Unlock Upper East Side'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.
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 💛
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! 🎀✨
See also
Dining in Great Neck: Discover Local Experiences, Foodie Favorites & Trending Dinner Spots Near NYC
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!
Discover the Local Art Scene in the Upper East Side Near NYC
The Upper East Side of New York City is renowned for its sophisticated charm, timeless architecture, and cultural richness. What many may not know is that it also boasts a vibrant local art scene that promises a treasure trove of experiences for art lovers and curious explorers alike. Delve into trending galleries, uncover hidden gems, and immerse yourself in the thriving art community of the Upper East Side.
Trending Galleries You Must Visit
Marco Fine Arts Gallery stands out as a beacon among the local art scene, frequently hosting exhibitions that attract both emerging and established artists. Nestled in a stylish townhouse, the gallery highlights contemporary pieces that push the boundaries of modern art. Make sure to attend their monthly openings, a favorite among locals and art connoisseurs.
Another must-visit is Hauser & Wirth, a gallery that has quickly become a cornerstone in the Upper East Side. Known for its eclectic collection, it features works from diverse artistic disciplines, curated to provoke thought and inspire. Their events and panel discussions offer a deeper dive into the narratives behind the pieces, an invaluable experience for any art enthusiast.
Exclusive Local Art Events
The Upper East Side is not just a destination for static art displays; it’s also a hub for dynamic art events that offer unique experiences. The annual "Art and Culture Walk" transforms the streets into an open gallery, featuring live art installations, pop-up exhibitions, and interactive workshops. This event provides a perfect platform to engage with the art community and discover new talents.
If you are keen on networking and learning more about the artistic process, "Art Conversations" at the Upper East Side Bookstore is an event you cannot miss. This monthly gathering invites local artists to share their journeys, creative processes, and challenges, fostering insightful discussions and connections. Keep an eye on Kikihub for real-time updates about these and other events.
Exploring the Hidden Gems
While the larger galleries attract a lot of attention, the Upper East Side is dotted with lesser-known spots that house some of the most intriguing art pieces. Hidden away on a quiet street, Haven Art Studio is a small, artist-run space that champions local talent. Their rotating exhibits often feature works that push the envelope in terms of medium and message, making it a must-visit for those seeking something truly unique.
Another hidden gem is Artistic Roots, a collaborative space where artists and artisans come together to showcase their crafts. From avant-garde sculptures to quirky mixed media paintings, Artistic Roots offers a diverse palette that caters to varied tastes. Engage with the creators during their open studio sessions, which offer insight into their techniques and inspirations.
The Influence of the Community
The Upper East Side’s art scene thrives on the support and enthusiasm of its community. Local residents often participate in art walks, gallery talks, and workshops, creating a nurturing environment for artists. Community-led initiatives like the "Upper East Creative" project emphasize this relationship, highlighting neighborhood artists and hosting collaborative events that blend different artistic disciplines.
Even local businesses play a part in promoting art. Cafés and boutiques often feature art from local creators, ensuring that the vibrancy of the art community permeates every corner of the Upper East Side. Regularly stop by places like “Java Joy Café” or “Harmony Boutique” to discover new works while enjoying your favorite latte or shopping for unique fashion pieces.
Interactive Experiences and Workshops
The art scene is not just about admiring from afar; it’s about getting involved and creating something of your own. The Upper East Side offers numerous workshops and interactive experiences that allow you to unleash your inner artist. "Artistry Studio" hosts weekly painting and drawing classes suitable for all skill levels. Their expert instructors provide guidance and mentorship, ensuring a fulfilling creative experience.
Additionally, "Craft Fusion Lab" offers unique workshops focused on a variety of mediums, such as ceramics, textile art, and digital illustration. Their thematic workshops, influenced by current exhibitions or cultural events, provide a fresh perspective on traditional art forms. Engage with fellow art enthusiasts and craft your masterpiece in a supportive community setting.
The Upper East Side of NYC is a vibrant and diverse nexus for art lovers. With an assortment of trending galleries, exclusive events, hidden gems, and community engagements, it offers something for everyone eager to dive into the local art scene. Connect with fellow enthusiasts on Kikihub for genuine insights and the latest updates on art events around the neighborhood.
