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

Physical Graffitea, East Village, Manhattan

Okay, so Physical Graffitea isn't a café. Perhaps they are in a category of their own. If you'd rather do tea, they have an incredible selection black, green, herbal and medicinal teas. They sell tea by the cup, pot or ounce and their teas are organic and fair trade. The name of the shop is because they are located in the building the was on the cover of Led Zepplin's Physical Graffiti album. It's a tiny little store in the hear of the East Village.

Physical Graffitea, 96 St. Mark's Place

Cafes, Specialty StoresLeanne StaplesOctober 8, 2017East Village, Manhattan

Discover NYC – Your Guide to Indie Businesses

Neighborhoods

Business Type

Physical Graffitea, East Village, Manhattan