I’ve been to New York 5 or 6 times, and I have to say this trip was the first time I’ve really fallen in love with the City. Cameron and I spent five days immersed in the hustle and bustle and loved every minute of it. In fact, I had a bit of a quarter life crisis and was considering moving there for a period of time. There is just something so inspiring in the air.

We planned this trip around Fohr U: School of Business and Influence. If you’re not familiar with Fohr, it is an influencer marketing platform. I’ve been lucky enough to work on several campaigns through Fohr and have always had wonderful experiences. When I found out they were hosting a conference, we immediately booked our flights and jumped at the opportunity.

We stayed at The Lexington Hotel and had such a wonderful experience. The Lexington is a sophisticated hotel located right in Manhattan. We stayed in The Norma Jean Suite for our first two nights. It epitomizes all things glamorous! The suite was once the residence of Marilyn Monroe and famed Yankess player Joe DiMaggio. The design is plush and intentional with an obvious nod to Hollywood Glam that Marilyn would have loved. There are mixed metal and faux fur details throughout with a black, white and blush pink color scheme.

For our last two nights, we moved to The Conservatory Suite. It was such a unique and cozy space. It has more of a rustic, secret garden feel and includes an incredible glass-enclosed conservatory. Cameron and I spent a lot of time out there watching the busy city from above.

Because we were on a work trip, we didn’t get to explore as much as we would have liked. We mostly spent our days in meetings, but we did indulge in some incredible meals! Below I’m sharing a few of my favorite restaurants in NYC.

WHERE TO EAT

JACK’S WIFE FREDA – We stopped here for a quick brunch. Sometimes these well-known spots can be a bit over rated, but Jack’s Wife Freda absolutely did not disappoint! After just about a twenty minute wait, Cameron and I sat at the bar for a delicious meal. I opted for the Mediterranean Breakfas It was on the lighter side yet very filling with everything you could want in a breakfast plate.

SANT AMBROEUS – This Italian cafe is just delightful. We stopped by for a breakfast meeting and everything was delicious. Sant Ambroeus captures the feel of an authentic Italian cafe or trattoria with the sidewalk seating and relaxed environment. I’d love to try their lunch and dinner menus as well!

COCOTTE – Quaint. Intimate. Delicious. A friend suggested this small French restaurant and I’m so glad we decided to go. All of the plates were full of flavor yet very simple. We started with the stuffed Crimini Mushrooms appetizer and both had the filet special for dinner. Their brussel sprouts side dish was without a doubt some of the best I’ve ever had!

FREEMAN’S – I just loved the cozy and rustic vibe of Freeman’s. It makes for the perfect date night spot. To get to the restaurant, you walk down an old alley with graffiti on the walls from top to bottom. At the end, you approach a small and unassuming building illuminated with bistro lights. On their website, they describe the restaurant as a “clandestine colonial American Tavern,” and that’s exactly how it feels. Cameron loved the rugged decor. I went out on a limb and ordered their Seared Tuna dish. That was out of the usual for me, but absolutely loved it!

BLUE RIBBON SUSHI – My good friend Ashley took us to Blue Ribbon on our first night in NYC and we were so impressed! This is a great option if you’re ready for a break from fine dining. The dishes were light, fresh and refreshing.

BEAUTY & ESSEX – We didn’t make it to Beauty & Essex this time around, but I went with Mimi and my mother-in-law Kim on our last trip. This place is definitely an experience and they offer lots of unique shareable plates. Be sure to order the Grilled Cheese, Smoked Bacon and Tomato Soup Dumplings. They’re to die for!

I’m looking forward to many many more trips to NYC with Cameron in the future. If you have any must-do’s, be sure to leave them in the comments below! As always thank you for reading and supporting my blog.

xx Hunter