Chelsea's Top Local Secrets & Recommendations
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
![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
Anastasiia in New York🗽
REMI43 Flower & Coffee 🌸☕️ My favourite must-visit in NYC! 🤍🗽 Enjoy a delicious cafe or pastry among various beautiful flowers and plants. Get things done, or just relax and take in the ambiance. Make sure to try the Rose Latte-it’s truly something special! 🌹 ☕️
See also
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.
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. 🍽️
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.
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.
Time Out New York
La Compagnie des Vins Surnaturels This quaint and charming wine bar offers a calm space to sip French wines. Those who want to learn more about wine can enroll in wine bootcamp workshops covering everything from natural wine, to tasting various French regions like Provence, Beaujolais and beyond. The space also offers enviable swag, plus curated bottle selections to taste at home, accompanied with suggested recipes and playlists, to continue the French experience from the comfort of your couch
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
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.
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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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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.
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.
Unlimited NewYork
Radio City Music Hall: The Jewel of New York City 🗽🎶 When we think of New York City, we often imagine its towering skyscrapers 🏙️, lush green parks 🌳 and, of course, world-class entertainment venues 🎭. At the heart of it all is Radio City Music Hall, a true Big Apple landmark 🍎. This Art Deco landmark 🏛️, located in Rockefeller Center, is one of the most famous and beloved theaters in the world. Since its opening in 1932, Radio City Music Hall has hosted countless shows and events, from concerts by music legends 🎤 to performances by the Rockettes, an internationally renowned dance group 💃. But the real magic happens when the lights go down and the show begins 🌟. Whether you're there for a concert, a musical, or the famous Christmas show, every performance at Radio City Music Hall is an unforgettable experience 🎄. So on your next visit to New York City, be sure to stop by Radio City Music Hall 📍. Whether it's for a tour or to see a show, it's sure to add a touch of glitz to your stay in the city that never sleeps 🌃.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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Secret NYC
Explore an incredible 15,000-square-foot museum filled with Banksy-inspired art! Calling all Banksy-heads and street art lovers: embrace the legacy of one of history’s greatest street at NYC’s Banksy Museum filled with the largest collection of work inspired by his creations! Uncover his unique pieces of work and get a deeper look into the mysterious artist. The production available at the museum is unauthorised and unaffiliated with the artist.
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.
Local Recommendations in Chelsea: Discover Hidden Gems Near NYC
When visiting Chelsea, just a stone's throw from the bustling heart of New York City, it's easy to feel overwhelmed by the multitude of choices available. While iconic spots like the High Line and Chelsea Market are always worth a visit, there are plenty of lesser-known destinations that can make your trip truly unforgettable. Here's a dive into our best local recommendations based on real, unfiltered opinions from savvy residents via Kikihub.
A Culinary Exploration: Uncovering Chelsea's Food Scene
While Chelsea Market is a well-known food haven, locals suggest venturing beyond the familiar for an authentic taste of the neighborhood. The casual yet charming 'Café Grumpy' on W 20th Street is a coffee lover's paradise. Known for its meticulous brewing methods and warm ambiance, it's a favorite spot for a morning pick-me-up. Not far from there on 10th Avenue, the 'Los Tacos No. 1' food truck serves some of the best street tacos you’ll ever taste. Residents rave about the adobada and nopal tacos, both bursting with authentic Mexican flavors.
For a sophisticated dining experience, try the intimate 'Pastai' on 9th Avenue. This local secret is cherished for its handcrafted pasta dishes and cozy, inviting atmosphere. Their truffled gnocchi is particularly popular among those in the know, offering a melt-in-your-mouth experience that's hard to beat.
Exploring Art and Culture: Chelsea's Hidden Artistic Treasures
Chelsea is synonymous with art, but beyond the famous galleries lies a myriad of other cultural gems. One such hidden treasure is the 'Rubin Museum of Art'. Located on 17th Street, this museum, dedicated to the art and culture of the Himalayas, is often overshadowed by larger institutions. However, locals praise it for its peaceful environment and the depth of its exhibits, making it a fantastic spot for those looking to escape the crowded tourist traps.
Another not-so-well-known spot is the 'C24 Gallery' on W 24th Street, which showcases a dynamic range of contemporary art. From immersive installations to thought-provoking photography, this gallery offers an ever-changing array of exhibits, all carefully curated to reflect the pulse of the modern art world.
Unwind and Relax: The Best Spots for Tranquility in Chelsea
Amid the urban hustle, finding tranquil retreats can be a real game-changer. Locals recommend 'Clement Clarke Moore Park' tucked away on W 22nd Street. This small yet serene park is perfect for a quiet stroll, away from the bustling crowds, and features abundant greenery and lovely seating areas.
If you’re looking to combine relaxation with a bit of pampering, the 'AIRE Ancient Baths' on Franklin Street is a must-visit. Known for its luxurious and atmospheric setting, this spa offers a range of thermal baths, massages, and treatments. Locals particularly highlight the floatation therapy and the wine bath as standout experiences.
Shopping Neat and Unique: Unearthing Chelsea’s Boutique Stores
While Chelsea isn’t short on big-name retailers, local insiders often point visitors to chic boutiques and specialty shops. For vintage fashion lovers, 'What Goes Around Comes Around' on W Broadway is a treasure trove of high-end vintage and luxury items. Shoppers delight in discovering rare pieces from iconic designers, making each visit a new adventure.
For those with a green thumb or a flair for home decor, the 'Chelsea Garden Center' on 11th Avenue is highly recommended. This local favorite is more than just a garden store; it's an urban oasis brimming with plants, garden accessories, and unique home decor items. Locals adore the knowledgeable staff and the high-quality, ethically sourced products available.
The Undiscovered Nightlife: Hidden Hotspots in Chelsea
Chelsea’s nightlife is vibrant, but many gems remain undiscovered by most visitors. One clandestine venue is the 'Bathtub Gin', a speakeasy-style bar on 9th Avenue. Behind a nondescript coffee shop facade, it offers an intimate setting with top-notch cocktails and live jazz, perfectly capturing the spirit of the Prohibition era.
For a lively yet low-key night out, head to the 'Joyface' on Avenue B, a bar designed to evoke the laid-back vibes of a retro living room. With eclectic decor, throwback music, and unique cocktails, this spot is beloved by locals for its fun and inviting atmosphere.
