Build your day in NYC- Morning
So it’s not your first time in NYC but you’d still like to have a fun day? You’ve come to the right place. While every blog will encourage you visit the popular spots including the Statue of Liberty and Times Square, I haven’t found a post on what to do if you want to have a relaxing but fun day in the city.
Where to eat
While I am not normally an early riser, if I am in NYC for a short time, I always try to get some breakfast in.
Fancy: If you prefer a reservation and you’re planning early, I would suggest reserving a table at Sadelle’s- it opens on weekdays at 8 am and weekends at 9 am so you have plenty of time to get there. It is on OpenTable (this app/website is great for checking availability and even finding cool new places) but it does get filled up really fast- especially for weekends/brunch. Reservations open up 30 days in advance. The service is a little slow but if you like bagel and lox (salmon), this is a great choice for you. This is definitely the “it” place of the moment and the aesthetic is very New York upscale- for me, this is one of those “checked it off the list” places.
Mid-range: Not sure about committing to a meal a month in advance? I would suggest Buvette for the most important meal of the day. The portions are great for someone who wants to spend the rest of the day eating, the prices are good and I couldn’t fault the service. While I heard it can be busy, I walked right in for a meal with a close friend; they do not take reservations but they are open at 8 am every day. The smoked salmon and eggs were great (I was really into salmon last time I was in the City) and the hot chocolate was perfect for a rainy day. I would come back here to read or write as it has a very European feel to it.
Good for the wallet: One word: Pancakes. Like many people before me and many after me, I dream of the breakfast I had at Clinton St. Baking Co often, this is one of those places that I really wouldn’t mind waiting in line for (if you live in Dubai, they’ve actually opened a branch there too). I was lucky enough to go with a group so I got to try their Huevos Rancheros as well as their Chicken and Waffles and everything was divine. It just feels like home and the service is fast and friendly. This is no hidden gem, you will most likely wait at least half an hour but they do have tips on how to alleviate the wait times on their website. They are open 8 am on weekdays and 9 am for brunch. It’s good for your wallet and good for your soul.
What to do
Well depending on where you chose to have breakfast, you can choose the following activities to fill your day.
Soho: This is where you’ll be if you chose Sadelle’s and while the neighborhood was traditionally known as a haven for artists, your best bet if you want to stay in the area is to dedicate your day to shopping- everything from Chanel to DVF to Topshop. Alternatively, it is walking distance from Washington Square Park and there is always someone performing there from street entertainers to classical pianists from NYU.
West Village: Buvette is actually pretty close to the New York Public library, a beautiful building and a great place to visit if you love books. If you have a soft spot for Winnie the Pooh then you’ll be delighted to know that this library houses the original stuffed animals that inspired the characters we all know and love. It is also a great photo op for the huge lions that guard the entrance.
Lower East Side: While this area has a lot of dining options, it is a little short on places to go, however, there are several micro-parks scattered around the Clinton St. Baking Co. area. Most of these parks are closed to the public and some are no larger than a king-sized bed but they are fascinating to see as many have interesting artwork. In addition, the Low Line is a short walk from the Clinton St. and while I haven’t had the chance to go yet, it is on my to-do list.
This is part of a three-part series, you can also learn what to do in New York during the afternoon and evening.
