Time Out Love New York Awards 2014: Midtown

Located in the heart of the theatre district, Toloache (pronounced toh-lo-AH-tchay), is the Midtown outpost of chef Julian Medina's contemporary Mexican bistro.

An ode to the street in Melbourne its named for, this coffee shop joins the ranks of fellow Aussie-transplant cafés like Bluestone Lane, Brunswick and Two Hands. Order a flat white from one of the baristas manning the Modbar, then chow down on "brekkie" options like an avocado smash showered in sunflower seeds or a pair of poached eggs smothered in bacon ragout.

Yes, this accessories store is in the heart of Times Square, but it’s worth the hassle—and it might even relax you (really!). Step inside where the ambience channels the seaside village on the coast of Denmark. The space pays homage to the infamous Skagen beaches in the form of modernized pebble-shaped tables, natural gray wood surfaces and digital displays telling the story behind items in the shop. Standouts include Skagen watches ($95–$275) and jewelry ($30–$100), as well as a new collection of leather bags ranging from backpacks ($195–$355) to satchels ($225–$295) for men and women.

In 2009, this rakish, 1970s-vintage piano bar in the Edison Hotel looked destined to go the way of the 99¢ peep show. But the team behind Tribeca mixology den Ward III ushered in a second act, introducing some key upgrades (including serious cocktails) while maintaining the charmingly offbeat flavor of the place. Forget you're a stone's throw from Times Square while listening to live jazz acts (Wednesday–Saturday nights) and sipping dark-spirit–heavy tipples, such as a funky old-fashioned riff that showcases the rich, tropical complexity of Banks 5 Island Rum. Those who suffer the cruel fate of being in Times Square on a weekend morning can console themselves with a range of six Bloody Marys (11am–5pm).

Artistic director Clive Gillinson continues to put his stamp on Carnegie Hall. The stars, both soloists and orchestras, shine most brightly inside this renowned concert hall in the Isaac Stern Auditorium.