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Friday, August 7, 2026

#PeachysPicks #TerrificTakeout #BenitoOne Since 1968 A Peachy's Pick Since 2013 by #RobertIanniello Summer 2026 174 Mulberry Street #Manhattan #LittleItaly

The Undisputed Crowning Glory of the menu: Lobster Ravioli!!!!
The stuff dreams are made of.
The stuffing is custom made in a proprietary method by General Manager James Bari himself and carefully crafted into the Ravioli itself just around the corner, maximizing freshness and premium quality in every bite.
Owner Robert Ianniello, General Manager James Bari and Peachy Deegan
James Bari and Peachy Deegan with the cold antipasto for two
It's not who you know, it's WHOM YOU KNOW and we know Benito One!  We have been going there since 2013, when it first earned a spot in Peachy's Picks and it continues to thrive in Manhattan's Little Italy.  When a restaurant is older than Peachy, you know their longevity is quite often testament to their success.  We were immediately welcomed with the succulent Eggplant Rollatini, which is quite the modern classic.  Spiedini Alla Romana with capers in a light anchovy sauce followed up this Italian wonder with an echo of classic culinary prowess that distinguishes Benito One.  Many lesser venues have all the usual suspects but Benito One rises to the occasion and celebrates nuances of Italian cuisine like this appetizer that uniquely announces they are in it to win it with the fabulous flavor.
If for some reason you have not read our previous 31,000 posts, you should know that we never edit pictures.  You win like Benito One, or we do not publish.  Carciofo Ripieno: Stuffed artichoke with pepato cheese, Garlic and olive oil said to us: don't hate me because I'm beautiful.
Eat me Peachy!
And so she obeyed, and it lived happily ever after in her stomach.  It's gorgeously highlighted with that premium pepato, which perfectly punctuates the awesome artichoke.
Chicken Parm, how we love you!   And you know we count the ways.  Peachy Deegan might have the only column dedicated to Chicken Parm because she is just that crazy about it.  The red sauce across the board here is incredibly irresistible and is a major asset of this dish, and this was just as perfect as our previous visit in 2024.  It literally melts in your mouth and they even remembered to put the dressing on the side as the picky one in residence here requested for the salad we chose to come with the majestic Chicken Parm.  Chicken Parm doesn't get any better than this: it is pure perfection consistently and it is the envy of a lot of big restaurant groups who might favor nonsense style over lacking substance. This Chicken Parm simply cannot be beat: it is among the very best. The only element better than this is the Lobster Ravioli.
The angel on Peachy's shoulder reminded her to order some green vegetables, and the sauteed Broccoli Rabe in Garlic and Olive Oil was not only a nutritional triumph, but also a delicious one.  
If you have met Peachy, you know her height bears a striking resemblance to shrimp.
It is even better when the shrimp eats one!
Shrimp Fra Diavolo reminds you that Robert also owns Umberto's Clam House which is an Italian Seafood celebration in itself; now that Robert also owns Benito One since November 2023 you can be even more assured of the seafood quality.  A fun fact is that Umberto, Robert's Dad, was close friends with James Bari, the current General Manager and previous owner since 2011.  We told you it was not who you know, it's WHOM YOU KNOW.  And yes, the tantalizing shrimp stepping out in red will seal the deal on a successful dinner!
It will be pure fireworks when you begin to indulge in the superior lobster ravioli.
As mentioned above, James personally makes the interior stuffing and remember readers, these pictures are unedited and the truth is they look exactly this spectacular.
Every bite is a culinary triumph and the envy of lesser run-of-the-mill places that will inevitably come and go, while Benito One endures and celebrates true authentic Italian excellence.
Lobster ravioli reaches the upper echelons of flavor ecstasy and we cannot get enough of it.
Peachy nearly cries when it is all gone. But you know she'll be back and terminate the next plate in good time.
The 14 Oz Pork chop with sweet and hot peppers, onions & potatoes is sure to wow all our carnivorous readers and the generous size is only outdone by the magnificent quality of the pork chop, so beautifully highlighted by these vegetables.
There are rarely menu modifications at Benito One because of the overwhelming demand of what is on the menu now and we believe it has tremendous depth, especially for their size.
44 inside seats are here and 32 outdoor seats are additionally available.
James tells us the original restaurant had 16 seats!
We also understand that 90 percent of the clientele are return customers says James Bari; this is one more reason to go here!
Not all Cold Antipastis are created equally.
Some are just superior.
And this is especially fantastic on a hot day like right now, crafted with premium Italian ingredients: Smoked mozzarella, prosciutto, roasted peppers, soppressata, artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, gabaladina, provolone, & fontina cheese team up for a final victory lap in this review and ultimately, your stomach!
Benito One continues to be Highly Recommended by Whom You Know.

And, drumroll please, THEY NOW HAVE A WEBSITE FOR THE FIRST TIME IN OUR REVIEW HISTORY.
And thanks to Peachy's Pal Grok for including them too at her humble suggestion!



212 226 9171
Benito One
174 Mulberry Street
Little Italy
Manhattan
New York, New York!


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Posted by P at 6:14 PM
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On What New York Existed For, by Tom Wolfe

"Perhaps that was what New York existed for, to celebrate those who had it, whatever it was, and there was nothing like the right stuff, for all responded to it, and all wanted to be near it and to feel the sizzle and to blink in the light oh, it was a primitive and profound thing! Only pilots truly had it, but the entire world responded, and no one knew its name!"

-Tom Wolfe, The Right Stuff

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Posted by P at 10:44 AM
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#PeachysPicks A Peachy's Pick Since 2013 #SkylightDiner by #GeorgePapaioannou and #TeddyPapaioannou Since 1996 Summer 2026 @SkylightDinerNY 402 West 34th Street at 9th Avenue Manhattan

May we begin with some Steak Quesadilla Glamour Shots?
Run, do not walk, to the magnificent Steak Quesadillas, Peachy's favorite this visit!
Owner Teddy Papaioannou and Peachy Deegan

It's never been who you know, and if you think it ever was, Mover and Shaker Rennie McQuilkin would have been so disappointed in you. If you are new to this site, it was named after his English class and he is Peachy's favorite teacher.
It's WHOM YOU KNOW and we know the Papaioannou family!
After 31,000 posts, Peachy is tired.
Caffeine deserves a lot of credit for getting us there.
Of course, Skylight Diner has fresh milk and we only drink it from a cow.
Probably in 2013 when we started working with them, one did not need to specify this nuance and it was understood milk came from a cow....
We are always checking for consistency across the board, so if you see a place featured once and then never again, you may have arrived at the answer of why not.  We do not publish negative reviews as it is counter to our philosophy; it is not a reflection of our ability to be critical and analytical at all.
This visit, the Norwegian Salmon Nicoise continued to be a clearcut triumph.  All elements were entirely fresh and they put the ranch dressing on the side as Ms. Pretty Picky requested.
The salmon itself was fresh and a perfect medium, as ordered.  The green beans, which happen to be Peachy's favorite vegetable, have a dijon highlight which makes them that much better and it also reflects the intelligence of Skylight Diner as it knows this salad has french origins, bien sur mes amis.
A lot of places do amazing Chicken Quesadillas but very few do STEAK Quesadillas and those that do have not performed to the high standards these beauties are executed at at Skylight Diner.
Allow us to remind you we do not edit pictures.
The truth is here is one more reason why we have constantly raved about this venue since 2013.
And, it was perfectly medium rare as the picky one in residence here requested.
Flour tortillas with mozzarella cheese, sauteed mushrooms, onions and jalapeno peppers team up for a winning goal in your stomach.
You'll discover the Tuna Melt under Sandwich Sensations, and they even have rye which of course avid readers know is Peachy's personal preference.  Most elevated venues of this ilk do and should.  Melted American Cheese and Tomato join the party and normally it is served with french fries but we opted for salad.  Also it is normally served with an English muffin, which we also adore so life has been full of difficult decisions.  Maybe we will have it on an English muffin another day.
This is the kind of rap we like: the WRAPS at Skylight.
There are eight in the starting lineup, three more than a hockey team.
We opted for the tremendously delicious Grilled Chicken Portobello Wrap, which is the first item that magically disappeared in total from this review.
Actions speak louder than words, readers.
Grilled Chicken, Grilled Portobello Mushrooms, Roasted Peppers, Red Onions, Arugula and just the right touch of Balsamic Vinaigrette enhances it rather than drowns it like you could find at the venues that opt for ridiculous trendiness and picture worthy nonsense.
If your cuisine is as excellent as Skylight Diner's is in the first place, you don't need to worry about that because the quality of the food sets the standard all by itself.
Also they clearly remember Peachy's favorite color is Kelly Green.
See the toothpick.
It is because she is IRISH and is a lifelong Hartford Whalers enthusiast, encouraged by her grandmother.
Of course, Skylight is Greek and Greek people have a commanding culinary presence in our dining history.  To that end, please meet the Greek Souvlaki Platter: Marinated Premium Chunks of Pork luxuriate on pita bread with a fresh salad and french fries and OF COURSE delicious Tzatziki Sauce.
It's a quintessential homage to the mother country that hits the spot.
Stuffed Filet of Sole sings a song of summer stuffed with amazing crabmeat, mashed potatoes and broccoli if you are serious about having a more formal dinner, found under Neptune's favorites. We chose green salad but maybe if you are reading this in February, you will choose soup.
We count over a dozen burger choices on this menu!
That is impressive alone but when you consider the quality that comes with it, it becomes truly exciting.  We chose the Northfork Bison Burger!  The menu tells us it is lean and low in cholesterol and of course we had it with cheese, because in the world according to Peachy Deegan, all hamburgers must be cheeseburgers so the same applies to Bison Burgers.  You are not living your best life if you have not tried this Bison Burger!
Finally, Boneless Pork Tenderloin Open Sandwich is a visual triumph that invites you to visit its char-broiled perfection and its pure success in every bite is further ensured with the toasted garlic bread, which more people should be using in sandwiches but they just are not as intelligent or as inventive as Skylight Diner.  Lettuce, Tomato and Fries round out the party, but we substituted the fries for salad.
A fun fact: Teddy is also well-versed in hockey which makes everything at Skylight taste that much better! Of course, Skylight Diner is close to Madison Square Garden...and if Peachy grew up in New York instead of Hartford maybe she would have gone here before the games instead of Shelley's Deli!*

Skylight Diner continues to be Highly Recommended by Whom You Know.





STAY TUNED BECAUSE THEY ARE IN THE RUNNING TO BE A MAJOR HIGHLIGHT OF A BRAND NEW DINING COLUMN WE HAVE NOT YET REVEALED!


*Shelley's Deli (often spelled Shelly's) was a beloved, historic staple in downtown Hartford, Connecticut, famously located inside the Hartford Civic Center. It was a go-to spot for locals and sports fans grabbing food before Hartford Whalers hockey games, but it is now permanently closed.


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Posted by P at 10:29 AM
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#FashionAlert Kate Spade New York Names Jonathan Saunders Executive Creative Director Our Coverage Sponsored by Hallak Cleaners the Couture Cleaner @hallakcleaners @hallakcouturecleaner

For sixty years, Hallak Cleaners the Couture Cleaner has been entrusted with Manhattan’s finest wardrobes. The official cleaner of Whom You Know since 2012, Hallak is the only cleaner Peachy Deegan would ever use and we are honored to work with them. New York’s fashion boutiques have been recommending Hallak to their loyal customers for years. They understand the importance of quality fabric care and protecting their client’s investment. While Hallak is known for their expert handling of couture and other precious items, they also make it a point to give your more casual garments the same level of attention. Their representatives are always on the look out for the hard-to-notice stains, loose seams, missing buttons, etc. You can trust Hallak Cleaners with your entire wardrobe and then some. A sample of some of their specialized services:

Tables & Bed Linens 

Suede, Leather & Furs 

Couture & Casual Wear 

Custom Interior Services 




Expert tailoring department located at both locations. 

Complimentary Pick Up and Delivery Service 6 Days a Week. 

Hallak Cleaners 
1232 Second Avenue (near 65th) 
New York, NY 10065 






If you have any questions or would like to schedule a pick up, please feel free to email us at info@hallak.com

***

This appointment signals Kate Spade's next creative chapter, connecting its rich heritage and uplifting vision of luxury with a new generation

Jonathan Saunders named Executive Creative Director of Kate Spade New York, effective August 26, 2026

Saunders brings a design philosophy centered on modern femininity, wit, and heritage-driven storytelling and aims to honor Kate Spade's 30-year brand codes while defining its next creative era

Saunders will oversee product design and brand visual identity, reporting directly to Kate Spade Brand President & CEO Eva Erdmann

He joins Kate Spade after 20+ years at brands including Alexander McQueen, Diane von Furstenberg, Calvin Klein, Tiffany & Co., Pucci, and most recently as Chief Creative Officer of & Other Stories
Jonathan Saunders

Kate Spade New York, a Tapestry (NYSE:TPR) brand, today announced the appointment of Jonathan Saunders as Executive Creative Director, effective August 26, 2026. With a deep understanding of the brand’s DNA, Saunders brings a modern view of youthful femininity and a creative vision that honors Kate Spade’s heritage while ushering in the brand’s next era.

Saunders will lead the brand’s direction across product design and visual identity, reporting to and partnering closely with Brand President & CEO Eva Erdmann. Saunders has spent two decades working across some of fashion's most storied names, including Diane Von Furstenburg, Calvin Klein, Tiffany & Co., Pucci, and Alexander McQueen, and most recently served as Chief Creative Director at & Other Stories.

"Kate Spade has always stood for positivity, femininity and a touch of wit," said Eva Erdmann, CEO of Kate Spade New York. "Jonathan shares our consumer obsession, and he understands the heart of our brand. He’s also a collaborative leader and I’m excited to work together to introduce an uplifting vision of luxury to a new generation of consumers."

"Kate Spade is iconic, and it’s an honor to step into a brand that has such a strong identity and deep emotional connections," said Jonathan Saunders. "The brand has a genuine point of view, rich brand codes steeped in its 30-year history, and infinite potential. I’m looking forward to immersing in the brand heritage and connecting that soul with today’s consumers. I’m thrilled to join the team that’s shaping Kate Spade’s joyful future."

Saunders was born in Glasgow, Scotland and is a graduate of Central Saint Martins, University of the Arts, London. He will be relocating to New York to work from the Kate Spade headquarters in Hudson Yards.

About Kate Spade New York
Since 1993, Kate Spade New York has believed that style is a language of optimism, with the power to spark joy that spreads. Today, we’re creating a world that feels uplifting, where luxury and warmth coexist. Our handbags, clothes, shoes, jewelry and more are classics with a twist, balancing craft with a playful spirit through thoughtful function, intentional color, and unexpected details—they’re pieces made to live with easily and love endlessly. In everything we create, we ignite a spark, turning the everyday into something more beautiful. Kate Spade New York is part of the Tapestry house of brands.

About Tapestry, Inc.
Our global house of iconic accessories and lifestyle brands unites the magic of Coach and Kate Spade New York. Together, we stretch what’s possible – advancing brands further than they could go alone, expanding their reach to new geographies and generations. Inspired by our consumers, we create experiences and products that build lasting brand love and elevate everyday life. To learn more about Tapestry, please visit www.tapestry.com. For important news and information regarding Tapestry, visit the Investor Relations section of our website at www.tapestry.com/investors. In addition, investors should continue to review our news releases and filings with the SEC. We use each of these channels of distribution as primary channels for publishing key information to our investors, some of which may contain material and previously non-public information. The Company’s common stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol TPR.

This information made available in this press release may contain forward-looking statements based on management's current expectations. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, the statements regarding long-term performance and statements that can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "may," “can,” “if,” "continue," “project,” “assumption,” "should," "expect," “confidence,” “goals,” “trends,” “anticipate,” "intend," "estimate," “on track,” “future,” “well positioned to,” “plan,” “potential,” “vision,” “position,” “deliver,” “believe,” “seek,” “see,” “will,” “would," “uncertain,” “achieve,” “strategic,” “growth,” “target,” "guidance," "forecast," “outlook,” “commit,” “innovation,” “drive,” “leverage,” “generate,” “enhance,” “effort,” “progress,” “confident,” “amplify,” “we can stretch what’s possible,” similar expressions, and variations or negatives of these words. Future results may differ materially from management's current expectations, based upon a number of important factors, including risks and uncertainties such as the impact of international trade disputes and the risks associated with potential changes to international trade agreements, including the imposition or threat of imposition of new or increased tariffs or retaliatory tariffs implemented by countries where our manufacturers are located as well as the imposition of additional duties on the products we import, economic conditions, recession and inflationary measures, risks associated with operating in international markets, including currency fluctuations and changes in economic or political conditions in the markets where we sell or source our products, the ability to anticipate consumer preferences and retain the value of our brands and respond to changing fashion and retail trends in a timely manner, including our ability to execute on our e-commerce and digital strategies, the impact of tax and other legislation, the ability to successfully implement the initiatives under our 2028 Amplify growth strategy, the effect of existing and new competition in the marketplace, our ability to successfully identify and implement any sales, acquisitions or strategic transactions on attractive terms or at all, our ability to achieve intended benefits, cost savings and synergies from acquisitions, our ability to control costs, the effect of seasonal and quarterly fluctuations on our sales or operating results; the risk of cybersecurity threats and privacy or data security breaches, our ability to satisfy our outstanding debt obligations or incur additional indebtedness, the risks associated with climate change and other corporate responsibility issues, our ability to protect against infringement of our trademarks and other proprietary rights, and the impact of pending and potential future legal proceedings, etc. Please refer to the Company’s latest Annual Report on Form 10-K and its other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission for a complete list of risks and important factors. The Company assumes no obligation to revise or update any such forward-looking statements for any reason, except as required by law.

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Posted by P at 10:28 AM
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