(Chow)down - Two Boots (or not to Boot)

'Two Boots' has been a NY pizza staple since 1987, with 8 locations in Manhattan and 1 in Brooklyn. Named after the geographical shapes of Italy and Louisiana, the idea behind 'Two Boots' came from two indie filmmakers who had a flair and love for Cajun food and culture. They took their love of Cajun food, added some Italian flavors, and opened their first shop at 37 Avenue A in the East Village. The pizza quickly became a fan favorite thanks to its unique and distinct cornmeal crust. If you have yet to try a slice from 'Two Boots' your wait is almost over as they will soon open on Newark Avenue in downtown Jersey City.

I recently emailed 'Two Boots' owner, Phil Hartman, to get the skinny on the new spot. Mr. Hartman stated that he hopes to be open "sometime in April," though no exact date was given. As someone who often tends to wobble to the 'chicken spot' or 'Paradise' after late-night bar hopping, I asked Phil if 'Two Boots' intends to be open late enough to help soak up the booze. "Yes," Phil responded, "we'll be open late enough to tend to the late-night revelers." With only 3 locations outside of the New York City, I was curious as to why they chose Jersey City for the next location? "We're in Jersey City because a) we think it's cool, and b) our friend and partner at this location, Aaron Morrill of 'Fizzy Lizzy' fame, lives nearby and is a huge JC advocate." Fair enough. The only thing left to do is get a slice recommendation for opening day. "I always recommend starting with a slice of plain cheese - which is not plain at all - and then, if you can handle spicy food, please try The Bayou Beast, a quintessential slice that combines Cajun and Italian flavors. Enjoy!" Enjoy indeed.

(Chow)down - The little Parlor that could

It's been more than a year since I had the pleasure of treating myself to 'Torico's' delicious homemade ice cream. Last summer was especially hard, as there seemed to be a vicious rumor spread around downtown every month or so that the opening was drawing near. And no matter how many times they would etch a new date onto the handwritten sign that was scotch taped to the front door, I still held out hope. 

(Spot)light - Whippet Good

Much has changed on Newark Avenue since I attended private school in the Paulus Hook section of downtown. Gone are the cornucopias of 99¢ stores (1 is still going strong) and in place the shell of what some call 'restaurant row.' Some stores have lasted the 3 decades I've spent wandering, such as Morlees, Helen's Pizza, Hudson Camera and astonishingly, National Discount. I've often wondered how National Discount affords to keep the lights on. Brimming with curiosity, I spent 20 minutes of my exciting day browsing the dusty shelves and walked away with no clear answer. Though one item stood out to me amongst the piles of trash; whippets.

Once left to late night trips into the now extinct head shops of 8th street, whippets are conveniently available just steps away from Barcade. Who knew? Clearly some of you have. Advertised on fluorescent signs that seem to demand me into an S&M act rather than a 30 second high, National Discount sells these little bullets by the box or individually. A loosie will set you back $1.50 while a box of 20 goes for $20. That's an average rise of $1 a year over the past decade. Whether you're looking to make some homemade whip cream or need a quick rush of hippie crack, National Discount has the goods.

Cracker, balloons and brain cells not included.