A Tasty Trip to NY

Things here are non-stop wedding. Only 37 more days to go! And while I'm one of those crazy girls who actually enjoy all the wedding planning, it's really nice to take a break once in awhile to keep you sane. And to keep your fiance from wedding overload...

We did just that this past weekend when we headed to Long Island for a very special birthday. 

Uncle Leo (actually M's Mom's 2nd cousin's Dad - I'll leave the precise title to you genealogy buffs) turned 95. Yes, 95! 

Rose and Leo - 63 years of marriage!

It was the perfect excuse to get away and enjoy being engaged while we can. And it was even more perfect because almost a year ago to the day, we were in NY and M popped the question. Can't believe a year passed by so quickly!

While we didn't revisit the spot in Central Park where that life changing moment took place, we did have a great time on Long Island and upstate.

The party was a lot of fun and the food was amazing. Spaccarelli's specializes in cuisine from the Abruzzese region of Italy, east of Rome. All of the waiters are Italian and they serve in courses which I love. If you are ever in Millwood, NY, it's a Must Do. 

This antipasta alone is worth the trip ~ this is what dreams are made of!

From the left, clockwise: mushrooms, eggplant, HOMEMADE mozzarella, roasted red peppers and garlic, asparagus, green beans with gorgonzola, aged provolone, dried sausage and prosciutto wrapped melon

veal with mushrooms, artichokes and peas
potato croquettes with roasted broccoli with garlic

We visited the Bronx Zoo which is truly one of the nicest zoos I've ever been too. 

And we also visited Arthur Avenue and dined at Dominick’s Restaurant.

The gang at 2335 Arthur Avenue

This place is unique with its communal tables, no menus, no listed prices and cash only. We had a prosciutto and bread crumb stuffed artichoke (why don't Cleveland restaurants serve these?) and clams to start. I had linguine with bolognese and stole a delicious meatball from my fiance. The salad was old school and delicious with a red wine vinaigrette. Can't believe I didn't take a single picture of the food!

We also stopped at Arthur Avenue Cigars and a tasty bakery.

And we had so much fun visiting with the New York cousins! We found these on our pillow one night.

What a SWEET touch :)

And we got to meet the newest member of the family, Ellie.

Whatta cutie!

Lots of laughs, more great food, cocktails and a tequila tasting made for another perfect visit.

While we were crossing the George Washington bridge, or I should say, while we were sitting in traffic waiting to cross the bridge, we stole this glimpse of the city...

and can't wait to get back!