Ruth’s NYC Guide
After the hundreds of NYC recommendations I have made to customers and tourists in the store over the years, it's time to finally make a list for you of my New York City. I quite reluctantly moved here from London with my mother and sister when I was 21. I was happy living in England and I didn't want a new life in America. However, over time, walking the streets of the city, evenings spent out in the Village with my sister, and getting a job in a small clothing boutique in Soho (it was so different then), I realized that New York City was not America. It's a country in itself.
New Yorkers will be the first to rant about all that we hate about living here, the noise, the rents, hot subway platforms, and rats the size of cats. But we also love this city fervently. Beyond the culture, the food, the architecture, and the variety of distinct neighborhoods, for me, it's the people. There is a golden thread that runs through the diverse cultures and socio-economic backgrounds of the city, it's one of kindness, based on what I believe is empathy. Yes, people are busy and driven, but they will stop what they are doing to help someone. Just don't stand in their way when they're walking, they have somewhere to be, ten minutes ago.
Living here so long, each block and neighborhood holds layer upon layer of memories for me. Playgrounds, Central Park, a certain street corner, the chess tables in Soho, the Highline…I could go on and on. My lists will never do the city justice. Enjoy the vast variety of food, the museums, the parks, and the many stores. But what especially distinguishes NYC is its vast array of characters and the interactions that occur on every block. Every New Yorker, in their role, against the backdrop of the city. Part of the beauty is that you are free to play out any part you want and in any costume that pleases you. No judgment. If anything you are celebrated.
Food
There are over 20,000 restaurants in NYC. But do keep in mind that I eat like a 12-year-old, so the Michelin finds will be on someone else's list. That being said, it’s a busy town, always check to see if you need to make reservations in advance.
Upper Westside
Barney Greengrass - Open on the UWS since 1929 it has been in as many movies as Robert Deniro. Great for breakfast or lunch.
Song E Napule - Pizza/Italian. Stylish setting and amazing pizza. Our Italian manager Luca, approved.
Zabars - A NYC institution - Last Yom Kippur there were enough of my fellow Jews loading up with Bagels and Lox to have a Minyan - Buy some appetizers and go to Central Park or Riverside Park for a picnic.
Sushi Yasaka - One of the best sushi places in the city.
Popup Bagels - Currently holding the Bagel Crown.
Cafe Luxembourg - I mean look at the place!! I love the breakfast.
The Muffin Shop Cafe - How could I not mention our wonderful neighbor the Muffin Cafe. Opened in 1993 when the UWS was a slightly scruffy but colorful neighborhood until today, where they have become a local landmark. Stay for one of their yummy muffins or sandwiches and watch daily life on the UWS.
Central Park Boathouse - The restaurant has a lovely view of the boaters on and, on occasion, in the lake or just grab something from the cafe.
Downtown
Buvette - Small, but mighty. Delicious breakfast and lunch in a stunning setting.
Il Buco - One of the best Italian restaurants in NYC if not a little $$$.
Tea And Sympathy - London in NYC. Oh the puddings!!
Cafe Gitane - One of my favorite restaurants in the city. I love the couscous and the space. Great cool-people vibe.
Pastis -The most popular NYC French Bistro in the Meatpacking District. Great for people-watching.
Au Cheval - Best burger in town. But then 7 million (non-veg) New Yorkers will be eager to tell you their favorite burger place. Make a rez two weeks in advance.
Katz delicatessen - The oldest deli in NYC. And you must have what she's having. But do NOT get cheese on your pastrami!!
Economy Candy - Unchanged since 1937. Best candy store in NYC.
Pecorina Bianca - To quote their website ‘a vibrant Italian restaurant’ but also a safe bet. There’s great food and a few locations, outdoor seating and I look really good in their lighting.
Robertas Pizza - Admittedly this cult Pizza restaurant is in Brooklyn but soooooo good. We went to the Domino Park location recently, a long wait but worth it, especially with the views of the river and the skyline.
Jack’s Wife Freda - When I want to go out for a chill dinner with a friend, I often choose Jack’s Wife Freda. With three locations downtown, a stylish crowd and setting and a vast menu, it never disappointments.
Shopping
As much as the number of stores in NYC has greatly diminished, I'm only mentioning boutiques rather than chain stores. My favorite shopping area is Nolita. I’ve only recommended a few of the fabulous boutiques and restaurants in the neighborhood.
Upper Westside
Poetry Of Material Things - Come in to say hi and find the perfect jewelry to wear to all the places on the list. Besides collections from our over 30 designers from all over the world, I do love it when visitors to the city leave the store with something handmade in New York. And as for the Home Decor side… we ship.
Utsuwa - A newer and welcome addition to the neighborhood, Utsuwa is a Japanese Bonsai store that is an absolute delight to venture into. They also have a great plant collection.
Pachute - One of my favorite European women's clothing stores.
Boc NYC - European women's clothing.
Westside Kids - A family-owned toy store. I would take my, now adult, kids to. They’ve been keeping our kids entertained and away from screens since 1981.
Only Hearts - Lingerie boutique. They also have a store in Nolita.
Liana - Liana clothing boutique has been dressing women with beautiful, classic collections since 1982.
Downtown
abc carpet & home - A home store. Although sadly a shadow of its former magnificent self, it still needs to be visited.
Rizzoli Bookstore - I know Strand Books is the mother of the independent bookstores but I love Rizzoli bookstore for its gorgeous interior and vast collection of illustrated book in addition to fiction and non-fiction. A lovely respite from the hustle of the city.
Union Square Greenmarket - Open Mon/Wed/Fri/Sat. The mother of all Green Markets. Just so picturesque. Farm meets city.
Goods For The Study - If, like me, you can never have enough pens and notebooks.
No.6 Store - Super edgy women's fashion. You leave a few degrees cooler than you went in.
Oroboro Store - Women's clothing. Same category as No.6.
Frankie Shop - More minimal women's clothing. Rather wide price range.
SKU Clothing - Men's quality basics. One of Scott’s favorites.
Tibi - Women's clothing. Has a bit of a cult following. Quite pricey but the price per wear….so I tell myself.
John Derian - John Derian specializes in decoupage which is handmade by him and a group of artisans in his studio in NYC. It is applied to his ethereal glass plates and bowls. Worth a visit if that aesthetic is your thing.
Attractions
Poetry Of Material Things - I know it's a store but have you experienced our manager and brand ambassador Luca?
Central Park - Do use the website to plan your visit. There are so many events and happenings that you don't want to miss. Or just walk the rambles (a little history for you) and the bridle path and do the row boats. But no carriage rides, please. I will free all the horses as soon as I make my millions.
Central Park Skate Circle - And, while you’re there, definitely visit the Skate Circle on Saturdays and Sundays. Groovy music and dance moves. A true slice of NYC.
Museums - Every single one. No really, every... one. But if I had to choose four they would be The Natural History (check out the new wing), The Met, (see the Sleeping Beauties until Sept 2), MOMA, and The Whitney.
Children's Museum Of Manhattan - Wonderful memories of taking our kids there. With a bottle of Purell.
Bryant Park - My second favorite park in the city. Adjacent to the New York Public Library. And a lovely bathroom too.
got2gonyc - If you're like me and tired of buying $5 muffins to use a bathroom, download this app. So clever.
Museum Of Sex - I have yet to go. But I needed you to know there is one.
Little Island - An urban oasis on the Hudson River. Relatively new but what an architectural beauty.
Elizabeth Street Garden - A magical and somewhat secret garden. It is sadly being closed down for Condos. Visit while you can. And send the letter on the website to the Mayor, please.
The Highline - A park built on an unused elevated train line. There is no better way to experience the juxtaposition of old and new architecture in NYC than walking this bridge park. Try to go early. Gets packed.
Chelsea Market - Just above the meatpacking district, Chelsea Market is housed in a converted biscuit factory. It's a food hall with some great restaurants and shopping too.
Nolita - Acronym for North of Little Italy. This is my favorite neighborhood in the city. It has a charming and cool vibe of its own, where you will find trendy boutiques and restaurants ( a few mentioned on this list) side by side with some of the original Italian establishments. Way less ‘mallified’ than Soho.
Governors Island - A 172-acre Island in the heart of New York Harbor. It's a day trip but if you have enough days it's worth it. You get there by ferry and there's so much to do. Art exhibits, bike riding, and a spa!!
Do walk the Brooklyn Bridge - Because you just have to and then wander into Dumbo and the wonderful Brooklyn Bridge Park.
My list is ever-growing and only skims the surface of what this city offers. My main recommendation is to walk, walk, and walk. Take the Circle Line Ferry, have your Barbara moment, stare up at the celestial ceiling of Grand Central, and finally…. take the subway, it's fine.
