Michael Stickle

Thai kitchens don’t whisper, they roar: garlic sizzles, chilies pound, woks clang. And always in the background, jasmine rice steams quietly in the corner, filling the air with a soft, pandan-like perfume. For Thais, that fragrance means home. For me, that scent is steeped in nostalgia. As a child, when my head barely reached the countertop, I would watch my mother lift the lid of the rice pot, a cloud of steam rising to veil her face. Later, when the rice cooker gave its telltale ‘pop,’ my role was clear: to fluff the rice quickly, separating each grain before closing the pot again to trap its warmth and perfume. Even now, that small but important duty remains mine. That daily ritual revolves around what the world knows as jasmine rice. But its true name and official designation is Khao Hom Mali, Thailand’s most celebrated grain. First discovered in the Northeast in 1945, it is protected under Thailand’s Geographical Indication (GI) certification and can only be grown in Thai soil. The most prized fields lie in the Thung Kula Ronghai basin of Isan, where once-barren saline plains have, over generations, been transformed into fertile paddies. Here, the extremes of hot days, cool nights and mineral-rich soil coax out the rice’s signature qualities: a floral aroma, delicate sweetness and a soft, fluffy texture when cooked. Harvested just once a year in late autumn, these grains are recognized globally as the finest fragrant rice in the world. Photograph: Courtesy of Tourism Au

Keeping up with what’s cool and new in running can seem overwhelming. With all the buzz about form, foam and finish lines, it’s easy to feel like you’re falling behind before you even start. Luckily, Skechers is shifting the experience to feel a lot more approachable. It’s not just about chasing a faster time. It’s about finding your rhythm and maybe even your people. Because, while running might look like a solo sport, it’s often the people around you who keep you moving. That’s why we’re teaming up with Skechers to sponsor two Time Out Connect Run Club events in New York City and Los Angeles. We’re tapping into existing crews that already know the value of showing up. These meet-ups are relaxed, social and open to anyone who wants to move their own way. Peak and Pace Run Club   Photograph by Ajahnii Johnson, courtesy of Peak and Pace Run Club   Tuesday, September 16 @7:00pmSkechers 5th Avenue, 509 5th Ave, New York, NY 10017Energy meets intention at Peak and Pace, where every stride through NYC feels like a step toward something meaningful. This community-led run club welcomes all paces and backgrounds, creating space for connection on and off the pavement. There’s no pressure to hit a certain speed or style, just a shared commitment to showing up. Expect positive vibes, scenic routes and plenty of encouragement along the way. It’s movement with purpose and proof that running together can be just as powerful as running fast. West Hollywood Run Club Photograph: Courtesy o

Being healthy isn’t just about kale and cardio; it’s about living well. It’s taking a walk with friends, grabbing lunch in a new neighborhood, dancing your heart out at a concert, or heading out to the farmers market on a Sunday just because you can. At least, that’s what CityMD believes. And frankly, we agree. That’s why Time Out and CityMD are celebrating the idea that wellness starts with showing up. We’re giving one lucky winner a $500 SpaFinder gift card, good at hundreds of spas, including some seriously soothing spots across New Jersey and New York. And yes, we’re telling you to get out… so you can spend the day inside. But when “inside” means heated stone beds, herbal steam rooms and full-body massages, we think it’s worth the trip. Of course, going out also means life happens—twisted ankles, surprise fevers, mystery coughs and bumps or bruises you want to get checked out. That’s where CityMD comes in. With dozens of locations across the region, they make it easy to take care of the everyday stuff without derailing your day. Walk in, check in, get seen, get going. No appointments, no weeks of waiting, no guessing games. CityMD is designed for people who don’t have time to be sick. Their providers handle everything from minor injuries and quick tests to vaccines, physicals and urgent issues that can’t wait, and their clinics open early, stay open late and even operate on weekends. All because life doesn’t stop at 5pm, and neither should your healthcare. If you alread

Fragrant, tender and remarkably versatile, Thai Hom Mali rice is the kind of ingredient that can define a meal. Its delicate aroma fills the kitchen as it cooks, and its soft yet distinct grains adapt easily to countless dishes. It holds sauces beautifully, adds texture to stir-fries and pairs as naturally with a complex curry as it does with simply grilled vegetables or fish. For home cooks and chefs alike, it is a grain that elevates both flavor and presentation. Whether you want rice to serve as the base of a signature menu item or to complement a favorite weeknight dish, Thai Hom Mali delivers consistency and depth. It works just as well as a neutral canvas for bold flavors as it does as a standout element on its own. This balance of versatility and character is part of why it has become a staple in kitchens worldwide. Photograph: Courtesy of Department of Foreign Trade, Ministry of Commerce (Thailand) The variety was first identified in 1945 and is now recognized as one of Thailand’s most valued agricultural products. What sets it apart from other long-grain rices is how it's grown, which includes a precise mix of soil, climate and farming practices found primarily in the northeastern provinces. The Plains of Thung Kula Ronghai are particularly renowned for producing rice with a high concentration of aroma and quality. Cultivation follows a strict seasonal cycle. Thai Hom Mali rice is harvested only once a year, typically in late autumn, when the grains have reached pe

Two hundred years ago, a stretch of water changed everything. The Erie Canal cut across New York like a promise, connecting cities, fueling trade and helping shape the future of the state. And now, in a move that feels fittingly bold and celebratory, the New York Lottery is tipping its hat to that legacy and commemorating 200 years of the Erie Canal with something equally game-changing: The Million Dollar Raffle.  This isn’t your usual lottery game. It’s a first-of-its-kind raffle that offers fifteen New Yorkers a chance at one million dollars. Yes, fifteen people will walk away with one million dollars each when the raffle draws on October 26, 2025. That’s an opportunity few games can offer, and few can match the fantastic odds. With a limited number of tickets available, this raffle offers players the best odds to win a life-changing prize; no complicated rollovers, no massive jackpot chasing, just a straightforward shot at a million dollars. We all love a good “it could happen to anyone” fantasy, but there’s something even sweeter about a game that tilts the odds slightly more in your favor. But don’t wait too long. Unlike your average weekly draw game, the Million Dollar Raffle comes with a hard limit on tickets. Once they’re gone, they’re gone—no second chances, no extras waiting in the wings. It’s a one-time shot, and considering the odds (seriously, they’re that good), tickets are going faster than a cab on a green light. There’s something special about a raffle like t

When it comes to Broadway shows that stop you in your tracks, MJ the Musical delivers a singular kind of electricity. Named one of our top picks for the season by Time Out theater editor Adam Feldman, this production brings the unmistakable magic of Michael Jackson that hits on all fronts: music, movement and style. From the very first beat, the show pulls you into Jackson’s orbit with hit after hit—“Beat It,” “Bad,” “Smooth Criminal,” “Man in the Mirror”—songs you know by heart and maybe a few forgotten loves. But this isn’t just a concert disguised as theater. The story uses the 1992 Dangerous World Tour rehearsals as its frame, flashing back through Jackson’s childhood and career to explore the moments that shaped his artistry and ambition. It’s structured less like a linear biography and more like a dynamic memory sequence, one that’s constantly in motion. Photograph: Courtesy of MJ the Musical That movement is no accident. The choreography, created by Christopher Wheeldon, who also directs the show, includes many of Jackson’s original steps and sequences. Wheeldon—best known for An American in Paris—goes beyond imitation. He preserves Jackson’s signature style while enhancing it through the language of Broadway, creating a vocabulary that combines theatrical finesse with emotional and physical rigor. The result is choreography that feels both rooted in legacy and freshly alive. You’ll see the toe stand, the glove pop and, of course, the moonwalk. But you’ll also see ex

Perched atop The Aster in Hollywood, Lemon Grove manages the rare feat of being both in the thick of things and slightly above it all, literally and metaphorically. This rooftop restaurant and bar offers sweeping views of L.A. framed by tropical foliage and a curated crowd that somehow always looks like they just came from the set. The space is airy and elegant without trying too hard, ideal for those who like their brunch with a side of skyline or prefer their sunsets served with a signature cocktail. Whether you're plotting date night or simply trying to impress a visiting friend who thinks they’ve “done L.A.,” this is your power move. In the kitchen: Executive Chef Daniel Pfeifer-Kotz's menu celebrates California’s seasonal ingredients with global perspective. Translation: fresh, colorful and deeply considered, right down to the char on the wood-fired mains and the citrus-spiked cocktails that lean more inventive than obligatory. Lemon Grove also leans into L.A.'s creative energy, hosting rotating art shows and music programming that make dinner feel like part of a bigger scene. It’s an elevated experience with a cultural edge, minus the velvet rope energy. Brunch is relaxed. Dinner is polished. And golden hour? That’s when the whole thing hums. Reservations recommended. Open for weekend brunch, dinner and rooftop drinks. Book now Website: Lemon Grove Phone: 323-962-1717 Hours   Tuesday 5–10pm Wednesday 5–10pm Thursday 5–10pm Friday 5–11pm Saturday 10am–3pm,

Cooking directly over fire is undoubtedly one of the most powerful ways we can connect with the thousands of generations that came before us; it’s one of the few things we continue to do today that replicates a function that people were doing long before we came along. The power and celebration at the heart of “live-fire” cooking inspired Heritage Fire to once again traverse the nation to share the practice that brings together local restaurants, talented chefs and food lovers for an all-inclusive walk-around feast celebrating community and bold flavors. Select cities will collaborate with Whiskies of the World, a companion tasting event showcasing rare and award-winning expressions from around the globe. The 2025 Heritage Fire Tour kicks off in Austin on June 8, followed by Savannah (June 29), Asheville (July 13), San Diego (July 20), Snowmass (August 2), Napa (August 17), Willamette Valley (September 7), Atlanta (September 13), San Jose (September 28), Pebble Beach (November 1), Los Angeles (November 8), Charleston (November 16) and Miami (December 14). Each of the all-inclusive outdoor destinations features tastes from 18+ top local chefs who will compete for the title of their city’s Heritage Hero. In Austin, San Diego, Atlanta and all cities after, Heritage Fire will be paired with Whiskies of the World for Whiskey and Fire, a two-in-one event featuring chef demos, local purveyors, 50+ whiskey partners and a fusion of fire, flavor and fine spirits. Each of the all-inclus

Forget Hamilton singalongs and ghost stories that rely on jump scares. Purefinder New York offers something far more provocative: walking tours rooted in the city’s most inconvenient truths. Founded on the premise that New York’s history is far stranger and darker than fiction, these offbeat tours are meticulously researched, unsanitized and not remotely concerned with whether you’re comfortable. This isn’t history with a halo. Purefinder New York’s summer lineup includes Central Park Scandal & Vice (spoiler: not everyone was picnicking), The Outlaws Who Built NYC (because robber barons and political fixers rarely get the Ken Burns treatment) and Twilight Tour: Death in New York, a moonlit wander through some of the city’s more creatively tragic demises. All kidding aside, these aren't your run-of-the-mill "organized crime" or "famous deaths" tours. Be prepared to learn how the city—and the country—was shaped by people and events that might not be so admirable, but were undeniably influential. These are stories where outlaws helped invent law enforcement, vice led to reform and the most shocking deaths often left behind something more interesting than just a crime scene. Each tour peels back the layers of city mythology to reveal what actually happened, using public records, archival research and a tone that gently reminds you this was never the land of moral high ground. No ghosts, no myths, no pretending everyone was just chasing the American Dream in a corset. Time Out cal

A national calendar is coming soon! It's going to round up the best Time Out Connect events across the country, from low-key hangouts to lively dance nights. These gatherings are designed to help you meet new people without the awkward small talk. Whether you’ve just moved to a new city or just want to shake up your routine, this will be a great way to connect. Want to be the first to know when the full calendar goes live? Sign up for email updates and we’ll send the details straight to your inbox.

OFFICIAL RULES FOR Fanatics Fest and Time Out Sweepstakes (“Sweepstakes”)   THESE SWEEPSTAKES ARE ORGANISED BY… Time Out:(the Sponsor) Time Out America LLC 211 East 43rd Street, Suite 1901, New York, NY 10017, United States of America In association with:(the Prize Provider) Fanatics Events, LLC 95 MORTON STREET                                                           NEW YORK, NY 10014 WHAT’S THE PRIZE? There will be three (3) winners who will each win two (2) tickets to the Fanatics Festival for either Friday June 20th, Saturday June 21st or Sunday June 22nd (“Prize”). The Prize is approximately valued at USD $69.22. The winners will not be able to select date of attendance.    👉  There are a few additional conditions from the Prize Provider which apply to this Sweepstakes and the Prize:   The Prize can be redeemed only between Friday June 20th, Saturday June 21st or Sunday June 22nd between 10:00AM - 7:00PM  Entrants must be able to get to and from the prize collection point to collect the Prize: Jacob Javits Convention Center New York, NY Day passes will be selected at random Winner wil notl be able to select date of attendance   WHEN CAN I ENTER THE SWEEPSTAKES? Start Date: 12:00 am [EST] on June 11th, 2025 End Date: 11:59 pm [EST] on June 16th, 2025 HOW DO I ENTER? Step 1: Follow timeout.usa on Instagram;  Step 2: Comment on the instagram post; and  Step 3: That’s it! Just make sure you complete the above steps  before the End Date.    👉 By uploadin

Summer’s coming fast, and with it, the annual question: how do you keep the kids busy and happy? Sure, playgrounds and parks are great, but there’s nothing quite like a summer camp to keep young minds and bodies engaged. New York City’s lineup of camps covers just about everything—science, sports, animals, arts, and all things in between. From day camps to sleepaways, there’s something for every kid, whether they’re into building robots, spotting red pandas, or perfecting their jump shot. Even better? Some camps are designed with the whole family in mind, so grown-ups can get in on the action too.

Yellow Door Taqueria is Boston’s idea of summer on repeat. The menu is built around tacos, each one detailed and colorful enough to stand on its own. Handmade tortillas are the foundation, soft but sturdy, and the fillings shift between vegetables, seafood and meat with equal attention to balance and flavor. Cauliflower with salsa macha hits the smoky side, fish tacos come dressed with avocado crema, and al pastor brings a sweet-savory punch. The plates arrive quickly, which suits the energy of the room. This is not a slow, drawn-out dinner. People are here to eat, drink and talk over music that leans loud enough to set the pace without drowning out conversation. Margaritas are strong, tequila lists are long and service is tuned to keep tables moving at a steady clip. Décor adds to the mood without pushing too hard. Patterned tile, neon signs and tropical details make the space feel more like a neighborhood party than a themed restaurant. Regulars show up in groups, often staying longer than they planned, while newcomers are drawn in by the look and end up staying for the food. Yellow Door works because it does not spread itself too thin. It knows tacos and cocktails are enough. The kitchen nails the former, the bar manages the latter and the overall effect is a restaurant that feels confident in its lane. PEPSI™ Special Yellow Door Taqueria's special Carne Asada Burrito features grilled steak marinated in PEPSI with black beans, bacon and onion jam, blistered peppers, haban

HCK brings Nashville‑style hot chicken to Fort Worth with no fuss and full flavor. The menu keeps focus: chicken sandwiches scored by heat level, loaded “phat wraps,” tenders and wings that are fried fresh, never underdone. It’s unapologetically about heat that builds alongside crisp texture. Light tipping: the Nashville model is intact. Each sandwich comes balanced with pickles, white bread or bun, enough heat to sting but built to be eaten. Sauces are clearly labeled; you know what you’re getting—an experience, not a guessing game. Extras like mac ‘n’ cheese, slaw, fries or spicy tots are low fuss, solid options. The setup is quick‑serve but feels more culinary than cafeteria. Order up front or scan QR codes, then grab a seat or takeout bag if heading home. The dining room is compact without feeling cramped, and walls are unapologetically branded with their motto and nods to hot chicken culture. Service feels practiced. Staff call out names and heat levels as though they’ve done it a thousand times. The kitchen backs that up, delivering sandwiches hot—spiced through the last bite—and fries crisp. What holds HCK together is consistency. If you want juicy chicken with rising heat and vinegar tang, every visit delivers. There's a confidence in repetition that’s hard to pull off without being overly slick. At HCK it lands as simple pleasure.

The Sour Boule builds its daily rhythm on sourdough breads, toasts, bagels and pastries that taste earnest, not overdesigned. Dough is fermented long enough for chew and tang to develop. Breakfast is solid. Bagel sandwiches—like the Bacon, Egg & Cheese or sausage version—land simple and hot. Sourdough slices with avocado or cheese—plus optional eggs or greens—flex between classic and creative. The bakery cases stack cinnamon buns, kouign-amann or daily sourdough specials that rotate. Sandwiches shine. The “Boule Royalty” stacks roast beef, onions and cheese. The “Sour Boule” sandwich layers chicken, slaw and tomato on sourdough. Other builds—like turkey-cranberry or bacon-spinach—show range without fluff. Sips stay thoughtful—pour-overs, chai, cold brew, fruity lattes or just good coffee. The space is clean, daylight bright through windows. Tables are small but sturdy; most people sit for a moment, not commit hours. What clicks is the clarity: whether you want morning coffee and pastry or an avocado toast mid-day, the kitchen has you covered. It’s not staging a moment. It’s serving bread as bread should be.  

Tacos Y Mas at Arapaho is the definition of dependable street-taco service: fast line, clear menu, salsa bar with range, and a staff that knows how to keep orders moving. Breakfast starts early, then the menu shifts into an all-day rhythm of tacos, burritos, tortas, quesadillas, bowls, and combo platters. Prices are posted plainly and the portions make quick work of a lunch break or a late run. The Street Taco Platter is a good read on the kitchen: three tacos with rice and beans, built on soft corn tortillas and handed over as soon as they clear the flat-top. If you want something bigger, the Burrito Combo adds a crispy taco on the side. Birria shows up as a platter with consomé when you want a richer route. Signature tacos lean into house builds like pastor, barbacoa, bistec, pollo asado, and more. Seafood options rotate in with shrimp or fish, and there are breakfast tacos from open to close if you keep that schedule. Combos simplify decisions for groups, while a six-pack of street tacos is the office hero move when everyone is “fine with anything.” The salsa bar is part of the brand’s identity, with a range that moves from mild to dare-you heat, and the team encourages people to customize without slowing down the line. The room is casual and bright with quick-serve seating. Most orders are dine-and-dash or takeout, though you will see families park a tray and split a platter. Late on weekends, hours stretch well past dinner, which makes this location a reliable stop after

Richardson East runs the same playbook with a neighborhood feel. The menu covers street tacos, signature builds, crispy tacos, burritos, tortas, quesadillas, nachos, bowls, breakfast staples, and family-friendly combo platters. Ordering is simple: pick your format, pick your protein, add rice and beans if you want the full plate. The line moves quickly and the staff is comfortable answering first-timer questions without slowing things down. There is a proper salsa bar here too, so the mild crowd and the heat chasers both leave happy. Street tacos on corn tortillas are the core. Pastor, barbacoa, bistec, pollo, and carnitas rotate as steady sellers, while fish or shrimp fill the seafood lane. A six-pack of street tacos travels well and is the safe order for a group. Breakfast tacos start early and stick around through the day, which suits commuters and weekend errands. The enchilada platter is a sleeper option when you want a knife-and-fork plate without breaking stride. Portions are sensible for lunch and generous enough for dinner, and the price point fits repeat visits. The dining room keeps a low-stress pace. Tables turn often at lunch, then the room settles into a steady evening flow. Families show up for combo platters, solo diners finish a quick three-taco set and head out, and the takeout counter handles a constant stream of online orders. Staff keeps the salsa bar stocked and the queue moving during peak hours. If you want a basic roadmap, start with pastor or barbaco

SoDough Square in Orlando’s SODO district keeps its focus tight: Detroit-style pizza baked in steel pans until the edges crisp and caramelize. The dough is soft inside, crunchy at the edges, and every pie comes finished with sauce ladled on top. Pepperoni cups curl into flavor bombs, veggie mixes get the same respect, and the occasional specialty pie rotates in for variety. The space is casual but deliberate. Orders move quickly, pies come out hot, and the staff is practiced at keeping things flowing during the inevitable dinner rush. People show up in groups, but solo diners are just as common, eating slices at the counter before heading back out. Sides and salads provide balance, but pizza is the main event. Portions are generous enough that one pie can work for two if you are not ravenous, but most people order their own. The crust is what defines SoDough: airy, structured, and sturdy enough to hold the toppings without losing its bite. Regulars know the drill—show up hungry, grab a pie, adjust your toppings as needed, and finish with the last square that’s always a little more satisfying than you planned.  

The UCF outpost of SoDough Square delivers the same Detroit-style approach to pizza that built the brand’s reputation. Pies arrive thick, airy, and caramelized at the edges, with sauce layered over cheese for the signature finish. Students and locals line up for pepperoni, but veggie and specialty combinations get equal attention. This shop serves the campus crowd without pandering. It is fast enough for a lunch break but comfortable for groups splitting pies at dinner. Orders move steadily, slices reheat well if you’re taking them to go, and late-night hours are built for students who consider pizza a food group. Sides and salads round out the menu, but it’s the crust that makes SoDough distinct. Well-fermented dough gives structure and chew, and the kitchen doesn’t cut corners when balancing toppings. Each pie feels built to be eaten immediately, not saved for tomorrow. The vibe is energetic without tipping into frantic. It’s busy but functional, with staff who know the regulars and newcomers equally.  

Winter Park’s SoDough Square offers the same square pies in a slightly more residential setting. The formula doesn’t change: thick Detroit-style crust, caramelized edges, sauce on top, and toppings that range from classic pepperoni to seasonal vegetables. The crowd skews local, with families ordering multiple pies and groups splitting squares. Service keeps pace with demand, and the kitchen is consistent in turning out pizzas that look and taste the same each time. That reliability is why Winter Park regulars adopt it quickly. The dining area is small but comfortable, designed for quick meals as much as longer group gatherings. Staff keep the pace brisk without rushing people out. What makes this location stand out is its neighborhood integration. It feels like a local pizza shop even though it’s part of a small group, and that makes it a reliable anchor for weeknight dinners or casual weekend meals.  

Shawarmas To Go delivers Middle Eastern staples without overcomplication. The wraps are packed tight with marinated chicken, beef, or falafel, balanced with pickles, vegetables, and bold garlic sauce. Everything is wrapped neatly, making it as portable as it is filling. The menu is direct: shawarmas, platters, falafel, and sides that round out a meal. Fries, hummus, and rice provide variety without distracting from the main event. Portions lean generous, and pricing makes it practical for repeat visits. The dining space is functional, designed for quick turnover, but regulars keep it steady. Lunch breaks, late-night snacks, and family dinners all fit the format. Staff move quickly, orders are consistent, and the line clears faster than you expect. It works because it doesn’t try to be anything more than what it is: straightforward shawarma service with food that lands the same way each time.  

Rock N Rev is built on American diner energy with a soundtrack. Burgers are tall and messy in the right way, breakfast runs all day, and the kitchen sends out plates that suit both families and late-night diners. Décor leans heavy on music memorabilia, with walls covered in guitars, posters, and records. The soundtrack matches, running classic rock that gives the restaurant its name. The effect is lively without being overwhelming. Service is tuned for speed, with staff who know how to keep refills moving and plates landing hot. The crowd is mixed: families, groups of friends, solo diners grabbing a burger at the counter. The appeal is its reliability. You can walk in at almost any time, order straightforward comfort food, and know exactly what will land in front of you.  

Mabel’s brings West African cooking to Plano with clarity and depth. There is no attempt to simplify the menu—dishes like Egusi stew, goat pepper soup, jollof rice and plantain or yam porridge arrive with confidence. Flavors are assertive yet balanced, capturing the essence of Nigerian comfort food without any of the fluff. Starters like meat pies and akara set the tone: they are hearty, not fussy, and hint that this menu invites sharing. Jollof rice with chicken and fried plantains is a weekend standout; it's tomato-rich and brightly spiced. The Egusi, thick with melon seed, meat and greens, comes with your choice of swallow—either poundo yam, amala, semovita, eba or white rice—so you can eat with hands or utensils, your pick. Vegetarian and pescatarian diners will find options too. Efo Riro Royale includes leafy greens and your choice of meat or fish in a rich stew, while the fried yam and plantain combo is a skillful side that mixes sweet, soft, and savory. If you’ve had ado before—soft-swallowed meals—that work well when paired with small bowls of stews and sides, this is a place where that format thrives. Service never lets you forget you’re dining in a spot that values community. Plates land in the middle of the table. Portions are generous and prices are straightforward considering the cooking labor involved. The interior feels bright but grounded—textured walls, soft lighting, a sense of purpose without pretension. Mabel’s also works evenings with a bar and playlist

Beachfront dining is rare in Malibu, but Paradise Cove makes it possible without fuss. Every table has an ocean view, the seafood is fresh and the atmosphere is casual enough that you can walk in straight from the sand. It is more beach hangout than white tablecloth, which is exactly why it works. The menu covers everything from clam chowder and calamari to ahi tuna salad and lobster rolls. Seafood is the focus, but the kitchen handles burgers and salads well enough that no one feels left out. The clam chowder is rich, the lobster rolls are well stuffed and the portions are designed to fill you up after a swim. Sunsets are part of the appeal. Locals still stop to admire them, tourists treat them like a photo op, and staff have perfected the timing of bringing out plates as the light hits just right. The restaurant is open year-round, though it is busiest in summer when the patio is full and the beach is lined with people waiting for a table. Service is unfussy and warm, which keeps the vibe friendly rather than fussy. Waiters are quick with refills, patient with big groups and used to diners lingering over dessert until the sky goes dark. It is the definition of a coastal escape. Food is straightforward, scenery is the main attraction and the combination makes you want to stretch the meal into hours. Paradise Cove does not overcomplicate things. It delivers seafood by the beach with a side of ocean breeze, and that is enough.

In a city that rarely leaves space unused, Moxy Williamsburg has managed to carve out something original: a custom-designed pickleball court tucked inside Bar Bedford Garden. It’s the only hotel court in Brooklyn, and yes, it’s available year-round. The 15-by-30-foot court sits atop turf and folds seamlessly into the garden’s aesthetic. It’s functional, polished and surprisingly serene given that it’s located in the middle of a hotel. Aesthetically, it follows the Moxy playbook—bright, social, slightly offbeat—while still feeling like part of the neighborhood. Open daily from 10am to 7pm, the court is available to hotel guests and also bookable for private events. So whether you’re in the mood for a casual rally or planning an afternoon of low-stakes competition with friends, it’s an easy win. Custom paddles keep the volume down, which means you can actually hear your post-game drink order. Photograph: Michael Kleinberg Photography, courtesy of Moxy Hotels Photograph: Michael Kleinberg Photography, courtesy of Moxy Hotels Speaking of which, Bar Bedford is marking the launch with a new cocktail created in partnership with Grey Goose. It involves lemonade, raspberry liqueur and a honeydew melon ball shaped to resemble a tennis ball. It’s a small nod to the game, and it works. Pickleball has been named the fastest-growing sport in the U.S. for four years running, and its appeal is clear: low barrier to entry, highly social, more physically engaging than it looks. As for Moxy

Moxy Hotels is once again going all in on Pride, with a packed schedule of events this June across all five of its NYC properties. Whether you’re looking for rooftop drag shows, burlesque bingo or a vodka soda that literally says Gay Water, this year’s programming is loud, proud and refreshingly well thought-out. The headline event is “Pride for the People,” a post-parade block party hosted by RuPaul’s Drag Race alum, Xunami Muse. Taking place at Moxy Chelsea on June 29, the party includes DJ sets, live performances, on-site makeup from Stencil1 and a signature cocktail called Pride Punch. Tickets are $10, with all proceeds benefiting The Stonewall Inn Gives Back Initiative (SIGBI). RECOMMENDED: NYC's best Pride events for 2025, from the marches to concerts That partnership with SIGBI goes beyond the party. All five NYC Moxy locations—Chelsea, Times Square, East Village, Lower East Side and Williamsburg—have officially been certified as Safe Spaces through the initiative. "As a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, I’m thrilled that at Moxy, Pride is more than a month—it’s a mindset," Lauren Levin, chief marketing officer at Moxy Hotels / Lightstone, said in a statement. "We're the only hotel brand in NYC to partner with The Stonewall Inn Gives Back Initiative, certifying each of our hotels as a designated safe space and training our staff to ensure every guest feels truly welcome." Photograph: Michael Kleinberg, courtesy of Moxy Williamsburg Other standout Pride events in

At some point in adulthood, “What are we doing tonight?” stops sounding like an exciting question and starts feeling like a group project with no leader and even less motivation. That’s where the apps come in (fingers crossed). I already use Time Out to find the best restaurants and things to do in whatever city I’m in—because obviously—but sometimes I want something even more niche or spontaneous, especially when I’m traveling and trying to find something that I could share with (and impress, if I’m being honest) that city’s Time Out editor. So I downloaded a bunch of apps promising to help. Some focused on live music. Others wanted me to “connect with my community,” even when I was just passing through. One kept pushing EDM yoga. I tried a few more than what you'll see, but those didn’t make the cut—and these are the ones that actually delivered. Whether I was in San Francisco, Brooklyn or killing time in a random airport-adjacent suburb, these apps surfaced events and experiences I wouldn’t have found on my own. This isn’t about “maximizing joy” or “rediscovering wonder.” It’s about having plans when you don’t know the city, don’t know the people and still want to do something better than stare at your phone on a hotel bed. And at home, it’s about never hearing the words “We should’ve just stayed in” ever again. Geocaching Geocaching turns any city into a low-key treasure map, using GPS to lead to hidden containers called caches. It’s the perfect mix of outdoorsy and nerdy

Booking dinner used to involve talking to another human. Now, it involves avoiding one. Because apps. You open OpenTable or Resy, pick your time slot and let the algorithm decide your night. Congratulations, you’ve made a reservation without accidentally speaking to a human being. Restaurant reservation apps have fully embedded themselves into the American going-out experience, especially among people who flinch at the idea of calling someone. Gen Z and Millennials live on these apps. Gen X uses them too, but mostly to avoid being the one stuck making the call. Boomers still ask, “Can’t we just walk in?” Restaurants love the crowd control but hate the fees. And the apps themselves? Useful, yes. But like everything in late-stage capitalism, they come with strings—fees, flakiness and an ongoing contribution to the death of human interaction. Let’s see how it all breaks down. OpenTable – Reliable with Boomer-proof buttons Best for: Group dinners, date nights, or booking a place your parents pickedWho uses it: Boomers, group organizersWhy we love it: OpenTable is the Toyota Camry of reservation apps; it’s everywhere, it’s reliable, it’s easy to use and it looks just dated enough to make it feel legit. You can rack up points, modify reservations easily and the confirmation emails arrive faster than you can text “on my way.”Room for improvement: It’s the Amazon of dining apps—ubiquitous and super convenient, but a little too transactional.Use it if: You're booking for people who st

In a world where making friends as an adult often feels like scheduling a dentist appointment—necessary but mildly anxiety-inducing—Les Amis arrives with a refreshing proposition: what if finding meaningful connections didn't involve endless scrolling, awkward small talk or the dreaded "we should hang out sometime" that never materializes? Anna Bilych, the 27-year-old Estonian tech founder (and former PayPal product manager), co-created Les Amis with Oleg Pashinin after moving for work and realizing what we all know deep down: making new friends in a new city is somehow harder than canceling a gym membership. So, in January 2022, they built the thing she wished existed: a way to meet like-minded women through shared interests and curated hangouts that don’t feel like forced fun. Les Amis—French for “the friends,” because yes, it’s trying to class things up a bit—isn’t just an app, it’s a low-key movement. Now live in 19 European cities and recently launched in Austin, Texas, it’s already hosted over 4,000 events and connected thousands of women who were just looking for a better way to hang out. A smarter way to make actual friends Les Amis takes the chaos of adult friendship-making and gives it structure—without killing the vibe. It starts with a short but surprisingly insightful application where you share the usual details (age, job, interests) and a few personality-driven prompts that help match you with people who might actually get your references. The app’s algorithm t

Traveling as a writer/editor is a delicate balance of packing light while still bringing everything I need to keep the words flowing and the deadlines met. Sure, I always toss in the non-tech essentials like big binder clips (because hotel curtains never close properly), bamboo utensils (because I’m not a monster) and a Sharpie that never ever seems to run dry. But let’s be real—those things don’t help me hit “send” on a 1,000-word feature while sitting in a noisy airport. That’s where my tech arsenal comes in. These are the compact, medium-priced gadgets that keep me sane, productive and occasionally entertained while I’m on the move. They’re not just tools—they’re lifelines. From noise-canceling headphones that drown out screaming toddlers to a foldable keyboard that turns any café table into a workspace, these items are the unsung heroes of my carry-on. So, if you’re a fellow worker-on-the-go (or just someone who likes to pretend they’re working while scrolling Instagram), here’s my ultimate list of tech travel essentials. iPhone 15 Pro Max Let’s start with the obvious. My iPhone is my lifeline. It’s my camera, my GPS, my inbox and occasionally my therapist. The 15 Pro Max’s battery life is solid enough to survive a long-haul flight, and the camera is so good it makes me feel like a National Geographic photographer when I’m really just snapping pictures of my overpriced airport burger. AirPods Pro These little guys are a godsend. Whether drowning out the sound of a crying

The future of dining is looking a lot more like a sci-fi movie, and honestly? We’re here for it, so long as we don’t lose sight of the human touches—think recipe invention, taste and care. The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics in the U.S. restaurant industry is shaking up the food scene, making service faster, smarter and maybe even cooler. Restaurants are dealing with labor shortages and rising costs, and tech is swooping in to save the day—one robot at a time. Case in point is also one of the hottest trends: AI-powered customer service. Chatbots, like the ones used by Domino’s, are basically your new pizza BFFs, helping you place orders, track deliveries and even vent about your missing extra sauce (we’ve all been there). These bots work 24/7, giving human employees more time to focus on things that require, well, actual human skills. Meanwhile, McDonald's self-service kiosks use machine learning to personalize menu suggestions—so if you always get fries with that, they’ll know. AI is also getting deep into data, tracking customer behavior like a digital Sherlock Holmes. Starbucks’ Deep Brew AI remembers your go-to latte and recommends menu items based on your past orders (finally, a system that gets you). Over at Chipotle, AI helps monitor ingredient freshness, cutting down food waste and increasing sustainability. This environmental aspect of AI can help restaurants decrease their purchasing expenses while appealing to those of us for whom saving the plane