New York City is never more electric than on marathon day. Tens of thousands of runners fill the streets with spectators cheering them on in each of the city's boroughs during the annual New York City Marathon, taking place on Nov. 1. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the five-borough race.
Brooks Nader, the 29-year-old swimsuit model who stars in the reality show "Love Thy Nader" and Fox's upcoming "Baywatch reboot," won't be among the runners who cross the finish line. Instead, the West Village resident will be cheering from the sidelines in Manhattan -- and she has tips for those traveling to the city to do the same.
"Listen to everyone around you, look into restaurants and shops, take the wrong street, stop somewhere because it looks interesting," says Nader, a West Village stalwart. "The best part of New York is everything happening in between where you thought you were going."
Here are her top picks in Manhattan for hotels, restaurants and shopping.
Where should people start their day?
Either boxing at Gotham Gym or grabbing coffee from the cutest little spot called Oslo. It's very dependent on how late we were out the night before. I'm very loyal to my coffee spots. Once they know my order and call me sweetie, I feel like I'm back in [my home state of] Louisiana.
What's for breakfast?
Bubby's [in Tribeca], and you have to get the pancakes. There will probably be a line, but the second the pancakes hit the table, you'll understand why you waited.
What's your favorite cultural stop in the city?
The Frick. It's so beautiful and intimate and feels much sexier to me than spending five hours trying to conquer a giant museum.
Where would you recommend for lunch?
My sisters and I are at Anton's in the West Village literally a few times a week. The handcut angel-air Francese pasta is like a religious experience.
Where do you go for some peace and quiet?
I love finding a cozy hotel lobby or tiny wine bar, putting my phone on do not disturb, ordering a glass of wine and sitting in a corner. Finding a little nook where nobody bothers you feels like the ultimate luxury. Portrait Bar at the Fifth Avenue Hotel is a great spot for that vibe.
What's your favorite spot for an afternoon drink?
Dante Aperitivo on Bank Street is so sexy and cozy. It has the best energy for an afternoon drink that accidentally turns into date night or three more drinks with your girlfriends.
What's your favorite hotel?
Fouquet's, without question. It's basically my home away from home in the city. The rooms are gorgeous, the spa is amazing, the staff is wonderful. And the martini at Titsou, their hidden little bar, is insane.
What's the best happy-hour spot?
Bemelmans. Get dressed up, order a martini and people-watch. It's old-school New York and always feels a little glamorous and mischievous, exactly how a pre-dinner drink should feel. If you want something more casual, the sidewalk terrace at Bar Pitti is fantastic. It's casual, authentic, and delicious. Just make sure you have cash, because they don't take cards.
Where would you send someone for dinner if they only had one meal in the city?
4 Charles. Come hungry and don't even think about trying to make the meal healthy.
What's your favorite place to continue the night?
Paul's Casablanca. Or go the complete opposite direction and play pool in a great dive bar with new friends. Both are equally valid New York nights.
Your favorite hidden gem?
Jefferson Market Garden. You can be in the middle of the West Village with a million things happening around you, walk through the gate, and suddenly it's completely peaceful. It's one of those places you could walk past a hundred times without realizing what's inside.