My Favorite Street: Greenwich Avenue, NYC

Jun 1

There are streets in New York that feel like errands. Streets that feel like a sprint. Streets that stress you out. And then there’s Greenwich Avenue. A bridge between Chelsea and Greenwich Village, this avenue (it is Greenwich Avenue, not Greenwich Street—which is a few blocks away, much to the confusion of tourists and non-West Villagers alike) cuts a bold angled swath thru my neighborhood with quiet aplomb, it’s one of those rare New York streets that still feels deeply neighborhood-y while somehow also functioning as a perfect afternoon out.

What makes Greenwich Avenue so special is the mix. Within a few blocks you can bounce from old-school British tea service to a charming Scandinavian candy shop, from an chic jewelbox perfume house to an old-school deli counter that makes a bacon, egg and cheese exactly the way the universe intended. There’s polish here, certainly, but also personality. Nothing feels too try-hard.

For this edition of My Favorite Street, we’re strolling through the shops, cafés, restaurants and little neighborhood institutions that make Greenwich Avenue one of downtown Manhattan’s most charming addresses. Comfortable, stylish, slightly eccentric and deeply New York in the best way.

119 GREENWICH AVENUE

Jack & Charlie’s No. 118

So West Village—buzzy, and effortlessly charming with some of the best al fresco seating (and the people watching to match).

125 GREENWICH AVENUE

Alexis Bittar

Alexis’ edgy bold jewelry and accessories on full show here.

119 GREENWICH AVENUE

BonBon

Pure joy and nostalgia, with the chicest Scandinavian candy selection imaginable.

108 GREENWICH AVENUE

Tea & Sympathy

A longtime neighborhood fixture—I love it for its cozy British comfort-food (don’t miss their afternoon tea!) and tiny jewel-box atmosphere.

113 GREENWICH AVENUE

San Sabino

A cheerful lemon-yellow drenched spot for seafood-focused Italian from the Don Angie crew—grab a perch at the counter and have their signature Shrimp Parm.

94 GREENWICH AVENUE

Frédéric Malle

The fragrances feel incredibly sophisticated and personal, like scent as storytelling—step inside and you’re transported to Paris.

92 GREENWICH AVENUE

Noa Bakery

A postcard-sized spot serving up their famous cinnamon rolls and so much more.

79 GREENWICH AVENUE

NY Grill & Deli

Every neighborhood needs an old-school reliable deli, and this is the spot. Bacon egg and cheese on a roll, coming up!

77 GREENWICH AVENUE

Teabowl

A petit zen-like spot for the finest quality matchas.

75 GREENWICH AVENUE

Li-Lac Chocolates

New York’s oldest chocolate shop proves its staying power with mouthwatering confections for any occasion.

73 GREENWICH AVENUE

Apollo Bagels

Okay, so the lines are worth it. Sourdough bagels with your choice of toppings—that crunchy exterior and chewy interior are a delight and will keep you coming back.