From famous eateries to beautiful walking paths and art galleries, Chelsea is chock-full of top notch places to eat, drink, and explore. The next time you find yourself in this always-trendy neighborhood, check out some of our favorite local spots. Whether you choose to hit up some bars on your next night out or plan a full Sunday in the neighborhood, here are the destinations you can’t miss.
Where to Eat
Cookshop
This expansive 10th Avenue restaurant boasts a menu filled with local and seasonal produce designed by Chef Mark Meyer. Some favorites include the Spit Roasted Cascun Farm Chicken with marinated heirloom tomatoes and the Ravioli “Rettangoli” made with housemade semolina pasta. The restaurant’s brunch offerings are equally crave-worthy and include Sunnyside Eggs with corn pudding and Brioche French Toast with peaches and almonds.
Cafeteria
Imagine your favorite diner got a classy makeover. Cafeteria serves glammed up versions of your favorite comfort foods including Avocado Toast Benedict, Truffle Oil Mac and Cheese, and a Croissant Cuban Sandwich. Unlike your local greasy spoon, Cafeteria offers an eclectic cocktail menu with options like the Inferno Bloody Mary, the Wildberry Mojito, and the Passion Fruit Caipirinha.
Rocking Horse Cafe
Stop by this neighborhood veteran for dangerously strong margaritas, massive corn tortilla chips, and plenty of people-watching. The festive restaurant features an upscale, authentic menu as well as a variety of Mexican-inspired cocktails and desserts. Some favorites include the Pumpkin Seed Crusted Mahi Mahi Tacos and the Roasted Half Chicken with Chile-Chocolate Mole.
Where to Drink
Bathtub Gin
This Prohibition-inspired speakeasy is hidden behind an unmarked door on an unassuming section of 9th Avenue. Patrons who track down this buzzy hotspot will be treated to a menu filled with gin based cocktails, wines, and beers. Some of Bathtub Gin’s signature options include El Gaucho, which features gin, lemon, orange, and housemade mate syrup, and the Right Bank with vodka, Lillet Blanc, Vermouth, and watermelon radish.
The Tippler
Nestled beneath Chelsea Market, this upscale tavern features salvaged decor, creative cocktails and top tier DJs. Health food fiends will love the Green With Envy, which features vodka and house-pressed green juice, while more adventurous types will gravitate towards The Big Chill, which is composed of “illegal” mezcal, strawberry-black pepper shrub, and pineapple. Snacks revolve around elevated bar food favorites such as a Tajin-Glazed Pretzel with herbed ranch dip and Smashed Avocado atop fresh baked pita.
Porchlight
Those willing to make the trek to 11th Avenue will be rewarded with this Southern-inspired gem of a bar. The sleek interior pairs well with the menu’s old-time charm and wood finishings. There are a variety of cocktails on the menu including, the New York Sour, Sherry Cobbler, and Porchlight Gibson. Non alcoholic options include the Napoleon Smash, the Dunnwell, and the Sour Cherry Rickey.
What to Do
Get Cultured
Chelsea is home to a variety of cultural institutions, including The Rubin Museum of Art and The Joyce Theater. Those looking to explore should check out the ample selection of galleries in the neighborhood, which include the David Zwirner Gallery and the Tyler Rollins Fine Art Gallery.
Explore
The Highline may be over-hyped but with good reason. the expansive, elevated path boasts some of the best waterside views of Lower Manhattan. Stretching from Gansevoort Street to 34th Street, visitors have nearly 1.5 miles of terrain to explore and sights to take in.
Sweat
There are a variety of workout options in Chelsea, including the dance-inspired Body by Simone in west Chelsea and boxing gym Rumble, which borders Flatiron. Spin enthusiasts can hit up SoulCycle or Flywheel, both of which have outposts in the neighborhood.
Whether you’re in the neighborhood for an entire day or a couple of hours, check out these Chelsea destinations to make sure you take advantage of all the area has to offer.
Featured Image Credit: David Giral