True to its name, the big apple can feel a little daunting to visit at times. It’s huge and sprawling and easily one of our favorite places to spend Christmas and New Years. With the holidays approaching, we thought we’d ask one of our local team members what to explore. Vice President of Wholesale North America Daphne settled there a couple of years ago and is our go-to guide for the city. Read on for her definitive list of must-visits and why she loves them.

Ice Skating: Bryant Park Winter Village
You can find this winter wonderland right outside our showroom on Bryant Park. The giant ice skating rink, with a bunch of holiday stores and eateries will surely lift your holiday spirits. Cozy up at The Lodge with hot chocolate to watch the ice skaters lit by the beautiful tree.

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Coffee Bar: Suited
It’s all in the name… The owner, Andrew, is from a family of tailors in Australia. When I’m not traveling you will find me here for breakfast or lunch. Tailor-made coffees and healthy lunch options like homemade soups and salads.

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Wine Bar: Compagnie des Vins Surnaturels
This is where my weekends off start. Candlelight, low tables with velvet chairs, French wines and charcuterie makes you imagine yourself in a bar in Paris. Guess the mystery glass on their extensive list and win the bottle. Trust me, you won’t…

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Cocktail Bar: Overstory
Skip that helicopter ride. Located in my neighborhood, this jewel box of a room on the 64th floor in downtown Manhattan is where I like to take friends. With access to the terrace that encircles it, you’re in for a cocktail with an unbeatable view.

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Restaurant: Vinegar Hillhouse
It’s a great walk over to this place, starting on the Manhattan side of the Brooklyn Bridge and ending up here. I love the retro vibe of the restaurant, and they serve the BEST pancakes for brunch.

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Bakery: Crispy Heaven
As a Dutchie, I miss my “Broodje Kaas”. Not only is the bread here fantastic (a rare thing in NYC) but the almond cake is pure unadulterated joy as well!

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Dessert Bar: Sweet Rehab
Whenever I have the chance to show this place to people, I will. Located in my old neighborhood Soho, this is the number one patisserie in NYC in my opinion. Refined sweets with herbal tea or a glass of champagne – you can’t make me happier!

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Restaurant: Tartine
Right in West Village, this idyllic French-oriented spot has around 15 seats and allows you to BYOB. Nothing awe-inspiring, but if you are looking to eat well without breaking the bank, this is it!

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Restaurant: One White Street
Located at 1 White Street in Tribeca in an old 19th century townhouse, this farm-to-table restaurant is a true gem. The chef is a veteran of Eleven Madison Park and Paris’ Frenchie. The bold food and great wines, together with a gorgeous interior and the R&B music they play makes you want to come back as soon as you leave the door.

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Shore: Christmas
The best ornament shop in NYC. On Mulberry Street in Little Italy, this store has all the holiday goods, from avocado-shaped baubles to shiny tree-toppers. There’s even a Christmas museum on the lower level, if you want to know the history of decorated Christmas trees (they date back to the 1500s, there’s lots to learn!).

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