NYC Diaries #8 Everything I did in December and it's worth sharing
A post with 10 personal recs of things and places in New York City that wouldn't make it to Google search results.
Ok, I know it looks like December ended 459668 days ago, but it was actually 12 days ago, so I guess we are still good to called this my December diaries - plus, these tips are not necessarily related to the Holiday season.
1. Panettone Class
Panettone is a sweet Italian recipe that’s a traditional part of Christmas celebrations - but it’s also huge in Brazil. I’ve grown up eating panettone and when I learned about this panettone class, I signed up for it as fast as I could.
Although you will probably have to wait until December to attend another panettone class, I must tell you that Terrone, the Italian restaurant in Long Island City that hosted this class, also offers a lot of other cooking classes - like pizza, pasta and even chocolate (all with open bar!).
2. One of the most beautiful rooftops in NYC
New York City has a lot of rooftops - but I guess only a few of them have that WOW factor - and Nubeluz is certainly one of them, not only for the incredible views but also for the elegant environment, an outdoor area, and the delicious cocktails. The first time I was there was back in 2023 when it had opened - but it was a rainy day. I was so happy to be back with some friends - and just in time for the sunset.
3. A Mexican restaurant specialized in Oaxacan plates
Located in Brooklyn, this was the second Mexican restaurant to earn a Michelin star in New York City. Although it has been dropped from that position, it still deserves your attention. We were mind-blowed by the food here - especially the Empanadita, with a sweet and savory flavor, and the Tacos Campechano de Cabeza - OMG!!!!!!
Another thing I absolutely loved it was the Hibiscus agua fresca, a non-alcoholic drink.
4. An oasis in the middle of the city
I had a gift card from Aire Ancient Baths to use, and since my husband and I would be in the city by ourselves during Christmas, we decided to spend the afternoon of December 25th relaxing there—little did I know that would be so necessary. (I will tell you soon how my Christmas Eve was ruined; stay tight!).
Aire Ancient Baths offers a relaxing and magical experience. This spa space features pools with different temperatures - and a dark environment with candles that create a very intimate atmosphere.
You can come only for the baths (starts at $150 per person) or you can book other services, like a massage. Such a perfect idea for a date or even to go with friends or by yourself, why not?
They have another location in the US - Chicago - and other locations around the world, including London and Barcelona.
5. A dog portrait
After seeing a post about Christina Ruggieri's work, we decided to order a dog portrait of our Dalbit - and we couldn't be more happy with the results!
Christina is such a talented painter and illustrator. And her portraits are such a beautiful memory to have - or even a perfect gift to a special person. Plus, it is a nice way to support a small business owned by a woman :)
6. A vegan restaurant serving French and Spanish dishes
Le Basque is a new vegan restaurant in New York City with a menu featuring French and Spanish cuisine. Although my husband and I are not vegan, we love to explore all the types of cuisine and we are especially fascinated by the creativity from the plant-based cuisine.
Plus, we already had the opportunity to visit other restaurants founded by Chef Guy Vaknin - like Beyond Sushi and Anixi - and they never disappoint!
You can check the video above to see what we had - but the Mushroom paella and the Entremet aux Noisettes were definitely our favorites!
7. Angelina Bakery
To be completely honest, I didn't have high expectations about Angelina Bakery - they have a few locations in the city, but when they opened one in the Upper East Side, I thought it was time to check since it's close to us. I was surprised to discover that the place was founded by a baker Korean descent, but born in Palermo, Antonio "Tony" Park.
One of their highlights is their iconic bombolone (Italy's response to the doughnut) - we got a Pistachio one and it was delicious. The cookies also don't disappoint. I also loved the fact they have a good amount of tables and chairs. A huge space compared to other bakeries in NYC.
8. Commodity Perfumes
Commodity Fragrances invited me to visit their first retail store - located in Soho - and I couldn't be more excited about it. When it comes to perfumes, I usually prefer niche brands to the mainstream ones. Also, they have such an interest concept, a minimalist and conceptual approach to scent creation.
The brand introduced a unique Scent Space concept, offering three intensity levels for each fragrance:
Personal: Subtle and intimate, designed for the wearer and those very close to them.
Expressive: Balanced and moderate, noticeable to the wearer and their immediate surroundings.
Bold: Intense and impactful, designed to make a statement.
This system empowers consumers to choose how they want their fragrance to perform and interact with their environment.
Plus, the prices are super affordable - and the fragrances are not obvious. If you are in Soho, make sure to stop by!
113 Crosby St.
9. A new haircut - and a new hair salon in NYC
I've been waiting for my bangs to grow for a long time - so it would reach to a point that I could get a shoulder-length cut straight around the head. I don't remember the last time I got so so so happy with a haircut!
Dani was the hair stylist responsible for my new look - she has been taking care of my hair for years, especially when it comes to color - and I couldn't be happier for her, since now she has her own space in Manhattan!
10. Cesarine event
Not exactly a NYC tip - but I guess it's a useful tip for anyone traveling to Italy. My friend invited me to join her at this intimate event promoted by Cesarine - when we could get a glance of this platform through a pasta class and a delicious Italian dinner.
Cesarine is an Italian-based culinary experience platform that connects travelers and food enthusiasts with local home cooks. They offer cooking classes (at real people homes!), home dining, tours and food & wine tastings. Such a cool concept!
And that's it for today! Hope you are enjoying these monthly recs! My next edition of NYC Diaries will be in March cause I will spend the whole month of January in Madrid - and you can check more about my journey here.
