Travel with the Twins: West SoHo, NYC
Our friends at the Dominick Hotel in SoHo recently invited us for a blissful 24-hour staycation in our own backyard. Kathryn and I love this part of West SoHo, where the streets get a little quieter, and you can find some real culinary and shopping gems! It was such a treat to pop out of the office for a little pampering before our Resort market week kicked off and then to spend the evening dining with our great friends behind 831 Stories at the Hotel’s Michelin-starred restaurant, Vestry. Scroll down for our first ever (West!) SoHo guide and some of our favorite neighborhood spots.
Where to Stay:
The Dominick Hotel cannot be beat if you’re looking for the combination of perfect location and larger-than-closet-sized rooms (not to mention an outdoor pool for summertime dips!) We were completely spoiled with a 44th-floor suite overlooking the Hudson River to the west and with spectacular views of the Empire State Building to the north, but even the hotel’s standard king rooms are big by city standards!
What to Do at the Hotel:
There’s plenty to do (and dine!) in West SoHo (more on that below!) but leave yourself some time to hang at The Dominick. We could've spent the entire day in the room (gigantic tub, glass of wine, and spectacular views), but there are some not to be missed amenities.
What to Eat at the Hotel:
We walked through El Ta’koy, a cute bar and restaurant on the 7th floor terrace specializing in Hawaiian-inspired cuisine. We didn’t have time to eat there, but we’re already talking about returning with friends for bites and cocktails al fresco – it feels like a hidden SoHo gem! We ate dinner at Vestry - on the ground floor of the Dominick - with our BFFs Claire and Erica. We couldn't believe we hadn't been to the Michelin Star restaurant before; the food was excellent, the drinks were delicious, and the setting was lovely. We'll be back!
What to Eat & What to Do in the (West) SoHo Neighborhood: First, where to eat:
^Lizzie outside Altro Paradiso
On the walk back to our office from the Dominick, we’re always sure to stop for a coffee (and sandwich) at Olive's. The cafe has been operating on Prince Street since 1992 (and is woman-owned)!
Everyone needs their go-to neighborhood restaurant– a cozy spot where you’re treated like family. For us, that is hands-down Ciccio, the discreet Italian restaurant on 6th Avenue and Spring Street that will not disappoint. Don't tell everyone about our favorite little gem!
Waiting for us in our room at The Dominick was a box of insane cookies from MOD, a local bakery that specializes in "multilayered masterpieces”. Definitely worth a visit (and we think these make great gifts!)
Next, Where to Shop!
West SoHo is the best in the early mornings and evenings when the tourists are back in their hotels or have not yet woken up (SoHo is a late-to-rise neighborhood). We love browsing international covers at SoHo News International and people-watching as locals walk their dogs and start their day. We love Araks for their quiet yet cool lingerie and loungewear. The SoHo store is small - blink and you miss it - but this "insider" feel is exactly what we like about it. Plus, the bras fit like a dream.
Makié makes delicate, minimal, and charming clothing and accessories for kids and adults. Their kids' pieces are our go-to "fancy" baby gifts that will be cherished and passed down, and their adult finds are equally coveted. Their oversized cashmere scarves are a favorite, as well as their one-size cashmere crewnecks and cardigans. They’re worth the price tag because they wear so well and fit like a dream.