Law & Your Order

Update

2010-07-03T19:24:00.002-04:00

Here is an image of the plants - if you compare to a couple of posts back you can see that they are starting to grow some!

Watch out! Kramer may be stalking on you!

2010-03-27T10:47:00.000-04:00

I also posted this elsewhere, but it's work-related, so I figured I'd contribute:

--

On my walk into the office, who should I run into completely out of the blue? Michael Richards, in black, with Fedora and tripod-ed Nikon D-SLR, standing, STARING at a street performer dressed as Boba Fett, playing the accordion. True story.

We chatted for five minutes. About my job (and how he thinks its cool), about his job (not working on anything - "they're scared of me...they're scared of their own shadow!"). We also discussed living in NY (too expensive) and if he goes to comedy clubs anymore. He was cool, totally engaged and interested in Locations work (not in working in it, but in the way it works). 

My favorite part was when I asked if he'd work on old buddy Jerry Seinfeld's new show "The Marriage Ref" and the generally aloof and spacey Mr. Richards snapped into complete lucidity, scoffed and said "I'd never do that." 

It took me a minute to realize I wasn't being punk'd or something (because he wasn't moving, he was just chilling, totally immersed in the Bounty Hunter's act) - when I did come to my senses, I suggested a photo and was overwhelmed by the amount of technology I had on me and took an awkward MySpace-style jam with the DSLR (first draft came out chinny and he judged me). I should have used Flip, but I didn't think of it in time. 

Yes, I gave him my info and invited him to a show. He'll be sitting with Robert Smigel in the "Hell's Frozen Over" Section, with all celebs I've invited. 

------

Now, since then, I've run into him again. Next day. Same spot. Yes, Boba Fett was there too. It was surreal. Mr. Richards was staring at a real-estate poster and I commented on how there were some really nice apartments around there that we'd shot in. I mentioned the penthouse we recently shot in - with the all-white everything and the windows. He replied with something like "Of course the penthouses are nice." I wanted to fire back something about how he could afford it because he's probably crazy rich, but then I froze, because I was being presumptuous (Madoff?) and I didn't want to hurt his feelings (because the next time we meet would be the third date - and, well, I want it to go well). 

He said he liked my Superman T-shirt, and I said I liked dressing for the job I want (super-hero). We chatted about looking the part is important and how people call him "sir" when he's in a suit. We went our seperate ways...he disappeared fast.

I'm still not sure I'm not the secret guest of a new hidden camera show: "So You Think You're Not Dreaming". 

Yesterday we were in Far Rockaway and he wasn't there. I hope I see him one more time...I think he's the kinda guy you bring home to the folks, you know?

Mac & Cheese As A Cure For Cranky

2010-02-26T13:59:00.003-05:00

Not much in the way of food-related posts lately, is there? I haven’t been doing my part because I’ve had so little to comment on—although I do make a concerted effort to try new things as often as it’s convenient, my selections rarely stray out of the realm of comfort food and onto higher, blogworthy planes.

Le Zie is a fucking boring restaurant. They do a handful of creative things, and they do them well, but their menu has been and always will be a hodgepodge of fancy-sounding entrees you could find anywhere. They’re overpriced, they’re slow, and when I get appetizers involving poached eggs, their idiot delivery men often manage to spill yolk in places that yolk should never be.

It’s gross outside. Gross weather means it’s time for the carb-rich, the fatty, the cheesy; it’s been ages since I tried their macaroni and cheese, and while it’s going to mean extra treadmill time tonight, I didn’t feel like I could last the day on salad.

Le Zie’s macaroni and cheese involves about forty different kinds of cheese, or so it seems, baked to crispness on the top, and motherfucking black truffles. Considering their standards, I’d imagine these aren’t top-of-the-line little shits, but they’re still sinfully good. Truffle slices up top; truffle oil within. I may die fat and alone, but for today I will eat a tasty (and surprisingly hearty) lunch, enjoying liquid cholesterol oozing from every noodle.

While sublime, it’s an ugly dish, hence the dearth of photographic documentation (my phone takes brokeass pictures; my real camera is at home). But this can’t change how it tastes—it’s like Gordon and Tony constantly repeat: Simple ingredients, creatively prepared, flawlessly executed; it’s the only real recipe for culinary success there is. If Le Zie could apply these standards to their dry-ass salmon and their oily monkfish, I’d eat there every day.

Black Truffle Mac & Cheese – try it. It’s damn good. And hey, maybe if enough people opt for the good stuff, they can phase out the crap. When was the last time you paid $16.95 for a few ounces of fish wrapped in bacon? Joe Buda did it the other day. It made him angry. You don’t want to see Joe Buda angry.

A Month & A Half Ago...

2010-01-31T11:24:00.012-05:00

...we had all sorts of Holiday fun.On our last day of shooting we had our traditional Holiday lunch- complete with every kind of fish imaginable, and a "are you going to eat that?" fancy meat. During lunch Jeremy made me look at inappropriate pictures, to which I turned a new shade of red never seen before.

At some point in the day, the boys of locations had a photo shoot for their yet to be released 2010 calendar (what happened to that?), and Crista and I got flowers from a secret admirer.

Crista and I went all out this year with the decorations. Crista brought in an unimaginable amount of lights to hang, and I brought the 10 ft long Santa and sleigh poster. There's nothing better than trailer park office decorating.

We had our official Holiday Party at Bowlmor- complete with black light bowling, karaoke, dancing, pizza and drinks. There are plenty of awesome pictures, but I don't want to upset anyone, so I'll censor them- if you want to see what went down- show up next time!

You don't know Jack...

2010-01-24T21:29:00.000-05:00

...until you've seen this video.

Now, many of you know about my fascination with the beacon of justice that is fictional NY District Attorney John J. (Jack) McCoy. Apparently, I am not the only one who is inspired by the dignity and moral steadiness of the aforementioned public crusader, as evidenced by the following video, which I did not make:

Thanks.
Congrats on three more episodes!

- M

It has to do with Production...

2010-01-05T18:09:00.003-05:00

This has nothing to do with L&O- but it has to do with TV, so why not share it. One of my favorite blogs featured an interview with an art assistant at MadMen- what a lucky guy!

(click the picture)

Super Manny!

2009-12-28T20:32:00.003-05:00

It's no door, but still worth it.

Door Hunt

2009-12-17T20:28:00.005-05:00

So due to a lack of motivation on my part, I took this week and the upcoming holiday break to post 2 doors for extra fun. The door on the top better look familiar. As for the lower door... I'll accept cross streets as close enough.

just reminiscing

2009-12-10T19:51:00.004-05:00

not sure if i spelt that right! miss you hot chics

U Like?

2009-12-09T17:02:00.002-05:00

I couldn't resist snapping a picture of this restaurant on the Upper West Side. Classic.

PA Lock-Up Scavenger Hunter

2009-12-08T14:26:00.003-05:00

In a effort to familiarize locations with the many locations of the stages at Pier 62 we've begun our find the lock-up-ed door. As this is our first trial run, there will unfortunately be no prize for the winner.

Who Knew?!

2009-12-01T11:50:00.001-05:00

Gawker Stalker IV

2009-11-23T19:41:00.000-05:00

Chevy Chase was spotted at the Gotham Girls Roller Derby bout! Didn't get a chance to stop him and ask him about his guest-starring role on "Law & Order" and confirm how much he loved us, but he did manage to be escorted down to the VIP seats to Cat's fav, Suzy Hotrod.

Production of Wild Things

2009-10-18T16:13:00.003-04:00

I went to see "Where the Wild Things Are" this weekend- having heard mixed reviews- I am one who enjoyed it...but I don't really like reviews- I like to go into movies having as little knowledge of the plot and other perception- that way you aren't expecting anything but to be entertained.

So anyway- I love behind the scenes kind of stuff- hence I work in production. I think its really fun and fascinating to see how much thought and work is put in to make a movie or television show- even the really bad ones...so naturally, I was excited to find out more about how Wild Things came to be- and found these interesting videos. The first one I watched was with KK Barrett, the Production Designer. After watching, it has me wondering if his process is similar to our Production Designer- I'll let you know if I find out...

The Head of Television

2009-10-14T18:06:00.005-04:00

Its Rich Sommer! AKA Harry Crane from Mad Men!! Here is a picture featuring him, Manny, and me dressed as Harry Potter:

Ready to Roll

2009-10-14T17:55:00.000-04:00

Sadly, the Haulin' Cass/Cassie Hay media blitz is over -- but you can catch my teammates as they conquer their world with roller derby-ness. This morning, they were on the Wendy Williams Show. I'm currently in the process of converting every female in the office into a roller girls. Gillian, you're next! I personally think Bridget would be fierce....but for now, I'll just have to be content with the fact that we've gotten a gaggle of L&O-ers to come to the next bout! October 24! Not only will you get to see me hit people, it'll be your chance to hang out with some super cool people -- I'm referring to an appearance by the one and only K-Kat! And Jacob's family! And Bridget and Moe! And CRISTA!!!! It just keeps getting better. www.gothamgirlsrollerderby.com for tickets

Burritoville Chelsea

2009-10-14T13:20:00.001-04:00

If you are wasted away in Margaritaville, then what are you in Burritoville? Full? Hungry? Satisfied? I would say lost and starving because you couldn't find Chipotle.

Burritoville Chelsea closed at the exact time I started working at L&O, and I often felt left out when my coworkers would reminisce about Birrtoville- now I know they are just crazy and have some sort of mutant taste buds. I will assume that things have changed with this re-opening, or perhaps the chef has forgotten how to perfect his craft, and just needs a little time to tweak it. But for the time being, I will stand by my unimpressed review, and next time, just make my own quesadilia, or crawl out of my hole (office) and venture to the far off Chipotle at 34th and 8th.

P.S. Why did they think I said my name was Kote?! Maybe I could understand Cathy, or Kate, or Katie...but Kote?

Happy Birthday Patti!

2009-10-13T12:15:00.002-04:00

Today is one of our #1 reader's birthday - Patti, Gillian from the Production Office's Mom! Patti, we appreciate your interest- if you didn't read the blog, I don't think we'd write anymore- I mean, what's the point of telling each other whats going on in the office when we are sitting right next to one another?! Thank you, and hope you have a fantastic day!

Gillian informed me that you were concerned about K-Kat's departure. We were all sad to see her go (and still are!) but she had a great offer from her Alma Mater to help students get started in the TV/Film/Communications. So shes still got her toes in the Entertainment pond, but now is trying to help other get their feet wet too. Plus, she still has access to the blog, so hopefully we will still be hearing from her.

...and we're back

2009-10-13T11:36:00.003-04:00

Sorry I disappeared- I recently moved- and spent all of my free time looking for an apartment, then filling it with things, and then buying more things to fill it with. In fact, last night I had the pleasure of perusing Ikea with the Former Law & Order Scout, K-Kat. It was a night full of giggles (loud ones from Kat), and tiresome wandering around the maze of furniture. We deliriously found our way to the end to pick up or selections and were presented with a stack of boxes to chose from. We sat and "discussed" which box to pick- one was dented on the side, one was dented on the top, one had swear words written all over...after much debate, we went with the one that was dented on the side. Turns out, neither one of us has great luck- seeing as we actually agreed upon said box, and said box was missing a few pieces. Thats right! I have to go back to Ikea, and hope and pray that they will give me the replacement pieces- otherwise I have a rather functionless dresser I need to sell. Cross your fingers for me!

NEW POSTS! NEW POSTS!

2009-10-11T20:21:00.001-04:00

Not sure if you are aware but I left LAW AND ORDER. Sad to leave my friends, but happy to start a new chapter in my life. WITH THAT BEING SAID (OR YELLED THROUGH CAPS), I EXPECT TO SEE MORE POSTS DURING THE WEEK SO I KNOW WHAT I'M MISSING! Don't you want me to feel bad for leaving? DONT YOU WANT TO THROW IT IN MY FACE ABOUT HOW MUCH THERE IS WITHOUT ME BEING THERE?!

LOVE YOU ALL

I, on the other hand, am from...

2009-09-25T15:21:00.006-04:00

...a little-known burg called Union, NJ. Not Union City. My little town, of formerly-pristine picket fences is a traditional, if not over-crowded, NJ suburb. Nestled snugly between such mammoths of Jersey industry and commerce as Elizabeth and Newark, it's not overly-industrialized, and has many schools, parks and playgrounds that are beautiful and fun to be in.

Two of my favorite town events just passed: the Greek Festival, held annually at my home parish of St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church (where, growing up, I attended Greek School, Sunday School and served the altar). Yes, I was an altar boy. Delicious food and good times were a bit dampened by the weather, but a good time was still had by all.

The second, The Italian Feast, in Union Center, almost completely passed me by, except for a late-night photo session (that you can check out here, if we're cool like that). I don't mind missing the annual Where-Are-They-Now of locals and townies, but I did want a Sauseege sangwich, which my sister was so generous to bring me back later.

I long to one day be on the Union High School wall-of-fame, alongside gilded head-shots of such luminaries as successful doctors and lawyers and also, show-biz talents like Robert Wuhl and Goodfellas' Ray Liotta. Artie Lange, another illustrious UHS alum, is not honored, but still cherished. That'd be some night out drinking, eh? The Wall of Fame would certainly be plastered that night!

Union is also home to the world's tallest Water Sphere.

We all know Greeks are proud. So are Union folk, so I'll cut it short here, before I ramble on too much with hometown pride.

What I look like on the weekends lately...

2009-09-12T19:58:00.002-04:00

I am from...

2009-09-04T11:46:00.005-04:00

Queens, NY baby. Since Cassie started this whole 'where are you from' blog? I decided I would jump on the band wagon and share my side. I was born and raised in Middle Village, Queens, NY and have been living in Flushing since '04, just 10 min away from my moms and pops.

Til this day, the only pizza that holds the highest standards for me is ROSA'S PIZZARIA. I still remember their phone number - 718-894-4707. I can guarantee if you call that number, an italian-accented man will answer yelling out "ROSA'S!" Every wednesday, I would get out early bc my school had a CCD program for public school kids. Not sure if you know what that is, but bc I went to Catholic school, all the public schools in our area would come in on Wednesday afternoon for religious programs. Oh how I loved Wednesdays! We would go to Rosa's every Wednesday and I kid you not I would get tomato sauce on my white button down catholic school uniform shirt. Bleach even wouldn't help that!

My mom is from North Dakota and my father is from Argentina. Imagine that combo. My parents are great peeps and they help their "baby girl" out all the time. Here's a pic of my pops, Julio Tula. Every September, you can find him roaming the US OPEN. Such a fun man!

My poor car...

2009-09-03T17:43:00.002-04:00

HAS LOTS OF DIMPLES!!!! From last night's journey home. WAHHHH WAHHHHHH

Don Giovanni's

2009-09-03T15:19:00.004-04:00

Donny G's - Mediterranean Salad w/ Chicken

A side-note to start: I spelled Mediterranean correctly above the first time I tried and it made me think not "wow, I'm a good speller!" but "something must be wrong with the spellchecker in blogger..." Me of little faith...

The Mediterranean Salad, aka a heavily chopped lettuce based salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, white onions, radishes (don't belong), peppers and the pleasant surprise of artichokes was dressed with some sort of oil based dressing but a little bit different than a vinaigrette (that I had to spell-correct). My deduction: oil dressing w/ a mixture of juice and grease from the grilled chicken sliced on top.

The chicken breast was delectable. The outer-layer charred to perfection with the right mixture of crispiness outside and succulence within.

Recommended because of chicken excellence but the salad itself is weird. Next time I will purposely and with authority request dressing on the side, to investigate further, AND a side of oil & vinegar, just in case the dressing, in it's rested form, is skivatz.

I insist...

2009-09-01T13:58:00.003-04:00

On one last food-related post before I update myself to the new general store attitude of this blog.

Today we had SPICE - and I had the Thai Volcanic Chicken...the spices weren't characteristically Thai, more like Thai-basco sauce. The container was full of oils and spices and some zucchini, kale, onion and oil and oil. I mixed in my brown rice. I ate most of it. Then I exploded. It'll be a while before I randomly choose SPICE from the binder of menus or lunch orders. A long time.

I enjoy Asian food, but not in the glasses down, scarf around way. It's too heavy. I enjoy salads, then cookies. And lots of coffee.

Love you.

Where are you from?

2009-08-31T16:44:00.000-04:00

In Locations, we get to see fabulous, funky, icky, creepy, quaint places everyday. The anthropology labs at the American Museum of Natural History? Seen 'em. The most expensive townhouse in Manhattan? Seen it. The freaky-deaky cool Dyckman Marina? Frank found it. We're a department of explorers. Very few of us actually grew up in Manhattan; maybe that's precisely why we're good at exploring it. Lately, though, I've been wishing I saw pictures of where everyone from "L & O" came from. Hearing about Manny's trip to Greece every summer, or Cat's St. Louis, Bridget's Minnesota, or Kat's Catholic school in Queens...I mean, we weren't always eating Bottino.

I don't know if I've ever said this (ha!) but I grew up in Texas. I went back over hiatus, and I just recently found these pictures. Here's my favorite thing in the world -- the Blue Bell Ice Cream truck -- at the Country Store outside my family's ranch. And here's me next to my oil well (I own 1/158th of it, and it brings me about $20 per year, hollah!).

Where are you from?

Running Bunny

2009-08-28T16:29:00.003-04:00

Annie's Organic Bunny Fruit Snacks are so delicious we RUN out faster than this running bunny:

Whoopsie Dooddles!

2009-08-28T12:16:00.004-04:00

UPDATE: I didn't really wait to tell Kat until after she ate it...I actually called her right away to inform her of the catastrophe and we worked it out from there.

Sorry Kat- they didn't put the lid on tight! It was all over- the part thats in the bowl wasn't even in the bowl...it was a mess! I hope you see this after you eat...Sorry!!

Kat All Tied Up At Work

2009-08-26T16:20:00.003-04:00

We work and play equal amounts at the same time.

Happy Birthday Sunshine!

2009-08-26T16:13:00.003-04:00

LOCATIONS!!!!!

2009-08-25T18:51:00.008-04:00

Let's give it up for Charlie Parker Crowell! Every time he walks into the locations department he screams "LOCATIONS!" He's always in a great mood and loves to cause havoc with his scouts. We love to tease in our department and Charlie is great at it!

Galamar means Calamari?

2009-08-21T12:43:00.003-04:00

Teamsters: you gotta love 'em. They provide some of the best quotes and always keep you laughing. The SVU Teamsters also provide 3 and half minutes of donut entertainment:

Take 23rd to the 6...

2009-08-20T23:22:00.008-04:00

Most days, if Kat and I are both in the office at the close of the day, Kat will give me a ride across Manhattan to the 6 stop at 23rd Street. This tradition started within a few weeks of my starting at L&O- Kat would drive me to Grand Central, where I'd then take the Metro North to my sister's. Her efforts not only cut my travel time, but most importantly gave us a chance to get to know each other outside of the office. I remember trying to censor myself the first few rides, but quickly became comfortable and ended up sharing all sorts of tidbits about myself. Now, its almost been a year since our friendship first bloomed- we've shared far too many tidbits and are far too comfortable around each other- all of which has resulted in far too much stupid, unnecessary, and most times predictable bickering.

Train wise, the current arrangement doesn't really make my commute much better. I take the L train, and if I simply got on at 8th Ave., I would have a seat. Transferring at Union Square rarely results in finding a seat- but the entertainment Kat provides is far superior to that of the train talent between 8th Ave and Union Square.

Why, take for example, on our ride to the 6 today, we were making our way across 23rd, between 6th and 5th Ave, when Kat took her foot off the break, allowing the car to roll forward- she wasn't looking at the road, mind you, she was looking off to the side, reading store signs. Of course a woman stepped out in front of the car to cross the street, at which time words almost failed me. Luckily I was able to mutter "K-k-k-kaaat", and she slammed on the breaks, just in the nick of time.

Then, half a block later at 23rd and 5th, we pull up to a stop light, and Kat says: "Gosh, that building looks fake." To which I respond, "uh, which one, Kat?" She replies, without a gesture- no point of a finger, no twitch of an eye "that one." At this point I am wondering, is she doing this on purpose to annoy me, or is she serious? Either way it doesn't matter, I can't resist: "Kat! Which one?! We are sort of in the middle of New York City, there a lot of buildings around here!" Success. She did it. She got a reaction out of me. But I also got to poke fun at her, so we both won.

And thats how it goes, day in and day out. Kat and I bicker and bicker just to annoy and entertain each other...and if we're lucky, some of those around us as well.

"X" That Will Change Your Life

2009-08-20T18:06:00.003-04:00

You know it when it happens: You have a meal/drink/movie-watching/music-listening experience that changes your life.

Last summer, when I was driving across country, I had a rack of ribs that changed my life. If you're ever in Memphis, believe the hype. Charles Vargos' Rendezvous ribs* really are that good.

*The steak at Wolfgang's here in New York changed my life as well. As did the pizza at Otto's. Who knew an egg on a pizza would taste so good? Oh, and taco truck at the corner of 8th Avenue and 14th Street. And who knew I'm such a fatty and all of my life changing experiences involve food?

Nuestro Amigo y Maestro de Español

2009-08-20T13:39:00.004-04:00

Tenemos un amigo que se llama Carlos. El trabaja en el parking lot en la avenida 10 y 20th St. El siempre tiene un gran sonrisa puesta y nos ayuda con nuestros carros. Cada noche cuando camino con Cat a mi carros, Carlos habla con Cat en español y el quiere que se practica y aprenda su idioma. Cat le gusta hablar en español pero hay veces que ella se pone nerviosa porque necesita la confianza para hablar el idioma. Gracias a Carlos por su ayuda y su trabajo!

Translation:

We have a friend named Carlos who works at the parking lot on 10th Ave and 20th St. He always has a huge smile on his face and y helps us with our cars. Every night when I walk with Cat to my car, Carlos talks with Cat in Spanish and he wants her to practice and learn his language. Cat likes to speak in spanish but there are times when she gets nervous but she just needs to be confident to speak spanish. Thanks Carlos for your help and your work!

"Best of" Harlem

2009-08-19T17:36:00.002-04:00

The scouting team of L & O put a lot of blood, sweat, and tears into Harlem in the past week. Well, sweat and tears anyway. One street gang fight, punch-in-the-back (Kat), and delicious serving of candied yams later, I have compiled a "Best of" list for Harlem:

1) Best air-conditioning: Hands down, Subway. Give those folks at 117 and Frederick Douglass Blvd a hand. While all other establishments have turned off their A/C to "stay green," the good people at Subway keep it crankin'. Extra points for telling me the merits of "Tomato Ranch" versus "Cheddar" flat chips.

2) Funnest bathroom experience: Starbuck's on Frederick Douglass Blvd. The light is out, and there don't seem to be any plans to fix it...but it's the only bathroom on the block, so Kat and I just kept watch for each other. Going to the bathroom in the pitch dark was a little like camping, except it was noon.

3) Best developer to know: "Bill" from K & R Realty. Man, that guy controls everything! He seemed to know our every move, and then suddenly we saw an unassuming guy leaning against a new building. "Law & Order?" he said, casually. "Yes...."I replied. "You called me." "BILL?!" He shifted his weight and said, "You know how to reach me." And just as mysteriously, he sauntered away into the shadows of another new condo construction...

4) Best super to know: Chris Cruz. He broke both his knuckles falling down the stairs, but he still had a smile on his face and also recommended a good Spanish restaurant. Gotta love good people.

Am I really a....

2009-08-18T18:14:00.002-04:00

So as ALL of you know... I'm getting married in April '10. Does this mean that the fiance thinks that I'm a biatch? Is this something that should bother me or should I be proud? I'm not sure.

Scouting in Harlem

2009-08-18T17:58:00.002-04:00

Can you believe that someone actually lives behind this door?

Its the Sophie Blog!

2009-08-18T14:25:00.003-04:00

I might have to rename this blog- its turning into everything Sophie.

Our Little Dumpling

2009-08-17T15:05:00.002-04:00

My little dirty sugar cube/ewok/muppet was pretending to be a kitty, and I couldn't resist recording it:

No fun in the Heights

2009-08-16T09:26:00.001-04:00

No smiling either, schee?

He Died of Dehydration...

2009-08-13T14:57:00.001-04:00

...and was later found in the trash.

Answer

2009-08-12T17:44:00.003-04:00

Apparently it takes two scouts and one assistant location manager to jam the copier (twice), attempt to clear it, and then give up and leave for the next person to fix. Good job guys!

Question:

2009-08-12T17:26:00.002-04:00

How many Non-Coordinators does it take to clear a jam in the copy machine?

I'm a figgy fool.

2009-08-12T16:53:00.003-04:00

Got some fig newtons from crafty and tried to offer them to Crista. NO, I HATE FIG NEWTONS! Crista says... Is she allergic to them? Did her mother force feed them to her when she was a kid? NO, apparently she doesn't like the sandy texture to them. THEY ARE SEEDS CRISTA! SEEDS. Maybe one day you will like them... Maybe one day I'll give them to you as a present. Yum Yum Yum

I'm a Celebrity! Well not really!

2009-08-11T17:44:00.005-04:00

So before working at Law and Order, I worked over at NBC in 30 Rock (NOT THE SHOW). Back in '06 I was on the corporate softball team for NBC. Our NBC team was asked to participate in a Celebrity Softball Game for Autism speaks that took place at Brooklyn Cyclones in Coney Island. It was so much fun and a lot of NBC talent played softball as well, including the one and only Alana De La Garza, one of the leads of Law and Order. We took a photo together and I just remembered today and showed it to her. Don't you think it's pretty ironic that I took a picture with her and now I work at Law and Order? Hmmm I say it's quite interesting... Da Da DAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA

PS. We lost BUT i was ONE (THANKS CAT) of the scoring runs! the first of 2! AND I struck some dude out on the other team. I want to play again. Anyone in?

YESSSSSS

2009-08-05T16:56:00.001-04:00

Can we please get one of these for the office? Please?

Cat Fight Wednesday

2009-08-05T11:04:00.004-04:00

Crista and I are both a little crabby today...we just had a little cat fight about me liking (not liking) cats. She is offended that I think the cats pictured above are cute. Now we are arguing about how there is nothing for me to say, and I just can't make this post interesting. Except we are agreeing on this fact- but are being brats nonetheless. Can someone please bring us two little puppies? Its the only way we will stop fighting.

Ris-kaaay Craf-taaay

2009-08-03T17:21:00.002-04:00

Check out what they're serving at crafty! Scandalous!

An Open Letter

2009-08-03T13:22:00.004-04:00

Dear Republic,

Your forbidden rice is extremely tasty, but please do not give me like two cups of it with my chicken dish; I will attempt to eat it all and have the hiccups for an hour.

Thanks,
Charlie

Employee of the Week: Crista Barrasso

2009-07-31T17:30:00.002-04:00

Congratulations, Crista! We love having you here at L&O (and we're not just saying that to get cupcakes.)

Scouting today...

2009-07-31T16:40:00.002-04:00

I decided that "Tranny Cooler" needs to be the next new bar in the Meatpacking District. Or a roller derby name.

Its Debatable... Gallard(o)

2009-07-31T16:08:00.002-04:00

Crista and I always get in an argument whenever we order lunch from Guy & Gallard. I turn the name Gallard into a spanish name, and change the double L's into that y noise, so phonetically it sounds like guy-yard. I couldn't understand why she didn't understand, when it hit me- I got the pronunciation from Casa Gallardo, a Missouri mexican chain restaurant. She thinks I am just making it up...has anyone else out there dined at Casa Gallardo? Please back me up here- they really do exist!

Whooooopie Pie!

2009-07-31T16:04:00.003-04:00

YEAH! WOOPIE PIES!

Scouting today...

2009-07-30T18:16:00.004-04:00

This guy was licking my legs the whole time I was scouting a beautiful apartment in Brooklyn Heights. Apparently my lotion tasted good. I didn't mind it. He was cute. His name is George!

It's Debatable...

2009-07-30T16:23:00.003-04:00

Some would say that Crista and I sit too close for comfort. I think its nice: I tell her stories, get her advice, and make her laugh. She thinks its annoying: I won't stop talking, always ask questions, and make her cry. It's debatable!

No, but seriously, we sit so close together that if I make a comment out loud to myself, she thinks I am talking to her, and will start talking back. As a result, many odd conversations have arisen, and I decided its due time to share them. Actually, the fact about 7-11's name came up from such conversations...and so did the illegality of owning small turtles (with the help of Kat). I actually don't have time to discuss a specific instance, but check back later for our next ridiculous discussion.

New Friend!

2009-07-28T13:53:00.001-04:00

The newest, softest addition to the Law & Order family.

I'm Sorry...

2009-07-28T13:30:00.000-04:00

...but I had to. It's just that kind of day.

Answer:

2009-07-28T13:18:00.003-04:00

Apparently Size Does Matter...

2009-07-28T13:14:00.005-04:00

Did you know that the sale or distribution of a turtle that is less than 4 inches in length is illegal? It's been banned since 1975 and you can still stroll in China town and see these little turtle guys swimming around together.

You're probably wondering why such a cute thing can be banned from buying. Well apparently all turtles carry salmonella. They (Food and Drug Administration) chose 4 inches because they thought that kids wouldn't put an animal in their mouths that is larger than that size. But wouldn't you keep an eye on your kid to make sure he/she didn't put anything in their mouths that could cause harm? Like would you really leave your kid alone with a turtle that is less than 4 inches?

Ok so sorry for the rant, but I have a pet turtle named Crush and he is the easiest and funnest pet to have! He's from China town and my boyfriend's sister got him for her daughter who is now 8. After a year of owning Crush, she then wanted to get a pet bearded dragon. She was only allowed to get another animal if she got rid of Crush. We offered to take care of him and we are happy parents of 4 inch green dude.

He eats every other day and sunbaths when his heat lamp goes on. I wish I can take him with me everywhere, but I wouldn't want to get arrested because he's ILLEGAL!

Law & Order: G.S.U. (Gawker Stalker Unit)

2009-07-27T13:18:00.002-04:00

Spotted: furry sweetheart resting in the locations office. Who could it be??

Larry Sherman Hits the Big Time!

2009-07-24T13:03:00.003-04:00

Courtesy of Brian: Our very own Larry Sherman on the Colbert Report.

Watch it here!

Windex Remix

2009-07-24T12:15:00.004-04:00

As I reached for the window cleaner I almost criticized it for being a generic, but stopped to praised it for being a pun.

Law & Order: G.S.U. (Gawker Stalker Unit)

2009-07-24T09:51:00.003-04:00

Some days on the street are less than pleasant. For instance, one day last year on Delancey Street, I saw a crack dealer getting arrested and as I turned the corner, someone pooped right in front of me on the street. Within about thirty seconds.

But other days are quite nice, like a couple of weeks ago when I first went up on the new High Line. If you haven't been -- GO! Great views, great snacks, great wildflowers, and celebrity sightings.

I was sitting on a bench when I saw a 17 year old boy scream and collapse, then get up and run. I looked toward where he was running, and it was none other than Sandra Bernhard. He just sort of trailed behind her, hyperventilating, until she walked out of sight.

Law & Your Lunch Order: New Menu Book

2009-07-23T15:20:00.006-04:00

I just finished organizing the locations department menu book. I started with two overflowing 4" binders, weeded out the old, ugly and tasteless, and ended up with one single 2" binder. Along the way, I found a few menus I thought were worth sharing:

Best Mascot: The Ravioli King

Best Restaurant Name: A Salt & Battery (I'm a sucker for puns)

Best Recommendation and Note from Previous Experience: Chelsea Variety Gourmet Restaurant (see top right hand corner)

Secret Talents

2009-07-23T14:51:00.002-04:00

Who knew he could dance like that?!

All New This Season: Employee of the Week!

2009-07-23T13:40:00.003-04:00

Congratulations to Ron Stone, our first Season 20 "Employee of the Week"!

LOLZ & ORDER 2

2009-07-23T12:09:00.001-04:00

LOLZ & ORDER

2009-07-22T13:55:00.001-04:00

Move Over Gunsmoke...There's a New Sheriff in Town

2009-07-22T11:04:00.003-04:00

We did it! Or should I say we are doing it! With Season 20 of Law & Order, we tie Gunsmoke for longest running television drama! Lets hope we set a new record next year with a Season 21...I shouldn't get ahead of myself, we haven't even started filming the first episode of the season.

In hopes of improving the Law & Your Order blog, we have come to the decision that it is time to broaden the scope, and move beyond the topic of food. Its been fun reviewing our lunches, but the truth of it is, we only order from a handful a restaurants, and I can only write about Spice's Pineapple Cashew Chicken Fried Rice so many times before I go crazy...and people have voiced concerns about my social life, or lack thereof, since I am able to write about food with such ease.

My biggest concern with expanding the topics was that the title would no longer apply. But Crista was quick to point out that 7-11 got its name because it was originally open from 7am to 11pm, however, most of their stores have since changed their hours to cover all 24, but kept the name. Therefore (enter the geometric symbol of a three dotted triangle) we have decided we are entitled to keep our title.

So anwyhos, enough explaining. Time to get to posting...

Law & Your Lunch Order: Eros Cafe

2009-01-21T13:43:00.003-05:00

Today is a new day! We ordered from a new restaurant that was scouted out by our lovely K-Kat! Its been a super exciting day between the new restaurant and the season premier of Lost, I honestly don't know how to contain myself! Well, actually, I have settled down a little since our lunch has arrived...it turns out I got a little too AHH! Lost! I can't focus on this entry...lets start with the fact that it was super messy! I have come to the conclusion that I do not like messy food. The container was such a mess, I didn't know what to do with it. Honestly! I had to have K-Kat teach me how to eat it. I think I am complaining too much, the food was good, I enjoyed it...much better than Energy Kitchen yesterday.

Frank is upset with his salad, he regretfully ordered it chopped. Through this action, his salad has turned into a nasty salsa.

Crista's sandwich was too sloppy also.

Ok ok, I am already thinking about the Papa Johns pizza I am going to order for Lost tonight...if I am lucky, they will still be giving out the cute little cake snacks for free! If only we could time travel, like in Lost, and re-order our lunches today, we would probably much happier. But alas, I have yet to figure out the numbers of such travel, so we will just have to think about our orders a little bit more next time.

Alright party people, this is Manny typing. Today, from Eros, I ordered "The Aphrodite" from the Greek Gods section of the menu (love it). It is described as "Chicken Souvlaki with plum tomato sices, feta cheese, cucumbers, artichoke hearts and onions." It was supposed to come with Tzatziki, French Fries/Rice & Pita.
Now, let's take attendance: Chicken Souvlaki? Absent. Instead it was grilled chicken breast. NOT the same.
Plum tomatoes: negative, instead 'regular' tomato slices (kinda out of season, so I'll allow it) The rest: present. I replaced the fries/rice with salad so therefore what I got was a Greek salad with chicken on top, which is basically what I get every day. I was thinking this would be a sexy alternative to the "yooj"* but instead it was a Greek salad without peppers and with very flavorful artichokes. It loses points because it didn't provide the emotional and psychological charge I was expecting but it was a decent tasting salad and the tzatziki was delicious.
All in all though, the first impression I've gotten from Eros is not a strong one, but rather a middling one that when combined with other mildly dissatisfacotry reviews from my comrades, makes me think twice about reordering from there. Or at least from trying to convince the lo.cations gang from ordering there. Thanks for reading, hopefully I'll have something more inspired to write about soon. Love and cupcakes.
* please take it up with Crista

Law & Your Late Lunch Order: Spice

2009-01-21T11:50:00.002-05:00

I am such a jerk, its been pointed out many a times, but today I will admit it.

Manny wrote a review quite some time ago, and I never posted it. I have been searching my heart, trying to figure out why I would fail at such an easy, yet important task, and I have come to the conclusion, that I believe it was because I felt threatened by Manny's writing skills, and did not want him to show me up. But alas, I have come to terms with my insecurities, and am therefore finally posting his review:

Today, I indulged in some SPICE (Thai). I had Japanese Eggplant w/ Beef (& other vegetables) with some dumplings and some rice on the side. It was delicious. It didn't inspire me to extemporaneous prose like the last time I blogged, but it was enjoyable. I thought the lunch special portion would be too miniscule at first but then later on, after, I realised that it was appropriate as I didn't feel too full or hungry after and had the clarity of mind to reflect on the good taste as opposed to cursing the extra bites I would typically force myself to eat in order to see a nice clean plate below (I have a thing for symmetry).

Also, speaking of food: Crista made some treats today that were delicious and perfectly sweet as her!

and in conclusion, and yet also in advance, post-thanksgiving: I'm FUUUUUUuuuuuuulllLLLLL.

Law & Your Lunch Order: New York Burger

2009-01-19T12:41:00.005-05:00

I swear, we must have reviewed this place once before, we order from here all the time, but I honestly can't remember writing about it...but then again, I have a horrible memory. Anyway, today its just me and Crista...we ordered our usuals, she the Greek Island Chicken Salad, and I the Buttermilk Fried Chicken Salad, with an Elvis Shake. Crista enjoyed hers as much as the many other times shes ordered it for lunch, I on the other hand, for the 2nd time in a row, had a difficult time enjoying my salad. Why you ask? Por que? Because I am an idiot, and forgot to ask for mine WITHOUT avacados. For those of you who do not know, I am painfully allergic to avacados...it basically feels like someone has poured a bag of cement down my throat, and I quickly turn into a statue. Every few years I test the waters to see if I have been cured, but I always fail, and end up spending the day laying flat. I was able to pick the forbidden fruit from the bowl, but seeing as they are green, and almost everything in the salad is green, I was wary that I may not have gotten them all...thus I was not allowed to fully enjoy. On top of that, I absolutely loved my Elvis Shake, which was comprised of bananas, peanut butter, and chocolate ice cream, but as most of you may know, if you are allergic to avacados, you very well could also be allergic to bananas! So I do not know who to blame if I begin to turn into a statue: banana or avacado? Actually, my neck is starting to stiffen, and my thoughts are starting to muddle...looks like I better pick a culprit fast...

P.S. Question: Who eats lunch on their computer? Answer: A non-mac user. Zing, how arrogant am I?

Mmmmm-mow mow, mmmm-mow mow...I said bird bird bird, bird is the word, bird bird bird, bird is the word

Law & Your Lunch Order: Repeats

2009-01-14T11:42:00.003-05:00

So I know we are airing new episodes of L&O right now, but our lunch orders are all repeats this week. (What a dork!) Seeing as they are all repeats, there really isn't any reason to re-review them, but I wanted to share with you the Thai Iced Tea that Frank has discovered at Spice...everyone was worried, and thought Frank lost his marbles over the hiatus and had taken up drinking iced tomato soup through a straw:

I've been on the search, and have found two new menus- I promise to order from them soon and post some new reviews...Does anyone have any suggestions for places that deliver in Chelsea? We are always lookin'...

The End and The Beginning

2009-01-05T21:48:00.005-05:00

So things are changing around the Law & Order Locations office...some good (I am posting again), some bad (Dan left us) and some ugly (tandem in February)...but I am excited to be back, and have told a few more people about this blog, so its time to get to work...well, not really yet. We still have another week of hiatus, but I figure I should post pictures form our big final feast of 2008. Enjoy!

Ugh! I had more pictures from the feast, but my blogging skills seem to rusty...just be happy with a picture of our happy faces right before we open our gifts from the boss lady!

Super Late Law & Your Lunch Order: Nanoosh

2008-12-01T12:21:00.003-05:00

K-Kat wrote this entry a week ago, but I have been a lazy bum (aka busy) so I am just now getting around to posting it - Enjoy!

Out in the field again today... I took my work pal Frank's suggestion and went to his "spot" Nanoosh in the UWS. Not only is Frank an excellent employee in our locations department, but he is also a connoisseur of fine food, aka HUMMUS BAR! I ordered the Hummus and Mushroom Wrap. According to the menu, it comes with Hummus, tahini, organic greens, sauteed organic mushrooms and organic onions. I was sold at organic. It also comes with a side of either mediterranean salad or quinoa salad. To spice it up, I went with the quinoa salad. It was a nice little portion and had raisins, cranberries, chopped tomatoes, peppers, walnuts, and cilantro. If you dont know what quinoa is, it's very similar to couscous, just larger in size and crispier texture. Quinoa and Couscous are both fun words to say. Say them out loud, and you'll understand.

So now onto the wrap... The wrap bread was paper thin, similar to a crepe thickness. I think it was whole wheat, so I didnt feel so guilty about it. The warm onions and mushrooms added such a great contrast with the cold hummus and tahini. Typing this out is making me hungry... I'm gonna go there again very soon and I think you should too. I mean they serve bowls full of hummus with pita bread! That's just awesome.

PS Nanoosh delivers to central park. They have a special called Nanoosh Dip Picnic Tray and 4 people can share! Double date anyone?!?

Nanoosh is located at 2012 Broadway at 68th st.

Law & Your Crafty

2008-12-01T12:13:00.005-05:00

On Friday, November 21st, Crista, Kat and I made a journey to set and tore apart crafty. We had all sorts of treats, from hot chocolate, pasta, m&m's (both peanut and plain), to beany cheesey burritos. Here are the remains of the beany chessey burrito that gave me wicked heartburn:

Locations Shoe Circle Power!

Law & Your Lunch Order: Chelsea Square

2008-11-21T16:28:00.004-05:00

Ryan's review of Chelsea Square yesterday made us decide to give it a try. It was yummy, but the best part was that the fries were still crispy!! CS is only about 2 avenue blocks away, apparently not far enough to make the fries mushy. AND! I literally let out a schoolgirl squeal when I peered inside my dish and noticed not one, but 2 onion rings mixed with my fries! I absolutely love it that happens:

Oh, and the BLT was deliciously classic.

***
K-Kat:

I ordered Chicken Souvlaki on a pita and instead of fries I ordered extra salad. WHAT WHAT WEIGHT WATCHERS! They'd be proud that I made a smart decision. BUT i was very upset. The salad had 2 anchovies and boy did they make everything taste like smelly fish. So all i ate was the pita and the chicken smothered in feta cheese and Souvlaki sauce. My ww leader would not be happy that I dropped my veggie serving for the day. But she'll just have to deal bc I had to deal with the disappointment of fishy fish lettuce.

Frank ordered the same meal as K-Kat, yet was rather excited to find the hairy slug-like fish. Congrats Frank!

Crista's food was so good, she refused to review it. Oh well, better luck next time!

Law & Your Crafty

2008-11-21T16:16:00.005-05:00

Yesterday was a long and weird day. Towards the end of the day, I received a package from a set run from Delora. Immediately I thought, "Ugh, more work..." So I opened to package and what did I find? A hand written blog entry! I was so pleasantly surprised! I think she intended for me to type it up, but I appreciate her efforts so much, that I think I should leave the entry in its original format:

Law & Your Lunch Order: Guest Post Pt. II

2008-11-20T14:10:00.003-05:00

We have another guest post from the Production Office. I am excited about this one because I have always considered Chelsea Square for lunch, but just assumed it was yummy breakfast (which I love, but don't think it would deliver well) and mediocre sandwiches. I think Ryan's following review has convinced me to give it a try...I love BLTs!!!

***

Hi! My name is Ryan. I'm an office PA and I like food. Today's lunch came from Chelsea Square. Let's see how they did!

The Minestrone Soup - The taste is wonderful; not too strong and not bland at all. The vegetable chunks are nice and big, and the noodles have a perfect consistency. They serve a nice-size portion, but it would leave you hungry if that's all you ate.

The B.L.T. - "The Perfect Diner BLT". Nothing fancy but incredibly delicious. Crunchy bacon is a plus. A welcome respite from my usual grilled cheese.

The Pickles - I asked for a pickle with my sandwich and they sent me about 10. What's not to like about that?

9/10 stars.

Law & Your Lunch Order: Guest Post

2008-11-20T13:13:00.009-05:00

Today we have a special treat: a review from the Production Office! They ordered Indian food, a cuisine that Crista and I are too big of wimps to order-- I know everyone likes to shake things up and keep it fresh, so Production Office did us the honor of reviewing the otherwise never to be reviewed restaurant Earth ...Thanks guys!

***

Gillian's Intro and Review:

We over here in the production office found out about this food blog and got very jealous. Not because we don't also receive our $12 worth of delicious lunch every day, but because we love an opportunity to be sassy. And we also like food.

In addition to the initial excitement of a blog dedicated entirely to the lunches that are brought to us by the swift and nimble steps of the smiling Daioh sushi man or the scared Bottinos guy, we also learned that this blog is the reason for the delighted response of "Yum!" or "Yaaaay!" that C-Cat gives us when we dial ext.185 to her that the Locations lunches have arrived. We were wondering why the restaurant names have been unrecognizable as of late. It all seems to make sense now…

So, without further delay, I present to you our guest entry:

Spicing Things Up! A Closer Look at the Indian Culinary Stylings of "Earth" (formerly known as "Indian Kitchen"

So this isn't the first time we have ordered from here, but they recently changed their name from "Indian Kitchen" to "Earth". I don't know if that means the food now tastes like dirt or what. They also classed up their menu by making the font tinier and more spread out, with the prices as just numbers, which apparently means it's fancier. Does the food taste more delicious, though?!

Um, YES. I ordered my favorite Indian dish, Chicken Makhani, which I have tried at many different restaurants. This version was definitely one of the best yet. It is supposed to spicy (but not overwhelmingly so) and creamy, and Earth's had a perfect blend of both. The rice could have been a little less greasy, but paired with the chicken it was excellent. A piece of Naan bread rounded out the meal nicely. My only complaint is the guilt I now feel for not eating any vegetables.

Rachel's Samosas:

With a description like," savory pastry stuffed with spiced potatoes and minced lamb" deliciousness should have been seeping out of the samosas I ordered. However, this certainly wasn't the case. On top of the spiced potatoes and minced lamb the samosas included peas, which, I am a fan of, but, the pastry was a little more crunch than I was expecting and the lamb was dry. On top of that, after one bite of said samosas the structural integrity was completely compromised. All together I wouldn't bother ordering them again. Luckily Earth, formally known as Indian Kitchen, has much better dishes to offer.

Law & Your Lunch Order: Pita Hut

2008-11-19T13:19:00.013-05:00

I found another falafel joint, and it delivers!! I was thoroughly searching our massive menu book for a new restaurant, one we haven't ordered from in years, and stumbled upon Pita Hut. It turns out we've plum never ordered from here! And Crista's never had falafel before, so it was a day full of excitement-- for me at least, I think Crista was a little more worried than excited.

Pita Hut was more than willing to customize their falafel sandwich for me. I asked for hummus instead of tahini, and to include a cucumber salad in the pita, but I ended up with both hummus and tahini, and cucumber salad on the side...I didn't even realize the cucumber salad was on the side and not in my sandwich until after I ate half of the pita, and gave the mainly red cucumber salad to Charlie. As far as the falafel is concerned, I really liked it - it wasn't spicy or greasy, however towards the last few bites, it started to taste piney - in the way that bad gin tastes like a chirstmas tree. Regardless of my list of negatives, I still enjoyed my falafel sandwich and look forward to utilizing the delivery service further down the road.

Charlie ordered the Mixed Grilled Combo - sounded too mysterious for me, but Charlie was game. Turns out he consumed three different animals: cow, chicken and lamb - judging by the magnatude of Charlie's grumbly burp, he enjoyed all three. On the selection of cuisine, Charlie said it is not his "go to food, but its good to shake it up every once in a while."

* NOTE: I apologize for the lidded photo - I don't quite feel comfortable undressing other's food.

Crista tried falafel and liked it! We are thinking its because it was deep fried, and anything deep fried is going to taste good, but the important thing to note here is she tried something new and liked it. For her main course, Crista (and Manny) ordered the Chicken Kabob with Vegetables and thoughly enjoyed it, she would prefer to leave the detailed review to Manny...so Manny, its all up to you:

Emmanuel Vozos edition:

Chicken Kebab (w/ vegetables) to the face on a mf Wednesday! (10pm Law & Order).

Every once in a while, a lunch will come along that is served in just the right portion, under such perfect conditions, it will launch you into the second part of your day with such positive energy that you won't know what to do with the smile on your face, (even as you try in vain to get that last thread of chicken breast out from between your teeth.)

Today, friends, I encountered such a lunch, and the world is better for it. The chicken was juicy and spiced just right. The vegetables were grilled with an expert hand: the skins of the peppers crisp, the flesh warm and of a succulent zest, the carrots, while surprising in their attendance, became a welcome addition to the medley of onion, pepper, brocolli and cauliflower. All fresh and in your face.

The side salad and hummus combination was like a detour down a small sandy road while taking a lazy sunday stroll down to the brook to skip stones and spying a doe lapping up som cool refreshment. Unpredictable but emotionally gratifying.

Hummus needed more garlic.

And finally, without further adieu, we have Winton's very first posting...or dialogue for that matter:

Winston edition:

I want chicken, I want liver, meow mix, meow mix, please deliver.

Psych, totally kidding.

Do you like grapes? You do? Well that's awesome, because I'm

not allowed to eat them - unbelievable right? I know! In fact, I can't

have any dried fruits. Isn't that wild? Totally limits my palette.

Anyway, let's talk about what I can eat - for food, sickos.

Wellness. It's nutritious on so many levels I feel like I'm

in a commercial for God. Anyway, it's tough when you're hungry

but also delicate like a peach. Crista hooked me up with some

Wellness and my culinary needs have been met head on (see 11/11).

I get all the vitamins, minerals and proteins that a celebrity pup like me needs

to go out there and impress Princess Hilton and that Beverly Hills

Chihuaha. (Total slut by the way).

Still don't mean I wouldn't like to be hand fed some grapes one of these days.

Gotta go, I see something shiny.

Weekend Crimes: Pita Joe & White Castles

2008-11-17T13:42:00.005-05:00

On Saturday, I, C-Cat went on an excursion looking for a new winter coat. Along my travels, I stopped to talk with my mom on the phone, and found myself standing outside of Pita Joe. I have had a tough time finding a replacement favorite falafel, as I recently moved from the Wicker Park area of Chicago, and was spoiled by my close proximity to Sultan's Market - home of the best and most delicious $3 falafel. Anywhos, I have been willing to give any falafel seller the chance to impress me, and Pita Joe finally did it! While their sandwiches were not $3, it was worth a few extra dollars as the restuarant is big on being eco-friendly and uses organic ingredients. Most importantly, they offered the cucumber salad mix, can't remember the name, AND hummus. Mmmmmmm. More good news: they deliver! They don't deliver to our office, but if you live/work relatively close to Union Square, they will most likely deliver to you.

Check it out! http://pitajoe.com/

On Sunday, I contiued my search for a new coat with my friend Megan. We were exhausted from a search with no results, and were starving in Soho. Although I allow myself to assume I can afford to purchase a coat in Soho, I do not allow myself to afford a meal in Soho...so Megan quickly suggested White Castles! We quickly texted google (466453 - use it, its a life saver) and discovered 3 seperate locations in the New York City area. The closest one is closer than you thought: 35th St. and 8th Ave.!!! Somehow I was able to spend $10 at White Castles, and loved every bite of it. A few changes NY White Castles has made from the standard St. Louis WC:

Cheese fries cheese was in the corner of the container, instead of smuthered on the fries
Cheese fries cheese was spicy, almost jalapeno-y - StL uses normal nacho cheese
Ketchup on the burger?!?! Sort of seems like a crime...
Soda lacked syrup
And most importanly, we were sober during consumption

Law & Your Lunch Order: The Dish

2008-11-17T13:00:00.011-05:00

Sorry for the delay, Friday was a super busy day-- and it was Friday...I would rather spend my time reviewing the weekend treats and today's lunch - especially since we've reviewed The Dish already. So this entry is rather limited on my part, but luckily a few people wrote their very own reviews from Friday which will do a good job of covering the group:

K-Kat's Review:

c - cat "I love the chicken"

k - kat "you should marry it"

c - cat "i was thinking about it and I'm not ready to settle down"

Kat

I like the carribean chicken salad. The chicken was uber moist and pleasantly warm. I love onions and there were A LOT of red onions. My breath is kickin. Watch out possible locations that we may film out. Please dont say no bc I stinka.

Again I got the Matzo ball soup. I cant stay away from those balls! YUMM

Looks like K-Kat was too busy taking pictures of everyone else's food, that she forgot hers! Refer back to C-Cat's order last time we ordered from Dish for a picture.

*** *** *** *** ***

On to The World is My Oyster Cassie's review:

1400 hours: Our meal arrives from Dish. I got the Dijon Chicken Pasta and I have to say I was disappointed. The chicken was try, the pasta super creamy and fatty, and there wasn't the dijon "kick" I was expecting. I'm told that Dish is an excellent restaurant, but the taste in my mouth was dulled by the bitter pill I had to swallow when my beloved "Hill Country" wasn't chosen as the lunch option.

If I'd had Hill Country, I'd be rubbing my belly in delight as I digested my Beer Can Chicken -- moist and juicy yet with a satistying outer crunch. I would have followed that with the Bourbon Sweet Potatoes, accompanied by a side of cornbread with Ancho Chili Butter. I would have eaten delicious BBQ, sang "Texas Our Texas" for the entire Locations Department, and told wondrous stories about Sam Houston and the Battle of the Alamo.

But alas, it was not meant to be.

Post script: Kat raised my spirits a bit by offering me her one point mini Chocolate Raspberry bar. Maybe I'll tell her about the Texas state rock (Petrified Palmwood, in case you're wondering).

*** *** *** *** ***

And finally, making his debut at Law & Your Order, it is an honor to introduce Manny and his first review. Good luck!

Today for lunch I had a salad. A layman would clarify and call it a Greek Salad, but for obvious reasons, I don't have use for such wasted words. Balloon.

The volume of lettuce was good, as was the crunchy texture. The tomatoes were halved slices, which is my least favrotie cut of tomato. Cucumbers were so scarce I hardly remember them being there. The green peppers were crunchy and awesome. The olives, same. The chicken, while bountiful, was kind of dry and even though it had absorbed a lot of the oil and vinegar dressing, still was dry. All in all, good salad. Bonus for anchovies which are awesome and fishy. I didn't finish it all.

Editor's Note: This is NOT Manny's salad, just a picture of a similar salad ordered that day.

The chili con carne was delicious, but Jesus, the portions were huge! It was good but Crista said it looked like Vomit. It kind of did. I saved some for later.

C is for cookie.

*** *** *** *** ***

Although there are not reviews for the other orders, I would like to include their pictures:

Frank's French Onion Soup, mid-chew. I ordered it also, not good at all.

Charlie's tin of melted cheese...I think there might be some chicken under that mess of gooiness.

Law & K-Kat's Lunch Order: Energy Kitchen

2008-11-13T13:42:00.003-05:00

As a new member to WW (weight watchers) it's been difficult to order healthy lunches when you can order WHATEVER you want any day of the week at Law and Order. Let me put it to you like this… We as location scouts, and everyone working at Law and Order for that matter, gets their lunch paid for. We can order up to 12 dollars for lunch, so wouldn't YOU get thai food or sushi EVERYDAY?
Now with WW I have to limit my lunch orders and boy does it get boring! Today the office ordered BOTTINOS. Bottinos is an awesome Italian sandwich place that I thoroughly enjoy. Couldn't order that today though! So I took a risk and ordered on my own. I went with Energy Kitchen and I got a Vegetarian Salad which has a veggie burger served over mixed greens and steamed mixed veggies. Since it's rainy outside I decided to also go with a small Lentil soup, which is listed as LENTIL GRAVY on the menu! The gravy was phenom, had a hint of cumin and chunks of onions and peppers. C-Cat even tried it and liked it, but said that the "texture of lentils throws me off." I'm slowly getting her into the lentil cult. Soon she will be making Lentil soup! Yay!

As for the Veggie Burger salad… Fresh steamed veggies were cooked to perfection. Not soggy at all. The burger was quite tasty as well. You could see the pieces of carrots, peas and corn and that makes me feel good. I like knowing what I'm eating.

I give Energy Kitchen an A- The minus is for "I don't feel any additional energy after eating Energy Kitchen"

Law & Your Treat: Starbucks by K-Kat

2008-11-13T13:37:00.002-05:00

I gotta say that every year around this time, I'm happy for some reason. I just realized what it is. It's the holiday season! Now its not the long lines at stores, or the music on the radio that is on way too early in the season that gets me in the holiday spirit. It's the Starbucks holiday red cups! There's nothing like walking into a Starbucks on a chilly day and ordering a tall skim latte in a nice warm red cup with a reindeer. It just tickles my fancy… doesn't it for you?

Note to all you Starbucks lovers, make sure you order your fancy drinks extra hot. Once you walk out of the door, the heat will seep out, so extra hot is the way to go!

Check out Teddy's flying thing on the holiday starbucks cup. You see it makes him happy too!

Law & Your Lunch Order: Bottino's

2008-11-13T12:22:00.018-05:00

So Frank absolutely loves Bottino's; if it were up to him we would order Botti's every single day - but its not up to him, so he must relish these days, and dream about them at night. This blog entry is for you, Mr. Franky Frankster - Real American Hero (aka Real Man of Genius)...Today we salute you.

Does anyone know what I am referring to? Probably not, because I am the only one from St. Louis, and the only one who would pay attention to horrible commercials advertising mediocre beers...but for some reason the opening line triggered that horrible song in my head, the one which none of you know what I am talking about...

Seeing as we had a full house today, and there was a small downpour of contracts and chits- I did not have enough time to write individual reviews for the 9 orders placed with Bottino's...so I asked everyone to write their own review, or at least an outline of their thoughts, and this is what I was served:

Today Christine ordered the Lasagna Bolognese! It was....sadly disappointing! Crunchy on the outside, mooshy on the inside and cold all around. Christine gives thumbs down for Bottinos' Lasagna Bolognese!

Delora's review came in form of bullet points - I think they are rather self-explanatory yet poignant:

Tastes like a true French sandwich
Menu reads "lettuces" not "lettuce"
Herb mayo good
Wish I had chips

While I find parts of Dan's entry to be a flat out lie, I will post it as I appreciate him taking the time to write it- with or without lies:

This is my first entry to the blog. C-Cat didn't tell me about it and I find out because she was photographing peoples food. She photographed my very oily Pesto Pasta. The Pesto Pasty reminds me of a Scout who doesn't work here anymore but was the biggest Scout Nerd (she would openly admit it). Suzanne Muir used to get the Pesto Pasta every time she order from Bottino. Back then it wasn't so oily. I think they lost their touch with the pesto. But that is a very new thing, I had a pesto salad two weeks ago and it was oily too. So, i thought I would give it another chance. Still oily.

Anyway, I also had the #9 (Smoked Turkey with herb mayo, Lettuces & Tomatoes). It was served on a Baguette, eehh!! Not awesome! I thought it was going to be awesome, It was OK but not awesome. I'm spoiled.

Actually, it turns out I (this is C-Cat talking again) ordered the same sandwich as Delora and Dan: the #9 on Baguette aka Smoked Turkey with Herbal Mayo, Lettuces & Tomatoes. I also ordered the pasta pesto, which we both Dan and I agreed is hard to complete as the final spirals sinking into the oil pool make us feel like grease balls. Well, we didn't really agree on that, I just decided it on my own, but I am sure he would agree.

Fraaank- Frankie LOVED his soup! A new discovery as no one has gone so far as to order soup from Bottino's - looks like he will have even sweeter dreams tonight than we expected.

Charlie ordered the Roast Beef and Russian Dressing sandwich-- I think I creeped him out when I snuck in and took a picture of his sandwich, so I won't creep him out further and push for a review. We will just go with the noises coming from his mouth during mid-chew, "mmm munch munch mmmmm" as being positive.

I am exhausted from this entry. I can't go any further.

Crista got the Chef Salad and the delicious soup Frank ordered. I wouldn't typically leave Crista's opinion that simple, but she promised to write an entry about Winton's diet, so I will use this lack of detail to motivate her to complete her task!

Bridget ordered the Med. salad, as in Mediterranean- not to be confused with Asian. I sincerely doubt she has touched that salad yet, as her days are busy and she usually doesn't get the chance to eat lunch until after 5pm. I might have to start a special daily posting of what Bridget had the day before.

Teddy stopped by to see his favorite department (or get his paycheck) but, unfortunately for him, we don't get paid until tomorrow. In a fit of rage, he tried to eat my sandwich but I quickly caught on and kicked him out. Forever. We'll miss you!

Law & Your Lunch Order: Half King

2008-11-12T14:19:00.009-05:00

Mmmmm. Today we ordered from Half King. I've always wondered why no one ever requests 1/2K for lunch, and figured it was not so good. But it turns out a lot of people like it, but because the experience was once spoiled for an anonymous Locations member, we have refrained to place further orders. Luckily, that anonymous member was out of the office today, so we had the opportunity to try it out. For all those who missed out, I regret to inform you that they no long deliver, so the likelihood of us ordering from here again seems grim. However, it is near by, so we could always stop by for a late night Law & Order Happy Hour if interested.

Crista & Chris went the questionably healthy route today and both ordered the Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad. They both agreed it was a tasty salad, yet no more than the average Caesar Salad, and noted the meal did not justify its high selling price.

Frankie Frankster ordered the Spicy 3 Bean & Veggie Chili. He found it to be an overall decent chili but the Spicy factor was too chill(i), yet thought it would be too spicy for Crista's taste. Bridget also unknowingly ordered this chili (they no longer make her favorite, the Crock of Chicken & Bean Chili) and has not yet had a chance to weigh in on the spice/chill factor.

Turns out I forgot to take a picture of the chili, but we did take a picture of the cute salad and chips that came with it:

And last, we have C-Cat's Fish & Chips. C-Cat battled it out with her lunch decision today - she finds it hard to order something "healthy" when the WW crew is out of the office and not around to keep her on track. She finds it equally hard to order something fried because you run the risk of a mushy meal once it makes the trek from across town. Hopefully, someday soon, someone will invent packaging to keep fried foods crisp during delivery time- but until then, we will just have to deal with it.

Today's pictures were provided by Ms. Crista, "Knock on wood that there aren't any parks!"

Law & Your Five Dollar Foot Long: K-Kat's Subway

2008-11-12T14:07:00.008-05:00

Yea! We have our first texted in lunch review from the field! Thank you K-Kat! If only you were here when I announced the text, you would have gotten the chance to experience Frank's happy dance to the Five Dollar Foot Long Song...oh wait, I think I hear him whistling it in the distance...

Hot off my phone's screen:

"Out in the field, K-Kat had Subway: turkey and ham on honey oat. Toppings included firey jalapenos, banana peppers and filling veggies. Her tounge's on fire, but it was worth it! subWAY COOL!

Law & Your Friends: K-Kat and C-Cat

2008-11-11T14:42:00.006-05:00

K-Kat gave C-Cat a mini Water Jug after listening to C-Cat go on and on about how much she liked K-Kat's water bottle. K-Kat's kindness and generosity did not stop at the Mini Jug, she went out of her way to make sure it was BPA safe and made from #1 Plastic! Thanks K-Kat!!

Law & Lunch Order: Doggie Bag!

2008-11-11T14:39:00.003-05:00

Winston brought his lunch today, yummy Wellness Complete Health Super 5 Mix! Unconditional Love * Uncompromising Nutrition

Law & Lunch Order: The Dish

2008-11-11T14:24:00.011-05:00

Oops! I just wrote a post, and lost it...I don't have time to rewrite it, and it was horrible, so I am actually saving your time by simply posting pictures of our lunch. Toady we ordered from The Dish- Cassie was bummed to miss out because she was excited to see if they could "take what they Dished out"...

Crista's Grilled Portobello Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing...she dressed it so nice! Must have been anticipating a picture!

K-Kat's Florentine Vegetable Salad with roasted peppers, sun dried tomatoes, olives and fresh mozzarella over spinach...looks pretty yummy! Did you like it K-Kat? C-Cat had it once, and did not enjoy it so much, what an interesting debate you two could have.

The Matza Ball Soup, ordered by Crista, K-Kat, and C-Cat: Crista prefers her ball salty, K-Kat never thought to add the salt, and C-Cat was excited just to try it for the first time as the ball was made of unleavened flour, just like Imo's Pizza crust:

C-Cat's Famous Caribbean Salad with grilled blackened Chicken and Honey Mustard Dressing: it was Dishlicious!

And Christine decided to get a head start on Thanksgiving, and ordered the Roasted Half Chicken (I guess it should have been Turkey) with mashed potatoes and corn:

Today's pictures were provided by Ms. K-Kat - "God Bless America!"

Law & Lunch Order: Spice

2008-11-06T13:17:00.001-05:00

Today we ordered lunch from the well known Thai restaurant Spice. We order from Spice a couple times a month because the food is consistently good, and up until today, they are rather speedy. I was told we'd get our order in 40 minutes, but actually ended up waiting almost 2 hours. We still enjoyed our food; Crista loved her Eggplant with Holey (Blessed) Basil, minus the Basil, and I thoroughly enjoyed my Cashew Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice...however, there were a few starving problems as a result of the untimely delivery, such as:

Lots of Brownies Bites were consumed durring the wait, thus filling our bellies, and making us feel bad for eating treats before lunch
I forgot to take pictures of our food because I was so excited to eat!

So sorry for the lack of pictures, I know that is what keeps a food blog going.

On a side note, we are still trying to work out the structure of Law & Your Order, so if you have any suggestions, please share! And please please please feel free to write reviews of your own lunch that I can post.

Slow Go...

2008-11-06T12:44:00.001-05:00

We were so excited to start our blog today, that we decided where we would order lunch earlier than usual. Well, after an hour of calling and getting a busy signal, I finally got through! I was on hold for a few minutes, but its worth it. I enjoy this restaurant's consistency of yummy meals...we will make the restaurant name a surprise when we post our first lunch review.

Welcome!

2008-11-06T12:33:00.001-05:00

Welcome to "Law & Your Order"! This blog has been created to keep track of what the Locations Department of Law & Order orders for lunch, and how they like it. If you don't work on the show, then sorry, its probably pretty boring...to all of you Law & Order-ers, enjoy, and may you never eat a bad lunch again!