Shake Shack Attack

Shake Shack is our infamous neighbor who is always too busy to hang out. We've been yearning to chill there for a while now, but the line that's usually wrapped around the south end of Madison Square Park always keeps us walkin on by. On the prelude to Summer's Eve (Memorial Day dinner to be exact), we decided to go for it... and you know what, the line wasn't bad at all. In less than 15 minutes we were ordering our food. Luck was on our side.

We ordered the shake shack burger, New York dog, french fries and vanilla shake, all for $16, which anyone in New York would consider a real bargain for quality food.

The burger was well prepared and tender, with cheese melted to perfection. The fries were crinkle cut, which we normally hate because of the soggyness factor, but surprisingly, these fries were crispy even after an hour. The shake was like a slowly melting scoop of ice cream with a hint of salt. Needless to say, we passed out soon after eating. A perfect way to end Spring and bring in Summer...

Children's Play

There is nothing like a sunny morning on Bergen Street in Brooklyn, under the spell of a crisp September breeze, to bring back childhood memories. And there is nothing that brings back childhood memories like hot dogs. So it was fateful that the two intersected for us on this fine day.

Ultimately, as childhood evolves into adulthood, so do our hot dogs - and our hot dog joints. Bark Hot Dogs was nothing like the Gray's Papaya or the famous street vendors of our past.

It was an impeccable shop, with a comfortable and non-threatening commercial quality. Felt clean and organized, and the staff was charming. A hot dog with a smile.

Did we mention, the dogs were amazing! Fresh beef and pork. Crisped to perfection. As you can see, we got the Bark dog and the Kraut dog. The White Birch Beer (among an assortment of Foxon Park varieties) was a nice touch. The bun had a flawless bounce. But, at $18 for 3 dogs & a drink, those delectable bites came at a premium.

For me, it reminded me of all those moments I would hang out at the hot dog stand outside of my dad's office, gobbling meat as fast I could, knowing I'd never get any at home..

And at Bark, for a brief moment, we were home...