Three neighborhoods, each explored through three cafés, restaurants, and shops that capture the distinct character and essence of the area.
TriBeCa
Triangle Below Canal (St) – once a thriving industrial and warehouse district. Today, its historic architecture and cobblestone streets give way to an elegant, residential neighborhood known for its acclaimed restaurants, independent shops, and spacious lofts and homes. Its quiet, community-oriented character has made it a particularly desirable neighborhood for families.
Coffee
Laughing Man Coffee
Hugh Jackman’s coffee shop, a staple TriBeCa spot. Get the salted honey or cinnamon vanilla latte, both perfect hot or iced. Sit outside on their benches or take it to the pier for a morning walk.
Rigor Hill
An expansion of their neighboring Michelin restaurant, One White St. Serving fresh farm to table breakfast and lunch, baked goods, and great coffee. In the winter, do not miss out on their famous hot chocolate, that is more like a rich soup than a drink.
Interlude Coffee & Tea
Small coffee shop with a Japanese spin on Hudson st serving high quality coffee and notably amazing matcha drinks, such as their strawberry matcha. They have a fantastic array of pastries but the star of the show is their malted chocolate chip.
Eat
The Odeon
The Odeon since 1980
The Odeon is a classic french bistro famous for defining 1980s downtown culture and as a known celebrity hotspot. You really can’t go wrong with anything on the menu but my personal favorites are the croque madame and french onion soup.
Pepolino Ristorante
Pepolino serves up traditional Tuscan dishes of fresh and homemade pasta. Eating here feels like you have been transported to Italy despite. The staff are very welcoming and always ensure you can get a seat even during their busiest hours.
Shop
Clic
Clic, the globally acclaimed home décor and lifestyle brand, has a charming corner on Thomas and W Broadway. I love coming here to admire the new art and photography on display, browse the unique décor pieces that make perfect gifts, or look through their rack of colorful clothing. With such a diverse mix of art, fashion, and home goods, there’s truly something for everyone.
Balloon Saloon
Balloon Saloon has been around since the 80s as the ultimate iconic spot for all things party supplies, balloons, toys, and silly gag gifts. You’ll find inflated doughnuts, slices of pizza, and stacks of dollar bills hanging from the ceiling. Even if you’re not planning a party, their wild display will pull you in.
Phillip Williams Posters
A must-visit for lovers of art, design, and nostalgia. The shop is filled with vintage posters spanning travel, fashion, music, film, and pop culture from a variety of countries. Whether you’re looking to take something home or simply browse, it’s a fun spot to explore.
SoHo
South of Houston (St), SoHo is known for its iconic cast-iron architecture, cobblestone streets, and history as an artist’s haven. Once home to industrial lofts and creative studios, it’s now a fashionable downtown destination filled with galleries, boutiques, and trendy restaurants.
Coffee
Cafe Paradiso
Café Paradiso brings the crowds and lines in on the quiet and charming Elizabeth st. While you may have to wait a bit for your coffee, I can guarantee that the wait is absolutely worth it. Some highlights from their Italian-inspired menu is the salted brown butter latte and the bombardino.
La Cabra
La Cabra is a renowned Scandinavian cafe and bakery not only known for its beautifully designed minimalist interior, but for amazing pastries and artisanal coffee. It’s a refined spot, excellent in everything they offer. Perfect to catch up with a friend on a rainy day or to get your morning fix.
Ground Support Cafe
I would not say Ground Support is a must-visit if you’re visiting NYC but it’s a great place if you need to sit in front of your laptop and get work done with coffee and a muffin or one of their amazing bagels. The staff are always so friendly and I feel this place has the best vibes no matter what. They offer plenty of sitting inside and outside, perfect to catch up with friends too!
Eat
Raku
Whenever it starts to get cold out I think of Raku. It’s a cozy Japanese restaurant known for its comforting bowls of udon, flavorful broths, and fresh ingredients. With its warm, understated atmosphere, it’s a neighborhood favorite for a casual yet satisfying meal.
Bar Pitti
This Italian restaurant is a hot spot for pasta lovers and celebrities. Known for rich delicious plates, cash only and no reservations, this place is a favorite for a relaxed meal and unmistakable New York charm. You’ll read the specials on chalkboard and leave absolutely full.
Jack’s Wife Freda
Jack’s Wife Freda is a downtown favorite known for its relaxed atmosphere and globally inspired menu, blending Jewish and South African influences with classic New York charm. It’s lively sidewalk seating is hard to miss, with its cozy interiors and all-day dining, it’s an inviting spot for everything from brunch to dinner.
Shop
McNally Jackson
McNally Jackson is a must-visit independent bookstore for anyone who loves to browse. Beyond its thoughtfully curated selection of books, the store carries unique gifts, stationery, and literary finds that make it an ideal stop for a thoughtful purchase or a little inspiration.
Iconic Magazines
While it may seem unassuming at first, once you step inside you see how really iconic this store is. Browse an impressive collection of rare and collectible magazines, art books, and visually striking publications that make for a unique find or the perfect coffee-table addition.
The Real Real
While TRR has it’s extensive online platform, it’s always fun to look around the store and see what pieces they may have on display. The SoHo store makes it easy to browse coveted pieces from top fashion houses while discovering something unique at a more accessible price. The clothes and colorful bags truly decorate the space
Lower East Side
The Lower East Side of Manhattan
Once home to generations of immigrant families, the LES has a rich and diverse history. Today, it’s known for its lively mix of restaurants, bars, galleries, and independent shops, while still keeping its neighborhood charm.
Coffee
Dialogue Coffee & Flowers
This is a charming small cafe that brings together two simple pleasures: great coffee and beautiful flowers. Their specialty drinks are decadent and delicious. The carrot cake latte and rose cold foam latte are my personal faves.
Le Gaz
Le Gaz brings a playful Vietnamese touch to the Lower East Side, with an intimate setting and a menu made for sitting and sipping. They are known for their matcha and their strong Vietnamese coffee, cà phê sữa đá.
Smiley Coffee
Smiley Coffee from the Smiley company, is a specialty coffee shop and lifestyle store. This makes for a perfect pit stop while you’re exploring the Lower East Side. They always have an interesting assortment of drinks such as their salted hot chocolate and hazelnut miso latte.
Eats
Dimes
Dimes is my go-to favorite spot for any meal of the day. It’s cool funky interior and fresh Californian-style dishes make an excellent pairing. The staff are super friendly and lovely to chat with, especially if you’re sitting at the bar. Don’t forget to check out their Dimes Deli across the street.
Russ & Daughters
Russ and Daughters is Lower East Side institution, serving classic Jewish appetizing since 1914. Best known for its smoked fish, bagels, and traditional specialties, it’s a must-visit for a taste of New York history.
Kiki’s
Kiki’s has the best Greek food in the city. From their Greek salad, moussaka, lamb chops, to the best tasting cheesecake, it’s a great place to go with a few friends to share everything. It’s a lively Lower East Side favorite in an intimate, no-frills setting. Known for its simple, flavorful dishes and energetic atmosphere.
Shop
Procell
Procell is a must-visit for vintage streetwear and fashion lovers. The Lower East Side shop is packed with rare graphic tees, sweatshirts, and one-of-a-kind pieces from past decades, making it a great place to find something with real character.
Dana Foley
A boutique known for its downtown, feminine pieces for all sorts of occasions. The shop combines the designer’s limited-run pieces with carefully curated vintage clothing and accessories, making it a great stop for unique, statement-making finds you won’t see everywhere.
BonBon
BonBon is an eccentric Swedish candy shop bringing Scandinavian goodies to New York. Known for its colorful selection of sweets and nostalgic treats, it’s a fun stop to pick up something tasty for yourself or for a gift, while exploring the area.
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