The Go - NYC Recap
Where I stayed, ate, and shopped during a quick trip! Plus, spots on my list for next time.
From Sunday to Thursday last week, I did not stop. I wanted to fully take advantage of the city on a long-overdue visit. Already planning the next trip!
If you follow me on Instagram closely, you know Starling hosted an epic event at The Montague Diner in Brooklyn Heights on Wednesday, which was (quite literally) the main event of my week in NYC! We had insane display tables with diner favorites dripping in jewels. A long time coming in unison with our big rebrand, so it was so gratifying to see it all come to life!
You can find everything I wore in NYC, here!
Where I stayed
I stayed at Nine Orchard, which came highly recommended by my travel agent guru and friend, Helen, via her company Preserve Travel (this is my formal plea to get her on Substack). I could not have been more thrilled with the entire experience. I am not super well-versed with NYC geography, but I absolutely loved the Lower East Side/Dimes Square area.
Upon arrival, you are immersed in the most gorgeous floral arrangements you’ve ever laid eyes on. Perhaps my favorite part of the experience: the freshly baked chocolate chip cookies placed bedside for turn down service each evening. You just cannot get better than that. My room was definitely very quaint and comfortable. You can see the menu of gorgeous suites offered here. As a lover of design, aesthetics, and the little things, Nine Orchard nails it. I was very impressed with every inch of the hotel, most notably the famous Swan Room (and breakfast nook for hotel guests adjacent to Miss Swan). The complimentary hotel breakfast spread reminded me of the boutique hotels I’ve stayed at in Puglia and St. Tropez. Extremely fresh and effortless. Assortment of pastries, cheese, fruit, and lots of coffee.
I love a hotel that inspires my own design and interiors wishlist. I’m yearning for more ornate prints, sweet lamps, and dramatic floral arrangements after my stay.
Where I ate
I was strategic when it came to restaurant bookings. There were a few spots I’ve been dying to go to recently, so made sure I got reservations in advance.
First up was Gem Wine, which came highly recommended. I went with an old friend and we had the best time. I am not a huge wine-o but I enjoy some good natural wine from time to time. Everything was so fresh and not intensely filling. We ordered the bread and butter, cucumber salad, lasagna and the steak! So good.
Next up was the spot I was most excited for. I had never been to The Polo Bar, and it is definitely an experience. Safe to say I fell deeply in love and had the best martini of my life- they don’t lie when they say it’s the greatest.
I low-key loved their calamari. Had to do the burger.
Scarr’s was by far the highlight. I wish I went a few more times to get my fix- once wasn’t enough. Jimmy had gone a few weeks back and let me know how incredible it was. I just heard they might be opening in LA soon?! Lucky us! I got the Detroit- style Grandma and a classic slice of cheese.
Cervo’s was insane! My favorite thing we got is not pictured because it was devoured so fast: the prawns.. and the sauce- I could drink it. This place was all of the New York vibes you want. Intimate, bustling, and amazing cocktails + food. Get the spritz!
I’ve had Raf’s on my list for a while so this was a must. Everything about this place is a go. Wrapped in old glamour and stunning booths, it truly feels like you’re in a cross between Paris and NYC. The gem lettuces and chicken were all-time! Tinis fab, too.
I tried Corner Bar for lunch at the hotel and it was very good! It’s also the menu for the in-room dining which is fun.
While walking around, we stumbled upon a 12 seat Omakase room with a $65 12-piece Omakase, named Shiki. It was incredible! Had to recommend it to you guys.
Where I shopped
I had virtually no time for shopping, but I always find my way. Luckily, nearby our hotel was amazing shopping on Orchard Street, so we got to pop into the greatest little stores. Among the favorites was this beautiful perfume shop, Aedes Perfumery. I’ve never been in a more enchanting space! Miguel was absolutely amazing and so knowledgeable in guiding me to find the perfect new scent. He showed us a line from Nomenclature that is exclusively sold at Aedes in the US. I ended up with the scent “holy_wood” and I am so obsessed with it. If you’re into Sandalwood, I think you’ll love this. I haven’t picked up a new scent that I’ve loved this much in a while. Might be my new go-to!
Close by, we hit Desert Vintage which housed some of the most beautiful pieces ever. I pondered this vintage, silk Jean Paul Gaultier for days, ultimately leaving her. But she was so fun to try on!
Unisecon, founded by Chinese designers Shuyi Jiang and Bingjin Zhu, had some of the most beautiful, intricately made pieces.
They also has some beautiful porcelain dishes I wish I grabbed!
They had a vintage selection from 258 PM Salon. Loved this Vintage Hermes blazer!
We stopped into Coming Soon and I was pleased to see so much Gohar World in person! I took home these delicate coasters.
I have to say, before entering the Khaite store a wave of nervousness came over me. You know how it can be in some luxury stores (I hope you know what I’m referring to). But immediately upon entering, the associates were so warm and welcoming. I loved the experience of trying on a couple of stunning dresses IRL. I wish I got the blue!
I loved this little store, November 19, and their vintage silver selection.
Places I am hoping to hit next time (forgetting a bunch but have these handy in my notes app):
Still Here
Beverly Shop
Abbode
Salter House
Goods For The Study found via
Ending Soon
Attersee
Vintage Twin
Front General Store
Hope you enjoyed this recap! Save for your next trip! By the way, thinking of naming my travel series on here “The Go” - it’s the first thing that came to me? Like “on the go” slash goes with my last name kinda? Thoughts?!
Soooo here for the travel series🤝
“The Go” is so fitting
The Starling event looked incredible — congrats!!!!!