In a New York Minute

I'm convinced New York City has me under some crazy spell.

If you haven't gone yet this year- or ever- do yourself a favour and GO.

So here's my first of many Mtl.D Takes Over NYC segments. There'll be more to come, so don't forget to click "follow" and stay tuned.

I visit New York every year, but this year was extra special. Everything was beyond any expectations I had. Maybe it's because I know the city like the back of my hand now, and I can recommend anything from the best parks (other than Central-P, of course), hoidy-toidy spots to avoid, the best pizza in town, locating the best noodle soup, the must-eat breakfast/brunch spots, finding the best bellinis in the city, and (duh) some must-visit shopping districts.

First off, my hotel this year was great. Spacious (ish) - as much as Manhattan usually allows, with a very Sinatra/Monroe-glam feel to it. Located midtown on 55th, between 7th avenue and 6th, the Blakely Hotel in Midtown is great because A) Breakfast is included, B) you're a stone's thrown from shopping Mecca of Fifth Ave, C) service is so friendly, there is nothing the staff wont do to make your stay perfect, and D) you're so close to the Subway, you can say good bye to fast-driving, maniac cabbies for good (although this year the cabbies we encountered were so friendly...something was off. In a good way.)

Bonus- Complimentary New York Times.

Mtl.D tidbit- Ask for a 55th Ave facing room, and stay clear from the first 4 floors, 55th gets busy pretty early.

My rating: ♡♡♡♡

Stay tuned, globetrotters. I have more goodies to share.

Mtl.D xo

Ps- HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!!!

The Blakely Hotel, NYC

136 W. 55Th St
New York, NY 10019

http://www.blakelynewyork.com/

Burgers and Makis and New York, Oh My!

I'm back, city slickers!

And fresh from NYC. I have so many spots and juicy tidbits to share with you guys, I don't even know where to start. Stay tuned for my travel blog called Mtl.D hits Manhattan coming soon, I think you'll really enjoy!

Also, I am so sorry for going m.i.a. School has me in a dizzy tizzy. Many of my fellow geekies are probably feeling the crunch, too. But alas! I'm back with some good news.

A Deserving Gold Star ☆

First off, I have to send a special shout-out to restaurant M. Brgr. I was there about a month ago, and left with such disdain for the uncharacteristically slow service, that I felt compelled to leave my criticism on the comment card (of which I thought nobody actually ever read). To my delight, I received an email a few weeks later from the restaurant manager, offering her sincere apologies. Very classy and much appreciated. Kudos!

In other news:

Sushi-lovers and BYOB aficionados will be happy with this one. It's Okïa time!

Ever wonder what to do with that bottle of sake you bought impulsively at the SAQ? Or perhaps you Laval-dwellers are as fed up as I am of Mikasa sushi at Centropolis, promising just-okay sushi with over-the-top, what-the-frig price tags?

There's nothing just-Okïa about this one, bloggies.

Situated in Laval on Des Laurentides boulevard, this is my new go-to for local sush. The food is Japanese fusion, with oodles of different sushi rolls to choose from. The fish is fresh, and the rice is not too abundant/overcooked (all-you can eat sushi lovers know what I mean). And regardless of white tablecloths, casual is the name of the game. Prices are crazy reasonable, and the service was soooo friendly I was wondering what was the catch.

No catch. Just quality sushi for a fair price (take notes, Mikasa). Just don't forget your favourite Pinot.

Ps- Reservations won't hurt.

Enjoy, my little wasabis! -Mtl.D

Perfect for: date night, girls/guy's night out, family din-din, you name it!

MTL.D's Rating: ♡♡♡1/2.

(450) 668-8878

1091 Boul. Des Laurentides

Laval, QC H7G