SoHo, short for “South of Houston Street”, is a trendy neighborhood in Lower Manhattan renowned for its cast-iron architecture, cobblestone streets, and hip, artistic vibe. Once an industrial manufacturing district in the 19th century, SoHo transitioned into an artists’ haven in the 1960s before becoming a landmark for urban renewal and historic preservation. Today, the compact area bounded by Houston Street, Canal Street, Lafayette Street, and West Broadway has evolved into an affluent shopping destination. Former factories now house upscale boutiques by major fashion labels, art galleries, stylish restaurants, and loft apartments, all while maintaining SoHo’s distinctive industrial aesthetic and creative spirit. Beyond its cultural and culinary delights, SoHo offers a unique residential experience with its loft-style apartments and historic brownstones. Enjoy the convenience of living in one of Manhattan’s most iconic neighborhoods, surrounded by world-class amenities and a vibrant community.
Restaurants
Raoul’s
Raoul’s, a renowned bistro in SoHo, has been a local favorite since 1975, famous for its peppercorn-crusted burger and classic French cuisine. Founded by two brothers from Alsace, France, the restaurant started in humble circumstances, with Guy cooking fine steaks and fish at affordable prices while Serge drew in patrons from the streets. Over time, it became a bustling hotspot where you might encounter a tarot card reader, a B-list celebrity, or simply enjoy the eclectic ambiance under a mix of oil paintings. Even without a reservation, bar seats are worth the wait to experience this iconic piece of New York bistro history.
La Mercerie
La Mercerie, a contemporary French eatery located within the Roman and Williams Guild in SoHo, perfectly embodies the neighborhood’s chic aesthetic. Created by Stephen Alesch and Robin Standefer, with cuisine by Chef Marie-Aude Rose, this restaurant offers a delightful mix of classic and avant-garde French dishes, including salads, buckwheat crepes, baked eggs, and boeuf bourguignon. Known for its excellent food, La Mercerie also features a pastry counter, weekend brunch, and a cozy five-seat bar called Guild. Whether you’re enjoying a meal next to high-end furniture or just stopping by for a drink, La Mercerie promises an impressive and quintessentially SoHo dining experience.
Odd Sister
Located on the cobblestone streets of Mercer Street, Odd Sister offers a modern twist on classic dining with an elevated menu and cocktails. This chic yet cozy cafe serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily, with brunch available every day. Diners can enjoy decadent dishes such as everything bagel-seasoned focaccia breakfast sandwiches, French omelet with tomato and Gruyère, and pancakes topped with brûlée bananas and caramel. Ideal for a romantic dinner or a casual brunch, Odd Sister provides a sophisticated social experience where every detail is meticulously crafted to create an enchanting ambiance.
Jack’s Wife Freda
Jack’s Wife Freda, a boutique group of beloved New York City cafés, is celebrated for its chic ambiance, sense of community, and treating everyone like family. Established in 2011 on Lafayette Street in SoHo by Dean and Maya, the café’s menu reflects their rich heritage, featuring dishes inspired by their childhoods in Israel and South Africa, as well as New York’s Jewish culture. Known for its all-day menu with bright, fresh ingredients, Jack’s Wife Freda offers a delightful dining experience from breakfast to dinner. This café, rooted in an immigrant love story, has become a cherished spot where simple acts of hospitality create lifelong memories.
Roscioli
Roscioli is a Roman institution cherished by both locals and global visitors, boasting nearly 200 years of history. This iconic brand features four unique locations in Rome, each celebrated for its artisan Italian products and exceptional hospitality. The journey began in 1974 with Antico Forno Roscioli, an ancient bakery from 1824, renowned for its bread, supplì, and pizza al taglio. In 1994, Salumeria Roscioli, the deli, transformed the dining scene by adding a kitchen, now famous for its carbonara, 300 artisan cheeses, 150 cured meats, and an extensive wine cellar. Rimessa Roscioli, evolving from wine tasting experiences, offers a full restaurant experience with a focus on wine and storytelling, along with cooking classes and EVOO tastings. Lastly, Roscioli Caffè, just meters away, is perfect for a quick coffee and a sweet treat from their patisserie, embodying the true Roman coffee bar experience.
Blue Ribbon Brasserie
Nestled on Sullivan Street at the crossroads of the West Village and SoHo, Blue Ribbon has been a beloved dining spot for neighborhood regulars and culinary insiders since 1992. Known for its late-night dining, the Bromberg Brothers’ flagship restaurant features subdued lighting, red velvet banquettes, and mustard-hued walls, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Blue Ribbon is famous for its eclectic menu, offering everything from burgers and beer to roasted rack of lamb with cabernet. Its pristine oysters and legendary shellfish platter pair perfectly with champagne. Open late seven nights a week, Blue Ribbon also offers heated sidewalk seating, making it a perfect spot for any time of the night.
Raku
Chef Norihiro Ishizuka’s culinary journey began at thirteen, working in Kappo and udon restaurants to support his family. With over sixty years of culinary experience, he brings his udon noodle concept, Raku, to life. Paying homage to his home cooking, Ishizuka crafts a menu centered around iconic udon noodles served in his signature dashi soup. Alongside the extensive udon offerings, Raku features an appetizer menu with classic Japanese small bites. The contemporary and minimalist dining space, combined with warm service, aims to create happy memories for customers through Ishizuka’s expertly crafted dishes.
Aurora Soho
Aurora, meaning “dawn” in Italian, was established in 2003 in Williamsburg, Brooklyn by Chef Riccardo Buitoni and two friends. Inspired by the cuisine of his native Piedmont, Italy, Chef Buitoni aimed to create an authentic Italian dining experience. Aurora Soho opened in 2007 and has since become a neighborhood staple. Committed to using only the freshest ingredients, Aurora imports cheeses daily from Italy and makes all pasta and gelato in-house. The restaurant prides itself on serving locally grown organic produce and hormone- and antibiotic-free meats and fish. With a beautiful dining room that can accommodate up to 70 guests, Aurora is perfect for any event. Every dish, from bread to sausages to desserts, is crafted with care on the premises, reflecting the authentic Italian comfort food Chef Buitoni envisioned.
Sadelle’s
Sadelle’s, a modern tribute to New York’s timeless tradition of all-day dining, has become an icon since opening its first location in SoHo in 2016. Known for its vibrant, celebratory atmosphere and a menu that includes acclaimed bagels touted as the best in America, Sadelle’s has garnered numerous accolades. It was recognized as an essential brunch spot by Harper’s BAZAAR and Cosmopolitan, while The New York Times hailed its sticky buns as one of the Best Dishes of 2015. Named after Major Food Group Co-Founder Jeff Zalaznick’s great grandmother, Sadelle’s has expanded beyond New York to locations in Las Vegas, Miami, Paris, Boca Raton, Dallas, Toronto, and Seoul, solidifying its reputation as a global destination for exceptional dining experiences.
Bistro Les Amis
Bistro Les Amis, a beloved French bistro in SoHo for over 20 years, offers a warm greeting and priced-right French fare that provides a respite from the bustling scene of SoHo. Known for its cozy atmosphere and sidewalk seating ideal for people-watching, it has become a sentimental favorite among locals and visitors alike. The menu features traditional dishes such as Coq Au Vin, Lamb Shank, Creekstone Farms Steaks, and a variety of fish and pasta options. Highlights include acclaimed French Onion Soup and Foie Gras, hailed as the best in NYC. Conveniently located near NYU, SoHo Playhouse, and Film Forum, Bistro Les Amis is also available for holiday parties and open on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve.
Cultural and Arts
Museum of Ice Cream
The Museum of Ice Cream has reopened its flagship in SoHo, inviting visitors to indulge in a pastel pink paradise of sugary delights. Beyond its playful décor and social media-ready backdrops, this immersive experience offers unlimited ice cream treats, catering to all ages. Founded by Maryellis Bunn and Manish Vora, the museum began as a pop-up exhibit in 2016 and has since expanded globally. It transforms the traditional museum concept with interactive, multi-sensory exhibits, aiming to create experiential playgrounds that blend fun and artistry. More than a museum, the Museum of Ice Cream is an Experium! It celebrates creativity, passion, and innovation in a space free from distractions, expectations, and inhibitions. Here, visitors can explore the history of ice cream while enjoying installations themed around this beloved treat.
Housing Works Bookstore Cafe
A favorite among tourists and locals alike, Housing Works Bookstore Cafe is a remarkable destination in New York City. Spanning two levels, it offers a diverse selection of literary fiction, nonfiction, rare books, and collectibles, making it a haven for book lovers seeking solo relaxation or social gatherings over coffee or wine. All proceeds from the cafe support essential services for homeless individuals living with HIV/AIDS, underscoring its impactful mission. The venue also hosts a variety of literary events, cementing its status as a cultural institution in downtown NYC for over a decade.
Leslie-Lohman Museum of Art
The Leslie-Lohman Museum of Art (LLMA) is a cornerstone of SoHo’s cultural landscape in New York City. Established by Charles Leslie and Fritz Lohman, the museum gained official recognition as a museum in 2011 and accreditation in 2016. Dedicated to preserving and exhibiting LGBTQ art, it houses a collection of over 22,000 pieces, including paintings, drawings, photography, prints, and sculpture. The museum offers year-round exhibitions across multiple locations and hosts a range of events such as drawing workshops, studio tours, and book-launch parties. Since its inception in 1969, when Leslie and Lohman held their first exhibit in a SoHo loft, the museum has been pivotal in supporting LGBTQ artists and fostering community through art. Located at 26 Wooster Street, LLMA stands as the world’s only museum dedicated solely to celebrating the LGBTQ experience through visual art.
Hauser and Wirth New York
Hauser & Wirth New York has expanded its presence in Manhattan with the opening of a new gallery space on Wooster Street in SoHo. This addition marks the gallery’s fourth location in New York City, joining existing venues in Chelsea and the Upper East Side. Known for its global roster of acclaimed artists and historical estates, including Louise Bourgeois and Philip Guston, Hauser & Wirth aims to enrich SoHo’s cultural landscape with exhibitions, artists’ projects, and public programs. Adjacent to the new gallery, Artfarm, an independent hospitality group founded by Iwan and Manuela Wirth, has opened a restaurant and bar at 130 Prince Street, enhancing SoHo’s vibrant arts and dining scene. The expansion reflects Hauser & Wirth’s commitment to celebrating SoHo’s artistic legacy and fostering a community-driven cultural experience.
Shopping
Chanel
A quintessential destination for luxury fashion aficionados, this SoHo boutique offers an exquisite range of high-fashion clothing, iconic handbags, and sophisticated accessories. It provides a luxurious shopping experience that reflects timeless style, with classic, elegant decor enhancing the overall ambiance.
Gucci
Renowned for bold and eclectic fashion, this SoHo store features a vibrant collection of apparel, shoes, and accessories. Its striking interior design complements daring and innovative designs, creating a dynamic and stylish environment where shoppers can explore the latest collections.
Louis Vuitton
This flagship store in SoHo is a premier destination for luxury leather goods and accessories. It features a meticulously curated selection of renowned luggage, bags, and fashion items, with a sophisticated ambiance and attentive service that enhance the exclusive shopping experience, reflecting a legacy of elegance and craftsmanship.
Prada
Offering a refined selection of high-fashion apparel, shoes, and accessories, this SoHo boutique highlights a modern and innovative approach to luxury. The sleek, contemporary design mirrors cutting-edge fashion sense, providing an environment where shoppers can discover the latest trends and timeless pieces in sophisticated style.
Dior
Presenting a curated assortment of high-fashion clothing, accessories, and beauty products, this SoHo location embodies classic elegance. The chic, stylish interior reflects a commitment to innovation and luxury, allowing visitors to enjoy a top-tier shopping experience while exploring exclusive collections in a refined setting.
Alexander Wang
Alexander Wang’s flagship store in SoHo stands as a haute, minimalist showcase for the designer’s iconic men’s and women’s clothing and accessories. Established in 2011, this storefront was the first in the world dedicated solely to Wang’s apparel, marking a milestone in the fashion industry. It remains his sole dedicated retail space in New York City, offering exclusive collections that blend edgy style with coveted athleisure designs. The store continues to attract fashion enthusiasts seeking Wang’s distinctive urban aesthetic and trendsetting pieces.
Anine Bing
The Anine Bing store in SoHo diverges from its Bleecker Street counterpart by incorporating vibrant pops of color into its lineup of shoes and accessories, which adorn metal shelves throughout the space. Founded in 2012 by Anine Bing and Nicolai Bing, the Los Angeles-based fashion house seamlessly blends Scandinavian heritage with American spirit. Their collection spans delicate silk camisoles, lingerie, and rugged-chic styles such as leather biker jackets, distressed jeans, and military-inspired outerwear. ANINE BING also offers a range of shoes, jewelry, and other accessories, appealing to women who embrace a timeless yet confident approach to everyday fashion.
Céline
Céline, a pioneer among modern luxury brands, seamlessly blends luxury and simplicity in its French fashion house. Known for its striking silhouettes, organic materials, and timeless yet edgy designs, Céline has carved out a niche in women’s apparel and accessories. The two-floor shop in SoHo reflects the brand’s aesthetic with cool tones and impeccable lines, providing a spacious and understatedly elegant shopping experience across its 4,400 square feet. Céline offers a sophisticated collection encompassing women’s apparel, shoes, and leather goods, epitomizing refined French style at its highest echelon.
Bloomingdale’s Soho
Bloomingdale’s SoHo is a chic destination offering a curated selection of upscale apparel, accessories, cosmetics, furniture, and home goods. Located in the heart of SoHo, this branch of the iconic department store caters to fashion-forward shoppers with a keen eye for quality and style. The store provides a sophisticated shopping environment where customers can explore a wide range of designer brands and exclusive collections. Beyond fashion and beauty, Bloomingdale’s SoHo also features a selection of home decor and furnishings, making it a one-stop destination for both wardrobe updates and home decor essentials in downtown Manhattan.
Transportation
Subway
SoHo is well-served by several nearby subway stations, including Prince Street, Spring Street, and Houston Street stations. These stations provide convenient access to various parts of Manhattan and beyond, ensuring easy transportation options for residents and visitors alike.
Bus
Several bus routes serve SoHo, providing additional options for local and cross-town travel. Bus stops are located along major avenues and streets like Broadway and Houston Street.
Citi Bike
SoHo has Citi Bike docking stations, offering a convenient and eco-friendly way to explore the neighborhood on two wheels. Users can rent bikes using the Citi Bike app or membership key.
Taxi and Ride-Sharing
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available throughout SoHo, providing flexible transportation options for short trips or longer journeys.
Walking
SoHo is a pedestrian-friendly neighborhood with wide sidewalks and crosswalks, making it enjoyable to explore on foot. Many attractions, shops, restaurants, and galleries are within walking distance of each other.
Car
While parking in SoHo can be challenging due to limited street parking and high traffic volume, some visitors choose to drive. There are paid parking garages available for those who prefer to drive into the neighborhood.
Overall, SoHo offers a variety of transportation options that cater to different preferences and needs, ensuring easy access and mobility for residents and visitors alike.
Living in SoHo
Living in SoHo offers a unique blend of historic charm and contemporary allure. From its iconic cast-iron buildings and cobblestone streets to its vibrant arts scene and diverse culinary landscape, every aspect of SoHo exudes creativity and sophistication. The neighborhood’s convenient transportation options and bustling community make it a coveted place to live in Manhattan, where residents can immerse themselves in cultural richness and urban vibrancy at every turn. SoHo truly embodies the essence of New York City living, providing a dynamic and inspiring environment for those who call it home.
Whether you’re a visitor planning your next adventure or a local seeking new experiences, SoHo invites you to discover its charm and creativity around every corner.
Platinum Properties has many exclusive listings in SoHo for you to check out – whether it’s for commercial or residential needs. A few of our favorite properties are 142 Sullivan Street and 152 Thompson Street, featuring a variety of layouts, from one bedroom to three bedrooms. Each building is central to the area’s hottest restaurants, bars and shopping. For more information on renting, buying or selling in SoHo, reach out to Platinum Properties today.We’re here to assist you in finding your ideal home.
