Best cupcakes ever (aside from my wife's)

Interference Archive is a volunteer-run library, gallery, and archive of historical materials related to social and political activism and movements.

Geek out over the massive menu of Belgian beer at Spuyten Duyvil. Relax in the backyard seating and say, "Ooh, I gotta remember this brew," without realizing you probably won't see it again elsewhere. Then cross the street to Fette Sau, a BBQ experience equally well designed because it's owned by the same couple, the Carrolls. Order from their wide selection of meat cuts, served by the pound on butcher paper. The sides shine too, with the best potato salad and best BBQ beans I've ever had.

This artist-run gallery is a hub of the Brooklyn gallery scene. You'll find Bungee, a celebrated fixture, snoozing comfortably in the office and somehow oblivious to all the surrounding chaos.

I often run to this place and I love this perspective on glittering Manhattan and the feeling of coolness in the air from being so close to the water. To sweat and breathe and see this view of New York gives me a sense of being in this great City.