Best contemporary art museum in NY, have to take a train that goes along the Hudson river (best views during fall season!) / rent a car. This museum only uses natural light, and has pieces from Richard Serra, Judd, Sol Lewitt, Walter de Maria, Robert Smithson, Flavin, all best of the best!

Daytime café, nighttime bar. Nothing stronger than 30-proof. Delicious beer and really good wine. Kind people run & staff the place. The garden in the Summer is perfect. I make near-daily visits.

Getaway not far from the city. Nice beach, surreal pool. Next to Fire Island (which is also super nice).

Fried chicken. Biscuits. Sausage gravy. Artisanal root beer. House-made pickles.

For brunch, the classic dish to get is the Feijoada, but the benny is also solid (and i don't recommend a benny lightly)—you can also ask for ham and spinach together (my favorite). For dinner you can also get the same thing, or the Moqueca (shrimp stew) is incredible. Pro-tip: if you're there for breakfast on a weekday, ask for a egg and cheese (add bacon or ham or avocado) on a croissant. Not on the menu—sounds basic, tastes amazing.