New York is an ever-evolving town — constantly adapting and remaking itself with the times. Some would say this malleability is the reason why it’s among the greatest cities in the world. The Lower East Side — one of NYC’s most popular neighborhoods — stands as a testament to this resilience. Once a low-rise district welcoming people from across the world, it is now home to world-class dining and culture, not to mention sky-scraping buildings like One Manhattan Square that are redefining modern luxury Downtown living. Although the past few months have brought some major challenges, the neighborhood is ready to adapt with unflappable style, especially when it comes to its acclaimed culinary scene.
So, if you’re hungry, head to the Lower East Side, where the neighborhood’s vibrant history combines with today’s tastes to create an unmatched variety of flavors and styles.
With social distancing and other safety precautions in place, dining is a little different these days, to say the least. Luckily, residents of One Manhattan Square live only minutes away from some spectacular restaurants that offer contactless delivery and pickup options. Here are some can’t-miss recommendations.
Russ & Daughters | 179 East Houston Street
You can’t call yourself a real New Yorker until you’ve dug into a spread from Russ & Daughters. This iconic shop has been in operation — in the same place on Houston Street — since 1914. And there are some good reasons why generations of New Yorkers have flocked here for over a century: authentic rye bread, expertly prepared bagels with the perfect schmear of cream cheese, and, of course, the iconic black-and-white cookie. While you don’t get the pleasure of grabbing a number and standing in line, their delivery system lets you take all of these delicacies home.
Mission Chinese Food | 171 East Broadway
When Mission Chinese Food landed in NYC from San Francisco, it made quite the splash in the Downtown dining scene. It’s still the place for lovers of hot and spicy Sichuan food with a uniquely American flair. Simply saying the shop’s name conjures the taste of Sichuan peppers thanks to signature dishes like their Chongqing chicken wings. There’s a strong influence of American comfort food in the dishes here. Think: Kung Pao pastrami sandwiches. The management at Mission is committed to the health of their customers and their workers, and they take care to follow current health guidelines, including mask-wearing along with contactless delivery. They ask that you order online or by phone and refrain from using cash to pay.
Morgenstern’s | Two Rivington Street
Few experiences are more indulgent than winding down with a bowlful of ice cream — especially when the ice cream is from Morgenstern’s. By combining the creamiest textures with the most heavenly flavors, Morgenstern’s has made a name for itself as one of the top ice cream parlors in the city. Order from this small-batch purveyor and your taste buds will thank you, whether you get their decadent plain vanilla or the more experimental lavender agave vanilla. They have more than 88 flavors of ice cream, in addition to a wide selection of cakes and pies, so you’ll never run out of options.
No matter where you choose to go, here’s a pro tip: Grab a few selections from the menu and have a socially distanced nosh with friends in the luxurious gardens or outdoor dining areas of the One Manhattan Square condos.