Downtown NYC Guide: Fall 2018

While NYC is a good idea any time of year, Fall is one of the most special, especially for a Californian girl like me.  The crisp chilly air, the yellow leaves dropping from their trees, and the warmth from real wood fireplaces after a venture in the cold. 

Our guide to Downtown New York City in the Fall is inspired by a recent trip with my two best girlfriends to celebrate Ali’s 40thbirthday.  We had only 36 hours to eat, drink and soak up the city.   

 

 

Andy Warhol

Culture

Andy Warhol Exhibition at The Whitney

From A to B and back again, the exhibit shows more than 350 works that spans Warhol’s entire career from illustrator to pop artist.  November 12, 2018- March 31, 2019

Brian Newman at The Rose Room, Gramercy Park Hotel

Soak up the ritz and glitterataiat GPHevery Tuesday and Thursday night with lively jazz in the swankiest of settings.  This is the NY nightlife most on New Yorkers dream about.  Sipping on cocktails, listening to live jazz in an intimate, ridiculously stylish setting, surrounded by beautiful people.   

Come From Away, Broadway

In a time where we’re all on edge with politics and natural disasters, this Musicalreminds us of our humanity.  “This story touched the world and celebrates the best that we can be.” Tom Brokaw.  Winner of best Musical and a remarkable true story. I walked out of the theatre feeling hopeful and moved by the powerful story and performances. 

La Mercerie

Food + Drink

La Mercerie, SOHO

Inspiring all day French cafe created by Roman & Williams.  La Mercerieis a dreamscape; the delicate and decadent cuisine, the décor, space, tableware and service.  All of which is overseen by the stunning Casey Leglerwho dazzles guests with her effortless beauty and charm throughout the experience.   The adjacent shop is curated with artisan serveware, furniture and home décor.  Reservations are a must during lunch and dinner.  You can usually score an unreserved table for breakfast 9am-11:30am and afternoon between 3pm-5pm.  

Via Carota, West Village

Some of the best Italian food in the city without a whif of pretention makes for an addicting dining experience.  Cacio e Pepe, black truffle bruchetta, and seasonal vegetable preparations are always a must along with a bottle of Arneis.  Quintessential West Village.  Expect to wait up to 30 minutes for a table during lunch and dinner as Via Carotadoesn’t accept reservations.

Bemelmen’s, Upper East Side

A Martini at Bemelman’s at The Carlyle is a first stop for any New York trip, whether its with your girlfriends, your lover, or solo.  Listening to live jazz, watching Old New York mingle, absorbing the abundance and decadence of a time gone by is worth venturing above 14th.

Greenwich Hotel

Stay

Greenwich Hotel, Tribeca

In an age when ‘Boutique’ has become quite ‘corporate’ the Greenwich Hotelfeels like a place you want to call your home in Tribeca. The property serves as a permanent gallery for the artwork of owner Robert De Niro’s father, the late Robert De Niro Sr.  The property boasts 88 rooms, a private fireplace lounge for hotel guests, a bustling on site restaurant Locanda Verde, and a decadent subterranean spa. 

soul cycle

Sweat

Run the West Side Highway

This is usually a first day ritual for me. I’ve even tempted it in the snow.  It’s a beautiful introduction to the city skyline and much needed fresh air after a long flight from California.

Soul Cycle, West Village

Always a must in the fall when the weather is raining or too windy to run.  I highly recommend any class taught by Bevin.  You’ll leave the class sweating and inspired to live your best day.  Sign up early.

Equinox,HIghLine-  TRX suspensionclass is a great full body workout using bands suspended from the ceiling.  Great for both men and women.  No experience required.

 

Remember, New York is always a good idea.