TRAVEL 8 years ago

NYC: Do it Like the Locals

Happy Monday everyone! I’m still in New York City for fashion week, (be sure to check back on the blog today at 3pm PST for my in real-time fashion week post!) and I’ve been discovering so many awesome new spots. I just had to put together a travel guide for you all! Just like my Paris : Do it Like the Locals post, I’ve asked some true New Yorkers for the best spots around the city for coffee, dining, shopping and more! So please enjoy, and the next time you’re in NYC : Do It Like the Locals!

WHERE TO CAFFEINATE 

Spreadhouse Cafe

I heard about this spot through my BFF Linette, and I’m so happy I did! Located in the Lower East Side, this little cafe has free wifi, a killer latte, and the coolest atmosphere. It’s decorated to be the perfect coffee haunt with tons of seating, oriental rugs, hanging chairs and pastries that will keep you coming back. When you’re in a new city, it’s so easy to stick with the usual Starbucks so do a little research and find a new favorite coffee shop. (images via Spreadhouse Cafe Instagram)

WHERE TO GRAB A DRINK

Smalls Jazz Club

Smalls Jazz Club in Greenwich Village is a little hole in the wall the CINCTeam has fallen in love with! It has amazing live music, great drinks and a really casual and intimate environment. The girls come here every time we’re in town! They say it can get busy, so try to get there early. It’s intimate and cozy, so there’s no need to dress up too much.

WHERE TO EAT

La Esquina

La Esquina or The Corner in SoHo is Latin/Mexican food destination. Great for drinks or some amazing tacos (you all know how much I love my tacos!) this inconspicuous spot is a hidden gem! It’s separated into three sections: the cafe, the taqueria and the Brasserie which is the “hidden restaurant.” You go through the taqueria to the Basserie (reservation required) which is basically an underground restaurant! (Images via the La Esquina Instagram)

The Little Prince

Another spot I’ve been told I just HAVE to go to? The Little Prince in SoHo! This little French place is said to have the cutest atmosphere (as you can tell from the pictures above!) and some great wine. So really, what’s not to love? With French favorites like Tartare de boeuf or Ratatouille and even a French-onion-soup burger, I can’t wait to try this spot out!

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5 Senses

You might remember me talking about this spot earlier this year in this post, but I keep coming back! It’s open 24 hours, which is great for a bite to eat after a late show or party. One order of kimchi fried rice, please!

WHERE TO SPLURGE 

What Goes Around Comes Around

No, I don’t mean the Justin Timberlake song. What Goes Around Comes around is every vintage lover’s dream! It’s highly curated and they stock nothing but the best. I’m talking Chanel, Vuitton, Goyard, Fendi and then some. If you ever find yourself in the city and want to treat yourself to a little vintage treasure, I’d head straight to What Goes Around Comes Around!

Pink Chicken

First of all, how cute is the name? This adorable kids boutique was recommended by some mommy friends and it looks like the perfect spot to pick up a little something for Chloe!

WHERE TO SPA

Caudalie Vinothérapie Spa

Located in the one and only Plaza Hoel, the Caudalie Spa is on my spa bucket list. Anytime I travel, I love to discover new spas. From Korea to Tulum, spas are kind of my thing! I’m a huge fan of the Caudalie brand and products, so the next time I make it out to the city and my schedule isn’t busy like it is during fashion week, I’ll definitely go!

WHERE TO SWEAT

SLT

Getting my exercise in when I travel is super important to me, so when I get a chance- I love to swing by SLT! It’s an amazing pilates class that’s all about strengthening, lengthening, and toning. As crazy as things get when I travel there’s nothing like relieving some stress with a little sweat! A good friend of mine is an instructor there and she introduced me and I’ve been going back ever since.

WHERE TO GET YOUR INSTA ON

 

Rooftop / Skyline

The New York City skyline is incredibly iconic, so get yourself to any rooftop bar/restaurant/garden and get that Instagram! I’d recommend waiting until around sunset for the best lighting. It’s the perfect spot for an OOTD if I do say so myself!

Maman

Not only is the coffee good, but can we talk about how cute this place is? I mean, just look at their Instagram! It’s one of those places that just scream, “take my picture!” It’s got several locations around the city, SoHo, Lower East side and Tribeca just to name a few so there’s plenty of chances to get that oh-so-perfect Instagram shot!