the quick scoop: hello summer!

Even though this weather has a smile on my face, I can’t stop thinking about how it’s going to be our last summer in the city. I’m already starting to get a bit sentimental about all of those “lasts” – last time to take advantage of easy access to all the city has to offer while the temperatures are over 75. It always seems like there will be plenty of chances to do everything and without fail, it manages to fly by every year. I’ve been reading through all the emails I’ve received and been perusing websites to see what to add to this year’s “must do” list. I’ve found a number of things to consider more immediately for Memorial Day weekend as well as some for summer in general.

Going into the long weekend with forecasts adjusted to be mostly positive, I’m guessing many of you will be dusting off that grill (perhaps for the first time this year). Here are some great looking options from Food & Wine for the menu this weekend – whether it’s some grill side dishes or some tasty BBQ skewers.

Not so sold on grilling and prefer the idea of heading to a restaurant on Monday? My vote is for heading to one of my favorites, The Dutch. They are serving brunch and dinner all day from 11-9PM. Additional menu items include sticky pork ribs, BBQ smoked brisket, pulled pork, hot fried chicken with slaw, blueberry pie, peanut butter ice box pie, and watermelon punch. You can either reserve a spot in advance (always what I do) or go the walk-in route.

Warm weather in NYC means you can count on one thing – street fairs or festivals just about every single weekend until you pull those heavy jackets back out of your corner closet. Love them or hate them, they’re a staple of NYC summers. If you’re looking for something to do, give this all-inclusive list a read through to see what’s happening across the city. If hitting up the movies at Bryant Park is on your list (or if, like me, you’ve wanted to go ever since that episode where Ben stood up Felicity in Season 2) here’s the full list of what’s on the schedule for 2016.

If you’ve never been, the Jazz Age Lawn Party is back on Governor’s Island. Four options to consider adding to the calendar – June 11, June 12, August 13, or August 14.

Thinking to leave the city for some weekends this summer? Here’s a great run down of areas to consider in the Jersey Shore. No, it’s not all like the TV show.

Of course, it’s still early. Fret not if those plans aren’t fully lined up. Time to figure that all out.

Enjoy the weekend!

Grill photo is courtesy of Joey Pasion of Dr. Photo Photography (photographer and grillmaster extraordinaire).