The episode explores the “unusual” obsession with models and the first time Big comes to see Carrie intentionally. Even though “Models and Mortals” can’t boast of too frequent backdrop changes, unlike the pilot episode. It still offers a handful of SATC Filming Locations, sufficient to fill a day in NYC. From casual downtown hangouts to Times Square, “Models and Mortals” captures the contrasts of Manhattan life, providing fans with a few memorable stops to explore.
The scenes are mostly filmed indoors, opening with Miranda’s unlucky date. Heading out with a ‘regular’ guy, she finds out he dates models and seems to be quite popular with them.
Carrie Bradshaw’s Apartment
Then we see Carrie’s apartment. The iconic brownstone stoop is yet to make its appearance, and outside we see the coffee shop sign again, which means that the shooting took place at 960 Madison Ave.
However, inside we see the craftwork of Jeremy Conway, the show’s production designer, and Karin Wiesel, the set decorator. It might seem at first glance, that the interior of Carrie’s apartment is random chance, but the book details how much thought and consideration were put into the most frequent setting:
Carrie is a soft sea-foam teal color, which works great for her skin tone and her hair… Carrie’s apartment is an apartment everybody’s had. The idea was that instead of the bed being in a separate bedroom, the apartment is one big room with curtains that you can pull.
The closet is more like a hallway to the bathroom, with racks in it for all her clothes, because the most important thing to Carrie is what she wears. If shooting is taking place in the closet, then we really try to show clothes that you’ve seen Carrie in before to make it more real. We change the magazines on a regular basis, we rotate books and the stuff inside the drawers.
Says Jeremy Conway in Kiss and Tell. He continues:
If Carrie is reading a book in bed in a scene, we carefully decide what book it is she’s reading. All the floors are hardwood and the forty-year-old braided telephone wire painted into the wall is very typical of Manhattan rental apartments. The photos on her refrigerator and bookshelf are all personal photos of Sarah Jessica’s friends and her friend’s daughter.
From the tourist perspective, there’s not much to do except stroll along Madison Avenue. As mentioned before, the area is full of high-end stores — Christian Louboutin is in front of the address, Carolina Herrera’s flagship store is right behind the corner, Alexandre Birman, Gianvito Rossi, Morgane Le Fay, and a handful of jewelry stores.
Times Square
We see only a glimpse of Times Square during Carrie’s monologue about ‘model safari’. Though brief, this cutaway establishes the commercial apex of the model-centric Manhattan Carrie critiques. In 1998, Times Square was undergoing its corporate transformation, fitting imagery for a commentary on glossy exteriors vs. messy realities. But Times Square is definitely well worth the time in NYC and a must-see, even for non-big SATC fans.
In 1998, Times Square was at the tail end of its transformation from the seedy, neon-saturated underworld of the 1980s into a sanitized, Disney-fied epicenter. This evolution paralleled Carrie’s own journey, navigating a city that seemed to value spectacle over substance, often making “regular” women feel invisible next to model types.
Times Square is known worldwide for its towering electronic billboards, neon lights, and non-stop activity. Located at the intersection of Broadway and Seventh Avenue, it’s often called “The Crossroads of the World,” attracting millions of visitors each year.
New Year’s Eve Ball Drop
Times Square is home to the legendary New Year’s Eve ball drop, a celebration watched by millions globally. Visitors who come in December can feel the excitement building as the countdown approaches.
Things to Do in Times Square
- Broadway Shows : Just steps away, Times Square is at the heart of New York’s theater district. You’ll find everything from long-running favorites to brand-new plays. Head to the TKTS booth for same-day discounted tickets!
- Street Performers and Characters : Costumed characters, street musicians, and artists add an interactive touch to the area. Kids and adults alike enjoy snapping photos with familiar faces or watching talented street acts.
- Shopping :
- M&M’s World: A candy lover’s paradise with floors of colorful treats and merchandise.
- Disney Store: For Disney fans, this store offers exclusive souvenirs and fun displays.
Dining in Times Square
From grab-and-go pizza to sit-down dining, Times Square has plenty of options to refuel:
- Carmine’s: This classic Italian spot is famous for its family-style servings, ideal for groups.
- Juniors: Known for New York-style cheesecake, this spot is a dessert lover’s must.
Great Views 🌆
- Marriott Marquis: This hotel offers a rotating restaurant with panoramic views of Times Square.
- SUMMIT One Vanderbilt: Just a short walk away, this new observation deck offers sweeping city views and immersive art installations.
Location Details
Central Park
Central Park is one of the most frequent locations featured in the series, following closely behind Carrie’s apartment in terms of appearances. In ‘Models and Mortals’ the park’s role is brief, almost a passing glimpse. However, by the end of the series, we hear Carrie reflect in a monologue about the benefits of owning an apartment with a view of Central Park.
So on a self-guided SATC-inspired NYC tour, Central Park should definitely make the list.
Central Park spans 843 acres, It’s a favorite for locals and tourists alike, filled with picturesque paths, historic landmarks, and scenic spots. Whether you’re up for exploring on foot, by bike, or by carriage, the park offers endless ways to enjoy nature and iconic sights.
Top Sights in Central Park
- The Bethesda Terrace and Fountain ⛲: This architectural gem with its intricate tilework and grand fountain is one of the most photographed spots in the park. It’s especially beautiful at sunset, with musicians often playing nearby.
- The Bow Bridge 🌉: Known for its romantic setting, Bow Bridge offers beautiful views across the lake. It’s a favorite backdrop for couples and photographers and a frequent filming location.
- Strawberry Fields 🍓: A tranquil memorial dedicated to John Lennon, located near the Dakota Building. The “Imagine” mosaic is a simple yet powerful tribute to the musician and a peaceful place for reflection.
- Belvedere Castle 🏰: This miniature castle, perched on a hill, offers panoramic views of the surrounding park and city skyline. It’s a fun spot to visit and includes a small nature center.
Things to Do in Central Park
- Row Boating on The Lake : Rent a rowboat from the Loeb Boathouse and paddle around the lake, enjoying views of the city and nature all around you.
- Biking and Walking Trails : Central Park’s paths wind through lush landscapes, open fields, and wooded areas, offering different scenery at every turn. Bikes are available for rent if you’d like to explore more quickly.
- Central Park Zoo : A family-friendly attraction where you can see animals like sea lions, snow leopards, and penguins in the middle of Manhattan.
- Picnic on the Great Lawn : A favorite spot for gatherings, especially in the warmer months, where people relax, play frisbee, or have a picnic with friends.
Monkey Bar
This scene is tricky to identify: of course, it doesn’t get a special mention in the fan bible by Amy Sohn, but there are not so many venues in Manhattan that feature frescoes. Given that, only 2 of them are specifically mentioned in the book: Bemelmans and Monkey Bar. Bemelmans is made official in the first movie, and Monkey Bar is mentioned: “in the top of the fourth season”. However, we are inclined to believe that this scene was filmed in Monkey Bar.
Monkey Bar is located a few blocks from MoMA. It opened its doors in 1936 and continues its operations until today.
Location Details
Monkey Bar, with its almost 100-year-long history, offers refined and relaxed dining. Plentiful reviews describe the eatery as ‘incredible’ and ‘now better than before’.
Founded in 1936, Monkey Bar was a known literary and celebrity haunt, attracting everyone from Tennessee Williams to Nora Ephron. It’s one of the few places in Manhattan where history breathes through the wallpaper — literally. The mural, updated by illustrator Ed Sorel, is a chronicle of 20th-century New York, from martini-swilling moguls to cigarette-clad dames.
Coffee Shop (29 Union Square West)
The Coffee Shop makes its appearance twice in the series: first, Carrie and Miranda discuss her unfortunate date, and the second time, Mr Big drops by while Carrie is working.
We got a tip from Carrie that it is located at Madison Avenue and 42nd Street, however, the book says that the coffee shop is the one at 29 Union Square West.
The address indeed has a venue called “Joe Coffee”, but there’s a big BUT – Joe Coffee was opened in 2003, and the first season was released in 2001, that’s why it couldn’t possibly be the same place.
Yet, it’s still worth checking, since so many SATC filming locations are in Greenwich Village already.
Via Quadronno
At some point see Carrie and Skipper walking the streets of the Upper East Side and talking about his infatuation with Miranda. Skipper asks Carrie to call Miranda and ask why she’s not returning his calls.
So this call is done in the footsteps of Via Quadronno, an Italian restaurant “best known for its cappuccinos and panini”
Via Quadronno is located at 25 East 73rd Street and has been around for almost 3 decades and counting. The Google reviews are 4.1, which is pretty decent, and the location is great (not far from MET).
Via Quadronno has been serving Milanese-style paninis and espresso since 1993. With marble counters, compact seating, and a wall of imported Italian treats, it feels like a transplanted Milan alleyway — sophisticated, tight-knit, and just slightly chaotic.
Its selection of prosciutto and taleggio sandwiches is near-legendary, and the cappuccinos are often cited as among the city’s best.
Location Details
Self-Guided Walking Tour: “Models and Mortals” NYC Experience
Embark on a curated journey through Manhattan, retracing the steps of Carrie and her friends in Episode 2.
Start: 960 Madison Avenue
- Highlight: Carrie’s original apartment exterior.
- Nearby: Explore the Upper East Side’s boutiques and cafes.
Walk to Via Quadronno (25 E 73rd St)
- Distance: Approximately 0.2 miles (5-minute walk).
- Activity: Enjoy a panini or espresso at this charming café.
Subway to Union Square
- Route: Take the 6 train from 77th Street to 14th Street – Union Square.
- Highlight: Visit the former location of The Coffee Shop at 29 Union Square West.
🚶‍♀️ Walk to Times Square
- Distance: Approximately 1.5 miles (30-minute walk) or take the N/Q/R/W train from Union Square to Times Square – 42nd Street.
- Highlight: Experience the vibrant atmosphere captured in the episode’s montage.
Walk to Monkey Bar (60 E 54th St)
Activity: Conclude your tour with a drink at this iconic bar, reminiscent of the show’s dating scenes.
Distance: Approximately 0.6 miles (12-minute walk).
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