It’s not hard to fall in love with this neighborhood. As you move away from Canal and keep walking south then west, you’ll almost wonder how such a quiet area can exist right by the chaos that is Chinatown. Well, it does and I’ll warn you, once you get to know it, you might want to move there! Tribeca (stands for Triangle Below Canal Street) in the 18th century was known for factories and warehouses which is why the area has that industrial architecture look and vibe to it but now it’s pretty much all young families or young couples! The neighborhood has pretty much everything you need, from schools to art centers, great outdoor areas, and upscale restaurants – it’s basically a world apart in the sense of it feeling like a “true” neighborhood and because of it’s proximity to downtown Brooklyn, I’m actually there ALL the time! Below is a full day itinerary – let me know if you have any questions – there are so many options that I had a hard time narrowing it down so please let me know if you need more recommendations.
8:00 AM The one thing about Tribeca that you must know is that there’s a ton of coffee shops to choose from! If you’re in the mood for a cup of coffee with breakfast then Tiny’s is the place for you. I’ve been here for lunch and it was equally as delicious but unlike most of the other coffee shops in the area, this is more intimate and quiet – basically what I mean to say is that this is not the “grab a latte and go spot”! If you are looking for something more “grab and go” then head to Kaffe 1668 – great coffee and healthy snacks or Laughing Man coffee shop which is owned by Hugh Jackman!
10:00 AM In the mood for some pampering? Head over to the stunning Aire Ancient Baths on Franklin Street for a morning of baths and massages. You will feel a sense of calm and peace the minute you walk in.
12:00 PM Grab a table inside The Greenwich Hotel’s Italian restaurant Locanda Verde! It’s a Tribeca staple and a must – try the squid ink pasta! If you’re craving a sweet snack after lunch head over to Kitchenette for homestyle desserts, Billy’s Bakery for old-school cupcakes or the infamous Bubby’s Pie Company! You can’t go wrong with any of them.
2:00 PM The beauty of NYC is that art & culture are truly everywhere. Tribeca may be very residential but it still has galleries – if you love photography, visit the Soho Photo Gallery and if your looking for something more meaningful then visit the 911 Memorial and Museum. The 911 Museum may not be for everyone given the devastating memory of one the biggest losses of our time and how much emotion that may stir but no trip downtown is complete without it.
5:00 PM Shopping anyone? Stop by the beautiful shop Edon Manor (even if it’s just to see the beautiful space!) to shop designer accessories. Are the kids with you? Take them to the Balloon Saloon! It’s a shop full of balloons and toys that have been part of the Tribeca community for years and years. Oh and it’s not only for the kids, adults could totally have fun too haha. For the hubby or men in your life, walk down to The Liquor Shop: J.Crew Men’s to shop J.Crew favorites!
7/8:00 PM How does dinner and show sound? Picking one restaurant is difficult because Tribeca has SO many great ones!! I will recommend Marc Forgione even though I personally haven’t tried it. However, many people I know raved about it and it’s definitely one of those restaurants on the NYC “restaurant bucket list” – so Thomas and I are definitely going very soon. The upscale Chinese restaurant, Mr. Chow is also a great option. Then head to watch an off-off-Broadway show at The Flea Theater on Thomas Street. And if you’re looking for something more casual then try The Odeon.
10:00 PM Can’t really call it a night without a nightcap, right? Visit the Brandy Library to try a vast variety (about 900 bottles to be exact!) of brandy and cognac or Smith and Mills for amazing cocktails and cozy space! Be aware – Smith and Mills has no sign outside and the entrance is pretty conspicuous – once upon a time, it was a carriage house! 🙂
