Empire state of mind
Hotel openings and renovations have ushered in New York's more-is-more renaissance. A trip is in order.
The Roaring 20s are back — and as glamorous as ever. A slate of hotel openings, renovations and reimagining is driving the trend forward. Put the sweatpants away; it's time to dress up and go out.
Image courtesy of The Surrey, A Corinthia Hotel
Fora is based in NYC, so we have strong (and well-tested) opinions about the city's best places to eat, stay, shop and explore. Our Definitive Guide incorporates the wisdom of our HQ staff, but it's still a mere starting point. Here are our essential recommendations.
Image courtesy of The Lowell
There are a few unspoken rules to keep in mind. Now they're spoken.
Keep it moving, and quickly.
Don't expect a free table for four past 6 pm.
Dress how you dress, but make sure your ensemble matches the vibe of wherever you're going (i.e., don't under- or overdress).
Grab a drink at one of these elevated classics, or classics-in-the-making.
(SUB)MERCER: If you can get in, go.
Pebble Bar: A Rockefeller Center newcomer beloved by the city's who's-who.
Bemelmans Bar: A New York City icon in the Carlyle Hotel, with those legendary whimsical murals
Ty Bar: A moody, dimly lit Midtown haunt in the newly renovated Four Seasons.
Pen Top: The Peninsula's rooftop bar, which evokes a cozy, stylish artist's loft.
The Portrait Bar: Fresh takes on the classics.
Lobby Bar: Hotel Chelsea's Euro-chic spot for high-end cocktails and bites.
Image courtesy of Lobby Bar
Sartiano's: Sleek, dimly lit Italian at The Mercer. Don't skip the housemade faccocia, or the fresh cavatelli with broccoli-rabe pesto.
Locanda Verde: An Andrew Carmellini mainstay at the Greenwich Hotel that never gets old. It's lively, buzzy and delicious.
Zaytinya: José Andrés brings his command of Turkish, Greek and Lebanese food to The Ritz-Carlton New York, NoMad.
Casa Tua: Sophisticated Italian at hot-off-the-press Surrey, A Corinthia Hotel.
Brasserie Fouquet’s: Brasserie-chic vibes in luxurious surroundings, courtesy of the discreet, effortlessly cool Fouquet’s New York.
The Crosby Bar: Where to go for afternoon tea amidst Kit Kemp's bold, whimsical décor. It's a fan favorite.
Image courtesy of Jason Varney for The Ritz-Carlton New York, NoMad