A Luxury Lover’s Guide to NYC: Best Hotels, Restaurants, Shops
I’ve lived in New York long enough to know that luxury here isn’t loud — it’s layered. It’s a private elevator tucked behind an unmarked door in Tribeca. A maître d’ who greets you by name. A Fifth Avenue boutique that remembers your size before you do.
If you’re planning a high-end trip to New York City, here’s how locals who love luxury actually do it — where we stay for a staycation, where we book months ahead, and where we shop when we want something special (not just something expensive).
Where to Stay: My Personal NYC Favorites
When friends ask me where to book in New York, I don’t give them a long list. I give them the three names that have earned my personal admiration over the years.
The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel
One of the most iconic hotels in New York, The Carlyle is Upper East Side elegance at its finest. The suites feel like your own, private Manhattan apartment, while the Bemelmans Bar has to be one of my favorite spots for late-night cocktails. Seriously, once you try their expertly-mixed martinis, you won’t want to drink them anywhere else.
Mandarin Oriental, New York
Perched high above Columbus Circle, the Mandarin Oriental offers sweeping views of Central Park and the Hudson River. And their spa? One of the best in the city — and just what you need after a long day of shopping on Fifth Avenue.
Four Seasons Hotel New York Downtown
And then, of course, there’s the Four Seasons Hotel New York Downtown! Located in the very heart of downtown Manhattan, this 5-star hotel places you right at the very center of Tribeca’s vibrant energy, mere steps from world-class dining, culture and shopping.
Best Brunch Spots in NYC
Brunch in New York is never just about the food. It’s about a chance to catch up, enjoy a great meal and recharge for the rest of the day ahead. Below, the top 3 brunch spots in NYC that I keep returning to.
Miss Nellie’s
Starting up with my personal favorite brunch spot in NYC — Miss Nellie’s. Located between New York City’s Theatre district and the heart of Times Square, this American Restaurant & Bar serves up some of the best smoked salmon toasts and eggs ranchero in the city. Though keep in mind that all guests must be 21+. Hence why I personally prefer this spot for catching up with friends.
Address: 321 W 44th St, New York, NY 10036, United States
Sadelle’s New York
Sadelle’s is a popular SoHo restaurant that serves up some of the best brunch in NYC — and yes, I am not exaggerating. Known for their smoked salmon platter that comes with unlimited bagels, cream cheese, and all the fixings, their menu is delicious, nutritious, and perfect to share.
Going by yourself? Try their French toast or their Scottish smoked salmon eggs Benedict. Then, follow with some shopping in SoHo.
Address: 463 W Broadway, New York, NY 10012, United States
La Mercerie
La Mercerie feels like slipping into a Parisian afternoon without leaving Manhattan. Baguettes, croissants, pain au chocolat, or their famous chocolate chip cookies, every dish here is delicious and absolutely gorgeous. Not to mention that the dining room is airy and romantic, filled with beautiful ceramics and soft light. And the best part yet? La Mercerie allows you to actually buy the plate your food was served on!
Address: 53 Howard St, New York, NY 10013, United States
Where to Dine in NYC: The Tables That Matter
New York has thousands of restaurants, but only a handful feel actually special. Ahead, my personal favorite spots for a luxurious dinner in NYC.
The Polo Bar
Securing a dinner reservation at The Polo Bar takes patience (and sometimes a little persistence), but once inside, it all makes sense. The food is consistently excellent. The equestrian-inspired interior is absolutely gorgeous. And the service? As close to perfect as it gets in New York.
The crowd at The Polo Bar is also always impeccably dressed, with a mix of regulars, the occasional celebrity, models, and the kind of people who understand that dinner here is an occasion. And whatever you do, order the crudités plate. It may sound simple, but it’s so beautifully presented and somehow unforgettable — the kind of detail that makes The Polo Bar feel just a little more special than everywhere else.
Address: 1 E 55th St, New York, NY 10022, United States
Mēdüzā Mediterrania New York
For nights when I want something livelier, Mēdüzā Mediterrania New York is the place I go to. The space is dramatic and transportive — warm lighting, sculptural details, and a stylish crowd that knows they’re out to be seen.
The Mediterranean menu is also vibrant and shareable, which makes Mēdüzā the perfect spot for group dinners that stretch late into the evening.
Address: 657 Hudson St, New York, NY 10014, United States
The Corner Store Restaurant
Right now, The Corner Store holds the title of one of the hardest dinner reservations to get in New York — and yes, it lives up to the hype. Tucked into SoHo, the space feels intimate and chic, which makes it especially perfect for a date night or a memorable evening out.
The service here is genuinely warm and attentive, while the food feels thoughtful and satisfying. My favorite thing from the menu: Roasted Maine Lobster Frites — indulgent, perfectly cooked, and exactly the kind of order that makes the table go quiet for a moment.
Address: 475 W Broadway, New York, NY 10012, United States
Where to Shop in NYC: The Most Luxurious Spots
And of course, no trip to NYC is complete without a little bit of shopping. After all, New York is known as one of the world’s fashion capitals — and you feel that energy the moment you step onto its streets. Everyone is exceptionally well dressed — even on an ordinary Tuesday afternoon — which somehow makes you want to elevate your own look just a little more. And luckily, in this city, that’s never a problem, as the streets are brimming with luxury flagships, historic department stores and edgy indie boutiques offering something for every taste. Ahead, some of my personal favorite places to shop in NYC.
Starting with Fifth Avenue.
This, obviously, is my absolute favorite place to be, which you’ve probably already noticed, given the name of this blog. But seriously, if you are going to be in New York, don’t skimp on Fifth Avenue, as the flagship boutiques here are grand, the windows are always inspiring and the service is top-notch.
I personally always make time for Chanel, where the multi-level space feels like stepping into fashion history, and of course Bergdorf Goodman, which remains unmatched for its edit of designers and exceptional personal shoppers. Discover the full list of my favorite stores on the Fifth here.
Already know what you want? Then, Madison Avenue is your spot.
The townhouse elegance of Hermès feels deeply personal — especially if you’ve built a relationship there. Then, just a few steps away, the iconic Manolo Blahnik location offers a more playful indulgence, with jewel-toned satin heels and timeless silhouettes displayed like works of art.
And finally, SoHo.
This is where I head when I want something truly special. There’s a different rhythm downtown: cobblestone streets, cast-iron buildings, and boutiques that feel more curated than commercial. The boutiques of The Row and Khaite, for example, feel like serene, almost gallery-like spaces, while Bottega Veneta’s boutique in SoHo offers one of the most beautifully designed retail spaces in the city.
Shopping here feels creative. Less about the brands, more about lines and silhouettes. It’s where I go when I want to discover something — not just purchase it. And talking about discovering: SoHo also has many of my favorite pre-loved shops. From rare, limited-edition pieces from the world’s most exclusive brands to vintage treasures in excellent condition, you never know what you’ll find in these, and that’s the whole point.
xoxo’s, Masha
