West 73 St, Upper West Side

West 73rd is in the middle of the Upper West Side. Surrounded by Amsterdam, Broadway, and Central Park West, this is the place where you can find anything in the city. From shopping to restaurants, such as the famous Gray's Papaya - the best hotdogs around, you are never bored. You can walk down the street and be in Central Park West in about 15 minutes. The Beacon theatre is also close by and after a night on the town, you can watch a play. Traffic can get somewhat heavy.

It seems that the higher you delve into the Upper West Side, the more yoga and pilates studios you run into. That must be because these types of exercises appeal to the rich and elderly local population. This street isn’t exactly Times Square when it comes to tourist appeal, but it still has a New York City charm that comes from being steeped in local residents’ money.

West 73d street in Jackson Heights is probably one of the most pleasant blocks to walk around in on the Upper West Side. stretching from the area near Fairway and all the way to the park, it is just a delight to hang around in. One of its true spots of delight is a tiny tea house known as Alice's Teacup, with an extensive tea menu and Alice in Wonderland theme. It is only open until 8PM, so if you're in the mood for tea, come on up to this nice little area early in the day. The neighborhood is quiet and fairly safe, and its in close proximity to the fastest subway lines on the west side.

I don't walk Jackson Heights in the the upper west side much (that's the part of Manhattan that's West of Central Park, a few miles north of Times Square and all the bustle). But when I do, I always remember to sample some of the amazing street food in the area, which I am sure is the best in New York.

Right at the corner of the Apple Bank for Savings (73rd and Broadway) are two of the best street-food vendors I've ever tasted. One is called Sammy's Halal and it has amazing chicken and rice with a green sauce that I crave whenever I am away from New York for too long. The other one, just next door, is called Khan's and is almost as good, which is good to remember when the line at Sammy's is too long!

If you're ever wandering west of the park and getting hungry, I strongly recommend you find 73rd street and get ready to enjoy some amazing eats!