21 Favorite East Village Spots - Restaurants, Bars & Things to Do

The East Village in New York City is a bustling, lively neighborhood full of top-notch restaurants, fun activities, and plenty of bars worth checking out.

East Village Location

The East Village runs from Houston to 14th St and then 4th Ave on the west end to the East River.

Within the East Village, there are sections including Alphabet City, Little Ukraine, and the Bowery.

It has often been a center of counterculture in New York and is seen as the birthplace of punk rock in the city.

Places to Eat in the East Village

1. Giano - Our favorite Italian restaurant in the city.
2. Veselka - Popular Ukranian spot with a focus on breakfast and brunch.
3. Kafana - Traditional Serbian food in a cozy setup.
4. Prince Tea House - Lots of tea options, desserts, and more.
5. Ray’s Candy Store - Long-standing dessert shop with soft serve, deep-fried Oreos, and more.
6. 7th Street Burger - Fairly priced smash burgers and fries.
7. Two Boots Pizza - Unique flavor options in a funky spot.
8. Lavagna - Tuscan flavors in a compact restaurant, amazing pasta.
9. Joe’s Pizza - Quality New York pizza available by the slice or pie.
10. Mama Fina’s - Authentic, fairly-priced Filipino food.
11. San Marzano - Low-priced Italian spot with a bustling crowd.

Bars & Places to Drink in the East Village

1. Amor y Amargo - Craft cocktails focused on Amaros and bitters.
2. Burp Castle - Quiet bar (you will get shushed) with imported beers.
3. Please Don't Tell - High-quality cocktails in a speakeasy accessed through a phone booth.
4. The Bronx Brewery - Unfortunately, it's now permanently closed since we recorded this episode.
5. The Wayland - Unique cocktails with tasty bites.
6. McSorley's Old Ale House - One of the oldest bars in NYC with only two options (dark or light ale).
7. Barcade - Loads of arcade games and an extensive draft list.

Fun Things to Do in the East Village

1. Astor Center & Astor Wine & Spirits (This Episode's You'll Have to Check It Out Segment) - Top-notch wine and liquor store with an accompanying educational center focused on wine and liquor history and education.
2. Atelier Sucre - Small kitchen offering cooking and baking classes.
3. AuH2O - One of the best thrift stores we've been to in Manhattan.

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