25 Spots That Capture the Heart of NYC’s Lower East Side
Here’s a little known secret about most New Yorkers: they have a neighborhood they call home, and a neighborhood they wish they called home. There are a few tells when they find themselves in the latter: they pause slightly when they see a “For Rent” sign in the window, they know the local bartenders and baristas by name, and their feet feel heavier than usual when it comes time to leave. The neighborhood we spend most of our time in is, by and far, the Lower East Side. It has an ideal location, exudes a cool-but-relaxed vibe, and is constantly evolving. It’s a fun mix of classic establishments and hip new places. If you’re looking for a NYC neighborhood to explore, these 25 spots get to the heart of the Lower East Side.
Where is the Lower East Side?
The Lower East Side is the area bordered by Houston St to the north, the East River to the east and Bowery to the west. Neighborhood boundaries can be a little fluid depending on who you ask, so for the purposes of this guide we've used the ones set by Google Maps. You'll find all 25 spots on this map, with descriptions in the three main sections below.
Coffee Shops in the Lower East Side
The Lower East Side has its fair share of coffee juggernauts like Cafe Grumpy and Blue Bottle, but thankfully, it also has smaller coffee houses that offer more of a neighborhood experience.
Cortado at Ludlow Coffee Supply
Though Ludlow Coffee Supply has only been around for a few years, like many other places in the Lower East Side, it remains anchored to the neighborhood's storied past. The space was once home to the famed Pink Pony Café & Bar, which was an LES mainstay from the early 90s frequented by musicians, actors and directors. Ultimately, the demise of the Pink Pony was due to a NYC tale as old as time: the dreaded death blow of an excessive rent spike. Fortunately, Ludlow Coffee Supply kept the Pink Pony’s iconic wooden bar and wood-paneled wainscoting. As for the coffee, you’ll discover skilled baristas pulling shots of a proprietary blend roasted in Red Hook, Brooklyn, so you're certain to receive a solid cup of the beverage of your choice. And if you find it’s too late in the day for caffeine, a selection of beer and wine are on offer in the evenings.
Caffe Vita in the Lower East Side
Pacnor and Americano at Caffe Vita
Seattle-based coffee company and third-wave pioneer, Caffe Vita has locations in Washington, Oregon, and New York. But the LES location--its first East Coast outpost--doesn’t feel like part of a national chain. As a company, Caffe Vita embraces the concept that “each location is slightly different--unique to its neighborhood and embedded in its community”. And you feel that concept the moment you walk up to the red-lettered storefront with its faded neon sign, featuring its mascot--the Neapolitan puppet, Pulcinella--waving a cup of coffee. You feel it even more when you enter the dim, narrow, brick-lined, orange-accented space, with its live-in, distressed wooden floors. Since opening their LES location in 2012, Caffe Vita has become a neighborhood fixture. It was one of the first cafés in Manhattan to roast small batches of beans on premises until their second Bushwick, Brooklyn café and roastery opened. You’ll find their bean selection robust and fresh, always yielding an excellent cup of coffee.
Things to do in the Lower East Side
History and community are at the heart of the Lower East Side, and you can sense it everywhere you go. Even when new players come to the neighborhood, there’s an underlying connection to, and respect for, those who came before them. LES has an incredible roster of things to do, catering to a variety of interests. Whether you’re in the mood for a quiet day at the museum, a competitive game of bowling, a retro flick or a stroll, this neighborhood has it all.
Discover NYC Pickle Culture
The Pickle Guys pickle shop
Sweet Pickle Books pickle store and bookshop
In the early 1900s, the Lower East Side was known as the pickle capital of America. Fleeing persecution and poverty, Eastern European Jewish immigrants brought with them centuries-old food traditions, including the kosher dill pickle. These pickles were fermented in salty brine rather than vinegar, a method that produced the complex sour flavor we associate with New York-style pickles today. Essex and Orchard Streets were lined with pickle stands, and barrels of pickles were a common sight on sidewalks and storefronts.
The decline of the neighborhood's pickle industry began in the mid-20th century, as urban renewal projects displaced many small businesses and rising health regulations made street-side barrels harder to maintain. Today, you can still get a taste of this history at The Pickle Guys, where you can sample anything from bread-and-butter chips to pickled mangoes, or Sweet Pickle Books, where you can buy 2-pound jars of pickles with a gently-worn mystery paperback.
Capture a Strip of Nostalgia
A vintage analog photo strip from Old Friend photo booth
Even though we’re all walking around with a digital camera in our pocket, Zoë Lazerson and Brandon Minton recognized the value of a vintage analog photo booth, so they purchased one from St. Louis and drove it to NYC’s Lower East Side. Old Friend Photo Booth has become a sensation, with lines snaking around the corner, depending on the time of day. While a photo strip might hardly seem worth the wait, we’ve found part of the charm of the experience is watching newlyweds and graduates, friends and families, gather for a fun memento. Just squeezing into the tight space elicits giggles. Not to mention the novelty of waiting 3 minutes to see what develops in an otherwise instant world. So why not strike a pose – or four?
Go Beyond the Traditional Museum
There are several museums in the Lower East Side, but they each challenge the notion of what a museum is and should be. If you’re interested in getting to the heart of the neighborhood’s history, then there’s no better place to start than the Tenement Museum. Located in two actual tenement buildings occupied by working families from the 1860s through the 1930s, the museum seeks to bridge the past and the present. Guided apartment tours make time travel seem possible, bringing stories of its previous occupants to life. The Museum of Street Art is another fun alternative option in LES. The museum uniquely occupies the stairwell of the CitizenM Bowery hotel and pays homage to another New York City street art mecca.
The stained glass window at Museum at Eldridge Street features silicone technology that holds the glass together in seamless panels
And although the Museum at Eldridge Street is technically located within today’s Chinatown boundaries, it is inherently tied to the spirit and history of the Lower East Side. Built in 1887 by Eastern European Jews settling in New York City, the synagogue was a source of community support and sanctuary. Falling into disrepair over time, a grassroots organization fought for its recognition as a historic landmark, which led to an extensive restoration project. Today, its stunning stained glass window, brass lighting and painted decorations evoke awe in all its visitors.
Opt Outside
Geometric mural by David June Louf aka Mr. June on Allen St
There’s nothing we champion more than hitting the pavement in New York City, because that is undoubtedly the best way to see the city. Put on some comfortable walking shoes and dress for the weather, and the Lower East Side will reward you with incredible sights, smells and sounds. If the Museum of Street Art whet your appetite, then you’ll find more amazing murals all over the neighborhood. Allen Street is where you'll find most of the work commissioned through The New Allen, an effort to turn the streets into an outdoor gallery by featuring the work of some of the best graffiti and street artists. The 100 Gates Project also originated here in 2014, with the simple goal of painting street art murals on 100 security roll-down gates for community enrichment and beautification.
Williamsburg Bridge
Pier 35 eco-park with views of the Manhattan Bridge and Brooklyn
For incredible views overlooking the East River, you can make your way across the Williamsburg Bridge, which has a footpath for pedestrians as well as a bike lane for cyclists. Or head south to Pier 35, a public eco-park on the East River waterfront that includes a restored habitat for ribbed and blue mussels, a lush green wall of ivy on eye-catching geometric metal screens, and porch swings with unobstructed views of the Manhattan and Brooklyn Bridges. On a beautiful day, those porch swings are a quick reminder that the best things in life are free.
Make the Best of Bad Weather
Meow Parlour cat cafe
When the weather outside isn’t cooperating, LES still offers some stellar indoor fun opportunities. It’s home to not one, but TWO cat cafes. Meow Parlour was New York City’s first cat cafe, and has since evolved into its own rescue and adoption group. They adopt 25-30 cats a month, then help place them in forever homes. The cafe itself feels very much like a life-size cat condo. Grab a seat and allow the residents to sidle up to you once they are ready for some petting. Koneko is a Japanese cat cafe which also partners with a cat rescue organization to find permanent homes for felines. It offers Japanese-themed food and beverages, and the occasional event like karaoke or movie night. No matter how bad your day is, surrounding yourself with (mostly sleepy) felines is a sure-fire way to boost those endorphins.
Metrograph
If you’re looking for a more sophisticated movie night option, then head on over to Metrograph. To dismiss Metrograph as just another movie theater would be a criminal understatement. Sure, you can watch films there, but there's so much more to this neighborhood gem. The programming is thoughtfully curated and offers exclusive premieres, rare archival print screenings, book signings, special dinners, and events. On top of that, their commissary is modeled on the Hollywood Studio back lots of the 1920's and is the perfect place to grab a bite to eat or a cup of coffee after the show. If you’re a firm believer that the book is always better than the movie, then make your way over to indie bookstore P&T Knitwear, where you won’t just find an eclectic mix of reading materials, but also thoughtful programming with authors, including readings, discussions and workshops.
Where to Eat in the Lower East Side
In Greek mythology, King Sisyphus was punished for his deceit by being forced to push an immense boulder up a hill only for it to roll down when it nears the summit, dooming him to repeat this action for eternity. Exploring every single restaurant and eatery in the Lower East Side can feel like a similarly futile exercise. Every time we’re in the area, we discover something new. So here’s a small guide to help you out, depending on your mood, your budget, or your company.
A Taste of Old New York
Russ & Daughters Shop on E Houston St
The Lower East Side has a rich immigrant history, with Dutch settlers calling it home in the 1600s, followed by German settlers in the mid-19th century. Jewish immigrants from small Eastern European villages showed up shortly after in the 1880s, mostly escaping persecution and hardship. Their influences run deep, and you can find some of New York City’s most venerable institutions in this neighborhood. The original Russ & Daughters on Houston Street is a Lower East Side staple we frequent regularly, along with many other locals and visitors. The trailblazing shop has been around for over a century, and is still very much a Russ family owned and operated business. The classic bagel & lox sandwich made with Gaspe Nova smoked salmon is more than a meal, it’s an experience.
Pastrami sandwich at Katz's Delicatessen
About a block east, you’ll find Katz’s Deli, another NYC stalwart that needs no introduction. It’s anyone’s guess if the patrons at any given time are there celebrating pop culture history (When Harry Met Sally, Donnie Brasco, Enchanted) or the legendary pastrami sandwich. For something a little more subtle, but still very much a neighborhood fixture, stop by Yonah Schimmel’s for a knish. Faded photographs and newspaper articles on the wall remind you of its place in Lower East Side history, with Barbara Streisand and Eleanor Roosevelt among its famous clientele.
Pro Tip: These three spots are also great places to sample an Egg Cream, a classic New York beverage.
Legit Spots To Impress Your Foodie Friends
Essex Market
Portuguese egg tarts at Joey Bats Cafe
Essex Market is more than just a market; it’s a historical and cultural destination that represents everything great about the Lower East Side. The historical has the current hot, happening foodie destinations in the Lower East Side. It brings together cool new vendors to discover as well as old NYC classic establishments to celebrate. For example, there’s the acclaimed Dhamaka serving excellent and lesser known provincial Indian cuisine. Then just a few steps away there’s the old-school institution from the original Essex Market, Shopsin’s General Store, offering such bizarre combinations as the Mac & Cheese Pancakes. For something sweet, pop by Joey Bats Cafe for freshly baked pasteis de nata, or Portuguese Egg Tarts. We first discovered Joey Bats at Queen's Night Market, and it’s become one of our go-to dessert options ever since.
And when it comes to trendy see-and-be-seen spots, we have to mention Supermoon Bakehouse, located just a block north. Helmed by the pastry chef behind the viral cruffin, you’ll find a rotating selection of his signature pastry along with filled croissants, doughnuts, and more.
LES is also home to one of the city’s most acclaimed vegetarian restaurants. Dirt Candy was one of the first restaurants to elevate vegetarian food, but founder Amanda Cohen has proven to be an innovator in the industry in many different ways. She eliminated tipping long before it was trendy to do so, and her cookbook is also a comic book. It’s difficult for any restaurant to stay relevant in New York City, much less a vegetarian one. But over a decade later, Dirt Candy is still very much in the conversation.
International Delights Without a Passport
Ramen dishes at Nakamura
Once you’ve acquainted yourself with the Lower East Side’s history, it’s no surprise to discover cuisines from all over the world well represented here. There are a ridiculous number of ramen shops, but among that crowded field, there's still room for standout Nakamura. Acclaimed chef Shigetoshi Nakamura elevates what some consider a pedestrian staple with unique ingredients and playful flavor combinations. Kisa is considered the best Korean restaurant outside of K-Town by many, with comforting mains, quality banchan, and a cozy vintagey vibe. How about a mashup of cuisines? Birria LES, named for the chili-marinated meat stew dish, is the brainchild of two locals of Bangladeshi descent and a mutual friend and chef of Mexican descent. You’ll find Mexican staples — all halal, by the way — such as tacos, tostadas, and mulitas, but also our favorite loaded papas (french fries), heaped with the spiced, succulent, stewed-meat and salty cheese.
Pies, Pies, Pies
Monster shakes and bubble waffles may have had their moment, but we love to honor the classics. There’s nothing more classic than pie, and Petee’s Pie is one of our top picks. Simplicity reigns supreme here, with seasonal local produce driving the menu. Whether it’s apples from the Hudson Valley or blueberries from Maine, Petee’s knows how to make them shine.
Craving a more savory pie? You’re in luck. The Lower East Side is home to Scarr’s Pizza, which has legacy bonafides. Founder Scarr Pimentel learned his craft at Lombardi’s, NYC’s (and the country’s!) first pizzeria. On a nice day, grabbing a couple of slices and scarfing them down on the sidewalk feels like a true New York moment. But Scarr’s also offers table top service if you’re looking to order a full pie, as well as a bar area where you can order slices for eating in. If you’re looking for a good vegan slice, we’re big fans of the Tomato & Garlic pizza at Grand Street Pizza. With fresh garlic, razor-thin fresh tomato slices and basil, you won’t miss the cheese.
Conclusion
A home away from home isn't just about existential FOMO. It can be a blessing, too. It's a place where you can explore new ideas, try new cuisines, make new friends, or simply indulge in a change of pace that acts as a salve for the mundanity of life. They say home is where the heart is, and the Lower East Side sure has a lot of it.
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