Unlock Insider Information: Lower East Side Trends
Dana Edwards
where is cntrl mt?
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!
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
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.
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.
Storytime NYC
Bronx Music Hall's grand opening The Bronx Music Hall, a $15.4 million venue in Melrose, is now open. It's the first newly constructed independent music performance venue in the borough in more than 50 years. Located at 438 East 163rd Street, the spanking new 14,000 square-foot Bronx Music Hall hosts a 250-capacity theater, a lobby and exhibition hall, a dance studio, a recording studio, an amphitheater for outdoor performances, and more. Special events are being held all weekend to honor the opening. Visit the Bronx Music Hall's website for more information and updates on programming.
See also
Dining in Willowbrook: Explore Local Dining Experiences & Foodie Favorites Near NYC
megan li
Last of my NYC pics from a while ago! This meal will forever live in my heart… Japanese and Peruvian? What an interesting combo that works so well together. Their ceviches are a must order and the katsu was the most well fried and moist I’ve ever had. A very enjoyable meal with Jibae!
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. 🍽️
New York Locals
NYC art lovers, this one’s for you! The Other Art Fair Brooklyn is back from October 17–20, and 120 talented emerging artists will showcase their original works just for you! 🎨✨ Don’t miss out on new and exciting features, including: - Danny Cortes’ Tiny Streets, Big Stories: The Essence of NYC exhibit, featuring captivating miniature dioramas of New York City - Get your misfortunes told by the world’s most pessimistic fortune teller, The Misfortuneteller - Live DJ sets on Thursday & Friday, catch DJ Sunny Cheeba on opening night - A replica New York subway car including electrifying dance performances by It’s Showtime NYC and an installation by popular Instagram Artist Poster Journal - A flowing fair bar, including hand-crafted whiskey cocktails - Original artworks priced at $100+
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
Unlimited NewYork
Discover the famous Saint Patrick's Cathedral, a must-see during your stay in New York. Located in the heart of the city, it is one of the symbols of the neo-gothic architecture. This Roman Catholic cathedral was built from 1858 to 1878 and was consecrated in 1879. Today it is the largest Catholic cathedral in the United States. The central nave is more than 100 meters long and 25 meters wide, while the cathedral's spires rise more than 100 meters high. When visiting St. Patrick's Cathedral, be sure to check out the many artistic details that adorn the interior of the building, such as statues of saints, mosaics and colorful stained glass windows. The Cathedral also boasts an impressive organ, consisting of over 9,000 pipes, as well as bells that ring daily. St. Patrick's Cathedral is open every day of the week and offers several daily masses.
THE ROOFTOP GUIDE
The Cantor Roof Garden Bar is located on top of one of the world's most famous museums: The Metropolitan Museum of Art. The museum itself is, of course, a thing of beauty, located smack in the middle of Central Park and giving visitors access to beautiful works of art. The Cantor doesn't fall far behind, as it offers stunning views of the park and the surrounding skyscrapers, as well as a large and lush rooftop garden with park benches and comfortable tables to sit at. You can also sit down on the lawn if you're so inclined. Wine by the glass, house-made lemonade and specialty cocktails make up the drink menu, but you can also find sandwiches and salads in case you get hungry. Open during the warmer months, access to the rooftop is available to all museum visitors. And filled with a very relaxing and friendly atmosphere, it is a great spot to bring children and enjoy the lush views.
Anastasiia in New York🗽
If you’re in NYC, be sure to check out the Vessel sculpture - it’s an iconic piece of modern architecture and a must-see destination! 🫶🏼🤍 Vessel is a structure and visitor attraction built as part of the Hudson Yards Redevelopment Project in Manhattan, New York City, New York. Built to plans by the British designer Thomas Heatherwick, the elaborate honeycomb-like structure rises 16 stories and consists of 154 flights of stairs, 2,500 steps, and 80 landings for visitors to climb. Vessel is the main feature of the 5-acre (2.0 ha) Hudson Yards Public Square. Funded by Hudson Yards developer Related Companies, its final cost is estimated to have been $200 million.
See alsoDiscover the Vibrant Local Community in Willowbrook Near NYC - Engage in Trending Discussions & Anonymous Posts
Secret NYC
Souvlaki GR actually made our list of best Greek restaurants in NYC, so when they take their delicious food on the road, you know it’s worth it. The Souvlaki GR Truck is a two-time Vendy winner and winner of the New York Food and Wine Festival’s People’s Choice Award, meaning it’s been given some authoritative thumbs up. If you go, order a pork or chicken souvlaki, Greek fries or Greek salad.
Time Out New York
Find Little Paris on Centre Street, between Broome and Grand Street. Even the stars of Emily in Paris have hung out in this neighborhood, and if it's Chef Gabriel-endorsed, you know it's legit. Interestingly, the lack of a specified space for Francophiles in Manhattan wasn't always the case. In the late 19th Century, Soho had its own French Quarter, as chronicled in an 1879 issue of Scribner's Monthly: "The people are nearly all French. French too is the language of the signs over the doors and in the windows." Ready to dive into the Paris-within-Manhattan? Here are a few French businesses in Little Paris to check out whether you're celebrating the Paris Olympics or just saying "oui" to a French experience without crossing the pond.
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 💛
Secret NYC
The Portal is New York City’s hottest talking point right now, and the installation in Flatiron virtually connects NYC to Dublin in real time! The Portal connects two vibrant cities in real time, making for an engaging experience for both New Yorkers and visitors and fostering a sense of connection across the Atlantic. Founded by Lithuanian artist and entrepreneur Benediktas Gylys, portals are an invitation to meet fellow humans around the world and, in turn, feel united and one. The sculpture’s livestream provides a window between far away locations, allowing people to meet others outside of their usual social circle and culture. The visual live stream connects the two cities, allowing you to meet fellow humans around the world! It’s free to visit and it’s located on the Flatiron South Public Plaza at Broadway, Fifth Avenue, and 23rd Street, next to the Flatiron Building.
Secret NYC
Take advantage of free museum days in NYC! It’s no secret that NYC is home to many museums–and some specifically just for kids–and they’re a great place to spend hours or even a whole day exploring with the little ones. Many of them even offer free admission days, allowing visitors of all ages complimentary access to exhibits across the city. Check out some of our favorite free museum days we recommend taking your kids to: Children’s Museum of the Arts: Free admission on Thursdays from 4 – 6 pm Brooklyn Children’s Museum: Free admission on Thursdays from 2 – 5 pm American Museum of Natural History: Suggested donation for entry at all times New York Hall of Science: Free admission on Fridays from 2 – 5 pm Museum of the Moving Image: Free admission on Thursdays from 2 – 6 pm
NYC Tourism
Dubbed “one of the greatest urban experiences in New York” by The New York Times, the Brooklyn Flea has a little bit of everything. Good for: Furniture, vintage clothing, collectibles, antiques and one-of-a-kind artwork. Locals and tourists alike flock to the outdoor market, located under the picturesque and historic Manhattan Bridge, for its eclectic assortment of vintage furniture, handmade jewelry, plants and other knickknacks. When you’ve finished shopping, walk over to the Time Out Market New York, situated in a former warehouse on the waterfront, with more than 20 of the City’s best eateries under one roof. April through December, Saturday and Sunday, 10am–5pm
THE ROOFTOP GUIDE
The TWA Hotel at JFK Airport offers an infinity pool that is different from all other rooftop pools NYC (and most other rooftop pools in the world). Called a 'rooftop pool-cuzzi', the pool is heated up to 95 degrees farenheit daily during the colder months. So it is open and available year-round, offering a much-needed respite during hot summer days, and warming swims in winter. While lounging in the rooftop infinity pool or in one of the sun beds, you can enjoy thrilling views over JFK’s bustling Runway 4 Left/22 Right. Not your ordinary rooftop view. Inspired by the infinity edge pool at the Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc in Cap d’Antibes, France, the TWA Hotel rooftop pool is open daily from 7am to 11pm. Early morning, it is exclusive for guests staying at the hotel, but from 11am, anyone can make a reservation. For $25 Mon-Thu and $50 Fri-Sun you can enjoy the pool, observation deck and pool bar.
See alsoLocal Networking Events & Trending Gatherings in Willowbrook Near NYC
Eater
Win Son Bakery summer pop-up, which means way more diners have access to their scallion pancake egg sandwiches, pastries, and coffee concoctions! The service is casual — order at the counter, grab any available seat indoors or outdoors — but expect a wait. Food and drinks can be ordered in advance via DoorDash if you prefer to skip the line. Nothing better baconeggandcheese on a scallion pancake at Win Son Bakery !! Also featuring the mortadella scallion pancake breakfast sandwich!
Eater
Clara: Fun Place to Try in NYC Summer is a great time to catch up on your museum-going. While the next-door American Museum of Natural History will be mobbed, the New-York Historical Society is very often less crowded. The exhibit of New York paintings and the Tiffany lamp collection are unrivaled. And there’s a wonderful restaurant on the ground floor named Clara where you can linger over your burger or meal-size salad, and where the bloody marys are strong. There is even a seating area outside with a view of Central Park, and you don’t have to pay museum admissions if you go directly to the restaurant. 170 Central Park West, at 77th Street, Upper West Side
GetYourGuide
New York City: Manhattan Helicopter Tour Enjoy a bird's eye perspective of NYC on a narrated helicopter tour as you cruise over Manhattan's iconic skyscrapers, come face to face with the Statue of Liberty, and head uptown past Central Park. Manhattan brings to mind grand skyscrapers, taxi cabs, and a world-class attitude all of its own. See all this and more as an expert pilot flies you over NYC on a 15 or 20-minute helicopter tour. Soar over the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, Brooklyn Bridge, Madison Square Garden, among other landmarks
Natasha Husein
A night out in Chelsea: - visit the art galleries - walk the High Line - dinner at Pepe e Gallo - Italian bistro known for simple authentic Italian food. Outdoor dining, private events, delivery, catering. Pizza, pasta & desserts.
newyorkcity.explore
Be on top of the world at the Top of the Rock 🌆✨ 💡The Beam experience is an interactive feature at the Top of the Rock observatory that allows visitors to virtually explore New York City's landmarks. It uses advanced technology to provide an immersive and informative journey through the city's history, culture, and iconic sites. If you could bring one person, living or historical, to join you in the Beam experience, who would it be and why? ❤️
Daytrip NYC
Just a short ferry ride from Manhattan, QC New York Spa on Governors Island offers a tranquil escape with stunning views of the city skyline and a wide array of luxurious wellness experiences. Nestled in meticulously restored historic army barrack buildings, QC New York Spa combines the charm of 18th-century architecture with modern amenities. Visitors can explore labyrinth-like interiors adorned with elegant Italian furniture, art fixtures, and cozy relaxation areas, making it a unique blend of old-world charm and contemporary luxury. The spa features over 20 wellness experiences, including themed saunas, steam rooms, and relaxation rooms. Highlights include the “Spa and the City” sauna with its New York skyline décor, the lavender-scented “Park Sauna,” and various foot baths and Vichy showers. The outdoor infinity pools, complete with hydro massage seats and loungers, offer breathtaking views of lower Manhattan and the Brooklyn Bridge, providing a serene contrast to the city’s hustle and bustle.
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.
See alsoDiscover the Best Cocktails in Willowbrook: Local Bars & Rooftop Nightlife Near NYC
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.
Secret NYC
Camp under the stars on Governors Island! Treat yourself to this lovely glamping experience on NYC’s perfect island getaway: Governors Island! Over the years, Collective Governors Island Luxury Camping Retreat introduced plenty of new and exciting amenities that included “live music nights, tarot readings, crafting, morning yoga, bike rentals, chair massages, plenty of lawn games, campfires and cocktails” throughout the season—but this year, the experience is offering even more incredible amenities than years prior. All visitors are invited to join their happy hour on the Sunset Terrace and reserve a spot for their grill menu highlighting local purveyors and farms. There’s even an option to get late night takeaway drinks at a discounted price to enjoy in your tent.
Unveiling Lower East Side's Hidden Gems
Lower East Side (LES) near NYC is renowned for its vibrant culture and history, but beneath the surface lie secrets shared only among locals. Situated south of East Houston Street and bordered by the East River, the LES brims with hidden treasures that span generations of eclectic vitality.
Local Information: Navigating the Neighborhood
The streets of the Lower East Side are a living tapestry of history and modernity. From century-old tenements and synagogues to cutting-edge art galleries and restaurants, this neighborhood teems with local information that can transform your visit. Wander down Orchard Street, where clothing stores offer fashions straight from emerging designers. Don't miss out on Essex Market, an indoor bazaar blending traditional Jewish delis with contemporary food stalls. Insider knowledge can help you navigate these spots smartly, such as visiting late afternoon to avoid peak times.
Anonymous Insights: Overheard in the LES
What better way to get genuine insight into the Lower East Side than through anonymous chats from locals? Platforms like Kikihub offer anonymous insights that can lead you to lesser-known eateries, hidden bars, and underground art scenes. Did you know that behind that unmarked door on Allen Street is a speakeasy with some of the best cocktails in New York? Or that Katz's Delicatessen isn't the only place to get an authentic pastrami sandwich? Locals often rave about the mouth-watering dishes at Russ & Daughters Cafe, a spot that's equally iconic yet less touristy.
Trending Discussions: What’s Hot in the LES
The Lower East Side is a hotbed for trending discussions, especially around arts and culture events. Residents frequently discuss new exhibits at the New Museum, located on the Bowery, which has become a pivotal venue for contemporary art. Another focal point is the Tenement Museum, where you can take guided tours that immerse you in the lives of early immigrants. For music aficionados, the venue Mercury Lounge still serves as a crucible for up-and-coming bands. Keeping tabs on local platforms allows you to stay updated on graffiti art tours, pop-up shops, and seasonal festivals.
Community Feels: Engaging with LES Locals
Lower East Side's community is as diverse as it is engaging. Mingle with locals at Tompkins Square Park during weekend farmers' markets, or attend free yoga classes in Sara D. Roosevelt Park. If you have an appetite for culture, the Nuyorican Poets Cafe offers spoken word poetry slams that attract both seasoned poets and passionate newcomers. Engaging in these community-focused events gives you not just an experience, but a sense of belonging. Dive deeper into the community's likeness via local forums and anonymous chat groups that highlight personal recommendations and firsthand experiences.
Must-Attend Events: Your LES Calendar
What makes Lower East Side irresistibly compelling are its local events. Mark your calendar for the Hester Street Fair, a seasonal open-air market where you can discover artisanal crafts, gourmet foods, and live performances. The annual Feast of San Gennaro in neighboring Little Italy spills over into the LES, featuring parades, street games, and culinary delights. For theater enthusiasts, Lower East Side Festivals of the Arts showcases plays, readings, and performances from the city's most innovative artists. Staying updated on these events is crucial for anyone wishing to soak in the local culture.
Whether you’re seeking underground nightlife, uncharted gastronomic adventures, or touching base with the deeply-rooted history, anonymous insights and local information make navigating Lower East Side an adventure like no other.
