Every New Yorker knows that fall is the best time in the city. The city looks golden, softer than the bright and hot days of summer. As everyone returns from their vacations, New York starts to feel more alive. Plus, the leaves change and the temperature drops, calling for cozy strolls through Central Park, afternoons watching college football, and catching the last sunny days with an IPA. Before winter comes and the hectic and über touristy Christmas season begins, enjoy all that New York City has to offer.
HELLO!'s New York staff have curated a list of their top recommendations – from our favorite restaurants, coffee shops, and patisseries to the hottest museum exhibits and Broadway shows. Whether you're visiting the city for an autumn holiday or are just in need of new places to enjoy, we've got the guide for you.
Park Avenue Tavern
When you hear the name Park Avenue Tavern, you think you know what you're going to get. Just another midtown bar that’s the same as the next, and the next, and the next. But it's one that rises above many others, thanks to its cozy, slightly upscale interior, and its delicious menu. Try one of the namesake burgers, trust me. Have a beer or a glass of red wine to go with it. Or, for fun, split a bottle of bubbles with whomever you're dining with, to fully mix the tavern and upscale vibes of the establishment. While they, of course, allow walk-ins, it can get busy after work and during the Christmas holiday season, so reservations are recommended.
— Rachael Ellenbogen
Cafe Cluny
The very best restaurant to solo dine in the city is Cafe Cluny. With it's casual atmosphere and readily available bar seating, the French restaurant is ideal for diners who just want to eat in peace. Tucked into the West Village, it has ample seating both indoors and outside, delicious cocktails, and waiters who are beyond charming. On my 30th birthday, I spent the afternoon at Cafe Cluny and enjoyed their vegetarian burger, perfectly crispy fries, and a chilled glass of Sancerre while reading a book. While one can dine solo anywhere, it's nice to feel like a guest and not a burden, and Cafe Cluny is perfect at that. Their staff welcomes every diner with joy and leaves them with the desire to return.
— Tess Hill
Bear Mountain
If you're a fellow New Yorker who needs a break from the loud sirens, look no further than Bear Mountain. Fresh air is waiting for you upstate and it's only a few hours away from the city. Grab a pumpkin spice latte for your scenic trip on the Metro North, and enjoy the stunning fall foliage that the state has to offer.
— Nova Bajamonti
Akoya
If you are in midtown and want to escape the crowds, there's a hidden gem that's recently opened - and we think you'll like it as much as we did! Akoya, located inside St. Cloud Rooftop Bar at the iconic hotel, The Knickerbocker, has an impressive menu of open-style sushi, led by talented sushi chef Taishi Yamaguchi and iconic chef Charlie Palmer. The rolls are wrapped to order and it was some of the tastiest sushi we have ever had. And that's saying something, given the many restaurants there are in the city.
We highly recommend ordering the miso marinated eggplant roll, as well as the roasted okinawa sweet potato - both excellent for vegetarians too of course. The spicy yellowfish tuna is also moorish, the maine lobster is a must. The marinated huiki salad was delicious and we ended up ordering double spicy cucumber. Make sure you try both desert options too - we couldn't decide which was better out of the mochi or sesame cookie. As for the drinks, there's a mixture of signature cocktails, sake and spirits, as well as a tasty zero proof option.
— Hanna Fillingham
The Ned, Cecconis and Little Ned
The Ned — first founded in London in 2017 — opened in NYC in 2022, and it most certainly lives up to its reputation. Located in Flatiron, within walking distance to most neighborhoods in Manhattan, the charming quintessentially British hotel is like a home away from home, with beautifully designed rooms, incredibly comfortable beds, an extensive supply of toiletries and Cowshed products. What's more, if you stay in a classic room or bigger, guests benefit from two cocktails at Little Ned and breakfast at Cecconi's for two.
Cecconi's — located on the ground floor of the hotel — has an expansive menu with something for everyone, but we highly recommend the whipped ricotta, truffle honey crostini, and the ravioli, ricotta and spinach with lemon butter. There is also an impressive list of pizzas, pasta dishes and salads to suit all tastes. The eggplant parmigiana is a must.
Connected to the hotel is Little Ned. This 1920's cocktail bar will transport you right back in time with its stunning interior. Drinks are far more modern though! There is a wide range of specialty cocktails and non-alcoholic options. These include the gin based dill pickle, a jalapeno highball, and a champagne martini. There are also champagne fountains and dream drinks — served with the most decadent spirits on the menu.
— Hanna Fillingham
Borgo
Fall often calls for coziness, familiarity, and tradition, like going apple picking time and time again, or doing yet another Gilmore Girls rewatch. If you're looking for those notes of belonging in a restaurant, may I suggest Borgo near Madison Square Park, which while new to the area, as soon as you walk in it feels like it has always been there. An instant "neighborhood spot" in my eyes reminiscent of Il Cantonori or Elio's, Borgo, not just in the fall but perfect for it, is cozy and familiar, but brings newness in its stand-out rotating menu. While the menu does change often, you can always rely on fresh takes on Italian classics, and its great martini service.
— Beatriz Colon
Radio Bakery
The day Radio Bakery opened in my neighborhood, everything became better. The now iconic bakery has two locations, one in Greenpoint and the other in Prospect Heights. Both boast long lines, with customers patiently waiting for their cinnamon buns and triple chocolate croissants. The brain child of pastry chef Kelly Mencin, Radio Bakery specializes in unique sweets and sandwiches. My favorites are the cheesy pretzel bearclaw and the tuna salad sandwich which is perfectly seasoned with lemon zest and just the right amount of pepperoncinis.
— Tess Hill