New.York.City.  Three words that I really didn’t understand the meaning of until I ventured outisde of America.  I was born and raised in NJ, the state that’s probably poked the most fun at for being the armpit of America – but I can proudly say it comes with massive benefits.  One of those benefits is being so close  — and I mean a 30 minute bus ride — to the (in)famous NYC.

One of the most influential women in my life, my grandmother, always repeated an ad she saw when it came to mentioning anything that happens in NYC: “What do you expect? It’s New York.” And I gotta tell ya Grandma, I couldn’t have said it better myself.

In a city full of Michelin starred restaurants, people with all different flavors, museums, concerts, and some of the most random events…it can get quite overwhelming.  Here’s my short guide to how to survive NYC (the smartest way possible):

1. Free up some space on your phone. You should download some apps, my three personal recommendations are: OpenTable, Yelp, and Fever.  I apologize, if you couldn’t tell I’m a foodie already.  Fever is relatively new and gives you a three-day schedule of events in the city.  Based on anything you could imagine: arts, culinary classes, underground parties, and sports events…it’s on Fever.  OpenTable and Yelp do fall under the same umbrella but have very distinct differences. OpenTable showcasing the more reputable restaurants and will more than likely provide you with the menu, hours, reviews, and you can even reserve a table.  The best part? Every reservation awards you a certain amount of points and after you reach a particular amount of points, you receive a gift card! Lastly, there’s Yelp which I have grown to love and live by.  Yelp provides probably the most raw, honest, and outrageous reviews of all the restaurants near you…which means even if you get lost on the subway and end up in Queens, you can find a great meal. Note: the NYC Subway apps can help when you may feel completely lost in the hot, underground tunnel jungle.

2. Preparation will never hurt. There’s A LOT to do in this city and if not planned out well enough, you’ll find yourself going uptown, downtown, back uptown and then sleeping in Brooklyn. Although an adventure, it’s not the easiest on your knees or your wallet.  Plan ahead to the neighborhood you would like to explore the most and jot down a couple of places you want to check out.  WARNING: THIS BY NO MEANS WILL ENSURE YOU WILL END UP WHERE YOU WANT.  There has been way too many times where I thought I would end up in the Lower East Side and I ended up in the Upper West Side. Spoilednyc.com is a great website, that usually provides some concise lists of places you’re definitely going to want to go to.  Guest of a Guest is a great event blog about happenings in NYC, if you want to try to finagle a way into some of the most exclusive parties.  And of course, Eater NY always has the latest news on what’s cooking in the best kitchens of all five boroughs. Lastly, try to remember that it’s a big city—you’re not going to get to all of it.

3. Don’t forget to explore the history. The big flashing lights of times square, rooftops, and smells of culinary experiences waiting to happen can get quite distracting that you forget that it is rich with culture, history, and art in the city.  There are museums galore but I am going to let you all research that. Whenever you’re wondering what to do?  Pick up the New York Times and read the arts & culture section, you’ll thoroughly enjoy the things you find.

Just remember to note that the subway is dirty, you will run into some questionable characters, and basically…prepare yourself for the unexpected.  This city is a wild ride and most likely you’re not going to want it to stop.

And to stick to what I know, here are some of my restaurant recommendations, I have three for you that I am sure will not disappoint:

1. Vera Cruz, Brooklyn: Mexican food and strong, fresh fruit $5 dollar margaritas? (okay, you already had me at Mexican.) Warning: the service is quite slow, so arrive there before your stomach starts to grumble.
2. Los Tacos No. 1 in Chelsea Market: …You may be noticing a pattern. These tacos are to die for! Well made, simple, and fresh but get there early because the line can get pretty long.
3. Brunch @ La Pulperia: A creative menu (lobster baked eggs — yes I said it) and great service add that to the $20 bottomless drink option and I’m pretty sure you’re already opening OpenTable.com to make a reservation.

Remember if you have any tips/recommendations for me or would like me to explore a particular venue or event, you can email me at Francesca@coutureinthesuburbs.com.  I am always up for an adventure!