Recently, international urban culture media “Time Out” released the list of “Coolest Streets in the World” for 2025. Orchard Street, located in the Lower East Side of New York City adjacent to Chinatown, proudly secured the ninth spot on the global cool streets ranking, showcasing the unique charm of this street district.
Orchard Street spans approximately eight blocks, bordering the north side of Chinatown, and has seen a growing trend in commercial activity in recent years. The commentary in the list highlighted that Orchard Street, with its diverse range of stores, distinctive dining options, and low-rise red brick streetscape, presents a rare original charm of Lower Manhattan. Despite its short length, the street is densely packed with creative spaces, independent bookstores, art galleries, and unique restaurants, making it a favorite walking area for many tourists and local residents in recent years.
Along Orchard Street, a variety of store types can be found, including emerging establishments like the independent bookstore P&T Knitwear that doubles as a recording space, the interactive photography installation space AUTOPHOTO, and seasonal open street pedestrian initiatives. These elements have attracted a large number of tourists and young people, infusing the area with more vitality.
Meanwhile, the street still retains a number of traditional leather goods stores and old-style shops, standing side by side with new art galleries, perfumeries, and bars, presenting a unique mix of old and new scenery. In the evening, restaurants along the street often move tables and chairs outdoors, creating the distinct New York feature of al fresco dining.
The density of restaurants in this street district is extremely high, with Scarr’s Pizza being one of the most acclaimed establishments, known for its freshly ground grain pizza crust, regarded as one of the renowned pizza places in New York and globally. Just a stroll of eight blocks along the street, one can find dozens of dining options to choose from.
Orchard Street is also an important witness to the immigrant history of New York. From the late 19th to the early 20th centuries, the area was home to a large number of immigrant families facing difficult living conditions. The Tenement Museum located on the street still preserves the stories of its former residents, reminding the world that the development of New York City is inseparable from the contributions of immigrant laborers.
Top 10 of the Global “Coolest Streets” List
1. Rua do Senado (Rio de Janeiro)
2. Orange Street (Osaka)
3. Rua do Bonjardim (Porto)
4. Fanghua Street (Chengdu)
5. Sherbrooke Street West (Montreal)
6. Montague Road (Brisbane)
7. Maybachufer (Berlin)
8. Olympou Street (Thessaloniki)
9. Orchard Street (New York City)
10. Vinh Khanh Street (District 4, Ho Chi Minh City)