The design and photography floor at Barnes & Noble bookstore in Union Square.

Best matcha lattes, don't try the udon, you'll fall in love with this place. Perfect lunch spot and amazing books! A must-go

I have old friends in San Francisco who grudgingly tell me that the High Line is everything that's wrong with New York. Well, too bad. To me, it embodies a culture that's constantly reinventing itself: a defunct elevated railway that was becoming a burden to the city ("we used to climb up there to throw garbage bags full of rotting Korean food at the Hasids!", noted a successful photographer's assistant) becoming a startling example of urban greening for the public good. The expert landscaping makes it feel like walking on a Montauk beach - but a stone's throw from some of New York's most progressive galleries and hotels.

Chavela's makes delicious authentic Mexican food and its around the corner from my house, so I come here a lot. They make a mean margarita, and you can't beat their happy hour prices. $2 tacos? Yes, please. The decor is bright and lively, and the bar is made of beautiful Mexican tiles.

A well-curated vintage movie poster store. Smart and friendly staff.