10 NYC stores that aren't on every tourist list

10 NYC stores that aren't on every tourist list

💄 Zitomers – The only Upper East Side pharmacy. Everything from old-school hair accessories (Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy's) to fancy European toothpaste. Link

🥡 Pearl River Mart – The iconic Chinatown institution. Tiger Balm to velvet Chinese slippers, all under one roof.

🍭 Economy Candy – NYC's oldest, craziest, and best candy store.

📚 Strand Bookstore – Founded in 1927. 18 miles of books in Greenwich Village.

🎁 E.A.T. Gifts – Where locals actually buy gifts. Whimsical gadgets, gizmos, and gifts galore.

🍪 Levain Bakery The legendary half-pound chocolate chip walnut cookie that started in 1995 in a tiny basement shop on West 74th. The chocolate chip walnut is the original (and the one to order — crispy outside, gooey center). Multiple NYC locations now, but the original UWS spot is the pilgrimage. Open 8 AM–8 PM daily.

🎄 More & More Antiques  The cult-favorite holiday ornament shop locals make annual pilgrimages to. Specializes in old-world hand-painted blown-glass ornaments, German pewter, and antique European treasures. Tiny store, huge personality — they hand-wrap every gift, which is exactly why the line moves so slowly (and why it's worth the wait).