My friend wants me to host a baking party, and I was curious if anyone out there has ever hosted one. I'd prefer to have my friends not just ice and decorate cupcakes (we're adults!), but also have a hand in the flavors and actually baking the items as well.

How did you organize your party?
Did you stick to only one type of baked good (cupcakes, cookies, etc) and recipe?
Which recipes did you choose?
How can I keep the costs down, so I'm not buying every flavor chip, candy bar, extract, etc?

Thanks!

I'm going to my boyfriend's baseball game this Sunday, and I would like to bring a snack/dessert/something for the team after the game. I can bring a cooler, or not...

Any suggestions?

Where can I find mint extract in NYC? Its not in ny local supermarket, or Whole Foods, or the common drug store. I've found almost every other flavor (vanilla, orange, almond, etc), but no mint...

Firstone Double Barrel Ale
Where can I find this beer in the city??

My friend just had it shipped from California, and I find it hard to believe that it's not available in NY.

I cant believe I'm going public with this but...
My favorite taco joint in NYC actually isn't a restaurant - its a bodega! St. James Deli on 34th Ave./34th St. in Astoria is amazing! You walk into a small bodega with Mexican groceries, and off to the side is a small kitchen where they hand-make tacos full of delicious fresh ingredients. I am partial to their chicken tacos in red sauce with fresh crumbled queso fresco. The tacos are only about $2 each, so it's an affordable snack or meal. Plus, you get to chat with the friendly family while they prepare your food; they might not have the best English, but they definitely have the best tacos!

Where is everyone's favorite taco joint in NYC?