It is now no more that toleration is spoken of as if it was the indulgence of one class of people that another enjoyed the exercise of their inherent natural rights. For happily, the government of the United States, which gives to bigotry no sanction, to persecution no assistance, requires only that they who live under its protection should demean themselves as good citizens, in giving it on all occasions their effectual support.

• George Washington on religious freedom, 1790

Anyone who trades liberty for security deserves neither liberty nor security.

• attributed to Benjamin Franklin.

It’s outrageous that Andrew Cuomo is raising the issue of religion This is about security; it’s about the security and safety of the people of New York.

• Rick Lazio, Republican candidate for governor of New York State, on the proposed Islamic center in Downtown New York.

These are the places I’d go if I were visiting my city, in order of preference. I sent this exact list to one of my colleagues visiting from Hong Kong.

Public - My favorite restaurant in the city won a Michelin Star this year. Great ambiance, interesting dishes, great mixed drinks.

El Faro - Really great, real Spanish food, in a super-casual atmosphere. They’ve been open since 1927 in the same spot; this was my parent’s favorite dinner date spot. Have the paella a la valenciana, and/or mariscada with green sauce, and some sangria, then some flan or laruca for dessert. This place is super packed on weekends; it’s best to go early on a weekday.

Casellula - A really great, small wine bar in Hell’s Kitchen/Midtown West with an amazing cheese selection and good lite fare.

Casa Mono - More upscale Spanish restaurant with an amazing wine list.

At least one of Eleven Madison/The Modern/Tabla/Gramercy Tavern - Danny Meyer’s restaurants; Eleven Madison is particularly great (but more expensive than the others), but all are worth visiting. The Modern is inside the MoMA, but eat in the Bar Room; the Dining Room is not worth it. All of them consistently get great reviews and awards, and are known for their great service.

La Esquina - Good Mexican street food upstairs (very informal), dressed up Mexican downstairs (reservations required; good people watching).

Tarallucci e Vino - a nice wine bar-turned-restaurant with a good menu.

I have many, many more, but I’d start with those.