Meet 55th Street
Parking garages, cleaners, medical offices, hair salons, and many of the other usual suspects abound on 55th Street, but peering between them revealed an abundance of magnificent landmarks and other side street gems.
From east to west there are an array of synagogues and churches rich with history: Or Olam has been at its current site since 1916, the resplendent Central Synagogue is believed to be one of the oldest temples in the country, and the beautiful Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church dates back to 1875.
Across the street from one another, just off Fifth Avenue, lie two of Manhattan’s most noted hotels. The St Regis has been playing host to members of high society for over one hundred years. And while The Peninsula New York might not be long in the tooth, its outstanding reputation as a luxury hotel is equally impressive.
55th has the honor of being home to some of the most distinguished restaurants in the city: Aquavit, where Nordic food takes center stage, opened in 1987; P.J. Clarke’s, a New York institution, serves what many consider to be the best hamburger in town; Michael’s celebrated its twenty-fifth anniversary in 2014 with a star-studded crowd; Soupe a l’oignon has been a favorite of my family since La Bonne Soupe opened its doors in 1973; and Circo (Lost Gem), where Sirio and Egidiana Maccioni, together with their two sons, have made the circus the vibrant backdrop for their Tuscan dining room. Although he does not have as long a history on the street as some of the other restaurants, Alaine Ducasse’s charming bistro, Benoit, continues to enhance his international reputation as one of the finest French chefs.
The performing arts play an important role on 55th. Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater not only functions as the home to the company that is credited with redefining modern dance in America, but it also provides multiple classes for any dance enthusiast. And how fortunate they are to be able to perform inside the spectacular New York City Center, a space also used by a variety of other theater companies.
Finally, what is a side street without a sweet boutique? Myzel’s Chocolate is run by a mother and daughter team who bake their scrumptious cookies in the back of their shop. In addition to their specialty chocolates, they have over 130 different types of licorice. A piece of candy is always the best way to end my day walking.
