Nothing is more quintessentially New York than a diner. This eatery not only serves excellent, traditional diner fare, but does so in an eclectic environment that mixes Baroque decadence with Midtown grit.

This place is amazing. It's a short walk from our apartment and has an amazing happy hour including cheap guacamole and $4 margaritas. We can spend an hour or five hours here at a time because the environment is so casual, welcoming, and the food is just damn good. Get the lengua or the camaron al mojo de ajo tacos or hongos and rajas con papas if you are vegan.

Designed by Frederick Law Olmstead (of Central Park), Prospect Park is where I go running in better weather and find an endless supply of flotsam and jetsam for casting in projects all year round. Thickets of trees, hidden paths, and rolling hills are an endless source of inspiration.

Has no sign outside, so you might miss it, but if you do happen to find it, you will feel like you have walked into the 1920's. Its very chic, with Black and white marble decor, candle light and ambience to go with a great list of cocktails and whiskeys etc.

The best underground shows you will find will have free pbr and models as far as the eye can see. They are rarely announced, so keep your eyes out for promising openings, especially with Milk Underground coming up.