“Get ready to step into the world of A-list glamour as we take you on a journey through the ultimate city guide, curated by none other than the charismatic duo, Neil Patrick Harris and David Burtka. As the co-authors of the newly released MICHELIN Guide, this power couple is about to reveal their insider’s scoop on the best of New York City. From the most Instagrammable restaurants to the hidden gems and secret spots, Neil and David are about to spill the beans on all the must-see and must-do attractions that will make your trip to the Big Apple an unforgettable adventure.
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Neil Patrick Harris and David Burtka are just one of the few figures in the world who truly embody the spirit of a city. As multi-hyphenates with a presence that extends beyond the screen, they have taken to the digital world with their latest venture, Wondercade. This new platform is a testament to Harris’s wit and humor, making it a must-visit for anyone looking for a unique take on food and drink.
Burtka, on the other hand, will be returning to the stage this autumn with a cabaret premiering at iconic nightclub 54 Below, directed by Harris. This is just one of the many ventures they are involved in, including perfecting the espresso martini with Thomas Ashbourne and hitting the kitchen in support of charity.
While the duo often makes headlines on and off the red carpet with their idyllic Instagram posts featuring their family and pets, we wanted to get the inside scoop on where they go in Gotham. In this exclusive interview, they share their favorite spots in the city, from flower shops to fine dining restaurants.
Flora + Fauna
For Harris, one of his favorite blocks in the city is 28th Street between 6th and 7th Avenues, affectionately known as the “floral pocket of Chelsea.” Here, you’ll find a plethora of flower shops, including Dutch Flowerline and Foliage Garden. Harris loves starting his morning at Dutch, picking out beautiful flowers to decorate the house, and ending it at Foliage, selecting a new tree, specimen, or orchid to add to their collection.
For those looking for a public green space to sit and observe, Harris recommends Central Park, the largest and most nature-driven park in the city. If you’re looking to engage in a bit more information on the greens you’re observing, the NYC Botanical Gardens is a must-visit.
Food + Beverage
For Harris, food must be broken down into three parts: food shopping, casual dining, and fine dining. When it comes to food shopping, he frequents the Union Square Market, which is packed with local food purveyors and seasonal goodies. He also swears by Breads Bakery for his bread, always visiting after the Greenmarket on 16th.
When it comes to casual food, Harris loves takeout, with his top picks including Thai Villa, Nom Wah for Chinese, Sugarfish for sushi, Joe’s for pizza, Tacombi for Mexican, and Bhatti for Indian. For dessert, Anita Gelato and Crumbl are his go-to spots. For lunch, S&P Sandwich Shop is a must-visit.
For fine dining, Harris turns to the MICHELIN Guide, which he uses to discover the hottest new restaurants and timeless classics. His top picks include Per Se, Gramercy Tavern, Rezdora, Jungsik, and Coqodaq.
Books
For Harris, books are a vital part of his daily routine, and he has a few favorite spots in the city where he likes to indulge in a good read. His top three places for books are Strand, Lincoln Center, and a store that he loves for its eclectic selection.
Strand is a iconic bookstore in NYC, and Harris loves browsing its shelves for a specific book or simply moseying about to find a beach read for his next vacation. As an actor, Harris is constantly looking for new material to consume in order to stimulate his creativity, and Lincoln Center provides him with the perfect space to read and watch archival Broadway footage.
The store that Harris loves for its eclectic selection is one that he describes as a place where he went in wanting nothing and came out with his hands overflowing and wallet drained. It’s a testament to the power of bookstores in bringing people together and inspiring new ideas.
Galleries
One of the unique aspects of NYC is the access to world-class art within walking distance of your apartment. Harris loves exploring the city’s many galleries, from the Met to the Guggenheim, and discovering new artists and styles.
For Harris, galleries are not just a place to see art, but also a way to experience the city’s vibrant culture and community. He loves attending gallery openings and events, where he can mingle with artists, collectors, and other art enthusiasts.
Some of Harris’s favorite galleries include the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), the Whitney Museum of American Art, and the Brooklyn Museum. He also loves visiting the many street art murals and graffiti that can be found throughout the city.
Alumni in the Field
ICE alumni have been making waves in the culinary world, with many of them receiving Michelin stars for their restaurants. One such alum is Samuel Clonts, who graduated from ICE in 2012 and went on to become the chef and owner of 63 Clinton.
Clonts’s restaurant, 63 Clinton, was awarded one Michelin star in the 2022 guide, and Harris couldn’t be more proud of his former classmate. Clonts’s menu features dishes inspired by his travels and experiences, including smoked corn with razor clams and caviar, and Berkshire pork short rib with shishitos.
Another ICE alum who received a Michelin star is Amanda Cohen, who graduated from the Natural Gourmet Institute and went on to become the chef and owner of Dirt Candy. Cohen’s restaurant was awarded one Michelin star, and Harris loves her creative take on plant-based cuisine.
Cohen’s menu features dishes such as portobello mousse, zucchini soup dumplings, and Peking peas, all of which are made with seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. Harris loves the creativity and passion that Cohen brings to her cooking, and he’s not alone – Cohen was also named the best chef in New York State at the 2022 James Beard Awards.
Michelin Starred Restaurants
The 2022 Michelin Guide to NYC was a big deal, with 17 new restaurants receiving one star and 63 Clinton and Dirt Candy being two of them. Harris was honored to be a part of the live reveal, which took place on the 101st floor of 30 Hudson Yards.
The event was hosted by Harris and David Burtka, and featured chefs from the boroughs and beyond. Harris was thrilled to see so many of his former classmates and friends receive recognition for their hard work and dedication to their craft.
Some of the other Michelin-starred restaurants that Harris is excited about include Eleven Madison Park, which was awarded three Michelin stars, and the Musket Room, which retained its star. Harris loves the creativity and passion that these chefs bring to their cooking, and he’s always excited to try new dishes and restaurants.
Conclusion
As we conclude our exploration of Neil Patrick Harris and David Burtka’s ‘New York is the Ultimate City Guide’ in partnership with the MICHELIN Guide, it’s clear that this dynamic duo has left no stone unturned in revealing the hidden gems and must-visit hotspots that make the city that never sleeps unlike any other. From artisanal eateries to world-class museums, Harris and Burtka’s insider knowledge has demystified the city’s complexities, providing an unparalleled guide for both locals and visitors alike. Whether it’s a leisurely stroll through Central Park, a night out in the West Village, or a shopping spree on Fifth Avenue, their expert curation has highlighted the perfect blend of culture, entertainment, and indulgence that New York City has to offer.
The significance of this guide extends far beyond a simple travel itinerary, as it captures the essence of what makes New York City a beacon of diversity, creativity, and resilience. By showcasing the city’s unique neighborhoods, iconic landmarks, and vibrant cultural scene, Harris and Burtka’s guide serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of this great city. As the city continues to evolve and adapt to the changing times, their guide provides a valuable snapshot of the city’s essence, reminding us of the importance of preserving its history, embracing its diversity, and celebrating its unwavering optimism. As we look to the future, it’s clear that New York City will continue to be a place of endless possibility, where creativity knows no bounds and the possibilities are limited only by our imagination.