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Binge-Worthy Shows + Irish Pubs Worth Checking Out

Binge-Worthy Shows

By Jaya Daniel

With the weekend upon us, there are a lot of options to keep you busy. But if you’re looking for a quiet weekend in, here’s a list of some great new, and old, shows that are worth the binge!

24, Amazon Prime

With a pilot in the works for 24: Legacy, it’ll be nice to go back and see how it all began. True, we got to watch Jack Bauer back in action with 24: Live Another Day, but nothing beats the show in it’s prime, especially the first couple of seasons. The dynamic of the show keeps you on the edge of your seat, as there’s nothing Jack Bauer can’t do.

Fringe, Amazon Prime, Netflix

When unexplained occurrences keep happening, the FBI creates a new task force to help solve, or in many instances, contain, the situation. Forced to work with an unstable scientist and his son, Agent Dunham has her hands full. The sci-fi series is full of weird sciences, alternate realities and intriguing characters.

Veep, HBO, Amazon Prime

Being Vice President of the United States is nothing like Selina thought it would be. Sifting through the bullshit that is politics, Selina and her team navigate the day to day and do everything they can to make an impression, eventually aiming for the presidency. This comedy is a refreshing take on politics and one that we don’t get to see very often.

Mr. Robot, USA Network

Elliot, a young hacker, uses his skills to help learn more about the people around him, as well as threaten people into making different life choices. But, when he’s recruited by a secret society to create a computer program that will take down the banks and wipe away everyone’s debt, Elliot realizes things aren’t exactly what it seems. A complex story clouded in conspiracies, Mr. Robot is smart and captivating.

Game of Thrones, HBO

Game of Thrones is one of the best shows to binge-watch, as it’s full of convoluted storylines and more characters than you know what to do with. By watching the show back-to-back it allows you to keep track of all the small details, which come in handy as each season progresses. Sometimes it’s hard to remember to who’s related to whom and why everyone wants to kill each other…even though it’s not hard to remember why the Lannisters always have a target on their backs.

Honorable Mention:

• Silicon Valley, HBO – Experience the ins and outs of what’s it’s really like for a startup in the tech world of Silicon Valley.
• The West Wing, Netflix – Being President is a hard job, but having the right staff can make all the difference. The West Wing brings us an inside look, not just at the president, but everyone who works in the White House.
• Breaking Bad, Netflix – When diagnosed with cancer, most people reflect on life. Walter White, on the other hand, decides to start his own meth lab with a former student.
• The Affair, Showtime – An affair between two strangers destroys families and leads to sex, lies and a best selling novel.
• The Goldbergs, ABC, Hulu – Life in the 80’s is full of VHS tapes, spandex and big hair. Luckily, Adam is there to chronicle it all for us, from his quirky siblings, to his playboy grandfather, to his overbearing, but hilarious, mother.

Irish Pubs

By Soraya Hanzus

Courtesy of McKeon's Bar & Restuarant

McKeon's Bar & Restaurant
While this authentic pub is best known for brunch (its traditional Irish breakfast is a must), the entire menu is just as memorable -- with both Irish fare and American bar food. Highlights include fish ‘n chips, Irish sausage burgers, a roast beef sandwich smothered with mozz, and shepherd's pie braised in savory gravy. Check out this gem when your favorite sports teams are playing thanks to McKeon’s seven plasma TVs.

996 McLean Ave, Yonkers
(914) 530-2386

www.mckeonspub.com

Courtesy of Heritage Bar & Restaurant

Heritage Bar & Restaurant
This sports bar boasts local talent performing Irish music and dance, flat-screen TVs showing rugby games, and food to satisfy a diverse group -- with dishes like Dublin meatloaf, Thai curry puffs, and bacon and cabbage. Heritage is best for dinner and drinks during its Irish seisùns (a gathering of musicians playing traditional Irish music) on Sundays from 6 to 9 p.m.

960 McLean Ave, Yonkers
(914) 776-7532

heritagebarandrestaurant.com

Courtesy of Rory Dolans Restaurant & Bar

Rory Dolans Restaurant & Bar
Rory Dolans has a large selection at its 100-ft bar -- and prides itself on properly pouring a Guinness (check out the skillset needed to master this technique). Beyond the typical pub grub, there are genuine Irish comfort foods including lamb stew and baked steak-and-mushroom pie. Live entertainment often includes step dancers, singers, bagpipers, and more.

890 McLean Ave, Yonkers

(914) 776-2946

www.rorydolans.com

TV Bars We'd Like to Drink In + McGee's Pub: the HIMYM Bar

TV Show Bars We’d Like to Drink In

By Jaya Daniel

Have you ever watched a show and think how much fun it would be to hang out at the same bar as some of your favorite TV characters? From celebrating special occasions, to unwinding after a tough day, it’s nice to have a go-to spot that you can call your own, and some of our TV favorites had some really great places to hang out in. Let’s kick off St. Patrick’s Day with the five TV bars that seem like a great place to grab a drink!

Cheers, Cheers

Though Cheers may not be the household name it once was, this Boston bar still holds a place near and dear to my heart. It’s the original home away from home, where people come to be with their second family -- and not in the illicit ‘daddy has a second family’ kind of way -- and everyone knows your name. Admit it…there’s a part of you that wants to scream ‘Norm!’ every time a regular walks into your favorite bar.

Moe’s, The Simpsons

Moe’s may not be the classiest joint, and have one of the most pathetic bar owners there is, but it seemed like a relaxing place to visit after a day’s work -- or in Homer’s case a long day’s nap -- at the power plant. Sometimes it’s nice to go to a place where you can sit back, enjoy a Duff beer and talk your problems out with a man who’s got it worse than you.

Paddy’s Pub, It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia

Though a dirty hole in the wall bar that is owned by the most ridiculous group of misfits, Paddy’s Pub has been everything from a gay bar to a gambling parlor, as well as home to talent shows, modeling competitions and live bands. You may need a tetanus shot after leaving, but you’ll be sure to have an interesting time while there.

Snakehole Lounge, Parks and Recreation

Co-owned by Tom Haverford, you should expect nothing short of great music, an extravagant environment and ridiculous drink titles, like snake juice, at the Snakehole Lounge. And, with drinks strong enough to get Ron Swanson drunk, it seems like the perfect place to celebrate or just have a fun night out with friends.

MacLaren’s Pub, How I Met Your Mother

This go-to spot for Ted and his friends was a fun local hangout that was so inviting you felt like you were part of the gang. With it’s comfy booths and low-key environment, it seems like the perfect place to meet up with friends and unwind after a long day. MacLaren’s Pub is the type of place you’ll love to call your own.

Grab a Guinness this St. Patty’s Day at MacLaren’s -- err McGee’s -- Pub!

By Soraya Hanzus

Courtesy of McGee's Pub

In 250 Characters or Less:

Wishing you could enjoy a pint of Guinness at MacLaren’s this Thursday night with Barney Stinson and Lily Aldrin? Well you may not be able to meet up with your fave HIMYM characters, but you can still drink that pint at the real deal -- McGee’s Pub. 

What Works:

Manhattan is known for its tiny cramped pubs. Well that isn’t the case with McGee’s. This bar covers three full floors and offers a wide variety of draft beers. This is THE place for anyone who loves How I Met Your Mother. In addition to the above-average pub grub of dishes like Corned Beef Reuben and McGee’s Beef Chili Nachos, patrons must try the “Slutty Pumpkin” (Pinnacle Pumpkin Pie Flavored Vodka + Ginger Ale), “The Naked Man” (Bulleit Rye Whiskey + Ginger Ale Club Soda + Lemon Juice), and “The Pineapple Incident” (Captain Morgan, Parrot Bay Pineapple + Pineapple Juice & Grenadine + Cherry). And don’t miss out on How I Met Your Mother Mondays… Check out the “Woo” Wings, The “Bro Code” Combo, Suit Up Sandwich, and the No Questions Asked pasta.  

Be Aware:

It’s the “HIMYM bar” in Manhattan. Yes, it is big; but no, you will not get the same table every time you visit (unlike the crew of HIMYM on the show).

Overall Grade: A

240 W 55th Street in Manhattan

(212) 957-3536

mcgeespubny.com

Get Ready for St. Patrick's Day with our Top 5 Irish Mob Movies and a Glass of Jameson

Top 5 Irish Mobster Movies

By Jaya Daniel

Only one more day until St. Patrick’s Day. Why not get in the Irish spirit and enjoy some of our favorite Irish mobster flicks? Nothing will get you in the mood to drink whiskey more than enjoying the exploits of the fighting Irish.  

The Boondock Saints, 1999

Cast: Willem Dafoe, Sean Patrick Flanery, Norman Reedus

Two brothers begin killing off members of the mafia, not for revenge, but because they see it as a calling from God. Released from prison after accidentally killing two mafia members, they are considered heroes and see this as a sign to rid the world of evil. Interestingly enough, upon learning more about the murders, the detective in charge of the case is having trouble deciding whether the brothers are actually sinners or saints.

The Public Enemy, 1931

Cast: James Cagney, Jean Harlow, Edward Woods

Bootleggers during Prohibition, Tom and Mike are successful gangsters for Paddy Ryan’s gang. But, when a member of the gang dies, rival bootleggers sense weakness and a gang war breaks out. A bit of a hothead, Tom can’t seem to stay out of trouble and is determined to handle matters on his own terms.

Gangs of New York, 2002

Cast: Leonardo DiCaprio, Daniel Day-Lewis, Cameron Diaz

The Five Points district in New York is home to riots, corruption and gang violence. In 1863, Bill “The Butcher” is the most feared of the gang leaders, who wants the area to stay pure and free of immigrants. After witnessing his father’s death, Amsterdam is sent away from Five Points but returns years later -- determined to avenge his father. After finagling his way into The Butcher’s gang, Amsterdam bides his time and rising among the ranks until he can enact his revenge.

The Town, 2010

Cast: Ben Affleck, Rebecca Hall, Jon Hamm, Jeremy Renner, Blake Lively

Four hometown friends from Boston rob a bank and end up taking a bank manager as a hostage. They release her, unharmed, but Doug (Ben Affleck) goes back to see how much Claire, the manager, remembers of her captures. But, spending time with her has consequences he wasn’t expecting…he falls in love. Unfortunately, love isn’t really an option, as he has to hide his true identity from Claire as well as hide his relationship with Claire from his friends. It also doesn’t help that the FBI is after him and has evidence that could send his world crashing down.

The Departed, 2006

Cast: Leonardo DiCaprio, Matt Damon, Jack Nicholson, Martin Sheen, Mark Wahlberg

Corruption. Undercover informants. Love. Murder. The Departed has it all. Plagued in deception, the film is a cat and mouse chase between an undercover cop and a mole within the Boston police department, both racing to find out the identity of the other before their own cover is blown. Partnered with an exciting and interesting story, The Departed has an amazing cast with great chemistry.

Eat and Drink Like a Real Irish Man at Jameson’s Barrelman’s Feast

By Soraya Hanzus

In 250 Characters or Less:

Irish whiskey + pan-fried hake + Jameson creme brulee + live music and dancing = need we say more? Jameson’s Barrelman’s Feast is a unique experience that makes it a must on every Dublin sightseeing checklist.  

What Works:

The whiskey, of course! It is recommended to start the experience with a tour of the factory (hint: raise your hand quick when asked to do so, with the intention of having the opportunity to taste different brands of Irish whiskey and even become Jameson certified!), stay around for another drink in the bar area, and then spend the evening at the Barrelman’s Feast. And while the whiskey is incomparable, the food is even better. The four-course meal includes a number of options including pork cutlet, pan-fried hake with sour cream, and ginger marinated gravlax (cured salmon) -- with our favorite dishes being the dill mashed potatoes and Jameson creme brulee.

Be Aware:

Yes, a Jameson cocktail is complimentary. But that is where the freebies end with the purchase of a Barrelman’s Feast ticket. Want more whiskey? Bring cash.

Overall Grade: B+

Bow St, Smithfield Village in Dublin, Ireland

+353 1 8072348

www.jamesonwhiskey.com/us/visit-us/oldjamesondistillery/barrel-mans-feast

Drink Like the Irish and Party Like Tina Fey and Amy Poehler in Sisters

Bring Home the Funny with Sisters on DVD

By Jaya Daniel

Cast: Tina Fey, Amy Poehler, Ike Barinholtz, Maya Rudolph, James Brolin, Dianne Wiest

In 250 Characters or Less:

After finding out their parents have sold their childhood home, the Ellis sisters decide to throw one last party to commemorate the end of an era. But when a group of middle-aged parents get a chance to let loose, things quickly get out of hand.

What Works:

There are no pretenses or gimmicks that make this film a 'chick flick,' but instead has smart, funny writing that makes this a really fun to watch comedy. Fey and Poehler are comedy gold...if only they could do everything together. There's an ease to them that makes it so much fun to watch them together, and even believable as siblings.

While Fey and Poehler are definitely more than enough reason to watch this film, there's also a great supporting cast that rounds out the film wonderfully. Maya Rudolph plays Kate's high school nemesis, who really just wants to be one of the 'cool kids'; James Brolin and Dianne Wiest play Kate and Maura's parents; and Ike Barinholtz is Maura's love interest. We have come to know and love Barinholtz as ex-con turned nurse practitioner, Morgan on The Mindy Project. He's a bit pathetic and over the top on the show though, so it's a welcome change to see him as a normal, functioning part of society. This cast, combined with smart writing, leaves us with an all around enjoyable film that will have you laughing throughout.

Be Aware:

Nothing! There’s not one part of this film that I found boring or unamusing. It’s smart, funny and heartfelt.

Sisters is available on DVD and for download today.

Overall Grade: A

Drink Like the Irish

By Soraya Hanzus

Courtesy of Splashnology.com

It’s that time of year again… We are only two days away from St. Patrick’s Day!

And come March 17, everyone is Irish -- and a drinker -- despite where you come from.

And as the Irish know the real deal when it comes to drinking, the following are the do’s and don’ts as a guideline for everything you need to know this week… 

1. Never mix your Irish whiskey with a chaser. Irish whiskey is to be served neat or on the rocks -- with no exceptions to this rule.

2. Think twice before ordering an Irish Car Bomb. Despite many thinking the Irish love this shot, it is actually insulting to numerous Irish citizens. Why? Well Irish Car Bombs are named after the turbulent time in history of car bombing in Ireland. Eeek…


3. Similar to that of Irish Car Bombs, the Irish also aren’t fans of “Black and Tans” -- the popular combo of mixing Guinness (hence the “black” designation) with Harp (“tan”) beer in the same glass. The term “Black and Tan” was named as such for history war time reasons.

4. The only real “acceptable” Irish beers are Guinness, Harp, Smithwick’s, and Magner’s. Killian’s Irish Red isn’t even available in Ireland -- only here in the US.

5. If Guinness is the weapon of choice for the night, know the six-step 119.5 second process to pouring the perfect pint: www.guinness-storehouse.com/en/guinness-academy

Review: Tumbledown + The Dead Poet

Tumbledown Takes a Bit of a Stumble

By Jaya Daniel

Cast: Jason Sudeikis, Rebecca Hall, Joe Manganiello, Blythe Danner

In 250 Characters or Less:

A young widow is forced to come to terms with her husband’s death – a folk singer who died in a tragic accident – when a writer comes along, interested in writing about the young singer’s life.

What Works:

Two words…Jason Sudeikis. A college professor who wants to tell the story of a young musician he admired, Andrew has to deal with a tempestuous widow who does all she can to keep her husband’s memories to herself. But, in trying to find out the truth about his life, as well as his death, Andrew is forced to come to terms with some demons of his own. Sudeikis is charming and a good sport, considering the roadblocks thrown his way, including a woman who is unnecessarily rude and malevolent.

Be Aware:

I found it incredibly hard to sympathize with Hannah, the young widow. While you can feel for her loss, she makes a bad first impression and continues to act in a way that makes it hard for you to feel compassion for her situation. While trying to protect her husband’s legacy, she’s rough and coarse. Though at times you could sense Hannah’s vulnerability, it was gone as soon as it arrived.

Tumbledown is available on iTunes and Amazon video.

Overall Grade: C+

 

The Dead Poet

By Soraya Hanzus

Courtesy of TheDeadPoet.com

In 250 Characters or Less:

The Dead Poet is the place to be for all things whiskey, popcorn, conversation, literature and, most importantly, beer! This laid back establishment satisfies patrons from all walks of life -- everyone from college kids to the after-work crew.

What Works:

This Irish pub (hint: “Irish” is the theme of this week… stay tuned for many more related posts!) boasts a lengthy beer menu that includes numerous craft beers well beyond what a Budweiser or Miller are able to offer. It is also known for pouring one of the finest pints of Guinness in the area -- and is always served with a shamrock! Another plus is the free popcorn that pairs nicely with the beer and relaxed atmosphere. In addition to beer, the bar offers an extensive cocktail list including a large Irish whiskey menu.

What most differentiates The Dead Poet though is that it was created to celebrate the lives and spirits of famous writers and poets. As such, the bar’s walls are decorated with portraits, quotes, and poems. To top it off, patrons can literally take home a book -- choosing from the library of classic literature offered at the bar.

Be Aware:

Do not mistake The Dead Poet for many of the other seemingly similar bars in the Upper West Side. It may look like any of the other dives lining Amsterdam Ave, but this is no Bourbon Street or Jake’s Dilemma… No bras hanging from the ceiling. No two-for-one tequila shot deal. And that isn’t a bad thing. The Dead Poet is a much more sophisticated joint than its next-door neighbors -- without the pretension of a wine bar. This easily overlooked bar simply prides itself in serving up beer from many parts of the world for patrons to enjoy during a quiet evening with friends. Just know this isn’t a place to indulge in martinis while dancing to Britney. If that’s your cup of tea, head down the street to The Gin Mill.

Overall Grade: A

450 Amsterdam Avenue in Manhattan’s Upper West Side

(212) 595-5670

www.thedeadpoet.com