Lower East Side
Eats: Sel Rrose
Find a pocket of Paris in this Lower East Side cocktail and oyster bar, which is named after Rrose Sélavey – the female alter-ego of Marcel Duchamp. The interior is inspired by the moody romance of the French capital in the early 20th century, and the menu has daily fresh oysters, a full raw bar, and French-focused plates and cocktails.
Eats: Benson's
Beer and Burger lovers alert! You’re definitely going to have to make a stop at Benson’s this Saturday! With a huge selection of craft beer, you’re sure to find you’re favorite brew or new favorite! As for burgers, we recommend trying the peppercorn, a classic beef patty topped with fried onion rings, ranch, and cheddar cheese. And some thick sliced bacon to go with your burger. The beer aficionado herself is Annie Morton, co-owner of Bensons.
Eats: Russ & Daughters
For over 100 years, Russ & Daughters has been the go-to spot for bagel and lox. Only the freshest fish is served and sliced on spot by master slicers. Grab a numbered ticket, and a menu card when you walk and start reading. The hardest part is choosing what to get! But take comfort in knowing it’s all delicious. Pro tip: Grab a bottle of orange juice! It’s freshly squeezed to perfection.
Joel Russ, the original founder of Russ & Daughters, story is a dream come true. He began selling goods on the street, which later evolved into the Russ & Daughters shop. Now the Cafe is inspired by the original deli that is known for its smoked fish and caviar. Owned by the 4th generation Russ family the cafe’s appetizing classics include the New Catch Herring Fix Platter, the Classic Board, and the Pickled Herring Trio.
Eats: Grey Lady
“The Grey Lady” is a nickname for the fog on Nantucket. The owners are all lifelong Nantucketers, and when they decided to open a seafood restaurant, the name was a natural fit. This seafood staple of the Lower East Side serves up fresh oysters, lobster rolls, classic chowder and more. Drop your anchor here during happy hour for $1 oysters and delicious wine.
Historic: Tenement Museum
97 Orchard street, the place where thousands of immigrants began their NYC story, all told now thanks to The Tenement Museum.
Streets: Hanksy
Adam Lucas (widely known as Hanksy) has a story that should inspire anyone in New York who has a dream. For all the talk of his overnight success, the artist clearly has the talent and the drive to support his fame. He has lived in the Lower East Side for six years, and seems to truly love it, drawing inspiration from the hustling business owners and creative dream-chasers that he surrounds himself with.
Streets: Sonni
Sonni was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina where he studied graphic design and worked as an Art Director for animation and film companies. He works with different mediums that include paper and pencil, illustrator, acrylic on canvas, and wooden sculptures. Yet, his passion is to paint murals in public spaces, finding that dialogue with the public through primary colors and playfulness.
Streets: Claw Money
“There’s really no more exciting place than the LES. It’s still the old New York mixing with the ever-changing new New York, and it still feels real.” – Claw Money
Fashion: Billykirk
Brothers, Chris and Kirk Bray are the faces to thank behind this shop that’s grown to be a true staple in the LES, and across the nation. Probably because these brothers put their heart into each and everything they create. So you know that means care and quality is on point. One look around the shop, and each product can speak for itself. The proof is in the patina.
Galleries: Con Artist Collective
Bryan from Con Artist Collective understands the needs of the creative souls! Sometimes you need a space outside of the norm, or somewhere you can feel free to get dirty! Con Artists collective provides the perfect environment. From an in-house wood shop to 3D printers, you can find it all here! Check out their weekly gallery parties happening every Wednesday.