Where to eat, stay and go in New York City this winter

Marsanne

Marsanne opened this May and is intent on bringing a different side of the Adriatic Mediterranean coast to New Yorkers with its eclectic and luxe cuisine.

The restaurant is all about offering a balance of rich and delicate flavors with traditional Middle Eastern fare like Labneh, Za'atar and spices, plus a touch of elegance in its cozy and warm set-up right around the corner of 8th Avenue.

If you can get one of their desserts, they're a must-try (specifically the Tiramisu or the ice creams), and any of the entrees or mains featuring egg are highly recommended!

Commerce Inn

Few restaurants are as cozy, charming, and exemplary of fall vibes than is the Commerce Inn, which sits on one of the most quaint and quiet corners of the West Village.

The far more lowkey third restaurant of famed New York City restaurateurs Jody Williams and Rita Sodi, who own the celebrity favorites Via Carota and I Sodi, Commerce Inn stands out from its two flashier — though certainly also just as worthwhile — counterparts because of its unassuming but unique character.

As opposed to the Italian Via Carota and I Sodi, Commerce Inn is Shaker-inspired, and serves rustic dishes reminiscent of a colonial American tavern such as country pork chop, shaker beans and cod cakes inside its cabin-like interiors.

This season only

© Getty Images

Just in time for the magical fall and Christmas season in New York, the famed Luna Luna amusement park, the world's first art amusement park, is making its grand opening in the city on November 20 at The Shed in Hudson Yards.

It's only the second city to host the carnival's revival after it debuted in Los Angeles last year, almost 40 years after it was initially erected for just seven weeks in Germany before its attractions designed by renowned artists such as Salvador Dalí, Jean-Michel Basquiat and Keith Haring were put away in storage for decades.

Purchase tickets here

Fresco by Scotto

Fresco by Scotto has been a New York institution since its 1993 opening, a family-run establishment that prides itself on serving up traditional flair with a modern spark.

Owned and operated by the Scotto family, this restaurant is the perfect spot to bring a group of your loved ones for an occasion that can only be described as "hearty," with its menu boasting many highlights of modern Tuscan cuisine and regional Italian flair.

Plus, chances are that you might see some of the patrons (and owners) break out into a dance party if you find yourself there at an opportune time, there's never a dull moment at Fresco. Plus it's a favorite of New York-based TV stars like Kelly Ripa and the hosts of the Today Show.

Daisy Dukes Honky Tonk NYC

© Daisy Duke's Honky Tonk NYC

The newly opened Daisy Duke's Honky Tonk on 47 Stone Street brings a bit of country flavor to FiDi's commercial nook, and you best believe it's the place to always be down for a good time.

The ground floor provides a lineup of live country music on most nights, and the "Buffalo Bar" serves classic cocktails and beers plus comfort food (fried chicken, anyone?). Upstairs, the "Rodeo Arena" features a second bar for more eclectic drink options, plus the "Copper Canyon Train" style booths and semi-private room "Rustler's Roost" with antique treasures throughout.

Sarabeth's new opening

© Kathryn Sheldon

Iconic Sarabeth's has just opened a brand new restaurant in the heart of Greenwich Village, and it's well worth a visit! The two-storey location is the perfect venue to grab their notoriously popular brunch, or dinner. The upscale venue is ideal for a celebration or catch up with friends and offers something for everyone. 

We highly recommend their rosemary gruyere popovers for starters, accompanied by the most delicious velvety tomato soup with cheddar cheese and dill. Steak, oysters and salmon make up the mains for your protein fix, but save room for dessert - it's hard to choose with milk and cookies, raspberry bread pudding and a seasonal crostata all on offer.

Enjoy a meal with a view at STK

© STK

STK has several locations in New York City, including a downtown location with an impressive rooftop overlooking the waterfront. The restaurant is an ideal place to go for a celebratory meal at any time of the year, but they always shine when it comes to the holidays.

Just days after Thanksgiving, the popular restaurant dropped a festive menu complete with a range of special cocktails such as Santa's Egg Nog, a Toasted Marshmallow Old Fashioned, and a Holiday Martini — complete with a candy cane. 

Grilled octopus, pan seared scallops and duck ghocchi with parmesan cream, butternut squash, oyster mushrooms and brussels sprouts all feature. Other classics from STK available all year round - such as the lobster mac and cheese, truffle fries, and of course, steak.

Stay in the heart of the city at the citizenM Hotel SoHo

© citizenM

citizenM hotel is ideal for choice if you are planning a pitstop visit to NYC and needing somewhere centrally located. With a rooftop bar and within walking distance to Little Italy, China Town, the Lower East Side, as well as SoHo – to name but a few must-see neighbourhoods – it couldn't be more ideal for a first or second time visit. Rooms are modern and operated by an iPad, controlling everything from the temperature to lighting and blinds. 

The self check-in service makes for an easy arrival after a long journey, and you have the option of a Brooklyn or Manhattan window view depending on availability. There is also a buffet breakfast that will set you up nicely for the day, with everything from eggs to bagels and croissants on offer. 

What's more, the hotel is currently leading a Sleep Like a Champion campaign, making it easier than ever to fall asleep while away from home. You can check it out here

Enjoy a taste of luxury at JFK's Virgin Atlantic clubhouse

© Virgin Atlantic

Next time you're traveling from NYC, treat yourself to the ultimate hassle-free journey with Virgin Atlantic. Their JFK Clubhouse is the perfect place to relax in before a long flight, complete with an entertainment zone, showers, luggage storage and a complimentary a la carte menu with plenty of tasty American-style dishes on offer. 

These include chicken wings, burgers, flatbreads and salads, while desserts range from baked New York cheesecake to the clubhouse's signature cookie. To help with any pre-flight nerves, there is also a vast range of complimentary drinks, from mocktails to cocktails – their Virgin Redhead is a must try. 

Passengers with an Upper Class ticket or those who are Flying Club Gold Card members all get access.