EATING THE DAY AWAY IN NYC

A couple of weeks ago we left the kids with the grandparents and went to do our taxes.  After we were done we needed to get some shopping done, but were in need of a bite to eat first.  We decided to head over to the Time Warner Center in Columbus Circle to do both!  We went to Bouchon Bakery and it was the perfect spot for what we were looking for.  We had a light and delicious lunch, enjoyed some wine, and admired the beautiful views of Central Park and the hustle bustle of the city while we ate.

I had a kale salad with roasted chicken, parmesan cheese, pickled red onions, and bottarga and baguette croutons.

 I was a bit skeptical of eating a kale salad, but it was soooooo good!  It basically tasted like a really gourmet caesar salad!  Rich had a turkey panini which he really enjoyed.

Then we indulged ourselves and split one of the most amazing chocolate soufflés for dessert...there was nothing left!  Bouchon was great and we'll definitely be back!

Later on that night we had dinner plans with my sister and her husband at Il Cantinori.  It was my sister's birthday and she had been dying to try this restaurant after Carrie and the gang went there on "Sex and the City."  We had bufala mozzarella and prosciutto as an appetizer, a few different pasta and main course dishes and superb hazelnut ice cream sandwich for dessert.  It was a fun dining experience (loud and lively)- a great date night spot with another couple.

On a side note:  I think the reason I decided to write about these restaurants today is that tomorrow Rich and I start a three-day juice cleanse...so basically we will be fasting and not eating on Wednesday, Thursday, or Friday!!!  I will write more about the experience this Thursday, when we'll be right in the middle of it.  Wish us luck!  ;)