Fresh Off the Boat. It was always the (rather inappropriate) excuse I’d use whenever I’d commit some cultural faux pas, justifying that no…I’m just a Pilipino boy from elsewhere who has NOT seen the Fresh Prince of Bel-Air (apparently that’s a crime around here). I’d… Read More
All posts by “Paolo Española”
A Summer Welcome: Harlem Rooftop Picnic
I once read that there are more than 50 words for “snow” in one of the Eskimo languages. And while I like to think I have 50 of my own, they all happen to be vulgar and unfit for print. Summer however, yields a far… Read More
Spanish-style Pinamalhan: Bluefish in Sour Salsa Verde
A while back I wrote about an exhibit in SoHo showcasing the great Ferran Adria’s notes and sketches. Instead of the usual food porn we see from other chefs, Adria’s notes are scientific, cultural, methodical, and utterly cerebral. Which was why his book entitled “The… Read More
The Life and Death of the Mystery Meat Group (Part 2)
(Even though I’ve said it before, many thanks to Coco-Mat SoHo for hosting, ARK for planning, and the numerous volunteers for throwing down….yes….uber-belated thanks) My co-worker commented the other day that I haven’t blogged in a while and the fact that I haven’t puzzled me.… Read More
Mysttik Masaala and the Mysterious Smiling Man
(Note: Check Mysttik Masaala’s Facebook page for daily menus and locations!) I’m not quite sure why I turned right instead of left to get lunch that Wednesday. I usually headed south on Park to the chain delis and restaurants closer to Grand Central. For some… Read More

