My Favorite NYC Spots
Tired of going to the same spots in NYC? Same. The less you rely on searching for the “most popular” places or checking Yelp reviews, the more you can actually explore on your own terms. Try following your instincts instead—see where the day takes you. If you end up somewhere you don’t like, that’s fine; just don’t go back. The point is to keep trying something new. Taking a chance, being carefree, and staying optimistic will eventually lead you to the places that feel right. I’ve been to the city many times, but I rarely document where I go. I’m always drawn to new coffee shops, restaurants, bars, and museums—but I recently realized there are also so many places where you can do fun, hands-on activities with friends.
For My Foodies :)
Lovely’s Old Fashioned
Lovely’s Old Fashioned is one of the best breakfast spots to go to! From the moment you walk in, you’re greeted with the warm and comforting atmosphere from staff. Their breakfast menu is amazing—from fluffy pancakes to perfectly cooked eggs and crispy bacon, everything tastes fresh and full of flavor. Lovely’s also offers great vegetarian options, like the Mushrooben, which is so flavorful and satisfying that even meat lovers will enjoy it. This is the perfect spot to grab breakfast or lunch with your friends—great food, great service, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Jumbo Bagels
If you’re a grab-and-go person like me, Jumbo Bagels has you covered! They offer a wide variety of freshly baked bagels—from classic plain and everything bagels to unique flavors like asiago cheese, jalapeño cheddar, and blueberry. You can pair your bagel with an assortment of spreads, including cream cheese (plain, chive, or strawberry), butter, or peanut butter. If you’re craving something more filling, Jumbo Bagels also serves hearty breakfast and lunch sandwiches. You can build your own with eggs, bacon, sausage, ham, turkey, or smoked salmon, topped with your choice of cheese and fresh veggies.
Leyla
Leyla in Manhattan never lets you down with its delectable Turkish cuisine and cozy, welcoming ambiance. With its savory mezes, expertly grilled kebabs, and thick, fragrant stews, the restaurant delivers a true sense of Turkey. My main course, lamb shank, was really flavorful and thick. Leyla offers a memorable dining experience that blends classic cuisine with a contemporary Manhattan feel, whether you're coming by for a quiet meal or a night out with friends.
La Caverna
An additional restaurant is La Caverna is an amazing Mexican restaurant that offers delicious meals and a distinctive ambiance. Dining here seems like an adventure because of the intriguing, cave-like interior architecture. Classic Mexican favorites abound on the menu, ranging from tasty enchiladas and fresh guacamole to succulent fajitas and tacos. La Caverna offers delicious food in a memorable, immersive environment, whether you're there for a laid-back dinner or a crazy night out.
For My Adrenaline Junkies :)
Shipwrecked Mini Golf
I’m not really into golf, but I still had a great time at this mini golf course. Shipwrecked Mini Golf has such a creative atmosphere—it’s like stepping into a pirate movie. Each hole has a unique theme with cool effects, and I found myself getting surprisingly competitive with my friends. We laughed a lot every time someone’s ball went completely off course, and the whole place just had a lighthearted vibe. This is a great activity to enjoy with your friends when you’re looking for something fun and interactive without taking it too seriously.
Sandbox VR
Another unforgettable experience was visiting Sandbox VR. The moment I put on the headset, I felt like I was inside a movie. My friends and I got to team up in a virtual world where we battled zombies and explored futuristic landscapes. What made it so fun was how realistic everything felt—we were ducking, dodging, and shouting directions at each other like it was real life. It’s the kind of experience that makes you forget you’re in a room in the middle of New York City. Sandbox VR is perfect for anyone who loves games, technology, or just wants to escape reality for a while.
Ferox Ninja Park
If you’ve ever watched those ninja obstacle shows and wondered if you could do it, Ferox Ninja Park is the place to find out. I went there with a group of friends, and we immediately turned it into a competition to see who could make it the farthest without falling. It was challenging but also incredibly fun, and even when I slipped off the bars or missed a jump, we were all cheering each other on. It’s a great way to get active, laugh at yourself, and push your limits—all at the same time.
