Swimsuit

Tour the Big Apple With Emily DiDonato

Want to wine, dine and stay like a supermodel? You’re in luck.

Alyssa Conroy

Emily DiDonato: Journey With Swim - Road to Model

When it comes to the best places in town for food, shopping, drinks and more, SI Swimsuit models know it all. So we asked them. They sent us their recommendations for food, drink, shopping and more and we’ve compiled it all in one place just for you. Don’t see your city? Stay tuned. Emily DiDonato gave us a must-read guide to the Hamptons and now she’s back with her favorite spots in New York City.

For the Best Comfort Food in Manhattan: Upland

“A go-to spot for me is Upland. It has the best comfort food and always attracts a really nice crowd. While you can’t go wrong with anything on their menu, their Cacio e Pepe is seriously off the charts!”

For Cozy Late-Night Eats: The Breslin

“Another one of my favorite spots to eat in the city is The Breslin at the Ace Hotel. It gives off such a homey, laid-back feel and I love how the food reflects that. Another plus is that it’s open until 2 a.m.”

When You’re On a Health Kick: Two Hands

“This is definitely a local neighborhood favorite of mine. Two Hands has such healthy and delicious options for breakfast and lunch. While I love meeting friends there and sitting down for a meal, I also take advantage of their to-go counter all the time. They make the best banana smoothies.”

To Wow Your Date: CorkBuzz

“A really fun date night spot is CorkBuzz in Union Square. The vibe is so cozy and they have the best wine selection. They also offer wine classes and wine tastings which makes for another fun date-night activity.”

When You Want to Feel Fancy for a Day: The Baccarat Hotel

“Nothing says New York City chic quite like the bar at The Baccarat Hotel. The interior is so glamorous, with painted cherry walls, ceilings lined with crystal chandeliers and dimly-lit candles, the experience is not one to miss. And their drink menu is a work of art in itself!”

Best People Watching/Date Spot: The NoMad Restaurant

“Another great date night spot and personal favorite of mine is The NoMad restaurant located inside The NoMad hotel. The food is amazing and the room has such a glowy, warm feel to it. I love sipping on a glass of wine and people watching there.”

Because One Can Never Have Enough Cheese: Murray’s Cheese

“Seriously, who doesn’t love cheese? For cheese lovers like myself, Murray’s Cheese is the place to go. Murray’s has the best market with assorted cheeses, crackers and accompaniments. They also host cheese classes and private events, which makes it a great place to host a birthday celebration.”

When You Need an Educational Activity: American Museum of Natural History

“A favorite rainy day activity of mine is exploring the American Museum of Natural History. I love seeing all of the different exhibits and I find it so interesting learning about different animals and species. Every time I go I truly learn something new. Before the museum closed due to COVID-19, I was lucky enough to see the butterfly conservatory. There were so many beautiful and unique butterflies flying around it was really amazing to see. “

For a Perfect Sunset Stroll: Battery Park

“I live down in Tribeca and one of my favorite things to do to wind down at the end of the day is to walk through Battery Park. My favorite part is strolling through the perennial gardens and seeing all of the beautiful flowers. During any season the park is so beautiful and offers a ton of things for people to do. “

Get That Cardio In: Rollerblading Along the West Side Highway

“A fun fact about me is that I love to go rollerblading. It totally takes me back to my childhood days where I’d spend hours blading up and down my street. My favorite place to rollerblade in the city is right along the West Side Highway. It’s right on the Hudson River and gives off the best breeze and has great views.”

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