The Jags kick off the 2018 season September 9 against the New York Giants, so we're bringing the #DUUUVAL spirit to the Big Apple to do all the things, eat more than we should and root for cornerback A.J. Bouye and the rest of our beloved Jacksonville Jaguars. While the Jags are sizing up the Giants, let's size up our plans to celebrate the start of the season with a Fangirl 5 Miniguide on making the most of your trip to the city that never sleeps. Let's do this!
Let's get this party started with our 'Matchup to Watch.' Though the Jaguars have yet to take the field in New York, Jalen Ramsey has started the trash talk game, referring to the matchup between him and Giants' WR Odell Beckham, Jr. as Batman vs. The Joker. Beckham is coming off a season-ending injury and just signed a massive contract extension, so he'll be looking to prove he is unbeatable, while Ramsey already knows he's unbeatable. The winner may just be the player who can keep his emotions out of the game. Advantage, Jalen. Sorry Odell. Better luck next week.
This boutique hotel is a Fangirl fave for its prime location and Instagrammable charm. The Redbury is close to the Empire State Building, Madison Square Park and the Theatre District, making it the perfect place to set your Fantasy Football roster the night before Eli Manning becomes all too familiar with Malik Jackson, Calais Campbell and the rest of Sacksonville. Sorry not sorry, Eli.
Where is it and how do I book it?
29 E 29th St, New York, NY 10016
Gear up for the Jags game by getting yourself pumped! Check out the new NFL Experience located at historic Times Square in Midtown Manhattan. This interactive adventure has everything from memorabilia to a 4-D movie theatre. Put yourself to the test, see how well you can push the NFL sled and how many touchdown passes you can catch over your favorite receiver (whether that's Dede Westbrook or Donte Moncrief is up to you) on a virtual screen. Next, take your own personal "halftime" and indulge in some concession stand inspired food and drink all while taking in a breathtaking view of the city.
Where is it and how do I snag my tickets?
The Official NFL Experience in Times Square
20 Times Square - entrance between 47th & 48th street
on 7th avenue, New York, NY 10036
nflexperience.com
Confession, I picked Victor's Cafe because I couldn't help but obsess over the breathtaking Jaguars teal color decor palette, but we stayed for the delicious ropa viega. This chic restaurant not only offers delicious Cuban cuisine, but it also represents live music, tropical decor and brightly colored art. On top of all that, Victor's also boasts a few different options of french fries - which would make Jalen Ramsey happy. Get ready to boomerang your heart out!
Where is it and how do I get a reservation:
236 W 52nd St, New York, NY 10019
Victorscafe.com
If Cuban food isn't your thing, and you want to feel like an actual Jaguar for the night, take a couple tips from Austin Sefarian-Jenkins. "If you wanna have fun and feel like you're in Good Fellas, go to Lavo. If you want a good ambiance, go to Tao." Noted and on it Mr. Jenkins!
Where:
Lavo
39 E 58th St
New York, NY
lavony.com
Tao369 W. 16th Street
New York, New York
taodowntown.com
After the game, either celebrate or commiserate with a delicious drink at Attaboy. There's no sign, and the window gives the impression that the space is an old school tailor shop, but when you ring the doorbell at 134 Eldridge, you're welcomed into this dapper establishment. This speakeasy destination makes libations you'll crave right after the first sip. There's no menu. You just saunter up to the bar and tell the bartender what tickles your fancy and these esteemed mixologists will whip you up a custom drink made to your specific tastes. What's better than a drink made just for you? Nothing…except a Jags win, of course.
Where is it and what's the secret code to get in?
134 Eldridge St, New York, NY 10002
attaboys.us
If you haven't heard of Magnolia Bakery, then you must not like desserts or Sex and the City, and I know both of those things aren't true. This NYC institution has been creating impeccable treats for years and is credited for kicking off the cupcake craze. Head to the corner for Bleecker and West 11th Street and see what all the fuss is about. While known primarily for cupcakes, Magnolia also offers cookies, cakes and a heavenly, delicious banana bread pudding. Your taste buds will thank you.
Where is it?
401 Bleecker Street and West 11th Street New York, NY
Magnoliabakery.com
CAN'T TRAVEL TO THE GAME?
No problem. This Jaguars Fangirl is bringing some of that city vibe right to you. Serve up the spirit of the Jags and NYC at your kickoff party with this custom cocktail in the spirit of Attaboys - the Fangirl speakeasy "Talk Whiskey To Me" cocktail. Serve alongside our uptown version of the concession stand Queso Dip.
The Jags Fangirl Speakeasy "Talk Whiskey to Me" Cocktail
Ingredients:**
2 ounces bourbon
¾ ounce fresh lemon juice
¾ ounce simple syrup
1/2 ounce Blue Curacao
Garnish with a twist of lemon
Directions:
Pour bourbon, lemon juice, simple syrup, and Blue Curacao into a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake and pour over ice into your favorite highball glass, and serve.
Garnish with a lemon twist and serve for the full force Jag effect.
The Jags Fangirl Queso Dip
Ingredients:
1 teaspoon of cooking oil
½ a yellow onion, diced
1 poblano pepper, diced
1 jalapeno pepper, diced
2 tablespoons of butter
1-½ cups of cream or half and half
8 ounces of sharp cheddar cheese
4 ounces of pepper jack cheese
4 ounces of gouda cheese
4 ounces of cream cheese
7 ounces of diced tomatoes
Juice from ½ a lime
1 teaspoon of cumin powder
1 teaspoon of chili powder
Top with chili flakes as desired
Instructions:
- Prep the ingredients first.
- Add a small amount of cooking oil to the skillet over medium heat. Next, add diced onion, jalapeno and poblano. Sprinkle the veggies with a little salt and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Next, turn the heat off and set aside.
- Add butter to saucepan set over medium-low heat and let it melt. Slowly sprinkle in the cheese and cream or half and half, stirring constantly to prevent clumps.
- Once all the cheese is fully incorporated and smooth, add the cream cheese in chunks and stir until fully dissolved. Gently fold in the cooked onions, peppers, yellow onion, poblano pepper, diced tomatoes, cumin powder, and chili flakes. Taste the mixture and add sea salt or additional chili flakes if you want to add more spice.
- Remove from heat and serve immediately with chips or your favorite dipping foods.
