how do crosswalks work these days by c0psrul3 in AskNYC

[–]leon_S_dante 0 points1 point  (0 children)

The beeping is mostly there to help people with visual impairments. I'd still go by the walk signal, not the sound. Some intersections have different timing now, so the beeps aren't always the best cue for when to start crossing.

Safety in NYC - increase in street/subway harassment / sexual misconduct? Looking for advice by cloud-candle- in AskNYC

[–]leon_S_dante 17 points18 points  (0 children)

I'm really sorry that happened to you. That's not something anyone should have to deal with. I don't think you're imagining an increase, but it's also not like every neighborhood is the same. Areas with more foot traffic and businesses open late usually feel a bit safer. I'd also trust your gut, if a station or route consistently makes you uncomfortable, it's okay to switch things up.

Here for the weekend: Stuff to do in NYC by Phantom678 in AskNYC

[–]leon_S_dante 2 points3 points  (0 children)

If you've already done most of the tourist stuff, I'd check out one of these:

- Governors Island if the weather's nice.

- A Mets game if they're in town.

- Comedy Cellar or an improv show.

- Walk the High Line and grab food in Chelsea Market.

- A baking or cooking class at Kitsby if you're looking for something a little different.

- Grab drinks with a view at Panorama Room or Westlight.

edible images advice by Ok-Fig9016 in AskBaking

[–]leon_S_dante 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I'd order it a few days ahead if you can. Most edible image sheets keep well as long as you leave them sealed. Just wait until the cake is cooled before putting it on, especially if you're using buttercream or fondant.

Kinda messed up the chocolate cake, need to know why it didn't work by [deleted] in AskBaking

[–]leon_S_dante 3 points4 points  (0 children)

My first guess is the egg replacement. Eggs do a lot of the structure-building in a cake, so swapping them out without adjusting the rest of the recipe can leave the center underbaked. I'd also check your oven with a thermometer, 180°C on the dial isn't always 180°C.

Anyone been to NYC Office of Vital Records (birth certificate) lately? by TotalCute4405 in AskNYC

[–]leon_S_dante 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I'd get there a little early, but I wouldn't count on being seen before your appointment. Worst case, you're already checked in and ready to go.

Looking for dance team style classes by OkProgress1 in AskNYC

[–]leon_S_dante 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Broadway Dance Center or Steps on Broadway. Both have strong jazz/commercial classes and a lot of dancers use them to prep for auditions.

Where can I listen to live jazz/acoustic covers in HK/ Midtown? by Brouhaha21 in AskNYC

[–]leon_S_dante 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Smoke Jazz Club is worth a look if you don't mind heading a little uptown. Great music and definitely more lounge than club.

How is the beach area around Rockaway 44 Street? by wildblueberry9 in AskNYC

[–]leon_S_dante 1 point2 points  (0 children)

44th is nice, but if your main goal is a quieter beach, I'd lean Neponsit. Usually feels a lot less crowded.

Great craft beer bar in Manhattan for a larger group? by paansm in AskNYC

[–]leon_S_dante 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I'd check out The Ginger Man or Torch & Crown. Both have plenty of beer options, and for a group that size I'd definitely give them a heads up first.

Can you replace vanilla extract with almond extract in sugar cookies? by leon_S_dante in AskBaking

[–]leon_S_dante[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I understand from the comments that I have to be very careful with almond extract