A Quick Overnight in NYC
đź“Ť West Village, NYC
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Sometimes, the best trips are the ones planned at the last minute. For David’s birthday, we decided on a spontaneous overnight stay in New York City—a mini staycation that allowed us to indulge in some of our favorite spots while discovering a few new ones. Even though we visit the city often, there’s something special about waking up in Manhattan and savoring the energy of a full 24 hours in town.
Check-In at the Park Lane Hotel
Nestled along Central Park South, the Park Lane Hotel offers a blend of old-school glamour and modern comfort. We checked in mid-morning, instantly charmed by the sweeping park views and elegant, recently refreshed interiors. The location alone makes it a perfect home base for a short stay, putting us within walking distance of our itinerary while providing a quiet retreat from the city’s non-stop buzz.
Lunch at Empire Diner
For lunch, we made our way to Empire Diner, a Chelsea staple with a retro aesthetic and elevated comfort food. The art deco exterior sets the tone, while the menu offers a fresh take on American classics. I opted for the truffle grilled cheese, while David went for their signature burger—both perfect choices for fueling up before an afternoon of exploring.
Drinks at Café Chelsea
After lunch, we stopped for an afternoon drink at Café Chelsea, a new favorite tucked inside the historic Hotel Chelsea. The intimate, European-inspired space is effortlessly chic, with a menu of well-crafted cocktails and a relaxed yet refined atmosphere. It was the perfect setting to toast to David’s birthday before heading back to the hotel.
Relaxing in the Room with Brennan
One of the unexpected perks of this quick getaway was having time to simply unwind in the room with Brennan. With floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the park, we let her nap while we took a moment to recharge. These slower moments always remind me that not every trip needs to be packed with activities—sometimes, just being present in a beautiful space is enough.
Dinner at Saint Theo’s
For dinner, we headed to Saint Theo’s in the West Village, a spot I’d been wanting to try. The atmosphere was lively yet cozy, with candlelit tables and a menu filled with Venetian-inspired dishes. We shared a few plates, including the cacio e pepe and the branzino, both of which were delicious. It was the ideal place for a celebratory meal—intimate yet full of energy, with an unmistakable New York charm.
Coffee from Sant Ambroeus
The next morning, we started our day with coffee from Sant Ambroeus, a ritual I never skip when in the city. The Upper East Side location is my go-to, with its elegant yet approachable ambiance and perfectly made cappuccinos. A quick breakfast of a cornetto and espresso was all we needed before heading off to soak in some art.
Exploring the MoMA
No trip to New York is complete without a bit of culture, and the Museum of Modern Art never disappoints. We spent the morning wandering through the galleries, taking in masterpieces from Van Gogh to Warhol. Even though we’ve visited countless times, I always find something new to appreciate—whether it’s a temporary exhibit or just seeing a favorite painting in a different light.
Lunch at PJ Clarke’s
Before catching our train home, we stopped for lunch at PJ Clarke’s, a true classic that feels like stepping back into old New York. The dimly lit, wood-paneled space has been serving up its legendary burgers since 1884, and it still maintains that timeless charm. We grabbed a cozy booth by the window, ordered their famous bacon cheeseburgers with a side of crispy fries, and soaked in the lively, no-frills atmosphere. It was the perfect way to wrap up our stay—unpretentious, delicious, and full of the kind of history that makes the city feel so special.
Though our time in the city was brief, it was exactly what we needed—a refreshing break from routine and a reminder of why we love spending time in New York. There’s something about waking up in the city, indulging in favorite spots, and embracing those unhurried moments that always leaves me feeling reenergized. Even though we visit often, these overnight stays have become a ritual of their own, offering a deeper appreciation for the city’s endless charm. And as we boarded the train home, I was already looking forward to planning the next one.
Love from NYC,
Katie
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