Hi First-Years!
Spring is approaching! That means the days are longer, the sun is warmer, and Barnard students far and wide emerge from hibernation. To celebrate the season, we’re here with a list of little-known Morningside Heights gems for you to check out – whether it’s a friend group excursion or a date for yourself, these museums and restaurants are a great way to spend an afternoon.
1. Nicholas Roerich Museum
Located on 107th St between Broadway and Riverside, this three-story museum is dedicated entirely to the work of Russian-born artist Nicholas Roerich. A painter, writer, and collector, Roerich’s works reflect his travels all over the world, both in content and form. Admission to the museum is free, and more information on visiting, the collection, and other events hosted by the Roerich museum is available at their website.
2. Saint John the Divine
Saint John through last summer's haze.
Go a step further than eating your Hungarian pastry on the steps of St. John and take a look inside! This iconic Morningside Heights landmark (the largest cathedral in the country!) is just as beautiful on the inside as it is from the outside, and offers secular cultural events in addition to religious. You are invited to take a self-guided or public guided tour, and can even climb to the top of the cathedral! Tickets are $10 for a self-guided tour and $15-20 for a guided tour. Be sure to check out their website for your timed-entry ticket, as well as any exciting events that may be coming up.
3. General Grant’s Tomb
While we’re on the topic of huge, beautiful buildings, I’ll mention that Barnard is only a few short blocks from North America’s largest mausoleum – known colloquially as Grant’s Tomb. Located between beautiful Riverside and Sakura Parks, the memorial is a relaxing, uncrowded place to soak up some rays in the warm months.
4. Wallach Art Gallery
Located in the beautiful Lenfest Center for the Arts on 129th Street, the Wallach Art Gallery is free and open to the public. Open Wednesday-Sunday, 12-6pm, Wallach showcases both student and professional exhibitions. Right now, you can see work from New Delhi-based photographer Gauri Gill and mixed-media artist Rosemary Mayer. Stay tuned to their website for more information on upcoming events and exhibitions.
5. Westsider Books
Walls of books on all sides! (Medium)
You’re going to have to take a stroll for this one, but I promise it’s worth it. Westsider Books, on 81st and Broadway, is a treasure trove of used books, plays, CDs, art, and more. Westsider dominates the Pinterest bookstore aesthetic, and while you would never just go for your camera roll (we know you’re quirky like that), the vibes are everything. If you love squeezing between narrow shelves and discovering used books you would never have otherwise read, then Westsider is the place for you.
6. La Salle Dumpling
For all of you who are tired of the same options at Milano, Chipotle, and Junzi, we’ll move onto the food portion of the guide. First up is La Salle Dumpling Room, found just north of campus on Broadway and La Salle. This cozy little restaurant is perfect for a date night or delivery. From scallion pancakes to kimchi bao to pork belly ramen, find out for yourself if La Salle really is what it claims to be: “The Best Asian Food in New York”.
7. V&T Pizza
The author enjoying her chicken parm and pizza.
New York, 1945. Two World War II veterans, Vincent and Tony Curcurato, have just returned from the war and are opening their very own restaurant and pizzeria. Even today, the original atmosphere of V&T’s, which has occupied its 110th and Amsterdam location for nearly 75 years, is preserved. Just past the Hungarian Pastry Stop, V&T’s is my go-to place for authentic New York Italian: pizza, pasta, chicken parm, cannolis, you name it! Be sure to check out this ideal birthday dinner location the next time you’re craving something homestyle and heartwarming.
8. Silver Moon Bakery
If you’ve walked down Broadway to get to Trader Joe’s or Broadway Bagels, then you’ve seen Silver Moon Bakery – or maybe you’ve smelled it. When you walk in, you find yourself tucked between high trays of freshly baked bread and pastries. The bustling people and voices behind the counter welcome you in, and they move the line along so efficiently that you almost don’t have time to decide which of the tempting baked goods to choose from! One of my favorite places for a quick breakfast date and some people-watching from their sidewalk seating, Silver Moon has been a quintessential Morningside Heights neighborhood joint since its opening in 2000. Spring is the perfect time to check out their seasonal breads!
9. Samad’s
Samad's iconic interior. (NYC Snack Attack)
You may not even know it, but you’ve spent this whole year walking past a top-notch Middle Eastern/Mediterranean deli with a $5 bacon egg and cheese. So next time you’re down on 111th, stop by Samad’s Gourmet for all sorts of Middle Eastern treats, drinks, and ingredients. In the back, you’ll find the deli, with trays of stuffed grape leaves and hummus, and some killer breakfast options. Toward the front are piles of baked goods and dates, and a smiling face behind the register. Everyone at Samad’s is super friendly, the service is quick, and you’ll spend half of what you would at Wu & Nuss and other breakfast spots. Five gold stars!
Now that you have your list of little-known local joints, you are ready to explore the neighborhood more in these coming warm days. Getting outside and trying new things is a great way to give yourself a revitalizing break during the stress of finals, and to reward yourself for all your hard work! Happy Spring, everyone!
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