Celebrating my birthday in the city that never sleeps was a dream come true! Returning to New York City for my birthday felt like a full-circle moment. I was born in NY forty fine years ago, which has always held a special place in my heart. To celebrate, I decided to revisit the place where it all started. I indulged in the incredible food that NYC is famous for. Here’s everything I ate on my birthday. As I ate, I relived the vibrant energy and flavors of the city that shaped me.
First things first: we stayed in Midtown Manhattan, just a few blocks from the dazzling heart of Times Square. Naturally, the moment we arrived, we made a beeline for the iconic crossroads of the world. We were eager to dive into the city’s vibrant energy. I planned to kick off the trip by dining at Gordon Ramsay’s Fish & Chips. It was a spot I’d been eyeing for a while.
However, as soon as we saw the long line snaking out the door, my kids took one look inside and vetoed the idea. They’re surprisingly picky for their age, with a taste that leans more toward upscale dining than quick bites. So, despite my excitement, we decided to skip it.
We spent the evening wandering through the electric streets. We soaked in the neon lights and the sounds that make Times Square so mesmerizing. After hours of exploring, with tired feet and hungry bellies, we returned to our hotel and settled on a classic New York solution—ordering pizza. It wasn’t the gourmet meal I’d envisioned. But there’s something about a New York slice that never disappoints. It is especially good when you’re sharing it with family after a long day in the city.
Full disclaimer: not everything I ate on this trip was healthy—and I was okay with that. This birthday getaway was all about indulgence and savoring the flavors of the city that raised me. I’d been planning this trip for a while. And I knew going in that I would happily diverge from my usual diet.
After all, how often do you get to celebrate a milestone birthday in New York City? From decadent desserts to rich, savory dishes, I made it a point to enjoy every bite guilt-free. This trip wasn’t just about food. It was about experiencing the city’s culinary diversity without holding back. I embraced the full spectrum of tastes, textures, and treats that NYC has to offer.
First up was the pizza. I was thrilled to see Roma, which meant I could eat a meat lover’s pizza without any worries since Roma’s meats are halal, and I don’t eat pork. That first bite was everything I hoped for, with all the savory flavors coming together in perfect harmony.
The next morning, we woke up bright and early, eager to start the day with a walk to Central Park. But first, since it was my actual birthday, I had to make a pit stop at Starbucks to claim my free birthday reward. I went all out and ordered a latte with as all the works—extra shots, sugar-free vanilla syrup, the whole nine yards. The final price tag? A whopping $12. But hey, birthday calories don’t count, right?
Later that day, my husband surprised us with tickets to the Summit at One Vanderbilt, where we were treated to some incredible views and an equally impressive food court. I couldn’t resist sampling a little bit of everything. I started with a classic New York hot dog, simple but delicious, followed by hummus with veggies and chips, which was a refreshing change of pace.
To toast the occasion, I enjoyed a glass of rosé, along with another drink to wash it all down. But the real star of the meal was the pastrami sliders—juicy, flavorful, and everything I’d hoped they would be. The food there was truly amazing, making the day even more special.
My original plan for that night was a dinner reservation at Brooklyn Chop House. I ended up canceling because I was supposed to go to my sister’s house for an authentic Jamaican dinner. Unfortunately, those plans fell through. Luckily, as we were heading back from the Summit, we stumbled upon a food festival just around the corner from our hotel, stretching all the way to Times Square.
Despite being still full from earlier in the day, I couldn’t resist sampling a little bit of everything. I nibbled on a classic New York bagel, savored some delicious gelato, and even found a bakery selling the trendy pistachio-filled croissant that’s been all over social media. I may have gone a little overboard, and I definitely paid for it later with a massive tummy ache. But hey, when in New York, right?
All in all, my trip to New York was truly memorable, a perfect blend of nostalgia, indulgence, and family time. Being back in the city where I grew up, especially on such a special occasion, was incredibly meaningful. I’m so glad I was able to share this experience with my family, giving my kids a glimpse into my past and showing them the places that shaped who I am today.
It was amazing to walk through the neighborhoods, visit iconic spots, and create new memories together as a family. Watching my kids take in the city for the first time, seeing their faces light up with wonder and excitement, made the trip even more special. It was a journey filled with laughter, great food, and moments of reflection, and I wouldn’t have had it any other way.