OCCUPATION: Online director, W Magazine
MY STYLE: Pretty minimal with an occasional print or pop of color.
I LOVE NEW YORK BECAUSE: I love the energy and of course the ease of getting around with children. We can walk to all of our favorite places downtown, from quiet West Village streets to shopping spots in Soho, and there are parks everywhere. It’s a surprisingly kid-friendly place to live.
Tertulia
The long line that awaits at Tertulia is a sign that Manhattan foodies have selected this Spanish Tavern as the hot spot of the hour. There are no reservations for parties under six, but the restaurant’s seasonal menu, which features sophisticated updates on rustic cuisine, is worth the wait. Spicy chorizo, whole fish, paella, and other dishes from Spain’s Asturias region are prepared in a wood-burning oven and served up in a romantic but convivial atmosphere. With tapas-style dishes that are great for sharing with the family—or your date, Tertulia is a perfect place for special occasions.
Physique 57
The incredibly effective workout on offer at Physique 57 combines cardio with ballet and isometrics to lengthen, strengthen, and tone underused muscles. The company’s developed a devoted fan base that includes many a celeb who attributes her sculpted bod to time spent at a Physique 57 studio in New York, Beverly Hills, or the Hamptons. “Me time happens at Physique 57,” says Christina Caldwell, “I am in and out and sufficiently sore in less than an hour.” Friendly instructors help you through the exercises, which require a barre and special sticky socks for grip. DVDs are also available for home use.
Kidding Around
Having operated three locations in the New York area for over two decades, the owners of this well-stocked toy store know exactly what kids like. Parents too will appreciate the beautiful, often wooden or hand-crafted selection that distinguishes Kidding Around from box stores in the Kay-Bee Toys model. From dolls to dress up, puppets to puzzles, and blocks to books, chances are there will be a thing or two at this independent gem that your kids will decide they can’t live without. And the store’s charm might be enough for you to indulge their “needs!”
Morandi
This cute, cozy spot from restaurateur Keith McNally (of Balthazar and Pastis fame) embodies plenty of old world charm—think 150-year-old floor tiles and distressed wood. “No matter how many kids you have in tow, they always smile when you walk in!” says Blythe Harris. The whole family will love the meatballs with pine nuts and raisins, and fried artichoke with lemon.
Madison Square Park Conservancy
It’s hard not to love Madison Square Park. Not only is it home to the Shake Shack flagship (and situated next to foodie favorite Eataly), but it also strikes a delicate balance between children’s playground and mom paradise. Shaded benches offer a perfect view of the playground and rotating exhibitions of contemporary art offer something besides the swing set to admire. The conservancy also has an extensive children’s program—Mad. Sq. Kids—that hosts festivals, concerts, and art series. Check the park’s website for dates and details.