My second-favorite outdoor-place in Manhattan. The abandoned 1.6 km rail tracks running above Chelsea down to the Meatpacking district were turned into an above-ground park. Perfectly nice place for sitting in the sun, reading, relaxing, having lunch in some green spot in the city. Nice views at the Hudson River, New Jersey, the Statue of Liberty (little small from there but still visible) and the architecture around Chelsea.

Perfect cocktails, chicken fat rice, and a REAL fireplace. One of the coziest spots in Greenpoint, particularly in the winter. Its "off the beaten path" location keeps out the bridge and tunnel goons, so you're likely to meet actual locals. Good for dates, solo thinking, or a small group. 

This burlesque club contains a stripper pole, but is hardly worth it unless you know someone who will hook up drinks.

The print graphic designer´s heaven. All sorts, sizes and weights of paper, shaped in forms i have not seen before (jup you don´t get that in Austria). Packaging material, adhesive letters and everything else you just want to have. Find all sorts of pens and versions of Moleskines. If you like childrens books and/or illustration, also check out the great store on the other side of the street (Cupcake Café).

Fun selection of mid century and post modern furniture and design objects.