Discover Chinatown's Hidden Art Gems
New York Locals
The Commodore I and Commodore II are iconic spots known for serving up some of the best crispy fried chicken and refreshing piña coladas in Williamsburg. 🍍✨ Founded by Chris Young and Taylor Dow, their success led to Commodore II’s opening in Manhattan’s East Village, bringing their famous menu to a whole new crowd. 🙌 With a strong focus on community and nightlife, Commodore II is already becoming a local favorite for both food lovers and partygoers alike. 🪩 🍽️ Stop by for a lively atmosphere, great eats, and a taste of what made The Commodore a Brooklyn staple! 🎉
Time Out New York
Halloween revelers of all ages—and all species—will descend upon the Meatpacking District on Saturday, for the area's annual Halloween celebration, Treats in the Streets. From 11am to 6pm, the west side neighborhood will offer all treats and no tricks at participating restaurants and businesses, including pumpkin ring toss, pumpkin tic-tac-toe, cornhole, pumpkin painting Halloween mask making, spooky storytime readings and plenty of sweet treats, including mini dipped croissants from Maman, Petrossian chocolates and signature tea, Halloween cookies from RIVIAN, mini apple cider donuts at The Standard, High Line and more. And, of course, Treats in the Streets' headlining event will return: the Meatpacking District’s 6th Annual Doggie Costume Contest, taking place on Gansevoort Street and Ninth Avenue. After both pups and their owners strut down the runway showing off their costumed best, a panel of judges will decide the top three looks of the day. The winner will receive an overnight stay at The Standard, High Line, while all three finalists will take home a personalized pet portrait by artist Laura Baran.
New York Locals
Lately Cafe Bar & Bistro has quickly become a Long Island City favorite since opening in April 2023. Founded by Eric Lee, this cozy neighborhood spot is known for its expertly brewed coffee and mouthwatering egg sandwiches. 🍳☕ But Lately is more than just a cafe—it’s a vibrant community hub that celebrates art, culture, and music, hosting events that bring neighbors together. 🎶✨ In May, they expanded with a new dinner menu and downstairs bar, offering a fresh take on seasonal ingredients and creative dishes. Join them for a memorable evening of great food, drinks, and local vibes. 🍽️
Secret NYC
Open House New York Experience the unique opportunity to explore over 200 of New York City’s iconic buildings and landmarks during the Open House New York (OHNY) weekend from October 18th to 2oth. This event, celebrating its 22nd year, offers a mix of in-person tours, self-guided explorations, and digital content of skyscrapers, power plants, artist studios, and everything in between. The festival is 100% free to the public, making it accessible for everyone. Discover more about the event and plan your visit on the Open House New York website.
Little Kid Big City NEW YORK
Hidden Gem in NYC - Chinese Scholar’s Garden 🌳 Summer is the perfect time to explore some of the city’s fabulous gardens. One of New York City’s greatest hidden gems is the Chinese Scholar’s Garden, located at Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Garden in Staten Island. The design is based on gardens from the Ming Dynasty in China, and one of the few authentic gardens that were built in America. All the materials you see here (including the rocks and the tiles on the floor!) were made or sourced in China. The Chinese Scholar Garden has much to explore! There are eight pavilions, three ponds with koi fish, a waterfall, and many picturesque areas, including the unique shaped doorways seen on this clip. It’s a treasure. Why a hidden gem? Because It’s hard to find it! The NYCSG is behind a stone wall and not visible from the road. To get to the entrance you must walk through a cottage. The sign marking this is small and easy to miss. It truly is hidden!
Infatuation
Ras Plant Based A vegan and a meat-eater enter a plant-based Ethiopian restaurant. A couple of hours later, they both leave completely satisfied—and with the newfound knowledge that vegan nacho cheese is far superior to the real (fake) stuff. Such miracles can happen at the second location of Ras Plant Based in Greenwich Village. The menu here is essentially the same as their original spot in Crown Heights, except for the injera nachos, which you must order, because that’s where that melty vegan cheese comes into play. Add on a few cocktails and a mercato platter, with lots of spongy injera for scooping up creamy ground chickpeas, and you’ve got a feast for friends who love legumes, and those who'd normally rather be eating meat.
Eater
Textbook, a Fort Greene cafe known for its tahini-coffee shakes, has opened in Bed-Stuy that’s a bakery doubling as a bar called Understudy. Fresh bread should be affordable for everyone. That’s why they have a “Name Your Price for Bread” policy. Their Chef Tony, the master baker behind Bakery by Textbook. Chef was born and raised in New York, and now calls Bushwick home. With over a decade in the industry, Chef Tony’s journey began as a dishwasher and has finally landed him the opportunity to run his own kitchen. His speciality? Bread! From working in kitchens in Italy, to building bread ovens in Morocco, he’s excited to show you everything he’s learned along the way. At Bakery by Textbook, expect a focus on Mediterranean ingredients and flavors, as Chef Tony eagerly prepares some of his favorite recipes. He can’t wait to break bread with this amazing community 💛
See also
Dining in Willowbrook: Explore Local Dining Experiences & Foodie Favorites Near NYC
newyorkcity.explore
🍦🚇 All aboard the sweetest ride in NYC! 🚇🍦 This is definitely the coolest (and yummiest) subway in New York City! 📸🍭 Check out the pink subway at the Museum of Ice Cream – it’s like stepping into a candy-coated dream.🍨🍭 Perfect for getting those Insta-worthy shots and having a blast with your friends! 🎀✨
Natasha Husein
This is your sign to host a summer soirée (aka block party) in your neighborhood! Make new friends, meet your neighbors, go offline and be present with community in real life! Also if you’re in the Cobble Hill, Boerum Hill, Brooklyn Heights, Carroll Gardens area we do these gatherings once a month in Cobble Hill Park.
Crown | NYC
Outdoor movie nights at Hunter's Point South Park, Long Island City. Summer is the best for such spending the time! Experience the magic of movies under the stars at Hunter's Point South Park! Bring your friends, family, and a cozy blanket for an unforgettable evening of cinema with stunning views of the NYC skyline. 🌆🍿 Relax on the waterfront, enjoy the cool breeze, and watch your favorite films in this beautiful setting. It’s the perfect way to spend a summer night!
Unveiling the Local Art Scene in Chinatown Near NYC
Chinatown in New York City is a vibrant neighborhood with a rich cultural history and a burgeoning art scene. This hidden treasure trove offers a unique blend of traditional and contemporary art that remains under the radar for many visitors. Through Kikihub, you can access local insights, real opinions, and secrets from artists and residents who know the area intimately. Here, we’ll delve into the undiscovered corners of Chinatown and highlight trending galleries, exciting art events, and the community that fosters this ever-evolving art landscape.
Discovering Trending Galleries
Chinatown is home to some of the most innovative and cutting-edge art galleries in New York City. Among the hidden gems is XYZ Gallery, tucked away in an unassuming building on Mott Street. This gallery features modern art from emerging artists who challenge traditional boundaries and push artistic limits. Weekly exhibitions showcase a variety of mediums, from large-scale installations to intricate paintings, making it a must-see for art enthusiasts looking for something fresh and original.
Another notable space is the ABC Art Collective on Elizabeth Street, where you can find curated exhibitions that delve into the cultural narratives and histories of the Chinatown community. Each piece tells a story, providing a unique insight into the lives and experiences of the artists who call this eclectic neighborhood home. With regular opening nights and wine receptions, ABC Art Collective offers a fantastic opportunity to meet the artists and learn more about their inspirations and creative processes.
Immerse Yourself in Art Events
Chinatown’s calendar is brimming with art events that celebrate its rich heritage and contemporary flair. The Chinatown Art Walk, held monthly, offers a guided tour of the neighborhood's most prominent galleries and public art installations. This event is perfect for those eager to explore the area's artistic pulse while gaining insider knowledge from local experts who lead the tours.
For a more immersive experience, visit The Annual Chinatown Arts Festival, which takes place every summer. This large-scale event brings together artists, performers, and creative minds from across the city. Attendees can participate in hands-on workshops, witness live mural paintings, and enjoy street performances that capture the lively spirit of Chinatown’s art community.
Unearthing Hidden Artistic Gems
Despite the prominence of certain galleries and events, many of Chinatown’s artistic treasures lie off the beaten path. The Secret Studio, nestled in an old tenement building, is an artists' haven where local creative minds gather to share their work. Although access is typically by appointment only, visitors can experience a raw and authentic side of Chinatown’s art scene during their open studio nights, which offer a rare glimpse into the daily lives of these hidden artists.
Additionally, the network of alleyways and side streets in Chinatown is adorned with street art and murals that narrate the neighborhood’s socio-political history. These artworks, often created by anonymous artists, vividly depict the struggles and triumphs of the local community. A leisurely walk through these alleys reveals these poignant, yet often overlooked, pieces of art.
Exploring the Art Community
The Chinatown art scene thrives on a close-knit community of artists, curators, and art lovers who collaborate and support one another. Many artists live and work locally, creating a unique atmosphere of inspiration and creativity. Local cafes and teahouses, such as The Jade Teapot on Bayard Street, often serve as informal gathering spots where artists discuss their projects and exchange ideas. These social hubs are an integral part of Chinatown's art ecosystem, fostering community bonds and creative collaborations.
Kikihub provides an invaluable platform for connecting with this community, where users can share insider secrets and tips about the best art spots and upcoming events. By engaging with local chatter, you can uncover lesser-known exhibitions and pop-up shows that may not be widely advertised, ensuring you never miss out on the vibrant art scene that Chinatown has to offer.
Unique Art Exploration Experiences
Chinatown's art scene is not just confined to galleries and exhibitions. Art lovers can partake in hands-on workshops that offer unique, immersive experiences. Workshops in Chinese calligraphy, traditional brush painting, and contemporary art techniques are frequently organized by local artists. These sessions provide a fantastic opportunity to learn new skills while gaining a deeper appreciation for the cultural influences that shape Chinatown’s art.
For those who enjoy a touch of the unconventional, the Late-Night Art Sessions at a hidden basement studio on Canal Street offer a clandestine atmosphere complete with ambient music and dim lighting. These sessions often feature life drawing classes, impromptu jam sessions with local musicians, and live art installations, making them a captivating adventure for those wanting to experience the avant-garde side of Chinatown’s art scene.
Embark on a journey beyond the mainstream and discover the vibrant local art scene in Chinatown near NYC. With Kikihub’s local insights, you can tap into the heart of this creative community, uncovering art treasures, and gaining exclusive access to some of the most innovative and exciting art experiences New York City has to offer.
