Five Leaves underwhelming

I was a little disappointed by Five Leaves. I had dinner last night at this lovely new spot. Don’t get me wrong, this space is gorgeous. Designed by the folks who did the interior for Moto, it’s rustic charm and decor in what would otherwise be an odd corner spot is a success. However, it is hard to walk from the front of the restaurant to the back without bumping into diners or folks seated at the bar (yes, its that narrow). We had a tasty fresh ricotta appetizer that was served with 3 half-slices of bread (we requested more and the server brought out a generous portion. I think he realized how silly it was to serve 2 people 3 little portions of bread for a huge bowl of a cheese you can’t really eat solo with your fingers). The drink menu is ok, if a bit pricey ($7-8 for eh white wine, and nothing that great on the beer list, $7 for bottle or tap). I ordered the soup of the day — butternut squash soup, vegan. It was tasty and better than average. I also had the mixed green salad. Also good. My dinner companion had the chicken with rice and greens. He seemed pleased. Overall, I think Five Leaves (also known as “the Heath Ledger bar” because of his investment prior to his death) is a lovely atmosphere, and probably a better bet for a drink and snack than a full dinner. Or maybe it’s just that it wasn’t Walter Foods that disappointed me…

Williamsburg Crime Report: Scary strangling and lots of theft

Still not convinced that crime blotters should be witty. Thanks, Brooklyn Paper. Here’s this week’s writeup.

“The Real World” to shoot in Brooklyn, or, my neighborhood is SO over

I’ve heard rumors but now it appears to be true, per Gothamist. MTV will be shooting their 21st season of “The Real World” (can someone explain to me how they’ve done 21 seasons in 16 years?) in my neighborhood. Sheesh.

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McCarren Pool Summer Screen 2008 lineup announced!!

Kind of like a drive-in for hipsters on bikes…

YAY! Gowanus Lounge alerted me to the fact that the L Magazine-sponsored Summer Screen schedule was finally announced for summer 2008. The idea is brilliant — movies! on the big screen! outdoors! fun crowd! Doesn’t get much better than that. Enjoy it while you can, next year the McCarren Park Pool will go back to it’s roots and be a public pool again.

I had a great time last year: two picnics, several beers, one connection with an old college friend and lots of laughs. The crowd really gets into the movies, the campier the better. Show up early and bring a blanket since the floor of the pool is cement. And say hi! AH, Virgin Suicides! And Desperately Seeking Susan. Fun!

Thank you, L magazine : ) Summer Screen 2008