Hotel Review: Holiday Inn Express (Richmond Hill)

Had some business up in Richmond Hill last week and so we stayed at Holiday Inn Express just north of Hwy 7 just off of Leslie Street.

Across the street from the chinese plaza, Times Square, this spacious and modern hotel had a nice first impression. 

The foyer had a wide foyer traffic area and off to the side a comfy sitting area. Just behind the sitting area, they had a complimentary computer (Apple iMac) for patrons to use, right by the elevators. And even further into the hotel, still in the lobby, they have a nicely arranged lounge/sitting area that doubles turns as their breakfast area. It is very spacious and open.

The amenities were very clean and modern. Our double bed room had a very nice long headboard that stretches from one bed to the other. I like how there's lots of counter space by the television. They have a desk area near the window for any needed sit down work, but I do prefer my bed! =0)

Of course, one of the perks of staying here was the complimentary breakfast. With a good size menu, they also provide a few "hot" options such as make-it-yourself pancakes, scramble eggs and sausages.

I opted for a bagel/sausage/cream cheese trio with a side of scramble eggs and an Activia yogurt.

The service was also very pleasant and the location was convenient. 

Overall, I would rate this 4.5/5 stars

Food Review: Corner Bistro (NYC)

This was a gem.

We were hungry.
We were hungry and tired.
We wanted good food.
But.. we didn't want to pay for overpriced food.

So...

I pulled out my list of "researched" New York City restaurants by Google reviewers. Located in West Village, this tiny joint is where all the hype is at.

The first thought that comes into my mind (when I saw the places' exterior and interior) was the "Burger" episode from HOW I MET YOUR MOTHER. 

This is the episode that talks about how when Marshall first arrives to NYC, he found a small bistro restaurant where he ordered and enjoyed the best burger he's ever tasted. By the end of the night, I felt like I relived that very same episode.

The place was simply perfect. It was vintage, the staff did their own thing, and the feeling of the place felt so authentic.

The menu was up on the wall (photo below, left), very hard to see and had a limited list (which made for choosing that much easier). 

My order or Bacon Cheeseburger ($8.50) and Fries ($3) (comes separately).

Adding to the awesome ghetto-ness, were their plates, they served everything on plastic. =0)

The beef patty was the largest and thickest I've ever had. And because of it's thickness, I think it needed just a bit more "seasoning" to help even out the ratio of beef and flavor. But as a whole, the burger was one of the best I've ever had. 

This type of burgers are those greasy and messy ones. The bun pretty much melts as you bite through the burger and the only thing left in your hands is beef and sauce. 

Overall, I have to say, I love this place. 

It's small but cozy

It's dark but friendly

It's limited (food choices) but incredibly tasty

I rate Corner Bistro 4.8/5