True to its name, the West Village is a quaint part of New York City that feels entirely different from the hustle and bustle of Manhattan. “The village”, for short, is a prime eating and dining destination and perfect for some potential celebrity-spotting. As an uptown resident, a weekend in the West Village is a unique opportunity to experience a bohemian part of town and dine in the presence of some historic landmarks.

The Spotted Pig | 314 W 11th St, New York, NY 10014
If there’s a “best time” to visit The Spotted Pig to avoid a line, I haven’t found it. This gastropub is always busy, serving seasonal British and Italian cuisine. The most popular dish on the menu is the Chargrilled Burger with Roquefort Cheese and don’t forget the shoestring fires.

Buvette | 42 Grove St, New York, NY 10014
Burette, yet another brunch spot that has a line-up out the door before the restaurant event opens. At, this ever-popular bistro, everything on the well-curated menu comes in small plates.

Murray’s Cheese | 254 Bleecker St, New York, NY 10014
Enough of the restaurants and let’s move on to the unique offering of specialty shops in the Village. Murray’s Cheese is always my favorite stop, even if I don’t pick up anything, the store is always worth a look. This cheese mecca has a great selection of fine cheeses, cured meets, and a myriad of deli items.

Boise Tea Parlor | 10 Morton St, New York, NY 10014
Modeled after a French teahouse, Boise Tea Parlor boasts over 100 loss-leaf teas. If you have the time, definitely try afternoon tea with pastries and sandwich platters at this no-frill, laid-back tea house.

Grounded | 28 Jane St, New York, NY 10014
One look at the wide selection on the roasting menu and I was sold. Grounded is an organic coffee and tea house in the heart of West Village. Like most West Village hot spots on this list, Grounded is usually filled with people reading books or working on their laptops. If you’re lucky enough to snag a seat, enjoy a delicious latte here in the relaxed atmosphere.