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It’s where the past meets the present—in the shadow of one of the most fabled buildings in New York City. Just 20 blocks south of the frenzy that characterizes Times Square is the distinctive Flatiron Building, an architectural beacon that draws countless visitors each day destined to photograph its architectural ingenuity.
While drawn to the neighborhood because of this 22-story icon, which was at one time one of the tallest buildings in New York City, visitors can easily be captivated by a dynamic landscape; the thriving Madison Square Park, cultural establishments including the National Museum of Mathematics, and culinary offerings that span the globe. “While this neighborhood was once primarily defined by the Flatiron Building, it has evolved into a premier 21st century live-work-visit community,” said Jennifer Brown, who leads the Flatiron 23rd Street Partnership. “The transformation continues to draw a diverse array of popular restaurants, a dynamic retail environment, and family-friendly activities. Yet it’s a place where you still feel connected. When you step into Flatiron, you feel like you’ve found a new home.”
THE SCENE
Whether you’re new to the neighborhood or a repeat “customer,” it’s not difficult to discover that Flatiron is more than ever a go-to destination. At the heart of the neighborhood is the bow-tie—the intersection of Fifth Avenue, 23rd Street and Broadway. A healthy dose of visitors and workers mix with an ever-growing population of residents.
“Flatiron has everything: a central location, easy access to transportation, world-class homes with shopping and dining, exciting nightlife and a jewel of a park; all surrounded by historical beauty,” said Nicholas Athanail, local resident and licensed associate real estate broker with The Corcoran Group. “I love the Flatiron District for its exciting diversity. It really has something for everyone. Being here, for me, always feels like I’m in the center of ‘where it’s at.’”
Christopher Heywood, Senior Vice President of Communications for NYC & Company, added, “Flatiron is one of the City’s most stylish and well-located neigh- borhoods with excellent dining, shopping and cultural opportunities.”
FOODIES REJOICE
With more than 185 food establishments, a culinary cornucopia unfolds at every corner. With eateries ranging from casual
to upscale, it’s easy to take a trip around the world in less than one square mile.
Frequented by visitors from across the globe—and many from Italy itself—is the anchor culinary destination, Eataly New York, positioned at the bustling cross- roads of Fifth Avenue and 23rd Street.
Packed with shoppers and diners at nearly all hours, Eataly offers a panoply of fresh ingredients available to purchase or devour onsite at its seven sit-down restaurants. The marketplace allows one to indulge in fresh mozzarella, salumi and cheese, fish, pizza and pasta, and enjoy splendid views from a rooftop restaurant all year-round.
In recent years, the district has wel- comed an outcropping of new restaurants. One of the most consistent draws continues to be the world-renowned restaurateur Danny Meyer’s Shake Shack. The original burger-and-fries eatery is at the southeast corner of Madison Square Park. Don’t be discouraged by the line because the queue moves swiftly and in summer and fall you’ll enjoy the peaceful park setting.
By Jeff Simmons
The Flatiron is featured on DOWNTOWN’s Summer 2014 edition. If you would like to continue reading the entire article, you can find our latest issue on newsstands now! Or you can subscribe to DOWNTOWN Magazine for home delivery by clicking here.