4. Old Homestead Steakhouse (1868)

If you’ve ever wandered into the Meatpacking District, you’ve probably seen the cow perching above the awning of the Old Homestead Steakhouse (her name is Annabelle). Many things have changed in the neighborhood within the last century. Once upon a time, butchers with slaughterhouses, meatpacking plants and butchers with blood stained aprons populated the area. But one could never guess that by looking at the cultural hub it is today. The variety of businesses, restaurants and attractions like the Whitney Museum and the High Line have transformed the meatpacking district into a trendy destination for tourists and locals alike.

One thing that has remained relatively the same is the Old Homestead Steakhouse, which prides itself on its USDA prime cuts of beef. Roughly seven decades ago, a dishwasher named Harry Sherry became the owner of the business, which was later taken over by his grandsons Greg and Marc; to this day, they remain in charge as partners of the thriving culinary enterprise that has since expanded to Atlantic City, Las Vegas and Japan (soon-to-come). In keeping with the bovine theme, each restaurant has its own distinct cow centerpiece. (Annabelle’s sister can be found in Las Vegas and a Julian Schnabel painting of Annabelle is in Atlantic City).

Fun fact: Old Homestead is also responsible for designing Lady Gaga’s 2010 MTV Video Music Awards meat dress (yes, you read correctly).