A New York City Guide by Jade Lerner

New York is a city you grow into—and then it seems to grow with you. I moved here from Montreal in 2022 for medical school, married my husband in 2024, and am currently doing my residency on the Upper East Side. Now we get to experience the city through the most meaningful lens yet: as parents to our baby boy, Jack (born on Christmas!).

This guide is a collection of the places that make NYC feel like home to us—coffee shops we spend our weekends at, bakeries we plan our walks around, and neighborhood gems we return to again and again. It’s equal parts practical and personal, with a heavy emphasis on good food, great walks, stroller-friendly favorites, and spots you’ll crave long after you leave.

Whether you’re visiting for the weekend or newly planted in the city, these are my tried-and-true New York favorites.

Stylish mom pushes a stroller and walks her dog in NYC

Mom smiles with raised mug, wearing her baby in the Solly Wrap Carrier in a coffee shop

UPPER EAST SIDE

Coffee/wine bar: Bomboniera

Bakery: Michaeli Bakery - YUMMIEST chocolate rugelach

Snack/Coffee: Butterfield Market – Love their hazelnut coffee and frozen yogurt

Lunch: Milano Market – Best spot to grab a sandwich before walking through Central Park. The chicken caesar wrap is a favorite of mine, but I also love the Mari special.

Dinner: Elios - A classic UES Italian restaurant. Kid and family friendly but not so stroller friendly. Great spot to wear your wrap or carrier! You MUST get the chicken parm and tortellini.

Smoothies: Goodsugar

Sweets: Bonbon candy – AKA kid and mama heaven!!