Eating: For brunch, The Spotted Pig on 11th at Greenwich in the best of the West Village. Not only is the place a terrific throwback to the little pubs of yore, it has a great tarnished classiness (imagine hammered tin ceilings and worn spinning wooden bar stools). And the service is friendly and fun. Be prepared to wait a little while for a table.
For an inexpensive dinner, try Piadina's in the Village. Located on West 10th between 5th and 6th Avenues, it is a little piece of Rome (and the lackadaisical feeling that goes with it) in the hustle of New York City. You can get a great dinner for two for thirty dollars. Easy to get into, but cash only.
For a truly New York experience, make reservations at The Modern uptown inside the MoMa. It's pricey, but you can practically classify your gorgeously presented, blissfully divine dinner as modern art. And who can put a price on modern art?
Shopping: SoHo is a great place to shop in New York. That's where you can find Purl where two shops (one with yarn--pictured--and one with fabric) can be found. For the best t-shirts in New York City, visit Flying A. And no crafter should leave New York without a visit to Kate's Paperie
If you're in the West Village (maybe for brunch at The Spotted Pig) stop by ArtWare on West 11th Street to see some incredible modern art for the home and garden. Nearby is Hable Construction, which features playful pillows, over-sized bags, and funky home decor.
A short walk away in the Village is MXYPLYZYK a store which defies definition. They have housewares, they have art, they have stationary, they have toys. But, as they say, they think you can buy happiness there, and I agree.
Enjoy New York!
