The oldest, best, and probably dirtiest underground train system in the world. 24 hour service that links me to anywhere I want to go in the city.

where I walk with my dog near my apartment, is also the remains of what was Fort Putnam in the late 1700’s and later Fort Washington near the Navy Yard. Not the largest park but a regular part of my routine and big enough to feel like you’re still out of the city when you’re in the middle of it.

I go here mostly because of the vibe, it”s a French bistro meets a plant shop and the sister restaurant to Tartine in the West Village. The Shakchuka and the fennel salad is delicious, so is the onion soup. Cute Rooftop during the summer. 

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.

Coming back from from New Haven, we got off at Grand Central and he took me down one of the concourses to the place with the vaulted ceiling. He stood at one corner and I stood at another and we whispered into the walls, our voices drifting across to each other.