You can't say you've seen NYC until you've seen it from a boat. Hop on the ferry from anywhere to anywhere and you'll see what I mean. Not only will you see excellent old buildings and factories--the inner workings of the old industrial city--but you'll head out under working bridges and see the skyscrapers in all their towering glory. And once you've done it, do it again, at night.

For art books, monographs and catalogs new and used at a discount. I can never manage to leave here without a bag full of books in tow.

Taco Chulo is a great Mexican restaurant that has a good selection of tacos and burritos and of course has interesting blends of margaritas. I probably eat here at least once every other week.

This is another neighborhood favorite, especially for Sunday brunch which is consistently great.

This is my local spot and one of my bad habits. The bartenders make sure I don't do anything to embarrassing and its full of regulars. Has dangerously replaced my living room. It's one of the only real dive bars on Smith street. Layers of funkiness help keep away the frat boys and bachelorette parties. Never closes before 4am so all the other neighborhood bartenders, cooks, and waiters stop by after work. Needless to say that only the best business decisions get made here!