This lockdown has only taught me one thing. To not take anything for granted and to ensure as soon as we are out of this, do everything I have wanted to do. This involves a lot of coffee, tequila beverages, and food plus soaking up the best hotel atmospheres.

I want to revisit every place I have loved. I am personally addicted to places with a laid back yet chic atmosphere, inspiring and fun crowd, and great music. I don’t believe that one needs to experience a new restaurant every week. Loyalty is important to me and I love consistency though one must remember to not become complacent when it comes to where you go.

I returned back from New York on the brink of Covid-19 spreading wider and I wish I had visited more places that I love. So here is a list of things I can’t wait to do again and hopefully these should inspire you too!

AUGUSTINE NEW YORK

My favourite type of restaurant, an inspired French brasserie with all the hustle and bustle that keeps you going from morning till midnight. I stayed at the Beekman for my 27th birthday and had the pleasure to have breakfast and coffee at this spot a few times. A Keith McNally invention, it had to be perfect!

 

THE BEEKMAN

During my recent visit to New York, I didn’t get enough time to visit downtown which I should have. The lobby of the Beekman is so unique and inspiring. You are transported to a completely different frame of mind the second you walk through the doors. Look up!

24.11.20: A classic example of why you should never put something off. Augustine closed down due to the pandemic – after I wrote this piece!

 

PASTIS

Another Keith McNally classic, Pastis, in my opinion, has reinvented the Meatpacking District since reopening last year. THE BEST cheeseburger in town hands down. Please sit at the bar – the bar always has the best scene! I have had the most interesting conversations in the Pastis bar seating area!

 

 JOE UPPER WEST SIDE

One of my favourite coffee chains in New York, Joe’s defined true American hospitality to me when I visited New York in 2015 and the staff really looked after me after finding out I was celebrating New Year’s in NYC visiting from London. Today I am proud to say Gabby Rubinstein is a dear friend in NY – they know how to do coffee. I mention the Upper  West Side location as that was the first location I ever visited. 

 

 

NORMA’S

The best pancakes in midtown with the best ambiance for brunch. Housed in The Parker New York, this is a great spot for a work meeting, quick coffee or a relaxed breakfast meeting. The pancake menu is extensive and I dare you to finish off an entire serving. Love the high ceilings and buzz. Above all, I love the understatedness of the interiors. 

 

THE LITTLE PIE COMPANY

Finally, wherever I stay in New York next time, I will get these warm pies delivered to my hotel room. The best Key Lime Pie and Apple Pie I have ever tasted. You can get a discovery box and try 4 mini ones at the same time – heaven!