A Foodie Favorite's La Vie En Rosé Guide To Making The Most Of Summer

New York is an aptly named town - each street brimming with all kinds of exciting newness to explore and enjoy.

For years Minnie Kim has been a go-to follow for New Yorkers looking to be in-the-know, a true "tastemaker" highlighting the city's most charming, delicious, photogenic new spots. Where to grab a drink with friends, where to dig into a plate of pasta perfection, where to cozy up on a rainy day...

So just how does Kim spend her downtime when she's not posted up out an about on the town?

Spoiler alert: It involves drinking up the city views with a glass of AIX rosé close at hand!

You're always visiting the coolest spots in town, what are some of your recent favorites?
In terms of new favorites, I particularly love Moono, Raf's, and NARO. They each have really great vibes and amazing food.

What would you say is the best meal in town?
That is such a tough question...  really hard for me to choose! Honestly that would depend on my mood, the season, and so many things!

Where can we find you just chilling in your downtime?
During the summer, I really love relaxing on my rooftop. There's nothing better than pouring a glass of my favorite French sip, AIX Rosé, throwing together a simple charcuterie board, and opening up a good book.

What's the best place to drink in the views?
In Manhattan, the best views hands down are at The MET's Rooftop Garden, an artsy perch which looks out at the park, the Upper West Side and downtown. In Brooklyn, for views it's got to be the roof at Dumbo House. 

Which New York neighborhood is your favorite to explore on a sunny day?
I always find myself wandering the West Village or Brooklyn Heights whenever the weather's particularly lovely. They're classic charmers.

How do you always manage to get the perfect shot?
It may seem annoyingly simple to say, but good natural light is key!

What do you most look forward to about summer in the city?
Everything! New York in the summertime is truly unbeatable. 

There's just an easiness - a last minute picnic in the park, stopping by to a friend's patio, spending hours out on a rooftop with some light bites and a chilled glass of rosé...

You're a big brunch girl - what are some of your top weekend spots?
For as many places as I've tried over the years, my go-to spots have pretty much stayed the same. 

You'll never go wrong with a nice leisurely brunch at Anton's, B'artusi, Corner Bar or Locanda Verde.

What does your dream weekend in New York look like?
Because my weekdays are usually quite hectic, I really love relaxing weekends trying out new restaurants with friends, spending time with my puppy Milo, and checking out art galleries and museums.

Non-negotiable nibbles to include in a charcuterie board spread?
Prosciutto, melon, and Gruyère cheese are my favorite charcuterie board bites. They're a great trio to start with and then add onto - nuts, crackers, dried fruits. 

AIX Rosé is one of those wines that really pairs perfectly with anything, it's fresh and light, so I'll always have a bottle of that at home. 

Off anywhere fun this summer?
I'm heading to Bodrum and Istanbul for my best friend's wedding!

[Photos courtesy Minnie Kim]