Do ever just crave a sandwich? Just a simple good sandwich with toasty bread, a hearty filing, and a side of crunchy chips and a cold coca cola?
Well, if you ever have these weird cravings like I do, I recommend heading over to the Smile 
Simple and tasty.
Location: 26 Bond Street
Photography & Notes by S. Hovnanian
This past summer, I worked at an Orphanage in Armenia, the experience, though it might sound cliche, was truly ineffable.
Since being back, I havn’t been able to subdue the 200 smiles that have be imprinted into my mind or shake off the dozen of benevolent hugs received from these amazing kids. In my most recent project, I have recalled upon all my craft ability that was fostered in lower school and created these bracelets pictured above.
I have been selling them at a local boutique in the city and now have decided to extend the sale to the web.
100% of the proceeds go directly to the Orphanage,helping to buy the children a wide array of needed supplies such toothbrushes and pencils.
Please Contact me if you would like to purchase one or make a donation 
Thank you, Serena H
Have you ever just craved a really simple yet flavorful meal that is satisfying but not too heavy? Do you ever just want a friendly atmosphore were you can relax and feel like your hanging out in your kithchen without the effort of cooking? Have you ever struggled through your mental list of restaurant that can adiquetly satisfy your quench? I have come to fix your struggle by introducing you to Franny’s.
Menu = Seasonal
Atmosphere= Simple/ Understated cool
Ingredients = Fresh
Dish’s = original / flavorful
(just to give you a taste of their menu: maccheroni with spicy pork sausage, scallions and parmigiano reggiano ,
asparagus with herbs, calabrian chilies and yogurt and
clams, chilies and parsley pizza)
Photography & Notes by S. Hovnanian
After hearing rave reviews and witnessing the constant line of people out the door, I finally decided to check out Ippudo and understand the hype around it.
As far as ramen went it was good–flavorful broth, thin homemade noodles and a variety of toppings– but to be honest–not worth a 2 hour wait (the usaul amount of time to get a table).
The energetic atmosphere, pleasant staff and attractive dishes did help contribute to the appeal but I still am mystified as to why someone would wait for so long.
If you pass by and for some miracle are able to get a seat I say, go for it, but don’t worry if you don’t have the stamina to wait in line (momofuko and rai rai ken are close by!)
Location: 65 fourth ave (near 10th street)
Photography & Notes by S. Hovnanian
My love for this restaurant cannot be accurately expressed in the length of a post, but I can tell you this: you will not be disappointed. My family has been going to Momofuku since 2006 , when it was still undiscovered by the wider public. Unfortunately for me, but luckily for everyone else, Momofuku is a popular destination. Time magazine even praised chef/owner David Chang as one of the top 100 most influential people. Momfuku has now expanded to included four branches: the noodle bar, the ssam bar, Ko, ma peche and milk bar (deserts).
My recommendations:
Kimchi stew + Pork Buns followed by cereal milk soft serve and a corn cookie (from milk bar) for desert!
S.H.
Located on the Lower Eastside, this hidden gem stocks a collection of environmentally friendly reworked and hand picked vintage, as well as a few up and coming brands. Good prices, unique finds, and rustic decor, make Reformation one of my most treasured spots to shop. I guarantee you will find numerous clothing staples, while also enjoying awesome music and the sweet smelling candles they burn in the store.
Location:
156 Ludlow St
New York, NY 10002
Photography & Notes by S. Hovnanian
The laid back vibe, always cheery customers, vibrant atmosphere and homespun dishes are just some of the many reasons why I love Mary’s Fish Camp.
I can guarantee a dish at Mary’s will cause you to forget any bad fish experiences you may have had in the past and convert you into a crazy/ fanatical fish lover. My personal favorite: the buttery/ chewy lobster roll.
Location:
64 Charles Street (between Bleeker and 4th street)
P.S. If you decide to go on a weekend be prepared to wait for a table becuase it is a popular local spot!
Photography & Notes by S. Hovnanian
I consider this ketchup to be somewhat of a triple threat: 1. It is surprisingly easy to make; 2. it tastes amazing; and 3. it makes a great gift because it is useful, creative, and cheap!
Just click on this –> recipe from the New York Times to indulge.
Then buy some glass bottles, tape, and a sharpie and release your inner graphic designer! or you can copy my three labels ( I promise I won’t tell!)
SH
Still as enjoyable as it was when I was 8 (enough said).
Recipe from here–> Readymade
Photography & Notes by S. Hovnanian
Though New York City is famous for its pretzels, unfortunately, they are hard to come by.
You can purchase a “pretzel” from any street vendor on nearly every block but I find those pretzels too stale, plain and salty.
I had come to believe that I had hated pretzels because of the numerous unsatisfactory ones I had tasted . However, my opinion on pretzels quickly changed once I visited Sigmunds Pretzel Shop on the Lower East side.
The pretzels are made fresh daily and they come in all different sizes with a variety of flavors including garlic parsley, jalapeno cheddar, cinamon rasion and the classic salt. They also sell dips like PB ,Nutella, herb goat cheese and rasberry jam!
yum yum yum
Their main store is located on the lower east side (29 avenue B btwn 2nd & 3rd street) but they also have a cart outside of the Metropolitan Museum!
Website: http://www.sigmundnyc.com
