The neighborhood offers world-class retail, from the luxury flagship stores likes Saks, Bergdorf Goodman, and Bloomingdales, to designer boutiques. Fifth and Madison Avenue draw tourists from all over the world, while more accessible options sit further east along Lexington and Third Avenues. Interior Design enthusiasts should not miss the design stores, clustered around East 58th and 59th. The Decoration and Design Building (known as the “D&D Building”) is home to over 100 showrooms; historically it is open only to the trade, but trade professionals may accompany their clients. The New York Design Center is more accessible, welcoming consumers to over 100 showrooms and hosting design panels and events.

Midtown East is not all about work - it has culture too! Don’t miss a visit to the Museum of Modern Art, the Japan Society and the New York Public Library. Many of the city’s most desirable private clubs are also in this neighborhood, although you will need to be invited by a member. Our favorite is The University Club (where Kate and Frank had a beautiful winter wedding!). Stop and say hi to Eloise at The Plaza, and enjoy the delightful food hall downstairs or tea in the Palm Court (which even has a children’s tea menu!).

The neighborhood has an abundance of dining, from casual to upscale. Some of our favorites include:

• Sushi You: We were reluctant to even include this small sushi restaurant because it is a well-kept secret. While it might look like a hole in the wall, and you may even walk past without noticing it, Sushi You is as authentically Japanese as it comes. Watch Japanese music videos, read Japanese papers, or get to know the husband and wife team who run the restaurant, all while eating the freshest fish at a reasonable price. Just don’t tell your friends.

• Le Bernadin: Yes, it is expensive, but it arguable serves the best seafood dishes in the world. In 1981, chef and owner Eric Ripert opened Le Bernadin at its current location and within two years the restaurant earned two Michelin stars. Today it has 3.

• Aquavit: For such a renowned fine-dining restaurant, we love that Aquavit is comfortable and even has a reasonably priced menu a-la-carte menu at the Bar Room. The modern Scandinavian food is all beautifully presented but most spectacular are the desserts.

• Smith & Wollensky: With its timeless appeal and lively vibe (some say it can get a little too loud), Smith & Wollensky is a quintessential New York experience and a must-visit for steak lovers. You won’t find a better-cooked porterhouse or ribeye, and when paired with the velvety whipped potatoes and creamed spinach, it’s a meal that will have you coming back, time and time again.

• Avra Madison: Located at 60th and Madison Avenue, Avra is an upscale Greek restaurant known for its elegant décor and lively atmosphere. The menu showcases Mediterranean flavors with a modern twist.  Here are a few of our top menu items: the Classic Spread Meze plate (our 3 favorite spreads are the tzazaki, tarama and fava), you can’t go wrong with the tsipoura, a delicate white fish, and for dessert, don’t miss the olive oil cake with figs.