New York City- master travel thread

[lovebugs2003]

So I am going to New York at the beginning of Oct., my sis is staying at the Affinia Manhattan (across the street from MAdison Square Gardens), i am hoping to stay at that hotel, but is there a hotel around that area that is also good?

[trestlegirl]

-get some deli sandwhiches, walk around central park, sit on a bench to eat your sandwhiches, and people watch


I love people watching, so that sounds like a good plan to me! Is there any particular part of central park that I should aim for?

-go to the met, guggenheim, and/or whitney museums (the met is my absolute fave, but you may have to limit yourself to only a few exhibits)

I prefer modern art, so the Guggenheim for sure, but I hope that I can make it to the Met too. Even if I can only see a few exhibits, I'd love to see the buildings!

Also, is it feasible to take the subway from JFK to Manhattan (I am staying near Bryant Park) or do I have to take a taxi? Approximately how long would it take? I actually like subways, and after finding my way around the Tokyo subway/train system, I figure NY should be a piece of cake!

[ignutzz]

I prefer modern art, so the Guggenheim for sure, but I hope that I can make it to the Met too. Even if I can only see a few exhibits, I'd love to see the buildings!
The Met and the Gugg are down the street from each other so depending on how much time you have it's conceivable that you could do both. Personally, I'd skip the Met and do the Gugg and Whitney, The Frick or the Cooper-Hewitt Design Museum. :p

Also, is it feasible to take the subway from JFK to Manhattan (I am staying near Bryant Park) or do I have to take a taxi? Approximately how long would it take? I actually like subways, and after finding my way around the Tokyo subway/train system, I figure NY should be a piece of cake!
Yes, you can take the train. The AirTrain at JFK will take you to the A or E trains and then you can transfer in Manhattan if you need to. ETA: Time wise I'd guess 60-90min or more (haven't done that route in years).

[ManteoChik]

Hey Everyone!

SO and I are planning a trip to NYC in December (thinking around the 10th-ish) for like 3 or 4 days. I've only been once, and it was only for a day trip maybe 5 years ago. We've planned on Dec. so the Christmas decorations are up.

So far I know we are going to be driving to his parents in NJ and dropping the dog off, then taking the train from Atlantic City into NYC. We're staying at The Carlyle and that's all we've got so far...lol.

I want to see the Rockettes, but other than that we have no plans. I'd also like to see a show but have no idea what would be a good one. It would have to be something not too girly and with some humor because I know that SO wouldln't sit through anything "boring". :rolleyes:

[jnettie]

December: Go ice skating in Central Park! It's so much fun! Less expensive than Rockefeller Center and once you're on the ice, you can stay as long as you want (Rockefeller makes you get off after 1 hour).

Re Rush tickets - I'm less and less into this these days. Thing is, the most popular shows have the fewest seats. Avenue Q only has 10 or 20, and probably 100 people show up for the lottery. Personally, even as a New Yorker I use the TDF TKTS booth in Times Square. You have to pay cash, and you don't get to pick your seat, but you pay 1/2 price. I've gotten some awesome seats this way.

[Jessica]

Hey Everyone!
So far I know we are going to be driving to his parents in NJ and dropping the dog off, then taking the train from Atlantic City into NYC. We're staying at The Carlyle and that's all we've got so far...lol.

I'm not sure if there's a train that goes from Atlantic City to NYC. I know there's a bus, but I think NJ Transit stops around Bay Head (about 1 hour north of AC).

[jnettie]

I'm not sure if there's a train that goes from Atlantic City to NYC. I know there's a bus, but I think NJ Transit stops around Bay Head (about 1 hour north of AC).

It looks like you can take either Amtrak or NJ Transit trains to Philadelphia, then on to NY Penn, but nothing direct. But there's tons of buses that go to AC, so I think you can get here from there.

[ManteoChik]

It looks like you can take either Amtrak or NJ Transit trains to Philadelphia, then on to NY Penn, but nothing direct. But there's tons of buses that go to AC, so I think you can get here from there.

I know there is some train that will get us from AC to NY, even if we're not direct. I'm not very familiar with it - but SO grew up just outside of AC so he knows what the deal is. Most of the planning is being done by him but I just wanted to get a general idea of some NYC things to do.

[jnettie]

ManteoChik, don't mind me, I'm just a freak that enjoys looking at maps and figuring out how to get places. ;)

[tigger8402]

Any recs on where to stay? We are planning to go to NYC in October the 7-9. We are trying to stay until $300 a night and we are planning to go see Rent on the 8th.

[kithara]

I want to see the Rockettes, but other than that we have no plans. I'd also like to see a show but have no idea what would be a good one. It would have to be something not too girly and with some humor because I know that SO wouldln't sit through anything "boring". :rolleyes:

Spamalot is quite funny and my DH and Dad both really enjoyed it. Cirque du Soliel will also have a show in NYC at the time if you prefer that to a broadway show. Fiddler on the Roof was great as well, but it isn't showing anymore.

[jnettie]

Any recs on where to stay? We are planning to go to NYC in October the 7-9. We are trying to stay until $300 a night and we are planning to go see Rent on the 8th.

Oh, you can certainly do under $300/night...but you better make your reservations soon!

I'd suggest staying someplace centrally located. You can get a Times Square area room for someplace in the $200 range, but it will be a small small room. Before moving here, I stayed at the Milford Plaza (on 43rd or 44th on 8th ave) and the Wellington (on 7th Ave at 57th street). Both were nice places. The Wellington has smaller rooms than the Milford. You really just need a place to sleep because you'll be out and about all the time, no problem.

Shows to see...let me check my Times theater listing...What's not "boring"...

I loved Spamalot, but will admit it's funnier if you are a Monty Python nerd, which I am. There's also lots of T&A in it, which keeps the men happy. ;)

Hairspray is supposed to be very good. I still haven't seen it, but really want to.

I've actually heard good things about Legally Blonde, but I fear that's certainly a chic musical. ;)

I've heard very bad things about the Les Mis revival. Especially if you like Les Mis, it's basically a half assed production.

The Drowsy Chaperone is also supposed to be very good. A classic fun musical.

Young Frankenstien begins previews on Oct. 1. I cannot tell you how much I want to see this! It will probably be impossible to get tickets for.

[Sashi]

Just booked a weekend in NYC for the end of September. Sort of a short babymoon for us. I booked the Omni Berkshire Place hotel which got great reviews and had great internet deals on their website. I wanted to stay close to midtown and Broadway area as we are seeing 1 or 2 plays. We went in January for a few days and stayed at The Benjamin and we liked it (didn't love it) but they were pricier now and i wanted something different.

Has anyone had any experience they'd like to speak on at Omni Berkshire (i believe it's at 52nd and Madison)? It's already booked but I'd like some feedback. Tripadvisor had good reviews for it.

[tigger8402]

thanks jnettie!!

Anyone have any reviews on the hilton - time square? I've found it for as cheap at 279 through expedia or one of those and was just wondering before I booked it. thats about the going rate for most hotels so i'm comfortable with the price.

[Rosebud]

Interesting article in the NY Times about food tours in New York. Just FYI.

Their Itinerary Is Your Menu (http://travel.nytimes.com/2007/08/26/travel/26weekend.html?ref=travel)

...the idea of a food tour may seem odd: why pay someone to tell you what to eat? In short, because it's a way to participate in, and not just observe, life in New York City. And with the right guide, it can be almost exhilarating.

Still, it's not for everyone. If you check Chowhound.com before your e-mail, can distinguish single-origin chocolate made in São Tomé from that made in Tanzania, or have 28 bottles of hot sauce sizzling in your cupboard, you're probably savvy enough to set out on your own and make the city your cafeteria. But for others — visitors, especially — the tours are well worth it.

Below are reviews of recently tested tours from five companies. They often sell out, so reservations are recommended.

And the companies they mention:

VISITOR INFORMATION

Foods of New York, $40; (212) 209-3370; www.foodsofny.com.

A Slice of Brooklyn Pizza Tour, $65; www.bknypizza.com; reserve with Zerve, www.zerve.com; (212) 209-3370.

New York Chocolate Tours, $70; www.sweetwalks.com; reserve at www.zerve.com.

NoshWalks, $33; (212) 222-2243; www.noshwalks.com.

ICE on Location Tours, New York Institute of Culinary Education, $70 to $95; (212) 847-0770; www.iceculinary.com.

[Adaya]

Rosebud, thanks for posting that. I may check out one of those tours the next time I go home.

[kdotp]

DH and I are going to NYC for a long weekend in Sept. One of his fraternity brothers from college is from LI, and used to set up a big fishing trip every year. Then all the guys got married and now it's a couples weekend. We went 3 years ago and had a great time, and I can't wait to go back!

I know the guy set up a winery tour for Friday, but I don't know what else is going on. We're staying at the Renaissance Times Square (the guy's pick, not ours, and we're all staying at the same hotel).

We leave in less than two weeks!

[Sashi]

kdotp - Have a great time!! Sounds like you have a great group of friends there.

[trestlegirl]

I had a fantastic first trip to New York last week. It was so much fun and I can't wait to go back!

Thanks, Asha, for the recommendation on Macy's Herald Square. I took my shopping-averse coworker there and she had a great time. We discovered that if you go to the Visitor's Center and show your out of town driver's license, you recieve a discount card - 11% off all of your purchases. Hooray!! We also went shopping in SoHo, which was heaven for me.

I also have to recommend a Zaytuna Market, across the street from Battery Park. We stopped there for coffee and a muffin before boarding the ferry to the Statue of Liberty (which was meh) and Ellis Island (which was incredibly moving for me, as several great-grandparents passed through there as immigrants), and were so impressed by the looks of the salad bar and the deli that we went back for lunch. The salad/prepared food bar made Whole Foods look like McDonalds. I guess it was kind of expensive, but it was totally worth it, and we took our salads across to the park and had a great time people-watching while we ate.

[kimbyj]

Quick....need a fun but really nice place to take SIL and Aunt for dinner - well...in about 16 hours. fun, hip but good food. $$$ is not a concern. Suggestions please????

[zhannushka]

Quick....need a fun but really nice place to take SIL and Aunt for dinner - well...in about 16 hours. fun, hip but good food. $$$ is not a concern. Suggestions please????
This one is my all-time favorite: TAO (http://www.taorestaurant.com/).

[kimbyj]

Great idea but no reservations for 4 until 11 p.m.! Ouch. Any place else.

TIA!

[zhannushka]

Great idea but no reservations for 4 until 11 p.m.! Ouch. Any place else.

TIA!
Here's another one of my favorites: China Grill (http://www.chinagrillmgt.com/chinaNY/main.cfm).

I can't believe TAO doesn't have reservations until 11 pm - that's crazy!

[allyray231]

Becco is nice-not super super nice but really good food
Mesa Grill
Gramercy Travern
Cafe De Artist

[ignutzz]

Homestead is fantastic (as long as you're not vegetarian ;))

Eatery is one of my favorites. It's not super fancy but the food is delicious and they have a great drink menu.

[nyclaura]

Here are some great upscale places that you should be able to get in:

Vong (54/3rd)
Tamarind (23/Park)
Tse Yang (51/Madison)
Molyvos (57/7th) - not quite sure on the address - in that area though. RIght down from Carnegie Hall.

I have more ideas - but that will give you a good start. And my hubby and I frequent all those spots so I can say they're 100% delish.

[thedoorchick]

Okay, I think I am in big, big trouble!

I am going to be in NYC for a conference several weeks from now, so I decided to stay over the weekend. I booked my flight to come back on Sunday and made arrangements for DH to come out there. Now I don't know where we're going to stay! I was really hoping to find something for less than $200, but I think the window of opportunity for that is just gone.

I am seriously looking at Queens as an alternative. I figure that if we stay near the subway, then we can get into Manhattan pretty quickly. However, I am having trouble figuring out how to be near a subway and also not too far from the airport (LaGuardia). If we spend a fortune getting to and from the airport, we might as well spend more on a Manhattan hotel.

Any thoughts? Yes, I know I should probably just revise my expectations. I really screwed up with the airport, I think. I would be seeing more options if I was flying into Newark.

[doublej]

Have you tried priceline.com? We did the name your on price thing for $200 a night 2 blocks from Times Square. I have used priceline several times and I haven't run into a problem.

When we recently went to NYC, we rode the shuttle van (the blue and yellow ones). Huge mistake! It cost us $17 a piece and we rode all around Manhattan dropping everyone off. One the way back to the airport, we got a town car that I booked online for $35. That was the way to go! It was cheaper than a taxi.

[thedoorchick]

I haven't tried Priceline, but I tend not to use them for hotels or air, just because I don't like the "not knowing" factor. I do like them for cars.

I'll see what happens......

[kdotp]

We leave for NYC tomorrow! It also happens to be our anniversary and we don't know if we'll do supper (dinner :p) with everyone else or do our own anniversary meal. Any recommendations that aren't $$$ and won't necessarily need reservations? We're open to pretty much anything. :)

[ignutzz]

thedoorchick For under $200 you'll have to revise your expectations of elegance. :) Or, try a Brooklyn B&B (http://www.bedandbreakfast.com/brooklyn-new-york.html)

kdotp I recently found Market Cafe (http://nymag.com/listings/restaurant/market-cafe/) for a LJ friends GTG and we all enjoyed ourselves. It doesn't look like much from the outside but the food was really good and the drinks were too. It's not overly romantic but still fairly quiet and intimate. I'd say price range is $30-$40 per person depending on what you order and how much you drink.

[catch]

TheDoorChick:

I've driven by this hotel and it seems to meet your criteria: Comfort Inn Long Island City (http://www.hotels.com/property.do?COYear=2007&searchID=AC102644-9615-8191-14D2-4DEC2FC948AD&propertyIdsToCompareString=&destination=572B0850-4E3F-469B-87B2-C17ED3EA049B%7CA66E6407-6E58-477E-9E55-6473F6307E27%7CNew+York%2C+NY%2C+USA%7C1&mtnHotelID=340930&numrooms=1&roomOccupancyString=1%7C%7C2%7C0%7C0&searchMtmPropertySupplierId=&PSRC=OT2&usertypedcity=&paging=1&alternateSell=&searchType=&sortBy=HCOMPICK&CIMonth=-1&CODay=-1&allPropertyTypesSelected=true&COMonth=-1&priceRangeKey=1&TSRC=1&CIYear=2007&CIDay=-1). Might be worth checking out. The area is not the best but if you're only looking for a place to sleep, not hang out, the price may be right. It's close to the train and very close to the city. I would say that midtown is just a few stops away on the 7 train, like 4-5 stops from Grand Central Station.

Hope that helps! :)

[Sashi]

Any other restaurant suggestions preferably around 52nd/Madison and Broadway area or Soho? We ate at Baco (Lydia's restaurant and we weren't so thrilled) and AquaGrill (Soho which was amazing).

I am going to suggest China Grill and Tse Yang to my DH but I'm not thrilled with chinese right now (that might change with my pregnancy cravings.)

[kd 9.21.02]

thedoorchick, hotel rooms in NYC are insanely expensive but I think you'll have a much better visit if you stay in Manhattan closer to the things you want to see/do. I know it's tough to find a good deal -- and, honestly, even if you're paying close to $300, you're not going to be wowed by the room. Have you looked into The Hudson (and Ian Schrager place that is affordable -- super tiny rooms)? Also, I hear decent things about On the Ave, which is on the Upper West Side close to subway stops, Central Park, Museum of Natural History, etc.

[Sashi]

Hi ladies,

My DH and I are going to NYC this weekend for a short babymoon/weekend. We have tickets to see The Lion King on Saturday night with some friends from NY and then we are going to eat in the theater district (not in love with the place and I've already been there but it's convenient at 11pm).

Anyway, our plan was to go into Soho (there is some shopping we want to do) on Friday afternoon/evening and then just eat there. Last time we went to Soho we ate at Aquagrill (at many poster's recommendations). We loved it but are interested in a new place. Any options? It's late and a lot of places might already be booked up but if there is anything we will take it at this point, or maybe just catch a cab back to our hotel and eat somewhere around there. We love SEAFOOD and i'm pregnant so some stuff like sushi is out of the question (even though i love it). Since we are going to Italian on Saturday night I'd prefer anything that wasn't italian. We also don't like Thai food.

TIA!!!

[kd 9.21.02]

What about Blue Water Grill (http://www.brguestrestaurants.com/restaurants/blue_water_grill_new_york/index.php)in Union Square? Fantastic seafood (I highly recommend the steamed shrimp dumplings and the broiled lobster -- but let them do the dirty work for you on the lobster). It's not right in Soho but Union Sq. isn't too far from there.

For a great steak, I really like Dylan Prime (http://www.dylanprime.com/)in TriBeCa (also not in Soho but not too far from there).

[allyray231]

Sashi HIGHLY recommend Blue Water Grill!

[Sashi]

Because I know my husband willl LOVE Blue Water Grill and they had a reservation I just booked it! I knew there was another great Seafood restaurant around there! Thanks so much KD!

[framboise]

Hi Ladies!

I need an NYC suggestion, please. I know little more than nothing about the area but we have a trip pending in January so I'm sure I'll pop in here again as it gets closer! In the meantime though.....

I have a college friend who is getting married in November. He just moved to NYC from the west coast this summer for a long-term temporary job placement that will keep him there for about 2 years. His fiancee will move there after the wedding but currently lives on the west coast. They will live in his itty bitty studio so there is literally no room for wedding gifts so I was trying to think of an experience-type thing to give them instead to help them take advantage of their new-ish city. I'm hoping to keep the budget around $100, although if there is something pricier that's an excellent idea, I could probably convince another friend or two to go in on the gift with my husband & I. They've done a lot of the basic stuff like Yankee games / Central Park / shopping / Empire State Building, but I don't know too much about the full extent of their exploring. Is there some kind of outing / pass / great restaurant / anything at all that would make for a fun day or night out taking advantage of the city & the fact that they'll finally be together after a long-distance relationship?

TIA!

[kd 9.21.02]

My SIL once bought us a gift certificate for Broadway.com so that we could buy tix to whatever show we wanted. Very much appreciated. (Though, sadly, $100 doesn't get you too far for show tix anymore.)

$100 toward a dinner at any of the amazing restaurants would be great too.

How about $100 gift card for BR Guest Restautants (http://www.shopbrguest.com/)? BRGR owns tons of good ones (including BWG which I recommended above) in a bunch of dif't neighborhoods. That's a gift card I would put to good use! And depending on where they use the card, $100 could potentially cover the whole tab for a really nice night out.

[kd 9.21.02]

Enjoy, Sashi!
And don't skip dessert! ;) The fondue and banana tower are my go-to orders there.

[Sashi]

YAY! I love banana desserts! :)

[Sashi]

Framboise - I would suggest what Kd did. A gift certificate to BR Guest Restaurants is a great idea. They do have a lot of great places to go and you can always use a nice free night out on the town.....

[Sashi]

KD - Blue Water Grill was FANTASTIC! Not that Aquagrill wasn't but it was definitely better IMO than Aquagrill. YUMMY! Their appetizers were great and just everything was perfect. I wasn't hungry enough to order the seafood tower but will do next time!!!! We had their special chocolate desert which was great, it had hot caramel inside and was right up my chocolate craving alley. DH wanted to share so no banana tower for me (he hates bananas).

Thanks again for the suggestions ladies!

[kd 9.21.02]

I'm so glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for posting.

[lilo]

Althogh DH and I have been to NYC many times, we will be taking our DS (11 months) for the 1st time next month. We're staying at the Loews Regency hotel (we've stayed there before and love the location and hotel) on the Upper East side.

For any locals out there, could you recommend a few kid-friendly non-chain restaurants in the upper east side area? We are definitely taking DS to Serafina (I love that place!) but I'm clueless on where else to go. We've taken DS to a lot of nice restaurants where we live and he's done great at all of them but I don't know if I'm brave enough to do that in NYC where the true foodies are! :D


TIA! :)

[thedoorchick]

I realized I forgot to post any follow-up on our stay. Sorry! :o

I ended up getting a room at the Wellington on 7th/55th through Priceline. It was right at $200 a night, which was a great deal for this time of year in Manhattan, but it was undoubtedly the worst hotel stay of my life. And I travel a lot so that's really saying something. I'm almost afraid to book through Priceline again in that part of town for fear I'd end up there. No way that hotel is a 4 star (not that I only stay at 4 stars; I'm pretty frugal with hotels in fact, but don't call a property a 4 star if it isn't!).

It was clean and safe enough, though nothing fancy, but an enormous hassle. First they wouldn't give me my key when I checked in; I had to wait 20 minutes for the bellman to give it to me (and I didn't need a bellman and told them so). Then the second night we were there, someone was doing some very loud repairs in the hallway or possibly in the room next to us. There was hammering and drilling and loud talking like I've never experienced in a hotel at midnight. It sounded like they were tearing down a wall, or maybe building one!

Anyway, we had a nice trip, so that was not to complain, but just to say - don't stay there!

We spent a good amount of time in Brooklyn, walking around the neighborhoods, then ate pizza at Grimaldi's and then walked back across the bridge. The weather was terrific - perfect day for that agenda. We also ate at Shake Shack which was very fun. While I was there, I also ate at Agave (not impressed, but being from TX I have high standards for Southwestern food).

[tigger8402]

Just got back from NYC. We stayed at Hilton New York. I HIGHLY recommend staying there. we had a "deluxe" room and it was very spacious for a NYC room. The only downfalls to the place was the bathtub took a while to drain but wasnt a huge deal. It was empty by the time I was dried off. And the buffet/restaraunt was terrible and VERY expensive. It costed $70 for two at the breakfast buffet! Other then that we had an amazing time. RENT was AMAZING! Got great seats for a good price at the hotel ticket desk. VERY close to everything. Perfect location!

[BusyBee21]

Any suggestions for traveling with a 15 mo in Manhattan? DH and I are bringing our DS along on this trip for a week; we're in Manhattan for 4 days then LI for 3; we already have accomodations for both, but I am not sure what to do with a 15 mo in the city for 4 days? Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated! BC, we would have planned a WHOLE different itinerary for this trip. :)

[kd 9.21.02]

Hi BusyBee. I don't have children but some ideas that come to mind...

Central Park Zoo
Museum of Natural History (though he may not enjoy anything but the whale room)
Children's Museum of Manhattan

This site might be helpful... Visiting NYC with Kids (http://travelwithkids.about.com/b/a/201478.htm).

[ysolde]

Althogh DH and I have been to NYC many times, we will be taking our DS (11 months) for the 1st time next month. We're staying at the Loews Regency hotel (we've stayed there before and love the location and hotel) on the Upper East side.

For any locals out there, could you recommend a few kid-friendly non-chain restaurants in the upper east side area? We are definitely taking DS to Serafina (I love that place!) but I'm clueless on where else to go. We've taken DS to a lot of nice restaurants where we live and he's done great at all of them but I don't know if I'm brave enough to do that in NYC where the true foodies are! :D


TIA! :)


Serendipity 3, known for its frozen hot chocolate and dessert in general. The entrees are great, too. Very kid friendly.

http://www.serendipity3.com/food.htm

[ignutzz]

Any suggestions for traveling with a 15 mo in Manhattan? DH and I are bringing our DS along on this trip for a week; we're in Manhattan for 4 days then LI for 3; we already have accomodations for both, but I am not sure what to do with a 15 mo in the city for 4 days? Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated! BC, we would have planned a WHOLE different itinerary for this trip. :)

Skip the stroller and hit the town with a sling/beco/ergo/babytrekker/jerry pack etc. You'll be able to more easily navigate the city and the subways. It'll also be easier to do slightly more adult events like a museum or two in between super kid friendly outings.

I second everything kd mentioned. Also check our local weekly mags (like New York and Time Out NY) for family events happening while you're visiting.

http://nymag.com/family/kids/
http://nyckidsarts.org/?
http://timeoutny.com

Have fun!

[kd 9.21.02]

Ysolde - I hear Serendipity is really fun but I'm always scared off by people telling me that they waited more than an hour. Are there good "off-peak" times to go? I've heard that even around 3:00 (which I sorta consider off-peak b/c it's between meals) it's packed. But full disclosure... I've never been myself so I defer to you. :)

[shaqangel]

serendipity is a fun place. we went back in February and ds was just 7mths. he was fine and yea the wait is LONG but i had made reservations so even though we got there a few mins late we were seated almost immediately and walked ahead of a long line of people. they only take reservations if you're having a full meal. no dessert only reservations. but of cos we had the frozen hot choc which would definitely we worth the wait on a return visit if we dont have reservations! my friend went back in july and she got there right at opening time and didnt have to wait.

one thing to know about taking babies in there is that they dont have high chair and have a no stroller policy.

ETA: the food was great too!

[ignutzz]

Ah, but 3:00 is prime after school time. ;) I've always been curious about Serendipity but it just seems so touristy (and then they had to put it in a movie) that I've never tried to visit. I'm curious to hear what Ysolde says as well. :)

[Michelle]

We're going to NY in a couple of weeks with our 12 month old and I'm loving the kid friendly suggestions! We are staying in a hotel in Garden City so we'll be using the LIRR alot to get into Manhatten. This is our first time going with our little one so I'm a bit nervous. My DH grew up there so everytime we go, we just wander the city and go wherever our feet take us. So this trip should be interesting since we have our little one and can't wander quite as much.

The kid friendly suggestions are really helpful! Thanks!

[ysolde]

Definitely make reservations, well in advance, for Serendipity. It is so worth it!

If you are going to Central Park, check out the Zoo and the carrousel. I am told the Children's Museum is great, but I am not sure at what age.

There is a restaurant on Broadway called Mars 2112. It's a whole sort of "experience" where you travel to Mars and eat there. It's a real kid favorite. http://www.mars2112.com/about.htm

[kd 9.21.02]

There is a restaurant on Broadway called Mars 2112. It's a whole sort of "experience" where you travel to Mars and eat there. It's a real kid favorite. http://www.mars2112.com/about.htm

And Brad Pitt took Maddox there a couple months ago... :)

[hokiegirl]

My husband has a gig at CUNY and we're looking at corporate apartmnets for him. We're looking at either Chelsea or Midtown West. Which of those locations have the best restaurants close by? Convinence will be huge for him to not worry about having to catch a cab or subway.

[kd 9.21.02]

hokiegirl, I personally prefer Chelsea as it's a lot more fun and "hip" and you're closer to all the great restaurants and hot spots downtown. Midtown West is sort of a dead zone (though it's packed full). Lots of new buildings going up there but nothing to write home about. Plus there are a lot of the inexpensive hotels over there so I think you'll be surrounded by tourists. Chelsea's just a lot more fun IMO.

[Blossom]

I vote for Chelsea too. But I'm biased, as my grandparents live there and I like the area.:)
You will be in walking distance to train lines and lots of shops/restaurants. Chelsea has a distinct neighborhood feel, whereas Midtown West is a bit more business-oriented.

[BusyBee21]

Thanks for all the great suggestions! We are looking forward to seeing NY through a child's eyes this time around, with one night out for Mom & Dad while the grandparents baby sit. ;)

[ysolde]

If you're looking at the Marriott ExecuStay in Chelsea, it is a great location (less than a block from Whole Foods, 24 hour diner with delivery around the corner, lots of great restaurants in a variety of price ranges, around the corner from the subway, buses are everywhere, two movie theaters within walking distance).

[kithara]

Chelsea would be my pick as well. I used to work in Chelsea and I loved how central it was to everything. I work in midtown east now...not a bad place, but Chelsea is great!

[hokiegirl]

Thanks for all the suggestions. Hubby tried to get Chelsea, but all the corporate apartments were taken there and only one available in Midtown West. Now I need to go throug this whole thread for restaurant suggestions for my visit in the next couple of weeks!

[BusyBee21]

How do people travel with a car seat? We are flying with our 15mo and will hire a car to get us from JFK into Manhattan, and then from Manhattan out to LI for 3 days. I have seen some sort of carseat cover that is like a backpack, but not sure where to buy. Any suggestions?

[lilo]

Has anyone seen Avenue Q? I'm thinking about buying tickets since it's coming to DC at the end of this month.

Thanks!

[kd 9.21.02]

Has anyone seen Avenue Q? I'm thinking about buying tickets since it's coming to DC at the end of this month.

Thanks!

I only saw it in Vegas and I understand that was a very different show than what's on Broadway. I laughed a lot but didn't love it.

[allyray231]

I LOVED Avenue Q. Keep in mind it is a bit racy and liberal if that is your type of thing ;) I have the soundtrack ;)

[jnettie]

Avenue Q was great, but now they no longer have real puppeteers, just actors who've been coached on how to use puppets, so it's not the same. (I have insider info on this :cool: , my friend is a puppeteer, and it's a very small community. She knows a lot of the original cast members, who all have other jobs now.) I believe the touring company is much the same - actors and not puppeteers.

[bookworm]

Has anyone seen Avenue Q? I'm thinking about buying tickets since it's coming to DC at the end of this month.


I saw it in London and laughed my head off. Favorite songs: "What Do You Do With a BA in English?/It Sucks to Be Me", "If You Were Gay", and "Everyone's a Little Bit Racist" (just to give you a sense of what you're dealing with). Like most shows, there was some slowness in the middle, but overall I really enjoyed it.

[Adaya]

I'm going to a conference next April and the conference hotels will be the Sheraton (http://www.starwoodhotels.com/sheraton/property/overview/index.html?propertyID=421) and Hilton (http://www1.hilton.com/en_US/hi/hotel/NYCNHHH-Hilton-New-York-New-York/index.do) in Midtown Manhattan. One is on 6th (Avenue of the Americas) and the other is on 7th Avenue.

I usually don't like to stay at the hotel where the conference is held, too much noise and commotion. Any suggstions on alternative hotels in that vicinity? I don't mind walking a bit. Getting away from things is actually my goal.

TIA.

[Rosebud]

Has anyone seen Avenue Q? I'm thinking about buying tickets since it's coming to DC at the end of this month.

We saw it here in L.A. and loved it. It's really funny!

[kd 9.21.02]

I know this isn't travel related but I'm hoping my fellow NY-ers can help me. I'm in need of an awesome tailor/seamstress in the city -- either on the UWS or near my office in midtown east.

I'm looking for someone who is great at more than just the typical pinch and hems. I have a dress that just does not work with my enormous rib cage so I need the person to be able to take away some fabric and use it for an additional panel in the back. Basically, rip apart the dress at the seams and re-work it. Any recommendations?

[ignutzz]

kd I don't know if this would work for you (it's not exactly the neighborhood you want), but I always go to Wilfred's Tailoring (http://newyork.citysearch.com/profile/35819140) on 23rd and 5th for detailed work that your typical dry cleaner can't do. Small shop a few floors up from street level. They fixed DH's wedding suit after MW royally mucked it up. Not exactly cheap but I think they do very nice work.

--------------

Now I have a question for my fellow NYCer's. :)

I need to find some Fox's U-bets VANILLA syrup because we're making egg creams this weekend for a party. The chocolate version is easy to come by and I already purchased it, but the vanilla is a little more scarce. It looks like this:
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/218MzVAgaWL.jpg

If anyone has seen this in their local grocery, let me know. I'm willing to go anywhere to make this happen. :D

[bunny nose]

ignutzz I have never ever seen that syrup before. But low and behold, I go to the grocery store today and there it is staring me back in the face. Fox's Vanilla. It was in a Waldbaums on Staten Island. I think they only had three on the shelf.

[ignutzz]

Ooooh, which one?? My MIL is in SI and I bet she'd pick it up for me (She's near Richmond Ave.) You can PM me if you don't want to get really specific on CC. :)

[bunny nose]

Its the one on Richmond Ave- right behind the SI Hotel. I hope they still have it when she gets there.

[ignutzz]

Perfect, that's right around the corner. I checked our local Waldbaum's last night and they only had the strawberry and chocolate versions. Unfortunately Fox's website doesn't have way to look up who sells their product.

[bunny nose]

Awesome! Hope yo have a great party. I've never had egg creams. I may have to look into them and see how they are.

[MrsBeckyLP]

What is the best was to get from NYC to DC? I have a friend who is going on a honeymoon in July, and she asked me to research ideas for her since I'm currently doing nothing all day at work. She mentioned possibly spending some time in NYC, then DC, so I was wondering what her best travel option would be. She would probably be flying to NY from Milwaukee or Chicago, then going to DC from NY.

Also, what is the best way to get from NYC to Niagara Falls?

[ignutzz]

What is the best was to get from NYC to DC? I have a friend who is going on a honeymoon in July, and she asked me to research ideas for her since I'm currently doing nothing all day at work. She mentioned possibly spending some time in NYC, then DC, so I was wondering what her best travel option would be. She would probably be flying to NY from Milwaukee or Chicago, then going to DC from NY.
The Acela train. (http://www.amtrak.com/servlet/ContentServer?pagename=Amtrak/am2Route/Vertical_Route_Page&c=am2Route&cid=1080772074490&ssid=134)

Also, what is the best way to get from NYC to Niagara Falls?

Fly. She can fly into Buffalo International (JetBlue has cheap flights (http://www.jetblue.com/wherewefly/destinations/destinations.asp?cityCode=BUF&source=3637&s_cid=%7Bifcontent%3AContentNetwork%7D%7Bifsearch% 3A%7Bkeyword%7D%7D%7C%7Bcreative%7D)) and then rent a car to drive to the Falls. It's only about 30 min. from the airport.

[NYCBella]

Also, I hear decent things about On the Ave, which is on the Upper West Side close to subway stops, Central Park, Museum of Natural History, etc.

Stayed at OTA for my wedding weekend! We had a large beautiful room with a great view of Broadway. DH use to live on the UWS so we really enjoyed hanging out there the day after.

[~queen~]

Old NY'r here. Haven't been back to the city in about - gosh 15 years now? Wow!

Doing a 2 day/1 night for a broadway show. Staying at Grand Hyatt next to Grand Central Station. Must find some fantastic Pizza (oh, how I crave a meat and cheese Calzone) and Chinese Food! Nothing fancy, but you know, the hole-in-the-wall divey, inexpensive but fantastic stuff. ;)

Oh, and is Carnagie Deli still around? Any place else measure up for good corned beef or pastrami?

[NYCBella]

Old NY'r here. Haven't been back to the city in about - gosh 15 years now? Wow!

Doing a 2 day/1 night for a broadway show. Staying at Grand Hyatt next to Grand Central Station. Must find some fantastic Pizza (oh, how I crave a meat and cheese Calzone) and Chinese Food! Nothing fancy, but you know, the hole-in-the-wall divey, inexpensive but fantastic stuff. ;)

Oh, and is Carnagie Deli still around? Any place else measure up for good corned beef or pastrami?

Carnagie Deli is still around, 55th & 7th. They also will Fed Ex their food anywhere in the US for when you're really missing NYC! 2nd Ave Deli has moved to "Toidy-Toid and Toid" haha 33rd & 3rd Ave. I'm a fan of Katz's Deli - worth the hike down to Houston St.

Enjoy your visit!

[~queen~]

Katz Deli! Ooh, I forgot about that one! I'm so excited to be going back. My last job in NYC was on Wall Street before I moved to DC. I remember running around different areas just for the food since I had favorite little stops all over the city. LOL

Is Caliente Cab Company still around too?

[NYCBella]

Haven't been to that side of town since the summer...but I looked at CC's website and they still have the 33rd street location listed so I think it is still there.

That's the great thing about NY, everyone has their favorite little spots all over the city!

[~queen~]

Back from my whirlwind time in NYC. DH had given me a tickets to see The Color Purple for Xmas. Loved it!

We stayed at the Grand Hyatt right next to Grand Central Station, and although the room was really small (with no view)!, it was clean, simple and nicely furnished. I have no complaints, especially since I got the room on Priceline for $150 :)

We ate at Carnegie Delie (totally delish!) and Ambrosia in the AM for breakfast. The rest of the time we had vendor stuff. Oh, had a major miss on the Pizza. We stayed out too late walking around Times Square and couldn't find a pizzeria open so ended up with some yucky touristy pizza that was a total let down. :(

Anyways, DH loved it and can't wait to go back since he scored some really nice clothes and shoes.

BTW, what ever happened to Struedels? I couldn't find one anywhere!

[sheartm7]

Have any of you stayed in St. James Hotel in Times Square (http://www.hotelstjames.net/)? It has a fantastic price and averages 3.5 out of 5 stars with guest reviews. Thoughts? My DH is nervous about the price being so much cheaper than the other surrounding hotels, but I think we should go for it.

[kd 9.21.02]

This is so completely not helpful to you but... Whenever I hear the name St. James Hotel and know that it's a bargain, I think of that sketchy hotel in the movie Big (with Tom Hanks) with the same name.

[Jenyfer9]

Hey ladies...

I'm going to be in NYC with a bunch of high schoolers the end of March. We're going to be there 2 days/1 night (lodging is already figured out) and we're seeing a Broadway show the night we're there. I've only been to NYC once (when I was in high school, actually) and need more ideas... TOURISTY STUFF IS OK. I'm helping to lead a group of kids in the decision making process for what they'll do, but they're looking to me for guidance and I'm coming up (sadly) pretty low on ideas...

Anyone? TIA!

[NYCBella]

My sister came up from Florida for a HS trip a year or so ago. They rented a sightseeing bus to take a big loop around the city. It was great! It was November and chilly...cold for the Florida kids but we all bundled up and had a good time.
Some other ideas - Empire State Building, Top of the Rock, Downtown walking tour, Ellis Island. Staten Island Ferry is free & a nice ride to see downtown. Times Square.
http://www.timessquarenyc.org/ and http://www.nycvisit.com/ may help you get started planning too.

[ysolde]

Observation deck at Empire State Building (Rockefeller Center now has something similar). Head downtown to see Little Italy, Chinatown, SoHo, and Wall Street. The Guggenheim, the MOMA, or the Whitney. Check out Times Square.

[Blossom]

Definitely tour Ellis Island/Statue of Liberty.
For museums, the Museum of Natural History is always fun IMO.:)

[Jenyfer9]

I'll also say that we're just outside Chicago, so they'll probably want to do things that you can "only do" in NYC (I'm guessing that they won't be big on museums since we have so many here). Good suggestions sofar, thanks! Does anyone know anything about taking a tour at the UN? That was on the list (put there by another adult leader), but the person suggesting it had never been on it and was wondering if kids might like it...

[NYCBella]

Security at the UN is pretty tight, making it a pain to wait to go on a tour. I'm not even 100% they do them anymore, post 9-11. When I went in HS it was boring. It might be interesting for an adult, but you really don't see a lot other than empty rooms, at least we didn't.

[cari2]

Prepare them to walk a lot! One sample plan for midtown would be start in Times Sqaure, you can look around and see MTV and all the other sights. Then, def. do Rock center (walk east up 48/49th) and stand outside the Today show, etc.. From there you could walk up to Fifth and see St. Patricks Cathedral. There is a huge H&M they may get a kick out of (at least I do). From there, it's a short (8-10 blocks) to Central Park and FAO Shwartz if you are interested in that kind of thing...

Re: the UN, I've been there but not on a tour so I'm not sure how the kids would respond. With all the other things to do (empire state, soho, wall street, in particular) , I doubt I'd bother....DH works across from the WTC site and there is lots of building going on there if you are interested in that kind of thing...

[shoegal]

UN Tour--time to admit my age! I went on the tour back when I was 17 (1991). From what I remember, it was cool but if this is a quick trip to the city, I would go to the other sites first. About the WTC site, it was really neat when I went in 2006 and then last year it changed a bunch and you can't see a ton of the site due to construction (although this could have changed again). But the best part is right across the street, there is a museum in honor of 9/11 and it was quite moving. They ask for donations and it was worth it. I think the plan is to expand it at some point but I am not 100% sure.

[shoegal]

I remembered another thing, I did the Statue of Liberty on that same trip (got to go up to the crown, can't do that anymore) and it was okay. I was neat seeing it up close but I wouldn't do it again. I loved the museum on Ellis Island. I am heading back this December and will probably do the Staten Island Ferry but won't go to Ellis Island.

For the locals, can you just stay on the ferry instead of getting off at SI? I want to do the round trip thing but don't think I want to venture around SI while I am there. If staying on the UWS, about how long does it take (by subway) to get back to midtown? Just trying to figure out a cheaper stay in the city. I have stayed downtown and midtown, prefer midtown only because it works out better when you have to run back to the hotel quickly.

Craving Lombardis pizza and Magnolia cupcakes right now. . .is it December yet?

[nic]

I'm looking for some help from NY CCer's.

I'll be in New York next month and I need a few restaurant recommendations.

There will be four of us going for my sister's birthday (she's turning 43), 2 of us are 33 and the other is 41.

Two of the four people going are very traditional, unwilling to experiment food types. I'm looking for someplace nice to go the night of my sister's birthday without being too over the top. I'd like a recommendation for an Italian restaurant as well as a traditional steakhouse.

By Italian I mean some place that will serve fresh homemade pasta and traditional Italian-American dishes like Chicken Parmasean/Marsala, Shrimp Scampi/Diavlo, Antipasto, etc......

My sister also loves Food Network so I was thinking Mesa Grill or Otto, does anyone have any thoughts?

[MsRo]

My sister also loves Food Network so I was thinking Mesa Grill or Otto, does anyone have any thoughts?

I was in NYC in May of '07 and had lunch at Mesa Grill. None of the ladies I was with were impressed. Maybe because it was lunch? That's just my 2 cents.

[thedoorchick]

I have not eaten at the Mesa Grill in NYC, but I have been to the one in Las Vegas and was pretty impressed. Don't they have the same (or similar) menu?

[kd 9.21.02]

Otto is fun. A bit of a scene but really tasty pizzas, great pours of wine, delicious cheese plates. I wouldn't call it a traditional Italian place though -- not if you're looking for big, hearty pasta dishes, etc. Every time we have a reservation there, we still end up waiting a while for our table. But the bar is big and it's fun to have wine and cheese plates while we wait.

My favorite steak houses in the city are... Quality Meats (http://qualitymeatsnyc.com/), Dylan Prime (http://www.dylanprime.com/) and probably Wolfgang's (http://wolfgangssteakhouse.com/).

[NYCBella]

I remembered another thing, I did the Statue of Liberty on that same trip (got to go up to the crown, can't do that anymore) and it was okay. I was neat seeing it up close but I wouldn't do it again. I loved the museum on Ellis Island. I am heading back this December and will probably do the Staten Island Ferry but won't go to Ellis Island.

For the locals, can you just stay on the ferry instead of getting off at SI? I want to do the round trip thing but don't think I want to venture around SI while I am there. If staying on the UWS, about how long does it take (by subway) to get back to midtown? Just trying to figure out a cheaper stay in the city. I have stayed downtown and midtown, prefer midtown only because it works out better when you have to run back to the hotel quickly.

Craving Lombardis pizza and Magnolia cupcakes right now. . .is it December yet?

You have to get off the SI ferry but you can get right back on. Everyone has to exit but you can just enter the ferry terminal and then get on the line to get back on. Plenty of people do it!

If you're on the UWS it shouldn't take you more than 15/20 minutes tops to get to midtown. It's become a busier neighborhood but still is a bit calmer than midtown, especially during rush hour!

[nic]

Anyone else have recommendations?

[Dizzy]

My husband and I just went to NYC and we had cupcakes at Billy's Bakery (http://www.billysbakerynyc.com/) rather than Magnolia and they were fantastic. The line wasn't nearly as long as Magnolia! I highly recommend it for anyone who thinks they want Magnolia bakery's cupcakes but doesn't want to stand in a line that snakes around the block. I've had cupcakes from both places and I couldn't tell a difference. Just fyi!

[kd 9.21.02]

The new Magnolia on the Upper West Side is bigger and the line moves really fast. The two times I've been in there I haven't had to wait... just got a box, selected my cupcakes and waited maybe 1-2 minutes to pay.

Oh and BTW... I tried Magnolia's banana pudding yesterday. SOOOO GOOD!

[Boopy]

I'm looking for a dinner rec for after the theater on a Saturday night. I've checked out menupages and cityguide, but I would like some opinions from a source I trust! It'll just be DH and I. We're pretty open to different cuisines. So far, a couple of places that I'm considering are Joe Allen's (been there before, it's good basic food so I think of this as a fall back option), Blue Fin and Bar Americain. Anyone have opionions on these? Or other recommendations?

ETA: I read that The Russian Tea Room reopened last year after a renovation. I've tried looking at their website, but it's not up yet. Anyone been?

[allyray231]

Boopy are you looking for places in the theater area?



Our fave was Becco
http://becco.lidiasitaly.com/index2.htm

[Boopy]

Yes, we were thinking we would probably need to stay in the theater district or close by since we won't be eating until after 10:30PM and we'll probably be cutting it close with most restaurants closing times.

Thank you for the rec!

[kd 9.21.02]

I also like Becco. (You certainly won't leave hungry!)

DH often goes to Blue Fin b/c he works right nearby and he says it's always pretty solid. I really like Bar Americain.

[meatpie]

I'm looking for a dinner rec for after the theater on a Saturday night. I've checked out menupages and cityguide, but I would like some opinions from a source I trust! It'll just be DH and I. We're pretty open to different cuisines. So far, a couple of places that I'm considering are Joe Allen's (been there before, it's good basic food so I think of this as a fall back option), Blue Fin and Bar Americain. Anyone have opionions on these? Or other recommendations?

ETA: I read that The Russian Tea Room reopened last year after a renovation. I've tried looking at their website, but it's not up yet. Anyone been?

We used to frequent Basilica at 676 9th Ave ((212) 489-0051) near the theatres. Wonderful Italian food a selection of freshly made pastas. Not really listed anywhere but we never had a bad meal.

[ysolde]

Yes, I have been to the RTR. It's still quite good, open late post-theater, and no reservations required (although you might need a reservation on a Saturday night).

[kendriln]

Oh and BTW... I tried Magnolia's banana pudding yesterday. SOOOO GOOD!

Magnolia's banana pudding is SO worth the wait. Must get some tomorrow!

[jrdhbunny]

We used to frequent Basilica at 676 9th Ave ((212) 489-0051) near the theatres. Wonderful Italian food a selection of freshly made pastas. Not really listed anywhere but we never had a bad meal.
I second this rec- I lived right around the corner for 10 years so DH and I were regulars. Terrific service too. The only issue is that it's really small and there's often a wait (but you get a free glass of wine while you're standing there).

I also like Uncle Nick's (9th between 50th and 51st, 212-245-7992). It's Greek food and serves all the classic dishes, but also has simple, delicious grilled fare. It gets crowded, but I think post-theatre it should be ok (although they're only open until 11:30 p.m.). They have a tapas bar right next door where you can sit and have a drink and they'll come get you when your table is ready.

[Boopy]

Thank you all so much for the recommendations! I'm definitely going to look into Basilica. And thank you for the Uncle Nick's recommendation jrdhbunny. We went to Greece last year and would both love to get some authentic Greek food again!

kd 9.21.02 - I'm glad to hear that you like Bar Americain. We went to Mesa a few years ago and liked it a lot so we thought we would try Bar Americain. But then I read some bad reviews on a couple different sites and started to worry. With review sites I have to remind myself that most people post a review when they've had a bad experience so you don't hear about all the good ones!

[nicks]

I am going to NY this weekend and have no idea what to tip for cab rides. Can someone tell me what the norm is?

TIA!

[kd 9.21.02]

I am going to NY this weekend and have no idea what to tip for cab rides. Can someone tell me what the norm is?

TIA!

Generally I tip the change plus another dollar. If it's a long-ish trip or more than one stop, I'll do the change plus $2.

[nicks]

Thanks for the reply KD! I am sorta confused though. So, say your fare is 3.50 are you saying that you would tip $1.50?

Also, I am taking a cab from LGA to my hotel in Garden City. The charge is $52, what would you tip for that?

[kd 9.21.02]

Thanks for the reply KD! I am sorta confused though. So, say your fare is 3.50 are you saying that you would tip $1.50?

Also, I am taking a cab from LGA to my hotel in Garden City. The charge is $52, what would you tip for that?

Hmm... Well, you won't have a cab fare of $3.50 (if you do, you probably should have walked). It's $2.50 right off the bat and plus another $0.50 after 8:00 pm and before 6:00 am.

If I had a really short ride and the fare came to about $4.25, I'd probably just give $5. But, honestly, I so rarely get out of a cab for less than $8 that it hasn't seemed an issue to give a tip of $1 + the change.

I don't know if there are different "rules" for taxi rides to/from Long Island or anywhere else off Manhattan. But if I were taking a cab home from LGA, I'd probably tip about $3 or $4 and change.

[nicks]

Thanks for the info KD! :)

[lilo]

DH and I are taking a rare weekend trip to NYC without DS so I'd like to take advantage of this by going to a trendy, chic NYC restaurant for dinner. I'm not sure where we're staying yet (maybe the W?) but location doesn't really matter. I'd like to go somewhere more trendy, chic and young rather than formal, older and pretentious, if that makes sense. Price isn't an issue but of course we'd like to go somewhere where the food fantastic and worth the price.

Suggestions???

TIA! :)

[kd 9.21.02]

lilo, what kind of food do you like?

My favorite restaurants are generally steak houses so for trendy and chic in that department I absolutely love Dylan Prime and Quality Meats.

For sushi, I'd go with Morimoto or Nobu 57.

For a hot spot (papparazzi hanging around outside), Waverly Inn is supposed to be the place. I haven't been.

Pastis has been around a while but you'll still see it written up for celeb spotting as it's right in the Meatpacking District near a lot of clubs and lounges. I like the food -- very simple, French bistro cuisine. Another "scene" restaurant in that same neighborhood is Spice Market. I was underwhelmed by it but that may be because I had set my expectations too high. It's a fun place and you could go out right from there.

Oh... how could I forget? I love Buddakan but I think it's a bit more fun for a larger group rather than a couple just because you'll want to order so many dishes and then share them all. Great food, good scene.

Our friend owns Butter and that's always a good spot for us when we're entertaining out-of-town friends. Monday is the celeb night there so you probably won't spot many famous faces over the weekend but it's also a good scene and the food is decent.

[lilo]

kd 9.21.02: I like pretty much everything but I'm not a steak person (although my DH is). I love sushi and I had Nobu in my head but wasn't sure how good it was. Have you had anything other than steak at Dylan Prime or Quality Meats? Which of the two do you like more?

Have you been to Aqua Grill? Gotham Bar & Grill? La Grenoille? I know the last one is a fancy French restaurant but we are both huge fans of French food.

[kd 9.21.02]

Hmm... I think Quality Meats is my new favorite of the two and I'm pretty sure you'd find something delicious to enjoy there other than steak. (Last time I had the most incredible crab and avocado appetizer; it really was divine.)

I believe I have been to Gotham but for some reason I'm not remembering it. Along that line I also love Gramercy Park Tavern. La Grenoille is on our list for a special occasion but, no, I have not yet been.

Nobu is Nobu. I feel like everyone's been to one of them (in NYC or elsewhere). But Nobu 57 is the newer one in NY and it's supposed to be good.

[kd 9.21.02]

Oh... another one for you... People absolutely rave about Mario Batali's Babbo. Every time we call for a ressie we can't get one. We tried his newer place, Del Posto, in September. I loved the ambiance, the service, the whole feel of it all but, while the food was delicous, it didn't knock my socks off. That's another nice night out though. I wouldn't say it's a young scene though. Most of the folks we saw were a lot older than us.

[ejs]

Can anyone recommend a hotel close to JFK? Our flight gets in around 8pm and we leave the next morning, so we just want a place right near the airport. We'd like a place that's safe, clean, has indoor corridors, and a restaurant/room service. Price doesn't matter. Thanks!

[am_81]

Can anyone recommend a hotel close to JFK? Our flight gets in around 8pm and we leave the next morning, so we just want a place right near the airport. We'd like a place that's safe, clean, has indoor corridors, and a restaurant/room service. Price doesn't matter. Thanks!

We stayed at the Crowne Plaza JFK after we missed one of our flights during Xmas travel. It was super close-by; it probably wouldve only 15 minutes on the airport tram/shuttle, but we had so much crap that we opted for the 5 minute cab ride instead. I have no idea how it compares with other hotels in the area, as we went there solely because thats the hotel AA gave us a voucher for. We also chose to go out to eat, but I know that they had a regular restaurant that seemed reasonably priced, as well as a Starbucks kiosk (and Pizza Hut, I think). Obviously not the best place I'e ever stayed, but it was clean, safe and sufficient for a one-nighter.

JFK's website (http://www.panynj.gov/CommutingTravel/airports/html/ken_hotels.html) has a listing of several other hotels in the area.

[lilo]

Thanks kd 9.21.02! We actually made reservations for La Grenouille since we love French food so much and everyone raves about their food and service. Two things that are very important to DH and I, especially at those prices.

I'll report back on how it is but I'm very excited!

thanks again for all the great recommendations! :)

[ejs]

We stayed at the Crowne Plaza JFK after we missed one of our flights during Xmas travel. It was super close-by; it probably wouldve only 15 minutes on the airport tram/shuttle, but we had so much crap that we opted for the 5 minute cab ride instead. I have no idea how it compares with other hotels in the area, as we went there solely because thats the hotel AA gave us a voucher for. We also chose to go out to eat, but I know that they had a regular restaurant that seemed reasonably priced, as well as a Starbucks kiosk (and Pizza Hut, I think). Obviously not the best place I'e ever stayed, but it was clean, safe and sufficient for a one-nighter.

JFK's website (http://www.panynj.gov/CommutingTravel/airports/html/ken_hotels.html) has a listing of several other hotels in the area.

Thanks! I had seen the list on JFK's site, but was hoping someone could recommend a place.

[lilo]

kd: Since you seem to be the NYC guru, could you recommend a great bar/lounge? Since we are no longer 20-somethings, I'd like to go somewhere with no cover charge and where we wouldn't have to stay in line to get in. Not my thing anymore, you know? On Fodors.com, some people recommended the gavensvort hotel rooftop bar and Stanton Social? Any other recommendations? I'm guessing Butter is very hard to get into?

[kd 9.21.02]

lilo - Thanks for the compliment but I don't feel like I'm "in the know." ;)

Let me see... I think Butter is easy enough to get into. Monday night is the tough one (when the celebrities are there). What area will you be in? I really do like the rooftop at the Gansevoort but I don't know how hard it is to get a table there these days. I think there's a rooftop place at the Gramercy Park Hotel that people love (haven't been myself). I enjoyed the Stone Rose in Time Warner Center last time I was there. I'll try to think of some others and get back to you.

[lilo]

We'll be coming from the Upper East Side but don't mind cabbing it anywhere. Have you been to the bar at the Mandarin Oriental (it's in the Time Warner building too, right?). I've read that's pretty amazing too but I have no idea.

thanks for your help! :)

[kd 9.21.02]

Yes, we went there one night when all the tables were taken up at Stone Rose. But come to think of it, I don't know if we were in the main bar/lounge at Mandarin Oriental (it was very RED if that helps). The drinks were good. :)

I think there's a new lounge opening up in the old hotel near Lincoln Center that's been closed for AGES. I forget the name of the building but it's the one right next door to PJ Clarke's. DH asked the doorman what was going on in there (when there was a lot of work being done) and he said that some swanky lounge was in the works. Let me try to find the name of the old hotel and then I'll see if I can find out anything about the new place. We've been meaning to check it out.

[hokiegirl]

Butter's popularity might rise since it was mentioned on a TV show the other night.

[kd 9.21.02]

Butter is always mentioned in the celeb mags and tv shows. My husband's fraternity brother is co-owner. I don't know who he has doing their PR but it's clearly a priority for them. I'm waiting to see how this friend's third place takes off (it's called OAK-something or other).

[allyray231]

All the places I used to go are downtown and not really "cluby" But if you need some nice bars I can tell ya :)

[lilo]

allyray231: absolutely! I don't think I've been to a club in probably 3 years?! :)

[diam124]

Hi everyone - I'm going to read through this thread when I have more time, but DH and I are planning a trip up to NYC for our anniversary in June. I want to look into Broadway tickets - what's the best website for tickets?

[Adaya]

Hi everyone - I'm going to read through this thread when I have more time, but DH and I are planning a trip up to NYC for our anniversary in June. I want to look into Broadway tickets - what's the best website for tickets?

For discounted tickets, I use Broadway Box (www.broadwaybox.com). Love love love it!

You can also try Theater Mania (www.theatermania.com), but I think you have to set up an account. The discounts may be worth it though.

Sometimes there are no discounts for the more popular shows. So it all depends on what you are trying to see. I wanted to see a pretty popular show last month and couldn't get a discount online, so I went to the box office the day of the show and got $25 rush tickets. I got seats on the second row. Gotta love that!

[diam124]

Thanks Adaya!

I really want to see Wicked, but if the tickets don't work out are there any other shows that are must-see? (we've already seen a lot of the longer-running shows).

[kd 9.21.02]

Mario Lopez is currently in A Chorus Line. ;)

[diam124]

OK, so my plan to see Wicked may have hit a snag. I don't mind paying $150 per ticket, but the seats are all in the rear mezzanine. Has anyone way in the back in shows? Does it make that much of a difference?

[Asha]

OK, so my plan to see Wicked may have hit a snag. I don't mind paying $150 per ticket, but the seats are all in the rear mezzanine. Has anyone way in the back in shows? Does it make that much of a difference?
I sat in the back, and still really enjoyed the show.

[diam124]

Thanks Asha - I went ahead and bought the tickets.

We are going to try Priceline for a hotel, but just in case, we have a reservation at the Marriott Marquis. Can anyone make any recommendations for:
1) Dinner near the Gershwin theater
2) Good pizza places - don't have to be near the hotel necessarily
3) Breakfast places near the hotel
4) Good restaurants for special occasions (for our 5th anniversary dinner) - doesn't need to be near the hotel. We usually prefer steak and/or seafood. (I did jot down some restaurants from earlier in this thread but I thought I'd see if there are any more recommendations).

Thanks!

One more thing - has anyone done the NBC Studio Tour or the Rockefeller Center Tour? Are they interesting?

[kd 9.21.02]

For pizza, one of our favorites (which is pretty close to you) is John's Pizzeria (http://www.greatrestaurantsmag.com/NYC/restaurant_view/190/).

My other favorites for special occasions are listed in the thread somewhere... Gramercy Tavern (we did our 5th there last year), Quality Meats, Dylan Prime, Blue Water Grill... I can go on and on.

[diam124]

Thanks! The pizza place looks perfect. I'll have to check out the menus at the places you mentioned. DH is not a planner so he thought it was ridiculous that I was trying to plan dinner for a month from now. But I know I will be totally overwhelmed with choices if we wait until we're in the city.

[kd 9.21.02]

Planning for Gramercy Tavern a month in advance makes sense. If you wait to make a ressie for a Saturday night for some of these places, you will be out of luck.

[kd 9.21.02]

Oh... And you can do John's Pizzeria before or after seeing WICKED. It's a good pre and post theatre spot. But they don't take reservations so you will wait a little while (but not bad - usually).

[diam124]

Thanks for the tip. Another question - the purse I like to use when we are sightseeing is a small leather backpack. Would you NYers wear a backpack purse around the city or is that just asking for trouble?

[ignutzz]

Fashion wise - you're marked. :D

Crime wise - doesn't make a difference.

Enjoy your trip.

[diam124]

Fashion wise - you're marked. :D

Crime wise - doesn't make a difference.

Enjoy your trip.

Haha - oh but it's so much more comfortable than carrying around a purse!

[kd 9.21.02]

Trouble? You mean, like pick-pockets? I think a small backpack is fine. Just be aware of your surroundings. NYC is not nearly as crime-ridden as TV would have you believe. ;)

[diam124]

Well, I'm thinking more of situations where we're in a crowd or on the subway. For example, for many years I worked in downtown DC and I would not wear a backpack on the Metro when it's crowded.

[kd 9.21.02]

People generally take their backpacks off when on the subway (at least when it's crowded) and hold them lower - just as a courtesy to other passengers. So I think a backpack as your purse is totally fine.

[Adaya]

For pizza, one of our favorites (which is pretty close to you) is John's Pizzeria (http://www.greatrestaurantsmag.com/NYC/restaurant_view/190/).



I love John's Pizzeria. I eat there every time I go to NY or if I go home and I may catch the train to NY just to eat there.

[lilo]

Just wanted to report back that our dinner at La Grenouille a few weeks ago was incredible! Pricey but incredible. The service was top notch as was the food and wine. It is definitely favored by a very 'older' crowd but it didn't bother me at all. It has such a old-world charm and I really enjoyed the entire evening. :)

We are headed back with our DS in September for a Mets game (that should be interesting with a 22 month old) so I will pop back in for some more restaurant recommendations. Luckily we're staying at the Sofitel, which I love.

Oh! We also stopped by the new (or new to us) Magnolia Bakery on the UWS and their red velvet cupcakes were amazing!!! :)

[kd 9.21.02]

We also stopped by the new (or new to us) Magnolia Bakery on the UWS and their red velvet cupcakes were amazing!!! :)

I love their red velvet cupcakes also. Isn't the frosting delicious? I know it's not the "right" red velvet frosting (it should be cream cheese frosting I think), but it's amazing. I like it so much more than the buttercream.

[lilo]

I Isn't the frosting delicious? I know it's not the "right" red velvet frosting (it should be cream cheese frosting I think), but it's amazing. I like it so much more than the buttercream.

Yes! I love that frosting so much better than the buttercream too. Addicting! So it's a good thing I don't live close by. ;)

Oh! I just thought of another recommendation. I wanted to get a blowout for dinner but didn't want to spend too much $$$ so I tried this place called "Blow" where they do a ton of blowouts. I think I only paid $40 or so? It was in the meatpacking district and they did a great job. Just another FYI for anyone visiting or local. :)

[kd 9.21.02]

I've walked by Blow many times and wanted to try it (but I don't live in that area). Luckily I can find a blowout for less than $50 in my 'hood. :)

[diam124]

Hi everyone - another question. Has anyone eaten at Lattanzi or Osteria al Doge in the theater district?

[thedoorchick]

I've been to Osteria al Doge. I can't remember what I had; it's been a few years, but it was good. I'd go back.

[diam124]

Our trip is finally upon us - any last minute tips or ideas on things to do? Other than the show/dinner reservations we haven't really made any plans.

We're staying at the Westin Times Sq. - got a great rate on Priceline.

[Smillow]

Here are a few things my DH & I have done:
Tour Yankee Stadium - $20 takes an hour
Food Tour of Greenwich Village - $40 per person but lots of tasting & history (they also have them for other neighborhoods - Chelsea, Soho)
Walk across Brooklyn Bridge
Brooklyn Botanical Garden
Roosevelt Island Tram

Have fun!

[diam124]

Hi everyone, we're back from our trip! We had a great time despite some iffy weather on Saturday night/Sunday.

We stayed at the Westin Times Sq. which I got on Priceline for $150 a night. Not the cleanest hotel I've stayed in, but they did upgrade us to a corner room (which I don't think they were supposed to do since we purchased through Priceline). The location was convenient enough for us though.

We really enjoyed Wicked. Our seats were the next to the last row but it didn't matter too much to me.

We had some great pizza at a little place near our hotel. I can't remember the name of it though. It's next to a sushi restaurant. Anyway, it was very fresh and delicious.

Dinner Friday night was a disappointment. We ate at Trattoria Dopo Teatro and we did not enjoy it. I was surprised because I had read good things about it. I got veal scallopine and it was just bad. No real taste to it and instant mashed potatoes on the side. DH got a pasta dish and didn't like it either.

Saturday we ate lunch in Chinatown. I don't remember the name of the place but it was just ok. I'm not a huge Chinese fan though. We got cannolis in Little Italy for dessert and they were amazing and really hit the spot.

Saturday night we went to AquaGrill for dinner. It was delicious - we both really enjoyed our meals and dessert was fantastic.

Sunday we ate at Bryant Park Grill for lunch. Mine was ok, but DH really loved his meal.

All in all we had a fun time and did a ton of walking. We took the subway several times and it definitely seemed like a time-saver.

We're going to be back in a few weeks for a doctor's appt. for DH. Can anyone recommend a good restaurant near 57th & Park Ave? We'll need to grab some lunch before we head home. Thanks!

[ignutzz]

This question I can help you with since I work right in the area. There's plenty of delis on the cross streets or Lexington Ave if you just want something quick and easy. Hale and Hearty is on Lex btwn 63 & 64 - delicious soups, salads and sandwiches - cash only. Or you can stop at Serafina's (my fav is the Farfalle Limoncello) or Geisha (both on 61st btwn Mad and Park), or Mon Petit Cafe (62nd btwn Lex & Park - the nutella crepes are so yummy).

HTH.

[diam124]

Thanks Ignutzz - I'll check out your recommendations!

[Becki1010]

I strongly second Mon Petite Cafe on 62nd and Lex! :p

[diam124]

OK, so DH really wants pizza when we're there - any good pizza places in the area?

[ignutzz]

I haven't enjoyed any of the pizza the office has ordered in, but I may be over particular.



If you plug in the address for the hospital (I'm assuming you're going to Columbia-Pres?) you can do a google or yahoo search for local pizza joints.

Here are the google results for this area. (http://maps.google.com/maps?f=l&hl=en&geocode=&q=pizza&near=32+E+57+St,+New+York,+NY+10065&sll=40.764714,-73.970261&sspn=0.010661,0.023711&ie=UTF8&z=15)

The immediate are of the hospital is pretty much all shopping. Your best bet will be on Lexington and 3rd Aves and probably below rather than above 57th.

[diam124]

Thanks Ignutzz - that's really helpful!

[bunny nose]

I was selected to work at Jacob Javits Convention Center for the MLB All Star FanFest. I would really like to do it. But am wondering how to get there. Yes I am a native NY'er, but not very knowledgeable of the city. I would be coming from SI by way of the ferry. What is the best way to get to the Center from there? Be it subway or bus. I really want to do this, but need to know my commute options.

[Smillow]

The MTA has a great website that you can plug you locations in and select subway & bus & either the time you want to leave or the time you want to get there & it will give you many options that include estimated travel time. Subway will usually be quicker (especially during rush hours) but I was there last week and it was like descending into hell, the subway platforms got hotter & more humid at each level, so if you have alot of time, I recommend the bus (especially if you would have to switch trains alot).

[kendriln]

In addition to the MTA website, you could try www.hopstop.com. It's a great reference for travel in the city.

[ignutzz]

The easiest way to get to Javitts is to take any train uptown to 34th street (easiest from the ferry is the W train at Whitehall), go topside and take the bus across town to the very last stop (or nearly last - it'll be the let out for Javitts). I forget which number the bus is - just check the route info at the bus stop.

[bunny nose]

Thanks so much girls! I am going to check it out and plan my way.

[huango]

Any recommendations for fun activities for my 2 toddlers (4 and 2.5yrs old) and me/DH for NYC this week?
DH has class all week, and we're going along for the ride. We'll be staying at ?Millenium Hilton on Church St (by WorldTradeCenter).
It's supposed to rain a bit and be hot/humid. We'll spend a lot of time at the pool, but we would like to get out in the morning and see some stuff.

We've been to the NY Children's Museum, and both zoos (Central Square one and the Bronx).

Really appreciate your inputs.
Amanda

[BethS0103]

My husband and I are going to NYC on Thursday and we'll be going to see Avenue Q on Friday. Can anyone recommend a good restaurant in the theater district where we could eat before the show and not have trouble getting in and getting out on time? Thanks in advance!

[BethS0103]

I have a quick question for all of you who have gone to see Broadway shows, specifically Avenue Q. Somewhere in our information for the show it says that no cameras are allowed. This is completely understandable and I have no plans on taking pictures or videos of the show, but I guess my question is, do they search your bag and tell you that you can't even bring cameras into the venue? My husband and I will be carrying around our cameras with us during the day (one of them is a large digital SLR so it's not exactly easy to hide) and we're not sure we're going to have time to go back to our hotel to drop off our cameras before the show. So I'm wondering if it will be OK if we take the cameras with us or will they tell us we can't come in with them?

[LKMang]

Hi Beth! I don't have specific information about Avenue Q, but we went to see Rent last summer and they did not check our bags, so we brought our camera in. A couple people tried to take pictures inside before the show started, and they were told by workers to put the camera away or they'd be kicked out. So we had no problem and were able to take pictures of some of the actors outside after the show.

Have fun!

[diam124]

We saw Wicked a month and a half ago and although our tickets didn't say anything about cameras I didn't bring mine (because I figured they weren't allowed). Nobody searched our bags and several people around us took pics before the show started. Nobody asked them to stop.

[Sashi]

Hi ladies -

You've always helped with AMAZING restaurant suggestions when we go. Any restuarant recommendations for around Times Square or even 6-8 blocks out? We are going up end of August for a show.

I think there was a suggestion about a higher end chinese food place around 52nd and Madison??

TIA

[kd 9.21.02]

Bar Americain (http://www.baramericain.com/) isn't too far from Times Square.

[Sashi]

ooh, that looks nice. is it good food?

[kd 9.21.02]

Yes, I really like the food there (it's Bobby Flay's place). And I think the menu is generally a crowd pleaser -- something for everyone.

[hokiegirl]

Have any of you local girls seen Hair in the park? I see that tickets are available at 1:00, but not sure what time to actually line up without losing the day. What would you suggest?

[kd 9.21.02]

Have any of you local girls seen Hair in the park? I see that tickets are available at 1:00, but not sure what time to actually line up without losing the day. What would you suggest?

Not to scare you off, but I was running in Central Park around 7:00 on Tuesday morning, and the line was already very, very long. People must get there around 5:00 or earlier and they set up with chairs and lots of reading materials or playing cards.

[SoPasMom]

I'm headed to NYC in a week with my husband & family (two boys 10 & 7 yrs. old). We're staying in Manhattan. Does anyone have recommendations for things to do, places to see, where to eat. I want to go to Central Park, take the kids to FAO Schwartz (just because), see the site of the Twin Towers & visit the Statue of Liberty (we already have tickets). I know that's a lot to do in 2 days. Any advice?

[kd 9.21.02]

Museum of Natural History is good for kids (and there's a Children's Museum nearby).

In terms of other stores not far from FAO, the boys may like the NBA Store (or even Nike Town).