Sisters Uptown Bookstore New York
African diaspora hub
Geoffrey from New York
One evening, in cool, pleasant autumn air—en route to ROCKMIL, a salon on the backside of Harlem’s Sugar Hill—Sister’s Uptown Bookstore presented itself.
Its storefront window light backlit the early evening gatherers outside, some staring down trays of fried chicken and pork ribs displayed in the window of the takeout next door.
Inside, were folks sitting by the entrance reading, others gathered near the back in a manner of discussion that drew me closer, wanting to hear what was going on, to pick up some clues.
Owner Kori Wilson worked at her overseer’s lectern, near the middle.
Searched for Ntozake Shange in the stack of shelves holding dozens and dozens of other poets—that midst thousands of other writers. I've not seen many shops like this one, none within miles of my Upper West Side home.
The thing is, Ms Wilson offers so many authors of the African diaspora that I was alarmed to wonder why I did not think the number would be so great.
This eye-opening trove of books is a comforting way to look more deeply into that question but you’re never going to stumble across it unless you make a point of visiting the neighborhood to discover this and what else is going on.
Here, midst readings—even drum circles— the Wilson sisters pledge to "…provide an educational, emotional, spiritual and loving environment for our diverse community" which they have done for the past fifteen years.
This is what In The Heights is about.
New York Spotter Geoffrey
About this spot
Our New York City Guide
Find your way with 308 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Loved it? Join us!
Loved this Spot?Join your international community. Share your favs and become part of our international community!
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in New York
UWS Phone Booth
Last payphone booth
One block away from a 21st century LinkNYC WiFi tower on Broadway sits one of three West End Avenue working telephone 'booths', the last in NYC...
by
Geoffrey
Dunbar
Anthony & Son
Old-school sandwich shop
After, "Anthony & Son" Panini Shoppe's Italian-style super-sandwiches, no regular New York sandwich will ever taste as good again...
by
Nick
Papa
Dutch Kills
Upholding cocktail culture in Queens
"Dutch Kills" in New York isn't hiding it's one of the best bars in the city, but it isn't publicizing the fact, either. No password to enter, however!
by
Nick
Papa
Montero's
Quirky Brooklyn dive bar
"Montero's" (est. 1939) in New York is one of the weirdest bars I've ever visited, in the best way possible; it takes you back to working-class Brooklyn...
by
Nick
Papa
Bund on Broadway
Soup dumplings
"Bund on Broadway" is one of the most popular restaurants on Astoria's restaurant row in New York. I always go straight fo the famous pork soup dumplings.
by
Paula
Ryszkiewicz
Conference House
Pre-Revolutionary history
The "Conference House" in New York is a perfect place to escape modern life if you're interested in what life was like in the 1600s...
by
Paula
Ryszkiewicz
Vite Vinosteria
My special occasion spot
"Vite Vinosteria" in New York is the Italian restaurant where, ever since I moved to Astoria, I've celebreated nearly every birthday & anniversary...
by
Paula
Ryszkiewicz
Hunter's Point Library
Waterfront reading room
"Hunter's Point Library" in New York, on Long Island City's waterfront, is definitely for you if you're a fan of books, architecture and skyline views!
by
Paula
Ryszkiewicz
House of Yes
Uninhibited fun
"House of Yes" is a colorful, eclectic space in New York that houses everything from roller skating to trapeze artists. Free entry on Fridays before 11pm!
by
Victoria
Yang
Jajaja Plantas Mexicana
Vegan Mexican food
"Jajaja Plantas Mexicana" in New York is a creative joint that has vegan versions of traditional Mexican food. It's delicious, affordable & healthy!
by
Victoria
Yang
Star Polish Bakery
Best mak
"Star Polish Bakery" in New York makes the best Polish desserts and cakes, especially the makowiec. Here they make it exactly the way I like it...
by
Paula
Ryszkiewicz
Art Gallery Hopping
A cultural way to explore NYC
New York City is ideal for Art Gallery Hopping, and opening & closing receptions occur frequently. Here are my go-to spots when I'm thirsty for some art...
by
Victoria
Yang
Heading to New York?
308 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 308 Insider Tips
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
City guides by those who know the city in and out!
Our Locals' Favorite Art & culture
Our team loves New York
Get to know our other Spotters from New York
As featured on:
