Filled with a mixed array of hipsters and fashionistas alike, the Lower East Side (or LES) is arguably one of Manhattan’s most charming and unique up-and-coming neighborhoods.
With some of the city’s best food, drink, and shopping selections lining every corner, residents are never faced with a dull moment. If you’re considering moving in the near future, be sure to check out this list of the 10 reasons you should move to the Lower East Side.
The Food
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No matter what type of food you prefer, the LES has it all. Aside from bordering Little Italy and Chinatown (definitely try an authentic Italian cannoli in Little Italy), the LES has food options that will please even the pickiest of eaters.
Some can’t-miss options are Morgenstern’s Finest Ice Cream, thanks to its unique and inventive flavors (Burnt Sage or Banana Curry anyone?), and of course, the legendary Katz’s Delicatessen. This restaurant dates back to 1888 and is famous for its huge, loaded meat sandwiches. If you’re looking for a classic New York pastrami sandwich, make Katz’s your first stop.
The Drinks
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Food and drink go hand in hand, and luckily, the LES offers an endless supply of it all. Like the neighborhood’s food options, the vast variety of drinking choices present satisfying choices for just about everyone.
For the cocktail lovers, be sure to check out Nitecap, a cozy speakeasy off Rivington Street, which offers creative cocktail choices. But if you’re looking for something a little more lively, head over to Attaboy, a hip cocktail bar offering endless combinations of boozy goodness.
The Shopping
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The Lower East Side is home to some of New York’s most exclusive markets and independently owned stores. If you’re heading out, be sure to check out the famous Essex Street Market, which offers a collection of the finest gourmet culinary goods. And if you’re a sugar-lover, don’t miss Economy Candy on Rivington Street.
The Nightlife
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The Lower East Side proves the age-old saying that New York is the “city that never sleeps”. Residents and visitors alike never struggle to find a trendy place to dance the night away.
If you’re looking for a unique place to go, our top suggestion is the Bowery Ballroom. This is the perfect venue to catch the latest indie bands’ live performances and mix and mingle with your neighbors.
The Vibe
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The LES is unlike any other part of the city. The solid mix of university students and working professionals creates a motivated atmosphere that still carries a sense of excitement, so it’s the perfect neighborhood for those looking to work all day and party all night. When going out, residents are able to let loose and feel free to take fashion risks and fully express themselves.
Thrift Shopping
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The LES is home to some of New York City’s finest thrift stores. With that, we mean that the thrift stores in the LES are where you’ll find designer clothes at a much lower price than the original sellers, and funky outfits for your weekend jaunts.
For fashion-savvy shoppers, we recommend Ellen, where you’ll only find the finest silks, satins, and fabrics. But if you’re not on the market for luxury duds, we suggest Portia and Manny, where you won’t struggle to find the unique fashion addition you’re looking for.
The Culture
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LES is filled with endless expressions of New York City’s unique culture. The Museum at Eldridge Street perfectly captures and shows off NYC’s architecture and Jewish culture, while the Tenement Museum is also a favorite to New York natives.
At this museum, visitors can interact and talk to the costumed employees, who will educate them on what life was like for end-of-the-century immigrants.
Easy Commutes
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The Lower East Side offers plenty of transportation options, making it easy to travel to any part of the city. The Grand Street subway station runs the B and D trains, the Bowery station runs the J, M, and Z, the F runs at Second Avenue and East Broadway. The Delancey Street – Essex Street stop runs the F, J, Z, and the M trains. There are also plenty of bus options, with the M9, M14A, M14D, M15, M15 SBS, M21, M22, M103, and the B39 all running through the LES.
The Views
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Were you lucky enough to score an apartment on the Lower East Side with a rooftop? If so, you’re most likely treated to some of the most amazing views in the city, filled with both the Williamsburg and Manhattan Bridges. Be sure to head out to the roof once the sun sets, as the nighttime views of the city are almost more impressive than the daytime skyline.
The Old is Becoming the New
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If you’re looking to move to the LES, you’ll most likely find yourself in a glitzy renovated apartment. The neighborhood is under a massive makeover, meaning that many of the old apartments are being treated to new features and luxurious upgrades. If this is what you’re looking for, be sure to check out Triplemint’s 101 Stanton Street, right in the heart of the Lower East Side.
If you’re considering moving to New York City, or even relocating in Manhattan, the Lower East Side is a great option for those looking for something quirky with that signature Manhattan charm. To start your search, be sure to check out 101 Stanton Street, listed by Triplemint’s own Josh Juneau.
