Greenwich Village, or often referred to as “The Village” by New Yorkers, is known for its LGBTQ history, Belgium fries, comedy shows, plus chocolate and cheese.
Geographically, Greenwich also contains micro-neighborhoods, including: the Meatpacking District and West Village. Similar to Soho, everywhere is within walking distance in Greenwich. The name came from the Dutch word Groenwijck, meaning “Green District.” During the 20th century, Greenwich Village grew famous for its bohemian vibes – an artistic central and home to the LGBTQ movement and 60’s counterculture movements. Discover what Greenwich has to offer in this mini guide.
SEE
IFC Center – Vintage theater
323 6th Ave, New York, NY 10014
IFC Center is more than just a movie theater, it’s also home to independent, foreign, and documentary films. This vintage theater has different showings every week that accommodate various types of genres: short films, LGBTQ, independent…etc. At 11 a.m. on the weekends, they show classic films, while Fridays and Saturdays at midnight, IFC features cult movies. Just to get a taste, there are show trailers to check out on its website. So, check them out in advance and decide what shows you’ll enjoy and who to bring along to the IFC Center. Speaking of watching online trailers, you may need a good internet service for that. For those living in New York, check out Windstream internet near you and subscribe to their superfast service.
Comedy Cellar – Underground comedy club
117 MacDougal St #1267, New York, NY 10012
Comedy Cellar is the best comedy club in NYC giving the stage to outstanding comedians, some even come from other parts of the world. This underground club is full of laughter and drinks. If you want a guaranteed table, reserve online beforehand. If not, expect to wait in a long line. On the other hand, if you’re in, you may potentially be used as a bait for the show. Many comedians drop in unannounced and blow you away with an awesome set. Tip: no phones are to be used while inside.
Washington Square Park – The iconic arch
Between MacDougal St. and University Pl, New York, NY 10012
You know you’re in Greenwich Village when you see the large monument: Washington Square Park. The arch was built to celebrate the centennial of George Washington’s inauguration as the first President of the United States in 1789. This public park is the iconic landmark often featured in movies and television shows but it’s also the courtyard of New York University (NYU). Many community events including: Village Halloween Parade, are hosted here. Not only is this a local hangout spot but such a breathtaking arch to gaze at.
EAT
Pommes Frites – Craving fries?
128 MacDougal St, New York, NY 10012
Craving fries? Look no further! Pommes Frites not only offers the best fries but pair them with your absolute favorite specialty dipping sauce. The fries are gluten-free, so are plenty of specialty sauces, you just have to ask. This is a small eatery therefore it’s better to grab and go. You most definitely will not be disappointed by Pommes Frites’ Belgium-style fries. Fun fact: you can sample all the different sauces for free!
Dante NYC – Keeping the Italian culture
79-81 MacDougal St, New York, NY 10012
Dante, opened in 1915, is home of the Italian community. From there on, this place still maintains excellent Italian dishes but with far more celebrities passing through its famous door. Although the original restauranteurs do not own Dante anymore, the new owners have added a modern look in addition to the restaurant’s original authentic Italian atmosphere. Dante’s has evolved over the years, it keeps getting better and better. If you aren’t stopping by for dinner, just grab a drink at the bar, you will not regret it.
Delice & Sarrasin – French & Vegan
20 Christopher St, New York, NY 10014
A vegan French restaurant, how can it get better than that? This family-owned place has so many options that it’s hard to be disappointed. There’s also vegan wine and it tastes good! The prices are on the expensive side but Delice & Serrasin is a vegan, plant-based restaurant with an intended mission and purpose. Like most restaurants in NYC, the interior is on the small side but be sure to try a crêpe here.
DRINK
The Stonewall Inn – Historical LGBTQ landmark
53 Christopher St, New York, NY 10014
The Stonewall Inn is known as “Where Pride Began”. This LGBTQ bar has been around since 1969, it also helped push the Gay Rights Movement forward. Not only is The Stonewall a National Historical Landmark, but it’s also one of the best bars in town. If you want to learn about NYC’s LGBTQ history while enjoying a drink, then attend an event. Fun Fact: if you are into drag, this is the best place to catch a show!
Le Poisson Rouge (LPR) – Live music
158 Bleecker St, New York, NY 10012
LPR stands for Le Poisson Rouge. Founders Justin Kantor and David Handler are both graduates of Manhattan School of Music, and wanted to create a venue that would combine all forms of pop and art culture in music, film, theater, dance, and fine art. LPR’s events span from contemporary classical music concerts to a hoppin’ club headlined by an international DJ. Whether you want to attend a rock concert or attend a party, there are many events that go on here, all you have to do is check on their website. Fun fact: Lady Gaga has performed here!
Smalls – Live jazz club
183 W 10th St, New York, NY, 10014
Smalls is the best place to watch live Jazz music in Greenwich. More than bringing jazz to life, Smalls oozes Jazz culture, which is an important part of NYC’s history due to the Jazz era in Harlem. Bringing this club to life is such a fulfillment to many New Yorkers. If in town, definitely catch a jazz show here, you’d love it.
STAY
The Marlton Hotel – Old-fashioned charm
5 W 8th St, New York, NY 10011
Located in the heart of Greenwich, the Marlton Hotel is the best place for a mini staycation. The Marlton is a three-minute walk to Washington Square Park and steps away from all the fun. Like most hotels in NYC, the rooms are more compact but the hotel offers an old-fashioned charm. There is a complimentary breakfast, and it is actually good! Definitely one of the nicest, yet historically-infused hotels in the city.
Walker Hotel – Eco-friendly boutique hotel
52 W 13th St, New York, NY 10011
The top eco-friendly hotel in Greenwich is the Walker Hotel. This boutique hotel has a Silver Leaf by GreenLeaders and guests can hear five languages spoken at the
Walker, making it internationally welcoming. In addition to hotel’s own bar and restaurant, the Walker is also in close range to many attractions, bars, and restaurants.
SHOP
Li-Lac Chocolates – Anything made out of chocolate
162 Bleecker St, New York, NY 10012
Li-Lac Chocolates is Manhattan’s oldest chocolaterie and has five locations throughout the city, including Brooklyn. Every piece is make from old-world chocolates, in small batches using ancient techniques and recipes with the finest ingredients. This store can make absolutely anything out of chocolate which makes eating it a lot more fun. If you are looking for a specialty piece, Li-Lac can make your chocolate dream come true, making it a fabulous souvenir to bring back home.
Murray’s Cheese – Cheese hub
254 Bleecker St, New York, NY 10014
Welcome to the cheese hub of Greenwich. Cheese boards, cheesecakes, cheese pies, oh my! Every kind of cheese you love or any cheese you’ve never tried all in one place! Founded in 1940 originally as an egg and dairy wholesaler, Murray’s spotlights artisanal cheese. But if you are not a cheese lover, do not worry, Murray’s also sells jams, spreads, hot sauces, meats, and more. Check out all they have to offer in Greenwich Village. In 2012, the specialty food retailer also expanded into a restaurant named: Murray’s Cheese Bar.