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Lower East Side Culture

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Lower East Side Travel Guide Situated in the southeastern section of Manhattan, the Lower East Side neighborhood has long stood as an immigrant, blue collar region. Spanning the area from Canal Street to Houston Street, between the East River and the Bowery, this once semi-dilapidated neighborhood has been renewed in the past years to include many tourist attractions. Along what is known as restaurant row, on Clinton Street, there are now a number of fine and casual dining establishments, as well as shops and boutiques that appeal to the masses. In the early 2000's, a gentrification of the neighborhood ensued, resulting in a total face lift to the area. Large modern hotels and businesses, such as the Hotel on Rivington and the Blue Condominium, …show more content…

The original cultures and ethnicities that were prevalent in the Lower East Side, the Poles, Ukrainians, Irish, Italians, and Germans, are still seen in pockets here and there. Today, however, there is a larger population of Dominican and Puerto Rican residents. While this shift over the past two decades has changed some of the population standards, one thing that has remained constant is the population of Jewish culture in the Lower East Side. With many iconic Jewish restaurants and delis, a thriving theatre and arts district, and a number of beloved synagogues, the religious culture of Judaism is alive and well in the area. There are a decent number of transient Chinese in the Lower East Side as well, mostly due to the proximity of the China Town neighborhood. Those who enjoy the art scene and night life attractions will find all their desires met in the Lower East Side. From contemporary art galleries to street art, there is a continual feast for the eyes while walking the neighborhood blocks. There are a number of live music venues in the area, as well as bars and performance arenas that are intimate and inviting. While the residents of the Lower East Side sometimes take issue with the loud music and all night frivolity, a compromise is often met between the two opposing …show more content…

Guests to the area will find a number of fascinating shops and delicious eateries along their travels. Katz's Delicatessen Well known for its extraordinary culinary delights, including traditional Jewish deli fare, this landmark restaurant has been recognized on film and in the press for years. When visiting Katz's, the hardest decision you will have to make is whether you try the corned beef or pastrami. Russ and Daughters The finest purveyor of smoked fish in the region, Russ and Daughters offers the best herring and lox in the neighborhood for over a century. Open everyday of the week, with incredibly reasonable prices, it is no wonder that this fine establishment has made a lasting name for itself in the Lower East Side. The Tenement Museum An introspective museum formed from what was once dilapidated tenements in the Lower Easy Side, this enthralling museum is only open through guided tours. With costumed actors portraying the original immigrant residents of the neighborhood, guests have the unique opportunity to witness a life and people that are no longer in existence. The New Museum of Contemporary

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