Monday, October 26th, 2009

Each week, My Upper West interviews an Upper West Side resident who helps make our neighborhood the diverse and interesting place we love.  Today, we talk to Robin Craig, blogger, west 60’s.

So, what do you do all day?
I moved to the UWS from Scottsdale, Arizona after a 30 year career in the health care industry.  I’ve had a dream to live in the city since I was a small child, and now I’m living the dream.  I’m aspiring to assist a family as a personal assistant or a house manager at some point in the future, but for now, I enjoy blogging (www.gothamgirlchronicles.com) and will be starting a new blog soon (www.gothamcritic.com) to critique the services and/or products of businesses I encounter in daily life here in the city.

How long have you lived on the UWS?
I’m a newbie! Since the middle of May of this year.

What made you decide to move to the UWS?
After a number of trips and walking several neighborhoods, the UWS felt more like a neighborhood than others.  I like that it’s such an eclectic mixture of all types of people.  Since I’m a cyclist, having Central Park and Riverside Park so close sealed the deal.

What is your favorite thing about the neighborhood?
Location, location, location!

Riverside Park or Central Park?
When I first moved here I would have easily answered Central Park.  Now after 5 months I have to admit I’m really loving Riverside Park.
I like looking out over the river and since I’m a cyclist, I love riding the bike paths.

Describe your best celebrity sighting on the UWS.
Kelly Rutherford while filming Gossip Girl.  She was very gracious when I chatted with her.

What is your favorite meal on the UWS? Favorite place for a cocktail?
For a good burger I enjoy Fred’s (Amsterdam at 83rd) and for sushi I really like Matsu (Columbus at 83rd).  Pappardella (Columbus at 75th)is another favorite.  My favorite cocktail is a lemon drop martini with a splash of pineapple, but I haven’t really been able tofind a good one yet.  I’m a wine lover and so far I love the selection at Wine and Roses (Columbus at 73rd).

If you could change one thing about the UWS, what would it be?
I would like to see more people mindful of cleanliness, whether it’s making sure that garbage goes into the can, picking up after their dog or just picking up after someone else to keep our hood as clean as possible. I know the city in general has come along way over the years, but I still think if everyone made a little extra effort it would be even better!

What would you like to see filling the empty storefronts in the UWS, or what would you like to see more of in the UWS?
Perhaps more fitness-related shops, whether that would be for running, cycling, walking etc.

Horse and carriage rides in Central Park: romantic, too touristy, or cruel?
My very first carriage ride was about 25 years ago and it was such a romantic and beautiful way to see the park.  To me it’s a New York City classic.

What are you looking forward to most: completion of Lincoln Center’s renovations, Trader Joe’s on 72nd and Broadway, the shops at Columbus Square, or completion of the 96th Street subway station?
Most definitely Trader Joe’s.  I was spoiled with Trader Joe’s in Scottsdale.

What is your favorite thing to do in the ‘hood on a nice UWS day?
Walk and experience every little nook of this great neighborhood. I enjoy shopping at the farmer’s market on Sundays (Columbus between 77th and 79th).

Who is your favorite UWS resident, past or present?
Tina Fey.

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