Sweet California

 That's right folks, I'm back in California for a few weeks! Although it's a bit exhausting flying between California and New York, home is always where the heart is. One of my best childhood friends picked me up and we enjoyed brunch at a local favorite - Rose Bakery Cafe. Nothing quite says "mmmm" and "California" like three eggs, avocado, bacon, cheese, and hash browns wrapped in a tortilla. Afterwards, we satisfied a serious sweet tooth with Sprinkles. The new Sprinkles Ice Cream opened up right as I left for New York during my last trip, so I just had to come and see what the hype was about. A generous scoop of salted caramel ice cream topped with a red velvet cupcake definitely did the trick. Unfortunately, the weather did not permit a beach day as planned, but Sprinkles did make up for it! 

One of Those Days

 It was just one of those nights where I wanted nothing more than to creep around town and have my fill of warm food and desserts. My friend and I hit up Kambi after work to complain, rejoice, and contemplate over different aspects of our lives. Afterwards, we made the trek over for Spot, a very popular dessert place on St. Marks. I always go nuts over their green tea chocolate lava cake. Who knew that I'd like the two flavors together? The yuzu eskimo bar was a light and refreshing compliment, and I washed everything down with some Thai iced tea. I love these kinds of days the most. 

Afternoon Tea | Ritz-Carlton

The academic year has finally wrapped up, and I'm officially moved into my new apartment. Between finals and unpacking I managed to catch my breath at the Ritz-Carlton for afternoon tea. After trying out the Dorchester and Harrods in London, I really had a hankering for bite-sized goodies and Earl Grey tea. I figured that the Ritz-Carlton was the next best thing on this side of the world. Their service was exceptional, but I hate to say that the food just wasn't up to par with other afternoon teas I've tried. I found their tea selection to be minimal, and the seating quite awkward. Their set up was couches around tables, and my dining partner and I found it uncomfortable to bend over every time we wanted to eat. All in all, the upper east side is gorgeous as always, but the afternoon tea at the Ritz-Carlton wasn't particularly stunning. 

Paprika

Cardigan: Banana Republic | Top: Obey | Pants: Juicy Couture | Shoes: Nine West

 Oh, Paprika. I enjoyed the "Handmade Pappardelle with Braised Oxtail Ragu", which was pretty good. The pasta was fresh, and there was plenty of meat in the dish. My dining partner ordered the "Roasted Chicken with Shallots and Corn Polenta". The chicken was super tender, but I didn't care for the polenta, which I found bland. Overall, the food was pretty good; however, they served a sad, sad excuse of a chocolate souffle. It looked more to be a molten lava cake, except the center wasn't melted. It was literally cake with a piece of chocolate in the center. We were so disappointed with dessert, we went down the block to Big Gay for some ice cream.

Paprika

Birthday Brunch | The Standard

 My friend Arielle celebrated her birthday at the Standard Grill a few weeks ago. It was her 21st, and boy did we have fun chatting, gossipping, and laughing the morning away. I have to say that I really liked their brunch. Some dishes ordered included fluffy french toast with fresh fruit and crispy walnuts, steak and eggs, and eggs benedict. My friends were joking that I was a demanding customer since I ordered my eggs benedict with egg whites only, and in return I jokingly remarked to them that I "would only eat the dish with the sauce on the side". Lo and behold, the humorous waitress overheard from afar and actually did bring me my sauce on the side. Arielle enjoyed her first mimosa, but wasn't really a fan (I, on the other hand, must vehemently disagree. Mimosas are the best!).

No Time for the Blues

Dress: Urban Outfitters | Shoes: Betsey Johnson

The month is seriously whizzing on by me, and I can't help but wonder where all that time went! I definitely think this has to do with the somewhat cheery weather New York has been graced with here and there. Or perhaps it's the fact that I'm sitting in finals preparation. May really couldn't come quicker for me though. I'm looking forward to a lot of new and exciting changes on my horizon, and it's thrilling (and frightening) at the same time. It's funny to think that everybody keeps telling me that I'm just going through the process of "growing up" and that it'll all settle down soon enough. Do we ever stop growing though? I can't think of a single person who stops evolving and maturing on their journey in life no matter how old they are. 

That being said, I'm looking forward to a few fun things: working in New York this summer, moving into my first apartment, completing my capsule collection, and mindless summer weekends spent exploring with friends. 

I hope all is well with everyone!