Where to Stay: The Michelangelo
has
a luxurious feel of understated European elegance. This boutique
hotel possesses a classical flair throughout every facet of
its operation, service and presentation. European artwork
adorns both public and private space. Carpentry features original
designs from the Renaissance period. Fine imported fabrics,
including lush velvets and silks, are utilized throughout.
The lobby at The Michelangelo is a magnificent space of Italian
marble, original French paintings, custom rugs, a dramatic
crystal chandelier, and unusual objects d'art. Touches from
Italy include classical music and opera in public areas, newspapers
and an Italian Buon Di breakfast, as well as Baci Perugina
chocolates at turndown. Many hotel employees are fluent in
Italian, as well as French, Spanish, and other languages,
making both domestic and international guests feel right at
home.
Day
1
Ino: Don’t let the diminutive size of Ino
fool you this Italian wine bar serves up munchies that are
huge on taste! Lone lunchers or small groups are most common
here, and you will see many worker-bees who have dashed out
for a quick noontime bite. Favorites are the creative sandwiches
and the classic bruschetta. Light appetites should try the
Panini, which comes in variations such as prosciutto with
soft Italian cheese and sweet onion or roasted vegetables
and goat cheese
Take in a Broadway Production of “Chicago” at The Ambassador:
This revival of the 1975 Kander and Ebb musical is about love, murder and fame. It follows Roxie Hart who gains notoriety when she kills her boyfriend. A fun adventure through bribes, lies, fame and fun as she defends herself..."AND ALL THAT JAZZ", through this romping sexy musical. Some of the best dancing seen on Broadway in years. 219 West 49th Street.
Dinner
at Tavern on the Green:
Located off the glorious expanse of Central Park's Sheep Meadow,
Tavern on the Green is deservedly one of New York's most famous
restaurants. The leafy, airy patio comes alive on summer nights
as diners graze under the twinkling stars and Chinese lanterns,
a heartbeat (and yet, a world) away from the hustle and bustle
of the City. The menu is French at heart, but stays true to
the worldly tastes of the half-million or so patrons who pass
through its fairytale doors each year. 1 West 67 St., New
York NY; Tel. 212.873.3200
Horse-Drawn
Carriage Rides:
Year-round, One of the most romantic and popular ways to see
Central Park is from a horse-drawn carriage. Visitors enjoy
this year-round, even during the winter months. The carriages
can be found lined up along Central Park South (59th Street)
between Fifth and Sixth Avenues, at the southern end of Central
Park across from the Plaza Hotel. For more information, call
212-246-0520.
Day
2
Loeb
Boathouse: In season, at Central Park's Loeb Boathouse
you can rent rowboats or take a ride in an authentic Venetian
gondola. It is located on the park's east side between 74th
and 75th Streets. Sit down for a romantic lunch at the waterside
café (the signature seafood salad is a must).
Shopping at Tiffany & Co.: 
Tiffany's
heyday was around the turn of the last century, when Louis
Comfort Tiffany, son of store founder Charles Lewis Tiffany,
took the reins and began designing his famous lamps and sensational
Art Nouveau jewelry. Today, the big stars are Paloma Picasso
and Elsa Peretti. Three stories are stacked with precious
jewels, silver accessories, chic watches, stationery and porcelain.
727 Fifth Ave at 57th St (212-755-8000).
She’ll never forget dinner at the Rainbow Room: Located on the 65th floor of 30 Rockefeller Plaza, the Rainbow Room is a rare combination of glamour, elegance and classic Italian cuisine. While black-tie is preferred at this New York landmark, guests are welcome to dine on roast duckling a l'orange and tuna tartare in sophisticated dark suits. The revolving ballroom is one of the grandest rooms in all New York, offering sweeping views of the city while guests trip the light fantastic. 30 Rockerfeller Plaza, 65th Floor, New York, NY 10112.
Shake that thing at Swing 46: You don't have to throw on a zoot suit or a poodle skirt to make the scene at this midtown bastion of retro, but it certainly will enhance the vibe. Seven nights' worth of bands that jump, jive and wail await you, so be sure to wear your comfortable dancing shoes. Regular bands have names such as Nick Palumbo and the Flipped Fedoras. Live music starts up at 10pm, and dancing is de rigueur. 349 W 46th St between Eighth and Ninth Aves (212-262-9554).
