Lower East Side's Hidden Cocktail Gems
Noel Y. Calingasan
Washington Square Park DOG HALLOWEEN today in New York City 👻 🐕 The beloved Halloween event in NYC Washington Square Park is back! I went to see the event today and it was a lot of fun! The parade and costume contest are bigger and better than ever.
Anonym
All New Yorkers will defend the city, and the way of life. However, everyone has their “I hate NY” moment. I hate New York because there’s no space. Can’t breathe without something in your face. What’s yours?
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Anonym
IMHO seeing the statue from the water is a much better experience than going to the island.
Food Baby
Go to Time and Tide for an amazing meal of seafood in all forms! The menu has sections for Raw Fish, Small Fish and Big Fish, with great dishes in each one, and you obviously need to start with that giant Goldfish cracker. 👶🏽🐠 👌🏽👌🏽👌🏽👌🏽
NYC Tourism
Hundreds of Uber, Lyft drivers block Manhattan traffic to protest lockouts by apps
newyorkcity.explore
i’m a woman in my mid 20s. i live in a city of 700k in the south. when i go out at night i always have at least one weapon on me to protect myself (usually a keychain knife and sometimes a stun gun). i have been a victim of stalking in the past so having these things on me makes me feel more comfortable. how can i do the same in nyc? ill be flying. i know there’s different rules there especially regarding things like pepper spray. i can ship items to my friend’s house but i know there’s rules on that too. thanks!
Secret NYC
How about some weird parties?.. Hosted by Teksupport and el studio, Black Lotus is an immersive theatrical event initiative that transforms an undisclosed NYC location into an extravagant soirée, soundtracked by some of the world’s most noteworthy house and techno talent. This year’s lineup includes Crosstown Rebels and Day Zero founder Damian Lazarus, multi-instrumentalist DJ and producer Mita Gami, Miami-based Tiffy Vera, and a special surprise act TBA on 10/24 and Guy Gerber, Kaz James, Nick Morgan, and Michael Malih on Halloween night. Learn more about how to grab tickets here. When: October 24 & 31 Where: Manhattan TBA
See also
Dining in Willowbrook: Explore Local Dining Experiences & Foodie Favorites Near NYC
Storytime NYC
NiuKee Shumai. Trying this new shumai spot on Broome st! You have to check out NiuKee Shumai, a new shumai spot in SoHo. They serve delicious shumai, fluffy buns and a flavorful bone broth soup! Each shumai dish comes with 6 pieces for $6.95 and you can choose from beef & onion, pork & shrimp, chicken, or vegetarian. The cutest buns are made fresh to order, with red bean & ube, and are so soft and fluffy.
Daytrip NYC
What the hell is going on in NYC with the hotel prices tomorrow? I just need one night!
Noel Y. Calingasan
PIER 97 is NOW OPEN at Hudson River Park: New York City’s newest recreational and lounging green space!!! Designed by !melk, Pier 97 features a playground with water spray features, a synthetic turf field, a sloping sun lawn, sculptural shade structures, an elevated walkway with seating, an “all-ages” slide and a sunset deck complete with bistro tables, chaise lounges and two-tiered walls with seating. The pier also features flexible gathering areas surrounded by flowers and plants to provide space for organized or impromptu events. History: Hudson River Park’s northernmost pier was built between 1921 and 1934, and then served for decades as the hub for the Swedish America Line. While it remained an active dock through the 1970s, Pier 97 was used as a parking lot by the City of New York Department of Sanitation until 2011. Hours: Open daily 6 AM - 1 AM 📍 Access through West 57th Street in Hell’s Kitchen, Manhattan, New York City
Cheryl
If you’re a fan of black sesame, you must try the black sesame soft serve from Matcha Cafe Maiko NYC! love how strong the black sesame flavor is. every bite makes you crave for more! it’s only here for a limited time, so don’t miss out! • black sesame soft swerve • black sesame frappe • maiko special (ube/matcha) 📍Matcha Cafe Maiko
Foodie_NYC
🍦 My Treat 🍦 Butterfield Market is now serving soft serve frozen yogurt that comes in 4 flavors; plain, chocolate, peanut butter and coffee. I had the Coffee loaded up and it was amazing❗️ Yummmmmmelicious . 🥳
Cheryl
What do you think about vegan sushi? And did you know there’s a vegan sushi spot located inside canal street market? I honestly didn’t know what to expect since it was my first time having vegan sushi, but it was SOOO good. each dish was so unique and had such a burst of flavor. • crispy broccoli tempura • dahon chkn fried mushroom • dahon signature roll • avocado truffle oshizushi • miso truffle eggplant nigiri • poke ku 📍DAHON VEGAN
Foodie_NYC
I had a great dinner at Kalye (“Street” in Tagalog). It’s an amazing, affordable Filipino restaurant on Broome Street specializing in Filipino street food. Kalye, a small, unassuming restaurant, delivered an amazing parade of unique, delicious food based on the owner’s chef heritage, as seen on the restaurant’s page. “Our menu is full of Rob’s cherished family recipes, offering a variety of mouth-watering dishes that will make you feel like you’ve traveled straight to the Philippines. From our famous Ube Sliders to other traditional Filipino favorites, every bite is a celebration of our culture and love for good food. Whether you’re here to dine in, taking food to go, or having it delivered to your doorstep, Kalye makes enjoying Filipino food easy and convenient.” Totally enjoyable unique experience. Salamat, Chef 💖🙏🏼💖
See alsoDiscover the Vibrant Local Community in Willowbrook Near NYC - Engage in Trending Discussions & Anonymous Posts
Melanie Yu
My “NYC Must Try” 🥳 Double Chicken Please! The Double Chicken Portrait Studio & Gallery experience came full circle through a 3-part portrait studio activation, where photographers Moe Aljaff, Damien Guichard & GN Chan captured small group portraits in their own distinct styles!
megan li
Get ready for incoming NYC spam… I’m not the biggest fan of BBQ pork buns, but these from Mei Lai Wah changed my mind. I want to take home an entire suitcase full of pineapple BBQ pork buns 🤩 You can get all their signature buns like their baked pork buns and pineapple custard buns - they are seriously so good. Plus new options like popcorn chicken, rice rolls, and skewers after 7pm!
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Time Out New York
Grand Central Terminal gains a massive French brasserie! However, this historic landmark has given us plenty of reasons to bide our time there... This month, the terminal gained another tenant, sure to ease the trials of traveling with its Parisian charms. Grand Brasserie took over the former City Winery space on October 8. Designed by the Rockwell Group, it seamlessly blends into the historic architecture of Vanderbilt Hall and mimics the various sidewalk cafes found in Paris—the front of the restaurant welcomes with towering greenery and black and white bistro chairs. Passing through the wrought iron bar entryway, the main dining room houses red leather banquettes and enough chairs to seat a staggering 300 souls. As if that wasn’t enough, the 100-seat Green Room is decorated with black and white photos of New York’s past and features a grand marble bar with bottles that climb up to the ceiling.
Dallas fun fam
Pumpkin patch Any good pumpkin patches with kid activities?
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! 🎉
Natasha Surti
Sundays are for Brunch 🥂 🍽Where I went: Bubby’s ✔️What I got: Fried Chicken & Pancakes 💰What I paid: $25 ⠀ 🤔What I think: A group of us happened to stumble upon Bubby’s while walking to the pier on the west side last summer and we knew we wanted to go here for brunch when we walked past someone eating this very dish! The chicken was seasoned perfectly and had just the right amount of breading on the outside so the batter on the outside wasn’t too heavy. The pancakes were cooked to perfection as well and the sweetness of them with the maple syrup complemented the fried chicken.
Cheryl
this szechuan spot just opened in the lower east side, nyc. right by delancey you can satisfy your szechuan cravings with their gorgeous interior. each dish was delicious and had strong flavor. • thin sliced pork belly with chill garlic sauce • egg custard bun • tradition stewed pork belly cubes • superior dry fried crab szechuan style • stir-fried string beans with minced cabbage and garlic • wagyu beef black truffle fried rice • handmade brown sugar glutinous rice cake 📍Fan Szechuan 大宅门
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Noel Y. Calingasan
Halloween House in Dyker Heights This house in Brooklyn is all decked out for Halloween. The best house in Brooklyn so far.
Foodie_NYC
For my birthday dinner, I chose to go to Momokawa, my favorite Japanese restaurant in the city. While somewhat hidden from the city’s sushi limelight, Momokawa provides a top-notch, holistic Japanese culinary experience. Led by its owner, Chef Mie Okuda, a Japanese holistic nutritionist, the restaurant follows her philosophy as stated on its website: “A great meal is not one that just fills you up. A great meal is a journey that returns you to sources of pleasure you may have forgotten, taking you to places you haven’t been before.” — Mie Okuda, Chef/Owner I had the sushi Omakase dinner and couldn’t be happier. The welcoming, warm hospitality, the great vibe, and the amazing food left me more than satisfied. Thanks, Chef Okuda. 💖🙏🏼💖
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.
Secret NYC
Elsewhere Halloween Our favorite Bushwick club Elsewhere is throwing down a massive party for Halloween this year. This year’s festive celebration will take over the entire venue, featuring artists like Soichi Terada (live), Aurora Halal, Analog Soul, Lauren Lo Sung, and many more! Follow Elsewhere’s Instagram for more upcoming shows this fall! When: Oct 26
Noel Y. Calingasan
Autumn is a season that can be a powerful reminder of the transience of all things... Today, I strolled the grounds of the historic Green-Wood Cemetery in Brooklyn. Once a Revolutionary War battlefield, this sprawling, 478-acre cemetery is home to notable figures.
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Time Out New York
Are you ready for such a beauty?? Sistine Chapel: The Exhibition New Yorkers itching to see the Sistine Chapel's ceiling painted by Michelangelo usually have to embark on an eight-and-a-half hour flight to Rome before finding their way to the Vatican City. But the special slice of history is going to land in Brooklyn in an immersive exhibit. Michalangelo's Sistine Chapel: The Exhibition is touching down in Industry City through January 5, 2025, after stints in London, Shanghai, Toronto, Chicago, Vienna and other cities around the world. The exhibition features 34 of the famous frescoes reproduced in precise detail with bold color and enhanced details to give visitors a fuller experience than they would get if they visited the Vatican, where the artwork towers a staggering 66 feet above the main floor and where details can get lost if you don't have hawk-like vision. Tickets range from $22 to $26.
Infatuation
Do you like to go out with your pup?) Habana Outpost has a huge fenced-in patio. This Fort Greene spot also serves perfectly serviceable sandwiches, tacos, and quesadillas, and nothing on the menu costs more than $16. If you're looking for reasonably-priced food and outdoor seating, and you don't want people to get mad at you when your kids or dogs start acting up, you're going to appreciate this place.
See alsoDiscover the Best Cocktails in Willowbrook: Local Bars & Rooftop Nightlife Near NYC
Infatuation
ICONYC Long Island City The plaza at this Long Island City brewery is filled with picnic tables, and you can bring your own food. So think of this place as a paved public park that just happens to serve IPAs and coconut pale ales that are brewed on site. During the winter, some of the outdoor seating is heated.
Food Baby
One of the best restaurants to open this year! CHLOE is back in the SAME location where she originally opened By Chloe. Your best new lunch / quick dinner option in the area, so many things here are so good. The Butternut Nachos are a must to start, the Classic Burger is one of the best vegan burgers in town, and every salad is so good, especially the Quinoa Taco Salad. And all the cookies are a must for dessert! Will be here for lunch all the time. 👶🏽🥗 👌🏽👌🏽👌🏽👌🏽
Local Cocktail Bars in the Lower East Side
Lower East Side has long been renowned for its eclectic mix of bars and inventive cocktails, with a range of local establishments that embody the unique vibe of this iconic NYC neighborhood. Among the most popular cocktail bars is Attaboy, an unmarked speakeasy known for its tailor-made drinks. Perched at the former site of Milk & Honey, all you need to do is knock on the door and let the bartenders know your preferences. They’ll whip up a concoction that is as unique as your palate.
Just a stone's throw away, you'll find The Flower Shop, a retro-style bar that doubles as a restaurant. With its lush, vintage décor and an extensive cocktail menu, this spot is perfect for those looking to enjoy the Lower East Side nightlife. Request their famous "Paper Plane," a modern classic that epitomizes the creativity and flair of NYC bartenders. For a more intimate setting, head to Nitecap, a cozy bar hidden below street level, where the fun, inventive cocktails and small-plate offerings make it an ideal destination for a memorable night out.
Trending Rooftop Bars in Lower East Side
The Lower East Side isn't just about speakeasies and dive bars; it also has a selection of trending rooftop bars that offer breathtaking views of NYC. Mr. Purple, located atop Hotel Indigo, is one such destination, capturing the essence of New York nightlife from high above. Sip on their signature "Mr. Purple" cocktail while enjoying panoramic views of the city skyline. The modern, chic atmosphere makes it a hit among locals and tourists alike.
Another rooftop gem is The Crown atop Hotel 50 Bowery. This dual-terrace bar provides a 360-degree view of Lower Manhattan and beyond. The stylish interior and creative cocktail menu attract a crowd looking to celebrate and unwind. The "Dragon Slayer," a vodka-based concoction with yuzu and blackberry, is a must-try for those seeking a taste sensation. The calm ambiance combined with spectacular views makes it a perfect choice for an evening out.
Discover the Nightlife Scene
The nightlife in Lower East Side is as diverse as its residents, catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences. If you’re in the mood for dancing, make your way to Pianos, a two-level venue that offers both live music and DJ sets. Their upstairs dance floor is the place to be if you’re looking to let loose and dance the night away. Meanwhile, the main floor offers a range of live performances, making it a versatile nightspot.
For a more laid-back experience, visit Clandestino, a local favorite with an old-world charm. This intimate wine bar is perfect for a quiet drink and good conversation. The friendly bartenders are always happy to recommend a wine or mix up a classic cocktail. On the weekends, the ambiance becomes even more alluring with the addition of live jazz music, providing the perfect soundscape to your night.
Local Insights for an Unforgettable Experience
For those keen on blending in with the locals and discovering hidden gems, Kikihub provides a treasure trove of anonymous tips and real opinions. A highly recommended spot by insiders is Black Crescent, known for its seafood-inspired cocktails and cozy atmosphere. Try the "Salty Fisherman," a unique blend of gin and black sea salt, which perfectly encapsulates the creative spirit of the area. Regulars swear by the bartenders' knack for mixing eclectic yet balanced drinks.
Another lesser-known venue recommended by Kikihub users is Suffolk Arms, a bar that prides itself on reinventing classic cocktails using locally sourced ingredients. Their "Moscow Mule" is a standout, making use of fresh, artisanal ginger beer created in-house. The bar also offers an educational experience, with bartenders more than willing to share the story behind each ingredient they use. This not only elevates the drink but also provides guests with a richer, more immersive experience.
Restaurants with Excellent Cocktail Menus
Lower East Side doesn't just excel in nightlife; it also boasts a variety of restaurants that serve impressive cocktails alongside their culinary delights. Beauty & Essex is a prime example, located behind a hidden door in a pawn shop. The restaurant serves elegant dishes and innovative cocktails in a lavish setting. Don’t miss out on the "Beau Thai," a spicy, tangy delight made with tequila, pineapple, and chili, perfect to pair with their famed chicken meatballs.
For those who love a unique dining experience, Dirty French offers a French-styled brasserie with a twist. The cocktails are as bold and inventive as the cuisine, with options like the "French 75" featuring champagne and gin making for a delightful aperitif. This place is especially popular on weekends, making it a great spot to start your evening before hitting the nearby bars.
Plunge into the Vibrant Lower East Side Atmosphere
With so many options, the Lower East Side remains a top destination for anyone looking to experience the best of NYC's cocktail culture and nightlife. Whether you’re drawn to the exclusivity of speakeasies, the allure of rooftop bars, or the vibrant atmosphere of local nightclubs, there's something for everyone in this dynamic neighborhood. Trust Kikihub to provide you with local insights, real opinions, and unmissable secrets that will transform your night out into an unforgettable adventure.
