the best best: bites & buys of Q1

Including a few great essentials, and maybe too many burgers?

How is it already April? That’s been the common question from me and just about everyone I’ve spoken to this past week.

Per usual, January was the longest month to date, and then February and March flew by—kind of at record speed? When I was younger, my elders warned me about this exact phenomenon—“Just wait, time only moves faster as you get older!” Well, we’re here, it’s happening, and frankly, it’s kind of freaking me out. The fact that we’re already a quarter of the way through the year is alarming, and I would love if time could, in fact, slow down. However, if we must fly through some allotted amount of time, it might as well be the cold winter months—for obvious reasons.

As I try to figure out how to slow time and enjoy each day—I’ll keep you posted on my findings there! I’m also taking stock of everything that’s unfolded in the first quarter of what can only be described as a very odd year. Odd, because let’s be honest, the world feels perpetually on fire, and this administration seems determined to serve up one chaos-filled headline after another. However part of the reason this newsletter exists is to offer a little escape, a breath of fresh air—so we won’t go too deep into that…at least not today.

Instead, we’re going to focus on the good things, the fun things, aka dining out and thoughtful shopping. I often joke that my main hobby is going out to dinner and trying new restaurants, but really it’s no joke at all. It’s truly one of my favorite things to do, and I am lucky to live in a city where I get to do it A LOT. The past few months have included some really great meals, as well as some fine, will-likely-never-go-back-there meals. Naturally, I’ll only be sharing the best best spots that are worth visiting here! Did I eat more burgers than I care to admit? Yes! Would I eat them all again? Probably!

Monkey Bar | Superiority Burger | Cafe Commerce

At the start of the year, I took a moment to assess my wardrobe—reflecting on the best best wardrobe staples of 2024, which is something I recommend everyone do at some point—ideally annually. Taking stock of what’s in heavy rotation helps you not only understand what was worth the investment, but also ensures the pieces taking up valuable real estate in your closet are doing their job. And if they’re not? It might be time to lovingly rehome them. Which is fine, and a necessary part of the personal style journey. After all, sometimes we outgrow the person—or rather the corduroys, we used to be! This is also a great reminder that I still need to share more about closet organization, clean-outs, etc.—a passion for another day.

Given how much joy—and surprisingly helpful insight, this little wardrobe audit brought me, I’ve decided I should be doing this on a more regular basis. So today, I’m sharing my best best buys from January, February, and March. Which includes many great essentials that have already become staples in my wardrobe.

So here we go, the best best bites and buys of Q1! Who knew reflecting on the first part of the fiscal year could be so fun?

Xx, my best best!

the best best: bites of Q1

The past few months have been filled with brand new spots, new to me spots, and then of course the regular spots that always hit. I even went on a dumpling tour in sub-zero temps. If that’s not dedication, then I honestly don’t know what is! Recapping the latest and greatest below.

the best best: new & new to me bites

Snail, Williamsburg — If there wasn’t the most annoying line to get into this place, I’d come here often! The menu is kind of perfect. The martini featuring an octopus gilda is everything, the chips and ham are simple but delish, the burger is next level, and the sundae was even better. This place could be the neighborhood go-to—if the line ever chills out—but also kudos to them for being so in demand!

Cafe Zaffri, Union Square — The vibes here are immaculate, and that’s really what you come for. Yes there were some highlights on the menu—like the bread & spreads and the cookie mezze, but if/when I return it will most likely be just for drinks. It’s a really chic spot, and definitely worth a visit to check out the space itself. It’s great for date night, gals night, etc., and I feel like this would also impress out of towners.

Sunn’s, Lower East Side — This is one of the best new spots! It’s quaint, it’s cozy, and it’s delicious. Everything was so good, but the baked ziti inspired tteokbokki in red sauce with was next level. I think about it often, and can’t wait to go back specifically for this dish. Great natural wines too!

Cafe Commerce, Upper East Side — I’m happy to report this was definitely worth the trip uptown. Lovely bistro vibes, and a menu filled with classic crowd pleasers. The burger should not be missed, and my only regret is that we did not get dessert. I will be going back with a a larger group to try more! Def a cute neighborhood spot for the upper east siders.

People’s, Greenwich Village — This place is a vibe! We came here for drinks ahead of dinner, and I can’t wait to go back for a proper night out. The space itself is chic, and the crowd is even better. Excellent martini, which is always appreciated!

Lodi, Midtown — I’ve been wanting to come here for a long time, and I can’t wait to go back again. Everything we ordered was delicious. The martini is served as somewhat of a “build your own” with a variety of pickled veggies and olive brine that you can add to your liking. The anchovies and butter should not be missed, but you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu. I want to come back here for a power lunch, someone please invite me to a business meeting soon.

Santa Fe BK, Williamsburg — If you’re from the Midwest, this is the Mexican place for you. It took us six years to try this place, and now I want to become a regular. They have queso, which is hard to come by in NYC, and the margaritas are not too sweet—which I love. The menu is small, but everything is excellent. They also have complimentary sopaipillas!

Romans, Fort Greene — I came here for dinner a million years ago, pre-COVID, so it was great to be back for a late leisurely lunch with some gals. The menu, the wine, the vibes, all perfect. Key takeaway, I need to come here more often!

Cecchi’s, West Village — Great date night spot, or double date spot, which was what brought us here! This place feels very New York in the best way—from the decor to the menu, to the people. I was also impressed that it was so packed on Wednesday night. People’s is right next door, so try to stack these two if you can!

the best best: quick bites

Apollo Bagels | Williamsburg — Dare I say the best bagels in NYC? Yes! They are so good, so perfect, so delish, etc. More people should do sourdough bagels, and the fact that neither side of the open-faced bagel feels like the bottom half? Is more than great baking, it’s science! lol All of their options are fantastic, but the simplicity of the tomato bagel with olive oil, is something I think about often. Worth the line, and the Williamsburg location is always pretty fast!

Nick + Sons Bakery | Williamsburg — I got here early on a Saturday morning when everything was still available, which I am told is rare. I grabbed an assortment of sweet and savory treats to take home, and honestly, they were all so good. The ham and cheese croissant was next level, however, the real star is their chocolate croissant—as it was right out of the oven. Definitely worth waking up early for!

Ciao Gloria | Prospect Heights — A great spot for a quick lunch. The sandwiches were so good, and the sweet treats were even better. I also thought the iced latte here was better than most!

The Dumpling Tour, Shu Jiao Fuzhou, Jin Mei Dumpling, Super Taste, Deluxe Green Bo | Chinatown — This was FUN! I love a food tour, and Chinatown is filled with so many gems. I highly recommend this exact line up!

the best best: buys of Q1

I feel like it should be noted that these were not only the best, but my only buys of Q1. The beauty of taking stock of my wardrobe was that I then felt satisfied with the pieces hanging in my closet. It also helped me identify a few gaps, which I filled below!

1. Dolce Vita Auggie Boots

These boots are now a true staple in my wardrobe. If you know me, you know I love a midi skirt—specifically a silk midi skirt, and these boots were my answer to wearing skirts all winter long. The perfect length and pairing to complete any skirt look! They are also a great price point, fantastic quality, and frequently on sale.

2. Gap 100% Cotton Oversized Boyfriend Sweater

Dare I say this is the perfect oversized sweater at a fantastic price point? Yes! It’s perfect, and I have worn it SO much. It’s the best sweater to throw on for running errands, but can just as easily be dressed up and worn with trousers for a chic monochrome look. Great for brunch or the office! Sadly other people caught word of this perfect sweater, and it’s nearly sold out. BUT here is another great silhouette from Gap, and another lovely option from DONNI here!

3. Sperry x Aritzia Slim Boat Shoe

When I saw the Miu Miu boat shoe for the first time I was shocked. Shocked that a) I now wanted a boat shoe and b) I was somehow trying to rationalize spending $1K on a pair of boat shoes. Needless to say, I was not able to convince myself, and I moved on with my life. Then I saw the Sperry x Artizia collab, and knew I needed to get my hands on a pair. I tracked down one of the final pairs at their store on 5th Avenue, and I’m happy to report I love them so much. They also look SO much like the Miu Miu version at a fraction of the cost. Sourced by Anna did an excellent breakdown here! Once again, the exact pair I have is now sold out, but the Sperry version here is just as good, and I’m now convinced I need the suede olive!

4. Pistola Cassie High Rise Straight Leg Jean

These jeans have been in HEAVY rotation, and I know they will continue to be all spring/summer long. They are the perfect rise—extra high, and a great wash to pair back with most things. Also at $168, I’m not sure these can be beat!!

5. FLORE FLORE Car Tee

I have been eyeing these tees for a long time, and when I saw them hanging at OUTLINE in Brooklyn, I was very happy to finally get to try them IRL. Needless to say, I’m obsessed. The quality is SO good, fitted, and great for layering. I love the thickness, and will definitely be picking up a few more colors and silhouettes from Flore Flore.

6. DONNI The Stripe Pop Drawstring Pants

Did you know I got these DONNI pants? lol I feel like I have really over shared these pants, and this outfit. BUT they must be included here because they are really that good. The perfect lightweight pant to take you throughout spring and summer. I love all things DONNI, and think that quality and price point can’t be beat. Alyssa, DONNI’s founder and designer, has really cracked the code on essentials that are elevated, can be dressed up, down, and are perfect for everyday life. Highly highly recommend!

7. This Perfect Vintage Dress

As they say, nothing haunts you more than the vintage you didn’t buy. So when I saw this dress at the Manhattan Vintage Show, I knew it had to be mine. Seemingly the dress for every occasion (?!) I can’t wait for her to make her debut!

8. Merit Complexion Stick & Brush

Not clothing, but worth the mention!! I am very passionate about skincare, but really know nothing about makeup. I have never been “good” at makeup, and my routine has always been minimal due to my heavy emphasis on skin. Enter Merit. I added a Merit blush to my routine at the end of last year, and that was the gateway I needed to refresh all of my makeup. After trying a full range, I can say the heroes are definitely the Complexion Stick and Brush. This duo is everything to me! Easy to apply/use, feels lightweight (i.e., not cakey) while still offering coverage. I’ll definitely be rebuying—along with their cream blush, and their packaging is luxe!