A Star Studded Week

If you’re the kind of person who gets starstruck, New York is an ideal place for indulging this particular inclination. For me, that’s never been more true of my hometown than over the last seven days.

From spotting the “Sex And The City” gals in action and meeting SATC author Candace Bushnell to saying hello to famed Chicago chef Tony Mantuano and fashion royalty, it’s been quite a week.

My favorite celeb encounter? Meeting 90210’s Kelly Taylor, the lovely Jennie Garth.

Jennie Garth and me at the premiere party for Candace Bushnell’s new webisode series

Jennie stars in Bushnell’s new webisode series, "The Broadroom." Coming up…more about that and my eventful week -- including a surprise visit from an old flame.

My First Trip To The US Open

Last night, my friend Sara and I headed out to Queens to catch the evening session at the U.S. Open.

Stadium Seating: Sara and I at the U.S. Open

After a delightful trip on the free Powerade Zero-sponsored ferry and a short bus ride, we arrived at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. Wanting some sustenance before the games that wasn't greasy food court grub, we opted to check out a more upscale option -- Tony Mantuano’s Wine Bar Food.

The renowned Chicago chef -- and President Obama favorite -- serves up light, tasty dishes with his signature innovative style. Sara and I shared tomato bread with Serrano ham and manchego cheese and flaming ouzo shrimp that is truly heaven on a plate.

Finally, we made our way into the stadium, where we watched a few riveting sets between Maria Sharapova and Tsvetana Pironkova.

The evening’s main event -- an intense match between #2 ranked Andy Murray and Ernests Gulbis that saw lots of tough-to-call shots and challenges from both players. Underdog Gulbis held his own (and had the crowd cheering) but Murray defeated him in the end.

I have a whole new appreciation for the excitement and drama of tennis now. And it doesn’t hurt that, as you’re taking it all in, there’s some nice eye candy to look at -- on and off the court.