With an abundance of choice every way you turn, it’s clear why New York is known as ‘The City That Never Sleeps’.
I’ve sailed the shoreline of Turkey, ridden camel-back through the Sahara Desert, snorkeled the Great Barrier Reef — and even lived in London, its European counterpart for some time.
Yet, when it came to my first time in New York, I quickly realised nowhere else comes close to the Empire City.
It’s a place that gifts you with endless options, covering off the most generic to the most obscure selection of whatever your heart desires — be it food, culture, shopping or entertainment.
This is why we’re giving New York a new nickname: The City with the Mostest, and along with it sharing a handful of our top picks.
THE MOST LAIDBACK OMAKASE EXPERIENCE: SUSHI ON JONES
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A hole in the wall sushi bar can sound a little suss when you’re in a big city, so hear us out.
Located in the teeny tiny Bowery Market, this four-seater alfresco omakase bar offers a 12-piece sushi tasting in a half-hour sitting.
True to tradition, the sushi presented to you will be a surprise, so cross your fingers that the wagyu beef topped with sea urchin crowd pleaser is in season.
THE MOST CHILLED OUT WALK THE CITY: THE HIGH LINE
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Among London and Hong Kong, New York is just one of those places where if you don’t speed-walk, then you risk being run over.
But the High Line, an elevated greenway which runs through Chelsea, is one place where you’ll have no such problem.
Built along an abandoned railway line, it’s covered with gorgeous greenery and flanked by installations by local artists, as well as views of the city’s skyscrapers and the Hudson River.
THE MOST BREATHTAKING VIEW OF MANHATTAN: THE WESTLIGHT
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Having tried and tested everywhere from Ellis Island to the Top of the Rock, nothing comes close to the sunset vista you’ll see from The William Vale’s rooftop bar, The Westlight.
Not for those with vertigo, the 22nd floor rooftop boasts a menu of both classic and creative cocktails, in addition to street food-inspired small plates to line your stomach.
Missed out on a table? The panoramas from the nearby Wythe Hotel won’t disappoint.
THE MOST UNIQUE MUSEUM: THE METROPOLITAN MUSEUM OF ART
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If it’s good enough for Anna Wintour, then it’s good enough for us. Home to one of the best historical art collections in world, you can easily spend the whole day at The Met — if not more.
Behind their glass display cabinets are everything from Byzantine jewellery to Egyptian mummies, and the carefully brocaded robes of Catholic priests.
THE MOST DELICIOUS BAGEL THAT YOU’LL EVER SCHMEAR: RUSS & DAUGHTERS CAFE
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When in Manhattan, you don’t have to search far and wide to find a bagel but the everything variety at Russ & Daughters are worth seeking out.
Not too long ago, the New York deli institution celebrated its 100th anniversary by opening a sit-down premises.
Their extensive menu includes everything from the classic smoked salmon and cream cheese bagel to a decadent caviar flight that will set you back a cool USD $150.
THE MOST INSTAGRAMMABLE STORE: MANSUR GAVRIEL
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Since bursting on the fashion scene in 2012, Mansur Gavriel has become the go-to brand for cool girls who aren’t into designer labels.
Their bags and shoes heavily featured on the profiles of Instagram influencers around the globe, as do the pink walls and curated goods of their Soho boutique. Snap it and watch the likes roll in.
