There’s a lot of family history behind chocolatier G. Bastin’s delicious pralines, which makes them even more special. The story: In 1908, Theofiel Adriaenssens opens the shop. He tires of it by 1918 and passes it to his sister, Leonie. Leonie marries Raymond Bastin, they have a son, Gilbert. Raymond dies when Gilbert is 18 […]
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La chocolatière de Roger
A visit to France (or anywhere, really) would not be complete without sampling at least one chocolate shop. Patrick Roger, an award-winning chocolatier, turns out pralines, ganaches and a “best of”, which consists of seven varieties of cocoa. There are also delectable pastries, macarons and crusty loaves of bread. We discovered this by accident. During […]
Mapusa Markets
Mapusa is the largest town in northern Goa and is known for its markets. The most popular one is Friday Market, which I missed. Although I was not seeking any of the items sold, it was fun to look around at the piles of textiles, bins of household tools and spreads of produce, flowers and […]
We’ve Got a Runner
Right idea, wrong direction! I would have loved to see how far this turtle got in his escape, but, well, I didn’t have all day.
McNally Jackson and the Espresso Book Machine
This print-on-demand contraption, the Espresso Book Machine, is a compelling reason to visit McNally Jackson Books. It’s a thrill to choose from over seven million titles and print a book, all for the price of an off-the-shelf paperback. The store also stocks very well-edited selections on every subject. The vast literature department is helpfully organized […]
Rialto Market
Visiting the Rialto Market made me wish I had rented an apartment instead of a hotel room. The produce was aromatic and colorful and the fish was so fresh some of it was still alive. The best part was watching the locals haggle with the fishmongers.
Masks
Mask-making is yet another centuries-old Venetian trade. The masks are traditionally worn during Carnevale, but are displayed and sold year-round. Venetian masks are characterized by their ornate design and bright colors, use of gold and silver, and baroque styles. The most popular styles are the Bauta (full-face) or the Columbina (eye mask). The Bauta was […]
Glass Blowers
Ventians have been working in crystal and glass since the 10th century, passing techniques and secrets from generation to generation. Due to the fire hazards inherent in the trade, most of the industry was moved to the island of Murano in the 13th century. Some artisans remain in the city center, crafting small items in […]
Mercer Street Books and Records
Another Greenwich Village fixture, this NYU-centric used bookstore has a great stock of photography and art books, literature and vinyl. Remember vinyl? This is a deliciously old-fashioned bookstore with cramped shelves and stacks of overflowing inventory. It’s impossible not to lose yourself in here for a few hours. 206 Mercer St., New York, NY
