Particular Travel Guide: New York City

New York City has been part of my life for as long as I can remember. I’ve been going for over 30 years, and every trip somehow feels familiar and brand new at the same time. It’s a city I return to for people I love, for work, for wandering on my own, and for moments that don’t need an agenda. This guide isn’t about seeing everything in one trip. It’s about the places I keep coming back to, the neighborhoods that still pull me in, and the small details that make New York feel like New York to me.

Over the years, I’ve learned that New York rewards curiosity. It’s in the quiet coffee shops tucked between busy blocks, the restaurants you stumble into because the light looks good through the window, and the walks that turn into hours without you realizing it. This guide is a collection of those moments. The places I recommend to friends, the ones I save for myself, and the reasons I never get tired of coming back.

Where to Eat

The Mark Hotel, Bar Kaspia - Order the Day Dreaming cocktail. It’s light, fresh, and just the right amount of unexpected. I love a good tequila drink and this one nails it.

The Polo Bar - The burger is iconic but the real star is the hot popovers they bring as soon as you sit down. Buttery, crisp, dream-worthy.

Bond Street at Hudson Yards - The tuna tataki and spicy crispy shrimp are must-orders. I never leave without them.

Black Seed Bagels - A New York essential. Simple, classic, and consistently good.

Mama’s Too - Come for the deep dish pizza. Stay for the chicken parm sandwich.

RedFarm - Dumplings are the move here. A longtime favorite and always a hit.

The Portrait Bar, The Fifth Avenue Hotel - A burger and martini in a beautiful room. Effortless and always a good idea.

Faicco’s Italian Specialties - Order the Italian sub. Classic, messy, perfect.

Danny’s and Coop - For a classic cheesesteak, done properly.

What to Do

Brent Neale Studio - A jewelry lover’s dream. You’ll need an appointment, but it’s worth the effort.

The Shoe Floor at Bergdorf’s - Truly a destination in itself.

Tracy Anderson Studio - I swear by the Multi-Task Band class, but once in a while I splurge on a private. It’s grounding and energizing all at once.

Morning walks in Central Park - There’s nothing like starting your day with a stroll through the park and a coffee from Viand on Madison. If I’m in the mood, a run through the park is even better.

Printemps, Wall Street - Shopping heaven. The shoe and beauty sections are incredible, plus there’s no shortage of bars and champagne carts to make a day of it.

Where To Stay