The Brooklyn Museum is a great place to visit for contemporary and historical exhibitions, showcasing a range of international and local artists as well as its socially engaging and creative program it also hosts a party on the first Friday of every month. Its a great place to see performances (like these two cool cats) and mingle with the locals in the neighbourhood as well as art enthusiasts who come from afar to get down together and party in between the Rodin sculptures.
For brunch, the classic dish to get is the Feijoada, but the benny is also solid (and i don't recommend a benny lightly)—you can also ask for ham and spinach together (my favorite). For dinner you can also get the same thing, or the Moqueca (shrimp stew) is incredible. Pro-tip: if you're there for breakfast on a weekday, ask for a egg and cheese (add bacon or ham or avocado) on a croissant. Not on the menu—sounds basic, tastes amazing.
When I first visited NY in 2010 the New Museum left a permanent impression. I love the architecture and the concept of the piled-white-shoe-box look-a-like building at the edge of the Lower East Side neighborhood. The exhibition program is appealingly different, and the bookstore in the foyer is not to be missed!
Elsewhere is a converted warehouse space that serves as a music venue, art space, and bar. I recently went here for the first time to see Yaeji spin her latest EP, EP2. The walls were banging, the light design was unreal and even when in the back, the space feels intimate AF.
This is a very delicious Sandwich place in my neighborhood. I normally order the #5 - Bell' americano. It's a great sandwich. Also try the wonderful cookies.