Camille STYLES the Big Apple

New York City goes by many names: a “melting pot“… “concrete jungle“…”beautiful catastrophe.”  On my most recent visit, I was reminded of the chaos, vitality, and sheer energy that makes the city feel like the center of the universe when I’m walking it’s streets.  For a first-time visitor, the requisite Times Square visit, Broadway show, and Statue of Liberty tour should be on the must-see list.  This post is devoted to my top 10 favorite spots to visit again and again.  Of course, just like the city, my list is always changing.  As Ralph Stephenson said,”The city’s got the right name-’New York.’  Nothing ever gets old around here.”

1. Pastis

This tres-chic bistro located in the Meatpacking District oozes with charm and is perennially packed.  Food is reliably delicious at breakfast, lunch, dinner, and even late-night, but my favorite time to go is brunch.  Order the Eggs Benedict and a Champagne a la Fraise (with strawberry puree), and sit back to watch the Euro-hipsters in action.

2. Soho

Go boho and spend the day exploring the galleries, cafes, & shops of Soho.  From street artisans to upscale boutiques, there’s an endless supply of shopping choices, and you’re sure to leave with something one-of-a-kind.  Stop into Balthazar for a just-from-the-oven croissant, and don’t miss the What Goes Around Comes Around boutique for the best selection of high-end vintage finds.

3. Salon de Ning

With stunning skyline views and superb cocktails, this bar located on the rooftop terrace of the Peninsula Hotel is THE spot for good conversation and great people watching.  An “East Meets West” vibe sets the tone for the music and lounge-y decor, attracting the beautiful people and after-work crowd in droves.

4. MoMA

When it’s time to taste the city’s cultural offerings, I head straight to the MoMA for it’s world-renowned collection (think Picasso and Warhol.)  Walking through the lighter-than-air circular hallways brings a sense of total zen and inspiration.  As described by critic Arthur Danto: “The consciousness of others moving from stage to stage and space to space is so much a part of the experience that one feels one is always part of a constantly changing work of art.”  If all this heightened consciousness has made you hungry, the pair of restaurants at the museum just happen to be super.

5. Convivio

My newest culinary find, Convivio embraces Southern Italian cooking with a twist of creativity and a large dose of passion.  Located on a tucked-away corner in Midtown East, the interior is surprisingly spacious with sleek design and sumptuous banquets.  But the main attraction is the food: the freshest strands of spaghetti, perfectly-seared fish, and luscious desserts ensure this will make it onto my list of favorites for years to come.

Stay tuned tomorrow as we finish out my list of top ten favorite spots in the Big Apple!