YOUR INSIDE GUIDE TO A BONA-FIDE NEW YORK EXPERIENCE FOR TRAVELING TO THE CITY THIS HOLIDAY SEASON
words by HANNAH ATIRA
Oh, the holidays in New York City; a magical time consisting of twinkling lights, larger-than-life decorations, the excitement of holiday cheer, and an endless number of visitors all hoping to indulge. While some travelers seek the thrill of mile-long lines, beating the system to confirm dinner reservations, and the heavy lifting of gifts galore, a certain traveler seeks more than just New York during the holidays, but the New Yorker experience.
The real spirit of the city’s holiday season can be found in the hidden gems that only a New Yorker with intel knows and what better intel than that of the fashion scene? Between the calendar of events, dinners, parties, and activations a fashion insider has spent the year scoping out the city's best-hidden treasures. Always composed of key, only in New York elements, a recommendation from the fashion crowd is one to take note of. With that being said your inside scoop awaits, with a certified list of recommendations sure to make this holiday visit one of luxury, relaxation, and that New York Je ne sais quoi.
The number one key to a successful visit to NYC is a unique dining experience. When it comes to restaurants, New York knows no end but this time of year finding one that can be popped in impromptu and serve as an inside oasis is no easy feat. However, the three spots below are sure to make you feel like a character in an episode of your favorite series, catching up on the latest over a delectable meal.
Ella Funt
For a slightly jazzy, dimly lit dining experience where the ambiance of a Parisian beatnik poet meets the coolness of the downtown coat check girl, Ella Funt is a must. Tucked neatly away on a side street of the east village, Ella Funt embodies NYC downtown dining. While the menu changes to keep guests on their feet, a few signature dishes must be experienced. Dining for two, the Dry Aged Wagyu Rib Eye complete with a side of potato maxim and leafy salad is the perfect split, add in a round of oysters or the cured tuna to start and you'll be set for your after-dinner stroll.
Jac’s On Bond
Looking for less of a sit-down moment and more of drinks, small bites, and mingling with friends moment; Jac’s on Bond has got you covered. Let the libations flow and the cold melt away in the space's cozy interior, consisting of small tables and a sleek bar all surrounding a pool table centerpiece. Whether selecting between a signature cocktail such as the R N’Bee, a trendy favorite such as a French 75, or a classic Martini, the choice will be exquisite. After one too many, snack on the chilled crab dip or caprese meatball sliders for the perfect treat!
Maison Close
For an Emily in Paris meets New York City moment, end your Soho shopping day by traveling to the neighborhood’s edge to Maison Close. With a menu complete with every delicacy from caviar to Lobster salad, grilled lamb chops to tableside flamed crepes, this taste of culture unifies the two beloved cities. For that special, New York dining memory opt for a late-night meal to experience a can't miss treat while you dine.
While dining is essential to the New York experience, no New York City trip is complete without a dedicated shopping day. Most notably known for some of the most grandeur, infamous, and beloved stores worldwide, the city’s niche concepts stores, are where you can find that truly irreplaceable piece. Nothing is better from a trip overseas than coming back with a special find, of course, finding such a treasure is easier said than done. The shops below are guaranteed to have that one-of-one find.
ESSX NYC
Truly re-writing the rules of the brick-and-mortar shopping experience, ESSX NYC not only houses pieces yet to be found anywhere else stateside but an atmosphere that you simply won't forget. From niche Japanese brands such as Satoshi Nakamoto to to-die-for Y project outerwear and the internet’s favorite silver handbag from Published By; if you don't find a gift for everyone on your list, you're sure to find one for yourself! ESSX NYC will not only thoroughly impress you with its distinct curation but you may even run into one of the many faces that have stamped their approval (Skepta and Tems to name a few).
Roome New York
Looking for pieces you can find quite literally only in NYC? Roome New York is your one-stop shop. Housing the likes of the epitome of cool girl, Danz.NY and the ever whimsical Pipencolorena, Roome Newyork offers not only a selection you won't find elsewhere but one you may not even find online. They say the best gifts come in small packages and Roome proves that point from dainty architectural jewelry to small homewares their selection is niche personified. The icing on the cake, an in-store holiday sale through the end of the year.
After a day's worth of eating, drinking, shopping, and being merry there's no better way to embrace the holiday spirit than with a little rest and relaxation. In true New York Fashion, you will find the perfect escape where you least expect it, amongst the disarray. Wrap up your travels with a moment to yourself or with companions at one of the beloved New York oases below.
Bathhouse
Spend a few hours washing away your worries and escaping the chilly temperatures, in the city's chicest indoor sanctuary. Complete with hot and cold baths, tropical and dry saunas, and a pore-refreshing steam room, Bathhouse provides both a tranquil and communal atmosphere to ease your body after trekking through the city streets. Feeling extra jolly, treat yourself to the Hamman scrub and experience a washing of warm water, and a removal of dead, dry skin topped off with CBD oil leaving you ready to face the dry outside air. While taking the dip of your choice in Brooklyn or Manhattan, further indulge yourself with coffee, snacks, or a libation at the in-house cafe.
Spencer’s Spa
What better way to end a day of endless shopping along the store-lined streets than with a full body massage? Snuggled in the heart of Soho, Spencer's Spa welcomes you into a world of serenity to soothe your muscles into bliss. Step out of the elevator directly into a stunningly fashioned waiting room Spencer’s Spa provides the perfect midday break from the world. Indulge your feet, body, or skin into a most memorable experience set against a dimly lit ambiance. Flowing white curtains encapsulate your treatment into an aura of privacy, for an all-encompassing experience the 60-minute signature body massage incorporates the elements of complete relaxation from hot stones to a heated massage table. While you recharge, recharge your devices as well with complimentary phone charging stations in each room.
