Like all of NYC, the West Village and Meatpacking District areas of west Manhattan have had many incarnations. Having shed the somewhat seedy past, today, the leafy, beautiful neighbourhood is home to expensive brownstones, cobblestoned streets, great shopping, and many delicious restaurants. Spend a weekend living like a New Yorker and exploring the enduringly popular and picturesque area.
DAY ONE
Book a Corner King at The Standard High Line. Seemingly like magic, you'll wake up overlooking the Hudson River or uptown Manhattan—feeling like you're floating above the city. Enjoy a slow start that includes coffee in bed, taking in the view and exhilarating energy of the city below as you lazily prepare for the day.
Brunch at Buvette
Start with brunch at this tiny neighbourhood favourite. Reminiscent of a Parisian cafe, Buvette will make you believe you're no longer in NYC, especially as you enjoy a perfectly-made café au lait. They are known for their Waffle Sandwich, and with good reason—the combination of buttermilk waffle, egg, bacon, and gruyère is the best mix of salty-sweet. It's the weekend, indulge.
Culture courtesy of the Whitney
When you're full, stroll back toward the river to visit the Whitney Museum. The Renzo Piano-designed museum focuses on American art and is regularly credited with giving initial attention to some of the most recognized American artists throughout the past century. Make sure to check out the well-curated gift shop on the windowed ground floor.
Aperitivo at Bar Pisellino
Aperitivo is done so well at Bar Pisellino, for the second time of the day, you'll feel as if you've been sent to Europe, albeit this time to Italy. If weather permits, enjoy your Aperol Spritz or Negroni al fresco so you can people watch. If not, sit amongst the beautiful marbled interiors and sample the snack selection, which is so Italian and hits the spot—we especially love the Parmesan Crisps and creamy Arancini.
Dinner at Standard Grill
At this point, The Grill as it's familiarly known has become a neighbourhood staple. Featuring a menu of East Coast restaurant classics with a twist, as well as a comprehensive raw bar and excellent wine program, you're guaranteed to have a satisfying dinner. The happening hotel is a perfect place for a nightcap; head to the Top Of The Standard aka Boom Boom Room for a panoramic view of Manhattan and the best bathrooms ever.
DAY TWO
Brunch at L'Artusi
Ten-year-old L'Artusi is a still a popular choice for Sunday brunch. The vibrant setting is energetic, busy, and quite fun. The Italian-style menu features truly fantastic Lemon-Ricotta Pancakes, alongside a selection of their delicious pasta if you prefer something more savoury.
Shopping
Lined with small specialty stores that are excellent for perusing, the West Village streets are lovely for a Sunday stroll. There is fashion for the whole family: check out Yoya on Hudson for childrenswear, Odin on Greenwich Avenue for a comprehensive selection of style for men, and Hotoveli on West 4th for an unexpected curation of women's ready to wear. Idlewild Books on 7th Avenue focuses on travel—it will remind you how amazing a well-loved bookstore can feel in today's age of Amazon—while pioneering CAP Beauty on West 10th has a complete selection of natural beauty products, alongside a spa should you fancy a treatment.
Dinner at L'Accolade
This newish, cosy bistro is from a duo of Korean-American chefs who met by way of Cafe Boulud. The warm, low-lit interiors are ideal for a Sunday night date. The menu has a bunch of great options—begin with a selection of small plates for sharing; we love the Warm Grains and the Gnocchi Parisienne—followed by one of the mains, each an inspired take on classic French favourites. The unusual wine list is focused on natural wines and encourages experimentation.
