Lunch With Tillie: Mojito

I guess I should’ve realized a place named Mojito doesn’t exactly scream “family fun”! Greetings, fellow Clinton Hillers and surrounding-area denizens. It’s Tillie’s sidekick Van (I guess she’s the star since her name is in the headline) documenting another one of our lunchtime expeditions. This time, we hit Mojito, the Cuban restaurant on Washington between Flushing and Park avenues. And it didn’t exactly work out to be the best of choices for me and the Tillster, but I’ll get into that. First, let me tell you how we ended up there.

On our previous trips, we had gone to a few spots on Myrtle Avenue and another on Vanderbilt. But when mapping out our next destination, I decided that Tillie should get in touch with her Brooklyn roots—particularly, that Wallabout, South of the Navy Yard side of her that comes from me. (Actually, I’m from Mobile, Alabama, but when I moved to BK a few years ago, I used to live directly across from the Navy Yard, next to the Sweet’N Low factory. Shout out to 38 Cumberland Street!)

Anyway, I know that area is starting to really take off with new restaurants, shops and a grocery store opening soon. I picked an old standby for us to go to, Mojito, which has been around for a few years. I had only been there a couple of times, but Tillie’s mom and I (and lil’ T) just popped in a couple of weeks ago one evening for some drinks and empanadas. I took a quick glance at the lunch menu, which I’m prone to do nowadays, and had it in the back of my mind to come back since we had such a pleasant experience.

So on this day, after doing some shoe shopping at the Fulton Street Mall (for Tillie, not me), we hopped on the B61 bus from downtown and made our way to the restaurant. Tillie and I had been out for a little while, and I almost thought of just heading home, but we stuck it out. I had food and a bottle for her, so how bad could things be?

We got in the restaurant and were told we could sit anywhere. The place was roomy enough, so we grabbed a little two-top with space around us and I asked for a high chair. I set Tillie up and while I was doing that, we received our cigar box with the toast and dipping sauce in it, along with the menu.

Let me interrupt myself here, because from this point on, my attitude shifts from optimistic to “ehh” about the place.

After getting the toast, it was at least five minutes or so before the waitress came back to our table. I saw her hitting other tables multiple times before coming to ours. When she did arrive, the first thing I ordered was a glass of water, which I needed after munching on dry toast! With that request made, I went for the pollo varadero—grilled chicken with onions and peppers with a citrus flavor, served with saffron rice and black beans. This lunch special also came with a soup (chicken potato) and a soda. Little did I know that it would be a while again before I saw the waitress!

Anyway, as I was waiting (mainly for that elusive glass of water), I prepared Tillie’s stash of goodies for her, led by the fresh cherries I sliced up for her. From the moment I gave her the first one, she developed this ravenous appetite for them the likes of which I hadn’t seen before! I didn’t want to dump them all out on a plate for her, so I was giving them to her a few at a time. I was afraid she was going to bite her hand off thinking it was a cherry!

My soup arrived, which at least had some moisture for me to partake of, then two bites in, the water—water, at last!—and the soda, then the main course. It was a lot to take in at once with trying to handle the cherry-eating machine that was Tillie, too. Then my waitress was off yet again, not to be seen or heard from until I asked to have my leftovers wrapped up and get the check.

But it wasn’t just our waitress, NO ONE in the restaurant ever came around to check on us: How’s everything? Anything to drink? Aww, what a cute baby! Nothing at all. We were pretty much ignored, which is pretty impressive because I’d think a guy with a baby would stand out among the other patrons!

I have to admit, though, that while the service and welcoming atmosphere was lacking, the food wasn’t: The flavors were exploding in my mouth! I mashed up some beans and rice for Tillie to take a bite of, in between her cherry scarfing, and she seemed to feel the same way, too. It might’ve been one of the best lunchtime meals I’ve eaten around the ‘hood.

But as great as the food was (and cheap, too: My mini-feast was only 10 bucks!), I wouldn’t recommend going there for lunch with a baby. It’s the first time I felt that “Oh great, a baby” vibe, and I’m sure it won’t be the last. But don’t worry about us: Tillie and I will keep plugging away!

Lunchtime With Tillie: Anima

Anima. Wow.

The end.

Just kidding, neighborhood of ours! It’s Van – and Tillie, of course – with another edition of Lunchtime with Tillie. For this dining excursion, we went to Italian restaurant Anima on Myrtle between Washington and Waverly.

Anima actually brings on some special memories in our little household. Tillie’s mom and I had our first date there, when the restaurant was in its previous incarnation. It was then she realized that she met the man of her dreams! (And I met the woman of my dreams, too!) It’s also the first restaurant we brought Tillie to, back when she was just a little drop and not the wizened 9-month-old she is today! I remember Tillie’s mom had her strapped into the Baby Bjorn and I was toting our little Bumbo seat, which we placed promptly on the table. The staff there was completely accommodating to us -- rookie parents that we were -- and we managed to get out of there without too much fuss being made.

Over the past few months as I’ve been home, Tillie and I have gone there for lunch a few times or I’ve gotten takeout from there, but not in a little while. For whatever reason, it just hadn’t really worked out, but now it’s definitely back on my radar. So gather around and let me tell you the story of “Anima Magnetism.”

It was one of the nice-outside days we had this week and I thought of going somewhere we could actually get a little solar exposure. I thought “Why not Anima? I hadn’t been there in a minute. It’s close by and we can sit in the dining room area, by one of the tables facing the sidewalk.” I pitched the idea to T and she was all for it. (Not really, she’s just a baby!)

Anyway, I packed up her provisions, strapped her into her stroller, put on her little hat (which she hates) and off we went. We got there and I noticed on the chalkboard outside that it said “Patio Open.” I decided then that patio it is! When we got out there, I was totally blown away. It had to be one of the most beautiful outdoor dining spaces I’ve come across in the neighborhood. I’ve never been to Italy, or any part of Europe, for that matter, but the space had the feel of what I’d imagine eating al fresco to be out there. And shock of shocks, we had the whole patio to ourselves! I mean, if others knew about this, why weren’t they there?

I took a little table and requested a high chair for Tillie. The bartender, who was also serving us, brought the menu along, but I took the briefest of glances at it: I just wanted to make sure my favorite lunch selection at Anima was still on the menu. And yep, it was: the steak panini (or “panino” as they say it in Italy and Anima).

Now, here’s the deal: You’ve seen me rave about certain dishes at some of our neighborhood establishments. Well, you can definitely add this to the list. It’s hanger steak, spinach and mushrooms, with a hint of lemon, pressed on a ciabatta roll. Yeah, it’s as good as it sounds! It’s served with a salad and handcut fries, which I’m quite thankful for because surprisingly, you don’t really get fries served with many lunchtime sandwiches.

The order was placed, and Tillie and I took the time to soak in our surroundings. It was so nice and peaceful back there, I didn’t feel like leaving. But I figured it would lose its charm for Tillie at some point, so I snapped back to reality. Some bread arrived for us, and I gave her a few little pieces, then broke out with her toy stacking cups for her to bang together and on the table. After all, we had the whole spot to ourselves, so I figured she could have at it!

After a little while, my food arrived, and it was as amazing as I remembered. The steak was seasoned to perfection and that little lemon zest just sets off the whole sandwich. While I was caught up in the rapture of my meal, I heard some squeaking beside me, and remembered, “Oh yeah, Tillie!” Just kidding, I could never forget T-Bear! I didn’t have anything to share with her from my plate, but the formula did her good, along with some cereal.

I couldn’t linger back there forever, so after finishing my meal and scooping up the excess Cheerios that Tillie dropped, I asked for the check and we were on our way. My bill was around $10, but combined with the surroundings we dined in, was easily worth twice that. I would recommend any and all to go there for lunch: great food, plenty of beautiful space in the back (especially for a fold-up stroller!) and an incredibly nice staff that gives babies plenty of attention. What more could you ask for?

And that’s really the end!

Still Hip Block Party (and 2nd Birthday!)

Another great locally-owned shop is celebrating a birthday, and this Saturday they're celebrating with a block party!  Come by to celebrate Still Hip and mingle with neighbors.

FREE KIDS STUFF 11am - Little Stretch Yoga noon - Private Picassos 1pm - Musica Para Mi 4PM - lantern making with Lango Mandarin TBD - Parents Around the Hill craft project face painting

MATERNITY FAIR doulas acupuncturist nutritionist prenatal massage info from Nu Yu Day Spa

MUSIC 2pm - Rolie Polie Guacamole 5pm - LIG Funk Band + Alex Sniderman [ed note: I have seen Alex and he's great.  Have heard super things about LIG as well!] DJs Catnip + Misbehaviour

FREE goodie bag to first 100 customers @ still hip

Drink specials @ Mirrors

FOOD Le Grand Dakar Luigi's Pizza Choice Market

+ MORE!!!! Still Hip 283 Grand Ave (nr Lafayette)

Lunchtime With Tillie: Square Root Cafe

Hello once again, neighborhood. It's Van and his constant dining companion Tillie with another tale of our dining escapades. This time, we decided (Well, I guess, I technically decided seeing as how she’s 9 months old and all!) to go to Square Root Café on the corner or Myrtle and Classon. It’s close by the house, and since I’ve been home with Tillie, we’ve become semi-regulars there. The staff’s always nice to us, and it’s also where I like to go for some “Van Time.” Don’t worry, Tillie is with her mom then; I’m not leaving her to fend for herself!

It was on one those recent VT furloughs when I saw a mom and her kid sitting at the corner table by the couches. The kid was pulling himself up holding onto the table, and I thought to myself, “That’s Tillie’s favorite pastime! I’ll bring her here, she’ll pull herself up and ‘cruise’ around the table, I’ll eat my lunch and we’ll have a good story to tell. Now enough of that: Back to Van Time!”

So one day this week as I was thinking of a place to go, I figured our old stomping grounds would be a good place to go. I loaded up some pureed squash and a bottle for Tillie and off we went. Actually, we weren’t that speedy getting out of the house because here’s a little revelatory fact about me: I’m officially the worst person in the world when it comes to getting out of the house and going somewhere. Back in my working days, I’d have to give myself at least an hour and a half to leave. And that’s with my clothes ironed and a lunch packed from the night before! I don’t know what it is: I missed many a bus back in middle school from walking out the door late.

Anyway, I mention that because by the time we finally made it out it was almost time for Tillie’s second nap. Good thing we were hitting Square Root; anyplace else would’ve been disastrous.

When we got there, people were already sitting in the spot I staked out in my mind for us. No worries, though, we found a seat fine enough. The owner of the place greeted Tillie with enthusiasm, and I was given a menu and a bottle of water. The menu’s pretty full of some appetizing choices and I was about to do a coin toss between a burger or a sandwich, but the burger won out before it got to that point! And what’s a burger without bacon and cheddar, I always ask myself, so I went that route.

The people that were sitting on the couches left soon after we got there, but I already had us set up at this table. I wanted to entertain Tillie somehow, and I remembered that there was a box of toys right next to the phone booth there. (You’d think I would’ve gone for the toys first before counting on her standing up close to a table, but the conventional route rarely seems to work for the Tillster!)

I hope this doesn’t get me pilloried by any parent unions, but I set Tillie on the floor of the place by the toys and gave her a couple of the trains to play with. I know floors are made for walking, but I watched her carefully and washed her hands. Promise!

This actually kept her entertained for a while! I say it kind of shockingly because there’s a whole stack of toys at home that she loses interest in after two minutes or less. She was rolling those train cars around like a conductor born!

My food soon arrived, a big, juicy bacon cheeseburger, cooked exactly how I wanted it, and potato chips. I put Tillie in a high chair and proceeded to feed both of us. I’m telling you, being in this dad game, you really start to pull off some things you never think you’d be able to: like feeding yourself and a baby nearly simultaneously! We washed down our food with a coke and a bottle, and then packed it up. I paid the pretty inexpensive bill of eight bucks, fought off the urge to grab a cookie or two (or three for $1.75!) and we left until next time.

When Tillie and I got home, I read her that book “Freight Train,” which looking back on her time with the trains at Square Root must have helped spark some recognition with the toys, and that was kind of neat to see. All in all, I’d say the lunch trip was a success and maybe I shouldn’t rule out her enjoyment of toys. Standing up holding on to tables can be fun, but there’s nothing like rolling a train around!

Lunchtime with Tillie: Graziella's

Vegetables: They do a body good. And if you happen to throw in a chicken parmesan hero on the side, what’s the harm, right?

Hello out there again, neighborhood! This week’s Lunchtime With Tillie found Baby T and me at Italian eatery Graziella’s , located on Vanderbilt between DeKalb and Willoughby. The main reason we went there was because a friend of mine and I just consumed a festival of fried food the night before—French fries, onion rings, chicken tenders…you name it, we ate it. So when it came to lunch the next day, I figured I better put something good in my body!

I’m not the type to just eat a whole salad for lunch, but I remembered Graziella’s has a real nice side salad they serve with their sandwiches and paninis at lunch. And for this trip, I loaded up some snacks for Tillie to eat as well—some Cheerios and blueberries cut in half. All that, as well as a bottle of formula, would definitely keep her satisfied (at least that’s what I told myself)!

We got there and the place appeared to be pretty busy, but we were immediately seated. When I take Tillie to a restaurant during the day, I usually just let her sit in her stroller, but since I had the finger food for her, I thought she’d be better suited for the high chair. I put some Cheerios on the table for her and took a glance at the menu. My main priority as far as my food went was the salad to assuage my guilt about the night before, so I went from there and decided on the chicken parmesan hero. It was tough because they have pasta and entrée specials, as well.

While I was deciding that, I noticed Tillie’s Cheerios-to-mouth ratio was way off with only about one in three being eaten, so I switched to the blueberries and that wasn’t going much better. I think I picked up way more than she actually ate! Then, I asked the waitress for a basket of bread and tore her off some tiny pieces, but those just ended up stuck to her hand without making it to her mouth. In other words, my little snack plan wasn’t working out like I thought it would.

Soon after, my lunch came out: that salad with the chicken parmesan sandwich, just what the doctor ordered. All those greens, carrots and tomatoes with a nice vinaigrette dressing—yum! The crunch, the freshness … OK, wait, I can’t do this anymore. I really wasn’t there for the salad; I’m just trying to make myself feel less guilty about the night before, especially if Tillie’s mom reads this! The salad was really good, but this sandwich--whew!

This is no exaggeration: Graziella’s actually makes the best chicken parm hero I’ve ever eaten. I ate it once before and was very pleasantly surprised. The bread, perfectly prepared to give it the right crunch; the chicken, nicely breaded and plenty of it; and the sauce, rich and not too much of it, all make for a winning combination. But you know what makes it really incredible to me? The cheese. They use fresh mozzarella on it, which, I don’t know, call me a Philistine or something, but I had never had before on a chicken parm wedge. Amazing!

Anyway, my food was sitting there, but Tillie was totally distracted by the people walking in and out and zipping by our table, and wasn’t really focusing on my carefully planned Cheerios and blueberry snack feast I prepared. She started staring at a couple of guys next to us who were on their lunch break and they gave her some attention. I asked the guys if they could play with her about 20 minutes or so, it would be appreciated! Surprisingly, they weren’t down with that but I did manage to establish a foothold in my sandwich and salad, which tasted as great as I imagined.

Since my little snack plan for Tillie wasn’t working quite like I planned, I had to go into my old-school bag of tricks. You guessed it: the old water from the straw! Plus, I had the basket my bread came in (which she managed to knock to the floor earlier while bread was still in it) and she played with that a while. Tillie did manage to get down some of the cereal and fruit before it was all said and done, and we polished off the excursion with the formula I brought along. I finished up and asked for the check, which was $11 for the salad, sandwich and a soda. While I was waiting for it to come, I did a little cleanup of the baby treats that made their way to the floor. I paid up and we headed off. On our way out, we said bye to our table neighbors and I thanked them for letting me get that all-too-crucial first bite in!

Graziella’s is spacious enough for strollers (there was another guy in there with a double model parked in place) and I’m telling you—you have to try this sandwich! Maybe I should’ve given Tillie some of it instead of the Cheerios!

Lunchtime with Tillie: Kinara's

If a tree falls in the forest and no one’s around, will it make a sound? Why is the sky blue?

Why did the chicken really cross the road?

Great mysteries and thought-provoking questions, all. Well, I’d like to add another one to the list:

Why is Indian food restaurant Kinara’s practically a ghost town at lunch?

Hey again, everyone, it’s Van and Tillie of Lunchtime With Tillie fame, here to reflect on another one of our daytime dining excursions, this time to Kinara’s on Myrtle Avenue.

On this day, in particular, Tillie and I had been sitting inside all morning napping and playing, but kind of hesitant to go out because it was one of those weird is-it-or-isn’t-it-going-to-rain days we’ve been having lately. And something about me is that I’m not really one of those throw-caution-to-the-wind kind of dads when it comes down to the weather. I guess that comes from being told as a kid that if you go outside and get caught in the rain without an umbrella or with your hair wet, you can catch pneumonia. My beliefs aren’t that extreme any more, but I still try to be careful!

Anyway, we caught a break with the sun coming out right around lunchtime, so I decided to pack Tillie up and head down Myrtle to one of my favorite Indian food spots, Kinara’s. Aside from the food there, which I personally love, the restaurant has another very appealing aspect to me, especially in the nonworking era:

Everything on the menu is 50 percent off from noon to 4! Yes, you read that right: Everything!

I remember when the restaurant first came to the neighborhood by way of Park Slope. I had eaten at the original there with friends and enjoyed it. When one opened here, there was a chalkboard announcing the half-off-the-menu deal, which I thought was going to just be a grand-opening special. But here we are, a couple of years later, and it’s still going strong!

When Tillie and I got there this day, there was only one other couple in the place that looked to be wrapping things up. Tillie and I rolled up to our usual spot, I took my seat and was promptly handed a menu, which I promptly handed to Tillie! I had no need for it since I get the same thing every time: lamb rogan josh (lamb chunks and tomatoes cooked in a cardamom sauce) and nan. Sometimes, I throw in samosas for an appetizer, but I didn’t feel extra-gluttonous that day! The menu was put to better use by Tillie, and since we’ve been there a couple of times, the waiter knew she liked to play with it and didn’t bother trying to get it back.

There was only so much Tillie could do on her own with the menu while I waited for my food, so I grabbed it and played a little peek-a-boo with her, which she got a kick out of as evidenced by her shrieks of excitement. I get a little worried about that sometimes — you know, possibly disturbing others — but really, when that couple left we had the whole place to ourselves, so it was party time in Kinara’s!

My food arrived — the rogan josh, nan and a bowl of jasmine rice — but what about Tillie? She ate before we left, so I knew she was good there, but I couldn’t leave her to her own devices, while I wolfed down my personal feast. So I managed to still keep the peek-a-boo game going and also give her water from a straw, which is something her mom does with her when we’re all out. It’s just as it sounds, water from a straw, but she really gets a kick out of it, and who am I to judge what makes an 8-month-old happy?

In between games and enjoying my dish (with the lamb practically melting in my mouth, it was so tender), we got to bill time. My tab for all the food I ate, plus a coke, was $9 without the tip. It was worth every penny, even if it would’ve been full-priced!

Now, I know Indian food might be kind of heavy for some in the day, but you don’t have to eat like I do. The appetizer selection is pretty big and you can grab a couple of those, if you’d like. Or, here’s an idea: Go out there with a couple of other parents and kids, and get a few tiny dishes to share. There’s plenty of space in the restaurant. Plus, I hear curry-flavored food can help a child develop a palate for different spices, which is next on the agenda for Tillie. I think she’s ready to move past the water and straw!

CHB Interviews: Alexis Gutierrez

As promised, children's librarian Alexis Gutierrez of the CH library branch answered some questions for CHB about our local branch and how to get involved: When did the CH branch first open? 1974. (For more branch history and trivia, click here ) Is there any remodeling planned for the near future? Clinton Hill is certainly due for a renovation-- we would love more space and central air, just to name a few things!  However, due to the current economic situation, all construction and physical branch improvement projects have been pushed back by a few years. Just last year, Clinton Hill was one of the next libraries in line for a renovation, but unfortunately the renovation was pushed back to 2013.

How long have you been working at the CH Branch? Since February 2008 Have you worked at other branches?  If so, what sets the CH branch apart? I've only worked at this branch. But from visiting many of BPL's other 59 locations, it's clear to see it is definitely one of the smaller and busier branches! A few of the things that make CH special are our bookdrop for returning books (only a few libraries have them anymore) and our book donation bins. They are a simple free pile, no strings attached-- sometimes you can find some real treasures there!

What is the best part about being a children's librarian? I really love sharing stories with younger kids and talking about what to read next with older kids! Kids always see special little things in the books that I don't right away. It's also nice to find the perfect book for a child who doesn't see themselves as liking reading that much, and watch as they actually enjoy it.

What kinds of events does the CH branch hold, and how can we find out about them? The branch offers programs for kids, teens, and adults. For adults, we have things like movies, book discussions, author visits, and general interest presentations. For teens, we have visiting artists and performers from time to time. And for kids, we have storytimes, visiting artists and performers, arts and crafts programs, and games. To find out about them, visit www.brooklynpubliclibrary.org/calendar/EventList.do and select "Clinton Hill"-- you'll see a list of everything going on. You can also pick up a monthly calendar of events at the branch. Anything fun going on this summer? Yes! Summer Reading '09: Be Creative! starts June 4th. Summer Reading is a great way to connect with others who like to read, while reading what you want at your own pace. Fun activities are happening in libraries all summer long and everyone, from babies to adults, can sign up. And it's free! For a list of Summer Reading events and booklists for all ages, visit www.summerreading.org. Register at any BPL location beginning June 4th.

What is the best way to volunteer or otherwise help the branch? Right now, as you have heard, is a really critical time for the library. We face massive budget cuts that could cut our public service hours down to 25 hours a week, which means the library won't be open mornings, after 6pm, or weekends. Please, if you can, write to your city council member and the Mayor letting them know you do not support this funding cut. Let your friends and family know what's could happen to all of Brooklyn Public Library's 60 locations if this cut goes through. What is your favorite aspect of the neighborhood? The G train-- just kidding!  I like how people here really value books, stories, history, education, culture, and their library. I meet interesting people all the time. I moved to Brooklyn from Indiana two years ago and worked in the library there, and noticed right away that people read more here.  And of course I like the tree-lined streets.

If you were a favorite flavor of ice cream, what would you be and why? Coffee-- sweet and caffeinated!

Robin, if people have questions about the library, would you send them my way or pass along our phone number-- 398-8713 ext. 5? I am finishing up 3 classes for my Masters in Library Science right now and probably can't check the blog for comments as much as usual, but would still like to help with reader's questions if there are any. Thanks! -Alexis

Lunchtime With Tillie: Castro's

Hey out there, neighborhood. My name is Van Sias and I’m a five-year resident of the Clinton Hill/Fort Greene area. Over the past year, I’ve experienced a couple of life-changing events. In October 2008, my fiancée and I welcomed our first child, Matilda Rose Gannon-Sias, as wonderful a kid as you can hope for. (What can I say but that? I’m her dad!)

The other change that kind of shook up life as I’ve lived it is that I lost my job in January at a magazine I was with for nearly 10 years. That thrust me into a new role I wasn’t expecting to enter: stay-at-home dad. Did I mention Tillie is my first kid? And that I had no idea what to do with her on a daily basis? It’s been a constant learning experience: figuring her out and myself as well. But I think we’re getting the hang of it. We’ve met plenty of other parents in this great neighborhood of ours, and there’s a wide variety of things to do, one of them being the most basic of necessities: eating!

For my money, the Clinton Hill/Fort Greene area has the best restaurants in the borough as a wide variety of choices can be found just around the corner. The missus and I used to take full advantage of that pre-Tillie and still try to get out while we can, with or without her. But I figured, “You know, I have to eat during the day, too, and sometimes after a long morning of diaper-changing and toy pick-upping, I just don’t feel like cooking. So I’m going to go out and grab something to eat. And you know what? I’ll take Tillie with me, too.”

And that’s how Lunchtime With Tillie has come about!

Tillie and I will scout out some of the food spots for good eats, a good deal (I am jobless after all!) and good accommodations for a dad, an 8-month-old and a stroller, keeping in mind Tillie’s tolerance for being in the same place for a while and naptime.

First up in the LWT series is Castro’s on Myrtle Avenue. Everyone knows Castro’s, I’m assuming. It’s established itself as a go-to place for authentic Mexican food. I’ve eaten take-out there many a time, and Tillie and I recently started going there for breakfast. (But this is “Lunchtime” With Tillie, not breakfast, so let’s move on!)

One thing about Castro’s beside the excellent food is all the space in there for seating, whether at a table in the well-shaded deck out back or in a fold-up stroller like Tillie has.

We chose to sit inside this time since it was cloudy out and within seconds of taking my seat, a serving of chips and salsa was already greeting me. I was set, but what about Tillie? First thought: Get her something to entertain herself while I eat. Her normal toys and stuffed animals never do the trick when we’re out, so I asked the waitress for one of the baskets the restaurant uses to serve tortillas in. While I was waiting for that, another patron gave us hers and Tillie soon had double the entertainment. (And I had double the trouble of picking up baskets after she repeatedly dropped them!)

In between our basket play, I did manage to place my order: a Castro Especial burrito with chicken. I don’t know if it was the relative emptiness of the place at the time or the ease of the dish to prepare, but I don’t think I had ever gotten something served to me so quickly in my life! This was a good thing because my timing was off on Tillie’s napping and she was about to crash any minute, so I had to eat fast. This was going to be hard because if you’ve been to Castro’s, you know its burritos fit into the “big-as-your-head” category! With fresh pico de gallo and guacamole to eat with the burrito, it’s a hearty meal indeed. I got down to where there was too little to bother with taking the rest home, got my check and was ready to start home with Tillie mere moments away from melting down! So the trip was definitely a success, and the price was nice, too, as my bill came up to 9 bucks, not including the tip.

I think Tillie had a good time, too, with the waitresses making her laugh and constantly dropping baskets for dad, the sucker, to pick up!

So parents out there, if you’re looking for a nice Mexican meal at a place that’s stroller-friendly, you can’t get much better than Castro’s. And here’s an added bonus: Bring your laptop because you can pick up a wi-fi connection in there.

There’s plenty of other spots in the ‘hood and Tillie and I will do our best to check them out for you!

Children's Art, Framed at a Discount

Have an artistic kid?  The Clinton Hill Simply Art and Framing has just informed me of a special framing sale. CLINTON HILL SIMPLY ART AND FRAMING INTRODUCTORY SALE - Custom Picture Framing Offer

"kidz"

Bring any children's artwork now thru June 30 40% off regular price*

Children's Art Only Please no substitutes

Cherish the Moments

*Select samples only

Tuesday - Saturday 11am - 6pm

583 Myrtle Avenue (near Classon) Brooklyn, NY 11205 718-857-0074

We truly custom frame Est.1991

Places to Eat with Kids: 67 Burger

67 Burger might be the easiest place to eat out with kids in Fort Greene.  The name says it all.  What kid doesn’t like a burger?  Mine, actually, but luckily there are veggie burgers for the vegetarians and meat-snubbing one year olds among us.  I don’t eat meat either, but my husband thinks their hamburger is one of the better of its kind in the neighborhood.

The format is this: choose a regular, veggie or turkey burger or grilled chicken cutlet.  Then choose a style, such as the 67 Burger with blue cheese and bacon, or the Cheese Lover’s with cheddar, jack and swiss, or the Greek with feta, olive tapenade and crispy artichokes.  All burgers come with tomato, lettuce, onion and pickles.  You can also order toppings a la carte.  There are a few salads to choose from as well.  And they make an extremely tempting milkshake.  It’s not on the menu, but I recommend ordering a “black and white” shake, made with vanilla ice cream and chocolate syrup.  They also have beer and wine.

The kids’ menu has the basics: grilled cheese, hot dog, kids’ hamburger, cheeseburger or chicken sandwich.  Each is served with curly fries.

Aside from the menu, things that make this place kid-friendly are the accessibility—it’s a big space with plenty of room to maneuver a stroller.  The noise volume is usually pretty high, so you won’t feel self-conscious if you have a babbling baby or a talkative 3 year old along.  The floors are cement, so anything that gets spilled or dropped won’t be a big deal.  The sidewalk patio is an easy place to sit with all the distractions of the Lafayette/ Fulton intersection to keep kids entertained.  Waitstaff have always been friendly and patient with us too—the people we’ve met at 67 Burger seem to enjoy kids.

Have you eaten here with kids?  How was it?

High chairs—Yes

Space for strollers—Yes

Kids’ menu—Yes

Food delivery—No

Baby Changing Area—No

Outdoor space—Yes

Potential pitfalls—Why are floor drains always a toddler magnet?

67 Burger

Hours:

11:30 am - 10 pm Sunday-Thursday 11:30 am - 11 pm Friday-Saturday

67 Lafayette Ave. near Fulton St. Tel. 718.797.7150 www.67burger.com

Greene Grape Environmental Events

The below details both kid- and grown-up friendly Earth Day events at Greene Grape and Provisions in Fort Greene.  It's all happening within steps of Habana Outpost's season opener as well!

At The Greene Grape, we’re excited to celebrate Earth Day Weekend April 18/19 and the return of our neighbor, Habana Outpost, from its winter hibernation. Join us for the following special events all weekend!

PLANT SALE AND SEED BOMBS

Outside Greene Grape Provisions, 753 Fulton at South Portland, the Brooklyn Brownstone Garden District will hold an edible plant sale and help kids make ‘seed bombs’ using recycled coffee grounds from the coffee bar that will hopefully lead to a summer floral explosion in Fort Greene!   Plants for sale will include Dwarf Grey Sugar Peas (the peas and the leaves are edible and it can be grown inside), Ho Lang Tau (an Asian pea which is a delicacy and you can also eat the peas and the leaves and grow it inside) and Nasturtium (edible flowers). An expert on edible plants and flowers will be on hand to answer questions.  Plant sale will be both April 18 and April 19 from 10am-5pm.

WINE TASTINGS

While the kids are waiting for their seed bombs to dry, the parents can mosey over to The Greene Grape Wine store at 765 Fulton where we will be holding an all-day tasting of environmentally-friendly wines. From a malbec packed in a tetrapak to organic wines to local NY state wines, there are many ways to reduce your wine drinking carbon footprint without sacrificing the quality of your wine. The tasting schedule is as follows:

Saturday, April 18 12pm-7pm Think Global, Drink Local

By supporting local growers and producers, we are cutting out both the cost of transportation and the damage that gasoline leaves on our environment. Alie, the founder of Brooklyn Oenology, a Brooklyn label that uses New York grapes and labels by Brooklyn artists, will pour her Social Club White 2007. From 2-4, Pure vodka, made from upstate NY apples, will be mixing and sampling cocktails.  We’ll also open 3 wines from our monthly New York Cork Club, which features 2 new wines each month from the Empire State.

Sunday, April 19 12pm-7pm Economical and Earth-Friendly

We’ll pour 4 organic wines all under $15 including a 1-liter malbec in a tetrapak (Yellow+Blue Malbec 2007).

Earth Day at Habana Outpost

It's time once again for the popular eco-eatery to open for a new season!  Here's to tasty corn from the truck and warm summer nights in the Habana yard.

This year, owner Sean Meenan plans kick off his 2009 season with an Earth Day Expo. The two day free event will feature Green Crafts and face painting for children sponsored by Habana Works and The Leadership Learning Lab, a Kid’s Eco-Fashion Show with the Scrapkins, and a Recycled Art Show featuring the art work of local students. There will also be plenty of information for adults - groups like Green Homes NYC, Transportation Alternatives, Green Spaces and Brooklyn Green Drinks will be on hand as well as Habana Outpost suppliers; Solar Energy Systems, Tri State Bio Diesel and Rolling Press.

The following is a schedule of Earth Day events for young and old alike:

Earth Day Expo at Habana Outpost

Two Days of Good Green Fun for the Whole Family!

The Earth Day Expo at Habana Outpost is a chance for the whole family to get started with a healthier, greener lifestyle by offering free activities your whole family can enjoy

When:

Saturday April 18th and Sunday, April 19th 12-6pm

Where:

Habana Outpost 757 Fulton Street (Corner of South Portland) Brooklyn, NY

Directions:

C train to Lafayette / G to Fulton / N,R,4,5 to Atlantic –Pacific

Contact:

For more information please check out www.HabanaOutpost.com

E-mail: info@ecoeatery.com

Phone: 718 858 9500

Schedule of Events

Saturday and Sunday 12-6

Free “eco-friendly” face painting

Have your little ones turned into ladybugs, butterflies and bumble bees as they learn about the importance these vital insects are to our environment

Saturday 1:00pm

Kids Eco-Fashion Show with the Scrapkins

Watch these kids walk the runway in the inventive recycled fashions of the Scrapkins

Saturday and Sunday 12-6

Eco Arts / Carfts and Games

Join us in the Kids Corner where your kids can spend the day crafting away while learning about the environment and recycling. Brought to by Habana Works, Leadership Learning Lab and The Scrapkins

Saturday and Sunday 12-6

Recycled Art Show

The art of local students will be on display throughout the weekend with the winners being announced on Saturday at 1:30pm

Saturday and Sunday 12-6

Fun for Parents too!

Throughout the weekend local community groups focusing on sustainability will be handing out information, giving free samples and selling the wares

Easter Egg Hunt Saturday

Cadman Church on Lafayette and Clinton will be holding their annual Easter Egg Hunt this Saturday!  A great traditional spring event for families in the neighborhood.

Volunteering around Clinton Hill

This is the first in a series on ways families can make a positive contribution to our community through volunteerism.  Our fair borough offers so much to its residents, and here’s a chance to give something back to Brooklyn while teaching our kids to be responsible world citizens. In celebration of the crocuses, tulip shoots and forsythia blooms I’ve seen emerging in the last week or so, this set of volunteer opportunities has a hooray-for-spring theme:

First off, the Fort Greene Association is sponsoring an initiative called “Green Fort Greene & Clinton Hill.” Part of this effort includes putting up signs that say “Do not place unsolicited advertising materials on this property” at neighborhood residences. Children and/or their parents can become block chiefs, going door to door on a block to get signs put up. If you’re interested in getting involved, contact info@greenfgch.org, call Marcus Attorneys at (718) 643-6555 or stop by 13 Greene Avenue. You can read more about Green Fort Greene & Clinton Hill at www.greenfgch.org.

Also in keeping with our spring theme, a group called 21st Century Plowshare aims to “sow wildflower seeds on every single patch of abandoned soil in the Brooklyn neighborhood of Bed Stuy this April. By early summer, there should be so many wildflowers growing in the untended treepits, vacant lots, half-built developments and other tiny scraps of neglected soil in Bed Stuy that the whole neighborhood effectively turns into a meadow.”  This mission caught the attention of Bed Stuy Blog a while back (http://www.bedstuyblog.com/2009/03/09/the-bed-stuy-meadow-project/). I like the concept of a flower-blanketed Bed Stuy so much that I thought it bore repeating here.  If you’re interested in getting involved, check out www.21stcenturyplowshare.com.  And, come to think of it, there are some empty lots in Clinton Hill/ Fort Greene that could use beautifying too…

Or, you could combine community service, recycling and spring cleaning by making a donation to the Salvation Army.  Drop off is at 22 Quincy Street, right near the Broken Angel site.  Don’t forget to get a receipt—there’s nothing wrong with getting a little tax deduction while performing a good deed!  It’s open most days, but you may want to call 1-800-SA-TRUCK before heading over.

And lastly, now that warmer weather is headed our way, the days of stoop sales and lemonade stands will soon be upon us.  Why not help your kids run one of these and donate the proceeds to a good cause?

PS011K's 2nd Annual Silent Auction

Working in arts/education I am reminded everyday by two things that NYC public school's seriously lack: money and the arts.  However, something that makes any school better (and my job easier) is a dedicated P.T.A. While walking on Waverly the other day, I noticed a poster on the door of PS011K advertising their second annual silent auction that is sponsored by their P.T.A.  Well, I decided to spread the word via CHB in order to help out 11K and their wonderful P.T.A.  Schools, just like everyone else right now, are feeling the hurt in their wallets and it's evident when speaking to some teachers.

Recently, at work, I spoke to a teacher of a school that the non-profit I work for has partnered with for a couple of years.  When I asked her if they were going to continue with more programming this year she vehemently (and as new yorkerly as possible) informed me that they had no money and that I should call Bloomberg and ask for relief.

Anecdotes asside, here are the details for the event and it sure does sound like a good time:

PS011K PTA's 2nd Annual Silent Auction April 24th 6-9pm Lafyette Presbyterian Church 85. South Oxford st.

Raffles, Food, Drink Babysitting Provided Live Entertainment

Wine Tasting by Gnarly Vines

$10 at the Door $20 for Wine Tasting

Online Resources for Brooklyn Parents

One thing everyone reading this blog has in common:  we all sit in front of a computer screen on a semi-regular basis.  So, I thought I’d put together a listing of websites and blogs that are helpful resources for pregnant women and parents in our ‘hood. A great asset most local parents probably already know about is the Fort Greene Kids Yahoo group.  It’s a good place to reconnect with a lost baby hat, buy a cheap second-hand stroller, and even sometimes find an apartment (I have done all these things with the help of FG Kids, in fact).  There is also a group for expectant parents and parents of babies called Fort Greene Babies, and one for Bed Stuy families called Bed Stuy Kids.  To join these groups, send an email message to the moderator.  You can do this by visiting: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/fgkids,   http://groups.yahoo.com/group/fortgreenebabies, or http://groups.yahoo.com/group/bedstuykids.

A Child Grows in Brooklyn is another site I like a lot.  Run by local mom Karen, it offers information for pregnant women and parents in Brooklyn including recommendations for pediatricians, resources for finding childcare, and green parenting tips.  Visit:  www.achildgrowsinbrooklyn.com.

Pregnant women in the neighborhood should check out www.choicesinchildbirth.org, where you can find information on local hospitals’ childbirth intervention rates (cesarean, epidural, induction, etc.) and compare them to rates of other NYC hospitals.  You can also download the New York Guide to a Healthy Birth, which has listings of local midwives, doulas, bodyworkers, and more.  Full disclosure:  I serve on the organization’s board. You can also use the Birth Survey at www.thebirthsurvey.com to read feedback about doctors and midwives you might be considering for your birth or to give anonymous feedback if you’ve had a baby recently.

Still Hip, our local shop for used kids’ clothing and gear, also has classes (for example, baby-wearing, infant CPR and cloth-diapering) as well as playgroups and activities.  Visit  www.stillhipbrooklyn.com for details and scheduling.

For parents of school-age children, www.insideschools.org has a ton of useful information to help you navigate the maze that is the NYC public school system.  You can find comprehensive information about gifted and talented programs, school choice, ESL programs, how to apply to kindergarten, and lots more.  The reviews of individual schools are helpful as a jumping off point too.

The New York City Parks Department has a user-friendly website with a ton of helpful information for families.  There are listings of pools, basketball courts, nature centers, playgrounds, zoos and aquariums, ice skating rinks and more.  It is possible to search by location or use a calendar to find upcoming events.  You may go to the site to find things in our own neighborhood, but you’ll probably also come away with some nice ideas for daytrips to other parts of the city.  Check out: www.nycgovparks.org.

In a similar vein, the Brooklyn Public Library has a site at www.brooklynpubliclibrary.org where you can do things like order a library card online, get help with homework, and search a database designed for kids.

Some additional websites and blogs:

Go City Kids at http://gocitykids.parentsconnect.com/region/new-york-ny-usa Time Out New York Kids at www.timeout.com/newyork/kids www.mommypoppins.com

www.mysidewalkchalk.blogspot.com

Since there are so many websites for NY parents, this is just the tip of the iceberg. What online parenting resources can’t you live without?

Places to Eat with Kids: Anima

As the new blogger on the topic of parenting in and around Clinton Hill, I’m launching a series of reviews of local kid-friendly establishments.  Fortunately for the many families in the neighborhood, most restaurants here are laid-back and welcoming to families with kids.  I should also mention that I’m entirely aware that not everyone wants to dine next to a baby or child, but I think it is possible to do it in a considerate, low-impact way.  So, readers, please be thoughtful when you take your kids out with you—I know you will be! The first restaurant I’d like to cover is a neighborhood favorite of mine, Anima Italian Bistro.  Anima is our go-to place for weekend brunch (love the French toast!), but their dinner and lunch options are also good.  The food can be described as Italian soul food: simple, hearty and well-priced.  In fact, “anima” means “soul” in Italian.  Options include a variety of panini sandwiches, salads, pastas and burgers. Heartier entrees like branzino with a lemon risotto cake, stuffed pork chop with fontina cheese and a braised lamb shank with polenta are available too.  And there’s a kids’ brunch menu, including chicken cutlet, risotto, and “pasta bambini.”

The atmosphere is casual—think Italian pop music and farm tables—and the staff are friendly and warm to all their patrons, including kids.  Like typical Mediterraneans, they dote on Jasper the minute we walk through the door, and any stress about being “those people with the kid” quickly melts away.  It also helps that the restaurant is spacious, so it has always been possible for us to sit far enough from other diners that Jasper and his overflowing gear won’t disrupt them.  The food and service are prompt.  The décor is attractive, with brick walls, a tin ceiling and rustic aged wooden bar and wine racks.  All in all, Anima’s a great option for a fun and relaxing meal with the little ones.  Buon appetito!

High chairs—Yes

Space for strollers—Yes

Kids’ menu—Yes

Food delivery—Yes

Baby Changing Area—No, but restrooms are large and clean.

Outdoor space—Maybe (the previous restaurant in this space had a great back garden, but it has not been re-opened yet during Anima’s time there—maybe Summer ’09?)

Potential pitfalls—The wine-bottle curtain—you’ll know it when you see it—is an irresistible temptation to the small and curious.  We found that out the hard way!

Anima Italian Bistro 458 Myrtle Avenue between Waverly and Washington Brooklyn New York 11205 718-422-1122

www.animabistro.com

Myrtle Ave Holiday Window Painting: TOMORROW

I was finally able to meet one of my contacts at MARP - Jennifer Stokes- in person earlier this week!  She and all the folks at MARP have been going above and beyond with innovative programming in our neighborhood. Tomorrow, artists will paint and decorate the windows of local businesses for the holiday season!  Passers-by will be able to vote for their favorite via text message.  This is a great opportunity to take a stroll, grab some lunch, a cocktail or some hot cocoa, and do some holiday shopping locally.

Here's the complete press release:

Join us this Saturday, 12/6 as local artists bring holiday cheer to Myrtle storefronts using paint and lights!

__________________________

Myrtle Holiday Windows Contest: A New Spin on a Popular Holiday Tradition

Watch as Local Artists Bring Sixteen Storefront Windows on Myrtle Avenue to Life with Festive Holiday Scenes!

FORT GREENE and CLINTON HILL, BROOKLYN, December 3, 2008 – On Saturday, December 6th from noon to 5pm, seventeen storefronts along Myrtle Avenue spanning from Washington Park to Classon Avenue will come to life with holiday spirit as part of the first annual Myrtle Holiday Windows Contest. The contest will bring local artists to Myrtle to create festive holiday scenes on a portion of each participating merchant's storefront window using paint and holiday lights. Residents and shoppers will be able to vote for their favorite holiday window via text message up until Christmas Day, and the winning artist or team of artists will receive $250 in Myrtle Avenue gift certificates as a prize. Take a stroll down Myrtle this Saturday, and watch the transformation take place! This project is sponsored by the Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership (the Partnership) as part of their ongoing effort to bring art to public spaces to draw more people to the retail corridor, and is supported in part by a generous donation from the PrattStore.

The Myrtle Holiday Windows Contest is the newest installment in the innovative Myrtle Windows Gallery program, which brings two-dimensional art traditionally limited to the private gallery to the public arena via the storefront window where it is accessible to anyone walking down the street. The Holiday Windows Contest creatively uses the storefront window as canvass to bring art to the community, holiday cheer to the avenue, and shoppers to Myrtle.

All the painting will take place during five hours beginning at noon this Saturday, December 6th, creating a sort of live art performance where the art-making is as much part of the excitement as the final product! All are invited to come out and watch the holiday magic happen. The following businesses are participating in the contest (listed in order travelling from west to east on Myrtle between Washington Park and Classon Avenue): Fort Greene SNAP (329 Myrtle); Ray's Barber Shop (331 Myrtle); Gnarly Vines (350 Myrtle); Burzh-wa (352 Myrtle); Kinara II (368 Myrtle); The Bakery (154 Vanderbilt); Duncan's Fish Market (385 Myrtle); Kiini Ibura (388 Myrtle); Kapella's (417 Myrtle); Karen's Body Beautiful (436 Myrtle); Jive Turkey (441 Myrtle); Joseph Tyler Salon (456 Myrtle); Barking Brown (468 Myrtle); Zaytoons (472 Myrtle); Optimum Care Rehab (474 Myrtle); Pillow Cafe (505 Myrtle); Square Root Café (584 Myrtle).

Special signage posted in each window will instruct viewers on how to cast a vote for their favorite holiday window via text message. The 'polls' will be open from December 6th through December 25th, when the winner will be announced on our website at www.myrtleavenue.org. The painted windows will be on display through early January.

"We're excited to put our own spin on holiday storefront windows traditionally seen in larger department stores, bringing cheer to Myrtle Avenue in a fun, unique way. We are proud to have professional artists, art students, and even local school teachers and students participating in this project. This is a wonderful expression of not just holiday spirit, but community involvement as well," explains Meredith Phillips Almeida, the Partnership's Director of Community Development. The Partnership hopes this contest will boost foot traffic to Myrtle Avenue during the holiday shopping season, and is encouraging residents to support the area's small businesses by shopping local during these tough economic times.

NY Mag Names PS 11 as One of the BEST

From their recent economics issue:

Congrats!

Day Care Fair at LIU

Check out local day care options and register your children at this upcoming Day Care Fair! Council Member Letitia James and Council Member Bill de Blasio Host a Brooklyn Day Care Fair on Saturday, November 22nd, from 10 am – 2 pm at the Long Island University - Brooklyn Campus

Do you need Day Care for your child?  Want to learn about affordable and subsidized day care centers in and near your neighborhood?

COME TO THE BROOKLYN DAY CARE FAIR TO LEARN ABOUT LOCAL CHILD CARE OPTIONS FOR YOU CHILD

At the Brooklyn Day Care Fair you can:

 Meet local Day Care Centers Director

 Enroll your child in Day Care

 Learn about eligibility for subsidized Day Cares

 Obtain information about immigrant needs

 Learn about options for newborn and infant care, as well as special needs

 Find out about care during non-traditional hours

ON-SITE enrollment for the child care centers through the Administration for Children’s Services [ACS] - in order to enroll you will need:

• Proof of Residence

• Proof Reason for Needing Child Care

• Legal Residency for Non Citizen Children

• Proof of Income

• Family Members

Door Prizes!!!  Door Prizes!!!  Door Prizes!!!