Return to Semi-Normalcy

The return to semi-normalcy is underway. The Rockettes are raring and ready to go for Radio City Music Hall’s annual Christmas Spectacular, which was cancelled last year courtesy of the pandemic. It commences on November 5th. But don't forget, the proof-of-vaccination check is the law of the land here in New York City for entry into a variety of venues. Recently, though, I patronized a couple of pizzerias in Manhattan, ate my slices inside, and was not proofed. And I believe these businesses fell under the vaccination-before-service umbrella. Honestly, I can understand the proofing thing for some establishments more than others. Crowded theaters like Radio City Music Hall—of course—but mom-and-pop eateries? I’d cut them a little slack. It’s been a rough year and half for them no matter how you slice it.

Best pizza in New York?

That's what the Food Network says. Just sayin', but I think its reviewers need to get out and about a little more.

Again, not the "best pizza" in New York, but better than the "Best Pizza in NY," in my humble opinion.

"World Famous" and "Gourmet Pizza" that was okay but nothing to write home about.

Now, here's a pizza pie that I must try one of these days. Joe's Pizza boxes are literally all over the streets of Greenwich Village. By the looks of things, the place has very little space for indoor dining.

For years now, I've passed this eatery with its "Best Chinese Food" sign in the window. While the interior always appeared quite dingy to me, I understood that—in the taste game—one should never judge a book by its cover, particularly a Chinese take-out joint.

Well, the sign's powerful allure at long last drew me in for a chicken and broccoli to-go this past weekend. The cavernous inside was indeed dingy but the dish was edible enough. Still, I suspect if you traveled the world over, you could find better tasting Chinese food, maybe even on the next block.

There is nothing quite like a New York City bagel.

Okay, you can't judge a book by its cover or restaurant by its front signage. But, personally, I'd invest in a power washing.

It's been an especially tough year and then some for barkeeps...

But the signs abound that it's high time to return to some semblance of normal.

The annual Tunnel to Towers 5K Run and Walk was back this year after falling prey to COVID-19 in 2020. The event raises money for the families of First Responders who lost their lives on 9/11.

How can you not feel safe with this member of New York City Police Department's anti-terrorism on the scene...

I saw this Starbucks employee sweeping out a mess of water-logged garbage from inside onto the front sidewalk. A Department of Sanitation inspector car pulled up to a traffic light in front of the place. He stared out the window at the trash and moved on when the light turned green. 

Outdoor dining on Minetta Lane in Greenwich Village: no vaccination check required. Many of the outdoor dining sheds, in fact, in Manhattan were teeming with customers and packed to capacity during the past weekends. Outdoors, yes, but sardine cans in practical reality.

The journeys into the belly of the beast began here in the Bronx. Masks are required on mass transit regardless of vaccination status. And, I'm happy to report, compliance is generally the rule.

Arizona in the Bronx. Once upon a time there were Dairylea orange drinks in cardboard containers that cost fifteen cents in Pat Mitchell's Irish Food Center. Simpler times...

I'd recommend visiting the environs of Battery Park for a variety of reasons. Not the least of which is that it's got more bathrooms per capita in New York City than any other locale, including this incredibly clean public restroom in Battery Park City. They don't come any better than this.

(Photos from the personal collection of Nicholas Nigro)