**Disclaimer: this article was written in partnership with and belongs to The Tuscany - A St. Giles Signature Hotel.
No matter what the season, occasion, or time frame, there’s nothing like the photos that come from a trip to New York City. But with so many iconic spots amid its expanse of skyscrapers, how can you know what to document first? While you probably already know about Times Square and Central Park, New York offers a vast expanse of untapped gems that are just begging to be photographed. Below, we outline our top undiscovered destinations that will snag you tons of double-taps on social media.
1. Jack's Wife Freda
You have to start the day off right in NYC with a hearty breakfast that will hold you over as you walk through the city, so why not make it a beautiful one, too? Enter Jack’s Wife Freda, an eclectic American-Mediterranean bistro named after the owner’s South African grandparents. Between the hand drawn illustrations on the menus, the inventive dishes (try the rosewater waffle!), and the colorful saucers, you’re guaranteed to snag a gorgeous brunch flatlay.
2. Met Breuer
This art destination may be the lesser known sibling of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, but is arguably even more Instagrammable due to its smaller size. Its dramatic front entrance hints at the at the depths of the art found within, which touches everything from large, thematic exhibitions to one-off artist commissions.
3. La Esquina
Even in SoHo, a.k.a Instagram central, La Esquina stands out. Only those in the know are aware that this renovated deli exterior houses the exact sort of authentic Mexican decor and cuisine that makes Instagrammers giddy. Pro tip: visit this location at twilight to see (and snap) their neon.
4. Happy Bones
Just down the street from La Esquina is one of Manhattan’s most stylish coffee shops, founded by New Zealand expats. Beyond offering some of the best natural light in the city, Happy Bones prides itself on featuring local art, interesting publications, and tortoiseshell spoons—all of which can be used as props for their gorgeous lattes.
5. Greenwich Village
With a prime location nestled just above SoHo, Greenwich Village boasts some of the city’s best cafes, galleries, and shops. You can also nab some of the best cityscape shots (featuring One World Trade Center) at the intersection of Houston and Sullivan St.
6. Bond St (NoHo)
You know something is prime Instagram fodder when Gigi Hadid moves in, right? It’s not hard to see why models flock to Bond St in droves—between the cobblestone streets, ever-present white London taxi (it belongs to Bond No 9. perfumery founder Laurice Rahme), and the wealth of unique storefronts, it’s hard to envision a more fittingly aesthetic neighborhood.
7. Eggloo
There are few things more instantly Instagrammable than Belgian waffles, but Hong Kong egg waffles topped with ice cream may have them beat. Eggloo is the golden standard when it comes to this specialty dessert, not the least because each concoction comes with unlimited toppings. Pro tip: if you opt for regular ice cream instead of soft serve you can get it shaped into a rose.
8. High Line
It goes without saying that you’ll walk quite a bit in NYC, and if you’re seeking out a particularly unique jaunt look no further than the High Line. Where else can you walk along a restored city railroad and get views like these?
9. Banter NYC
This Aussie cafe specializes in the sort of healthy, meticulously arranged food that is the lifeblood of Instagrammers. Pop into this beautifully decorated noshery and grab a few stools facing the street—it’s the perfect backdrop for a closeup of their golden latte (made with a healthy dose of tumeric).