1. One of the many things I love about the Japanese is their love for authentic Japanese cuisine no matter what a place looks like. Case in point: Typhoon Lounge (79 Saint Marks btwn 1st and 2nd Aves), which I've walked by over 1,000 times and would NEVER have stepped foot in if a friend hadn't brought me there. (It had everything to do with the shower curtain they were using to block the cold air from getting in, in case you were wondering) Given I've never lived in Japan, I can't attest to the authenticity of the food, but I can attest to the fact that it was really good and really affordable; and given its popularity with Japanese folks living in New York and those who come in from out of town (people who I know can afford to eat at fancier places), I've gotta think they're onto something.

2. In case you haven't heard yet, there's a sick line of sneakers out of LA called Creative Recreation. In both men's and women's styles, the line is modern and defies categorization, which is exactly what the designers were going for. Check out their site to see the Spring and Holiday collections, making sure to click the Profile link to read more about the line and the Retailers link to find out where you can buy yourself a pair around the world. My faves: Di Cocolo in White on White, Black on Black, Vintage White Maroon + Hot Pink, and Gun Metal Navy + Dewberry.

3. From the makers of Knocked Up and Superbad (two amazing movies in my humble opinion) comes Forgetting Sarah Marshall. "Struggling musician Peter Bretter (Jason Segel) has spent six years idolizing his girlfriend, television star Sarah Marshall (Kristen Bell). He's the guy left holding her purse in paparazzi photos and accidentally omitted from acceptance award speeches. But his world is rocked when she dumps him and Peter finds himself alone. After an unsuccessful bout of womanizing and an on-the-job nervous breakdown, he sees that not having Sarah may just ruin his life." Checkout the official site, the trailer, and this teaser site.

4. One of my favorite bands -- The Kills -- is finally getting the recognition they deserve. And they have a new EP coming out that you can test drive on MySpace before it drops officially. "After seven years of playing together, this London-based duo have finally perfected their slithering garage rock sound. Listen to their new album, Midnight Boom, before it hit stores." Don't forget to checkout their official site and this video of my favorite Kills song -- Cats Claw -- from a few years back.