The Lowdown on NYC: Where to Stay, Eat and Work Out

Jeans: GRLFRND; Sweater: Free People (similar here and here)

This year has started off with a lot of travel to the U.S. Last year, I went to Europe a ton, but I’ve just not been loving the idea of long distance flights lately (ironic considering I’m headed to London tomorrow). I went to New York for 4 short but amazing days to record podcast interviews.

Honestly I’ll take any excuse to go to New York, it never disappoints. The energy is just insane. I love how everyone is hustling to be the best. I would love to live there at some point – anyone else feel this way?

But until then, I’m more than happy making frequent visits. It’s a 50 minute flight from Toronto which is just so damn convenient. During this trip, I also made it a point to venture to Brooklyn since I spend so much time in Manhattan. Anyway, I wanted to share all the details from my trip in the form of a travel guide. If you go to New York, you HAVE to go to these places. Seriously, when it comes to my recommendations, I do not kid around.

Where to stay

Okay so let’s talk about my stay at WestHouse because are you looking at this ridiculous view?

Yea, that’s from the rooftop terrace area in the suite I had. So crazy right? But don’t worry, if you don’t want to get a suite, you can still get the view from the rooftop area on the 23rd floor. Okay, so aside from the view, let’s get into the nitty-gritty, shall we?

First things first, the room. I love the minimalism meets luxury vibe. You can tell that it’s a high end hotel for sure, but the rooms aren’t decked out in opulent fittings. It’s clean, chic and very Instagrammable. Lots of natural light, which I so appreciate. The staff are super friendly too. Really helpful with anything you need, and my favourite thing was when I asked for something, I didn’t have to wait for like an hour. They were really prompt and efficient.

So one of the most noteworthy things about WestHouse is their amenities. Most hotels in New York have a ‘resort fee’ that covers all the different amenities. What do the amenities include, you ask? A huge buffet breakfast served at their rooftop area (indoors, don’t worry). And in the evening they serve snacks as well. So if you’re looking for a hotel where you truly get your money’s worth, this is the one.

WestHouse is located in Midtown West, literally a 5 minute walk away from 5th Avenue, where you can shop your heart out. It’s also right next to the subway which is extremely convenient. My favourite thing about it was the fact that there was a La Esquina across the street, perfect for a fuss free delicious taco dinner.

Where to Work Out

I love exploring the different studios that New York has to offer. This time, I had a chance to go to 2 studios, both of which I loved:

The Class by Taryn Toomey
I’d heard about this workout over and over again, and wanted to experience it firsthand to see if it was worth the hype. It was. The only way to describe it is a mix between yoga, Pilates, dance and general movement. I was expecting to go to a low-key class. I came out drenched in sweat, but also feeling rejuvenated. They encourage you to breathe loudly and make any kind of noise you want. My instructor’s voice was also incredibly soothing. It felt like an emotional journey along with a physical one, I honestly can’t describe it. Overall, it’s an experience that everyone should have. Truly one of the best classes I’ve ever done.

Physique57
There’s barre and then there’s barre at Physique57. Specifically Physique57 taught by Chad Levy. When a class has over 20 people, you don’t expect the instructor to give you personalized attention. And yet, Chad did. It was the most insane burn in the most beautiful studio with the most welcoming environment. I highly recommend it.

What to eat

La Esquina
Well since I just mentioned La Esquina while talking about WestHouse, let’s just continue the conversation. My brother and I went one night for dinner. I ordered 2 tacos, foolishly thinking I couldn’t eat any more than that. 5 is how many I actually had. Get the shrimp one, it was so good I’m salivating as I think about it.

Tacombi
Another great option for Mexican food. Their tacos are delicious and the interior is super cute. Go to the one on Bleeker.

Dr Smood
I know I started this guide off talking about Mexican food, but who would I be if I didn’t hit up every superfood cafe that New York offers. Dr. Smood had been on my list forever, and I finally ended up checking it out this time. Believe me, it did not disappoint. Their chia seed pudding tasted like a dessert, and they hands down have the best cashew milk I’ve ever tasted.

Maman
They have locations all over New York, with beautiful interiors, great coffee, and the chewiest, thickest, most delicious chocolate chip cookies.

Chikarashi
If you’re in the mood for poke or Japanese bowls, go here. The unagi bowl was unreal.

Sunday in Brooklyn
I will always be partial to restaurants that are cool with doing substitutions. This Williamsburg spot has a cabin-like feel to it and has the most delicious brunch. I got one of the breakfast plates and subbed bread for kale which they did happily.

Smile To Go
I talked about Smile years ago on one of my first trips to New York after college. They have a great bone broth which I highly recommend.

The Broken Coconut
Of course New York has a coconut-themed cafe. Inside, it looks more like Bali than New York. I got the coconut Matcha which did not disappoint.

Hole in the Wall
I’ve said it a million times and I’ll keep saying it. No one does brunch like the Aussies, and this brunch spot is no exception. The avocado toast is to die for.

Le Coucou
If you’re looking for a really vibe-y dinner spot, go to Le Coucou. Actually scratch that. It’s also a vibe-y breakfast spot. Their coffee is great and their croissant is flakey as ever.

Matchaful
I go to Cha Cha Matcha every time I’m in New York, but this time, I decided to visit Matchaful. I couldn’t recommend this place more. They do a whole bunch of Matcha superfood lattes, which taste so so good. Also, their interior is super cute.

Do you guys love NY as much as I do?

PS – here are 3 of my top tips to be productive while traveling and the 7 things I do to stay creative.