Times Square After Dark
Travel
Audio By Carbonatix
Cristyne Nicholas hosts a vibrant episode of Fun Friday, joined by Tom Harris of the Times Square Alliance. With Kevin McCullough on vacation, Cristyne and Tom dive into the heart of Times Square, spotlighting its culinary gems and cultural icons. The energy is high, the laughs are plenty, and the city’s pulse is palpable.
The episode features Michael Phillips of Jamestown, who shares the exciting transformation of One Times Square. Once a billboard-wrapped shell, it’s now a high-tech, immersive experience center with augmented reality tours, a wedding venue, and even personalized crystals for the iconic New Year’s Eve ball. The building promises to be a dazzling new landmark for NYC visitors.
Cristyne and Tom also explore the post-theater dining scene, highlighting restaurants like Carmine’s, Virgil’s, Le Rivage, and Ellen’s Stardust Diner. From wagyu pigs in a blanket to French onion soup burgers, the culinary tour is mouthwatering. Alexis Blair of the A La Carte Restaurant Group joins to celebrate Carmine’s 35th anniversary and tease future expansions.
The show takes a heartfelt turn as Harlem Week is celebrated, honoring the late Lloyd Williams and Hazel Dukes. Winston Majette shares the rich history of Harlem Week, which began as a one-day event and blossomed into a month-long cultural celebration. Events like the Hazel Dukes Memorial Walk and jazz in Central Park showcase Harlem’s enduring spirit.
Wrapping up, Cristyne and Tom plug upcoming Times Square events, including live music and pop-up performances. They tease next week’s guest, Adrian Benepe of the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, and encourage listeners to catch the Yankees’ Old Timer’s Day. It’s a jam-packed episode full of flavor, nostalgia, and New York magic.
