A mini guide to the ultimate shopping and dining district of New York.
SoHo, NYC is known for its shopping and the movie Ghost and the TV show Sex and the City (both were filmed there.) But Soho is full of days of fun at the Color Factory and nights at the Cigar Bar, plus juicy burgers from Black Tap. Check out this mini guide to one of the busiest districts in the Big Apple.
SEE
Film Forum – Foreign & independent films
209 W Houston St, New York, NY 10014
If you are looking to catch a movie while visiting SoHo, it is a must to visit the Film Forum. This is a non-profit organization that showcases foreign and independent films. There are no big blockbuster movies shown, but a dated theater – with a lot of character – where you can experience films in a different way. For more information on what movies are playing and how to purchase tickets, click here.
Leslie-Lohman Museum of Art – LGBTQ art exhibits
26 Wooster St, New York, NY 10013
Formerly known as the Leslie-Lohman Museum of Gay and Lesbian Art, this is home to creative art within the LGBTQ community. It’s the only museum in the area specifically dedicated to the LGBTQ community while speaking out regarding experiences through art exhibits. This museum hosts different events and educational opportunities. It is a must-visit when in Soho especially if you are an art fanatic.
Louis K. Meisel Gallery – photorealism & sculpture art
141 Prince St, New York, NY 10012
Have you ever wondered where Charlotte from Sex and the City worked at? Well here it is! The Louis K. Meisel Gallery is famously known by the iconic show but it also holds one of the best photorealistic paintings and sculptures in the city. Louis K. Meisel herself, is an author, art dealer who started the photorealistic art movement. If you come just because the show was filmed here, you will end up staying for the magnificent artworks.
The Color Factory – a ball pit & treats
251 Spring St, New York, NY 10013
Are you ready for yummy treats, fun activities, and a ball pit? Then check out the Color Factory! Whether you are going on a date, taking your kids out for a fun day, or simply hanging out with the girls, the Color Factory is for everyone! There are many hand-on activities and small treats in each room, just make sure to reserve before arrival because tickets can only be booked online.
EAT
Shuka – best grilled shrimp kebabs
38 Macdougal St, New York, NY 10012
One of the best and the most affordable places to dine in Soho, Shuka is an Eastern Mediterranean-style restaurant featuring gorgeous French windows that make the room feel so much bigger. I highly recommend trying the cauliflower and the grilled shrimp kebab, you will not be disappointed. This is not a quiet place and it is definitely a scene with cool crowds during dinner time.
West~bourne – vegetarian shareables
137 Sullivan St, New York, NY 10012
For all my vegetarian peeps out there, this is absolutely the best place to for a meal in the area. West~bourne carries a LA-style vibe shipped to lovely SoHo. Great food and fantastic service, what more could you ask for? The dishes are meant to be shared, so order a few things and dig in. All the ingredients are organic and locally produced.
Black Tap – extreme milkshakes & burgers
529 Broome St, New York, NY 10013
Burgers and shakes but in a BIG way! The SoHo Black Tap is the original restaurant before this chain branched out therefore this is the iconic location to visit. Black Tap is known for its outrageous milkshakes that are bigger than most people’s faces. If you want a classic shake or one with a slice of cake on it, Black Tap has it all for you. In addition, the menu offers vegan and vegetarian options. Known for its out of this world burgers, Black Tap also spotlights turkey burgers, black bean burgers, and chicken options with vegan rolls and gluten-free buns. Black Tap will change your mind about burgers and shakes in an extreme way!
Flour Shop – candy falling out of cakes
117 Lafayette St, New York, NY 10013
Did you ever wonder where you could get a rainbow cake – cut into it, the candy falls out like most celebrity kids have on their birthdays? Well, look no further because the Flour Shop in SoHo has exactly what you want plus more! This creative bakery has the unique kind of sweets that will actually blow your taste buds off. Definitely stop in and take a picture by the famous rainbow wall.
DRINK
SoHo Cigar Bar – one of oldest cigar bars in NY
32 Watts St, New York, NY 10013
Formerly known as Cirac Tabac, here is one of the oldest cigar bars in NYC. It’s a 1920’s-themed bar where you can smoke inside and not be kicked out. Whether you are indulging in cigars, pipes, or cigarettes, this is the place for vintage lovers. The menu has a wide variety of drinks, with tasty pairings of cigars and cocktails. If you did not bring your own cigars, SoHo Cigar Bar sells a wide variety on site. Even if you don’t smoke but can tolerate the smell, stop in for the 1920’s speakeasy vibe and enjoy a scotch on the rocks.
Baby Grand – smallest karaoke bar
161 Lafayette St, New York, NY 10013
If you love Karaoke, this is the place to go! Baby Grand is the smallest karaoke bar in the neighborhood. In order to avoid large crowds, opt for Mondays through Wednesdays since Baby Grand does not take reservations. There aren’t any any private rooms, so if you are planning on going on the weekend, you should come early. Kids are not permitted during regular business hours but Baby Grand does offer private parties for kids if you’re interested!
BeerZaar – local beers, wines, & ciders
213 6th Ave, New York, NY 10014
Love Beer, cider, and wine? BeerZaar offers local and international brews that you will adore. Although there are small bites you can order, it is definitely all about the drinks here. Enjoy some cold pints on tap (especially local brands) and converse with new friends at the bar.
The Ship – boat themed classy bar
158 Lafayette St, New York, NY 10013
This is boat-themed, classy bar where the menu has corresponding ship names. The Ship is a perfect place to stop by and grab a drink before dinner. Since this place is in a basement, it is usually overlooked. Hence, we’d consider this a true hidden gem. The basement bar has high ceilings and fantastic cocktails.
STAY
Arlo SoHo – BLLA Lifestyle Hotel of the year 2019!
231 Hudson St, New York NY, 10013
In 2019 Arlo SoHo received BLLA Lifestyle Hotel off the Year. There are 325 rooms that offer comfort yet beautiful spaces for all kinds of travelers. Some rooms have a terrace with outside showers and others feature wall windows overlooking New York’s amazing views. Arlo also highlights an amazing rooftop: A.R.T SoHo, where awesome cocktails and small bites are served. This lounge has an indoor and outdoor section with epic views of the Freedom Tower skyline and the Hudson River.
The Broome – upscale boutique hotel
431 Broome St, New York, NY 10013
A 14-bedroom, upscale boutique hotel in the heart of SoHo, The Broome encompasses a stunning open-air courtyard, especially when you look up and capture the panoramic view of the entire hotel. Upon arrival, you will receive complimentary chocolates while sink into the privacy and quietness inside the hotel. The Broome is within a ten-minute walk to any cool shops, bars, and restaurants!