Author: Site Adminstrator
One of the world’s best bars is opening tonight in the East Village
A few years ago, I found myself in Barcelona for the second time in under a year. Happy to tag along on my sister’s work trip, and benefit from the free hotel, I spent a good chunk of my days exploring the city solo. Armed with a list of must-visit tapas places and best bars to check off, the five-star dive bar, Two Schmucks, was high on my list. A known punk bar in the El Raval area, the bar had recently ranked number seven on The World’s 50 Best Bars. But after a bit of internet sleuthing, I found that just a few days after the designation, six of the seven team members left the operation, citing professional differences among the partners. But as a turn of fate, the Schmucks were coming stateside, as business partners Moe Aljaff and Juliette Larrouy had the keys to a new bar in the East Village. Together, they hoped to bring the ethos of Schmucks to the city.
“The beauty of the schmuck. brand is that it’s ever evolving and truly cannot be contained to one thought, idea, drink, or mood, but the constant is mine and Juliette’s lives and where we are at a certain point of time,” said co-owner of Schmuck., Moe Aljaff, in a press release.
While starting strong with a series of successful pop-ups, what followed was a long period of “when will they open” due to construction delays. But even then, the team rolled up their sleeves, relying on YouTube and ChatGPT to literally put the bar together themselves. And despite the wait, the energy around the opening didn’t waiver.
“This has been a labor of love to the fullest. We’ve been so welcomed by our New York hospitality family, who have been a great help to us, as well as the locals whose excitement for this project has given us those small energy boosts needed to keep pushing on,” said Aljaff.
After a year plus of build up, the wait is officially over as Schmuck. is finally opening its doors.
As of tonight, Schmuck. is open and hopes to bring a neighborhood playground to the East Village. Inspired by a mix of Mid-Century Modern, the Space Age and Brutalist design movements, the 1,600-square foot bar is broken up into two spaces. The all-seated experience found in the cherry red living room offers 12 original cocktails that call to familiar ingredients and dishes, like the cinnamon bun and coffee number, FIKA, and the fennel-forward, salad-inspired BLANKA.
While concrete-heavy, the smaller room leans more casual, centered around a long wooden table geared for gathering. Ten cocktails round out the menu here, like the Caramelized Apple and the Le Banané, popularly featured during their pop-up days. Snacking can also be had here, with a menu that includes White Bean Cacio e Pepe, Crushed Potatoes with a spicy peanut sauce and the Chocolate & Olive Oil, a dark chocolate mousse topped with salt flakes.
After the rollercoaster of the past few years, Aljaff is more than ready to bring good drinks, food and positive vibes to the neighborhood.
“At the end of the day, we’re just a bunch of schmucks from all over, joining forces to provide memorable moments for our guests,” said Aljaff.
Greenpoint Affordable Housing Lottery Lists Scenic Waterfront Units From $1,500
Brooklyn living comes at a cost, but a new Greenpoint affordable housing lottery combines luxury and comfort at an accessible rate. (Oh, and did we mention the apartments are stationed along the East River waterfront?)
If you’re keen on a trendy neighborhood with Polish roots, delicious eateries, thrift shops, and one of our favorite NYC bookstores, you might want to consider having a look at the listings at 18 India Street in Greenpoint. Though the area does boast quaint brownstones, this large-scale unit errs on the side of modern with a bespoke design, floor-to-ceiling windows, and Caesarstone countertops — and it’s certainly a welcome addition to the skyline views.
Next to the NYC Ferry and two blocks from the Greenpoint Avenue G-train station, 18 India Street has a lot of enticing features that just might convince you to pack your bags. Here’s what you need to know.
Greenpoint affordable housing lottery: see 18 India Street
A modern and sustainable unit, 18 India Street offers studios from $1,537, one bedrooms from $1,639, and two-bedrooms from $1,953. The building is open to household sizes from one to five and eligible incomes range from $55,612 to $218,010.
There’s a lot to love about each unit, including energy-efficient appliances, in-unit washer/dryers (THE DREAM!), and private outdoor spaces. The building community will also be able to take advantage of conference areas, a two-story gym, rooftop pool, and rooftop entertainment spaces. Need we say more? OK, we will: you’re also right next to some of the best waterfront parks in the entire city.
Make sure to apply on Housing Connect before the listing comes to a close on March 28th. If you’re thinking about another location, a popular listing in Gowanus closes on February 3rd. Wherever you decide to apply, make sure to read our five secret tips to winning a NYC housing lottery — straight from the pros! Good luck!
18 India Street Brooklyn, NY
Studios $1,537-$3,435; One bed: $1,639-$3,674; Two beds: $1,953-$4,395
Eligibile Income: $55,612 – $218,010
Deadline to apply: March 28, 2025
The post Greenpoint Affordable Housing Lottery Lists Scenic Waterfront Units From $1,500 appeared first on Secret NYC.
NYC Swears In Its Second Honorary Dog Mayor, Simon
Finally, a politician we can all agree on: the second NYC honorary dog mayor, Simon.
The Basset Cattle Dog, a very good boy, is ready to assist New Yorkers with two and four legs ahead of his new governmental undertaking, and we’re thrilled that he has been sworn into office. (If he’s inspiring you to add a furry friend to your family, we’re giving you a heads up that Queens’ first public animal shelter is officially up and running.)
“I am grateful, as is Simon, for the opportunity to use this platform for the next two years to promote animal fostering and adoption in New York City as well as to raise awareness and fundraising for all of the amazing organizations on the ground already doing this work,” his owner, writer Sophie Vershbow, said during the inauguration at City Hall.
data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DFTrcV_PhRM/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
But not unlike human politics, the lead-up to Simon’s swearing-in was a hectic election cycle, one in which overly anxious humans (not canines) were buying votes via crypto currency with hopes their pup of choice would rise in the ranks. Fortunately, the meaning behind the position is a lot less tainted. Inspired by the dog mayor election of Littleton, Colorado, New Yorker Stephen Calabria decided to bring this newfound tradition east in order to spread joy and “provide a unique opportunity for NYC community development; and to present politics and civics in a positive, educational, and compelling way.”
Simon, we are anxiously awaiting your legislation. In the meantime, you and your canine companions should visit Happy Tails, NYC’s new “theme park for dogs.”
You might also like: The Best Dog-Friendly Restaurants & Bars In NYC
The post NYC Swears In Its Second Honorary Dog Mayor, Simon appeared first on Secret NYC.
An affordable housing lottery just opened on the Greenpoint waterfront
We love New York, but we’ll never love how expensive it’s gotten to live in this city. Luckily, housing lotteries still allow us to snatch luxury apartments at well below the market rate. The bad news? The competition can get very, very fierce.
But in this house, we don’t give up. Another affordable housing lottery just opened up in a new building in Greenpoint, so we just got another shot at snatching our dream apartment. Here’s everything you need to know about how to take part.
RECOMMENDED: A first look at the massive new cultural space that just opened in Brooklyn
Where is it?
The new development is located at 18 India Street, which sits along the Greenpoint waterfront.
What units are available?
The most affordable units are for families earning 75 percent of the Area Median Income. They include 18 studios, 34 one bedroom apartments, and 32 two bedroom apartments
How much do they cost?
The monthly fees are around $1,537 for a studio, and you have to make anywhere between $55,612.00 to $76,090.00 to qualify. One bedrooms are $1,639, and a single person household has to earn between $59,520.00 and $76,090.00 to qualify. Two bedroom apartments are $1,953, and you have to earn between $71,349.00 and $87,010.00 to qualify. The numbers vary based on household number.
What else do we know about this building?
Amenities are becoming increasingly important for New Yorkers, and this building has no shortage of features that will make your life easier. In and around the building, you’ll find lounges, terraces, and a riverfront park. There’s also co-working and conference areas that will ensure privacy and convenience for remote work, as well as a two-story gym and rooftop pool put wellness first. Residents are allowed two pets per household, with restrictions.
What’s nearby?
You’re three blocks from the famous Radio Bakery and a couple of blocks from MADRE, a restaurant known for its innovative new American dishes. You’re also right at the waterfront, so getting to the heart of Williamsburg shouldn’t take more than a couple of minutes on a bike.
How do I apply and by what date?
First, you have to create an account on NYC Housing Connect, the main portal for the city’s affordable housing lotteries. You can find this listing here. You have until March 28.
6 Great Things To Do In NYC’s Little Greece, Queens
NYC is one of the most diverse cities in the world, and hidden across the little pockets of its five boroughs are plenty of micro-neighborhoods highlighting the various cultures that make it so. From Little Tokyo to Little Paris, Little Egypt to Little Guyana, the list goes on!
You’re surely aware of Astoria, Queens; however, many neighborhood locals would actually know it as NYC’s Little Greece. At one point, this area of the city was home to one of the largest Greek populations outside of Greece. So let’s get into the ins and outs of this particularly special micro-neighborhood and what you should do and eat while you’re there.
1. Eat lots of authentic Greek food
Of course, no visit to Little Greece is official without stopping for some delicious Greek food. Home to some of the best Greek restaurants NYC has to offer, you’re truly spoiled for choice in this neighborhood. We personally love Taverna Kyclades for its incredible seafood options from fish soup to Branzino.
Find even more of our favorite Greek spots in Astoria
2. Visit the Hellenic Cultural Center
Astoria’s Hellenic Cultural Center dates back to 1985. It was created to provide a safe space for the Greek-American community to promote and engage with their cultural, religious and ethnic identity. The building is available to host various events, from musical and theatrical presentations to art exhibits. Learn more on their website.
They most recently hosted a Christmas concert with the East River Children and Youth Orchestras.
25-02 Newtown Ave, Astoria
3. Shop at the largest Greek specialty food store in the country
data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C5VyDokueGE/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
You’ll find everything you need to cook a delicious Greek meal at Titan Foods. Explore the extensive aisles of imported Greek products and bakery items. Pick up specialty olive oil and restock on Greek coffee beans.
4. Stroll through Astoria Park
Josh Appel
Whether you simply want to take in the waterfront views, or play a game of tennis or basketball, a trip to Astoria Park is an absolute must. Plus, in the summer time you can go for a splash in the oldest and largest pool in NYC.
19 19th St, Astoria
5. Sip on a beer at NYC’s oldest beer garden
Though not quite tied to Greek culture, while you’re in the area you may as well visit Bohemian Hall, NYC’s oldest beer garden. As you sip on your beer, imagine you’re doing so on a sandy beach of Naxos.
29-19 24th Avenue, Astoria
6. Grab a bite to take home from a food truck
Surely, you’ll work up an appetite once again after all your exploring, so at this time we suggest you stop at one of Little Greece’s iconic food trucks to grab something to take home. Our Branded Writer Liz personally recommends King Souvlaki for their pork souvlaki, but you can never go wrong with a classic gyro or platter if you’re really hungry. The truck is cash only so be sure to have some on you before you order.
Listed on the corner of 31st St & 31st Av
The post 6 Great Things To Do In NYC’s Little Greece, Queens appeared first on Secret NYC.
Bryant Park Grill Is Closing This Spring, And A Jean-Georges Restaurant Will Take Its Place
It’s the end of an era: news of the Bryant Park Grill closing is official, and the iconic NYC restaurant will serve its final meals in April.
The Midtown staple, which has had a difficult time staying afloat, is nestled in the park behind the New York Public Library, where it operated for three decades and created a verdant and welcoming atmosphere. Despite its charm and $31 million earnings in 2024, a struggle between the Bryant Park Corporation and Ark Restaurants Corp., which runs the grill, ultimately led to the lease not being renewed.
According to reports, a Jean-Georges restaurant is set to take its place and will sign an 18-year lease within the coming days. It’s projected to mirror the famed chef’s Upper East Side eatery, JoJo, and likely to open in spring in 2026. However, Seaport Entertainment Group, which runs Jean-Georges’ restaurants, is set to go through a $12 million renovation so outdoor seating can open in fall 2025.
The parks department still has to sign off on the plans, but there are certainly mixed feelings. Some are looking forward to the chef’s forthcoming outpost, which promises a unique dining experience that is accessible. Others, however, are concerned about the chef’s elegant reputation and affordability. Additionally, staffers had concerns about losing their jobs, but reports suggest that those who are employed by Bryant Park Grill will have the opportunity to interview to keep their roles.
As more information becomes available, we’ll be sure to keep you posted about the location’s future. In the meantime, make sure to peruse the menus of the most beautiful restaurants in NYC and snag a spot for Valentine’s Day.
The post Bryant Park Grill Is Closing This Spring, And A Jean-Georges Restaurant Will Take Its Place appeared first on Secret NYC.