Sure, I know how to get around on the NYC subway!

No problem. Except for the minor issue of missing my desired stop by 14 blocks. But, here’s where it gets good! If I hadn’t been in a daze, looking at e-mail, I would have gotten off the subway where planned and gone directly to ABC Carpet and Home, for my regular pilgrimage, to this beautiful retail shrine of everything “home”.

Instead, I ended up spending my milk money at this beautiful shop, Far Eastern Arts & Antiques, with the help of the owner, Stephen Gano. Located at the corner of Broadway and 11th Street, I would have missed it completely, had I gotten off at 23rd Street. So, it was destiny!

I found this wonderful old lacquered chest in a great brick red color. And this green plant stand is another favorite!

I also found this sweet little folk art horse and a couple of great silver cuffs.

The photographs don’t do these fabric pieces justice, but I’ll show better pictures when I can. One is a child’s kimono, another is a batik fabric sarong, (pillows?) and a painting on fabric of a wedding scene.

Stephen opened the shop in 1964 and is an expert on Asian art, if ever you’re in the market for this sort of thing, I hope you’ll pay him a visit.

Now, what could be better to follow such an excursion, than lunch with Mr. Wonderful at Gramercy Tavern? It is one of the prettiest restaurants in town and the food and service are wonderful as well. This was our second visit and we loved it just as much as the first time!

They have their own on-staff floral designer, who’s designs are stunning! From the window, you see three simple iron urns with flowers, followed by an amazing arrangement when you walk in the door!

Plus more, everywhere you look!

in the ladies room, on the table…everywhere.

This is a restaurant that pays attention to the details. For instance, they not only serve a selection of sugars with the iced tea, but also a small carafe of simple syrup, in case you prefer that option to sweeten your drink. How fun!

Well, if I’m not boring you with this New York stuff, I’ll have more to share soon.

Until we meet again, safe travels!,
Barbara