Whether you love it or hate it, you’ve definitely at least heard about New York’s East Village. As one of the most iconic neighborhoods in the whole city, the East Village inevitably draws strong opinions. Home to great bars, tons of young people, creativity galore and excellent food, there’s tons to love about this sprawling neighborhood. We’ve rounded up the very best of the best in our ultimate guide to the Empire City’s East Village, so happy exploring!
See also: The Ultimate West Village & Greenwich Village Guide
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309 E. 5th St. / 646.755.8939 / Website
With dependably delicious food and plenty of reservation availability, Risotteria Melotti is a staple amongst many East Villagers. Thanks to risotto being naturally gluten-free, this cute and cozy Italian restaurant is also a great option for those with dining restrictions. Be sure to try the arancini, a delicious appetizer consisting of rice balls coated in breadcrumbs and deep-fried.
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403 E. 12th St. / 646.602.1300 / Website
The desire to gatekeep this restaurant is too real. With warm, inviting interiors, a fantastic wine list, delicious, seasonally driven cuisine and fabulous cocktails, there’s plenty to love about Hearth. The team even mills their own flour and polenta from heirloom grains on a daily basis. There’s a reason this neighborhood favorite has thrived for 20 years, and we hope they never leave.
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8 Extra Place / 212.203.8095 / Website
Momofuku Ko has been considered one of the toughest tables to reserve in NYC for years, and for good reason. Boasting two Michelin stars, Ko is a three-hour dining experience, and the tasting menu of ten courses is truly an unforgettable meal. Come hungry, because you’ll want to be able to savor each and every bite.
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25 Cooper Square / 212.475.5700 / Website
For those that love to work hard and play hard, there’s no better place to shack up than The Standard, East Village. Enjoy luxe accommodations and a lively nightlife scene, perfectly fitting of the East Village. Café Standard, the onsite bar and bistro, always draws a buzzy crowd, so grab a drink and settle in.
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112 E. 11th St. / 212.288.6699 / Website
Rooftop lovers, this one’s for you. The Moxy NYC East Village has all the incredible amenities you can expect from a Moxy property in addition to The Ready Rooftop Bar, a gorgeous all-season rooftop complete with eclectic decor and panoramic views. Then, there’s Cathédrale, the onsite French-Mediterranean restaurant that is staggeringly beautiful.
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335 Bowery / 212.505.9100 / Website
For a luxe, sophisticated NYC experience, The Bowery Hotel is a no-brainer. Each room features floor-to-ceiling windows, hardwood floors topped with signature Oushak rugs, rich velvet drapes and classic old-world design. Stepping into the hotel feels like traveling to a distant time and place, making The Bowery Hotel a fabulous choice for an immersive, relaxing stay.
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E. 10th St. / 212.639.9675 / Website
One of the most iconic parks in NYC, Tompkins Square Park makes for a great stroll on a sunny Saturday morning. Consisting of 10.5 acres, this spacious city square is full of green spaces, blooming trees and great people-watching. We recommend enjoying a bagel from Tompkins Square Bagels as you walk.
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FDR Drive / 212.639.9675 / Website
Winding along the waterfront of Manhattan’s east side, John V. Lindsay East River Park offers views of the Manhattan and Brooklyn bridges and New York’s harbor. There’s plenty to do in the park, which features a track, a tennis complex, eight baseball and softball fields and fields and courts dedicated to soccer, football and basketball.
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21 E. 1st St. / 212.228.5909 / Website
Did someone say spa day? This urban retreat center offers near-endless services, including an infrared sauna, cryo body treatment, cryo facials, IV therapy, massages, sound healing and functional wellness coaching. Stop by the herbal pharmacy after your treatment to bring the self care home with you.
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333 E. 9th St. / 646.850.0327 / Website
Funky vintage clothing, all things '80s and '90s and unique accessories are all to be found at Spark Pretty, a favorite store amongst locals. Founders Amanda Dolan and Meagan Colby carefully curate a collection of gorgeous pieces just begging to become your new wardrobe favorites.
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439 E. 9th St. / 212.780.0036 / Website
In search of a unique, meaningful gift for someone you love? Pink Olive is sure to please with its curated selection of beautiful paper goods, candles, books, decor, games, kitchen goods and more. You’ll walk in looking for a gift and walk out with three new things for yourself. Don’t worry, we’ll chalk it up to self-care.
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334 E. 9th St. / 212.673.0500 / Website
For the girls who love a twist on classic pieces, there’s no better boutique than Cloak & Dagger. These elevated wardrobe staples evoke all the cool girl energy while remaining functional and easy to style. You can also shop online, so happy browsing!
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104 Avenue C / 917.261.2166 / Website
Step out of modern-day NYC and into the ‘70s at this vibey bar serving fabulous drinks and a groovy disco ball. This spot is great any time of night, but we love to set the mood for our evening with a pre-dinner cocktail that’ll set your soul on fire.
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102 Avenue C / 917.444.1108 / Website
Right next to Joyface sits HiLot, a cozy, speakeasy-style bar that continues with the ode to the ‘70s. This is the perfect spot to cozy up next to your date and enjoy the fringed lamps and plaid carpet. You might even find yourself in the bathtub in the restroom.
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113 St. Marks Place / Website
This pillar of NYC speakeasies is known for its award-winning bar program, so if you’re in the market for a great cocktail, look no further. Hidden behind a phone booth in Crif Dogs, Please Don’t Tell isn’t cheap, but these drinks are well worth the price tag.
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433 E 6th. St. / 212.388.0882 / Website
We love this cocktail institution for its walk-ins only policy, life-changing drinks and classic cocktail bar decor (think moody lighting, tons of wood everywhere). Death & Co. consistently makes “Best of NYC” lists for good reason, and is simply a must-experience for any cocktail lover.
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112 E. 11th St. / 212.888.1095 / Website
This East Village hot spot has a notoriously difficult door, but if you manage to brave the bouncer and get in, you’re in for an evening to remember. Brought to life by NYC nightlife giant TAO Group Hospitality, Little Sister Lounge consistently draws in celebrity clientele, so get ready to rub elbows with NYC’s A-listers.
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9 Avenue A / Website
In the mood to dance? Wiggle Room is a great place to do so, with a basement full of tons of 20-somethings, pink neon lights and good music. The wonderful staff prioritizes safety and inclusivity, making this one of our favorite spots to stay out far too late and nurse a hangover the next day.
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355 Bowery / Website
Pink walls, great DJs and yummy drinks abound at Short Stories, making this bar a great option for those who want to steer clear of the East Village’s frathouse-vibe reputation. Here you’ll find fashionable young New Yorkers looking for a good night with friends. What’s not to love?
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38 St. Marks Place / 212.935.2035 / Website
This contemporary art institution is a great place to spend an afternoon enjoying experimental art and innovative exhibitions, education and programs. The rotating exhibitions are always thought-provoking, making this free-admission institution well worth a visit.
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222 E. 6th St. / 212.228.0110 / Website
The East Village is home to NYC’s Ukrainian Village, and the Ukrainian Museum is an excellent resource to learn about the artistic and cultural heritage of Ukraine. Admission is only $8 for adults, $6 for seniors, $6 for students and free for museum members and children under 12.
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66 E. 4th St. / 212.254.6468 / Website
Emerging playwrights display avant-garde works at this theater center, which provides creative freedom for artists of all identities, races, ages and cultures. The shows are always moving, powerful or fun, so step away from New York’s hustle and bustle and support the arts.
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413 E. 12th St. / 917.388.2919 / Website
With great wine, delicious food and friendly staff, this natural wine bar is truly a gem. Great for a first date or a catch-up with friends, Spes only serves wine by the glass, giving you the perfect chance to try multiple wines. P.S. Don’t skip the dessert!
With tons of cultural experiences, a thriving nightlife scene, plenty of neighborhood staples and classic NYC charm, the East Village is well worth exploring. We can’t wait to hear your favorite spots!
Photography by: Lerone Pieters / Unsplash
