The Lower East Side tells the story of New York immigration. This is where generations of newcomers first landed, from Jewish and Italian families to Puerto Rican and Chinese communities. The tenements that once housed crowded families are now converted apartments, and the neighborhood has become one of the hottest nightlife and dining destinations in the city while maintaining its historical grit.
What It's Like Living Here
Living on the Lower East Side means being surrounded by history and new energy simultaneously. Essex Market anchors the food scene with vendors old and new. The nightlife runs late, with cocktail bars, live music venues, and clubs that keep going well past other neighborhoods. Orchard Street and Ludlow Street have the densest concentration of bars and restaurants.
Transit is adequate but not great: the F and J/M/Z trains serve the area, but you may find yourself walking to other lines. The housing stock varies from tenement conversions to newer luxury buildings. Katz's Deli remains a must-visit for pastrami, and Russ & Daughters continues the appetizing tradition.
Best For
- •Those who enjoy nightlife and late-night dining
- •History and culture enthusiasts
- •People who work downtown or in Brooklyn
- •Young professionals comfortable with urban density
Things to Know
- •Nightlife noise can be significant on weekends
- •Transit options are more limited than other Manhattan neighborhoods
- •Streets are narrow and crowded
- •Less green space than other areas
Commute Times from Lower East Side
Local Tips
Katz's Deli: get the pastrami, skip the tourist sandwich-selfie line by ordering at the counter
Essex Market is better for lunch than groceries
The Tenement Museum tours are genuinely worth doing
Ludlow Street south of Delancey has less tourist traffic than north
The Essentials
Grocery
- Essex Market
- Trader Joe's
Coffee
- Devoción
- Cafe Grumpy
- El Rey
Dining
- Katz's Deli
- Russ & Daughters Cafe
- Clinton St. Baking
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