Restaurant: Halal Cart, Chambers & W Broadway, New York NY

Great breakfast, cooked to order. Friendly owner. Delicious. $

Bar: The Modern, New York NY (at MoMA)

Lean, clean decor in this classic and classy bar. Free wi-fi. Check out the arty bathrooms. $$

http://www.themodernnyc.com/

Restaurant: Bubby's Pie Shop, New York NY (Tribeca)

A gem for brunch. U.S.-inspired menu, including fabulous huevos rancheros and cheese grits. Sourdough pancakes that are fluffy as all get out. Good bellini; great blood orange mimosa. Don't plan to eat for the rest of the day. $$

http://www.bubbys.com/

Hotel: Smyth Hotel, New York NY

Another ultra-modern hip property. Beautiful, quiet large rooms (we had a 3rd-floor corner). Bathroom was larger than most NYC apartments. Room service needs some refinement. $$$$

http://www.thompsonhotels.com/

Restaurant: Strip House, New York NY

Don't come here if you don't want steak. We mean it. Super wine list and friendly regulars, surrounded by vintage opera singer publicity shots. Don't miss the creamed spinach with truffle. $$$$

http://www.striphouse.com/

Restaurant: Landmarc, New York NY

Varied menu in this classic place in Columbus Circle. I mean, marrow bones, boudin noir and sweetbreads? Plus several interesting salads. Don't miss the ricotta and mozarella fritters--light as air. Apple sorbet was phenomenal. $$$

http://www.landmarc-restaurant.com/twc/