I heart NYC

I ❤️ NYC

TRAVEL ADVENTURES 🌎

I ❤️ NYC

“One belongs to New York instantly, one belongs to its as much as five minutes as in five years.”
Tom Wolfe

Whether you take a short trip, or a long stay, or have lived there for years, it is impossible to ever be done with experiencing NYC. The city is brimming with limitless possibilities and potential. It is alive with energy, ambition, and creativity, catering to everyone’s desires and interests in life.

No matter the season, year or month – there is no place like New York City (NYC). It is the city of all cities, the Big Apple, the capital of the (western) world, the city that never sleeps. No attempt at writing could ever fully capture the essence of its hustle and bustle or accurately epitomize its many personalities.

Nevertheless, I shall try to provide somewhat of an overview of what a visit to NYC should entail and what – in my humble opinion – should not be missed. I will share information about neighborhoods, main sights, and my favorite restaurants, cafés and bars.

The Blonde Yeti in NYC

“People never forget two things: their first love and their first day in New York City.”

— Unknown

Me (left) and my best friend (right) in NYC for the first time in 2008

This quote speaks to me as I can still vividly remember my first trip to NYC back in 2008. Since then I’ve been back to the city countless times always asking myself: Should I move here? whenever I visit. So far, I haven’t but if you put Alicia Keys & Jay-Z’s anthem “Empire State of Mind” on, I might change my mind.

A few Basics about NYC

Originally named New Amsterdam as Dutch settlers were the first to arrive in the area around 1624, there are now a little over 8 million people living in NYC, which is more than the population in Norway, Nicaragua or New Zealand. With the biggest and probably most diverse population of any US city, its citizens speak around 800 languages. NYC’s neighborhoods are made up of five boroughs. The Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, and Staten Island. Each borough is its own little ecosystem with unique and distinct attributes.

Manhattan, the smallest but most densely populated borough of NYC, is known for its iconic skyscrapers and landmarks such as Times Square and Central Park. It serves as the hub for culture, administration, and finance, housing the headquarters of numerous multinational corporations, the United Nations Headquarters, Wall Street, and prestigious universities. Manhattan is often regarded as the cultural, financial, media, and entertainment capital of the world.

Brooklyn is known for its diverse neighborhoods, cultural vibrancy, and rich history. It offers a blend of art, cuisine, and attractions, including the iconic Brooklyn Bridge, Prospect Park, thriving arts scenes in neighborhoods like Williamsburg and DUMBO, and a unique mix of communities such as the Jewish, contributing to its dynamic and eclectic atmosphere.

Queens is the largest borough and the most ethnically diverse county in the US. It was historically settled by the Dutch and has grown to become a prominent commercial and residential area. Downtown Flushing is a bustling neighborhood, while areas like Bellerose and Forest Hills have a more suburban feel. Queens is home to important sports and cultural venues such as Citi Field, the U.S. Open tennis tournament, and two major airports – John F. Kennedy International Airport and LaGuardia Airport.

The Bronx is located on the US mainland. It is known for the Yankee Stadium, the Co-op City housing complex, the Bronx Zoo, and the New York Botanical Garden. The zoo is the largest metropolitan zoo in the world, housing over 6,000 animals across 265 acres. The Botanical Garden is a beautiful historic landmark.

Staten Island is considered the borough with the most suburban character. The Staten Island Ferry, connecting it to Manhattan and Brooklyn, offers stunning views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and Lower Manhattan. In the heart of Staten Island lies the Greenbelt, which serves as a protective space for the island’s natural landscapes. Established in 1984 and made up of seven city parks, it preserves around 2,500 acres of land, featuring walking trails and one of the city’s last remaining untouched forests.

The Blonde Yeti’s Top 5

When writing this post, I quickly realized it impossible to narrow down only five favorites in NYC. But I tried anyways. The list represents just a few of the iconic dining destinations across New York City’s diverse boroughs, each offering a unique taste of the city’s culinary landscape. However, you can also find my top 5 for Manhattan and Brooklyn, since those are the two neighborhoods I have spent the most time in. On top of that, I also share 5 food markets with you but if you’re looking for even more recommendations, just subscribe to my blog and you will receive my Google Maps Lists with all my favorites.

The Top 5 Per Borough

Manhattan – Katz’s Delicatessen (Lower East Side):

Katz’s Deli is an iconic spot famous for its pastrami sandwiches and kosher-style deli offerings. It has been a staple in Manhattan since 1888 and is a must-visit for locals and tourists alike.

Brooklyn – Peter Luger Steak House (Williamsburg):

Peter Luger is a renowned steakhouse established in 1887, celebrated for its perfectly aged steaks and classic, old-school ambiance, making it an iconic destination in Brooklyn.

Queens – The Lemon Ice King of Corona (Corona):

This legendary spot in Queens has been serving up delicious Italian ices since 1944. The Lemon Ice King of Corona offers a wide array of flavors and remains a beloved local institution.

The Bronx – City Island Lobster House (City Island):

Nestled in City Island, this restaurant serves up fresh seafood in a picturesque setting. Known for its lobster dishes and maritime ambiance, City Island Lobster House is a favorite among locals and visitors exploring the Bronx.

Staten Island – Basilio Inn (South Beach):

The Basilio Inn is a historic Italian restaurant housed in a 19th-century farmhouse. It’s known for its classic Italian cuisine and charming atmosphere, making it a notable dining spot in Staten Island.

The Top 5 Manhattan

Book Club Bar: Independent bookstore and wine bar in the East Village of NYC, serving coffee, beer, and wine in a cozy community space.
Catch NYC: Slick, bi-level space known for celebrity sightings, creative seafood-focused food & a rooftop.
Kazu Nori Sushi: Unique hand rolls made famous for high-quality fish, specially sourced seaweed, and signature warm rice.
Tal Bagels: Classic bagel shop with seating & many cream cheeses also serving coffee, cold cuts & pastries.
Lafayette Grand Café & Bakery: A French grand café and bakery from Chef Andrew Carmellini conducting the spirit of French dining anew in downtown Manhattan’s NoHo neighborhood.

My happy face when trying The Suprême: a cream-filled, round croissant made famous by New York City’s Lafayette Grand Café & Bakery. The pastry has become viral on social media.

The Top 5 Brooklyn

The Ripped Bodice: An independent brick-and-mortar bookstore devoted to the celebration of romance novels. The store is proudly Woman and Queer Owned.
Aurora Brooklyn: Located in the heart of Williamsburg, Aurora serves rustic Italian dishes with inspiration drawn from Piedmont.
Variety Coffee Roasters: This coffee roaster and café combo serves up delicious coffee in a trendy and modern space, focusing on quality beans and expert brewing techniques.
Sunken Harbor Club: An immersive tropical cocktail bar inspired by tales of adventure and the mysteries of the deep.
Fandi Mata: Lively restaurant serving global cuisine & cocktails amid plant-filled, industrial-chic decor.

Brooklyn Vibes

Food Markets

New York City boasts several fantastic food markets where you can explore diverse cuisines and artisanal offerings. Some of the best food markets in the city include:

Chelsea Market: Located in the Meatpacking District, Chelsea Market is a bustling indoor market housed in a historic factory building. It offers a wide array of vendors selling fresh produce, baked goods, specialty foods, and diverse cuisines, making it a popular destination for food lovers.
Union Square Greenmarket: This farmer’s market in Union Square is open year-round and features local farmers selling fresh produce, meats, cheeses, baked goods, and more.
Smorgasburg: Known for its outdoor food market experience, Smorgasburg operates in various locations across the city, offering a wide selection of gourmet food vendors and unique culinary creations.
Arthur Avenue Retail Market: Located in the Bronx’s Little Italy, Arthur Avenue Retail Market is home to a variety of vendors selling Italian delicacies, fresh meats, cheeses, pasta, pastries, and more.
Time Out Market: Bi-level waterfront hangout showcasing a curated lineup of local food & drink plus cultural events.

Main Sights

NYC is a bustling metropolis with a plethora of attractions. Whether it’s your first time to the city or you’re a regular, here are some of the main sights that are worth exploring:

Statue of Liberty: A symbol of freedom and democracy, visitors can take a ferry to Liberty Island to see this iconic statue up close.

Times Square: Known for its bright lights, Broadway theaters, shopping, and entertainment, Times Square is a vibrant hub that never sleeps.

Central Park: This sprawling urban park offers a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle, featuring walking paths, lakes, gardens, and recreational activities.

Empire State Building: One of NYC’s most recognizable landmarks, visitors can ascend to the observation deck for panoramic views of the city skyline.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met): One of the largest and most prestigious art museums in the world, housing an extensive collection spanning various cultures and periods.

9/11 Memorial and Museum: Commemorating the victims of the September 11, 2001, attacks, this memorial includes reflecting pools set in the footprints of the Twin Towers, as well as a museum documenting the events of that day.

Broadway: The renowned theater district where visitors can catch world-class performances and musicals.

Brooklyn Bridge: A historic suspension bridge connecting Manhattan and Brooklyn, offering stunning views of the cityscape.

The High Line: A unique urban park built on a historic freight rail line elevated above the streets, featuring greenery, art installations, and scenic views.

Museum of Modern Art (MoMA): A must-visit for art enthusiasts, showcasing an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art.

One World Observatory: Located at One World Trade Center, offering breathtaking views of NYC from the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere.

Chinatown and Little Italy: Vibrant neighborhoods known for their rich cultural heritage, delicious cuisine, and bustling markets.

The Guggenheim Museum: An architectural masterpiece designed by Frank Lloyd Wright and renowned for its collection of modern and contemporary art.

These attractions only scratch the surface of what New York City has to offer. Depending on your interests, there are many more neighborhoods, museums, parks, and attractions worth exploring in the city that never sleeps.