An Insider's Guide to the Best of New York

Manhattan's "best of" list changes faster than a New York minute, depending on who you ask. A foodie might tell you where the  hottest Michelin-starred restaurants and hole-in-the-wall gems are. A music lover may know about the underground clubs and the tried-and-true venues. As for where to find the trendiest neighborhoods and the hottest luxury towers to live, you'll have to turn to a real estate expert. We decided to go straight to the authority on Manhattan real estate: Coldwell Banker Warburg.

A Manhattan institution since 1896, Coldwell Banker Warburg has been at the forefront of New York City real estate. Helmed by Regional Vice President, Kevelyn Guzman, the firm is known for immersing themselves in the history, architecture, and culture beating through each Manhattan neighborhood. In short, no one knows Manhattan like a Coldwell Banker Warburg agent. 

Straying true to this tradition, 8-year real estate broker and lifelong New York City resident Andrea Wernick has her finger on the pulse of Manhattan's ever-evolving scene. Here's what she had to share about the city's hottest new neighborhoods and most sought-after addresses.

Top 2024 Real Estate Trend: Buyers are asking for newly renovated apartments with state-of-the-art updates, such as state-of-the-art home technology, energy-efficient appliances, high-end lighting, and, in some cases, security systems. Simple and clean seems to be the common denominator.

Trendiest Neighborhood: Sutton Place. Life is stressful, especially with the election coming up. Sutton Place is a tranquil oasis within the Manhattan hustle and bustle. Its proximity to the East River gives it a wonderful peacefulness rarely found in New York’s most densely-populated borough. Quaint, family-run shops provide everything a New Yorker might need, eliminating the need to ever leave. The neighborhood also just got a Trader Joe’s, a huge upgrade. And it has a history of celebrity appeal: Marilyn Monroe and Freddy Mercury used to call the neighborhood home. Take serenity to a higher level (literally) by catching the Roosevelt Island tram. As a village within the big city, Sutton Place draws in New Yorkers who want the best of both worlds: limitless shopping and dining options nearby paired with charming calmness. 

Best Hidden Gem Neighborhood: Sutton Place is a hidden gem because it is not only beautiful with its many parks but also the new Greenway pedestrian walkway on the river, which goes from 53rd and Sutton up to 68th Street. This area is special because of its peaceful atmosphere, which helps maintain your sanity in this bustling city! 

Best High-Rise: Plaza 400 - 400 East 56th Street

Best Place for Retail Therapy: Bergdorf Goodman on Fifth Avenue

Best Five-Star Restaurant: Four Twenty Five, a Jean-Georges Restaurant

Favorite Place to Meet Clients: Le Bilboquet 

Best Museum: The Museum of Natural History

Best Cocktail Bar: Bemelmans Bar in The Carlyle Hotel 

Hottest Rooftop Bar: Ophelia 

Best Hotel: The Regency 

Best NYC Experience Right Now: The Summit at One Vanderbilt 

Most Instagrammable Spot: The Edge in Hudson Yards

Favorite Place to People-Watch: Cipriani on 59th Street and Fifth Avenue 

Best Luxury Spa: The Spa by Equinox Hotels

Best Social Club: Casa Cipriani

Advice for Buying in Manhattan: Learn about the different neighborhoods before you buy. I suggest renting first. Each neighborhood has a different vibe, so once you designate your favorite area, then you should decide to look at apartments. 

Advice for Selling in Manhattan: Research comparable apartments in your building and your neighborhood. It is important to know what other apartments like yours sold for. This knowledge allows you to have a better idea of what you are going to sell your home for. It also informs you of any apartment updates you might need to do to help sell your property.  Most importantly, you should hire an agent familiar with your building and the business in general. Experience rules!  

422 East 84th Street | $5,950,000 | Listed by Jane Katz, Coldwell Banker Warburg