Amy's Bread

If you’re after cocktails, moody lighting, and DJs slinging jazz and Aretha Franklin on vinyl, you’ll find all of the above at Another Country.

They use incredibly fresh fish in particularly inventive ways here, which has earned them a well-deserved Michelin star. We like to dine at the bar and give in to affable chef Masato Shimizu's omakase, which is full of some pretty unusual and surprising flavor combinations—not always the easiest thing to achieve when it comes to sushi.

Helmed by chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten, this airy, all-white space is a temple to inventive, seasonal, and local cooking, sourced from nearby farms and cooperatives. It doesn't come as much of a shock that the fare is GMO-free and also made without pesticides, synthetic fertilizers, insecticides, antibiotics, or hormones. It's not surprising because you can taste the well-sourced provenance on the plate, whether in the form of house-made ricotta ravioli or fried organic chicken in a hot sauce butter.

Helmed by Chef Andy Nusser, expect nothing less than delicious tapas—excellent meats, manchego cheese, boquerones—all served up as authentically as if you were in Madrid. If you come just for drinks, you won't be disappointed by the list, and you can pretty much make a meal out of a few of their authentic offerings. (If you're still hungry, head next door to Casa Mono.)

Andy Nusser's tiny tapas spot opened years ago, but the vibe and food is still just as great—particularly on those days when you're really missing Spain. The menu leans pretty heavily on proteins, but the more veggie-driven dishes hold their own, too. Meanwhile, Mono's sister property next door, Bar Jamón, is great for a post-dinner nightcap. Both spaces can accommodate full buyouts for private parties.

So NYC has never really gotten snaps for its Mexican food, but Cosme is said to break the trend. It's probably because it's from chef Enrique Olvera, of Mexico City Pujol fame—trust us when we say he’s legit. The private room is just as sleek and modern as the rest of the restaurant, and while it'll cost you, a prix-fixe private meal here is an incredibly special experience.

A meal here is a total, resolutely vegetarian, treat. This Michelin-starred, Art Deco-esque restaurant is also an investment, both in time and money. But it’s absolutely worth it, as the kitchen, under the direction of chef Daniel Humm, sends forth molecular gastronomy-inflected dishes that are pristine and precise. On the tasting menu, you’ll choose the main ingredient—the rest is up to the kitchen, meaning that each dish is a wonderful surprise.

Gallow Green is actually the rooftop of the McKittrick Hotel. When you first walk in, you might expect a woodland nymph to pop out from behind one of the lush arches. The cozy garden vibe here is neither pretentious nor touristy, and the views of the city are some of the best. Their unusual cocktails keep with the theme, with names like Summer Coven and The Garden Shed.

For over 30 years, this venerable Danny Meyer restaurant has been continually packed, thanks to the delicious, seasonal, and local American cuisine, a movement that’s currently stewarded by chef Michael Anthony, of Blue Hill fame. The woodsy dining room, complete with Robert Kushner’s vegetable mural, is so comforting. Their private room is a great classic spot for a private event.

Tex-Mex isn’t a type of cuisine you’d normally associate with New York City, but after a meal at this cheerful spot in Gramercy (a few blocks north of Union Square), you might rethink that idea. Grab some friends and order the traditional queso and a round of prickly pear margaritas before diving into your entree. The mole is reliably tasty, as are the grilled shrimp tacos. The central location makes it a great group dinner spot, but there’s also a second location on the Upper East Side.

This hangout for Australians (for real) offers an insanely delicious burger, along with meal-worthy salads, making it a great pit-stop for a quick bite. Due to its popularity, the original location in Nolita has doubled in size (expanding into next door’s space) since opening in 2003. This is their second location.

If you've visited Maman cafés, you're familiar with founders Benjamin Sormonte and Elisa Marshall's talent for creating utterly chic, French-inspired spaces you want to live in. Their Maman Nomad outpost checks all these boxes. The first uptown presence for the duo, the gorgeous café and restaurant serve up decadent lunch and brunch options, including healthy homemade soups and quiches, plus their famous nutty chocolate chip cookies. Go for a relaxed brunch or afternoon coffee–or, in a pinch, grab something to go.

Come to Upland (named for the chef's hometown) for a taste of California in the heart of NYC. Designed by Roman & Williams, the space is understandably warm and inviting—the light-filled dining room’s checkered tablecloths and wooden accents compliment the menu’s rustic, ingredient-driven offerings: sausage-and-kale pizza, cioppino, and a limoncello olive oil cake.

Located in the old Nabisco building just north of the Meatpacking District, you’ll find a warren-like maze of restaurants and specialty shops. There are many hits, but we like Los Tacos No.1 for authentic Mexican and, if cooking a special meal at home is an option, we’d pick up our bread at Amy’s, fresh groceries at the Manhattan Fruit Market, and crustaceans at Lobster Place (they also do great pre-made rolls). You'll also find Bowery Kitchen Supply and Posman Books, where the offerings are more suitcase-appropriate.

Essentially Costco-sized, this Italian gourmet grocery store stocks aisle after aisle of the best artisanal ingredients, including truly fantastic fresh pasta. Throughout the space (which also includes cookware), you’ll find plenty of places to sit down and eat. While there are several restaurants upstairs, we find the best way to experience Eataly it is to grab a seat at one of the many bar-size specialty eateries scattered across the main shop floor.

Beyond being one of the better grocery stores around, Fairway is the perfect New York cross section: You'll see young families, ladies in fur coats, and students looking for good food at good prices here.

Just Salad was an early adopter of the fast casual dining option, and they now have locations in practically every New York neighborhood. While they have some great existing menu options (including a few rotating seasonal choices), the main move here is to create your own salad and have it chopped. The ingredients are always really fresh, as they source many from within 350 miles of the restaurant at New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Vermont farms, prioritizing organic and non-GMO foods.

As serious home cooks attest, Kalustyan’s may just be the best international food stockist in the world. Operating out of the same Lexington Avenue location since 1944, they stock every spice, grain, cracker, and chutney in the world from India to Italy, along with just the right implements, whether it be a tortilla press or a tagine. The sheer size of the honey aisle alone is enough to drop jaws. It’s a foodie mecca, not just for the seemingly infinite varieties of foods and international kitchen tools, but for the outstanding sandwiches and Mediterranean food served at their cafe upstairs.

There’s no lack of gelato shops in NYC, though this one is probably the best of the bunch. Handmade the Italian way, using strictly natural, seasonal ingredients, the gelato here is just sweet and creamy enough that it doesn’t feel overly heavy.

Methodology, a food delivery plan that ships nationwide, is made for busy professionals (or generally fast-paced New Yorkers) looking for nourishing meals at minimal effort. Their plans range from vegan to keto, and they taste amazing. The menu, which changes weekly, is full of cleaned-up comfort foods like Spanish chickpea paella and vegan eggplant caponata made with basil pesto, broccolini, and pistachio parmesan. Their desserts are amazing, too: think matcha chocolate collagen balls and paleo dark chocolate brownies with avocado frosting. You can mix and match your proteins and sides, and arrange for portions to be big enough for two servings. Meals arrive in glass jars, which travel well, and they'll pick up for easy reuse. Delivery is available nationwide (except Alaska and Hawaii).

Danny Meyer does a lot right at his burger chain, evidenced be the long lines at all the outposts. While we’ll always prefer the original kiosk in Madison Square Park, there’s a convenient location across from the Natural History Museum on the Upper West Side, as well as one near all the Pier 25 action in Battery Park City. We’re big fans because the meat in Meyer’s burgers and dogs is completely antibiotic- and hormone-free, as is the dairy in the shakes and custards. It’s also reliably delicious.

We’re big fans of this sustainability-first spot, which has been growing rapidly. The focus is on local farmers, proper sourcing, and environmental respect, which is also reflected in the hands-down delicious food. Besides the build-your-own salad bar, the bowl-centric dishes range from Mexican-inspired salads to basic cobbs. Come lunchtime, the lines extend around the block.

If you're renovating, this is the place to go for absolutely any style of tile. Their library is vast and they carry a variety of materials including stone, wood, leather, and porcelain.

Vermont native Emily Thompson earned an MFA in sculpture from UCLA, a fact that’s evident in all of her floral centerpieces—yes, she uses flowers (which tend to be as wild and fecund as possible), but she builds them into boutiques that look like they might have sprung from a Renaissance painting. There are brambles, and sticks, and over-ripe pieces of fruit, all done up to pretty stunning effect.

This is where you should go to to outfit a classy man cave. It's also a good place to find one-of-a-kind antiques in general. You'll find big industrial pieces alongside Hermes travel bags, Louis Vuitton trunks, and designer furniture by people like Isamu Noguchi and Jean Prouvé. And, fittingly, come here if you’re looking to outfit a bar.

Family-owned for 20-odd years, Posman Books has managed to stay both independent and right in the mainstream: Instead of gravitating to quiet neighborhood corners, they found a space in one of the city’s most bustling centers—Chelsea Market. It’s wise, because they’re thriving, and offering a great array of books, toys, games, and cards in the process.

The jewel of Larry Gagosian's gallery empire is a gargantuan, museum-standard center in Chelsea: The space alone is worth a visit for its sheer monumentality. And fittingly, the stable of artists displayed there consists of the art world's heavyweights from Ed Ruscha, to Taryn Simon and Jeff Koons. There are multiple outposts in the city (including a location on 21st street) along with galleries around the world.

The High Line is a public park built on a former elevated freight rail line along Manhattan's west side, running from the Meatpacking District through Chelsea to Hudson Yards. It's a linear path with planted gardens, seating areas, and framed views of the city and the Hudson River. What makes it special is the design: The original rail tracks are woven into the landscaping, and the plantings shift with the seasons. Rather than escaping the city, you move through it from a different vantage point, catching glimpses of streets and buildings you'd never notice from the ground. We recommend it for a walk with a friend when you want to get your steps in, but be warned—it's almost always crowded.

Founded in 1985 by co-owners Lawrence R. Luhring and Roland J. Augustine, this Chelsea gallery focuses on representing an international group of contemporary painters, sculptors, photographers, and multimedia artists. The roster is a roll-call for some of the world's most celebrated artists from Larry Clark to Joel Sternfeld, Pipilotti Rist, Janine Antoni, and more. There's also a location in Tribeca.

With a stable of some of our favorite contemporary artists and photographers—Luigi Ghiri, Nan Goldin and Terry Winters—gallerist Matthew Marks has made a name for himself for his offbeat, yet totally on-point exhibitions. There are three outposts in Chelsea.

While the name might invoke childhood memories of fear and loathing for the subject, this super interactive museum might inspire an affection for math. It revolves around hands-on rides and activities that employ mathematical concepts to function—a tricycle with square wheels that rolls across a track, a chair that drifts across a pool of acorn shapes—meaning that a few hours spent here will be both fun and insightful.

Smack in the middle of Koreatown, this futuristic spa revolves around four grottoes, which light up an otherwise pitch black room. You'll find a jade, clay, and amethyst sauna, each infused with far infrared, along with a series of wet rooms for really, really, really good Korean scrubs. As a bonus, it's open from 10am to 2am.

Situated on a pier along the Hudson River, this gigantic sporting complex operates out of the "if you build it, they will come" mindset. And it’s true: Here, you’ll find year-round ice skating, a rock climbing wall, gymnastics, soccer, a driving range, and more, all situated under one sprawling roof.

Flatiron Pilates, founded by Amy Nelms, is one of the best classical Pilates experiences in NYC for its highly technical, deeply personalized approach. Nelms offers private sessions only, held in her minimalist, light-filled Flatiron studio and typically arranged via Instagram DM or via email at amy@flatironpilates.com. With over 25 years of experience, she reads the body quickly—identifying imbalances, posture issues, and movement patterns within minutes—and tailors each session to how your body moves. She brings a true teaching mindset to the work, explaining what's happening and why, often giving "homework" so it continues beyond the session. It's a place to refine rather than just sweat, focusing on corrective movements—but you still leave pleasantly sore, without ever feeling you pushed too hard.

This is one of the most trusted names in spray tanning in New York, and for good reason. Under the watchful eye of the owner, Tamar, you'll never step out with a weird, orange undertone or that terrible fake tan smell. The tiny salon is in a random building on Broadway, but no matter: You'll be in and out in under 15 minutes (and they're open until 10pm). They also do house-calls.

An appointment at this no-frills day spa (there are seven throughout the city) is wonderfully personalized: You choose the duration of your treatment and set your goals with your skin therapist. Every treatment comes with a deep cleanse, exfoliation, custom mask, and hydration, then ends with sunscreen protection. Upgrades include peels, microdermabrasion, and light therapy, and if you need monthly treatments, there is a membership program.

Othership Flatiron is one of the most high-energy, immersive contrast therapy experiences in NYC, with guided sauna and cold plunge sessions set to music and breathwork. Classes are less quiet and meditative than dynamic and engaging—designed to leave you feeling rejuvenated and energized. The shared momentum of moving through it with a group is hard to replicate on your own.

Remedy Place is a standout in NYC for recovery—a social wellness club that blends ancient practices with modern technology to support your overall wellbeing. At the flagship in Flatiron and second outpost in Soho,  interiors reflect this approach—warm tones, cozy chairs, and sofas create a space that's minimal yet purposeful, never stark or cold. The wellness offerings are extensive, spanning IV therapy, hyperbaric oxygen, breathwork, contrast therapy, and more.

SOUK Yoga Studio is a unique space that brings together movement, sound, and community. Classes are rooted in established yoga traditions like Jivamukti, Iyengar, and Ashtanga, alongside breathwork and sound meditation—and there’s a strong emphasis on how everything connects, from breath to movement to mental stillness. Each session is taught by experienced instructors, and suitable for all levels.

It’s not just the glossy nails you walk out with that makes us love this airy nail studio. There’s also the cute slippers they gift you, the red-light treatment that leaves your hands soft as silk...not to mention the service where the salon invites you to write yourself a letter as you wait for your nails to dry. (Write something nice—they mail it to you a few weeks later.) All five locations feel spalike in their serenity, and the Soho location’s lush balcony is perfect for luxuriating as you air-dry your nails.

At the tippy top of the famous Hotel Chelsea, above the fray of downtown Manhattan, sits this light-filled spa-oasis. Everything your eye touches is exquisite—from the rustic brick hearth in the sitting area where you sip cucumber water and the rooftop terrace garden to the festooned-with-flowers sheets on the treatment beds and the heated Japanese toilets in the changing rooms. It’s got everything you want—a traditional Swedish sauna, soaking tubs, rain showers, and epic treatments that leave you feeling practically reborn.

This stunning wellness studio is 13,000 square feet of soothing neutrals and light toned woods. We love the airy wellness cafe, and the seemingly unlimited menu treatments. The facials are some of the best in the city; their signature one, a totally custom, 90-minute experience, incorporates the LYMA laser and a series of Biologique Recherche products to cleanse, soothe, and hydrate. Plus, you bring home a personalized routine recommended by one of their master estheticians.

Open for business since 1930, The Carlyle is just a few blocks from Central Park and Museum Mile. And you can’t check-out without stopping for a drink in Bemelmans Bar, which has murals painted by Ludwig Bemelmans, the author of the Madeline series.

NOTE: The The Four Seasons New York is temporarily closed. It is expected to reopen in fall 2024.

This luxurious Upper East Side hotel is so plush and inviting that you’ll be tempted to stay indoors rather than leave to explore the city. The rooms are old-New-York in the best way, with marble baths, plush beds, city views, and space to stretch out. Plus: excellent dining (Marjorelle for dinner, Jacques for drinks, and the palm-tree-laden Pembroke Room for elaborate breakfasts, brunches, and high teas) and an elegant club room for all guests to enjoy.

Checking into the Mark is like checking into a New York fantasy life, from 24/7 exclusive access to Bergdorf Goodman, Ladurée macarons at the bedside, custom bikes for touring the city, and Jean Georges Vongerichten-crafted picnics to go (he runs the The Mark’s primary restaurant). The rooms themselves are sleek and just a little splashy. Plus: A Frédéric Fekkai hair salon, an Assouline bookstore, chic pedicabs on call, and a wood-paneled, warmly-lit outpost of the Paris caviar institution Caviar Kaspia.

Staying in the elegant yet inviting suites and guestrooms at the Ritz-Carlton outpost in Midtown feels like settling into your very own Manhattan townhouse, complete with soaring views over Central Park. The feel is still very much classic New York, with all the amenities you'd expect (amazing beds, beautiful bathrooms, a ridiculously chic bar), though what really sets this location apart is the luxe spa, La Prairie.

This old-school delicatessen has been around for over 100 years and carries every conceivable kind of smoked fish. It's a fun stop even just to see the hand-painted 1950’s sign outside, and the vintage Americana interiors it has carefully stewarded through the decades. Greengrass is also a restaurant that’s particularly great for breakfast—there are plenty of egg and bagel options to accompany your choice of smoked fish. And, in keeping with tradition, portions are huge, so go hungry.

This is a seriously charming, truly legendary New Yorker's bar: For starters, the clubby space is covered in Madeline author Ludwig Bemelmans's whimsical murals—a tribute to the city's quirky inhabitants.

Considering the neon-covered exterior and old-school name, the atmosphere inside Brooklyn Diner is surprisingly fancy. That said, classic meals are definitely the standouts: The chicken soup, macaroni & cheese, and giant lunch salads are reliably great, and you’ll have to arrive early in the day if you want to have the chicken pot pie (they almost always run out). Expect a short wait if you forget to make a reservation. There are two locations in Midtown, on 57th and 43rd.

It doesn't get much better than Daniel when it comes to haute cuisine (and destinations for special occasions). From the exceptional French prix-fixe menu to the flawless service and elegant jacket-only dining room, it's a one-of-a-kind experience. For a slightly more casual (and reasonably priced) a la carte dining experience, head to the lounge. And for a special event, book their private Bellecour Room, which has windows facing 65th Street—a rarity for event rooms in the city.

The food is classic Italian by way of New York—but it’s the beautiful presentation and cozy uptown vibe that make this spot so special. It’s a siren song for some of the city’s most interesting personalities.

This NYC institution opened on the lowest level of Grand Central in 1913, the same year the station was built. Over the years it lost a lot of its luster due to poor management, until it got a desperately-needed facelift in 1974. Since then, it's consistently topped the list of the city's best seafood spots—as its name suggests, the oysters are particularly epic.

A legendary Jewish deli, Katz’s originally opened in 1888 under a different name, and across the street from its current location on Houston and Ludlow. It was an institution long before the iconic orgasm scene from When Harry Met Sally, although it didn’t hurt. Most people come for either the hot pastrami or corned beef sandwich, or the Reuben version, which adds Swiss cheese and sauerkraut. Katz’s credits its slow curing method, which can last up to a month, for the meat’s superior taste. (You’ll also find matzo ball soup on the menu, along with everything else you’d expect/want, as well as less traditional offerings for a Jewish deli, like NY-style cheesecake.) For those outside of the city, note that Katz’s ships across the States.

Keen’s is awfully old-school (est. 1885), and that actually makes it a nice pick for after-work drinks, as it's blessedly absent of any sort of scene. Like any respectable steakhouse, they’ve got a miles-long Scotch menu. The enormous muttonchops are the famous, must-order menu item.

Serving haute cuisine since 1962, this place is wonderfully old school (with the buttoned-up crowd to match). The food is decadent and indulgent as are the floral arrangements, for which they’re known. Incidentally, it's not surprising that it's an excellent choice for a fancy private event. The late night jazz is well worth staying—and dressing—up for.

Le Bernardin opened in 1986 after the success of the storied Parisian original. Helmed by Chef Eric Ripert, this swanky restaurant continues to deliver some of the finest, freshest fish in the city, served with delicate yet complicated sauces that make seafood incredibly exciting. The menu is prix fixe only and organized by preparation (almost raw, barely touched, lightly cooked, etc.). The private room here is upstairs and has a separate entrance.

At both of Michael McCarty’s restaurants—in Santa Monica and New York—the givens are pretty much the same: Light seasonal cuisine that’s beautifully presented in a sleek dining room full of splashy flower arrangements and contemporary art. All this makes for a special meal, but it’s the crowd Michael’s draws that rounds out the whole experience. It’s a slice of 90’s New York, with old-school editors, agents, and big names in the business world filling its tables.

This Greek seafood mecca launched the whole fish trend in NYC, and still does it to perfection. This, paired with delicious Greek mezze like grilled octopus, fresh salads, dips, and more in a beautiful whitewashed dining room with some of the highest ceilings in the city, is as close as you’ll get to the islands. The tuna burger with lightly fried zucchini sticks at lunch is pretty insane. Plus, their private room upstairs is perfect for an intimate dinner with a killer menu.

The P.J. Clarke’s on 55th Street and Third Avenue—it’s been there since the 1880’s—is one of those classic NYC institutions where everyone who grew up on their burgers can think of nothing better. The Lincoln Square location is a hit with kids walking home from Central Park.

Napa's French Laundry may have put Thomas Keller on the map, but Per Se, which is perched above Central Park, confirmed his legendary status. The menu changes daily, and you can expect Keller to trot out some of his older hits along with some delightful new surprises. The meal itself can last for hours as you advance from seasonal course to course, and the set dinner menu starts at $390. The private room also happens to have one of the best views in town.

For many years, New Yorkers flocked to this 100-year-old steakhouse for its famously perfect cuts of meat and excellent service. The space is old-school, with dark wood paneled walls and bentwood chairs. Many come just for the atmosphere and the “Luger-Burger,” which is one of the best in the city. Famously, they don't take credit cards (though they do accept debit).

Run by the Raoul brothers and their family, and open in Soho since before the neighborhood scrubbed itself clean, patrons return again and again for the bistro fare, and the charming, authentically eccentric vibe. It genuinely feels like a secluded little Parisian nook, where you can find great French staples and a late night scene at the bar.

Sarabeth’s started out as a bakery in Chelsea Market in the 80s, where owner Sarabeth Levine perfected cookies, scones, and cakes (with unabashed amounts of sugar, flour, and butter). After she became legendary, she opened Sarabeth’s and basically launched the craze that is weekend Brunch. Years later, it’s still hard to get a breakfast reservation at any of her roomy, all-American, restaurants, but it’s so worth it for luscious pancakes and french toast, not to mention ideal omelettes.

Inspired by the LA original of the same name, this is a “trust me” sushi spot, which means you’re at the mercy of Chef Takahashi and his team behind the bar. The barely seasoned omakase they make consists of incredibly fresh fish—sourced at the fish market early each morning—served on warm, perfectly moist rice. It’s a tiny, no-frills nook, and the best seats in the house are at the bar.

Hidden on the seventh floor of Bloomingdales, back in the bedding department, Forty Carrots is still serving the best frozen yogurt in the city. An early pioneer of the fro-yo movement (it opened back in the ‘80s), they have all the classic toppings, from gummy bears to Butterfingers, and you can ask for more than one flavor swirled.

Spread out in one of the ground-level corridors, the Grand Central Market is packed out with NYC-specific food kiosks like Eli Zabar's Farm to Table. Some, like Li-Lac chocolates and Murray's Cheese, are almost as famous as Grand Central Station itself.

Kitschy, often crowded, and rowdy on any night of the week, this 1970s bar makes a great, laid-back stop in the otherwise pretty upscale Upper East Side. We go for excellent Bloody Marys and their famous burgers, served from lunch until late into the night.

Come here for classic, hand-rolled, kettle-boiled bagels: And all the relevant toppings, from super-thick cream cheese variations, to smoked lox, to a pretty great egg salad (and an egg sandwich, for mornings when nothing else will do). There’s room to sit quickly, though most people don’t linger (although they do serve La Colombe coffee). It’s also a great option for catering.

The owners of this elegant jewelry store have been in the antiques and fine jewelry business since 1851 when the family opened their first shop in Kiev. They specialize in antique jewelry, with a focus on Fabergé and other European lines. You could get lost for an entire afternoon ogling the gorgeous pieces with no intention to buy, but it's a great destination when you're looking for an exceptionally special gift.

The beautiful art deco interiors come with top-notch service here, where you’ll find a classic buy of all the designer lines. We especially love the seventh floor for its inspired home goods section, which includes designers like Kelly Wearstler and John Derian. At holiday time, their ornament selection definitely stands out. (And their men's store down the block is wonderful.)

Led by Barbara Kirshbaum, who has been on more than 150 buying trips to Europe and Asia, BK Antiques carries furniture, lighting, accessories, original artwork, and silver from the 18th-, 19th-, and early 20th-century. BK Antiques also has an exclusive collection of limited editions: high-end desk accessories; a series of small “drinks” tables in wood, iron, and stone; oak console tables; barstools; wastebaskets and custom iron and wood benches.

Phoebe Cates's boutique is pretty great: You’ll find really beautiful jewelry and a great assortment of toys, including hand-painted Russian dolls and Keith Haring dominoes. You'll also find clothes from little known designers, especially for the neighborhood, like Ally Capellino handbags and Yoshi Kondo dresses. It's not surprising it's a hit on the Upper East Side, as it brings uniqueness and discovery back to a neighborhood that’s generally dominated by big brands.

Jamie Creel and Christopher Gow are serious collectors who spend much of their time traveling the world sourcing far-flung objects for their townhouse shop. We go just to see the wacky and elegant displays that mix coral and taxidermy, Suzani textiles and kitschy South African ceramics. It’s a real mix with prices to match, and if you’re looking for a truly offbeat gift—like say, a hand-blown glass hammer and nails—chances are you’ll find it here.

Taking up an entire city block and 10 sprawling floors, the Saks 5th Avenue flagship on Fifth Avenue is as massive as it is well stocked. In fact, its shoe department is so huge that it has its own zip code. Also on premise: a spa, a nail salon, and several restaurants.

It would be impossible not to include Central Park—New York's most coveted green space and, in many ways, what the rest of the city orbits around. Stretching 2.5 miles from 59th to 110th Street, it offers a mix of open lawns, wooded paths, water, and formal gardens. See the iconic landmarks at least once: the cinematic Bethesda Terrace and fountain, Belvedere Castle, and The Lake—which is most memorably experienced by rowboat (rentable onsite). Seasonal moments make it worth returning to, from ice skating at Wollman Rink to Shakespeare in the Park at the newly renovated Delacorte Theater. But the real appeal is in the in-between: long walks around the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir with its uninterrupted skyline views, quieter shaded paths that feel removed from the city, and the simple act of finding a bench or patch of grass to sit with a coffee. For kids, the Central Park Zoo, the petting-friendly Tisch Children's Zoo, and numerous playgrounds make for an enjoyable afternoon outdoors.

NOTE: The Frick is temporarily closed for renovation. It is expected to reopen in late 2024.

This beloved institution—reigning supreme on NYC’s Upper East Side—has been shepherding millions through its halls since 1880. You’ll find some of the art world’s most iconic pieces, as well as important artifacts from ancient to modern times. It’s also home to the Egyptian Temple of Dendur, which dates back to 15 BC.

Whether it's your first time or you're a season ticket holder, an opera at the Met, with its shimmering gold curtains, monumental Chagall murals, starburst chandeliers, and red carpets, is one of the most unforgettable experiences in New York. From a classic Verdi to a contemporary John Adams opera, the production value, from the singers to the costumes and the sets, is pretty spectacular.

Walking into this Upper East Side townhouse is a quick time warp into the golden age of Vienna, before the First World War. The permanent collection, displayed almost as if it were in an elegant home, includes works by Gustav Klimt and Egon Schiele and many design pieces from Josef Hoffman, Koloman Moser, and Werner Werkstatte. We never tire of visiting the galleries and then heading downstairs for a tea and Linzer torte at the perfectly achieved turn-of-the-century-style Cafe Sabarsky, where you dine surrounded by Adolf Loos furniture.

Whether for an opera, a musical, or a ballet, an evening out at the gem-like Lincoln Center always makes for a wonderful, dressed-up night out.

The iconic seat of the NYPL takes pride of place on Bryant Park in Midtown. While it is still an important research institution, it's also a landmark we like to visit for many reasons beyond the book-lined shelves, from the Children's Library housing the original Winnie the Pooh Dolls, to the Rose Reading room, where anyone can grab a seat and work in peace and quiet, to the excellent bookshop, full of NYC-themed storybooks and classic reads. We'd be remiss if we didn't mention the exhibitions themed around the library's holdings and the stunning Beaux Arts 1911 building itself.

Between April and September, making it to a baseball game—either to see the Mets or the Yankees—is pretty much mandatory. The Yankees have a stadium in the Bronx—across the street from the original—while the Mets play at Citi Field in Queens.

Roberta's splashy little sister, which lives in a sleek warehouse right on the restaurant's grounds, is where chef Carlo Mierarchi gets to flex his culinary muscles. He serves a tasting menu of varied origins: The meal might kick off with Omakase-style Japanese appetizers, followed by pasta, and then an excellent cut of lamb or beef. There are only 12 seats, which face a massive open kitchen—while it’s a steep $195 a seat, the food is fantastic, the vibe is great, and it’s a wonderful experience. Reservations are a must.

When the beloved owner behind Mercer Street’s Honmura An moved back to Japan, and closed his restaurant in Soho, many a foodie’s heart was broken. But the Japanese food at Azabu might be just as exquisite. The restaurant specializes in small places and sushi, including delicious uni handrolls and spicy tuna maki.

This Peking Duck-dedicated spot—tucked away in a converted laundromat beneath RedFarm—has the sort of exquisite Chinese food that you’d expect from Ed Schoenfeld and Joe Ng. While the Peking Duck was excellent (you have to reserve one in advance), we were most blown away by the uni noodle and octopus salad and the crab fried rice.

We were thrilled when Igancio Mattos (formerly of Chez Panisse, Il Buco, and Isa) opened this spot on East Houston (he now has Café Altro Paradiso nearby on Spring Street). The dishes are of a Mediterranean slant, and while they’re unfamiliar and unexpected, he never sacrifices taste or pleasure for innovation. There are many swoon moments on the menu: egg salad on matzo, raw scallops with yuzu, beef tartare with sunchoke, and ricotta dumplings. It’s a small spot with rustic accents that never threaten to overshadow the food. It can get quite loud, and tables can be hard to come by, but if you can get one, go.

This development in the formerly sleepy and overlooked West 40's gathers some of the city's top food purveyors like Petee's Pies Company, dell'anima, and La Palapa under one roof, with a stand and bar-seating at each.

Jungsik will take any preconceived ideas about traditional Korean food and squash them. Case in point: Chef Jung Sik Yim’s version of Bibimbap is crafted from foie gras and fresh black truffles, while meat and seafood gets the molecular gastronomy treatment rather than the open fire in the middle of the table. All the fireworks aside, the home-y, yet surprisingly refined rice dishes are still the go-tos in our eyes.

Frill-free and well-priced for omakase (there's a 12-piece option for $85), everything here is dressed and plated by the 70-year-old chef Ishizuka (grab a spot at the 12-seat bar to watch him work). You won't find wasabi or soy sauce—only ginger, as it's traditional to the max: In fact, it’s only marked outside by a white wall with a blue curtain, that's bedecked with a small white bow. Highlights: Belt fish, squid, red snapper, and seared salmon. Photo: Jebb

Ssam Bar, which is attached to Milk Bar, offers a wider range of options than its siblings (Ko and Noodle Bar). Chang, who is now legendary, does pretty revolutionary food, whether it’s noodle or pork buns, meaning that if there’s just one must-try foodie experience downtown, one of this restaurants would probably be it.

People are crazy for this Thai via Portland import: Andy Ricker’s fresh takes on Thai classics are seriously good (and run on the hot side), from the signature charcoal roasted hen with lemongrass to the sweet, spicy salads. There’s also an awesome Thai-inspired cocktail menu (the Pok Pok Bloody Mary with Thai chilies is a serious kick in the ass) which you can explore on depth from the comfort of a seat at the bar.

Roberta’s has been warmly flourishing for years. Camouflaged by an industrial, kind of uninviting exterior, this gem of a spot offers a succinct menu includes a few wonderful pizzas, plus seasonal veggies and pasta dishes. There’s an indoor, primarily communal seating area where you can watch the pizza-making go down in the open kitchen. The vibe is casual and the ambiance always lively, as it routinely draws big crowds. While you can expect to wait, it’s a good place to have a drink.

A two-month wait for a seat at Nakazawa’s bar, a chef whose claim to fame is having worked under Jiro, is not unheard of. Pedigree aside, the wait for the restaurant makes total sense: You’ll get 20 perfect pieces of perfect nigiri. The cuts are gorgeous, and it’s dressed up ever so slightly with just an ingredient or two (yuzu paste, lemon, salt).

As its name would suggest, when it comes to ramen, Ivan and company know what they are doing (Ivan is actually a Jewish kid from Long Island who is obsessed with Japanese cooking). The Red-Hot Cold Mazemen is delicious, while the cold spicy sesame noodles topped with prawns are a great alternative on hotter days. If you go for dinner, they’re most famous for Triple Pork Triple Garlic Mazeman and Four Cheese Mazeman, which they only serve at night—the Tokyo Shio Ramen, loaded with egg, pork chashu and roast tomato is a bit lighter. If you’re not into noodles, the pork meatballs, garnished with bonito flakes, chinese broccoli prepared in a sweet soy and garlic sauce, and the Tofu Coney Island, which is essentially an Asian spin on chili cheese fries are all insanely good. Heavy, but delicious. The original is on the Lower East Side.

The only thing keeping up with Ippudo's sterling reputation for Japanese comfort food is its growing list of U.S. locations. The need-to-knows: The noodles are hand-pulled on-site and cooked perfectly al dente. Broths are slow-boiled for up to 20 hours. They're known for the super-flavorful tonkotso ramen, but we love the miso ramen and yuzu shoyu. They have some more contemporary restaurant-style dishes here, but the traditional ramen bowls are really where it's at. Prices are low, and it's first come, first serve, so be prepared to wait.

COVID-19 update: Temporarily closed.

Everyone in New York has their own best-of list, but the wood-fired pizza at Pasquale Jones, from the same folks behind Charlie Bird, is a solid contender. The littleneck clam and salsiccia pies are standouts, and a nice match to their wine list, which has some great reasonably priced bottles. The action here centers around an open kitchen and two wood-burning stoves; the booths—though limited—are roomy and good if you’re dining with littles in tow. Reservations are hard to come by, so walking in is your best bet, though be prepared to take several spins around the block while you wait. (Worth it, still.)

Tucked into a tiny (very tiny) space next door to Casa Mono, this U-shaped tapas bar by Mario Batali and Joe Bastianich has been around for more than a decade. The crowd is typically neighborhood types grabbing quick drinks, lots of (stylish) first dates, or those swinging by for a nightcap post dinner next door. The pared-down menu, which is scrawled on the mirror behind the bar, includes pan con tomate, tortila, and jamon iberico—in addition to, obviously, great reds. Food Photos: Kate Previte; Exterior Photo: Kelly Campbell

Restaurateur Gabriel Stulman (of Happy Cooking Hospitality) re-concepted his West Village Italian restaurant, Perla, into Fairfax, a Mediterranean eatery with a straightforward menu of inventive dishes you'll want order over and over, oh and a great wine list. Part of the swap was changing out formal dining room tables for more casual living room furniture and communal tables (many of the pieces taken from the Stulman's own home), making it super comfortable. It's also a great place to host a party.

In business since the '60s, this old-school, family-run operation has cracked the code on how to smoke fish in an all-natural way. Their line, Blue Hill Fish, is so popular that they've opened up a West Coast office to keep up with demand. If you can make it to Greenpoint on a Friday morning, you can snag smoked goods at half price until 1pm. Preorder strongly suggested.

As the crown jewel of restauranteur Keith McNally’s downtown empire, Balthazar channels all the charm and style of a Parisian bistro—booths and antiqued mirrors included. Dining here feels like an event, and as such it draws big crowds for its Coq Au Vin, Moules Frites, and burger. We actually like its adjacent bakery best, where you can take perfect croissants, loafs of bread, and coffee to go.

This incredible kitchen store will lure you in, but the classes will convince you to stay. Offering everything from Vitamix blenders and Pillivuyt roasting pans, to homemade ramen broth, farm fresh eggs, and exotic cuts of meat, the provisions part of the operation draws people from all over the city. Meanwhile, you can learn how to make homemade pizza with the Roberta’s crew, pickle with McClure, or take a class in doughnut or dumpling making.

Dépanneur is the general store we all wish we had on our block. Part café, part grocer the inventory ranges from the necessary (fresh-baked bread, newspapers, eggs, three types of yogurt) to the indulgent (a series of canned sardines, unusual grains, wildly expensive chocolate). The coffee is expertly made and always hot, the range of to-go snacks behind the counter is meant to satisfy every state of hunger with mini ham-and-cheese baguettes, croissants, and slabs of pound cake. Pick up a coffee or an obscure bottle of kombucha and sit at one of the round tables outside, perfectly placed for people watching.

This is kind of foodie nirvana, care of Mario Batali. Essentially Costco-sized, this Italian gourmet grocery store stocks aisle after aisle of the best artisanal ingredients, including truly fantastic fresh pasta. Throughout the space (which also includes cookware), you’ll find plenty of places to sit down and eat. While there are several gussied-up Batali restaurants upstairs, including a rooftop birreria, we find the best way to experience Eataly it is to grab a seat at one of the many bar-size specialty eateries scattered across the main shop floor. Understandably, they offer an excellent array of gelato.

Beyond being one of the more perfect independent grocery stores around, Fairway is the perfect New York cross section: You'll see young families, old ladies in fur coats, students looking for good food at good prices, and just about every New York type you can think of.

Andrew Tarlow’s burgeoning Brooklyn food empire (Diner, Reynard, Marlow & Sons) also includes this quality, nose-to-tail butcher shop. Besides house-made sausages and great cuts of steak, you’ll find all the fixings, from gourmet olive oil to mint sauce and side salads. The breads and sandwiches, courtesy of She Wolf Bakery, make this a favorite takeaway pit-stop, too.

Come here for the bagels, and the rugelach, and the chocolate babka, and the smoked fish, and we could go on and on. This Upper West Side specialty grocer, which has been operated by the Zabar family (out of the same location) since the 1930s, is still the place to stock up on old-school Jewish delicatessen fare. It’s one of those classic city shops that’s as worth it for the goods as it is for the characters who shop there regularly.

Murray's seems to import every conceivable cheese in production for public consumption, and has a staff that can happily walk you through (and sample) all of them. There are cheese cave tours offered for those who want to learn even more and delicious sandwiches—or melts—for anyone who wants more than just a few hunks of the good stuff. While they supply most of Manhattan with their cheese plate offerings, they also ship across the states. There's also an outpost at the Grand Central Market.

While it’s pretty hard to screw up a grilled cheese sandwich, the oversized, overstuffed versions here are made using Beecher’s own cheese, a lot of which is made right on site (watching the cheese makers do their thing through the massive windows is nothing short of mesmerizing). The main café is ideal for weekday lunches and the Cellar downstairs is a more dressed-up small-plates-and-wine restaurant. And if you need a hostess gift but are short on time, the nuts, jams, small but mighty selection of wine, and of course, cheeses, pack up nicely.

Bonnie Slotnick’s hole-in-the-wall bookshop stocks rare and out-of-print cookbooks from as far back as the early 19th-century, and she finds every single one herself. In fact, she’s a one man show, so store hours can be erratic, making it all the more special on the days when the shop is indeed open. You’ll find vintage cookbooks and kitchen paraphernalia appealingly displayed in the cramped little store, which is as entertaining for foodies as it is for design aficionados who love old books. If you’re looking for something in particular, Bonnie will track it down.

For over 20 years, food academics, serious chefs, and home cooks alike have all come here to stock their kitchen bookshelves. In fact, Julia Child used to shop here. Besides the seemingly endless supply of cookbooks, academic journals, and food memoirs, it’s owner Nach Waxman and his team that make it really special. Well-informed but not intimidating, they’re happy to help you find the right book, or will track it down if they don’t have it.

Each level—antiques, contemporary furniture, lighting, and accessories—looks like a page ripped out of an interior design magazine. You can call and make an appointment with a sales associate who will walk you through everything you need to decorate your home, or simply spend a few hours browsing their tastefully jam-packed floors. The best part? At ABC, health, sustainability and the environment are a part of the ethos, thus organic upholstery and wood sourced from sustainable sources are available. Don't miss lunch at Jean George Vongerichten'sABC Kitchen: Fittingly, the innovative yet simple food is local, organic and has won the James Beard award for Best New Restaurant. There's also a below-ground carpet outlet across the street that has some amazing bargains.

In the past 20 years, Fishs Eddy has established itself as a vintage tabletop institution. They started out selling retired lines of dishware from hotels, camps, airlines, and clubs (and seem to have endless sources for it), but have since branched into their own, often whimsical, collections. They’re also a great resource for old-fashioned, but useful basics, like ceramic berry baskets, pie stands, and egg trays.

Occupying a sliver of space in a quiet stretch of Soho, Global Table is one of those places that's packed from floor to ceiling. Sourcing items from all over the world, the prevailing aesthetic is bright, colorful, and modern, though they also have a great selection of wooden serving pieces, like salad bowls and cutting boards. It’s rare to walk out empty-handed.

Beyond being the best resource in New York for Astier de Villatte’s stunningly hand-turned plates, bowls, and glasses, John Derian's instantly recognizable decoupaged glass plates and paperweights have a unique old world appeal that also applies to the small objects, furniture, and curiosities he stocks in his iconic East Village shop. It's a small microcosm packed with antique objects and hand-made works by artisans with a similarly whimsical aesthetic, from Leanne Shapton's painted wooden "books" to Hugo Guinness' drawings and prints. Derian also designs his own line of furniture which mixes right in with the flea market finds and printed fabrics at his dry goods shop next door.

This Japanese shop equips restaurants like Nobu and Per Se, meaning it's where pro-chefs go to buy their knives. They're artfully displayed on the wall and in cases throughout the space according to brand and style. In addition, we like to shop their selection of lacquered bento boxes and traditional serveware.

We head to Steven Alan for the perfectly tailored yet lived-in men's and women's shirting that comes in an endless variety of plaids and stripes. Beyond that, it's the relaxed mix of pieces from designers like A.P.C, Isabel Marant, Rachel Comey, that keeps us coming back. The outpost in Tribeca is the flagship and the original, though there are now locations scattered around the city. They've recently opened a home goods shop, too.

Though the International Culinary Center is one of the country’s best institutes for turning out chefs, sommeliers, and managers, they offer one-day crash courses for home cooks, too. The classes are wonderfully specific, with the intent of 24-hour mastery, whether you want to try your hand at cupcake decoration, fondant, or the basics of sushi.

We’re pretty smitten with the concept here: Founder Alison Cayne transformed a carriage house into a cooking school/supper club, where area chefs lead classes on everything from cooking Vietnamese food with fresh herbs to gluten and allergen-free baking. Once the meal is made, participants grab chairs and eat the spoils together.

This incredible kitchen store will lure you in, but the classes will convince you to stay. Offering everything from Vitamix blenders and Pillivuyt roasting pans, to homemade ramen broth, farm fresh eggs, and exotic cuts of meat (it's also home to The Meat Hook), the provisions part of the operation draws people from all over the city. Meanwhile, you can learn how to make homemade pizza with the Roberta’s crew, pickle with McClure, or take a class in doughnut or dumpling making.

Amy’s started out in Hell’s Kitchen back in 1992 and in the intervening years, her business has gone gangbusters, supplying many of the city’s gourmet shops with their wonderful bread and pastries. Head to any of the stores—our favorite is still the largely unchanged original—to pick up a French baguette, olive twist, or one of their delicious pastries to go. As a huge bonus, they offer breadmaking classes at their Chelsea Market location where you can learn how to make everything from foccacia to thin-crust pizza.

Ideally located where NoHo, the East Village, and Nolita meet, this hotel's bright bedrooms and contrastingly cavernous bar attracts the rockstar set—for scene, but also for comfort. The rooms feature classic New York apartment touches like marble bathtubs and hardwood floors—combined with high-end linens and plush velvety touches, this makes for an ideal stay. Downstairs, Gemma is a good spot for a drink (it’s also a good dinner option for bigger groups), though the hotel is so well-situated to some of the city’s best restaurants, consider taking your meals out.

Like all of Andre Balasz’ hotels, The Standard East Village, a tall glass building looming above Cooper Square, is a haven for travelers as much as it is a local, neighborhood establishment. Upstairs, hotel guests enjoy a little respite with rooms that boast picture window views, high above the city streets.