Discover Midtown's Hidden Experiences on Kikihub
Foodie_NYC
I had a great dinner at Kalye (“Street” in Tagalog). It’s an amazing, affordable Filipino restaurant on Broome Street specializing in Filipino street food. Kalye, a small, unassuming restaurant, delivered an amazing parade of unique, delicious food based on the owner’s chef heritage, as seen on the restaurant’s page. “Our menu is full of Rob’s cherished family recipes, offering a variety of mouth-watering dishes that will make you feel like you’ve traveled straight to the Philippines. From our famous Ube Sliders to other traditional Filipino favorites, every bite is a celebration of our culture and love for good food. Whether you’re here to dine in, taking food to go, or having it delivered to your doorstep, Kalye makes enjoying Filipino food easy and convenient.” Totally enjoyable unique experience. Salamat, Chef 💖🙏🏼💖
Dallas fun fam
Pumpkin patch Any good pumpkin patches with kid activities?
Time Out New York
Grand Central Terminal gains a massive French brasserie! However, this historic landmark has given us plenty of reasons to bide our time there... This month, the terminal gained another tenant, sure to ease the trials of traveling with its Parisian charms. Grand Brasserie took over the former City Winery space on October 8. Designed by the Rockwell Group, it seamlessly blends into the historic architecture of Vanderbilt Hall and mimics the various sidewalk cafes found in Paris—the front of the restaurant welcomes with towering greenery and black and white bistro chairs. Passing through the wrought iron bar entryway, the main dining room houses red leather banquettes and enough chairs to seat a staggering 300 souls. As if that wasn’t enough, the 100-seat Green Room is decorated with black and white photos of New York’s past and features a grand marble bar with bottles that climb up to the ceiling.
Melanie Yu
My “NYC Must Try” 🥳 Double Chicken Please! The Double Chicken Portrait Studio & Gallery experience came full circle through a 3-part portrait studio activation, where photographers Moe Aljaff, Damien Guichard & GN Chan captured small group portraits in their own distinct styles!
megan li
Get ready for incoming NYC spam… I’m not the biggest fan of BBQ pork buns, but these from Mei Lai Wah changed my mind. I want to take home an entire suitcase full of pineapple BBQ pork buns 🤩 You can get all their signature buns like their baked pork buns and pineapple custard buns - they are seriously so good. Plus new options like popcorn chicken, rice rolls, and skewers after 7pm!
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Cheryl
this szechuan spot just opened in the lower east side, nyc. right by delancey you can satisfy your szechuan cravings with their gorgeous interior. each dish was delicious and had strong flavor. • thin sliced pork belly with chill garlic sauce • egg custard bun • tradition stewed pork belly cubes • superior dry fried crab szechuan style • stir-fried string beans with minced cabbage and garlic • wagyu beef black truffle fried rice • handmade brown sugar glutinous rice cake 📍Fan Szechuan 大宅门
New York Locals
The Commodore I and Commodore II are iconic spots known for serving up some of the best crispy fried chicken and refreshing piña coladas in Williamsburg. 🍍✨ Founded by Chris Young and Taylor Dow, their success led to Commodore II’s opening in Manhattan’s East Village, bringing their famous menu to a whole new crowd. 🙌 With a strong focus on community and nightlife, Commodore II is already becoming a local favorite for both food lovers and partygoers alike. 🪩 🍽️ Stop by for a lively atmosphere, great eats, and a taste of what made The Commodore a Brooklyn staple! 🎉
See also
Dining in South Beach Near NYC: Local Insights on Trending Spots & Foodie Favorites
Natasha Surti
Sundays are for Brunch 🥂 🍽Where I went: Bubby’s ✔️What I got: Fried Chicken & Pancakes 💰What I paid: $25 ⠀ 🤔What I think: A group of us happened to stumble upon Bubby’s while walking to the pier on the west side last summer and we knew we wanted to go here for brunch when we walked past someone eating this very dish! The chicken was seasoned perfectly and had just the right amount of breading on the outside so the batter on the outside wasn’t too heavy. The pancakes were cooked to perfection as well and the sweetness of them with the maple syrup complemented the fried chicken.
Foodie_NYC
For my birthday dinner, I chose to go to Momokawa, my favorite Japanese restaurant in the city. While somewhat hidden from the city’s sushi limelight, Momokawa provides a top-notch, holistic Japanese culinary experience. Led by its owner, Chef Mie Okuda, a Japanese holistic nutritionist, the restaurant follows her philosophy as stated on its website: “A great meal is not one that just fills you up. A great meal is a journey that returns you to sources of pleasure you may have forgotten, taking you to places you haven’t been before.” — Mie Okuda, Chef/Owner I had the sushi Omakase dinner and couldn’t be happier. The welcoming, warm hospitality, the great vibe, and the amazing food left me more than satisfied. Thanks, Chef Okuda. 💖🙏🏼💖
Noel Y. Calingasan
Halloween House in Dyker Heights This house in Brooklyn is all decked out for Halloween. The best house in Brooklyn so far.
Time Out New York
Halloween revelers of all ages—and all species—will descend upon the Meatpacking District on Saturday, for the area's annual Halloween celebration, Treats in the Streets. From 11am to 6pm, the west side neighborhood will offer all treats and no tricks at participating restaurants and businesses, including pumpkin ring toss, pumpkin tic-tac-toe, cornhole, pumpkin painting Halloween mask making, spooky storytime readings and plenty of sweet treats, including mini dipped croissants from Maman, Petrossian chocolates and signature tea, Halloween cookies from RIVIAN, mini apple cider donuts at The Standard, High Line and more. And, of course, Treats in the Streets' headlining event will return: the Meatpacking District’s 6th Annual Doggie Costume Contest, taking place on Gansevoort Street and Ninth Avenue. After both pups and their owners strut down the runway showing off their costumed best, a panel of judges will decide the top three looks of the day. The winner will receive an overnight stay at The Standard, High Line, while all three finalists will take home a personalized pet portrait by artist Laura Baran.
Noel Y. Calingasan
Autumn is a season that can be a powerful reminder of the transience of all things... Today, I strolled the grounds of the historic Green-Wood Cemetery in Brooklyn. Once a Revolutionary War battlefield, this sprawling, 478-acre cemetery is home to notable figures.
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Secret NYC
Elsewhere Halloween Our favorite Bushwick club Elsewhere is throwing down a massive party for Halloween this year. This year’s festive celebration will take over the entire venue, featuring artists like Soichi Terada (live), Aurora Halal, Analog Soul, Lauren Lo Sung, and many more! Follow Elsewhere’s Instagram for more upcoming shows this fall! When: Oct 26
Time Out New York
Are you ready for such a beauty?? Sistine Chapel: The Exhibition New Yorkers itching to see the Sistine Chapel's ceiling painted by Michelangelo usually have to embark on an eight-and-a-half hour flight to Rome before finding their way to the Vatican City. But the special slice of history is going to land in Brooklyn in an immersive exhibit. Michalangelo's Sistine Chapel: The Exhibition is touching down in Industry City through January 5, 2025, after stints in London, Shanghai, Toronto, Chicago, Vienna and other cities around the world. The exhibition features 34 of the famous frescoes reproduced in precise detail with bold color and enhanced details to give visitors a fuller experience than they would get if they visited the Vatican, where the artwork towers a staggering 66 feet above the main floor and where details can get lost if you don't have hawk-like vision. Tickets range from $22 to $26.
See alsoDiscover the Vibrant Community in South Beach Near NYC: Local Discussions, Networking & Events
Infatuation
Do you like to go out with your pup?) Habana Outpost has a huge fenced-in patio. This Fort Greene spot also serves perfectly serviceable sandwiches, tacos, and quesadillas, and nothing on the menu costs more than $16. If you're looking for reasonably-priced food and outdoor seating, and you don't want people to get mad at you when your kids or dogs start acting up, you're going to appreciate this place.
Infatuation
ICONYC Long Island City The plaza at this Long Island City brewery is filled with picnic tables, and you can bring your own food. So think of this place as a paved public park that just happens to serve IPAs and coconut pale ales that are brewed on site. During the winter, some of the outdoor seating is heated.
Daytrip NYC
Hi New York! We are a family of Belgium coming to visit your city. I'm very much looking forward to visit this big city and getting a taste of your culture. Every family member has to take care of the food during a day and I would love to hear your tips. The day I'm responsible of is Tuesday 29th of oktober. We'll probably be visiting Brooklyn and that evening we will also attend the basketball match Brooklyn Nets Vs Denver Nuggets at 19.30 in the Barclays centre. We're no picky eaters, no allergies or diets. I'd love to hear your suggestions! Everything is welcome, world kitchen, American kitchen. Budget is not very important but not too expensive. We're a group of 8. Thank for the tips and we'll be there soon!
NYC Tourism
Can you identify this NYC building?
Food Baby
One of the best restaurants to open this year! CHLOE is back in the SAME location where she originally opened By Chloe. Your best new lunch / quick dinner option in the area, so many things here are so good. The Butternut Nachos are a must to start, the Classic Burger is one of the best vegan burgers in town, and every salad is so good, especially the Quinoa Taco Salad. And all the cookies are a must for dessert! Will be here for lunch all the time. 👶🏽🥗 👌🏽👌🏽👌🏽👌🏽
Melanie Yu
Foxface Natural is a natural continuation of Foxface sandwiches. We're going wild and natural! During Halloween week 10/30-11/3 Foxface Natural will be offering a five course special wild game menu (with an optional blood & guts focus for Halloween).
Storytime NYC
Bronx Music Hall's grand opening The Bronx Music Hall, a $15.4 million venue in Melrose, is now open. It's the first newly constructed independent music performance venue in the borough in more than 50 years. Located at 438 East 163rd Street, the spanking new 14,000 square-foot Bronx Music Hall hosts a 250-capacity theater, a lobby and exhibition hall, a dance studio, a recording studio, an amphitheater for outdoor performances, and more. Special events are being held all weekend to honor the opening. Visit the Bronx Music Hall's website for more information and updates on programming.
See alsoLocal Networking Events and Trendy Community Gatherings in South Beach Near NYC
Food Baby
🚨 The best ice cream in New York, now available in Brooklyn‼️ The big new Caffè Panna in Greenpoint. Get the new Granita but of course you can’t go wrong with the daily specials, soft serve and affogato sundaes. Seeya here soon 🫡 👶🏽🍦 👌🏽👌🏽👌🏽👌🏽
New York Locals
New Japanese Record bar in Chelsea Market!🎶🎤 N’ Between Super cute vibes inside - perfect for a little yap sesh 🗣️ We loved the japanese influence & thought all the drinks were very unique. didn’t get to try much of the food here, but we did order the tots & thought it was pretty solid!
Cheryl
Kyuramen recently released new menu items and the presentation is gorgeous. They were so delicious. Everything on the yakitori platter was so flavorful. You can never go wrong with a bowl of ramen, but why settle for one broth when you can have two? • honey comb platter • yin-yang bowl • yakitori platter • seafood kamameshi rice • eel kamameshi • matcha pudding w/ red bean • thai iced tea • amazing lemonade 📍KYURAMEN - Flushing (they have other locations as well!)
Natasha Surti
So MUSH ROOM in my ❤️ for you 🍄 🍽Where I went: Barbounia ✔️What I got: Wild Mushroon Khachapuri 💰What I paid: $23 ⠀ 🤔What I think: For Galentine’s day last weekend, I went to Barbounia with some friends. All 3 of us ended up getting the mushroom khachapuri because we had never had it. This was basically kind of like a flatbread filled with fresh mozzarella, ricotta, truffle paste, sage. It also had 2 slow poached eggs on top of it. It was super decadent and left me stuffed for the rest of the day. Would definitely recommend trying this dish if you haven’t already.
Noel Y. Calingasan
A flock of floral sheep grazing on the Upper West Side of Manhattan 🌸🐑🐑🐑🐑🐑🌼 This morning’s flower flash on the Upper West Side of Manhattan. Sheep are dressed in their finest flower fleeces and grazing on custom-made bridges under babbling brooks.
New York Locals
Charoen Krung Thai is bringing the vibrant flavors of Bangkok’s famous Charoen Krung Road to Midtown East! 🇹🇭 Founded by Avirut Lerddirekrat, this restaurant pays homage to one of Thailand’s oldest and most culturally rich streets, blending traditional Thai recipes with modern Asian flair. ✨ Signature dishes like Hunk-Lay, Hor Mok, and Nam-Yar Crabmeat take inspiration from Bangkok’s renowned street food, offering an authentic taste of Thailand right here in NYC. 🍲✨Whether you’re craving bold flavors or a welcoming dining experience, Charoen Krung Thai is the perfect spot to enjoy a fusion of heritage and innovation in the heart of the city. 💛
Foodie_NYC
Shakshuka. The best breakfast in the world! I had brunch this Sunday at Tara and I came for the Shakshuka, a Mediterranean tomato stew with eggs. Yummmmmmmm. Definitely the best breakfast in the world. Rich. Spicy. Yummy. Filling. They definitely do it well at Tara… You know you want it…
See alsoDiscover the Best Cocktails in South Beach Near NYC: Top Local Cocktail Bars & Trending Rooftop Bars
megan li
Last of my NYC pics from a while ago! This meal will forever live in my heart… Japanese and Peruvian? What an interesting combo that works so well together. Their ceviches are a must order and the katsu was the most well fried and moist I’ve ever had. A very enjoyable meal with Jibae!
Noel Y. Calingasan
Last Saturday, I went to see Hall des Lumières’ inaugural exhibit, Gustav Klimt: Gold in Motion for the second time. The exhibit is a thematic journey through the golden, sensuous, and revolutionary art of the Viennese painter, created exclusively for Hall des Lumières by an artistic team led by Culturespaces Digital’s Gianfranco Iannuzzi. Klimt’s The Kiss, Portrait of Adele Bloch-Bauer, and Lady with Fan are among the works featured in the digital experience designed to bring guests through Klimt’s prolific career while perfectly complementing the marble walls, towering columns, stained glass skylights and coved ceilings of the permanent art center. The venue sets this exhibit apart from the other similar exhibitions that I have seen previously.
Discover the Heart of Midtown: Uncover Local Experiences Near NYC
Trending Experiences for Food Lovers
Midtown Manhattan is a treasure trove of culinary delights waiting to be explored. Whether you're in the mood for gourmet dining or craving some street food, the area has something for everyone. Start your food journey at Hell's Kitchen, renowned for a diverse range of international cuisines. From spicy Thai dishes to Italian classics, Hell’s Kitchen is the perfect spot to experience the melting pot that is NYC.
For a more upscale experience, visit the Michelin-starred restaurants that pepper the area. Le Bernardin and Gabriel Kreuther offer impeccable service along with exquisite dishes. These restaurants are perfect for those who want an unforgettable dining experience. But don't dismiss the local favorites like Joe’s Pizza and Shake Shack, where the food is just as delectable but won't break the bank.
Nights Out in Midtown: Navigate the Nightlife Scene
Midtown isn't just a hub for business and daytime activities; it comes alive after dark with a bustling nightlife. For a drink with a view, head to rooftop bars like The Skylark or 230 Fifth. These spots offer spectacular views of the city skyline and are perfect for socializing with friends or impressing a date. For those who prefer a more low-key setting, Try Vintage bars like Jimmy's Corner, known for its authentic New York vibe and reasonably priced drinks.
Love live music? Don’t miss out on Jazz at Lincoln Center or the hidden speakeasy-style bars like The Rum House, where you can enjoy some fantastic live performances. For those in search of something trendy, check out the latest pop-up bars and immersive cocktail experiences that frequently set up shop in Midtown. With a plethora of options, the nightlife here ensures your evenings are as exciting as your days.
The Best Spots for Socializing and Meeting New People
Midtown is not just about solo adventures—it’s a fantastic place to meet new people and socialize. Bryant Park is a popular local spot for activities like ping pong, yoga, and even pop-up markets. It’s an excellent place to strike up conversations with locals and fellow travelers. Besides, it’s a common venue for unique events like outdoor movie nights and holiday markets, providing numerous opportunities to mingle.
For a more structured social experience, join one of the many meetup events happening around the area. Groups ranging from language exchanges to niche hobby clubs frequently gather in Midtown, offering a plethora of ways to connect with people who share your interests. The Kikihub website can be an invaluable resource to tap into these social experiences, as it offers anonymous chats to gain real opinions and insights about local happenings.
Explore Hidden Gems and Uncommon Spots in Midtown
Think you’ve seen it all in Midtown? Think again. Venture beyond the typical tourist spots to discover some hidden gems that provide a unique window into the local culture. The Morgan Library & Museum is one such gem, offering a serene escape with an impressive collection of rare books and manuscripts. It’s a lesser-known but incredibly enriching experience.
For the adventurous, the Escape Room experiences in Midtown are top-notch and an excellent way to spend an afternoon with friends. If you’re fascinated by architecture, take a stroll down Tudor City Place to admire the beautifully preserved early 20th-century brownstones and enjoy a respite from the urban hustle.
Local Insights and Secret Spots to Elevate Your Experience
If you want insights straight from the horse’s mouth, locals can offer some of the best tips. Did you know there’s a hidden elevated park called Greenacre Park between 2nd and 3rd Avenues? This small but lush park features a stunning waterfall and is a peaceful enclave perfect for reading a book or simply relaxing. Another secret spot is the Whispering Gallery in Grand Central Terminal where you can whisper into the corners and hear each other across the arches—a fun and quirky piece of NYC history.
Utilize Kikihub to access valuable local insights and real opinions, making your exploration more fruitful. Conversations with seasoned Midtown residents can lead you to treasures like secret art galleries or low-key brunch spots away from the usual crowded places. Through anonymous chats, gain recommendations that aren’t available in any guidebook.
