Oscar Review: Bridge of Spies and Old '76 House

Cast: Tom Hanks, Alan Alda, Mark Rylance, Amy Ryan

In 250 Characters or Less:

An insurance lawyer, James Donovan (Tom Hanks) is sent to Berlin to negotiate the trade of a Soviet spy for a CIA spy pilot. The catch? If caught, the American government can’t acknowledge Donovan’s efforts and bring him home safely.

What Works:

Director Steven Spielberg brings us a suspenseful thriller of espionage and backdoor negotiations. Not necessarily a front-runner to win best picture at this year’s Academy Awards, Bridge of Spies is a suspenseful film supported by a strong cast. Tom Hanks gives a bold performance as a lawyer stuck between doing what is right and what his country expects of him. Uninhibited by expectations, but bound by his sense of duty, he risks his life to bring home, not only the captured pilot, but a young American scholar who is unjustly detained under the charge of espionage.

Be Aware:

A psychological thriller, Bridge of Spies isn’t actually full of spy tactics and espionage. It’s more a tale of backdoor deals and shady practices. Interesting, and at times aggravating as you watch the system be manipulated by greed and discrimination, the story will keep you intrigued from beginning to end.

Overall Grade: B+

Old ‘76 House

Courtesy of Old 76 House

In 250 Characters or Less:

Old ‘76 House is recommended for many reasons and nicely ties into the theme of espionage for a dinner after seeing Bridge of Spies. It actually used to serve as a prison for a former spy!

What Works:

One of America’s oldest taverns -- and in fact the oldest in the state of New York -- Old ‘76 House used to serve as a meeting place and safe haven for patriots during the Revolutionary War. This rustic-looking establishment actually now serves as a national landmark. In addition to its rich history, this charming restaurant boasts four fireplaces, live music, and unique wine dinners. Old ‘76 House offers a fun and distinctive menu which includes items such as its Alligator Empanada, Yankee Pot Roast, Cowboy Veal Chop, Roasted Amish Chicken, and American Red Deer. Also check out its Caesar Salad, which is specially prepared tableside.

Be Aware:

While the varied menu offers patrons with many options to choose from, it’s often better to stick to the experts like Ruth’s Chris when it comes to a few of the meat dishes. Our recommendation is to hold off on standard menu items like the sirloin and duck -- which can sometimes be a little dry -- and opt for more of the appetizer options. If anything, definitely swing by for a drink at the very least and enjoy a fun night in a historic setting while listening to the lively music.

Overall Grade: B

110 Main Street in Tappan

(845) 359-5476

www.76house.com

Oscar Review: The Martian and Emma’s Ale House

Cast: Matt Damon, Jessica Chastain, Jeff Daniels, Jessica Chastain, Kate Mara, Sebastian Stan, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Kristen Wiig

In 250 Characters or Less:

Mark Watney is left alone on Mars to fend for himself...a planet where nothing grows.  A botanist, he figures out how to grow potatoes and stay alive, until he and his team, both on Earth and in space, can figure out a way to get him home safely.

What Works:

While the film isn't exactly action-packed, it is full of exciting, and at certain times, nerve wracking moments. From the second Watney is left on the planet, to watching him figure out ways to survive, to finding a way back home, the movie is nothing short of entertaining. Matt Damon was incredibly charming and funny, but also seemed a bit un-phased and arrogant at times. I would think that someone who was stuck on a planet, with a slim chance of survival, would freak out a little more. But, his hubris, sarcastic wit and survival skills helped keep him alive and made the two and half hour film go by quickly.

Rounding out a great film was a great cast.  Joining Damon in this epic journey was Jeff Daniels, Chiwetel Ejiofor and Kristen Wiig as NASA employees and Jessica Chastain, Kate Mara and Sebastian Stan as fellow astronauts.

Be Aware:

There wasn’t much we didn’t enjoy about this film, but you should go in knowing a lot of the film is Damon, alone, either coming up with ways to plant potatoes or talking to a video journal. It’s not exactly sit on the edge of your seat, riveting content, but Damon does a great job keeping it interesting for the audience.

Overall Grade: A

EmmasAleHouse.com

Emma’s Ale House

In 250 Characters or Less:

Mark Watney keeps himself alive by growing and eating lots of potatoes. Had he known about Emma’s Ale House, he could have taken a page out of its playbook and spiced things up with its variety of whipped potatoes, french fries and tater tots.

What Works:

This quirky pub prides itself on comfort food -- oh, and the fact that “Emma” is the owner’s dog! -- and loads on the carbs with its multitude of potato options. Be sure to check out its sides of handcut fries with sea salt, sweet potato fries, shoestring combo fries, tater tots, whipped potatoes, garlic mashed potatoes and -- our favorite -- the wasabi mashed potatoes. What we love most about this place though is that it’s a friendlier, cleaner and more mature environment than the typical underaged crowd frequented by the average White Plains bar.

Be Aware:

Despite the fun and unique decor, remember this is still a bar and that standard pub grub often applies here. While the potatoes are highly recommended, don’t put this place on par with a five-star restaurant. Our suggestion is to stick to the standard fare such as the hot dogs and side dishes and to not go too crazy ordering anything more involving.

Overall Grade: B+

68 Gedney Way in White Plains

(914) 683-3662
EmmasAleHouse.com

Enjoy a Girls Night: How To Be Single and Martinis

Cast: Dakota Johnson, Rebel Wilson, Leslie Mann, Damon Wayans Jr., Anders Holm, Alison Brie

© 2015 Warner Bros.

In 250 Characters or Less:

Times have changed and being single doesn’t mean what it used to. How To Be Single brings us six singles as they navigate love and life in the Big Apple.

What Works:

The film, generally speaking, is a fun movie to watch with the girls. It shows the pitfalls of being single, whether you’re looking for the love of your life, or a one-night stand. Rebel Wilson is great comic relief, though a bit exaggerated at times. Wilson plus Leslie Mann make this movie worth watching. Mann always has impeccable comedic timing and is one of those actresses that, no matter the role she’s playing, is always relatable to audiences. Also in the film are a love-struck and endearing Jake Lacy -- similar to his character in Obvious Child; a more serious Damon Wayans Jr. -- a role he plays well, but we’re not used to seeing; and Anders Holm and Alison Brie, who share genuine chemistry with each other on screen.

Be Aware:

Like many ‘singles looking for love’ movies, the theme revolves around finding happiness in a relationship only after finding true happiness within oneself. The clichéd theme could have been bearable if they didn’t try so hard to make certain points. For example, Alice (Johnson) always had trouble unzipping her dresses and needed someone to be there to help her. But, when she finally learned how to truly be on her own, she creates a contraption that will unzip her dress for her. I have one word for that. NO. The dramatics she underwent anytime she had to unzip was just pathetic. And that’s how many of the antics in the film felt…forced and a bit corny.

Overall Grade: C+

Courtesy of Redbook Magazine

What’s better for a girls night out, or in, than some fun drinks to keep your night exciting? Try the below martini recipe and let us know what you think!

Razzle Dazzle Martini

1 oz Raspberry Puree (see note)

2 oz raspberry vodka

2 oz cranberry juice

Splash of lemon juice

1 raspberry, for garnish

Pour the raspberry puree into an empty martini glass. Separately, combine the raspberry vodka, white cranberry juice, and lemon juice in a cocktail shaker filled with ice and shake vigorously. Strain over the raspberry puree. Drop in a whole raspberry for garnish.

Note: To make your own raspberry puree, blend a pint of fresh raspberries with 1/2 to 1 oz simple syrup. To make simple syrup, combine 1 part sugar and 1 part water. Stir until completely dissolved. You can also heat on stove-top to dissolve faster.

Source: Redbook Magazine

Oscar Review: The Revenant and Copacabana Steakhouse

Cast: Leonardo DiCaprio, Tom Hardy, Domhnall Gleeson, Will Poulter

In 250 Characters or Less:

Hugh Glass is a man with nothing to lose. After being mauled by a bear and left for dead, Glass uses his most rudimentary skills to not only survive, but come back from being buried alive to enact his revenge on the man who killed his son.

What Works:

In two words: Leonardo DiCaprio. I remember seeing photos of DiCaprio and wondering, ‘What was this role that had our normally handsome-faced leading man looking like someone that hasn't showered in a month?’ Well, as it turns out it was a look that marked one of the most transformative characters of his career. Everything from watching him survive a bear attack, to finding warmth within the shell of a horse show the lengths DiCaprio was willing to go to bring this character to life, helping audiences fully understand his struggles. The Revenant is more than just DiCaprio though. There is a great cast, including Tom Hardy, playing an out for himself frontiersman who is motivated solely by greed and fear; Domhnall Gleeson is a Captain who looks out for his men and believes in justice; and Will Poulter, as an innocent young man, caught between doing what is right and doing what he is told.

Acting aside, the cinematography is absolutely breathtaking throughout the film. From the frost bitten woods to the cascading landscapes, the scenery was as much a part of this film as the cast and story.

Be Aware:

The beautiful scenery and extensive details shown of Glass’ step-by-step struggles contributed to this film having a run time of 2 hours and 36 minutes. With the exception of the few action scenes (i.e. the bear scene and final showdown), the film's pace is relatively slow and serene throughout. A beautifully shot and well-acted film, The Revenant is well worth watching, though be forewarned it will require patience.

Overall Grade: A

Copacabana Steakhouse

Courtesy of Yelp.com

In 250 Characters or Less:

This Brazilian churrascaria is a meat lover’s dream. Highlights include its full-blown rodizio offering and popular “meat parade” - a hearty experience to perfectly match the intensity of The Revenant.  

What Works:

If you are a baconatarian at heart, look no further than the Copacabana Steakhouse. This Brazilian churrascaria is widely known for its “meat parade” featuring 14 various offerings of every combination imaginable including its decadent bacon-wrapped turkey. If seeking a little more variety outside of simply meat though, check out its all-you-can-eat rodizio which includes a salad bar and five side dishes.

Be Aware:

Copacabana Steakhouse isn’t for the faint-hearted so be judicious as to when to dine here. This restaurant is best when out celebrating, say a birthday, or other such occasion and isn’t somewhere we recommend swinging by on a whim during the week - especially without a reservation to guarantee a table will be available. The experience calls for skipping a meal beforehand to save room for the massive quantities of food served at the table. Also note that while the rodizio is all-you-can-eat, the drink refills are not.

Overall Grade: A

29 N Main Street in Port Chester

(914) 939-6894

www.copacabanasteakhouse.com

The Closest Thing to Being in the White House: Presidential Movies and Steakhouses for this President’s Day - Part 2

Many associate golf with being presidential, but it also feels like our elected officials are always enjoying the quintessential American cuisine at one of our nation’s top steakhouses. The following are a few greats that can be found in the Big Apple for when our Presidents swing by into town.

Courtesy of MarkJosephSteakhouse.com

MarkJoseph Steakhouse

Water Street by FDR

This steakhouse is nothing short of phenomenal. It is one of our faves on this list. And the best part is that the meat is also sold from its butcher! If the plan is to dine in though, a few recommendations include the Sizzling Canadian Bacon, Fried Oysters, Lobster Mac and Cheese, and of course any of its steaks.

The Capital Grille

Chrysler Center, Time-Life Building, Wall ST

Even the name sounds presidential. Check out its Steak Tartare, Gorgonzola and Truffle Crusted Dry Aged NY Strip, and Double Cut Lamb Rib Chops.

Strip House

Downtown + Midtown

A New York must. This iconic steakhouse - dubbed a "carnivore's delight" - is in a league of its own. Enjoy table-side carvings and an impressive wine list while dining on Surf & Turf Tartare, Smoked Short Rib Ravioli, and Black Truffle Creamed Spinach. And the meal isn't complete without its incomparable 24-Layer Chocolate Cake!

Courtesy of PeterLuger.com

Peter Luger Steakhouse

Brooklyn

This is a far cry from the others on this list - requiring a quick run to the ATM beforehand. The cash-only restaurant boasts old school waiters serving aged beef in a German beer hall setting. Our favorites are the burger, oversized baked potato, and apple strudel.

Keens Steakhouse

Near Penn Station

This one takes the cake with the sheer size of its USDA Prime-only steaks served. It also has the distinction of its ceiling adorned with the world's largest collection of churchwarden pipes. Try out its lobster salad, roasted buttermilk chicken, and signature mutton chops - not to mention its classic sidecar cocktail.

Uncle Jack's

Manhattan + Queens

You can't miss this gem. The menu says it all... Bacon Wrapped Shrimp, Wagyu Kobe Meatballs, and Oysters "Jackefeller." This in addition to the restaurant's Build Your Own Surf and Turf dish.

Courtesy of DelFriscos.com

Del Frisco's Double Eagle Steakhouse

Rockefeller Center

This popular steakhouse chain is frequented nationwide, but that doesn't make its New York hot spot any less special. This steakhouse is respected for its steak but also its wide variety of seafood - bacon-wrapped sea scallops, king crab gnocchi, and shellfish plateau with oysters, shrimp and Alaskan king crab legs.

After dining out like a president, click on the link and enjoy some of our favorite politically-themed movies to get you in the mood for the upcoming election season. Presidential Movies for President's Day

The Closest Thing to Being in the White House: Presidential Movies and Steakhouses for this President’s Day - Part 1

Between all the Republican and Democrat debates, things are starting to heat up this election season. Why not take a break this President’s weekend, and enjoy some bureaucratic-themed films full of scandal, suspense and political savviness?

The American President

Cast: Michael Douglas, Annette Bening, Martin Sheen, Michael J. Fox, Richard Dreyfuss

The American President tells the story of the many challenges posed when a widowed man, played by Michael Douglas, falls in love with a charming and feisty woman played by Annette Bening. The catch? The man happens to be the President of the United States. This unconventional charmer has it all - heartwarming performances by the entire cast spewing a sharp, clever script written by the talented Aaron Sorkin. This movie also marks the pre-West Wing collaboration of Sorkin with Martin Sheen who plays Douglas' right hand man in the film.

The Butler

Cast: Forest Whitaker, Oprah Winfrey, John Cusack

Political films are usually stories surrounded by scandal or great accomplishment. Lee Daniels’ The Butler tells a different story of life in the White House. Born into slavery, Cecil was a simple man that wanted to escape that life and make an honest living. His work ethic and skills earned him a position at the White House, where he served for 8 presidents. Trained to always be respectful, he struggles with feeling a sense of loyalty to those he serves and standing up for his own beliefs.

Frost/Nixon

Cast: Frank Langelia, Michael Sheen, Sam Rockwell, Kevin Bacon

Three years after Watergate and Richard Nixon was excused from office, he decided to break his silence and give a TV interview. Thinking he could outwit the novice reporter and win his way back into the hearts of Americans, Nixon picked British host David Frost to go head to head with. What he wasn’t anticipating was a hard-hitting interview on his scandalous reign as Commander-in-Chief.

Primary Colors

Cast: John Travolta, Emma Thompson, Kathy Bates, Adrian Lester

A satirical characterization of the Clinton scandal, Primary Colors follows the presidential campaign of Governor Jack Stanton as seen through the eyes of a young campaign worker, Henry Burton. A smooth-talking man of prestige, Stanton is a candidate many can strongly support. That is until a sex scandal comes to light and our charming candidate can no longer maintain his wholesome image.

JFK

Cast: Kevin Costner, Sissy Spacek, Joe Pesci, Tommy Lee Jones, Gary Oldman

JFK isn't, in fact, centered on the American President's presidency, but on his assassination that shook our nation to its core. With many questioning whether Lee Harvey Oswald acted alone, the focus here is on New Orleans' District Attorney Jim Garrison's follow-up investigation into the assassination. Despite accusations of numerous factual inaccuracies, writer and director Oliver Stone was commended for his epic film that shed a light on the many men that may have played a hand in one of our country's most infamous moments in history.

Other presidential movies of note are Lincoln, starring Daniel Day Lewis -- who won an Oscar for this role - and tells the story of Lincoln’s struggle, both within and outside the White House, as he makes his decision to free the slaves; and W., starring Josh Brolin as we follow the life of George W. Bush.

Many associate golf with being presidential, but it also feels like our elected officials are always enjoying the quintessential American cuisine at one of our nation’s top steakhouses. Click on the link and see where you can find some of the best steaks in NYC. Steakhouses for President's Day

Fight Crime with Deadpool, Then Stop for a Beer at Yonkers Brewery Co.

Cast: Ryan Reynolds, T.J. Miller, Morena Baccarin, Ed Skrein

In 250 Characters or less:

Wade Wilson is a smart-ass mercenary who decides to undergo experimental treatment after he’s diagnosed with cancer. Disfigured and turned into a mutant, Wilson, now Deadpool, seeks revenge against the man who ruined his life.

What Works:

It’s pretty safe to say that Deadpool has one of the most successful and clever marketing campaigns we’ve seen in years - ranging from unveiling funny videos, to getting Betty White to review the film, to using emojis to spell out the name. The advertising, in a nutshell, was a good representative of the tone of the film. Reynolds is perfectly cast as the fast-talking hero and brings light to the character’s otherwise dark and twisted humor. Everyone from his blind roommate, to his tell-it-how-it-is best friend, to the random X-Men characters he has at his side helps round out the film nicely. It has all the makings for a highly entertaining movie experience:

Action ✓  Humor ✓  Hot Leading Man ✓  Touching Origin Story ✓  Great Cast ✓

Be Aware:

A rarity in the Marvel universe, Deadpool is R rated for its raunchy humor, language, nudity and graphic content. It’s certainly not for the easily offended but a great escape for those who love the action of superhero films, yet are tired of the typical “do-gooder” attitude.

On a scale of “spend the money to watch this in IMAX 3-D” to “wouldn’t even watch it for free on TV,” Deadpool is well worth a regular price of admission.

Overall Grade: A

Courtesy of YonkersBrewing.com

Take a Break from Crime Fighting and Grab a Beer at Yonkers Brewery Co.

Watching Ryan Reynolds kick ass in Deadpool will make you want to unwind afterwards with a nice cold beer. Why not check that out and so much more at Yonkers’ largest brewery?

Opened in 2015, Yonkers Brewery Co. has already made a name for itself as a go-to staple in the city’s waterfront. Yes, it has beer - with many options to choose from - but it also has food, tours, and family-friendly events.

Here are a few highlights...

• Atmosphere: Yes, you feel like you are in a brewery which in and of itself makes for a fun and unique environment. What stands out though is that, while drunk frat boys can be found at any brewery, this one really is more family-friendly with patrons of all ages - even adorable infants can be spotted by the picnic table dining seating. Top that off with 20 foot ceilings and exposed brick galore.
  
• Apps: This brewery offers real hearty food - so much more than the standard chips and dip. It has the typical pub grub with a twist - from prosciutto and blue cheese flatbreads, to patatas bravas, to maple lime wings, to crunchy country chicken coated in a corn flake crust!
  
• Brunch: Not only does it offer real food, but it also serves a brunch menu that even the biggest breakfast joints would envy. Brunch is served on both Saturdays and Sundays between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. and has everything from Chilequiles (fresh tortilla chips topped with two fried eggs, house made green salsa and sour cream), to State Bird (crispy battered wings served over a crisp waffle with a side of our Yonkers Stout salted caramel drizzle), to our favorite - the Supercrema French Toast stuffed with Nutella. Top that off with a Cold Brew - stout with two scoops of gelato.
  
• Guided Tours: These are free to the public and available on both Saturdays and Sundays. Also check out the brewery’s fun facts about our hometown of Yonkers.
  
• Events: There is a little bit of everything here for everyone. Check out the brewery’s Paint a Growler, Live Music Thursday and Detox & Retox Yoga Sunday. This is in addition to tentpole events like its upcoming St. Patrick’s Day party. And maybe Deadpool will win at Yonkers Brewery’s Halloween costume contest this fall?!?

92 Main Street in Yonkers

(914) 226-8327

http://yonkersbrewing.com/