CHAARG’s Guide to NYC
New York City has always been my favorite place. After years of spontaneous day trips, family holiday celebrations + parading friends around to my favorite spots, I thought I should share some of the best eats, treats + wellness adventures I’ve discovered!
EATS
1] Peacefood Cafe: Whether you’re vegan or not, this place is a must try. While their chickpea fries are enough of a reason to go, they have a whole lunch + dinner menu as well as smoothies, juices, + a big case of vegan baked goods.
2] Zuckers Bagels and Smoked Fish: Is it even a trip to New York if you don’t have a New York bagel? This is one of my favorite spots for a good bagel because they have an extensive menu of cream cheese + breakfast sandwich options. They even have “flatz” which are thinner bagels for those mornings you don’t need a towering breakfast sandwich.
3] OatMeals: This quirky shop has sweat, savory + build your own oatmeal bowls for a fun + easy meal!
4] Citizens of Chelsea: Did someone say brunch? This place has everything you could want in a brunch from shakshuka, to avocado toast, to a big chocolate PB&J waffle. Need I say more?
5] Bar Verde: This plant-based Mexican restaurant is a must! Their creative + beautiful dishes are absolutely delicious ++ the owner has two other plant-based restaurants next door [Plant Food + Wine ++ Double Zero ] if you’re craving some seasonal dishes or pizza.
6] Chelsea Market: From vegan sushi to authentic tacos, this food market has a little something for everyone! The only hard part is deciding which place to try!
SWEETS
1] Van Leeuwen Ice Cream: Whether you’re looking for classic or vegan ice cream, Van Leewen’s is the place to go. Their ice cream is made in Brooklyn, New York with only the freshest ingredients. I struggle every time deciding which one of their exciting flavors to try!
2] Levain Bakery: This insta-worthy bakery specializes in massive cookies. They’re so popular that even with two locations only blocks apart, there is still always a line! All four flavors are absolutely delicious + perfect for sharing.
3] Chobani SoHo: The Chobani cafe is fun because they have sweet + savory yogurt bowls that are perfect for a snack! I definitely recommend this to any yogurt fanatic visiting the city.
4] Milk Bar: With adorable cake truffles, funky cookie flavors, + soft serve ice cream, what more could you ask for in a dessert spot?
5] Baked by Melissa: Baked by Melissa is one of my favorite cupcake places in New York because their micro-sized cupcakes allow you to try a few fun flavors + still not feel overstuffed with sweats! Some of my favorites are Peanut Butter and Jelly, Chocolate Chip Pancake, Triple Chocolate Fudge + Tie-Dye!
CAFFEINE
1] Irving Farm: If you like Chai Lattes, you have to check this place out! Their homemade Chai with Oat Milk is absolutely delicious. They also have awesome coffee, as well as a whole food menu that I’m dying to try!
2] Cha Cha Matcha: Not only will you find picture-worthy matcha lattes here, but they also have a variety of seasonal flavored matchas, a long list of dairy free milk options, vegan pastries, + matcha soft serve!
SWEAT
1] SoulCycle: While SoulCycle has can be found across the country, you just can’t beat the thrill of riding in the city it started in!
2] Integral Yoga: Integral Yoga is a small yoga studio that offers yoga and meditation classes. My favorite part about this place is that they’re focused on overall wellness — the first floor is filled with plant based cookbooks, mala beads, yoga accessories + more!
Studios We Want to Check Out: Y7 [hot yoga], Rumble Boxing
EXPLORE
1] City Bike: Renting a city bike is a fun + easy way to explore the city. It’s only $3 for half an hour or $12 for the whole day. Just remember that the streets of New York can be pretty crazy so try taking your bike through Central Park or along the Hudson River paths.
2] Get Walking! I’m sure you’re expecting to do some walking on your trip to the city, but I have a few favorite spots that will have you reaching your daily steps in no time!
- The Brooklyn Bridge is just over a mile long + has gorgeous views of the city!
- The Highline is a beautiful park that was once a railroad track. At the end of it you’ll reach the Vessel which is a giant spiral staircase with cool views of the city + New Jersey. **Even though the Vessel is free, you should book your spot ahead of time since they limit the amount of people each day.
