Avoid the Hype: Gabrielle Narcisse's Guide to Lowkey NYC
Avoid the Hype: Gabrielle Narcisse's Guide to Lowkey NYC
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."
In this Guide
Nene's
14 Starr StreetBrooklyn, NY 11237United States of America
+1 347 413 6684
“Birria tacos, horchata popsicles, all the good things. Go here for all your Mexican food needs.”
More InfoWinnie's
63 West 38th StreetNew York, NY 10018United States of America
+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 InfoAlvin Ailey American Dance Theatre
405 West 55th StreetNew York, NY 10019United States of America
+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 InfoBOOKOFF New York
49 West 45th StreetNew York, NY 10036United States of America
+1 212 685 1410
“If you are looking for tech, manga, books, CDs, movies, etc. take a trip!”
More InfoCarousel
36 Wyckoff AvenueBrooklyn, NY 11237United States of America
“I can’t deny, I love Carousel. I love the pool, I love their little smoking box, I love the seating, play good music, and they make my favourite drink so well: Amaretto Sour.”
More InfoDashwood Books
33 Bond StreetNew York, NY 10012United States of America
+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 InfoStudio 151
151 Loisaida AvenueNew York, NY 10009United States of America
“You should dance here. Nublu downstairs too.”
More InfoBackroom
102 Norfolk StreetNew York, NY 10002United States of America
+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 InfoHappyFun 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