September 8, 2009

Mario Badescu Skin Care New York

The first and last word in facials. Mile-long list of impressive clientele. Plenty of products to take home (the drying lotion is a lifesaver).

  East Side, Beauty, Beauty Junkies, Celebrity Sightings

September 8, 2009

Pastis New York

Keith McNally’s overcrowded version of gay Paris. Scene always trumps substance with weekend brunch-fueled frenzies and serious standing lines. Learn to love your neighbor.

  Downtown, Food & Drink, Breakfast, Brunch

September 8, 2009

Del Posto New York

Bastianich-Batali’s Italian glamour girl (sexy, flashy, pricey) flanked by high rollers who enjoy a bit of spectacle with their spaghetti.

  Chelsea, Food & Drink, Celebrity Sightings, Impressive Decor

September 8, 2009

Buddakan New York

Resto magnate Stephan Starr opts for shock-and-awe tactics at this immense dining palace. Very much Versailles meets Ming Dynasty. Food slightly resembles Chinese, but who can pay attention with the sensory overload at your table for twelve?

  Chelsea, Food & Drink, Celebrity Sightings, Good for Groups

September 8, 2009

Bergdorf Goodman New York

These are premier designers and their luxury goods. Must admit that just swinging that fudge-striped bag around town somehow feels over the top.

  Manhattan, Beauty, Celebrity Sightings, Designer Clothing

September 8, 2009

La Esquina New York

Saddle up to the corner taqueria or reserve a table at the tequila-friendly speakeasy below the street (enter through the kitchen). Beware of overly styled patrons swarming the sidewalk.

  Downtown, Food & Drink, Birthday Parties, Celebrity Sightings

September 8, 2009

Co. New York

  Chelsea, Food & Drink, Brunch, Carbo Loading

September 8, 2009

Blue Ribbon Sushi New York

The aptly named downtown sushi joint is modern, intimate, and wonderfully satisfying. The sake box spilleth over (until 2 a.m. nightly).

  Downtown, Food & Drink, Celebrity Sightings, Hot Date

September 8, 2009

Frock New York

Originally a rental showroom, the LES store now offers women’s designer clothing, accessories, and shoes from the ’60s to the ’80s. Browse big names (YSL, Dior, Chanel, Valentino) — perhaps even alongside a few (Rachel Weisz, Beyonce, Lucy Liu). 

  Downtown, Fashion, Celebrity Sightings, Design Junkies

September 8, 2009

BEast New York

Tiny brick lounge with booming sound system and rotating cast of scenesters, DJs, artists, and fashion designers. When things get tight, spread out in the restaurant upstairs (which is currently suffering an identity crisis).

  Downtown, Food & Drink, Celebrity Sightings, Dancing Queen