New York

No spots at ALD? No problem. Roll some dice at 7 Spring's backgammon boards. It's beautifully decorated. Offers limited seating inside and out, and you get to play a match with your match.

If you're downtown however, you can drop by Aimé Leon Dore's little cafe. There's limited seating (outdoor only) but we always find a place to sit. Try their "Iced Greek Tea", ask for unsweetened. They also make mean Iced Lattes. Most seating is for 2 people only, perfect for a casual date of people watching. While you're there you can also check out the incredibly well designed store, if you happen to catch it without a line upfront.

If you have the means, where else would you stay? Perfect location in the heart of Manhattan, walking distance to literally everywhere, you never need to see the inside of an NYC subway. Their beds are extremely comfortable, and the vibes are immaculate.

Enjoy live DJ sets at a reasonable volume, with great selections over cocktails.

Shuck some oysters at Maison Premiere's bar. There's a big, social bar at the entrance if you want to make friends, and a beautiful courtyard garden if you brought your own company.

Russ and Daughters is great, but Apollo is better. The Bagels are not very dense, and perfectly toasted so you're biting into softness under the initial crumble. There are a few options on the simple menu, but the Smoked Salmon is the one to get. They also serve the halved bagels separately, so it's quite easy to eat without getting cheese everywhere. It's the perfect New York breakfast, elevated.

If you want a more relaxed New York experience, give Brooklyn a chance.The Moxy in Williamsburg offers small but well-designed rooms, a rooftop with a view, a listening bar, and a classic bar at the lobby, in addition to a restaurant. All these amenities make it easy to host friends while you're in town for a quick drink.

Cocktail bar with no menu. You drop in, chat up the bartender, and they'll suggest you a cocktail you'll dig. Turns an average drink into a mini-adventure, and it's a great ice-breaker. There's a bar and some private seating if you show up with company.

Show up right before 5 PM before the doors open, as you're here to secure your spot at the bar. Raoul's is an NYC institution, and they make the best burger in the city, but only for the patrons at the bar. Order a dirty Martini, and follow up with the incredible burger. Now that's New York!

An oasis of calm in the middle of the island, bathhouse is an elevated take on the day spa. It's a great refresh before (or after) a date downtown, especially if you're staying in Brooklyn.