i spent a recent rainy sunday afternoon at two of my favorite places in nyc – strand bookstore and 81 irving place.

as much as i love amazon, online shopping will never replace the experience of actually walking into a bookstore and picking up a physical book. i came home with this awesome strand canvas tote.  the tote was designed by novelist adrian tomine, and depicts the faces of various strand customers.

after strand, we headed to one of my favorite coffee places in the city – 81 irving – for a soy latte and green tea.

the weather has been unbearably freezing here in nyc.  during a walk in chelsea this past weekend, i ducked into billy’s bakery for steaming cup of coffee and a little something sweet.

it was definitely a great way to spend a cold sunday afternoon.

banana cupcake with cream cheese frosting. i loved the wallpaper and the ceiling detail.  i wish i could wallpaper the walls in my rental apartment…

i tried cookshop for brunch the other weekend.  although the wait was long, it was totally worth it.  the food was absolutely amazing.

huevos rancheros
eggs with polenta

i went to five leaves the other weekend for a lovely brunch in williamsburg.

the decor is a rustic and inviting (especially cozy on a cold day).

we ordered the ricotta pancakes, which were incredibly light and fluffy.

and oatmeal, to be healthy.

topped off with a warm cup of coffee.

i can’t wait to go back!