Hopping Across Amsterdam
Spend an afternoon exploring the side streets on both sides of Amsterdam Avenue on the Upper West Side. If you are due for a haircut, we recommend making an appointment at Salon Riz, where all customers are treated like guests at a friendly, intimate party.
We have started you out with a couple options for lunch: Nice Matin is a classy place to bite into some French fare and Coppola’s offers a traditional Italian-American experience. From there, pop into Knitty City to see the cozy, colorful world that the owner, Pearl, has built for the community. For dessert, head to Voila Chocolat to secure a walk-in workshop with an expert chocolatier who will guide you through decorating your own perfectly-tempered treat. If you need something to wash the chocolate down with, head across the street to Irving Farm for a coffee or tea.
Begin heading north, and stop in Balloon Kings to speak to “King Gene” about his rubber empire (and, if you’re feeling whimsical, grab a balloon!). Then, head to Salon Riz if you wish to get you hair cut before continuing your walk to Pachute, where you can browse through the comfortable, minimalist fashions (if not for you, then for the women in your life). Back on the west side of Amsterdam Avenue, explore the treasure trove of antiques at John Koch, a company that often supplies furniture and props to TV and movies. Stop in at the Bard Graduate Center to see what decorative art is on display, and then end your day with a drink at The Parlour.
The Upper West Side is also home to a collection of exquisite churches and synagogues. We encourage you to read about them in our Sideways Story and to stop into any that might be open during your walk.
Share your adventures with us on Twitter and Instagram @nysideways!
