Discover Hidden Spots in Greenwich Village


Infatuation
Summer Thursdays are the new Summer Fridays, thanks to a weekly pop-up series in The Meat Hook’s backyard. Pick a Thursday to play hooky at the McCarren Park pool and eat some BBQ afterwards. It’s the most wonderful time of the year! See you in the backyard!!!!


Time Out New York
Taqueria Ramirez What is it? Tania Apolinar and Giovanni Cervantes were on the hunt for a Mexican-styled taqueria in New York. When they didn’t find one to their liking, they opened their own. Even with a few years under its belt, Taqueria Ramirez keeps constant lines out the door, with hungry New Yorkers raving for a taste of all things porky and placed in a taco. Why we love it? We recommend trying the Suadero, a cut of meat found between the lower flank and the sirloin that is popular in Mexico. But if it sells out, which it often does, order the Campechano which comes with a mix of suadero and longaniza.


katya ann
Butler: one location in the city & multiple in Brooklyn! The matcha quality is 10/10 & can even get with pistachio milk. Perfect for a grab & go from the window in Dumbo and take a stroll along the water. Also have seating/food as an option.
![NYC Must Try: Okatte Tanto
This spot is a traditional and authentic Japanese joint serving fresh sushi and a variety of elevated cold and hot Japanese dishes. I really enjoyed their popular pork katsu sando, mentai udon, and fried oysters that they make right in front of you. Their drinks are also fantastic - I’d recommend getting the Shochu Woolong and the Summer Orange!
Pro tip: If you want to get the $34 hidden menu item tuna bone, call ahead to make a reservation - they only serve the tuna bone from 5-6:45pm and it’s first reserved, first served with their limited stock per day.
What I Ordered:
- Tuna Bone [must-try]
- Mentai Udon [must-try]
- Pork Katsu Sando
- Fried Oysters
- Octopus marinated with wasabi
- Shochu Woolong - drink
- Summer Orange - drink](https://storage.googleapis.com/s.kikihub.com/posts/66f54fcdc59c46c52cd6b15f/img-preview/dl2qejqrjc.webp)

Melanie Yu
NYC Must Try: Okatte Tanto This spot is a traditional and authentic Japanese joint serving fresh sushi and a variety of elevated cold and hot Japanese dishes. I really enjoyed their popular pork katsu sando, mentai udon, and fried oysters that they make right in front of you. Their drinks are also fantastic - I’d recommend getting the Shochu Woolong and the Summer Orange! Pro tip: If you want to get the $34 hidden menu item tuna bone, call ahead to make a reservation - they only serve the tuna bone from 5-6:45pm and it’s first reserved, first served with their limited stock per day. What I Ordered: - Tuna Bone [must-try] - Mentai Udon [must-try] - Pork Katsu Sando - Fried Oysters - Octopus marinated with wasabi - Shochu Woolong - drink - Summer Orange - drink


Infatuation
The Most Fun Dinner Spot In NYC Kisa: a night out at this restaurant will never be boring. Don’t spend half your meal trying to figure out what to order and how to split your check. Go to Kisa, a walk-in-only retro Korean diner on the Lower East Side where you choose from four combo sets, all of which cost $32 and come with soup, rice, and a buffet of bottomless sides. The bulgogi is slightly sweet and sliced into ribbons, and the spicy pork, with its crispy charred bits, is even better. Enjoy it alongside some kimchi and mung bean jelly in the packed room while groups pass around soju before hitting the coin-operated latte machine by the entrance.


Infatuation
Lucia Pizza of Soho This is New York, which means you don’t have to settle for a mediocre slice of pizza late at night—instead, you can get one of the best slices. Lucia Pizza's Soho location is open until 3am, Thursday through Saturday (1am during the winter months), and even if you're stumbling and bleary-eyed, you’ll appreciate the moment they take to shower your pizza with basil and parm. There are a lot of standout slices here, so we recommend getting a few—something with red sauce, then also the vodka sauce slice, or the creamed spinach one. It's 350 feet from the A/C at Canal Street, in case that's your next move.


Infatuation
The Perfect Pool & BBQ Day in NYC We wouldn’t be surprised if The Meat Hook mixes a few splashes of holy water into their sausages. The Williamsburg butcher shop also has fresh produce, prepared foods like potato or chicken salad, and incredible grass-fed pork, beef, and lamb from small farms across New York and Pennsylvania ready for your next cookout. Their sausages rotate regularly, but if you see the green chorizo, get it on your grill as soon as the coals are hot. Meat Hook has locations in Carroll Gardens and upstate, in Hudson. They host butchery classes and other events, but the one to mark on your calendar is their summer BBQ, an annual series of pop-ups in their Williamsburg yard. About once a week through the season, they bring in chefs from other restaurants to collab on a grill-out menu. Keep an eye on their Instagram for the schedule, and get to at least one every summer.
See also
Dining in Willowbrook: Explore Local Dining Experiences & Foodie Favorites Near NYC


Little Kid Big City NEW YORK
Feast of Fun 🇮🇹 The feast is back! The San Gennaro festival returns again on the 12th of September to the streets of Little Italy. This marks its 98th year. Come hungry! This 10-day celebration is NYC’s most popular and longest running street fairs, and is well known for its delicious food and party atmosphere. The celebration includes parades and processions, live musical entertainment, carnival games, rides, and amusements, food delicacies, and most importantly, dining at Little Italy’s famous restaurants and cafes. WHEN: ⏰Thursday September 12 through Sunday September 22. FREE to walk the festival. Food and carnival rides have a fee. (Bring cash!) DONT MISS: 📕The Grand Procession parade featuring marching bands, floats, revelers and the statue of San Gennaro. The parade happens on Sept 14th at 2pm. FOR KIDS: 🎈After you fill those bellies, head over to the carnival rides and games that are set up specifically for the event. There are typically 4-5 rides offered. Rides change slightly each year, but there is always a Ferris wheel! Visit at night to see the Ferris wheel glow in rainbow hues.


Davina⚡️NYC
One of my favorite Japanese cafes in Greenpoint, ACRE. Came for lunch one afternoon weeks ago (when we were still wearing coats!) and had such a good meal in their unassuming cafe in the back of the store. They serve coffee and housemade pastries out in the front and healthy yet hearty Japanese meals in the back. I love their bento boxes for lunch and it’s definitely one of my favorite Greenpoint hidden gems.


Time Out New York
The iconic Papaya King has reopened on the Upper East Side! Find it right across the street from its original location. The beloved, iconic, uber-popular and downright delicious Papaya King has officially reopened on the Upper East Side at 206 East 86 Street by Third Avenue, right across the street from the brand's original address, which shuttered to much dismay after the owners of the building filed plans to demolish it. The development, which was first reported by Upper East Site, has incited excitement all around town, with folks taking to social media to express their delight.


Eater
Essential Manhattan Bakery: Orwasher’s Bakery One of the Upper East Side’s longest continually running businesses, Orwasher’s was founded by a Hungarian family in 1916. Today, it’s run by baker Keith Cohen, whose starters are spiked with different types of wine or lager. The shop is best known for its rugelach, pumpernickel bread, spelt loaves, jelly doughnuts, and black-and-white cookies, but don’t miss the sticky-bun babka, chocolate croissants, seeded bagels, glazed doughnuts, turnovers, or cherry cheese strudel — it’s some of the best in the city.


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!


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! 🎉


Infatuation
If you like Lucia New York 🗽 excellent NY slices, you’ll love LUCIA ALIMENTARI, their tiny new sit-down alimentari located directly behind their Soho slice shop. You can enjoy all of your favorite slices in personal pizza form, without too much of a wait—for now.
See also
Discover the Vibrant Local Community in Willowbrook Near NYC - Engage in Trending Discussions & Anonymous Posts


THE ROOFTOP GUIDE
Set on top of the The William Vale in Williamsburg, Westlight is a dynamic and beautiful rooftop from Chef Andrew Carmellini’s NoHo Hospitality Group. Blending indoor and outdoor seating, the 22nd floor rooftop comes surrounded with sweeping views over the Manhattan skyline, East River and the surrounding buildings in Brooklyn. The rooftop menu features both classic and original cocktails, alongside a long list of wines, craft beer, rare spirits and some small plates with inspration of global street food. Perfect for sunny sessions with an amazing view, but Westlight also turns into a cosy Winter Village during the colder months. A trendy, chic and often vibrant spot during evenings, Westlight do welcome guests under the age of 21 until 6pm daily. So for visits with younger ones, try to make it on a weekend, when the rooftop opens already at noon.


Natasha Husein
Weekends are for pretty brunches 🌸 and for Recette Bklyn Restaurant. Cozy Williamsburg bistro with tasty dishes & unique specials. Number one restaurant on Tripadvisor among almost 3,000 restaurants in Brooklyn!


Eater
The Opening of Din Tai Fung NYC For Din Tai Fung fans, the grand opening is the restaurant event of the summer. The New York location was first announced two years ago. For some, the wait has felt longer. “We’ve been waiting for this for years,” says David Zhang, a Queens resident. There’s no shortage of soup dumplings in New York City. Lots of places serve them, from famous establishments like Joe’s Shanghai to local chains like Nan Xiang Xiao Long Bao. Tell that to Din Tai Fung fans: They insist there’s something special about the ones served here. “The thinness of the soup dumplings is impeccable,” according to Zhang.


Infatuation
The AYCD Boozy Baseball Saturday On summer Saturdays, The Brooklyn Cyclones offer a very special all-you-can-drink ticket option. Things get rowdy—and to add to the madness, some nights are themed (Margaritaville, Harry Potter, and Seinfeld are on the lineup). After the ninth inning, take a ride on the Wonder Wheel and feast on the vodka sauce square slice at L&B Spumoni Gardens.


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. 🍽️


Eater
Son Del North In places like Los Angeles, it’s much easier to find burritos without rice: Not so much in New York. Son del North opened last month, a tiny takeout counter that’s already cementing itself as a welcomed addition to New York’s burrito scene, thanks in part to its homemade Sonora-style flour tortillas. The kitchen is under the direction of Annisha Garcia, from Tijuana, Mexico, who was the 2021 Chopped Grand Champion.


Time Out New York
Ess-a-Bagel has been a Manhattan staple since 1976, and local love for the family-owned business radiates throughout all of the five boroughs. Now, its expertly rolled, boiled and baked beauties are available right here in Brooklyn. Choose your own adventure with a doughy, fluffy everything, pumpernickel or cinnamon raisin bagel, and schmear it with all manner of decadent cream cheese options. Or, leave it to the experts and choose a sandwich from their curated menu of NYC faves.
See also
Local Networking Events & Trending Gatherings in Willowbrook 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.


Crown | NYC
Movie night at Bryant Park. See 2024 movie lineup below: 🍿 July 8 - Old School (2003) 🍿 July 15 - Funny Face (1957) 🍿 July 22 - Cinema Paradiso (1988) 🍿 July 29 - How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days (2003) 🍿 August 5 - Arrival (2016) 🍿 August 12 - Titanic (1997) Bring a blanket, invite a friend, and snag your spot on the lawn to watch a feature film on the big screen under the stars. Lawn opens at 5pm and movie starts at 8pm.


Eater
Nanchang dry rice noodles at We Noodle Some new noodles in town originated in Nanchang, the capital of Jiangxi, an inland province northwest of Fujian and southwest of Shanghai: The area is known for the high quality of its rice, so don’t be surprised that this dish ($12) features delicate rice noodles slicked with sesame oil laced with ginger, garlic, and chiles. Heaped on top, there’s ground pork, roasted peanuts, and scallions, for a distinctively flavored bowl of noodles. Other characteristic Nanchang dishes found at We Noodle, just north of Baruch College in Curry Hill, include soups with beef tripe or pig intestines, and stir-fried noodles with tomatoes and eggs.


Secret NYC
Hop Aboard NYC’s first-ever floating Mexican restaurant! NYC’s First & Only Floating Mexican Restaurant Is Open On The Hudson. All aboard for some tequila and Mexican-inspired street food! La Barca Cantina has returned on the Hudson for another season. La Barca Cantina offers Mexican fare and delicious cocktails afloat! Hop onboard the three-story boat at Pier 81 on the Hudson River and sail around the city for incredible skyline and sunset views with New York Cruise Lines. And it has officially set sail! The boat offers custom artwork by Tlisza Jaurique, the first Mexican-American woman to exhibit at the Met, an incredible top deck for guests to take in the scenery, and most notably, an expansive agave-based spirits menu.


Natasha Surti
🥩The steaks are high🥩 🍽Where I went: Le Relais de Venise - L’Entrecôte ✔️What I got: Salad, Steak & Fries 💰What I paid: $32 ⠀ 🤔What I think: This restaurant is arguably one of my favorites in the city. They only serve salad, steak (cooked to your preference), and fries for a fixed price of $32. That being said, this steak is cooked to perfection and what really makes entrecôte so special is the sauce that they serve with the steak. If you like steak, I would highly recommend trying this restaurant.


Eater
Son Del North In places like Los Angeles, it’s much easier to find burritos without rice: Not so much in New York. Son del North opened last month, a tiny takeout counter that’s already cementing itself as a welcomed addition to New York’s burrito scene, thanks in part to its homemade Sonora-style flour tortillas. The kitchen is under the direction of Annisha Garcia, from Tijuana, Mexico, who was the 2021 Chopped Grand Champion.


ResX
Antidote Chinese Restaurant is a place where the food is designed in order to please all palates🍚 🥢 This Williamsburg Chinese restaurant is a favorite! Antidote‘s menu draws influence from Sichuan and Shanghai. It’s a great spot for a group dinner!
See also
Discover the Best Cocktails in Willowbrook: Local Bars & Rooftop Nightlife Near NYC


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


Infatuation
If you like excellent NY slices, you’ll love LUCIA ALIMENTARI! Their tiny new sit-down alimentari located directly behind their Soho slice shop. You can enjoy all of your favorite slices in personal pizza form, without too much of a wait—for now.
Discover the Hidden Gems of Greenwich Village with Local Experiences
Greenwich Village, a vibrant neighborhood near NYC, is known for its eclectic character, historic brownstones, and a unique charm that captures the essence of New York City. If you're looking to dive deep into this historic locale, Kikihub is your go-to platform for uncensored local insights, real opinions, and secrets about the best experiences in Greenwich Village.
Food and Culinary Delights
One of the highlights of exploring Greenwich Village is its delectable food scene. From iconic pizza joints to gourmet restaurants, the Village offers a mouth-watering selection for every palate. Local experiences often point towards John's of Bleecker Street, which serves up some of the best coal-fired pizza in NYC. Another must-visit is the Minetta Tavern, known for its legendary Black Label Burger.
For those seeking diverse flavors, head to Carbone for classic Italian-American dishes or Mamouns Falafel, a favorite among locals for budget-friendly and delicious falafel. The hidden secret is the French roast chicken at Da Andrea, revered by those in-the-know as one of the best culinary experiences in Greenwich Village.
Nightlife and Socializing
Greenwich Village's nightlife is legendary, offering a myriad of bars, clubs, and venues where you can enjoy an unforgettable night out. For a quintessential New York experience, locals recommend The Village Vanguard, an iconic jazz club that has hosted some of the most famous musicians in history. Equally notable is The Comedy Cellar on MacDougal Street, a spot where you can often catch surprise performances by famous comedians.
If you’re looking for something more laid-back, Blind Tiger is a beloved craft beer bar where locals go to unwind. Wilfie & Nell, with its rustic vibe and craft cocktails, is another locals' favorite, perfect for socializing and making new friends. To discover all trending experiences, Kikihub’s anonymous chats offer real-time recommendations from those who know the nightlife scene inside and out.
Exploring Historic Sites
Greenwich Village is steeped in history, and there's no better way to experience it than by visiting its historic sites. The Stonewall Inn is a must-visit; recognized as the birthplace of the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement, this bar and the adjacent park serve as important cultural landmarks.
Other historical experiences include a walk through Washington Square Park, where you can enjoy street performances, art displays, and the iconic Washington Square Arch. For literary enthusiasts, a visit to the former home of famous writer Edgar Allan Poe on West Third Street offers a glimpse into the Village’s rich cultural past. Local insights reveal hidden spots like the Henry James residence, where the acclaimed writer once lived.
Art and Cultural Experiences
The artistic spirit of Greenwich Village is unparalleled. From art galleries to theater productions, the Village is a hub for cultural exploration. The Whitney Museum of American Art, while not within the Village proper, is a short walk away and boasts a compelling collection of contemporary artworks.
For an authentic off-the-beaten-path experience, The Village Vanguard Theatre and the Cherry Lane Theatre present indie plays and performances that are often discussed in Kikihub’s chat threads. Local secret: Thursdays at The Blue Note or Smalls Jazz Club frequently feature improvised sessions from top-tier musicians—perfect for jazz aficionados.
Hidden Spots for Exploration
For those who crave unique and undiscovered experiences, Greenwich Village has plenty of hidden gems. Begin your exploration with a visit to Gay Street, a quaint and picturesque alley that transports you back in time. Mystery and charm surround Macdougal Alley, a small street lined with historic mews houses—a true gem that many visitors overlook.
On Kikihub, locals often share insider tips about hidden courtyards and the less-documented aspects of the Village’s history. For book lovers, Three Lives & Company is a beloved independent bookstore, offering a serene escape amidst the urban hustle. Or take a stroll through the Jefferson Market Garden, a peaceful haven in the midst of the city's buzz.
With so many experiences waiting to be uncovered, Greenwich Village remains one of the most compelling neighborhoods to explore near NYC. Using Kikihub to access local insights and trending experiences ensures that you'll discover the Village's best-kept secrets and hidden treasures.