New York City (Fodor's, 2012) - Fodor's [158]
Newel Art Galleries.
Housed in a six-story building, this huge collection spans the Renaissance through the 20th century. The nonfurniture finds, from figureheads to bell jars, make for prime conversation pieces. Newel is also a major supplier of antiques for Broadway shows, television, and film. | 425 E. 53rd St., between 1st Ave. and Sutton Pl., Midtown East | 10022 | 212/758–1970 | Subway: 6 to 51st St./Lexington Ave.; E, M to Lexington–3rd Aves./53rd St.
Books and Stationery
Argosy Bookstore.
Family owned since 1925, Argosy keeps a scholarly stock of rare books and autographs. It’s also a great place to look for low-price maps and prints that make ideal gifts. | 116 E. 59th St., between Park and Lexington Aves., Midtown East | 10022 | 212/753–4455 | Subway: N, R, 4, 5, 6 to 59th St./Lexington Ave.
Cameras and Electronics
Apple Store.
Apple’s New York flagship is topped by a giant translucent cube and is open 24 hours a day, every day, to satisfy those wee-hours computer cravings. At all stores you’ll have to elbow through a crowd, but they’re the best places to check out the latest equipment, software, demos, and troubleshooting Genius Bars. | 767 5th Ave., between E. 58th and E. 59th Sts., Midtown East | 10153 | 212/336–1440 | Subway: R to 60th St.
SONY Style.
Located on the ground floor of the Sony Building, this sunny space is a wonderland of electronics. You’ll find all the latest stereo and entertainment systems, digital cameras, high-def TVs, and MP3 players on the shelves. | 550 Madison Ave., at E. 55th St., Midtown East | 10022 | 212/833–8800 | Subway: E, M, 6 to 51st St./Lexington Ave.
Clothing
BCBG/Max Azria.
If flirtation’s your sport, you’ll find your sportswear here: fluttering skirts, beaded camisoles, chiffon dresses, and leather pants fill the racks. | 770 Madison Ave., at E. 66th St., Upper East Side | 10021 | 212/717–4225 | Subway: 6 to 68th St./Hunter College.
Brooks Brothers.
The clothes at this classic American haberdasher are, as ever, traditional, comfortable, and fairly priced. Summer seersucker, navy-blue blazers, and the peerless oxford shirts have been staples for generations. The women’s and boys’ selection have variations thereof. TIP Get scanned by a digital tailor for precisely measured custom shirts or suits; appointments are recommended. | 346 Madison Ave., at E. 44th St., Midtown East | 10017 | 212/682–8800 | Subway: 4, 5, 6, 7, S to 42nd St./Grand Central
Burberry.
This six-story glass-and-stone flagship is a temple to all things plaid and British. The iconic trench coat can be made-to-measure here, and the signature plaid can be found on bikinis, scarves, and wallets. For children, there are mini-versions of quilted jackets and cozy sweaters. | 9 E. 57th St., between 5th and Madison Aves., Midtown East | 10022 | 212/407–7100 | Subway: N, R, W to 5th Ave./59th St.
Chanel.
The Midtown flagship has often been compared to a Chanel suit—slim, elegant, and timeless, and decorated in the signature black-and-white colors. Inside wait the famed suits themselves, along with other pillars of Chanel style: chic little black dresses and evening gowns, chain-handled bags, and yards of pearls. There’s also a small cosmetics area where you can stock up on the famed scents and nail polish. | 15 E. 57th St., between 5th and Madison Aves., Midtown East | 10022 | 212/355–5050 | Subway: N, R to 5th Ave./59th St.
Christian Dior.
John Galliano’s over-the-top designs are showcased in this very white, very glossy, serene space. The designs bring elements of everything from raceways to skate punks to haute couture. If you’re not in the market for an investment gown or fine jewelry, peruse the glam accessories, like the latest status bag. The Dior menswear boutique is next door; the rocking cigarette-thin suits are often pilfered by women. | 21 E. 57th St., at Madison Ave., Midtown East | 10022 | 212/931–2950 | Subway: E, V to 5th Ave./53rd St.
Dunhill.