Planning 1st visit to NYC July and would like to try some "trendy" restaurants/clubs. Have heard it can be impossible to get in if you don't know the right people and/or have the right look. Is this true? Any suggestions for places that are currently exciting but won't exclude mid-30's Torontonians?

Alas, it is true. That's why, at my age (mid-30s) I don't go to really trendy places anymore. That is, unless I know someone.

Restaurants are no problem. As long as you can get a reservation, you'll be fine. Just call way in advance and when you call find out if they have a reservation policy (for example, Union Square Cafe takes reservations only on the date 4 weeks prior to the reservation). Consider making reservations during the week or for lunch, you'll have better success. As far as trendy clubs and bars, I'm sure the same goes in Toronto, the really cutting edge places are accessible only to a small group of insiders, so why bother. There are still plenty of places that a regular person can enjoy and still get a feel for the NY scene -- try the Bubble Lounge in Tribeca or Flute on Park Avenue south, both champagne bars. Sushi samba on 7th Ave. South is very trendy. They'll make you wait even with a reservation but the bar area is a world unto itself. Look at Schecky's or NY sidewalk.com websites for more.

If your trip will be absolutely ruined if you can't get into those oh-so-trendy NYC clubs, may I suggest you work the concierge at your hotel for VIP passes or spots on the guest list? Same thing for restaurant reservations. That's what they are there for.

I do that in South Beach all the time, and can get into the very hottest clubs 100% of the time.

or you could just sport some cleavage. that seems to work too.