Holiday Shops at Bryant Park

As soon as we dropped off our things at the Residence Inn we walked to Eataly for a very late lunch. We had to pass by Bryant Park and we made a quick detour through the park to see The Holiday Shops.

We were there last November but I just found out that they have extended these shops until February 26, 2012. I really wanted to walk leisurely to look at all the quaint shops but we were really hungry and wanted to reach Eataly as soon as possible.

I managed to take some shots of the shops and eateries I passed by.

Crepe Cafe

A skating rink called Citi Pond was open to the public during the holiday season.

I had to stop when I smelled something so good at Toparepa.

Toparepa

I’ve never seen mozarepas before. I thought they were just pancakes. I learned that these were called arepas, a popular snack from Venezuela and other Spanish-speaking countries made from cornmeal. The Americanized version added mozzarella cheese in the middle and the mozarepa was born.

Toparepa’s menu

We bought a mozarepa topped with goat cheese, pesto and sun-dried tomatoes to share between 4 adults and 2 kids.

goat cheese, pesto & sun-dried tomatoes mozarepa $6.50

I loved, loved, loved it! Imagine eating a corn dog with the dog. I really loved the gritty texture and sweetness of the arepa mixed with the gooey mozzarella cheese and contrasted with tangy goat cheese. The flavors from the pesto and sun-dried tomatoes completed the explosion of flavors and texture in the mouth. I hope some enterprising Pinoy would bring mozarepas to Manila. I’m sure his would click here.

Max Brenner

My eyes widened as big as those cookies as I gazed in awe. I HAD to buy some cookies!!! The chocolate chunk cookie cost $5 each but they were worth it. It was really huge and loaded with chocolate. I ate bit and pieces of the cookie and it lasted til the next day.

Dumpling Soup House

I guess arepas are really popular in NYC. Even this Chinese noodle and dumpling shop sold arepas.

Big Apple Cider

I really wish I had more time in New York since I wanted to go back to Bryant Park and check out each and every shop and food store. Alas I never got the chance to go back even though it was just across our hotel. Nevertheless I was happy with our quick stroll and snack in Bryant Park.

The Holiday Shops at Bryant Park
Special Extended Season
January 14 – February 26, 2012
http://www.TheHolidayShopsatBryantPark.com