Travel south of 14th Street, west of Sixth Avenue, and north of Houston, and you’ll land in the West Village, one of the most alluring areas of New York City. This once Bohemian enclave is known for its off-the-grid, tree-lined streets and arty, laid-back vibe. In spite of ongoing gentrification throughout the neighborhood, unique shops remain a quintessential aspect of West Village culture.
Kaas Glassworks
Kaas Glassworks (Photo by Tracy Kaler)
Browse a treasure trove of decoupage glass trays made from antique prints in this demure shop that lies off the beaten track. Crafted in all shapes, sizes, patterns, and colors, many of Kaas’s creations are custom pieces – be it a wedding invitation, drawing, or family heirloom – adapted into a memorable accessory. A cache of New York-centric gifts, perfect for souvenirs or personal keepsakes to carry home, make this West Village gem worth uncovering.
117 Perry St, 1 train to Christopher St/Sheridan Sq (212) 366-0322
Murray’s Cheese
Murray’s Cheese (Photo by Tracy Kaler)
Meander through this gourmet market where you’ll find artisan cheeses, nuts and dried fruits, pre-made picnic lunches, fresh pastas, and other enticing edibles. Sample Vulto Creamery Ouleout, Aged Manchego, and Comte Saint Antoine, among dozens of other rare and imported cheeses. Considered one of New York’s ultimate foodie destinations as well as a Village staple, Murray’s is undoubtedly a store to explore, particularly for the cheese-obsessed.
254 Bleecker St, A, B, C, D, E, F, M trains to West 4th, (212) 243-3289
Faicco’s Pork Store
Next door to Murray’s, this authentic Italian deli and store specializing in sausages, cured meats (think soppressata, capicola, and prosciutto), fresh mozzarella, olive oils, and other delectable foodstuffs still endures more than a hundred years after opening. Pork may be the main ingredient in the quaint shop’s lineup, but it’s the epic sandwiches, particularly the Italian Special and Chicken Parm, as well as the famed homemade rice balls that keep patrons returning time and time again.
260 Bleecker St, A, B, C, D, E, F, M trains to West 4th, (212) 243-1974
Odin NY
Male trendsetters with deep pockets can outfit their wardrobes at this upscale outpost that sells everything from tees to denim to outerwear, shoes, and accessories. Expect to find luxury items from well-known design houses such as Rag & Bone, Acne Studios, Phillip Lim, Canada Goose, and Odin’s namesake label.
106 Greenwich Ave, A, C, E, 1 trains to 14th St (212) 243-4724
Myers of Keswick
Myers of Keswick (Photo by Tracy Kaler)
UK expats and Anglophiles frequent this quaint, family-run grocery that retails an array of traditional British delicacies such as biscuits, shortbread, and Cadbury chocolates, not to mention house-made fare like bangers, Scotch eggs, and meat pies. Be on the lookout for Molly, the store cat, who’s usually lounging on a table while keeping watch over customers.
634 Hudson St, A, C, E, L trains to 14th St, (212) 691-4194
Three Lives & Co
Every New York City neighborhood deserves a charming indie bookstore, and for this pocket of the West Village, it’s Three Lives. Discover hand-selected titles in the tiny yet enchanting space where helpful staff are happy to make recommendations. Literary fiction, travel, cooking, mystery, and New York books round out the well-curated collection.
154 W 10th St, 1 train to Christopher St/Sheridan Sq, (212)741-2069
The Elk
The Elk (Photo by Tracy Kaler)
A hidden gem on a far West Village stretch, this coffee shop and general store provides more than the average cup of Joe for caffeine seekers. Savor options like grapefruit brulee, Greek yogurt with almond coconut crumble, and the baked egg toast with zucchini, parmesan and house hot sauce from its all-day breakfast menu. At lunchtime, the yummy open-faced ham and cheese tartine and avocado bahn mi sandwich really hit the spot. Shop lifestyle goods reminiscent of owner Claire Chan’s Vancouver upbringing, before or after your meal at the Elk.
128 Charles St, 1 train to Christopher St/Sheridan Sq, (212) 933-4780
Village Cigars
Village Cigars (Photo by Tracy Kaler)
Often seen in vintage photos, the shoebox-size, triangular-shaped shop with bold signage at the corner of Seventh and Christopher can’t be missed. A smoker’s paradise, this West Village institution sells hookahs, cigarettes, flasks, lighters, lottery tickets, cigars, and other tobacco paraphernalia at affordable prices.
110 7th Ave, 1 train to Christopher St/Sheridan Sq, (212) 242-3872
Darling
Ladies swoon over this townhouse shop’s modern and vintage collection particularly the girly dresses and snazzy accoutrements. In-house labels – Kisses by Darling and raquelle – are a hit among regulars, as is the back garden, available for trunk shows, champagne parties, and other festive affairs.
1 Horatio St, A, C, E trains to 14th St, (212) 336-6966
C.O. Bigelow
C.O. Bigelow (Photo by Tracy Kaler)
As the oldest apothecary in the US, this landmark’s interior recalls the city of yesteryear with its gilded chandeliers and railings, floor-to-ceiling cabinetry, and scrolling library ladders. Shop for rare and unusual beauty products, homeopathic remedies, fragrances, soaps, and novelties ideal for gift-giving at this legendary emporium nestled among the neighborhood’s stylish and trendy boutiques.
414 Ave of Americas, 1 train to Christopher St/Sheridan Sq, (212) 533-2700