Word New York
Bookstore in Sugar Hill, Harlem
Geoffrey from New York
A bookstore/library specializing in African-American and Black culture with an emphasis on the arts and politics; upstairs, the Jumel Terrace Bed and Breakfast Inn, neither of which advertises except via its informative website. It's hard to pin down exactly what this place is. I think that's by design, making it all the more attractive.
It's across the street from the Jumel mansion and Sylvan Terrace --- a row of 1882 wood frame houses arranged along the cobblestone former-driveway to the mansion --- and around the corner from 555 Edgecombe, home of Marjorie Elliot, and former home to Joe Louis, Paul Robeson, Count Basie and others.
This fascinating, almost puzzling 'business' I discovered one day just before attending a Marjorie Elliot Jazz Parlour event. Susan and I peered in the window and inside was Kurt Thometz, the proprietor and host of the bookstore which is actually part of his private library. One hesitates to buy a book, out of fear of reducing the quality of his collection. We spent a wonderful 45 minutes chatting and sharing ideas with Mr Thometz that afternoon talking mostly of the black cultural scene and its evolution.
Thometz is a writer, producer, hotelier, host, raconteur, perhaps a boulevardier as well as a provocateur. He is known within literary circles.
One almost wishes to have brought along a thermos of Pimms Cup (or old scotch), to stay refreshed while looking around, and while talking.
Quirky hours of operation—be sure to call ahead. Good hunting!
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
Stand Up NY
UWS Comedy Club
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
Geoffrey
Dunbar
NYC Pride March
The Greatest Show on Earth!
This year's "NYC Pride March", World Pride, will be held in the city to commemorate the Stonewall Riot of 1969. Don't miss this once-in-a-lifetime event!
by
Geoffrey
Dunbar
Willy Wall
Secret floating bar
Willy Wall is the clubhouse of the Manhattan Yacht Club in NYC, but anyone can head out there for cheap drinks and fantastic skyline views...
by
Nick
Papa
Fall Foliage
Central Park
A walk through Central Park in New York is probably your best way of appreciating the folliage change colors. I recommend walking along the allée of elms.
by
Geoffrey
Dunbar
Sisters
Soul/Jamaica Fusion in Harlem
"Sisters" in New York is a Jamaican restaurant. Let's put it like this: when I go to Jamaica, I don't seek a restaurant until I come back!
by
Geoffrey
Dunbar
Patisserie des Ambassades
Senegalese/French café
"Patisserie des Ambassades" in New York has extensive opening hours and prepares dishes & desserts for every time of day. It's refreshingly old-fashioned.
by
Geoffrey
Dunbar
Loeb Boathouse
Central Park
"Loeb Boathouse Restaurant" in New York's Central Park is in the vicinity of the Bethesda Fountain and I think it's best for a warm-weather drink...
by
Geoffrey
Dunbar
1166 Sixth Avenue
Lichenstein & Otterness
In the lobby of 1166 Avenue of the Americas in NYC hang some significant tapestries by Lichtenstein & a large bronze homage to capitalism by Otterness...
by
Geoffrey
Dunbar
Subway Nostalgia
Vintage subway train excursions
The MTA in NYC offers subway "nostalgia rides" during the summer months on old cars from the '30s and '40s. Book your ticket now!
by
Geoffrey
Dunbar
Teranga
Senegalese food at the Africa Center
"Teranga" in New York City, in the Africa Center, is a restaurant as well as a library. It feels musical and maintains a feeling of communal comfort...
by
Geoffrey
Dunbar
S&P Lunch
1928 Lunch Counter
S&P Sandwich Shop, opened in 1928, serves Jewish classics like matzoh ball soup and latkes in a nostalgic setting that feels like stepping back in time. A must-visit!
by
Geoffrey
Dunbar
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
Heading to New York?
✓ 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:
