foodie favorite + truffle mashed potatoes

I'll admit that I'm not much of a cook. I'm definitely better at baking, but still that doesn't keep me from attempting to throw together some gourmet meals. The other week my co-worker introduced me to The Filling Station, a shop in Chelsea Market that specializes in oils, vinegars and salts. Needless to say, this shop has inspired me to experiment in the kitchen, and let me believe that for just a moment I'm a gourmet chef.

You're able to taste all different varieties of olive oil and vinegar. They all come in these cool glass bottles that you can bring back and refill - hence the name Filling Station!

While I was there I picked up some black truffle salt. AMAZING. According to the label, this salt is paired best with pasta, potatoes, read meat, and even buttered popcorn. I've tried two of the four so far. I also used the lemon infused olive oil  and drizzled it on roasted asparagus. So light and delicious! If you love to cook, just want to have fun experimenting with different flavors in the kitchen, or need a unique gift for someone, you have to check out this spot!

Just use your favorite mashed potato recipe and replace regular salt with truffle salt. Yes - it's that easy!

Truffle salt = my new obsession!

sweet spots

This past weekend I was walking to brunch in the gross and rainy weather when all of a sudden I looked up and saw a Baked by Melissa Coming Spring 2012 poster only one block from my apartment. What a way to make a girls day! Warning: if you invite me over for your birthday celebration or a dinner party you may be getting some bite size delicious cupcakes. Hearing (or seeing) this exciting news inspired me to share a few of my favorite "sweet spots" in the city. It's no coincidence that all are within walking distance of my apartment.

1. Baked by Melissa - is known for their delicious, bite size cupcakes. There are many wonderful and innovative flavors ranging from s'mores, cookies and cream, and tie dye to your traditional red velvet. They come out with a new "mini of the month" as well as create custom cupcakes for events and designers (as seen here).

Photos courtesy of Baked by Melissa

2. Levain Bakery  is home to New York's most delicious cookie. I've had the pleasure of tasting the chocolate chip, dark chocolate chocolate chip, and the oatmeal raisin and I honestly can't tell you which one's my favorite! My good friend Laura and her fiance love their cookies so much they even took some of their engagement photos here!

photos courtesy of Levain Bakery

3. Magnolia Bakery - yes it's a popular tourist destination, but in my opinion this spot is not overrated. Everything I've tasted from this bakery has been amazing. Also, in my book, a place also gets bonus points for atmosphere, feminine pastel colors, and great gifting items - all of which Magnolia has.



Photos courtesy of Magnolia Bakery

Some other sweet spots that I love in the city include Alice's Teacup, Insomnia Cookies, and Bouchon Bakery. 

I'm always looking for new places to try and would love any of your sweet suggestions!