I did a sneaky Jew thing and went home to CT and NYC to visit my family the week before Christmas. I was blessed with affordable plane tickets and quiet airports. Win! While I was there I played total tourist in my former home of NYC, and caught up on Bubbe time and tried to avoid the snow and 14 degree temperatures as much as possible. (I love you, Texas.) I stumbled upon this adorable photo circa 1988 or so. I think my brother is pissed that it is the last night of Hanukkah! Or he may be jealous of my bowl cut. It’s a tough call.
Here we are today! Luckily our style has evolved from mock turtlenecks to flannel. 
While I was in NYC, the lovely folks over at Aroma sponsored a food blogger happy hour for me and some Internet friends turned real life friends! Have y’all been to Aroma Espresso Bar? They are an Israeli based espresso chain that makes delicious coffee and tasty but healthy sandwiches and salads. Plus some pastries (burekas!) that will make you forget your New Year’s diet plan. In the US they have locations in New York, New Jersey, Maryland and Florida.
Here is my brother enjoying one of their huge sandwiches!
One of my favorite things about Aroma is that they give you chocolates with your coffee. Too perfect!
Each blogger got to try some food (and beer and wine!) from Aroma thanks to My Check. My Check is an app that lets you pay your bill at restaurants without flagging down the server. You can split bills, pay by item, add tips and even get loyalty points and other benefits like free food!
It was easy to use! Aforementioned wine.
And some bloggers! Below is me, Shannon, Hindy and Liz.
And this photo I stole from Sarah!
While I was in NYC I managed to get a bagel, lox and schmear. 
And stopped by Eataly– you have to get there if you are ever in NYC! So. Much. Food.
I even saw Lidia filming a commercial. Love her!
Have you been to NYC? Where are your favorite spots?
10 Comments
A “smart” Jew thing …not a sneaky thing 🙁 just saying
Ha okay okay!
I find the way the word “Jew” is used, offensive
I just meant that since I didn’t care if I was home for Christmas or not since I don’t celebrate the holiday, I took advantage of going a week early!
New York City is a great place to come from, as your dad can attest. You may recall that I have mentioned growing up across the street from him until we were in sixth grade, and then my family and I moved a block away from him, his brother, Arthur and their dad, Dr. Leo K., until Lester and I finished high school.
Now, I too, prefer and love the climate in our Austin, Texas area. We have been having a cool winter so far, the coldest of the three since I moved here.
Charlie F
What a coincidence! It snowed my first winter here- 4 years ago. But this winter has been chilly. I’m ready for 100 degree summer again!
Ahhhhh, looks like y’all had a wonderful time. And seriously, that bagel? Want. Want. Now.
We did!! Wish I could have met you in Miami!! One day…
I was looking for a recipe for homemade lox and my google search brought me to YOU! I love this site! I love your recipes! And I love your Bubbe! She reminds me of mine, who I am still lucky enough to have and who still looks and acts 60 at 88! We come from good genes kid! Aging has been a breeze! In response to someone who mentioned she found using the word “Jew” offensive, I love being a Jew and I use the term and I have no issue with it. I think the way a person views it is related to the way they’ve heard it. I’m proud of it. I embrace it! And nothing makes me happier than my Jew food!! Amy you’ve done a great job with this site! Thanks for giving us a good name!!! Happy Healthy New Year to you and yours!
Thanks so much for writing, Sherry!! Your comments made my day. You totally nailed my Bubbe- she has the energy and wit of someone half her age! So great that you still have your Bubbe around as well. Happy New Year to you as well!!