East Harlem

Also known as Spanish Harlem or El Barrio, East Harlem trades formality and chain stores for community gardens, local businesses, and bustling street life. The nabe has a wealth of mom-and-pop shops, a lively art scene, and is home to East River Plaza shopping mall known for its big-box stores. From block to block, East Harlem can shift from leafy community gardens and residential streets to busy commercial corridors. Art and culture are woven into the neighborhood’s identity, with colorful murals and cultural institutions like El Museo del Barrio, The Africa Center, and the National Black Theatre. Green space is plentiful, too, from Central Park to the recreational fields at Thomas Jefferson Park. Historic blocks include the red-brick townhomes of Astor Row, while newer residential developments have increasingly become part of the landscape.

The Mood

From street to street, East Harlem changes a lot. Expect to find tranquil and leafy gardens like Harlem Art Park next to hectic blocks dotted with food carts.

Heart of the Neighborhood

You can go any direction from the corner of E. 116th Street and Lexington Avenue and find what makes East Harlem great: lively street scenes, diverse restaurants, and leafy residential blocks.

Neighborhood Quirk

East Harlem has more street murals than any other NYC neighborhood.

Best Perk

Expect to find an exciting mix of dining options for every price range.

Biggest Downside

East Harlem is still waiting for the Second Avenue Subway expansion.