cool not-touristy stuff to do in NYC

[BrotherWayne]

Hey there, listener from Portland, OR. Gonna be in NYC this weekend, for the first time. Might be able to hit Bowery on the 8th to see the KATG crew. Other than that, what's some stuff that I should do that isn't touristy? Although I hear the tour bus is fun

Also, what's your favorite fried chicken in the area? Fried chicken is my traditional birthday dinner and it's my b-day this weekend.

[marina]

The thing I enjoyed most about NYC was the food and the fact that I could pretty much walk everywhere. I didn't do a lot of touristy things either, but just walking through all the neighborhoods was probably the most memorable thing about the trip. And I really recommend hitting Bowery. It's a totally awesome time, and for not much money. The people are welcoming, the drinks are strong and there's no cover. What more could you want?

[punk'n]

The Village is great for just walking around and eating cheap food. Hit up Mamoun's and go to Washington Square Park.

[cisdmsl1]

If you want some good Italian food and alot of it, go to LaMela's at 167 Mulberry St. in Little Italy. Order Family Style. You get up to a 7 course meal brought to the table and it is whatever the chef is cooking that night. The food is great, the atmosphere is great.

My next suggestion is alittle on the touristy side but there is a reason everyone goes there. I know you will not have room left for desert but go to Ferrara's anyway.

Hope you get a chance to hit these place, I know you will enjoy them.

[thelastknowngod]

I am a huge fan of CouchSurfing.org. They always have really cool stuff to do and/or suggestions for travelers.

Here is a thread in the NYC boards of CS for the local's fav things to do.

http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_re...72&post=587641

I'll be in NYC on Sunday afternoon before bingo and then obviously at Bowery that night. if you want to meetup just let me know. PM me your phone number and we'll try to get together.

[Pintman]

In my opinion, NYC's real Little Italy, especially if you like to eat, is centered around East 187th & Arthur Avenue in Belmont, Bronx. Close to Fordham U. and the Bronx Botanical Gardens. Roberto's is a great restaurant. Fresh pasta at Borgatti's, made while you watch. Terrific bakeries, such as Addeo and Madonia. Egidio for canoli and pastries. Calandra and a few other places for cheese. A fish market, a few butchers, an indoor produce market. Not touristy at all. Worth half a day.

And if you're an aficianado of charmingly disgusting dive bars, Tinker's will not disappoint you. Just don't wear Red Sox gear. Up the street is a pizza joint called Mike's. Get the Sicilian pie.