I flew into New York City on Saturday, May 4 to participate in the TD Five Boro Bike Tour on Sunday, May 5. Here are three things that made my 48-hours in the city memorable:
The TD Five Boro Bike Tour Itself
The bike tour was mentally exhilarating and physically invigorating. I enjoyed watching other cyclists, both those who seemed like they lived to ride and those who appeared to be beginners. It felt amazing to be in the midst of so many cyclists.
I was super excited to participate in this event, even though I pondered whether I could indeed ride for 40 miles. I ultimately rode for 44 miles. In addition to the 40-mile-course, bikers also rode an additional three miles to catch a ferry from Staten Island back to Manhattan.
The furthest I rode before this ride was 20 miles. I could not have completed this ride without friends. While I initially thought of cancelling, the idea of disappointing my friends – who traveled from North Carolina and Indiana to participate – was more painful.
I was one of 30,000 cyclists participating in the bike tour, but the ride was uniquely personal. I had moments of internal inquiry, curiosity and gratitude for being able to experience something so special.
Dinner at the Cafeteria NYC
Whenever I’m in New York City and have time to spare, I love dining at the Cafeteria. Featured in the original Sex in the City film, the Cafeteria consistently offers tasty food and a cool vibe. This time was no different. I enjoyed avocado toast on Saturday and then splurged on a kale salad with grilled chicken, mac and cheese, and deviled eggs on Sunday after the ride. It was predictably phenomenal. The waiter (hi Christian) aptly suggested a lavender lemonade mocktail. It was refreshing and marvelous.
A Cupcake at Empire Cake
A visit to a new or different city is never complete without exploring local bakeries. During my last visit to NYC in 2024, I tried AnnTremet Cake in the Chelsea neighborhood of New York City. This time I tried Empire Cake. Although I visited their Chelsea location, their flagship store is in Greenwich Village.
Nestled on 8th avenue, not far from the Cafeteria, I could see the bakery when I was en route to dinner. I knew I had to sneak in for a quick peek, and perhaps a quick bite. I opted for the vanilla on chocolate cupcake, but didn’t eat it right away.
I never thought I’d say this but, I was too exhausted from the bike tour (and too full from dinner) to enjoy my dessert. I think the process of finding a bakery was more exciting than indulging.
I will plan another visit to the bakery when I’m in the right frame of mind – and not in physical pain from a long ride. One note: I loved the bakery itself. It was bright, airy and inviting. I can’t wait to visit the next time I’m in New York City, and, the Empire state.
Jennifer R. Farmer is a public relations executive by day and a bakery lover by evening and weekend. Learn more and enjoy her blog.
