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Writer's pictureDani Sauter

My Fave NYC Spots to Eat, Drink, & Instagram


In all the midst of planning for my NYFW recaps, I realized that I haven't written a post about some of my fave aspects of NYC- the neighborhoods, food, & drink! I actually got the idea for this post after a few people reached out to me during/after NYFW asking for rec's on where to go in the city on their upcoming trips.

When I go to NYC, I love to experience new places, but I also love to experience places I've been that I really like. This list below features my fave neighborhoods and go-to spots for eating, drinking, and Instagramming the city!

My Fave Spots in NYC to Eat, Drink, & Instagram

Ok, I know this may seem super blogger basic as literally everyone has photos here, but I LOVE this place! First of all, it is all pink inside which is a win-win all in itself. Added bonus that this restaurant is actually amazing, specializing in Italian dishes and brunch. Everything about it from the street art outside, the all pink inside, and pink bathrooms is completely Insta-worthy.

Think Coffee- Meatpacking

My husband and I stumbled into this coffee shop last time we were in NYC together and I *still* think about it. The interior is adorned with pop-art of icons and is super spacious. The coffee was amazing and the croissant was one of the freshest and tastiest I've ever had. They haveThink Coffee all across NYC, but I only visited the Meatpacking location and it is totally coffee post Insta-worthy.

Buddakan- Meatpacking

Arguably my favorite restaurant ever, I always try to go here while I'm in NYC. The food is literally to die for, and the interior and decor is absolutely stunning. My favorite dishes are the edamame dumplings and the filet, and my husband always orders the monkfish. Added bonus- Buddakan was featured in the Sex and the City movie for Carrie and Big's rehearsal dinner! If that alone doesn't make it Insta-worthy, then I don't know what will!

Brass Monkey- Meatpacking

I have been going to Brass Monkey now for over 9 years. This place is legit one of my favorite bars and I have had some unforgettable nights here. The crowd on the weekends can get pretty young, so I personally prefer going during the day or early evenings for Happy Hour. They have a sick Insta-worthy rooftop with views of the Hudson & Hoboken and the bartenders here are always the nicest. They also have good bathrooms- which is always a hit or miss in NYC!

Behold my love for Brass Monkey in the below photo from 2014-circa Instagram with David on their rooftop!

Le Song- Chelsea Market

This was a recent find from this NYFW, the girls and I stumbled into Le Song after searching Chelsea Market as we were starving from a long day of shows. Le Song is a French inspired bistro and the decor is super, super cute. The food was also very good- the fries are a must! This would make a perfect dinner date spot, and after- hit up Doughnuttery in Chelsea Market for dessert!

While We Were Young- West Village

Another "blogger basic" spot but one that is oh so pretty is While We Were Young. The interior is rose gold pink, blue, white, and gold, and is every girly-girls dream. The food is good and the cocktails are inventive and pretty. Between the cocktails, food, and decor- this place is 100% Insta-worthy.

Pizza Loves Emily- West Village

During NYFW, the girls and I waited an hour and a half just to eat here. The food is incredible. This was my second time going here, and it was just as good as I remembered it from the first time. I am completely obsessed. Order the loaded curly fries, pizza, and pretzel bun burger- the food is colorful and definitely Insta food post worthy.

Pizza Loves Emily

Malaparte- West Village

If Instagramming Avo Toast is your thing, then you must visit Malaparte. I actually just stumbled into Malaparte this past NYFW and was super impressed with the food. The avocado toast comes with 2 pieces and it is so delish and oh so Insta-worthy.

You've likely seen the famous Flour Shop cakes on Kim Kardashian's IG stories, if you follow her on IG. Flour Shop is known for their colorful rainbow cakes that explode with sprinkles and candy when cut. The shop is like a unicorn dream and is a must-see for those who love rainbows & unicorns. It was so cute, in fact, I dropped $50 on one cake, all for the gram... I guess that DEFINITELY makes it Insta-worthy.

Sweet Moments- Soho/Chinatown

If you love animals like me, consider this your mecca. This coffee and sweets cafe features animal art lattes and super crazy shaved ice concoctions. Everything about this place is Insta-worthy!!

Supermoon Bakehouse- Lower East Side

Basically this is every carb lovers paradise. Fresh, flavored croissants & baked goods lined up on shiny, metallic-flecked marble make this place not only Insta-worthy, but delicious, too.

Nurse Betty- Lower East Side

For nightlife, my go-to is Nurse Betty. Nurse Betty is a 1950's themed burlesque bar complete with extended happy hours til 9/10pm depending on the night and burlesque shows. The decor features pin-up artwork and I have never had a bad time here. The artwork alone is Insta-worthy!

Fave Neighborhoods for IG Stlye Photos:

Below Photos by Arielle Lewis Studios

1. Lower East Side

There is literally no shortage of great spots to shoot in LES. You can shoot so many different concepts all within the same block or two. I love the grungeiness and rock and roll vibe of LES, it's one of my favorite spots to shoot in NYC. The below photos are from three different trips, but all within just blocks of each other. Some are even on the same block!

2. Meatpacking District

Another great area to shoot- the Meatpacking District has so many different backdrops and scenery all within a small, walk-able area. Major plus that the Highline is right there, too! For awesome rooftop photos, check the Gansevoort Hotel rooftop pool and terrace. All the photos below are from the same day, and were shot within 1 block.

3. Soho/Little Italy

Although a bit more crowded, Soho is a beautiful area for IG photos. The Soho Nomo Hotel block is super popular with style Instagrammers and the iconic Soho buildings make for amazing backdrops.

4. West Village

A bit quieter and with more of a neighborhood feel, the West Village is perfect for street shots with a more intimate setting.

5. Times Square

Ultimately, the MOST crowded option and super touristy at all times, but with amazing light is Times Square. During NYFW, we did a shoot here and it was freezing, crowded, and overwhelming, but we made it work. You have to be patient with the crowds and tons of tourists, but it's all worth it for amazing colorful, well lit shots.

XOXO

Blonde in the District

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