Gramercy Park is one of the underrated areas of Manhattan. Everyone knows about the far West Village. It’s beautiful, it’s classy, it’s quiet, and it’s 1 step away from the buzz provided by the Avenue thoroughways of 6th,7th and 8th.

Gramercy has those same qualities. Just slightly more understated. It is smaller, and yes, it is on the East Side which has the reputation of being quieter. Ok, so it is quieter. But I still love east and west!

Just a couple of minutes from the manic Union Square and Flatiron, Gramercy is a calm force.

This is exuded by 71 Irving Place Coffee & Tea Bar, which I have wanted to visit for years. But trying to grab a table on a Saturday afternoon is quite a challenge. Now that I have gotten out of the 8am to 7pm Monday to Friday lifestyle, somehow some opportunities have opened up.

While still full, 71 Irving place had some open seats on a Friday mid-afternoon for myself, my son and web designer - InnerGraphics. Ah, the beauties of fatherhood!

So chill, so relaxed, so comfortable. And there is a small terrace in front if the weather is nice and you’re fortunate enough to grab one of the two tables.

71 Irving Place, you were worth the wait.

Address

71 Irving Place – 71 Irving Place, New York between East 18th and East 19th Streets. at West 105th Street. 456LNQRW Trains at Union Square.

Music

Serge Gainsbourg – Sous le soleil exactement

Web Designer

Inner Graphics