Remember when SoHo was a maze of empty warehouses sprinkled with artists, and there wasn’t a cab in sight after dark?  Even back then, the buildings South of Houston were gorgeous, and thus – the area also known as The SoHo Cast Iron Historic District received its well deserved landmark designation in 1973.  SoHo has flourished over the years, becoming home to chic boutiques and restaurants.  Mixed in between are some watercolor paintings of places that may peak your curiosity or bring a smile to your face after a hard day at work.

It's been called "SoHo's Little Shop of Curiosities" since it opened in 1993
It’s been called “SoHo’s Little Shop of Curiosities” since it opened in 1993

Are you a photographer needing to rent a sketeton or moose skull?  You can – at The Evolution Store.  The Evolution Store is one of those unique places that adults and kids alike find fun and fascinating.  The shop has two floors filled with everything from bugs to fossils & more – all kinds of artifacts and collectibles – and a helpful and knowledgable staff to help you find that perfect out-of-the-box gift in case you’re there for more then browsing.

Fanelli's Cafe on the cobblestoned corner of Prince & Mercer Streets
Fanelli’s Cafe on the cobblestoned corner of Prince & Mercer

Did you know that Fanelli’s first operated as a speakeasy in the 1920s and 30s?  It began its life at 94 Prince Street in 1847 as a grocery store – where liquor was sold, and purchased by Michael Fanelli in 1922.  The Fanelli family ran it as a speakeasy until the end of prohibition in 1933.  It is the second oldest food/drink establishment in the City and was sold in 1982 to its current owner, Hans Noe.

An Untapped Cities reader suggested I check out Milady's Bar - I'm glad I did.
An Untapped Cities reader suggested I check out Milady’s Bar – I’m glad I did.

Just a few short blocks North on Prince Street is what’s best described as your neighborhood watering hole – Milady’s Bar in SoHo.  Milady’s has been serving beer since 1881 and, since that time, maybe the only change has been the addition of a jukebox and pool table.  The regulars at Milady’s don’t care about the lack of menu choices handwritten and tapped to the wall.  The bartender knows the regulars by name and the drinks are still cheap.  It’s a wonder and a delight to many that in between the boutiques, world class dining and art galleries, Milady’s Bar is still rockin on the corner of Prince & Thompson.

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