Last month I traveled to NYC to show my 2012 Resort Collection at one of the biggest accessory shows in the world. I used to live in the city and had such a great time going back. NYC never ceases to inspire and excite me, and I thought I’d share some of my favorite places -

EAT

NYONYA
199 Grand St
 
Coming from Malaysia, it’s not easy to impress me with Malaysian food but this restaurant has some of the most authentic food I’ve eaten out of the country. Don’t forget to order the Char Kway Teow.

BARBOSSA
232 Elizabeth St.

I stumbled upon this teeny Brazilian cafe while shopping in Nolita and fell in love with it’s unpretentious vibe and delicious caipirinhas. The cold tomato soup was perfect for a hot summer day and my DH loved his pressed sandwich.

BILLY’S BAKERY
268 Elizabeth St.

You know a place is good when you get there and almost everything has sold out. Luckily I managed to snag a vanilla cupcake with chocolate icing. The calories were definitely worth it!

LE BATEAU IVRE
230 E. 51st St., New York, NY 10022

It was raining and ten at night when my DH and I found this lovely french bistro. Extensive wine list, beautiful people, and delicious fries. It’s open until 4am so is perfect if you have a midnight craving

SHOP

I’ve been so busy preparing for Kayu’s Resort 2012 Collection that all the stores I find myself  gravitating towards feature floaty caftans, ikat scarves and cotton sarongs.

ERICA TANOV
204 Elizabeth St

This breezy store sells adorable children’s clothes, bed linens and floaty peasant tops perfect for a day at the beach.

CALYPSO ST-BARTH
280 Mott Street

I could meander through this shop all day and never tire of the colorful tunics, embellished handbags and one-of-a-kind jewelry.

RAG & BONE
119 Mercer Street

Hands-down this store wins the award for best customer service. The sales assistant was incredibly attentive and patient as my hubby picked out some items for Fall. Great denim, sharp shirts and cozy knits.

SEE

METROPOLITAN MUSEUM OF ART
Alexander McQueen Exhibit. Enough said.