New York City Guide
- Serena Colella
- Aug 12
- 6 min read
I’ve been visiting New York for over two decades, and it’s a city that never loses its magic for me.
For years, it was our family’s New Year’s Eve tradition—flying in, checking into the Waldorf Astoria, and watching the city sparkle as the countdown to midnight began. Some years it was just us, and other years cousins or friends would join, along with the boyfriends my sister and I were dating at the time—all of which would later become our husbands. In more recent years, the trips have taken on new forms: a girls’ getaway with my mom and sisters, romantic weekends with my husband, and visits where my parents tagged along. Every trip feels different, yet each one leaves me more enchanted. This is my love letter to New York—full of places I return to time and again, and a few new finds I can’t stop thinking about.
Stay
In a city with endless hotel options, these are the ones I return to again and again. Some hold years of memories, while others are more recent discoveries — each offering something special, from timeless glamour on the Upper East Side to Parisian-inspired charm in Tribeca.
A Parisian-inspired escape in the heart of Tribeca, Fouquet’s feels like a secret hideaway with all the romance of the Left Bank. The rooms are plush, the service is impeccable, and there’s a certain quiet elegance that makes it feel worlds away from the city — even though it’s just outside your door.
Refined and polished, The Peninsula is a Midtown gem — perfect for those who want to be close to Fifth Avenue shopping and Central Park. The rooftop terrace offers gorgeous city views, and the spa is the ideal way to unwind after a day of exploring.
For me, the Waldorf will always be pure nostalgia. It was the backdrop of so many New Year’s Eve trips growing up — the sparkling lobby, the hushed hallways, the feeling that something grand was about to happen. Now beautifully restored, it’s even more glamorous while still holding onto its history.
The courtyard alone is worth lingering in, especially in December when it’s strung with twinkling lights. The rooms have a classic-meets-modern feel, and the views from the upper floors are breathtaking.
An Upper East Side icon, The Carlyle embodies timeless New York sophistication.
From its legendary Bemelmans Bar, where jazz and art collide, to its classic rooms filled with old-world charm, it’s a perfect retreat for anyone who loves that polished, elegant city feel.
Nestled near Museum Mile and Central Park, it’s a favourite for both quiet escapes and soaking in cultural moments.
Eat
Authentic, no-frills tacos with bold, fresh flavours — a must for casual, crave-worthy Mexican.
A cult favorite for decadent, juicy burgers and a lively, no-frills atmosphere — a must-visit for burger lovers in the city.
Revitalized by the team behind Au Cheval and Hog Salt, Monkey Bar blends classic NYC glamour with a fresh, modern twist — perfect for cocktails and stylish nights out.
Chic and vibrant French bistro with standout dishes and a buzzing atmosphere.
A NYC staple known for seasonal American fare and warm, welcoming service —
always reliable and comforting.
Tiny French café with incredible small plates, perfect for brunch or a leisurely coffee break.
Rustic Italian charm with hearty pastas and a lively ambiance — a beloved West Village gem.
A cozy, stylish spot on the Upper West Side from the same team behind Via Carota, blending classic tavern vibes with modern New York energy — perfect for relaxed dinners and cocktails in a warm, inviting setting.
Understated elegance meets French-inspired cuisine in a bright, chic setting —
perfect for stylish lunches or dinners.
A beloved Soho spot serving up classic, thin-crust pizzas with a perfect balance of crispy edges and chewy centers.
A lively French brasserie known for its bustling brunch and lunch scenes, plus an exceptional bakery that’s perfect for picking up fresh pastries any time of day.
A hip and intimate downtown spot known for inventive small plates and a vibrant atmosphere — definitely high on my must-try list.
Originally from Brooklyn, this authentic bakery offers delicious French pastries and a pop-up window in the West Village, perfect for breakfast pastries and coffee.
In the evenings, they also serve some savory dishes at their Brooklyn location to round out the experience.
Local favourite for expertly crafted coffee with a focus on quality and community —
perfect for a quick caffeine fix while exploring the city.
Here are a few standout spots I’m looking forward to trying soon
Known for its simple yet refined Italian pasta dishes, Misi is a fresh, modern take on classic flavours — a spot I’m excited to explore soon.
A world-renowned fine dining experience with innovative, seasonal tasting menus —
a true bucket-list restaurant for any food lover.
Legendary for its exquisite seafood and impeccable service, Le Bernardin is a pinnacle of elegance and culinary artistry I can’t wait to visit.
Drink
Trendy spot for expertly crafted cocktails and DJ nights — great for late-evening vibes and dancing.
With its candlelit tables, exclusive ambience, and dazzling interiors, Titsou Bar evokes Paris in the 1920s and ‘30s.
The Polo Bar
Ralph Lauren’s sophisticated American eatery — ideal for a classic, polished dinner or special occasion.
Bar Pisellino is the classic, morning-till-late Italian bar from acclaimed downtown chefs Rita Sodi and Jody Williams, celebrating the timeless arte del bere.
The iconic Salon de Ning ascends beyond its celebrated past to embark on a new chapter, transforming into the sophisticated Pen Top.
With masterpiece murals by Ludwig Bemelmans, the creator of the classic Madeline children’s books, Bemelmans Bar draws socialites, politicians, movie stars, and moguls with its extensive drink menu and live entertainment.
Highlights to See
Take in the skyline from the Brooklyn Bridge
There’s nothing like that first glimpse of Manhattan from the bridge — the mix of steel, skyline, and water makes my heart skip a beat every time.
Stroll through Central Park in Any Season
My favourite ritual: wandering aimlessly and seeing where the park takes me.
In winter, it feels like a snow globe; in fall, the trees turn into a painting; in spring, cherry blossoms blanket the paths; and in summer, it’s a leafy escape from the heat.
Spend an Afternoon with Art
The Met & MOMA will always be classics (and one you can revisit endlessly), but I also love smaller gems like The Frick and the Guggenheim.
See the City Sparkle at Night
On those New Year’s Eve trips, one of my favourite things was simply walking through midtown after dark. The lights, the bustle, the feeling that anything could happen — it’s pure New York magic.
Even now, I try to have at least one evening just to wander without a plan.
Experience Broadway (or Off-Broadway)
Whether it’s a blockbuster like Hamilton or an intimate Off-Broadway play, live theatre here has an energy you can’t find anywhere else.
I still get goosebumps when the curtain rises.
Find Seasonal Moments
Winter: Holiday markets, ice skating at Wollman Rink, and seeing the Rockefeller tree
Spring: Brooklyn Botanic Garden’s cherry blossom festival
Summer: Rooftop cocktails
Fall: Leaf-peeping in Central Park and cozying up in a café afterward
Wander Neighbourhoods
Some of my best memories have been in the in-between moments — walking through the West Village, Nolita, or SoHo with no destination, popping into boutiques, bakeries, and bookstores along the way.
Shop
From charming boutiques to legendary department stores, NYC’s shopping scene never disappoints.
Below is a list of boutiques and department stores I like to frequent when in the big apple.
Romantic silhouettes and artful prints, perfect for a dreamy New York wardrobe refresh.
Effortless California charm meets downtown cool in this bohemian favorite.
Known for their signature pleated heels and timeless accessories, this is a must for shoe lovers.
I love their classic silhouettes with a distinctive use of lace, embroidery, knits and technical fabrics.
Ralph Lauren
The boutiques on the upper east side are worth a visit, get a coffee while your at too at the cafe.
French-girl style done right, from perfectly cut knits to everyday dresses.
Whimsical, floral-filled pieces that feel like a modern-day fairytale.
A New York classic for discovering the latest collections under one glamorous roof.
The iconic “Big Brown Bag” destination for high-low fashion finds.
A Fifth Avenue landmark where luxury, couture, and pure inspiration collide.
Designer resale treasure-hunting in SoHo and UES.
Another great destination for resale designer.
Not clothing, but an unmissable wonderland for interiors and unique finds.
Comments