An Off-Duty Model Guide to the 10 Coolest Places In New York

by Leomie Anderson

Hi Who What Wear Readers!

I'm a London girl, but I would definitely say New York is a second home to me. It was the first place I lived alone, the city where I started my first full Fashion Week circuit and the first place I ever rented an apartment—I know the city like the back of my hand! So, with NYFW just around the corner (and I'm actually heading there as I type!) here are my top 10 spots for eating, shopping and hanging out. Let me know if you try any of the places on Twitter (@leomie_anderson) and Instagram (@leomieanderson).

Keep reading to see my favourite things to do in New York City...

 

A photo posted by #rubysnyc (@rubyscafe) on

Ruby's Cafe is one of my favourite places to go for dinner in New York! If you love a juicy burger then you have to order the Bronte, or if you're more of a pasta person try the lamb ragu; but everything on the menu is delicious.

When I want to find unique designer pieces I head to Jeffrey on the West Side. They have everything from Chanel sneakers to the newest Alexander Wang as well as a selection of vintage bags and sunglasses; the perfect place to spend a Sunday.

If you love meat and Japanese food then head to Gyu Kaku, the Japanese BBQ. Go there with a date or group of friends and enjoy playing chef cooking your meat on the BBQ—finish off with the smores and roast your marshmallows for dessert!

 

A photo posted by theBoil (@theboilny) on

Okay, more food! And this one is for the seafood addicts. If you love crab legs and wearing an unstylish plastic bib then try out The Boil Downtown. It may be messy but it's definitely worth it, plus, who doesn't like posing with a crab claw for Instagram?

 

A photo posted by Sephora (@sephora) on

The U.K. is desperately in need of a Sephora—if you don't know it, it's basically all your makeup and skincare needs under one roof. The majority of my makeup brushes are from their own range and I love their facial masks—definitely worth stocking up on if you're in town.

Metropolis Vintage is always a go-to stop whenever I'm in the city. It's great for denim and vintage sportswear from brands such as Levi's and New Balance, but it also has great unbranded pieces for really good prices.

In summer I love walking along the High Line in Chelsea. It's a glass walkway with various gardens and viewpoints built upon a old freight railway line—you can get a great view of the Hudson River there. If you want an epic pic for your Instagram, definitely go!

 

A photo posted by Chelsea Market (@chelseamarketny) on

Chelsea Market is basically my idea of heaven with all different types of cuisine under one roof! If you like tacos, you have to stop at Los Tacos No.1 inside Chelsea Market; they really do live up to their name.

 

A photo posted by Doughnuttery (@doughnuttery) on

If you have a sweet tooth like me then you need to find yourself at The Doughnuttery (also in Chelsea Market) for mouthwatering doughnut bites with insane toppings and sauces. My personal fave are the classic cinnamon doughnuts with the Walters caramel and beer batter caramel dipping sauce.

 

A photo posted by Barneys New York (@barneysny) on

If you go to New York, don't leave without visiting Barneys to get the latest designer pieces; if you go around sale season you can get some insane deals too.

Don't forget to follow Leomie's fashion travels on her blog, Cracked China Cup, and come back next month for another installment of her column here.

Opening Image: Getty

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