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.
Find your way with 304 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Their prices are in keeping with the neighborhood: a plate of two eggs, two pancakes, 'home' fried potatoes and your choice of sausages or bacon, is $12.
by
There are three houses not far from each other in NYC of three icons: James Dean, James Baldwin, and Dorothy Parker...
by
"Heckscher Field" in Central Park, New York, is used for softball. Here you can see games played for the Broadway Show League. Celebrity stars may be seen.
by
Among its offerings are a $10 breakfast special and its enormous $15 lunchtime hamburger, a price unobtainable anywhere else within walking distance.
by
This sun soaked park bench is a destination neighborhood residents know, spending time there in observation. It’s one of the more fabulous NYC stages.
by
"Monumental Women" has erected this monument in Central Park, NYC to especially important figures in the United States women's equality movement...
by
"Der Krung" in Hell's Kitchen in New York City is by far my favorite Thai place around. One of the best things about it is the $9.75 lunch special...
by
"Apthorp Cleaners" in NYC is different from the dozens of other neighborhood cleaners by its permanent but ever-changing window display of Barbie dolls...
by
Taco toppings include cheese (Cotijam, oaxaca and mozzarella), pineapple, jalapeños and pico de gallo. Norteñas & Cubanos sandwiches are not to be missed.
by
"Studio Museum in Harlem" in New York focuses on local, national and international artists of African descent and other work inspired by black culture...
by
"Dinastia" is a great Cuban-Chinese restaurant in New York City. They definitely make soul food here. Consider the squid and rice: it's always good...
by
Its bright neon sign is easy to spot. Stand Up NY feels like a proper theater as it has a street-level entrance and the programming is mad extensive,
by
304 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 304 Insider Tips