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generalkenobi22 · 5 years

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Fic: as iron sharpens iron (Burn Notice) - 4K words & counting

SUMMARY: Somewhere along the way, at one point or another, Madeline tells them, “The three of you need to stick together.”

And that, more or less, is what they do.

So I know Burn Notice Week isn’t for a few weeks, but my work schedule is insane, and while I had a rare day off and moment to post, I seized it. More chapters will follow (one for each season) eventually. But for now, please enjoy the first part of as iron sharpens iron.

Can also be found on AO3.

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Though one may be overpowered, Two can easily defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.

—Ecclesiastes 4:12, NIV

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Somewhere along the way, at one point or another, Madeline tells them, "The three of you need to stick together."

And that, more or less, is what they do.

—

Even before he opens his eyes, Michael just...knows he's in Miami. Besides the humidity (he can feel the sweat pooling at his lower back) and the brilliant sunlight pouring through...wherever it's pouring in from (caves set high in the mountains of Afghanistan don't usually get a lot of natural light), he can hear the faint trace of calypso music coming in from outside.

So he doesn't actually need Fi to kick him with what feels like an especially sharp boot, but she takes it upon herself to do so anyway. Not that he knows it's her immediately. No, that little realization doesn't occur until after he momentarily blacks out from the pain (she was always a great markswoman, so it only makes sense that her foot connects directly to every single one of his cracked ribs) and before his head promptly begins pounding.

When he does finally see her (and hear her—he'd recognize that Irish brogue anywhere), it's...a lot. Especially since he halfway thought he would never see her again. Besides cosmetics (her hair's lighter, no bangs—she's tanner, too), she looks the same as she did the last time they were...together. And now she's here, in the flesh, complaining that he still has her listed as his emergency contact (he knew there was something else he needed to submit to H.R. when he last updated his W-4). It's equal parts comforting and completely unnerving.

There are countless questions running through his mind as he struggles to sit upright (who burned him, how can he contact his handler, is Fi still mad that he left, etc.?), but at least one of them is answered when Fi cheerfully admits that she contacted his mother.

Welcome to Miami.

—

Soon after, she ditches the accent. Buys a whole new wardrobe.

From a tactical standpoint, it makes sense—using camouflage to blend into your surroundings makes you a harder target to spot.

From a personal standpoint, it's still—well, she's—the whole thing is...it's a lot.

—

Sam Axe is what would happen if Magnum, P.I. ever did a reunion special where Magnum—a few decades older and well into retirement—started mooching off every widow and bored housewife in Oahu. And yet, unlike Magnum, with Sam it's a whole lot less grating and more...well, endearing.

With the exception of Fi (though even that might be stretching it at this point), he no longer has a secure network of people he trusts. Most of them, he assumes, went up in smoke alongside his job and identity the moment his burn notice was issued. That said, it's nice to see the familiar face of an old friend in the midst of it all.

Even if that friend sticks him with the bar tab when all he ordered was water.

—

It's practically an ambush, all things considered.

When Sam mentions his money laundering contact, Barry, and follows it up with, "We have to bring you up to speed, brother," Michael assumes he means an in-person introduction.

And it is, for all intents and purposes, an in-person introduction when Michael meets up with the two at Carlito's the next day...

But mostly, it's an ambush.

"So you're tellin' me Mike was absent for the whole dot-com boom?" Barry asks, as if Michael isn't sitting right there next to him. He's staring at Michael like he's the most fascinating installation at the Peréz Art Museum.

Sam, on the other hand, keeps looking at him with an almost insulting amount of pity. "'fraid so," he admits miserably, draining the last of his mojito. "Although he wasn't really absent, per se, just swamped with the whole covert black ops—"

"Sam," Michael cuts in, smile strained. "How about we avoid divulging classified intel to the stranger with the movie villain goatee I just met?" He looks Barry over once and holds up his hands placatingly. "No—well, some offense."

Barry frowns. "Some taken."

"Listen, Mikey, Barry's practically family," Sam says as he signals for the waitress to bring him a refill.

"Well," Barry clarifies, "estranged at best."

"Sure, fine." Sam redirects his attention back to Michael. "The point is: now that you're back in Miami, you have to be able to talk about non-job related topics. And that's pretty tough when you're not up to date on the last decade of popular culture."

Michael shifts uncomfortably. "I'm cultured," he insists, looking between both Sam and Barry. "For instance, the 2000 election? Here in Florida, there were hanging chads and—" Off their pained expressions, he switches tactics, having to dig deeper. "What about...?" He brightens. "J-Lo! She's still considered popular, right?"

Sam chuckles. "Not for the same reason you're thinking, Mike."

The waitress comes by with their drinks. Sam thanks her—his concluding wink almost subtle—but Barry looks like he might be sick.

"So, like...no American Idol?" he wants to know, his tone taking on an edge of urgency. "No Brangelina?" Michael shakes his head, wondering idly if Barry has started speaking Spanish somehow. "What about the Hilton twins? Or, even, Tom Cruise?"

"Wait, yes! He's the, uh, Top Gun guy."

"He was the Top Gun guy," Sam corrects. "Now he's just crazy."

Barry scrubs a hand over his face before downing his cocktail in one go. "I don't know, Sam. This is a much bigger job than you let on. I mean, I'm gonna have to clear my appointments for the day," he points out wearily, "and then I'm gonna have to deal with pissed off clients—wealthy and powerful pissed off clients."

Sam brushes him off. "Barry, this is for a worthy cause." He gestures over to Michael. "I mean, look at him!"

"I'm sitting right here," Michael reminds them through gritted teeth.

Ignoring him, Barry sighs and pulls his Blackberry out. Within seconds, he's shot out a half dozen texts containing haphazard apologies for the cancellations. "Fine," he relents. "Let's start with the basics."

"And make sure we touch on the 'Phins," Sam insists. "The last player Mike could name was Marino, and he hasn't been with the team since he retired in '99. It's embarrassing."

Michael emits a strangled sound of protest before he lets his head drop to the table with a soft, defeated thud.

—

No one is more surprised than Fi when Madeline, of all people, calls to invite her to play poker with her and some of the ladies from the neighborhood only a few short weeks after she makes the move to Miami permanent. With the exception of her sister, Claire, Fi has never really had many female friends. Not for lack of interest or trying, certainly, but the job does tend to have a frustratingly imbalanced male-to-female ratio.

So, obviously, she says yes. After all, it's not as though she could possibly decline. Not when Madeline had ended their phone call with an incredibly touching: "Fiona, honey, you're welcome over any time." And especially not when she can provide such crucial insight into Michael's early years.

In preparation, she finds the least threatening sundress she owns (A-line skirt, a floral pattern of goldenrods and peonies), and brings along a variety of snacks (surely these types of get-togethers operate like more civilized, less mind-numbingly boring stakeouts?).

When she arrives, Madeline greets her warmly with a hug (a bit of a surprise considering they've only ever spoken on the phone and haven't actually met in person before), places her snacks on the counter, and introduces her to the rest of the group. It's...nice. They're a friendly bunch: adorable retirees with a penchant for gossip and neighborhood intel that would put any spy to shame. A couple hours later, though, when she's down by nearly two hundred dollars, she has the sneaking suspicion it all may be a ruse designed to lull her into a false sense of security.

Oh, they are very good.

"So, Fiona," Evelyn asks her. She raises and throws a couple chips onto the growing pile at the center of the table. "How do you know Madeline's son?"

Fi takes in Evelyn's shockingly bright orange dye job as she thinks about how best to answer that question. Ex-girlfriend? Colleagues? Both invite their own share of difficult and obtrusive questions. She could go with "wife" (Michael would positively burst, she's sure of it), but Madeline would see right through that.

"He's my boyfriend." It's not...not true.

"How wonderful!" Madeline's other friend, Phyllis, exclaims. She has been knocking back Corona Extras like she hasn't had a spot to drink in months. "How long have the two of you been together?"

In addition to Madeline's affinity for nicotine, Evelyn seems to share her love of taking all of Fi's money. Fi folds and tosses her cards on the table.

"Oh!" she says suddenly playing at bashful and giggling. "It's—well, it's still kind of new—" Again, not...not true. "—but it feels like we've known each other forever."

She almost feels guilty at the way Madeline's face lights up, how her smile warms at her little fib. But she barely has time to dwell on it before the front door opens. When she turns around, she's met with the sight of Michael—in tan chinos and a light blue oxford—slack-jawed and cradling a casserole dish. She playfully waggles her fingers at him.

"Ma," he says carefully, only glancing at her briefly, his smile too forced to be genuine. "I thought you, me, and Fi were having dinner tonight. You said seven, right?"

Madeline brightens as she directs him and the casserole to the kitchen. "We are. Me and the girls are just finishing up." To the rest of the group, she says, "Ladies, this is my son, Michael!"

"Hey...Hi." He waves at them all awkwardly before taking the empty seat across from Fi, next to Evelyn. She shouldn't laugh, truly, but his discomfort in the face of the group's sudden enthusiasm over his distinctly male presence is palpable. She tries to hide her amusement by draining the contents of her beer bottle, but judging by the way Michael's brow darkens and his mouth practically thins into nonexistence, she is nowhere near successful.

Madeline is the last one to fold before Evelyn takes the pot. As she rakes in her winnings, Phyllis leans over toward Fi and makes it a point to say not at all quietly, "He's very handsome."

This time when she looks at Michael, unable to hide her amused grin, he smiles at Phyllis appreciatively before fixing Fi with a look of quiet desperation.

"Oh, he is!" She sighs dreamily and winks at him, relishing his discomfort only a little. He frowns back. "I'm the luckiest girl in all Miami."

—

It starts out innocently enough. Fi merely offers Sam a simple suggestion for how to properly apologize to Veronica—that unfortunate woman—yet somehow that evolves into him wanting to talk about all his "lady problems" with her.

(Seriously, that poor woman! She must be positively unwell. Perhaps she's deaf or blind? Best case scenario: she's deaf and blind, and this relationship is simply court-ordered community service outreach to the elderly.)

At first, Fi relished the thought that he picked her over Michael (who has all the emotional sensitivity of an unstable IED) to confide his most vulnerable secrets to, but it soon becomes too much. Phone calls, text messages, then phone calls and text messages. Eventually, she has to draw a line, demonstrate at least a little pride.

Plus, she's still pissed about the whole "him-costing-her-a-lot-of-money-because-he-interfered-with-her-legitimate-business-deal-with-the-Libyan-arms-dealer" thing, y'know? No one has ever accused her of letting go of a grudge too soon.

"I don't know what to tell you, Sam." She sighs dramatically as if talking to him is positively exhausting (which, it is) before she slams the trunk of her car closed, yoga mat in hand.

He blocks her path forward before she even has a chance to turn around. "Fi, you don't understand," he says desperately, and a small (fine, large) part of her finds a simple delight in his suffering. "This could be it for Veronica and me. She still hasn't forgiven me for the last job we pulled, and I—"

"Sam." Even saying his name is taking a lot of self-control at the moment. She manages to slip past him and dart across the street. To his credit, he keeps up and corners her in front of the studio. "I'm just too busy right now, and I'm going to be late." She holds up her mat pointedly and pushes past him to the front door. "So unless you want to join my Bikram yoga class, I—"

"Fine."

The little bell at the top of the door rings a second time as he follows her inside. As he not-at-all-subtly rakes his gaze over a couple of women in yoga pants on their way out, she gapes at him.

"What?" He shrugs when he catches her staring. "I told you: this is serious."

So that's how she finds herself some fifteen minutes later watching Sam—drenched through his linen slacks and hideous Hawaiian print shirt—struggling with downward facing dog on the mat right next to hers.

"Geez, Fi," he huffs, his gold chain now dangling over his chin, "you do this for fun?"

She watches as beads of sweat roll down his bright red face in rapid succession. It takes everything in her to keep a straight face.

"Why do you even pay for this?" he continues as if interrupting her meditation isn't enough. "If I wanted to exert myself in this much humidity, I'd ask my old CO to ship me back out to Kuwait, or hell, I could just as easily go outside.

It takes an immense amount of concentration for her to regain her balance (physically and spiritually) and counteract the irritation she's feeling, but she finally asks, short of snapping, "Wasn't there some...Veronica issue you wanted to discuss?"

"Fi," he says, breath haggard, "she's pissed about the car again."

She blinks as a bead of sweat hits her eye. "Well, of course she's pissed about the car." A little quieter, she hisses, "You practically blew it up!"

"I—" The instructor tells the class to transition to triangle pose just as the ventilation system switches back on, pumping more hot air into the confined space. Sam has to account for the increased sound, and the fact that her back is now to him when he clarifies, "That was for the job, and you know it, sister! It was either that, or a Czech assassin would have made mincemeat outta you, me, and Mikey."

She twists, fingers stretched out toward the ceiling. "Well, it's not about any of that for Veronica, Sam. It's...it's more like if you can't cherish her car, how could you possibly cherish her?" she explains as if it's the most obvious thing in the world (which, it is).

Sam's quiet for a moment—the instructor has them shift into chair pose—before he glances over at her. He swipes his soaked through hair out of his face. "Cherish, huh?"

She turns to him and nods, somewhat impressed that he has both made it this far in life being dense and that he hasn't passed out quite yet.

—

"So, neither of you will help me with this?"

Sam and Fi exchange a lazy glance before looking back at Michael from behind their respective sunglasses. Fi sighs dramatically. "It's not that we won't help, Michael. It's more like we..." She looks over at Sam for back up. "I want to say...can't?"

Sam laces his fingers behind his head and shrugs. "Sure, 'can't' works."

Michael throws both of them an unimpressed (and admittedly, envious) look from over his shoulder as he pauses his work on the Charger's carburetor. They're both set up in slightly rusted out poolside chairs with their feet soaking in a plastic kiddie pool that doesn't look a day younger than the early '70s. Probably some artifact from when he and Nate were younger.

He sets his 3/8" combo wrench on top of the engine. "Right, and you both can't," he probes, now leaning against the Charger, facing his two friends, as he gestures for them to continue, "because...?"

"What do you want from us, Michael?" Fi demands listlessly. He watches as she slides her bikini strap (she and Sam are both wearing bathing suits) off her right shoulder, so she can evenly apply more sunscreen. He swallows, possibly lingering longer than necessary (she's...well, it's...still a lot) before redirecting his attention anywhere else.

"Yeah," Sam agrees, snagging the tube of sunscreen out of Fi's hands, despite her protests. "You're the one that called for a debrief on the hottest day of the whole damn calendar year."

Michael pointedly ignores the rivulets of sweat soaking into his beater and, worse, the waistband of his jeans. "It's not the hottest—"

Sam cuts him off. "Historically high temperatures, Mike. I overheard your mom talking about it."

"Overheard me talking about what?"

Michael looks up, while Sam and Fi turn—almost in unison—as Madeline exits through the back door, a tray of iced tea in her hands. When neither Sam nor Fi rushes to help her (at least they're consistent, Michael thinks to himself bitterly), he walks over and helps her place the glasses on the small fold out table set up between the other two.

"Thanks, Maddie." Sam noticeably has no issue exerting himself to pick up his drink. Before he can take a single sip, however, Madeline snatches it out of his hands and replaces it with a beer. It may just be the widest Michael has ever seen Sam smile. "We were just saying how insanely hot it is today—"

"—and how only a certified sociopath would expect his dearest and most loyal friends to perform manual labor in this kind of weather," Fi finishes for him. She flashes a seemingly innocent smile at Michael from over the rim of her own glass. He responds in kind with something between a frown and a grimace.

Meanwhile, Madeline takes in his disheveled appearance. "And what happened to you?" she demands, handing him the iced tea that had previously been Sam's. He takes it, grateful. "You're soaked!"

"Yeah, I know, Ma," he says calmly, trying to restrain himself. "I've been out here fixing the Charger, but it would go a lot faster if I had some help..."

She follows his accusatory gaze back to Sam and Fiona and gasps. "Well, don't look at them, Michael!" she blanches as if he were asking them to help him bury a body, which...would not be an unreasonable scenario in his line of work. "It's hot outside!"

Michael stares up at the sky as if willing God to grant him the patience he is so quickly losing.

—

Virgil and...his mom.

—

Virgil and...his mother.

—

His own mom and...Virgil.

—

He's gonna kill him.

—

...Right after he drains a quart of bleach.

—

"He's here."

Maricruz doesn't bother looking up from her register. Their manager gave them a strict deadline for completing their cash counts today. "Who's here?

"The guy I was telling you about, the one who's in here all the time?"

Suddenly, Maricruz remembers. "Oh, yeah! The dude with all the yogurt, right?"

Her co-worker, Olivia, nods, cracking her gum in the process. "He only ever buys weird stuff, like screws and duct tape, never food—well, except for the yogurt. And, occasionally, beer." She pauses, then: "I think he might be a serial killer."

Maricruz finally looks up and watches as the man examines a box of 45-watt lightbulbs. She frowns, then turns to Olivia. "This guy?" she wants to know. "The one who dresses like some rich kid's hot, investment banker dad, who sometimes attends a lot of backyard barbecues?”

"Yes."

They pause in their conversation as Olivia rings up an elderly woman purchasing a bag of spinach and last week's People magazine. She waves goodbye to her and then once she leaves through the store's front doors, she zeroes in on her friend. "Hold up—are you saying hot people can't be serial killers?"

Maricruz rolls her eyes. "No. Duh, of course not. We both watched the same Ted Bundy documentary.

"True. Wait...are we saying Ted Bundy was hot?"

"I am not having this conversation with you."

Maricruz rings up her own customer (single mom with two toddlers, tons of sugary cereals) before looking back at Olivia. "There's no way this guy's a killer. Didn't you say he sometimes shows up with his supermodel wife?"

"Well, yeah," Olivia admits, "but, hello, ever heard of Scott and Laci Peterson?" She blows a bubble with her gum than pops it with an audible crack. "Also, for the record, I've never actually seen hot-might-be-a-serial-killer dude with a ring, so I think the supermodel's just his girlfriend.

Maricruz watches him grab a different pack of lightbulbs off the top shelf for an elderly woman behind him and sighs wistfully. "It totally figures he has a girlfriend." She stares a little longer. "I mean, serial killer or not, look at his arms."

Suddenly, Olivia clears her throat super loudly, snapping her out of her reverie. "Oh, my God, Maricruz, shutupshutup. He's coming to my lane!"

She looks over, and sure enough, the guy walks over to Olivia's lane and empties the contents of his basket onto the belt: a pack of lightbulbs, zip ties, rope, and two packs of blueberry yogurt. Olivia shoots Maricruz a look over his shoulder that seems to say, See? I told you so!

"Hi," he says with a bright, exaggerated smile, oblivious to their non-verbal conversation. It takes a moment for Olivia to recover while he digs in his pocket for his wallet and to respond back like a normal, human person.

"Welcome to Milam's Market," she says, totally using her Customer Service Voice as she rings up his items. "Did you find everything you need today?"

"Hmm?" He looks up from his phone, and the frown he was momentarily wearing transforms easily back to the smile from earlier. He snaps the phone shut and looks back up at her, somewhat sheepish. "Oh, uh, yeah. Even got a great deal on yogurt, so..."

Olivia gives him his total, and before he grabs his bags, he thanks both of them and tells them to have a great day.

As they watch him leave, Maricruz turns to Olivia. "Are we sure the supermodel is his girlfriend and not just his, like, insanely hot sister?" she asks desperately as she cranes her head to follow his exit beyond the store's double sliding doors.

Olivia nods sadly. "Yeah."

—

She tells him it's not good enough, but he doesn't know what else to say. He's never been good at this. He even has the scars from Dublin and Germany to prove it.

He feels slightly self-conscious, standing there shirtless, reminding her that they were profoundly unhappy together, nearly a decade ago. Ten years is a long time, and he's not exactly getting any younger—neither is his physique, frankly. He hasn't let himself go, by any means, but there's definitely a softness to his lower stomach that wasn't there the last time they were, uh...they last time they were...together. Fi doesn't mention it, or even really seem to mind much, however, when her foot connects with it just a few moments later.

He knows he's in trouble when his first punch accidentally lands, and she looks up at him afterward with that familiar fire in her eyes, the one that's equal parts terrifying and enticing.

He knows he's a goner when that same peculiar mix sends a jolt way down past his (grudgingly soft) gut while she deftly traces her lips along the lines of his palm.

And he definitely knows he's in way over his head when she lets him pin her to the mattress—when their eyes lock, and he anchors her face in his hand, while her hips cant slightly to meet his own. Admittedly, his self-control grounds to dust long before then, but it's only when his lips capture hers that he finally does the one thing he has wanted to do since the CIA dumped him in that trashy hotel with her all those months ago—

He finally gives in.

#burnnoticeedit #burn notice week #my writing #my fic #burn notice fic #michael westen #fiona glenanne #sam axe #madeline westen #fiona x michael

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bxcketbarnes · 6 years

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Vacation During A “Vacation” (Part Two)

Pairing: Ashton Irwin x Reader

Author: @cxddlyash

Words: 4173

Author's Note: Here is part two everyone! This is basically pure fluff and sexual innuendos :)

Ashton and I just got off the plane in Papeete which is on the big island of Tahiti. I laced my fingers with Ash as we strolled over to the giant board of flights. “Are they just going to put our luggage on the other plane or do we have to gather it?” I asked, my eyes scanning for the flight time to Motu Mute.

“Yeah, they are. We’ve got about half an hour until we need to get on the other plane,” Ashton mumbled and I glanced up at the tall boy. His thumb rubbed against the back of my hand as my stomach rumbled a bit. “You hungry?” He chuckled, looking down at me.

I just smiled, nodding my head a bit before letting go of his hand. “I’m gonna go get a few snacks. You want anything?” I asked and he shook his head, dipping down a bit to press a short kiss to my lips. I walked towards the small convenience store, strolling through the isles to find a couple things that’ll fill me up until dinner tonight. I grabbed a bag of Cheetos, Skittles, and a bottle of water before bringing it up to the cash register.

“Is that everything?” The guy asked after ringing up my items. I shook my head, giving him a small smile as he pressed a couple buttons. “Your total is $5.67.” I gave him six dollars and waited for him to give me my change, glancing back at Ashton to see him talking to some girl. I furrowed my brows at them, noticing her flirty stature. “Miss?” The cashier called out and I snapped out of my daze.

“Sorry, thank you,” I mumbled, grabbing my change from him along with the bag before leaving the store. I slowly walked back towards Ashton and the strange girl, seeing him playing with the ring I got him. A smile came onto my lips, fully trusting Ash but… this girl is not letting up.

She rested a hand on his arm, slowly rubbing his skin. “So, is this your first time in Tahiti?” She asked and Ashton nodded his head. “If you want I can show you around.” Her hand trailed up his arm, fiddling with his shirt and he politely stepped away from her.

“I’m sorry, but I’m proudly in a relationship,” he mumbled, showing her the ring on his finger and her face fell, clearing her throat a bit before walking away without another word. I licked my lips a bit and stepped towards him, my fingers coming into contact with his back.

I gave him a smile when he looked down at me and he let out a small breath. “You okay?” I asked and Ashton shook his head a bit. I was about to ask him what was wrong when he grabbed my cheeks, connecting our lips. My eyes widened a bit before slowly closing, kissing him back with the same amount of pleasure. He pulled away a few seconds later, moving some of the hair from my face. “W-What was that for?”

“I just… I love you, so much. C’mon we have to go through Customs and God knows how long that could take,” he mumbled, grabbing my hand before heading towards that area.

I squeezed his hand, keeping my eyes on him. “You dealt with that girl well,” I decided to bring up and he tensed under my touch. “I’m not mad at you if that’s what you’re thinking. I trust you, Ash.”

Ashton brought my hand to his lips, pressing a gentle kiss to the back of it as we approached customs.

Ashton and I had just settled into our one-bedroom Otemanu overwater bungalow suite. A gasp left my lips as I saw the view we got from our deck. “Holy shit, Ashton,” my lips parted, stepping out of the bungalow towards the railing. His arms wrap around my waist and his face nuzzled into my hair. “I-I can’t believe we’re here.”

“Believe it, baby,” he mumbled, moving his hands to the railing in front of us.

“I still can’t believe you did this for me,” I whispered, turning around to lean against the rail and Ashton grinned.

“I told you. You’re so so special to me. I’ve never loved someone like I love you. I’m really glad you decided to say yes the first time I asked you out,” Ash expressed and I blushed remembering the first time he asked me on a date.

Jess and I had just walked into the bar we went to almost every weekend. The two of us were laughing at something she said, wiping the tears from my eyes as we walked up to the bar. “Good to see you, ladies, again! The usual?” The bartender, Chad, asked to which we nodded our heads.

Chad began making my usual, Sex on the Beach, and Jess’s usual which is a Mojito. He had just slid my drink towards me when Jess bumped my arm repeatedly. “What?” I asked, glancing towards her as her eyes were on something else.

“Hotties. Six o’clock,” she stated and I followed her gaze towards four boys who stood about ten feet from us. My eyes gravitated towards the one with sandy blonde hair that almost reached the top of his shoulders. His eyes moved towards me and they connected for a few seconds before swiftly looking away.

I turned back towards the bar, feeling my cheeks heat up. “Oh, god. Did he see me?” I asked both Chad and Jess to which they shook their head. I let out a huff of breath, nodding my head a bit as I took a sip, a big sip. I missed the look Jess gave Chad as I basically downed the drink I ordered.

“Hey, Chad can I get another rum and coke and whatever she’s having,” an unfamiliar voice asked and I looked towards the voice. The guy who I was just staring at stood beside me and I stood up straight, darting my eyes towards Jess.

“I thought you said he didn’t see me?” I whisper-shouted to her and she shrugged her shoulders, taking a sip of her drink. I let out a small sigh, looking back towards the cute man. “T-Thanks for the drink,” I mumbled, grabbing the newly filled drink in front of me.

He grinned, his hazel eyes shining in the dimmed light. “I’m Ashton, by the way,” he introduced, sticking his hand out towards me.

“Hi, Ashton. I’m Y/N,” I quietly told him, my cheeks flushed.

Ashton and I hung out together for a couple hours, seeming to drown everything else out as the two of us sat in a booth near the bar. I was just finishing my third drink as I felt Ashton’s eyes on me and looked over at him, giving him a small smile. “You know… I’m not sure what quidditch position you play, but I’m sure you’re a keeper,” he grinned and I stifled a laugh, tucking a strand of hair behind my ear.

“Oh my god, Ash,” I mumbled, shaking my head as I heard him chuckle. “Was that your way of asking me out, or?”

“Where did you even find that pick up line?” I asked, resting my head on his chest while wrapping my arms around his waist.

Ashton let out an embarrassed laugh, his hand resting in the middle of my back as we faced the Mount Otemanu. “I uh, actually found it on the internet and thought maybe it worked. I actually noticed you a couple weeks before and the guys finally convinced me to go talk to you after we made eye contact,” he mumbled against my hair.

“I guess you were lucky I was a Harry Potter fan,” I joked, pulling away from him. I softly bit my lip as my hands moved up his chest slowly. “So, uh… you wanna test that king size bed out?” I asked and his eyes darkened a bit.

He moved his hands to the back of my thighs, picking me up and I let out a small squeal. Ashton’s lip landed on my neck, moving up my jaw as he carried me into the bungalow. He dropped me onto the bed, landing on the mattress with a soft thud and I combed my fingers through his hair. “You’re so beautiful,” he whispered against my skin, hovering over me.

“I know I’ve said it quite a lot the past week but, I love you,” I mumbled before pulling his face closer to mine, connecting our lips. One of Ashton’s hand slid up my shirt while he deepened the kiss, his free hand pressed to my cheek.

His lips left mine and a small whine escaped. “I love you. Now, let me take care of you just the way you like it…” Ashton smirked, pulling the legging off your legs before spreading my thighs apart.

I woke up to the feeling of Ashton’s fingers gliding down my side, the sound of waves crashing against the beach nearby something I could wake up to for the rest of my days. I slowly opened my eyes, turquoise waters being the first thing I see. I turn over facing Ashton, holding the comforter just above my bare chest as the blanket was resting just above his waistline, leaving little to the imagination. “Morning, baby,” I mumbled, smiling ear to ear as his eyes left his phone screen.

“Morning, beautiful. Sleep well?” Ash asked, smirking a bit and I could feel the blush cover my cheeks. I mumbled a “shut up” while nuzzling my face into his neck, our legs tangling together. “So, I’ve been looking up activities they have here and thought we could do some.” I grabbed his free hand, looking at his phone screen as he continued scrolling through the list. My fingers fiddled with his as he scrolled to the top, beginning to read some off. “They have a glass bottom boat tour, a sunset crater expedition which I added to the list because I know you like to watch sunsets,” he added, kissing the top of my head.

“You know me so well,” I giggled, glancing up at him for a few seconds.

“Oh! They’ve got a shark and ray snorkel safari!” He gushed and I shook my head immediately. “What?! Why not?”

I sat up slightly, leaning against the headboard, still holding the blankets above my chest. “Uh, what’s the first word again?” I asked him and Ash furrowed his brows.

“Shark-”

“Exactly! There’s no no way I’m getting in the ocean with sharks around, nuh uh!” I gushed, shaking my head as Ashton let out a laugh.

“Fine fine. No snorkeling with sharks got it.” I chuckled, pressing my lips sloppily to his cheek before he continued with reading through the list. “Okay, so you don’t wanna snorkel with sharks. Is it just sharks or all types of fish?” He asked and I shook my head.

“No, it’s just sharks, babe,” I answered while placing small kisses on his bare shoulder.

Ashton’s hand landed on my thigh under the blanket, rubbing softly. “Okay, well they have snorkeling but it’s with anemone fish, moray eels, manta rays and eagle rays,” he offered.

“Yeah, we could do that,” I grinned and moved away from him. “That bathtub is calling my name, so you can either come with me or you can stay here and continue with the list of activities.” A smirked appeared on my lips as I slipped out of the bed.

Shuffling could be heard as Ashton got up, his body pressing against mine while the two stepped towards the bathroom. “You’re going to be the death of me, I swear,” he groaned as his lips glided across my warm skin.

Reef Discovery Whale Watching Tour…

Three other couples including Ashton and I were departing out deeper from shore, our whale watching tour beginning. I sat on one of the seats, resting my arms against the rail as my chin rest on my arms. Ash stood behind me, both of us looking out into the deeper blue waters.

“You think we’ll get lucky and see one?” My boyfriend asked and I glanced over my shoulder.

I nodded a bit, giving him a grin. “I think we’ll get lucky,” I chuckled, standing up beside him.

He wrapped his arm around my waist, pulling me closer to him as one of the girls smiled at us. “How long have you guys been together?” She asked, gaining our attention.

“Three years and counting,” I answered before he could. Ashton smiled softly before pressing a kiss to my lips.

“Well, you guys are super adorable together,” she told us, sipping her water.

“Thank you,” Ashton mumbled while smiling politely at her. The conversation ended there as her man sat down beside her.

“Okay! Up here is where the whales are usually seen. Let’s hope some of them feel like making an appearance on this gorgeous day!” The tour guy called out enthusiastically.

I pulled my phone out, opening the camera app in case one comes up from the water. To our luck, not even five minutes later one of the whales could be seen at the top of the water, swimming about ten feet from the boat. A small gasp left a few of our lips as the beautiful creature came up. I snapped a few pictures as it fell back into the water, splashing us heavily with water.

A laugh left my lips as it basically drenched us, stuffing my phone back into my pocket and turned towards Ash who was giggling also. “Well, at least we’re abjt cooled off now,” he joked.

Spa & Pool Time…

Since the gift came with a spa day I decided to use it while Ash stayed at the bungalow. After getting taking my shorts and tank top off, leaving me in my bra and panties I laid on the table, already feeling a bit relaxed with the aura that surrounded the place.

“You’re getting a Polynesian massage, yes?” A lady asked while placing a towel over my ass. I nodded my head in answer and her hands left my skin. Bottle caps opening could be heard as she put oil onto my skin, feeling the coolness of it turn to warmth almost immediately. The lady started with my legs, digging her fingers into my calves moving up to the back of my thighs. “So, are you here with family or a lover?”

A blush came to my cheeks as I heard the word lover. The two of us had been intimate quite a lot since we’ve been here… which happened to be day three. “A-A lover,” I stuttered, smiling a bit as I wiggle my fingers.

She hummed in response, her hands moving to my feet. I tried super hard to keep them still, not giving into the ticklish feeling. “How long have you been lovers?” She asked and I chuckled, turning my head to the side.

“Three years. This was my anniversary gift. My gift to him seems a bit underrated compared to this,” I laughed as did she, asking me what I had got Ashton. “I got him a promise ring with the words “I love you” engraved inside. We’ve always talked about taking the next step forward in our relationship and with him and his band being on hiatus at the moment it’s been a wonderful to get to spend so much time with him.”

“Do you think he’s the one?” The woman asked as she stepped in front of me, her feeble hands going down my back.

I thought about it for a moment. Ashton’s been fucking wonderful since the beginning. I honestly don’t think I’ve been in a relationship where I’m this happy even though he’s gone a lot. “Yeah, yeah. I definitely believe he’s the one. There’s no one else really like him. Ashton means everything to me,” I answered with a soft tone, my heart beating quicker in my chest.

After my hour spa I couldn’t feel more relaxed. Actually, I don’t think I’ve ever been this relaxed. I made it back to our bungalow, which was at the end of the walkway, in about ten minutes. I head inside, hearing Ashton’s music playing softly in the background.

“Ash? Baby?” I called out, setting the key onto the table before walking past the sliding door, finding my lovable drummer boy in the pool. “Hey.”

His head snapped up at my voice, a grin coming onto his lips as he stood up from the edge heading towards me. “Hey, How was the message?” Ashton asked, pressing a quick kiss to my forehead before I stepped into the bedroom.

“It was great!” I called out, pulling out my black two-piece. “I’d come back here just for the messages,” I laughed while slipping my clothes off. Ashton leaned against the sliding door jam.

“You know… it is getting a bit dark. We could always go skinny dipping?” He asked and my eyes glanced towards him, giving him a look. “Come on! We haven’t gone skinny dipping in like a year and a half. Plus, we’re at the end so no one's gonna see.”

A sigh left my lips, tossing the bikini onto the bed. “Fine, but I’m telling you right now… there’s no way we don’t end up fucking in that pool,” I bit my lip, walking past him naked towards the heated pool.

Stand Up Paddle Board…

I covered my mouth with my hand as I stood on the beach of the lagoon, watching Ashton fall off the paddle board… again. You’d think for a guy who could kinda surf would be good at this, right?

“I hear you!” Ashton called out, pushing the wet hair from his face as I blew him a kiss.

“Love you, sweet cheeks!” I grinned, chuckling. Him and the instructor made their way back towards the shore as Ashton continued his way towards me.

He stood a couple inches in front of me, staring into my eyes as a smirk came onto his lips. “If you think it’s so easy… why don’t you give it a try,” Ashton offered and I scoffed a bit, crossing my arms over my chest.

“Maybe I will. Don’t get offended if I’m better than you,” I winked, patting him on the chest before walking past him towards the instructor.

We got out into the water and I hopped onto it, steadying myself onto my knees before attempting to stand up. I let out a huff of breath as the man held onto it, glancing towards the shore to see Ashton watching with a big grin on his face. One foot at a time I managed to stand up, an excited laugh leaving my lips as I looked back towards Ash.

“Baby! I did it!” I first pumped, grinning ear to ear as the dork began to clap loudly earning glances from around us. He stopped, running out towards us as the instructor let go, handing me the paddle.

“You think you can stay on while I get on?” Ash asked and my eyes widened a bit before letting out an unsure nod.

Luckily, I didn’t fall off. Ash sat in front of me as I began to paddle around the lagoon, looking absolutely everywhere before gazing down at him. “Hey, Ash?” I called out, earning a hum from him as he tipped his head back. “Isn’t this supposed to be the other way around?” I asked with a smirk and he rolled his hazel eyes playfully.

“Shut up, dork,” he mumbled, smiling up at me as I combed my fingers through his hair. “It’s cute I get to experience being romanced instead of doing the romancing.”

The Love Boat Private Sunset Lovers Cruise…

The driver of the boat had just set off from shore, taking Ash and I around the lagoon. The two of us sat closely on the front of the boat, coconuts filled with champagne in our hands. “I can’t believe it’s our last night here,” I mumbled, resting my head on his shoulder as the sun started to set.

Ashton nodded his head, placing a kiss on the top of my head. “I know. Honestly, I love our friends and all but I think we needed this,” he stated, taking a sip from the coconut.

“I know I was a bit paranoid at first since I’m sure this wasn’t cheap but I feel the same way. It’s nice to getaway with my best friend and lover,” I smiled, leaning closer to him and pressing my lips to his.

We kissed for what seemed like minutes which turns out to be just a few seconds. He pulled away from me, resting his forehead against mine. “I love you, so much. I really do. Ever since I first saw you I knew you were different from all my other love interests, in a good way of course,” he added and I chuckled, drinking some of the champagne. “You have no idea how nervous I was when I took you out the first time by ourselves. I was afraid you were gonna have a terrible time and then you’d never wanna see me again, but you didn’t.”

“Ash…” I mumbled, tearing up a bit as he took us down memory lane and he shook his head, moving some hair out of my face before continuing.

“I knew you were the one one when you witnessed my flaws, my bad days and you stuck around. You always told me, “tomorrow will be better. It’ll always be better.” I can’t even thank you enough for helping me through the hard times, sticking around when I’d leave for months at a time. No one understands me like you do… except Cal, he might,” Ashton laughed, making me laugh as well. He set his coconut down, moving in front of me as I furrowed my brows. “I-I never want to experience not having you in my life. I love you with all my heart.”

Ashton propped himself on one knee, digging into his pocket as I sat up straight. My heart pounded against my rib cage as he pulled a velvet box out. “Y/N L/N… will you do the honor and becoming my one and only, my wife, Mrs. Ashton Irwin?” He asked while opening the box, showing off the gorgeous silver three-stone engagement ring.

I covered my mouth, eyes tearing up as I moved to my knees. “Y-Yes, yes of course,” I gushed, sniffling a bit as the couple people who worked on the boat clapped their hands, the camera going off as Ashton took the ring from the box, shakingly putting it onto my ring finger. “I love you…”

The day after we got back from Bora Bora the guys had come over for lunch. Ashton stood behind me as I ordered the pizza and wings, to Mike’s request, his hands sliding around my hips. I hung up the phone, setting it onto the island before looking out our sliding door. “Aren’t you getting beers?” I asked, glancing behind me.

“Yeah, just wanted to show you a bit of love that’s all,” he grinned and I giggled. I stood on my toes, pressing a quick kiss to his lips before heading to the fridge to grab a corona, shoving a lime into it.

I walked out the sliding door, Ash not far behind me as I took a seat across from Michael. “Pizza's been ordered. Should be here in roughly thirty minutes,” I told the boy and he grinned.

Luke’s eyes have been glued to my hands as I took a drink of beer, Ashton sitting down beside me and handing the three beers to his friends. “Y/N?” The blonde asked and I set the bottle onto the glass table.

“Yes, Lukey?” I answered, turning my head towards him.

“Is that… a ring on your wedding finger?” He asked and your eyes widened, silently cursing yourself for forgetting to take it off before they got here. Ashton and I weren’t too sure how to tell them but I guess this is a good time.

I glanced towards Ash as he subtly nodded his head. “It is,” he answered for me, laying his large hand on my leg. “I, uhm, I asked her to marry me while in Bora Bora.”

Luke and Michael’s jaw dropped as Cal just smirked, taking a drink of his beer. “What!? That’s incredible dude! Congrats you two,” Michael basically gushed, grinning widely.

“About fucking time,” Calum mentioned, smirking at the two of us. “I knew he wanted to marry you after the third date.”

I couldn’t help the smile coming to my lips, fiddling with the ring on my finger as I glanced towards Ashton. His eyes were already on me and placed a kiss on my head. “What can I say… I found my perfect someone.”

Taglist: @honeymoonmuke @gotta-try-something-new @thebookamongmen @kinglyhood @maddz-world @dashlilymark @ashs-cheergirl @lukeskisses @shower-me-with-roses

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oyesmendes · 6 years

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BestFriend!Shawn getting offended when someone else’s calls you by the nickname he had given you

just a short one while I take a break from work :) you’re welcome! let me introduce you to Brooklyn, my new little character for maybe a new series 🙊

you were by the kitchen counter sipping on your mojito in the middle of a party when Shawn walked by, taking a seat next to you. he placed his plastic red cup down, head resting on your shoulders.

“can we go home? I’m tired and this party is nowhere as fun as movie night” Shawn whined and you laughed, setting your cup down as well.

“okay okay I’m sorry I took you here tonight instead of staying home. let’s go say bye to josh and we’ll go to my place?” you asked and he immediately perked up, trailing behind you as you manoeuvred through the crowd.

“josh! we gotta go, rockstar’s got some stuff in the morning!” you shouted over the music. before josh responded, a loud voice boomed across the room,

“hey baby brooks! you’re here too?” you cringed at the voice, knowing it was your ex boyfriend, chad. you inhaled a deep breath, turning around to look at him. in the corner of your eye, you could see Shawn visibly tense up and you put your hand on his forearm.

“hey, yeah I’m about to leave chad, hope you have a goodnight.” you replied flatly, wanting to push past him but chad raised his arm up to block you.

“aw baby brooks, the party just started and you’re leaving? what a pity” chad fake pouted, knowing that Shawn was annoyed with him using the nickname he gave you ever since you were kids. you heard Shawn mumble “im gonna punch him” and you stood in front of him, hands on his arms.

“sorry gotta go” your hands intertwined with shawn’s and you made your way out of the house party.

“what the fuck is that son of a bitch doing here!” he shouted as you made your way into the drivers seat. you shook your head, and started the ignition as Shawn continued to ramble.

“and baby brooks! that was the nick name I gave you, Brooklyn. who the fuck gave him the right-”

“will you shut up about it already?” you snapped and Shawn shot his head at you. “he was just doing it to spite you, stop falling into his trap for goodness sake” you said as a matter of fact. Shawn folded his arms and sank into this seat, obviously still caught up about it.

“only I get to call you baby brooks” he huffed.

#shawn mendes #shawn peter raul mendes #shawn mendes x reader #shawn mendes blurb #ash asks

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aestheticvoyage2019 · 5 years

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Day 54: Saturday February 23, 2019 - “Moroccan Stuffed Pepper”

Learning, and stretching. Adding to my repertoire. New Recipes, healthy recipes, fresh food; lean and green.

Today I tried one of the recipes my buddy Chad sent over - Morrocan Stuffed Peppers. And with it i learned what a currant was, what flavor Cumin brings, where to get some really great soup (Whole Foods), and how to eat a pepper stuffed with goodness. It took time - something I never really paid to meal prep and planning. Had to get the brown rice right, and get my big peppers tender enough; had to be patient - but this is how Id planned to spend my Saturday night all week. And this is the biggest change of all in 2019 to this point - not the no-beer-year, or the lack of bread, ice cream, or fast food -no, the biggest change is the investment of time and resources into the meals. Two nights ago it was squash, and last night it was awesome Scottish Salmon on the grill with yam fries, brussel sprouts, and grilled poblanos. The dinner as an event to look forward to does more than just taste good; it helps to set the cadence of the day, making it easier to shutdown the need for snack and junk. Ive more carefully considered my diet - more so than when I was a vegetarian for a year, and eve more than when I lost the 100lbs the first time. And its been fun - a habit that might help it all to stick long term. When we bought groceries earlier in the week that we got about $150 worth of stuff and hadly anything at all went into the freezer. Most everything was fresh, intentionally, healthy food.... unprocessed, like the stuff to put together this dish. Broccoli for some broc-chips. Kombucha. Greens for salads. Hemp hearts. Strawberries. I barely even recognize myself and my grocery cart or my kitchen. With 80 more lbs to go, the road ahead is long but open and Ive got a solid map - and like any good roadtrip where I look on to the good characters, stories, and places - I look forward to the end of the year looking back on all the fun stuff I tried and I’ll no doubt remember successfully tackling a stuffed pepper and wrapping a salmon roll. Hopefully I’ll also get better at the brown rice, and stick a few more easy staples into my hip pocket - investing time in being an excellent healthy chef.

And so after 2 hours of prep, I was finally ready to sit down and enjoy. Big eyes for my shrinking tummy - one big full Orange Pepper filled me up all the way. Washed down with a Mojito flavored Buch that went well with the Moroccan flavor. Chocolate Strawberries AC made me for desert. I patted my belly. Good work Jake. Fueled up and ready for a big week ahead to finish this month strong.

Song: The Vegabonds - Shaky Hands

Quote:

“Maybe that’s enlightenment enough: to know that there is no final resting place of the mind; no moment of smug clarity. Perhaps wisdom...is realizing how small I am, and unwise, and how far I have yet to go.”― Anthony Bourdain

“For a moment, or a second, the pinched expressions of the cynical, world-weary, throat-cutting, miserable bastards we've all had to become disappears, when we're confronted with something as simple as a plate of food.” ― Anthony Bourdain

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glacevent · 3 years

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Going to the bar and ordering a chad mojito after my friend bought a virgin one.

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5lbsofsmarties · 6 years

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Good and Ready: Sam Mitchell

Word Count: 312 Mentions of a sexual act, but no sex.

You sighed and took a long sip from the mojito in your hand until you could hear the slurping sound of nothing left in the bottom of the glass as you stared across the coffee table at Sam who had an extremely concentrated look on his face. From the corner of your eye you could see Chad James stop by the arm chair and cross his arms over his chest. “How long have you two been playing?” he asked with a mildly amused tone to his voice.

With a scowl, you turned to look at him, “Too long.”

Sam finished whatever it was that he was working on and slid the dice across the board to sit in front of you; you gave a sigh and put your glass down on the table before reaching out to take the dice in hand. You gave them a small shake and dropped them down onto the board. “Seven,” you mumbled, reaching out to move the little top hat across the board seven spaces, stopping with a low groan as Sam let out a shout.

“$850!” he cheered, punching the air.

You groaned and shook your head slowly from side to side. “No,” you said standing up on unsteady legs, “Nope. I’m done.” You slipped your hand under half of the board and folded it over, spilling the little houses and hotels and game pieces across the table.

Sam looked shocked for a moment before laughing loudly, his head tossed back. “Yeah, yeah, fuck you. You win,” you sayid with a scowl, grabbing your glass and shuffling into the kitchen to refill it. “You do remember our bet don’t you, babe?” Sam called after you as he started to pick up the game.

Your turned around and looked at Sam with a raised eyebrow, “Yeah, whatever. I’ll suck your cock when I’m good and ready.”

#sam m x reader #sam mitchell imagine #sam mitchell x reader #screwattack reader insert #screwattack imagine #rt imagine #rt reader insert #ragehappy

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gwlarson2002 · 4 years

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clopinthejester · 7 years

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RESUMÉ

Name: Clopin Trouillefou/Chad Autraeyu Age: 44 (17 for teen verse) Species: Human Gender: Male Orientation: Pansexual Profession: Musician

{Physical}

Body type: Slender with some muscle Eyes: Brown Skin: Height: 6′1″ Weight: 125 lb

{Family} Esmeralda

{Skills}

Physical Power: 8/10 Speed: 6/10 Magic: 7/10

{Likes} Colours: Gold and purple Smells: Burning wood and rain Food: Snack foods, candy, and seafood Fruits: Oranges, , grapes, strawberries, pomegranate Drinks: Cherry soda, unsweetened tea, fruit punch Alcoholic Beverages: Mojitos, daiquiris, Mai Tai, sex on the beach, vodka, whiskey, rum, Kahlua, margaritas, (is that all of them? lol)

{Others} Smokes: Yes Drugs: Sometimes Driver’s license: Yes

Tagged by: @dancetomytambourine

Tag Muses You Want To Get To Know Better: @femmelieutenant @knightofduality @vampire-virtuoso @quasimcdc @littledetailsarethemostimportant @thesavednotthesavior

#headcanon

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neverisalongtime-ja-blog · 7 years

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Chapter 29: 90’s babe

I know I'm uploading super late today but the internet connection has been so bad the whole day. But here it is: chapter 29!

Thank you so much to everyone who write me here and on Instagram! It makes my heart so happy!

Remember to visit Anastasia’s IG profile:

Anastasia_Truman ❤️️

Thanks to everyone who reads the fic, much love to you all! ♥

Read chapter 28

Before the show in San Diego, Anastasia discovered a sweet surprise at her dressing room in the Valley View Casino Center. It was filled with red roses, at least five huge bouquets. She was thrilled, although she didn’t like roses. She walked to the flowers and spotted a small card, she read it was actually Peyton who sent them to Mandy. Anastasia couldn’t help but smile like an idiot, she was feeling so happy by the relationship her friend had until she heard a voice behind her that brought her back to earth.

- Wow, what’s all this? – Josh asked entering the room.

- Someone sent flowers – She said trying to ignore him and hiding part of the story.

- But… roses? You hate roses – He said making Anastasia remember how well he knew her – You only like wild flowers, you always say that roses are basic and…

- Yes, Josh, I know what I said before – She cut him off – But this is a nice thing.

- Are you seeing someone? – He went straight forward.

- Well… you could say so – She said lying and not knowing why.

- Well, this guy doesn’t know you at all. He didn’t investigate you like I did.

- What?! Investigate me? – She asked kind of annoyed.

- Yeah, and one of the first things I learned about you is that you hate roses – Josh said smiling and Anastasia was confused by the direction of this conversation – By the way I didn’t have the chance to ask you, but what did you think about Dot Hacker’s new record?

- I liked it so much I destroyed my turntable listening to it – She said even more confused by the question.

- How come?

- Because of the messages in the songs. I was angry – Maybe this was the moment for them to talk straight.

- Sorry to hear that – Was all that Josh managed to say – Your turntable was a historic piece.

- Josh, you wrote songs about feeling bad in our relationship, about how it wasn’t working, but you never talked to me about it! – There she was, giving her attention to the white elephant in the room.

- I know and I can’t apologize to you enough – Josh said looking to the floor like he always did when he was ashamed. - But of all the people in the world, you know how great it is to put your feelings in a song. I wrote about loving you too.

- I know and it made everything much more confusing – Anastasia said angry.

- I’m sorry… - Josh couldn’t finish his sentence because Mandy entered the room screaming.

- Oh my God! What is this? – She asked looking at the flowers and realizing Josh’s presence

- It wasn’t me – He said looking at Mandy.

- It’s obvious – She said taking the card from Anastasia’s hands. Now Josh would know the truth – They are from Peyton! – Mandy said overly excited – Oh my God! That little fucker! I love him so much! – She screamed.

Anastasia saw Josh smiling wide, almost laughing, and then leaving. She felt so stupid.

- Josh thought they were for me – Anastasia told Mandy.

- Sweetie! Oh God! Sorry! – Mandy said checking the roses – I would have followed the lead.

- Don’t worry, that would have been childish – Anastasia said laughing.

After the show that night everyone was ready for a long break. They’d be out for about three weeks. Anastasia was going to be busy for the next few days, her birthday was coming up and she was preparing a big party to turn 28. She followed Mandy’s advice and invited Alex but he respectfully declined saying that he needed to go back to Miami for work. She felt disappointed but totally understood; that’s a doctor’s lifestyle.

One Friday in Los Angeles, with the party a week away, Nick invited Anastasia to a bar where he, Eric and some friends were going to see a local band play. Mandy joined her as Peyton was extremely busy with the start of the baseball season. It was a nice bar in Pasadena and the band played a soft rock kind of music, they were good and Anastasia realized they could be a great add to her label. The night was being fun and she was chatting with Eric’s friends including Clint and Jonathan. Hannah was there too and suddenly all the happiness went to hell when she saw Josh entering the place holding hands with Lauren; she was wearing the tightest pony tail in history and a pair of black leather pants with a pink crop top and, again, she thought how despair the two looked together. She felt Mandy’s arms around her as they walked away to avoid them.

- How can she be so tacky? – Mandy said while ordering two mojitos at the bar.

- I don’t wanna make this sound like I’m jealous but they aren’t meant for each other! – Anastasia said.

- I know and you are jealous anyway – Mandy said giving Anastasia her glass.

- What?! – Anastasia asked.

- It’s normal – Mandy said – I know you are over it, but it’s normal to have those feelings.

- I’m not jealous! – Anastasia screamed as she felt a hand on her shoulder. She turned around to see Josh and Lauren standing there and that made her furious.

- Hi! – Josh said. How dare he flaunt Lauren in Anastasia’s face?

- How are you? – Anastasia asked without any emotion.

- We wanted to say hi! – Lauren said with her annoying voice – Because I’m a huge fan and I think I already told you that and I’m so happy you are friends with Josh – Anastasia could hear Mandy burst into laughter behind her.

- Oh well… hi! – Anastasia said.

- Do you want something to drink? – Mandy asked Lauren to be polite.

- Oh no. I’m on an alcohol-free diet – Lauren asked as Josh turned to talk with one of his friends leaving them in this awkward conversation.

- Is that the Pre-Euthanasia Diet? – Anastasia asked finding her sarcastic spot - ‘Cuz that would be the only way I’ll be alcohol free. If I was going to die.

- Be real, not even in that moment would you knock off alcohol – Mandy said to Anastasia laughing.

- Do you have any idea how many calories alcohol has? – Lauren asked really concerned, demonstrating she didn’t understand sarcasm.

- Lauren, my friend, you are funny – Anastasia put a hand on Lauren’s right shoulder - and I’m pretty sure you don’t even know what euthanasia is. Live life! Have fun! Drink the alcohol! Practice euthanasia! – She and Mandy laughed hard and Lauren tried to follow them laughing too but not knowing what about.

- Ok, we’ll see you around, girls – Josh said realizing the situation and taking Lauren far.

- That was so epic! – A voice said behind Anastasia and she saw Kelly.

- Your fucking hair! – Anastasia screamed touching Kelly’s hair which was lavender now.

- Welcome to the cool hair color club! – Mandy said hugging Kelly.

- I need one of those mojitos because I’m not on the Pre-Euthanasia Diet – The three friends burst into a hard and loud laugh.

The party was almost set and Anastasia’s birthday – April 1st – was a Saturday which made everything more perfect. The theme of the night was the 90’s and everyone should dress according to that decade. Mark prepared a bunch of amazing 90’s mixes and Barbara took care of the food and the drinks. The party was going to be held at Anastasia’s home in Beverly Hills, she hasn’t thrown a party there since she was in college. She and Mandy were really excited for their outfits: plaid miniskirts, tight sweaters, thigh-high socks and heeled ankle boots, combat style, an outfit that would had made Cher Horowitz burn with envy.

When Anastasia got downstairs a nice group of friends and family were already there: her dad, Mark and Stephanie (who was looking amazing with a long spaghetti-strap dress with a daisy print), Barbara and even Chad, his wife and Anthony made it to the party. Flea couldn’t go but Clara could make it, she brought her boyfriend with her; many high school friends were there too and some from college and in a corner of her backyard she saw a lavender head and next to her she spotted Josh, joined by Nick, Eric, Hannah and thankfully no Lauren to be seen. That would have been a slap in her face (seeing Lauren there), but Josh didn’t play that low.

Everyone greeted Anastasia and praised her outfit choice, especially Josh who couldn’t keep his eyes off of her. That made her feel powerful but she didn’t let it go to her head. She was having too much fun singing TLC songs with Mandy and Kelly while Josh recorded them with his phone. Everyone was having a nice time. But suddenly, she found herself alone with Josh in a corner of the backyard. She felt nervous so she started to talk about anything.

- I wanted to wear a cute Stones’ t-shirt I own but then I remember I left it at your house. I never went to pick up my stuff from your place, sorry about that – Anastasia said.

- Don’t worry, they’re still there for whenever you want to come by – Josh said – Do you have the stuff I left here?

- No. I threw it away – Anastasia said and Josh looked surprised – Joking, Mandy put it in a box in the basement and that’s how I knew I had a basement!

- What? – Josh laughed.

- I always knew there was one extra door in this house – She was barely sober by that moment.

- You’re crazy – Josh was laughing hard – Hey, come with me so I can give you your gifts.

And just like that, without any warning, Josh took her right hand and walked her out of the house to his car: He opened the trunk and two big boxes laid there, wrapped in black wrapping paper with a silver moon print and silver bows on top.

- You need to open them now – Josh said – I want you to do it here, with no one around.

- Really? – She looked at him.

He nodded as she proceeded to open the boxes. She chose the small one first, even though it was still big, tearing the paper like a small kid on Christmas, it was a new turntable, all crystal clear, perfect size.

- It was my fault you destroyed yours, so… - Josh said scratching his head with his free hand (he had his drink in the other) – It’s the same I have at home, it sounds like heaven.

She smiled and looked at the other box, it was larger and she destroyed the paper with little patience. It was a guitar case. Josh helped put it near her on the trunk so she could open it. It was dark outside but she could see that the case was made in dark blue synthetic leather and had a pattern of half-moons all over.

- I know you like moons – He said smiling.

Anastasia’s chin went straight to the floor when she opened the case. It was a custom made Fender Stratocaster guitar, with a mirror finish and a bird and a flower print. The scratch plate was made in mother-of-pearl. It was the most beautiful guitar she had ever seen.

- Look at this – Josh said pointing at the head were her name was engraved in gold.

- Josh, this is beautiful! – She picked the guitar, the strap had moons all over too – I have no words.

- Just say thanks and let’s go back to the party – Josh took the guitar and placed it on the case, but Anastasia couldn’t take it anymore and hugged him. She hugged him so tightly while tears started to run from her eyes – Don’t cry!

- It’s just that this is so beautiful! – She said – When did you have it made?

- Around October – He answered.

- Is this because I gave you a custom made guitar too?

- No! Not at all. I just thought that it was going to be something you would appreciate. I wanted it to be ready for Christmas, but the team couldn’t do it so I saved it for your birthday.

- This is so special! – She was feeling all kinds of things inside her brain by that moment and mixed with alcohol it made more tears run down her face.

- You are special – He said and took her by her chin to wipe her tears away.

They locked eyes and stared at each other for what it seemed an eternity. Anastasia wanted to kiss Josh but she knew it wasn’t the most intelligent thing to do. However, he surprised her coming closer and joining his lips with her. She missed him, she missed that. Josh gave her the most sweet, caring kiss she had had in a long time. Not even when they were a couple did he kiss her that way. It was slow but full of passion. Josh broke away and ran his thumb over Anastasia’s lips, looking into her eyes with desire.

- I think we should go back inside – He was the first to talk, breaking the spell.

- Yes – She agreed, breathing heavily. She attempted to grab her gifts but Josh stopped her.

- Don’t worry, I’ll carry them inside before I leave, later.

Anastasia smiled and walked back to the house without even noticing if Josh was following her. She was shocked, smiling like she hadn’t smiled in weeks. She decided to not say anything to anyone, to keep the surprise for later but she was the one about to be surprised again that night.

Later, when most of the guest had already left, she was inside the living room when her father approached her.

- Come with me – An’s dad said – I have a surprise for you.

He walked with her to the garden where she saw Mark, Stephanie, Nick, Eric, Hannah, Kelly, Josh, Barbara, Anthony, Mandy, Peyton, Clara and her boyfriend, Chad and his wife and a blond lady in the middle of them. Anastasia recognized her and stood still abruptly. She couldn’t believe it, it was Stevie Nicks, wearing the most gorgeous blue shawl she had ever seen, with fringes all over. Anastasia looked at his father who laughed because she must have the most stupid look on her face by now. Stevie walked towards her and gave the birthday girl a warm hug; it was just how she imagined it would be. Anastasia wasn’t a girl with idols and she wasn’t a fan of anything, but Stevie Nicks was in a whole other level. She touched Stevie’s face, then regretted it and said sorry, but the “White Witch,” as some called Nicks, just laughed.

- Mister Nick here told me it was your birthday – Stevie said – And I wanted to come and say hi since I heard you are a big fan.

- The biggest! – She said without thinking about it and everyone laughed. Anastasia could see Mandy was crying and smiling.

- I must admit that I’m your fan too – Stevie said – I love your music, it’s so pure and the way you sing it is magical.

- I can’t believe you are saying this – Anastasia said – Have you listened to us?

- All your records – Stevie answered smiling.

- Shut up! – Anastasia smiled wider.

- I think we should go inside and play some music – Anastasia’s dad said – Would you like that? – She didn’t answer; instead she jumped into his arms giving him a big hug.

Once everyone found a place in the living room, Nick handle a guitar to Stevie and Anastasia sat next to her in the big central couch. Stevie started to play the first notes of “Landslide” and the midnight-blue-haired girl looked at Josh instantly, he smiled tenderly at her. Both singers recited every word on that song. After that “Dreams” followed, then it was the turn for “Sara,” in “Gypsy” Stevie gave the guitar to An, she played and they finished with everyone singing along to “The Chain.”

That was the best birthday Anastasia could have had, without a doubt. She went to sleep that night with the biggest smile on her face and next morning when she walked downstairs and saw Josh’s gifts near her kitchen that smile became wider.

But, above all, she wasn’t going to get over that fact that Stevie “Dame” Nicks had been at her place the night before to serenade her on her birthday. That was the best gift of all without a doubt.

Read chapter 30

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NYC’s New Restaurant Openings (12) added to Google Docs

NYC’s New Restaurant Openings (12)

If you tried to keep track of every brand new restaurant in New York City, you might go a little bit crazy. So just read this list instead. These are the new restaurant openings that seem like they have the most potential - although keep in mind, for the ones we haven’t tried, we make no promises. Go forth and be a pioneer.

Editor’s Note, 6/30: All restaurants listed below are currently open for takeout, delivery, or outdoor dining.

AUGUST Top Quality $$$$ 10-29 44th Rd

The people behind Extra Fancy in Williamsburg (which closed back in February) have a new project - a Mexican spot in Long Island City. Just like at the old Brooklyn spot, Top Quality in Queens has a big back patio covered in spaced out picnic tables, and it looks like a great spot to eat chicken tamales and write a thank-you note to whoever invented umbrellas.

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Strangeways Strangeways $$$$ 302 Metropolitan Ave

There’s a new upscale Williamsburg spot that serves bar food from all over the world, including things like oysters, fish and chips, spaghetti with clams, pork cheek vindaloo, and a katsu fish sandwich. You can try them all on their garden patio, which is green enough to pass for a nursery. If you decide to stop in over the weekend, expect brunch dishes like sourdough cinnamon toast and semolina pancakes.

Alexander Stein Cutlets Sandwich Co. $$$$ 326 W 40th St

If someone asks you, “What makes NYC special now that you’re mostly stuck indoors?” You should reply, “I can get a chicken cutlet sandwich with fresh mozzarella and roasted red peppers delivered straight to my apartment.” That’s thanks to Cutlets Sandwich Co., a new delivery-only deli that you can order from online every day except Sunday. Check out their full sandwich menu and delivery details here.

Vodega $$$$ 140 Plymouth St

If you’re not into the whole meat thing, there’s a good chance you’ve grown tired of choosing between boring bodega sandwiches and falafel. Thankfully, this new vegan sandwich shop in Dumbo serves options like a “chopped cheese” with plant-based beef, a jackfruit cuban sandwich, and even a philly cheesesteak with seitan for takeout from 11am to 10pm daily.

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Time Out Market $$$$ 55 Water St

Time Out Market in Dumbo has reopened with seven food vendors and two bars (including Jacob’s Pickles, Fish Cheeks, and Ice & Vice). You can eat your takeout at one of the outdoor tables on their roof, or hang out in Brooklyn Bridge Park.

Wild Birds $$$$ 951 Dean St

There’s a new live music bar in Crown Heights called Wild Birds with outdoor tables and different performers every night. Wild Birds is also hosting oyster and jazz nights on Thursdays from 4pm to 10pm where you can get a half-dozen oysters for $15 and drink frozen cocktails while you bob your head along to a saxophone solo. Check out their menu and schedule here.

Drift in Drift In $$$$ 389 West St

The Island Oyster team (who specialize in serving oysters and cold beverages next to water that leads to the Atlantic Ocean) have a new waterfront restaurant in the West Village called Drift In. It’s right on the Hudson River path across from Christopher Street Pier, and while they’re still waiting on their alcohol license, you can stop by for a wagyu beef hot dog or a lobster BLT.

The Bronx Ice $$$$ 782A Amsterdam Ave

Even when it’s raining, summer days in NYC are best experienced with something ice-cold in hand. And if you want that cold thing to be Italian ice, you can try flavors like “Strawberry-Blueberry Lemon Swirl” and “Pink Peach” from The Bronx Ice, a frozen dessert takeout window with new locations on the Upper West Side and in Greenpoint. For more information on specials, hours, and new flavors, check out their Instagram.

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Oh Craft $$$$ 1739 Amsterdam Avenue

This new beer bar in Hamilton Heights has plenty of sidewalk tables where you can drink an IPA that’s more experimental than your new summer knitting hobby, and snack on things like sandwiches, salads, and charcuterie boards. Right now, they have 16 beers on tap and they’re open every day for you and your beer drinking friends.

Wicked Jane $$$$ 15 W 8th St

If you’re looking for a new restaurant where you can show off your new haircut wearing something other than running shorts, the Wicked Jane in the West Village might be your best bet. This upscale American spot is open for outdoor dinner service Tuesday through Saturday, looks perfect for a special occasion outdoor meal, and you should head to their Instagram if you want to know more about dishes like their monkfish and cauliflower puree.

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iSouvlaki iSouvlaki $$$$ 139 E 12th St

You can’t tell us that a pita filled with greek sausage, fries, onions, and tomatoes doesn’t sound like something you should probably eat this summer. Unless of course, you’re vegetarian. In which case, you can try the veggie skewers or one of the loaded salad options at iSouvlaki, the new Greek takeout spot on East 12th Street in the East Village.

Two Girls and A Cookshop $$$$ 1005 Broadway

This new Jamaican pop-up at Bunton’s World Famous in Bed-Stuy looks like the exact place you should be eating jerk chicken tacos with sweet plantains, jerk cheese nachos, and fried fish every Sunday in Brooklyn. Not convinced? The new taco-inspired rap single they just dropped on their Instagram should do the trick. You’re welcome.

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JULY Outerspace $$$$ 99 Scott Ave

The people behind 99 Scott, a huge warehouse space in Bushwick where you may have seen a James Blake DJ set last summer, just opened a new outdoor restaurant on their back patio. And since all of their socially-distant picnic tables are surrounded by bamboo fencing, Outer Space might be one of the safest restaurants in the city to eat sourdough pizza and drink natural wine outdoors. They accept walk-ins during specified hours, but you can also reserve a table here.

Love Nelly $$$$ 53 Rockaway Ave

Love, Nelly is a new Colombian bakery in Bushwick where you can get things like chicken empanadas, pina colada raspas (shaved ice), or a few slices of dulce de leche cake. They’re open 8am to 7pm, Wednesday through Sunday, and you can head to their website if you want to sweat with excitement while looking at their full menu of sweet and savory baked goods.

Caravan Uyghur Cuisine $$$$ 200 Water St

One of NYC’s few Uyghur restaurants, Caravan is a new outdoor dining option in FiDi where you can eat dishes like lamb kebabs, hand-pulled noodles, and beef dumplings. And if you’d rather take your food back to your apartment and eat it while your roommate glares at you with jealousy, just place your order at their takeout window on Pearl Street.

Pasta Louise $$$$ 803 8th Ave

Park Slope now has a new neighborhood Italian spot where you can pick up homemade sauces and fresh pasta by the pound. While Pasta Lousie doesn’t offer outdoor dining just yet, this place seems like a great weeknight takeout option for when you want something more impressive than what you usually pour out of those blue boxes in your cabinet.

The Rogers Garden $$$$ 708 Rogers Ave

If you replace the acoustic guitar chords with upbeat R&B, this new outdoor rum bar in Prospect Lefferts Gardens seems a lot like Berkeley in the ’60s. The socially-distant seating at Roger’s Garden is mostly made up of colorful patio furniture that looks ideal for drinking mojitos and eating paninis in 90 degree weather. This place is open every day, except Monday, starting at 2pm.

Good Judy $$$$ 563 5TH AVENUE

Jell-o shots, drag shows, and glitter bombs are all things you can expect to enjoy at this new bar from the people behind C’mon Everybody. Both the curbside seating area and the back patio at this Park Slope spot are open everyday, and if you want to stay up to date on Good Judy’s event calendar, be sure to follow them on Instagram.

Sushi Lab $$$$ 132 W 47th St

Sushi Lab, the hotel restaurant in Midtown with a relatively affordable omakase, isn’t new. But, Sushi Lab, the rooftop restaurant with a la carte options and omakase sets, is new and looks like a great place to bring someone you don’t plan on ghosting anytime soon. Before you make any big plans, you’ll need to reserve one of the socially-distanced outdoor tables, or a few seats at the chef’s counter, on the restaurant’s website.

Finback Brewery $$$$ 545 President St

If beer with notes of orange pith sounds like something you’d be into, you probably already know that you can find it at Finback Brewery in Queens. We’re just here to tell you that this brewery opened a new taproom in Gowanus with outdoor sidewalk seating. You can stop by starting at noon, Tuesday through Saturday to make a final decision on whether or not to make your Zoom name “Orange Pith” sometime in the near future.

Emmeline Zhao Silver Apricot $$$$ 20 Cornelia St

The rolled scallion puffs from Silver Apricot look like a good enough reason to try this new upscale Chinese spot in the West Village on their own. But if dishes like poached arctic char, skirt steak, and black sesame panna cotta also sound good to you, they’re all available for takeout, delivery, and outdoor dining, Tuesday through Saturday from 4:30 to 9pm.

Green Garden Buffet $$$$ 332 E 9th St

There’s a new pay-by-weight buffet in the East Village where you can pick up healthy-ish French dishes like baked sweet potatoes and samosas from Chad. Green Garden Buffet is open from 11am to 11pm daily, so if you decide you want something other than the usual ‘nachos larger than your head’ order after 9pm, keep this spot in mind.

Pupusas Ridgewood $$$$ 71-20 Fresh Pond Rd

We don’t want any trouble, but it’s likely that you’re not eating enough pupusas right now. The good news is you can change that by ordering lunch or dinner from this new, woman-owned, Salvadoran restaurant on Fresh Pond Road in Ridgewood. Whether you want cheese and squash, revueltas, or chicharron in your pupusas, this spot has them all available for takeout, delivery, and outdoor dining right now.

Tradisyon $$$$ 792 9th Ave

For dishes like squid adobo, sisig, and lumpia outdoors, try Tradisyon in Hell’s Kitchen. This new Filipino spot is open every day except Sunday, and if you’d rather order a few dishes for lunch or dinner at home, their entire menu is also available for takeout and delivery.

Maki Kosaka Maki Kosaka $ $ $ $ Japanese , Sushi in Flatiron $$$$ 55 W 19th St

If a romantic relationship with high quality sushi is the only one you’re willing to fully commit to right now, Maki Kosaka in Flatiron might be of interest. Nothing on its menu of sushi and hand roll combination sets costs more than $50. And if you want to know more about the onigiri fillings like yellowtail, snow crab, and spicy salmon offered here, you can check them all out on their website.

Blume Blume $$$$ 1652 Second Avenue

Blume is a new outdoor wine bar on the Upper East Side, located behind Schaller’s Stube Sausage Bar. There are only 20 tables here and they’re all painted gold with pink chairs tucked underneath them, which makes this place look like the one baby shower we might actually want to be at. So if you’re in the mood to try some Austrian wine and snack on charcuterie plates, cheese boards, sandwiches, and sorbets give this spot a try.

Village Square Pizza $$$$ 118 Christopher St

Every once and a while, it’s good to switch up your pizza order. And since Village Square Pizza is opening a second location in the West Village this week (July 15th), you can swap your usual pepperoni and sausage pie for a few grandma slices topped with things like mozzarella, tomato sauce, and pesto.

Travis W Keyes Photography Ampia $$$$ 100 Broad St Fl 2

Ampia is a new rooftop Italian spot that has a few two-top tables inside individual greenhouses that you can reserve for lunch or dinner. The Fidi restaurant serves a bunch of seafood-filled paninis, a few pastas, and some small plates like calamari and grilled octopus. And if the greenhouses are booked, you can always eat at one of their socially-distant outdoor tables.

Brooklyn Noosh $$$$ 988 Atlantic Ave

Whenever you’re ready to check ‘eating Flaming Hot Cheeto-coated wings’ off your bucket list, head to Brooklyn Noosh in Bed-Stuy. It’s a new outdoor spot surrounded by tall trees and string lights, with a menu that also includes some of the more classic wing flavors like buffalo and BBQ, a burger, and a few different meat kabobs. If you’d rather order takeout, you’ll find their online menu here.

The Good Batch Creamery $$$$ 995 Fulton St

The people behind The Good Batch Bakery in Clinton Hill are opening this new ice cream shop right across the street this week (July 15th). To celebrate, they’re offering a free scoop of ice cream to anyone who registers using this link, between now and Friday, July 17th. The flavors here include cookies, cakes, and other sweets from the original bakery.

Baylander Steel Beach $$$$ West 132nd Street

This new restaurant on an aircraft carrier near the West Harlem Piers is run by the same team behind Prohibition on the UWS. And since it’s an aircraft carrier, you can drink cocktails on its massive top deck while eating lobster rolls and wondering when the engineers working on the simulation you call your life will fix all of the glitches. Check out Baylander Steel Beach’s website for more details on their hours.

JUNE Dante West Village $$$$ 551 Hudson St

A new cocktail bar from the team behind beloved Greenwich Village Italian spot Dante just opened for outdoor dining on Hudson St. In addition to negronis and other cocktails from the original location, Dante West Village is offering a bunch of specialty martinis, spritzes, and dishes like roast chicken from 3pm to 11pm, Wednesday through Sunday.

Pulkies $$$$ 428 W 16th St

There’s a new Jewish BBQ spot that just opened in Chelsea Market and the dishes on their menu are a blend of Southern cuisine and things you’d find at a classic New York deli. From chilled borscht gazpacho and pastrami turkey breast to honey butter cornbread and brisket, you can order a bunch of entrees and sides for takeout and delivery on Pulkies’ website.

Kokomo $$$$ 65 Kent Ave

Kokomo is a Caribbean spot in Williamsburg where you can get pastas, flatbreads, and more topped with things like jerk chicken and oxtail. This black-owned restaurant opened in late June, offering delivery, takeout, and dine-in service on their outdoor patio. For more information on specials and updates, check out their Instagram.

The Beer Garage $$$$ 148 5th Avenue

The Beer Garage in Park Slope seems like a great spot to send someone who misses the feeling of sitting at a bar with a tall glass of beer. There are a few outdoor bar stools where you can order drafts, wine, oysters, and clams. And if you stop by this beer bar between June 29 and July 5th for its opening week, you’ll get 25% off your entire bill.

Magdalene $$$$ 524 Lorimer Street

Like many restaurants on this list, Magdalene first opened in February and has since reopened for takeout, delivery, and outdoor dining. This Lebanese spot in Williamsburg has mezze like babaganoush, edamame hummus, and more, plus entrees like a falafel fried chicken sandwich and huge shrimp caesar salad that you can eat on their back patio. While you’re at it, be sure to take advantage of their natural wine selection - they’re offering 20% to 30% off every bottle right now.

Merchants NY $$$$ 190 7th Ave

Chelsea has a new American restaurant with sidewalk seating, that’s open for every day from 3pm to midnight. So if you’re looking for a spot to sit down for a spicy fried chicken sandwich and a spiked lemonade after 8pm this summer, try Merchants.

Dame $$$$ 85 MacDougal Street

The next time you’re in the mood for fish and chips, disco fries with curry sauce, or a parfait with earl grey meringue, try this new English restaurant’s pop up in the West Village. After halting their West Village restaurant opening, Dame has opened a temporary spot with outdoor seating, and all proceeds benefit organizations like the NAACP and Harlem Grown. Stop by Dame’s summer pop up from 5 to 10pm on Tuesday through Friday or 1 to 10pm on Saturday and Sunday.

Sami & Susu $$$$ 279 Grand St

Here are just a few things you can expect from this new Mediterranean spot in Williamsburg: grilled shrimp pitas, rolled bourekas, ratatouille, and bottles of sparkling wine with labels designed by people who apparently love hand drawings, symmetry and pastel colors. Opened in June, Sami and Susu is currently offering delivery, takeout, and limited outdoor dining in the old Marajuca space on Grand Street from 12 to 9pm daily.

Santo Brúklin $$$$ 548 Court St

Now that the backyard is open at this new Brazilian restaurant in Carroll Gardens, you can eat steak sandwiches, pão de queijo (cheese bread), and brigadeiros (fudge balls), while contemplating why you didn’t rent that apartment 250 square foot apartment with the nice back patio after all. They’re open from 4pm daily and since they’ll be starting weekend brunch service on July 4th, you should follow their Instagram for menu updates.

Forsythia $$$$ 104 East 7th Street

It would be strange if this new pasta spot in the East Village didn’t have picnic kits with bread, cheese, and cured meats since they’re located within a few blocks of Tompkins Square Park. But since they do, you can pick one up the next time you’re in the area, or go for one of their Italian dinner kits, which they say will only take 20 mins to prepare at home. Forsythia is offering these kits for pick up and delivery right now and their Instagram is the best place to check for updates on their rotating three-course menu options.

Pineapple Club $$$$ 509 E 6th St

There are many things you could do to remind yourself that it’s summer. But ordering a mezcal ginger margarita, an oyster platter, or a plate of fried jerk chicken on the turf-covered outdoor patio at this new tiki bar in the East Village will probably be one of the more memorable options. Pineapple Club is open from 3 to 9pm daily, and if you’d like to make an outdoor dining reservation here, call 212-697-8600.

Rothschild TLV $$$$ 1129 Lexington Ave

If you’re looking for a new Kosher spot to try while taking in the outdoors, Rothschild TLV is an upscale option on the UES where you’ll find things like a short rib flatbread, lamb shank, or a piece of fish on the menu. They’re taking reservations for patio seating over the phone at 917-341-4169, but if you’d rather get takeout, you can place your order online.

MAY The Bun Hut $$$$ 178 Stanton St

Since May, this new Caribbean spot on the LES has been making Chinese bao buns filled with things like coconut shrimp, oxtail, and jerk chicken. It’s a new black-owned restaurant that you can support by ordering takeout and delivery online, and if you do it soon you’ll get 20% off their entire menu. Head to The Bun Hut’s website for more on their dishes, like chicken roti and coconut tarts.

Soothr $ $ $ $ Thai in East Village $$$$ 204 E 13th St

Soothr opened its doors In May, serving Thai dishes like chicken khao soi, roasted duck with jade noodles, and massaman potato curry. And ever since then, the food photos from this East Village spot have made us want to leave everything we know about “picnic food” behind and push for Thai noodles the next time we’re picking up something to eat in a park. If you want to do the same, they’re open for pickup and delivery from 12 to 9pm daily.

High Low $$$$ 295 Wyckoff Ave

For beer, wine, coffee, and pastries near the Bushwick and Ridgewood border, try this new all-day bar. Since May, they’ve served things like sugar doughnuts filled with sour cherry lime leaf jam and a bunch of other pastries that sound like something you’d find in a bakery that’s core mission is to excite you with orgasmic menu titles. So if you need to stock your bar cart and load up on baked goods, you can do both at High Low, which is only open for takeout.

Tamam $$$$ 1106 Lexington Ave

The UES has a new vegan Middle Eastern spot that serves falafel bowls, pita, and shawarma filled with things like roasted cauliflower and crispy eggplant. And if you want to pick up an order from Tanam, which is just below E 79th on Lexington Ave, you can do it any weekday from 12 to 7pm. The restaurant is delivery-only on weekends.

Pizza Collective $$$$ 2060 Broadway

We’re not sure what’s better, the fact that you can pick up a slice of pizza with speck and toasted walnuts from this new shop on the UWS or the fact that the spot’s website looks like a relic from the Y2K era. Right now, Pizza Collective has a few outdoor tables where you can order a carbonara square slice or a calabrese pie, but you can also just order takeout and delivery online.

Haizea $$$$ 142 Sullivan St

This new Basque spot has a few sidewalk tables where you can eat an Iberico sandwich, spanish omelette, or grilled octopus in Soho right now, but since they’re also doing takeout and delivery from 12 to 8pm daily, you can enjoy all of these dishes from the comfort of your apartment. Recently, Haizea announced it’s offering brunch service from 11am to 5pm on Sunday and if you want more updates on what’ll be on the menu, check out their Instagram.

Sofia's of Little Italy $$$$ 143 Mulberry St

Since March, Sofia’s has been selling DIY meal kits for pasta, sourdough starter, and a bunch of other Italian options for an easy dinner at home. But now that their LES restaurant space is open, you can enjoy things like tuna and watermelon crudo, sourdough margherita pizza, and a glass or two from their extensive natural wine list on their garden patio from 5 to 10pm, Wednesday through Sunday.

Shinn East $$$$ 119 E 7th St

Like us, you’ve probably been craving some great sushi. So the fact that this new East Village spot has a good-looking 12-piece sushi omakase that costs $45 and is available for takeout right now will probably excite you. They’ve also got eel unagi, akami tuna, and other seafood boxes that you can order online, from 12 to 8pm daily.

Claudy's Kitchen $$$$ 5981 Broadway

Previously an empanada delivery-only spot, Claudy’s opened a restaurant on West 242nd Street in the Bronx, with a menu of Peruvian-style roast chicken dinners, ceviche, lomo saltado empanadas, flan, and more. This new spot sits right across the street from Van Cortlandt Park, so if you’re looking for somewhere to grab food for a picnic, this is a great place to try.

APRIL Saigon Social $ $ $ $ Vietnamese in Lower East Side $$$$ 172 Orchard St

After years of doing pop-ups around the city, Saigon Social has officially opened its own location on a sunny corner of the Lower East Side (formerly Mission Taqueria). They’re currently offering a rotating takeout and delivery menu of Vietnamese dishes, like a bowl of chicken pho, a banh mi burger with oxtail gravy, pork ribs, and so much more. Check their Instagram for updates.

Rangoon $$$$ 500 Prospect Pl

Rangoon is a Burmese spot that you might remember from its years of doing pop ups around the city. After briefly opening a new Crown Heights restaurant in March, the team pivoted their menu toward takeout and delivery. For dishes like tea leaf salad, coconut chicken noodle soup, or prawn curry, call 917-442-0100 or place your order online.

Niko's Souvlaki Handmade $$$$ 1933 Ditmars Blvd

New Greek food in Astoria might not sound like earth shattering news, but the juicy-looking meats covered in lemon juice and tzatziki sauce on Nikos Souvlaki’s Instagram have us contemplating a big shift in our weekly diet. And since this place is still doing takeout and delivery, along with dine-service on their outdoor patio, you can join us in whatever way makes you comfortable.

Kings Kolache $$$$ 321 Starr St

This new Bushwick spot specializes in Czech kolaches, which are fruit dough pastries filled with things like apricot preserves, blueberry, and sweet cream cheese. Along with the classics, Kings Kolache serves them Texas-style with things like candied jalapeno and bacon inside. If you want to get your hands on one, or try one of their good-looking breakfast tacos, Kings Kolache opens at 8am daily for takeout and delivery.

Winner $$$$ 367 7th Ave

Whether you’re looking to pick up a freshly baked sourdough croissant for breakfast, a BLT on ciabatta for lunch, or a roasted chicken with butterball potatoes for dinner, this bakery in Park Slope has you covered. Winner does it all from 9am to 6pm daily, and you can pre-order your takeout by emailing [email protected]. And if you want to know more about their friends and family weekly meal series, you can read more here.

Public Display Of Affection $$$$ 669 Union St

This new pizza place in Park Slope is offering wood-fired sourdough pies for takeout, plus a bunch of other things you’ll probably want to eat like breakfast burritos, chicken wings with chili jam, and crispy Cameroonian croquettes. You can order online or you can text the restaurant at 718-635-1678 to schedule your pick up.

Dr. Clark $$$$ 104 Bayard St

The people behind The Izakaya in the East Village have opened another Japanese spot during quarantine, and its dishes like lamb curry, cold ramen noodle salad, and Hokkaido-style fried chicken all look promising. Dr. Clark is currently offering delivery, takeout, and limited outdoor seating on Bayard Street in Chinatown.

Public Village $$$$ 23 Essex St

For Sichuan dishes like chili oil dumplings, dan dan noodles, and grilled noodle wraps with sausage and cheese, try Public Village. Since March, this Chinatown spot has been offering a rotating menu of dishes for takeout and delivery, so be sure to check their Instagram to stay up to date on specials like their spicy beef jerky. You can order takeout or delivery from Public Village from 11:00am to 8:00pm daily.

March Karazishi Botan $$$$ 255 Smith St

One of the original chefs from Ippudo has opened his own walk-in only Japanese spot in Cobble Hill. Karazishi Botan is a narrow, brick-walled room with about ten bar seats and a menu of just three ramen options, including less common ingredients like oxtail, lemon broth, and pork bone.

American Brass $$$$ Center Blvd & 49th Ave, 2-01 50th Ave

This huge, bright waterfront restaurant in Long Island City serves seafood towers, steak frites, and pig-shaped charcuterie boards covered in American ham and cheeses that look good enough to make this Queens spot a go-to for dinner in the neighborhood.

Omar's Mediterranean Cuisine $ $ $ $ Mediterranean , Middle Eastern in Midtown East $$$$ 154 E 55th St

If you spend a lot of time in the East 50s, you’ll be happy to hear that Omar’s - the Lebanase counter-service spot with incredible chicken shawarma - has reopened in the same space on East 55th Street. And if you’re new to the area, you might want to break up with your go-to healthy bowl place and start getting meat platters with tabbouleh, hummus, and eggplant salad for lunch here.

Loulou $$$$ 176 8th Ave

If you want to feel like you’re at a mountain wedding while you eat a duck leg or steak frites for dinner, try Loulou, a new French spot in Chelsea. And if you’re looking for somewhere dark to get cocktails, take the stairs down to the underground speakeasy.

Ama $$$$ 37-06 36th St

We love an all-day spot just as much as the next chronically hungry busy body, but Ama’s looks especially nice. This huge Long Island City restaurant feels like an upscale diner with cement floors and fiddle leaf fig trees where you’ll want to spend hours eating piles of fried chicken, and dim sum-style seafood dishes like poke, oysters, and clams that are pushed around the room on a service cart.

Good Bar $$$$ 1 Bedford Ave

The team behind Good Room, one of the best bars where you can dance in NYC, have opened a new cocktail bar in Greenpoint where you can listen to someone’s vinyl collection. There are also cheeseburgers, fried chicken sandwiches and beer on the menu in a room with a colorful mural that opens at 5pm every day.

Ras Plant $$$$ 739 Franklin Ave

Ras Plant is a vegan Ethiopian spot on Franklin Ave in Crown Heights where you can eat things like red lentils, beets, collard greens, and potatoes all wrapped up in a mound of injera for lunch, dinner, or weekend brunch. Whenever you try the food here, we recommend sitting as close as you can to the colorful graffiti mural that runs along the back of the casual dining room.

Skin Contact $ $ $ $ Lower East Side $$$$ 76 Orchard St

A narrow, candlelit natural wine bar has opened on the LES. It’s from the family behind Chamber Street Wines, so you can expect this place to be packed from the long bar up-front to the small tables in the back.

Bohemien Bar $$$$ 97 Atlantic Ave

If listening to vinyl through floor-to-ceiling speakers while drinking an Old Fashioned at a marble-top counter sounds like a good time to you, try Bohemien Bar. It’s a shiny new Brooklyn Heights spot where you can eat snacks like chicken sliders and duck confit tacos.

Spicy Moon $$$$ 66 W 3rd St

The original location of Spicy Moon is one the best places to have a vegetarian birthday dinner in the city. And now that there’s a new West Village location of this vegetarian Szechuan spot where you’ll find a similar menu involving Beyond Beef dan dan noodles and dry pot with tofu.

Nakaji $$$$ 48 Bowery

Nakaji is a new omakase sushi spot in Chinatown from a chef who used to work at Sushi Inoue. To eat here, you’ll have to find the hidden entrance at the intersection of Bowery and Elizabeth Street, ring the unmarked door bell, take a seat at the modern sushi counter, and order either 12 pieces for $165, or the same omakase, plus sashimi and appetizers for $195. There is also a cocktail bar at the front of the restaurant called Bar at Nakaji, where you can order la carte sushi or a $30 cocktail omakase.

East Hae $$$$ 98 N 6th St

East Hae is a Korean bar that’s attached to the Urban Outfitters in Williamsburg. Before you stop reading, you should know that this place has decent-looking bar food like grilled octopus skewers, scallion pancakes, bulgogi burgers, and katsu sandwiches. Plus Happy Hour goes till 8pm, when you can get half-off of all skewers, wings, and cocktails.

Thyme Bar $$$$ 20 W 23rd Street

This new cocktail bar in Flatiron is in an underground cellar where you might be tempted to order a whiskey neat even if you’ve never ordered whiskey in your life. If you decide to go into full hibernation mode down here, there are a handful of snacks, in addition to a full bar menu.

Kuih Cafe $$$$ 46 Eldridge St

You’ll mostly find pastries like pineapple tarts and kuih serimuka (steamed, glutinous, layer cake) at this casual new Malaysian cafe in Chinatown. But if you want something more substantial for lunch, there’s also a plate of nasi lemak (coconut rice topped with fried anchovies, peanuts, cucumbers, and hard-boiled eggs) on the menu.

Gatsu Gatsu $$$$ 196 Smith St

Cocktails on fire, pork buns, vegetable gyozas, and tonkatsu ramen are all things you can expect from this Japanese izakaya in Cobble Hill. So if you’re looking for a dimly lit, brick-walled room to decompress after work in the area, this place is open at 5pm, Wednesday to Sunday.

Nisi NYC $$$$ 250 W 47th St

One of the chefs who used to cook at Anassa Taverna has opened his own Mediterranean spot in the Theater District. Starting at 11am every day, you can get a mezze spread or some shrimp paella at this two-floor, sit-down spot on W 47th Street.

The Izakaya $$$$ 215 E 4th St

The Izakaya has an unassuming name, impressive Japanese small plates, and now, a second East Village location that looks like what would happen if a merchandiser from Anthropologie designed the inside of an underground bunker. You’ll find some of the same dishes from the original spot at this new location, plus new ones like BBQ duck wrapped in eggplant and jalapeno fried chicken.

february Barbuto $$$$ 113 Horatio St

Barbuto is back in the West Village, along with its popular roast chicken. It’s right around the corner from its original location, and it seems like nothing has changed, except there are no garage doors.

Sushi on Jones x Don Wagyu $$$$ 600 11th Ave

There’s a new sushi spot in Gotham West Market that looks like it could become one of the best restaurants in Hell’s Kitchen. It’s run in part by the Sushi on Jones team, who are serving a la carte and omakase sushi. And if you’re craving a beef katsu sandwich, you can order one during your omakase experience or from the takeout window run by Don Wagyu.

Thai Diner $ $ $ $ Diner , Thai in Nolita $$$$ 186 Mott St

Lower Manhattan has a cool new diner to get excited about, this time from the people behind Uncle Boons. Thai Diner is currently serving Thai breakfast and lunch until 4pm every day, including a dish with five nouns we like a lot: Thai tea babka French Toast. No need to freak out if you don’t spend daytime hours near Nolita - they’re extending dinner hours soon.

We checked out Thai Diner and added it to our Hit List.

Hakata Zen $$$$ 31 St Marks Place

After a 12-month closure, this Japanese hot pot place just reopened on St. Marks. Hakata Zen specializes in motsunabe hot pot - a red or white broth typically made with intestine, chives, cabbage, and tofu.

Top Thai $$$$ 55 Carmine St

The West Village has very few casual Thai spots in the neighborhood. So if you live in the area, take note of Top Thai Vintage on Carmine Street.

Factory Tamal East Village $$$$ 63 E. 4th Street

If you spend time on the LES, it’s possible you’ve been meaning to check out Factory Tamal for a while now (or you go every other Sunday morning for breakfast sandwiches and tamales). Consider their new second location in the East Village a further incentive to get involved with a chipotle chicken tamale.

Indika House $$$$ 943 Broadway

Indika House is a casual Indian restaurant in Bed-Stuy, right across from the Myrtle Broadway subway station. The menu seems pretty straightforward (full of dishes like biryani and vindaloo), and we can only describe the walls as having a similar aesthetic to the Rainbow Road level in Mario Kart.

Citizens Of Soho $$$$ 201 Lafayette Street

Did anyone ask for a new place to get charred broccoli bowls and lattes in Soho? Likely not. But if you work or live in the area, this location of an Australian cafe chain is here for your light meal needs.

& Sons $ $ $ $ Wine Bar in Prospect Lefferts Gardens $$$$ 447 Rogers Ave

If you’re into wine and charcuterie, you’ll probably want to become a regular at this new Prospect Lefferts Gardens wine bar, which specializes in American country ham. It’s owned by an ex-sommelier from The French Laundry in Napa Valley who also used to run the beverage program at Per Se, which is to say, you should expect to learn more about great wine (and ham) in this tiny, brick-walled room on Rogers Ave. Just keep in mind that, for now, & Sons is only open Thursday through Sunday.

Bar Camillo $$$$ 333 Tompkins Ave

The people behind Locanda Vini & Olii and Camillo, two solid neighborhood Italian spots in Brooklyn, just opened a third spot in Bed-Stuy where you can drink negronis and eat Italian food. They specialize in Roman-style pizza called pinsas, but you can also order things like baked cacio e pepe and beef short ribs here.

Dashi Brooklyn $$$$ 119 Ingraham St.

Eat outdoors at Smorgasburg all winter if you want to. But first, you should know that the team behind a couple of regular vendors at the weekly food fair (including a fried chicken truck and a pho bar), just opened an all-day Japanese comfort food place in East Williamsburg. To no one’s surprise, you can find a fried chicken sandwich and pho on the menu, but there are also some donburi rice dishes, sandwiches, and avocado toast served with an optional $6 slab of hanger steak.

Rome To Brooklyn Pizza $$$$ 755 Grand St

There’s a new slice shop in Williamsburg where you can get toppings like blueberry and pancetta, or pear and gorgonzola on your pizza. And if you’re looking for a sit-down lunch or dinner, you can grab a seat at one of the two-tops inside and think about adding a rosemary focaccia panini, hellboy panzerotti (essentially a fried calzone from the heel of Italy’s boot), or a beef-filled arancini to your order.

Strings Ramen $$$$ 188 2nd Ave

Our good friends at The Infatuation Chicago love Strings Ramen, so we’re happy to see that the first NYC location of this counter-service spot just opened in the East Village. In this small dining room on 2nd Avenue, you can get things like duck ramen in pork bone broth for lunch, dinner, or just before you go into hibernation for the next three months.

Da Toscano $ $ $ $ Italian in Greenwich Village $$$$ 24 Minetta Ln

The Italian spot Perla in Greenwich Village was an all-time Infatuation favorite until it tragically closed several years ago. Now, the team behind Perla is back in the same space with their new restaurant Da Toscano. You can expect to eat unusual dishes like octopus carpaccio, veal parm, and a giant porchetta chop wrapped in pork belly here.

Quality Bistro $ $ $ $ French in Midtown $$$$ 120 W 55th St

The people behind Quality Eats, a chain of steakhouses trapped in cool restaurant bodies, just opened a huge new French brasserie in Midtown. Quality Bistro has a few luxury hotel lobby-sized dining rooms where you can eat steak frites and stare at hundreds of framed bird photos lining the walls.

We checked out Quality Bistro and added it to our Hit List.

Taqueria Al Pastor $ $ $ $ Tacos in Brooklyn , Bushwick $$$$ 128 Wyckoff Ave

Taqueria Al Pastor is a new counter-service Mexican spot with a meat spit in the kitchen, which makes us confident that they’re serious about tacos. This small Bushwick restaurant has only a few counter seats, but the al pastor tacos served with hand-made corn or flour tortillas seem good enough to eat standing up.

We checked out Taqueria Al Pastor and added it to our Brooklyn Hit List.

Paisley $$$$ 429 Greenwich St

If you’re looking for a new place to have a business meal in Tribeca, this new upscale Indian restaurant could be a solid option. The chef at Paisley used to cook at Tamarind, another upscale Indian spot that’s just a few blocks away, where we like the fish curry and paneer lababdar.

January Bar Goto Niban $$$$ 474 Bergen St

The team behind Bar Goto, where we go when we want to pretend we’re at a tiny bar in Tokyo for a few hours, just opened a new, slightly-larger bar in Park Slope. The new location has different bar snacks and Japanese-inspired cocktails than the original, but you can get their incredible miso wings in this dimly-lit, wood-covered room near Barclays Center.

Kissaki $$$$ 319 Bowery

Kissaki is an upscale omakase sushi spot with a colorful space on Bowery. For $160, you get 12 pieces of nigiri plus four small plates.

Two Wheels $$$$ 426 Amsterdam Ave

Two Wheels is a new counter-service Vietnamese spot on the UWS where you can get pho, banh mi, and vermicelli noodles in a white brick-walled room that looks like a mini Sweetgreen. It’s open from 11am to 10pm and (unlike when you add too many premium toppings at its salad chain doppelgänger), nothing on the menu costs more than $15.

Sushi Ishikawa West $$$$ 207 W 80th St

The UES location of Sushi Ishikawa made it into our guide to Where To Eat Omakase Sushi In NYC For Under $100, but the second location from the same team is slightly more expensive. This new UWS Japanese spot offers a 15-piece sushi omakase option for $125 or a 16-piece option for $155.

Kettl Tea $$$$ 348 Bowery

If the green tea packets from your office cabinet aren’t keeping you awake anymore, you can get the strong stuff, straight from Japan, at Kettl in Noho. This is the second NYC tea shop from the Kettl team, but it’s the first to offer things like a four-course green tea tasting, tea-based gelato, and hot tea from a to-go window on Bowery.

Somtum Der $$$$ 380 Van Brunt St

Somtum Der is one of the best Thai spots in the East Village and now that the people behind it have opened a second location in Red Hook, we’re hoping we can say the same for this South Brooklyn neighborhood.

Izakaya Toribar $$$$ 164 E 56th St

This new Japanese izakaya on E 56th Street in Midtown East looks like a good spot to eat things like skewered eggplant, pork belly, and short rib on a causal weeknight. And if you also want to get drinks with your snacks here, Izakaya Toribar has a long sake list and some good-looking cocktails.

Casa del Toro $$$$ 626 10th Ave Ph B

There’s a new Mexican restaurant in Hell’s Kitchen that looks like the dimly-lit lair of someone whose goal in life is to take over the world by way of a five for $20 taco deal. You’ll find this and dishes like queso fundido and elote on the menu at this casual sit-down spot on 10th Ave.

Dun Huang Miss Noodles $$$$ 531 Myrtle Ave

If you’re a fan of noodle soups and wall art involving majestic wildlife, this new Lanzhou noodle house in Clinton Hill could become your go-to for a casual weeknight dinner in the neighborhood. Dun Huang Miss Noodles serves good-looking bowls of hand-pulled noodles in a small room with red leather booths and a deer mural that could be a film still from Pocahontas.

Eleni’s $$$$ 226 3rd Ave

Eleni’s is a new, all-white, Greek restaurant in Gramercy that’s decorated with rope chandeliers, sailboat murals, and small (definitely artificial) olive trees. If you’re looking to eat seafood dishes like lobster pasta or octopus with a group in the area, this spot might be a good fit.

Ms. Ohho $ $ $ $ Korean in Greenpoint $$$$ 146 Nassau Ave

If you’re looking for a Brooklyn coffee shop that also serves good food, try Ms. Ohho. This new Korean counter-service spot in Greenpoint is only a few blocks from the Nassau Ave G stop and the menu has things like japchae, bibimbap, and kimchi stew.

We checked out Ms. Ohho and added it to our Brooklyn Hit List.

Sanpoutei $$$$ 92 2nd Ave

If you’re the kind of person who prefers your ramen served on the saltier side, you’ll probably like Sanpoutei. This casual ramen place has several locations across Asia and specializes in soy sauce-based broth. Now that it’s open on 2nd Avenue in the East Village, you can come here for lunch or dinner in the neighborhood.

Sushi By Bou $$$$ 218 Newark Ave

We’re fans of the $50, 12-piece omakase at Sushi by Bou in Flatiron, so it’s comforting to know that a new location just opened in Jersey City. It looks like a strong contender for our new guide to The Best Restaurants in Jersey City.

Sally's $ $ $ $ Chinese , Caribbean in Bedford-Stuyvesant , Brooklyn $$$$ 151 Tompkins Ave

If you like Sally Roots, you’ll probably be into Sally’s, a new Caribbean spot in Bed-Stuy from the same people. It looks like a good spot to drink tiki cocktails and eat things like curry crab rangoons and jerk pork bowls for dinner - and like Sally Roots, nothing on the menu costs over $20.

Jiang Diner $ $ $ $ Chinese in East Village $$$$ 309 E 5th St

Jiang Diner just moved to a new location around the corner from its original spot in the East Village. Unlike the first version of this Chinese restaurant, the new place is counter-service, so it’s a good option if you’re looking for some quick congee in the area.

Peoples Wine $ $ $ $ Wine Bar in Lower East Side $$$$ 115 Delancey St

A new natural wine bar from the team behind Contra and Wildair has opened inside of The Market Line (a big food court on the LES that also just opened a few months ago). Peoples Wine seems like a good spot to drink and learn about wine or just snack on things like lobster pasta and cream puffs. Plus, if you like something you drank at the bar, you can buy one to take home.

Ernesto's $ $ $ $ Spanish , French in Lower East Side , Two Bridges $$$$ 259 E Broadway

A chef who used to cook at Frenchette has opened his own upscale Basque restaurant on the LES - it has exposed brick walls, leather chairs, and a chandelier that looks like a map of the solar system. Dishes like grilled Iberico ham, lamb-stuffed peppers, and monkfish with clams and salsa verde look promising.

We checked out Ernesto’s and added it to our Hit List.

Tiki Chick $$$$ 517 Amsterdam Ave

Tiki Chick is a new bar on the Upper West Side from the team behind Jacob’s Pickles and it looks like a strong contender for our guide to 15 Uptown Spots That Feel Like Downtown Spots. If you’re looking for a place near W 86th St. to meet someone who you might take on a tropical honeymoon in the future, consider getting mai tais here.

Boca Santa $ $ $ $ Mexican in Bedford-Stuyvesant , Brooklyn $$$$ 480 Madison St

This plant-covered Mexican spot in Bed-Stuy looks like a convenient and affordable way to eat things that you’d otherwise have to fly over 2,000 miles to try. Plus, all of the vegetarian-friendly Mexican dishes here, including dishes like chicharron and butternut squash quesadillas, cost less than $15.

Alison $$$$ 1651 Lexington Ave

Alison is a neighborhood restaurant in East Harlem where we’ll probably eat some oysters and a burger alone at the bar on a Tuesday night. There are also some good-looking pancakes and a smoked salmon croissant available here during weekend brunch.

Anassa Taverna $$$$ 28-10 Astoria Blvd

Anassa, a Greek spot that works well for a Last-Minute Group Dinner in Midtown East, has opened a second restaurant in Astoria, which looks like it might also work well for a spontaneous dinner in the neighborhood.

via The Infatuation Feed https://www.theinfatuation.com/new-york/guides/new-nyc-restaurants-openings Nhà hàng Hương Sen chuyên buffet hải sản cao cấp✅ Tổ chức tiệc cưới✅ Hội nghị, hội thảo✅ Tiệc lưu động✅ Sự kiện mang tầm cỡ quốc gia 52 Phố Miếu Đầm, Mễ Trì, Nam Từ Liêm, Hà Nội http://huongsen.vn/ 0904988999 http://huongsen.vn/to-chuc-tiec-hoi-nghi/ https://trello.com/userhuongsen

Created August 11, 2020 at 03:42AM /huong sen View Google Doc Nhà hàng Hương Sen chuyên buffet hải sản cao cấp✅ Tổ chức tiệc cưới✅ Hội nghị, hội thảo✅ Tiệc lưu động✅ Sự kiện mang tầm cỡ quốc gia 52 Phố Miếu Đầm, Mễ Trì, Nam Từ Liêm, Hà Nội http://huongsen.vn/ 0904988999 http://huongsen.vn/to-chuc-tiec-hoi-nghi/ https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1xa6sRugRZk4MDSyctcqusGYBv1lXYkrF

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