New York in Pictures

It’s amazing what a weekend away can do for a girl. I spent a good part of last week in New York City, and had a really memorable time.

What I love about New York is the energy I get from the city. Everyone, everywhere, is moving. Constantly. I can imagine that living there would make me feel exhausted, but for the five days I was there, I loved it.

 Since I have officially become a runner (by the loosest definition of the word), I decided it was only fitting to take a jog through Central Park. It was a beautiful autumn day, perfect for snapping some pics. Even though it is early November, the leaves were still beautiful shades of red, orange, and gold. 

My first night there, I took a stroll down 5th Ave, only to realize the Empire State Building was ahead of me. I have been to the top a couple times, but really appreciated how beautiful it was from outside with the mist from the night surrounding the spire. 

Our last night in town, my friend and I decided to make a late night run for Shake Shack. Aside from gorging on a delicious greasy burgers and milkshakes, we stopped along our way and took in some of the sights in Midtown. The Rockefeller Center Skating Rink was iced, and full of skaters. 

We spent one day visiting Washington Square Park, The High Line Chelsea, and the Chelsea Market. This was one of my favorite days. The Chelsea Market was a series of sights and scents, including Spice and Tease, my new favorite tea shop. 

The High Line is a converted train line turned park, that runs through a few neighborhoods in New York and Brooklyn. We walked from the entrance on 23rd Ave, all the way through the south end of Chelsea. I can only imagine how gorgeous the view is in the summer, but we had some pretty colors for late fall as well. 

As with any trip to New York, I got to partake of some excellent dining experiences. I was lucky enough to get recommendations from friends while I was there, and had a wonderful time.

A.O.C (Bleecker St): http://aocnyc.com

Perhaps it was the wine-induced head rush I experienced after strolling the lovely streets of the West Village, but I really enjoyed A.O.C. I was there on a quasi-date with an old friend from college, and this was  the perfect spot for a cozy dinner. Try the duck, or the oysters. My friend and I even stopped back in during one of our midday strolls and enjoyed the cheese board and a few glasses of wine.

The Smile (NoHo): http://thesmilenyc.com

My friend and I met up with one of our New Yorker friends at this sweet little spot, tucked away in a basement on Bond St. The drinks were delicious and well-made. The service was a little aloof, but the food was great. Try the squash and ricotta or the pork chop.

Ilili (Midtown): http://www.ililinyc.com/Menus.html

Ilili embodied what I think of when I think of New York restaurants. Trendy, dark, sophisticated, a little pricey. The food was great, and this is a hot spot. Try the lamb shoulder or the diver scallops.

Jane (SoHo/Washington Square Park): http://janerestaurant.com

I had quite possibly, the greatest brunch experience of my life here. This place is packed. We had reservations, and still waited over 30 minutes for our table. The food was especially tasty, try the french toast or the eggs Benedict. And a mimosa. Or six.

I felt energized after I got back from my trip. The thing about New York is that while I always love the time I spend there, I'm always just tired enough to be happy for home. 

Happy Travels