Expert Tips From a Local Concierge

Nobody knows a city like the local concierge team. With the inside track on all the best places to dine, shows to see and things to do, they’re a wealth of knowledge for all travelers. We talk with a top local hotel concierge in New York City to get the inside scoop on all their expert tips.

Anabela Moumdjian, Chef Concierge at Equinox Hotel

WG: What are your best tips for exploring NYC like a local?
Moumdjian: Always ask your hotel Concierge for advice; they are the keys to the city and can give you the best recommendations in your area and everywhere else in the city.

WG: What should be on every visitor’s “bucket list” when visiting?
Moumdjian: I always recommend doing one observation deck, seeing at least one Broadway show, and taking a boat tour. These are very New York things to do.

“Hamilton” Marquee on Broadway (©Sudan Ouyang)

WG: What’s an excellent spot to capture a great selfie?
Moumdjian: I always suggest the corner of 34th Street and 7th Avenue for a perfect photo with the Empire State Building and the corner of 42nd Street and 5th Avenue for one with the Chrysler Building.

WG: Where’s the best place to take kids of all ages?
Moumdjian: I highly recommend one of the multi-sensorial exhibits like Artechouse and SuperReal.

WG: For a guest looking for a night on the town, what would you recommend?
Moumdjian: A drink at a bar with a view, a nice dinner at Electric Lemon, the restaurant at the Equinox Hotel, and then going to listen to some jazz at one of the legendary jazz clubs in the city.

WG: Any suggestions for the best under-the-radar sites or uncommon things to do?
Moumdjian: I have my own itinerary for exploring the streets of Greenwich Village; I have it saved on my computer and always give it to my guests and friends who ask where to go walking.

Greenwich Village (©Emmanuel Kontokalos)