Do We Need a European Cookie Store?

New York City’s most iconic holiday market is back. The Union Square Holiday Market by Urbanspace returns this year on Thursday, November 17th with 170+ vendors showcasing a dynamic mix of global cuisines, original art, handcrafted accessories, and more. The market will be open through Saturday, December 24th.

Regale Deli, on 5th Ave. north of 14th St., has closed. It was always a little dark and spooky, but it was popular, and now there is one less convenient deli in the neighborhood. If University Deli on the corner of 13th closes, we’re doomed.

Grub Street reports the not incredibly surprising news that Union Square restaurant Irving Mill will close on January 1. The restaurant, known for its chef turnover, a major lawsuit, and its one-time super porky menu, has been, how shall we say, underpopulated of late (or, the last year of its life really). Regardless, the owners—two brothers and one’s wife—meant well and it’s a beautiful, large space. And that Ryan Skeen burger had some serious potential back in the day. Life goes on, and this space will go on, reopening as a Brother Jimmy’s BBQ, the fratty barbecue chain, in March. Just think: a new TGI Friday’s and a Brother Jimmy’s? Union Square is looking like the place to be in 2010.

People often complain that Whole Foods is too expensive, but did you know they offer plenty of decent coupons?

Next week (February 6 to February 10), Superstructure work will continue at and 4th and 5th floor levels. The following week (February 13 to February 17), we will continue superstructure concrete and slabs on 4th, 5th and 6th floor levels.

This weekend the site will be open on Saturday, February 4th for superstructure related activities between the work hours of 7AM and 5PM as permitted by the City. To control noise levels within the site, work activities will be limited to the placement of formwork and concrete, plumbing and electrical work, rebar for concrete placement, using the crane and equipment to support all activities. Safety horns are used, and required by law, to coordinate lifting with the crane and to alert the workers of the danger overhead. We have directed the operators to limit the use of horns to one short sounding and to use the crane later in the day so as to avoid any excess noise.

14th Street Con ED vault utility connection street work will continue per DOT Permit granted for weekends only.

Gothamist reports that Nordstrom is very close to signing on to take over the Virgin Megastore space to install one of its discount Nordstrom Rack stores. Sounds fine, although some bloggers would much rather have a Target there.