You don’t have to be born here to move like a New Yorker. Marisa Kalil-Barrino is Brooklyn-based, Detroit-raised, and the founding editor-in-chief of 1202 Magazine. Despite her Michigan roots, she has the city’s rhythm down. A self-described “social Sagittarius” (and pretty chill for a fire sign), she knows where to find good coffee, great music, and lovely people. Below, she shares her go-to spots and what a perfect NYC day looks like.
Okayplayer: When you want to be “outside” without really being outside, where do you go in NYC?
Marisa Kalil-Barrino: Café Colmado is my favorite place of all time. I go at least twice a week and get so much work done while socializing. As a Boricua, I soak up all of the amazing energy and community there because it makes me feel like I’m on the island. Not to mention, their coffee is muy fuerza and the people are so welcoming. If you’ve never had the coquito latte from there, you’re in for a treat.
Where do you go when you want to be around people, but not overwhelmed bypeople?
I love to meet new people. I’m a social Sagittarius, so being overwhelmed by people doesn’tfaze me. Honey’s is one of my favorite spots, especially in the summer. Their rooftop isunmatched. There’s never been a bad DJ or bad vibes. The drinks are strong, and I can dancefor hours while overlooking the view of the city.
Santa Salsa is also a favorite. It’s a Venezuelan street food spot that transforms into a club atnight. If there’s ever a party, I like to arrive before the party starts and eat their criminal burgerwith a Medalla before the room gets packed and we all start dancing.
What does your perfect NYC day look like, from morning to night?
A hearty breakfast–maybe crepes or pancakes with scrambled eggs, apple juice, and a strongcoffee. An energetic gym session that leaves me feeling nice and sore (in a good way). Gettingall of my work done (stories, edits, emails, projects, event planning, etc.). Pampering myselfafter finishing all of my work with meditation, stretching, face masks, exfoliating, incense, and aslow night to fall asleep easily. If it’s a weekend night, I like to do this entire routine, but add in alot of dancing at one of my favorite spots.