Gray's Papaya

Gray's Papaya is not only a place to get deliciously cheap hotdogs, but it's also a New York icon. This famed on-the-run eatery will have you salivating for their hot, fresh and juicy dogs and refreshing papaya juice.

With three locations on the West Side of Manhattan, this New York favourite is the best place to go after a killer night out as it's open 24-hours.

It's 3 locations are:

539 Eighth Avenue at 37th Street
402 Sixth Avenue at 8th Street
2090 Broadway at 72nd Street.
It's also a pop culture phenomenon; appearing in several films, TV shows and books, such as:

Films:

- Die Hard with a Vengeance
- Fool's Rush In
- You've Got Mail
- Down to Earth

TV Shows:

- How I met your mother
- Sex and the City

***On March 3, 2008, The New York Times reported that Gray's Papaya had endorsed Democratic candidate Barack Obama in his campaign for the 2008 U.S. Presidential Election.

ADDRESS: 539 Eighth Avenue at 37th Street

Surya

For those with a passion for vegetarian Indian fare, Surya is the place to be. It's heady atmosphere and lush décor, not to mention its savory food, makes for a great dining experience.

ADDRESS: 302 Bleecker St, Greenwich Village
TRANSPORT: underground rail: 1 to Christopher St
PHONE: 212 807 7770 (info)
WEB: www.suryany.com

Soy Luck Club

Soy lovers will worship this joint. From the soy chicken to the tofu salad, you'll feel as though you've gotten your daily health fix.

ADDRESS: 115 Greenwich Ave at Jane St, Meatpacking District
PHONE: 212 229 9191 (info)
WEB: http://www.soyluckclub.com/

Settepani's

Settepani's quaint décor makes it the perfect place to relax on a sunny afternoon. It draws in a diverse crowd who come here to indulge in the deliciously brewed coffee, creamy quiches and devilish desserts.

ADDRESS: 196 Lenox Ave, Harlem
TRANSPORT: underground rail: 2, 3 to 116th St
PHONE: 917 492 4806 (info)
WEB: www.settepani.com

Moondance Diner

The Moondance Diner, located in the hip burough of Tribeca, has maintained a classic “Americana” feel since it first opened its doors in the 1930s. The vintage atmosphere is not its only selling point, as this eatery boasts a delicious selection of food served in sizeable portions.

This fun joint is also the location where the character of Mary Jane, played by Kirsten Dunst, worked as a waitress and where Spider-man battles with the Green Goblin in the movie “Spider-Man.”

ADDRESS: 80 6th Ave, New York, NY 10013
PHONE: (212) 226-1191

Mei Lai Wah Coffee House

This coffee house is more than just a great place to grab a cup of joe, it's a city institution. Located in the heart of Chinatown, their mouthwatering steamed pork buns and rice cakes is the perfect way to start your New York day.

ADDRESS: 64 Bayard St at Elizabeth St, Chinatown
TRANSPORT: underground rail: J, M, N, Q, R, W, Z, 6 to Canal St
PHONE: tel: 212 925 5435 (info)

Canoodle

Love Chinese food? Well, "canoodle" with that special someone in this hip yet traditional joint. Highly recommended dishes are obviously any of the noodle dishes, the sausage fried rice and Peking Duck.

ADDRESS: 79 Mulberry St, Chinatown
TRANSPORT: underground rail: J, M, N, Z, W 6 to Canal St
PHONE: tel: 212 349 1495 (info)

Burger Joint

This “Burger Joint” is a classic American eatery. From the fresh made fries to the creamy shakes, you'll have a lot to add to your burger. But don't let the delicious sides fool you into thinking that the burgers are mediocre, far from it. The burgers are juicy and tender and will have you dreaming about it for months on end.

ADDRESS: Le Parker Meridien, 118 W 57th St, Midtown West
TRANSPORT: underground rail: N, Q, R, W to 57th St, F to 57th St
PHONE: 212 708 7414 (info)

Eatery

Chill out in this fun “eatery” with a delightful selection of edamame, ginger calamari and succulent burgers and some great music spun by the house DJ.

ADDRESS: 798 Ninth Ave at W 53rd St, Midtown West
TRANSPORT: underground rail: C, E at 50th St, 1, A, B, C, D at 59th St-Columbus Circle
PHONE: 212 765 7080 (info)
FAX: 212 765 3269 (info)
WEB: www.eaterynyc.com

Tavern on the Green

This romantic restaurant located in the gorgeous 'greens' of Central Park is one of the world's best known places to dine out. The fame and glory endowed to the 'Tavern on the Green' is not without merit as its embellished gardens, stunning views and star-studded clientele make for an interesting dining experience. It is also a celebrity in its own right, appearing in films such as: The Ghostbusters, The Out-of-Towners, Wall Street, Only When I Laugh and MADE. It has also appeared in numerous television shows such as Regis and Kelley and Elimidate.

ADDRESS: West 67th Street
TRANSPORT: underground rail: 1 at 66th St.-Lincoln Center, B, C at 72nd St
PHONE: 212 873 3200 (info)
WEB: http://tavernonthegreen.com/

The Bowery Poetry Club

Tired of the same old electro beats and break-dance attempts? The Bowery Poetry Club is a world away from that. A party haven for the intellectual, artist, and every other kind of soul-searching individual. The club has created a legacy for itself in its poetry slams,creative live music performances-an eclectic range of jazz to ska, and even comedy sketches. Founded by one of the modern Don's of poetry, Bob Holman in 2002, the club emphasizes the creative expression and appreciation of art. The club located in the East Village, between Bowery and Bleeker streets, is home to the many NYU Art school students, Cooper Union sophs, and starving artists. A truly local New Yorker establishment, it's a must for those trying to escape the "tourist" Big Apple. Just please dont come in looking like a one. And no, you cannot wear your "fanny pack."

ADDRESS: Bowery 308
WEB: bowerypoetry.com

Barbes

Owned by two French musicians should be enough to make you think that this bar would be immersed in avant garde culture and experimental works. Named after the North African area of Paris, it has a whole slew of events such as poetry readings, film screening and a diverse array of musical acts.

ADDRESS: 376 9th St at 6th Ave, Brooklyn
TRANSPORT: underground rail: F to 7th Ave
PHONE: 718 965 9177 (info)
WEB: www.barbesbrooklyn.com

Another Room

“Another Room” is like being seduced into another world. This mysterious yet beguiling bar is filled with local and has a chill vibe.

ADDRESS: 249 West Broadway, West Village
OPEN: 17:00 - 04:00
TRANSPORT: underground rail: 1, 2 to Franklin St
PHONE: 212 226 1418 (info)

Bar Below

The “Bar Below” is located underneath the Faan restaurant and is fun place to meet some New York locals or sway your hips a bit.

ADDRESS: 209 Smith St, Brooklyn
TRANSPORT: underground rail: F, G to Bergen St, A, C, G to Hoyt-Schermerhorn Sts
PHONE: 718 694 2277 (info)

SIGHTSEEING:

Brooklyn Bridge

This iconic landmark is not only an awe-inspiring sight, but it has had many historic events take place on its 486m (1596ft) stretch. In 1997 it was where people marched in outrage due to the police torture of Abner Louima and in 2004 it was the site for those calling to legalize same-sex marriage.

Flatiron Building

This architectural marvel, designed by Daniel Burnham in 1902, is a New York icon. The 20-story “flatiron” design has a limestone facade and was once considered as the tallest building in the city during the time of its completion. It's imposing structure and unique style has caused gasps of admiration by some of the best known figures of our time. H.G. Wells once famously stated that: “I found myself agape, admiring a skyscraper — the prow of the Flatiron Building, to be particular, ploughing up through the traffic of Broadway and Fifth Avenue in the late-afternoon light.”
This intimidating yet mesmerizing ediface has been featured in the opening credits of the David Letterman Show, as well as the popular films “Spider-Man” and “Armageddon.”

ADDRESS: cnr Park Row & Ave of the Finest, South Street Southport
TRANSPORT: Underground Rail: 4, 5, 6 to City Hall
PHONE: 212 484 1200 (info)

New York Public Library

Bibliophiles will not be disappointed with the mother of all book haunts known around the world as 'The New York Public Library.' With the two imposing lions known as Patience and Fortitude greeting you an excellent literary journey into the hallowed halls of this famed library, you'll not only be astounded by its massive collection of books but also with its impressive architectural design. Not only is this location one of the leading public libraries in the world and the United States' foremost research library, it is also a pop cultural icon, appearing in numerous films and television shows as well as being cited in books and poetry.

ADDRESS: 498 5th Ave
TRANSPORT: underground rail: any train to Grand Central Station or 42nd St-Times Sq
PHONE: tel: 212 930 0800 (info)
FAX: fax: 212 930 0572 (info)
MAIL:
WEB: www.nypl.org

Radio City Music Hall

One of the city's top tourist destinations, the Radio City Music Hall located in the Rockefeller Center, seats 6000 people and has been the site of some of the country's most extravagant events and shows, such as the MTV Video Music Awards and Tony Awards.

ADDRESS: 51st St at Sixth Ave, Midtown
OPEN: Mon-Sun 11:00 - 15:00, Tours leave every half hour
TRANSPORT: underground rail: B, D, F, V to 47th-50th Sts-Rockefeller Center
PHONE: 212 247 4777 (info)
WEB: www.radiocity.com

Columbia University

For those looking to expand their minds in this 'intellectual' city, then venture down to one of the world's best known universities. Columbia University is one of the foremost educational establishments not only in the United States, but also on the global scale. It is also where the esteemed Pulitzer Prize, an award for outstanding achievement in journalism, literature and music, has its roots.
However, for those not yet ready to hand in their applications to one of the challenging and competitve courses offered at Columbia University, then at least venture through it's sprawling campus and historical buildings. It has also been and continues to be featured in many popular films and television shows such as: Ghostbusters I & II, The Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, Awakenings, Anger Management, Casino Royale, Black and White, Hitch, Everyone Says I Love You, Malcolm X, The Mirror has Two Faces, Thirteen Conversations about One Thing, 3 lb, K-Pax, Spiderman 1 & 2, Manhattan, and many others.

ADDRESS: 2960 Broadway
WEB: http://www.columbia.edu/

Times Square

Known as the “busiest intersection in the world,” the Times Square is one of the world's most popular landmarks and the ultimate icon of New York's madness, electrifying appeal and chaos. This famous site is located at the junction of Broadway and Seventh Avenue taking up the expanse from West 42nd to West 47th Streets. This distinguished location was previously known as Longacre Square but was changed to Times Square after another famed New York building, One TimesSquare (formerly the Times Building) which used to be the location of one of the most globally respected newspapers, The New York Times.

The New York Times Square is also the location of the New Year's Eve Drop wherein a Waterford Crystal Ball is lowered atop a building, which began in 1907 and has now become one of the year's most anticipated events and attracts an average of 750,000 visitors.

This crazy intersection is also the location of countless massive advertising billboards, the Jumbotron and big-time corporations such as the MTV Networks, The New York Times Company, Viacom, Thomson Reuter and many others.

It is also a pop-culture icon wherein it appeared in numerous works of literature, music videos, video games, television shows and films. Films that feature this historic location include: Vanilla Sky, Spider-man, The Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, Borat, Gremlins 2: The New Batch, I Am Legend, King Kong (1933) and many more.

ADDRESS: Times Square
New York City, United States

Union Square

Since its opening in 1831, Union Square has become one of the city's most popular parks to gather, protest and hold events. Located at the intersection of Bowery and Broadway, this impressive area is surrounded by the neighborhoods of the Flat iron district, Chelsea, Greemwich, NYU and Gramercy.

ADDRESS: 17th St btwn Broadway & Park Ave, Union sq
TRANSPORT: underground rail: L, N, Q, R, W, 4, 5, 6 to 14th St-Union Sq

United Nations Building

Not just for the politically inclined, The United Nations located on 1st Avenue at 46th Street, is an intimidating yet inspiring building. Overlooking the East River, this building considered to be "international territory" is the site for many protests and global conferences. It makes you believe that there is a possibility for a better world.

ADDRESS: 1st Avenue at 46th Street

Grand Central Terminal

One of the most beautiful transportation hubs in the world, the Grand Central Terminal on 42nd Street and Park Avenue, is also one of the busiest. Not only is it the best place to jump on a train, but its jaw-dropping architecture, historic past and its presence in films and television will astound you.

ADDRESS: 993 Broadway
TRANSPORT: underground rail: R, W, 6 to 23rd St

92 Books

Located at the gallery district, this tiny indie bookstore is sure to have bibliophiles and art lovers doing cartwheels. Its rotating art exhibitions and diverse range of books are sure to have you making 92 Books your home away from home.

ADDRESS: 192 Tenth Ave btwn 21st & 22nd Sts, Chelsea
TRANSPORT: underground rail: C, E to 23rd St
PHONE: 212 255 4022 (info)

A Cheng

This quaint boutique has clothes that will make you feel truly feminine. Cheng's pretty designs are cut to accentuate the best of a woman's body whilst allowing you to move freely.

ADDRESS: 443 9th St, East Village
TRANSPORT: underground rail: 6 to Astor Pl, L to First Ave
PHONE: tel: 212 979 7324 (info)
WEB: www.achengshop.com

Aedes De Venustas

The Aedes De Venustas, which means “Temple of Beauty,” is sure to make you feel like royalty. Its elegant and plush red velvet décor, is the ultimate in class and beauty products. The service, if you market yourself well, can be excellent. The perfumes, cosmetics and lotions sold in this store are bound to have you feeling sexy, rejuvenated and drop-dead gorgeous.

ADDRESS: 9 Christopher St, West Village
TRANSPORT: underground rail: 1 to Christopher St, A, B, C, D, E, F, V to W 4th St
PHONE: 212 206 8674 (info)
WEB: www.aedes.com

Alexander Mcqueen

Located in the hip Meatpacking District of New York, Alexander Mcqueen's mammoth store is sure to have you wearing out your credit card. From the celebrity-adored sunglasses to the one-of-a-kind clothing designs, its guaranteed that you'll be leaving looking like a million dollars.

ADDRESS: underground rail: A, C, E, 1, 2, 3 to 14th St, L to Eighth Ave
TRANSPORT: underground rail: A, C, E, 1, 2, 3 to 14th St, L to Eighth Ave
PHONE: 212 645 1797 (info)
WEB: www.alexandermcqueen.com

Tiffany & Co.: Dazzle with diamonds, Hepburn and New York

Forever immortalized by Audrey Hepburn's fabulous depiction of 'Holly Golightly' who proudly declared it as "the best place in the world, where nothing bad can take place" in the film 'Breakfast at Tiffany's,' this jewelry and silverware company has come to be the ultimate symbol of sophistication, prestige and fairy tale romance. Though the prices may be steep and unless you're planning on tying the knot, its best to visit this sparkling shop for nostalgic purposes and swoon in the film memories created by Audrey Hepburn in 'Breakfast at Tiffany's,' like Marilyn Monroe in 'Diamonds are a girl's best friend' and Reese Witherspoon in 'Sweet Home Alabama.'

ADDRESS: corner of Fifth Avenue and 57th Street
PHONE: 800 843 3269
WEB: www.tiffany.com