Cristina & Robert
Things To Do
Grand Central Oyster Bar & Restaurant
Whenever we really get the urge for oysters, this is THE place to go. The restaurant opened the same day as Grand Central Terminal, February 2nd, 1913. Roll up to the long counter-bar on the right as you walk in. Order some oysters (East or West Coast, whatever you prefer), OR, an oyster pan roast. Essentially a creamy stew, the pan roast is a simple dish that's been on the menu since the restaurant opened 106 years ago.
The High Line
A civilized way to walk off a heavy lunch without the risk of getting mowed down by a taxi or delivery bike.
Sevilla
Another NY gem - firstly for Rob, living in the West Village for all these years, but more importantly, for Rob falling in love with a Spanish girl with a shared love of Spanish food - it was always meant to be. We try and go here at least once every few months - thankfully it is still relatively undiscovered, which avoids the usual annoying wait times for many other successful west village establishments. The Paella a la Valenciana is more than enough for two - but the Pork Chops a la Riojana are Rob's favorite, and the Lemon Sole with Green Sauce is Cristina's go to dish.
The Oculus
If you feel the need to shop, or just the need to be awestruck by a $4 billion building, visit here.
Central Park
It's Central Park. Enough said. Rent a Citibike and take a nice ride around the park. Nothing beats it.
Corner Bistro
Arguably the best burger in New York. Cash only. Order the bistro burger and some fries and wash it down with a couple of McSorley Darks.
Whitney Museum of American Art
Our local museum. Focusing on 20th and 21st Cntury American Art, it houses some great works, and has great views of the city from its high terraces. Free Fridays are worth a visit, along with a glass of wine at the Cafe on the 7th Floor.
Chelsea Market
A great place to casually stroll through and get lost for a couple of hours. The former Nabisco Factory that was converted into shops and restaurants in 1997 has been a staple place for us for groceries, liqor, wine and gifts for many years.
Tokyo Record Bar
Reservations are hard to get but worth the effort. One of the best underground nights out you'll ever have. Located in a basement in Greenwich Village, it has either two or three seatings per night, depending on the day. Each involves a seven-course tasting menu ($50 per person), served in a little space that looks like something you’d find down an alley in Shibuya. Amazing food, amazing album choices. One of our best nights out.
Wilfie & Nell
A great bar for a night out, or a weekend brunch. Some of the best bar food and snacks in the city, and a scotch egg that beats even Rob's mothers recipe. Ask for Simon, Sean or Rafael. Order the IPA Cocktail at brunch, or the spicy pickle martini in the evening. Never under ANY circumstances, order the picklebacks. Corner seats at the bar are best.
Brass Monkey
Rob's local bar for the last 15 years. THE best pint of Guinness in New York. Ask Sean, the owner to pour it for you.
Alta
The location of our first date, way back in August 2013. Go easy on the sangria. Amazing tapas.
New York Public Library
Nobody is borrowing books from here, but it is one of the greatest spaces in the city. Try the Rose Reading Room, but keep your voice down.