New York City…
New York, New York
The city so nice, they named it twice
The big apple
The city that never sleeps
The concrete jungle where dreams are made of
…New York City.
New York is a crazy busy, chic, eclectic and unbelievable city. I was fortunate enough to grow-up just 40 minutes outside of the city which granted me an all-access pass to explore, understand and appreciate NYC from a very young age. I learned lots of important “New York” things early on – like, for instance, SoHo meant “South of Houston” and Houston Street was NOT pronounced like the city in the Texas. I also decided that I never, ever wanted to look like a tourist and I don’t want you guys to look like tourists either; you’re way too cool for that.
Now that I’m older and wiser, I’ve become completely amused with the lives of New Yorkers and how they spend their free time as the residents of this metropolitan Mecca. Through the years, I’ve done some unintentional research and compiled a list of some of the coolest New York City spots I have come across in my “travels”.
This is for all of you fry-lovers and junk foodies (just like me)… Pommes Frites is a specialty shop located in the colorful East Village neighborhood. Specializing in Belgian style fries or “pommes frites” as the natives call them, this is one stop you must make during your weekend in the city. Complete with tight quarters, limited seating and unique signage – Pommes Frites’ recipe for success lies in their choice of 26 dipping sauces… which are nothing short of mouthwatering. Thirsty? You won’t find a beverage here but they will surely direct you to the neighboring convenience store.
123 2ND AVE
NEW YORK, NY 10003
#2. HENRI BENDEL
Now that you’re full from your delicious “meal” of fries and delectable dipping sauces, head uptown to Henri Bendel’s for some good quality, retail therapy. Widely recognized for their signature brown and white stripped shopping bags, Henri Bendel is home to the latest and hottest fashion accessories. You’ll find everything from $600 handbags to $30 candles and you’ll be sure to lose yourself in Henri Bendel’s luxurious heritage and encounter nothing but a lovely experience. It’s every fashionista’s dream; you have to see it for yourself! Located on New York’s chic Fifth Avenue, this is a New York City landmark…
HENRI BENDEL
712 5TH AVE
New York, NY 10019
#3. BLISS SPA
Enjoying your day in the city so far? Good, but don’t hold your breath – it’s about to get BETTER. Now it’s time for a little R & R. What could be better than a mani/pedi at one of New York’s most esteemed spas? Hmm… NOTHING! Visit where the “bliss” began at the flagship Bliss Spa in SoHo. Bliss SoHo takes a modern approach to beauty with a gigantic menu of facials, waxing and of course… manicures and pedicures. Relax and let the Bliss staff treat you like royalty – after all, every fashionista needs to unwind after a long day. Go, treat yourself and you’ll be happy that you did. Plus, doesn’t everyone want to look their best for Fashion U?
BLISS SOHO
568 BROADWAY, 2ND FLOOR
NEW YORK, NY 10012
#4. CUPCAKE CAFÉ
Time for dessert…Something quick, sweet, simple and delicious – how about a cupcake from New York City’s Cupcake Café? With several television appearances and rave reviews from New York Magazine, Cupcake Café is another New York City indulgence. Open since 1988, Cupcake Café is considered the pioneer in the cupcake craze that swept across the nation. Topped off with cupcakes that look like pieces of art, almost too pretty to eat, and a quiet, relaxing atmosphere… Cupcake Café is perfect for an evening treat. I highly recommend the Bohemian (Maple Walnut).
18 WEST 18TH STREET 545 9TH AVE
NEW YORK, NY 10011 NEW YORK, NY 10018
#5. FASHION INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY MUSEUM
Want to see how fashion gets its start? Wander on over to the FIT campus and get a feel for what current fashion students are creating but while you’re there… take a gander into the FIT Museum. FIT is one of the world’s most well-known fashion schools located right in the center of the fashion capital. The coolest thing about FIT, in my opinion, is their museum and the constantly changing exhibitions. Starting in September and running through the New Year, FIT will be hosting an exhibit titled Japan Fashion Now. This exhibit is the first of its kind, and will explore how Japanese fashion has taken over and evolved in recent years. To live fashion, we must understand its roots… and this is a great way to do so.
THE MUSEUM AT FIT
7TH AVE AND 27TH STREET
NEW YORK, NY 10001
Tags: Bliss SoHo, Cupcake Cafe, FIT Museum, Henri Bendel, NYC Tour, Pommes Frites, Robyn
