The Must-Do List: 3 Days in New York

Breakfast

What better way to start your New York trip than by enjoying a New York bagel! Head to Russ & Daughters’ 34th Street location, a beloved NYC institution established in 1914. What I order: Even though they’re known for their high-quality smoked fish, I’m a sesame bagel with plain cream cheese girl through and through.

Sightseeing

After you’ve fueled yourself, take a walk to see some of Midtown’s architectural gems. See the Vessel at Hudson Yards (a mesmerizing honeycomb-like structure), and the High Line in Chelsea (a 2.2-mile-long elevated park built on a former railway line). Visit the Whitney Museum in the Meatpacking District (dedicated to modern and contemporary American art).

Lunch

For your second meal of the day, head to Pastis in Meatpacking for a casual yet stylish French lunch. Snag a table on the sidewalk. It’s the perfect place to people-watch. What I order: steak sandwich or moules frites with a glass of rosé from Provence.

Views from above

The West Side along the Hudson River is one of my favorite places to walk, but imagine it from 100 stories off the ground. Before heading back to your hotel to get ready for the night, take in the panoramic views of the city at the Edge. This is an observation deck in Hudson Yards with a glass floor and open-air terraces. If you’re lucky to be there around sunset, you’ll get to see the skyline’s golden glow.

Dinner

Enjoy pre-dinner drinks at Double Chicken Please, a must-visit for a unique cocktail experience that has made it on The World's 50 Best Bars list two years in a row (no. 1 in 2023!). What I order: Thai Curry cocktail paired with the Hot Honey Chicken Sandwich to share as a pre-dinner snack. Once your time is up, head to Crane Club for dinner, a trending spot with a Michelin-star-backed team that offers wood-fired specialties and a wine list with more than 1,000 labels. What I order: tuna tartare, lamb chops and lots of vino, of course.

Musical

One of my most memorable trips to NYC as a kid was for a school field trip where they took us to see Wicked The Musical on Broadway. What I love about Broadway shows is that they’re truly for anyone. Whether this be a family affair, or a romantic date night, it’s a magical experience.

Breakfast

Start your day at Sant Ambroeus’ Madison location, where you’ll get a taste of Italy in the heart of NYC. What I order: hot matcha latte with pistachio milk, French toast and a side of scrambled eggs.

Central Park

After the previous day’s adventures in the concrete jungle, escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some fresh air and greenery in Central Park, a 2.5 mile-long and 0.5 mile home to many iconic landmarks, from the Bethesda Fountain to the Zoo. Pro tip: explore it on a bike or a horse-drawn carriage ride!

Lunch

As you’re exploring the park, take a break at the landmark restaurant Tavern on the Green. It is nestled within the park itself and offers a unique and picturesque dining experience. My Sex and the City fans will recall this place from a scene with Carrie and Big :) What I order: honey-roasted figs and the chicken waldorf salad.

Dinner

For another iconic meal in the city, look no further than The Polo Bar, created by fashion designer Ralph Lauren. The space exudes exclusivity and sophistication, and you’ll indulge in upscale American comfort food. What I order: the polo bar burger paired with an espresso martini.

Breakfast

As a born & raised California girl, my love for breakfast burritos runs deep. While NYC may not be known for its Mexican food, believe me when I say Son Del North on the Lower East Side is exceptional. What I order: classic breakfast burrito, add bacon.

Shopping

West Village and SoHo are without a doubt two of the best neighborhoods to shop in NYC. I love how close in proximity they are and how they cater to different tastes and budgets (West Village: more unique finds — SoHo: more high-end fashion). A few of my favorites are What Goes Around Comes Around, DÔEN and The Citizenry.

Lunch

If all that shopping has made you hungry again, grab a quick bite from Rigor Hill Market in Tribeca. You can choose from soups, salads and sandwiches, all freshly made with ingredients from their upstate New York farm. What I order: tomato soup, chicken salad and their famous hot chocolate with toasted marshmallows for a sweet treat.

Spa

Next up, a refuge from the bustling city awaits at AIRE Ancient Baths in Tribeca. This is a unique and luxurious spa experience that combines the benefits of ancient bathing rituals with modern comforts. What’s not to love about their candlelit atmosphere, stone arches and historical setting?!

Dinner

For a casual final meal, visit Joe’s Shanghai in Chinatown, serving authentic Chinese dishes and the best dim sum. What I order: pork soup dumplings, sesame chicken, beef fried rice. We all know Chinese food can leave you with a very full belly, so consider walking it off and visiting the 9/11 Memorial (about a mile walk). A nighttime visit often offers a more peaceful and contemplative experience compared to daytime, allowing for deeper reflection on the events of that day. And if you happen to be there on 9/11, two beams of light representing the Twin Towers shine up into the night sky.

Comedy

If you’re up for more activities and want a good laugh, end the night at Comedy Cellar for a standup show! This legendary venue is known for its intimate setting where many A-list comedians drop in for a surprise set.