New York, the center of the universe, is my second favorite city. If I ever want to live in a real city, a jungle of steel, I would definitely choose New York. It has everything to offer – world cuisine, diversity, democracy, endless activities, and famous attractions. It is undoubtedly the most famous place in the world, not to mention how many times it has been shown or referenced in books, shows, and movies. As someone who grew up and lived in several major cities in China, I’m usually not fond of similar metropolises, but New York is on another level and completely blew my mind.
My first real encounter with New York was a few years ago during my master’s program, which included a brief stay to study in this dynamic city. Commuting to NYU in the mornings and evenings with my friends made me feel like a true New Yorker! Although I don’t currently live in New York, my husband and I frequently vacation there, visiting several times a year. The city has become a part of us.
With that said, instead of giving you a traditional tour, I will show you how much New York offers across four different categories. Let’s start with food.
Food (Delicious Retreat):
My husband and I are crazy foodies. Most of our travels (not just to New York) center around food, encompassing not only restaurants but also bakeries, snack shops, and bars. New York is the only city in North America where we’ve found top-notch, authentic restaurants that serve well-crafted meals true to their origins. It’s exceedingly rare to find a good Italian restaurant in the US that hasn’t tailored its menu to local tastes – New York being the exception. While you can certainly explore more on my Foodie Map, I invite you to join me on this gastronomic journey.
Olio E Più:
This is one Italian spot we never miss when in town. The menu at Olio E Più changes frequently, keeping each visit interesting, but the Carbonara – always a staple – is undoubtedly the best in New York City. If you have trouble choosing between pizza and pasta, go for pasta! Due to its popularity, it’s wise to reserve a table two weeks in advance!
Jing Fong
As Dim Sum lovers, Jing Fong is the best we’ve found. “Jing Fong feels and tastes exactly like Dim Sum places in Hong Kong,” Sebastian praised. Indeed, the tasty steaming food on carts and people conversing in Cantonese transported me to that island I’ve never visited.
Katz’s Delicatessen
There’s no overlooking Katz’s Delicatessen in New York. I don’t care how many movies have featured it, but my stomach is always satisfied by those towering sandwiches, pea soup, and pickles! Pro tip: you can get table service by going to the far right section.
Bangkok Supper Club
Don’t let the name fool you – Bangkok Supper Club is the most elegant and expensive Thai place I’ve been to. What sets it apart is the innovative culinary experiments that enrich the flavors. It primarily caters to a liberal, well-educated, young New Yorker clientele, largely from the LGBTQ+ community. While waiting for a table, I initially doubted whether the fashionable crowd could truly appreciate the food. Reflecting on it now, perhaps we are among the few who can.
NR
Here, it’s all about the Ramen – arguably the best in the world. With no sign at the entrance, you must trust Google Maps to find it. The dim lighting and wooden interior create a classic vibe where I can fully enjoy the mind-blowing flavors of dishes like the noodles with bone marrow or salmon caviar. Thinking about going back consumes me.
Beyond these highlights, there are numerous other excellent spots. Er Hot Pot offers delightful and affordable hot pot dishes, Rosella serves inventive sushi, and ZheLi is a fantastic choice for Chinese cuisine. Be sure to start your day at Little Collins for the perfect breakfast or brunch, and if you crave matcha, visit Cha-An.
There is nowhere like New York where your needs can be satisfied in every way.
If you love museums, you’re in luck – New York has hundreds to choose from. While I’m not a museum enthusiast and have yet to visit one here, the mere thought of them gives me a desire to start exploring. If you’re new to museums, begin with The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Even in this huge metropolis, there are parks that are worth visiting. Everyone knows about Central Park, right? I bet it’s the most well-known park in the world. Indeed, it’s not about how much area it has, but the vibe, the diversity of landscapes and plant life. It’s a must-visit for its natural beauty contrasted against the backdrop of skyscrapers, as well as for its spring flowers, autumn foliage, and impromptu performances near the Terrace.
Washington Square Park is a place where you can meet all sorts of New Yorkers. Whether spirited or low-key, you don’t need to blend in, because just by being there, you become a part of it. Oh, and did I mention this is the beginning of 5th Avenue? Start your journey here and you can feel how it evolves from a “peaceful” little corner into a bustling street full of crowds and style.
Little Island is a relatively new park on Manhattan’s west side. Completely man-made, this corner park consists of hills, an amphitheater, and several observation decks. Because of its peacefulness, I like to take a walk there after a filling dinner. 
Not far from Little Island is the start of the High Line, an elevated linear park. This is so far my favorite park in New York – it’s pleasant to stroll along the trail surrounded by plants and shrubbery while enjoying views of the cityscape from a distance.
At the end of the High Line lies Hudson Yards, a popular business and shopping district. The Vessel, which looks like a pine cone sculpture, was initially a destination for its wondrous architecture, but due to accidents and suicides that occurred there, no one is allowed to walk up into the building anymore.
Right next to it is a skyscraper named Edge. While it’s certainly a luxury attraction, for regular tourists it’s one of the buildings where you can access a high outdoor platform to see the city from above. I don’t actually recommend going up to Edge’s platform though, because from its location you can only see a cluster of buildings without any one landmark really standing out.
Speaking of the Edge, there are other observation decks where you can enjoy panoramic city views from up high. My favorite is SUMMIT One Vanderbilt. It’s not technically just a platform, but more like an immersive panorama experience – giant glass walls allow you to see 360 degrees of New York. It’s fun too! Three floors are dedicated to creating a rich experience. The first has mirrored floors and ceilings where you can capture fun moments while taking in the views. The Empire State Building is right in front! I went crazy in the mirror balloon room, where everyone was playing with huge silver balloons. Usually the top floor has the fewest people, so that’s the best spot to enjoy uninterrupted city vistas. At the end, there’s an open air space up there where drinks are served.
If you head south, you’ll run into Manhattan’s Chinatown, or more precisely its Hong Kong town. Grab some tasty Cantonese pastries and keep walking to find yourself in the Financial District. Unlike the uptown vibe, this place makes me feel out of breath – I think it’s probably too “work-focused” of an atmosphere.
Escaping those narrow streets and coffee shops under the shadows of skyscrapers, you can go east to cross the Brooklyn Bridge. This famous landmark didn’t give me a great experience though, probably because even during COVID there were hundreds of tourists like myself, plus the same number of street vendors. However, as you get closer to the Brooklyn side, the views open up to a more enjoyable perspective of Manhattan’s skyline. 
Brooklyn itself has a very down-to-earth, low-key vibe with young people just hanging out and doing their thing. The New York dream often starts taking shape in Brooklyn. To the north lies Queens, which has an even more authentic Chinatown – those familiar Asian faces and street scenes can instantly transport you to towns in China.
My favorite area of New York so far is the SoHo-Village district, a little artistic enclave in lower Manhattan. This place is bright, fashionable, and full of creative spirit and inspiration. You don’t really need to go gallery-hopping to soak in the artsy atmosphere – the art is simply out on the streets through fun murals, slogans, and thought-provoking public art that make New York feel fully alive and human rather than just a concrete jungle.
New York has too much to offer, and even for me as a frequent visitor, I find new places to explore each time. I completely understand this gigantic metropolis might not be everyone’s cup of tea, as some may find the chaos and energy too overwhelming. For me, however, it is precisely that kind of buzz that has enchanted me and lured me back over and over. I especially love the incredible inclusiveness and diversity this city embraces – it is so liberal and open-minded that it is one of the few places in the world where you never have to worry about being judged for being your authentic self.
This blog captures just my personal experiences and perspectives on New York, which definitely don’t resonate with everyone. But I hope I was able to give you a taste of the city’s unique magic, so you’ll be inspired to come experience it for yourself. Whether you love it or hate it, get ready to be dazzled, overwhelmed, and forever changed by the singular energy of New York City. It’s a place that gets under your skin like nowhere else.
Eating and Exploring Through New York: My Personal Story
New York, the center of the universe, is my second favorite city. If I ever want to live in a real city, a jungle of steel, I would definitely choose New York. It has everything to offer – world cuisine, diversity, democracy, endless activities, and famous attractions. It is undoubtedly the most famous place in the world, not to mention how many times it has been shown or referenced in books, shows, and movies. As someone who grew up and lived in several major cities in China, I’m usually not fond of similar metropolises, but New York is on another level and completely blew my mind.
My first real encounter with New York was a few years ago during my master’s program, which included a brief stay to study in this dynamic city. Commuting to NYU in the mornings and evenings with my friends made me feel like a true New Yorker! Although I don’t currently live in New York, my husband and I frequently vacation there, visiting several times a year. The city has become a part of us.
With that said, instead of giving you a traditional tour, I will show you how much New York offers across four different categories. Let’s start with food.
Food (Delicious Retreat):
My husband and I are crazy foodies. Most of our travels (not just to New York) center around food, encompassing not only restaurants but also bakeries, snack shops, and bars. New York is the only city in North America where we’ve found top-notch, authentic restaurants that serve well-crafted meals true to their origins. It’s exceedingly rare to find a good Italian restaurant in the US that hasn’t tailored its menu to local tastes – New York being the exception. While you can certainly explore more on my Foodie Map, I invite you to join me on this gastronomic journey.
Olio E Più:
This is one Italian spot we never miss when in town. The menu at Olio E Più changes frequently, keeping each visit interesting, but the Carbonara – always a staple – is undoubtedly the best in New York City. If you have trouble choosing between pizza and pasta, go for pasta! Due to its popularity, it’s wise to reserve a table two weeks in advance!
Jing Fong
As Dim Sum lovers, Jing Fong is the best we’ve found. “Jing Fong feels and tastes exactly like Dim Sum places in Hong Kong,” Sebastian praised. Indeed, the tasty steaming food on carts and people conversing in Cantonese transported me to that island I’ve never visited.
Katz’s Delicatessen
There’s no overlooking Katz’s Delicatessen in New York. I don’t care how many movies have featured it, but my stomach is always satisfied by those towering sandwiches, pea soup, and pickles! Pro tip: you can get table service by going to the far right section.
Bangkok Supper Club
Don’t let the name fool you – Bangkok Supper Club is the most elegant and expensive Thai place I’ve been to. What sets it apart is the innovative culinary experiments that enrich the flavors. It primarily caters to a liberal, well-educated, young New Yorker clientele, largely from the LGBTQ+ community. While waiting for a table, I initially doubted whether the fashionable crowd could truly appreciate the food. Reflecting on it now, perhaps we are among the few who can.
NR
Here, it’s all about the Ramen – arguably the best in the world. With no sign at the entrance, you must trust Google Maps to find it. The dim lighting and wooden interior create a classic vibe where I can fully enjoy the mind-blowing flavors of dishes like the noodles with bone marrow or salmon caviar. Thinking about going back consumes me.
Beyond these highlights, there are numerous other excellent spots. Er Hot Pot offers delightful and affordable hot pot dishes, Rosella serves inventive sushi, and ZheLi is a fantastic choice for Chinese cuisine. Be sure to start your day at Little Collins for the perfect breakfast or brunch, and if you crave matcha, visit Cha-An.
There is nowhere like New York where your needs can be satisfied in every way.
If you love museums, you’re in luck – New York has hundreds to choose from. While I’m not a museum enthusiast and have yet to visit one here, the mere thought of them gives me a desire to start exploring. If you’re new to museums, begin with The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Even in this huge metropolis, there are parks that are worth visiting. Everyone knows about Central Park, right? I bet it’s the most well-known park in the world. Indeed, it’s not about how much area it has, but the vibe, the diversity of landscapes and plant life. It’s a must-visit for its natural beauty contrasted against the backdrop of skyscrapers, as well as for its spring flowers, autumn foliage, and impromptu performances near the Terrace.
Washington Square Park is a place where you can meet all sorts of New Yorkers. Whether spirited or low-key, you don’t need to blend in, because just by being there, you become a part of it. Oh, and did I mention this is the beginning of 5th Avenue? Start your journey here and you can feel how it evolves from a “peaceful” little corner into a bustling street full of crowds and style.
Little Island is a relatively new park on Manhattan’s west side. Completely man-made, this corner park consists of hills, an amphitheater, and several observation decks. Because of its peacefulness, I like to take a walk there after a filling dinner.
Not far from Little Island is the start of the High Line, an elevated linear park. This is so far my favorite park in New York – it’s pleasant to stroll along the trail surrounded by plants and shrubbery while enjoying views of the cityscape from a distance.
At the end of the High Line lies Hudson Yards, a popular business and shopping district. The Vessel, which looks like a pine cone sculpture, was initially a destination for its wondrous architecture, but due to accidents and suicides that occurred there, no one is allowed to walk up into the building anymore.
Right next to it is a skyscraper named Edge. While it’s certainly a luxury attraction, for regular tourists it’s one of the buildings where you can access a high outdoor platform to see the city from above. I don’t actually recommend going up to Edge’s platform though, because from its location you can only see a cluster of buildings without any one landmark really standing out.
Speaking of the Edge, there are other observation decks where you can enjoy panoramic city views from up high. My favorite is SUMMIT One Vanderbilt. It’s not technically just a platform, but more like an immersive panorama experience – giant glass walls allow you to see 360 degrees of New York. It’s fun too! Three floors are dedicated to creating a rich experience. The first has mirrored floors and ceilings where you can capture fun moments while taking in the views. The Empire State Building is right in front! I went crazy in the mirror balloon room, where everyone was playing with huge silver balloons. Usually the top floor has the fewest people, so that’s the best spot to enjoy uninterrupted city vistas. At the end, there’s an open air space up there where drinks are served.
If you head south, you’ll run into Manhattan’s Chinatown, or more precisely its Hong Kong town. Grab some tasty Cantonese pastries and keep walking to find yourself in the Financial District. Unlike the uptown vibe, this place makes me feel out of breath – I think it’s probably too “work-focused” of an atmosphere.
Escaping those narrow streets and coffee shops under the shadows of skyscrapers, you can go east to cross the Brooklyn Bridge. This famous landmark didn’t give me a great experience though, probably because even during COVID there were hundreds of tourists like myself, plus the same number of street vendors.
However, as you get closer to the Brooklyn side, the views open up to a more enjoyable perspective of Manhattan’s skyline. Brooklyn itself has a very down-to-earth, low-key vibe with young people just hanging out and doing their thing. The New York dream often starts taking shape in Brooklyn. To the north lies Queens, which has an even more authentic Chinatown – those familiar Asian faces and street scenes can instantly transport you to towns in China.
My favorite area of New York so far is the SoHo-Village district, a little artistic enclave in lower Manhattan. This place is bright, fashionable, and full of creative spirit and inspiration. You don’t really need to go gallery-hopping to soak in the artsy atmosphere – the art is simply out on the streets through fun murals, slogans, and thought-provoking public art that make New York feel fully alive and human rather than just a concrete jungle.
New York has too much to offer, and even for me as a frequent visitor, I find new places to explore each time. I completely understand this gigantic metropolis might not be everyone’s cup of tea, as some may find the chaos and energy too overwhelming. For me, however, it is precisely that kind of buzz that has enchanted me and lured me back over and over. I especially love the incredible inclusiveness and diversity this city embraces – it is so liberal and open-minded that it is one of the few places in the world where you never have to worry about being judged for being your authentic self.
This blog captures just my personal experiences and perspectives on New York, which definitely don’t resonate with everyone. But I hope I was able to give you a taste of the city’s unique magic, so you’ll be inspired to come experience it for yourself. Whether you love it or hate it, get ready to be dazzled, overwhelmed, and forever changed by the singular energy of New York City. It’s a place that gets under your skin like nowhere else.