Guide To NYC: Midtown West

Midtown West

Midtown West, also known as Hell’s Kitchen, is a home to many aspiring actors. It has close proximity to many plays, and shows, as well as some great dining options. Some highlights of Midtown West are the Gershwin Theatre, home of Wicked the musical, and the Museum of Modern Art. Some current celebrities that live here are Katherine McPhee, Lady Gaga, Goldie Hawn, P. Diddy, and Carrol Burnett.

What To See

• Daytime

Museum of Modern Art

• MoMA
  • Works from van Gogh to Warhol and others, including a sculpture garden, 2 cafes and a restaurant
  • 11 West 53rd Street
  • Saturday-Thursday 10:30am-5:30pm
  • Friday 10:30am-8p

Intrepid Museum

• Intrepid Museum
  • Flight museum on an aircraft carrier with exhibits including a Concorde, submarine, and a space shuttle
  • Pier 86, West 46th Street 12th Avenue
  • Monday-Sunday 10am-5pm

New York Public Library

• New York Public Library
  • Open to the public
  • 5th Avenue 42nd Street
  • Monday & Thursday-Saturday 10am-6pm
  • Tuesday-Wednesday 10am-8pm
  • Sunday 1-5pm

Bryant Park

• Bryant Park
  • Open 4 acre green space behind NY Public Library, including a café and other food kiosks
  • West 42nd street, Avenue of the Americas
  • Saturday-Sunday 7am-11pm
  • Monday-Friday 7am-12am

Gershwin Theatre

• Gershwin Theatre
  • Plays, concerts, and ballets are staged in this 1,900 seat venue. Currently playing is Wicked (alt. version of the Wizard of Oz), which is a top Broadway hit!
  • 222 West 51st Street
  • Show times are listed online

• Shopping

Lord and Taylor

• Lord and Taylor
  • 424 5th Avenue
  • Monday-Saturday 10am-9pm
  • Sunday 11am-7pm

Bergdorf Goodman

• Bergdorf Goodman
  • 764 5th Avenue
  • Monday-Saturday 10am-8pm
  • Sunday 11am-7pm

Henri Bendel

• Henri Bendel
  • 712 5th Avenue
  • Monday-Saturday 10am-8pm
  • Sunday 12pm-7pm

Magnolia Bakery

• Magnolia Bakery
  • Known for their famous and delicious cupcakes
  • 1240 Avenue of the Americas
  • Monday-Thursday 7am-10pm
  • Friday 7am-12am
  • Saturday 8am-12am
  • Sunday 8am-10pm

• Nightlife

  • Upscale

21 Club

•  21 Club (American)
  • Upscale former speakeasy serving classic American food
  • Monday-Friday 12pm-2:30pm
  • Saturday 5pm-11pm
  • Closed Sunday
  • 21 West 52nd Street
  • 4.1 Stars

The Roof

• The Roof (Lounge)
  • The lounge and terrace on top of the Viceroy hotel serves food from Kingside and high-end cocktails
  • Monday-Sunday 4pm-4am
  • 124 West 57th Street
  • 4.0 Stars

Ardesia

• Ardesia Wine Bar
  • Over 30 wines by the glass are available along with homemade NY pretzels and hand-crafted cheeses
  • Monday-Wednesday 4pm-12am
  • Thursday-Saturday 4pm-2am
  • Sunday 2pm-11pm
  • 510 West 52nd Street
  • 4.2 Stars

Beautique

•  Beautique (American)
  • Refined American food is served in a posh setting influenced by Coco Chanel’s Paris apartment
  • Monday-Friday 5:30pm-11pm
  • Saturday 6pm-11:30pm
  • Closed Sunday
  • 8 West 58th Street
  • 4.4 Stars

• Budget Friendly

The Carnegie Club

•  The Carnegie Club (Bar)
  • Patrons puff on cigars and sip single malts at this bar which is a clubby, elegant smoking lounge with a fireplace
  • Monday-Thursday 2pm-2am
  • Saturday 4pm-2am
  • Sunday 4pm-1am
  • 156 West 56th Street
  • 4.3 Stars

Swing 46

•  Swing 46 Jazz and Supper Club
  • This jazz and supper club offers live music, swing dancing and free dance lessons
  • Thursday-Friday 5pm-3am
  • Sunday-Wednesday 5pm-12am
  • 349 West 46th Street
  • 4.4 Stars

Tonic

•  Tonic Times Square (Sports Bar)
  • Sports bar with big TVs, wood furnishings, padded-leather sofas and booths and a rooftop patio
  • Monday-Sunday 10:30am-4am
  • 727 7th Avenue
  • 4.0 Stars

Barcelona Bar – Harry Potter Shots

• Barcelona Bar (American)
  • Bar with sultry décor offering over 100 shots with names such as the Monica Lewinsky and Harry Potter
  • Monday-Sunday 4pm-4am
  • 923 8th Avenue
  • 4.3 Stars

Where To Eat

• Upscale

• Nobu Fifty Seven (Japanese)
  • Sleek Japanese-Peruvian spot from Nobu Matsuhisa frequented by business types and celebrities
  • Monday-Saturday 11:45am-11pm
  • Sunday 5:45pm-10pm
  • West 10019, 40 West 57th Street
  • 4.4 Stars

Estiatorio Milos

• Estiatorio Milos (Mediterranean)
  • Stylish Greek restaurant serving fresh seafood in a Mediterranean-style whitewashed setting
  • Monday-Sunday 12pm-2:30pm, 5pm-11:30pm
  • 125 W 55th Street
  • 4.4 Stars

Azalea

• Azalea (Italian)
  • Meaty fare from Brescia shares menu space with seafood from Amalfi Coast in an airy, high-ceiling room
  • Sunday-Monday 11:30am-11pm
  • Tuesday-Thursday 11:30am-11:30pm
  • Friday-Saturday 11:30am-12:30am
  • 224 West 51st Street
  • 4.0 Stars

Taboon

• Taboon (Lebanese)
  • Lively spot for modern Mediterranean/Middle Eastern food plus fresh bread from the namesake domed oven
  • Monday-Friday 5pm-11pm
  • Saturday 5pm-11:30pm
  • Sunday 11am-3:30pm, 5pm-10pm
  • 773 10th Avenue
  • 4.6 Stars

• Budget Friendly

Trattoria Tricolori

• Trattoria Trecolori (Italian)
  • Bustling Italian restaurant serving classic red-sauce dishes in a warm space with exposed brick
  • Sunday-Thursday 12pm-10:30pm
  • Friday-Saturday 12pm-11:15pm
  • 254 West 47th Street
  • 4.4 Stars

Topaz Thai

• Topaz Thai
  • Small, no thrills Thai joint, located close to Carnegie Hall and City Center
  • Monday-Thursday 11am-10pm
  • Friday 11am-11pm
  • Saturday-Sunday 12pm-11pm
  • 127 West 56th Street
  • 4.0 Stars

La Pulperia

• La Pulperia (Seafood)
  • Latin American food in a rustic-chic restaurant with Mexican tiles, repurposed Brazilian wood and a marble bar
  • Monday-Friday 4pm-11pm
  • Saturday 12pm-12am
  • Sunday 12pm-10pm
  • 371 West 46th Street
  • 4.6 Stars

Lillie’s Victorian Establishment

• Lillie’s Victorian Establishment (American/British)
  • Restaurant and bar with a menu of classic American and British dishes in a Victorian setting
  • Monday-Sunday 11am-4am
  • 249 West 49th Street
  • 4.1 Stars

Where To Sleep

• Upscale (prices for off-season/shoulder season)

Courtyard New York Times Square West

• Courtyard New York Times Square West
  • Straightforward hotel with contemporary rooms and a restaurant, plus a 24/7 exercise room and free WiFi
  • 307 West 37th Street
  • 4.3 Stars
  • $319/night

Homewood Suites

• Homewood Suites New York Midtown Manhattan/Times Square Hotel
  • Chic extended-stay hotel with full kitchens, free WiFi, and breakfast, plus a 24/7 fitness center
  • 4.4 Stars
  • $299/night

Pearl Hotel

• Pearl Hotel
  • Modern boutique hotel with contemporary rooms, plus free breakfast, WiFi, and happy hour
  • 233 West 49th Street
  • 4.6 Stars
  • $440/night

Michelangelo

• Michelangelo
  • Luxury hotel with marble bathrooms, an Italian wine bar and free car service to Wall Street
  • 152 West 51st Street
  • 4.5 Stars
  • $270/night

• Budget Friendly (prices for off season/shoulder season)

Fairfield Inn and Suites Midtown/Penn Station

• Fairfield Inn and Suites New York Midtown Manhattan/Penn Station
  • Modern hotel offering free hot breakfast and WiFi, plus a fitness center and a rooftop bar
  • 325 West 33rd Street
  • 4.4 Stars
  • $119/night

Belvedere Hotel

• Belvedere Hotel
  • 1920’s-era hotel offering elegant rooms, plus a 24-hour gym and a Brazilian eatery
  • 319 West 48th Street
  • 4.2 Stars
  • $186/night

The French Quarters Guest Apartments

• The French Quarters Guest Apartments
  • Cozy Big Easy-inspired hotel featuring upscale rooms and suites, free breakfast and an airy eatery
  • 346 West 46th Street
  • 4.7 Stars
  • $187/night

Hotel Metro New York

• Hotel Metro New York
  • Stylish hotel with an art deco lobby and a rooftop deck, plus free WiFi and breakfast
  • 45 West 35th Street
  • 4.2 Stars
  • $175/night

“I travel a lot; I hate having my life disrupted by routine” – Caskie Stinnett

 

Guide To NYC: Central Park

Central Park

Central Park is a 843 acre oasis in the middle of the concrete jungle. It includes meadows, forests, lakes, monuments, and architecture. The park itself is so vast, it can be hard to see it all in a day. Even visiting Central Park numerous times, I found myself missing a lot of the different activities, because I was only able to hit 2 or 3 of the activities in a day. I will be highlighting the best things to see, and also places to eat in the park (or just pack some snacks on you because you will get hungry quickly!).

What To See

The Pond

•  The Pond
  • This serene body of water is a great place to take a break from the bustling city. The hill above the pond is the Hallet Nature Sanctuary, which is occasionally open to visitors. The Gapstow Bridge, located at the pond’s northern point, has been in numerous photos and films, and also a great place to pop the question.
  • East Side at 62nd street

Central Park Zoo

• Central Park Zoo
  • Children and adults will love this zoo as it contains a variety of different animals, from 3 different global zones, such as tropical, temperate, and polar. Feeding times are at 11:30am, 2pm, and 4pm, make sure to get there at least 15 minutes before the show to get a good viewing spot!
  • East Side between 63rd and 66th streets, enter at 5th avenue at 64th street
  • Monday-Sunday 10am-5:30pm
  • $12 for general admission
  • $9 for seniors
  • $7 for children
  • $0 for children under 3

The Mall

• The Mall
  • This promenade is lined by towering elm trees, creating a canopy which looks gorgeous any time of the season. Along the walkway you will find statues of renowned authors, as well as benches to sit and take in the view. You will also find street performers, vendors, and roller skaters and skateboarders.
  • Midpark from 66th to 72nd street

Sheep Meadow

• Sheep Meadow
  • This field is a favorite of New Yorkers to go and play Frisbee, soak up the sun, or have a picnic. This is also a great place to people watch, and just relax, but if you want a shady spot, get there around 11am when the park opens as people come flocking in quickly.
  • West Side between 66th and 68th street, enter at Central Park West and 66th street

Bethesda Terrace

• Bethesda Terrace
  •  Check out the Bethesda Terrace with views of the grand Bethesda Fountain (aka “Angel of the Waters”) and the lake. Step inside the terrace to view the walls and pillars which are adorned with statues by Jacob Wrey Mould, and look up at the ceiling at the intricate Minton tiles while musicians play all around you.
  • Midpark from 71st to 79th street, enter at 5th avenue and 72nd street
  • This is one of my favorite places to go in Central Park…so I think it is only right to include a couple more pictures of the area 🙂

Stunning, right?

Conservatory Water Boat Race

• Conservatory Water
  • This pond is a favorite spot for kids to operate miniature remote-controlled sailboats, and has been featured in many photos, films, and books. Nearby is the Hans Christian Anderson and Alice in Wonderland statues, which is another beloved spot by kids.
  • East 72nd street

The Lake

• The Lake
  • Take a romantic boat ride around the lake, or let someone else paddle for you on a Venetian Gondola ride. It is located by the Loeb Boathouse Restaurant (past Bethesda Terrace), and it also expands out to the Bow Bridge, before opening up to an expanse of water and skyline.
  • Boat Rides
    • $12/hour
    • $2.50 for each additional 15 minutes
    • $20 deposit
  • Gondola Rides
    • $30/half an hour
  • Midpark at 74th street, enter at Central Park West and 72nd street

Strawberry Fields

• Strawberry Fields
  • It is a peaceful retreat that was created in memory of John Lennon, who lived, and was murdered just across the street. The centerpiece is the Imagine mosaic, which is adorned with different arrays of flowers strewn across it.
  • West Side between 71st and 74th street, enter at Central Park West and 72nd street

The Ramble

• The Ramble
  • This hilly woodland is filled with winding paths, streams and ponds, rustic structures, and a dense forest canopy, which makes it feel like you’re escaping to the Adirondacks. It is also the city’s prime bird watching spot, with over 230 species of birds to view from.
  • Midpark from 73rd to 79th street, enter at Central Park West and 72nd street

Belvedere Castle

• Belvedere Castle
  • Take in the views of the great lawn, the Ramble, and Turtle Pond from Belvedere Castle, which is one of the highest points in the park. There is a visitor’s center, and you can receive a free discovery kit (2 forms of ID is required, one is kept as a deposit, and returned to you once you hand back the kit), and the kit includes binoculars, a map, and a guide for bird-watching in the Ramble’s woods. The Central Park Conservatory also offers a free mobile app that includes interactive maps, audio commentary, and up-to-date listings of events
  • Midpark at 79th Street, enter at 5th avenue and 72nd street

Conservatory Garden

• Conservatory Garden
  • Experience the charm of a European garden without having to buy a ticket to Europe. With 3 styles of gardens, it will appease to everyone. From the Italian garden, containing a great lawn, 12ft high jet fountain, and wisteria pergola, to the French style containing concentric ring flowerbeds, and the three-dancing-maidens water fountain, and finally to the English garden including a pool with a statue of two children inspired by The Secret Garden.
  • East Side from 104th to 106th, enter at 5th avenue and 105th street
  • Free tours: Meet at Vanderbilt Gate, east side at 105th street; Saturday 11am

Where To Eat

The Loeb Boathouse Central Park

• Restaurants

  • The Loeb Boathouse Central Park
    • Monday-Friday 12pm-4pm, 5:30pm-9:30pm
    • Saturday-Sunday 9:30am-4pm, 6pm-9:30pm
    • E 72nd Street
    • 4.1 Stars
    • American
      • American restaurant and bar notable for its prime lakeside setting in the middle of Central Park

Tavern On the Green

• Tavern On the Green
  • Wednesday-Friday 11am-10:45pm, 11pm-1am
  • Saturday 9am-10:45pm, 11pm-1am
  • Sunday 9am-10:45pm
  • Monday-Tuesday 11am-10:45pm
  • 67 Central Park West
  • 3.4 Stars
  • Grill
    • Restored Central Park icon for American fare in an elegant setting with courtyard and garden seating

Café Sabarsky

• Café Sabarsky
  • Thursday-Sunday 9am-9pm
  • Monday & Wednesday 9am-6pm
  • Closed Tuesday
  • 1048 5th Avenue
  • 4.1 Stars
  • Austrian
    • Sweet-toothed art lovers pause for Viennese pastries and savory dishes at the Neue Galerie’s café

Le Pain Quotidien

• Le Pain Quotidien
  • Monday-Thursday 7am-8pm
  • Saturday-Sunday 7am-9pm
  • 2 W 69th Street
  • 3.9 Stars
  • Organic
    • Classic light fare and organic breads fill out the menu at this rustic-chic bakery/café chain

Ballfields Café

• Ballfields Café
  • Monday-Sunday 10am-7pm
  • 65th Street Transverse
  • 4.2 Stars
  • Café
    • Self-serve snack shop with alfresco tables serving hot dogs and burgers with beer
• Vendors
  • There are many different types of food vendors located around the park, so if you are looking for some great, inexpensive food, keep your eye out for them!

“Investment in travel is an investment in yourself” – Matthew Karsten

 

Guide To NYC: The Upper West Side

The Upper West Side

Similar to the Upper East Side, the Upper West Side is affluent and primarily residential area with most residents working in Midtown or Lower Manhattan. It is also known as NYC’s intellectual hub, and artistic workers, whereas the Upper East Side is home to commercial and business types. It is also known as home to some celebrities such as Tina Fey, Matt Damon, Al Pacino, Robert DeNiro, and Steve Martin.

 

What To Do

American Museum of Natural History

• Museums

  • American Museum of Natural History

    • Monday-Sunday 10am-5:45pm
    • Central Park West & 79th Street
    • General Admission
      • $22
      • Suggested general admission, which supports the Museum’s scientific and educational endeavors, includes all 45 halls and the Rose Center for Earth and Space. If you wish to pay less, you may purchase tickets at any ticket counter in the Museum
    • General Admission Plus One
      • $27
      • General Admission Plus One tickets include admission to the Museum and Rose Center for Earth and Space plus one special exhibition, IMAX or 3D film, or Hayden Planetarium Space Show
    • SuperSaver Admission
      • $35
      • Admission to the Museum and Rose Center for Earth and Space plus all special exhibitions, IMAX and 3D films, and the Hayden Planetarium Space Show
    • Buy tickets at the ticket booth in the museum to get a cheaper price

  • Children’s Museum of Manhattan

    • Tuesday-Friday & Sunday 10am-5pm
    • Saturday 10am-7pm
    • Closed Monday
    • 212 W 83rd Street
    • $12 for adults
    • $12 for children
    • $8 for seniors
    • $0 for children under 12 months

  • New York Historical Society

    • Tuesday-Sunday 10am-6pm
    • Closed Monday
    • 170 Central Park West
    • $15 for group admission- adults
    • $23 for group admission with a guided tour-adults
    • $12 for group admission- seniors
    • $20 for group admission- seniors

  • American Folk Art Museum

    • Tuesday-Sunday 11:30am-7pm
    • Closed Monday
    • 2 Lincoln Square
    • Admission is free

  • New York Public Library for the Performing Arts

    • Monday-Saturday 10:30am-6pm
    • Closed Sunday
    • 40 Lincoln Center Plaza
    • Admission is free

  • Lincoln Center

    • Monday-Friday 10am-6pm
    • Closed Saturday and Sunday
    • Admission is free
    • To watch a dance, music, film, opera, or theater show, you can purchase tickets online

Century 21 Department Store

•  Shopping

  • Patagonia

    • Monday-Sunday 11am-7pm
    • 426 Columbus Avenue

  • Apple Store

    • Monday-Saturday 9am-9pm
    • Sunday 10am-8pm
    • 1981 Broadway

  • The North Face

    • Monday-Saturday 10am-8pm
    • Sunday 11am-6pm
    • 2101 Broadway

  • Century 21 Department Store

    • Monday-Saturday 10am-10pm
    • Sunday 12pm-8pm
    • 1972 Broadway

  • Banana Republic

    • Monday-Saturday 10am-9pm
    • Sunday 11am-8pm
    • 1976 Broadway

  • Gap

    • Monday-Friday 9am-9pm
    • Saturday-Sunday 10am-9pm
    • 1988 Broadway

  • Pottery Barn

    • Monday-Saturday 9am-9pm
    • Sunday 10am-8pm
    • 1965 Broadway

  •  Zara

    • Monday-Saturday 10am-8pm
    • Sunday 11am-7pm
    • 1963 Broadway

  • Barneys New York

    • Monday-Friday 10am-8pm
    • Saturday-Sunday 10am-7pm
    • 2151 Broadway

  • DSW Designer Shoe Warehouse

    • Monday-Saturday 10am-9pm
    • Sunday 11am-7pm
    • 2220 Broadway

  • H&M

    • Monday-Saturday 10am-9pm
    • Sunday 11am-6pm
    • 10 Columbus Circle

The Tangled Vine Wine Bar and Kitchen

•  Nightlife

  • Vanguard Wine Bar

    • 189 Amsterdam Avenue
    • 4.5 Stars
    • French
      • Neighborhood spot offering French wine & small plates amid marble-topped tables and subway tiles

  • The Dead Poet

    • 450 Amsterdam Avenue
    • 4.3 Stars
    • Irish Pub
      • Narrow, literary-themed Irish pub whips up cocktails named after dead poets and food from a bar menu

  • Jake’s Dilemma

    • 430 Amsterdam Avenue
    • 4.0 Stars
    • Sports Bar
      • Basic bar along the Amsterdam Avenue strip frequented by a young crowd for beer & football

  • The Abbey Pub

    • 237 W 105th Street
    • 4.2 Stars
    • Irish Pub
      • Decades-old Irish bar with a grub menu and a diverse neighborhood crowd gathering to drink and relax

  • Smoke Jazz & Supper Club

    • 2751 Broadway
    • 4.3 Stars
    • American
      • A cozy venue featuring jazz, blues, and latin acts

  • Gabriel’s Bar & Restaurant

    • 11 W 60th Street
    • 4.1 Stars
    • Italian
      • Upmarket Italian fare and sizable wine list in a polished setting that includes a private event room

  • The Tangled Vine Wine Bar and Kitchen

    • 434 Amsterdam Avenue
    • 4.1 Stars
    • Mediterranean
      • Candlelit wine bar offering a Mediterranean-style menu and a vino list focused on small labels

  • George Keeley

    • 485 Amsterdam Avenue
    • 4.4 Stars
    • Grill
      • A standard neighborhood bar with pub grub, darts, and a huge menu of craft brews and a beer club

  • Bar Boulud

    • 1900 Broadway
    • 4.0 Stars
    • French
      • Relaxed Parisian-style dining via chef Daniel Boulud with standout charcuterie and wines

Where To Eat

Jean Georges Restaurant

•  Upscale

  • Jean Georges

    • Monday-Sunday 11:45am-11pm
    • 1 Central Park West
    • 4.4 Stars
    • French
      • Sophisticated New French eatery boasting floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Central Park

  • Boulud Sud

    • Monday-Saturday 11:30am-12am
    • Sunday 11am-11pm
    • 20 W 64th Street
    • 4.4 Stars
    • Mediterranean
      • Refined Mediterranean dining via chef Daniel Boulud with convince to Lincoln Center

  • Per Se

    • Monday-Thursday 5:30pm-10pm
    • Friday-Sunday 11:30am-1:30pm, 5:30pm-10pm
    • 10 Columbus Circle
    • 4.6 Stars
    • American
      • Chef Thomas Keller’s New American restaurant offers luxe fixed-price menus, with Central Park views

  • Marea

    • Monday-Friday 12pm-11pm
    • Saturday-Sunday 11:30am-11pm
    • 240 Central Park South
    • 4.5 Stars
    • Italian
      • High-end Italian seafood and housemate pastas from Michael White in a chic Central Park South setting

  • The Mermaid Inn

    • Monday-Friday 5pm-10:30pm
    • Saturday-Sunday 11am-3pm, 5pm-10:30pm
    • 570 Amsterdam Avenue
    • 4.4 Stars
    • Seafood
      • Upscale-casual seafood spot with a Cape Cod vibe known for its lobster rolls and cheap oyster deal

  • Rosa Mexicano

    • Saturday-Tuesday 11:30am-11:30pm
    • Sunday-Monday 11:30am-10:30pm
    • 61 Columbus Avenue
    • 4.1 Stars
    • Mexican
      • Modern Mexican chain eatery known for table side guacamole and creative margaritas

  • Gari of Columbus

    • Friday-Tuesday 12pm-2pm, 5pm-10:45pm
    • Saturday-Sunday 12pm-10:45pm
    • Closed Monday
    • 370 Columbus Avenue
    • 4.3 Stars
    • Sushi
      • Branch of an upscale local sushi chain best known for its chef’s choice menu

 

Spiga Restaurant

• Budget Friendly

  • Big Daddy’s Upper West Side

    • Monday-Sunday 8am-11pm
    • 2454 Broadway
    • 3.6 Stars
    • American
      • A throwback to 1950’s style, this comfort food restaurant serves up standard diner fare

  • Spice Upper West Side

    • Sunday-Thursday 11am-11pm
    • Friday-Saturday 11am-12am
    • 435 Amsterdam Avenue
    • 3.8 Stars
    • Thai
      • Bustling chain offering generous portions of traditional Thai dishes and colorful cocktails

  • Shake Shack

    • Monday-Sunday 11am-11pm
    • 366 Columbus Avenue
    • 4.2 Stars
    • American
      • Gourmet burger chain with frozen custard

  • Isabella’s

    • Monday-Friday 11:30am-10:30pm
    • Saturday-Sunday 10am-11pm
    • 359 Columbus Avenue
    • 4.0 Stars
    • Mediterranean
      • Bustling Mediterranean-American bistro popular for its weekend brunch and sidewalk cafe

  • Spiga

    • Monday-Sunday 5:30pm-11pm
    • 200 W 84th Street
    • 4.2 Stars
    • Italian
      • This discreet trattoria serves traditional and inventive Italian dishes and rustic decor

  • Buceo 95

    • Monday-Sunday 5pm-12am
    • 201 W 95th Street
    • 4.4 Stars
    • Tapas
      • Small plates and diverse wines are served at this hip tapas bar with a relaxed vies and sidewalk seats

  • Freda’s Caribbean and Soul Cuisine

    • Monday-Sunday 12pm-10pm
    • 993 Columbus Avenue
    • 4.3 Stars
    • Caribbean
      • Homestyle Caribbean cuisine

  • Freddie and Pepper’s

    • Sunday-Thursday 11am-12am
    • Friday-Saturday 11am-1:30am
    • 303 Amsterdam Avenue
    • 4.4. Stars
    • Pizza
      • Counter-service pizza joint

  • Tom’s Restaurant

    • Sunday-Wednesday 6:30am-1:30am
    • Thursday 6:30am-12am
    • Friday and Saturday open 24 hours
    • 2880 Broadway
    • 3.6 Stars
    • American
      • Best local coffee shop famous for its recurring cameo on classic TV sitcom Seinfeld

Where To Sleep

Trump International Hotel & Tower

• Upscale

  • The Lucerne

    • Classy parkside hotel with a gym and a French-Mediterranean restaurant with sidewalk seating
    • 201 W 79th Street
    • 4.3 Stars
    • $147/night

  • The Excelsior Hotel

    • Refined hotel in a landmark building, boasting a fitness center, colorful eatery and elegant rooms
    • 45 W 81st Street
    • 4.1 Stars
    • $123/night

  • Trump International Hotel & Tower New York

    • High-end rooms, with floor-to-ceiling windows, plus 2 restaurants, a terrace and an indoor pool
    • 1 Central Park West
    • 4.4 Stars
    • $404/night

  • Hotel Beacon

    • Cozy boutique option with casually elegant rooms and suites that offer kitchenettes and free WIFI
    • 2130 Broadway
    • 4.4 Stars
    • $189/night

  • Mandarin Oriental

    • Luxurious rooms in a Manhattan high-rise with views and a posh spa, plus modern American dining and a bar
    • 80 Columbus Circle
    • 4.4 Stars
    • $645/night

Hotel Belleclaire

• Budget Friendly

  • Hotel Belleclaire

    • Ornate 1903 hotel with sleek, wood-floored rooms, plus a trendy lounge and free WIFI
    • 250 W 77th Street
    • 4 Stars
    • $71/night

  • The Belnord Hotel

    • Budget property on a residential street, with basic rooms that offer hardwood floors and free WIFI
    • 209 W 87th Street
    • 3.7 Stars
    • $76/night

  • NYLO New York City

    • Industrial-chic hotel with bright, modern rooms, 2 high-end eateries (Italian and Chinese) and a bar
    • 2178 Broadway
    • 4.2 Stars
    • $109/night

  • Marrakech Hotel-NYC

    • Vibrant budget hotel with a Moroccan theme that boasts modern rooms and a fireplace lounge
    • 2688 Broadway
    • 3.5 Stars
    • $84/night

  • Comfort Inn Central Park West

    • Budget lodging where basic rooms come with free WIFI and hot breakfast, plus an exercise room
    • 31 W 71st Street
    • 3.2 Stars
    • $67/night

  • Broadway Hotel & Hostel

    • Hostel with private and dorm-style rooms, plus stylish common areas, no curfew and a 24 hour reception
    • 230 W 101st Street
    • 3.5 Stars
    • $47/night

  • The Milburn Hotel

    • Simple budget property offering studios and suites with kitchenettes, plus free breakfast and WIFI
    • 242 W 76th Street
    • 4.1 Stars
    • $154/night

“The world is a book and those who do not travel only read one page” – St. Augustine

Guide To NYC: The Upper East Side

The Upper East Side

The Upper East side, is by far one of the most expensive neighborhoods in New York City. Some famous residents have included the Kennedy’s, the Rockefellers, Madonna, the Trumps, Bill Murray, and Ricky Martin. The list price of some of the apartments in this neighborhood can run up to at least 20 million dollars, with the median price being $975,000 for a 1 bedroom, 1.5 bathroom apartment. Since this is the more expensive neighborhood, expect stores, restaurants, and everything in between to just be more expensive than the rest of the city. Expect to find more stores like Christian Louboutin here than a Gap or a Forever 21 store. But that being said, it does contain a lot of great museums you can visit, and it is a quick hop over to central park. Tip: try to book a hotel room during the off season/shoulder season as I have found a number of 4 star hotels with great views for only around $100 compared to rising costs in the peak season which can go up to around $350.

What To Do

• Daytime

Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum

• Museums

  • Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum
    • 1071 5th Avenue
    • Monday- Sunday 10am-5:45pm
    • Closed Thursday, open until 7:45 on Saturday
    • $25 for adults
    • $18 for seniors and students
    • $0 for children
  • Metropolitan Museum of Art
    • 1000 5th Avenue
    • Monday-Friday 10am-5:30pm
    • Saturday & Sunday open 10am-9pm
    • $25 for adults
    • $17 for seniors
    • $12 for students
    • $0 for children
  • The Frick Collection
    • 1 E 70th Street
    • Tuesday-Saturday 10am-6pm
    • Sunday 11am-5pm & closed Monday
    • $20 for adults
    • $15 for seniors
    • $10 for students (with I.D.)
    • Pay-what-you-wish on Sunday from 11am-1pm
    • Children under 10 are not allowed in museum
  • The Jewish Museum
    • 1109 5th Avenue at 92nd Street
    • Saturday-Tuesday 11am-5:45pm
    • Closed Wednesday
    • Thursday 11am-8pm & Friday 11am-4pm
    • $15 for adults
    • $12 for seniors
    • $7.50 for students
    • $0 for children under 18
    • Free Saturdays
    • Pay-what-you-wish on Thursdays 5-8pm
  • Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum
    • 2 E 91st Street
    • Sunday-Friday 10am-6pm
    • Saturday 10am-9pm
    • $18 for adults
    • $12 for seniors
    • $9 for students
    • $0 for children under 18
    • Pay-what-you-wish on Saturday from 6-9pm
    • Save $2 per ticket buy purchasing tickets online

Anthropologie

• Shopping

  • Anthropologie
    • 1230 3rd Avenue
    • Monday- Sunday 10am-8pm
  • Barney’s New York
    • 660 Madison Avenue
    • Monday-Sunday 10am-8pm
  • Christian Louboutin
    • 967 Madison Avenue
    • Monday-Sunday 10am-8pm
  • H&M
    • 150 E 86th Street
    • Monday-Sunday 10am-9pm
  • Kate Spade
    • 789 Madison Avenue
    • Monday-Sunday 10am-7pm
  • Michael Kors
    • 667 Madison Avenue
    • Monday-Sunday 10am-8pm
  • The Apple Store
    • 767 5th Avenue
    • Monday-Sunday 12am-11:59pm
  • Tory Burch
    • 797 Madison Avenue
    • Monday-Sunday 10am-7pm

Saks Fifth Avenue

• Famous Streets

  • 5th Avenue (most expensive stores)
  • Madison Avenue (best shopping street)
  • Lexington Avenue
  • 59th Street
  • 72nd Street
  • 86th Street

 

Bar Prima

• Nightlife

  • Bemelman’s Bar (upscale piano bar)
    • The Carlyle Hotel’s sophisticated, upscale piano bar, adorned with Ludwig Bemelmans’ famed murals
    • 35 E 76th Street
    • Monday-Sunday 12pm-1am
  • The Auction House (lounge)
    • Swanky interior design and dim lighting make this intimate lounge a date-friendly spot
    • 300 E 89th Street
    • Sunday-Wednesday 7:30pm-2am
    • Thursday-Saturday 7:30pm-4am
  • Session 73 (music venue)
    • Music venue showcasing an array of bands playing blues, jazz, funk, salsa, and more
    • 1359 1st Avenue
    • Monday-Thursday 5pm-2am
    • Friday 5pm-4am
    • Saturday 12pm-4am
    • Sunday 12pm-12am
  • Caledonia Bar (Scottish Pub)
    • Cozy Scottish pub featuring an extensive whisky menu, tap beers and elevated bar bites
    • 1609 2nd Avenue
    • Sunday-Thursday 5pm-2am
    • Friday-Saturday 4pm-4am
  • The Pony Bar (draft microbrews)
    • This casual joint specializes in a rotating list of American draft microbrews plus a hearty pub fare
    • 1444 1st Avenue
    • Monday-Friday 3pm-4am
    • Saturday-Sunday 12pm-4am
  • Uva (wine & garden area seating)
    • A lively crowd flirts over small plates and wine at this rustic-looking spot with a back garden
    • 1486 2nd Avenue
    • Monday-Friday 4pm-2am
    • Saturday-Sunday 11am-2am
  • Manny’s on Second (sports bar)
    • A popular spot for sports fans with plenty of beer and Tvs, with pool and a live music space upstairs
    • 1770 2nd Avenue
    • Sunday-Wednesday 11:30am-1am
    • Thursday-Saturday 11:30am-2am
  • The East End Bar & Grill (Irish pub)
    • Dark-wood-lined Irish pub with simple bar eats, draft beer, and lots of TVs for sports fans
    • 1664 1st Avenue
    • Monday-Sunday 11:30am-4am
  • Bar Prima (Italian)
    • Wines by the glass served with meat, cheese and other gourmet small plates in a warm, woodsy-chic hub
    • 331 E 81st Street
    • Sunday-Wednesday 10am-12am
    • Thursday-Saturday 10am-1am

Where To Eat

Daniel

 

• Restaurants

  • Upscale

    • Daniel (French)
      • Daniel Boulud’s elegant French flagship where jackets are required and expense accounts come in handy
      • 60 E 65th Street
      • Monday-Saturday 5:30pm-10:30pm
      • Closed Sunday
      • 4.6 Stars
    • Candle 79 (Vegan/Vegetarian)
      • Deluxe eclectic vegan dishes made with organic produce and served in elegant surroundings
      • 154 E 79th Street
      • Monday-Sunday 12pm-3:30pm & 5:30pm-10:30pm
      • 4.5 Stars
    • Luke’s Lobster (Seafood)
      • Seafood counter serving Maine-style lobster rolls with toasted buns, plus clam chowder and microbrews
      • 242 E 81st Street
      • Monday-Sunday 11am-10pm
      • 4.3 Stars
    • Toloache
      • Mexican eatery with modern takes on the cuisine and an extensive tequila list in a colorful room
      • 166 E 82nd Street
      • Monday-Friday 5pm-11pm
      • Saturday-Sunda 11:30am-11pm
      • 4.4 Stars

Shake Shack

• Budget Friendly

  • Shake Shack (American)
    • Hip, counter-serve chain for gourmet takes on fast-food classics like burgers and frozen custard
    • 154 E 86th Street
    • Monday-Sunday 11am-11pm
    • 4.1 Stars
  • Jackson Hole (American)
    • This casual American eatery, known for its burgers, also serves breakfast, Tex-Mex, and more
    • 232 E 64th Street
    • Monday-Sunday 10:30am-12am
    • 4.0 Stars
  • San Matteo Pizza Espresso Bar (Italian)
    • This little pizzeria serves Neapolitan-style pies straight from the wood-burning oven
    • 1739 2nd Avenue
    • Monday-Thursday 5pm-11pm
    • Friday-Sunday 12pm-11pm
    • 4.6 Stars
  • La Tarte Flambee (French)
    • Petite, classic French eatery serving savory and sweet tarts, plus regional wine and beer
    • 1750 2nd Avenue
    • Monday-Friday 5pm-10pm
    • Saturday-Sunday 11am-11pm
    • 4.6 Stars
  • Chicken Festival (Peruvian)
    • Local Peruvian chain serving rotisserie chicken, ribs, classic entrees and more in a casual setting
    • 1584 1st Avenue
    • Monday-Sunday 11:30am-11pm
    • 3.9 Stars
  • Panera Bread (Sandwiches)
    • Counter-serve bakery/café chain serving sandwiches, salads, and more, known for its bread and free WIFI
    • 120 E 86th Street
    • Monday-Sunday 6am-10pm
    • 3.8 Stars
  • Marrakesh (Middle Eastern)
    • Decorated with Moroccan décor, this cozy restaurant delivers classic Mediterranean cuisine
    • 235 E 53rd Street
    • 4.0 Stars

Serendipity 3- Frrrozen Haute Chocolate

• Desserts

  • La Maison du Chocolat
    • Paris-based chocolatier offering fancy candies, plus macaroons, pastries and gift boxes
    • 1018 Madison Avenue
    • Monday-Saturday 10am-7pm
    • Sunday 12pm-6pm
    • 4.3 Stars
  • FP Patisserie
    • Upscale bakery serving items such as cakes, chocolates, and ice-cream
    • 1293 3rd Avenue
    • Monday-Sunday 8am-9pm
    • 4.1 Stars
  • Serendipity 3
    • Frozen hot chocolate stars on the ice-cream and sweets menu at this old-school dessert destination
    • 225 E 60th Street
    • Sunday-Thursday 11:30am-12am
    • Friday-Saturday 11:30-2am
    • 3.6 Stars
    • Home of the world’s most expensive sundaes, the Golden Opulence Sundae, and the Frrrozen Haute Chocolate. The Haute Chocolate costs a whopping $25,000 earning a title from the Guiness World Records for the world’s most expensive sundae! It consists of different mixes of cocoa and milk frozen to a slushy-like consistency. Then it is topped with 5 grams of edible 24karat gold, then whipped cream and more edible gold. Then on top of it all is a La Madeline au Truffe cherry. All of this is surrounded by a golden crown, a golden spoon, and gold and diamonds on the plate. Order time is 2 weeks. On the other hand, if you are looking for something less expensive and a smaller wait time, the Golden Opulence only costs $1000! What a bargain! It consists of a $300 Baccarat Harcourt crystal goblet (which is yours to keep), a 23-carat gold edible leaf, Chuao chocolate from Venezuela, a small bowl of Grand Passion Caviar, and a gilded sugar flower which takes eight hours to make. Of course, they offer many affordable desserts and foods there so be sure to check it out, you might just be able to catch someone ordering one of these sundaes and you can try to live vicariously through them, just don’t drool.
  • 2 Little Red Hens
    • Cozy, laid-back bake shop and café known for cupcakes in many flavors and custom cakes
    • 1652 2nd Avenue
    • Monday-Friday 7:30am-9pm
    • Saturday-Sunday 8am-10pm
    • 4.6 Stars
  • Sprinkles Cupcakes
    • Cheery bakery known for its rotating menu of cupcakes, ice cream and cookies. Some have a cupcake ATM
    • 780 Lexington Avenue
    • Monday-Saturday 9am-9pm
    • Sunday 10am-8pm
    • 4.2 Stars
  • Maison Laduree (best macaroons!)
    • Upscale bakery with Parisian origins, specializing in French macaroons in a number of flavors
    • 864 Madison Avenue
    • Monday-Saturday 9am-7pm
    • Sunday 10am-6pm
    • 4.3 Stars
  • Dylan’s Candy Bar
    • A wide array of candy plus ice-cream, cupcakes, and more is available at this upscale sugar emporium
    • 1011 3rd Avenue
    • Sunday-Thursday 10am-9pm
    • Friday-Saturday 10am-11pm
    • 4.1 Stars

Where To Sleep

The Surrey

• Upscale (prices for off-season/shoulder-season)

  • Four Seasons Hotel New York
    • Renowned upscale hotel offering luxurious rooms, and for drinks they have martinis, house-infused vodkas, and a light menu
    • 57 E 57th Street
    • 4.3 Stars
    • $695/night
  • The Surrey
    • Storied 1926 venue with contemporary style, boasting a rooftop garden, luxurious spa and Daniel Boulud eatery
    • 20 E 76th Street
    • 4.5 Stars
    • $401/night
  • The Plaza Hotel
    • Jet-set hl legendary for elegant lodging (with in-room iPads) and afternoon tea in the Palm Court
    • 768 5th Avenue
    • 4.3 Stars
    • $473/night
  • The Mark
    • Grand 1927 property with art deco inspired rooms, destination dining and a swanky bar
    • 25 E 77th Street
    • 4.6 Stars
    • $495/night
  • Hotel Plaza Athénée New York
    • Elegant hideaway with European atmosphere, antiques and murals, plus seasonal cuisine and a luxury spa
    • 37 E 64th Street
    • 4.3 Stars
    • $339/night
  • The Pierre, a Taj Hotel
    • Luxurious landmark, open since 1930 that features elegant rooms with high ceilings and marble bathrooms
    • 2 E 61st Street
    • 4.6 Stars
    • $420/night

The Bentley Hotel

• Budget Friendly (prices for off-season/shoulder season)

  • Courtyard New York Manhattan/Upper East Side
    • Modern hotel with an indoor pool, an on-site bistro and an exercise room, plus free WIFI
    • 410 E 92nd Street
    • 4.1 Stars
    • $103/night
  • The Franklin Hotel
    • Boutique property that offers cozy room with free WIFI and breakfast, plus a wine and cheese hour
    • 164 E 87th Street
    • 3.8 Stars
    • $143/night
  • Bentley Hotel
    • Chic property with a lobby bar, penthouse restaurant offering kosher dining and modern rooms
    • 500 E 62nd Street
    • 3.7 Stars
    • $107/night
  • The Marmara Manhattan
    • High rise hotel with apartment-like suites offering full kitchens, free WIFI and a fitness center
    • 301 E 94th Street
    • 4.1 Stars
    • $123/night
  • Renaissance New York Hotel 57
    • Sophisticated lodging with a French restaurant and a cocktail bar, plus an exercise room
    • 130 E 57th Street
    • 3.9 Stars
    • $114/night

“To travel is to live” – Hans Christian Andersen