As Angelenos, our perception of New York is usually a mirage of outdated neighborhood stereotypes (Sex & The City), unrealistic expectations (Gossip Girl) and very distant memories (hello 8th grade trip). However, we’re always on the lookout for new spots to feel more and more local every time we head to town. Recently, our CEO jet-setted off to New York to sneak a peek at NY NOW and kick off New York Fashion Week with Drybar! Since the city is always changing, we’ve included our favorite haunts and recent discoveries. They’ll have you asking, “where has she been…and who am I?” That’s one secret we’ll never tell.
Coffee & Workspace
Freehold// Dan Humphrey isn’t the only thing we love about Brooklyn. The Freehold located in Williamsburg is the perfect place to get those work emails out during the day, but by night this spacious area offers a wide variety of cocktails, outdoor beer gardens & a fun lively crowd. Hands down our favorite ambiance in New York, we wish they had an LA location. @thefreehold
Devocion Brooklyn // We were so happy when we stumbled upon this vintage chic inspired Coffee House. Located in Brooklyn with high ceilings and a grand skylight, you will certainly feel productive and at ease while sipping on lemongrass infused tea, even in the coldest winter months. @devocionusa
Restaurants
Ladybird // When you’re gravitating from meal to meal to drinks to meal, sometimes a 100% plant based restaurant is all you need to come back to life. Quaint and intimate, the dimly-lit marble table tops glow under the ornate gilded ceilings. @ladybird_nyc
Pietro Nolita// Forget what a traditional Italian restaurant looks like- Hello 50 shades of pink! Located on Elizabeth Street, you will find an abundance of restaurants that will leave you oh so satisfied- but Pietro Nolita will forever be one of your top go-to’s. This funky, yet adorable restaurant offers healthy authentic Italian food and welcomes customers to go Snapchat & Instagram crazy. Plus if you're like us, the owner, Pietro himself will spill pink paint on you and you'll instantly have a new friend (and great insta story). @pietronolita
La Esquina // Looking for a unique speakeasy place to indulge in your Mexican food cravings? Well, they had us at sangria- but this restaurant offers much more than delicious chips, guac & tacos. La Esquina Basement is literally and underground lounge boasting with live music, unreal ambiance and dim lighting. This restaurant is trending right now- perfect for a girl’s night out or fun date! @esquinanyc
Sweets
Laduree // Looking to get away, but cant escape from reality? Let your taste buds do all the work. Walk over to Laduree after your central park (or now, SoHo!) stroll to enjoy some fine tea and authentic desserts. This famous Parisian restaurant certainly lives up to its reputation.. How can you not love Rose, Pistachio & Carmel Salted Butter flavored Macarons? ...it gets better, there is a store in LA!! @ladureeus
Insomnia Cookies // When you’re in the city that never sleeps, its always important to find a bakery that is open practically all night long. Fair warning- if this is your first time going, it certainly will not be your last. This spot offers freshly baked treats in a variety of yummy flavors like white chocolate macadamia, sugar cookie and M&M. @insomniacookiesofficial
Levain Bakery// While you’re already out and about, making your way through the endless streets of the city- make sure to treat yo self & stop by Levain Bakery. Located in the Upper West Side, this bakery greets you with a warm welcome and homey feeling. Did we mention dark chocolate peanut butter chip cookies? @levainbakery
Fun Activities
Drybar // Whether you’re in town for work or play, Drybar is the perfect start to your day. We were lucky enough to kick off #NYFW with some top editors at their beautiful Greenwich Village location. @thedrybar
The Metropolitan Museum of Art// You simply cannot visit New York without making your way around the Metropolitan Museum. Conveniently located next to central park, the Museum offers a wide variety of world-renowned exhibitions. We checked out a few of latest and encourage you to do so too! http://www.metmuseum.org/exhibitions/current-exhibitions
The High Line// This is the perfect place to visit with your friends or by yourself to reflect on all of the fun activities you have experienced in the Big Apple! The High Line is tree lined walkway that crosses through fun neighborhoods like the Meatpacking District & Chelsea. The High Line offers guided ours, art exhibitions and spacious grass fields to hangout on! Check it out: @highlinenyc
Comedy Cellar// The Comedy Cellar is the place to go to leave your stomach in knots from laughing and fan girl over some of your favorite stars. With regular drop-ins like John Stewart and Aziz Ansari, how can you not stop by? Make sure to reserve your table at http://www.comedycellar.com/reservation @nyccomedycellar
