Hey guys! If you've been following along on Instagram, you probably know that I was recently back home in New York for about 2 weeks. I had such a great time exploring and trying out new places. I thought I would share a small travel guide/photo diary with some recommendations on where to go and what to eat. NYC is huge and can become a bit overwhelming, especially if you're only there for a few days. I hope this helps you out a bit and gets you to explore more of the boroughs beside Manhattan.
Let's get started!
First up, DUMBO. DUMBO stands for Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass. It's where you go to get those Insta worthy photos with the Brooklyn Bridge behind you. DUMBO has great restaurants like the River Cafe, Jacques Torres Chocolate, and great smaller spots for pizza, ice cream, and lobster rolls. The Brooklyn Bridge Park is the perfect place to soak up the great views and have a picnic. Oh! Can't forget Jane's Carousel.
This trip was my first where I stayed in Queens and not my hometown of the Bronx. I stayed in Bayside which I ended up loving! So many different great options for food and cafes. My favorite cafe was Cafe Bench. It's located on Northern Blvd and they specialize in crepes and coffees. Amazing interior! I'm talking twinkly lights, plants and cacti galore, and even a tree right in the middle of the dinning area.
While in Bayside, you also need to find your way to Bell Blvd. This strip is packed with restaurants. I would HIGHLY recommend Martha's Bakery, Thai 101, Pho 32, and Maggie Moos ice cream shop. Thai 101 has the most yummiest authentic Thai food with a lunch special no one can beat. ($8 for app and entree!)
Also, if you take Bell Blvd all the way down to Fort Totten, you'll find yourself with the most amazing view of the Throgs Neck Bridge.
Another great gem down in the city is the rooftop at Pod 39 Hotel! The views are great and so are the vibes. Super easy to walk to from the 42nd Street and Grand Central subway stop. The hotel has a Mexican restaurant on the ground level that will also serve you margaritas and guacamole up on the roof. Not 100% sure if they'll also serve you food. SN- Be prepared to pay NYC prices, which I had no problem doing. ($14 margs and $14 chips and guac.)
Bryant Park is a great park to grab a coffee, sit and chat, or just people watch from. Also easy to walk to from Pod 39. Not to mention there's a Zara right across the street. ;)
And if you love soft serve ice cream, the Mr. Softee ice cream truck is the way to go! They're all over the city.
I hope you enjoyed this quick NYC guide! Please let me know if you have any recommendations I should try.
XO
