Top 10 Places I Loved in NYC This April (Food, Drinks & Hidden Gems)

My first month as a New Yorker has been nothing short of fabulous. From rooftop views to hidden jazz gems, I ate, sipped, and sashayed my way through the city—one martini and mozzarella di bufala at a time. Here’s my very first Top 10 of the Month round-up—a new series where I’ll share the best places I discovered in NYC each month.
Get ready to screenshot. You’ll want to add these to your own list.

Let’s count it down…

10. Gertrude’s – Latkes, martinis & cozy vibes

This cute little neighborhood bistro in Prospect Heights is serving Jewish comfort food with a side of charm. The latkes? Crispy golden perfection. The martini? Smooth, classic, and topped with both an olive and a lemon twist (a combo I didn’t know I needed). The energy was laid back but intentional—the kind of place you stumble into one rainy day (like i did) and never want to leave.

Check out Gertrude’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/gertrudesnyc/

9. Ursula – Juicy tacos & Bed-Stuy neighborhood love

A cocktail bar slash restaurant tucked right in my new neighborhood of Bed-Stuy. Their all-day menu is casual but full of flavor, and the lamb carnitas tacos? I’m still thinking about them. They were recently brought back after being off the menu, and thank God, because I would’ve missed out on a top-tier taco moment. Cozy, low-key, and dangerously close to my apartment

Check out Ursula’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/ursula_brooklyn/

8. The Beekman Hotel Bar Room – Martinis & Manhattan grandeur

A historic New York moment. Think: dim lighting, moody elegance, and the kind of space that makes you sit a little taller in your seat. I popped in for a martini and ended up soaking in the ambience like a scene out of an old movie. A perfect spot for a pre-dinner drink or a glamorous solo outing when you’re feeling that main character energy.

Check out The Beekman’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/thebeekmanny/

7. Nonna Dora’s – Affordable luxury & handmade pasta heaven

I had a fabulous three-course dinner here for only $54—and it included handmade pasta, buffalo ricotta, and flavors that made me want to weep. (And yes, I’m still obsessed with mozzarella di bufala and all her dairy relatives.) Bonus: they do the same meal for just $38 at lunch. A total steal in NYC. This is that “treat yourself, but responsibly” spot I’ll be returning to again and again.

Check out Nonna Dora’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/nonnadorasnyc/

6. Saraghina – My first New Yorker meal: pizza dreams unlocked

This one is sentimental. Saraghina was my very first meal as a Brooklynite, and it delivered. Napoli-style pizza done right, with that signature charred crust and—yes—mozzarella di bufala. The kind of pizza that makes you close your eyes for a second longer. A neighborhood classic with warm vibes and all the comfort.

Check out Saraghina’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/saraghinabrooklyn/

5. Daniel – Dining like a duchess on the Upper East Side

Daniel is legendary for a reason. From the moment I walked in, I felt like royalty. The service, the plating, the ambience—it was all perfection. It’s definitely on the splurge side of the spectrum, but worth every single dollar. This is not your casual Tuesday night pasta—this is your “I’ve arrived” dinner. And baby, I have arrived.

Check out Restaurant Daniel’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/restaurantdaniel/

4. Bagel Pub – The bagel that set the bar

My first real New York bagel experience had to be big—and Bagel Pub delivered. I went with an egg everything bagel (obviously) and jalapeño cream cheese, and I’ve been ruined ever since. I’ve been on a mission to find other amazing bagels, but this one set the bar high. A bagel so good, you contemplate moving in next door.

Check out Bagel Pub’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/bagelpub/

3. Salon on Kingston – Live Latin jazz & secret speakeasy energy

This spot is unlike anything else on the list. Tucked away in Bed-Stuy, it’s an unassuming venue that doubles as a nonprofit art space. I stumbled in on a Thursday night and was lucky enough to catch a live Latin jazz band—and they were phenomenal. Drinks are simple and fairly priced, and the vibe is intimate, sexy, and full of soul. It felt like a little secret, and now I’m sharing it with you.

Check out Salon on Kingston’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/salononkingston/?hl=en

2. Bemelmans Bar – Iconic martinis & “I’ve made it” moments

Bemelman’s Bar is one of those New York staples that lives up to the hype. The hand-painted murals by Ludwig Bemelmans. The live piano. The $45 martini with a sidecar that makes you feel like you’ve just signed a publishing deal. I sat at the bar alone and thought, “This is it. I’m really in New York now.” Timeless, fabulous, and totally worth saving for special occasions—or at least, special outfits.

Check out Bemelman’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/bemelmansbar/

1. Manhatta – Views, vibes, and a “Welcome to NY” fit for a queen

From the second I walked into the building, Manhatta felt like a dream. The host welcomed me like a regular, the table was set with a “Welcome to NY” postcard (tears), and the food, wine, and service were flawless. And don’t get me started on the views—I mean, that skyline? I was floating. They even brought out a special “Welcome to NY” dessert at the end, and I nearly cried. It was one of the most thoughtful, elevated, and unforgettable experiences I’ve had. This will be my go-to place to wow visitors—and myself.

Check out Manhatta’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/manhatta_nyc/

💋 Et voilà!

April, you were iconic. I can’t wait to see where May takes me—and what makes the next Top 10 list.
If you’re planning a trip to NYC (or just need a reason to glam up and treat yourself), bookmark this post and thank me later.

#UneBonneVivante #BonneVivanteEatsNYC #Top10OfTheMonth #AprilInNY