West Village Memory Lane

I remember when this corner housed Banana Republic, back when they were known for selling "safari clothes!"  Ha, who else remembers that?  OK, that's all for now.

20% Off Tanks & Camis at american basics

Established in Brooklyn, Americas Basics knows that most girls spend their lives in basics. T-shirts, camisoles and tanks are their bread and butter, and from the looks of it, most - if not all - items cost $10 or less! Add to that the coupon code you see here (summer 387), and you probably couldn't spend less at Old Navy on similar items. I haven't seen the goods in person yet, but I'm guessing it's like a cheaper American Apparel. I will let you know my evaluation when I get the goods in my hands.

Too Many Restaurants Week

Post-holidays, I promised myself that I would cool it with restaurants and take out food, but alas, this week made that nearly impossible. I visited the following restaurants, one being an old standby favorite known as: Les Halles (the one on Park Ave. South).

Les Halles - A great, crowded New York City brasserie that isn't exactly the height of cuisine, but it is solid, consistent, and fun. The kind of place you should bring out of town guests when you want to ensure that they get a real New York City experience without being overly touristy. While not cheap, it is not too pricey. My recent visit included 3 drinks, dinner and dessert and ended up costing me $70 all told.

Benjamin Steakhouse - An extremely nice looking room on E. 41st St. where you can go for your office Christmas lunch or if your aging parents come to town. Good food and service, a bit stodgy for the likes of the Guerilla Shopper, but meat is aplenty in this joint.

Le Miu - A decent sushi joint on Avenue A. I had an interesting meal consisting of sashimi over soba noodles - a new take on an old dish and something I had never had before. So big points for originality. Otherwise, the room was nice but not anything spectacular. Maybe I'd go back - but only if I couldn't think of a better option...

Sugar "Tiny Cafe of Big Sweet Nothings" - This is that long narrow place on the corner of Allen and Houston under whatever giant child porn ad American Apparel is pimping these days. I love my desserts so I love this place. It's not comfortable or convenient at all, but there are endless treats a la Willy Wonka and therefore I shall return.

American Apparel

I've not had anything much good to say or think about American Apparel - I went in there a year or two ago and sort of liked the idea but decided the "apparel" was crap and overpriced. However, I may have to revise my position as I did buy a much needed lightweight black cotton skirt in there the other day for $30. I have to say it's pretty much saved me during these last couple of blazing like hell hot days in the big bad city.