Avoid the Hype: Gabrielle Narcisse's Guide to Lowkey NYC

 Gabrielle Narcisse

Avoid the Hype: Gabrielle Narcisse's Guide to Lowkey NYC

Gabrielle Narcisse
Gabrielle Narcisse

Multi-disciplinary artist Gabrielle Narcisse moved from New Jersey to New York in 2020, and is aware of how hard it is to explore the city as a newcomer, "New York gets overwhelming," she says, "There are too many expensive, overhyped and gate kept options, and too many of the same things in a different font."

Narcisse is the founder of Black Girl Fight Club organisation, which strives to empower Black women, femmes and enbys across industries through hangouts, exhibitions, workshops and parties. She now curates and hosts events across the city, which has helped her find the spots that are authentic and welcoming.

For her guide to the Big Apple, Narcisse insists on keeping it simple: "The best things in life are free. And there’s something for everyone here if you look for it."

Nene's Taqueria

    Nene's

    14 Starr StreetBrooklyn, NY 11237United States of America

    Visit Website

    +1 347 413 6684

    Birria tacos, horchata popsicles, all the good things. Go here for all your Mexican food needs.

    More Info
    Winnie's NYC

      Winnie's

      63 West 38th StreetNew York, NY 10018United States of America

      Visit Website

      +1 646 846 9063

      Yes, some of the bartenders are rude. Yes, they charge for tap water. Yes, questionable characters are lingering about. Yes, they’ll skip the songs you paid for. But I still go back time and time again. Because it’s Winnie’s.

      More Info
      Ailey

        Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre

        405 West 55th StreetNew York, NY 10019United States of America

        Visit Website

        +1 212 405 9000

        A tradition of mine for over ten years now is seeing an Alvin Ailey performance with my family. Everyone should experience the magic of Alvin Ailey. You won’t regret it.

        More Info
        BOOKOFF

          BOOKOFF New York

          49 West 45th StreetNew York, NY 10036United States of America

          Visit Website

          +1 212 685 1410

          If you are looking for tech, manga, books, CDs, movies, etc. take a trip!

          More Info
          Dashwood Books

            Dashwood Books

            33 Bond StreetNew York, NY 10012United States of America

            Visit Website

            +1 212 387 8520

            Beautiful selection of art and photo books at Dashwood. The owner, Miwa is truly a gem. She can recommend anything and is incredibly charismatic and smart in my few interactions with her.

            More Info
            Studio 151

              Studio 151

              151 Loisaida AvenueNew York, NY 10009United States of America

              You should dance here. Nublu downstairs too.

              More Info
              Backroom

                Backroom

                102 Norfolk StreetNew York, NY 10002United States of America

                Visit Website

                +1 212 228 5098

                It just has a charm I love. You’re greeted with lovely furniture, tea cups and red lighting. All the prohibition-era fun you could desire at the end of a dark LES alleyway.

                More Info
                Happyfun Hideaway

                  HappyFun Hideaway

                  1211 Myrtle AvenueBrooklyn, NY 11221United States of America

                  Atrocious and wonderful memories alike at this establishment. Gay juice or one too many frozen margs will always fuck you up, proceed with caution...

                  More Info