Okay, let’s lay down some ground rules. It’s called the City, not Manhattan. And under no circumstances should you say New York City. Yes, we know some New Yorkers take things a little too far and say they’re from the city even when they’re visiting relatives in Tulsa, where the moniker really loses its shine.
Whatever you’re trying to do while you’re in town, do it quick and get out of the way. That goes for ordering at the deli (where do you think the Nazi idea for soup came from?), riding the escalator, crossing the street, or buying a newspaper. Things are faster paced here and people like it that way. This city will eat you alive if you don’t prepare properly.
But even with all the millions of people running around, you can still mingle with the craziness and fit right in. That’s because everyone is too busy to notice as they rush to the subway, race to catch the ferry, or fight for a cab. New York has a “kick you in the teeth” attitude that can make you feel satisfied when you actually accomplish something. And you know you earned it because you just navigated through all the craziness. Here’s a local tip, so don’t sound like a tourist when you’re downtown: It’s pronounced “How-Stin” even though it’s spelled like Houston. SoHo means south of Houston. Now discover NoHo for yourself.
Immerse yourself in the city, with all it has to offer, and you’ll understand why it’s unlike anywhere else in the world. The diversity, the energy, the attitude: you can find anything in the City that never (NEVER) sleeps. There’s always a new neighborhood to explore, another restaurant to try, another club to dance to, and another bar to drink at.
Dreams have come true here since the first settlers and you can feel that same spirit as you walk through the streets of each neighborhood. Where else can you see millionaires mingling seamlessly with the working class? From munching on their morning bagels to singing along with Frank Sinatra at the end of the Yankees game, New Yorkers share local pride. Maybe it’s because they all have one thing in common: They all lived in that 300-square-foot studio and paid $2,000 a month for it. And why does everyone say its address like it’s the most majestic place in the known universe?
NYC was built (and still works) on its neighborhoods. You will find that each one has its own character, so go out and explore. The people from all walks of life are really what make this place so special.
Restaurants
New York has so many kinds of food, from American to Japanese, from French to Asian, you can find it all in this city. Where else can you walk down the street and smell the aromas of the countless food stalls that line the streets and the kitchens that fill them every night? The diversity of New York City is unmatched by any other. Here are some of our favorites:
Gascogne – If you can’t make it to Paris, be sure to find your way to this charming French bistro in the city’s Chelsea district. With French-speaking waiters, indoor and outdoor seating, and culinary delights, this place may make you forget you’re in New York! Snails and foie gras are always a delight! Gascuña is located on Eighth Avenue. (Between Calles 17 and 18).
B-Bar and Grill (formerly Bowery Bar): A popular summer spot with an indoor/outdoor atmosphere, B-Bar is great for summer drinks and patio dining. The venue is known for attracting A-listers and the occasional celebrity. The grill offers delicious appetizers and the popcorn calamari and shrimp are always a great option! B Bar is located on East 4th & Bowery.
Per Se: You’ll be running the streets with glee after dining here (located at 10 Columbus Circle, between 58th and 59th streets). With a daily changing French-New American menu, this expensive dining experience is a worthwhile treat for your senses (the dishes are as delicious as they are colorful). Whatever you do, start your meal with “Oysters and Pears” and be sure to leave enough room for “Coffee and Donuts” for dessert.
Il Mulino: This is the epitome of an Old New York hangout, the restaurant boasts some of the best Italian food you’ll ever eat. Located in the West Village (at 86 W. Third St., between Sullivan & Thompson and near NYU), the place is small, crowded, and quite loud, but the food makes it worth it. Bring your appetite (portions are big enough to feed a small country) and your wallet.
Dos Caminos (Soho): With made-to-order guacamole and some of the best margaritas in town (plus over 150 tequila selections), you can’t go wrong with the best Mexican place in town. With indoor and outdoor seating options, this place brings the party downtown! Dos Caminos is located on West Broadway and Houston (along with a Park Avenue location and a Midtown location due to open in fall 2006).
Jean Georges: It’s simple, French chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten can’t go wrong (ever!). This restaurant, inside the Trump International Hotel, is as sophisticated as it is magnificent. Located at Columbus Circle (1 Central Park West, between 60th and 61st Streets), this divine masterpiece offers a formal dining room, a more casual cafe, and an alfresco terrace for those crisp summer nights. Don’t you dare leave without trying the baby scallops and four-part citrus tasting.
Babbo: Who doesn’t love Mario Batali? With his signature pasta tasting menu, be sure not to look at his waistline when you arrive at this two-story townhouse. You’ll find that the simplest ingredients have never tasted so good! Everything is delicious but we fancy the ravioli with beef cheeks and the goat cheese tortellini. Reservations are essential. Babbo is located at 110 Waverly Pl., between 6th Ave. and MacDougal.
A Napoletana Pizza: Seriously, who needs Italy? This is by far the best pizza in town: “The best, Jerry…the best.” Each bite is light, fragrant, and oh so delicious! The buffalo mozzarella is shipped directly from Italy and pairs so well with the scrumptious tomato basil sauce. You can’t miss Una Pizza (349 E. 12th St., between 1st and 2nd Aves.).
Bouchon Bakery: Located on Columbus Circle in the Time Warner Building, this casual French bakery is anything but simple. You’ll find everything from delicious fresh croissants to delicious peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. This place has the best tuna sandwich we’ve ever had. And, did we mention that they make their own handmade chocolates?
Momofuku Noodle Bar – If you need a quick ramen fix, this is your place. Just be prepared to wait (they don’t take reservations). And, if you don’t mind stacking up like sardines and eating thigh to thigh with your fellow patrons, find your way to this amazing noodle bar. The steamed buns of three varieties (pork, chicken, or shitake) are worth the trip and the wait. Momofuku is located at 163 First Ave. (at 10th Street).