welcome to our new neighborhood.

 

We’re thrilled to be a new denizen in this charming pocket of Manhattan. Nolita might be a popular part of town, but it has managed to maintain its quaint friendly neighborhood aura. In the spirit of that support, we wanted to share our favorite local spots with you.

eats.

Emilio’s Ballato 55 East Houston Street
Despite being right on Houston Street, Emilio’s feels like an off-the-beaten-path gem. It’s part “Godfather II”, part “Big Night” and...well, mostly “Big Night” because the food is that good. The best part is that, unlike Rao’s or the nearby Carmine’s, getting a table is not impossible. We probably don’t even need to say it, but go for the Pasta Bolognese.

The Musket Room 265 Elizabeth Street
When the relatives come to town, we go here. We love its sophisticated decor—lime-washed brick walls, mid-century modern dining chairs— and the open garden room in the back.

Nom Wah Nolita 10 Kenmare Street
The “son of” the original on Doyers Street, we enjoy this new outpost not only because it’s closer to our new store, but we really like its modern and industrial vibe. The scallion pancakes are a must, but their rice bowls and kolrabi salad are also must-tries.

Uncle Boon’s 7 Spring Street
You’ve probably walked past this subterranean joint a million times without notice, but we encourage venturing in. Cozily lit and decorated with early twentieth century Taiwanese memorabilia, the menu is quite superb. We recommend the green mango salad and the roasted chicken, which gets its magic from a coconut cream and kaffir lime brining.

Two Hands Coffee 164 Mott Street
Bring your laptop, grab an Acai bowl and a latte (Matthew’s preferred choice) and try to nab a seat against the white brick wall for good people watching.

for the chefs.

DiPalo’s 200 Grand Street
A sign upon entry that reads “Take a number!” portends to the crowds that this place can attract in late afternoons, so go early. Andrew comes here for the prosciutto di Parma, sliced extra thin.

Chef Restaurant Supply 294 Bowery
Despite its name, this place is an amateur chef’s paradise, although a favorite among all great chefs. We love how authentic and old school it is. They only take cash, but they will haggle.

vetements.

Rag & Bone 73 E Houston Street
Its corner front door belies the sprawling room upon room of chic pieces and cool shoes the brand is known for. The ever-changing artwork on their outside wall is an added bonus.

Fjallraven 262 Mott Street
This little slice of Scandinavia is heaven for the outdoorsy chic who happen to still have a bit of a kid in them. You go for the backpacks (for your kid), but leave with a Traveler’s jacket (for, eh, the kids to grow into someday.)

Marche Maman 237 Centre Street
Maman, that casual chic cafe across from the Police Building on Centre Street, has just opened this, well, indoor market bazaar featuring an impressive handful of French--or French-themed brands, including kids clothing brand Merci Bisous, Jamini, Flower Girl and MilkMade ice cream. It's the perfect spot to pick up a hostess gift (if you've already given said hostess our candles and gift sets).

culture.

International Center of Photography 250 Bowery
We could spend hours in this place, wandering through the various exhibitions, but we also like settling in and poring over the vast collection of books in their impressive library.

The New Museum 235 Bowery
Hop across the street and check out this vast structure. The Raymond Pettibon exhibit is there through early August, and definitely dedicate a half hour to explore the landscape from the Sky Room.

The Wall of Saint Patrick’s Church Prince and Mulberry Street
Whether it’s crowded with weekend flea market kiosks or bare and barren on a freezing Winter evening, this is one wall we are grateful for.