Tucked away on the second floor, it’s easy to forget you’re in the middle of Manhattan. Order the Ika geso (squid legs) and the nankotsu (chicken cartilage), my personal favorites. You might notice people waiting around a nondescript door inside the restaurant; this is actually the entrance to the speakeasy bar Angel’s Share.

I buy gigantic dry-aged steaks and 1.5-inch pork chops here. The staff is really friendly and helpful.

Its a great Saturday after museums visit, a Viennese Cafe, for a clear white wine and apple strudel.

I like coming down here with friends when the weather permits and drinking on the beach or on the rocks when the tides come in.

A gorgeous place to wander and explore, especially during cherry blossom season when the colonnade of soft pink cherry trees are in full bloom on the esplanade. I’m also a big fan of the tropical and desert gardens.