A Valentine's Day/Season Tradition
Every year, my friends and I have a get-together around or on Valentine's Day - with a date or no date.
It all started 7 years ago in 2003, at a Uno's Pizzeria in South Street Seaport, a group of college freshmen (7 guys and 7 girls) from more than 5 universities and colleges in NYC decided to have a Valentine's Day get-together dinner
---- Fast forward to 2009, we've graduated - all have received our baccaulareate degrees, a few overchievers in us have with their graduate degrees or are pursuing them, professionals in our own little right, and we're down to 7 people (boyfriends were ditched for the night or some had already broken up with them, other friends are out of town or are now married and had relocated, others were not feeling well and decided to stay home).
This year, our 7th annual Valentine's Day dinner, we had dinner at the Greek Restaurant, Kefi, and spent a fun night of drinks and dancing at Dream Hotel's Ava Lounge, joined by two new friends from South Africa visiting NYC. --- And still acting immature like we were in college.
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Their new venue on 505 Columbus St (between 84th and 85th Sts), is four times bigger than their previous place on 79th St. Great atmosphere, wonderful for groups, and friendly quick service, this is my new favorite Upper West Side restaurant.
It is close to Central Park and one of my favorite NYC museum, the American Natural History Museum.
I came with 6 of my friends for our annual Valentine's Day dinner. We were seated on the lower level where most of the groups were seated. The atmosphere at the lower level is much better - cozier compared to the bustling, loud first floor by the bar. It was slightly loud with the restaurant packed, you wouldn't know there was a recession going on - but with these prices, it definitely is not here in Kefi.
For appetizers, I highly recommend the octopus, mussels, and spicy lamb sausage with the pita bread that was very good. For entrees, the pan seared striped bass, pork medallions, lamb chops, and braised lamb shank are simply delicious. Enjoy their selection of Greek wine - we ordered something light, sweet and fruity - a white Santorini. And of course, try their selection of ouzo - in different flavors!
Average price for a cocktail drink is between $10-$14, usual NYC price.
They play great music and have comfortable couches to snuggle with a date or chat with friends.
Go on up to the rooftop where it is an open-air garden lounge during the summer and close for an even more romantic, intimate feel during the winter season, you can see the lights of Times Square and even catch a NYC sunset during dusk.
My favorite cocktails to order in Ava Lounge is their lychee martini and vodka gimlet.
