Greenwich Village - New York City's Bohemian Neighborhood

MAITLAND, Fla. - July 19, 2013 - PRLog -- Greenwich Village has long been known as the Bohemian quarter of New York City, home of aspiring artists, musicians and actors. Their colorful presence attracts the type of tourists who want to soak up a uniquely hip atmosphere. Restaurants are plentiful, but may be overcrowded. Nightlife features a wide range of musical and other performances, often off beat or avant garde. The local watering holes run the gamut from dive bars to nightclubs. So dress down and relax. There’s is definitely a hangout for everyone in this funky neighborhood. Be aware that sometimes the most memorable Greenwich Village experiences are to be found in the most unexpected locations.

Unexpected

Here are just a couple of examples of the Village’s mysterious surprises. Cartele’s Cuban sandwich shop and café features a relaxed but attractive atmosphere with tasty sandwiches such as Sloppy Joes. Climb the distinctly non prepossessing staircase up one flight and you’ll arrive at an elegant, colorful yet comfortably homey lounge, which specializes in Cuban rum punches – refreshing but beware the kick! Crif Dogs is the place to go for excellent hot dogs, but even those not fond of this all American snack will enjoy the diner’s little secret. Pick up the phone near the entrance and you will be admitted to the back room bar. Reservations and walk-ins are both accepted but guests will only be admitted until all the chairs are filled – “standing room only” does not exist. Great fizzes and sours are served.

A Quiet Block

Cornelius Street from Bleecker to West Fourth offers a quiet atmosphere, away from the bustle of the tourist scene, and exceptionally tasty and diverse cuisine. Cornelius Street Café is at the hub of the action and could be said to multi task, as it is a casual restaurant, cabaret, bar and venue for theater and poetry readings. Other dining establishments along the same block offer authentic sushi, Cuban food, Italian fare, French cuisine, oysters and good old American home cooking. For the tourist on a tight budget, a quick and cheap meal may be made of a hot dog served with a side of French fries and a frothy papaya drink.

Music in Greenwich Village

If you’re looking for a noisier scene, Greenwich Village has plenty to offer. The birthplace of the beatnik, with their bongo drums, the Village serves up music in all forms. Jazz and blues tend to especially popular. Listen in at the intimate Zinc Bar. Smalls is a great location for after-hours jams for NY musicians – catch a local star on the rise. The Renee Weiler Concert Hall (At Greenwich House Music School) offers an eclectic combo of opera, chamber music and new music. Of course, the most authentic Village sounds of all come from the street musicians – some very talented – buskin for change.

New York has so much to see and do that you’ll appreciate staying in a comfortable hotel with easy access to everything. The nicer New York hotels tend to fill up fast, though, so it’s a good idea to reserve in advance (http://crshotels.com/).