Find Itineraries by:
QG: New York City's QuickGuide
Hot Tips From Hotel Concierges
The inside scoop: Some of Manhattan's savviest sources offer tips on how to make the most of your stay.
Enjoying New York City like a local is a snap with inside info from four of the city’s most knowledgeable hotel concierges.
» ANTHONY PALENCSAR: Gild Hall, A Thompson Hotel
5 Gold St., at Platt St., 1.212.232.7701
“My favorite place to be outdoors in New York City is Central Park at any time of year. If the cold deters you, the city’s indoor observation decks, such as Top of the Rock and the Empire State Building, provide cozy vantage points. Alternately, those who don’t mind a brisk day can embark on a walking tour, which often includes a stop at a local pub or coffee shop to warm up. If you are drawn to the water, there are also many cruises offered to view the city skyline at any time of day or night.”
» THOMAS MECKL: The Helmsley Park Lane
36 Central Park South, btw Fifth & Sixth aves., 1.212.371.4000
“When seeking last-minute restaurant reservations, asking your concierge to help is often the wisest choice. Over the years, we’ve developed strong relationships with maître d’s, reservations managers and other people with the ability to accommodate our guests. Time flexibility also makes a difference. Consider dining earlier—say 5:30 p.m. or 6 p.m.—or later, perhaps 9:30 p.m. or 10 p.m. Choosing a Sunday or weekday can also help secure a table at a highly coveted restaurant.”
» ISABELLE HOGAN: The Mark Hotel
25 E. 77th St., btw Madison & Fifth Aves., 1.212.744.4300
“If you’re looking for an Internet hot spot and aren’t near your hotel, there are a number of local establishments where visitors can relax and surf the Web. SubtleTea is a casual café and teahouse near Madison Square Park that welcomes patrons with a long communal table, inventive hot drinks—such as the peanut butter chai latte—and free Wi-Fi. Alternately, travelers can stop by one of the city’s Apple stores, including the outpost on Fifth Avenue.”
» GILMAR SCANTAMBURLO: W New York—Times Square
1567 Broadway, at W. 47th St., 1.212.930.7434
Many fine dining establishments in Manhattan boast carefully vetted international wine lists. The sommelier’s recommendations typically sate any palate, but diners may have a special pour in mind for a particular meal or a special occasion. Many restaurants offer the option to supply your own wine or champagne—for a price. “Corkage is a per-bottle fee that restaurants charge when customers bring their own wine,” explains Scantamburlo. The average fee is about $25, but prices can range anywhere from $15 to $90.