Mekelburg's is equal parts hipster bodega, bar and sandwich haven. I always go for the cheese counter, the babka and the late night fried chicken sandwich, which is hands down one of the best I've had in NY. 

Now in its tenth year, the Division Street restaurant has proven its staying power in a city of amazing eateries. Bacaro’s wine bar and small plates (“cichetti”) are modeled after the “bacaros” of Venice—workingmen’s pubs that serve snacks and small glasses of wine.

This park sits halfway between my apartment and my studio. I spend a a lot of time hear sketching and making phone calls. The trees are beautiful during spring and fall.

Corner bodega with the best chopped cheese. It will blow your mind.

Stupendous views of Manhattan and what feels like all of Brooklyn from the only tall-ish building around. And very good beer.