Nolita (North of Little Italy) is a charming, fashionable neighborhood in Lower Manhattan. Known for its narrow streets, historic buildings, boutique shopping, and trendy cafes, Nolita has a laid-back yet chic vibe that sets it apart from the busier surrounding neighborhoods. Once part of Little Italy, it’s now a distinct area with its own identity, filled with unique dining spots, stylish boutiques, and a creative energy that draws locals and visitors alike. This ultimate guide will walk you through Nolita’s history, attractions, dining, shopping, and more.
History of Nolita
- Origins: Nolita’s history is deeply tied to its location adjacent to Little Italy. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the neighborhood was primarily populated by Italian immigrants. Over time, as these families moved out, the area transformed into a more diverse, fashionable district.
- Name Emergence: The name “Nolita” was coined in the 1990s as the area began to gentrify, separating it from Little Italy, which was shrinking in size. Nolita’s character shifted from working-class immigrant life to a trendy, upscale enclave with a bohemian feel.
- Present Day: Today, Nolita is known for its preserved historic architecture, cobblestone streets, independent boutiques, trendy cafes, and vibrant street art. It has maintained a quieter, more intimate atmosphere compared to nearby SoHo, which has become more commercialized.
Top Attractions
- Old St. Patrick’s Cathedral
- Location: 263 Mulberry St
- Description: The Basilica of St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral is a historic landmark and one of the oldest Catholic cathedrals in the city, dating back to 1815. It offers beautiful architecture, a peaceful atmosphere, and even catacomb tours. The surrounding grounds and cemetery provide a sense of Nolita’s rich history.
- Elizabeth Street Garden
- Location: Elizabeth St (between Prince and Spring Streets)
- Description: This charming community garden is a peaceful green space filled with sculptures and plants. It’s a hidden gem in the heart of Nolita, offering a serene escape from the city’s hustle. The garden hosts events and is a popular spot for locals looking to relax.
- The New Museum of Contemporary Art
- Location: 235 Bowery (on the edge of Nolita)
- Description: Though technically in the neighboring Bowery district, the New Museum is just a short walk away and is a must-visit for contemporary art lovers. Known for its bold architecture and cutting-edge exhibitions, the museum showcases innovative works from international and local artists.
- Street Art and Murals
- Description: Nolita is filled with vibrant street art, especially around Mott, Mulberry, and Elizabeth Streets. Artists often use the neighborhood’s historic brick walls as canvases, creating ever-changing displays of urban art. Keep an eye out for works by well-known street artists like Shepard Fairey and Invader.
Dining in Nolita
Nolita has an impressive array of dining options, from cozy cafes to upscale restaurants. The neighborhood is known for its trendy spots that offer creative cuisine in a relaxed setting.
- Rubirosa
- Location: 235 Mulberry St
- Cuisine: Italian
- Description: A beloved Italian-American restaurant famous for its thin-crust pizza, homemade pasta, and classic red sauce dishes. Rubirosa has a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere and is a favorite among locals for both casual dinners and special occasions.
- Prince Street Pizza
- Location: 27 Prince St
- Cuisine: Pizza
- Description: Known for its signature Spicy Spring slice, topped with thick pepperoni that curls into crispy cups, Prince Street Pizza is a legendary spot for pizza lovers. The tiny space often has a line out the door, but the delicious slices are well worth the wait.
- Cafe Gitane
- Location: 242 Mott St
- Cuisine: French-Moroccan
- Description: A Nolita institution, Cafe Gitane is a charming cafe known for its avocado toast (one of the first spots in NYC to popularize it) and eclectic menu blending French and Moroccan influences. It’s perfect for a casual breakfast, lunch, or coffee break.
- Lovely Day
- Location: 196 Elizabeth St
- Cuisine: Thai
- Description: This cozy, retro-style Thai restaurant offers a relaxed atmosphere and a menu filled with affordable, flavorful dishes like pad thai, green curry, and crispy spring rolls. It’s a local favorite for a low-key meal with friends.
- Egg Shop
- Location: 151 Elizabeth St
- Cuisine: American/Brunch
- Description: Specializing in egg-centric dishes, Egg Shop is a popular brunch spot that elevates the humble egg to new heights with sandwiches, bowls, and creative dishes like the Egg Shop B.E.C. (bacon, egg, and cheese).
- Public Hotel Rooftop
- Location: 215 Chrystie St
- Description: For those looking for a stylish rooftop bar with stunning views, the Public Hotel offers a chic space to grab drinks and small bites while taking in panoramic views of the city skyline.
Shopping
Nolita is a hotspot for boutique shopping, offering a mix of high-end fashion, vintage stores, and independent designers. The neighborhood is perfect for those looking to find unique, curated pieces.
- Creatures of Comfort
- Location: 205 Mulberry St
- Description: Known for its minimalist yet stylish designs, Creatures of Comfort offers chic clothing, accessories, and shoes. The store features a range of contemporary fashion designers and is a go-to for fashion-forward shoppers.
- McNally Jackson Books
- Location: 52 Prince St
- Description: A beloved independent bookstore, McNally Jackson is a literary haven in the heart of Nolita. The bookstore offers a wide selection of books, a cozy cafe, and frequent author events, making it a favorite spot for readers and writers alike.
- Love Adorned
- Location: 269 Elizabeth St
- Description: A beautifully curated store offering handmade jewelry, unique home goods, and stylish accessories. The eclectic mix of products makes it a great place to find thoughtful gifts or one-of-a-kind pieces for your home.
- Reformation
- Location: 23 Howard St (bordering Nolita)
- Description: A sustainable fashion brand, Reformation is known for its trendy, eco-friendly clothing. The store’s minimalist designs and commitment to sustainability have made it a favorite among fashion-conscious shoppers.
- Sigerson Morrison
- Location: 28 Prince St
- Description: A high-end shoe boutique offering elegant and chic footwear. Known for its stylish yet comfortable designs, Sigerson Morrison is a must-visit for shoe lovers looking for luxury and quality.
Arts and Culture in Nolita
While Nolita is more known for its boutiques and cafes, it has a strong artistic presence. From galleries to intimate performance venues, the neighborhood continues to be a creative hub.
- The Bowery Ballroom
- Location: 6 Delancey St (just south of Nolita)
- Description: One of New York’s most iconic music venues, the Bowery Ballroom is known for hosting live performances by up-and-coming and established musicians alike. With its intimate setting and excellent acoustics, it’s a must-visit for music lovers.
- International Center of Photography (ICP)
- Location: 79 Essex St (near Nolita)
- Description: A museum and school dedicated to photography and visual culture, the ICP offers rotating exhibitions that explore social, political, and cultural themes through the lens of photography. The space also hosts workshops and public programs.
- Street Art
- Description: Much like neighboring SoHo and the Lower East Side, Nolita has become a canvas for street artists. Many walls in the area feature murals and art installations that reflect the neighborhood’s creative spirit.
Living in Nolita
Nolita is a highly desirable residential neighborhood, attracting a mix of young professionals, creatives, and families. It offers a peaceful, village-like atmosphere with all the amenities of downtown living.
- Real Estate: Nolita is known for its historic low-rise buildings, many of which have been converted into luxury apartments and lofts. The neighborhood’s boutique nature and limited space make it one of the more expensive areas in Lower Manhattan, but its charm and convenience are unmatched.
- Community: Nolita has a close-knit, neighborhood feel despite being in the middle of Manhattan. Its walkable streets, abundance of cafes, and sense of history make it an inviting place to live. Residents enjoy the slower pace compared to nearby SoHo and the Lower East Side.
- Transportation: Nolita is well-served by several subway lines, including the 6, J, Z, N, and R trains, making it easy to travel around the city.
Conclusion
Nolita is a small but vibrant neighborhood that offers a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern sophistication. With its historic architecture, trendy boutiques, delicious dining spots, and relaxed atmosphere, Nolita is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience a more intimate side of New York City. Whether you’re shopping for unique fashion, enjoying a quiet meal at a cafe, or simply exploring its cobblestone streets, Nolita provides a stylish, welcoming retreat in the heart of Manhattan.
