When a new Star Wars flick comes out, sci-fi nerds have to show up. David Chang is the restaurant world's George Lucas, and people have been packing inside Fuku since it opened in June 2015 (there’s already a satellite location called Fuku+). The sandwich is the centerpiece of the tiny sliver of a restaurant we think is one of NYC's best -- chicken thighs are brined and marinated in a habanero puree that’s later coated in buttermilk and spices, and then fried crispy. Atop a Martin’s potato roll it goes before it’s garnished with pickles and house-made butter. Toss in wedge fries with Old Bay and a Ssäm Sauce michelada, and you have a food nerd’s wet dream.
Beyond the charms of this crowded, loud dive with strong tropical drinks and the glow of something like Gleaming the Cube on repeat behind the bar, there are some damn tasty dishes, and chief among them is the hot breast. This crispy, crusty, juicy chicken breast sandwich pays zero attention to the borders the bun tries to impose on it and delivers a significantly spicy flavor punch cooled and contrasted perfectly by the coleslaw and pickles topping it.
As it keeps making this list, we’ll try and keep it short: it does the classic Neapolitan style with that charred crust with the black spots. It started in Brooklyn, and came to Manhattan in some sort of opposite-of-people-trying-to-have-kids move. It is now famous in Hong Kong and some other Asian places. And if you don’t get its soppressata picante or its addictive stracciatella, YOU ARE A DAMN FOOL.
New Yorkers still mourn the loss of the original Gramercy location of Ess-a, but the folks responsible for the city's thickest and fluffiest bagels are thankfully still pumping perfect bacon, egg, and cheeses out of their Midtown sequel. Perhaps the largest BEC in New York, this behemoth comes packed with a double layer of cheese (as all breakfast sandwiches should). Plus, you need not (and should not) toast the bagels -- they're always fresh out of the oven. Even if you go with sesame seed instead of everything, these bagels are everything.
For the most part, New York hot dogs fall into three categories: dirty, free-with-a-drink, and vessel-for-piling-a-ton-of-stuff-on-top-of. And since the latter tends to offer up the best variation (sorry, entire city of New York, but it's true), you better make sure that stuff is spot on. At Asiadog -- its booths and its brick-and-mortar -- said toppings include Japanese curry with homemade kimchi apples, BBQ pork belly, or a straight-up hot dog-version of bánh mì, complete with pate, cucumbers, pickled carrots & daikon, cilantro, and jalapeño.
You know you're doing something right when The New Yorker, which is typically more concerned with publishing jokes Frasier would love than anything about donuts, devotes an entire feature to your shop. Fany Gerson opened in Bed-Stuy five years ago and Dough utterly exploded. Now, it's got three additional Manhattan locations and a Smorgasburg residency. It's impossible to go wrong with any of its creative flavors (oh hey, chocolate with Earl Grey), but if you ever stumble across an available blood orange, get it immediately.
New York City's incredible number of bars makes this a tough choice, but as much as we loved the glory days of the East Village, and look forward to Greenpoint reaching critical mass, our NYC nod has to go to the best 20-something playground in the world: Williamsburg. Whine if you will that it's sold out and bro'd out, but few places in the country can compare to the staggering density of truly amazing imbibing establishments. Union Pool is the place for a regrettable make-out session with one of those beautiful young "creatives," Radegast has your outdoor day-drinking sessions covered, and Baby's All Right actually offers decent drinks in addition to a chance to rub elbows with the Pitchfork crowd. If you like your absinthe paired with oysters (we do!) Maison Premiere is the move (especially on dollar shell Sundays), and even the most high-nosed dark spirit snob will be impressed by the 400 whiskeys on the shelves at Noorman's Kil. For those looking for the cheap seats, The Drink's $5 punches are solid, as are just about anything paired with the honky-tonk vibes of Skinny Dennis. And since NY is the best place to see DJs in the country, we'd be remiss not to mention the monstrous Funktion-One sound system at Output (escape to the rooftop if it's too loud), or Questlove's now-legendary residency at Brooklyn Bowl.
It’s a tough call between this storied Midtown steakhouse that’s been serving beef since the Cleveland administration and Peter Luger. But the last time I went to Peter Luger, they refused to cook my steak how I ordered it, and anybody who tells you how (and not what) to eat really ain’t all that great. So the win goes to Keens out of both spite and merit. Not only does the place serve steak as good as any in the city, but it might be the only steakhouse in America that’s also world renowned for its mutton.
I don’t usually get to review the New York restaurants, because our entire office lives there, and eyes me suspiciously whenever I start talking about foods I like in New York. But I did have the pleasure of eating at Wildair, the younger, more casual sibling to Contra from Chefs Jeremiah Stone and Fabian von Hauske. And, as per the theme we’ve seen this year, the more relaxed of the two restaurants might also be the best. The day I ate there, basically everyone in the restaurant was from the food/drink media. I didn’t know this, of course, because I live in San Francisco and refuse to make eye contact in public, but my dinner companion is part of that circle and spent half the meal walking off to make small talk as I sat, ignoring everyone, and eating everything. My favorite part, after eating Chef von Hauske’s mind-meltingly delicious bread, was the beef tartare. The smoked cheddar (does anyone else do this?) and eye-watering fresh horseradish combined to make it utterly addicting, and a great balance for the little gem salad. But I nearly forgot all of this because during this entire fantastic meal, the wine director kept offering up strange and fantastical wines from random parts of the world, and I may have had six to 11 glasses, each somehow (or perhaps obviously) better than the next. -- KA
This one is a no-brainer. Who doesn't like a free cruise across New York's harbor? (Just make sure you get on a return ferry back to Manhattan.) Good for day or night, though not inclement weather. You can see Brooklyn, the Statue of Liberty, and all of lower Manhattan spread out before you when you ride the Staten Island Ferry.
Museum admission can really add up in New York, with many institutions charging more than $20 per adult; however, many of New York's most beloved museums show prices that are merely a suggested donation. Gain entrance to Metropolitan Museum of Art and the American Museum of Natural History for as much—or as little—as you'd like to pay.
Located within Fort Tryon Park, itself perched on a cliff that overlooks the Hudson River and the George Washington Bridge, the Cloisters is assuredly one of the most beautiful places in New York. Located at the top of the island of Manhattan, the Cloisters is a part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, so fare at one museum pays for entry to the other, provided the visit is the same day. Built by John D. Rockefeller Jr. in 1917, the Cloisters is a franken-museum, made up of pieces of disparate medieval European monasteries threatened by demolition. The result, however, is strikingly lovely and peaceful.
Housed within a beautiful Beaux-Arts building, the Brooklyn Museum is just down the road from the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens, Prospect Park, and Grand Army Plaza. With recent blockbuster exhibits of Basquiat and Kehinde Wiley, this institution is a must-see.
There are few places in Brooklyn that better concentrate all the new stereotypes—good and bad—about the borough than the Brooklyn Flea. All artisanal everything is available here, from ramen burgers to borough-made crafts and upcycled clothing.
Grab a pie at Keste or John's, and then head to the IFC Center in the West Village for one of their eclectic and rotating late night shows. They show everything from cult classics like The Warriors to beloved nostalgia-trips like Jurassic Park, with a lot more in between.
Free Financial District Ever since Hurricane Sandy ravaged lower Manhattan, the South Street Seaport has been undergoing a complete renovation. Three years later, the Seaport isn’t just a great tourist attraction, it’s a place you actually want to hang out. Grab lunch at Fresh Salt or browse the Sunday farmers market before waking to the East River and ‘gramming the unobstructed Brooklyn Bridge views.
$ Meatpacking District The perpetually packed Whitney Museum of American Art might not sound ideal for out-of-towners, but with its High Line-adjacent location and bounty of innovative and provocative exhibitions (plus a slew of bars and restaurants all within a stone's throw), a day planned around the Whitney is actually multitasking at its finest.
$ Williamsburg By day, Baby’s All Right is a great brunch spot with lots of boozy specials. By night, it turns into a live-music hotbed, with new performers every night and tickets starting at just $10 a show. Also, the floor is etched with a replica of the maze from The Shining. Weird, but also amazing.
$ Midtown East From epic people-watching to a huge selection of shopping and dining, there’s nothing boring about spending a day at Grand Central. Take a tour of the history-rich terminal, peruse the GC Market for artisanal everything, and end with a drink at the speakeasy-inspired Campbell Apartment.
$ - $$ Financial District Crowds, lines, and selfie-sticks are to be expected when visiting One WTC, but these minor annoyances will be worth every minute spent atop the highest building in the Western Hemisphere. The observatory isn’t just a view, it’s an all-out experience -- one that’ll leave your guests (and even you, no matter how jaded you may be) practically speechless.
$ - $$ Hell’s Kitchen This self-proclaimed “day-and-night dining destination” is ushering in a new chapter of food halls, and we like what we see. Slurp noodles at Ivan Ramen, down burgers at Genuine Roadside, or enjoy some tapas from El Colmado -- the choice is yours, and you can have them all. And while it’s a hundred blocks away from the nearest subway, Gotham is still light-years easier to navigate (and enjoy!) than tourist-packed Eataly or Chelsea Market.
$$ Astoria This beast of the New York beer halls doesn’t just offer a great excuse to check out Astoria, it’s also a certified beer mecca that really celebrates its founders' Czech and Slovak heritage. Enjoy a huge variety of brews for $16 a pitcher, and be sure to order some authentic brats and kielbasa off the perpetually fired-up grill.
$$ Flatiron Boasting one of the most extensive whiskey selections on the East Coast, The Flatiron Room is THE place to get your brown booze on, one shot at a time. Finally learn the difference between whiskey and rye from educated bartenders and their guide-like menus, then dive in with one of the half-dozen tasting flights.
$$ - $$$ Multiple locations You’re classy, right? Right. So why not show off your sophistication with a classic high tea? There are options to suit any number of budgets (Tea & Sympathy and Bosie Tea Parlor in the West Village are among the most affordable) but if you really want to impress your guests, go big with splurge-worthy teas at The Plaza, The Pierre, or The Ritz-Carlton.
$$ - $$$ Multiple locations Eating out is one of the best things about visiting NYC, which is why a diverse tasting menu should definitely be on your to-do list. Sister restaurants The Eddy and The Wallflower both offer affordable five-course options at $65/person, while the vegetarian-leaning (and Michelin-starred) Semilla offers eight courses for $75, and farm-to-table hotspot Mas offers a hearty four-course tasting menu for $88.
$$$ Midtown West This insanely popular circus/theater/nightclub extravaganza is exactly the type of outrageous experience your guests will be expecting, so go ahead and splurge on this pricey show. Tickets get you access to the performance and a dinner of lobster, whole-roasted pig, and giant racks of ribs.
Plenty of new bars that people get hyped about, and put on lists like this, are BIG, EXCITING, UNIQUE, POSSIBLY SUBTERRANEAN places that don't even really deserve caps for the last three of those words. But sometimes, a drinker needs fewer passwords and handcrafted ladders to reach the 4.5ft top shelf, and just needs a bar-bar. And maybe that's a bar with a fried fish sandwich you wouldn't ever expect to be quite so perfect. Or a bar with legitimately unique $12 cocktails as good as any in a city that's horrifyingly OK with the $17 versions. Or a bar that commandeered a long-misused corner location on the crucial East Village boozer's thoroughfare of St. Mark's, and made it right again. But in the end, just a bar. That's this place. Say hi to Pete. Seriously, say hi, he loves that!! -- Ben Robinson, editorial director
Williamsburg Rate: $399/night What you get: Entire apartment (accommodates 10): five bedrooms; three bathrooms Not only is this apartment in one of the hottest New York City neighborhoods, but it’s got more space than most New Yorkers will see in their entire existences living there. Plus, all the touches that will make any locals you might meet out at a bar and invite over to party in your sweet Airbnb squeal with glee, like exposed brick and stone everywhere (including in the shower), an open kitchen, and a sprawling private patio.
There’s pretty much something to please everyone, from musicals on Broadway to stand-up comedy to ballet. It’s all world-class talent in some of the best venues in the world, and it’s generally worth splurging to see something while you’re here. I especially love a jazz show at Dizzy’s, a late-night show at Comedy Cellar, or a matinee at the New York City Ballet. A few ways to save: try TodayTix for same-day Broadway shows, and see what Juilliard music or dance students are showing.
Being out on the water in New York City is just such a pleasant experience, especially as a break from the chaotic streets or noisy subway. I highly recommend figuring out a way to see the skyline and the Statue of Liberty from the water, especially at sunset. Personally, I think it’s not worth actually going to the Statue of Liberty if you’re here for a short amount of time: there’s a ton of security to get through and lots of lines, and it’s really prettiest from the water as opposed to up close. Bonus: there is a way to be on a boat in the Hudson and East Rivers at every budget level! Splurge: sail with Harbor Line. Middle ground: Circle Line Cruise. Cheap: NYC Ferry. Free: Staten Island Ferry.
My best tip for New York City: come hungry. You can eat well at every budget level, from extremely cheap to crazy expensive, and indulge in just about any type of international cuisine. But the two things you shouldn’t leave without eating: a slice of pizza and a bagel (low-carb diets be damned, and there are GF options for celiacs!). My favorite spots for pizza: Speedy Romeo, Lucali and Joe’s. For bagels, I think it’s usually OK to rely on Yelp to find a good spot close to wherever you’re staying–but if you’re up for a trek, my personal favorite bagels are at Absolute and Ess-a-Bagel.
One of the things that I think is worth splurging on: seeing the city from above! I highly prefer Top of the Rock: you can see Central Park AND the Empire State Building from above. The Empire State Building is great to see more of downtown, but it does feel like you’re missing out on the most iconic part of the skyline because you’re ON it. (Very similar to why I always recommend going up the Arc de Triomphe instead of the Eiffel Tower in Paris!) Although it’s amazing to see the sunset from above, note that it is certainly busiest around this time–it can be a much more relaxing and enjoyable experience earlier in the day and in the off-season. A hack to get the same views, but save on ticket price: go to a rooftop bar! The drinks will be expensive, but it’s quite the experience. I love Bar SixtyFive and 230 Fifth.
It’s surprisingly easy to navigate most of Manhattan: almost all of the island is built on a numbered grid. But then you go into West Village, and all reason falls away. It’s a cluster of tiny, winding streets lined with trees and impeccable brownstones, and it’s almost impossible to keep your bearings. That’s part of its charm! You can spot the Friends apartment building and Carrie’s front steps from Sex and the City, along with plenty of other gorgeous homes and gardens. And there are so many bars, restaurants and cafes to choose from. A few of my personal favorites: Buvette, Toby’s Estate, Barbuto, Aria, The Spotted Pig, Hudson Clearwater.
Although most people tend to think Central Park serves as the green lungs of the city, very few are aware of the serenity that awaits at Brooklyn’s Prospect Park. While this park is technically smaller than Central Park by around 300 acres, it’s the perfect example that bigger is not always better. With a gracious meadow that stretches for a full mile, an immense lake, and a lush forest, there’s no question you’ll find peace and quiet within these 526 acres. If you head this way, be sure to also swing by the breathtaking Brooklyn Botanical Gardens. Home to 52 acres of wild and exotic vegetation, this Garden encompasses marvelous beauty year-round.
Craving wine and a spectacular view? That’s exactly what you’ll find at the Red Hook Winery. Located right on the water in the trendy industrial district of Red Hook, this winery is surely one of Brooklyn’s most beloved hidden gems. Once you follow the cobblestone road, you will be greeted by a menu full of perfectly-blended reds and whites. But what makes this place even more special are the panoramic views of the Hudson River awaiting your attention. With Lady Liberty in the distance, you can clink your glasses to celebrate the moment, knowing this will be one unforgettable experience. And if wine isn’t exactly your cup of tea, that’s okay. Head to
In the ever-so-popular Williamsburg neighborhood for a refreshingly frothy pint of locally brewed beer.
It is no surprise why the Metropolitan Museum of Art is one of the most beloved museums in the entire country. I mean, it is home to over two million works of art! But what many people don’t realize is that this cherished institution also has a spacious rooftop that is open to the public. So if you’re seeking stunning views of Central Park and the city skyline, come here! And if you also happen to be in a museum-hopping mood, both the Tenement Museum and the Whitney are phenomenal, less-crowded choices. Check out the Asian Wing, specifically the Astor Chinese Garden Court.
If you’re as much of a farmers-market fanatic as I am, you’ll fall head-over-heels in love with the Union Square Greenmarket. Anchored by the central plaza of Union Square, this lively outdoor market houses rows upon rows of vendors selling everything from homegrown produce, meats, and cheeses to homemade breads, pretzels, and baked goods. It’s not only a great place to relish in the fresh tastes of New York State, but it’s also a wonderful way to meet the local farmers, bakers, and harvesters behind the delicious goodness. Plus, Union Square is nestled among tons of shops, galleries, and boutiques, so after you indulge in a little sampling, you can partake in some much-anticipated window shopping.
Tucked away in the borough of Brooklyn is where you’ll find the enchanting Historic District of Ditmas Park. Home to some of New York’s most beautiful buildings, this neighborhood is mostly adored for its magnificently renovated Victorian mansions. Once you stroll down a few streets, you’ll probably start to wonder if you’re still in the city, as this area provides a (very cool) taste of suburbia. After fantasizing over these historic free-standing homes, be sure to make your way over to the main drag, Cortelyou Road, where you’ll be greeted by an abundance of eccentric pubs, bars, restaurants, and cafes.
With over 100 vendors whipping up deliciously diverse cuisine, your taste buds will forever thank you for partaking in the fun at Smorgasburg. Serving as the largest weekly open-air food market in all of America, a visit here is a must when exploring New York City. Whether you’re looking to eat by the waterfront on Saturdays in Williamsburg or chow down in the beautiful Prospect Park on Sundays, one thing is for certain: you’ll have an amazing gastronomical experience!
This is one of my favorite places in the city, thanks to the carnival-like environment, communal picnic tables and aforementioned ping pong tables. If you’re not a beer drinker, fear not — the bartenders dressed in lederhosen t-shirts pour a menu of specialty cocktails ensuring there’s something for everyone. The Standard Biergarten is always teeming with people, and with its lively atmosphere, it’s a great place to start (or end) a night, and for a moment, you might even forget you’re hanging out in Manhattan.
If you’re on the prowl for more than a beer and a brat this Williamsburg Biergarten offers live music every single day. You can also enjoy daily specials with beer pairings, or stick with classic German offerings like bratwurst and schnitzel. There’s a rotating list of beers on draft, mostly German, Czech, Dutch and Belgian to really round out the Bavarian experience. Prost!
Secrets are hard to keep in NYC, and Raines Law Room is a secret bar you’re going to want to tell all your friends about. Ring the bell for entry into the ultra-luxe lounge and don't forget to don your classiest garb.
The name says it all at this secret NYC bar. Please Don’t Tell may be trying to keep themselves on the down low, but this hotspot is anything but unknown.
Pietro NoLita’s interior is covered in floor-to-ceiling pink. It’s like a Barbie dream house for grown-ups, but with cocktails. Its tasty Italian cuisine makes it as much fun for your tastebuds as it is for your Insta feed.
The majority of New York’s flower district spans just one (long) block, but it doesn’t disappoint. Passing through is like walking through an urban jungle as leafy greens and flowers line each side of the street. The fragrance is to die for. Be sure to get there early in the morning for your best pick of florals if you have some specific blooms in mind.
Minetta Street is easily one of the most beautiful blocks of Greenwich Village — and for a neighborhood known for its brownstones, that’s saying something. The bended street is home to gorgeous 19th-century building facades, lots of greenery, and some much-needed peace and quiet.
The intersection of Washington Street and Water Street is easily one of most photogenic spots in New York City. DUMBO, a neighborhood known for its cobblestone streets and chic lofts, got its nickname for being “Down Under The Manhattan Bridge.” Travelers who stop in the middle of the intersection (watch for cars first!) and gaze up will see the Manhattan Bridge perfectly frame the Empire State Building beneath its arches. Nearby Front Street Pizza is a perfect place to refuel after a photo shoot.
The Standard boasts room views of the Hudson River, a seriously chic rooftop bar, and some seriously out there design choices. It towers over the High Line, a park built on an abandoned elevated railway, and is a popular hangout for vacationing it-girls. The view from the roof alone is worth the visit.
This casual outdoor eatery is a spinoff of Manhattan’s Cafe Habana, and it serves up tasty Mexican-Cuban cuisine. (The Mexican-style corn just might become your favorite thing you’ve ever eaten.) Located in brownstone-lined Fort Greene, Brooklyn, the colorful seating area feels like a tropical urban oasis.
This trendy SoHo haunt is home to an array of colorful desserts, lattes, and blended drinks that are just begging to be photographed. Better yet? Your latte art just might come in the shape of a teddy bear face. The airy space is chock full of neon, potted plants, and natural light — in short, all we could ever ask for.
For photographers looking to venture a bit farther out, this Brooklyn mural series is a great destination. Bushwick is a bit grittier than its more well-known neighbor, Williamsburg, but it offers up some of the most vibrant street art in the city. The surrounding neighborhood is known as something of a hipster haven, so it also provides the perfect opportunity to do a little people-watching.
Dumplings!
What: A sprawling tiki bar from Major Food Group and the man behind Tiki Mondays. Why it’s important: Since the closing of Lani Kai and PKNY more than five years ago, there’s been a dearth of tiki bars in New York. Now, the team behind some of the city’s hardest-hitting restaurants (Carbone, The Grill, Dirty French, ZZ’s Clam Bar) are partnering with Brian Miller, the host of Tiki Mondays, for a Polynesian-inspired bar whose explicit aim is to be the best tiki bar in the world.
What: A forthcoming bar from two of the industry’s most creative drink-makers. Why it’s important: Mad geniuses of the cocktail world, Lee and Arnold will team up for a highly anticipated opening meant to showcase a scientific approach to classics.
What: A French restaurant from Keith McNally alums, Lee Hanson and Riad Nasr, with a drinks program run by two innovators from the cocktail and wine worlds. Why it’s important: One of the most anticipated restaurant openings this season, Frenchette is clearly aiming to have a complete, ambitious beverage program to match Hanson and Nasr’s food. Natural wine, aperitifs and upgraded classic cocktails will take center stage.
What: An art-world fever dream of a speakeasy beneath an izakaya, serving avant-garde cocktails with a sense of humor. Why it’s important: Elizabeth aims to mix her brand of modernist drink-making with Japanese ingredients for what promises to be a thoroughly unique addition to the growing crop of Japanese-style cocktail bars.
What: The latest outpost of the Miami original located on the roof of the newly opened Freehand Hotel. Why it’s important: Few bars have been able to establish such a uniform identity across so many locations, but following openings in LA and Chicago, Broken Shaker New York will bring its beloved brand of beach vibes to Manhattan.
If you find yourself in Greenwich Village, please seek out this charming restaurant. Chef Ari Bokovza is of Tunisian descent, making for a mouthwatering menu of flavors from Provence, the Mediterranean, and North Africa. To accompany your meal, choose from a selection of wines from southern France. Do be sure to ask how the restaurant got its name. Also, there’s rosé on tap (enough said).
Your go-to for a hit of Parisian pleasure that is easy on the eyes. This French boutique, which has had enormous success in Paris, was the first French fashion brand to sell all of its collections 100% online. Once you’ve admired the designs, go wild at the lip bar, reserve a spot in one of the monthly flower workshops, or play around in the French photo booth.
This bookstore is a well-kept secret just a stone’s throw away from the Met Museum. Nestled away in the historic Payne Whitney mansion, it is the only New York bookstore that stocks French books and their English translations (14,000 titles and counting). My advice is to look up — Albertine’s ceiling is a hand-painted mural of constellations, stars, and planets that is not to be missed!
This recently opened spot — the latest offering from the team behind French bistro Le Coucou — is located in the oh-so-trendy Soho neighbourhood. It looks beautiful and contains both a café and restaurant, with French chef Marie-Aude Rose focusing on the satisfaction of classic French cooking. Grab your fresh pastries and coffee to go from the café or drop by for an after-work cocktail and catch up with friends. Make a reservation for the restaurant if you’re feeling fancy!
Racines is the French word for “roots,” which is spot-on for this neo-bistro that has two locations in Paris. The New York team offers impeccable French traditions (evident from one glance at the wine list and food menu) in a thoroughly modern setting (inconspicuous location, attentive service, exposed brick walls inside). French chef Frédéric Duca previously worked at the Michelin starred L’Instant d’Or in Paris, so when it comes to food choices, there is no wrong choice.
This delightful bakery — with several locations throughout the city — is the love child between France and America. French native Benjamin Sormonte opened the first space in 2014 with his partner, Elisha Marshall. The winning combination of cute bunny-printed (take-out) cups, the smell of pastries fresh out of the oven, and rustic interiors make you feel like you’re popping home for a catch-up with mom. A recent addition to the Soho space is Marché Maman, where you can scoop up some of Marshall and Sormonte’s favorite French items that evoke the spirit of the cafe, including textiles by Jamini, children’s clothes by Merci Bisous, gorgeous skincare from Bastide, and of course the same Maman cups from the café.
Chicago-born chef Daniel Rose is quite the Francophile: he trained at the prestigious Institut Bocuse in Lyon before opening three restaurants in Paris. Le Coucou is his first stateside venture and it’s a beautiful space — original features of the building have been kept, and it strikes the perfect balance of cool and classic, as well as welcoming. The menu is obviously French-inspired, so go as wild as your tastebuds will allow and wash everything down with French wine. Santé!
Upscale Mexican. The menu is thoughtful but not pretentious or intimidating. It is an especially great place for a special occasion.
RUBIROSA RISTORANTE Rubirosa is a crowd pleaser. It has good pizza and an all around easy menu where everyone will find something. It is fun, young, delicious and welcoming to all. Their gluten-free pizza is nice. It is always crowded - be prepared.
BROOKLYN BAGEL & COFFEE CO.286 8th Ave (btwn W 24th & W 25th St)
SARABETH'S40 Central Park S (btwn 5th & 6th Ave)
Where: 2 locations – TriBeca 251 Church Street & NoLita 164 Mott Street Best For: Brunch Why I Love It The Aussies know their stuff and by stuff I mean coffee & avocado toast. But it doesn’t stop at the food at Two Hands. They’re some of the nicest people you’ll ever meet and you’ll feel like a better person just by being there. Even though they have two locations in NoLita & TriBeca, it’s always busy, so get there early. What to Order You can’t go wrong with the avocado toast because, well, it’s avocado toast. But try to branch out, expand your horizons and get the Brassicas Bowl. Not only does all food taste better in bowls, the roasted veggies mixed with the insane flavors of their house made hummus will have you dreaming about it for days to come. If you’re craving something a bit heartier, go for the prosciutto sandwich on delish baguette. To drink? Try their freshly squeezed OJ and an almond milk cappuccino – extra foam, please!
Where: SoHo, 137 Sullivan Street Best For: Casual Lunch Why I Love It This small cafe has all of the Cali vibes you could ask for in the heart of SoHo. The food is fresh and the scene is cool with their communal, first come, first served seating. You’ll find yourself overhearing what you only see on @overheardnewyork and wondering where you can get a pair of super casual yet chic sweatpants and slides. What to Order The menu is relatively small, and you’d think this would make decision making easier – it doesn’t. Every description sounds delectable and as you browse the food as it comes out of the kitchen, it looks equally as good. The Over The Rainbow bowl is the best though. With lentil falafel, brown rice, cauliflower, kale, cucumber, radishes, pickled carrots, and jalapeno tahini you’re going to get all the feels with every nutritious bite. You might want to add halloumi – actually, you do want to add halloumi. To finish, you’ll regret it if you don’t try the celery Kombucha and a piece of pie from their rotating options.
Source: Jelena Marija Where: 2 Locations – Chelsea 401 W 25th St. Gramercy 362 2nd Ave Best For: Brunch Why I Love It Yes, I know…another Aussie cafe. But when they’re taking over the city, it’s hard to avoid. I love the casual energy at Citizens. I’ve only been to their Chelsea location but I think it’s safe to assume the Gramercy locale will be equally as good. The best part? You can head to Citizens a little sweaty in yoga pants for solo dining or for a fun group brunch and you’ll have fun either way. What to Order They have Kombucha on tap so let’s start there and add a cappuccino with milk of choice. Then move on to the salmon eggs. This plate of epicurean delight is big, so you could even share with your friend. The sourdough is thick, the eggs are soft, the salmon is like butter, and it comes with beetroot labneh and pickled onions. That’s at least 5 of my favorite things on one plate.
Where: West Village 10 Downing St. Best For: Dinner Why I Love It It’s hard to find a full-service restaurant for dinner that’s actually healthy, but Cafe Clover fits that bill. They’re kind of the OG. If you’re not a healthy foodie, you might be surprised by some of the items on this menu, but give it a shot – the flavors are unique and tasty. Plus, it’s in the heart of the West Village. And, let’s be honest, that’s where I’d prefer to spend most of my time. What to Order What not to order!? The mains are pretty straight forward and you should go with your gut there, but make sure you get the cauliflower steak. There’s no red meat involved and it’s insanely good. If you’re getting a starter, order the loaded sweet potato & you’d be remiss not to get the chickpea flour hush puppies as a side. If you’re boozing it up with your girlfriends try the Garden Cocktail which has organic cucumber vodka, green juice, elderflower, honey, and lemon or the Two Hungry blondes with tequila, grapefruit, sage, and lime la croix. Fruit & veggies, healthy, right!?
Where: Flatiron 38 E 19th Best For: Brunch or Dinner Why I Love It The ABC family of restaurants by Jean George are some of my favorites in the city and home to my favorite margarita, pancakes, and vibes. Although they’re all health conscious and ‘farm-to-table’ ish, abcV is the most surprising family member – a flavorful, beautiful, plant-based sister. If you’re not a vegetarian, abcV will make you want to be one. If you could only make magical sauces one might think were only available to the gods at home. Above all though, as a lover of eating well that also serves the planet, their mission is ‘offering high vibrational foods, embracing balance with beauty, wellness, wisdom & love to nurture our personal and planetary ecosystems.’ That simple mission along with decor that makes me feel like I’ve tapped into a deeper sense of being will make me a loyal customer for life. What to Order The dosa. THE DOSA…with avocado and sprouts will change your life. It’s amazing and it happens to be gluten free. While I haven’t been for brunch, I can tell you that when you go to abcV you must go with a friend & order all the things. After starting with the Dosa, give the wild blueberry bowl, coconut yogurt, and basmati rice a try. Dinner is really the shining star with the whole or half roasted cauliflower being the feature. You’ll wonder how the heck they get the outside so browned and crispy. Don’t ask questions. Just eat. Then order the market carrots, potatoes, and green chickpea hummus. If you’re still hungry, okay even if you’re not, get the chocolate mousse for good measure.
Where: NoHo 26 Bond St. Best For: Dinner & Grab-and-Go Breakfast/Lunch Why I Love It The Smile makes me smile. Their main location on Bond Street is a down a small flight of stairs and is divinely cozy. It makes you feel like you’ve stumbled across a quaint, simple restaurant in the middle of the woods where you’re ready to curl up in front of a roaring fire with a bottle of red. You haven’t. You’re still in NYC, and while the menu is simple the flavors are not. The Smile boasts a mediterranean menu filled with healthful options. If you’re looking for a quick meal and coffee to go, check out their 3 to-go locations in NYC and Brooklyn – their market plates & treats are awesome. I travel miles for the banana quinoa muffin. What to Order Like many menus, I prefer the creativity of the starters over the mains. Give the baked halloumi, mezze plate, and meatballs a try. If your tastebuds and tummy are still hungry, move on to the little gem salad and then the flank steak with…wait for it…whipped avocado.
Where: 3 Locations Nolita 19 Kenmare West Village 581 Hudson Williamsburg 271 Metropolitan Best For: Breakfast, Lunch, Brunch, Dinner AKA anytime. Why I Love It- Aside from the fact that their name is a play on words (they don’t serve meat) this vegetarian institution is one of the best places to get a vegan meal that really, truly tastes insanely good. The light atmosphere, filled with greenery makes you feel like you’re at a fancy, very healthy, garden party. What to Order- I’m obsessed with the anti-inflammatory honey bee, which has honey, turmeric, and lavender in it, but any and all of their juices are great. They’re famous for their spicy kale salad and you won’t be sorry if you stick with the tried and true here – it’s awesome. If you’re there for dinner, start with the loaded potato skins, the vegan cheese actually tastes good. For the mains, the angel hair carbonara is hearty & comforting. You won’t even miss the real gluten pasta. And the plantain party bowl is just that…a party in a bowl. More of a morning dining person? They’ve got breakfast too! I know it’s basic, but what’s not to love about an almond butter & jelly toast? Nothing.
Where: Chelsea 156 10th Ave Best For: Proper Brunch & Dinner Why I Love It- Cookshop is the first NYC brunch I had. It was before I moved to the city, and I remember feeling ‘omg this is so NY.’ The energy at Cookshop is vibey yet unpretentious and I’ve never had a bad meal there. The American menu features sustainable ingredients, humanely raised animals, and focuses on sourcing locally. Their menu changes regularly so you know you’re eating close to home and discover some veggies you’ve never even heard of before. What to Order- If you’re heading in for brunch, plan for it to be your only real meal of the day because you’re going to want to dig in. I always like to have a little something sweet for the table, and here I’d go with the almond pancakes. When you’re ready to head savory order the cheddar spinach scramble or the grains & greens if you’re not an egg person. The bloody mary is pretty epic as well. Heading there for dinner? The scallop ceviche is the perfect light start to your meal. Go big or go home for the main and get the steak. If you’re not a red meat eater or looking to share, their seasonal pizzas are perfect.
Where: Flatiron, The Freehand Hotel, 23rd & Lexington Best For: Lunch or Late Afternoon Hang Why I Love It- When you enter the Freehand Hotel, you’ll quickly realize you never want to leave. As you head up the staircase surrounded by gallery style artwork, you feel a bit fancy and when you turn left and walk into the studio, you’ll have entered hygge heaven. You might even for a minute mistake yourself for a very cool European. The vibes are chill but be prepared to be patient with the service. What to Order- While this spot might be a bit more ‘healthy-ish’, there are plenty of options. Try the market grains bowl with roasted chicken or the dorade. Both are enough to keep you satisfied but clean enough so you won’t walk out feeling heavy. You might even have room for a glass of wine or a paloma. The shaved cauliflower is a perfect share plate & the labneh is delectable. If you’re feeling wild get the lamb burger – go no bun if you need to healthify.
Where: 6 Locations – NoLita, Chelsea, Hell’s Kitchen, DUMBO, Urban Space Vanderbilt, Brookfield Place Best For: Lunch or Dinner Why I Love It- I love seafood, but finding a spot that’s sustainable, affordable, and delicious is damn near impossible. That is until Seamore’s entered the scene in June 2015. Seamore’s has all the good, chill vibes and is incredibly approachable. The music is usually pumpin’ out some good tunes, the crowd is friendly, and it won’t break the bank. What to Order- The kale salad, shrimp tacos, and sweet potato fries make me want to dance, but you can’t go wrong if you build your own bowl with the selection of fish the Daily Catch board. If you build your own bowl opt for the miso brown butter. You’ll thank me later. If you’re not in the mood for seafood, there’s a cheeseburger on the menu and who doesn’t love a good burger? If you’re having a little drinky drink order a signature cocktail. The beer & wine list is good, but their homemade cocktails feel extra special.
Take a trolley tour on Sundays and Wednesdays to learn the cemetery’s history, including where George Washington fought the Battle of Brooklyn.
Everything is perfect at Mama’s Too!. The crunch of the crust, the just-right tomato sauce, the smart Upper West Side crowd, with Frank, the owner, at the helm. Our heavy usage may need some calibrating soon.
Some of the best Italian meats, cheeses, panini, and definitely lasagna in NYC is here. We take-out or eat-in, often.
I would call this one of the best meals in Manhattan from beginning to end. The outstanding food and elegant service makes for an A+ experience every time.
Every meal here is made from the freshest ingredients and prepared in the most unique and thoughtful way. Chef Greg Baxtrom is one of nicest people in the business. Olmsted is full of smart, interesting, young people. Their outdoor space has to be seen to be believed.
Missy Robbins cuts right to the chase with perfect pastas you fantasize about the most. There is no meat course and gelato only for dessert, so you leave wanting to go back as soon as possible.
Great middle eastern food: Hummus. Pita. Falafel. Salads. Kebabs. And a backyard space in the warmer months.
An Italian spot with an upscale European vibe. Here, it is more about the people watching. With a few locations around the city, I often end up at one of them with my ladies.
The pastas are phenomenal, the bread and butter divine, and the duck is ridiculously good. I always eat here, but especially convenient after concerts at MSG. The bars and private rooms make this a great place for a party.
Charlie Bird is one of my favorites. They have the best pastas, great service and excellent music. The crowd is very fun, too.
I Sodi is a neighborhood spot that feels cozy and familiar. The lasagne is a must. As is everything else.
Perfectly good neighborhood sushi, with a few locations in the city.
Inventive sushi but also covers the basics beautifully.
This is a must if you have any Jewish or middle eastern blood, or happen to like food from that region. Their whole roasted cauliflower is famous the world over. Their original locations in Paris and Tel Aviv are beloved, if you happen to be visiting those cities.
At first glance, this quirky spot in New York City just seems like a playful laundromat with a few pinball games. Head to a set of machines that line the back of the room, though, and take a closer look. There aren't any clothes being whirled in the machines, though: This is the entrance to the bar, which offers beer, wine, and food like pizza from Roberta's.
The Garrett has two locations, one of which is hidden inside of a Five Guys on Bleecker Street, in New York City. To find the bar, head past the ordering station and look for staircase. Once inside the bar, choose from cocktails like the First Lady, a mix of gin, combier, match green tea, lemon, egg whites, and fresh basil. You can also grab Five Guys burgers you won’t find anywhere else, like one smothered in Sriracha, mustard seeds, and a five-spice blend for extra heat.
For aperol spritzes
In Long Island City, you can snap panoramic photos of the skyline with the Empire State Building, an Art Deco jewel, as well as see the iconic Pepsi-Cola sign (which was landmarked a few years ago). And while you’re there, enjoy the 12-acre riverside escape with playgrounds, picnic tables and restored gantries, once used to load and unload rail car floats and barges.
Based in NoHo, which features a diverse array of plays fit for every taste (it’s where Hamilton got its start). The Public Theater is also the group that puts on Shakespeare in the Park, a free summer series at the open-air Delacorte Theater in Central Park that draws big celebrity names each year. Tickets for each day’s performance are available at a few different locations, including in front of the theater in the park and through a digital lottery on the TodayTix app.
In Downtown Brooklyn where 40 vendors will ensure there is something for everyone. The pastrami sandwiches at A Taste of Katz’s offer the best of Jewish deli without the lines the original location tends to get, while the Mushroom Banh Mi from Bunker is a tangy and savory flavor bomb. For dessert, grab the Nutella-stuffed churros from Dulcinea, a crunchy and sweet explosion of chocolate.
Hell’s Kitchen and try the classic Tokyo Shio ramen or pastrami steamed buns with spiced creamy mustard and daikon slaw at Ivan Ramen Slurp Shop. Then head downtown to Chelsea Market where dozens of vendors and shops sell inventive food. Try the Ratatouille pita with roasted eggplant, tahini, and hard boiled egg (my favorite) from Israeli chain Miznon or the crispy mini doughnuts from Doughnuttery, where you can customize your dessert with flavored sugar (like Lemon Pop with lemon, vanilla and poppy seeds, and Spicy Rooster with Sriracha, maple and lime).
Williamsburg, Brooklyn At this tiny 12-seat spot, there is only one order: chef Yuji Haraguchi’s simple but spectacular Japanese breakfast set. That spread of miso-and-sake-kasu-slicked fish (like Spanish mackerel or tuna belly), jiggly tamago (omelet), pickles, miso soup, and rice is served on beautiful porcelain worthy of the morning light streaming through the windows. ✵ Order: the breakfast set; and yes, you want to add the roe and soft-cooked egg to the rice.
Soho, Manhattan The secret to getting a reservation at the restaurant everyone else is trying to get into? Go for breakfast. The menu at Le Coucou is just as fine-tuned and playfully French in the morning as it is at dinner, plus you can’t beat the day’s first hours of sun in one of the city’s most beautiful rooms. ✵ Order: omelet, comme un clafoutis (a giant pancake), pomme Darphin (a shreddy potato cake), and a chocolate croissant.
West Village, Manhattan This place is so cramped even the sidewalk outside the front door is crowded. But inside the perfectly worn room, no one cares, because the scrambled eggs coming out of Jody Williams’ kitchen are truly the softest, fluffiest, most buttery eggs in New York. Show up early (read: 7 a.m.—especially on weekends) and grab a seat at the white marble bar, right next to the towers of juice and scones, for a full view of said eggs being cooked using the steam wand on the espresso machine. ✵ Order: saumon fumé (steamed eggs with smoked salmon) and an espresso.
Cobble Hill, Brooklyn Popina is as neighborhood-y as it gets. The modest dining room opens onto a spacious backyard, which fills up on weekend afternoons with regulars and newcomers soaking up the sun and devouring glorious pork roll breakfast sandwiches. Locals know it’s never too early to start exploring one of the city’s most underrated wine lists. ✵ Order: pork roll, hot half chicken, and a bottle of wine.
Noho, Manhattan The best kind of brunch menu is one that reads like a lunch menu. And that's exactly why Enrique Olvera and Daniela Soto-Innes’ Mexican spot Atla is the only answer to the dreaded “Where should we do brunch?” text. The narrow, light-filled room is miraculously devoid of loud groups looking to get their bottomless mimosa fix—a rare find in the syrup-drenched, two-hour-wait brunch landscape of lower Manhattan. ✵ Order: flaxseed chilaquiles, chicken enchiladas (get green and red, a.k.a. divorciadas), arctic char and farmer’s cheese tostada, and the fish Milanese.
Soho, Manhattan Everyone has been to Balthazar. And everyone still goes to Balthazar. Locals. Tourists. Chefs. Downtown cool kids. Uptown grandparents. After 20-plus years, the classic French brasserie remains a New York institution thanks to its consistency and efficiency. Spend just as much time looking around the timeless room as you do admiring the precision of your omelet’s roll. ✵ Order: omelet with herbs, smoked salmon tartine, and a plate of breakfast oysters.
Lower East Side, Manhattan If you’re the type of person who is comfortable standing on the sidewalk, face down in a brown paper bag of steaming, saucy tamales the morning after an ambitious evening out on the town, you’ve come to the right place. If you’d prefer to be sitting—out of sight from passersby—Factory Tamal has some seats inside too. Either way, this should be your first move, after the Advil of course. ✵ Order: mole poblano tamal, salsa verde tamal, chipotle tamal, and the (off menu) Ludlow breakfast sandwich.
Upper East Side, Manhattan The red neon “coffee shop” sign, hanging on the corner of 70th and Lexington, is a beautiful lie. There’s no fancy espresso machine in sight here—just a diner with a massive menu of breakfast classics. The same exact waitstaff has been here for decades, serving neighborhood locals, kids fresh off Central Park’s Little League fields, construction workers, and confused French tourists. If New York were a restaurant, it would be Neil’s. ✵ Order: You can’t go wrong. Just don’t miss Neil’s exceptional breakfast sausage.
Harlem, Manhattan More than 50 years after it opened, this Harlem institution is hallowed ground. Sure, there are gospel singers and crowds that make getting a table for (post-church) Sunday brunch a challenge, but the most intensely religious experience is the soul food itself. Good things come to those who wait. ✵ Order: chicken and waffles and Sylvia’s World Famous Talked About Bar-B-Que Ribs.
Red Hook, Brooklyn The brisket is just as good as what you’d find in Texas’s top barbecue joints, the beef rib is truly a spectacle to behold, and the sides are legitimately great. Lines are long, and there’s a reason for that. Listen to the live music on weekend nights and wait it out. ✵ Order: beef ribs, brisket, lamb belly, queso mac & cheese, potato salad, and cornbread.
Bushwick, Brooklyn Up front, Mexican sodas, snacks, and beers can be grabbed from ramshackle shelves. In the back, a small griddle where meats are sizzled and seared before they’re slapped onto soft flour tortillas and topped with thinly sliced vegetables. Don’t forget to ask for red and green salsas with everything you order. ✵ Order: cecina (salty beef jerky) tacos and crispy carnitas tacos with plenty of limes.
Alphabet City, Manhattan As any Philly or Chicago transplant can attest, BYOB joints are a rare commodity in NYC. Which is all the more reason why we’re grateful for Casa Adela. When you sit down on a not-so-comfortable chair and look around at the families passing rotisserie chickens, tostones, and mofongo over glass-covered vinyl tablecloths, you’ll understand the appeal: This is the place to go for real, honest, comforting Puerto Rican cooking. Discovery Wines and Alphabet City Wine Co. are both conveniently within walking distance, so don’t forget to snag a bottle or two on your way. ✵ Order: half rotisserie chicken, carne guisada, chicharron de pollo, and pernil asado.
Chelsea, Manhattan If you’re in Chelsea Market and not having a crowd/stroller/lost tourists–induced panic attack, chances are you just ate at Los Tacos No. 1, where the tacos taste as good as the braised and roast meats smell. Plus, it comes on some of the best flour tortillas in the city, which can also be found at its sister restaurant Los Mariscos, just down the hall. ✵ Order: adobada tacos, pollo asado quesadilla, nopal plate, and chips with guacamole.
Jason Scott, a Sydney native, has brought his speakeasy aesthetic to this brazenly retro-cool cellar bar in Nolita. Just down the narrow stairs in the back of sister restaurant Gran Tivoli you’ll find a long, wooden bar, exposed brick, carved out booths and a small stage advertising a piano, where live music is allowed one night a week (the bar doesn’t have its cabaret license). The GT Spritz was created to match the classic American Italian style of the food upstairs, using the bitter notes of white vermouth and falernum to mingle with the sweet of the Italian prosecco. The namesake Amaro-Palooza is a cavalcade of sweet, sour and bitter, combining, among other things, Campari, triple sec, egg white and orange juice over clinking ice cubes. A limited bar menu is also available for some light bites.
New York City is home to tons of amazing food halls, but Great Northern Food Hall, tucked inside bustling Grand Central Terminal, stands out for its focus on New Nordic cuisine. Masterminded by Danish restaurateur and magnate Claus Meyer, Great Northern is all about simple, farm-to-table cuisine by way of Scandinavia. Think hearty, open-faced beef tartare sandwiches on dark, rye-based smorrebrod bread, and braided kanelsnurr pastries studded with cinnamon, sugar and cardamon.
Although many people know St. Patrick’s, which is stunning and worth visiting, many don’t know that that there are catacombs underneath! There are very catacombs in the United States and this is the only one in all of New York. The catacombs have been closed for many years, but luckily they’ve now been opened to the public. You can take a candlelight tour of the catacombs to learn more about the history of this epic Basilica!
New York is full of beautiful and numerous bookstores. Whenever I’m in the area, I always stop by the Strand for a book, which is easily one of New York’s best bookstores. For shopping, New York is unparalleled and I consider thrifting in New York to be a true art as you have no idea what you’ll find.
Which was one of the filming locations of Mrs. Maisel. It’s simply a beautiful bar with wooden booths and a cozy atmosphere where the locals chat with those coming in.
Each weekend, you can browse the LIC Flea Market. This lively market in Long Island City is one of the upcoming cool neighborhoods in Queens where you’ll find lots of cute shops and cafes. Notably, you can browse for locally made products, snack, and head to the beer garden along the water (the East River) in good weather.
Not too far from Long Island City, you’ll find the Noguchi Museum. This museum dedicated to zen was once the studio of Isamu Noguchi, a world-renown Japanse-born sculptor who lived in New York. This large museum showcases his beautiful minimalistic models, drawings, and sculptures. I dare say that it’s the most relaxing place to visit in New York.