An On Point Mini Guide To East Village

The BEST ramen in town.

East Village is home to the Ukrainian-American population, it also happens to have the best ramen restaurant in the city as well as awesome speakeasies. Follow this mini guide if you are interested in hanging out in East Village for 24 hours. Like most Manhattan neighborhoods, this one has more to offer than you think.

Museum of the American Gangster – learn about American crime in a former speakeasy

This museum is located in a former speakeasy, making it an ideal place for tons of fascinating historical facts you will learn. NYC is known for its underground crime during prohibition but also the many gangsters involved. This educational tour will really give you insights regarding an era which has affected New Yorkers’ lives and neighborhoods. Tip: book a tour prior to arrival.

The Ukrainian Museum – Ukrainian culture, art, and people

Want to know more about Ukrainian culture? This is definitely the place to go. With East Village known for its Ukrainian community, it is important to understand the culture by more than just indulging in the cuisine. This informative museum is a deep dive into Ukrainian art and people. 

Veselka – best potato latkes & vegetarian options

East Village holds a special space in many Ukrainian people’s hearts, especially Veselka! If you love potato latkes, perogies, hearty goulash and other traditional Ukrainian foods, then Veselka is undeniable. It also offers vegetarian dishes. While Veselka exudes a diner ambiance, the standard is premium. What’s better than high quality food at 3 a.m.? Tip: it’s open 24 hours / 7 days in a week!

Ippudo NY – best Ramen in town

Hands down, the best Ramen place in the area! Ippudo also offers vegetarian and vegan options. This is an extremely  popular ramen-ya, so you must make a reservation or you’ll be waiting for hours for a table. Ippudo was designed to seat 10 people at a table and that still stands today, maintaining a community-like atmosphere. Get ready to share the table with other folks while slurping down the best noodle soup in town.  

The Cabin NYC – the restaurant with a tree inside 

Have you ever seen a tree inside of a restaurant? Head over to The Cabin! This is a small place with very limited seating. The vibes is cozy while you can enjoy some classic American dishes with a fancy twist: Truffle fries, Mac n Cheese brûlée, bison meatballs…just to name a few. Tip: this place decorates for every season and the brunch menu is on a vinyl record!

Please Don’t Tell – low-key upscale bar

If you want to go to one of the best speakeasies that New Yorkers love, head to PDT – Please Don’t Tell. This small, low-key escape is a wonderful upscale bar for drinks with friends or a casual date but the entrance of the speakeasy will trick you. Don’t be alarmed when you find yourself in front of a hot dog place, once inside, find the red telephone and there will a sign by it to give directions on how to enter. Since this is a popular place, space is limited and PDT does not allow the space to be packed. Tip: get there early!

Blind Barber – Barber Shop by day, bar at night

This is no ordinary barber shop, it transforms into a bar that comes to life after hours. This hipster bar is all about community and having that drink while conversing after a long day of work. Definitely a hidden gem in the East Village.

Webster Hall – live music & night club

Known as one of the largest entertainment venues for live music and nightclub. If you want to catch a concert, Webster Hall is not only the place to go but it has also become Manhattan’s landmark featuring: Jay-Z, Good Charlotte, Metallica, Wiz Khalifa…and many more. There is nothing like a concert if you have not experienced it here.

The Standard-East Village – exceeds standards

The Standard-East Village will exceed your standards as it allows guests to choose their own check-in and check-out times while providing phenomenal services. It has a nightclub, a restaurant and offers a spectacular view. Did I mention the hotel also has a garden in the winter? One of the most charming yet cozy places to stay!  

L Train Vintage – score big at the thrift store

Looking to thrift shop while in the area? L Train offers clothing at a good rate from decades ago. Whether you’re looking for a denim jacket, fur coats or Jordan sneakers, L Train will surprise you. Look hard enough, sometimes you can even score vintage Gucci purses! Definitely a must-shop, even if you are just browsing.

East Village Hats – premium hatworks and millinery

Don’t you wish we all wear more stylish hats like back in the days of Mad Men? East Village Hats was created by Julia Emily Knox, an English Milliner who now handcrafts beautiful and high-quality accessories through traditional methods as well as modern designs. East Village Hats also offers workshops and an e-shop if you can’t make it to New York yourself. This is one of the local gems that we love to support!