BRAND BALLOT'S TOP 100 MOM BLOGS FOR 2018!!
Re-Cap of Vegan Market at Market Hotel, Brooklyn
Well howdy and welcome to a new week!!
This was certainly a fun-filled weekend for my little gang. A school dance on Friday for Kelsey; Broadway show (Smokey Joe's Cafe) on Saturday and then the Vegan Market in Brooklyn yesterday. I just love fun-filled weekends!! This week is less hectic than last - thank goodness because I want to play catch-up on numerous chores and "to do's" around the house. I also need to desperately get back to the gym. My list is growing as I remember more and more things that have to get done. But, for now, let me give you a little overview of our day yesterday at the Vegan Market in the Market Hotel in Brooklyn.
Well, let me just say, that I believe me and my girls have found our monthly go-to destination for amazing vegan food and products!!
This market is not at all large - in fact, it's one of the most intimate market settings I've been to in a while. On the upper level of a rather, non distinct building, The Vegan Market in the downtown section of Brooklyn exceeded mine and the girls' expectations! I am going to do a full feature on our day and The Market itself, but let me just tell you a few of the highlights: We must have passed the building four times, even though the GPS said we had reached our destination lol. The number of the building is literally just painted on and there is nothing defining the building as "The Market Hotel."
We finally spotted the number and sign. As you may know, I'm a stickler for being early to these events, especially when they are in the NYC area because I'm always freaked about getting parking.
As usual, we found an awesome spot!!! Half way up the block on a side street, we departed our vehicle and walked on over. Kelsey was a little skeptical since the building looked "sketchy" in her words, but as soon as we entered and started up the steps, we could hear the music and see the people. The space is intimate and seating is as well, with tables spread out throughout - very eclectic! And the lighting is dim, with funky painted walls and very industrial styling. I loved it and so did Gianna.
Pictures don't really do this event justice - remember, you cannot judge a book by its cover - however, the quality of food, the uniqueness and diversity of food vendors and the friendliness of these committed vegans made our day!
I do not lie, when I tell you that Gianna and I were like two eating machines! While Kelsey indulged in a few things, it was me and G who could not say no to any booth we passed! We managed to try something from almost every vendor. The only reason we left out purchasing from a few was twofold: a) we could not fit one more thing in our bellies; and b) we ran out of money lol.
I think the best way to tell you about our few hours is to just let the food speak for itself with a bit of narrative...
First stop: Anthony's Eastside
These "veganized" Italian specialties were incredible. Gianna and I decided to order the Baked Pasta (shells with his original tomato sauce and Almond Ricotta) and the Muffaletta sandwich with seitan.
I had never had almond ricotta and all I can say is Wow! Anthony's preparation was incredible and for those who are trying to cut out or lessen their dairy intake, it is so light and tasty. YUM!!!
Next...
Seitan's Helper
Owner, Amanda has created some amazing vegan deli meats! It was love at first sight when I spied the "bacon", lettuce, tomato and "pepperoni" sandwich on display and Gianna and I knew we had to split one!!
This sandwich was soooo good! But, we were now beginning to fill up! (Oh no!!) Still More vendors to try!
Next...
Pisces Rising We knew we had to sit down to eat our "BLT" sandwich, but Kelsey wanted a little something as well, and decided on a "calzone" from Pisces Rising, which had both sweet and savory offerings. Of course, I had a bite (did you doubt that!) and it was mighty tasty!! This vegan pastry shop is based in NYC with all items baked by Laura Varley.
Now, we were pushing it with eating, but heck, we didn't even start dessert!
Next... Culiraw
Sorry, no pics because as I was chatting with owner, Katerina, we gladly took a sample of her chocolate peanut butter cup - which was huge - and the three of us shared it, getting our fingers all messy with the chocolately goodness.
Next... Jac & Jess Brand
We stopped to chat with one of the non-food vendors about her lovely compassion statement apparel. Jess, who owns the company with her sister Jaclyn, offer their line of t-shirts and sweatshirts online at their Etsy shop.
Jess was kind enough to pose for us!! Next... Peaceful Provisions
It was dessert time, so we had a few things that we needed to get, to take home. We were pretty well stuffed at this point.
Peaceful Provisions is a collaborative effort of twin sisters Brittany and Justine crafting compassionately crafted vegan donuts and treats. Although they do not have a storefront, they offer their vegan doughnuts on Tuesdays and Thursdays at First Village Coffee (FVC) at 123 Main Street, Ossining, NY and at various pop-up events. We brought these home, but of course, Gianna started picking on them on the way. Next... How Delish
Gianna had eyed the cakes at How Delish, pretty much as soon as we arrived. So, this was a must-visit booth.
It was chocolate cake time for my girls and we walked off with a nice size piece! Next... Vegan.Brooklyn.Foodie
Owner, Ashley established her online bakery this year, and from the "taste" of things, I'm sure she's in for some great success.
It was Kelsey's turn to make the selection, for which we all shared and boy, was this cookie yummy!! Last but not least... Second visit to Pisces Rising
We walked away with two yummy delights - A blueberry pop-tart for Kelsey and Pumpkin "Ice Cream" sundae for Gianna. Kelsey polished off her pop tart in the car and the ice cream was gone before we even got to the car as Gianna and I passed it back and forth!
So, there was only one thing missing from this day...yup - having my vegan cousin Tanya and gang with us! Well, hopefully, next time she is in New York, it will coincide with this monthly market. As for today, I'm just happy to have some time to catch up on some work and pay a visit to the gym. The weather is chilly and sunny, so that's reason enough to be outside. Have a great day - see ya back here tomorrow! -Travelin' Elisa xoxo |
Another Day in LA
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