The Citiblog

Photo: Balcón Rooftop

Balcón Rooftop, located atop The Marmara Park Avenue hotel, reopens for the season on May 4th. The chic, open air terrace sits 20 stories high above Manhattan, boasting breathtaking panoramic views of New York City’s skyline, including iconic landmarks such as the Empire State Building and the Chrysler Building. It also marks the debut of Balcón’s new globally inspired menu of shared and small plates, by Executive Chef Ömür Özkan, a graduate of Le Cordon Bleu. To celebrate Balcón's new season on May 4th, it will also be hosting a Kentucky Derby themed party with complimentary hors d’oeuvres, “Mint Juleps”, a Prosecco welcome toast, and craft cocktails available at the cash bar. The event will be open to the public and with entertainment by The Showmance Band and a live stream of the derby.

Photo: The Fulton

To do Derby Day in high style, snag a ticket to The Fulton’s viewing party, complete with live music, seafood towers, Basil Hayden bourbon tastings, huge floral photo ops, and some of the best mint juleps in town. There are prix-fixe and premium options, and a hat contest on Instagram so make sure to dress to impress. May 4 from 5:30 pm - 8:00 pm. Price: $168 per person. more

Photo: Somewhere Nowhere

Somewhere Nowhere will host its annual NYC Derby Day celebration, where you can cheer on your favorite horse while sipping on refreshing Mint Juleps and a chance to show off your fanciest Churchill Downs ready hat and outfit. This year's event promises to be bigger and better than ever before. With over 2000 Roses decorating the entire venue, a curated menu of delicious light bites and cocktails, immersive experiences, such as live music from Hot Toddy’s Jazz Band, DJ sets, a special performance by a trumpet player, Burlesque Dancers, and so much more. Admission is available in advance due to the high demand, and for those who want table service, click here

Photo: Cititour.com

The Tin Building will Kick off its outdoor dining season with an al fresco Derby Viewing Party. Enjoy Maker’s Mark samplings with screens to catch all the action, and stylish Derby props for your photos, along with specialty Julep Cocktails and oyster appetizers for sale. A hat contest will be on so make sure to dress to impress. May 4 from 4-7pm. more

The Highwood in Weehawken, NJ will be hosting a Derby Watch Party with waterfront views. The revamped menu by Chef Orlando Clemente features seasonal and elevated classics with a global twist that will be available a la carte with many sampler options for sharing such as a Slider Sampler Tower, Seafood Tower and Derby inspired bites like a Buttermilk Fried Chicken Sandwich. Derby attire is encouraged for the full experience.

Photo: El Quijote

El Quijote, at the Chelsea Hotel, will be hosting a Jamón Ibérico Carving & Cochinillo (Suckling Pig) Feast on May 19th at 7:30pm. Learn the art of jamón carving with passed tapas & drinks during the carving demonstration, followed by a traditional cochinillo (suckling pig) dinner and drinks. Tickets are limited. $165 per guest. more

Photo: El Vez/Max Mester

El Vez — Stephen Starr's lively contemporary Mexican restaurant in Battery Park (across the street from Brookfield Place) – will be hosting a Cinco de Mayo Party on May 5th. From festive decor and live music, to its staggering selection of 150 mezcals and tequilas, it is always a party at El Vez! This year, guests will enjoy a lively mariachi band performance from 2 to 4 PM, while indulging in El Vez's signature fare, including its famous jumbo nacho platter appropriately named "The Nacho that Ate New York" and $15 Frozen Margaritas in various flavors. Reservations via Resy.

Get ready to get your groove on at Koko by Pearl Alley’s with an all-day DJ dance party this Cinco de Mayo. With fun activations from Patron and a double-header lineup of DJs, the patio is the perfect place to sip margaritas in the breeze and raise a toast to all things Mexico. Sunday, May 5 from 12:00pm - 6:00pm. FREE to RSVP. more

Photo: EMILY Brooklyn

In honor of Cinco de Mayo, EMILY Brooklyn is hosting a very fun cupcake decorating class at 919 Fulton Street. Star baker (and Instagram sensation) Alex LaRosa will be teaching an interactive cupcake decorating class with cacti frosting shapes that you can take home (six cupcakes) to show off your impressive new skill. Guests will also enjoy a delicious pizza lunch after class. $100 per person, includes all supplies, lunch, and soft drinks. Email emily@pizzalovesemily.com to book.

Photo: Bar Blondeau/Liz Clayman

Female-owned Pollinator Spirits will take over Bar Blondeau’s Sunset Hour, at the Wythe Hotel on Monday, April 29th from 5-7pm. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet the maker, Claire Marin, the Master Distiller and Founder of Pollinator Spirits, will be on hand welcoming guests. The Bar Blondeau bar team will be shaking and stirring Pollinator Spirits cocktails at special Sunset Hour prices, along with complimentary bar snacks and stunning views of the Manhattan skyline. Tickets via Resy

Looking Ahead

Photo: Shops of New York Film Festival

Shops of New York Film Festival is coming back on September 12, 2024 at the SVA Theater, including a larger screening, bigger cash prizes, and a celebration. Shops of New York started in 2020 as a COVID passion project on Instagram (@shopsofnewyork) and has evolved into an engaged online community, small business booster, & popular film festival. Submissions for the fall 2024 festival are now open, welcoming filmmakers of all backgrounds, skill levels and perspectives (you just need to be a NYC resident). Awards include but are not limited to a Student Prize, Impact Award, and a Grand Prize.

Until next time, we'll be seeing you Around Town!