Everyone knows New York City, The Big Apple, The City That Never Sleeps. They could tell you about Fifth Avenue, Times Square, Broadway and every other attraction featured on a postcard on some cart at the side of the street selling trashy tourist merchandise.
Undoubtedly, these are some of the best places to visit in New York, I’m not saying you should miss them out. But what many fail to do is to look past the bright lights of the city and see that, lurking in the shadows, there are some less glaring gems waiting to be discovered.
By chance I stumbled across one of these rare finds in the form of ‘Stone Street.’ Hidden away in Manhattan’s Financial District, Stone Street is a bustling cobbled street, small and indiscrete yet with the same dynamic atmosphere associated with Midtown New York. Renovated from a derelict alleyway, Stone Street is now one of Downtown Manhattan’s liveliest spots. The short street is crammed with half a dozen energetic restaurants and cafes, selling the infamous New York deep-crust pizza, tasty salads and a range of sharing platters such as tapas or nachos. Lined with trestle side tables with benches either side spanning the entire width of the street, people squeeze past to find a seat where they can or have a drink at the Stone Street Tavern. It’s a refreshing alternative to the traditional Wall Street steaks and suits. It’s hot, humid and noisy, but it’s an ideal spot to while away a couple of hours and chat to some friendly New Yorkers – yes, there really are friendly New Yorkers out there.
Stone Street is a step back in time, a place where New Yorkers can escape the professional constraints of Wall Street and simply drink and dine, popular with many young professionals and students alike. Sure, when you go to New York you want to see the Empire State Building, Central Park and Rockefeller Centre, but make the time to visit Stone Street or to discover your own treasured spot. If you ever find yourself caught up in the hustle and bustle of New York City, take a step back and explore the less well-lit streets
Emily Powter-Robinson
Featured image from morethanshipping.com.