Phillip Salem
The Vanderlust insider shares his favorite NYC haunts
I love the Meatpacking District. It just has so much history and really takes you out of the touristy parts of New York and gives you this ‘at home’ feeling. I love the cobble stone side streets and finding those small family owned restaurants tucked away.
FOOD
The priority is always people then atmosphere, i like to go to places that aren’t too scenery and be able to hear what my company is saying. Sometimes these restaurants in NYC are just so crowded and loud, it’s hard to enjoy a meal. I prefer small and authentic. I like discovering new restaurants before they get over packed and don’t like waiting for tables, i really hate pretentious places. The more authentic, the better.
For breakfast I always go to Kava, favorite Lunch spot is the restaurant in the Hotel Americano called Americano. It is so chic and always smells so good! The food is amazing.
ART
I love to spend an entire day (or two or three) in West Chelsea going to all the galleries! My favorites are Hauser & Wirth, Gladstone, Jack Shainman Gallery and Asya Geisberg Gallery.
SHOP
I really enjoy Pierre Hardy for shoes and Barney’s 3rd Floor Men’s Designer. I also love Patron of a New in Tribeca. Really chic and reminiscent of some of my favorite stores in Paris.
What do you do when you want to relax and spend some time away from busy everyday life?
Workout with my trainer or take dance lessons with my friend Mila. We always do a Beyonce, Janet, or Ciara dance routine and perform it at my Bday party! It’s so fun. Doing these things keeps me away from my phone and focused on my well being and take me away from the stress of work.
3 top social events in New York to visit during the year
My Birthday Party, UrbanDaddy Holiday Party, February and September Fashion Weeks.
