Time was closing in on the Vermont 6-1+1, and although they would have to leave FiDi (Financial District) by 3:30 p.m. to catch their flight, that did not stop anyone. Four of us returned to SoHo, and two went to the Monet Exhibit. We all met, with Pierre, for a quick lunch in the financial district and walked back to their hotel, The Doubletree, in time for them to pick up their luggage and take off. Kathie stayed here for an additional several days since her family was coming in the next day. After saying our goodbyes, Pierre, Kathie, and I had nothing to do except have a few drinks and recap at GATE22 NYC!
Grant met us after work, and the four of us went to Freemans in the Lower East Side for dinner. This clandestine, colonial American tavern has been hidden away in the back of an alley since 2004. And trust me! It is well hidden! Although we arrived early enough, this place looked deserted; there was no one in the long alleyway leading to the restaurant. Of course, we all know looks can be deceiving; the place was packed. Every nook and cranny was filled with patrons. Life is full of pleasant surprises, isn’t it?
