Cheat Sheet NYC
Manhattan is bustling with new businesses that were put on hold for the past two years and old classics that have been revived. Here, a short list of some favorites.
EAT
Popular
Located in the Public Hotel, this Lower East Side restaurant is serving Peruvian specialties, like classic ceviche, oysters, and pisco cocktails, with energetic flair. The atmosphere transports you to a tropical oasis as you watch patrons cha-cha the night away to live Latin music in the Cantina bar. 215 Chrystie Street; publichotels.com
Sona
High-end Indian cuisine brought to you via a collaboration between actress Priyanka Chopra Jonas, restaurateur Maneesh Goyal, and chef Hari Nayak. More than the elegance of the white tablecloths and mirrors inspired by Mumbai’s Art Deco period, the focus here is authentic Indian food with a subtle modern twist. After indulging in crab puri with caviar and sublime butter chicken, save room for the carrot cake. 36 E. 20th Street; sona-nyc.com
Viand
This Madison Avenue diner serves the best turkey sandwich in New York City. Grab a quick breakfast or lunch and it will become your new local favorite, if it isn’t already. 673 Madison Avenue; viandnyc.com
DRINK
The Flatiron Room
Voted the Best Whisky Bar in America for 2021 by Whisky Magazine, this destination for the spirit’s enthusiasts and jazz lovers is not the typical NYC nightclub. The music is timeless and the vibe is a throwback to another era. By-appointment spirits classes and whisky tastings, with a 1,000-plus-bottle whisky library. 37 W. 26th Street; theflatironroom.com
Soda Club
This plant-based restaurant in the East Village features 200 natural and organic wines that can be carefully paired with delicious vegan Italian dishes. True to its name, the club also serves handcrafted fountain sodas among its inviting interiors featuring hints of psychedelia, such as velvet teal barstools and a deep purple accent wall. 155 Avenue B; overthrowhospitality.com
SPA
THE WELL
In need of a reset? Take fitness and movement classes, book various spa services, and even fulfill necessary medical appointments. The wellness destination also features its local, organic, and vegetable-forward Kitchen & Table restaurant, considerably sized steam and sauna rooms, and a meditation room—most likely the quietest place in the city. 2 E. 15th Street; the-well.com
Vicki Morav
For a quick escape, visit this skincare clinic designed by architect Matthew Kelly. Renowned celebrity aesthetician Vicki Morav has transformed an Upper East Side townhouse into a one-of-a-kind space where her clients can relax and recharge. The multi-level oasis includes spectacularly designed treatment rooms embellished with crystals, infrared saunas, and a curated retail store. 19 E. 71st Street, Ground Floor; vickimorav.com
JINsoon Hand & Foot Spa
For elegant and simple nails, keep religious appointments among the four JINsoon Hand & Foot Spas located in Manhattan. Jin Soon Choi remains the most influential nail artist in the industry, and her long-wearing nail lacquer line is both healthy and eco-friendly. jinsoon.com
SHOP
Scent Bar
Compared to the perfume floor of a department store, this SoHo shop is a breath of fresh air. Find fragrances neatly organized by scent in an atmosphere that’s never overwhelming. 244 Elizabeth Street; luckyscent.com
Alala
Visit the flagship store of the athleisure brand inspired by the modern woman’s all-day wardrobe for clothing crafted from technical, detailed materials. Comfortable and edgy, they can be worn to the gym and the office. 372 Bleecker Street; alalastyle.com