As a veteran of the village, growing up playing on Pier 25 and attending skating camps at Chelsea Piers, I declare that no one has this much knowledge of the best food spots the West Village has to offer. Here are some of my favorites- from bakeries to dinner, each is worth your time.
Cafe Panino Mucho Gusto – 551 Hudson St No 8, New York, NY 10014
Cafe Panino Mucho Gusto: a cafe my family has relied on since my birth. The best paninis I’ve ever had in my whole life, a cute hole in the wall with a family vibe; this is my number one recommendation in the West Village. The photo that covers this article is one I took in Cafe Panino Mucho Gusto, one of my favorite places to get work done.
Hungry Ghost Coffee – 315 Bleecker St, New York, NY 10014
My other favorite place to get work done is Hungry Ghost Coffee on Bleecker street. As it’s the best cup of coffee in the city, it’s no mystery why Hungry Ghost is all over Manhattan and Brooklyn with twelve locations. Perks: the friendliest baristas I’ve ever met, pastries from vegan to gluten-free, meeting every dietary restriction, and a truly amazing coffee blend.
Taïm Mediterian Kitchen – 222 Waverly Pl, New York, NY 10014
Taïm is another hole in the wall that I list as one of my favorite places. Hummus that my parents grew up serving guests – after, each guest dreamed about when they would have it again. The falafels are to die for, and each topping is incredibly fresh. Taïm makes eating healthy easy given how appetizing it is.
Breads Bakery – 18 E 16th St, New York, NY 10003
Although Breads Bakery resides on the Upper West Side and just outside of the West Village in Union Square, I couldn’t write this review without mentioning it. Apple pie to babka, if you have a sweet tooth, this is where you need to be. The smell in the bakery is consuming. Once you have one dessert from Breads Bakery, you’ll be returning there for years.
Westville – 246 W 18th St. New York, NY 10011 or 333 Hudson St. New York, NY 10013
Westville previously resided in the West Village and now has moved to two locations (West Village adjacent) in Hudson and Chelsea. Westville is the ultimate go-to dinner spot. With a large menu that has a variety of options for every dietary restriction and every taste preference- from fresh vegetables to burgers. With loud music and good food, Westville feels alive. If you’re going to Westville, you have to try the turkey burger and parmesan artichokes.
