Welcome to the East Village | Lower East Side
Two creative neighborhoods ahead of the curve
The East Village and Lower East Side of Manhattan are two unique neighborhoods to the city. With a more casual, laid-back vibe than the other bustling districts, these neighborhoods bring a sense of peace and the suburbs to an otherwise busy district. Artsy, ahead-of-the-curve, and bursting with a nightlife scene like no other, the East Village/Lower East Side communities are vibrant pockets of artistic expression in a down-to-Earth pocket of New York City.
The East Village is home to creative energies and has been known as the epicenter of Bohemian styles since the early 1900s. Allen Ginsberg and Diane Arbus put the East Village on the map, making it a top destination for creative thinkers and entrepreneurs. There are dozens of bookshops, cafes, and art galleries scattered throughout the East Village — many of which are family-owned businesses that have been around for generations.
The Lower East Side, tucked to the south of the East Village, shares a similar atmosphere loaded with history and an up-and-coming nightlife scene. Both neighborhoods offer gorgeous East River views, delicious dining options, and unique shopping boutiques along relatively quiet and laid-back streets.
What to Love
- Independent energies in a suburban-like atmosphere
- Hundreds of vintage shops to peruse
- Excellent nightlife and party scene
Local Lifestyle
Residents of the East Village and Lower East Side neighborhoods enjoy relaxing days spent browsing the largest collection of vintage and boutique shops in the city. Peruse the record bins of your favorite artist, scan the turnstiles for a new vintage outfit, and enjoy a locally roasted coffee at a corner cafe. If you appreciate a retro-feel, you’d love what these Manhattan neighborhoods offer. Housing in these communities is comprised mostly of renovated or converted apartment buildings or post-war walkups, with The Lower East Side offering a few luxury high-rise buildings. Mostly, the residences in these neighborhoods are as retro-vintage as the atmosphere, but with updated amenities at affordable price ranges. The perfect communities for anyone seeking diversity, culture, and friendly neighbors, you can’t go wrong making the East Village or Lower East Side neighborhoods your new favorite place to call home.
Dining, Entertainment, and Shopping
Veselka is a Ukrainian cafe offering pierogi, borscht, goulash, and many other unpretentious favorites. For over 60 years, Veselka (“rainbow” in Ukrainian) has partnered with local purveyors to bring the highest-quality ingredients to the heart of the East Village. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and offering catering services and a full market, Veselka is the top destination for creative finds and delicious treats.
Katz Delicatessen, also known as Katz of New York City, is another staple of the community. Established in 1888 and now a nationally recognized institution, Katz represents the diverse immigrant populations that have made their way to New York City over the last century. Offering diverse flavors and unique creations, along with catering services, Jewish specialties, subscription boxes, and merchandise, Katz is the ultimate delicatessen experience in all of Manhattan.
A casual American brasserie, The Smith Restaurant of the East Village is passionate about taking great care of the community through food and conversation. Known for going above and beyond for their guests, dining at The Smith is an unparalleled experience. With menu items as authentic and delicious as their creations, it’s no wonder The Smith is a top destination for residents and tourists alike. Enjoy fresh, rotating menus using high-quality ingredients from local purveyors in an upbeat and casual atmosphere.
Things to Do
The centerpiece of the East Village, Tompkins Square Park is the perfect spot for ultimate relaxation in the outdoors. Bring the whole family to enjoy a relaxing afternoon among the shade trees, explore the pathways with your furry friend, and take in the surrounding views of the eclectic neighborhood. With basketball courts, two playgrounds, and ample space for annual concerts and festivals, Tompkins Square Park is the hub of the community and the ideal meeting spot for friends and neighbors.
The East Village and Lower East Side are known for their quirky energies and vintage appeal. There are too many vintage shops to name in these neighborhoods — it seems as though everywhere you look, there is a possibility of finding your next greatest treasure in an unsuspecting shop just out of sight, so keep your eyes peeled as you stroll the beautiful streets and browse the hundreds of vintage stores throughout the neighborhood.
