NYC Hotspots That Carrie Bradshaw Would Love
design: Miranda Fournier
The perfect “Sex and The City” inspired NYC trip.
by OLIVIA JACKSON ★ JANUARY 11, 2024
New York City has always been a playground for those in search of adventure, high fashion, and a taste of the glamorous life. No fictional character embodies this quintessential New York experience better than Carrie Bradshaw, the iconic lead character of the hit TV series, "Sex and the City." Carrie's undeniable love for the city and her passion for fashion make her the ultimate Manhattan insider that everyone wants to be. So… if you've ever dreamed of living the fabulous Bradshaw lifestyle, here are some iconic NYC spots where you can immerse yourself in Carrie's world.
Treasures of NYC
First on the list, Treasures of NYC is an authentic designer vintage store located in the heart of SoHo and its interior is nothing short of a visual masterpiece. The moment you step inside, you're transported to a world where fashion and art converge. Carrie would undoubtedly find herself drawn to the treasures in this boutique, as it’s a paradise for those who appreciate the timeless allure of high fashion. The store has extensive collections of handpicked exclusive designer pieces. I definitely envision Carrie, Samantha, Charlotte, and Miranda spending the day here with a cocktail to play dress up.
2. Birdland Jazz Club
On a particularly romantic evening, you might catch sight of Carrie and Mr. Big seated in Birdland Jazz Club. Birdland is a renowned jazz venue in the Theater District of Manhattan, known for hosting both established and emerging jazz artists. It provides a mix of intimate ambiance and a rich history, making it the ideal spot for a date night. I imagine Mr. Big would serenade Carrie here by singing, “It Was A Very Good Year” by Frank Sinatra to her, just like he did in the original series (Season 2 Episode 8, it’s a must-watch.) Picture yourself in their shoes while you enjoy cocktails, live music, and an evening of love.
3. The Polo Lounge
When it comes to exclusive experiences, Samantha Jones, a Public Relations professional and Carrie's best friend, is the go-to woman. She would no doubt score the group a reservation at The Polo Lounge, an iconic restaurant owned by renowned designer, Ralph Lauren, and located in Midtown Manhattan. The rich ambiance, inspired by Lauren's signature Western interior design, would guarantee them a luxurious night of fun. The girls would definitely enjoy an expensive dinner here, dishing gossip over a bottle of champagne as per usual. And you can too! The Polo Lounge is a must-visit destination if you want to enjoy a dinner surrounded by classic American-style designs with a touch of old-world charm.
4. Chelsea Market - Artists and Fleas
Next up, Carrie would be drawn to the Artists and Fleas section of Chelsea Market because of its unique fashion finds and the vibrant scene it offers. As a fashion columnist with a keen eye for trends, she would take the opportunity to explore handcrafted and vintage clothing, accessories, jewelry, and art. The marketplace's creative atmosphere and diverse range of vendors could inspire her writing, and would allow her to uncover stories behind the fashion and lifestyle choices of the artists and designers featured there. This would be an outlet for Carrie where she would be able to combine both her passion for fashion and storytelling. Chelsea Market is a must-visit if you enjoy discovering unique goods and art created by independent artists and designers.
5. Bubby’s
If you've ever watched “Sex and the City”, you know how important the morning debrief was over brunch for Carrie and the girls. Bubby's, located in SoHo, has a cozy yet chic atmosphere. It offers classic American comfort food and a diverse menu which would have been a perfect backdrop for those iconic friend group moments. Just like Carrie and her posse, you can gather here with your own friends to discuss life, love, and everything in between–over french toast and mimosas nonetheless. As if it couldn’t get better, the cherry on top is that there is a vintage photo booth in the basement of the restaurant! Carrie and her girls would go down after brunch to take pictures and there's no reason that you shouldn't either.
And just like that, the spirit of "Sex and the City" lives on in these iconic New York City hotspots. Whether you're seeking vintage treasures, romantic evenings with live jazz, exclusive dining experiences, creative inspiration, or simply the perfect brunch debrief, each of these locations are sure to be a good time. So, as you plan your perfect NYC trip, be sure to explore these destinations and indulge in the glamor, style, and spirit of the city, just like Carrie would.