Great spot in Bushwick, Brooklyn. Modern, low-key spot for coffee, updated comfort food, draft beer, cocktails & an artsy patio.

The jetties along Rockaway Beach are one of my regular destinations when I can get out there. I grew up in a Coast Guard family and spent a fair amount of time around the ocean and surfing. I still like to get in the water and this is the first Atlantic-exposed beach on Long Island as you start to get out of the city. When it comes to the environment, constructions like these can be contentious things but they also make for a series of interesting surf spots. Its got a lot of New York metro qualities you might expect including the Subway making its stops a couple of blocks back from the water.

Mekelburg's is equal parts hipster bodega, bar and sandwich haven. I always go for the cheese counter, the babka and the late night fried chicken sandwich, which is hands down one of the best I've had in NY. 

The naked baby dolls piled up in the front window of SEARCH & DESTROY is a good preview for what you’re in for. If you’re looking for something weird, this East Village shop is a good starting point. In addition to vintage clothing with a seriously punk rock lean, they also sell everything from sex toys to Manic Panic hair dye.

A new-ish cinema located in the East Broadway section of Chinatown. They play a great selection of rare and vintage titles, plus hosting a considerable amount of director/cast Q&As post showing. People complain about their seats, but they're really not that bad. And yes, they have overpriced fancy snacks, but what theater has cheap snacks?! Go to Mission Chinese, Dimes, or Fat Raddish for dinner—all options around the corner.