"11 must visit spots in NYC" By Greg Hernandez

So, you have a friend or a relative coming to the big apple for the very first time. Of course you want to show them non-tourists attractions; get them beyond the obvious and the mundane, show them the neat places that you hang out at.

Perhaps you wish to take a significant other to an awesome intimate venue for a date. 

Who knows, you may just want to check out a new spot. 

You need some suggestions, well...read on!

  I have compiled a list of eleven must see spots in New York City. This list represents a collective assortment of places I have visited and revisited over the last year.  So, in no particular order here goes!

• "Film Society of Lincoln Center" and "MoMA"- Yes Spring is finally here and there are plenty of things to do! Instead of going to spend unnecessary money at the multiplex, try something different. Experience new films in the New Directors/New Films at Walter Reade Theater and MoMA. The line up includes- "A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night," a black and white Iranian vampire film. "The Double," an adaptation of the Fyodor Dotoevsky novella, starring Jesse Eisenberg and Mia Wasikowska. "Dear White People," a satire about college campus integration. "Obvious Child," a Brooklyn-set comedy. "We Come as Friends" presents an inside look at life in South Sudan from a multitude of angles. "The Babadook" is an Australian horror flick. Its tasty spin on the haunted house form should be delightfully and interesting. Finally, "Return to Home," is a documentary with an immersive look into the Syrian hot spot.
  
  
•  "Strand Bookstore"- If you LOVE BOOKS then you must visit this special bookstore! What makes it special you ask? Well, first of all you can find nearly ALL titles for cheaper prices than many other bookstores in New York City. An exceptionally friendly and knowledgeable staff is happy to assist you. Why would they be happy? They love reading and talking about books, duh! A very expansive and organized store with up to three floors of books. Warning: entering this sanctuary may cause you to spend more time than you planned on. Also, you end up spending more than you thought, because well, the prices are so good and there are just too many books not to buy. You've been warned. One final caveat, I only buy books here that I either cannot find in the Library or deeply wish to own so I can re-read them.
  
  
•  "The Immigrant"- is a very small wine bar that has mastered the art of ambiance. This is the perfect place to take your significant other for some wine and conversation. A relaxed atmosphere with a good selection of wines.  Think you will have trouble finding a seat? Well, good news! The popularity of this wine bar has grown exponentially causing it to expand its business. Next door is the "The Immigrant Tap Room" which is a craft beer bar, which also contains a few wines on selections-(about 5).
• "Fat Cat"- a gem. Right off the 1 train on Christopher Street and located near West 4th street. Fat Cat displays the full repertoire-(Air Hockey, Backgammon, Billiards, Chess, Jenga, Foosball, Ping-Pong, Scrabble and an amazing improv Jazz band). 3$ cover charge. This is the spot to go to on a Friday night. I personally like to head here early in the evening around 7ish to avoid long waits for pool. However, if you're with a trio of friends. Yes, 3-4 is the perfect number; you can occupy yourselves by drinking, watching the jazz band perform, air-hockey, and Foosball. One caveat, this place DOES GET EXCEEDINGLY CROWDED. Get here at a decent hour, because if not forget it. Lines can stretch out from the bar and down to the street.
  
  
• "Wine Escape"- Yes, I love wine bars. Chile did this to me...go ahead and judge me! This cozy little wine bar located in Hell's Kitchen has an extensive selection of international wines. Tremendous service, I've only been here twice, but each time my water glass was continuously filled. This is a perfect spot for a first date or a catching up with a friend. Do not worry about finding a seat here. Be patient, people do not linger long. This place can be more on the pricey side; however the wine, the service, the ambiance and location validate the price.
  
  
• "Barcade"- is exactly what it sounds like, an arcade within a bar. A unique blend of craft beers and old-school video games. Typically, the games only cost a QUARTER! My friend Nj Agwuna suggested this spot to me. We came here on V-day with a group of friends and had an awesome time! TMNT! Nice spot in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. Clean bathrooms, lots of seating, hispter crowd and no cover. I'll definitely be visiting again for the Mrs. Pac-Man game. I will someday break that high score!
  
  
• "Joe's Pizza"- You'll remember this spot from the second Spider-man film. Have a friend that has never tried New York Pizza before? Normally you go to Brooklyn, but if you cannot make the trip, no worry there’s Joe Pizza near Union Square. Best not to go for plain here, they specialize in different brand of slices. Try the fresh mozzarella slice, the spinach slices and Sicilian slices.
  
  
• "Wayside Cafe"- Sure this is a major spot for NYU students-(20% off). However, that shouldn't stop you from visiting this neat little cafe. With its minimalist design, friendly staff, tasty sandwiches, treats, good dirty chai and wine why wouldn't you stop by? I come here once a month for the atmosphere and the location. Wayside Cafe is located near Union Square, which means it is near Strand's Bookstore and Amsterdam Billiards.
  
  
• "Shake Shack"- I had my last cheese burger here. Yes, I'm changing my diet. However, if you're still eating meat, and then by all means check this place out. It’s more on the expensive side but the amazing food and milk shakes make up for it. Bottom line is the long lines are there for a reason!
  
  
• "Beer Culture"- BEER!- Need I say more?
  
  Well there is my list! I hope the next time you're looking for cool places to check out in New York City you will consider some of these spots!