A few weeks back, I wandered into an old greasy spoon in Gramercy Park and was reminded of a certain New York that has become more the of exception rather than the rule. The general speed and efficiency of the classic New York bodega or greasy spoon is still something that impresses me. I notice lack of New York pace more and more as I travel around the country and the world. While the speed of the City is, at times, appreciated, what I really love is the old school ambiance. That’s why I obsess over places like Keen’s, Eisenbergs, The Side Car, Harry’s, 21 Club and all of the other classic New York spots.
If you aren’t clear on the specific ambiance I am talking about, this video from This Must Be the Place (found via Devour) does a great job of illustrating what makes old school independent businesses so enjoyable. Prime Burger is no exception. It’s about the place and the food, but it is also about the people who have stayed for years or even decades. Supporting the little guys, the independents more fun and keeps our world (and New York) interesting.
Don’t forget about Viand, the high rent diner. And there’s more disappearing New York food and drink here.
Back in April, the people at New Balance gave me an opportunity to test out the company’s new custom 574 program. I’ve done custom shoes from other makers previously, but never anything that was made in America, and never anything processed so quickly (about a week total). I loved how those 574s turned out, in fact I liked the customized program so much I couldn’t wait for the service to include the 993s, my sneaker of choice. Well, that time has now come, 993 lovers can rejoice and order their very own special pair — made right in Maine.
