Treat Yourself: A Besties Guide to NYC

Afternoon tea

1. The Plaza Hotel - Savor delicate sandwiches and decadent pastries in an opulent setting. The theme changes with the seasons. I recommend getting the themed tea, relax and take in the stunning and historic stained glass.

2. The Baccarat Hotel — It's you and your besties time to shine! Surround yourself in sparkling crystal and admire the beautiful, handcrafted crystal while honoring the legend of Baccarat. Tea service can be paired with a glass of champagne, or if you have your little one with you, a Petit Prince tea is also offered.

Luxury shopping

Saks Fifth Avenue in Midtown Manhattan — After making your big purchase, or if you need additional time to decide between which pair of shoes, take a break at L'Avenue's rooftop inside the store and toast each other with a refreshing sparkling rose or crafted cocktail.

Live performances

1. On and Off-Broadway Performances — If you have the chance to see Gutenberg, you will be laughing for the rest of the weekend.

2. La Pulperia's Bottomless Latin Drag Brunch — It's time to amp up the energy and get your dancing shoes ready. This high-energy brunch will have you saying YAS, Queen! And leaving tipsy to enjoy the neighborhood. Don’t forget to eat!

Get active

1. Walk through Central Park Zoo

2. Take in a Soul Cycle Class — choose the theme of your liking and the studio close to your accommodation. Set your intentions for the weekend or sweat it out after a night out.

Culture guide

MoMA – spend the morning or the afternoon wondering and inspiring your own creativity!

Dance the night away

1. TAO Nightclub — I'd recommend TAO to anyone at any location. I have never had a bad experience from Las Vega to NYC. You won't even know what time you get home.

2. 1 OAK, NYC — Looking for a celebrity sighting? Ready to get all dolled up and hit the town with your bestie? Head over to 1 OAK, splurge on bottle service and enjoy your hard-earned lifestyle!

Coffee & quick bites

1. Blue Stone Lane — Enjoy a casual breakfast at one of their many locations around the city. The upper east-side location is across the street from a central park entrance and an old church you can wonder through.

2. Gregorys – A variety of fresh-roasted coffees and quick bites makes Gregorys a good one-the go breakfast for anyone!

Brunch

The Russian Tea Room — This gem is an all-around recommendation for Brunch, Lunch, Afternoon tea, dinner, dessert and a pre & post-dinner drink. Strong martinis, and incredible décor will make this a lovely escape from the busy city.

Iconic cocktails

1. The Champagne Bar at the Plaza — Introduced with the hotel’s opening in 1907, snag a spot at the bar and watch all of the fabulous guests walk through the lobby. Try the Champagne Flight or one of the Champagne cocktails.

2. Death & Co. is a must-see for any mixologist fan. It is their main location in the East Village. It is a small, dark but impressive cocktail bar. Discover new ingredients, spirits and creations. If you can not get a reservation at Death & Co., feel free to walk up to the door. They got us in quickly and we were amazed at the experience!

A dinner to celebrate

1. The delectable dinner at Gallaghers — Renowned for its classic New York steakhouse fare and warm, welcoming ambiance. From the moment you walk in, you can tell the rich mahogany restaurant knows what it is doing and has the history to prove it to you. Established in 1927, I recommend ordering as many sides as your table will hold and sharing them with your bestie, family and friends. The service is always top-notch!

2. Momofuku Noodle Bar — With multiple locations around the city, these are hands down the best noodles.

3. Tarallucci e Vino on the Upper West Side — While Carbone may be what's hot right now, Tarallucci and its multiple locations deliver food with a bigger punch of tradition and a light ambience.

Sweet treats

1. Juniors - Established in 1950, Junior is renowned for its rich and creamy New York-style cheesecake! Get the traditional strawberry and split it with your bestie.

2. Levain Bakery — Renowned for its decadent cookies, grab a box and see if they make it through the plane ride home!