The Lower East Side is one of New York’s oldest neighborhoods, historically housing a large working-class immigrant population. Today, it’s one of the most sought after areas to live in. Known for its vibrant dining and nightlife scene, the Lower East Side truly embodies the expression “the city that never sleeps.”

The basics

Boundaries:The Lower East Side is bounded by Houston Street in the north and the East River along most of its southern and eastern borders. Bowery makes up most of the LES’ northwestern boundary, cutting along East Broadway, Canal, and Pike Streets to make up the southwestern boundary.

Borders: The LES shares its western border with a number of quieter neighborhoods in Lower Manhattan including Chinatown, Two Bridges, and Nolita. To its north are two neighborhoods comparable to the LES, the East Village and Alphabet City.

Commute: Most of the area’s transportation options are centered around the western portion of the neighborhood, all making stops in the area before heading into different parts of Brooklyn. The B/D trains stop at Grand Street before heading over the Manhattan Bridge; the F train makes stops at Second Avenue, Delancey-Essex, and East Broadway; and the J/Z trains stop at Bowery and Delancey-Essex. Following the trajectory of the J/Z trains is the M train, which stops at Delancey-Essex Street before crossing the Manhattan bridge.

Lower East Side today

The Lower East Side was the city’s first melting pot, home to immigrant populations from various backgrounds throughout time. The influences of the Jewish, Italian, Puerto Rican, and Chinese immigrants played a role in shaping the unique identity of this area, reflected in the variety of locally-owned shops throughout the neighborhood.

Although sleepy during the day, the neighborhood still has a diverse selection of dining options for locals. Brunch favorites, trendy restaurants with long waits, innovative fusion spots, and decadent dessert shops. Evenings are when the neighborhood comes to life, with a good mix of nightlife options ranging from higher-end venues to dive bars, and everything in between. Check out our sampling of places to explore in this timeless neighborhood.

Where to eat in the Lower East Side

Enjoy a fantastic brunch at Clinton Street Baking Company. Known for their incredible sweets–from their critically acclaimed fluffy blueberry pancakes to their caramelized banana french toast–the place knows how to keep customers coming back. Pig and Khao serves Southeast Asian inspired cuisine, drawing particularly from Thai and Filipino influences. Their dishes showcase authentic flavors in a stylish, funky setting. With throwback jams playlist, enjoy a hearty, lively meal with friends before a night out.

The original Russ & Daughters shop, located up on Houston Street, is one of the Lower East Side’s mainstays, known as a haven for smoked fish and bagels. In commemoration of their 100th anniversary, they opened Russ & Daughters Cafe, a beautiful sit-down space for customers to enjoy their selection of Jewish comfort foods.

Katz’s Delicatessen is another one of the neighborhood’s staples, known for slicing and stacking fresh deli sandwiches since 1888. Everyone should sample their enormous pastrami sandwich at least once in their lifetime, whether stopping by in person (aim to go later in the evening on a weeknight to avoid crowds common on weekends and holidays) or ordering online (they deliver through Seamless).

Perfect for the cold winters, enjoy an all-you-can-eat feast at Hou Yi Hot Pot. Order endless plates of meat, veggies, and noodle varieties to dip and cook in your choice of broth in a large communal pot. The quality of the ingredients is solid with unlimited non-alcoholic beverages and ice cream bar.

Here are a few other favorite spots in the Lower East Side you can’t miss:

• Wah Fung No 1 Fast Food: Grab-and-Go Cantonese siu mei serving up fresh barbecue meats over rice
• La Contenta: Cozy, neighborhood joint with delicious, authentic Mexican cuisine and cocktails
• Doughnut Plant: Fresh, handmade doughnuts made daily; try the creme brûlée doughnut
• Ice & Vice: Experimental shop serving handcrafted ice cream, sorbets, and frozen yogurt

Things to do in the Lower East Side

Take a deep-dive into the rich history of this neighborhood at the Tenement Museum. Immerse yourself in the immigrant experience through any one of their unique tours. Visit the recreated homes of former residents, where you can really imagine yourself in their shoes as you’re surrounded by their belongings. Add on a walking tour to see how the neighborhood has changed over the years. The New Museum is Manhattan’s only museum dedicated exclusively to showcasing contemporary art. With constantly rotating exhibitions across all mediums, there’s always something new and intriguing to see.

Economy Candy is a candy lovers dream. Floor-to-ceiling shelves are filled with every type of candy imaginable, from gummies and M&Ms to sour candies and caramels. Needless to say, if you’re ever craving sweets, you know exactly where to go. Stop by The Sill, an adorable corner shop featuring a variety of plants and accessories.It’s the perfect place to go if you want to spruce up your cozy apartment. Each plant comes with its own set of care instructions, designed to help any first-time plant parents.

Check out Metrograph is a small, independent movie theater designed with movie enthusiasts in mind. Seeking to emulate qualities of the world-class hospitality and cinematic world of the 1920s, creating a space for industry professionals to screen their work, take meetings, and watch films. Sharing a border with the East River has its perks. Enjoy the views of Williamsburg as you relax in East River Park. Ride a bike or jog along the riverside, sprawl out on the lawns, have a BBQ, or utilize their athletic fields.

Where to drink in the Lower East Side

If you’re looking for a quintessential rooftop bar, head over to Mr. Purple. Housed on the top floor of the Hotel Indigo, enjoy views of the city skyline with your slightly-too-expensive drink in hand. Great for large groups, since they take reservations, especially in the summer when their expansive outdoor space is open to public. Aptly named Clandestino is perfect for when you’re looking for low-key evening drinks. Modest and unpretentious, locals frequent this casual neighborhood bar known for its affordable drinks, friendly service, and quieter atmosphere compared to other spots nearby.

With no signage aside from small metal ‘AB’ on the door and a misleading tailor shop decals on the window, it’d be easy to walk past Attaboy. Knock on the door or ring the doorbell and you’ll be greeted with a smile and an inquiry about your party size. Chances are you’ll have to wait to get in, but once you do enjoy the unique experience of this intimate speakeasy. The bartender simply asks you what you’re in the mood for, and whips up a custom cocktail based on your preferences.

On the flip side, 169 Bar is your classic dive bar featuring mismatched decor that looks like it came from a yard sale. Despite its more southern location on the map, this historic spot still draws in crowds with their reputation for cheap drinks and food. To top it all off, you don’t even need to go to the bar to order a drink– you can text your order instead. Loud, funky music and glowing lights contribute to the upbeat atmosphere that guarantees a good time, every time.

The Flower Shop is both a restaurant and a bar, but most people really just come for the bar. Complete with flowered wallpaper, a bubblegum pink fireplace, vintage photos, and wood paneled everything, there’s a distinctly retro 70’s vibe here. With a decent amount of seating to accommodate the lively weekend crowds, a pool table for additional entertainment, and a simple, straightforward drinks menu, The Flower Shop is a great place hang out and chill. Loreley Beer Garden is a true homage to traditional German biergartens. Equipped with long wooden tables and benches, it’s a great day drinking spot.A great selection of imported beers, wines and spirits is complemented by a menu of beer garden snacks like giant, soft pretzels, currywurst, and wiener schnitzel.

Renting in the Lower East Side

You can expect high rent prices in New York City in general, but the average salary in the area tends to offset the increase in housing costs. The median monthly rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in the LES is $3,195. For a 2-bedroom apartment in the Lower East Side you can expect to a median rent of $4,595 per month. The building types include mostly pre-war walk-ups, which feature the distinct look the city is known for. You can find a few high-rise luxury rentals, but in general the LES maintains the charm of classic NYC architecture.

Why you’ll love living in the Lower Ease Side

The Lower East Side neighborhood is known for its cool and young vibe, hip dive bars and energetic atmosphere. This neighborhood is perfect for young professionals who want to live in an area that’s right in the action. Living in the LES affords residents the opportunity to have easy access to art, culture, cuisine, and libations. But, if you’re looking for a quiet relaxed neighborhood, the Lower East Side may not be your best fit.

Think the Lower East Side is the right fit for you? Stake your claim on this dynamic area and check out our apartments for rent. Before you know it, you’ll have your own list of favorites and maybe even become a regular at a few places.

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