When I first joined Young Hot & Modern Magazine in 2013, I was a junior at Rutgers University and an intern. Now, I’m the Senior Contributing Editor and starting my post-grad career at Men’s Fitness/Muscle & Fitness/Flex/Muscle & Fitness Hers. It’s amazing how much YHM helped me become a better writer, editor, and feel more comfortable in my skin. I’ll always be grateful for that.
YHM has grown so much throughout these past couple of years and has truly made an impact on myself, and the community. The magazine strives to encourage and celebrate women of all backgrounds. You can be an artist, a designer, a musician, or a cook but we all have something in common: we’re following our dreams while trying to be as authentic as possible. We embrace diversity, struggle, and hard work and I truly hope that message comes across.
Coffee: Bluestone Lane
30 Broad St., New York, NY 10004
One big thing I’ve learned since moving to the city is that the coffee is very, very good. Bluestone Lane has become one of my go-to’s. My favorite items off the menu are the flat white, avocado smash, and the sugar donut. When I took my first sip of the flat white, I recall saying, “Oh my gosh.” I’m not exaggerating when I say it’s one of the best coffee drinks I’ve tried in my life. The avocado smash is just plain delicious. Yes, you can technically make it at home but if you’re already at BSL, why not treat yourself?
Cupcakes: Little Cupcake Bakeshop
30 Prince St., New York, NY 10012
Ah, cupcakes. Whoever invented cupcakes is a genius. Sometimes you don’t feel like eating an entire slice of cake (wait, really?) and the cupcake is the next best thing. Little Cupcake Bakeshop is located right across the street from Prince Street Pizza and their shop is #goals. They have everything from boxed water to s’mores bars. I recommend the blue velvet cupcake. It tastes like a blueberry muffin topped with frosting. Sold.
Pizza: Prince Street Pizza
27 Prince St., New York, NY 10012
I love how casual and unpretentious this pizza shop is. They don’t need fancy décor or extravagant advertising because their pizza speaks for itself. My favorite is the margherita with a little garlic powder, dried oregano, and chili flakes. The crust is so crispy and the sauce is a little sweet, which I appreciate.
Bookstore: McNally Jackson
52 Prince St., New York, NY 10012
McNally Jackson sells everything from fiction and cookbooks to stationary and seriously cute cards. If I could, I’d buy everything in the store. They also sell interesting magazines that I’ve never heard of. There’s a little coffee shop inside if you want to get some work done or read a book.
Park: Central Park
59th to 110th St., from Central Park West to 5th Ave, New York City, NY 10022
This pick may seem cliché but I really do love Central Park. It’s so beautiful and I love people watching as I run (is that thing?) I love how they have a designated spot for runners and bikers. Whether you want to take a mid-afternoon nap, have a picnic with friends, or exercise, Central Park is the place to do it.
Donuts: Dough
14 W 19th St., New York, NY 10011
This guide wouldn’t be complete if I didn’t mention my favorite donut stop. Dough is hands down my favorite place to indulge. Their donuts are so fresh, the perfect texture and consistency, and the flavors are unique. My favorite is the sugar cinnamon. I live a few blocks away so I always have to limit my visits. Otherwise, I might go every weekend.
Aside from discovering new places, I enjoy an occasional ice cream cone after work, walking around the city, and taking photos of cool things I see. The little things make me happy. New York is an exciting city so I rarely get bored and I feel very lucky to be working/living here.