When people ask what my favorite part of visiting New York was I say the eating and the walking…legit came here mostly for the food and I definitely enjoyed it all. I made it to a good amount of places that were on my list, but there are so many more!! So here’s my little guide of foods and drinks I enjoyed, and hopefully there will be more to come once I make my way back~

Two Hands-Breakfast

This was first on the list and definitely did not disappoint. We came for brunch-I ordered the Build Your Own Breakfast and added avocado + sweet potato and a coconut matcha. My friends ordered the Breakfast Roll with chai lattes and a mocha-all were enjoyed. The food is quality and delicious.

Chalait-Coffee and Tea

There are a few locations for Chalait~we visited two. The first time I got the Golden Almond Chai-infused with turmeric and my friend got the Nourish-adaptogen and Ghee infused Matcha latte. Both were delicious. The next time I got an almond milk matcha which was also tasty and simple. The shop also has food for purchase if you’re looking for a bite or pastry to eat.

Bare Burger-Dinner

Loved the vibe and endless menu choices of this place. They have a whole menu dedicated to vegan foods as well so there are options for all! They also have fun drink specials each night with a choice of a margarita flight with all kinds of different flavors. I got the turkey burger with a collard green wrap and shared the regular + sweet potato fries. Some mistakes were made on our meal but fixed immediately. We also got a gluten free, dairy free brownie coconut ice cream dessert that was delicious.

Milk Bar-Treats

We visited the food truck in Rockefeller Center, but I know there is a storefront of Milk. I had my eye on the Birthday Cake Truffles-they make a gluten free version of them. They did not disappoint-so so tasty, but definitely a treat because the ingredients aren’t awesome. They have other fun options as well if you’re looking to satisfy that sweet tooth.

Hu Kitchen-Food/Treats

I’ve been dying to come here for awhile now-if you haven’t tried their chocolate bars go get one now! This place is pretty well sized with a variety of options from building your own bowl, a coffee bar, snack/treats, and more! We all did a build your own bowl-I got all the veggies + chicken and a Crack bar. Loved it all-especially once I refrigerated the Crack bar(chocolate coconut treat). Everything is either Paleo, gluten, and/or dairy free so you won’t feel bleh once you’re done eating! If there was one closer to me I’d definitely have no money left.

San Marzano-Brunch

If you’re looking for a budget friendly NY brunch this is the spot. It get crowded fast so show up right when they open! They offer bottomless mimosas for $12 + the entrees are all well priced. We ordered the brussel sprouts as an appetizer and they were some of the best I’ve had. I ordered the San Marzano omelette as did my friend. Paninis and a side a fries were also ordered-all delicious!

Mr. Purple-Rooftop Bar

We got lucky with the weather this trip which made hanging at a rooftop bar doable. Typically this place gets pretty busy so I would also recommend heading there early-before 2pm. The inside is pretty with great natural lighting and the view of the city is awesome! They also have some fun and cozy cocktails.

Other Bars Visited:

310 Bowery-great for watching sports and hanging out.

Hair of the Dog-great for dancing and feeling like you’re in college again (lol)

Raclette-Dinner

Probably one of the best meals I’ve had. This place is cute and cozy-reminds me of a little Italian restaurant. Basically you order your entree and you get to choose if you want cheese scraped from a wheel melted on to it-so fun to watch. We started off with the American Croque and the Fig Tartine. The tartine was one of my most favorite eats. I got the Chicken Paillard-no cheese for me, and my friends ordered the burger and the New York for two-both with the garlic cheese scraped on top. We were here for a birthday so we were gifted the flourless chocolate cheesecake-also amazing. Highly recommend coming here-but make a reservation ahead of time!

Chillhouse-Coffee/Tea/Spa

This place was so cute and relaxing. We just ordered from the coffee bar, but next time I want to get my nails done and truly enjoy the ambiance. A great place to come and literally chill. I got the coconut milk matcha latte and it was probably one of my favorite ones of the trip.

Prince Street Pizza-Lunch/Dinner/Snack

I don’t typically eat pizza being gluten and dairy free, but I knew I needed to try this place. The line out the door says it all…it’s DELICIOUS. Another favorite eat of this trip. We got the pepperoni slices and I’m still thinking about it to this day.

Katz-Any Meal

This place is famous deli and was a must for my friends. The deli is huge with plenty of seating-option to order at the counter or have waiter service. I personally didn’t try anything, but the roast beef sandwich was ordered and enjoyed by all. I believe it was on Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives and there are a plethora of celebrity pictures up on the walls. I also learned a scene from When Harry Met Sally was filmed there which is my favorite movie! In all…a place to take a dad.

Y7-Yoga Studio

Of course I had to explore the fitness scene and try a new yoga studio. I’ve seen this place on the east coast and was eager to try! The studio is known for its hip-hop vibes and the marketing is awesome. My friend and i did a Beyonce themed flow which was awesome-the room has no mirrors and stayed pretty dark so you really get to focus on your body and being in your mind. Wish there was one closer so I could try out more classes!

Other places we tried:

Dr. Smood: Our experience was not good. The food was expensive, not filling(very small portions), and in all not awesome. Also not a great matcha latte.

Dig Inn: Loved this quick healthier spot-another build your own bowl situation with quality food.

Gin Mill Bar: Super fun bar with the best happy hour deal you can get! 11:30am-8pm the bar is 1/2 off~truly amazing. They also have tables set up to play beer pong.

Bar 9: A fun space to play games and hang-they also have some good happy hour deals and drink specials.

Birch Coffee: Our friend picked up tea/coffee and treats from here one morning so I wasn’t actually there, but I enjoyed the gluten free coffee cake and hot green tea.

Chelsea Market: This place is huge, but has a variety of food and drink options~worth walking around and checking it out.

All places were in Manhattan and I know there are plenty more to try! Next time I hope to explore Brooklyn and see what they have to offer. Thanks for reading and please send me some of your own recommendations!