Lately, I’ve been brainstorming new ways to make this space not just a reflection of my own life, but a place where I can highlight inspiring voices and friends I admire. One idea that immediately stood out was to share how some of my favorite New Yorkers would spend their perfect day in the city. Whether they’d choose Manhattan, Brooklyn, or a mix of boroughs, I wanted to give them total freedom to map out a day filled with their favorite eats, shops, and experiences. Before introducing their stories, though, I thought it only made sense to start with my own version of an ideal NYC day.
Waking Up in Style
For me, the perfect New York day begins with a touch of indulgence: waking up at The Greenwich Hotel in Tribeca. Because I don’t actually live in Manhattan, staying overnight in the city always feels like a luxury. The Greenwich has such an understated charm—it feels tucked away, calm, and yet right in the middle of everything.
Attached to the hotel is Locanda Verde, one of my all-time favorite spots for breakfast and brunch. I’d wander downstairs, grab a strong coffee, and enjoy a light breakfast. Nothing too heavy—because, if I’m being honest, so much of my day revolves around food, and I like to save room for all the goodness ahead.
A Morning of Pampering + Shopping
After breakfast, I’d hop in an Uber up to Rescue Spa in Flatiron for a facial. Their estheticians are incredibly talented, and I love that they use Biologique Recherche products, which always leave my skin feeling rejuvenated and glowing.
From there, it’s a quick walk over to 5th Avenue for a little retail therapy. Some of my favorite stops include Intermix, Zara (the one on Fifth tends to be less chaotic than others), and Club Monaco—where I’d also make a pit stop at the attached Ralph’s Coffee for a mid-morning treat. A cookie and coffee in hand while browsing beautiful clothes? That’s the definition of simple happiness. I’d likely cap off this round of shopping with a stop at Sephora, because no New York shopping day is complete without one.
A Lunch Worth Craving
By this point, I’d definitely be hungry again. For lunch, it’s a toss-up between two favorites:
- ABCV: A plant-based restaurant that proves vegetables can be every bit as indulgent as traditional comfort food. The cauliflower, chickpea hummus, and pasta dishes are absolute standouts. (Pro tip: make a reservation!)
- SUGARFISH: If sushi is calling my name, this is the place. It’s fresh, unfussy, and always satisfying. Just avoid peak lunch hours since they don’t take reservations.
Either choice guarantees a meal that feels both delicious and energizing.
Strolling Through the City
One of my favorite parts of New York is how walkable it is. After lunch, I’d probably make my way downtown again, either by foot or with a Citi Bike rental. But truthfully? Walking wins every time. There’s just something about the rhythm of the city—the architecture, the snippets of conversation you catch, the constant energy—that I can never get enough of.
I’d make a point to stop at Washington Square Park, grab a bench, and people-watch for a while. It’s one of those quintessential New York activities that never loses its charm. From chess players to street musicians, the park always has something going on.
Evening: Food, Drinks, and Unwinding
As the day winds down, I’d head back to my hotel for a quick refresh. One of the perks of starting the day at The Greenwich is having that cozy home base to recharge before heading out again.
For cocktails, I’d circle back to Locanda Verde—it’s such a comfortable, welcoming spot for a pre-dinner drink. And for dinner? Without question, I’d end the night at L’Artusi. It’s one of my top three restaurants in the entire city. Their pasta is unforgettable, the atmosphere is warm and inviting, and it always feels like the kind of place where every meal turns into a special occasion.
If I wasn’t staying overnight in Manhattan, I’d probably linger in the West Village or Tribeca instead—wandering through shops, spending time in the park, or just soaking up the city before heading straight to dinner. But in my perfect day scenario, everything comes full circle: from waking up in Tribeca to ending the night there, with food, friends, and that unmistakable New York magic.
The Joy of Mapping “Perfect”
What I love most about thinking through a day like this is that it reminds me of how many ways there are to enjoy New York. Some days are about exploration and energy, others about indulgence and ease. For me, the ideal day is a balance of both—pampering, walking, eating well, and simply appreciating everything the city has to offer.
And while I’m so excited to start sharing how my friends envision their perfect New York days, starting with my own gave me a renewed appreciation for this city I adore. There’s nothing like New York to remind you that even an ordinary day can feel extraordinary when you slow down, savor, and let yourself get lost in it.
