Destinations / New York City / Top Things to Do in New York City for Shoppers in the Lower East Side
Top Things to Do in New York City for Shoppers in the Lower East Side
1. Essex Market
A century-old public market reborn at Essex Crossing, Essex Market gathers dozens of independent vendors under one roof—produce stands, specialty pantries, spice counters, cheesemongers, and makers selling small-batch goods you’ll want to pack home.
✓ Why Go:
It’s the LES in one stop: heritage purveyors side-by-side with new artisans, perfect for edible souvenirs, picnic supplies, and unique gifts that feel hyper-local.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday mornings for roomy aisles and the best selection; late afternoons bring buzz and tastings.
✓ Insider Tip:
Start on the periphery for seasonal produce, then work inward for prepared foods and pantry gems—most vendors will sample if you ask politely.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Travelers love the community vibe and variety, calling it a delicious snapshot of LES culture without the crowds of Midtown markets.
2. Economy Candy
Since 1937, this beloved sweet shop has stacked floor-to-ceiling with nostalgic treats, international confections, nuts, and house-made chocolate-covered everything.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a time capsule with prices for every budget—great for gifts, retro wrappers, and bulk buys you won’t find elsewhere.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Mornings on weekdays or early evening to avoid weekend lines.
✓ Insider Tip:
Ask staff for the hard-to-find classics behind the counter and mix your own themed gift bag—perfect LES souvenirs.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Families and repeat visitors rave about the selection and friendly staff; many call it a mandatory stop on any LES walk.
3. The Pickle Guys
Barrels of kosher dills, half-sours, pickled pineapple, tomatoes, okra, and more continue the neighborhood’s old-world pickling legacy.
✓ Why Go:
It’s edible LES history in brine—packable jars, snack-size pints, and flavors you can taste on the spot.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late morning to early afternoon when barrels are freshly turned; pre-holiday weeks are lively but busy.
✓ Insider Tip:
Sample across sourness levels before you buy and ask about seasonal specialties like pickled watermelon.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors gush about the friendly tastings and say the flavors are “NYC in a jar.”
4. Russ & Daughters
The century-old appetizing shop sells smoked fish, caviar, babka, and giftable tins—an LES institution for edible luxuries.
✓ Why Go:
Shop iconic New York tastes to take home—gaspe nova, whitefish salad, chocolate babka—and beautifully packaged gifts.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday mornings; weekends see classic ticketed queues.
✓ Insider Tip:
Order take-home items at the counter, then browse the shelves for tote-ready candies, condiments, and branded merch.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Travelers praise the craftsmanship and tradition, calling purchases here a meaningful New York souvenir.
5. Tenement Museum Shop
A thoughtful bookstore-boutique with titles on immigration, labor, and NYC history, plus curated gifts inspired by LES life.
✓ Why Go:
You’ll leave with context as well as keepsakes—smart books, period-inspired homewares, and unique children’s titles.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late morning or early afternoon; it’s calm when tours are out exploring.
✓ Insider Tip:
Even if you don’t take a tour, the shop is open to all—ask staff for reading lists tied to LES themes.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Book lovers call it a hidden gem; many say it’s their favorite museum shop in NYC.
6. Procell
A cult vintage boutique curating 1990s–Y2K tees, sportswear, and archival pieces coveted by stylists and musicians.
✓ Why Go:
Come for one-of-a-kind finds with provenance—this is where statement vintage gets discovered before it trends.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Midweek afternoons; drops often land midweek, so ask what’s new.
✓ Insider Tip:
Tell staff your size and era—they’ll pull sleepers from the back you might miss on the racks.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Shoppers praise the curation and say the quality justifies the price for truly collectible pieces.
7. Bode
Emily Adams Bode Aujla’s LES shop of story-rich garments crafted from antique textiles—quilts, lace, and embroidery reimagined into modern silhouettes.
✓ Why Go:
It’s wearable folk art and a lesson in preservation; every piece feels museum-grade and memorable.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late afternoon for an unhurried browse; weekends can be social and busy.
✓ Insider Tip:
Ask about one-of-a-kind pieces and repairs—staff will share each garment’s provenance.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Design lovers call it inspiring and singular—more gallery than store, yet welcoming.
8. Extra Butter
A cinema-themed Orchard Street boutique fusing streetwear and sneaker culture with limited drops and creative collabs.
✓ Why Go:
For hyped releases, smart styling, and LES-only capsules; it’s a downtown fashion bellwether.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Non-release weekdays for relaxed browsing; line up early on drop days.
✓ Insider Tip:
Check the in-store café counter and event calendar—movie nights and activations add to the experience.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Sneakerheads laud the selection and staff; many call it a destination shop worth the detour.
9. Desert Vintage
A serene, gallery-like boutique for early-1900s–1970s clothing and accessories, curated with a minimalist eye.
✓ Why Go:
Expect heirloom-quality pieces that outlast trends—silk slips, suiting, and jewelry with timeless lines.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Early afternoon midweek for personal attention and time to try on delicate items.
✓ Insider Tip:
Ask about alterations and care—staff advise on preserving antique textiles for everyday wear.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Shoppers call it elegant and calming, praising the museum-level edit and knowledgeable team.
10. MooShoes
An all-vegan footwear and accessories store with classic boots, dress shoes, and bags—next door to its sister deli, Orchard Grocer.
✓ Why Go:
Sustainably shop leather-free styles without sacrificing design; great for gifts and wardrobe staples.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late afternoon weekdays for easy try-ons; weekends draw steady crowds.
✓ Insider Tip:
Pop into Orchard Grocer after you shop for a soft-serve or provisions—two LES favorites under one roof.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Customers love the friendly staff, mission-driven ethos, and surprising range—from work-ready to weekend casual.
