Carlo’s Bake Shop - It’s always good to know someone on the inside.

Went out to Jersey last night for Lepre-Con and soon came to realize that the spots we were going to were in the same vicinity as Carlo’s Bake Shop from Cake Boss. What caught our attention? Possibly the line outside that was close to wrapping around the building.

So, here’s a unspoken fact about this place: If you’re a Hoboken resident, you can skip the line. Fortunately, I met a fraternity brother a couple weeks ago that lives around the corner from Carlo’s and actually grew up with the family. So in turn, we got in, bought some pastries, and were out of there before the people that were already inside could even order.

Being a softy for brownies, I got a brownie and a cannoli (that was highly recommended by my buddy, the local). They were both amazing and totally made my day.

Rice To Riches = Not for the skinny at heart.

Omgoodness, I’m not really a fan of dessert, but I’ve got a soft spot for rice pudding. Yes, this place may be on the steep side of your wallet and it’s not the best for those watching their cholesterol. But, holy smokes… this place is an amazing idea especially for those wanting to spoil themselves.

Ms. Yen’s attempt at a s’more cookie (s’mookie?). Good stuff, the marshmallow made it kind of chewy but it worked out.

Days are better when brownies make their way into the mix.

Lunch @ Little Owl

Words cannot explain how stoked I was when I found out that I was having lunch downstairs from where the Bings used to live!

I was at a work lunch when someone at the table mentioned that ‘Friends’ supposedly lived upstairs. At first I thought she said her friends supposedly lived upstairs, but when we were on our way out one of the parties that were waiting for their table stopped us to ask how the food was and if this was the Friends building. My coworkers explained the food was amazing and that this was the building from the show - I may have had a blank stair on my face but I was going nuts inside. I was so happy for the rest of the day.

On to the food - 

For starters we had the Gravy Meatball Sliders. These are messy but totally worth it. (However, I was the barbarian at the table and took these suckers with my hands while everyone used their silverware) The pecorino accented the meatball so well and brought out its flavor which was awesome.

For the course I had the Bacon Cheese Burger. So the servers at every lunch spot I’ve been to in Manhattan that has a burger has called their burger the ‘Burger of New York’ - and it was the same for this place. Even though I was a little skeptical, I still took it ‘cuz it might just be the one…

The Bun - Not your average bun and I forgot to ask them what it was made of because it wasn’t just sourdough. Doh!

The Bacon - Was tender (not stiff or crispy). Some people aren’t into that, but I was all about it.

The Patty - Was smothered with cheese. It was pretty ridiculous but pretty mind blowing at the same time. But, in this case the cheese was at a constant battle with the patty domination.

The Fries - Not what I was expecting. I thought they would come out like Red Robin - LAYERED with their house spice (Okay, maybe not like Red Robin, but something close to it) but instead they were fried and spiced to perfection.

And lastly for dessert we had the Raspberry Beignets which were the perfect ending to our meal. They were sweet but not too rich which made me happy.

While heading back to work I was satisfied and and in awe of the location, and to think it’s only an 8min walk from work! Man, I love NY!

Brian’s welcome gift to Deana - tripple layer red velvet. I’m gonna get fat living with these guys.

Frrrozen Hot Chocolate @ Serendipity

The trick to skipping the line is to go when its freezing out and near closing time. The FHC was super rich and I wish they allowed you to share - the thing is huge for a single person to finish.

The Hong Kong Waffle/Pancake that stays fluffy even when it’s cold. AKA: Dopeness @ Tastly Garden