Energy Kitchen-Obsessment (aka Steph O)

Energy Kitchen
307 W 17th St, New York 10011
(Btwn 8th & 9th Ave)

http://www.menupages.com/restaurants/energy-kitchen-3/

I tried out Energy Kitchen for the first time the other night before hitting up Equinox (or shall I see Chiquinox). I had heard advertised that everything listed on the menu is under 500 calories, so I figured it would be worth trying out in my attempt to be a "skinny bitch".
I went to the location on 17th between 8th and 9th and ordered the Italian Chicken wrap on a whole wheat wrap with grilled chicken, marinara sauce, and low-fat mozzarella ($7.99). I added some hot sauce which topped off the wrap quite nicely.
The wrap was very fresh, and I particularly liked the portion size; which was perfect. I combined it with a diet sprite from a bodega as I feared they wouldn't have soda (as many of my friends have noted, I have a serious addiction to soda which I can't seem to boot).
They do, thankfully, have soda; albeit all diet. My friend Dan suggested not attempting the Crystal light (a bit aritificial in flavor).
My friend Stephanie is also very into EK and said that "If you want a bang for your buck and no more lumps in your trunk go to energy kitchen - I recommend the Thai chicken wrap ($7.99)
with a side of Tahini sauce... still not convinced that it's under the 500 calorie mark". I have to agree with her about the calorie count; the food tastes so good it's hard to believe it's that healthy.
Dan prefers the the sides saying "the mashed sweet potatoes are my jam."
The atmosphere is very fresh; all white with a diner like feel. I was the only girl which surprised me a bit; I wouldn't necessarily go for the atmosphere but it's certainly a good stop to try if you are wanting healthy food on the run. They also deliver.
Overall Rating:
4/4 Spoons
Healthy food on the run!

Sunday Brunch Spot- Penelope's- Grammercy Area

Penelope Café
159 Lexington Avenue (at 30th street)
212-481-3800
http://nymag.com/listings/restaurant/penelope/




My girlfriend Joanna and I decided to try out Penelope's in Grammery area for brunch on Sunday. We both had heard great things and judging by the line (it was a 40 minute wait in which we spent at the Brazilian coffee house across the street) we figured we would see what the buzz was all about.

Upon entering we decided to sit at the bar; although the waitstaff could use some work (a bit rude) the food and atmosphere was purely a delight.

Joanna had the Veggie Burger Heaven ($9.75) with the apple cider mimosa while I had the Abuel's Egg Sandwich ($8.50) and a regular mimosa.

The egg sandwich melted in your mouth with the Swiss cheese blending well with the ham and balsamic mayo with black pepper on somun bread.

Joanna and I both commented on the nice portion sizes (just the right amount) and speedy service. After trying a sip of her apple cider mimosa I soon regretted not being more adventuresome and trying it. The cider flavor paired well with the champagne putting a nice fall buzz into my Sunday morning.

"Penelope is a cozy hidden treasure in the heart of Murray Hill. The food is simple yet delicious and goes perfectly with the restaurant’s charming décor," said Joanna.

The crowd was a combination of ladies brunching, couples and a few men. Joanna and I debated if it was a suitable place to take a date for brunch and we decided that, although the restaurant's facade seems to cater to a more female crowd, the end result would please both gender's equally.

Between the adorable cape cod atmosphere, fresh fare and cute patrons it was a win/win for brunch and I plan on returning again soon.

Overall Rating (based on 4 spoons)

3/4.

Atmosphere:

Yuppie's and prepster's alike between 24-35; mostly female

*Wished they had bottomless mimosas!