It’s that time of year again — and we’re not referring to Valentine’s Day or Presidents Day weekend. We’re talking about New York Fashion Week and we’re pretty positive it’s coming with heaps of snow, killer winds and gosh-awful freezing temps. NYFW really is one of the most electrifying times of the year for fashion and beauty folks, and we happen to really, really love it. Sure we have to push the limits of staying awake for hours on end to fit in shows, parties and work, but in order to survive, there are some amazing New York City spots that really help us get through the week. Here is an editor-approved insider guide of where to eat, hang out and of course, hail a taxi, should you be taking part in one of the best weeks of the year.
Best Grab-and-Go Snack Stops:
- Since it’s likely to snow at least once during Fashion Week, be thankful that Chelsea Market (75 9th Ave.) is located right across the street from Milk Studios. That means shelter and quick food to keep you sane as you try to stay chipper.
- If you have some time to kill near Lincoln Center, take a stroll to Bouchon Bakery (10 Columbus Circle), located in The Shops at Columbus Circle, for an indulgent pick-me-up pastry or sandwich.
- Everyone hitting up Milk for shows rushes to Blue Bottle Coffee (450 West 15th St.) post-show. We all need our caffeine to keep the energy up, and this coffee joint hits the spot.
Best Sit-Down Restaurants:
- Nothing beats a sit-down lunch at The Smith (1900 Broadway at 63rd St.), but if you’re spending your Presidents Day weekend show-going, then this is a perfect for brunch place with friends in between a busy schedule.
- Catching your breath after a long morning and need to sit down to give your feet a rest? Then treat yourself to a cold beer and some tater tots at P.J. Clarke’s (44 West 63rd St. at Columbus), conveniently located directly across the street from Lincoln Center.
- If you’re looking for a fun dinner joint to hit up with a small group, then Toro (85 10th Ave.) is your place. The atmosphere is cool and relaxed, and most of the plates on the menu are group-friendly tapas.
Best Booze Pit Stops:
- Cozy up with a glass of wine at Ed’s Chowder House (44 West 63rd St.) located next door to The Empire Hotel. The wine list is top-notch and will not disappoint — also, if you’re in the mood for a small bite and love seafood, look no further.
- Zampa Winebar (306 West 13th St.) is a little gem of a spot located downtown. It’s perfect to meet up with fellow showgoers and throw back a couple glasses of wine to unwind.
Best Taxi Corners:
- Beauty editors probably know this one, but 61st and Amsterdam is the spot to grab a cab when a show lets out. It’s one avenue west of the Lincoln Center entrance, right by the backstage doors, but far away enough that you’re most likely going to immediately score a taxi.
- The downtown shows are tricky because if you’re at the piers, then every editor, model and blogger is running across the West Side Highway. Although, 10th Avenue always seems to be a safe bet when hailing a cab.
- If all else fails, there’s always Uber…
If we’re missing some spots that you think are NYFW musts, let us know on Twitter!