An insider's guide on where to eat in New York City

As a former New Yorker I’m often asked for tips on the best places to eat. With an exciting and ever changing food scene, New York has something for everyone! Each month brings a hot new opening, but even in a city with an endless stream of ‘new’, there is plenty of love for favourites that never disappoint. These are the kinds of places that go beyond the food to give you a real New York experience, and some of my personal faves that I would recommend in a heartbeat!

NEW YORK BRUNCH

On weekends, brunch is on the agenda for most New Yorkers. Not defined as the few hours between breakfast and lunch, a New York brunch starts early and flows into the afternoon, happening anytime from 10am to 4pm, and often accompanied by a Mimosa or two.

One of my favourite brunch spots is Rosemary’s, West Village. A gorgeous and relaxed Italian restaurant with a rooftop garden, and a seasonal menu of farm to table cuisine. All produce comes from the garden or Hudson Valley Farm, with house made pasta and focaccia.

I also love Russ & Daughters Cafe on the Lower East Side for a fresh take on Jewish brunch, and the best bagels and lox in New York City.

PICNIC LUNCH

No visit to New York is complete without spending time in Central Park, and one of the best ways to experience it is to find a quiet spot to escape the hustle of the city over a picnic lunch. The best place to stock up on picnic bites is Whole Foods Market at Columbus Circle, at the South West entrance to the park. Choose from an endless assortment of fresh meals, salads, sandwiches and snacks - all packaged to go in eco-friendly packaging.

Or if discovering the best local finds at a foodie market is more your thing, check out Smorgasbord Brooklyn. Open on weekends, and home to an amazing selection of artisan food and drinks from local vendors.

OLD SCHOOL DINER

If you’re craving a taste of retro New York, then a Diner breakfast is for you. While some Diners offer a kitschy tourist experience complete with wait staff singing Broadway tunes, there are still a handful of places that feel like they’ve been frozen in time, retaining their old school charm. If you’re out and about near Bloomingdales (and I strongly suggest that you should be), Ritz Diner looks the part and has a menu to match. The buttermilk pancakes with a side of bacon and a generous pour of maple syrup, is Americana at it’s best!

HAPPY HOUR BITES

Without a doubt, one of my favourite places for happy hour or a casual meal is La Piazza at Eataly, Flatiron. In the heart of the Eataly market, this piazza style eatery is all about coming together to enjoy good food and wine. Grab a spot at one of the central tables or specialty counters, and enjoy a glass or two of fine Italian wine, accompanied by a tasting plate of some of the best Italian cheeses and cured meats.

SUMMER AFTERNOONS

If you’re looking for a place to spend a long summer afternoon, my pick is Grand Banks, a seasonal oyster bar on the deck of a historic wooden schooner at Pier 25. Book a table for waterfront dining, or sit at the bar and indulge in a selection of freshly shucked oysters. Open only during summer months, this is the place to be on a Friday afternoon…. bubbles, oysters, sunshine, and some of the best sunset views in the city!

MEXICAN VIBES

If you love Mexican food then La Esquina should be at the top of your list! Cool doesn’t really cut it to describe this place. Hidden beneath the street level taqueria, this underground brasserie feels more like a cellar than a restaurant, dimly lit with a DJ to set the mood. Come for the margaritas and authentic Mexican street food, and stay for the party scene. Bookings are essential at this Soho haunt, but you have to be quick – it’s notoriously hard to get into, and reservations open three weeks to the day in advance. Book via the Open Table app for your best chance.

FOOD WITH SOUL

Located in the heart of Harlem, Red Rooster Harlem celebrates the origins of American cuisine and the spirit of it’s neighbourhood. The menu features comfort food classics – hello mac & cheese – served up with good vibes in a vibrant space featuring live music by local artists.

GIRL’S NIGHT OUT

My favourite spot for a night out with the girls is Beauty & Essex, Lower East Side. Widely seen as one of the most beautiful restaurants in New York City, Beauty & Essex oozes glamour! Enter through the pawn shop on Essex St (and yes the eclectic collection is for sale), and emerge into a gorgeous deco styled bar lounge and dining room. With a fabulous cocktail selection, and an amazing small plate menu designed for sharing, it’s the perfect spot for groups and those of us who like to sample our way through a menu! You’ll remember a night out at Beauty & Essex not just for the food, but for the entire experience. And Ladies, don’t leave without a visit to the restrooms.

FOR THAT SPECIAL OCCASION

When it comes to celebrating a special occasion, there is no better choice than Eleven Madison Park for the ultimate fine dining experience. Voted as the World’s Best Restaurant in 2017, and awarded three Michelin stars, Eleven Madison Park puts on an unforgettable show! The ten course degustation is best described as artistry of food. Each course is constructed like edible art, with a taste sensation to match. Accompanied with perfectly paired wines, it’s an experience to linger over for hours.