New York City truly stands apart from any other place on the planet. For the past decade, I've dedicated a part of my year to exploring this vibrant metropolis, and I can wholeheartedly declare it my favourite city in the world. There’s an undeniable energy that pulses through New Yorkers, a blend of grit and flair that is simply magnetic. What I love most about New York is how every visit feels like a new adventure. No matter how many times you wander its streets, there’s always something fresh and exciting to discover—it's a city that even its locals can’t fully conquer.
I usually make my way to New York a couple of times a year, but due to my commitments with AJOSEPO, my last trip was in 2024. I celebrated my birthday over four unforgettable nights, and it felt like the perfect moment to share this eagerly requested guide. In it, you’ll find a treasure trove of options, ranging from budget-friendly spots to luxurious experiences for accommodations, dining, nightlife, and shopping. Get ready to make the most of your time in the city that never sleeps!
Love, Tofi Caroline xx
Stay here!
East Village
I enjoy spending time in this area of Manhattan. Whenever I visit, I always choose to stay at Hotel Indigo Lower East Side. It's a pristine 4-star hotel located in the East Village, which even has a trendy nightclub called Mr Purple. The hotel charges a daily USD20 resort fee per person, but the good news is that you can use this fee towards the minibar.
Eat here!
Joe’s Pizza
This is an iconic pizza spot known for serving up delicious slices that are also affordable.
Russ and Daughters, East Village
For quality bagels, caviar, and other such treats, do head here.
Katz’s Delicatessen
This is the oldest deli in New York. For simple, hearty, and delicious food, head here. Be prepared for large portions. Also, I recommend visiting on weekdays to avoid long lines.
Sushi35 West
For fresh, inexpensive, and delicious sushi, head here. Don’t even look anywhere else!
Hamburger America
If you’re after very tasty hamburgers with excellent service, then look no further than this joint. I could not find a single fault with this place. I loved it so much that I went back a few hours before my flight to London.
Shu Jiao Fu Zhou Cuisine
This is a Chinatown staple that serves tasty Chinese dumplings, soups, and noodles. It’s a cash-only restaurant!
Clinton St. Baking Company, East Village
I have mixed feelings about this restaurant. It's a popular spot, but we had to wait for over an hour to get a table. The food was average, but I think waiting for so long has affected my judgement, so I would recommend visiting only if you can reserve a table in advance.
Drink here!
Arthur’s Tavern
This is a classic old-school jazz bar located in the West Village. The staff are great, the drinks are stiff, and the jazz band is good.
Abraco
Do head here for the best coffee in New York. It’s a small, friendly East Village joint with mean coffee and good music.
Felix Roasting Co.
This is a Soho coffee shop that serves good coffee and comfortable seating.
Ludlow Coffee Supply
This is an East Village coffee shop that serves excellent coffee that hits the right spot.
Shop here!
Super Real Much
Super Real Much is hands down the best vintage shop in Brooklyn! Their curatorial standards are exceptional, and they have an incredible selection of women's vintage clothing and home goods. I was lucky enough to score a couple of amazing pieces here, but I'm still kicking myself for not buying the beautiful Valentino suit I saw. Nonetheless, I'm confident I'll be able to find something equally amazing the next time I visit.
Awoke Vintage
This is another great Williamsburg vintage store that just hits the spot. If you are after vintage Levi’s, then do head here.
10 ft Single by Stella Dallas
For a large selection of curated vintage items, head to this Brooklyn spot. The challenge here though is getting your desired items in your size.
Mother of Junk
Head to Driggs Avenue for another vintage store I love. You’ll find beautiful vintage furniture, dishes, books, and accessories here. Don’t let the bad reviews put you off!
Touristy Loves
Art – MoMa, Midtown & The Met, Central Park
Do visit MoMa and The Met. MoMa showcases cool modern art & I paid a USD 28 entry fee. The Met, on the other hand, is the fourth-largest museum in the world. It provides a more holistic experience of art through the ages. I felt this because I couldn’t see all the art, even after spending over 5 hours here, but it was so worth the USD 30 entry fee.
Landmark – Central Park
Central Park is a no-brainer. No matter how many times I visit, I am always gobsmacked by its beauty and attractions.
Landmark – Times Square
I am a tourist, so I never feel any type of way about visiting Times Square, especially because it’s usually on the way to see a Broadway show. Do visit to take in the majesty that is New York.
Broadway Performance – Sweeney Todd
Go watch a Broadway show. This year, I saw Sweeney Todd and loved it. Last year, I saw the Book of Mormon and that was equally good.
Books – Strand Book Store, East Village
This is one of the best bookstores I have ever visited. I spent less than 30 minutes in that store and walked away with 3 books that expanded my mind.
Landmark – Brooklyn Nets at the Barclays Center, Brooklyn
Go watch a basketball game. I saw the Brooklyn Nets and paid GBP172 for 2 adult tickets, and it was worth it.
PS: You can save money on your New York City trip by booking a year in advance and travelling in February, which is the most inexpensive time to visit. I was able to score a great deal on my British Airways holiday package, which included 2 adult return flights and a 4-night stay at Hotel Indigo, by doing just that. I paid GBP 1000 for the package and had an amazing time exploring the city.
