Wolfgang Tillmans at the MOMA
In November of last year, we made our way to the bustling metropolis of New York City to attend the launch of Yu Mei at Bergdorf Goodman. A tight schedule forced us to be destination-selective.
With the city back to its best, here’s our curated list of NYC key-stops.
Charlie and Georgie bags to carry you through the city
01.
BEFORE HOURS TOURS AT MOMA
A trip to the Museum of Modern Art is always in order. While we were there Wolfgang Tillmans was centre stage—but regardless who’s on—it always pays to take a before hours group tour, led by a MOMA curator.
Tours meet in the early morning, and you get an hour of exclusive access to the galleries via a private entrance.
02.
BERGDORF GOODMAN
For a luxurious shopping experience, Bergdorf Goodman is the department store par excellence. A fashion institution since 1899, this emporium offers the latest in design, including Yu Mei which can be found on the fifth floor.
To get the authentic Bergdorf experience, visit on a Sunday around Lunchtime, when the locals will be there. Take the elevator to the upper floor to what used to be Bergdorf's apartment. With sweeping views of Central Park, you'll find the restaurant and the iconic Jacqui Kennedy Onassis letters.
Jessie at Bergdorf Goodman
The menu at Estela Restaurant
03.
ESTELA
When it comes to dining, the Estela Restaurant in Nolita is a must-visit. This intimate eatery features a delectable menu that exalts seasonal ingredients and inventive flavour combinations. Try a Yu Mei special, the French 75.
Estela was where we chose to celebrate our launch into Bergdorf’s with friends new and old.
Celebrating our launch at Bergdorf's at Estela Restaurant
04.
LE DIVE NYC
Look no further for a night of revelry than Le Dive NYC, a wine bar boasting an extensive selection of natural and biodynamic wines. It's the perfect spot to decompress with friends and savour a glass (or bottle) of your preferred vintage.
05.
NOGUCHI MUSEUM
For an infusion of artistic inspiration, visit the Noguchi Museum in Queens, which pays homage to the oeuvre of Japanese-American sculptor Isamu Noguchi. The museum's serene and minimalist galleries offer a stunning contrast to the city's restless energy.
Isamu Noguchi in New York City
Rare and vintage books at Mast Books in the East Village
06.
EAST VILLAGE
If you're seeking some edge, venture down to The East Village, a historic neighbourhood in downtown Manhattan renowned for its music and arts scene. Check out Nine Orchard, a gallery and event space perpetually brimming with creative energy, or peruse the curated selection of rare and vintage books at Mast Books.
French bistro, Lucien
07.
LUCIEN
Lucien in New York City is a beloved French bistro in the East Village. This cosy spot exudes a classic Parisian ambience with its red banquettes, vintage lighting, and intimate atmosphere.
The menu at Lucien features classic French dishes such as escargots, steak frites, and coq au vin. The wine list is equally impressive, offering a selection of French and American wines to complement any meal. It's no surprise that Lucien has been a favourite of locals and celebrities since it opened its doors in 1998, solidifying its status as a quintessential New York City dining experience.
