Whether you want to visit New York City someday or are a college student in NYC like me, odds are that you are constantly looking for new places to explore in the Concrete Jungle. As I was painstakingly walking East in the frigid cold on the famed Bowery Road a few weeks ago, I made my way into New York’s Lower East Side neighborhood. This vibrant neighborhood prides itself for its art galleries, restaurants of all cuisines, and indie stores. Check the list out below to find must-see places in the Lower East Side that can be seen all within one afternoon.
1. Supermoon Bakehouse (120 Rivington St)
On my rather unfortunate walk through the cold and dark, the first place I came across in the LES is Supermoon Bakehouse. One of New York’s newest bakeries, this galactic-themed bakery sells donuts and croissants. The catch: these baked goods definitely do not look like your average donut or croissant. In fact, there’s a croissant inside of a muffin, called a cruffin! Check out this new and hip bakery if you’re truly wanting some desserts that will take you “out of this world” and an insta aesthetically pleasing food pic.
Pro tip: Go to Supermoon as early as you can because it closes every day at 5 PM or when everything sells out. When I was in the LES, I sadly did not get the chance to have an “out of this world” experience since Supermoon was already closed.
2. Richard Taittinger Gallery (154 Ludlow St.)
This gallery was perhaps the second-most aesthetically appealing place that I saw on my walk through the LES. If you are lover of all things art or just like to admire its beauty, Richard Taittinger Gallery will surely not disappoint. Currently on display is an exhibition called Beneath Her, by the work of the South African artist Frances Goodman through December 23.
3. Tijuana Picnic (151 Essex St.)
Before I walked through the LES, I had dinner. Then my need for food started to kick in again after I saw the bright neon lights of the restaurant, Tijuana Picnic. With a low light ambiance and menu consisting of streaks, tacos, ceviche, and empanadas, Tijuana Picnic is the perfect place to relax and catch up with friends while savoring the taste of Mexican cuisine.
4. Café Grumpy (13 Essex St.)
Nestled on the same street as Tijuana Picnic,Café Grumpy will surely make you happy (contrary to its namesake). This little coffee shop has blends from a variety of countries in Central and South America. Not feeling up for a warm cup of a joe? Café Grumpy also has a line of cold brew drinks. It is a small place, but its brick-covered walls and a coffee in hand makes for a perfect cozy place to read or a book or to study.
5. Tictail Market (90 Orchard St.)
Looking to amp up your style or a gift for that special someone? Head over to Tictail Market, a store located on the corner of Orchard that sells clothes, furniture, artwork, bags, shoes, and watches created by independent artists from all over the world. Check out Tictail if you’re looking for something that is truly unique, and, most importantly, to support independent artists and their craft.
If you’re looking for dessert, to try a new cuisine, coffee, or to do some shopping, the Lower East Side has it all and is truly an adventure. Even though I didn’t go into all these places during my walk, the brief encounters I had with them through their windows instantly caught my attention. A look through a window was enough to attract me to these stores, and I’m sure a visit to each of these places will leave you hooked.
