Destinations / New York City / Top Things to Do in New York City for Shoppers in Greenwich Village
Top Things to Do in New York City for Shoppers in Greenwich Village
1. C.O. Bigelow
Step into America’s oldest apothecary, a Victorian-era pharmacy lined with shelves of heritage remedies, luxe skincare, and grooming goods. It’s a time-capsule shopping experience with attentive pharmacists and hard-to-find brands.
✓ Why Go:
For beauty aficionados and gift hunters seeking cult products and custom care with old-world charm.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday mornings for the calmest browsing and personalized attention.
✓ Insider Tip:
Ask about house-made Bigelow formulations and travel-sized favorites at the counter.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Shoppers rave about the throwback atmosphere and expert guidance.
2. Three Lives & Company
A beloved neighborhood bookstore with tightly curated shelves, handwritten staff notes, and a quiet, literary hum. It’s where browsing feels like a conversation with well-read friends.
✓ Why Go:
Perfect for finding your next read and distinctive gifts that feel personally recommended.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late afternoon on weekdays for unhurried perusing.
✓ Insider Tip:
Ask staff for Greenwich Village–set reads to pair with your stroll.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Praised as a cozy haven with impeccable taste and genuine warmth.
3. Murray's Cheese
Bleecker Street’s cheese institution stocks wheels from around the world, charcuterie, and pantry gems. Knowledgeable mongers guide you to the perfect wedge and pairing.
✓ Why Go:
A must for gourmet shoppers building picnic spreads or edible souvenirs.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Before lunch on weekdays to avoid tasting-counter lines.
✓ Insider Tip:
Request a custom cut and ask for pairing ideas from the cave-aged selections.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors love the generous samples and expert, friendly advice.
4. McNulty's Tea & Coffee Co.
Since 1895, burlap sacks of beans and tins of tea have perfumed this narrow Christopher Street shop. Browse rare single-origin coffees and classic tea blends by the ounce.
✓ Why Go:
For serious sippers seeking fresh-roasted coffee and hard-to-find teas to take home.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Mornings for the fullest aroma and fastest service.
✓ Insider Tip:
Bring a reusable container—staff can fill it and label with brew notes.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Regulars call it an old-school gem with unbeatable freshness.
5. Porto Rico Importing Co.
A Village staple for bulk beans, loose-leaf teas, and coffee gear. The earthy, aromatic space invites lingering and sampling seasonal roasts.
✓ Why Go:
Great value and variety for stocking your kitchen or gifting caffeine lovers.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Early afternoon on weekdays to compare roasts without crowds.
✓ Insider Tip:
Ask about the roast date and snag smaller bags to try multiple blends.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Fans praise the prices, selection, and nostalgic vibe.
6. Faicco's Italian Specialties
A classic pork store turned Italian deli with hanging salumi, fresh mozzarella, and pantry staples from Italy. Grab provisions for a Village picnic or take-home feast.
✓ Why Go:
For artisan meats, cheeses, and old-country flavors on beloved Bleecker.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late morning before the lunch rush.
✓ Insider Tip:
Order fresh mozzarella to-go—made daily and sells out.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Widely loved for quality, authenticity, and generous portions.
7. Myers of Keswick
A British grocer tucked into the West Village, stocked with imported sweets, savory pies, and pantry favorites. It’s a cheerful stop for expats and Anglophiles alike.
✓ Why Go:
Pick up handmade pork pies, chocolates, and UK staples you won’t find elsewhere.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Afternoons midweek for the best pastry selection.
✓ Insider Tip:
Call ahead for warm sausage rolls—they disappear quickly.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Customers adore the friendly staff and authentic flavors of home.
8. Greenwich Letterpress
A charming paper boutique with whimsical cards, custom stationery, and New York–themed prints. The design-forward selection makes souvenir shopping feel personal.
✓ Why Go:
Ideal for meaningful, mailable mementos and bespoke invitations.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Early evening on weekdays when the shop is quiet.
✓ Insider Tip:
Ask about neighborhood-inspired designs exclusive to the store.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Shoppers praise the clever cards and thoughtful curation.
9. House of Oldies
A vinyl purist’s paradise specializing in classic rock, soul, and doo-wop. No CDs, just well-kept records and encyclopedic staff knowledge.
✓ Why Go:
For crate-diggers chasing clean pressings and conversation-worthy finds.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday afternoons to flip through bins at your own pace.
✓ Insider Tip:
Ask for titles not on display—the back room holds surprises.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Collectors appreciate the quality stock and expert recommendations.
10. Chess Forum
Part shop, part clubhouse, this Thompson Street institution sells boards, pieces, and puzzles amid ongoing games. It captures the Village’s intellectual, playful spirit.
✓ Why Go:
Pick up a distinctive chess set and soak in a slice of neighborhood culture.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Evenings for lively play or mornings for quieter browsing.
✓ Insider Tip:
Request a demo of travel-friendly magnetic sets and weighted pieces.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors call it welcoming, quirky, and quintessentially Village.
