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

Veselka, East Village, Manhattan

Yum! It’s really difficult to choose what to eat at Veselka as they have so many fabulous dishes. I love their borscht and pierogis. But that’s just a few of the amazing things to choose from.

They opened in 1954! That’s really remarkable for a city with 40,000 restaurants. There is no such thing as luck when it comes to surviving here. They are open 24 hours. Yep, this is the city that never sleeps.

Veselka is Ukrainian for rainbow and I say it translates to comfort food. This is a must go to restaurant in NYC.

Veselka - 144 Second Avenue at 9th Street

RestaurantsLeanne StaplesJuly 1, 2022East Village, Manhattan

Discover NYC – Your Guide to Indie Businesses

Neighborhoods

Business Type

Veselka, East Village, Manhattan