Heading to New York? You Have to Check out These Places.
Our team has been spending more time in New York, meeting with clients, attending events, and building incredible relationships. As we get more familiar with the city and try new places, we’re definitely realizing that we have some favourite spots. If you’re headed to New York, either for work or fun, keep reading below for some of our top recommendations.
Where to Stay
The Kimpton Hotel Eventi
The Kimpton Hotel is The Small Social’s home away from home. It’s a clean, central hotel close to many stores, restaurants and attractions. The service is unreal. If you run into Fernando on arrival at the valet stand, you’re in great hands. The hotel also features a great restaurant and bar, happy hour for guests daily, and complimentary coffee every morning to get you going.
Find out more here:
https://www.hoteleventi.com/
Where to Eat
Pastis
Pastis is a simple, classic French restaurant in the Meatpacking District. The food is uncomplicated, but made incredibly well. Our favourite dishes were: the ricotta ravioli, fillet steak frites, beef bourguignon and the smash burger. Don’t sleep on the burger. It’s like an elevated Big Mac and we couldn’t get enough.
The inside of the restaurant is loud, but very cool, and there is the option for patio seating. The customer service was excellent and we had a great experience there.
La Pecora Bianca Nomad
If Italian food is your thing, you have to try La Pecora Bianca. New York City has 7 locations for this incredible restaurant. We visited the location in NoMad which is beautifully decorated with lemons everywhere, giving it a fun Amalfi Coast vibe. The service was outstanding, with our server providing some amazing recommendations. Our favourite dishes were: whipped ricotta with country toast, the tagliatelle and the gramigna.
Tip: you have the option to add Burrata to all the pasta dishes. Do it. You won’t be disappointed.
Sandbar Rooftop
A few minutes walking distance from the Kimpton Hotel Eventi is the
Sandbar Rooftop. Located in the Fashion District on the top floor of the Hilton Hotel, the Sandbar boasts some incredible views of Manhattan. Its outdoor lounge vibe is the perfect place to enjoy cocktails and a small bite with friends or colleagues. Their pizzas are great, made with simple, uncomplicated ingredients and toppings. The corn ribs are pretty good too.
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La Bergamote
La Bergamote is a hidden gem we stumbled on after our original lunch plans went sideways. And we couldn’t be happier. Located in Chelsea,
La Bergamote is a French restaurant featuring the most delicious sandwiches and salads. The steak sandwich was tender and the chicken aioli sandwich was packed with flavour. The nicoise salad is also definitely worth a try. Plus, if you have a sweet tooth, they have a beautiful dessert counter with delicious treats.
Upland
If you’re looking for a restaurant to meet with colleagues that has an eclectic menu,
Upland is the perfect place to try. They have a variety of unique shareable plates like the ‘Njuda Pizza. They also have a Burrata that is unparalleled (can you tell we love cheese?). Our favourite mains were the skirt steak and the green tomato lasagna. Located on Park Avenue South, the restaurant has indoor and outdoor seating. We had a nice table by the window which was quiet and perfect for our post-meeting dinner.
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Billy’s Bakery
Calling all Magnolia Bakery lovers! If you’re a fan of the Magnolia treats, but aren’t a fan of long lines and big crowds, you have to try
Billy’s Bakery. Tucked down the street from La Bergamote, Billy’s Bakery features many favourites from the Magnolia brand, but without the fanfare that comes with a visit to Magnolia. We grabbed a pack of mini cupcakes before heading into a meeting and they were a hit with the group. Someone on the team also tried the banana pudding and said it’s as good (maybe even better) than Magnolia. Stop in for a quick treat and service from friendly staff.
Chelsea Market
Chelsea Market is an amazing space with countless restaurants and stores. There is a huge variety of food and drinks, so whether you’re there for breakfast, lunch, cocktails, or dinner, there is something for you. We stopped at Chelsea Market for breakfast and had bagels and pastries from Amy’s Bread. When we tell you that their sour dough everything bagel is one of the best we’ve ever had, we’re not joking. The cream cheese was fluffy and light. We would go back for sure. Their pastries are also amazing, and if you’re looking for a simple coffee, you can’t go wrong here.
While you’re grabbing food at Chelsea Market, be sure to check out one of the many shops. A lot of vendors are local to New York and are beyond grateful for the support.
Where to Drink
The Dead Rabbit
The Dead Rabbit is a unique and historic pub located in the Financial District. It has the feel of a real Irish pub and has been part of the city since the mid-1800s. It has 3 different areas to choose from with a cool ambience and interesting decor. Their frozen Irish Coffee is incredible and comes in a branded takeaway cup. They also have a huge variety of spirits and beers, plus a cool cocktail menu with unique flavours and things to try.
Please Don't Tell
If you’re looking for a truly unique experience, you have to check out one of New York City’s many Speakeasies. We visited Please Don’t Tell in the East Village. The entrance is through a phone booth via a hotdog stand. If you don’t know to look for it, you would never know it’s there. The atmosphere is very cool with low lighting, no windows and a real prohibition-era feel. You can make a reservation or walk-in.
Bathtub Gin
When you think of a 1920s Speakeasy, does your mind go to windowless rooms and prohibited entertainment? Bathtub Gin comes pretty close. Bathtub Gin is another unique Speakeasy experience in New York City. The venue has both seated and standing room, excellent cocktails, and some great service. When we arrived, there was a Burlesque show taking place with some talented performers.
We recommend making a reservation. And, if you don’t want to get wet during the entertainment, you should opt for standing room by the bar. They call the sitting area “the Splash Zone”.
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