New York City, currently known as the epicenter for the country during this global pandemic, is in a tough spot due to numerous closures that occured over a month ago. With many of them being small businesses, several are struggling financially without daily customer interaction. Even with support from government loans and grants there is the great chance that some of our favorites may not weather through this strange and uncertain time.
While there is no definite time period on when the city will reopen, so many people are coming together to form ways to support each other – one of the ways being gift cards. Several local business owners have created the option for customers to purchase them right from their website. When everything returns to a sense of normalcy, NYC supporters will have something to look forward to. A new website, Help Main Street, has even compiled a list of nearly every business partaking in this effort. Take a look at what we’ve rounded up as top spots, and select one or a few you would like to support.
Chillhouse
The current state of the world is a big enough reason to seek out a sense of chill. Look no further as Chillhouse is one of the greatest places to unwind in the city. From signature gel manicures to a relaxing massage, this spa will have your body and mind finding a sense of peace. Since their newest flagship recently opened for business a few months ago, purchasing a gift card will help the business not leave as fast as it entered.
75 Varick St, New York, NY 10013
Brooklyn Roasting Company
New Yorkers certainly run on a daily supply of coffee and since a daily dose contributes to a city that never sleeps, make sure your local cafe can return even stronger than before. Brooklyn Roasting Company serves to provide sustainability sourced coffee to multiple locations in the five boroughs of NYC. Their cafes have been and will be the perfect spot to gather with friends or spend time finishing work.
50 W 23rd St, New York, NY 10010
Pocket Bar
Like the name suggests, this is a cozy bar that serves great wine and sangria. Customers will always walk into a friendly atmosphere. Many gather here with friends after work or for date night. On the first Monday of every month, they host an exciting game of bingo with cool new prizes. If this bar happens to be packed when you arrive, head on over to their sister bar Back Pocket, which is only one block away.
455 W 48th St, New York, NY 10036
Rubirosa Ristorante
New Yorkers love a good quality slice of pizza, and Rubirosa has been known to be one of “the spots”. The spot is known for having lines out the door and a packed restaurant at all times; it’s that good. As soon as they reopen, dine in and order the Tie-Dye pizza. One of their more popular pies, it’s topped with vodka, tomato, pesto and fresh mozzarella.
235 Mulberry St, New York, NY 10012
Fringe Salon
One of the first salons to grace the Lower East Side, this is a business that truly deserves a venue in the city. From providing premier care to every client since 2004 to creating stunning hairstyles and color to anyone who walks in, this is the spot to go for a much-needed retouch after this quarantine is officially over.
248 Broome St, New York, NY 10002
Parker and Quinn
This is a dine-in spot that is striving to make their voices heard. Each day, they’re emailing guests with home dinner ideas from their menu and exclusive drink and meal deals for delivery/pick up. Guests not only have the option to purchase gift cards, but they also may invest in the business by purchasing bonds. Steps away from Bryant Park, this is an establishment providing breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner to families and friends within the Refinery Hotel.
64 W 39th St, New York, NY 10018
Lash Lingerie
For those that can’t wait for a beauty retouch, Lash Lingerie will be there to support you every step of the way with quality lash extensions. Their mission is for beauty to be enhanced, not altered. Schedule an appointment for extensions, tints and even perms to enhance your natural eyelashes.
37 W 26th St Suite 204, New York, NY 10010
Cure Thrift Shop
Some of the best shopping destinations happen to be found locally. At Cure Thrift Shop, they have just about any vintage beauty you can think of. On their site, they have quite a few gems listed such as designer garments or vintage collectible children’s toys. Why not invest in an item such as a new closet staple? Better yet, proceeds from each purchase will go to diabetes research.
111 E 12th St, New York, NY 10003
Spot Dessert Bar
The sweet tooth in all of us is looking to acquaint itself with a treat that wasn’t baked ourselves during quarantine. Cure the cravings by stopping at Spot Dessert Bar. Try out their luxe sundaes or savory cakes. If you can’t wait to walk in there, support by ordering off their delivery menu.
11 W 32nd St, New York, NY 10001
City Winery
Enter back into the nightlife scene with a glass of wine in hand. City Winery serves Mediteranean dishes paired well with wine and live music. By bringing a cultural experience to the city, it’s the ideal spot to go without traveling too far.
155 Varick St, New York, NY 10013