hunting and gathering in the east village

we had to stop at the old-school cabinet of wonders that is Video Games New York on 6th Street east of Bowery, so we had a bit of a wander around the east village while we were at it.  first, back to the truly fantastic Abraco for the BEST iced latte in town.  then we stumbled upon Montana Knox in an alley.  the artist was in residence, and i could not resist this t-shirt.  i almost wish i was a tourist, because what a great souvenir this would be!  one more door down the alley was a marvelous little chocolate shop, Bespoke Chocolates, where we both fell in love with the dark chocolate truffle with the liquid caramel center, rolled in crushed pretzels.  stopped at Mercat for a light dinner and drinks, Barcelona style.  loved the padrones, little green chili peppers flash fried in olive oil and sea-salted.  the perfect bar snack, giving edamame a run for its money.  also peppers stuffed with shortribs, an octopus and arugula salad, and lovely cocktails.  we'll be going back here.  last stop of the afternoon was at the new wagyu-beef-only butcher shop on Great Jones, Japanese Premium Beef, for steaks for a dinner with friends.  the Japanese butchers were very friendly and helpful, and were actually from the prefecture that contains Naoshima, the art island we visited in '07.  will report on the beef after we eat it tomorrow!