While Lower Manhattan used to be somewhat of a ghost town on the weekends—and a sea of bankers during the week—a lot of businesses have been moving south, and with them, a slew of new shops and restaurants. And while the Financial District is still pretty quiet on the weekends, you can count on Tribeca (which is home base for a lot of families) to be full of activity Saturdays and Sundays. Meanwhile, Chinatown, with its close proximity to the Lower East Side, is playing host to a new generation of hipster coffee shops and restaurants. Below, our favorite spots below Canal Street.
Activities & Culture | Bars & Restaurants | Hotels | Shop
Aire Ancient Baths
88 Franklin St., Tribeca | 212.274.3777
Tucked away in Tribeca, this is one of New York City’s best spa secrets—which also happens to look a bit like the Temple of White and Black from Game of Thrones. You descend via a candle-lit stairway into an equally moody space with many baths and steam rooms (all sorts of different temperatures, from hot to ice-f-ing cold to a sublime extra-salt version where you float like you’re in the Dead Sea), where you’ll likely be content to hang out for a while. They also offer really great massages—some of Manhattan’s best, actually.
Caudalie
185 Greenwich St., Financial District | 212.732.4934
This family-owned company was founded in Bordeaux, so their entire approach to beauty is grounded in a less-is-more, great-skin-first approach that feels very French. They’re famous for a menu of super-relaxing facials—which can be selected to target anti-aging, radiance (and correcting), firming, moisture, and detoxification—but their New York boutiques also offer three body treatments, like a Bordeaux-inspired vine wrap. We’re partial to their express facials, which, at just a half hour, can easily be squeezed into a lunch break; pretty clutch for their new, office-convenient location in the Financial District. (The original is on Bleecker Street in Soho.)
Nuurvana
27 Barclay St, Tribeca | 212.677.6887
Not your run-of-the-mill intuitive, certified herbalist Deganit Nuur uses acupuncture, essential oils, and cupping to open the meridians before every reading, which means that sessions are restorative on multiple levels. Her readings are spot-on—and you might not see it coming. Nuur’s personality is so easygoing and bubbly, it at first feels like you’re settling in for a light chat. But when she starts channeling, it’s ka-pow. These days, it’s easier to book Nuur for a virtual session than in-person, but her growing practice of clairvoyants, aptly named Nuurvana, has one location in NYC and one in LA.
Exceed
97 Reade St., Tribeca | 212.406.3600
This popular fitness studio focuses on resistance and interval training, which means that you primarily use your own body weight throughout the workout. There’s a consistent class schedule, though they also do private training. There’s a second location on the Upper East Side.
FaceLove
1 Dutch 45 John St., Financial District | 347.267.9453
If you’ve never had a massage dedicated to relaxing the muscles in your jaw, forehead, scalp and entire face…it’s insanely relaxing. FaceLove’s three signature treatments—FaceLove, PureLove, and WholeLove—all focus on massage, exercise, and acupressure to stimulate circulation and release inflammation. (Treatments are offered as 30 or 45-minute sessions.) Not only will a clenched jaw or furrowed forehead feel miraculously released, you’ll emerge looking pretty amazing, too.
Heyday
92 Reade St., Tribeca | 646.922.7576
For exceptional skincare at an accessible price point, head to this facial spa (there’s a second location in Flatiron). With a membership option, flexible scheduling, and a staff of New York State-accredited and licensed estheticians on hand, Heyday manages to make it easier and, most importantly, more convenient than many luxury facial spas to stop in for a last-minute tune-up.
i-Plaza Nail Spa
387 Greenwich St., Tribeca | 212.966.7796
This subtly industrial, minimalist space is in perfect keeping with the neighborhood: There are a handful of stations scattered beneath a mini sea of white lanterns, which means you can get a great mani/pedi without feeling like you’re tripping over your neighbor. There’s a second location on North Moore.
Karen Lord Pilates
137 Duane St., Tribeca | 917.388.2540
This beautifully turned out space is lined with pristine Pilates apparatuses, making it pretty dominant in the neighborhood for both privates and reformer-based classes.
Lyons Den Power Yoga
279 Church St., Tribeca | 646.490.8888
As the self-proclaimed “only studio in Manhattan dedicated to teaching Hot Power Vinyasa Yoga in the Baptiste Yoga Method,” the classes here are steamy and athletic, as you’ll move through the postures with some speed. Drop-ins are $24, though they have lots of class packs that offer a discount.
Shibui Spa
377 Greenwich St., Tribeca | 646-203-0045
It’s always an effort to sit up after a massage, but it’s nearly impossible to wrench yourself off the table after one of the transporting treatments at the onsen-modeled oasis that is The Greenwich Hotel’s Shibui Spa in Tribeca. The Japanese aesthetic—lanterns softly illuminate the heated pool in the main lounge area and embellish the treatment rooms, low-slung day beds, guests padding around in the best-looking Japanese Yukata robes—sets a tranquil, removed mood that’s instantly anxiety-dissolving. Prepare to be smoothed down in replenishing botanical oils that leave your skin a thousand times glowier than you’ve ever seen it. During the Drunken Lotus massage, essential oils are worked over every inch of your body, then tired muscles are stoked back to life as they’re enveloped in hot, sake-soaked towels. The seasonal aromatherapy bath soaks are over-the-top and can be added on to any treatment—think you (or you plus your better half, if you opt for the couples soak), in a tub, steeping in healing ginger-infused waters.
Tenoverten
112 Reade St., Tribeca | 212.406.1010
This is not your regular neighborhood mani/pedi joint. Set up above the bustle of Tribeca, the low-key space is outfitted with mid-century modern antiques (you won’t find any oversized massage chairs) and the technicians are incredibly well-trained. They do kiddie manicures, at-home appointments, and best of all, it’s open late. There’s a new location in Soho, and a third outpost at The Parker Meridien Hotel in Midtown.
The Class
22 Park Place, 3rd Floor, Tribeca | 646.850.0937
This is one of those fitness situations that evades basic definition: Started by Taryn Toomey, it’s a self-titled cathartic experience, where you spend 75 minutes engaging in intense movement to “break open and activate ‘stagnant’ layers in the body.” In short you move, and scream, and shake, and yell as you release emotional energy–and get a pretty incredible workout in the process. It requires an open mind and a willing spirit.
Tracy Anderson Method Tribeca
271 Church St., Tribeca | 646.964.5820
In a brand-new, three-floor space in Tribeca, you’ll find Tracy Anderson’s New York City empire: There are studios here, along with many of her apparatuses, where you can do your custom muscular structure workout or dance cardio. This location offers membership, pay per class, as well as private training sessions. If huffing it to the studio isn’t an option, there’s always the wallet-friendly live-streaming version wallet-friendly streaming option, where you can take classes from the comfort of your own living room. There’s a second 6,000-square-foot location uptown on 59th Street housed in a former movie theater.
Adrienne’s Pizzabar
54 Stone St., Financial District | 212.248.3838
If you’ve ever had a meal South of Canal Street, chances are that Peter Poulakakos was involved. He owns the booming and ever-expanding chain of Financier Patisseries, which line the Financial District and feed pretty much every banker at lunch, he’s the force behind the uber-ambitious Le District in Battery Park City, and he also co-owns this quietly delicious pizzeria, which has been around for years. The pies are straightforward in execution (i.e., wood-fired), generously sized and topped, and reliably great. There’s also an ample array of salads and antipasto on the menu, as well as Italian classics like chicken parm. On warmer nights you can sit out on the cobblestone street.
American Cut
363 Greenwich St., Tribeca | 212.226.4736
This dressed-up restaurant has all the elements of an old-school Mad Men-style steakhouse: Oysters, tick; an excellent Caesar Salad, tick; crabcakes and shrimp cocktails, tick. And of course, if it’s steak you’re after, this is one of the best places in town to get it, with all the classic options for dressing it up, from Bearnaise sauce to an egg on top. The private space is moodily-lit.
Atera
77 Worth St., Tribeca | 212.226.1444
This sleek (and tiny) foodie destination in Tribeca has only 18 seats, meaning that reservations are hard to come by. If you manage to snag one, you’re in for a pretty great experience. The modern multi-course prix fixe menu (expect ingredients like birch sap or moss) is served opposite an open kitchen, which is fascinating to watch.
Azabu
428 Greenwich St., Tribeca | 212.274.0428
When the beloved owner behind Mercer Street’s Honmura An moved back to Japan, and closed his restaurant in Soho, many a foodie’s heart was broken. But the soba noodles at Azabu (formerly known as Azabu) might be just as authentic and exquisite. Beyond the noodles, which are shepherded to perfection by Soba master Shuichi Kotani, they also specialize in small plates and sushi. The uni soba is insane, as is, weirdly, the California Roll. Go for lunch, as they have a great special.
Barbalu
225-227 Front St., Financial District | 646.918.6565
Hurricane Sandy was devastating for the Seaport; Barbarini, an adorable little Italian spot on Front Street was completely destroyed. But its owner, husband and wife Stefano Barbagallo and Adriana Luque opted to rebuild. Barbalu is just as sweet and delicious as its predecessor, offering everything from simple plates of pasta to potato-crusted salmon.
Bâtard
239 W. Broadway, Tribeca | 212.219.2777
The concept here is a simple, yet welcome one: Incredible French food at an affordable price. How incredible? Think braised artichokes, granny smith and sweetbreads strudel, and caramelized milk bread. How affordable? $55, $65, and $75 for two, three, or four course prix-fix-only options. The interior is by no means extraordinary and it can get a little loud the later it gets, but the vibe is nice, made even better by a lengthy wine list.
Black Seed Bagels
Brookfield Place, 200 Vesey St., Financial District | 212.417.7000
Black Seed draws big crowds, which we totally get: The hand-rolled, wood-fired bagel sandwiches are actually easy to eat (they’re much smaller than their brethren), and for the most part, they’re great—particularly for those times when the only thing that will satisfy is a bagel sandwich. Favorites include: beet-cured gravlax, a basic tuna salad, Tobiko spread, and the egg salad (though it’s heavy on the dill). The original location is in Nolita, and there’s another in the East Village.
Blue Ribbon Sushi Bar
Brookfield Place, 250 Vesey St., Financial District | 212.786.0808
There are Blue Ribbon Sushi bars popping up all over the country, and while it’s an impossible expectation to assume that they can keep up with sushi master Toshi Ueki’s Sullivan Street original, it’s definitely not a bad choice to spawn a chain. The 16-seat sushi bar at Brookfield Place is a really nice option in a sea of heavier choices, and they also do really beautiful take-out.
Bouley
163 Duane St., Tribeca | 212.964.2525
For many years David Bouley’s eponymous restaurant in Tribeca has been one of the top fine-dining establishments in the city. The formula: quality ingredients, prepared according to traditional gourmet practices, and served accordingly. You’re guaranteed a world class meal under the arches in this elegant dining room, but nowadays, chef Bouley’s yet again exploring new territory: Health food. While each meal is as delicious and elegant as ever, he’s folding in ingredients packed with healing properties. Healthy or not, don’t skip the bread basket: Bouley is known for its French-style boulangerie.
Carbone
181 Thompson St., Soho | 212.254.3000
This Italian spot on Thompson Street boasts Vito Schnabel’s artwork on the walls, Zac Posen designed uniforms, a floor inspired by The Godfather, and a slightly more upscale version of the Italian-American fare you’ll find at their other restaurants: It’s pretty 1950’s meets hipster chic. And like the good old days, the food is rich and luscious from lobster ravioli to rich sides like creamed escarole and corn tartufato.
China Blue
135 Watts St., Tribeca | 212.431.0111
At this new spot in Tribeca, the interiors are a contrast between a lofty, classic downtown space, and the jazz age Shanghai of our imagination, full of old-fashioned touches, ornamental light fixtures, and dark wood bookshelves lined with pretty flea market finds. The food carries some of the same contrast: The menu (including the Dim Sum) is typically Shanghainese, but presented beautifully, making the meal a cut (well) above a typical family-style joint. The space is broken up into a few partial rooms, which is great if you’re planning a private event because they can accommodate any size party.
Dos Toros Taqueria
Brookfield Place, 250 Vesey St., Financial District | 347.515.6846
Co-owned by two brothers from San Francisco—who were dismayed by the dearth of good Mexican spots in NYC—the emphasis here is on the basics: Tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and burritos-in-bowls. The ingredients are fresh and local, and the flavorings are equal parts subdued and complex. This spot is popular: There’s practically one in every neighborhood.
Evening Bar
Smyth Hotel, 85 W. Broadway, Financial District | 212.220.4110
For late-night revelers, Little Park—the restaurant beneath the Smyth Hotel—offers the adjoining Evening Bar, a cozy spot to sip on mixologist Anne Robinson’s inventive cocktails.
Grand Banks
Pier 25, Hudson River Park, Tribeca | 212.960.3390
From June through October, this oyster bar aboard the historic Sherman Zwicker schooner docks at Pier 25 in Tribeca. Under yellow and white stripe canopies, servers in appropriately nautical outfits distribute casual sea-side fare and cocktails from the built-in bar. During weekend days, it’s a fun lobster roll destination with kids, and in the evenings, thanks to a solid list of schooner-themed cocktails and oysters and small plates, it’s a pretty great night out. While the location is a bit remote, it’s still conveniently close to downtown—plus, how cool is it to eat on the water?
Il Brigante
214 Front St., Financial District | 212.285.0222
Both popular and low-key, this Southern Italian spot offers the sort of classics—gnocchi, carbonara, baked branzino, plenty of pizzas—that you always want, along with some regional specialties from Calabria and Sila that make it a little exciting, too.
Jack’s Stir Brew Coffee
222 Front St., South Street Seaport | 212.227.7631
We’re Jack’s Coffee loyalists in Amagansett, and you can find all the same magic—perfectly roasted beans, egg breakfast sandwiches, simple salads, a smattering of good juices—at their slightly-above-street-level space in the Seaport. There are also two locations in the West Village. While this outpost doesn’t have WiFi, it’s a low-key place to get non-internet dependent work done.
Jungsik
2 Harrison St., Tribeca | 212.219.0900
Jungsik will take any preconceived ideas about traditional Korean food and squash them. Case in point: Chef Jung Sik Yim’s version of Bibimbap is crafted from foie gras and fresh black truffles, while meat and seafood gets the molecular gastronomy treatment rather than the open fire in the middle of the table. All the fireworks aside, the home-y, yet surprisingly refined rice dishes are still the go-tos in our eyes.
Kaffe 1668
275 Greenwich St., Tribeca | 212.693.3750
If you’re meeting friends here keep in mind that there are actually two Kaffee 1668’s in Tribeca, just a handful of blocks from each other. If they’re looking to own a neighborhood, they’ve certainly done it, as it’s the best spot south of Canal for an almond milk latte (or fresh juice). Another boon: There’s plenty of seating and WiFi, too, particularly at the location in upper Tribeca. They just opened a location in Midtown, too.
Khe-Yo
157 Duane St., Tribeca | 212.587.1089
Though he was born and raised in Kansas, Chef Soulayphet Schwader grew up on his family’s Laotian cuisine, and spent years traveling through Laos learning the food and culture. He later worked at Marc Forgione’s restaurants and the two have now teamed up on this venture, which in true Forgione style is cozy and informal but still an upscale dining experience. Though we have little to compare Khe-yo to, from the sticky rice you start with to the shareable dishes you move onto, it’s some of the best Southeast Asian we’ve had. Vegetarians beware, the menu is beef and pork heavy.
Kiki’s
130 Division St., Chinatown | 646.882.7052
Despite the Chinese characters on the awning outside, stepping through the olive green French doors at Kiki’s on tiny Division Street, near the border of Chinatown and LES, sort of feels like you’re walking into a taverna in Greece. The vibe is part local, part hipster, all fun; and the food—from grilled octopus to Greek salad, tzatziki, and Melitzanosalata (eggplant mash)—is simply done and very good.
La Colombe
319 Church St., Tribeca | 212.343.1515
With cafes in four major cities, La Colombe is looking to build a little empire—which makes total sense. Their in-house beans are some of New York City’s best, and the café itself is serene and beautiful. Locations vary in size (some have tables where you could totally pull out a laptop), you can usually find a place to at least perch for a bit. This outpost is the most spacious; it’s good for writing or reading, they don’t offer WiFi.
Laughing Man
184 Duane St., Tribeca | 212.680.1111
Years ago, Hugh Jackman and his wife, Deborah-Lee Furness traveled to Ethiopia during a World Vision trip and he happened to meet a coffee farmer named Dukale, who was growing incredible beans in an effort to support his struggling family. In 2011, Jackman started the Laughing Man Foundation, to help farmers in developing countries find a market for their beans in America, which you can sample at his Tribeca coffee shop. Not only do 100% of the profits support the foundation, but they make an excellent Flat White, too.
Le District
Brookfield Place, 225 Liberty St., Financial District | 212.981.8588
This 30,000 square-foot French-style food hall offers a bustling market divided into different “districts” (from a café and an ice cream shop to an ample salad-and-prepared-food section to a fish shop, rôtisserie chicken bar, cheese section, candy store, etc.), as well as multiple restaurants. There’s Le Bar, which as its name suggests is best for a glass of wine and share plates (open until 2am), and then the gigantic Beaubourg, with standard bistro fare and a view of the water. The second restaurant, L’Appart, is tiny (only 28 seats) and helmed by an El Bulli-trained chef.
Little Park
85 W. Broadway, Tribeca | 212.220.4110
Little Park is actually huge. It has banquet and bistro tables, plush booths, and it occupies an entire corner in Tribeca (right below The Smyth hotel). For late-night revelers, the adjoining Evening Bar is a cozy spot to sip on mixologist Anne Robinson’s inventive cocktails. To craft the most seasonally sound menu possible, Chef Andrew Carmellini tapped local farmers, foragers, and ranchers for organic produce, grass-fed meats, and heirloom grains. Come here for traditional breakfast fare as well as lunch and dinner.
Locanda Verde
377 Greenwich St., Tribeca | 212.925.3797
The best seat here is actually in the courtyard—shielded by palms, you feel truly removed from the city. The Italian food is hearty, comforting, and reliably great whether you come for breakfast or a big dinner with friends. Their private dining room is surprisingly spacious (it can hold up to 60 seated guests), but a warm stone fireplace keeps things cozy.
MarkJoseph Steakhouse
261 Water St., Financial District | 212.277.0020
Tucked away at the northern end of the Seaport, this old-school steakhouse is one of Manhattan’s main rivals for Brooklyn’s Peter Luger, which is just across the bridge. (Plus, MarkJoseph takes credit cards.) If you don’t love or eat meat it still has its appeal: Namely there’s creamed spinach, wedge salads, perfectly whipped potatoes, and asparagus.
Magic Mix Juicery
102 Fulton St., Financial District | 646.454.0680
This small vegan café/juicery in the Financial District is one of the only places in the area where you can find 100%-organic, raw, cold-pressed juice—all made fresh in-house daily. We like the Fearless Cleanse, a line-up of six juices. Though they all have a green component, they’re varied enough to make it interesting: In addition to the standard kale/spinach mixes, there’s one with wheatgrass and one with E3Live. Even on the first day, we were feeling the effects of the detox, most notably in a runny nose and an energetic euphoria around 3 p.m.
Marc Forgione
134 Reade St., Tribeca | 212.941.9401
The candlelit room filled with wooden farmhouse tables and exposed bricks is the perfect setting for Iron Chef winner Marc Forgione’s delicious comfort food, from shrimp and grits to a blackened chicken. While it’s a warm and cozy destination in the winter, there’s outdoor seating in the summer that’s lovely, too.
Max
181 Duane St., Tribeca | 212.966.5939
This small and cozy offshoot from the East Village original is exactly where you want to go when you want to dive into a hearty plate of no-fuss pasta. They don’t skimp on portions, nor do they skimp on wine pours, and it’s all really well-priced.
Mission Chinese
171 E. Broadway, Chinatown | 212.529.8800
Tucked away in the Eastern corner of Chinatown (be sure not to confuse E. Broadway with Broadway), this outpost of Mission Chinese is actually the second take on the concept and it’s much more dressed-up than the first (for one, there’s a proper kitchen in the basement rather than a tiny galley situation separated from diners by a thin sheet of plexiglass). The food is just as quirky and great: Steamed oat noodles, a perfect duck wrapped in lotus leaf, and anchovies, pickled in chili and served on flatbread are favorites.
Mr Chow
121 Hudson St., Tribeca | 212.965.9500
Michael Chow made his name in the London and Hollywood art and music worlds before opening in New York on East 57th Street in 1979, where his restaurant quickly became one of the city’s main touchstones for the art world. Andy Warhol, Keith Haring, David Bowie, Madonna, and John Lennon were just a few of the restaurant’s faithful patrons (watch Julian Schnabel’s Basquiat to get a sense of the scene). To this day, a meal at Mr Chow’s isn’t about the food: It’s about the tuxedo and white glove service and the fun, party vibe. The outpost in Tribeca is just as beautiful and scene-y—an Andy Warhol portrait of Chow in the dining room sets the tone.
Olive’s
Brookfield Place, 225 Liberty St., Financial District | 212.858.0111
No matter that no more than five people can fit in Olive’s at once (and that it’s really easy to miss when walking by), the sandwiches, soups, and salads here are mighty: While the offerings change daily, you can always count on a pretty delicious (and hearty) turkey sandwich, or a chopped salad packed with everything you could ever want. There’s also a location in Soho.
Pier A Harbor House
22 Battery Place, Financial District | 212.785.0153
This historic 28,000-square-foot building used to be the headquarters of the Harbor Police. Built in 1886, it’s a designated New York City landmark and registered on the National Register of Historic Places. Thanks to a gigantic refurb, it’s now a multi-bar/restaurant destination, and its unparalleled views of the harbor are now open to the public. On the main floor, you’ll find the Long Hall and Oyster Bar, which is kind of the perfect pitstop after a long walk along the Hudson—though there’s also the whiskey-themed Harrison Room, complete with a really gorgeous stained-glass ceiling, and The Commissioner’s Bar, where you’ll find old-fashioned cocktails and a deep list of champagnes. Upstairs, there’s a fancy restaurant, and above that, a private event space.
P.J. Clarke’s
Brookfield Place, 250 Vesey St., Financial District | 212.285.1500
The P.J. Clarke’s on 55th Street—it’s been there since the 1880’s—is one of those classic NYC institutions where everyone who grew up on their burgers can think of nothing better. That sensibility translates to the downtown outpost, which seems to play particularly well with bankers who are thrilled to have a burger and a beer to wrap up the day. The Lincoln Square location is a hit with kids walking home from Central Park.
Parm
Brookfield Place, 250 Vesey St., Financial District | 212.776.4927
This offshoot from the Nolita original is part of the Major Food group (Dirty French, Carbone, etc.), and as-to-be-expected it’s reliably really good. It couldn’t be Parm if it didn’t serve a really good one, along with other trattoria standbys like broccoli rabe, penne scampi, and chicken limone. There are also outposts on the Upper West Side, in Williamsburg, and at Yankee Stadium.
Ramen Lab
70 Kenmare St., Nolita | 646.613.7522
Ramen Lab seats no more than ten people at a time so there’s always a wait, but the Sun Noodle bowls are well worth it. The tiny space also serves as a think tank of sorts for emerging ramen chefs, hosting regular tastings and pop-ups with the likes of Paris-based Kodawari Ramen and Menya Jiro from Japan, as they hone their craft.
Sarabeth’s
339 Greenwich St., Tribeca | 212.966.0421
Sarabeth’s started out as a bakery in Chelsea Market in the 80s, where owner Sarabeth Levine perfected cookies, scones, and cakes (with unabashed amounts of sugar, flour, and butter). After she became legendary, she opened Sarabeth’s and basically launched the craze that is weekend brunch. Years later, it’s still hard to get a breakfast reservation at any of her roomy, all-American, restaurants, but it’s so worth it for luscious pancakes and french toast, not to mention ideal omelettes. There are additional locations in the Upper East Side, Midtown, Upper West Side, and Gramercy.
Takahachi
145 Duane St., Tribeca | 212.571.1830
Quiet and unassuming, this long-standing institution has one of the friendlier sushi chef staffs in downtown—there’s also plenty of bar seating. While there’s always something interesting on the daily sushi menu, we think they really shine when it comes to the cooked dishes and soba noodle salads. There’s also an outpost in the East Village and a bakery down the street.
Terroir
24 Harrison St., Tribeca | 212.625.9463
Terroir is the kind of bar where even wine connoisseurs might learn something new. And on the flip side, if you’ve always found wine intimidating, the incredibly knowledgeable staff are more than happy to make recommendations and teach you everything they know. Their wine menu is vast, as as is the meat-heavy small bites menu. During the summers, they set up shop on The Highline, too.
The Good Sort
5 Doyers St., Chinatown | 646.895.9301
The Good Sort may be a bit of a trek given its Chinatown location, but trust us when we say the pilgrimage downtown is worth it: Owners Eddy Buckingham and Jeff Lam (who are also the guys behind Chinese Tuxedo next door), have created a vegan menu of alternative milk lattes (almond, coconut, and oat), fresh juices, homemade congee, and coffee that is entirely categorized by color (say, a yellow turmeric congee, pink rose petal tea, or black charcoal-infused latte). Everything on the menu appears to be made for Instagram–but even if that’s not your jam, it’s hard not to love the health bent (case in point: the Rainbow Iced Latte, made with beetroot, turmeric, black pepper, coconut sugar, and blue algae, looks like an ombré painting).
White Street
221 W. Broadway, Tribeca | 212.944.8378
This spot—partly backed by media duo, David Zinczenko and Dan Abrams—is really beautiful done. It’s situated in a former armory from the 19th-century, and while it’s been completely refurbished, it still feels quite old-world. It’s a bustling, relatively fancy destination, complete with white tablecloths and dressed-up classics like mushroom flatbreads, oysters, and short ribs. It’s the sort of restaurant where you’d steer the in-laws for a fancy, post-theater meal, though we think the lounge is the most compelling spot: They serve strong cocktails and good bar food like duck fat fried potatoes and salmon tartare. There’s a very kid-friendly brunch on the weekends, and plenty of options for private events.
Andaz Wall Street
75 Wall St., Financial District | 212.590.1234
Sleek and modern, this spot is packed out with amenities, including a huge spa, a 24-hour gym, an outdoor beer garden in the summer, and meeting rooms galore. Said meeting rooms make sense because it’s buried deep in the Financial District, which means it bustles with business travelers during the week. It’s not particularly busy over weekends, which means you can get really great rates for the size and quality of the rooms.
Gild Hall
15 Gold St., Financial District | 212.232.7700
This Thompson Street hotel has a lot more personality than you’ll generally otherwise find in the Financial District, as it’s funnily-enough, inspired by an Aspen country house (and more specifically, it’s designed by Jim Walrod). The lobby feels a bit like a ski lodge, there’s really good art on the walls, and the beds are topped with tartan blankets. Though its location is a little out of the way if you’re not planning on spending a majority of your time downtown, it’s not that deep into the Financial District and its rates are good for the quality.
The Greenwich Hotel
377 Greenwich St., Tribeca | 212.941.8900
The hotel offers a wonderfully secluded and private stay, while the on-site restaurant, Locanda Verde, is one of our favorite Tribeca haunts. Subtly Mediterranean in vibe, the simply decorated rooms here are cozy and airy, plus there’s an incredible Shibui spa, a pool and steam room, and a pretty courtyard that’s the perfect destination when you just want coffee and the morning paper. The real crown jewel though, is the Penthouse Suite. Axel Vervoodt spent two years renovating it, and the end result is absolutely stunning: In his signature way, there’s stone and wood accents, rough-luxe textured walls, wooden floors, and chic simplicity throughout.
The Ritz-Carlton Battery Park City
2 West St., Financial District | 212.344.0800
This is a Ritz through and through with all the lavish amenities you’d expect—including sweeping views of New Jersey and the Statue of Liberty. It’s primarily a business hotel as it services the Financial District, which means it’s nice and sleepy on the weekends. There’s a really nice spa, a full-service gym, and they have Ritz Kids, a partnership with Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ocean Futures Society, an interactive program that teaches little ones how to be good stewards of the environment.
Baxter & Liebchen
50 Laight St., Tribeca | 212.431.5050
You will definitely find some budget-busting pieces here that are aggressively pedigreed, but Baxter & Liebchen does a great job of sourcing beautiful anonymous pieces that are a bit more affordable, too. They’re also conscious of the fact that they’re in New York, meaning you’ll find plenty that works well in small spaces—and a lot of storage pieces, like bookshelves and credenzas. They deliver, too.
Bowne & Co Stationers
211 Water St., Financial District | 646.315.4478
Officially part of the South Street Seaport Museum, this wonderful, old-world print shop, which actually holds the title of being New York City’s oldest operating business under the same name (Robert Bowne started it in 1775). The 19th-century letter presses are still on-site, and you can buy cards that are still made in the shop today, by master printer Robert Warner.
Cos Bar
250 Vesey St., Ste. 206 | 212.233.6249
The only thing better than Cos Bar’s famously vast offering of makeup, fragrance, bath, and beauty products (including the newly-launched goop organic skincare line) is the exceptional customer service provided by the knowledgeable, genuinely nice beauty consultants, which is exactly how founder Lily Garfield envisioned it back in 1976 when she opened the original Aspen outpost. There are Cos Bars all over the country, including Montecito, La Jolla, and Scottsdale.
Colony
324 Canal St., Tribeca | 212.334.3808
At this design co-operative, designers like Flat Vernacular, Fort Standard, and Meg Callahan co-exist in beautiful vignettes scattered throughout the space. It’s founder Jean Lin who has a special knack for the whole mix, giving high-design furniture, textiles, and accessories a home-like context.
Edon Manor
391 Greenwich St., Tribeca | 212.431.3890
Every season, Edon Manor picks the most desirable shapes from some of the strongest accessory brands: Givenchy, Alaïa, Isabel Marant, and more. It’s almost hard to focus on the shoes, though, since the store—inspired by an English library—is stunning on its own.
Emily Thompson Flowers
142 Beekman St., South Street Seaport | 212.882.1384
Vermont native Emily Thompson earned an MFA in sculpture from UCLA, a fact that’s evident in all of her floral centerpieces—yes, she uses flowers (which tend to be as wild and fecund as possible), but she builds them into boutiques that look like they might have sprung from a Renaissance painting. There are brambles, and sticks, and over-ripe pieces of fruit, all done up to pretty stunning effect.
Hermès Parfumerie
Brookfield Place, 225 Liberty St., Financial District
Being one of those brands that never executes anything unless it’s perfect and luxurious and gorgeous, it’s not surprising that Hermès’ brand-new perfume-only boutique is stunning. Crafted from concrete, wood, and metal, and designed in collaboration with RDAI and RF studio architects, the space is set up like a house, complete with a grand library and an entryway that’s styled like a garden. Speaking of gardens: Jean Claude Elena, the masterful house perfumer responsible for most of their fragrances, including the Jardins series, tapped his daughter, Celine, to create an exclusive scent for the shop. Called The Shop Around the Corner, it evokes the signature scent of NYC: Deli flowers. Done in a fully Hermès way.
Jenni Kayne
20 Harrison St., Tribeca | 646.968.9995
Designer Jenni Kayne has finally made things permanent in Manhattan, bringing her sunny Southern California optimism along with her for the brand’s first New York City boutique. Much of Kayne’s collection—luxe cashmere, textured mules and d’orsay flats, oversized throws, and wear-with-everything ankle boots look right at home in the store’s light filled space (complete with bleached floors and white brick walls) in Tribeca. The store will function slightly differently than Kayne’s other retail outposts: Instead of a standard brick-and-mortar, it will act more as a showroom for customers to get acquainted with the brand and try things on. So while the store will keep limited stock on hand, many styles and sizes will be available to test-drive and customers can place an online order with expedited shipping. Good news: Fans of JK will be happy to know they’re looking to bring their women’s speaker series and DIY workshops to the space, too.
Korin
57 Warren St., Financial District | 800.626.2172
This Japanese shop equips restaurants like Nobu and Per Se, meaning it’s where pro-chefs go to buy their knives. They’re artfully displayed on the wall and in cases throughout the space according to brand and style (they carry traditional Japanese as well as Westernized brands). In addition, we like to shop their selection of lacquered bento boxes and traditional serveware.
Konekt
41 Elizabeth St. #302, Chinatown | 610.322.0660
Blurring the line between a modern aesthetic and ages-old craftsmanship, this mother-daughter furniture design studio produces unique, made-to-order sculptural pieces. The background is compelling: Helena Sultan, a former photographer and documentary film maker, founded the collection in 2015, extending her eye for the visual to the physical. Her daughter, Natasha Sultan, later joined after honing her skills in the world of contemporary and vintage jewelry. The duo produces compelling, timeless, design-forward furniture and accessories that encourage you to stop and take a moment: From the lounge chairs with hand-stitched detailing, to the side chairs with tapered legs, each piece boasts contours that seem to naturally fit the human form. It’s worth a visit to the the recently-opened Chinatown location (note: it’s best to make an appointment ahead).
La Garconne
465 Greenwich St., Tribeca | 646.553.3303
Slick and all-white, the loft-y space is dotted with wooden racks, filled with all the greatest hits from the popular website, including cutting-edge tailoring from Yohji Yamamoto, Grecian dresses from Zero + Maria Cornejo, and feminine skirts and dresses from Simone Rocha.
Matt Bernson
20 Harrison St., Tribeca | 212.941.7634
You can’t really go wrong when you turn out well-designed, well-made, and well-priced shoes, as evidenced by Matt Bernson’s booming downtown NYC business. It doesn’t hurt that Matt himself is a Tribeca dad, and a really nice guy who can often be found at his warm and welcoming flagship boutique.
Schoolhouse Electric
27 Vestry St., Tribeca | 212.226.6113
When Schoolhouse Electric first launched, it focused solely on reproductions of industrial and, well, school-house lighting fixtures. These days, they’re a great resource for all sorts of subtly old-timey home goods, whether it’s plaid throw blankets, notebooks from Japan, or drawer and cabinet pulls.
Seaport Studios
19 Fulton St., South Street Seaport | 646.762.4716
This airy, loft-like shop is actually a year-long pop-up, luring a rotating cast of designers like Timo Weiland and Solid & Striped to the Seaport (and the fans that support them). It’s a gorgeous space and in close proximity to some of the area’s best spots for a quick bite, too.
Shinola
177 Franklin St., Tribeca | 917.728.3000
Based in Detroit, Shinola produces watches (the owners also founded Fossil), bicycles, leather goods, stationery—all boasting American craftmanship and manufacturing. We love the story and the beautifully simple, functional, and heritage-inspired designs.
Steven Alan Annex
103 Franklin St., Tribeca | 212.343.0692
We head to Steven Alan for the perfectly tailored yet lived-in men’s and women’s shirting that comes in an endless variety of plaids and stripes. Beyond that, it’s the relaxed mix of pieces from designers like A.P.C, Isabel Marant, Rachel Comey, that keeps us coming back. The outpost in Tribeca is the flagship and the original, though there are now locations scattered around the city.
