Greenwich Village is a charming and quaint neighbourhood filled with historic brownstones, independent shops, and plenty of cafes and restaurants to keep you feeling full all-day long. The area also holds the title as Manhattan’s most bohemian destination: major moments in history took place along these tree-lined streets, from the Beats to LGBTQ rights.
Having just been named one of New York City’s hottest ‘hoods in StreetEasy's "NYC Neighbourhoods To Watch In 2022", the area still draws in the crowds — tourists and locals alike. Once renowned as a center for counterculture, Greenwich Village is picturesque with the urbane life of its residents, but don’t let this fool you. Creative New Yorkers flock to Washington Square Park to share their art and music, and you’ll also find comedy clubs and late-night bars to see you into the night.
Here are our favourites.
Stumptown Coffee Roasters
Stumptown’s team travels to four different continents to support the company’s coffee producers – they don’t call them farmers so that they give their producers the credit they deserve – and sample their products. The result? A perfect cup of coffee, every time. You’ll most likely find a queue at their West Village location, but trust us, it’ll be worth it.
Jane
This All-American bistro has been serving up brunch to locals since 2001. It offers straight-forward, seasonal fare that New York Magazine dubbed, “cleverly tweaked but unpretentious American cuisine”. Expect eggs prepared in just about every manner – the fried option with kale and scrambled alongside plush popovers are a must-try.
Mamoun’s Falafel
Mamoun’s Falafel has been serving high-quality Middle Eastern Food since it first opened back in 1971. If you find yourself wondering what’s the oldest falafel restaurant in New York, this is it. And it just so happens that Mamoun’s was one of the first Middle Eastern establishments in the United States, too.
LAHN
LAHN curates for the creative New Yorker in mind: it carries a selection of modern pieces in simple yet elegant silhouettes and colourways. In keeping with the brand’s message of empowerment, LAHN promotes female-led labels, most of which have a sustainable take on fashion making this sartorial destination effortless for the culturally conscious.
Miss Lily’s
Miss Lily’s is a NYC destination with global clout. Whether you go for brunch or booze – or both – Miss Lily’s brings the vibe. Designed to resemble the slew of West Indian restaurants in Brooklyn and the Bronx, the spot serves vibrant Caribbean food and fruity cocktails, while punters dance to the music pumping out of the speakers.
Three Lives & Co
“In Greenwich Village, the perfect New York bookstore lives on”, according to the New York Times. While franchises have come and gone, Three Lives & Company remains, and it is still the archetype of a neighbourhood hangout. The store was opened in 1978 by three women – hence Three Lives – and celebrates all things books, as well as a community center for the West Village.
Banter
Banter is one of many Australian cafés popping up in New York City, however, this spot stands out for its eclectic take on cuisine, along with its extensive array of wines and cocktails not usually found at health-minded destinations. You’ll find everything from vibrant veggie bowls and wellness drinks to fried chicken burgers and Nutella® French toast: Banter believes in finding a healthy balance.
Cursive
Cursive is a unique little gift shop, founded by Douglas Duncan and Michael Schultz, whose personal love of objects and life led them to launch and fill their space with specially hand-selected items. Here you’ll find fine stationery, candles, jewellery, vases, greeting cards, picture frames, glassware – basically, a beautiful display of one-of-a-kind pieces that make memorable gifts.