I respectively disagree. The beauty of NYC is in its diversity.
Its outlook may not be as pretty as some new cities such as Chicago or Shanghai. For many immigrants, this is the best place they feel at home. Even 凤姐 can fit in easily in this city. It also has proved itself as a resilient city by its vibrant economy even after dotcom burst, 9/11, financial crisis and recent sandy. I would say it is a snapshot of "American spirit"