My first apartment in New York City was on 23rd Street and Sixth Avenue, and my second was on 26th and Sixth, right around the corner from where one bomb was detonated and another was placed. The neighborhood has changed a lot in the time since I have lived there, but those blocks will always hold special memories for me, the streets where I figured out my own New York City routine and found familiarity in my oft-frequented spots. As New Yorkers we live forever with a target on our backs, but our ability to carry on stronger than ever is what makes us truly special. In response to the horrible events of last weekend, I am listing some of our favorite places in a neighborhood that needs some TLC right now. (Note: this is not a definitive Chelsea guide, but just a handful of places that we love.)
Momoya – We have written about Momoya before, but we are still always pleasantly surprised by this seemingly unassumingly sushi spot on Seventh Avenue. The fish is consistently fresh and the Chef’s Special combinations are well priced for the amount and variety of food provided. Momoya is also an easy meeting spot because they also offer approachable rolls and delicious non-raw options (the dumplings are insane.) Also, their spicy tuna on crispy rice is heavenly. (185 Seventh Avenue at 21st Street)
Bar Veloce– Our favorite wine bar to make us feel like we are living La Dolce Vita, Bar Veloce has endless amounts of Italian wines on offer, as well as piles of thinly sliced meats and cheeses, paninis, nutella…all the things we need to for a good night solving all of the world’s problems. This is also a great spot for unwinding after an event at Madison Square Garden, as well as a fun place to meet a date; say you are meeting for drinks, and if things are going well, you can gradually work your way through the menu to Nutella time. (176 Seventh Avenue, between 20th and 21st Street)
Co. (Company)- Jim Lahey’s pizza spot never ever disappoints, and is by far the best option on this pretty grim stretch of Ninth Avenue. One of the pioneers of authentic wood-fired pizza in New York City, Co’s pies are chewy and topped with fresh ingredients in unusual and classic combinations. The scene is always lively, and outside seating is a pleasant option, even on said grim stretch of Ninth Avenue. (230 Ninth Avenue at 24th Street)
Cookshop– A quintessential Chelsea spot, for every meal of the day. Cookshop serves American food made with local, sustainable ingredients. Bright and lively during the day and sexier at night, Cookshop is a no-brainer before or after gallery hopping or strolling on the High Line. The menu is approachable and always a crowd-pleaser. (156 Tenth Avenue at 20th Street)
Tia Pol– Top of the Tapas in Chelsea, Tia Pol is tiny but has an inherent fun-ness about it (might have something to do with the sangria.) The food is spot-on Spanish (actual tapas, not small plates pretending to be tapas,) so go with someone who likes to share. Reservations are strongly recommended. (205 Tenth Avenue, between 22nd and 23rd Street)
Half King-If you need to see the game and get down with some nachos in Chelsea, Half King is the place to be. Not exactly the best place for cruising buff dudes who just left David Barton, but if you want a no nonsense bar serving decent bar food, pull up a stool next to us and get drinking. There is an outdoor garden in the back, and sidewalk seating that provides a perfect perch from which to watch the gallerinas strut their stuff. (505 West 23rd Street, at 10th Ave)
Westville – Bright and white, Westville just feels healthy, but they also serve booze, so we really like this place. A simple spot to meet a friend for a daytime gab fest over some turkey chili, market veggies or a turkey burger. There are naughtier options too, but everything tastes really clean and homemade. Service can be a bit moody but its worth it. (246 West 18th Street, between 7th and 8th Ave)
Fred’s at Barneys Downtown- I have to send a little love to Fred’s at the new Barney’s downtown, because we love the food that much. It lacks the vibe and people- watching of the uptown original, but it’s still a solid place to eat solo during a day of shopping, or to sit with mom to get her wined-up before checking out the shoes.(101 Seventh Avenue at 19th Street)
