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12 Reasons to Scoop Up an Alleyway Digital Gift Card Today

 
 

1. You're a Procrastinator: No time left? No worries! An Alleyway gift card is a last-minute lifesaver.

2. You've Got Loved Ones Far Away: Friends or family on the other side of the map? Beam a bit of joy their way, no postage required.

3. You Love to Personalize: Add your own special message. It's your way of saying, "I know you love ice cream!"

4. You Know Picky Eaters: Let them pick their favorite flavor.

5. You Stick to Your Budget: Choose the amount you want to spend.

6. You Prefer Comfort and Convenience: Stay in your PJs and avoid the last minute crowds. Online gifting at its best!

7. You Want Instant Satisfaction: Send a taste of happiness straight to their inbox. It's the quickest way to sweeten someone's day.

8. You're the Office Santa: Treat your colleagues or clients to a cool surprise. It's corporate gifting made easy.

9. You Dislike Gift Returns: Say goodbye to unwanted presents. Who wouldn’t love an ice cream treat?

10. You Know an Ice Cream Lover: Alleyway’s got them covered.

11. You're Gifting Someone Who Has Everything: Ice cream is always a good idea, even for those hard-to-shop-for friends.

12. You Appreciate Security: A digital gift card means they’ll never lose it, and you'll never worry about it.

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The Understated Elegance of a Hidden Korean Tasting Experience

 
Meju, in Long Island City, Queens, is devoted to the three essential jangs, or sauces, of traditional Korean cooking.Photographs by Krista Schlueter for The New Yorker
 

Just got my copy of The New Yorker and was happy to find Helen Rosner’s article about Meju. Hidden in the back of Little Banchan Shop in Long Island City, Queens, Meju offers an exclusive dining experience for only 32 lucky people each week. Chef Hooni Kim transforms his kitchen into a stage, where Korean cuisine's artfully and passionately presented.

Besides being home to delicious Korean side dishes, and Meju, Little Banchan Shop is where you can get pints of Alleyway Ice Cream.

 
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Vanilla: Is Ubiquity the Death of Cool?

 
 

If you thought vanilla was just a plain, ordinary flavor, you probably haven’t tried our Madagascar Vanilla ice cream.

I just came across this article by Ligaya Mishan that looks at the way we see vanilla. It's not just about ice cream - it's a journey through rich flavors, intriguing history, and surprising versatility. From its complex taste profiles to its fascinating global journey, vanilla is anything but boring.

Check out the article for a read that’s as flavorful as the spice itself.

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Staff Picks: The Alleyway Gift Guide

Hanukkah’s here, and Christmas, Kwanzaa, and Festivus are coming up. Still haven’t figured out what to give? Do not worry, I reached out to the staff and tapped into their expertise. We’ve zeroed in on what's most essential. This guide is all you need for holiday success.

Hanukkah’s here, and Christmas, Kwanzaa, and Festivus are coming up. Still haven’t figured out what to give? Do not worry, I reached out to the staff and tapped into their expertise. We’ve zeroed in on what's most essential. Don’t be stressed; this guide is all you need for holiday success. 

2023 Honda Accord

Dylan has recently gone from making and scooping ice cream to selling cars at Lia Honda of Kingston. Dylan says that if you’re looking for a car, get a 2024 Honda Accord and get it from him. He might even be able to put a novelty bow on the roof for you.

Succulents

For those not looking for a new car, Dylan recommends the ever-charming succulent. Their low maintenance nature and variety in shapes, sizes, and colors make them perfect for everyone. They're not just plants; they're symbols of enduring love and resilience.

Heated Blanket

 
heated blanket

Heated Blanket

 

Texting me on a cold and rainy day earlier this week, Madison recommended heated blankets. She says heated blankets are an excellent gift, especially during the colder months. They offer the ultimate comfort of warmth and coziness, making them perfect for anyone looking to stay snug.

HEYDUDE Shoes

 
Santa wears HEYDUDE

Santa wears HEYDUDE

 

Nick's pick is the versatile and comfortable HEYDUDE shoes. “They’re like a mix between boat shoes and slippers and I wear mine everywhere. Best pair of shoes I’ve ever had. So comfortable.” At the time of speaking, Nick was wearing camo HEYDUDEs, but they come in an insane amount of colors and patterns.

Lego Infinity Gauntlet

 
Lego Infinity Gauntlet

LEGO Infinity Gauntlet

 

Antonio's pick is a must-have for that kid of any age on your gift list. He says the set has the perfect build duration – not too long, not too brief – and the finished product looks fantastic. The completed model is not only a striking display piece for any bookshelf but also showcases LEGO's exceptional attention to detail. Known for their consistent quality over the years, LEGO makes an ideal gift.

JBL Bluetooth Speakers

 
 

No matter where you need music, no matter your budget, Leo says JBL has what you need. Leo says his JBL speaker is, “the most used gift I’ve ever gotten.” Some are tiny, some are huge, some are waterproof, some can even attach to your key chain. And they come in so many colors. Can’t decide what song to listen to first? Leo’s go to song on his JBL is Us and Them by Pink Floyd.

Nike Sweatpants

Rowan highly recommends Nike Sweatpants as an excellent gift for anyone who values comfort and style. Perfect for workouts, lounging at home, or casual outings, they come in a variety of styles and colors. Their versatility and comfort make them a practical gift that can be used year-round.

Milwaukee Top-Off

 
Milwaukee Top-Off

Milwaukee Top-Off

 

Ian recommends the Milwaukee Top-Off Power Supply as the ideal gift. Not just for job sites, he's considering one for each family member. It's a lifesaver during power outages, camping, or road trips, thanks to its AC power outlet, USB-C port, and USB-A port. This practical, versatile tool is a valuable addition to anyone's daily life.

Coyuchi Relaxed Linen Sheets

I feel like royalty every time I get into bed, all thanks to Bosco’s Mercantile. Talk to Laura about a delicious Coyuchi sheet set if you really want to treat someone special or yourself. Coyuchi is the ultimate in year-round comfort. Believe it or not, they get softer with each wash. 

Honorable Mention: Harry Potter LEGO Sets

 
 

Intending to reach out to one Leo for gift recommendations, my fingers inadvertently danced across the screen to another - a certain Leo from Fletcher & Lu, the culinary gem tucked away on Kingston’s Broadway. This Leo, a purveyor of tastes at the new delicatessen known for its homemade cured meats and pâtés, artisan cheeses, fresh pasta, rotisserie chickens, smoked fish and amazing sandwiches, (and Alleyway pints) offered his gift suggestion: Harry Potter LEGO.

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Weekend Events Around The Hudson Valley

Looking for something fun to do this weekend?

 
 

Looking for something fun to do this weekend? First, grab a pint of ice cream and then head over to these events.

***Note: Alleyway will not be at these events. We're just highlighting a few events that sound fun!

December 9 - Germantown Winter Glow, is a festive celebration. The day includes a holiday market at the Germantown Farmers Market, meet-and-greet with Santa Claus, live music, and a wreath-making demonstration. Evening activities include a Holiday Lights Tour, caroling, and a tree lighting ceremony. There's even a Gingerbread House Contest.

Learn more.

December 9 - The Historical Society of Newburgh Bay and the Highlands resumes its annual Candlelight Tour from 12-5 pm. This event features a tour of historic homes, churches, and buildings in Newburgh, including both private and public spaces, new constructions, and cherished landmarks. The Captain David Crawford House, decorated in nineteenth-century style, is a highlight. Tickets are available for advance purchase at $35 or $40 at the door, with discounted tickets offered upon request.

Learn more.

December 9-10 - The Fuller Market showcases a curated selection of goods from small makers, artisans, and businesses in the Hudson Valley. This gathering is a perfect opportunity for you to shop, savor delicious food and drinks, and meet the creative local makers behind the unique products.

Learn more.

December 10 - The Roosevelt sites in Hyde Park are commemorating the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights with a Human Rights Day Expo. Highlighting the event is a special public exhibit at the FDR Presidential Library & Museum, showcasing Eleanor Roosevelt's two-page draft preamble to the UDHR, complete with her handwritten revisions. This exhibit honors Eleanor Roosevelt's pivotal role as chair of the UN Commission on Human Rights and her significant contribution to the adoption and development of the UDHR.

Learn more.

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Pints Finally Make it to NYC at Little Banchan Shop

 

You've been asking for years when we're going to sell pints in New York City? We're sorry it took so long, but as of Monday, the answer is, "We already do!"

Hop over to Little Banchan Shop in Long Island City where you'll find a variety of banchan, soups, stews, sauces, ready-to-cook meats, and now Alleyway. Oh and you also might see the entrance a hidden, secret Michelin Star restaurant (seriously!)

Pints are selling fast, so make sure you go before they run out.

Learn about Little Banchan Shop

Learn about the secret, backroom restaurant

Little Banchan Shop

5-28 49th Ave, Long Island City, NY 11101

Open 10a-9p / Sun 10a-8p / Tue closed

 
 
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Montano’ s Shoe Store

Montano’s Shoe Store in Saugerties, NY

I recently received an email from Visit Vortex featuring Montano's Shoe Store, and it brought back vivid memories. I remember my Grandma taking me there as a kid for shoes. To this day, I still enjoy buying shoes there. No matter who helps, you're guaranteed to walk out with the most comfortable shoes ever.

Have you ever visited? What was your experience like? Anne Pyburn Craig writes:

No matter what you’re doing working, playing, or anything else—you’ll do it better in the right shoe. (Unless, of course, it can be done barefoot.) Having comfy, happy feet is absolutely essential. And here in the Hudson Valley, we’re enormously fortunate to have Montano’s, the Saugerties shop that’s been in the business of making sure your feet are contented since 1906.

Montano’s Shoe Store
77 Partition St, Saugerties
845-246-4381
montanosshoestore.com

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What Do YOU Put on Ice Cream? 10 Countries Respond

Have you seen this Beryl video? In it, she delves into the diverse world of ice cream toppings, highlighting how each country's unique flavors and combinations reflect their cultural heritage.

Beryl's videos are always a delightful mix of fun and learning, introducing us to global culinary treasures.

Out of all these toppings, which one would be your top pick? Write a comment. Let us know.

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Staff Pick: Jury Duty

This week, Madison recommends Jury Duty.

Ronald, thinks he's in a jury duty documentary but is surrounded by actors thrusting him into bizarre situations. The show blends elements from The Truman Show, The Rehearsal, The Office, and Punk’d. Its unique, hidden-camera approach offers riveting and comedic entertainment.

Have you seen it? What did you think? Wrote a comment with your favorite reality shows. We'll share your response with the staff.

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