Your Exclusive Guide to East Harlem!
How to taste and witness all of the history and charm…
Lying just above the Upper East Side, this neighborhood is best known for its deep cultural roots and Spanish flair. Filled with murals, authentic food, and many neighbors who have been in the area for generations, East Harlem is overflowing with heart and soul. It’s also known for being extremely accessible and close to beautiful Central Park! As many say, this is a neighborhood on the rise that’s worth experiencing.
Originally an Italian neighborhood in the 1800s, East Harlem is now filled with culture from a variety of backgrounds. You can find art and food of almost any style here, although Cuban, Mexican, Spanish, Italian, and Caribbean influences are among the most notable.
Where to get a taste of the neighborhood:
La Marqueta, a vibrant open-air marketplace that has been around since 1936, is the place to go. Located between 111th and 116th St. under the Metro North railway tracks, this market features an array of food vendors, shops, cultural events & live music. The New York Times even called La Marqueta “the most visible symbol of the neighborhood”.
Where to visit in La Marqueta:
Hot Bread Kitchen, located within La Marqueta, is a nonprofit organization serving up breakfast, lunch, and an array of breads daily. The company actively works to create economic opportunity with their workforce development program, and culinary incubator programs. By purchasing their breads, you’re directly supporting their mission!
Where to de-stress:
The Lexington Social, an intimate wine bar with Mediterranean style tapas, is the perfect place to grab a drink and a bite after work or on the weekend with friends. The bar offers an extensive wine list, along with beers on tap, signature cocktails, and a variety of sangria. We suggest giving the food a try too, like their bacon wrapped dates or prosciutto and ricotta flatbread.
Where to shop for all the necessities:
Originally opened in 2009, East River Plaza is an unusual site to see in such a crowded city…and that’s because it’s the first of its kind. Considered Manhattan’s most convenient retail shopping destination, this power center is currently home to 12 stores and services like Target, Aldi, Costo, Burlington Coat Factory, Marshalls, Old Navy, Petsmart, and more. This is your one stop destination for everything you need, from groceries and household items, to clothes and DIY supplies.
Where to disconnect:
For some beautiful scenery, head to the 6-acre Conservatory Garden, recognized as the only formal garden in Central Park. Completely free to visit, this garden is also divided into three smaller gardens, each with a distinct style: Italian, French, and English. It is also located right near Museum Mile, so you can spend a day experiencing the art, and follow it up by relaxing in the park!
Where to (not) spend money:
For over 30 years now, the Graffiti Hall of Fame has been a place for street artists to hone and display their craft. Although originally created as a place for amateurs to practice their skills, this Harlem schoolyard has grown to become an area dedicated specifically to the works of “Kings or better”. The internationally known park is open to the public when school is not in session, and its murals are constantly changing, so it is worth visiting time and time again.
Where to experience art and culture:
El Museo del Barrio (or El Museo), located on the north end of the Museum Mile, specializes in Latin American and Carribean art. Created in 1969, the museum’s original mission was to address the cultural marginalization experienced by Puerto Ricans in New York City. Over time, El Museo has expanded its mission to serve all Latin American communities and it has become one of the leading culturally specific institutions in the United States. This year the museum will be celebrating its 50th anniversary!
Where to have dinner (at least once):
Patsy’s Pizzeria, known for being one of New York City’s original pizzerias, is a must-visit location for locals and tourists alike. Since 1933 they’ve been serving up traditional coal-oven, thin crust pizzas and a variety of pastas to thousands every day. Did you know big name stars like Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Tony Bennett, Joe Dimaggio, and Yogi Berra were said to be Patsy’s regulars?
Where to grab a quick bite:
Taco Mix has made a name for itself in the neighborhood as one of the best authentic taco restaurants around. In an area with such a strong hispanic influence, it’s not easy to stand out, but the no-frills, counter-serve restaurant has definetely found a way. When you stop by, we suggest trying the al pastor tacos. They’re what the restaurant is best known for!
Where to try something new:
Earl’s Beer and Cheese, an award-winning restaurant in southern East Harlem, is serving up a cheese-focused menu that definetely worth a try! Although it may look small on the inside, this bar and restaurant packs a punch. To compliment the cheese-centric menu, they also offer a rotation of locally produced, American craft beers. And the best part of it all? The food and drinks both come at a price that wont break the bank!
Where to get fit:
Located right East 116th St. off 5th Avenue, Blink Fitness offers a convenient and clean gym experience with all the equipment you could ask for, at a price you can afford. Although technically right outside of the East Harlem neighborhood, this gym is worth the trip, simply because of all it has to offer. Plus, Roomrs members receive a discounted rate on all Blink Fitness membership options!
Where to be productive:
Dear Mama Coffee, a chic coffee shop by day, and low-key bar by night, is the perfect spot to post up for the day to get some serious work done. With plenty of table space, and a full breakfast and lunch menu, it’s a convenient go-to option complete with everything you need for a productive day. Also, as one of Roomrs’ exclusive partners, Dear Mama offers a discount to all Roomrs members!
And that’s just the beginning! There is so much more to see and do in East Harlem. Tag us in your go-to neighborhood spots on Instagram at @roomrs.living.
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