Rainy Days, Sunny Ways

Spring is finally here, and with the warm sunny days, there can be some rain, which shouldn’t drown anyone’s mood. In fact, a rainy day can be the best time to get out and explore all that the area has to offer, and put that smile back on your face.

A little personal-care goes a long way, and something like a fresh manicure can instantly boost your mood. One of the best places in Ridgewood to get a relaxing and beautiful nail treatment is Annyeong Nails & Spa. This salon is cozy and offers everything from classic manicures to intricate nail art. It is the perfect spot to unwind. Their skilled technicians are great at gel extensions, trendy designs, and soothing hand treatments that make your nails look flawless. The salon’s welcoming atmosphere, with plush chairs and soothing music, makes every visit feel like a mini escape from the winter blues. Whether you’re there for a manicure, pedicure or massage, Annyeong Nail & Spa provides top notch service that will leave you feeling pampered and refreshed. 

Just next to Annyeong is Wasabi, a Japanese sushi restaurant for the perfect meal on a snowy day. With a large variety of options, everyone can find their go-to rolls. The different types of fish are endless, including tuna, salmon, spicy tuna, yellowtail, and much more. Additionally, there are special rolls like Rainbow, Red Velvet, and the Royal Crown, all of which are a must try. If you’re not in the sushi or sashimi mood, that’s okay! Wasabi also offers a diverse menu of warm udon noodles and delicious katsu bowls with rice and pork or chicken. The vibe in the restaurant is warm and friendly, with chefs making the sushi right in front of customers. Furthermore, the miso soup at Wasabi is the perfect side to pair with a colorful, tasty plate of sushi. The soup will warm you up instantly on any cooler rainy day. 

Another place to go is Raymond’s, which is a local favorite known for its buttermilk pancakes, that are crispy on the edges and fluffy in the middle, and served with maple syrup that adds the perfect amount of sweetness. Raymond’s mac and cheese is also delicious, baked with a crispy breadcrumb topping that adds just the right amount of crunch. 

But if you’re in the mood for something healthier, Playa Bowls offers refreshing smoothies and colorful acai bowls packed with fresh fruit, granola, and honey. However, the ultimate rainy day treat can be found at Sook Pastry, where their gourmet hot chocolate is rich and velvety, made with melted chocolate and topped with fresh whipped cream. Pair it with a warm buttery croissant for a satiating treat.

Paris Baguette is another sweet spot in Ridgewood for the dreary months following December. The cake and tart options are endless. If you’re celebrating a birthday, the Blueberry Chiffon Cake and the Cappuccino Cake are a must try. The latter, filled with mocha buttercream and topped with caramel, is shaped like a cup of coffee. There’s a handle-shaped piece of chocolate, and white “foam” dripping over the sides of the cake. The mochi donuts are soft and chewy, with flavors such as strawberry and butter pecan. You can also grab sandwiches with a beverage for breakfast or lunch, and stay in the warm shop to get some work done. 

Retail therapy is another great way to lift your spirits on a rainy day.  A short drive to the Garden State Plaza in Paramus offers a wide variety of stores and entertainment. Whether you’re hunting for the latest fashion at Zara and Aritzia, browsing beauty products at Sephora, or grabbing the latest sneakers at Foot Locker, the mall has something for everyone. Plus, you can refuel while shopping at the food court, full of many options like Chipotle and Shake Shack. The mall isn’t just for shopping; on especially cold days, catching a movie at AMC is the perfect way to relax and escape. 

This brings us to the final recommendation: the Ridgewood Public Library. With finals coming up,  high school students need a place to study. Sure, you can stay at home, but a change of scenery helps boost study efficiency. Bring a study partner and head to one of the different sections of the library. The quiet rooms upstairs offer silence and peace for focused, independent work. On the other hand, the teen room downstairs allows for conversations while studying. The public library can also be the perfect place for avid readers to find new books to enjoy. Plus, after a productive hour of studying, you can treat yourself to  Starbucks or bubble tea at Gong Cha.

Yes, the nice weather is here, but so is the rain, and more is likely to come, so when it does, treat yourself to some self-care, grab a bite to eat, take a trip to the mall, and stay active, and make a rainy day your favorite day.