Victor’s Guide to New York City in September
Anthony Bourdain once said, “You can’t understand the world without experiencing New York.” It’s a sentiment that still holds - perhaps even more so today. In September, the city comes back into focus. With the US Open, the Ryder Cup, and Fashion Week all on the calendar, New York is gearing up for another exciting end to the summer season.
The month of September is arguably the sweet spot in the city’s rhythm. Summer’s tourists have mostly cleared out, but the cultural calendar is in full swing. For those looking to experience New York at its best, now is the time to consider a unique city getaway.
Where to Stay
The Aman New York continues to set the standard for discreet luxury in Midtown. Housed in the Crown Building, it offers a sense of calm that’s hard to come by in this part of the city. The spa is expansive, the garden terrace quietly elegant, and the service exactly as you’d expect. It attracts a global set who tend not to advertise it.
For something with more character, Nine Orchard on the Lower East Side has become a favourite among travellers who appreciate good design and a more relaxed atmosphere. It’s unshowy, but beautifully put together, with a strong food and drink offering and a neighbourhood that still feels lived-in.
Over in NoMad, The Fifth Avenue Hotel is a newer arrival with more of a classic edge. The interiors nod to the Gilded Age without being over the top, and the service is precise without being stiff. It’s a good choice for longer stays, with private dining options and concierge access to the city’s gallery scene and design showrooms.
Where to Eat
A new wave of Michelin-starred restaurants has added fresh energy to New York’s dining scene. Six Restaurant in Carroll Gardens is one of the more interesting additions. It’s small, with just six seats at the counter, and the menu is focused but clever. Nico Bouter blends European technique with South American touches such as duck confit gnocchi and passion fruit custard.
In Fort Greene, Kabawa is Paul Carmichael’s take on Caribbean cooking, served as a three-course menu that’s personal but precise. Roti with chickpeas and eggplant, salt cod with caviar, black bass in a yellow curry - it’s all thoughtful, well-balanced, and full of character.
Downtown, Maison Passerelle is tucked inside the new Printemps space in the Financial District. The menu leans into French cuisine, with influences from Africa and Southeast Asia, and it’s better than it needs to be. The duck with cane syrup and tamarind is the standout, but the whole experience feels quietly polished. It’s not trying to impress, which makes it more impressive.
What to Do
September is a busy month for the city, culturally speaking. The US Open runs through mid-month in Queens and remains a fixture for the city’s social calendar. If you don’t have seats at Arthur Ashe, the hospitality suites offer a more comfortable way to take it in.
New York Fashion Week follows closely, with most of the action centred around Tribeca and Midtown. The shows themselves are mostly industry-facing, but the surrounding events, gallery openings, brand dinners, capsule launches, are where much of the more interesting socialising happens. Victor’s concierge team can help with access.
This year’s Ryder Cup will also be one to watch. Hosted at Bethpage Black, it’s a relatively short hop from the city, and the Samuel Ryder Club — a hospitality venue positioned along the 15th hole - is the way to do it properly. Expect a more refined experience, both on and off the course. For tickets, reach out to Victor’s dedicated concierge.
Teterboro remains the airport of choice for private aviation, just 12 miles from Midtown. Victor can arrange ground transfers to make the last leg of your journey smooth and discreet. For more information contact info@flyvictor.com