The East Village and Gramercy neighborhoods are home to many female-founded and women-owned stores, restaurants, and institutions that make up a huge part of our vibrant local community. Here are a few of our favorite businesses to support in the area.

 

Desi Galli
172 Avenue B
New York, NY 10009
www.desigalli.com

PriyaVanda Chouhan opened Desi Galli in 2012, bringing the vibrant flavors of Indian street food to the East Village. The restaurant serves fan favorites inspired by the bustling markets of Delhi and Mumbai, including its famous Desi Poutine, French fries topped with tikka masala gravy and grated paneer.

 

Boyar Gifts
383 2nd Ave.
New York, NY 10010
boyargifts.com

Need help finding a gift for the person who has everything? Head to Boyar Gifts. The shop is filled with eclectic finds from around the world, from unique home décor and candles to playful New York-themed treasures that make memorable gifts for any occasion.

 

S'MAC
197 1st Avenue
New York, NY 10003
www.eatsmac.com

Sarita Ekya opened S'MAC (Sarita's Macaroni & Cheese) on June 24, 2006. The beloved East Village eatery was the first New York City restaurant devoted exclusively to macaroni and cheese, serving creative takes on the comfort food classic for nearly two decades.

 

B-Side
131 Avenue C
New York, NY 10009
www.bsidenyc.bar

This neighborhood institution has been serving the East Village since 2003. Known for its laid-back atmosphere, affordable drinks, and welcoming crowd, B-Side remains a favorite gathering place where locals and visitors alike can enjoy great music, good company, and a true downtown vibe.

 

Permacut Salon
190 1st Ave.
New York, NY 10009
www.permacutsalon.com

Permacut Salon owner Reena Mohamed has faced more than her share of challenges throughout her decades in business, including a fire that destroyed her shop. Through it all, she has remained resilient and continues to provide top-quality hair and beauty services to clients throughout the East Village.

 

Phoenix Bar
447 E 13th St.
New York, NY 10009
www.phoenixbarnyc.com

A cornerstone of the East Village nightlife scene, Phoenix Bar has been a beloved LGBTQ+ gathering place since 1999. Known for its lively events, welcoming atmosphere, and strong sense of community, the bar continues to be a neighborhood staple.

 

First Avenue Veterinary Hospital
335 First Ave.
New York, NY 10003
www.firstavenuevet.com

Owned by veterinarian Dr. Jodie L. Poller, First Avenue Veterinary Hospital is a full-service medical facility dedicated to keeping New York City's pets healthy and happy. From routine wellness visits to advanced medical care, the practice offers compassionate service in one convenient location.

 

Twigs Hair Salon
212 Avenue B
New York, NY 10009
www.twigsalon.com

Founded by stylists Julie, Janell, and Kristiana, Twigs Hair Salon has built a loyal following with its personalized approach to hair care. The East Village salon specializes in precision cuts, color services, balayage highlights, keratin treatments, and more.

 

Strand Bookstore
828 Broadway
New York, NY 10003
www.strandbooks.com

One of New York City's most iconic independent bookstores, Strand is owned by third-generation bookseller Nancy Bass Wyden. Founded in 1927, the legendary shop is home to more than 2.5 million new, used, and rare books and continues to be a destination for readers from around the world.

 

The Rabbit Books & Bar
170 Avenue A
New York, NY 10009
www.therabbitbooksandbar.com

Part bookstore, part neighborhood gathering place, The Rabbit Books & Bar brings together literature, coffee, cocktails, and community under one roof. Founded by a mother-daughter team of New Yorkers, the cozy Avenue A destination offers a thoughtfully curated selection of books alongside drinks and light bites, creating the perfect setting to discover a new favorite read or settle in for a conversation with friends.

 

the ness
406 Broadway, Level Three
New York, NY 10013
www.thenessnyc.com

Owned by Aly Giampolo and Colette Dong, the ness is New York City's premier trampoline cardio studio. Their mission is to create a welcoming space where guests can strengthen both body and mind through fun, energetic, and creative movement.

 

 

 

Please note: This is not an exhaustive list of the many women-owned businesses in the area and hours or status of businesses can change quickly. If there's a listing with status changes or one we haven't added to the list, feel free to email that information to stories@beamliving.com.