Garmentory Guides: New York City
Entire books have, rightfully, been written on everything there is to see, do, eat, and shop in NYC. A lifetime here wouldn't be enough to experience all the city has to offer—but if you have even a few days, we have some recommendations. Peruse our non-exhaustive list of Garmentory staff faves in the Big Apple, below.
Museums & More
The Guggenheim
Pictured above
The rotating exhibitions at The Guggenheim are remarkable, as is its collection of Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, early Modern, and contemporary art. The building itself, however, is an artistic experience on its own. Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, the six-story bowl structure has galleries accessible by a swirling ramp overlooking a central hall.
Whitney Museum of American Art
Pictured above
It's always worth checking what's on at the Whitney, the celebrated museum displaying a celebrated collection of modern and contemporary American art. Entry is free every second Sunday of the month, but you'll still need to reserve a ticket. Bonus: the museum is right next to the High Line for a double whammy of an afternoon.
Magic Jewelry
Pictured above
For a real vibe check, head to Magic Jewelry where you can place your hands on biofeedback plates and have your aura photographed. Afterward, let the on-staff experts tell you about your energy and buy some crystals to balance it out.
Restaurants & Bars
John’s of Bleeker Street
Pictured above
A little something touristy but delicious, in a great shopping area, and fun!
Rolo’s
Pictured above, image via Instagram
This place is for planners—reservations open two weeks in advance, and a booking is a must.
The atmosphere is casual and comfortable, but you'll want to put your best wardrobe foot forward because you never know who you'll run into. The burger may look out of place on the menu, but it's a favorite and is always gone within two hours of service. Otherwise, the wood-fired half-chicken and house-made lasagna are outstanding when paired with the Calabrian chili butter bread. The spicy pineapple margarita is so good you'll get a second.
Kiki’s
Garmentory site merchandiser, Isabella, says Kiki's is "hands down my favorite restaurant of all time." In Dimes Square without a sign, you'll know you've found it when you see the line forming under an old Y.H. Printing awning.
It's worth the wait. Put your name down and head to a nearby bar for drinks. When it comes time to order, relinquish all control. "My favorite thing to do at a place like this is tell the server my must-haves, how hungry I am, and let them fill in the blanks," says Isabella.
Fanelli Café
It may be in SoHo, but this bar is no-nonsense. Historical, simple, gorgeous, and obviously makes a fabulous negroni. Liquor licenses on the wall date back to the late 1800s—wild!
Amor y Amargo
Cozy and comfortable, this East Village bar's main focus is on bitters and Italian amari. The cocktail list is extensive (they make an excellent white negroni) and includes a rotating list of seasonal bevvies.
Cafes & Bakeries
Russ and Daughters
Pictured above
The great debate on the best bagel in New York will rage on forever. But we do know one thing for certain—we've never had a bad bagel at Russ and Daughters. The iconic deli is known for its outstanding smoked fish and extensive schmear selection (try the caviar schmear and thank us later).
Red Gate Bakery
Pictured above, image via Instagram
Great pick-me-up spot while spending the day out and about. Get a coffee and a lemon bar, and feel the color rush back to your face.
Levain Bakery
With locations all over NYC, it's easy (and necessary) to get Oprah's favorite chocolate chip cookie. The hulking confection is big enough to share, but you certainly don't have to.