Howard St, SoHo

Howard only runs through Soho for a block, so there's not really much to say. It's a very commercial block and there are no trees because, apparently, the person that owned the building where the trees were decided he hated them and tore them out some time ago. Howard is busy in the way that most of Soho is so there are people and cars and trash everywhere. It's too loud and busy to want to live on. And, there aren't any restaurants or bars on the street -- and, none that are of any note even in the surrounding area. The buildings are cool, though . . .
The Citibank building on the corner of Howard and Mercer used to be home to Arnold Constable, a massive department store where the likes of Mary Todd Lincoln shopped. All of the buildings on this block are cast-iron, massive buildings built around the mid-19th century. For some bizarre reason, this corner was heavy in the Civil War (i.e. Arnold was boycotted by southerners and the building across the street was a soldier depot during the war.

While more famous streets like Canal, Mott, and Mulberry Streets are immediately associated with Chinatown, few have heard of Howard Street, a tiny street just north of Canal. But for potential movers into the Chinatown area, Howard Street represents a relative hidden gem - a quieter back-street in a neighborhood not often known for its peaceful ambiance. It's a bit of a hub for clothing stores - there's an American Apparel and a Vogel Boots on this block - although the restaurant choices (many good ones, most of them Chinese or Asian-fusion) tend to cluster on nearby streets. Also located near here is the Museum of Chinese America, a worthwhile tourist destination for anyone with a special interest in the subject. It may lack the liveliness and character of Canal Street, but for some, particularly potential residents, this may in fact prove preferable. Transport is easy - the Canal Street subway stop is a stone's throw away.

Howard Street offers visitors and residents a nice laid-back vibe, unlike it's surrounding streets that are much more hip and trendy. Jobee is a great food stop on the street as well offering diners a great Asian food experience that won't necessarily break the bank. There are a few great shops to stop in as well that won't be too horrible on the wallet. It's a nice place to spend a leisurely Saturday afternoon.

In the village, for those of you looking to spice up your wardrobe might look into a cool store I found on this street. It’s called Opening Ceremony, and like American Apparel, houses simple mix and match pieces which are great for day and night looks, without breaking the bank. I enjoyed this store and this street, because of its laid back nature, the shopping, and the movement.

This village is best accessed by the followed Metro Stations: 1,2 Houston Street, A,C,E, Spring Street, Prince St N,R,W, Broadway-Lafayette, B,D,F,V, Bleeker St, 4,6 2nd Ave- Lower East Side F,V, Canal St 1, 2, Canal St, A,C,E, ...N, Q R,W,... 4, 6,... J, M, Z, Grand St, B, D Bowery, J, M, Franklin, 1, 2. It is also very well acessible by the bus system!