October might be the best time of the year – we’ve got Halloween, pumpkins, crisp fall weather, and BEER! Oktoberfest is taking over NYC for the rest of the week and we’ve got the best Bavarian go-tos for bratwursts, beers, live music, and more. Click through some spots that will transport you to Germany (don’t forget your lederhosen!).
Bierhaus is the place to be for a classic Oktoberfest experience. Basically NYC’s most legit Bavarian hub, it’s the only German bar in the city to be directly affiliated with the famous Hofbräuhaus in Munich, Germany. From their biggest beer belly contest, to lederhosen looks and German feasts, you’re guaranteed plenty of fun.
East Village classic Zum Schneider is hosting this epic Oktoberfest celebration through October 7th. Enjoy live music, food, and beer all beneath a fully decorated traditional Oktoberfest tent with original furniture (Garnituren), an Oompah band stage, general & reserved seating area and an elevated VIP section.
A slice of Germany has landed in Midtown. The Pennsy has been celebrating Oktoberfest this year with German bites and their own tap. They’ve partnered up with Five Borough Brewing Co. and created “PennsyFest”. It’s the perfect place to sip on a cold brew and snack on a Pat LaFrieda pretzel!
Treadwell Park is known for making Oktoberfest feel authentic and fun with their bar hopping passport creation. Sip on their customized list beers and stamp your passport at each bar for an Oktoberfest treat. Be sure to check out all of their locations and experience live music, food, and more.
The Standard Biergarten is where you want to be after a long day at work. Snack on some German delights and enjoy a few beers served in steins – or a boot.
Wanna get down in Williamsburg? “The Original Brooklyn Biergarten” is celebrating with live music every day, keg tapping, and a pig roast. You’ll have plenty to eat, drink, and post about in one day.
There’s nothing like a fresh, cold draft! Circa is closing out Oktoberfest with a twist…and I’m not talking about a pretzel. Grab a buddy and cheers to the weekend with a PRIME $25 all you can drink deal and live music. Their authentic German brew will have you feeling like you’ve touched down in Munich.
The sprawling indoor/outdoor hot spot on the cusp of Ridgewood is throwing their Nowafest” celebration through October 6th. The lush beer garden is offering German staples with year-round + specialty beers from Brooklyn’s Threes Brewing and a bevy of local sausages from The Meat Hook, which can be ordered at Nowadays’ outdoor food truck.
Looking for a more swanky celebration? Head to Sir Henri Penthouse Rooftop Bar through October 7 for some mixologist-approved twists on Oktoberfest sips. Signature cocktails like the Sir Henri’s Sour Sister and Gurkensalat incorporate Bluepoint Brewery beer and fresh ingredients for a seriously unique experience.
Harry Potter, horror, and caviar facials – New York’s Insta-worthy scene has something for everyone this weekend! Click through for the coolest interactive experiences and pop-ups to explore (and, of course, photograph).
New York Magic Lab
Pick a card – any card – then get ready to pose for some snaps! The New York Magic Lab is an interactive experience inspired by the wonderful world of magic tricks. From giant playing cards and dice to a ball pit and trippy neon room, you’re sure to find the perfect backdrop.
All your worst fears have come to life at Dream Machine’s Halloween pop-up, Nightmare Machine. Get abducted by aliens, stage a murder scene, explore a foggy graveyard, and make sure to watch out for the cockroaches! (They’re fake, thank God.)
The New York Historical Society invites us to explore the wizarding world of Harry Potter through the folklore and traditions that inspired it. Discover century-old treasures including rare books, manuscripts, and magical objects from the collections of the British Library and New-York Historical Society—with original material from Harry Potter publisher Scholastic and J.K. Rowling’s own archives.
To celebrate the launch of Cartier Carat, Cartier Parfums has popped up in Soho. The free experience takes visitors on an olefactory journey, complete with fragrance fountains and the stunning Mille Facettes – A Thousand facets installation, created by the Bureau of Extraordinary Affairs.
Luxury skincare brand La Prairie has popped up in the middle of The Oculus in celebration of their remastered Skin Caviar Collection. Stop by the sleek and chic hub for complimentary services including massages and facial treatments.
Paying homage to the iconic 5 Pointz graffiti site, the Museum of Street Art at the citizenM New York Bowery hotel revives the tradition of guerrilla art, reuniting 20 artists of the 5 Pointz creates collective to completely cover the walls.
Indulge in all things sweet and strange at IT’SUGAR in Soho. A corner of the shop has been transformed into a Stranger Things photo op. Pose at the doorway to the Upside Down with free cotton candy!
A secret apple orchard in the heart of NYC?! Trendy downtown hotel and hang Arlo SoHo has transformed their outdoor courtyard into the ultimate autumn destination. Apples, pumpkins, and “fall chic” greenhouses galore. Indulge your fall basicness without leaving the city.
Play, create, and defy gravity at the Museum of Illusions, where nothing is what it seems. The Museum consists of freaky interactive rooms, optical illusions and a playroom with didactic games and puzzles.
I apologize if this headline just gave you a mild heart attack but, bookworms, take a deep breath – they’re not closing down for good.
Now that you’ve relaxed, yes, there is still some sad news regarding our favorite indie bookstore in the heart of Soho. After 14 years on Prince Street, McNally Jackson will be forced to move in June 2019. Is nothing sacred?!
Bowery Boogie first reported that Winick leasing banners had been posted on the building, but Gothamist confirmed with Sarah McNally herself that the store will not be shuttering completely – they’re just looking for a new space in the neighborhood.
This whole process has made me think about the soul of McNally Jackson. Something is always lost in translation, but the translator chooses what remains. What about McNally Jackson is irreducible? It’s certainly not the current space, which is in a shoddy building that was thrown up over a former chicken abattoir. The soul of McNally Jackson is the books and the booksellers… This we will keep, and translate into a new space.
Phew!
But still, nothing beats a coffee and two hours’ worth of book browsing after brunch at Sant Ambroeus, so please stay close, McNally – our entire Sunday routine depends on it!
There are plenty of reasons to love New York in the fall, but if there’s one thing the city’s lacking, it’s an adorable apple orchard to pose in with our boyfriends while wearing matching flannel. If you haven’t got time for a weekend trip to Long Island or Westchester or New Jersey, well, you’ll just have to pick up some Red Delicious from Whole Foods and maybe stage a romantic photo in the produce aisle.
Or do you?!
Trendy downtown hotel and hang Arlo SoHo has heard our cries. This season, they’re transforming their outdoor courtyard into the ultimate autumn destination with the help of Farm to People, an organization that supports small batch producers. Apples, pumpkins, and “fall chic” greenhouses galore.
Pick your own locally-sourced apples at The Arlo Orchard, and stop by their weekly “Happle Hours” when you can take part in pumpkin carvings and sip new harvest cocktail creations like the “Orchard Thief” and the “Maple and Fig Old Fashioned” for just $10 from 4 pm to 7 pm!
The air is crisp, the leaves are changing, and it’s finally starting to feel like fall in New York. But if nature’s just not enough for you, there are plenty of spots amping up the autumn vibes so you can take in your favorite season while dining, drinking, and, of course, Instagramming.
What better place to take in all of Central Park’s changing leaves? From Tavern on the Green’s classic, cozy interiors, to its patio-turned-apple garden, this spot is an autumn must.
Indulge in fresh Italian fare under a canopy of fall foliage at Eataly Flatiron’s fall greenhouse rooftop, SERRA D’AUTUNNO by Birreria. The lush decor comes complete with baskets of apples and Sidro, a build-your-own spiked cider stand!
The ever-cozy High Line Hotel has practically been transformed into a pumpkin patch, featuring stylishly-carved and colorful gourds and haystacks in its outdoor garden. The perfect spot to grab a coffee and strike a pose.
Doesn’t really get more straightforward than this. Everyone’s favorite seasonal eatery, which changes everything from its decor to its name to match the season, is officially in autumn mode. Taste the flavors of the harvest, with dishes such as the Kabocha squash and ricotta, burrata and roasted grapes, and pumpkin ravioli.
It’s amazing what some flowers can do. La Mercerie, the chic little cafe inside the Roman and Williams Guild, has taken on the colors of the season. As if the place could get any dreamier.
Trendy downtown hotel and hang Arlo Soho has transformed their outdoor courtyard into the ultimate autumn destination with the help of Farm to People, an organization that supports small batch producers. Apples, pumpkins, and “fall chic” greenhouses galore. Pick your own locally-sourced apples at The Arlo Orchard, and stop by their weekly “Happle Hours” when you can take part in pumpkin carvings and sip new harvest cocktail creations like the “Orchard Thief” and the “Maple and Fig Old Fashioned.”
The Parisian shop and cafe has replaced its bright summer facade with garlands of rich fall florals. We’re not telling you to go there just for an #OOTD, but we’re also not not telling you that.
If there’s one neighborhood that embodies fall in New York, it’s the West Village. Take a romantic stroll and enjoy a stoop tour of the decked-out townhouses.
Thankfully, for those of us who are more about running out to grab a quick green juice than a Diet Coke, bougie bodegas are having a moment. Remember when Tiffany & Co. took over bodegas around the city? Have you stopped by wellness bodega Clover Grocery for a pack of organic gummy bears or some cucumber collagen beauty water?
Well, cancel your plans, because there’s a new vegan, all natural bodega in town – Bonberi Bodega.
Tucked over on the corner of Bleecker and Perry, this place is a jewelry box of clean, feel-good finds. From coconut flour chips to all-natural sprinkles, Megababe’s aluminum-free rose deodorant to Tenoverten’s non-toxic nail polish, this place brings the health, the luxury, and the fun. A refrigerator of juices, freshly made meals (like chickpea nicoise salad, and quinoa bibimbap) and home baked treats round out a delicious array of offerings.
Back in June we reported the news that everyone’s favorite fashionable foodie, Queer Eye‘s Antoni Porowski, was working on opening his very first restaurant right here in NYC. Well, fans of both the Netflix series and strict diet plans, can now rejoice – The Village Den is officially open for business (and it’s as adorable as Antoni himself).
The fast-casual spot serving up veggie and protein bowls a step above Dig Inn or Sweetgreen is particularly catered to the health-conscious set, with a menu that marks whether a meal is Whole30, Paleo, ketogenic, plant-based, vegetarian, dairy, or gluten-free. Porowski, along with partners Lisle Richards and Eric Marx (New York hospitality vets behind hot spots such as Gilded Lily) decided to keep the name The Village Den in homage to the space’s former identity, a diner considered a West Village institution.
But while the name may recall the past, the interiors are decidedly modern. With the help of architect firm Buro Koray Duman, the space has been transformed into an airy, Instagrammable haven for fit chicks with fun graphic art and a 3-D latticework structure that steals the show. #OOTD anyone?
The menu also includes plenty of smoothie options, with specialty add-ins like MCT oil, spirulina, matcha, and even a detox supplement. Unsurprisingly, avocados make plenty of appearances – they are practically Antoni’s primary food group.
Brunch. It’s the most important meal of the week. While you’ve likely your go-to spots, and must-orders, what’s the harm in shaking things up once in a while?
Bluebird London
From its mainstay location in Chelsea London to its brand new digs at Columbus Circle, Bluebird’s modern brasserie vibes are a transatlantic crowd pleaser. Nothing on the menu of classics disappoints, but that being said, don’t you dare leave without ordering the Triple Cooked Fries.
You’ve got to love a restaurant that features an item named, “THIS IS NOT AVOCADO TOAST.” Brimming with vegan and gluten free dishes and swaps, this slightly Mexican spot works for pretty much everyone (AKA, for you non-plant based humans, they’ve got plenty of bacon and braised pork to choose from).
Ever since its grand opening, The Freehand Hotel has made a veritable hotspot of Flatiron. But the buzzy place is more than just its rooftop bar, Broken Shaker. Restaurant Simon & The Whale may just be the piece de resistance of Gabriel Stulman’s portfolio (which includes other heavenly brunch spots as Joseph Leonard, Bar Sardine, and Fedora). Pumpkin Butter Liege Waffles, anyone?
Natura Cafe just opened inside The Dream Downtown, and already it’s a destination for health-minded-ish people just looking to get down over a plate of Cottage Cheese and Peach Toast, topped with pistachios and drizzled with wild flower honey. Add on their wide range of sandwiches, salads, and a mean Baked Huevos Rancheros, and this place is a clear hit.
Feel like spicing things up a bit? That regular old egg scramble can wait until next weekend. Hit up Soho’s newest hotspot (with an 8os-retro vibe), specializing in Indian street food that may be carb-heavy, but is also gluten-free – so you win some you lose some.
I say Tagliatelle, you say Tortellini…whichever pasta you crave, you can find it all this Pasta Day! From Greek style orzo to gluten free dishes, your dinner options have never looked so pasta-tively perfect!
Don Angie
Don’t miss Don Angie’s modern takes on Italian classics, especially their infamously Insta-worthy lasagna. It’s technically made for two, but we won’t judge.
You might spot some models or celebs at downtown hot spot Bar Pitti, but more importantly, you’ll definitely spot some mouthwatering pastas! This casual yet chic space boasts some of the best ravioli and homemade pasta dishes in the city.
They might have moved to the James Hotel but Scarpetta is still going to be your favorite spaghetti spot! For homemade pastas, from the tomato sauce and basil to tagliatelle with crabmeat, this is the best pasta you’ll get without taking a plane to Italy! With five star service in a trendy setting and staff that makes you feel like family – from Enzo’s greetings to server Nas’s recommendations – make a reservation now for girls night or date night this pasta day!
For a stylish pasta experience, it doesn’t get any classier than Sant Ambroeus! The chic fave will make you feel like you’re having pasta for the very first time with dishes including their Acquarello risotto with 36-month aged parmigiano or prosciutto filled ravioli. Don’t forget to pose with your food, wink wink.
Serving house-made pastas with a hip vibe, La Pecora Bianca in Nomad or Midtown East has the perfect dishes for even the most discerning pasta lover! Their extensive menu features everything from seafood linguine to garganelli, tagliattelle, gnudi and gramigna. Pretty legit.
For food that’s just as fun as the atmosphere, head to Bagatelle where Executive Chef Andrew Riccatelli will serve up a lobster tagliatelle comprised of house-made pasta, pomodoro sauce and roasted garlic. The dish has a price tag of $85 but you’re worth it!
For pasta day Greek style, head to celeb chef Maria Loi’s Loi Estiatorio which will have you saying opa with every bite! You’ll definitely want to try the Loi Orzo with wild shrimp, tomato, onion and garlic, or the Loi Macaroni – her orzo is so good it’s even available in stores around the country!
From farfalle to lobster-filled ravioli, you’ll find any type of pasta you want at Serafina! This cult favorite which now has spots around the world, is still our go-to for tasty Italian favorites in oh so stylish surroundings.
Homemade Garganelli, anyone? If it’s at Morini, yes please! This place knows how to do serious pasta plates and even offers low gluten pasta. Whether you order the Tortellini or Tagliatelle, you can’t go wrong!
Trendy fast-casual spot The Sosta is serving up great pasta with girl power as they continue their all-female guest chef series with Colu Henry, culinary writer, recipe developer, and cookbook author. ‘Colu’s Spaghetti alla Norma’ features eggplant, oregano, basil, garlic, chili flakes, tomato, and ricotta salata, and is available throughout the month.
Celeb Chef David Burke’s latest spot, Woodpecker, will be dishing out squid ink rigatoni and cavatelli, along with wine perfectly paired with each dish. Don’t miss the $5 pasta happy hour at the bar (3-7 pm, 9 pm-close) so you can enjoy all the Pocono Spaghetti made with zucchini, garlic and pecorino cheese you can handle!
No pasta day would be complete without chowing down at Il Mulino, the old school staple for classic pasta dishes at their original Greenwich spot or Uptown location. Try the rigatoni Bolognese or Bucatini for the perfect pasta day experience!
It’s hard walking through Little Italy as someone who’s dairy-free. Whether it’s a diet or lifestyle choice, seeing people spooning scoops on scoops of creamy gelato can give you major foodie FOMO.
But now, even vegans can get in on the sweet dessert action!
Downtown gelato, coffee, and pastry shop Polosud has just launched some limited edition treats that are both guilt-free and majorly Insta-worthy. The brainchild of Polosud’s Pastry Chef Giacomo D’Alessandro, the avocado gelato is made using fresh avocados sorted out directly at the market. Scooped in a real avocado shell, the gelato can be personalized with any flavor, making it the ideal indulgence for any type of eater. For non-vegans Chef D’Alessandro suggests combining it with Nocciola for its nice salty taste; vegans can opt for Chef D’Alessandro’s award winning Dark Chocolate Surprise topping.
Only 40 are being made daily, so stop by and snap a pic (before devouring it) ASAP!
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