Summer 2024 in New York

I've visited New York City countless times, and each trip I stay in a new neighborhood to appreciate its unique charm. This time, I stayed at the Nine Orchard Hotel in the vibrant Lower East Side, and it was unforgettable. 

The Lively Lower East Side
Staying at Nine Orchard Hotel places you in the heart of one of New York's most dynamic neighborhoods. The Lower East Side is known for its lively atmosphere, with an eclectic mix of bars, galleries, and boutiques. Whether exploring the bustling streets during the day or experiencing the vibrant nightlife, there's always something exciting happening.

Charm of Nine Orchard Hotel in New York's Lower East Side

A Blend of History and Modern Elegance
Nine Orchard Hotel is in a beautifully refurbished early 20th-century building that combines historical charm with modern luxury. The Beaux-Arts architecture, with ornate details and a stately façade, adds a touch of classic elegance to your stay.

Rooftop Views and Complimentary Breakfast
A highlight of Nine Orchard Hotel is its stunning rooftop, offering panoramic views of the Lower East Side and beyond. .

Complimentary Offering
Each morning, guests enjoy a complimentary breakfast and coffee. Every evening, the hotel serves complimentary wine on the patio.

Culinary Delights at On-Site Restaurants
The hotel boasts some of the finest dining experiences in the neighborhood. Guests can savor exquisite meals at Corner Bar and Swan Room. Corner Bar offers a casual yet sophisticated dining experience, while Swan Room provides an elegant setting for a refined culinary adventure.

Best Bagel In NYC, and I've tried MANY

As a food enthusiast, I always look for the best spots to eat and explore while in New York City. On my latest trip, I discovered some incredible places that are a must!

Best Bagels in New York: Apollo Bagels
After trying dozens of bagel spots in NYC over the years, I finally found the best spot-  Apollo Bagels stands out as a must-visit. Their perfectly chewy bagels with a variety of delicious spreads make for an ideal breakfast or brunch. Staple Dish: Classic Lox Bagel. This bagel, topped with cream cheese, smoked salmon, capers, dill, and red onion and topped with a pizza chili oil! It is a quintessential New York experience.

Best Slice in NYC (don't listen to the Pizza review guy)

Authentic New York Pizza: L'Industrie Pizzeria
Known for their high-quality ingredients and authentic Italian recipes, L'Industrie Pizzeria offers the best pizza in New York. Each slice is a perfect blend of crispy crust, savory sauce, and fresh toppings. Staple Dish: The Signature, which is a margarita pizza but made with burrata and topped with prosciutto! 

A Foodies Recs to Finer(ish) Dining in New York City

Fine Dining at Estela
For a fine dining experience, Estela is a Michelin-rated restaurant that offers an exceptional menu with creative and exquisite dishes. The intimate setting and top-notch service make it perfect for a special night out in the city. Staple Dishes: Ricotta Dumplings, Endive Salad, Beef Tartare, Wagyu Steak. These dishes showcase Estela's innovative approach to fine dining, each crafted with precision and high-quality ingredients.

Seafood Delight at Dame
Dame is known for its amazing seafood, but getting a table can be a challenge. If you can snag a reservation, you're in for a treat. The menu features fresh, flavorful seafood dishes that are sure to impress any seafood lover. Staple Dish: Fish and Chips. This British classic, made with crispy fried fish and perfectly seasoned chips, is a standout at Dame.

Casual and Vibey Dining

European Vibes at Kiki's
Located right across from Nine Orchard Hotel, Kiki's is a vibey casual Greek spot that makes you feel like you're dining in Europe. The relaxed atmosphere, with open walls looking into the street, combined with their delicious Greek dishes, makes it a perfect spot for a leisurely lunch or dinner. Staple Dish: Horiatiki, Kiki’s big Greek salad comes with a mound of cucumbers, kalamata olives, bell peppers, and tomato quarters, with a brick of feta laying on top.  Kiki's Bifteki, an authentic traditional Greek dish. They are essentially consider it a Greek version of a burger patty. 

Best French Dining In NYC

Pastis
A legendary French bistro in the heart of the Meatpacking District. Pastis NYC perfectly recreates the charm of a traditional French bistro with its vintage décor, red banquettes, and classic black-and-white tiled floors. A must-try dish is the Moules Frites, with fresh mussels steamed in a savory white wine, garlic, and herb broth, accompanied by fries. The menu is filled with French classics like Escargots de Bourgogne, French Onion Soup, Duck Confit, and Ratatouille, all complemented by an extensive wine list featuring selections from various French regions. Located in the trendy Meatpacking District.

Boucherie
Their steak and fries are cooked to perfection, offering a satisfying and hearty meal. The elegant yet comfortable ambiance adds to the dining experience, making it a great choice for any occasion. Staple Dish: Steak Frites. This classic French dish, featuring tender steak paired with golden fries, is a highlight of the menu.