Chef Jeremie Tomczak Guide to 24 Hours in New York

Begin in Brooklyn, with brunch

“If you’re in the city over a weekend, a great way to start is with a stop at gertrude’s in Prospect Heights. For me, a repeat order is The Big Nosh. It’s got everything you want from a breakfast platter – latkes, eggs, smoked salmon salad schmear and a bagel. Or, as they call it, ‘your bubbie’s bagel spread on a plate’. What more do you need? Except maybe Gertie’s ‘Borscht’ Bloody – the most amazing beet bloody mary.

Then amble on to Union Square

“After brunch, allow your feet to lead the way. A little stroll through Union Square Farmers Market never disappoints. Stall after stall is laden with the freshest summer produce. A true feast for the eyes (and eventually bellies). Don’t forget to bring a tote!”

Loosen your belt buckle, tuck into a comforting lunch:—

“If you’ve got room, I highly recommend grabbing a table at Saigon Social in the Lower East Side. Dishes on their modern-yet-traditional Vietnamese (rotating) menu will fill you with a deep, warm embrace. I ate there about five months ago and haven’t stopped thinking about it since. The food is familiar, yet different. And their hospitality lends the perfect finishing touch.”

No trip to New York...

“Would be complete without a sandwich (and more) from Katz’s. Always a staple. Always delicious. And now open all day, all night on the weekends! During summer months, grab your Katz’s order to-go, hop on the F train for three stops and unwrap for that first bite in Brooklyn Bridge Park, with beautiful views of the city as your backdrop. And for those seeking more, Dumbo is right next door.”

Some wine before you dine

“Legendary spot. Wine. Tapas. Picky bits. Tasty bits. Need I say more?”

Drinking foods are drinks’ best friend

“I love Wildair. Their beef tartare is one of my favourite dishes. That and the tempura fried scallop wrapped in shiso leaf. The food they serve is creative and delicious and some of the best bar food in the city. Their love for their craft comes through in every bite. If you find yourself in NYC, it would be a folly to leave without trying.”

“Welcome to my home away from home. As someone who spends a lot of time here (albeit behind the pass), I certainly have menu recommendations to share. During the cooler months, it has to be the Beef Bourguignon. You can’t go wrong with it. In summer, stop by on a Friday and order the Plat Du Jour – Bouillabaisse – with confidence. Or, the Poulet a la Diable (for those who prefer land over sea!).”

End the day with a new beginning

“For a night in New York there’s just so many places to choose from. I like The Carnegie Club where you can settle down with a scotch and a cigar. I’ve met some great people here and struck up conversations that have gone well into the night. You’ll find people from all walks of life and it truly feels like New York in the 90s – there’s a realness. So, sit back. Relax. And take in New York!”