I Can Cook: Blue Apron Week 1

Last year, I was really excited to discover Freshocracy: a program that delivers exactly what you need to create 3 meals for 2 people using fresh, locally sourced food. It was perfect for a newbie chef like me with little time to go shopping and to spend figuring out weekly meals. Then, they mysteriously disappeared. I was so disappointed. Then, I recently discovered Blue Apron. The same service- but cheaper!! I immediately opened up an account and eagerly awaited my delivery.

Well my friends, I was not disappointed. My groceries arrived and I started cooking away. They were amazing, I couldn't believe I had cooked them. Since a picture is worth a thousand words, I'll let them take it from here (recipes included!)...

Arugula Pesto Pasta with Chicken and Castelvetrano Olives

When De Santos Comes Marching In

De Santos

Tonight I was invited to try De Santos, a contemporary American restaurant located in a West Village brownstone that was once home to the likes of Janis Joplin and Bob Dylan. My initial impression after walking in was "lovely". Exposed brick and rustic wood were counterbalanced with cherry blossoms and butterflies to make it equal parts masculine and feminine.

Great Jonesin' for Nola at Great Jones Cafe

Great Jones Cafe Menu

We have been trying to find a restaurant that serves up some good New Orleans style grub here in NYC. We've tried a few and left disappointed each time. Today, we decided to try Great Jones Cafe after reading some good things about it online. We walked in to a small, one-room establishment. Lots of NoLa tchotchkes, but it felt more authentic than theme parkish.

Quick Stop to Chop-Shop

Chop-Shop Front

Decided to finally check out Chelsea newcomer Chop -- Shop tonight. We're pretty excited to have this new little chic asian joint in the 'hood.

No one cooks like Jeanne & Gaston

Rear Courtyard

I was invited to try Chef Claude Godard's relatively new restaurant Jeanne & Gaston. The restaurant is named for his grandparents who owned and operated a hotel and restaurant back in Burgundy, France. Chef Godard is a third generation restauranteur who has earned the title Maitre Cuisinier de France. With this prestigious background, I was surprised when I met Chef Claude who is genuinely gentle and charming.

When I arrived I was escorted through a contemporary-casual dining room to a back garden. This dining area is a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and it was easy to forget we were right off of 14th St.