With two locations in the Bronx, Ajo y Oregano brings its patrons to the Dominican Republic. Guests can take in campo-style decor while enjoying delicious traditional dishes like chicharron de pollo, mofongo, and mar y tierra. The chimi tostone sliders also happen to be a favorite among patrons. If you’re looking for an escape from the busy New York lifestyle, stop in for authentic Dominican cuisine. —Kat S.

Cafe con Libros (coffee with books) is an intersectional feminist community bookstore and coffee shop. The vibrant community space has become an inclusive sanctuary of affirmation for women and girls across race, gender, age, sexuality, and sexual presentation. Its shelves are lined with books written for women by women, and its club events aim to create a space where dialogue will build lasting relationships between members and newcomers. —Kat S.

Amaurys Grullon founded The Bronx Native with his sister Roselyn in 2015 inside their Bronx apartment. They wanted to create a fashion brand that signified the pride of the borough. Now, with a storefront located in Mott Haven, you’ll find clothing, accessories, and more that represent and showcase The Bronx’s history and culture. —Kat S.

The Lit. Bar, which opened its doors in 2017, is the only bookstore currently serving the Bronx.Here, you’ll find community gatherings for those who love to get lost in a good book or good conversation. If you’re visiting alone, feel free to have a read while sipping on your vino of choice. —Kat S.

Mi Tierrita is the spot on Long Island for authentic Colombian cuisine. The food is fresh, delicious, affordable, and served in huge portions. The laid-back joint is always busy, so go during the week or at lunch. The bandeja de pollo al carbon features the juiciest, most flavorful rotisserie chicken you'll ever have. The more traditional bandeja tipica comes with grilled steak, chicharron, fried egg, an arepa, sweet plantain, avocado, rice, and beans. You'll love every bite. —Karla R.

If you're looking for the best tacos in Queens, Birria-Landia’s got you covered. Right off the 7 train, you can find the Tijuana-style food truck parked on Roosevelt Ave. and 78th Street after 5 p.m. Birria-Landia offers savory birria tacos, flavorful tostadas, mouth-watering quesadillas, cups of spicy consomé, and much more. Trust us, this place lives up to the hype and is worth the line. If you're a Brooklyn resident, be sure to visit their new Metropolitan Ave. location. —Lariza Q.

Twin DJs and designers Corianna and Brianna Dotson, better known as Coco and Breezy, have made their own lane in the eyewear industry. Their unisex designs have been seen on celebrities like Beyoncé, Rihanna, Serena Williams, Prince, and more. These powerful Afro-Latinx sisters are bridging the gap between eye health and luxury eyewear (at affordable prices). Be sure to check out their SoHo flagship store for your next pair of glasses. —Lariza Q.

In the heart of New York City’s Lower East Side, you can find the Nuyorican Poets Cafe, an iconic and welcoming space perfect for any creative or lover of the arts. Since 1973, the cafe has been a place where poetry, music, theater, and visual arts have been celebrated. From open mics to poetry slams, come experience the magic for yourself. —Lariza Q.

If you're a sneakerhead and a Fat Joe fan, be sure to take a trip “All the Way Up” to Washington Heights and visit Up NYC. The uptown sneaker boutique offers an array of shoes, from throwback classics to the hottest releases from Jordan Brand, Asics, Nike, Timberland, and more. The shop also serves as a museum, displaying rare sneakers you won’t be able to pick up. —Lariza Q.

Beatstro is a Bronx restaurant that pays homage to hip-hop and celebrates Black and Latinx culture. Upon entering, you'll be surprised to see a record shop, but keep walking through the red velvet curtains for an authentic speakeasy experience. The menu is a blend of the best Southern comfort and Puerto Rican foods. We recommend trying their delicious alcapurrias (fritters), cocrio (rich dish), lobster mac, and chicken and waffles. —Lariza Q.