Greenwich Village
It was at one time a rural colony, not considered part of New York City. Today, this area located on the west of lower Manhattan is recognised as the city’s Bohemian neighbourhood. It has played a huge role in initiating and modernising New York’s LGBT movement, and has been home to famous personalities like Paul Simon, Bob Dylan and Joan Baez. The ’60s counterculture movement also originated from here.
If you’re visiting in the evening, stroll through Greenwich Village’s Washington Square Park where musicians and street performers entertain you. The iconic Washington Arch is the preferred spot of locals and college students for picnicking. The nearby New York University and the culturally rich art galleries such as Grey Art Gallery have contributed to the antiquity that this place exudes, juxtaposed with pop culture. One of the highlights from my visit here was the food tour organised by Food of New York Tours (foodsofny.com). This three-hour Italian themed tour costs US$54/`3,500 and includes six on-the-go and two-seating tastings, so make sure you begin the tour with an empty stomach. Our stops covered some of the most sought after eateries including Joe’s Pizza, Faicco’s Italian Specialities, The Doughnut Project and Rocco’s Pasticceria. If you’re in this area and are not up for an indulgent food tour, grab a slice of the traditional New York pizza or the pesca pasta from any of the neighbourhood eateries to get a feel of New York City. ■