They say New York is the city that never sleeps, and we’re happy to report that its trademark frenetic energy is still going strong. And with fashion week almost upon us, this place is definitively one where you want to see and be seen, whether that be on the sidewalks, cruising down the West Side Highway in a Blacklane, or at the corner table at the hottest restaurant in town. With that in mind, we compiled a guide of must-visit stops in what is universally considered to be the greatest city in the world, even in the winter. Chalk it up to Carrie Bradshaw; we don’t make the rules.
What to See
‘Jeanne Moutoussamy-Ashe and the Last Gullah Islands’ at The Whitney
A selection of black-and-white photographs from the American photographer and activist that feature portraits, images that depict homes and the topography of the island, and church services.
Puttery
When it’s too cold to golf, why not play mini golf? A new immersive golf course in the Meatpacking District offers craft cocktails and upscale eats, so you can have your hole in one with a transfusion in hand.
The Outsiders
S.E. Hinton’s classic novel, The Outsiders, comes to the stage as a lively musical. With music by Jonathan Clay and Zach Chance from Jamestown Revival, along with Justine Levine, and a script by Levine and Adam Rapp, the performance is both jaw-dropping and tear-jerking at once. Travel to the 1960s and join Ponyboy Curtis (played by the moving and talented Brody Grant in his Broadway debut) in Tulsa, Oklahoma, when tensions between two rival gangs, the Greasers and Socs, come to a head. The set and choreography perfectly capture the grime and grit of the story, and it’s a show that will resonate with the whole family.
Where to Eat
Coqodaq
Hailing from the team behind Korean steakhouse Cote, Coqodaq is probably the trendiest fried chicken spot in the city. We’re talking nuggets topped with mounds of caviar and truffle, and crispy thighs and wings glazed with decadent soy-garlic and gochujang sauces. And it’s all served within a sleek, sexy Flatiron venue. There are even some designer soaps and sinks in the entrance—eating with your hands is more than welcome here. From January 31 to February 1, you can sample the goods without even stepping foot in the doors. The restaurant is partnering with Cadillac for five extra seatings per night—in the roomy second row of the new Cadillac Escalade IQ, no less. With white napkin service curbside, guests can enjoy a selection of fan-favorite menu items, including the Golden Nugget, Caesar Salad, and Chef’s Signature Fried Chicken Feast.
Crazy Pizza
The latest celebrity haven in Soho is Crazy Pizza, thanks in no small part to Heidi Klum, who is a partner in the restaurant. Anne Hathaway, Irina Shayk, and her Project Runway co-star Christian Siriano are just a few of the big names who’ve passed through the space, which bills itself as half pizzeria, half club with live DJ sets to boot. Look out for the “Spinning Chefs” who circle through the restaurant tossing dough into the air and portraits of celebs eating pizza on the walls by artist Arianna Margulis (a.k.a. @butlikemaybe).
Sappe
Sappe, a northeastern Thai restaurant in Chelsea focused on street food and imaginative cocktails, gets a 10/10 review for the skewers, spice levels, and vibes. The sister restaurant to Soothr across town, Sappe’s menu by executive chef Tom Khaengkarn combines creativity with traditional ingredients, each with their own dramatic story (the superlative drinks are inspired by female protagonists in Thai books and movies). In particular, the fruit salad, which we hear is a favorite of Blackpink’s Lisa, is not to be missed.
Where to Drink
Gansevoort Rooftop
The Gansevoort Rooftop is one of those nostalgic New York City spots where everyone has a memory of a night out. Now, after an extensive renovation timed to the hotel’s 20th anniversary, the covered area has been completely reimagined with a brand-new cocktail bar, Eden.
Jac’s on Bond
The restaurant formerly known as The Smile, Jac’s on Bond—the latest opening from the guys behind Pebble Bar, Ray’s and The Jane (R.I.P.)—bills itself as “a new neighborhood watering hole.” Named after the “Mayor of Bond Street” Jack Champlin, the hotspot offers untraditional cocktails like the Caprese Martini (olive oil, tomato and basil-infused grey goose vodka, lustau blanco, and balsamic vinegar) which pretty tastes like a liquid salad, but don’t skip on the Spanish-inspired bar bites developed by Jeremiah Stone and Fabián von Hauske Valtierra, including a jamon serrano bikini sandwich, chilled crab dip, and grape pie.
Mr. Melo
Listening bars are taking over the nightlife scene, and Mr. Melo, a new lounge in Williamsburg with good drinks, Greek dishes, and music on loop, brings high-quality sound and a cozy vibe with good seating to boot. Win-win.
Where to Stay
The Standard, High Line
The Standard, High Line remains an iconic downtown destination not only for its sleek exterior, floor-to-ceiling windows, and prime location in the Meatpacking District, but also for its awesome food and beverage offerings (The Standard Grill and The Standard Biergarten in particular) and programming. From Not Your Standard Bingo every Sunday night starting at 10 P.M. to late-night dancing at Le Bain, this place has it all.
The Ritz-Carlton New York, NoMad
With its legendary service and unrivaled elegance, The Ritz-Carlton New York, NoMad offers expansive living spaces with seriously breathtaking views of the city. Once checked in, explore its 6,800-square-foot spa and fitness center, check out the rooftop bar Nubeluz, or treat yourself to a relaxing bubble bath in your suite, where all guest rooms come equipped with bathroom amenities by Diptyque, adding an extra touch of luxury. When all that relaxing leaves you hungry, there’s no better way to conclude your stay than with DJ brunch at Zaytinya, offering a mezze menu by Michelin-starred chef José Andrés.
The Beekman, a Thompson Hotel
Even if you aren’t a guest, The Beekman deserves a place on every NYC itinerary. Before it became a Thompson hotel, this historic property was the Temple Court—one of the city’s very first skyscrapers. From top to bottom, The Beekman is a homage to New York’s history, complete with 19th-century design and curated vintage art throughout. With a 10-story atrium, prime downtown location, and the recently opened Laissez Faire cocktail lounge, this is the place to be.