notes from the road

 Photographer Alpha Smoot writes in from New York City.

I was wandering home from a perfect morning in the Bryant Park Library, when the rain forced me into Cafe Lalo. Despite it's celebrity status- it charmed me into an afternoon sipping hot and spicy apple cider. I ordered from their cheese selection and was delighted with a creamy, buttery soft cheese, accompanied by toast- drizzled in olive oil and sprinkled with oregano. Don't believe everything that you see in the movies, but on a rainy week day, Cafe Lalo hits the spot. It was so cozy, I lingered for an extra hour over a cup of fresh mint tea and my current read.