Who knew a series of slaughterhouses could turn into the most luxurious apartments, the chicest boutiques, and upscale restaurants? Such a transformation is only possible in
New York, the city Alicia Keys once famously described—or more accurately, sang—as the “concrete jungle where dreams are made of.” Formerly a grittier part of Manhattan, the Meatpacking District transformed in the 1990s, becoming one of the hippest neighborhoods in the Big Apple. Warehouses that once housed big pieces of meat now feature the coolest homes and the trendiest hotspots in town. Even the famous High Line park and the Whitney Museum of American Art are among the district’s many highlights.
Where is the Meatpacking District in New York City?
The place may seem big with all the old warehouses and former factories, but the Meatpacking District is one of the smaller
neighborhoods in New York City. It covers a fairly small part of Lower Manhattan as it only has W 14th Street to its north, Hudson Street to its east, Gansevoort Street to its south, and 10th Avenue to its west. You can just walk to other parts of the district, too, especially since the High Line makes it easier to get around without crossing the bustling streets.
Is it Safe in New York City’s Meatpacking District?
Many would've argued otherwise before the 1990s, but the Meatpacking District is now a generally safe part of Manhattan. The district's transformation from a gritty industrial hub to one of New York City's most fashionable neighborhoods substantially made it a lot safer, too. Sure, there may be petty crimes here and there, but it's not the point that you have to be so guarded all the time. Even when
New York City's crime rates may often skew high, this neighborhood is among the few that are not as affected as the rest of the city.
What's The Vibe in New York City’s Meatpacking District?
The Meatpacking District is New York City's capital of cool. Perhaps it's the contrast between its gritty past and glamorous present that completely captivates both locals and tourists alike, but there's no denying that it's one of the trendiest parts of the city. Its massive warehouses that formerly contained huge pieces of meat now house the chicest luxury apartments in town. Factories that once included slaughterhouses turned to shopping complexes featuring fashionable shops and boutiques. And the local delicatessens and diners now compete with upscale restaurants. All in all, the Meatpacking District has become one of the best places to let out your inner cosmopolitan in New York City.
Is it Expensive in New York City’s Meatpacking District?
Yes, it is. The Meatpacking District's years-long gentrification also turned it into one of the most expensive neighborhoods in the Big Apple. And that's saying something when you consider how high
New York City's living costs already are. Just look at the rent, for instance, which is at an average of about $5,000.00 per month. The shopping here is pricey, too, since several of its shops and boutiques feature designer brands and luxury labels. And what of its culinary scene? How much will it cost you to eat out in the Meatpacking District? A whopping $20.00 to $50.00 per meal!
What to See in New York City’s Meatpacking District
The Meatpacking District has one of
New York City's must-see museums—the Whitney Museum of American Art. This glossy gallery, itself a Renzo Piano-designed architectural marvel, highlights contemporary American art. It's one of the city's few museums that focuses more on the works of living artists than legendary masters. Moreover, while you're still in the area, don't miss out on seeing the famous High Line park. This elevated linear park is one of the most unique in the city, not to mention a great place to enjoy New York City's iconic skyline in all its sprawling glory.
What to Do in New York City’s Meatpacking District
Anyone who has
moved to New York City knows that it's quintessential big-city living. Jogging by the sidewalk every morning, rushing to a streetside bistro for brunch, shopping at chic stores in the afternoon, enjoying happy hour in a nearby bar, and partying in the club at night. This is the ideal cosmopolitan lifestyle, isn't it? Luckily, that's exactly what you can do and more in the Meatpacking District. It's easy and practically a requirement to indulge in New York City's famous luxuries in this fashionable neighborhood. What's not to love?
The Best Restaurants in New York City’s Meatpacking District
More than just a trendy area, the Meatpacking District has also made a name for itself as a central foodie hub in New York City. The place rivals Chelsea, SoHo, Greenwich Village, and the like for having the best places to eat in the entire metropolis. It may have a leg up considering that food—more specifically, meat—is already ingrained in the area, but there's more to the district than its delicatessens. The area also boasts chic gastro-pubs, cool cafes, and even some of
New York City's best Michelin-starred restaurants.
Discover the Meatpacking District’s hottest culinary spots, especially:
- Buddakan on 9th Avenue
- Catch NYV on 9th Avenue
- Dos Caminos on Hudson Street
- Mollusa NYC on W 12th Street
- Old Homestead Steakhouse on 9th Avenue
- Pastis on Gansevoort Street
- Serafina Meatpacking on 9th Avenue
- TAO Downtown Restaurant on 9th Avenue
- The Standard Biergarten on Washington Street
- The Standard Grill on the High Line
What to Know About Renting in New York City’s Meatpacking District
As already mentioned, the Meatpacking District is one of the most expensive neighborhoods in New York City. And a huge part of it is rent! The average rent here is about $5,495.00 per month, considerably higher compared to other parts of the city. For better context, a small studio apartment in the Meatpacking District can already cost as high as $3,400.00 per month, and you're not even guaranteed that it'll be as big or bigger than 25 square meters. And if you need a three-bedroom flat? Don't be surprised if it'll cut you back as much as $10,000.00 per month!
New York City’s Meatpacking District serves as solid proof that anything and everything is possible in the Big Apple. The area that once stored and packed all sorts of meats now brightens up Manhattan as one of its trendiest neighborhoods.
