Every now and then, while cruising around the city, I stumble upon a block that is total unchartered FIRE. For whatever reason, a group of the city's coolest, under-the-radar spots tend to pop up up next to each other. So I say “Look daddy, just hook it up” because The Block Is Hot.
COMING SOON NEW YORK
37 Orchard St, New York, NY 10002
Looking to add some randomness in your apartment? Step into Coming Soon New York, a quirky gallery-esque boutitque serving you "stylish gifts and furniture." Founded by Helena Barquet and Fabiana Faria, both formerly of Chelsea furniture galleries, the eclectic space houses everything from cigarette lighters to chaise lounges. Have a thing for one of a kind pieces? Catch one of the store's quarterly art events for limited edition product installations by featured artists (last month's Psychotic Plants by David Haskell, a series of cacti in custom vases, sold out immediately). www.comingsoonnewyork.com
CHEEKY SANDWICH SHOP
35 Orchard St, New York, NY 10002
Unmarked and unsigned, this lowbrow sandwich spot is a true underground find, discoverable only to those elitely in-the-know. Slightly disheveled with scarce seating, Cheeky's just has the look of a good sandwich spot. It's always those no-frills joints that surprise you with their delicious combinations. Channeling New Orleans' indulgent home-style fare, menu items include chicken fried biscuits and caramelized apple-topped pork sandwiches. www.cheeky-sandwiches.com
LA PETITE MORT
37 Orchard St, New York, NY 10002
Despite being known for epic style and fashion, shopping in NYC can be tough. If you aren't one of the limited few who can afford exciting designer duds, there are few options other than Zara and H&M. And wearing mainstream bullshit all the time gets boring AF. Thankfully the downtown shopping scene is poppin' with hip boutiques like La Petite Mort that offer inventive clothing and accessories at do-able prices. Specializing in items from emerging designers like Stickybaby, Made in Lieu, and street artist Baron Von Fancy, the shop also carries a funky vintage assortment. www.shoplapetitemort.com
THE LEADBELLY
14 Orchard St, New York, NY 10002
The little brother to Fat Radish across the street, this dimly lit oyster bar is the perfect spot to sip on crafted cocktails while enjoying a mix of live blues and vintage records. Cozy up in a back table and try some of Leadbelly's savory small plates, including Organic Beef Sliders and Peeky Toe Crab Gratin (with leeks, aged cheddar, and sherry), or sit by the bar and choose from oysters from both coasts. Don't miss out on the Copper Cup cocktail, a blend of absolut elyx, market fruit & herbs served, of course, in a copper cup. www.theleadbellynyc.com
