Well January is here, and you know what that means – time to start on those New Year resolutions! And as a savvy New Yorker, I assume you have put ‘exploring the city’ on your list. So get off your couch, and find some of those gem-stones you are always hearing about. To make it easier, here is a list of some great places to kick start your search – and yes, some of them may be more than 10 blocks from your apartment!
Restaurants:
El Parador (325 E 34th Street) – Sorry but Blockheads does not count as real Mexican food. If you want some fantastic cuisine from south of the border, try this amazing restaurant in Murray Hill that only the locals know about. Well them and Zagats, because most places rank them as the top 5 Mexican restaurants in NYC. The atmosphere is amazing (great for first dates!) and their margaritas will knock your socks off. It also has a great bar and a private space downstairs of parties, so no matter what your night has in store, this place will do the trick.
Pio Pio (multiple locations) – two words: freaking delicious. This is a hole in the wall Peruvian place (some venues literally only have a few tables) and it can get packed, but believe me, it is worth the wait. The menu is very short, but try the Matador Combo – for $30, you get a whole chicken in their secret spice (read: to die for), rice & beans, tostones, salchipapa and avocado salad. Seriously enough food to feed 4. And do not skip out on their sangria – I think it is the best in the city.
Max’s (51 Avenue B OR 181 Duane Street). Again, another great place for a first date. This authentic Italian restaurant has homemade delicious food, a cozy atmosphere, and all for a great price (most of the dishes are under $15)! Don’t miss out on the Homemade Lasagna or the Osso Bucco (on Thursdays only!) – both staples to the menu. The location in Alphabet City even has an outside garden seating – perfect for a warm night!
Bars:
Beauty & Essex (146 Essex St) – Don’t be fooled by the storefront exterior – go through the door to the back and enter a world of glamour and glitz. Like Katie mentioned in a previous article, this bar has recently turned into quite the hot spot with two levels, amazing cocktails, and quite the scene – oh and it even serves dinner. Just make sure you make a reservation or else you may not get in.
Rare View (303 Lexington OR 152 W 26th): You may have already frequented this spot, but if not – go now. The Lexington Ave spot is a classic – unbelievable views of NYC, delicious drinks, and always a great crowd (singles – don’t walk, run). And the new 26th St bar has a cover in the winter, so you can go all year long. Even true New Yorkers know that an amazing view of the city never gets old.
Vero (1483 2nd Ave OR 1004 2nd Ave): And the age old question returns: where can you bring a first date in NYC? Well, definitely here. In this modern meets wine bar meets chic mixology meets delectable appetizers meets A+ crowd venue, you definitely can’t lose. There are small tables to sit and chat, long bars with comfy seats, and the atmosphere is perfect for a first impression – not too romantic, but trendy and cool all at the same time.