Online photos emphasize the quantity of candy available in this 90-year store---tons probably---wrapped or jarred, all carefully categorized because without extreme order, chaos would wear the licorice crown.
Growing up, my only experience with American candy was via cultural imposition---American pop songs (A Rose and a Baby Ruth) and TV advertisements (Peter Paul 'Almond Joy') mainly, but that intrusion was pervasive enough that I am still awed when I encounter such American largesse, here available every day, by the pound. More than 2,000 items.
For example, I found Bacon Gumballs at $4 per pack, 'Bitch Be Cool' mint gum at $1.50, and 'Fuck Me Like the Government' gum for $1.50 per pack (8 pieces). There's more: 'You're Kind of a Dick' brand gum is also available.
Is this carnality liberal, conservative or 'Trumpian'? For traditionalists, there is still Beemans and Black Jack Chewing Gum at 60¢ per package but I saw no Beechnut.
Across the street is a Hispanic breakfast joint where you can get a normal---not immense---American breakfast for around $5 (!)---eggs, toast, potatoes and sausage (or whatever). Coffee extra.
El Castillo de Jagua is clean, well staffed, boisterous and not too busy. Large, tropical fruit milkshakes like sour sop, sapodilla and papaya are only $4 (!). That's what I order with breakfast and I don't even ask if they are made with ice cream because I don't want to know. I pretend I know, hoping they are made with low fat yoghurt.
Find your way with 304 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
A walk through Central Park in New York is probably your best way of appreciating the folliage change colors. I recommend walking along the allée of elms.
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The American Folk Art Museum in New York hosts free live jazz and eclectic concerts, with thoughtful exhibits and a folksy gift shop worth browsing.
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"Sisters" in New York is a Jamaican restaurant. Let's put it like this: when I go to Jamaica, I don't seek a restaurant until I come back!
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"Patisserie des Ambassades" in New York has extensive opening hours and prepares dishes & desserts for every time of day. It's refreshingly old-fashioned.
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"Loeb Boathouse Restaurant" in New York's Central Park is in the vicinity of the Bethesda Fountain and I think it's best for a warm-weather drink...
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In the lobby of 1166 Avenue of the Americas in NYC hang some significant tapestries by Lichtenstein & a large bronze homage to capitalism by Otterness...
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The MTA in NYC offers subway "nostalgia rides" during the summer months on old cars from the '30s and '40s. Book your ticket now!
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"Teranga" in New York City, in the Africa Center, is a restaurant as well as a library. It feels musical and maintains a feeling of communal comfort...
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"Grand Bazaar" NYC is the city's largest outdoor market, also with an indoor section. Here you can find absolutely everything and for bargain prices!
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S&P Sandwich Shop, opened in 1928, serves Jewish classics like matzoh ball soup and latkes in a nostalgic setting that feels like stepping back in time. A must-visit!
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"Rubenstein Atrium" in New York's Lincoln Center has a free performance every Thursday night. I recommend you try to arrive around 18:30 to catch a seat.
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