I wonder how many times I must have said this address, whether to a taxi driver or a new friend. Yep, this is where I lived for a year - in the heart of the East Village and wow, what a location. Everything on my doorstep - endless bars, cafes and restaurants, original and fabulous boutiques, Tompkins Square Park with the hipsters and homeless, just a single subway stop to Brooklyn, not to mention the most beautiful weeping willow tree opposite my apartment greeting me each day from one of the pretty local community gardens scattered all over the neighbourhood.
I love this neighbourhood and spent a huge amount of my time here. It's not the New York in the guide books - no skyscrapers, no particular 'sights' to see, no big tourist groups, people aren't rushing around at a million miles an hour (on the contrary, everyone is an 'artist', creating, contemplating...) Its atmosphere is laid back, young and carefree, but at the same time full of energy and something always going on.
I would recommend everyone come and hang out here; just wander around the area absorbing the atmosphere, eat, drink and definitely stop and people watch. Oh, and have a cupcake at Butter Lane - best in the city!
East Village: Cafes
The cafe culture in New York has to be one of my favourite things about the city and whilst you can easily wander around any neighbourhood and find a cute place to sit, chat, people watch and umm drink coffee, these East Village spots deserve a mention....
Ost Cafe (corner Ave A and E12th st http://www.ostcafenyc.com/) A beautiful corner coffee shop with with an Eastern European feel to it inspired by one of the owners' Viennese roots, this place has a totally chilled and very welcoming atmosphere. The decor - from the flock wallpaper, exposed brick and marble bar to the large sofas, benches and tables for two - this place has it just right. The coffee and even the tea is really good. They've thought of every detail.
Mud (E9th St btw 1st/2nd Ave www.themudtruck.com/spots.html) This place is a lot bigger than it looks, walk all the way through to the back - and then keep going, where it opens up to a small-ish courtyard type area. Mud has its own brand of coffee that you can buy in the shops and people seem to love it, but personally the super sweet Chai Tea Latte (ask for it extra hot) is what does it for me. Salads are also great here. A very typical East Village vibe - hipster cool for sure, but I also brushed past Sex and The City's Mr Big here (swoon!) so look out for celebs too!
Cafe Mogador (St Marks Place (8th st) btw 1st ave/ave A http://www.cafemogador.com/) Listed in my restaurant section, but Mogador is also a great spot to stop and hang out in during the afternoon over a pot of delicious Moroccan tea. The outdoor seating out the front is fantastic in the summer.
Angelina Cafe (Ave A btw E2nd/3rd st http://www.angelinacafe.com/) I don't exactly know why I love this place so much, but I just do. There's nothing extra special about it other than it is just what a cafe should be - casual, easy going, not trying to be anything and the food is cheap and great. An ideal lunch spot - try the delicious and generous salads. Also great for brunch - yummy french toast, and my friend Jen who came to visit still talks about the eggs benedict. Plus, with the sidewalk outdoor seating you can people watch to your heart's content.
Butter Lane (E7th St btw 1st ave/ave A http://www.butterlane.com/) Now, there are cupcakes and then there are Butter Lane cupcakes. Trust me I've sampled many (way too many in fact!) and I can assure you the cupcakes here are without a doubt the best! They focus on pure ingredients, no artificial flavouring rubbish and the proof is in the...umm, pudding! You can mix and match your fave cupcake with your fave icing - but you absolutely MUST choose the french buttercream (choc or vanilla) which is lighter and less sweet and artificial tasting than the traditional American variety. Heaven right there. On a cupcake.
16 Handles (2nd Ave btw E9th/10th st http://www.16handles.com/) Strictly speaking not a cafe, but there's probably as many frozen yoghurt shops in NYC as there are pubs in London! Ok perhaps I exaggerate a tad, but really the fro yo thing is big business and everyone is weirdly loyal to their preferred brand. My very good friend Tara and I were somewhat obsessed with this place and would go on every available opportunity, why? Let me tell you - there's a massive 16 flavours to choose from, and you HELP YOURSELF (from the 16 handles - get it?!) to all the fro yo you can eat and then you HELP YOURSELF to as many toppings as you can to fit in your container (and tummy?!) oh yeeeahhhh! No staff being stingy on your oreo pieces or chocolate sprinkles oh noooo! You then pay by the weight of your self made treat - for me at first this was usually around the $5 mark but somehow it gradually crept up to $6 then $7....hmmm, but hey, fro yo is fat free right?!!
Ost Cafe (corner Ave A and E12th st http://www.ostcafenyc.com/) A beautiful corner coffee shop with with an Eastern European feel to it inspired by one of the owners' Viennese roots, this place has a totally chilled and very welcoming atmosphere. The decor - from the flock wallpaper, exposed brick and marble bar to the large sofas, benches and tables for two - this place has it just right. The coffee and even the tea is really good. They've thought of every detail.
Mud (E9th St btw 1st/2nd Ave www.themudtruck.com/spots.html) This place is a lot bigger than it looks, walk all the way through to the back - and then keep going, where it opens up to a small-ish courtyard type area. Mud has its own brand of coffee that you can buy in the shops and people seem to love it, but personally the super sweet Chai Tea Latte (ask for it extra hot) is what does it for me. Salads are also great here. A very typical East Village vibe - hipster cool for sure, but I also brushed past Sex and The City's Mr Big here (swoon!) so look out for celebs too!
Cafe Mogador (St Marks Place (8th st) btw 1st ave/ave A http://www.cafemogador.com/) Listed in my restaurant section, but Mogador is also a great spot to stop and hang out in during the afternoon over a pot of delicious Moroccan tea. The outdoor seating out the front is fantastic in the summer.
Angelina Cafe (Ave A btw E2nd/3rd st http://www.angelinacafe.com/) I don't exactly know why I love this place so much, but I just do. There's nothing extra special about it other than it is just what a cafe should be - casual, easy going, not trying to be anything and the food is cheap and great. An ideal lunch spot - try the delicious and generous salads. Also great for brunch - yummy french toast, and my friend Jen who came to visit still talks about the eggs benedict. Plus, with the sidewalk outdoor seating you can people watch to your heart's content.
Butter Lane (E7th St btw 1st ave/ave A http://www.butterlane.com/) Now, there are cupcakes and then there are Butter Lane cupcakes. Trust me I've sampled many (way too many in fact!) and I can assure you the cupcakes here are without a doubt the best! They focus on pure ingredients, no artificial flavouring rubbish and the proof is in the...umm, pudding! You can mix and match your fave cupcake with your fave icing - but you absolutely MUST choose the french buttercream (choc or vanilla) which is lighter and less sweet and artificial tasting than the traditional American variety. Heaven right there. On a cupcake.
16 Handles (2nd Ave btw E9th/10th st http://www.16handles.com/) Strictly speaking not a cafe, but there's probably as many frozen yoghurt shops in NYC as there are pubs in London! Ok perhaps I exaggerate a tad, but really the fro yo thing is big business and everyone is weirdly loyal to their preferred brand. My very good friend Tara and I were somewhat obsessed with this place and would go on every available opportunity, why? Let me tell you - there's a massive 16 flavours to choose from, and you HELP YOURSELF (from the 16 handles - get it?!) to all the fro yo you can eat and then you HELP YOURSELF to as many toppings as you can to fit in your container (and tummy?!) oh yeeeahhhh! No staff being stingy on your oreo pieces or chocolate sprinkles oh noooo! You then pay by the weight of your self made treat - for me at first this was usually around the $5 mark but somehow it gradually crept up to $6 then $7....hmmm, but hey, fro yo is fat free right?!!
East Village: Shopping
Shopping in this neighbourhood is a real treat. There's no chain stores, NO Abercrombie and Fitch and no crowds of people to battle your way through to try on your new find.
Snake your way around East 9th street down to East 7th across from Aves A to 2nd and explore the range of wonderful boutiques selling everything from vintage clothing to the latest New York designers and the unique stores selling graffiti art, books and records, cards, antiques and everything else in between.
A few to look out for on your meander...
Meg (E9th st btw 1st/2nd ave) Owned and run by the lovely Meg herself who designs all the stylish feminine pieces. She also provide a tailoring service so your new fab dress fits just right. This stretch of E9th Street in particular has several other great boutiques also.
Fabulous Fanny's Eyewear (E9th st btw 1st/2nd ave) A fantastic vintage eyewear store that you simply must have a rummage in trying on the fabulous and ridiculous glasses from eras gone by.
De La Vega Museum (St Marks Place (8th st) btw 1st ave/ave A) The well known New York graffiti artist sells his work out of this 'musuem', which is really just a shop. His work is controversial so be prepared if you're easily offended! Keep an eye out for his tags randomly showing up on pavements or trees in the neighbourhood.
Upper Rust Antiques (E9th st btw ave A/1st ave) If you walk down this street you can't miss this store as its wonderful collection of mirrors, tables and plant pots spill onto the pavement. A cavernous shop with a fantastic array of shabby chic items that you'll convince yourself will look just right in your tiny apartment.
Barbara Feinman Millinery (E7th st btw 1st/2nd ave) This is such a beautiful, whimsical shop and will make you feel as if you've been transported into another place and time. There's all kinds of gorgeous handmade hats, which the staff will happily let you try on and play dress up - enjoy!
Alphabets (Ave A btw 7th/8th st) This place has two separate entrances but is actually just one store joined in the middle by the cash desk. A cute place selling cards on the one side and a random selection of kitschy, retro gifts and gadgets on the other as well as a small funky clothing collection at the back - worth popping your head into.
Snake your way around East 9th street down to East 7th across from Aves A to 2nd and explore the range of wonderful boutiques selling everything from vintage clothing to the latest New York designers and the unique stores selling graffiti art, books and records, cards, antiques and everything else in between.
A few to look out for on your meander...
Meg (E9th st btw 1st/2nd ave) Owned and run by the lovely Meg herself who designs all the stylish feminine pieces. She also provide a tailoring service so your new fab dress fits just right. This stretch of E9th Street in particular has several other great boutiques also.
Fabulous Fanny's Eyewear (E9th st btw 1st/2nd ave) A fantastic vintage eyewear store that you simply must have a rummage in trying on the fabulous and ridiculous glasses from eras gone by.
De La Vega Museum (St Marks Place (8th st) btw 1st ave/ave A) The well known New York graffiti artist sells his work out of this 'musuem', which is really just a shop. His work is controversial so be prepared if you're easily offended! Keep an eye out for his tags randomly showing up on pavements or trees in the neighbourhood.
Upper Rust Antiques (E9th st btw ave A/1st ave) If you walk down this street you can't miss this store as its wonderful collection of mirrors, tables and plant pots spill onto the pavement. A cavernous shop with a fantastic array of shabby chic items that you'll convince yourself will look just right in your tiny apartment.
Barbara Feinman Millinery (E7th st btw 1st/2nd ave) This is such a beautiful, whimsical shop and will make you feel as if you've been transported into another place and time. There's all kinds of gorgeous handmade hats, which the staff will happily let you try on and play dress up - enjoy!
Alphabets (Ave A btw 7th/8th st) This place has two separate entrances but is actually just one store joined in the middle by the cash desk. A cute place selling cards on the one side and a random selection of kitschy, retro gifts and gadgets on the other as well as a small funky clothing collection at the back - worth popping your head into.
East Village: Bars
Endless amounts to choose from - wander round and see what takes your fancy, or head to one of my faves below...
Bua Bar (St Mark's Place btw 1st ave/ave A http://www.buany.com/) Ahh Bua, the place of many a fun night out. A lively bar with more of a pub feel. Always a fun, young crowd and good music. A good place to get the evening going or head to after dinner.
Ten Degrees (St Mark's Place btw 1st ave/ave A http://www.10degreesbar.com/) One of my fave wine/cocktail bars - east ville cool without trying too hard. The decor is somewhere between a funky warehouse and wine cellar. Head here midweek for their happy hour to get the night going - gets pretty crowded on the weekend.
PDT (St Mark's Place btw 1st ave/ave A http://www.pdtnyc.com/) Hmmm, should I really be telling you about this place? PDT does stand for Please Don't Tell after all. All I'll say is that this cosy cocktail bar is literally hidden away behind a phone booth situated in the Crif Dogs restaurant. Confused?...you'll figure it out! Call to make a reservation on the day or just turn up and keep your fingers crossed they'll squeeze you in.
The Bourgeois Pig (E7th btw 1st ave/ave A http://www.bourgeoispigny.com/) An alluring, dimly lit bar with chandeliers, sumptuous sofas with velvet cushions and cosy nooks to hide away in, this is definitely the place for an intimate date. The bar serves wine and champagne cocktails plus chocolate fondue - what more could you need!
Niagara (corner ave A & E7th st http://www.niagarabar.com/) You can't miss this joint with its bright blue neon sign occupying this busy corner spot. Only way to describe this place is the using the old cliche - 'hip and happening'. It's young, fun, lively. You'll have a good time here - look out for the photo booth at the back.
Zum Schneider (Corner of Avenue C & E7th http://www.zumschneider.com/) Only went to this place once, but this indoor beer garden is definitely worth a mention. It's a fun scene and if you dig your German beer and bratwurst you won't be disappointed. Huge selection of beer and three sizes of beer glasses to choose from - the biggest is pretty much the size of your head...you've been warned! Cash only.
Gay Bars: Three great places to try gay or straight, each with a completely different vibe from one another....
Try the Phoenix on a Wednesday night (E13th st btw 1st ave/ave A) if you prefer a loud and lively dive bar scene filled with hot, hipster cool gays and dollar beer. Pool table at the back.
Go to the Eastern Bloc (E6th St btw ave a/ave b http://www.easternblocnyc.com/) for something a bit different! Also a divey feel, smaller and more intense than Phoenix, but definitely fun atmosphere with shirtless muscle men bar tenders (the owners in fact), a tv screen above the bar with some seriously hard core gay porn and a variety of taxidermy on the walls!
Or if you want something a bit more glamorous and 'sceney' head to BBar (E4th st btw Bowery & Lafayette http://www.bbarandgrill.com/) for their longstanding 'Beige' night (Tuesdays only) where this huge restaurant and bar is wall to wall with the beautiful gays, you may even spot a celeb. (FYI also a fun dinner/drinks spot in general).
Restaurant Bars: Cafe Mogador (St Mark's btw 1st ave/ave a), Cafecito (Ave C btw 11/12th st), Esperanto (E9th st btw aves b/c) and Yuca Bar (corner ave A & e 7th st) all have good bars to hang at pre dinner whilst waiting for a table. Check out my restaurant section for more info.
Bua Bar (St Mark's Place btw 1st ave/ave A http://www.buany.com/) Ahh Bua, the place of many a fun night out. A lively bar with more of a pub feel. Always a fun, young crowd and good music. A good place to get the evening going or head to after dinner.
Ten Degrees (St Mark's Place btw 1st ave/ave A http://www.10degreesbar.com/) One of my fave wine/cocktail bars - east ville cool without trying too hard. The decor is somewhere between a funky warehouse and wine cellar. Head here midweek for their happy hour to get the night going - gets pretty crowded on the weekend.
PDT (St Mark's Place btw 1st ave/ave A http://www.pdtnyc.com/) Hmmm, should I really be telling you about this place? PDT does stand for Please Don't Tell after all. All I'll say is that this cosy cocktail bar is literally hidden away behind a phone booth situated in the Crif Dogs restaurant. Confused?...you'll figure it out! Call to make a reservation on the day or just turn up and keep your fingers crossed they'll squeeze you in.
The Bourgeois Pig (E7th btw 1st ave/ave A http://www.bourgeoispigny.com/) An alluring, dimly lit bar with chandeliers, sumptuous sofas with velvet cushions and cosy nooks to hide away in, this is definitely the place for an intimate date. The bar serves wine and champagne cocktails plus chocolate fondue - what more could you need!
Niagara (corner ave A & E7th st http://www.niagarabar.com/) You can't miss this joint with its bright blue neon sign occupying this busy corner spot. Only way to describe this place is the using the old cliche - 'hip and happening'. It's young, fun, lively. You'll have a good time here - look out for the photo booth at the back.
Zum Schneider (Corner of Avenue C & E7th http://www.zumschneider.com/) Only went to this place once, but this indoor beer garden is definitely worth a mention. It's a fun scene and if you dig your German beer and bratwurst you won't be disappointed. Huge selection of beer and three sizes of beer glasses to choose from - the biggest is pretty much the size of your head...you've been warned! Cash only.
Gay Bars: Three great places to try gay or straight, each with a completely different vibe from one another....
Try the Phoenix on a Wednesday night (E13th st btw 1st ave/ave A) if you prefer a loud and lively dive bar scene filled with hot, hipster cool gays and dollar beer. Pool table at the back.
Go to the Eastern Bloc (E6th St btw ave a/ave b http://www.easternblocnyc.com/) for something a bit different! Also a divey feel, smaller and more intense than Phoenix, but definitely fun atmosphere with shirtless muscle men bar tenders (the owners in fact), a tv screen above the bar with some seriously hard core gay porn and a variety of taxidermy on the walls!
Or if you want something a bit more glamorous and 'sceney' head to BBar (E4th st btw Bowery & Lafayette http://www.bbarandgrill.com/) for their longstanding 'Beige' night (Tuesdays only) where this huge restaurant and bar is wall to wall with the beautiful gays, you may even spot a celeb. (FYI also a fun dinner/drinks spot in general).
Restaurant Bars: Cafe Mogador (St Mark's btw 1st ave/ave a), Cafecito (Ave C btw 11/12th st), Esperanto (E9th st btw aves b/c) and Yuca Bar (corner ave A & e 7th st) all have good bars to hang at pre dinner whilst waiting for a table. Check out my restaurant section for more info.
East Village: Restaurants
So many choose from, it's hard to narrow it down - but here are my fave 'go to' spots..
Esperanto (corner of E9th st & ave C. http://www.esperantony.com/) This place is on the same street as my old apartment and a place where my roommate and I, and many friends, would often frequent - especially during the summer months thanks to the outdoor seating. A Brazilian and South American bistro the food is amazing with fantastic fish and steaks. Try the ceviche - YUM! The cocktails are great too. Often live music and ALWAYS a lively, buzzy atmosphere - guaranteed a great time. Also a great brunch spot with a 'prix fixe' menu, you may have to wait for a table.
Cafecito (Ave C btw 11/12st) Just up the road from Esperanto is Cafecito, a place I fell in love with and which became a regular meet up spot - usually drinking cocktails and eating at the bar before heading on for a night of dancing. The food is Cuban and so delicious and OMG the Sangria and Mojitos have to be some of the best in the city. It's a small place but big enough for a group to hang in. The staff are so friendly and can't do enough for you. In the summer the bar opens up to the pavement so you can sit on your bar stools outdoors sipping your sangria!
Matilda (E11th st btw ave B/C. http://www.matildarestaurant.com/) This is a cute and original place serving a fusion of Italian and Mexican food. Sounds odd but somehow it really works - think great guacamole with nachos AND fresh baked focaccia - delish! The wine is also excellent (not that I'm a connoisseur but still!). The decor is minimalist white plus chandeliers and shots of hot pink. A good date place! Service is excellent. Some outdoor seating too.
Kasadela (E11th st btw ave B/C. http://www.kasadela.com/) Next door to Matilda is this cute and cool Japanese Sake House. It has a low key almost cafe type vibe and feels as if only the locals know about this place (which at the moment is probably the case). It serves a wide selection of Japanese dishes which you can have tapas style to share - the best way to do it. As for the Sake - there's a special Sake menu giving you the option of 'taster' size glasses or small and large carafes - have as many tasters as possible I say! A great little hidden gem with excellent food. Currently cash only.
Mercadito Cantina (Ave B btw 10th/11th st. http://www.mercaditorestaurants.com/) A huge favourite of mine. A trendy modern canteen style joint - you 'aint had a taco until you've eaten here let me tell you! Soft tortillas with fillings such as battered shrimp with avocado coleslaw or tilapia with tomato-garlic mojo - you will not be disappointed. Come on a sunday or monday or after 10pm in the week when it's $21 for all you can eat tacos - great value for money. The choice of guacamoles are excellent too. For a more traditional mexican restaurant vibe and wider menu head across the road to the original Mercadito (ave B btw 11th/12th st)
Back Forty (Ave B btw 11th/12th st. http://www.backfortynyc.com/) Another place in the 'hood I've only ever been to for brunch, but judging by the menu and popularity I imagine it's also a good dinner spot. The food is 'responsibly sourced' and of high quality i.e grass-fed, antibiotic free beef etc, but aside from the food for me the draw is the feel of the place. It has a huge windowed front letting in all the light and you can sit either at your own table or share the sociable communal farmhouse table right in the window - don't let them seat you in the back! A good hangover spot where you can leisurely chill out and drink your hair of the dog cocktails or bottomless coffee.
Momofuku Ssam and Milk Bar (corner of 2nd Ave & 13th st. http://www.momofuku.com/) Asian inspired food owned by renowned New York chef David Chang, who owns two other Momofuku restaurants in this neighbourhood. This place is special. Sadly I'm not enough of a food connoisseur to do justice in describing the culinary delights you'll find here so you should really check out the website - or just go! The decor is just right, warm dark woods and low lighting, minimalist but not stiff, seating at the bar or shared tables. The menu is Asian-esque, but unique and eclectic - try the melt in your mouth steamed pork buns and the bursting with flavour spicy rice cakes with pork sausage dish. Next door is the Milk Bar where you should head to for dessert of baked treats, soft serve ice cream or even a glass of cereal flavoured milk!
The Smith (3rd Ave btw 10th/11th st. http://www.thesmithnyc.com/) A funky place with a vibrant atmosphere and cool decor - subway style white tiles, cosy booths and a long bar - this is the place to come for a good burger or mac 'n' cheese or a big American stack of pancakes. A fun spot any time of day. If you're coming for weekend brunch either book ahead or be prepared to wait - usually room to hang at the bar and have a drink whilst you wait.
Cafe Mogador (St Marks Place (E8th St) btw 1st ave/ave A. http://www.cafemogador.com/) Oh Mogador how I love thee. Simple to describe - fantastic Moroccan food, insanely delicious cocktails and always buzzing. The humus is some of the best you'll ever have and we would literally devour the roasted eggplant and tahini appetiser. DO NOT miss out on the to-die-for Ginger martini or for those with a sweeter tooth go for the Pistachio martini - YUM!
Mara's Homemade (E6th st btw 1st/2nd ave. http://www.marashomemade.com/) Having visited New Orleans and discovered the wonders of real Southern food, this place became a firm favourite. It is genuinely run by Mara and her family who with their great southern accents will make you feel very welcome. The menu is extensive and I warn you - come hungry, you certainly won't leave that way! The artichoke dip is heavenly and if you can possibly save a bit of room for dessert the Bluegrass Pie is a must - if you're stuffed, take a piece away with you - sooo worth the calories!
Supper (E2nd st btw 1st ave/ave A. http://www.supperrestaurant.com/) Although not usually one to go for Italian food in a big way, this wonderful little place became one of my absolute faves for (surprise surprise) brunch. The food is quite simply delicious and of a high quality - I now crave the poached egg on polenta with prosciutto dish - divine. With the outdoor seating, where I always sat, this place is perfect for a leisurely summer brunch, but I also love the atmosphere inside - cosy and inviting with low lighting, exposed brick and Venetian glass, but also lively with the hustle and bustle of the open kitchen. The dinner menu looks excellent too and if you need to wait for a table you can hang out at their next door wine bar, Sugo. Currently cash only.
Esperanto (corner of E9th st & ave C. http://www.esperantony.com/) This place is on the same street as my old apartment and a place where my roommate and I, and many friends, would often frequent - especially during the summer months thanks to the outdoor seating. A Brazilian and South American bistro the food is amazing with fantastic fish and steaks. Try the ceviche - YUM! The cocktails are great too. Often live music and ALWAYS a lively, buzzy atmosphere - guaranteed a great time. Also a great brunch spot with a 'prix fixe' menu, you may have to wait for a table.
Cafecito (Ave C btw 11/12st) Just up the road from Esperanto is Cafecito, a place I fell in love with and which became a regular meet up spot - usually drinking cocktails and eating at the bar before heading on for a night of dancing. The food is Cuban and so delicious and OMG the Sangria and Mojitos have to be some of the best in the city. It's a small place but big enough for a group to hang in. The staff are so friendly and can't do enough for you. In the summer the bar opens up to the pavement so you can sit on your bar stools outdoors sipping your sangria!
Matilda (E11th st btw ave B/C. http://www.matildarestaurant.com/) This is a cute and original place serving a fusion of Italian and Mexican food. Sounds odd but somehow it really works - think great guacamole with nachos AND fresh baked focaccia - delish! The wine is also excellent (not that I'm a connoisseur but still!). The decor is minimalist white plus chandeliers and shots of hot pink. A good date place! Service is excellent. Some outdoor seating too.
Kasadela (E11th st btw ave B/C. http://www.kasadela.com/) Next door to Matilda is this cute and cool Japanese Sake House. It has a low key almost cafe type vibe and feels as if only the locals know about this place (which at the moment is probably the case). It serves a wide selection of Japanese dishes which you can have tapas style to share - the best way to do it. As for the Sake - there's a special Sake menu giving you the option of 'taster' size glasses or small and large carafes - have as many tasters as possible I say! A great little hidden gem with excellent food. Currently cash only.
Mercadito Cantina (Ave B btw 10th/11th st. http://www.mercaditorestaurants.com/) A huge favourite of mine. A trendy modern canteen style joint - you 'aint had a taco until you've eaten here let me tell you! Soft tortillas with fillings such as battered shrimp with avocado coleslaw or tilapia with tomato-garlic mojo - you will not be disappointed. Come on a sunday or monday or after 10pm in the week when it's $21 for all you can eat tacos - great value for money. The choice of guacamoles are excellent too. For a more traditional mexican restaurant vibe and wider menu head across the road to the original Mercadito (ave B btw 11th/12th st)
Back Forty (Ave B btw 11th/12th st. http://www.backfortynyc.com/) Another place in the 'hood I've only ever been to for brunch, but judging by the menu and popularity I imagine it's also a good dinner spot. The food is 'responsibly sourced' and of high quality i.e grass-fed, antibiotic free beef etc, but aside from the food for me the draw is the feel of the place. It has a huge windowed front letting in all the light and you can sit either at your own table or share the sociable communal farmhouse table right in the window - don't let them seat you in the back! A good hangover spot where you can leisurely chill out and drink your hair of the dog cocktails or bottomless coffee.
Momofuku Ssam and Milk Bar (corner of 2nd Ave & 13th st. http://www.momofuku.com/) Asian inspired food owned by renowned New York chef David Chang, who owns two other Momofuku restaurants in this neighbourhood. This place is special. Sadly I'm not enough of a food connoisseur to do justice in describing the culinary delights you'll find here so you should really check out the website - or just go! The decor is just right, warm dark woods and low lighting, minimalist but not stiff, seating at the bar or shared tables. The menu is Asian-esque, but unique and eclectic - try the melt in your mouth steamed pork buns and the bursting with flavour spicy rice cakes with pork sausage dish. Next door is the Milk Bar where you should head to for dessert of baked treats, soft serve ice cream or even a glass of cereal flavoured milk!
The Smith (3rd Ave btw 10th/11th st. http://www.thesmithnyc.com/) A funky place with a vibrant atmosphere and cool decor - subway style white tiles, cosy booths and a long bar - this is the place to come for a good burger or mac 'n' cheese or a big American stack of pancakes. A fun spot any time of day. If you're coming for weekend brunch either book ahead or be prepared to wait - usually room to hang at the bar and have a drink whilst you wait.
Cafe Mogador (St Marks Place (E8th St) btw 1st ave/ave A. http://www.cafemogador.com/) Oh Mogador how I love thee. Simple to describe - fantastic Moroccan food, insanely delicious cocktails and always buzzing. The humus is some of the best you'll ever have and we would literally devour the roasted eggplant and tahini appetiser. DO NOT miss out on the to-die-for Ginger martini or for those with a sweeter tooth go for the Pistachio martini - YUM!
Mara's Homemade (E6th st btw 1st/2nd ave. http://www.marashomemade.com/) Having visited New Orleans and discovered the wonders of real Southern food, this place became a firm favourite. It is genuinely run by Mara and her family who with their great southern accents will make you feel very welcome. The menu is extensive and I warn you - come hungry, you certainly won't leave that way! The artichoke dip is heavenly and if you can possibly save a bit of room for dessert the Bluegrass Pie is a must - if you're stuffed, take a piece away with you - sooo worth the calories!
Supper (E2nd st btw 1st ave/ave A. http://www.supperrestaurant.com/) Although not usually one to go for Italian food in a big way, this wonderful little place became one of my absolute faves for (surprise surprise) brunch. The food is quite simply delicious and of a high quality - I now crave the poached egg on polenta with prosciutto dish - divine. With the outdoor seating, where I always sat, this place is perfect for a leisurely summer brunch, but I also love the atmosphere inside - cosy and inviting with low lighting, exposed brick and Venetian glass, but also lively with the hustle and bustle of the open kitchen. The dinner menu looks excellent too and if you need to wait for a table you can hang out at their next door wine bar, Sugo. Currently cash only.
Joe Doe (E1st St btw 1st/2nd ave. http://www.chefjoedoe.com/) New Yorkers are known for standing in line for an hour plus for a table at a good weekend brunch spot. On your way to Joe Doe you'll pass the well known Prune where you'll see such a line and indeed have such a wait. Personally, I'm not a fan of this and perhaps it can be attributed to its stiff competition across the road, but Joe Doe, to me, is what the brunch experience should be all about; meeting with friends, walking into a cool place with a laid back dining room feel, getting seated straight away with hot biscuits (scones to us Brits) and honey butter brought to your table whilst you peruse the menu. If that isn't enough in itself, the food is pretty damn good with an interesting twist on the usual brunch fare, the coffee is good, the service is good, and most importantly when hungover, but now satiated, you can sit and relax - not be pushed out the door for the next brunchers to take your spot. Perfect.
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