STYLING IT OUT IN NYC WITH PRIYA AHLUWALIA

The fashion designer loves to take a walk on the Lower East Side for experimental cocktails, tacos from a truck and vintage shopping with Bugs Bunny

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What's your favourite destination and why? I love New York in general, but the Lower East Side has so much character. When I'm there, I feel like I've gone back in time. It's like the New York that I saw in the films when I was growing up.

When was the last time you were there, and who were you with? In May for the Met Gala. I stayed for a couple of nights, as I designed Aimee Lou Wood and Gabby Thomas's looks. I saw both of them and my best friend came with me to be my pretend assistant for the week. You've got to bring family where you can. And it was important on this trip because it was really emotional for me, as it was such big career milestone.

Where do you like to stay there? The Ludlow Hotel — it feels historic with all the brass touches. I like hotels that lean into the classic, golden age New York with their design.

What has been your favourite meal there? Tacos from the Birria-Landia truck. I'd heard it was one of the best in NYC and it definitely didn’t disappoint. I loved the Tijuana-style beef birria.

What are your three favourite restaurants? Wildair is a great restaurant for sharing plates and the cocktails are amazing. They do great shrimp and Wagyu steak too. And Kiki’s is a Greek restaurant which does big portions, so I recommend going there when you're hungry. The mixed grill platter is 10 out of 10. Double Chicken Please makes very experimental cocktails that almost taste like food. There’s one inspired by Japanese cold noodles. I was apprehensive but they're delicious and the food is great too.