32nd Birthday in the City
📍 Upper East Side, NYC
32nd Birthday in the City
Button-Down || Shorts || Sneakers || Tote Bag || Sunglasses || Earrings
As I turned 32, I knew I wanted to celebrate my birthday in the city that never sleeps, embracing the vibrant energy and endless possibilities that New York City has to offer. From Downtown’s chic happy hours to the elegant Upper East Side, my birthday weekend promised to be a magical experience. Join me as I take you through every moment of my special celebration, filled with dining, jazz beats, art appreciation, and a touch of classic NYC glamour.
Part 1: Downtown Delights
Happy Hour at Bar Pisellino
Kicking off my birthday celebrations in style, David and I gathered at the charming Bar Pisellino in Greenwich Village for a delightful happy hour. The intimate ambiance and Mediterranean-inspired cocktails set the perfect tone for the evening ahead. Sipping on Negronis, we laughed, reminisced, and gave appreciation for being back in the Northeast.
Dinner at Frenchette in Tribeca
For dinner, we ventured to Tribeca and dined at the critically acclaimed Frenchette. The restaurant’s warm ambiance and delectable French fare made for an unforgettable dining experience. From the rich escargot to the mouthwatering duck, each dish was a celebration of culinary artistry. This was our first time visiting Frenchette, but I know it won’t be the last. I’ve been raving about it anyone who would listen.
Jazz Night at the Django
To cap off the night in Downtown, we made our way to The Django, a hidden gem in the heart of the Roxy Hotel. The sultry jazz beats and cozy setting transported us to a bygone era of sophistication and allure. Sipping on expertly crafted cocktails, David and I got lost in the music. This is definitely one of our favorite places to celebrate special occasions and will always have a special place in my heart.
Part 2: Upper East Side Elegance
Early Hours at the MET
On the morning of my birthday, we were back in the Upper East Side, a neighborhood that will always feel like home. To begin the festivities, we started at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, drawn by the allure of a new Van Gogh exhibit featuring his mesmerizing cypress paintings. Last year, we had the privilege of exploring Provence, the region that served as inspiration for some of Van Gogh’s most famous works. I think this made the exhibit even more meaningful. Definitely visit if you find yourself on 5th Avenue this summer.
Birthday Bellinis at Sant Ambroeus
After the MET, we made our way to the renowned Sant Ambroeus on Madison Avenue for some breakfast cocktails. This has become a bit of a tradition for me. I love standing at the bar with my drink, chatting with David, but all the while watching very stylish people come and go. To mark the occasion, we toasted with classic Bellinis, the perfect blend of prosecco and peach nectar. It’s the perfect place to cool down before venturing out again into the June heat.
Lunch at Dorrian’s
Okay, this one is kind of a guilty pleasure. David and I both our frequent lunches at Dorrian’s. Although it’s sometimes known as a “preppy” late-night hangout, it’s much more laidback for the lunch crowd. This iconic neighborhood pub has been a staple since 1960, and stepping inside felt like stepping back in time. Sip on a great, but no-frills Bloody-Mary while you snack on their Bacon Jam Burger. It’s become one of my favorite combinations!
Cocktails at Bemelmans
Since it was almost time to catch the train back to Connecticut, we made our way to Bemelmans Bar at The Carlyle for one last stop. My closest friends know that this is my favorite spot maybe in all of New York. I just soak up the one-of-a-kind murals from Ludwig Bemelmans and the sheer history of the space. Seriously, if these wall could talk. We chatted with our favorite bartender, Johnny, as I had my signature round of drinks. I start with the JFK Daiquiri and end with the Jackie O. It’s not an ode to the Kennedy family isn’t intentional, although definitely appreciated. I just love both drinks!
My 32nd birthday in the heart of New York City was a true celebration of life, love, and the boundless opportunities this incredible city offers. From Downtown’s chic cocktails and jazz nights to the elegance of the Upper East Side’s art, cuisine, and cocktails, each moment was filled with joy and beauty. As I reflected on the past and looked forward to the future, I felt grateful for the memories created and the love shared with those who joined me on this unforgettable journey. Here’s to another year of adventure and embracing the magic of NYC!
Love from NYC,
Katie
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