I love Greenwich Village. I’ve always loved that quaint little neighbourhood. And not just because of Bedford & Grove Streets. (I mean, my main reason for going to Greenwich Village in the first place in 2006 was to find the Friends apartment, but it is so much more than that.)
I love this neighbourhood because it feels so unlike “typical” New York, yet is also feels very New York. Those that have visited a variety of areas in New York might understand where I’m coming from. I strolled through the quiet streets on my first Sunday in the city and observed everything that was happening around me.
Little restaurants slowly opening for the day, their staff washing the sidewalk in preparation. Others taking their dog out for a morning walk or jog. People meeting up for brunch. I gazed up at all of the buildings with their iconic fire escape stairs zig-zagging their way down. I feel that it is little, simple observations like these that help you get to know and understand a place.
For brunch, I made my way to a neat little coffee house called Caffe Reggio. They are famous for being the home of the “Original Cappuccino”, and have been open since 1927. Dramatic artwork rests on the walls, many of which go back all the way to the Italian Renaissance period. I found myself a window seat and people-watched (and eavesdropped on conversations – because what else do you do when you yourself are not listening to someone else speak to you?) in peace.
After, I continued my stroll through the neighbourhood and its confusing, winding streets. A nice, elderly man even offered assistance with directions when he saw me staring at my map (what a touristy thing to do, although I think I was looking for Caffe Reggio at the time).
I love the architecture of the buildings there, with its many brownstones in its many, varied styles.
There’s an interesting, old feel to Greenwich Village, but not like a gross old – more like a historic old. It has character.
I somehow wound up back there at nighttime – although I think on a different night – and snapped a night traffic shot with 1 World Trade Center in the background.
I hope you loved this post as much as I love Greenwich Village – stay tuned for more!
Leave a Reply