The cities that we live in inevitably shape our ideas of belonging, home and seep into our practices of art. A crowded corner of the street, the peaceful solace of a bookstore, or a fulfilling plate of comfort food, all of it gathers somewhere beneath our surface and reappears in unexpected ways. We begin by simply living in a city and observing it, however over time, carry its textures deep within our hearts.
Your City is a series where we ask creatives from various genres about their cities, understand their relationship with the place and how it influences their art. We have writer Aatish Taseer tell us about his favourite haunts in New York.
What is your favourite quiet corner in New York? A place where you go to clear your head and feel lighter?
I love the New York Society Library on E. 79th Street. I give myself certain days there, where I read all the newspapers and magazines back to back in that beautiful oak-lined room.
Tell us about a comfort meal spot in the city and what you like to eat from there.
The bar at the Odeon. I order a classic martini [Plymouth with olives] and the meatballs, with a side of fries, and I’m in heaven. The Odeon still has the thing I love most about New York: that easy glamourous democracy: a feeling that you’re only as good as your last drink.
If you craved a long, reflective walk, where do you find yourself?
Riverside Park. I find it the most beautiful part of New York, and I’m lucky to live between both The Central and Riverside parks.
If someone wanted to go to a lively space for art, music, or events, where would you guide them?
I love chamber music at the Alice Tully Hall. It’s easy to get into; I have a friend who takes me, and it’s always so special to be at Lincoln Center. I live nearby, and I walk away feeling so grateful to live Uptown.
What is your favourite bookshop?
I love Sarah McNally’s bookshops. I’m loyal to the Strand, it’s where I had my event for A Return to Self, but those McNally Jackson bookshops have really restored a kind of snazz to bookselling. The Seaport, especially, is wonderful.
Complete the sentence: One should not leave New York without…
Visiting the Nichols Roerich Museum on W. 107th Street. It is such an understated jewel of a museum, with so much wacky history. If I’m not wrong, it was the first museum of its kind, namely one devoted to a single artist, and it really fills you up from within.
Words Platform Desk
Date 1.6.2026
