Taste The Real NYC

So you’re coming to the NRF Foundation Student Program and it is your first time in NYC. New York has been my home for six years now – so let me tell you what the travel bloggers won’t say:

Flashy Doesn't Mean Flavorful

The best meals in this city come from places you’ve never heard of. The beauty of hole-in-the-wall spots lies in the kindness of the staff, the lower prices, and the shorter lines. Some of my favorites? Wo Hop, Rowdy Rooster, Cafe Himalaya, Wah Fung, and the many food trucks around Queens and Brooklyn—like El Rey del Taco and King Souvlaki. Need more recommendations? Apps like Beli and Reddit can help you find the best eats in any neighborhood. My favorite areas to grab a meal include Chinatown, Long Island City, and Greenpoint.

The Best of the City

From the lights of Times Square to exploring Brooklyn and Queens, open the door to the culture and people that make New York unique. Catch the 7 train to see all that Queens has to offer—from the waterfront parks of Long Island City to the attractions of Flushing Meadows Park, or the culinary hubs of Jackson Heights and Flushing. A quick ride south can take you on an architecture tour of Brooklyn Heights, through the botanic gardens of Prospect Park, or on a thrifting adventure around Greenpoint and Williamsburg.

Shopping 5th Ave & Beyond

Wander down 5th Ave and browse the flashy shops and brands along Broadway. Immerse yourself in spaces like Showfields, The Strand, Dover Street Market, and the new Printemps—or explore the hundreds of clothing boutiques tucked into downtown blocks. Swap the basic NYC souvenirs for rare finds at shops like Fishs Eddy, John Derian, Exit9, Big Night, and Lockwood. See what thrift treasures you can score at L Train, Awoke, and vintage shops around the boroughs. These creative hubs that keep retail fresh and exciting are what make New York unique.

Retail's Big Show

Considering visiting Retail's Big Show? There is so much to see. Make connections, gain insights, and preview tomorrow's retail technology at retail's biggest trade show.

I can’t wait to see you in NYC for the NRF Foundation Student Program.