Before noon, Nolita looks like the background of a film set in New York. Narrow streets and outdoor seating sometimes make Nolita feel like photographs taken from France or Italy. You might forget for a moment that you’re still in Manhattan. Relatively free of car traffic, the empty streets turn into a commuter’s playground where you can ride freely throughout the neighborhood. Nolita has emerged as a popular shopping destination, with a number of fashion-forward boutiques and vintage shops sprinkled throughout the neighborhood.

 

You can find well-known designer shops like Rag & Bone and Vince, but smaller, independently owned clothing and jewelry shops are hidden gems waiting to be discovered by the diligent explorer. Pop-up art galleries and other shops also keep life exciting in Nolita. Galleries and storefronts open sidewalk shows and prove that not every inspiring art exhibit needs a lot of space. But culture doesn’t end with fashion and art; food is one of the defining attractions in this neighborhood. Both Little Italy and Nolita host summer fairs where festival favorites like funnel cake and corn-on-the-cob are in high demand. At any hour of the day, Nolita offers a fun selection of eateries to choose from.

 

With some of the best restaurants south of Houston, people from all parts of the city flock to Nolita for a good meal. Mostly on the casual side, regulars and long-time residents can often be found at their favorite bars or cafes. Nightlife here is a little more laid back than in other downtown neighborhoods. There are plenty of relaxing places to grab a glass of wine, and divey yet chic bars like Botanica or Sweet and Vicious are local favorites.