15 Cool & Underrated NYC Spots (THAT Most Tourist LiSTS SKIP)
- Taylor Mosley
- 23 hours ago
- 12 min read
Looking for unique things to do in New York City?
When people ask me for a New York City guide packed with hidden gems, they usually want two things: the cool local spots they can brag about discovering before they blew up—and the best viral, TikTok-famous locations that are worth the hype despite the lines.
So, I made a list that serves both.
Some of these are quiet corners I’m saving for solo nights and soft thoughts. Others are iconic “tourist-core” experiences I’ve secretly wanted to try for years but haven’t quite made time for yet. Either way, this list is curated. Intentional. Taylor-coded.
This isn’t your basic NYC roundup. I love underrated NYC spots. You won’t find the Empire State Building here. Or Times Square. Or any place that feels like it was built to be seen but never felt.
These are the cool, layered, camera-shy destinations I’ve bookmarked—ones that might just make you fall in love with the city all over again. Hidden wine bars. Floating parks. Speakeasies, rooftops, and absinthe. Basically, places I haven’t been to... yet. But maybe, just maybe—you’ll beat me there.
Planning a quick trip? I’ve got you.
Check out my post: 24 Hours in NYC: A Cool Girl’s One-Day Itinerary That Hits Everything — from espresso to rooftops to real ones only.
Underrated NYC Spots You’ll Want to Gatekeep
(But Shouldn’t)
Saishin at Gansevoort (Meatpacking District)
Address: 18 9th Ave, New York, NY 10014 (Gansevoort Hotel Rooftop)
Hours: Wednesday–Saturday: 6:00 PM–10:00 PM; Sunday: 5:00 PM–9:00 PM
Price Range: Omakase: $115–$150 | Cocktails: $18–$25
Website: exploresaishin.com
Perched atop the Gansevoort Hotel, Saishin offers an omakase experience that marries traditional Japanese techniques with modern flair. The intimate setting features a 16-seat sushi counter and outdoor booths, providing panoramic views of Manhattan and the Hudson River. Executive Chef Jorge Dionicio, blending his Edomae-style training with Peruvian influences, crafts a menu that surprises and delights.
Vegan Options: While Saishin specializes in seafood, the kitchen is accommodating to vegan diners. Upon request, chefs can prepare a custom vegan omakase featuring seasonal vegetables, pickled daikon, avocado, mushroom nigiri, and cucumber rolls. The focus on seasonality ensures a fresh and flavorful experience.
Taylor’s Travel Tip: Based on my research, this is one of the best rooftops in NYC to catch a golden hour omakase with views. So, book your reservation for golden hour. Order champagne or sake. Wear something edgy and bring someone who takes photos well.
Darling Rooftop at Park Lane Hotel (Central Park South)
Address: 36 Central Park South, New York, NY 10019
Hours: Tuesday–Thursday: 5:00 PM–12:00 AM; Friday–Saturday: 5:00 PM–1:00 AM
Price Range: Cocktails: $24–$30 | Small Plates: $18–$38 | Caviar Service: $165 | Champagne Bottles: $115–$1,500+
Darling is the kind of rooftop bar you’d dream about if Wes Anderson directed a cocktail hour. Perched 47 floors above Central Park, this floral-laced hideaway is the only rooftop lounge directly overlooking the park, and it doesn’t take that fact lightly. Think: lush garden interiors, gilded décor, skyline views so sharp they feel like CGI, and a playlist curated like a designer fragrance ad.
Vegan Options: The menu isn’t vegan-forward, but it is vegan-flexible. The Crudité & Trio of Dips (hummus, muhammara, baba ghanoush) is naturally vegan. Ask to modify the Wild Mushroom Flatbread by removing cheese, or request a no-butter version of the French fries. Staff is accommodating if you’re clear about dietary preferences, especially for snacks and cocktails. The drinks are generally vegan-friendly—opt for champagne or a citrusy gin cocktail (their house French 75 is sharp, floral, and photo-ready).
Taylor’s Travel Tip: Go just before golden hour and request outdoor seating—it’s first come, first served. Order one drink, linger, and let the view sell itself. Darling isn’t where you pregame—it’s where you make an entrance. Leave this spot just before the crowd gets rowdy. Timing is everything here. Elegance is quiet.
Popular at PUBLIC Hotel (Lower East Side)
Address: 215 Chrystie St, New York, NY 10002
Hours: Dinner: Thursday–Saturday: 6:00 PM–11:00 PM; Brunch: Saturday–Sunday: 11:00 AM–3:00 PM
Price: Appetizers: $21–$28 | Entrées: $32–$48 | Cocktails: $16–$20
Website: popularnyc.com
Tucked inside Ian Schrager’s PUBLIC Hotel, Popular is a Peruvian-inspired restaurant led by Chef Diego Muñoz, formerly of Lima’s Astrid y Gastón. The space feels equal parts lush jungle and mid-century lounge, with over 50 ferns suspended from the ceiling and cognac leather seating below.
Vegan Options: While not a fully vegan menu, the chefs are accommodating. Ask for the seasonal veggie stir-fry or the quinoa salad modified to fit your plant-based needs.
Taylor’s Travel Tip: After dinner, head upstairs to The Roof at PUBLIC for skyline views and a nightcap. It’s a whole vibe—and the elevator ride alone is an experience.
Spicy Moon (Multiple Locations – East Village, West Village, Bowery, Chelsea)
Addresses:East Village: 328 E 6th StWest Village: 68 W 3rd StBowery: 265 BoweryChelsea: 328 W 15th St
Hours: Daily 11:30 AM–10:00 PM (slightly later on weekends)
Price: Appetizers: $6–$12 | Mains: $12–$18 | Cocktails: $17–$20
Website: spicymoonnyc.com
Spicy Moon is a 100% vegan Szechuan restaurant that brings the heat and the hype. Expect tingly peppercorns, wok-seared vegetables, and chili oil that stains your dreams—in the best way. The decor is minimal and moody, with bursts of red neon and tightly packed tables.
Vegan Options: Everything is vegan. Don’t overthink it. Standouts include the dan dan noodles with Beyond crumbles, and dry pot with customizable veggies. I don't like eggplant but apparently the crispy eggplant that tastes like magic.
Taylor’s Travel Tip: I f you’re hunting for the best vegan-friendly NYC restaurants, Spicy Moon is a must.Go on a weekday to avoid lines. West Village is best for dates; East Village is better for chaotic late-night hangs. Get the scallion pancakes. Trust me.
Superiority Burger (East Village)
Address: 119 Avenue A, New York, NY 10009
Hours: Wednesday–Sunday: 12:00 PM–9:00 PM
Price: Burgers: $9–$12 | Sides: $5–$9
Website: superiorityburger.com
What started as a cult favorite in a closet-sized space now lives in a renovated bistro—but hasn’t lost its punk rock roots. The burgers are small, plant-based, and pack a nostalgic punch without trying too hard.
Vegan Options: Mostly vegan, with a rotating menu that always includes the signature burger (vegan by default), creative veggie sides, and at least one dessert that tastes illegal.
Taylor’s Travel Tip: This is the burger you eat post-party, post-flirt, post-feeling-your-look. It hits harder after midnight eyeliner and too many spritzes.
The Nines (NoHo)
Address: 9 Great Jones St, New York, NY 10012
Hours: Open nightly
Price: Cocktails: $20–$30 | Small Plates: $18–$45
Website: theninesnyc.com
A red velvet supper club with Murano glass chandeliers and a baby grand piano that gets played—often. It’s moody, upscale, and feels like you’ve stepped into a noir film with better lighting and more sequins.
Vegan Options: The kitchen is meat-forward, but they’ll accommodate. Go for the marinated olives, seasonal veg, and a bartender who can mix a French 75 that slaps.
Taylor’s Travel Tip: Set an alarm—reservations drop two weeks in advance at midnight. Can’t snag one? Show up and ask for the lounge. It’s walk-in only and arguably better.
Sunset at Pier 57’s Rooftop Park (Chelsea)
Address: 25 11th Ave, New York, NY 10011
Hours: Daily 6:00 AM–1:00 AM
Price: Free
Website: pier57nyc.com
This 2-acre public rooftop park floats above the Hudson River with wide-angle skyline views and minimalist wooden loungers. It’s the kind of spot where you can read, journal, picnic, or cry (aesthetic tears only).
Vegan Options Nearby: Market 57 downstairs houses plant-based vendors like Ras Plant Based and Local Roots. Think grain bowls, samosas, and mushroom tacos.
Taylor’s Travel Tip: Arrive just before golden hour with a book or a sandwich. No tagging required. This is for you.
Ladybird (East Village)
Address: 111 E 7th St, New York, NY 10009
Hours: Monday–Sunday: 5:00 PM–11:00 PM
Price: Small Plates: $12–$24 | Cocktails: $15–$20
Website: ladybirdny.com
If candlelight could cook, it would open Ladybird. This vegan tapas bar is dripping in velvet, gold-framed mirrors, and tiny fork drama. Everything is rich—flavor, mood, ambiance.
Vegan Options: 100% vegan. Order the fondue, a seasonal veg plate, and a cocktail that matches your outfit. Done.
Taylor’s Travel Tip: Sit near the window if you're feeling mysterious. Don’t rush. You’re not in a hurry—you’re in your era.
P.S. If you’re looking for cool bars in New York City or unique places to visit in NYC that aren’t on every tourist list, keep scrolling. These next spots are ultra-under-the-radar.
Public Hotel’s Secret Mirror Bathroom & The Roof (Lower East Side)
Address: 215 Chrystie St, New York, NY 10002
Hours: Accessible during hotel bar hours
Price: Free to visit; drinks at The Roof: $15–$20
Website: publichotels.com
Behind the sleek design of PUBLIC Hotel lies one of the city’s most unexpected photo ops—a hidden mirror bathroom that feels like an art installation. Floor-to-ceiling reflections create an optical illusion that’s dizzying, disorienting, and totally worth the elevator ride. It’s part secret, part spectacle, and a rite of passage for anyone curating a “cool NYC” photo dump.
Once you’ve snapped your photos, head upstairs to The Roof—a sleek, indoor-outdoor lounge with floor-to-ceiling windows and panoramic views stretching from the Williamsburg Bridge to the Empire State. Expect curated playlists, velvet banquettes, and a fashionable crowd that always looks camera-ready.
Vegan Options: While The Roof isn’t a food-forward venue, their cocktail menu includes crisp champagnes and citrus-forward gin drinks that play well with your vegan lifestyle. For plant-based bites, start your evening at Popular, the hotel’s Peruvian restaurant downstairs, where you can request custom veggie dishes.
Taylor’s Travel Tip: Time it right—arrive just before sunset to grab a good seat at the rooftop. Snap your mirror selfie, sip something sparkling, and enjoy a view that feels like a love letter to downtown.
Eleven Madison Park (Flatiron District)
Address: 11 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10010
Hours: Tuesday–Saturday: 5:30 PM–10:00 PM
Price Range: Tasting Menu: $365 | Bar Tasting: $195 | Pairings: $105–$365
Website: elevenmadisonpark.com
This is what happens when a fine dining temple has a plant-based epiphany. Under the vision of Chef Daniel Humm, Eleven Madison Park reinvented itself as a fully vegan, three-Michelin-starred experience—without losing an ounce of drama or dazzle. It's seasonal, cerebral, and wildly elegant.
Vegan Options: The entire menu is plant-based, featuring dishes like tonburi "caviar" with peas, tomato tea, and a variety of seasonal vegetable preparations. The restaurant's commitment to vegan cuisine extends to its beverage program, with both alcoholic and non-alcoholic pairings designed to complement the flavors of the dishes.
Taylor’s Travel Tip: Reservations open on the first of each month for the following month and fill up quickly. For a more relaxed experience, consider the bar tasting menu, which offers a shorter version of the full tasting in a more casual setting.
Dirt Candy (Lower East Side)
Address: 86 Allen St, New York, NY 10002
Hours: Tuesday–Saturday 5:30 PM–10:30 PM
Price Range: $110 per person (tip included, tax not included) | Wine Pairing: Additional $55 per person
Website: https://www.dirtcandynyc.com/
Dirt Candy is a Michelin-starred vegetarian restaurant helmed by Chef Amanda Cohen. The establishment offers a five-course tasting menu that changes seasonally, showcasing inventive vegetable-focused dishes. The current Spring Menu, launched on April 11th, is a tribute to green, featuring dishes like fennel mousse with seaweed caviar, spring peas with mango custard and Thai green curry cream, and artichoke-stuffed pasta in a five spice broth. The meal concludes with a unique Caesar Salad-based dessert. The restaurant also offers a wine pairing curated by their beverage director, Michael Cherry.
Vegan Options: While Dirt Candy is a vegetarian restaurant, many dishes can be made vegan upon request. The kitchen is accommodating to dietary preferences, ensuring a delightful experience for vegan diners.
Taylor’s Travel Tip: Reservations are highly recommended due to the restaurant's popularity. For a memorable experience, consider booking the wine pairing to complement the tasting menu. The restaurant's creative approach to vegetables offers a dining experience that's both innovative and satisfying.
Gem Wine/Gen Home (Lower East Side)
Address: 181 Mott St, New York, NY 10012
Hours: Rotating pop-up schedule—check Instagram for updates
Price Range: Wines by the glass: $12–$18 | Small plates: $10–$20
Gem Wine closed as of March 29, 2025; operations moved to Gem Home at 181 Mott Street
Website: gem-nyc.com
Gem Wine was a cozy, intimate wine bar known for its curated selection of natural wines and seasonal small plates. Chef Flynn McGarry created a space that felt more like a friend's living room than a traditional bar. Although Gem Wine closed in March 2025, its spirit lives on at Gem Home, where the focus remains on quality wines and thoughtful dishes.
Taylor's Travel Tip: Visit Gem Home for a similar experience, and don't hesitate to ask the staff for wine recommendations—they're passionate and knowledgeable.
Pusu (Williamsburg, Brooklyn)
Address: 318 Bedford Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11249
Hours: Mon–Thurs: 5:00 PM–10:00 PM; Fri–Sun: 12:00 PM–10:30 PM
Price Range: Small Plates: $12–$18 | Mains: $19.50–$30.50 | Cocktails: $17–$20
Website: pusubrooklyn.com
Pusu is a modern Asian fusion restaurant located in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. The establishment blends traditional Asian culinary wisdom with contemporary cooking techniques, offering a menu that emphasizes natural ingredients and innovative flavors. The ambiance is warm and unpretentious, providing a comfortable setting for both family meals and casual gatherings.
Vegan Options: Pusu offers a variety of vegan dishes, including Mapo Tofu, Spicy Dry Pot, Sesame Beyond Chicken, and Mushroom and Tofu selections. The restaurant is accommodating to dietary preferences, ensuring a delightful experience for vegan diners.
Taylor’s Travel Tip: Visit during weekday evenings for a more relaxed dining experience. The Spicy Dry Pot is a standout dish, offering a customizable mix of vegetables and proteins in a flavorful broth. Pair it with one of their signature cocktails for a complete meal.
Ophelia Lounge NYC (Midtown East)
Address: 3 Mitchell Pl, 26th Floor, New York, NY 10017
Hours: Sun–Wed: 5:00 PM–11:00 PM; Thurs: till 12 AM; Fri–Sat: till 2 AM
Price Range: Cocktails: $19–$25 | Small Plates: $16–$38 | Champagne Experiences: $300–$595
Website: opheliany.com
Perched atop the historic Beekman Tower, Ophelia Lounge offers a 360° greenhouse terrace with panoramic views of Manhattan and the East River. The ambiance blends Art Deco elegance with modern sophistication, featuring plush seating, intricate lighting, and a curated cocktail menu by mixologist Amir Babayoff.
Vegan Options: While the menu is not exclusively vegan, options like the Edamame Hummus (tahini, lemon, cumin, pistachio, EVOO, pita) are plant-based. Additionally, during brunch, the Vegetarian Tower includes items such as Beyond Meat & avocado sliders, edamame hummus with warm pita, and seasonal fruit.
Taylor’s Travel Tip: Visit during the weekday Social Hour (5:00 PM–7:00 PM) for $13 classic cocktails and select bites. For a memorable experience, consider the "Taste of the Tower" for two, paired with a bottle of Moët & Chandon, and enjoy the sunset over the skyline. OpenTable
Bar Goto (Lower East Side)
Address: 245 Eldridge St, New York, NY 10002
Hours: Sun–Thurs: 5:00 PM–12:00 AM; Fri–Sat: till 1:00 AM
Price Range: Cocktails: $14–$18 | Small Plates: $8–$15
Website: bargoto.com
Bar Goto is a Japanese-inspired cocktail bar known for its meticulous drinks and elevated bar snacks. The ambiance is minimalist and intimate, making it a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts. Signature offerings include the Sakura Martini and the Yuzu-Calpico Fizz.
Vegan Options: While the menu isn't exclusively vegan, there are several plant-based dishes available. Options include the Kombu Celery (celery, salted kombu, dried red shiso, sesame) and the Veggie Okonomiyaki (shiitake, shimeji, bamboo shoot, chili, pickled mustard greens, konnyaku, scallion). It's advisable to confirm with the staff regarding the use of sauces like Kewpie mayo and okonomi sauce, as they may contain non-vegan ingredients.
Taylor's Travel Tip: Arrive early to secure a seat at the bar, where you can watch the skilled bartenders craft your drink with precision. The intimate setting and attention to detail make it an ideal spot for a relaxed evening.
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BONUS
Ye’s Apothecary (Lower East Side)
Address: 119 Orchard St, New York, NY 10002
Hours: Tues–Thurs: 5:00 PM–12:00 AM; Fri–Sat: till 1:00 AM
Price Range: Cocktails: $18–$20 | Small Plates: $14–$30 | Natural Wine: $17–$19
Website: yesapothecary.com
Tucked away on Orchard Street, Ye’s Apothecary is a speakeasy-style lounge that seamlessly blends vintage Chinese apothecary aesthetics with modern mixology. The dimly lit interior, adorned with antique medicine cabinets and plush seating, sets the stage for an intimate evening. The menu offers Szechuan-inspired tapas and a curated selection of cocktails infused with traditional Asian botanicals.
Vegan Options: While the menu isn't exclusively vegan, there are several plant-based dishes available. Options include the Truffle Mushroom Salad, Cucumber Salad, Garlic Green Beans, and Vegetable Dumplings. The staff is accommodating and can guide you through vegan-friendly selections.
Taylor’s Travel Tip: For a more relaxed experience, consider visiting on a weekday evening to avoid the weekend rush. Reservations are recommended due to the intimate size of the venue. If you're in the mood for a unique cocktail, try the Bird’s Nest, a gin-based drink topped with a whimsical lollipop garnish.
Summit One Vanderbilt
Address: 45 E 42nd St, New York, NY 10017
Hours: Daily: 9:00 AM–12:00 AM
Price Range: General admission from $42
Website: summitov.com
Part art installation, part cloud-kissing observation deck, Summit One is a surrealist’s dream. With mirrored floors, light sculptures, and panoramic views, it’s less “lookout point” and more “main character energy."
Vegan Options Nearby: Dine at Urban Vegan Kitchen in the West Village, known for its creative plant-based dishes and cozy ambiance.
Taylor’s Travel Tip: Avoid wearing skirts or dresses due to the mirrored floors. Sunset visits provide the best lighting for photos.
Alternative: For a more art-focused experience, consider ARTECHOUSE in Chelsea, which offers immersive digital art exhibitions.
If this list gave you butterflies, screenshot it, send it to a friend, or better yet—book the reservation. The city isn’t waiting, and neither should you. Chase golden hour, order the cocktail, kiss someone on a rooftop if the vibe is right.
And if you end up at one of these spots?
Tag me. Tell me. Or keep it your little secret.
Until next time,
Taylor
“Your life is happening—now make it amazing.”
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