If you’re looking for this restaurant by reading the words printed on the awnings of Division Street, you’ll need to know Cantonese: “Kiki’s Greek Tavern” is written only in Chinese characters. Olive green doors and stone walls on the eatery’s interior are a better tell, and are touches that suit the Mediterranean cuisine of Kiki’s well. The restaurant’s Greek cuisine is straightforward and delicious, so whether you order seafood, lamb, or salad, you really can’t go wrong.

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.

Luhring Augustine did a good job of converting an old warehouse/storage facility into a blue chip commercial art gallery that stages four shows of contemporary art per year. Which means you can catch museum quality shows in an unlikely spot, away from all the Chelsea pomp, and it actually has friendly staff, instead of a cold gallerina sat behind a desk pretending to be on the phone.

Sculpture by Tom Otterness at the 8th Avenue subway station at 14th street 

Their coffee—all brewed from carefully sourced Nicaraguan beans—is truly delicious.