A long weekend brunch is my idea of the perfect meal. Paired with a watermelon mimosa at Cafe Gitane's Jane Hotel outpost is the perfect way to do it.

Recommended by my friend and talented illustrator, Isabel Castillo Guijarro, this spot makes incredible cappuccinos and is in one of my favorite NYC buildings, the WoolWorth Building

Sometime in 2016 Sprout Home garden center sprung a second, even larger space on Grand Street. Like many of the converted warehouse buildings in the neighborhood, this space offers a soaring ceiling, exposed rafters, and the warmth of unfinished brick walls. All this serves as a lofty and inviting backdrop to the real stars—the plants (!) of all sizes and species. This verdant space (complete with a stunning, fresh-cut "flower bar") is cleverly curated to feel more like a botanic garden, than your typical nursery. Incredibly you could take it all home with you! Oh! And while you’re there, don’t forget to choose a planter from their inspired selection. They have a gorgeous pot for every plant and plant-lover, no matter how green(ish) your thumb may be.

Great mid-eastern food in Chelsea/Flatiron/NoMad/whatever you call that area.

You've heard about the reading room at the New York Public Library, haven't you? Then I need not go on. Just look at it. And you're allowed to hang around in there!