"Towering over Central Park in the Time Warner Center building, the Mandarin Oriental's location is within striking distance of Fifth Avenue, Broadway, and Lincoln Center. That's all overshadowed by the view. The décor is typical of the Mandarin's modern, Asian-inflected style, the spa is excellent, and there's a pretty insane 75-foot lap pool."

"Since its original owners first broke ground on the building in 1907, The Plaza, with its opulent décor, luxe suites, and location right along the edge of Central Park, has been a monumental presence in the city. F. Scott Fitzgerald (a regular himself) staged Gatsby’s confrontation with Tom Buchanan in a Plaza suite, Frank Lloyd Wright famously lived there for several years while he oversaw the construction of the Guggenheim Museum, and, of course, there’s Eloise (she has her own suite which regularly hosts elaborate birthday sleepovers and such). All of the rooms—and some phenomenal suites—have been recently updated to reflect a more current, but no less classic, point of view. And for those looking for a trip back in time, tea at The Palm Court is where you want to be."

"This beloved Ritz-Carlton outpost in Midtown has recently undergone an extensive renovation, and the results are breathtaking. Staying in the elegant yet inviting updated suites and guestrooms 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. "

"In a neighborhood that's primarily serviced by grand, historic hotels, the just-opened Park Hyatt offers an experience that's very modern. The Christian de Portzamparc-designed skyscraper, One 57, sits directly across from Carnegie Hall and offers some of the biggest rooms, square-footage-wise, in the city. Meanwhile, the contemporary interiors by design firm Yabu Pushelberg strike the perfect balance between modernism and comfort. Bonus: the 13,000-square foot Spa Nalai, which is divided into a fitness room, 65-foot lap pool, and six sleek suites offering everything from treatments on a sand quartz bed (the only one of it’s kind in NYC) to cupping."

"Although first built in 1898, the Royalton didn't burst onto the scene really until 1988, when Ian Schrager and Philippe Starck made it one of their projects and decked it out with daring, experimental design that drew a very trendy crowd. In 2007, the hotel underwent its first renovation since Starck's initial vision, with a redesign led by goop favorites Roman & Williams; the dark, moody lobby epitomizes their signature warm, modern style. Meanwhile, the rooms upstairs (larger ones have actual wood-burning fireplaces in the winter) are crisp and light, with white bedding and mirrored bathroom tiles. If you're staying in Midtown but need to be south of all the grand dames off Central Park, it's a great pick."

"Completed in 1993, the I.M. Pei-designed Four Seasons building was one of the most iconic additions to the New York skyline in the '90s; at 54 stories, it's also one of the tallest hotels in the city. Despite its location just steps from Madison Avenue in the most bustling part of Midtown, it feels like a quiet reprieve. If you're feeling baller, inquire about the Ty Warner penthouse on the top floor. "

"This is not your regular neighborhood mani/pedi spot. These low-key spaces are outfitted with mid-century modern pieces (you won't find any oversized massage chairs) and the technicians are incredibly well-trained. They do kiddie manicures, at-home appointments, and best of all, it's open late. The original is in Tribeca."

"This is the place to come for a truly special treat (and it's great for guys, too). The Peninsula has an enormous spa facility with a pool, a fitness center, sundeck, and a tea lounge, not to mention 12 treatment rooms. The treatment menu is vast and runs the gamut from facials to ayurvedic massage, couple's and pre-natal treatments. It's a real splurge but these are some of the best treatments the city has to offer. Prices start at $45 and go up into the $1000's (Yeesh!). "

"Chef Jonathan Waxman was one of Alice Waters' protégés, and after stints at Chez Panisse and Michael's in Santa Monica, he was one of the first to bring that hyper-fresh, California-style cooking to New York. His new restaurant at 1 Hotel Central Park resurrects the name of his first-ever New York operation, and brings that same seasonal cuisine to a spacious corner space with simple, Scandinavian-style design. Because it’s connected to the hotel, there are several private rooms available for events and celebrations as well. Obviously, get the chicken."

"COVID-19 update: Open for socially distant shopping and pickup. 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.) COVID-19 disclaimer: We are working hard to keep our listings as up to date as possible (deliveries, outdoor dining, etc.), but given the evolving nature of local COVID-19 restrictions, we recommend double-checking the information in this guide with any business you plan on visiting. Also, please note that we have not vetted any businesses listed within our guides for their compliance with applicable safety regulations."

"You know Baccarat, the lavish, storied crystal maker. But do you know Baccarat, the lavish, storied hotel in the heart of Midtown? The building it’s housed in is, unsurprisingly, looks like an ice cube. Inside, once you get up the elevators, it’s all cascading chandeliers, fairytale-looking wallpaper, slick marble, and sexy dim lighting. Speaking of marble, the indoor pool has a checkerboard bottom, which combines with the semi-private cabanas, has a way of transporting you to France the second you dip your toe. Maybe it’s the tufted fainting couches, maybe it’s the four-poster beds and crisp white sheets, but the rooms and suites are somehow minimal and over-the-top at the same time. And the spa? Yeah, it’s La Mer."

"You know Baccarat, the lavish, storied crystal maker. But do you know Baccarat, the lavish, storied hotel in the heart of Midtown? The building it’s housed in is, unsurprisingly, looks like an ice cube. Inside, once you get up the elevators, it’s all cascading chandeliers, fairytale-looking wallpaper, slick marble, and sexy dim lighting. Speaking of marble, the indoor pool has a checkerboard bottom, which combines with the semi-private cabanas, has a way of transporting you to France the second you dip your toe. Maybe it’s the tufted fainting couches, maybe it’s the four-poster beds and crisp white sheets, but the rooms and suites are somehow minimal and over-the-top at the same time. And the spa? Yeah, it’s La Mer."

"The spa itself oozes elegance with plush chairs, momentous flower bouquets, and dramatic lighting fixtures. The facials are just as extravagant: During the Ultimate Platinum Rare treatment, one aesthetician massages your face with firming creams, while another simultaneously works on your feet. The epitome of over-the-top pampering is the $1,250 White Caviar Illuminating Facial that smooths, intensely hydrates, and lifts with turbocharged, nourishing caviar extracts."

"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 bread-making classes at their Chelsea Market location where you can learn how to make everything from foccacia to thin-crust pizza."

"We’ve been fans of the 1 Hotel group since it first set up shop in Miami; New York quickly followed with two locations—one near Central Park and the other on a stretch of rapidly changing Brooklyn Heights waterfront. Blurring the line between luxury and sustainability, every corner of the space is considered in terms of design, from the locally made tables to the greenery and reclaimed wood walls. The rooms are minimal but comfortable, outfitted with hemp-blend mattresses and organic cotton sheets. Another major draw is the food: Chef Jonathan Waxman’s beloved NYC establishment Jams was reprised here, and he hands down serves one of the city’s best kale salads and squid ink rigatoni. "

"The first thing that makes this fast-casual Midtown spot stand out is the beautiful space—the tiny sliver of a restaurant is sleek and modern, with a dark wood bar and a concrete checkout counter. From the service counter in the back, you can combine a selection of Middle Eastern appetizers and mains (which you'll eat over rice), combining elements like chicken shawarma, hummus, za'atar flatbread, lamb keba, and more. It's a refreshing alternative to the make-your-own-salad daily lunch grind. "

"If you're meeting friends here keep in mind that there are actually two Kaffee 1668's in Tribeca, just a handful of blocks from each other on the north and south sides of the neighborhood. If they're looking to own an area, they've certainly done it, as it's the best spot south of Canal for an almond milk latte (or fresh juice). Another boon: There's plenty of seating and WiFI, too, particularly at the location in upper Tribeca."

"It's been over a decade since chef-slash-restaurateur, Rainer Becker, opened the original Zuma in London. In that time, Zuma has grown into a global family of restaurants, but hasn't lost any of the magic that makes it such a favorite. The décor at the bi-level Madison Avenue outpost—the newest of the bunch—is modern through and through while the plating is elaborate and artful, which is fitting considering the menus is, well…elaborate and artful: vegetable dishes from the robata grill, light-as-air tempura, and the freshest sashimi."

"While working at Momofuku in the early days, Christina Tosi—office manager at the time—started baking the occasional treat for the team. And her insanely sweet, totally novel confections quickly took off. Soon, she had her own shop next door (and now many more in NYC) where she and her staff crank out ridiculously complex layered cakes, the aptly named Compost cookies, and unusual soft-serve flavors—all simultaneously nostalgic and unlike anything you've ever tasted. "

"The NYC Ippudo locations are the only branches in the United States. The noodles are hand-pulled on-site and cooked perfectly al dente. They're known for the super-flavorful tomkotso version, but we love the Miso Ramen and pork-free Wasabi 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 sit, so be prepared to wait. The other location is in the East Village."

"This is a great Theater District option, as evidenced by the friendly wait staff (many of whom are cued up for their big break on Broadway) and great cocktails (hilariously named after Tony Award winners—we like the Patti Lupomegranate and the Orange Julius Andrews). The dinner menu focuses on American cuisine and changes seasonally to accommodate locally sourced vegetables, but the brunch is also really great."

"Exposed wooden beams on the ceilings and plentiful bar-height tables and chairs make this a cozy, yet lively hideout on frigid nights (both the Tribeca and Midtown locations are decorated in the same warm, rustic style). With plenty of small plates like guacamole, ceviche, and tacos, the menu is all about traditional Mexican cuisine. In keeping with the theme, the beverage program offers a long list of tequilas, which can always be ordered straight. "

"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."

"Considering the neon-covered exterior and old-school name, the atmosphere inside Brooklyn Diner is surprisingly fancy—after all, it's helmed by the award-winning Chef de Oliveira. 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."

"Crate & Barrel's sister store is full of modern, really well-priced furniture items and home accents, making it a great stop when in need of a few practical pieces for a quick home upgrade. We always stock up on their glass and dishware—they're great, easily replenished, kitchen basics. There's also a location in Soho."

"Dig Inn’s philosophy is “farm to counter,” which means that they serve sustainably sourced, usually local food in a casual setting and in a price range that makes it a reasonable option for everyday lunch. The salads and the market plates are easy to take back to the office (or home for dinner), and the menu changes with the seasons, so you won't ever be bored with the offerings. There are locations in Morningside Heights, Union Square, Tribeca, and in Midtown on 52nd, Madison, and 55th, in Lower Manhattan on Pine, Liberty, and Broad St., in Nomad, and off Madison Square Park."

"In the past few years, Midtown has undergone a subtle evolution from the land of corporate offices and tourists to a neighborhood New Yorkers actually want to hang out in. It’s all thanks to a smattering of stylish new cafés, restaurants, and hotels. The Whitby, which opened last spring, has been a big part of the revival. The property is part of British-based Firmdale Hotels (the brand’s downtown Crosby Street Hotel is a fashion-world favorite) and displays founder and designer Kit Kemp’s signature aesthetic—bright, boldly patterned fabrics; floor-to-ceiling windows; colorful floral headboards and wallpaper; and tasteful, contemporary artwork everywhere. Fittingly for a hotel with roots in the UK, afternoon tea is a major draw, and this one offers a selection of gluten- and dairy-free options. "

"COVID-19 update: Temporarily closed. Esca (the name means "bait" in Italian) is Mario Batali and Dave Pasternack's take on classic Italian seafood; the menu is full of inventive and unusual crudos and amazing shrimp and shellfish pasta dishes. Smack in the middle of the theatre district, it’s an excellent choice before a show; there are plenty of light fish entrees that won't send you to sleep before intermission. "

"Goop HQ will enthusiastically vouch for the fact that Schnippers (the original outpost is conveniently located on the first floor of the New York Times building) has the best chicken fingers in the city. While kids go wild for their fries and milkshakes, it’s a pretty great indulgence if you’re working late and need a convenient sugar bomb. They also have locations in Flatiron, Uptown, and in the Financial District."

"This go-to Chinese takeout spot remains virtually unchanged since it first opened in 1971; it has a die-hard following (particularly on Christmas), as they excel at all of the classic dishes, like Peking duck, beef with broccoli, and egg rolls. "

"This classic, no-frills Szechwan spot is a great lunch option if you work in Bryant Park—just remember to make a reservation, as the wait can get a little lengthy on weekdays. Must-orders are the dan dan noodles and mapo tofu. "

"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 it's name suggests, the oysters are particularly epic."

"The Regency's Bar was traditionally known as a breakfast option, but after an extensive remodel and re-staffing of the kitchen last year, it's become a solid option for lunch and dinner as well. The menu is pretty all-American so you can't go wrong with anything, but the grilled squid is gorgeously presented (on a bed of quinoa—a surprisingly good combination) and the dry-aged rib-eye, which is meant for two people, is perfectly cooked."

"The Shop on the first floor of the Andaz in Midtown is actually divided into two spaces—a tiny shop in the front, and a cozy 38-seat, sit-down restaurant in the back, where you'll find a great lunch and dinner, with a seasonal menu that leans heavily on produce sourced in New York State. The adorable spot up front serves Blue Bottle coffee and Dough Doughnuts (which are otherwise only available at Dough's outpost in Brooklyn)."

"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 look for spaces in some of the city’s most bustling centers—Chelsea Market and Rockefeller Center. It’s wise, because they’re thriving, and offering a great array of books, toys, games, and cards in the process."

"This Manhattan mini-chain specializes in healthful, Mediterranean food and is particularly convenient for lunch if you work in the area. Unlike the delis and salad bars you’ll find on every corner, the focus here is on mostly organic, impeccably sourced foods, meaning there's no mystery surrounding the origin or freshness of your salad, sandwich, or soup."

"Located right off the lobby of the Chatwal Hotel in Times Square, the feeling here is fun and clubby, with art deco light fixtures and red leather booths. The food (Chef/Owner Geoffrey Zakarian is one of the judges on Chopped) is great for a multi-course meal, but it's an even better choice for cocktails and small bites by the bar. "

"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."

"This new development in the formerly sleepy and overlooked West 40's gathers some of the city's top food purveyors like Blue Bottle Coffee, Ample Hills Creamery, and Ivan Ramen Slurp Shop, under one roof, with a stand and bar-seating at each. It's worth trekking to this desolate part of town purely for Chef Seamus Mullen's tapas concept, El Colmado."

"If you have a stationery or sticker addict on your hands, they’re going to freak. This Japanese mega-store facing Bryant Park is one of our favorite midtown oases, and a solid option for a quick sushi cafeteria-style lunch. There’s an entire floor dedicated to Japanese manga comic books, a solid selection of design books and international fashion magazines, but the basement is the main draw. There, aisle after aisle is stuffed with an incredible array of Japanese stationery goods—adorable pens, pencils, notebooks, and erasers to last a lifetime. "

"A meal at this Japanese restaurant, whether for lunch (the only time you can have their incredible ramen), or dinner, is a truly artful experience, and an introduction to a slower, more mindful style of eating. For one, it’s Shojin cuisine, vegetarian food that’s served in Zen Buddhist temples throughout Japan. And for two, the cooked dishes are beautifully presented, in traditional ceramics that are sometimes hundreds of years old. Both lunch and dinner are tasting menu only, so it’s worth it to take the time to enjoy it."

"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. For a relative bargain, try their $38 prix fixe lunch."

"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 (starting at $150) and organized by preparation (almost raw, barely touched, lightly cooked, etc.). The private room here is upstairs and has a separate entrance. Interior Photo: Daniel Krieger"

"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. The original and main location is in the West Village."

"Marea serves impeccable Italian seafood in an elegant, grown-up space with large round tables, grey and beige leather chairs, and a stunning book-matched Egyptian alabaster bar with cage-wire stools, which complements the simple formality of the dining room. This is one of the few places that still takes it slow: An average meal takes two to three hours, but not in a painful, drawn out way. They have one of the most extensive crudo menus out there and they are all innovative, refreshing, and delicious. We also love the homemade seafood-focused pastas (they were doing the sea urchin thing way before it was hip). It’s definitely a place (and price-point) for a special occasion meal, but if you’re looking for a great deal, try them for lunch—the business lunch with appetizer and main course is set at just $45. "

"At both of Michael McCarty’s restaurants—in Santa Monica and New York—the givens are pretty much the same: Light French 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, fried zuchinni, 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."

"It won’t come as a surprise that this restaurant—housed in the Museum of Modern Art—comes with a view of the museum’s sculpture garden. But if you move your gaze down to your plate, you’ll find Chef Abram Bissell’s Michelin-starred food. Aside from the Michelin starred dining experience, we love coming here just for a drink at the bar, which is one of the city’s most elegant, as a long white marble slab punctuates the spectacular space."

"Michael Chow made his name in the London and Hollywood art and music worlds before opening in New York on East 57th Street in 1979, where his restaurant quickly became one of the city’s main touchstones for the art world. Andy Warhol, Keith Haring, David Bowie, Madonna, and John Lennon were just a few of the restaurant’s faithful patrons (watch Julian Schnabel’s Basquiat to get a sense of the scene). To this day, a meal at Mr Chow’s is about more than the elegantly served (and expensive) Chinese food. The new outpost in Tribeca is just as beautiful and scene-y—an Andy Warhol portrait of Chow in the dining room sets the tone."

"This beloved restaurant in The Parker Meridien does breakfast and brunch insanely well, offering an encyclopedia's worth of offerings from potato latkes to perfectly fluffy pancakes. It's a big hit with kids."

"In its former life as the home to America's first professional theatrical club, the Lambs, this Midtown hotel was a hangout for the entertainment world’s brightest stars, like Irving Berlin and Fred Astaire, to name a couple. Today, it’s The Chatwal, a Luxury Collection Hotel—one of Manhattan’s under-the-radar gems, where its relatively small size (just seventy-six guest rooms) makes it a good choice for visitors who are turned off by the busyness of the megahotels nearby. The interior is an ode to its Art Deco history, which has the delightful feel of a glamorous ocean liner, and we love the fun little details (like backgammon sets, playing cards, and copies of The Great Gatsby) in the rooms. "

"The owners of this elegant jewelry store in the Sherry-Netherland Hotel 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."

"T. Anthony is somewhat of a Park Avenue institution, selling simple, luxurious luggage and leather goods. They've been making custom bags—in iconic red, black, and purple—for the well-traveled since the '40s, including Jackie O., Marilyn Monroe, and John Lennon. We love the basic duffles and rollers."

"The MoMA gift shop—which is really more of a full-fledged design store—is incredibly well-done, making it one of those rare spots that's a one-stop resource for everyone on your list come the holidays. Here you can purchase everything from Issey Miyake's architectural Lucent tote, to an Eames chair, to a Yoshitomo Nara doggy radio, to obscure titles you’re unlikely to find anywhere else."

"This Japanese export has been quietly opening outposts all over LA and NYC (the tiny to-go kiosk inside JFK's international terminal is particularly genius), though Muji goods have been shoppable at MoMA for years. The stores are simple in both concept and aesthetic: After all the brand is predicated on the idea that the best design is the least design. Minimalist fixtures and neutral color palettes are used to display the most well-designed utilitarian goods—housewares, t-shirts, stationery, and more—that are as functional as they are generic, which allows them to fit in every home regardless of sensibility. "

"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."

"Though Chef Yasuda has left the helm, this continues to be a truly elegant and transcendent omakase, in a gorgeous and simple wood-paneled space in Midtown. Interestingly, the sushi is shaped specifically for the size of your mouth. "

"The garment district isn’t exactly known for a stellar specialty coffee scene, so the fact that there are two excellent options a mere block from each other is pretty great. Culture Espresso is the original, but it’s snug, which means you might have to wait for a seat. The newer and significantly bigger Culture 36 is ideal for getting stuff done, if you don’t mind the semiloud music. Both locations brew Heart Coffee Roasters coffee and serve Culture's famous house-baked chocolate chip cookies (they sell out fast, so come on the earlier side). "

"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."

"This is one of few places around that roasts their own beans, which are responsibly sourced from all over the globe. Formerly Toby’s Estate, all Partners locations (the other four are spread out between Williamsburg, Bushwick, the West Village, and Flatiron) are consistently simple and comfortable in design—think communal tables, couches, and excellent lighting. Yes, it’s a great set-up for work, but also worth stopping by on your day off for a simple and hearty lunch. (They also offer a random assortment of classes in everything from art to cupping.)"

"Ask someone with a gluten allergy about the Little Beet, and you're bound to get an earful of praise—the entire, delicious menu is celiac-friendly. Chef Franklin Becker was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes when he was in his 20's and devoted the rest of his career to rebuilding his cooking style; the menu is full of light, healthy meals with an emphasis on lean protein and tons of vegetables. The seasonal menu items are always a sure bet, as are the make-your-own-plate options. There are two other locations, on 50th and Park Ave."

"By night, the Rose Bar comes alive, often with the who’s who of New York’s music, art, and fashion scenes thanks to a packed roster of cultural events. But we love to dip into the blush-colored bar for a cocktail in the early afternoon, when the scene is more mellow. Sinking into those pink velvet seats and simply admiring the beautiful rosy décor after a long day running around the city is—in our book—a form of therapy. Walls are heavy with works from the twentieth century’s heavy hitters like Richard Prince, Keith Haring, and Jean-Michel Basquiat, and in the depths of a New York winter, when the limestone fireplace is lit, there is nowhere cozier for an afternoon cocktail."

"COVID-19 update: Open with a pre-booked ticket for an allocated time slot. Despite its popularity, which translates into lines around the block on any given day, MoMA is still one of our favorite places in the city. Whenever we come to visit, whether to walk the permanent collection or to check out a new, contemporary exhibition, we always spend some time in the white marble-clad sculpture garden, a rare respite in the middle of bustling midtown. The MoMA has plans to expand into what was previously the Folk Art Museum next door: Headed up by architectural practice Diller Scofidio + Renfro, it will certainly be as artfully conceived as the famous 2002-2004 revamp. COVID-19 disclaimer: We are working hard to keep our listings as up to date as possible (deliveries, outdoor dining, etc.), but given the evolving nature of local COVID-19 restrictions, we recommend double-checking the information in this guide with any business you plan on visiting. Also, please note that we have not vetted any businesses listed within our guides for their compliance with applicable safety regulations. "

"Since the '80s Pace/MacGill has been showing some of the best artists in modern and contemporary photography. As part of The Pace Gallery family, the standards for work and placement here are as high as they come. "

"With several distinct lounge spaces, the rooftop at the Kimberly Hotel, which is a full 30 stories above the street, has retractable glass walls and a glass ceiling that make it wonderful for all seasons. With a classica New York view of the Chrysler building (specially magical at night when the building is all lit up), it's an impressive place to bring out-of-town guests."

"Salon de Ning is a bit of a franchise for the Peninsula—there are bars by the same name in their Hong Kong, Shanghai, and Manila hotels as well. Like its sister restaurants across the Pacific, New York's version is decorated in a subtle Asian style, with potted bamboo trees and Chinese screens. The cocktails are pricey even by New York standards, but the Peninsula's exceptional service (including some very accommodating bartenders) more than makes up for the expense. "

"The Refinery Hotel in Bryant Park has a warm, industrial interior style—an aesthetic that's probably best exemplified by the stunning rooftop, decorated with wooden cupolas (complete with porch swings), round string lights, and plenty of plants and greenery. A retractable glass roof allows for ample open-air space in the summer, but fireplaces keep things cozy in the winter. Even from inside, there's a stunning, close-up view of the Empire State Building."

"Roman & Williams executed a beautiful refresh of Philippe Starck's iconic first hotel back in 2007, and it continues to exude their signature moody style, with dark woods, brass fixtures, and plenty of leather. It's great for after-work drinks when you actually need to hear the conversation."

"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."

"Located right on Rockefeller Plaza, Morrell & Company has one of the longest by-the-glass wine lists in the city (there are over 100 options). While the bar is a nice place for after-work drinks, they also have a phenomenal shop, with a stock of hard-to-find wines from around the world. For aspiring oenophiles, they offer group wine education courses."

"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 actually their second location."

"Even those who are not big on dessert can appreciate the paper-thin layered crêpe cakes that made Lady M. Confections so famous—not too sweet, and with a delicate consistency that literally melts in your mouth. The interiors of all nine international locations are kept strictly stark-white, with the cakes displayed like precious jewels on tiny podiums: there’s the Checkers cake, a chocolate gâteau, tarts, and so much more. While the original outpost is on the UES, the two Midtown boutiques are a blessing when a 3pm sugar craving kicks in. "

"COVID-19 update: Temporarily closed (though some vendors are offering takeout). The designer behind the Plaza's food hall is Todd English, who kept things upscale and fancy (if a little bit overly branded) for the venerable New York venue. Home to stands like Lady M, Epicerie Boulud, Luke's Lobster, and Sabi Sushi, it's a great, quick lunch stop if you're heading into Central Park. Pick up dessert at Billy's Bakery or William Greenberg—the former makes amazing black and whites."

"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."

"This fusion joint mixes Mexican cooking techniques with American barbecue, resulting in some unique twists on old favorites, like shrimp jambalaya enchiladas, or smoky carnitas. It’s a great spot for a quick lunch or dinner to-go, but we like it best for happy hour: Order some margaritas (or one of their excellent bourbon-based cocktails), Mexican corn, and the guacamole, which is served with watermelon radish chips. There are a few other locations around the city, but we're partial to the Times Square and Flatiron locations. "

"These grilled cheese aficionados have four locations in Manhattan—with two outposts in Midtown (50th Street between 6th Avenue and 7th Avenue, and 8th Avenue between 52nd Street and 53rd Street) along with one in Lower Manhattan, they pretty much have the lunch rush figured out. (Pro tip: They have a slick online ordering system that lets you skip the 1pm line.) Those with gluten allergies will appreciate that all of their indulgent, melty sandwiches are available with gluten-free bread. There's also a location in NoMad."

"If you're hoping to experience some of Thomas Keller's Napa magic but don’t have the time or the budget for a full meal in Yountville, this isn't a bad choice, as you can get all the baked goods for which he's famous (it's perfect for breakfast on the go). There are outposts in New York (Columbus Circle and Rockefeller Plaza), LA (Beverly Hills) and Vegas (The Venetian). Don't leave without a big box of the famous macarons."

"It's nearly impossible to walk out of this shop empty-handed: For one, it's incredibly cheap and for two, we can't get enough of their minimal, modern clothing that subscribes to market trends without being a slave to them. Much like Zara and Cos, you can mix their clothing in pretty seamlessly with your higher-end splurges. There's also a Soho location."