Need a midweek pick me up? You don’t need to trek all the way to Williamsburg or Chelsea to brighten your day. Just hop on the 1 to 72nd St. to sample a few of my favorite things right in Columbia’s backyard.
Sabon’s lovely soaps and scrubs
Pop into Sabon for a respite from the clamor of Broadway. You’ll swoon when you see the walls brimming with colorful soaps and lotions, but it might be tough choosing just one of the divine scents. Rose tea? Lemon mint? Or maybe lavender apple? You really can’t go wrong. Step up to the luxurious golden sinks to sample their offerings. You’ll leave feeling refreshed and free from all that subway grime.
Choco Bolo’s coffee and cocoa
Tired of scarfing down coffee in Butler? Take your work to Choco Bolo at 71st and Broadway instead. The tufted velvet booths, wrought iron chairs, and faceted mirrors will transport you to Paris without leaving the Upper West Side. Sip a cappuccino or a mug of their famous hot cocoa to cheer up even the dreariest day.
Olive and Bette’s girly-girl heaven
Olive and Bette’s flowering trees and candy-striped walls may be garish, but they always put a smile on my face. The selection of cozy James Perse tees and airy Joie dresses doesn’t hurt either (Not to mention the wall filled with AG jeans!).
Magnolia Bakery’s legendary cupcakes
For a sweet treat, stop in at Magnolia Bakery’s Upper West Side outpost on Columbus Avenue. Immortalized by Sex and the City, Magnolia is the perfect old-fashioned sweets shop. I can never resist the glass cases brimming with layer cakes and cookies. Try a banana cupcake with chocolate buttercream, or sample the decadent peanut butter toffee bars. Everything is to die for.
