Mexican Brunch and Rare Books in Murray Hill

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Murray Hill might not be the first spot to come to mind when you think shopping destination. Chain stores and sports bars where the frat party never ends have given the neighborhood a bad rap. But give the area a stroll and you'll find some hidden gems in the form of boutiques that are perfect (in style and price) for a mid-season wardrobe update. And with Dover Street Market taking up residence , there's no doubt Murray Hill has fashion potential.

Hit up April Bloomfield and Ken Friedman’s Salvation Taco (145 East 39th Street) for Mexicanin-inspired fare with a global twist. Bring your friends: you’ll want to share dishes like chilaquiles with baked eggs, chorizo and potato flautas, and confit chicken thigh tortas with chocolate adobo.

French Corner (120 East 34th Street) flies under the retail radar, but it’s an untapped pool of contemporary fashion for the midtown set. The racks are stuffed with embellished tanks, printed maxi dresses and colored denim from brands like Yumi Kim, Current/Elliott, Sass & Bide and Twelfth Street by Cynthia Vincent.

If you need a last-minute outfit for the beach or a barbecue, check out Taroo Third (470 Third Avenue). The budget-friendly spot stocks trendy goods like chain-trimmed tees, handkerchief-hem sundresses and patterned shorts. A constant sale section sweetens the deal.

To keep your wallet-friendly streak going, check out the Murray Hill outpost of Second Time Around (520 Third Avenue). The consignment chain stocks previously-loved but well-preserved wares, often from recent seasons. Labels range from contemporary to luxury, including everything from Gucci and Stella McCartney to J. Crew and Diane von Furstenberg.

Indulge in a little daydreaming about far-flung locales at The Complete Traveller Antiquarian Books (199 Madison Avenue). The shop, a quiet little midtown refuge, is stocked with rare, collectible books about destinations all over the world. Stoke your wanderlust or browse the comprehensive section about your own New York.

Finish your shopping at the game-changer bringing Murray Hill serious (and unexpected) fashion cred: Dover Street Market (160 Lexington Avenue). Even if you’re just going for a browse, the dreamy interior is a must-see. You’ll find everything from the fun and affordable-ish Comme des Garcons Play line to splurge-y items from Prada and Rick Owens, not to mention statement pieces by buzzy designers like Phoebe English and Sibling.

Pilates gets kicked into high gear at IMX Pilates (265 Madison Avenue). Standing for Integrated Movement Xercize, IMX specializes in fusing pilates with strength training and cardio for a more high-energy, challenging experience.