The Hit List / New York City Places to go and things to see in the city that (supposedly) never sleeps.
The day after Christmas can be a little bit of let down. So, it’s the perfect time to plan a little weekend getaway to that ever-inspiring city—NYC. We’ve compiled our list of places to eat, drink, and hang. Save this list, book a ticket, and thank us next time you’re in town.
Raoul's
It doesn’t have to be new to be great. This classic Soho restaurant has been around since the 1970s. Raoul’s has always-outstanding French food and a bustling Parisian vibe to match. And, we’ll let you in on a secret menu item—order the steak au poivre burger at the bar, but get there early because they only serve twelve each night.
ZZ's Clam Bar
This tiny, but high-profile spot (think: bouncer at the door, famous rappers drinking and dining) is not your average clam bar. We recommend splurging on the uni toast and ordering one of their over-the-top drinks—some involve smoked whole coconuts!
Love Adorned
This Nolita shop has an insane selection of vintage jewelry, jewelry for the “alternative” bride, and a cool mix of unexpected gifts from abroad, like Japanese scarves and bandanas. You’ll also find outposts of Love Adorned in Santa Monica and Amagansett.
Le Turtle
This recently-opened spot comes from the guys behind The Smile and Freeman’s, two of the city’s perennial go-tos for good atmosphere and great food. You’ve gotta order the chicken. It comes with semi-scary chicken leg, but the deliciousness is worth it.
The Evolution Store
Need a stuffed squirrel? This store sells lots of taxidermy, science and natural history collectibles and artifacts you won’t find anywhere else. Look here when you need to buy something for that eccentric friend who already has everything. They just moved to a bigger, location on Broadway to show off more of their goods.
Café Henrie
This new-ish coffee shop on the Lower East Side is owned by Swedish street art star, Andre Saraiva (his tag is Mr. A). He’s well-known for owning Le Baron, a now-defunct, but much-loved club in Paris, so Cafe Henrie’s cool vibe is no surprise. Stop by and Instagram your avocado toast.
The Beekman
This new Thompson hotel in the Financial District is housed inside a landmark Queen Anne building built in 1881. Recently renovated, this space is absolutely stunning. Grab a New Year’s cocktail in their gorgeous Bar Room and take in the jaw-dropping nine-story atrium.
The Picture Room + Goods for the Study
Make a trip to these two shops, conveniently located next to each other on Mulberry Street in Nolita. Both are owned by McNally Jackson, one of the city’s best independent bookstores. At The Picture Room, peruse rare posters, prints and ephemera and then go to Goods for the Study to shop for beautiful notebooks and cool Japanese scissors.
Charlie Bird
Check out this SoHo spot for always-amazing food and great tunes. Order their incredibly tasty farro salad and you’ll be dreaming of it for days after.
Dover Street Market
London’s beloved DSM landed in NYC a few years ago. Shop here for an eclectic mix of high-end fashion. (You’ll find lots of Comme des Garcon, as the store owner is designer Rei Kawakubo.) Even if not you’re not in the market for avant garde fashion, it’s still a fun spot to check out. Grab a bite at their outpost of Paris’ famous Rose Bakery on the ground floor.
Pietro Nolita
This adorable new cafe in Nolita is decked out in all pink. It’s no surprise that the look is unique, as Pietra was started by two fashion world veterans. Come for the decor, but stay for the healthy, seasonal Italian food.
Maman
Head to the original location of this chic French cafe and bakery on Centre Street for a real treat. The highlight for us is their selection of sweets. We boldly claim that Maman has the best chocolate chip cookie ever!
Decibel
Decibel is a somewhat hard-to-find sake bar in the East Village. Be prepared for tight quarters, goth waitresses and Rolling Stones music blaring over the speakers. But with over 100 types of sake, this is feels as close to Japan as you’re going to get.
