I buy gigantic dry-aged steaks and 1.5-inch pork chops here. The staff is really friendly and helpful.

The oldest still-operating restaurant in New York City, still in the family of the original founders. At Christmastime, it's decorated to the nines. Go with a big group: portions are large and the wine flows liberally. Look for the little buttons on the walls: in the old days, the mafia would hang out in the back room, and if diners saw the cops come in, they'd press the buttons so the mafia guys could run out the back.

A legendary basketball court in the West Village that is a popular destination for basketball aficionados, deflated hoop-dreamers, and gawking tourists.

Serves as a special outdoor photoshoot-location! Great "natural" backdrop and good to have a walk around in the area as well!

Arthur Avenue is a mainstay of the Bronx. Since the early 1900's til today, it's been the hub of the Italian-American community that calls the Bronx home. Many family-owned, traditional businesses dot the main avenue, and the food culture is rich and boisterous.