NEW YORK CITY! Culture - Dining - Sightseeing
My comprehensive list of visiting New York that I have personally enjoyed over the years. Everything from what to see as a visitor, where to fine or casual dine and where to stay.
New York, NY
bar • restaurants
Posted about 4 years ago
21 Club
I love restaurants with character and history. If walls could talk, I would love to hear the stories of the 21 Club! The restaurant is not what you would expect for a typical fine dining establishment. It is comfortable in dark woods with toys hanging from the ceiling. The toys all have stories to them and many given by celebs, politicians and sports figures. It really is a unique dining experience! Plus everyone here are very nice and friendly; including the host, servers, manager, mixologist, etc. They made our experience a very pleasant one! There is a dress code here though so make note of that. Jeans and sneakers are not allowed passed the bar area and a dinner jacket is required for men. Shorts and flip flops are not allowed in the bar area as it is business casual. To be honest, I appreciate this dress code only to keep things formal and non distracting. Call me extra but I like gentlemen in a dress jackets/ sports coats! So on to the delicious food! Yes, the food and beverages are classic and quite legendary! Everything was not fussy but flavorful and high quality. We started off with cocktails- a delicious mule and a glass of wine. Then the hearty brown bread came with butter- so good! Oysters on ice to follow which were fresh and wonderful. I ordered the Coq au vin which is one of my favorite dishes. I love to order it when I see it on a menu. 21 Club's version is fantastic! If you are a fan of this dish, I recommend that you try it here. As for desserts, there were plenty to choose from. We decided on a classic ending of Baked Alaska, which they did light on fire like a true Baked Alaska! We were also treated to silver platter of fresh baked cookies and sweets! They knew that we were filled to our food limit, so they boxed up our goodies for us to take home. We were definitely treated well at 21 Club! If you are interested in dining here, I would recommend knowing more about the history first. That way you will enjoy your visit more, education is key. :) Plus check their website regarding updates on dress code, hours, etc. Also, make a reservation! I am full believer in reservations. Enjoy and Happy Eating everyone!
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New York, NY
cafe • restaurants • shopping
Posted about 4 years ago
Magnolia Bakery
Hot Dayum! I highly recommended for those looking for a delicious American bakery! The banana pudding is legendary here. The mini cheesecakes are delicious, especially the German Chocolate Cheesecake!
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New York, NY
restaurants
Posted about 4 years ago
Momofuku Noodle Bar
Momofuku is definitely worth the wait and the price! The ramen and bao buns are delicious here, especially the buns. One of my favorite ramen experiences in NY!
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New York, NY
shopping
Posted about 4 years ago
Bag-all
Such a lovely little place selling cute travel accessories. The black and cream colors of their items keep the style classic and the quality is excellent. Happy Shopping!
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New York, NY
restaurants • shopping
Posted about 4 years ago
The Pickle Guys
Do you like pickles? I do! The Pickle Guys do! This pickle place caters to the ever changing dynamics of the neighborhood. Not only are the traditional kosher pickles and garlic pickles great, their other items like the Caribbean pickled pineapple are pretty delicious!
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New York, NY
experience
Posted about 4 years ago
Whitney Museum of American Art
One of New York's great museums! The Whitney is located by the Highline and not at the Museum Mile. I had to convince my taxi driver that! Just letting you know in case you come across the same problem lol The Whitney is Modern American Art museum holding incredible exhibitions that are moving and thoughtful. One of best is you enjoy modern art.
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New York, NY
cafe • restaurants
Posted almost 5 years ago
Untitled
The Whitney museum has a little restaurant/ bar connected to it - Untitled. This restaurant/ bar is a non-tipping restaurant which is written on the receipt. I believe that is why the prices are a little lofty but it isn't outrageous really. I am wondering since Untitled is non-tippng and they do revenue share, that is the reason for the huge smiles on everyone's faces. I am not joking! Everyone was extremely friendly and they seemed very sincere. I kinda just went with it and smiled back. :) For what I ordered the price was reasonable considering I did not have to tip. I ordered an iced coffee which was created with Sumptown coffee. Have you ever had Sumptown Coffee? If you have then you understand my excitement! It was good- dayum good. I also ordered the rice pudding with cherries. It loved it as it was a nice carb treat after walking all over NYC for the day. Whitney museum is a Modern Art Museum so it just makes sense that Untitled is just as modern in design with large windows. It is a beautiful sense of space. Untitled is definitely a great modern café with delicious treats for your museum day at The Whitney. Have fun!
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New York, NY
cafe • restaurants
Posted about 4 years ago
Big Gay Ice Cream Shop
Such a fun ice cream shop serving all natural soft serve with fun toppings. In my opinion, the fact that the ingredients are all natural make for a delicious soft serve. You can create your own cone or order one of their specialties. So delish- Enjoy!
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New York, NY
cafe • restaurants
Posted about 4 years ago
Kossar's Bagels & Bialys
Delicious and traditional! Kossar's has been around for 90+ years and still producing great bialys and bagels! If you like bialys or have not tried one, order the onion filled bialy- so good!
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New York, NY
restaurants
Posted about 4 years ago
Old Rose
Located in Chelsea and inside the Jane Hotel, Old Rose has a great dinner vibe! The food here is amazing and recommend their Rigatoni Bolognese and the Gelato to finish. Their gelato is especially special since they import it from Italy- so yummy!
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New York, NY
restaurants
Posted about 4 years ago
Simò Pizza
This Neapolitan pizzeria is pretty phenomenal considering what you get for $10 more or less. The Diavola (pictured) is very good and I am sure their other pizzas are just as delicious!
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New York, NY
experience • outdoors
Posted about 4 years ago
The High Line
And yet another thing that makes New York an incredible city. I am always amazed how this city recreates its space. The High Line used to be an old train track that was set to be demolished. It is now a walking path/ park that sits within the city. If you start at the Chelsea entrance you can hit the Whitney Art museum and Simo Pizza, two more of my Rayka-mendations!
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New York, NY
restaurants • shopping
Posted about 4 years ago
Ling Kee Beef Jerky
Have you tried Malaysian Jerky? It is so delicious! Unlike it's American cousin, this jerky is very tender and flavorful. Ling Kee in Chinatown is a great place to try it out. Enjoy!
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New York, NY
cafe • restaurants
Posted about 4 years ago
A.O.C. L'aile ou la Cuisse
A.O.C is a cute neighborhood French restaurant in the West Village. It is open for breakfast and closes at midnight. The food here is very good as well as the service and atmosphere. It is a great place for a sit down brunch if you are in the neighborhood.
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Brooklyn, NY
experience
Posted about 4 years ago
Big Onion Walking Tours
The tours offered by Big Onion are definitely worth it! My favorite was the "Noshes" tour which is the Ethnic Food Walking Tour. All the guides are PhD students so you know you will have a brilliant mind guiding you through the city. There are other interesting walking tours too but one that adds food, well that's definitely for me!
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New York, NY
restaurants
Posted about 4 years ago
Lombardi's
Since 1905 Lombardi's has been serving coal oven thin crust pizza. They are also known as the founders of NY style American Pizza. So delicious! The old school Margarita Pizza (see photo) is fantastic and I highly recommend.
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New York, NY
restaurants
Posted about 4 years ago
Junior's Restaurant & Bakery
Juniors has been around since the 1950s and make that famous New York Cheesecake that you have always heard about. There are several locations but there is one in Times Square if you are looking to check off NY cheesecake off your list. The Devil's food cheesecake (photo) has been my favorite for over a decade. So delish!
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New York, NY
restaurants
Posted about 4 years ago
Ben’s Kosher Delicatessen Restaurant & Caterers
Ben's is a good Kosher deli in Mid-Town. The silver tray of pickles and Ben's deli mustard are a great companion to their corned beef. The Matzoh Ball Soup is very good here too. Happy Eating!
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New York, NY
restaurants
Posted about 4 years ago
Thunder Bun
Buns Buns Baby! Thunder Bun is a delicious casual hamburger restaurant located in the Financial District. There are several styles of burgers but my favorite is the Crimini Mushroom burger, so good. Add a side order of fries and you got yourself a yummy casual lunch!
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New York, NY
experience
Posted about 4 years ago
Empire State Building
Completed in 1931, The Empire State Building is of true Art Deco architecture. It was one of the first Skyscrapers in the world. Purchase tickets online before your visit to the observation deck for panoramic views of the city.
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The Bronx, NY
destination • experience • outdoors
Posted about 4 years ago
Bronx Zoo
The Bronx zoo is over 100 years old and is one of the largest zoos in the United States. The zoo itself is quite lush with a lot of shaded trees lining the walkways. There are a lot of animal exhibitions in natural like habitats that the whole family will enjoy.
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New York, NY
destination • experience • shopping
Posted over 5 years ago
Times Square
Times Square is pretty much like the Main Square of any city but electrified 10000x over. I have no idea how I keep coming back to Times Square considering it really is not on my agenda. Sometimes I walk through it to get to the other side. Other times I have wandered in because we are hitting the theatre scene- we love theater. But if you visit New York, I suppose you have to visit Time Square even if you have seen it many times. This place just draws you in. Go towards the light... the lights of Time Square! It really is not that bad as it is like a smaller version of The Strip in Vegas (where I live). Only difference is, New York Times Square has more history, great pizza and dogs as well as the theatre scene that surrounds the area. So many tourists form all over the world here so it is great for people watching. It is fun for the family or if you are travelling solo. You really can't or shouldn't miss Times Square. It is just one of those things that you need to experience at least once in your life. ;)
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New York, NY
experience
Posted about 4 years ago
The Frick Collection
Set inside an old New York mansion, the Frick Museum is a masterpiece of design. Every room holds extraordinary art, furnishings and interior pieces that are classic and sophisticated from an era gone by.
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New York, NY
cafe • restaurants • shopping
Posted about 4 years ago
Saxelby Cheesemongers
This place is definitely for those who love cheese and a good grilled cheese sandwich! My recommendation is the Chelsea grilled cheese. It does take a few minutes to make but you won't regret that alpha toman, fig and chili relish inside toasty bread!
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New York, NY
experience • restaurants
Posted about 4 years ago
The Palm Court
One of the best places to have Afternoon Tea in New York. The Palm Court is located inside the historical Plaza Hotel. I suggest to upgrade to the Champagne Tea and start with a lovely glass of Veuve Cliquot. Afternoon Tea at the Palm Court is an extraordinary experience for all generations.
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New York, NY
restaurants • shopping
Posted about 4 years ago
Chelsea Market
I love Chelsea Market and try to visit whenever I find myself in New York. There is a phenomenal variety of places to eat and specialty food stores inside. One visit is not enough, so many yummy places inside Chelsea Market!
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New York, NY
restaurants
Posted about 4 years ago
Times Square Diner & Grill
Good diner food by the Theater district. It's open 24 hours so you can get a dose of comfort food any time of the day! The Disco Fries are pretty good as well as the Rueben- Happy Eating!
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New York, NY
experience
Posted about 4 years ago
The Museum of Modern Art
MoMA is one of the first museums I had visited in New York more than a decade ago. It still remains one of my favorite modern art museums in the United States. It is full of Picassos, Van Gough, Andy Worhol and other Masters. This is truly a great museum.
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New York, NY
cafe • restaurants
Posted about 4 years ago
Café Sabarsky
Cafe Sabarsky is located inside the Neue Gallery which is a German-Austrian museum. It is worth the visit if you are along Museum Mile. This is an upscale European style cafe serving Vienesse cuisine by Chef Kurt Guttenbrunner. The food and service is incredible. I highly recommend their smoked trout crepes with horseradish creme fraiche (pictured). They also offer a nice selection of teas, coffee and wine.
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New York, NY
restaurants
Posted about 4 years ago
Katz's Delicatessen
"Well it's not Katz!" Is what a lot of my NY friends always say. Katz is a deli landmark and worth the wait. I recommend waiting for a table instead of take away because you can take your time, hang out, squeeze their mustard onto your sandwich and snack on those kosher pickles.
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New York, NY
cafe • restaurants
Posted about 4 years ago
Side Park
Located inside the Museo El Barrio, Side Park is a casual cafe serving delicious Latin Favorites. I recommend the Tortilla Soup or the Ham and Cheese Empanadas- so good!
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New York, NY
restaurants
Posted about 4 years ago
Mr. Taka
Pricey but worth it! The chef behind Mr. Taka, Chef Takatoshi, opened up a Michelin Star ramen house in Japan- Bigya Ramen. Noting the accomplishments of the Chef, you can be assured a quality bowl of ramen using fresh and seasonal ingredients! Very impressive!
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New York, NY
bar • restaurants
Posted about 4 years ago
The Dead Poet
The Dead Poet is a great local pub with a comfortable atmosphere, literary themed drinks and great pub food!
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New York, NY
destination • experience • restaurants • shopping
Posted about 4 years ago
Chinatown
One of the best Chinatowns in the U.S and I have been to plenty of them! Between the dim sum, bakeries, noodle houses, etc you can find something that fits your taste buds and budget.
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New York, NY
experience
Posted about 4 years ago
Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Design Museum
If you like design both historical to contemporary, check out the Cooper Hewitt. It has an impressive collection as well as several traveling exhibitions. It is the only design museum of its type in the United States.
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New York, NY
experience
Posted about 4 years ago
Neue Galerie
The Neue Gallery along Museum Mile has a brilliant collection of Austrian and German art and design pieces. It also has a wonderful collection of Gustav Klimt paintings, as well as periodical pieces of jewelry and home furnishings.
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New York, NY
cafe • restaurants
Posted about 4 years ago
Black Seed Bagels
There are several Black Seed Bagel shops around NY, but this recommendation is for the Chelsea Market location. Great bagles and tasty sandwiches, including their lox bagel. Yummy!
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New York, NY
experience
Posted about 4 years ago
El Museo del Barrio
The newly renovated El Museo del Barrio is a great way to educate yourself on the Puerto Rican, Latin and Caribbean experience in New York. The photos, art and artifacts are very thoughtful on the last centuries migration into New York. Definitely a great Museo on Museum Mile.
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New York, NY
lodging
Posted about 4 years ago
Hilton Garden Inn New York Central Park South-Midtown West
The location of this Hilton Garden Inn is great especially if you are wanting to stay close to Central Park. The rooms and lobby are smaller than normal Hilton Garden Inns but it is NY. The hotel is clear, updated and have a nice staff.
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New York, NY
cafe • restaurants • shopping
Posted about 4 years ago
Lung Moon Bakery
I love Chinese Bakeries such as Lung Moon! Everything inside this small local bakery is fresh and tasty. I highly recommend the egg custard or peanut roll.
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New York, NY
experience
Posted about 4 years ago
The Metropolitan Museum of Art
The MET is as close to a grand European museum that we have in the States. I have been twice and feel like I have not seen everything. There are special exhibitions as well as artwork from the Masters such as Van Gough, Degas, Renoir, etc. If you were to see one museum in New York, make it The MET!
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New York, NY
cafe • restaurants • shopping
Posted about 4 years ago
Ladurée
This is a small Ladurée so it might be difficult to snag a seat but not impossible. I found a small table by the door, not ideal but it worked out. They are known for their macarons but they also have a lovely selection of teas and pastries. Laduree has been a favorite of mine for over a decade and I will sit by the door if I could have a bit of their tea and pastries.
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New York, NY
restaurants
Posted about 4 years ago
Serendipity 3
I have been a fan of Serendipity 3 for over a decade and it is still a solid restaurant for comfort food, their famous Frozot Chocolate and over the top sundaes!
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New York, NY
experience
Posted about 4 years ago
Museum of the City of New York
Museum of the City is a great way to educate yourself on the New York's history and culture. There are wonderful artifacts from different generations and transformations of this great city. It is well worth the visit.
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New York, NY
lodging
Posted about 4 years ago
Sister City
Nice hotel in Bowery with a killer Continental Breakfast! The rooms are small (it's New York), clean and comfortable. The Continental Breakfast is extra $ but offers delicious pastries, croissants, peppered cream cheese and lox. I think I liked the breakfast no than the room! Sister City is a good stay in Bowery.
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New York, NY
bar • restaurants
Posted about 4 years ago
NR
From the comfortable atmosphere, the divine cocktails and delicious food, NR is pretty darn amazing! I recommend the Happy Hour oysters, a bowl of one of their ramens, the karage with matcha salt and one of their amazing cocktails!
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New York, NY
destination • experience
Posted about 4 years ago
Rockefeller Center
Rockefeller Center is a true historical landmark of NYC. There is a lot to do at the Rock from dining, watching ice skaters during the winter, shopping or checking out the city views from the Top of the Rock!
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New York, NY
experience
Posted about 4 years ago
Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts
There are three buildings associated with the Lincoln Center Plaza. I am familiar with the David Koch theater which is the building that has been in several movies. Watching a show inside is a wonderful experience, whether it be an opera or ballet. I have seen a couple of ballets here and they have been a memorable experience. Highly recommended!
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New York, NY
restaurants
Posted about 4 years ago
88 Lan Zhou Handmade Noodles
88 is definitely a hole in the wall but those types of eateries and some of the best! 88 Lan Zhou specializes and handmade noodle dished that are freaking delicious and cheap! Super yummy!!
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New York, NY
destination
Posted about 4 years ago
New York
One of my favorite cities in the States. I have been back and forth many times for more than a decade and it never gets old. It always transforms into something more exciting from the last time I visit. New York has culture, museums, theatre, amazing food and a fast paced style. I love NY!
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New York, NY
experience • shopping
Posted about 4 years ago
The Jewish Museum
The Jewish Museum in New York showcases Jewish culture and art for thousands of years. It is very extensive as their collection reigns from all around the world. A visit to The Jewish Museum is a wonderful way to educate yourself on the Jewish culture and communities.
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New York, NY
destination • experience
Posted about 4 years ago
Ellis Island
Taking the trip to Ellis Island is worth while especially for those interested in history, immigration or have family that came through. There is a lot of history to this island including immigration, deportation, military and geneology. I find it a special considering what it represented for that time in immigration history.
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New York, NY
experience
Posted about 4 years ago
American Museum of Natural History
I have been to several Natural History museums and this one in New York is phenomenal. It is the largest Natural History museum in the world and contains an impressive collection of specimens and artifacts. This is a great museum for all generations!
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New York, NY
experience • outdoors
Posted about 4 years ago
Central Park
Anytime of the year, Central Park is a great idea! This is where the city comes out to play, both locals and tourist alike. If it is your first time, you should take a horse and carriage ride to get a feel for the park. Central Park has a lot to offer from dining at Tavern on the Green, row boats and picnicking. You cannot visit NY without a day at Central Park!
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New York, NY
experience • outdoors
Posted about 4 years ago
Statue of Liberty National Monument
I suppose you could look at the Statue of Liberty from the shore but nothing beats finding yourself on Liberty Island. There is a museum which is good especially if you want to educate yourself more on the statue. *I highly recommend purchasing your tickets online and book the earliest ferry. This is a very popular attraction and you want to make sure that you enjoy your day.
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Brooklyn, NY
restaurants
Posted about 4 years ago
Peter Luger Steak House
One of the best American Steak Houses that I have been to! I'm not the only one who thinks so as it has been New York's top steak houses for a long time and has earned a Michelin Star. It also has a long history starting back to the late 1800s. Their steaks are carefully selected and aged on-site. This way you will be getting a high standard steak along with the beautiful bread basket and delicious sides. Peter Luger is a true classic City American Steak House.
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New York, NY
restaurants
Posted about 4 years ago
Tavern On the Green
I remember my parents telling me that my older sister's baptismal reception was at Tavern on the Green back in 1969. I cannot lie, I was quite jealous! If you have been to the Tavern you would understand why I had a bit of sibling envy. It is so lovely at any time of the day. The Tiffany lamps, the upscale but casual atmosphere and the food is delicious. One of the best things in Central Park!
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New York, NY
bar • restaurants
Posted about 4 years ago
Nobu
I have been a fan of Chef Nobu Matsuhisa for over a decade. I have been to many of his restaurants but Nobu in NY still has a special place in my heart. Back in 2008, while I was at the Tribeca Film festival, I dined here at Nobu. I ordered their Miso Cod and my world changed a bit! It was truly magical. I know that many restaurants do their own version but nothing beats Nobu's version. The seafood, sushi and Sashimi are all high quality and very delicious! Hope you enjoy!
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