A few months ago, my husband, Valentin, and I went on a whirlwind trip to New York. It was completely last minute and tickets were booked only a handful of days beforehand. Valentin was travelling for business and luckily I managed to convince our family to look after our three kids for the week so I could go along for the trip. I was very much in need of a getaway and it was the perfect way to escape the cold weather in New Zealand and recharge creatively.
Why Eleanor loves New York
Each time I travel to a new country, I feel influenced in many different ways, but what I love most about New York is its distinct expression of food, fashion and culture. Although loud and somewhat chaotic, I love the vibrant buzz of NYC and can’t help feeling inspired by it all. Every corner you turn, there seems to be something unexpected happening; it’s both exciting and intriguing at the same time.
The view from the Empire State Building towards Williamsburg Bridge.
Eleanor’s accommodation tips
Valentin and I stayed in a tiny one-bedroom apartment in the heart of Soho in Manhattan. We booked it through Airbnb and loved its homely, lived-in feel. If you’re heading to New York, I highly recommend staying in a true NYC apartment as it really gives you a feel for how the locals live.
Staying at an Airbnb is a great way to experience local life.
On our first day, we had a few hours to wait until our apartment was ready so we found a sunny park bench to sit on next to a noisy basketball court. With a cup of strong, creamy coffee in hand and buttery pastries to nibble on, we people-watched and took in all the vibrant diversity surrounding us. It’s the best way to immerse yourself in the city and observe its culture.
Where to eat and drink in New York
The thing about New York is there are always excellent new restaurants, bars and eateries to visit. Sometimes the best way to find hidden gems is to wander the streets and spot the places humming with customers.
The Butcher’s Daughter.
I had a small list of places I wanted to visit, and first on the list was cult favourite The Butcher’s Daughter in Nolita. After three flights, 34 hours and six plane meals, I was craving something light and healthy to eat so this plant-based restaurant was our first port of call. I enjoyed a flavour-packed kale salad with avocado and fried shallots (pictured below) along with a glass bottle of sweet, refreshing watermelon juice, while Valentin devoured tacos filled with crunchy vegetables and a piquant chipotle cashew crema.
The Butcher’s Daughter kale salad with avocado and fried shallots.
Happy Bones in Nolita is a must-visit for coffee. Its three Kiwi owners mean you’re guaranteed a superb flat white here. It’s also an excellent place to sit and people-watch as the stylish locals come in for their morning cup, and there’s great art on display in the simple yet beautiful space.
Reynard Restaurant.
If you love Italian food as much as I do, you’ll be spoilt for choice in New York. I recommend the Piccola Cucina restaurants in Soho (there are three in the space of a few blocks). The pasta is incredible; I’m still dreaming of their handmade spaghetti with truffle oil, olives and prawns.
Blueberry and basil cheesecake at Reynard.
If you’re looking for something a little fancy, Reynard Restaurant in Williamsburg serves a small menu of delicious seasonal fare. The blueberry and basil cheesecake was perfection: lusciously silky and rich without being overly sweet. This Brooklyn neighbourhood is dotted with boutique stores, eateries and street art. Nearby is the impressive McCarren Park Greenmarket, which is open on Saturdays all year round.
Photography by: Valentin Ozich.
Additional photography via: Alamy, Getty Images.
