Discover the real NYC in Shoot New York City’s Discover Guide

As a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, many of the businesses listed are temporarily or permanently closed. I do suggest that you verify if they are open before visiting them. With many of them, it is probably best to call them as they may not have had the opportunity to update the information on their website.

I love the independent businesses in New York, they are the heart and soul of the city! In this section you will find bookstores, cafés, restaurants, arts & crafts markets and more. This is an ongoing project to list the best of indie New York so visit often to discover the real New York City. Experience the hidden gems and places that New Yorkers frequent. For more information on many of NYC’s vibrant neighborhoods, have a read of my Neighborhood Guides. I am not compensated for writing these reviews and I'm only writing about the places that I like.

Sadly, far too many of these unique, independent businesses close every year. When I learn of one closing I will move it to the category Vanishing NYC. They may be gone but they’ll never be forgotten!

Neighborhoods

Business Type

Bluestone Lane, East Village, Manhattan

Bluestone Lane is a third wave café. That is to say that they strive for a higher standard of coffee. There are at least 100 third wave cafés in New York City. You want a good cup, you can get it here. And for the distinguished coffee drinkers from Australia, they will make you a flat white! They even call themselves an Australian style café.

Be forewarned, they are cashless! Apparently it's the new trend. They have a handful of locations in the city. The location pictured is in Astor Place.

Bluestone Lane 51 Astor Place, East Village, Manhattan.

CafesLeanne StaplesAugust 6, 2022East Village, Manhattan

Discover NYC – Your Guide to Indie Businesses

Neighborhoods

Business Type

Bluestone Lane, East Village, Manhattan