Looking for some New York recs? The first person we ask is our founder, Dua Lipa, who says the energy in New York is unlike anywhere else. These are her must-hit spots, which includes new openings, classics and local institutions you should add to your list. Or, actually, download the whole thing on Google Maps. That way, you can see which stop is just around the corner.
Santo Taco, SoHo
The steak trompo is extraordinary, but then again, so is nearly everything it serves. Make sure to not spend too long looking at the menu – trust your instincts and get into it!
Joyface, East Village
Joyface is a great spot for a cocktails and loitering. It’s the kind of neighbourhood cocktail bar you want to stumble into and then stay in for three hours without realising.
Corner Bistro, West Village
Corner Bistro is all about the iconic burger, at the bar – the same one as when it opened in 1961. That is New York to me. (Though its newer East Village spot is also great.)
Angelika Film Center & Cafe, SoHo
The Angelika is where I go when I want to see something I wouldn't know to look for. It’s been there since 1989 and it still programmes with taste and variety.
Cherry Lane Theatre, West Village
I just love going to Cherry Lane Theatre, which is sort of hidden down a back lane in the West Village. It’s New York’s oldest Off-Broadway theatre – actually, it’s known as the “the birthplace of Off-Broadway”. There’s always something provocative playing and the talent blows me away every time.
Bridges, Chinatown
I’m always excited to go to Bridges. The cooking is smart, the room is beautiful and it’s the kind of place that feels like it’s been there forever, even though it only opened in the last few years.
Bar Oliver, Two Bridges
Bar Oliver is a Spanish wine bar that feels like it flew in directly from Madrid. Small plates, really good pours by the glass and an atmosphere that gets more rowdy as the night goes on. One of my go-tos.
Thai Diner, Nolita
Thai Diner is from the team behind Michelin-starred Uncle Boons. The cooking is really big and bold, and the drinks list is super creative. I love that it’s a diner in the best sense of that word. Nothing feels gimmicky – it's just really good food.
Raf’s, NoHo
Raf’s is doing French cafe culture in a way that feels new. The pastries are incredible, the natural wine list is thoughtful and the way the room feels at lunch is just right.
I Sodi, West Village
I Sodi in the West Village is one of my most repeated bookings in New York. Florentine cooking, great chianti, candlelit and moody. It has the feeling of a place that’s been there forever.
Manjul, SoHo
Manjul is a tiny coffee shop that does everything the way I like it. Really good beans, attention to detail brewing, it’s never too loud or crowded. My favourite way to start a New York morning.
