of CPW. I've never been inside, but it is just outside the B/C subway. There is also a small organic grocery store just north of there on Frederick Douglas (which is CPW, north of the park) west side of the street. I find it a bit too expensive for my taste.

artim in Manhattan

'inoteca tasting menu?

Has anyone had experience with 'inoteca's tasting menu? We have a group of 8 and are trying to make a reservation for Saturday night. I generally love 'inoteca's food but I'm not sure if this is worth it. It is served family style and I'm wondering whether there will be enough food for everyone for a full dinner. They also make you decide in advance whether you want to end with a cheese or dessert course or both-- any thoughts?
Or alternate suggestions for a group like this? I'd prefer to avoid tasting menus, but stay under $50/person (including drinks).
Thanks.

artim in Manhattan

34th and 5th

In terms of cheapish lunch food, my favorites are:

- Woorijoop or something like that -- Korean steam table (my preference), noodle bar and various pre-wrapped prepared food - - south side of 32nd btwn 5th and 6th

- The Graduate Center cafeteria has a wide range though you have to sign in at the front desk if you don't have CUNY ID (sounds like that won't be your problem). Given the neighborhood options, this is some of the best lunch food around.

- I second Minar.

- The Shake Shack in Madison Sq. Park is not too far a walk once it opens up again.

I'd like to hear of other decent inexpensive lunch options as this is just about my entire repetoire.

For an upscale overkill type experience, there is a block-long Japanese place (on 32nd or so, east of 5th ave) which has an all-you-can-eat buffet.

artim in Manhattan