Chuko has the best vegetarian ramen I've ever had. It's kind of ruined me for other types of Ramen. Favorite neighborhood spot with good people running it.

Growing up I’d go to Staten Island a lot due to how close it was to my hometown. It wasn’t until I went back as an adult that I realized the uniqueness of this place, the outdated but also artistically beautiful aesthetic of the island, and appreciated it more. Plus the food (lots of diners and Italian food) is great and people watching is also pretty interesting.

The Brooklyn Flea is another treasure trove of odd finds, cool artifacts, and handmade goodness. If you're looking for inspiration or just something cool to hang on your wall, you can probably find something here. And if all that treasure hunting leaves you hungry, you are in luck--there's a delicious assortment of local food vendors and artisans there too.

Leaf through over 30,000 artists' sketchbooks in what may be the world's largest collection.

When I have a bit of money I like to go there with friends to celebrate our happiness and miseries.