Filter by our Side PicksStretching all the way from Robert Moses’s East River Park to the short off-the-grid Taras Shevchenko Place (named for the Ukrainian poet) and Cooper Square just beyond, 6th Street is filled with history from beginning to end. I could not help but think, as I walked this side street, that compared … read more
What fun it was to discover a vintage motorcycle repair shop and meet Scottish born Hugh, who has been collecting parts and fixing these British machines since the 1980’s. There were numerous motorcycles lined up outside, and the guys riding them could not have been more enthusiastic about his craftmanship.
When the gates are open, visitors are welcome to stroll through this particularly lovely garden. It is a no wonder that each time we were here, there were several others too, for it has such an inviting atmosphere with tables and chairs to sit and relax while gazing at the beautiful flowers, or walking … read more
The wasabi is from Oregon, the rice is Californian. The soy sauce comes from Kentucky, and the fish are fresh from Long Island. In fact, the only thing made in Japan at Mayanoki is the Junmai sake, and even that is offered up alongside other, local sakes which are made at a brewery in Brooklyn; while … read more
Anyone who has lived in New York long enough has likely experienced the nostalgia-infused anxiety of shuttered businesses in their area. Julia Howe, general manager of Grape and Grain, sympathizes: “When your favorite restaurant or your favorite bar or venue or whatever gets bought out… You’re … read more
Gardeners living between Avenue D and the Bowery (14th Street to Delancey) can apply for a plot. The day we were here, we met a young man who was organizing an event called “Under the Stars and Out of the Bars.” He spoke at length about his love for his plot and this garden space. We were amazed at how … read more
Without a doubt, one of our favorite gardens, this “self contained eco-system” has been offering a serene environment for people in the neighborhood since 1982. Unlike other gardens we have visited, Creative Little Garden allows each member gardener to work the entire land, rather than just their own … read more
We had the pleasure of spending time at Joe’s Bar in 2011 before Joe passed away and it closed down. Continuously operated for over one hundred years, Joe’s even had a bowling alley down stairs in the early 1900’s. Now, renamed to Josies, the bar is owned by the guy who also runs Sophie’s. … read more
We found Redemption and Four-Play at Amor Y Amargo. These were among the bitter choices at this intriguing bar. Only open a short time, this is a true sideshow to Death and Co. a few doors down. We had a great experience … read more
Nina was a happy girl when we entered A-1: “I take my music seriously,” she told me. So it wasn’t much of a surprise that we ended up spending some quality time in this store. The extensive record collection here is mainly comprised of soul, funk, and hip-hop. Vinyl collectors will have a field day here, … read more
