For anyone passionate about film, Illyse Singer is a name to know. Since moving to New York from Miami in the early 2000s, she has been deeply immersed in the downtown film, arts and music scene. As the cinema director of the Roxy Cinema, Illyse draws on her encyclopedic knowledge of film and sharp curatorial eye to create cinematic experiences that honor film history while championing new voices.

In her day-to-day life at the Roxy, Illyse programs eclectic film lineups and special events, from artist collaborations to curated series, and when the credits roll, you’ll often find her onstage in conversation with some of today’s most influential filmmakers.

Below, Illyse shares her favorite corners of New York City—from weekend brunch spots to hidden jazz clubs and 24-hour spas.

What would the title of your autobiography be?
…Do You Know What I Mean?

What can’t you travel without and why?
My dad’s police badge (for obvious reasons).

What’s your favorite travel destination?
Anywhere near the ocean.

What’s your favorite thing to do on a Sunday afternoon in NYC?
Sundays are for sauna and cinema!

If you could choose one person to show you “their New York City,” who would it be and why?
Cookie Mueller would have been a great person to pal around with in the city. She didn’t live long, but she lived brightly.

What or who has inspired you recently and why?
Mike Figgis at the Roxy Cinema. Learning how his dissolution in Hollywood led to one of the most meaningful and beautiful films of his career is inspiring. Just stick to your truth always, and the rest falls into place.

What are your favorite NYC restaurants? What do you order there?
Four Horsemen—anything and everything there; Thai Diner—Baan Salad and their egg sandwich. They also have a great mezcal tamarind margarita.

What’s your go-to spot in NYC for drinks?
The bar at Frenchette!

What are some of your favorite NYC brunch spots? What do you order when you go?
Five Leaves for mushroom toast, Lighthouse for chilaquiles, Café Mogador for the harissa carrots.

Where do you get your art fix in NYC? Do you have a favourite artist?
My husband works at Gagosian, so lately I like to see the shows he has installed. I really loved the recent De Kooning show. My favorite artist is Gertrude Abercrombie.

What are some of your favorite late-night hangouts in NYC and why?
I love the 24-hour Korean Spa Juvinex—you can be rowdy or relaxed depending on your vibe!

What are some of your under-the-radar must-do recommendations for NYC visitors?
24 Hour Raga at Pioneer Works, live jazz at Sunny’s in Red Hook, pastries at Elbow Bakery.

What are some of your favorite NYC stores and why?
Straus Studios for the best skincare, Manhattan Vintage when it’s in town, Fish and Eddy’s for home goods.

What music are you listening to these days? Who are some of your favorite musicians?
Brian Eno, Tim Hecker, lots of ambient music these days.

What album or song would you consider your personal soundtrack to NYC?
“Dream Baby Dream” by Suicide.

When you think of NYC, are there any particular emotions or memories that immediately come to mind?
Similar to film, NYC gives me the feeling that a night can take you anywhere and make you into anyone.