NRF’s Big Show is galloping towards us. It’s an ideal post-holidays chance to catch up with customers, learn from peers and take a look at the latest retail tech innovations.
But seeing as we’re all in a city that merited Frank Sinatra’s most well-known song, it’s also a great chance to venture beyond the Javits Center and take a bite from the Big Apple.
We’ve pooled the opinions and preferences of a handful of NRF veterans, gathering together a quick list of alternative places to fuel up or wind down. Whether you’re looking to schmooze or just grab a non-Starbucks coffee give you that extra boost before a day full of meetings, have a read of our top recommendations.
Otherwise, we look forward to seeing you at the show – Booth# 1910.
MORNING/LUNCHTIME
This place prides itself on its ‘private blend’, which comes from Gillies, ‘The oldest roaster in America’ – and if you’re a cold brew convert then you’re covered too. A chilled-out spot to satisfy your morning java needs, or somewhere to pick up a sandwich, bagel or cake without having to stray far from the Javits.
*455 West 34th Street
*6 minute walk
A ‘farm to table style café’ with a Mediterranean twist to the menu, and another option for your pre-show Cup o’ Joe. A smorgasbord of food choices has you covered, whether you need a grab ‘n’ go pastry or want to sit down and breakfast properly with a cooked meal.
*504 West 42nd Street
*9 minute walk
Healthy choices can be limited at the conference, but they certainly aren’t at Sunac. This organic-first deli / market has a huge choice of salads and sandwiches, as well as a smoothie and juice bar – just in case you need a vitamin boost.
*600 West 42nd Street
*11 minute walk
POST-SHOW
‘Grandma’s House’ serves classic Italian dishes, from salumi to steaks and bruschetta to branzino. And some superb pizza, of course. Ideal for a team dinner after a long day on your feet, particularly with happy hour at 5-7pm, Mon-Fri. Head there straight from the show, and check out the $6 blood orange margaritas.
*310 West 38th Street
*11 minute walk
If you’re looking for somewhere quintessentially New York – or just a venue to wine and dine a customer – then Keens Steakhouse takes some beating. Opened in 1885, this famed restaurant has an old school wow factor and dangerously good steaks. You’ll need to hop in a cab, but it’s worth the journey.
*72 West 36th Street, NY 10018
*15 minute cab
As the name suggests, this place is where you go to cut loose. Think team celebration at the end of NRF. Hop heads will be delighted with the rotating selection of craft beers (20 on tap, at time of writing), plus there are plenty of wines and cocktails, and a hearty array of sandwiches. And if you get away from the Javits Center early, Happy Hour runs from 3 until 6pm every day of the week.
*637 10th Avenue, at 45th Street, NY 10036
*13 minute walk