Where can you shop ‘til you drop, see some fantastic art, and eat an unforgettable meal, all without walking more than a few blocks? New York City’s stylish SoHo neighborhood, while often overlooked by tourists, is one of the most vibrant and worthwhile destinations in the Big Apple.
Standing for "South of Houston St.", SoHo isn’t exactly what you picture when you think of New York City. In fact, after a day or two of exploring the crowded attractions of Midtown, it is welcome break from all the density and chaos. Skyscrapers and wide avenues are replaced by brick buildings and narrow streets lined with the colorful awnings of hundreds of shops and restaurants. The many boutiques make it easy to spend an entire day shopping for anything from souvenirs to designer clothing. If that’s not exactly your cup of tea, don’t worry, because SoHo is also home to countless art galleries and a very lively nightlife. Young New Yorkers and college students can always be found roaming the streets of this downtown hotspot.
SoHo is also a great place to find gourmet cuisine from around the world. Your options are endless, but here are two of the neighborhood’s best restaurants:
Boqueria. This is by far my favorite restaurant in the city. Named for the Boqueria market in Barcelona, this chic eatery serves up fresh, delicious Spanish-style tapas. From the classic and familiar fare that defines Catalan cuisine to the original creations of the chef, there are some mind-blowing dishes waiting for you here. As a fan of simple meals that showcase fresh, real ingredients, I always order the Cojonudo (quail eggs and chorizo on toasted Spanish bread). Though it can get a bit expensive, especially if you’re in the mood to sample a variety of the options (tapas range from $5 to $14), Boqueria is certainly worth the splurge. An added bonus for the environmentally friendly: it is a certified member of the Green Restaurant Association.
Located on Spring St. between Thompson St. and West Broadway (Subway C or E to Spring St.) For more information, visit: http://www.boquerianyc.com/
Il Corallo Trattoria. In a city that boasts an infinite selection of Italian restaurants, Il Corallo stands out for its cozy mood, large menu, and most of all, fresh ingredients including pasta made from scratch. The restaurant is a refreshing change from the run-of-the-mill New York Italian joint, and is more authentic than any you will find in Little Italy. Picky Italian-Americans (myself included) agree that Il Corallo never disappoints. The goat cheese ravioli is absolutely to die for, as are many of the unique pasta options. Not to mention most of the menu is under $10! Just don’t bring a large group if you want to be comfortable; the restaurant is a tiny hole-in-the-wall.
Located on Prince St. between Sullivan St. and Thompson St. (Subway C or E to Spring St.) For more information, visit: http://nymag.com/listings/restaurant/il-corallo-trattoria/menus/takeout.html