The West Village, NYC Travel Guide
August 22nd, 2024
We’re all about making bucket lists and finding the fun, and there’s no better place to do it than in a new, must-see location. Our latest destination? NYC’s West Village. A favorite neighborhood in a favorite city, the West Village offers the classic New York spirit with plenty of doses of downtown cool. Read on for our roundup of chic stays, delicious eats, local shops, and, of course, a curated packing list.
Grab a classic NY slice at Joe’s on Carmine Street.
Enjoy a cozy Italian dinner! Try one of the spots we recommend, but anywhere you walk in will be authentic and worth it.
Walk the West Side Highway, then reward yourself with a picnic or glass of wine overlooking the Hudson River.
Head over to Cornelia Street and spot Taylor Swift’s old apartment.
Visit Casa Magazines for some major fashion and lifestyle inspo.
The West Village, NYC Look
Anything goes, but lean on-trend, effortless, a bit undone, and always mix high and low.
Whether playing NYC-local in a rental brownstone or staying in a boutique hotel, choose from our selection of stays for your city escape.
The Marlton
This boutique hideaway describes itself as having “small rooms but big ideas and a bohemian, poetic history.” If you’re there in the winter, stop by the cozy fireplace for a late night drink.
Walker Street
This elegant, art-deco-style hotel is just steps from the subway and Washington Square Park, plus it has a retro-chic bar, a polished restaurant and lounge featuring a fireplace. fitness center.
AirBnB
For an authentic NYC experience!
From classic pizza and burgers to the best Italian spots, dining in the West Village is not to be missed.
Coffee and Breakfast
The Elk
The Elk will quickly become a go-to, not only for coffee, but also for fresh juices and breakfast sandwiches. Plus, everybody loves the matcha here.
Mah-ze-dahr
Treat yourself to any of their delectable baked goods, or grab a hostess gift anyone is sure to love.
Sogno Toscano
An all-day cafe to grab coffee or breakfast with a friend, or a leisurely glass of wine and snack in the afternoon.
Brunch and Lunch
Buvette
Part bar, part cafe, and part restaurant, this charming bistro is popular for any beverage or meal of the day.
Bonberi Mart
The place to stop for your daily health dose. Grab a juice in the morning, a delicious lunch bowl, or afternoon snacks.
La Bonbonniere
Your quintessential, hole-in-the-wall cash only diner for omelets, milkshakes, and other classic dishes.
Tartine
A cozy and unfussy setting, no reservations, and BYOB, Tartine is always bustling, serving classic French dishes. Come for brunch, lunch, or dinner!
Dinner: Italian Institutions
L’Artusi
Named for Pellegrino Artusi and his self-published cookbook The Science of Cookery and the Art of Eating Well, L'Artusi presents a modern take on traditional Italian cuisine, combining comfort and creativity. The restaurant has two floors of seating, an extended bar, cheese bar, a chef's counter overlooking the open kitchen, plus private dining in the 2500 bottle walk-in wine cellar.
B’Artusi
Run by the same team behind L’Artusi, this intimate restaurant serves cocktails and wine, and delicious small plates.
Via Carota
Inspired by a 17th-century Italian villa which one of the chefs formerly called home, Via Carota celebrates old-world Italian roots, lifestyle, and culinary traditions. Come for the classic feel, stay for the delicious menu, and spot the heirloom keepsakes collected over the years by the chefs, scattered throughout the interior.
Morandi
Serving seasonal and authentic Italian dishes, Morandi is cozy and comforting any time of year. It’s great for catching up with a girlfriend or a group dinner alike.
Rosemary's
Named after the founder’s mother, Rosemary’s is a neighborhood with a rooftop garden, string lights, and a welcoming vibe unlike any institution with a mission to bring quality seasonal cooking, everyday elegance, and welcoming hospitality.
I Sodi
Inspired by the small family farm where self-taught chef Rita Sodi grew up, I Sodi is celebrated for the understated elegance of its cooking. Run by Sodi and her wife Jody Williams, I Sodi is all about fresh, traditional ingredients and time-honored methods. Sodi won the 2019 James Beard Award for Best Chef, NYC, and she and her wife also own Via Carota, Buvette, and Bar Pisellino.
Malatesta
A classic and cozy old-school New York and Italian feel, come for the great service and stay for the daily specials and homemade pasta dishes. Cash only!
Don Angie
Couple Scott and Angie both came from strong food backgrounds and always dreamed of a small, special, neighborhood restaurant. Cue Don Angie, winner of many awards and a Michelin star, where they showcase their comforting takes on modern Italian-American cuisine. The lasagna is a signature!
Dinner: Elevated Bistros
Bobo
Located in a 1930s townhouse, Bobo’s homey atmosphere always makes you feel like you’re at the best dinner party. And if that’s not enough, the classic French dishes and amazing cocktails will keep you coming back.
Little Owl
This corner gem has both classics and daily specials, and is a great spot for everything from a business meeting to a special occasion or lively brunch. Fun fact: the spot where it’s located is where the real-life apartment Friends would be, so you may spot a line of people!
Cafe Cluny
A bright neighborhood bistro with a French-American menu that’s great for any meal of the day!
Waverly Inn
A West Village institution, this cozy and dim setting offers classic Americana and French fare. No photos allowed, but you may very well spot a celeb.
Dinner: Classic American
Minetta Tavern
The best burger!
Joseph Leonard
A casual neighborhood spot full of heart and soul. American food, a welcoming setting, it’s always a gathering spot for locals and visitors alike.
Jeffrey's Grocery
This homey American eatery always draws a crowd for its famous oyster bar, creative Caesar salads, and Bloody Marys.
NY Pizza
You have to get a slice while you’re here. Some favorites are L’Industrie, Mamas Too, Joe’s, John’s of Bleecker, and a sourdough pie from Roey’s.
Afternoon glass, nightcap, or final stop of the night…grab a drink at any of these spots in city that never sleeps.
Bar Pisellino
A classic Italian bar with all of the charm, step in for whatever you crave: a quick morning espresso while standing at the marble bar, cocktails before dinner, or a sweet treat to end your night.
Katana Kitten
This Japanese-American fusion bar that has a little bit of everything for everyone! And if you’re feeling a mocktail, ask for one of their premium highball options to be made without alcohol instead.
Parcelle Wine Bar
A new addition to the neighborhood that has quickly become a favorite, thanks to its substantial wine list with an option for everyone.
Angel's Share
This walk-in only, low-lit bar is worth any wait. While there is limited group availability, this is a great nightcap date spot.
Little Branch
A dim-light speakeasy that’s an amazing date night or nightcap spot. You truly would walk right by it if you weren’t seeking it out—there is nothing about the entrance that stands out!
The Happiest Hour
Always a lively spot, hang by the big center bar, grab a small table off to the side, or head down to their jazzy downstairs, date night spot. You’ll love the fun, tropical-inspired vibe.
Chelsea Living Room
A homey yet luxe vibe, Chelsea Living Room is great for cocktails and dinner alike. A little bit American and a little bit French, it’s a go-to for an upscale bistro meal or a chic lounge cocktail.
Marie's Crisis Cafe
This basement dive piano bar is a free-for-all choir hall drawing Broadway fanatics and ex-cast members to belt out show tunes. Come for the cheap, no-fuss drinks, stay for your favorite songs and plenty of fun. There’s a $10-20 cash cover!
Fashion finds, home decor, and paper goods…get lost in the charm of these downtown boutiques.
Bleecker Street
If you had to pick one street to spend a day shopping, we say Bleecker.
Cursive Home
The spot to go to for memorable gifts (or something for yourself)! Filled with hand-selected items like stationery, candles, jewelry, vases, home goods, greeting cards, picture frames, glassware, and more, you’re bound to find a one-of-a-kind piece here.
Greenwich Letter Press
Founded by two third-generation printing sisters, Greenwich Letterpress brings wit and pop culture to The West Village. The vintage-inspired interior is warm and nostalgic, with shelves lined with greeting cards, custom stationary, wedding invitations, luxe notebooks, wrapping paper, and more.
John Derian West
Decidedly not for minimalists. This outpost of designer John Derian’s empire is jammed full of pieces that evoke a well-traveled, bohemian life. Think French handmade ceramics, Austrian blown-glass holiday ornaments, Venetian mirrors, melamine tableware, and so much more.
Three Lives and Company
A classic and cozy neighborhood bookstore selling a well-curated selection of hardcovers & paperbacks since 1968.
Pink Olive
Founder Grace’s mission is to make gift-giving fun, easy, and attainable. She and her team of buyers always seek out the best of the best, selling a playful mix of baby gifts, cards, handmade jewelry, original artwork, books, and vintage finds.
