Chelsea

The West Side's gem between the Village and Midtown

By Jonathan Scheff | Special to amNewYork

August 31, 2006

Known for its galleries and large gay population, Chelsea has long been a haven for a creative, diverse community.

Once an undesirable neighborhood where Sid Vicious of the Sex Pistols allegedly stabbed his girlfriend Nancy Spungen to death at the Hotel Chelsea, modern Chelsea is described by many residents as young and hip, like the West Village but less expensive, with convenience and a strong sense of community. One resident has noticed increased homogenization since he moved here 20 years ago, "but it still has working class, gay sensibility. It still holds onto that character."

Although Chelsea has experienced an increase in crime during the past five years, residents describe the area as safe, noting that many families are moving in.

Parents like the area for the tranquil side streets and convenient location, but describe the schools as only adequate.

One of several exceptions is the Lab School for Collaborative Studies. With a 99 percent graduation rate and top reading and math scores, it is one of the most desired schools in the city.

Chelsea is still known for its gay community.

"Boy watching during the lunch hour is phenomenal, better than at night," said Edward Cardimond, who has lived in Chelsea for 24 years.

Eddie Tawil, a 14-year resident, added: "I think it's getting less gay. Gay people are spreading their wings and moving everywhere."

Indeed, there has been an influx of families, young professionals and students, said Concetta Testa of Citi Habitats. High-end, luxury high-rises along Sixth and Seventh Avenues are also changing the demographics, with studios starting around $3,000 and one-bedrooms at $3,600 per month. Testa noted that more affordable housing can be found to the north of Chelsea.

"Historically, there are the rows of brownstones and townhouses all along the side streets from 15th through 24th," Testa said. "Many of these homes are individually owned by those 'pioneers' who moved to Chelsea 20 to 30 years ago, when it wasn't as desirable an area to live."

To eat
Chelsea, even more than other neighborhoods in New York, offers a range of culinary options, from late-night diners to high-end French cuisine. The following are only a few of neighborhood favorites, as recommended by those who live in Chelsea.

Cafeteria
This 24-hour hot spot is good for chic comfort food such as mac and cheese. At every brunch and every dinner, fashionable Chelsea-ites fill the indoor and outdoor seats, where they can see and be seen.
119 Seventh Ave., at 17th Street
212-414-1717

Food Bar
Locals don't visit Food Bar for the service, but it is still a favorite for its menu of tasty American food.
149 Eighth Ave. between 17th and 18th streets
212-243-2020