Welcome back! You’re tuning into the second edition of Tasting With Thomas, where I explore the affordable eats that New York City has to offer. As an avid connoisseur of dining atmospheres, interesting flavors, and a good sweet treat I hopped over to Bareburger’s Upper West Side location for a fresh dining experience.
Walking into the restaurant, I was immediately struck by its bright and welcoming ambiance. From the big windows letting in natural lighting, to the modern diner decorations, I could feel the space’s light and uplifting energy.
Before getting into my meal, I was able to take advantage of Bareburger’s happy hour. Inspired by the flowers blooming this springtime, I ordered a hibiscus margarita for only $9. Not only was I satisfied by the herbal flavors, but the elegant presentation with lime, sugar rim, and even a hibiscus flower left me swooning and satisfied!
By this point I’d worked up my appetite and was ready to order. With such a wide variety of options, from wraps to burgers to sandwiches, to even salads, I was having a tough time making a choice. Usually my vegan diet restrictions do most of the deciding for me, but I was more than relieved to find an amazing amount of vegan options throughout the selection.
Thankfully, the lovely staff referred me to the customize your own option near the bottom of their menu. Right away, I started crafting the perfect meal to satisfy my cravings. Starting with a spinach wrap, I added the sweet potato, kale & wild-rice patty protein base. Then I added buffalo frizzled onion, roma tomato, and alfalfa sprouts for veggies. I topped off my dream wrap with some shredded asiago cheese and Bareburger’s very own vegan “wham bam” sauce!
I’ll admit that the wrap appeared suspiciously petite when the server brought it to the table. This wrap, however, proved that looks can be deceiving! The wrap was filling enough, and beyond that it was tasty too! I also got the chance to enjoy some crunchy onion rings along with my wrap, casually dipping them in some aioli and relish to my liking.
After more than a few refreshing sips and filling bites, my meal had come to its conclusion. While I was more than satisfied with my meal, I definitely left Bareburger excited for my next visit. Between the rest of the vegan options that I didn’t get the chance to try and the “wham bam” sauce, I’m sure I’ll be returning to Bareburger sometime soon!
Make sure to take advantage of Bareburger’s $1 combo lunch special. This deal runs Monday – Friday until 3pm, and includes savory sides like french fries, sweet fries or a salad.
Written By Thomas Stewart, 04/29/2025
Author Bio: Thomas Stewart is an undergraduate student at Columbia University pursuing studies in creative writing and human rights in an effort to utilize media as a tool to vitalize our communities. When Thomas isn’t off overthinking in his journal, you can find him on campus volunteering for the local Housing Equity Project, organizing for the Black Student Organization, or playing a jam session at Columbia University Records club. Ultimately, his love for all things creative prevails throughout his life.
The Campus Clipper invites students to step into a third space characterized by eclectic music—sung in a range of different languages—and the chatter from businessmen and schoolboys alike. Boris, the owner, wears black latex gloves as he works and tends to his clients. I brought my friend Pasha in, as he needed some refinement to his aesthetics before his fraternity formal. He described the state of his hair as somewhere in-between an overgrown mullet and a shag. Situated just around the corner from Baruch, Third Avenue Barber Club is known for its premium walk-in and membership services.
A look at Pasha’s hair before Boris stepped in.
Barber shops, in recent years, have changed. They were once length-specific, but in a changing world, barbers need to know how to cut longer hair. Boris keeps several mannequins to practice on in the back of his shop, in order to perfect his craft after taking a course on longer hair. He hopes to shift his business model towards offering clients membership, though he is refraining from closing off walk-ins, as he hopes to remain accessible.
Boris provided an analysis of Pasha’s hair, woven throughout his stories and anecdotes. He noted where my friend’s split ends were as he spritzed water across his locks.
“He was incredibly friendly and prioritized understanding exactly what I wanted from my haircut. When I was unsure about certain parts, he took the time to figure out and understand what would suit me best,” Pasha took note.
A smiling Pasha in the process of his haircut!
Boris, the manager, had to close his first barbershop after eight years, but reopened a shop recently in the Gramercy district of Manhattan. As I observed his skillful craft for the afternoon, it became evident that he was extremely knowledgeable in the world of hair.
”While barbers’ expertise lies in shorter cuts, Boris showed exemplary detail when cutting longer hair,” my friend commented. “He took great care in pinning my hair in such a way that he could cut in proper layers while keeping my scalp comfortable.”
Pasha started with an overgrown shag, which was refined to a neater mullet with layers and cleaner bangs. I could actually see his face after the precise haircut executed by the barber.
”In my experience, a lot of stylists/barbers ask for what style you want, do the entire haircut, and then ask if it’s to your liking when it’s too late to make major adjustments,” Pasha reflected. “Boris avoided this by checking in with my opinion at every major step, which not only ensured that I got the cut I wanted, but also made me a lot more comfortable in the barber’s chair.”
A close up of Pasha’s cleaned-up and healthy luscious locks and layers.
Third Avenue Barber Club is a quaint establishment for walk-in and reserved haircuts. With membership services offering unlimited haircuts and unlimited skin fades, the shop provides customers with a range of choice and selection when paying for their luxurious services. Thankfully, the business has partnered with the Campus Clipper for a student discount when clients present their valid student ID and coupon below.
Stuffed from our savory lunch at Campus Clipper partner, Buffalo Wild Wings on First Avenue, my good friend Amanda and I took a quick walk to Sundae and Cones. This quaint, Asian-owned establishment, is just around the corner from New York University, serving as a sweet spot for superb sundaes. Upon entering the shop, customers are greeted with an abundance of flavors, ranging from classics like cookie dough and chocolate chip to unique flavors such as sesame and red bean. Many of the eclectic flavors were Asian, which I deeply appreciated. The soft purple taro and lavender choices immediately stood out to me. The two of us were overwhelmed with excitement for our desert.
The simple, minimal, and inviting interior of Sundae and Cones, with a display of asian-inspired and classic flavors.
“Sundae and Cones had an amazing ambiance. The aesthetic is perfect and the seating is so cute,” Amanda reviewed.
We began with samples. Lots and lots of samples.
“I tried the red bean and loved it so much. For the taro, I’m still thinking about it. I should have ordered it, honestly. When I sampled the pralines and cream, I found it amazing. Definitely a flavor done well, and it’s one of my favorite flavors ever,” Amanda reflected. “The chocolate fudge swirl, chocolate peanut butter, and pistachio-almond were all quite good. In the mocha chip, the coffee flavor is very prominent and has a lot of chocolate chips.”
My personal favorite samples were the salted caramel, red velvet, and classic chocolate. When returning to this ice cream shop, I most definitely will pick a three scoop cup with these complimentary flavors. Some of the flavors I found quite interesting. Sesame was a strong, unique flavor that might pair better with a simpler scoop or with a banana-whip cream combo. Amanda tried corn.
Our selection of sweet treats and beverages sitting by the window sill.
“Not a lover of corn in general, really. But I wanted to try because I was intrigued. Pleasantly surprised with its taste!”
We placed our orders after sampling a majority of their in-season choices. Amanda had an iced chai latte, a brownie, and a three scoop cup with chocolate fudge swirl, mocha chip, and pralines-cream. I asked for an iced almond milk latte with hazelnut, a cookie, and a banana boat float with strawberry cheesecake, taro, and hazelnut.
“I got one of their fudgy brownies. It was fire,” were Amanda’s comments. “Chai latte? No notes, just fire.”
The strawberry cheesecake paired well with the whipped cream, rainbow sprinkles, and cherry marinchitto. It was incredibly sweet and delectable with a slightly salty taste from the cheesecake portion. The banana’s freshness added to the sugariness of the ice cream. I truly believe one can never go wrong with a simple taro scoop, especially when sandwiched between two sweeter flavors. Hazelnut remained my go-to at sundae shops, as this establishment nailed it. My favorite flavor was not overly sweet, and far from an overbearing nutty flavor.
A close up of my banana split sundae with several fun toppings.
“My experience at Sundaes and Cones was amazing. The owners were so friendly and personable and made the entire experience even better. I tried new flavors that I never thought of trying, and I am so glad I did, every flavor I had was divine,” Amanda concluded after our afternoon sweet treat trip.
Overall, the two of recommend us recommend their chocolate chip cookie, salted caramel scoop, taro sample, hazelnut scoop, and chocolate fudge mocha scoop when visiting Sundae and Cones. Their wide selection is a truly unique gem in Manhattan, making it a perfect spot to hit after a dinner date or when in need of a sweet treat when the dreaded finals season approaches. Thankfully, Sundae and Cones, located in the East Village, is partnering with the Campus Clipper for a student discount when they show our coupon and valid student ID.
Every American has seen their ads when watching football on the television or on billboards during road trips. They’re Buffalo Wild Wings! This nationally famous establishment is known for the wide range of flavors they offer for their traditional wings, perfect for a meal after a long night out from bar-hopping or essential for a tailgate before the big game. Just around the corner from New York University, a Buffalo Wild Wings Go location serves customers everyday, even into deeper hours for those late-night snackers.
The interior of the Buffalo Wild Wings Go location on First Avenue.
Amanda, one of my good friends, and I were craving wings terribly, which inevitably brought us to the closest Buffalo Wild Wings. Neither of us had eaten that afternoon. We were two famished college students eagerly pouring over the extensive menu. Pleased to be eating food outside of our dining hall, we selected an abundance of entrees and appetizers to stuff our faces for lunch.
For starters, we had two servings of french fries and a generous helping of fried pickles. Amanda and I fought over the latter: the juicy and bittersweet pickle slices were coated in a light breading, complemented by a tangy, slightly spicy dipping sauce. As for the fries, these very thin potato slices were plentiful in amount and seasoned well with salt and pepper. We chose to add a salt and vinegar dry rub for extra seasoning, though the fries had plenty of flavor by themselves.
Our fried pickles and french fries for starters.
“The fried pickles were an amazing appetizer. Just so nice and crispy, with a good ratio of breading to pickle!” Amanda commented. “Plus, you can’t go wrong with fries. They were a good portion size, and honestly some of the best restaurant fries I’ve had.”
The two of us shared several entrees: six piece wings with lemon pepper sauce, six piece wings with medium sauce, six piece wings with spicy garlic sauce, a buffalo ranch chicken wrap, and an all american burger.
We began with the monstrous, double-patty, classic burger. The ground beef makes for a greasy, but delicious burger, especially sandwiched in between two brioche buns. The burger showcases a heaping amount of American cheese, tomatoes, pickles, lettuce, and mayonnaise. It is a classic staple in fast food done right.
“Although it was messy because of the mayo, it was amazing for me personally because of the piles of pickles and lettuce. The bun is delicious and it is truly a huge burger,” she noted.
Amanda tried the buffalo wrap and gave verbal approval of the entree. She noted an abundance of cheese and a proportionate amount of chicken inside.
Our three types of wings, with the lemon pepper on top.
“This actually used to be my go to dinner at Buffalo Wild Wings, before I liked wings on the bone!”
Still hot within their cardboard packaging, Amanda and I practically salivated once the wings arrived. The spicy garlic and medium were fairly similar in taste, a detail that did not diminish their deliciousness! Both were of mild heat and pungent flavor. I enjoyed every tender bite and would love to try the traditional bone in-wing for these classics. My personal favorite was the lemon pepper, though I suppose it was Amanda’s as well. We fought over the remaining few pieces and decided to have our own orders the next time we returned.
Amanda is seen here happily taking photos of our half-devoured lunch together.
If we were to suggest two main takeaways, Amanda and I would recommend students try the fried pickles for a starter, followed by the delectable traditional wings with lemon pepper sauce. We washed down our afternoon meal with fountain drinks, primarily consisting of Diet Pepsi and Pepsi Zero Sugar. Thankfully, Buffalo Wild Wings on First Ave has offered to give students a 15% discount when they present the coupon below and their valid student ID.
Like everyone else, I’ve been thinking about Bad Bunny’s Calvin Klein promotion for about three weeks. I am all for men in their tiny little undies looking all scrumptious for clothing brands, and it’s not just because the sight is easy on the eyes. Campaigns like Bad Bunny’s and Jeremy Allen White’s do more than just give the people what they want. When men take up sexualized spaces that have been historically imposed upon women, they highlight the gender discrepancy within partial-nudity reception. That’s what I’m also for.
Calvin Klein’s Instagram page has an audience of nearly 26 million. Bad Bunny appears in the most recent Calvin Klein campaign wearing just his Calvins, partially nude—something that’s been normalized for men in media but is often critiqued and policed when women do the same.
Bad Bunny received overwhelmingly positive feedback from the internet for posing in his Calvins, with many comments thanking Calvin Klein for giving them such a godsend of photos (I don’t disagree here). Audiences reacted the same with Jeremy Allen White and many of the other men who have posed in their tighty whities, such as Jacob Elordi, Michael B. Jordan, and more.
Bad Bunny’s Calvin Klein ad, cropped to your displeasure.
What happens when we compare the reception to JENNIE’s Calvin Klein campaign, which featured comments from viewers such as “She has a nice body, but is it sexy?” What about Disha Patani’s? A follower wrote, “Nowadays, showing partial body is the next way to get popular and attention.” Maya Jardon’s more conservative shapewear post didn’t miss getting hit either: “Why are you naked?” And then, for Lily Collins’ full-clothing campaign, a backhanded comment that almost had me hopeful, “This woman is sexy without showing anything,” plus a “this is not on brand.”
We can’t forget what happened to FKA twigs, either. In April 2023, Calvin Klein released an advertisement featuring FKA twigs wearing an unbuttoned denim shirt draped over her body, exposing parts of her butt and her breasts. It wasn’t too long after that the UK’s Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) received two complaints alleging that the ad objectified women. Consequently, the ASA banned the ad, stating that it “used nudity and centered on FKA twigs’ physical features rather than the clothing, to the extent that it presented her as a stereotypical sexual object.”
FKA twigs publicly contested this ruling, expressing disappointment and highlighting double standards in advertising. She noted that similar campaigns featuring male celebrities, such as Jeremy Allen White, did not face the same scrutiny. In her statement, she emphasized her pride in her body and the empowerment she felt during the shoot, questioning why hers was deemed inappropriate:
“I do not see the ‘stereotypical sexual object’ that they have labelled me. I see a beautiful strong woman of colour whose incredible body has overcome more pain than you can imagine,” she wrote a day after the ban. “In light of reviewing other campaigns, past and current, of this nature, I can’t help but feel there are some double standards.” It’s still lost on the committee, which eventually responded that although they were concerned their “rationale for banning the ad was substantially flawed,” the photos were still overtly sexual, and thus the ban remained.
One of the FKA twigs Calvin Klein ad photos that wasn’t removed
As Summer approaches and Amiee Lou Wood’s White Lotus Bikinis sell out online, I’ve come to wonder, where are women allowed to be hot?
Campaigns like Bad Bunny’s indirectly highlight how algorithms and moderation policies on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and others unevenly censor content based on gender and sexualization. Because of this, it seems women are not allowed to be hot in the Calvin Klein campaigns, which are quite literally designated spaces for partial nudity to be accepted. Online platforms as a whole tend to sexualize and censor women’s bodies far more than men’s, especially in similar attire. If we take modeling underwear out of the picture, there must be other spaces where women can be confident and attractive while not being policed for it, right?
Certainly not at the gym, where sports bras and biker shorts have become demonized by men who don’t know how to confront their own wandering eyes. “It’s practically narcissistic, if someone has a great six-pack and young girls have amazingly shaped bodies that they are showing off basically, they should cover up a little bit, you know,” said a gym owner on Irish radio whose comments have since gone viral and irritated plenty. Men can work out shirtless and semi-shirtless—for when those muscle tanks are cut up so much they show both the nips—but women can’t have a matching fit that highlights their physique? Are they just upset because men’s clothes aren’t as thematic and interesting as women’s? Do the guys just want cute matching sets, too? I’m trying to find an attainable solution.
Clapbacks to the Irish man on TikTok
What about at work or school? Hilarious question. We’ve all seen Legally Blonde. Next.
Women also can’t be hot on the beach, where they’ll be reprimanded for wearing bikinis no matter what age they are. A council in Greater Sydney announced recently it would be banning G-string bikinis at its public pools without providing further details about how the rule will be policed. Last summer, actress Sydney Sweeney received criticism for posting photos in a long-sleeve one-piece wetsuit because it had a bikini bottom: “Didn’t she say she didn’t want to be sexualized anymore?” and “Who on earth made this mid famous?” In her op-ed, “Women – don’t get larger, don’t get older, don’t have fun, don’t dare to wear a bikini” for The Guardian, Barbara Ellen described the array of ridicule women get for showing skin: “Is she wearing a bikini? At her age? At that weight? Shouldn’t she be in a one-piece? Isn’t it all a bit undignified? On and on it goes.”
Sydney Sweeney’s response to her haters
It definitely takes a toll on the mental wellness of women. What spaces are we left in to just be hot in peace? Where can we go where we won’t get bullied into wearing something we don’t like, only to still receive slander from the opposite end where we’re not hot enough? The scrutiny of women’s clothing and skin exposure is just a breeding ground for shame, fear, and self-consciousness. How often do we feel unsafe or objectified on a daily basis, not even during times of shorts and tanks, but when we’re fully clothed head to toe? How often have we dealt with anxiety and reduced self-worth because some man opened his mouth? This pressure to dress “modestly” or “appropriately” undermines self-expression and contributes to internalized misogyny, ruining our mental health and body confidence. It’s something we’ve experienced for years before and will continue to for years to come.
It seems women are allowed to be hot anywhere that straight men are not present. If there are to be hetero-men present, there should be just one, and it should be your husband. If you’re single, and there are multiple men in the space, you’re still permitted to be hot, but in consequence, you will also have to be thirsty, immature, narcissistic, dumb, attention-seeking, and, above all, disreputable. And that’s just the way it goes for people with half a brain cell, apparently.
I do think, however, that getting men some more matching workout sets could be onto something. Maybe a lavender 5-inch inseam short and crop tank? Can we get a Nike collab with Ryan Gosling on this? Asking for a friend.
Boston Students! Head on over to Chivo in Cambridge and get free chips and salsa with a coupon and student ID 🙂
Brenna Sheets is a graduate student in Emerson College’s Writing and Publishing M.A. program. Her hobbies include going on long walks, watching bad television, reading, and writing.
Zoe Kravitz in High Fidelity: The ultimate playlist curator
Music is a powerful but dangerous tool. It can shift our mood and set the tone for our day. A sad playlist can leave you depressed, starting the day dwelling on the intrinsic existentialism of humanity and the limitations of love (Think Adam’s Ribs by Jensen McRae). Oppositely, starting your day with a song like OKLOSER by Doja Cat builds you up for whatever may come your way, whether it be delayed trains or people who should stop talking. Whether you need a morning pick-me-up, a stress reliever after work, or just some background tunes to keep you in high spirits, the perfect feel-good playlist is a necessity.
‘Feel-good’ can mean a lot of things. Some songs get us through 30 minutes of full-body pilates, while others bring a sense of calmness and relaxation, like the Bridgerton instrumental covers. Curating a personalized playlist tailored to your unique taste and emotional needs is key. Whether you’re into upbeat pop anthems, throwbacks, or soothing instrumentals, the goal is to build a collection of songs that lift you up no matter what state you’re in. Conceited by SZA can pretty much fall into every kind of feel-good playlist, so I recommend starting there. After that, the notes below can help you make a personalized feel-good playlist that comes in handy any time of day. Good luck and happy curating!
1. Define Your Feel-Good Tone
Before you start adding songs, think about the kind of energy you want your playlist to bring. Do you want upbeat and danceable tracks, or something more mellow and comforting? Maybe you’re looking for nostalgia-inducing classics or modern pop hits. Think Bless the Telephone by Labi Siffre, So American by Olivia Rodrigo, or both?
2. Start with Your Bangers
It’s important to start with absolute bangers in case of emergency. Have to go to work but feel like you’re going to cry? SOS, need a banger to clear up the emotions. Look for songs that make you excited and energized. Think about tracks that instantly boost your mood, primarily because they remind you of nothing and no one (We don’t want to happy cry either). These personal favorites will serve as the foundation of your playlist. I immediately go to Elian’s Revenge by Leikeli47. You’re drivingggg down Martin Lutherrrrr, it’s half past midnightttt, and you dial my numberrrrr…
3. Mix Up the Genres
Variety is chef’s kiss. Make sure to blend genres—pop, rock, rap, indie, R&B, etc. Mixing things up keeps the energy dynamic and engaging. Maybe Material Girl by Madonna followed by Buy U a Drank by T-Pain. Oye by La Sonora Dinamita followed by Play the Greatest Hits by Wolf Alice. The combinations are endless.
Me when I first was gifted my trusty Beats a while ago
4. Choose Songs with Positive Lyrics(?)
Mmm, debatable. I say choose songs with lyrics that are strictly not sad to you personally. Yes, feel-good playlists should have uplifting, encouraging, and humorous lyrics that make you feel empowered and happy, but not all the time is that the case. The main point is to avoid songs with sad or overly dramatic themes. For example, Ordinary Girl by Hannah Montana is a very positive lyrical song, but it’s an absolute tear-jerker for me now that I’m not 10 anymore.
5. Incorporate Some Nostalgia
Speaking of Hannah Montana, sometimes nothing brings instant joy quite like a song that transports you back to an exciting time in your life. Throw in some childhood favorites, classic hits from past decades, or even guilty pleasures you secretly love. Nostalgic songs create an emotional connection and add a personal touch to your playlist. Try Knock Out by Lil Wayne and Nicki Minaj.
Here’s my current feel-good playlist on repeat:
My fav pick-me-up songs at the moment
Boston and Cambridge Students! Get BOGO 25% with this Campus Clipper Coupon and your student idea at Poke City.
Brenna Sheets is a graduate student in Emerson College’s Writing and Publishing M.A. program. Her hobbies include going on long walks, watching bad television, reading, and writing.
A few months ago, I wrote about how women perpetuating the patriarchy was taking a toll on me (as if it were new information). I was frustrated by the way I was being objectified by men and women alike, belittled and dumbed down into something along the lines of a rom-com side character scripted by Richard Curtis. I have lived long enough to know that when that happens, someone is simply projecting their own insecurities, but by god is it still so incredibly annoying.
The truth is I don’t blame women, or men for that matter, for being insecure. The pressures we face today are unimaginable, and the standard of beauty and overall being is simply unattainable. If you’re not living off brand deals and traveling the world, are you really living? If you don’t have abs like Glen Powell, what kind of girl even wants you? And if you aren’t on the list of Forbes 30 Under 30, have you even found a purpose in life? It’s absurd what we compare ourselves to rather than appreciate all we’ve done.
Societal pressure has left us all insecure at one moment or another, and it’s nothing to be ashamed of. The point is how we handle that insecurity of ours. Maybe you’re insecure about your body type because the world has told you it doesn’t compare to Charlie’s Angels, but does it really make you feel better to comment “Jeez, put on some meat” under an influencer’s bikini pic? I may not blame anyone for feeling like they don’t measure up from time to time, but I will 100% blame women for putting other women down just to feel good about themselves.
According to Her Campus, “A recent social media phenomenon, the term ‘girl’s girl’ is used to describe women who support other women through every aspect of their lives, and not just the women directly in their lives either.” To be a girl’s girl takes active work. It involves dismantling the competitiveness and insecurities society has propelled onto us, which can be incredibly difficult when it comes to things we’ve been taught all our lives.
My mom: the ultimate girl’s girl
If you’ve been so fortunate as to have primarily healthy female friendships all your life, you may think to yourself, “Well, I know a lot of girl’s girls, and I thought most girls were girl’s girls, so just how many aren’t?” You’ll be interested to find that someone calls a woman a ‘slut’ or ‘whore’ on X (formerly Twitter) almost 10,000 times per day, and half of those comments are from women, a 2016 Washington Post study stated. More interestingly, The Workplace Bullying Institute found women bully other women up to 80% of the time. And if it couldn’t get worse, a 2020 study by the United Nations found that about 90% of men AND women “hold some sort of bias against women, providing new clues to the invisible barriers women face in achieving equality, and a potential path forward to shattering the Glass Ceiling.” The truth is, the world needs a LOT more actual girl’s girls, not just performances.
It’s important for us as women to remember that being a girl’s girl extends far beyond just watching another girl’s drink at the bar. It’s in the way we speak to each other, the way we act with each other, and the way we stand up for one another. It’s in the way we stop ourselves from falling into sexist rhetoric, from using gender as an insult, from objectifying each other more than we applaud one another. Like the scene from Mean Girls, I’m sure we could all raise our hands and admit we’ve said things we regret about another girl. You’d think, though, that once we reach Ms. Norbury’s age at the latest, all the weird ‘girl-on-girl crime’ would just… fizzle out?
In our 20s, it seems to just take on more forms. A random back-handed compliment from a friend here, an insulting up-and-down glance from a stranger there, A humiliation fetish disguised as a joke everywhere! Not to mention, it’s SO second-hand embarrassing for me and for everyone I tell afterward (Yes, I will absolutely gossip about the hurtful thing you said to me. It’s my way of coping). You should see the grimaces and furrowed brows that glide over everyone’s faces, the cringes and widened eyes that follow suit, and the “Um wtf!” texts that fly in like clockwork. If non-girl’s girls knew they came off this way, would they change their ways, like Regina George? Or would they still play victim, siding with misogynists, calling women hormonal b-words? I’d like to think they can still be saved.
Tally: another ultimate girl’s girl
If we support one another, uplift one another, and stand up for one another, it won’t only make us better people, but actually make us feel better, too. A study from the National Institute of Health states, “Friendships among women can provide critical social resources and promote overall wellness, feelings of self-worth, and empowerment. Findings from studies that examine these relationships among women indicate that the quality of friendship support is more important than the mere number. Supportive friendships, which are characterized by intimacy, nurturance, loyalty, and prosocial behaviors, are associated with heightened psychological and physical well-being.”
Being a supportive girl’s girl is so important, especially in a world that has always been and still is against women. Uplifting other women creates a sense of community, which means we’ll have more people to hear us out and learn from in times of need. Hyping up our friends and strangers also shifts our mindset away from toxic comparison, because life is hard enough without mentally competing in a game no one actually wins. Plus, acts of kindness release feel-good hormones, so we’re not just being nice—we’re chemically hacking our own brains into happiness. At the end of the day, why make enemies out of the very people who could be your biggest allies?
“I love my husband, but it is nothing like a conversation with a woman who understands you. I grow so much from those conversations.” – Beyonce
Boston Students! Get free chips and salsa at Chivo Taqueria in Cambridge!
Brenna Sheets is a graduate student in Emerson College’s Writing and Publishing M.A. program. Her hobbies include going on long walks, watching bad television, reading, and writing.
Finding high quality and reasonably priced Asian food in New York City can be a difficult task. Sometimes, it can be a hassle to venture all the way to Flushing. Other times, greasy Chinatown dishes are not the type of meal I crave. A freshly made, sit-down dinner with a friend is one of my ideal ways of winding down after a rough day of applying to scholarships and sending emails. I am always looking for new restaurants that serve Asian cuisine, and my good friend Marilisa came with me to try Kyuramen, located just around the corner from New York University.
Pictured here is the bar seating available for customers.
Our hostess sat us in a wooden booth with a thin privacy curtain separating us from bustling waiters, chatty families, and clinking dishes. Marilisa and I both ordered Thai iced teas, notable for their sweet, spiced flavor and unique apricot color. A platter of takoyaki arrived swiftly, decorated with a drizzle of a deep-brown glaze and mounds of salty bonito flakes. These deep fried pancake balls were stuffed with piping hot octopus, harmoniously creating an appetizer that melts in the mouth.
Marilisa and I ordered two iced Thai teas to drink.
“For the octopus balls, they’re sweet with a slight crunch,” Marilisa reviewed. “I thought they were really creamy and smooth inside!”
Five skewers, composed of various mouthwatering ingredients, enticed us the moment they were set on the table. Each has their own distinct flavor and texture, like the pork belly piece, which was juicy, greasy, and fatty. It was my favorite from the shareable dish, with the tender and moist beef skewer as a close second. Marilisa found the scallops to be delicate, though thoroughly enjoyed them, while the zucchini was soft, squeaky, and seasoned.
Our shareables set out in a fancy display.
A honeycomb-shaped ceramic dish, set on an oak platform, sat at the edge of our table. Each section was composed of different mini-appetizers, spanning from classic options, like shrimp tempura, to more obscure bites, like a spicy chashu salad ball. A chili garlic seasoning on the portion of edamame is a perfect snack in between the abundant, potent flavors of the other sides.
“I found the unagi eel to be very rich. The lobster and pork ball was crunchy and spicy inside. I liked the refreshing lobster topping,” Marilisa reflected.
She had ordered a rice burger for her entree, describing the teriyaki beef to be traditional and the slight saltiness in the rice to be pleasurable. I selected omurice, a Japanese dish made with a runny omelette placed over a bed of rice. The waitress sliced open the fried, yet runny egg and poured a curry mixture over my main course. It was a beautiful presentation, equivalent to the simple and delicious character behind the meal.
Our wide array of food to be consumed within a private wooden booth.
To tame our heightened senses from the saltiness and spice derived from the majority of the previous dishes, Marilisa and I selected three desserts: a matcha tiramisu, a lychee jelly pudding, and a slice of matcha crepe cake.
”The matcha tiramisu was creamy and smooth, with a heavier flavor of the custard over the matcha. The jelly had these really pretty edible flowers. It was super sweet, almost candy-like in flavor,” she observed.
I personally loved the tiramisu more than any other, as I am not a fan of espresso. The dish was not overly moist or soaked in flavor, like many found at sit-down eateries and locales.
“The matcha crepe cake had beautiful, textured, clean layers,” Marilisa said. “There was a smooth filling between layers with a strong, earthy matcha flavor.”
From top to bottom are the desserts we selected: the matcha tiramisu, a slice of matcha crepe cake, and the small bowl of lychee jelly.
The rich, matcha crepe cake paired well with the thick custard found in the tiramisu, as they balanced out one another’s flavors. The desserts were beautifully presented with their complementary colors of a pastel pink in the lychee jelly and the sage green elements evident in the two other dishes.
“Kyuramen has a very cozy environment and lots of options! A pretty unique spot. Lots of rich flavors and variety!” Marilisa concluded.
I found the Asian establishment to be an excellent choice for a pleasant, semi-formal dinner with friends or family. The food was impeccable, authentic, and quick, while the atmosphere varies depending on where individuals are seated. The main room holds a relaxed, talkative environment, while the private booths allow for more intimate conversations and focus on the food itself. My personal favorites were the curry omurice and the assorted honeycomb platter, two platters not commonly found at other restaurants. For students looking to try Kyuramen, Campus Clipper is offering a coupon for 10% off when presented with a valid student ID.
Ole and Steen is a bakery and cafe chain with locations around Manhattan. I spent my Wednesday morning at their Union Square location to review their assorted lunch teams, desserts, and handcrafted drinks. Nestled among NYU buildings, bustling shops, and grocery stores, Ole and Steen is an excellent space to settle into after classes and errands.
To my left, two businessmen conversate over a startup company with a variety of packaged Danish pastries. To my right, a university student handwrites her notes, occasionally sipping on what seems to be a cortado. I sit at a dark wooden, circular table with surrounding leather couches to accompany. An attentive barista calls out my two drinks: an iced matcha made with almond milk and a hazelnut iced latte with oat milk. The matcha has an authentic taste, without the overly bitter undertones I tend to stray away from. Almond milk compliments the matcha’s flavor well, revealing its earthy taste without the heavy residue that lingers on the tongue. As for the latte with hazelnut syrup, the nutty add-on and espresso taste are light. The next time I order from the establishment, I plan on adding extra shots. With my international relations tests coming up, I’ll need more caffeine. The coffee served here is just perfect for my palate.
A close-up of the Hot Honey Turkey Toasty at Ole and Steen in Union Square.
Juggling an internship, the maximum amount of credits, and scholarship applications can be rough, which is why I often try to find affordable, tasty sandwiches to take on the go. Ole and Steen satisfies my expectation in a savory sandwich, from the hot honey turkey toastie to the bagel and lox toast. The turkey toastie had a pungent and powerful dijon mustard. The bread is light, soft, and slightly crispy—wait, are those apple slices? This was the most unique sandwich I’ve had, and yet I thoroughly enjoyed the wild assortment of flavors found within a single bite! The bagel and lox delicacy was similar to a typical salmon cream cheese bagel, but instead of the thick dough we’re all used to, it was served on a multigrain slice of bread. A large dollop of cream cheese was scooped onto the unfamiliar type of grain, a perfect amount for my liking.
Slices of lox are placed on a large dollop of seasoned cream cheese, set atop a piece of Danish bread in this delectable dish.
A large, ivory white paper box with a sticker seal encased several astonishing desserts handled carefully and skillfully. The array was composed of a vanilla cream bun, a strawberry tart, a slice of mango cheesecake, and a gateau marcel. One of my favorites were the tangy tastes of the mango cheesecake, a fluffy and light take on a typically thick and overly sweet dessert. The consistency of the custard-like base paired perfectly with the texture of the crust and the oozing red-orange syrup. A balanced ratio between each element was evident in every mouthwatering bite. This distinctive cheesecake slice was softer than its original New York counterpart, with the gentle sting of the mango flavoring and its sweet graham-cracker-like crust. The gateau marcel, on the other hand, was a chocolate concoction of sorts, with a generous cocoa dusting and unique layered structure. This moist dessert has a cute presentation, and is not sickly sweet which individuals would presume of it, based on its appearance. Two large square pieces sit atop the rounded, espresso-brown cake slice.
Seen here are four of the desserts available from the bakery-cafe, carefully packaged in a paper box.
From this brunch at Ole and Steen, I have several main takeaways. The first being that danish bread is delectable and scarcely found at casual bakeries around the cities. My second was the pleasantness of the cafe’s environment, where there is a safe, calm, and stable atmosphere. My final point to raise is how the beautifully decorated, Instagrammable desserts are served with care and taste as great as their presentation!
This mango cheesecake is vibrant in color and flavor.
For students craving a sweet treat or the multitude of other options on Ole and Steen’s menu, the Campus clipper has partnered with the establishment to offer 20% off. To redeem this offer, students can present their valid college or university ID with the coupon listed below!
The ambiance of surrounding neon lights make me feel reminiscent of Atlanta night life, while the rapport evident through customers’ and employees’ chatter reminds me of a typical suburban eatery. G’s Cheesesteaks, just a short walk from the J train, is a vibrant fast-food spot for tourists and locals alike, with affordable prices and sociable staff. After a long day of walking around the city, my friend Alejandro and I decided to spend our evening indulging in some delicious cheesesteaks and other greasy dishes.
A restroom sign reads, “Open Late” in a fluorescent, red glow.
The bright range of orange hues invite us into the establishment, along with an equally welcoming employee. Aidan Ruiz, the manager, helped us select from the wide range of savory entrees and sweet treats. Famished from a whirlwind of tourist activities, the two of us order the most appealing drinks, milkshakes, appetizers, entrees, and desserts. Our creamy, smooth milkshakes are served with a heaping of toppings and syrups. These sweet and thick beverages were essentially desserts, prompting us to order pink lemonade and bottled water to wash down our meals.
The entrance to G’s Cheesesteak is covered in spunky artwork and bright, neon lights.
The coveted and classic oreo milkshake, covered in a plentiful amount of crushed cookies, was the best I’ve had in the city. Alejandro expressed how he loved his strawberry cheesecake milkshake throughout the entirety of our meal. It had an intense strawberry flavoring, almost as if it was derived from Nesquik.
He felt the sugary drink was “very good for its price, with a slight cheesecake flavor, but very strawberry forward.”
We enjoyed two milkshakes: a strawberry cheesecake speciality and a coveted, oreo classic.
For appetizers, I chose the smash-burger-inspired fries and Alejandro indulged in the philly-cheesesteak-inspired eggroll. The crispy, golden brown fries had a savory animal sauce layered atop two juicy, smashed beef patties. Meanwhile, the eclectic starter came drenched in a traditional sweet and sour sauce. The flavors and textures from these mozzarella cheese, meaty filling, and salty, flaky exterior creates a unique and delicious blend. I genuinely found the sweet and sour chili sauce as a great addition, for it was an homage to authentic eggrolls.
Swiftly presented to us were the philly-cheesesteak-inspired eggrolls, slice opened, along with a basket of chicken tenders and smash-burger-inspired fries.
Pertaining to our main courses, we shared the ten piece creamy buffalo chicken tenders and “the classic” philly cheesesteak. I favored the philly cheesesteak, with its chewy, soft, seeded bread with an oozing cheese and tender beef stuffing. These bites melted in my mouth. The buffalo chicken tenders was not excessive in its breading, or spicy flavor, which was served on the side.
Alejandro attempts a cheese-pull, before I can capture a photo.
”Very juicy chicken!” Alejandro reviewed. “Also, Aidan gave us a seeded bun instead of the listed classic bun. I would agree it is better. The meat was also very tender.”
A slice of strawberry cheesecake and box of funnel cake fries closed out our evening. Alejandro devoured the cheesecake, animatedly rambling about his favorite dessert. The slice was complemented by a drizzled strawberry syrup, the same as their associated milkshake. The generous mountain of funnel cake fries were my personal favorite, as they were a tasty and filling finale to the night. Both desserts were dusted with powdered sugar for an extra element of sweetness.
Our funnel cake fries and cheesecake slice!
“G’s Cheesesteaks is a fun, themed, quick stop for various food options,” Alejandro reflected. “With the decadent and sweet milkshakes to cut through the very traditional phillies, it’s a fun place to grab a quick bite. The appetizers are definitely very shareable, unless of course you are like us, and would just take it all down.”
For students who would like to try G’s Cheesesteaks wide assortments of foods and flavors, they have partnered with Campus Clipper to offer students a 15% discount when they present this coupon and their valid student ID!
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