The Return of Stone Street

I don’t know too many people who hang out in the Financial District unless they work there or like to have their drinking subsidized by horny bankers. But amidst all the dirty money, high-rises, and the tourist-choked South Street Seaport, lies one of the oldest streets in New York, Stone Street. Said to be one of the first paved streets in the city, this cobble stone alley dates back to the 1600’s when it was developed by Dutch colonists. History lessons aside, it has retained some of its old world charm and now it serves as an open-air drinking spot with a cluster of bars and gastropubs. While this setting could easily slide into Disney Main Street territory, the atmosphere is casual and the prices are affordable.

Just like a child that counts the days til the public pool opens for the season, I eagerly await for the days I can bask in some rare New York spring weather and suck down oysters and German beer. With four pubs on one block, all with excellent beer selections, pick one of the many picnic tables, and settle in for a long afternoon. While they do have happy hour specials every Friday, I recommend steering clear of tipsy traders and going on a weekend day when that area empties out. They also play host to seasonal festivals like Bloomsday and my personal favorite, the Stone Street Oyster Festival, where the Guinness flows freely and you can say “shooters” without sounding like an asshole. Well almost.

Photo Courtesy of: Shecky’s

Stone Street
Area Between Pearl, Hanover Square, and South William Streets [Financial District]