A True Hidden Gem in Times Square + A Simple NYC Packing List

Hello there,

First, we’ve switched to a new email platform that will hopefully help deliver more enjoyable emails and help us grow our newsletter.

And why do we prefer email? We feel it’s the best platform for genuinely engaging with you! Plus, it helps us all spend a little less time on social media. 😜

Please reply to the email if you have any feedback or issues with the new email format.

Restaurants Worth Trying in Times Square

Ahh, glamorous Times Square. Despite the crowds, it’s a spot worth exploring in New York City.

And while it’s not the first spot we’d choose for finding a meal, sometimes it just works out that way. Lucky for you, we’ve got five food joints with delicious meals right in the heart of bustling Times Square.

Oh, and one you HAVE to avoid at all costs… (The movie Elf lied to you)

See the spots by clicking below, including the best hole-in-the-wall Cuban food in Manhattan. 👀

7 Must-Have Items on Your NYC Packing List

There are two types of people in the world.

#1- People who chronically overpack and barely have room in their suitcases.

Or…

#2- People who forget everything and need to buy half of the basic necessities when they land.

Whichever type of person you are, we’ve put together an essential packing list for an NYC trip.

No frills, no fluff. Just seven items you will be devasted not to have (or buy when you land 😜).

The LEAST Reliable Subway Line

While most New Yorkers have a (strong) opinion on which subway line they think is the worst, most unreliable, or never on time, there is actual data to end the debate.

Individual lines aside, the New York City subway system marked an 82.1% reliability score in 2024.

Roughly 2/10 times you expect your train to arrive, it won’t be on time…

Those scores are much lower than many other metro systems worldwide. But with that said, the NYC subway is still a phenomenal system for getting around this sprawling metro.

So, the least reliable line…?

The B train was only on time 65% of the time in 2024. 😳

Here’s to hoping it’ll improve this upcoming year, especially with the likely infrastructure improvements via congestion pricing.

See the 2024 subway line reliability overviews here.

Catch ya next week,

Ashley & Devin from Better Together Here 🚇