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Welcome to Perfect Saturday, a weekly Racked feature in which we outline the best places to shop and spend the afternoon in a particular neighborhood, starting with brunch and ending—who knows!
This Saturday we're heading uptown to Harlem. The game plan: sit down for a yam waffle brunch at New York City's first Afro-American brasserie, shop majorly discounted Chanel sneakers and Celine bags, browse the racks at a bespoke shop that's counted LeBron James and Biggie among its clientele, and get in the ring at a boxing-inspired fitness class.
Billed as New York’s first Afro-American brasserie, The Cecil (210 West 118th Street) aims to give diners a global experience, fusing flavors from America, Africa and Asia. Our sister site Eater recommends The Cecil's unique dishes like roti pizza, oxtail dumplings and yam waffles with duck confit.
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Filled with flowers, home accents and accessories, Harlem Flo (2276 Frederick Douglass Boulevard) is a go-to for gifts. Work with the owners to create a personalized floral arrangement, or drop in to pick up an ornament, painted pot or locally-crafted knick knack.
Bebenoir (2164 Frederick Douglass Boulevard) is a neighborhood go-to for standout jewelry, scarves, and clothing. A recent visit turned up chain-trimmed clutches, men's shirts in vibrant ginghams, and floral and houndstooth two-pieces—perfect for riding out the last of the summer heatwave.
Whether you're looking for bespoke suits for the guy in your life or mixed-print jersey dresses for yourself, absorb the red carpet vibes at Harlem Haberdashery (245 Lenox Avenue). A favorite of the likes of LeBron James and Sean Combs, the store sells its sophisticated-with-a-playful-twist label, 5001 Flavors alongside items by Harlem designers, all in limited quantities so you get the one-of-a-kind treatment.
Up your exercise ante at Punch Fitness Center (111 Central Park North). The Punch Force class involves cardio and muscle building in a high-intensity session that involves jumping rope, tackling Jacob’s Ladder and Muay Thai, and perfecting your punching and kicking techniques. It’s the ultimate bang for your buck—combining a self-defense class with a killer workout.
Maybe you’re tired from your workout, or sore from toting shopping bags around. Take a load off at Spa Boutique 2 Go (69 East 130th Street). Choose from treatments like the Himalayan salt stone massage, caviar facial, or brown sugar body scrub.
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