Your Exclusive Guide to Morningside Heights
From views to brews, and everything in between
Morningside Heights, located on the Upper West Side of Manhattan, is filled with an array of educational institutes like Columbia and Manhattan School of Music. Because of this, it is considered both an extremely settled and a highly transient neighborhood. To appeal to new and long term residents alike, Morningside Heights is bursting at the seams with restaurants, shops, bars, parks, and historical sites. Although it may be known for its younger crowd, the area is also known for its beautiful architecture, and for being quieter and calmer than most parts of Manhattan.
Where to brunch:
Community Food & Juice is an “American-eclectic” restaurant with a focus on seasonal local, organic foods. This cafe and restaurant has made a name for itself in the area, both for its food and it’s open, airy ambiance. Stop by to try their take on all of your American favorites, or to enjoy an array of their vegetarian, organic, or gluten free options!
Where to get your caffeine fix:
Double Dutch Espresso is the definition of small but mighty. From the outside looking in, this coffee shop may look little, but it packs a punch. With seasonal outdoor seating in the back, and strong, well made drinks in the front, this coffee shop is the place to go.
Where to grab a drink:
Take a trip underground, to Arts and Crafts Beer Parlor. With 24 beers on tap, and monthly lectures and and tastings, this is more than just your average bar. In fact, the establishment boasts that their concept is “a revolt against the standard New York City Sports Bar.” Arts and Crafts Beer Parlor is the place to grab drinks and enjoy the company of good friends. The best part? As one of our partners, Roomrs members receive a discount here with their ID card!
Where to be productive OR decompress (depending on your mood):
Whether you’re looking to set up shop for a day filled with work, or relax and decompress with the help of some good food and drinks, look no further than Silvana. In many ways, this bar and restaurant does it all. The main floor of the establishment is designed like a coffee shop-restaurant hybrid, with a calm and comfortable ambiance meant for both diners and focused-workers alike. The downstairs transforms the establishment into a bar and intimate venue, with live musical acts performing multiple days a week!
Where to see history:
Take a walk through the Cathedral of St. John the Divine, which is actually the largest cathedral in the world. Enjoy the Gothic architecture, stained glass windows, and stunning gardens. If you look close enough, you may even see some peacocks wandering around during your visit!
Where to get fit:
By this point it is no surprise that we are pretty loyal fans of our partner, Blink Fitness. But with monthly fees that won't break the bank, and locations throughout the city, why wouldn’t we be? If you’re looking for an easy, convenient, reliable gym, look no further than Blink. Their closest location to Morningside Height? Just north on 125th street!
Prefer workout classes and hoping for something nearby?:
Check out our other fitness partner, Classpass. Just in the radius of Morningside Heights alone, there are multiple affiliated ClassPass gyms, like The Center Studio located on W 118th St. With your Roomrs discount, you have the flexibility to take speciality classes at studios nearby, or check out some of their other studios all over the city!
Where to get your groceries:
On Thursdays and Sundays all year round, you can stop by the Columbia Greenmarket for fresh foods from farmers and local vendors. Located between W 114th and W 116th Street, this market offers everything from fresh vegetables, to baked goods and meats.
Where to experience a TV landmark:
Whether or not you are a Seinfeld fan, you may recognize the bright blue and orange neon sign outside of Tom’s Restaurant. This family owned restaurant that has been around since the 1940s is serving up traditional diner foods to fans and locals alike.
Where to have an impromptu date night:
With prime location right near the Cathedral of St. John the Divine, Marlow Bistro is a go-to date night spot for both it’s ambiance and it’s food. The modern Mediterranean restaurant is chic, casual, creative, and clean. Stop in for their homemade pastas, or their array of entrees, all of which include locally sourced ingredients whenever possible.
Where to dine with a view:
Whether you stop in just for a drink, a quick bite, or a full meal, Ellington in the Park will serve you that and great views included for free! Located in Riverside Park, this restaurant is open from April to October with tons of outdoor seating that looks out on to the Hudson River. Oh and did we mention it’s pet friendly?
And that’s just the start! There is so much more to see and do in Morningside Heights. Tag us in your go-to neighborhood spots on Instagram at @roomrs.living.
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