NoMad: A Bustling NYC Neighborhood With Lots to Offer

It’s pretty ideal to live in a centrally located neighborhood close to everything Manhattan has to offer, and NoMad is that place — and so much more. It’s as energetic as it is architecturally impressive. Best of all, once COVID-19 is behind us, this neighborhood (the abbreviation means North of Madison Square Park) is a quick walk to the office towers of Midtown.

Things to Know About NoMad

The area is known for its luxurious properties. (After all, J-Lo and Jeff Bezos both have places here!) However, homebuyers and renters will also find budget-minded gems. For instance, studio co-ops for less than $400,000, and modest one-bedroom rentals starting at $1,750. 

For history buffs, NoMad is particularly impressive. On the southern outskirts is the iconic and triangular Flatiron Building. In 1902 it was one of the tallest buildings in the city. Then there’s West 28th Street between Fifth and Sixth Avenues. The area was the city’s former music headquarters, dubbed Tin Pan Alley. Fun fact: It was the place where “Give My Regards to Broadway” was published.

“NoMad is a diverse and historic neighborhood,” says Leonard Inzirillo, sales director at Douglas Elliman Development Marketing and the lead broker at Madison House. It’s the tallest residential project in NoMad, with 30,000 square feet of hotel-like amenities. “This part of town is famous for its fast-paced energy, open spaces, and the coolest coffee shops.”

Where Is NoMad?

By definition, NoMad (a term first used to describe the neighborhood in 1999) starts at 34th Street to the north and spans southward to Madison Square Park. Its western boundary is Sixth Avenue, and it runs east to Lexington Avenue.

What’s to Rent or Buy

You’ll find a broad mix of buildings here, from newer condo developments to historic conversions, says Nicole Grandelli. Grandelli is sales director at Rose Hill, a new residential project from the Rockefeller Group, which offers a classic yet modern design and skyline views.

“NoMad has grown immensely in popularity and has transformed into one of the hottest residential destinations in the city,” she says. “Living here, you have one of Manhattan’s most vibrant and pace-setting neighborhoods right outside your door.”

Places to Eat in NoMad

Ordinarily, the eateries in this neighborhood are a destination in their own right. Even during the current pandemic, you can still indulge in nearby favorites like Shake Shack burgers and gelato from Eataly. Here are some other local choices, including longtime staples and newer, buzzier spots.

Eisenberg’s Sandwich Shop: You can’t wrong ordering a bowl of matzo ball soup paired with a tuna on rye, two faves served at this iconic New York City lunch counter that’s been around since 1929.

Scarpetta: Signature dishes are served in this restaurant’s garden, a retreat from the hubbub thanks to its Mediterranean-inspired florals, trees, and ivy.

Upland: Cheeseburgers and higher-end menu options, like whole roasted branzino and short rib for two, abound at this California-inspired restaurant, open for takeout and outdoor dining.

Green Space

NoMad locals say it’s rare that a day goes by without a walk through Madison Square Park. This 6.2-acre green space genuinely anchors the neighborhood, thanks to its spacious dog run, free WiFi, kids’ concerts, playgrounds, and art installations.

How to Get There

Centrally located, there are lots of subway options to get to NoMad. You can take the 6 train to 23rd Street (and Park Avenue South), the R or W to 23rd Street (and Broadway), or the F or M to 23rd Street (and Sixth Avenue).

Additional Highlights

The neighborhood also boasts the National Museum of Mathematics, the Museum of Sex, Rizzoli Bookstore, and several trend-setting hotels.

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