Welcome to East Village
Situated in the Lower East Side of Manhattan and bordered by Houston Street to the north and 14th Street to the south, NYC’s hip and happening East Village has been the epicenter of some of New York's most influential history. It is known for its eclectic, tight-knit community atmosphere, exciting nightlife, and numerous attractions.
From trendy bars and restaurants to cozy coffee shops, East Village has plenty of options for daytime living and nightlife adventure. It also proves an excellent location for those who value green space. In fact, the East Village possesses the greatest number of community gardens in America due to greening initiatives during the 1970s. As a result, plenty of parks and gardens are scattered throughout the neighborhood, providing ample opportunities to soak in fresh air and sunshine.
The East Village is a kaleidoscope of eclectic architecture. From classic brownstones to funky modern constructions, the buildings almost tell a story of the evolution of design. Quirky and cool, it's a playground for those who revel in mismatched facades and unexpected angles. You never know what you'll get around the next corner, making it impossible not to feel inspired living in this part of the city.
Many of the architectural styles range from pre-war Art Deco facades to ornate Neo-Gothic townhouses designed by renowned architects like James Renwick Jr., who designed St. Patrick's Cathedral and Grace Church.
As for history, East Village has a fascinating past, from being home to immigrant communities to playing a pivotal role in the counterculture movement. It has been home to many famous faces throughout its celebrated history, including writer and poet Allen Ginsberg, who derived inspiration from this area's rich culture. It was also at the forefront of multiple art movements, including modernist art in the 1960s, which emerged from nearby Soho, and punk music that had its heyday at legendary CBGB.
What to Love
- Edgy rock-and-roll legacy
- Cool, funky boutiques and vintage shops
- Plenty of enticing restaurants
- Creative hotspot with up-and-coming art galleries
- Home to the nation's greatest quantity of community gardens
Local Lifestyle
The East Village is a fabulous place to live for those seeking an exciting neighborhood with plenty of character and charisma. The area's spunky, urban vibe and artistic flair attract an assorted crowd of locals who value ingenuity and innovation. From its modern cafés to its iconic street art, the East Village constantly hums with energy and excitement.
For locals living in this vibrant community, life is about finding inspiration in the little things. Whether exploring the eclectic boutiques or trying out a new restaurant, there's never a dull moment in the East Village.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
East Village is the ultimate destination for foodies, entertainment buffs, and shopping enthusiasts searching for the coolest places in NYC. At the Michelin-starred Momofuku Ko, Chef David Chang's innovative and mouth-watering Asian-accented American cuisine appeals to any set of taste buds.
Pierogi and borscht are hallmarks of the menu at Veselka, an elemental Ukrainian restaurant. Mokyo serves small dishes and comfort cuisine with a Korean influence in an unpretentious, earthy setting. Thursday Kitchen serves scrumptious Korean-inspired tapas, transporting patrons' taste buds to Seoul with a touch of Spanish and French influences.
The Office of Mr. Moto makes patrons feel like they've just walked into a vintage spy movie. The decor radiates coolness with sleek black leather couches, mid-century modern coffee tables, and dim lighting. It is the perfect spot to sip on a classic martini – shaken, not stirred, of course – while discussing business with fellow "agents." Similarly, Death & Company's speakeasy atmosphere also makes a perfect setting for a night out with friends, whipping up unique cocktails that are both delicious and Instagram-worthy.
Things to Do
The East Village is a playground for those seeking entertainment in the Big Apple. Locals and tourists flock to Tompkins Square Park to soak up its electric atmosphere and enjoy a slice of NYC life. Here, residents spend time with friends and family, people-watch, catch some live music, and bask in the park's natural beauty.
New Museum is a local hotspot for perusing contemporary art, while MoGA - Museum of Graffiti Art offers the opportunity to see incredible street art up close. From the notorious mobsters of the 1920s to the gritty street gangs of the 1970s, Exhibition-The Amer Gangster is the perfect spot to explore the untold stories of NYC's notorious past.
Presenting a vast selection of craft cocktails and an impressive lineup of DJs and live bands, The Bowery Electric is a hip venue that's hosted some of the most legendary shows in town.
- New York University, undergraduate and graduate, private research, #2 Best College Locations in America, #2 Best Colleges for Film and Photography in America, #5 Best Colleges for Performing Arts in America
- School of Visual Arts, undergraduate and graduate
