Travel Guide: West Village
Because I get overstimulated whenever I leave the neighborhood
If you know me, you know I have a love-hate relationship with NYC. My twin brother lives there. My mom lived in the city for 11 years during her 20s while working in the fashion industry. And when my dad arrived from Cuba, he settled just across the river in West New York. Needless to say, I am no stranger to the city and its many sights, sounds, and smells.
Something about New York overstimulates me—maybe it’s the 8 million people—but whatever it is, it has led me to love one neighborhood and one neighborhood only: the West Village. Now, I know what you’re thinking (cue slight mockery): Of course you do. And I’ll let you have that. Growing up it was the Upper West Side, where I spent many holidays visiting close family friends. But ever since my brother moved to the West Village, I found my home away from home, and haven’t strayed since.
There’s something about the Village that makes me feel safe, cozy, and held. Truthfully, I could go to the city, not leave the neighborhood, and be perfectly happy. After you follow my guide, you’ll know why.
Cafés
Café Kitsuné - A simplistic yet ever-so-chic Paris-meets-Tokyo coffee shop.
Casa Next Door - Enjoy a coffee or matcha while devouring coffee table books.
Do Not Feed The Alligators - The best coffee in the neighborhood.
Panino Mucho Giusto - Sip an espresso and people-watch.
Brunch
Café Clooney - Elevated dining with a neighborhood atmosphere.
Cowgirl - A great spot to gossip over fried chicken where no one will find you.
To Do
Casa Magazines - A West Village namesake famous for its insane collection of glossy magazines.
Casa Next Door - The group opened a coffee table book shop next door that you can’t miss.
Shop Bleecker St - Anything and everything you need for the perfect stroll.
Dinner
Commerce Inn - My new absolute favorite spot; it feels like I’m upstate at a cozy tavern.
St Tropez - A glass of red wine and beef tartare will do the trick.
Don Angie - Slide into a leather booth and sip from shiny glasses.
Via Carota - Because every guide needs mouthwatering Italian.
Drinks
Do Not Disturb - An underground lounge you can’t miss.
The Other Room - The perfect nightcap; sit at the bar with the best bartenders.
Xoxo,
Alessandra
