It’s fall! In the city! It’s awesome! Aaaaand suddenly, everyone wants to come visit. And because you are a fabulous friend/niece/daughter-in-law, you welcome them with open arms and guarantee a great time. At some point you’re sure to end up at the High Line (because “nice view from up there” and “it’s free” and “we can get some exercise.”) But what to do afterward? Continue your hostess duties with these three nearby stops:
1. Shop at STORY (Tenth Ave. at 19th St.). Called a “permanent pop-up” when it first opened, Story is a NYC-themed “retail space that has the point of view of a magazine, changes like a gallery and sells things like a store.” Its rotating themes always have a New York hook; right now the place is showing the work of local fashion designers. The last time I visited I left with a bag full of products made by artisans from the five boroughs.
2. Eat at COOKSHOP (Tenth Ave. at 20th St.). An oldie-but-goodie, the food, space and service here will impress any out-of-towner. Marc Meyer’s American menu features seasonal ingredients, many of which are cooked on a grill, rotisserie or in a wood-burning oven. One more reason to love this place: Before diving into your starters (including brussels sprouts pizza) and mains (local swordfish, spit-roasted sasso chicken, etc.), you can order from the “snacks” portion of the menu: Choose from little delights like spice-fried hominy, a pickle plate and, on a recent night, pulled chicken mini-tostadas. Oh, and if you leave without ordering the coffee cake sundae, your life may be a little more sad. P.S. They take reservations.
3. Drink at THE HALF KING (23rd b/t Tenth and Eleventh). Sure you can go to Biergarten at The Standard, but the scene might be too loud, young and frat-astic for some. As you lead your guests to The Half King, name-drop Sebastian Junger as part owner, then get ready to get comfy in this low-key, cozy pub with a nice beer list. If it’s too crowded, leave your scarf on and head to the intimate backyard garden—have one more $4 beer during happy hour from 5pm-8pm and you won’t even notice the fall chill.
iknowcoolthings 