For v2.2 of Williamsburger Maps, I decided to work on UI improvements rather than any major DB additions, as well as tried to move logic gradually from the PHP code into JavaScript as I become more comfortable with JavaScript syntax and coding patterns. The discovery of the newly open-sourced Rico libraries helped me immeasurably in this, and I expect to be playing with those some more, and possibly contributing in the future.

See the new maps: Bedford Ave, Williamsburg Lorimer St, Williamsburg Fifth Ave, Park Slope East Village Chinatown

After finally investigating the confusing elevator-in-a-wall that is the entrance to Sunrise Mart, I was pleasantly surprised to discover, among many other wonderful items, the thick-slice, perfect for toasting bread I’d eaten (and loved) in Japan. As far as I can tell from the label, this is called Milk Bread, and claims to be baked on the premises, although I couldn’t see anywhere this could have happened (maybe there’s a small bakery in the back?).

When sliced thick, this bread toasts up better than anything I’ve ever used, staying soft on the inside, and studded with enough small air pockets to give the cut edges the roughness needed for a good butter spread. With a cup of a black tea, a thick, buttered slice or two is a very satisfying breakfast. Sliced thin, it’s a sturdy sandwich bread which holds up to whatever fixings may come.

The only real downside is the price; this single loaf (the entirety of which is pictured above) runs $2.50 at Sunrise, and only makes 5 or 6 slices.

Say hello to Williamsburger Map #5, the East Village!

I’ve spent much of the weekend adding improvements to the PHP/Javascript files which power Williamsburger Maps. This afternoon marked the release of Williamsburger Maps v2.1, and all existing maps have since been switched over. There are a few new features in this version, mostly focused on the "types" each business is classified into.