Neighborhood Champions are everywhere. Interviews with real people in real neighborhoods of New York City. So, I'm going to put myself forward as Champion of Alphabet City, Josh (me)!
Alphabet City is a neighborhood located within the East Village in the New York City borough of Manhattan. Its name comes from Avenues A, B, C, and D, the only avenues in Manhattan to have single-letter names. It is bordered by Houston Street to the south and by 14th Street to the north.
All about Alphabet City by Josh
Is it friendly for people new to the city (is it safe throughout the day and night)?
Alphabet City is a fun and welcoming area, and is generally busy, friendly, and safe. Avenues A, B, and C are all completely fine at all hours, but I would say that Avenue D is probably not the most inviting area to be late at night and I'd avoid it.
Why do you like (or dislike) living in the area?
I love it because it's more residential and quieter than a lot of the rest of Manhattan. It has a more inviting feel than many other locations, and the people who live there are friendly and happy to live in a slightly less busy area.
Would you say it was a cheaper neighborhood, an average-priced neighborhood, or an expensive neighborhood?
I'd say it was relatively in the middle of Manhattan pricing. It used to be cheaper but has definitely been gentrifying in the last few years which has driven prices up with its new popularity.
How would you describe a regular person living in the area and how do they live (describe an average apartment)?
I'd describe most people as small families, a slightly younger audience than some other neighborhoods, and those chasing the East Village of times-gone-by.
What is your favorite bar in the area to go with friends?
My favorite bar is Loverboy with friends. Good value specials, great food, great drinks, and really friendly staff. The venue works well in winter and in summer!
Do you have a favorite spot to go alone or quietly with others (venue or not)?
I love the East River which is just the other side of the FDR (which there are lots of bridges to cross). Going for a stroll, a run, or just a sit on your own or with friends is a beautiful way to spend a few hours.
Do you have a favorite café or deli and what is your order?
The deli on the corner of 11th and Avenue C (“Yankee Deli”) makes an AMAZING chicken sandwich. You go in and you ask the guy at the sandwich counter for the “Chicken special that used to be on the board, on a roll, hot”. You will not regret this.
Out of 10 how would you rate the neighborhood for: Overall? Kids? Going Out? Quiet Living? Food?
Overall: 9 / Kids: 8 / Going Out: 9 / Quiet Living: 9 / Food: 6
In a few words, how would you sum up the neighborhood?
Fun, up-and-coming, lively, and quiet options
Anything else you'd like to add about the area?
Avenue A is filled with bars, Avenue D is residential and quiet. It's a great spectrum with Tompkin's Square Park stuck right in the middle for those warm days to watch the dogs in the dog park!
All About Neighborhood Champion, Josh
How do you describe yourself in one sentence?
America Josh!
What is your favorite thing to do in the city (outside of your neighborhood)?
Wine bars, everywhere.
Where do you call “home” and where are you “from”?
New York has really become my “home”, but I'm “from” Adelaide, South Australia.
Now's your chance to promote whatever you want (your business, your hobby, your cool idea, or something you love)
America Josh (again)!
Introducing Neighborhood Champions!
Other Champions: Meet Nico from Cobble Hill, Meet Erin from Long Island City, Meet Rachael from FiDi/Seaport, Meet Edwina from Williamsburg, Meet Scott from Greenwich Village, Meet Josh of Alphabet City
Getting to know a neighborhood in New York is one of the most interesting and fun parts of living here. Building community, understanding the nuances of streets, bars, cafés, and cultures, and knowing what’s cool (and what’s not) makes you feel like you’re really part of the city. So, I want to hear about yours!
So. Are you my next Neighborhood Champion for your neighborhood? If so, send an email to [email protected] and we’ll arrange a time to meet!
