Jay Armstrong Johnson’s New York City

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Jay Armstrong Johnson is a Fort Worth kid who cut his teeth performing at Kids Who Care, Inc.; Dian Clough West Dance Studio; and Fort Worth Academy of Fine Arts before launching his professional career in theater. Like many young actors, he found himself in New York City, chasing the Broadway dream.

Safe to say, he’s made it — with a Playbill bio that lists starring roles in shows like “The Phantom of the Opera,” “On the Town,” and “Catch Me If You Can,” alongside TV appearances and an album, Jay Armstrong Johnson LIVE at Feinstein’s/54 Below.

With Broadway expected to reopen in September — barring unsolicited variants and spikes in virus cases, of course — Johnson’s created a nifty guide to NYC for the folks back home who want to come up and experience the Big Apple like a local. Here are his top spots to eat, drink, and hang out.

EAT

Saggio, Washington Heights saggionyc.com

This is my go-to Italian joint in my neighborhood. (“Get off at 181st and take the escalator. I hope you’re writing this down; I’m gonna test ya later” — that was for any of my “In The Heights” fans out there.) Make sure you order the white bean crostini. It’s delish.

Red Rooster, Harlem redroosterharlem.com

Check out this Harlem staple for its weekend brunch. The cornbread and gravy are to die for.

Elmo, Chelsea elmorestaurant.com

This queer-owned establishment has been a go-to place for a fantastic meal. I might indulge in Elmo’s famous fudge brownie for dessert.

Butter, Midtown butterrestaurant.com

For special occasions, Butter is a stylish and delicious choice. It’s a seasonal menu, but if by chance the truffle burger is on the menu, you gotta try it — but everything on the menu is wildly good.

DRINK

The Uptown Garrison, Washington Heights theuptowngarrison.com

I love the coffee here and always order the cold brew with oat milk. They also have a great menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Hell’s Kitchen, Hell’s Kitchen hellskitchen-nyc.com

If you fancy Mexican cuisine before the theater, this is a great option. I love the spicy cucumber margarita — a little too much.

Sugar Monk, Harlem sugarmonklounge.com

I love the speakeasy vibes of this craft cocktail bar. The Monk’s Dream is my personal fave. 

Beer Culture, Theater District beerculture.nyc

It’s all in the name. You might find some of your favorite Broadway performers having a post-show brew with their castmates. The menu features local NYC brews, and I like to try something new every time.

Bar Nine, Hell’s Kitchen bar9ny.com

I used to live directly above this dive bar in my early 20s. Enjoy live music while you sip your beverage of choice. I’ve been really into whiskey sours lately.

HANG - Ft. Tryon Park, Hudson Heights 

The best-kept secret of uptown Manhattan. Enjoy the lush and beautiful landscaping with a stunning view of the Hudson River.

New World Plaza, Hell’s Kitchen

This is a perfect outdoor hangout spot to have lunch and catch up with friends. Another great place to spot your favorite Broadway performers between shows. 

The Highline, West Side of Manhattan 

The Highline is both a nonprofit organization and public park. Walk through gardens, view art, experience a performance, and savor delicious foods for a truly unique perspective of NYC.

Union Square

This historic square has been a meeting place of artists and activists for decades. If you’re there during the holidays, you have to catch the Union Square Christmas market for all your holiday gift purchases. 

The Oculus

This is the World Trade Center transportation hub. Meet up with friends, shop at the mall, and marvel at the architecture on your way to see the rest of what downtown Manhattan has to offer.   

Other tips for surviving NYC

I stick to Ubers and Lyfts for vehicle transportation. It’s usually cheaper than a cab.

Restaurants aren’t keen on splitting checks.

Tip servers well — because they are probably artists.

TodayTix is a great resource for day-of theater tickets.

If you’re visiting over spring break, you better pack some layers.