As young professionals flock to the Lower East Side and populate the Downtown streets, the upsurge of new, hip places continues. At the forefront of this revival are several new health and wellness spots, where LES residents can pop in for a light bite, a fresh smoothie, or more. Occupants of the One Manhattan Square condos will have the convenience of being able to take a stroll to any of these nearby buzzing locales after their workout at the building’s fitness facility.
Located at the corner of East Broadway and Essex is one of the Lower East Side’s most popular new spots for a healthy bite—JaJaJa. Offering a completely plant-based, contemporary approach to Mexican cuisine, this has been a favorite with locals since the doors first opened. The restaurant’s vibrant, lush interior matches the colorful vegan dishes that are served. When you stop in, be sure to order the nachos and the turmeric tortillas and treat yourself to one of their seasonal cocktails. And if a fuller immersion in a plant-based diet appeals to you, walk up the street to Orchard Grocer, a new specialty marketplace offering an array of vegan specialties, including quick bites to-go.
Dimes, a cool and cozy neighborhood restaurant where the food is creative and delicious, features an even wider selection of eclectic, healthful cuisine on Canal Street. The laid-back vibes and feel-good food will have you coming back for more. Drop into Dimes after your morning workout for an order of coffee with their homemade almond milk and pair it with a protein-packed breakfast bowl. If you’re craving something a bit faster-paced, check out the unassuming Tra La La Juice Bar at Essex Market. This surprisingly delightful venue offers great-tasting sandwiches and freshly squeezed juices, sourced from the abundance of fruit in the surrounding marketplace!
Finally, if you’re looking for a neighborhood standby where you can meet a friend for an enjoyable meal, there are some popular fast-service spots that will surely please. Pause Café, located on Clinton Street, is a cozy, airy coffeehouse decorated with a Moroccan theme. You can also stop in here after your workout and morning walk for a hearty, healthy breakfast or protein smoothie. Another favorite among the locals is Café Petisco, located on the corner of East Broadway and Jefferson, and it’s truly a hidden gem that serves great food at a respectable price. With everything made fresh to order, this small, intimate café will surely become one of your go-to spots.
Whether you’re in the mood for a quick and light snack or a sit-down meal, there are many great options for a healthy bite (after a health-conscious workout) just a short walk from One Manhattan Square.