Welcome to Outside The Kitchen, a new lifestyle column that shares tips, product recommendations, and stories that extends, well, outside the kitchen.
With a city so large and beautiful, like New York, there are a ton of things to do and neighborhoods to explore — and they’re only a $2.75 subway, bus ride away, or taxi/Uber away. One neighborhood worth a metro card swipe is the West Village. It sits right below the Meatpacking District and offers a ton to do without breaking the bank. However, it also offers a lot to do if you are looking to break the bank. Either way, grab your mask, your quarantine buddy, and get lost in all the intersecting streets of the West Village.
The streets alone are lined beautifully with trees and apartments are filled with enough character to inspire you for days. Plus, it’s fun to picture yourself living in the $20M carriage houses. Imagine who some of your neighbors may be! Once home to Mark Twain, Annie Leibovitz, Rachel & Monica (yes that Rachel and Monica) and pretty much every other iconic figure you can think of.
The shops in the West Village are just as beautiful as their surroundings. Although, many of the shops come with a hefty price tag, the creativity and design that goes into some of these store fronts is something to admire. My favorite streets are Bank, Charles, and Perry.
Since you’ve been walking around for a few hours taking in all the sights – it’s time to CHOW DOWN. There are endless sidewalk cafe’s and bars where you can stop in for brunch, a beer, or both! Here are some of my favorites:
Where to eat outside in the West Village
Sant Ambroeus on West 4th Street (pictured above)
Pricy, but definitely a West Village staple known for its ultimate people watching and charm. Stop in for an espresso or gelato and gaze at all the very interesting looking people around you. If you’re looking for a full meal, you’re in luck because you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu.
outdoor heated seating; make a reservation on OpenTable here
Urban Vegan on Carmine Street
Full disclosure, I am not vegan, but do appreciate and LOVE a good vegan meal. That’s why I have to give so much credit to the creativity behind the menu at Urban Vegan. From the chick-un and waffles to the chickpea tuna sandwich – there is definitely something here for everyone.
outdoor heated seating; make a reservation on Resy here
The White Horse Tavern on Hudson Street
This famous bar is known for tasty cocktails and is the second oldest pub in New York City!
outdoor seating and you can make a reservation on Resy here,
Extra Virgin on West 4th Street
This Mediterranean restaurant has a little bit of everything for just about every palate. But, if there’s one thing to remember when dining here is Butternut Squash Ravioli. Okay, maybe two things Lamb Three Ways.
outdoor heated seating; make a reservation on OpenTable here
Hudson Clearwater on Hudson Street
Whatever you do, do your tastebuds a major favor and order the rosemary pomme frites. You might even find yourself ordering a second serving. But, whatever you end up ordering, you’re going to love it as well as all the outdoor space and heated lamps between their courtyard and sidewalk seating.
outdoor heated seating; make a reservation on Resy here
Morandi on Waverly Place
A rustic Italian restaurant, once you sit down, you’re instantly brought to the pasta capital of the world. Whenever we have had family or company visit us, we’d make sure to take them here. The meatballs will make you want to do the universal fingers to lips gesture and scream magnifico!
outdoor heated seating; make a reservation on OpenTable here
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