Hamilton Heights is a scenic subsection of Harlem located on the western side of Manhattan. Like much of northern Manhattan, the views of the Hudson River Valley are sweeping, and there is a little more green space here to really appreciate the natural beauty that surrounds New York. The neighbors are a little nicer, the pace is a little slower, and honestly, life is a little bit better.
The People
Hamilton Heights is a very diverse neighborhood, much more so than the neighborhoods of midtown and downtown Manhattan. The neighborhood demographics are as follows:
- Asian: 3.7%
- Black: 32.8%
- Hispanic: 43.5%
- Mixed: 3.4%
- White: 16.3%
- Other: 0.3%
Hamilton Heights Food
1. The Chick Inn
This neighborhood favorite serves up classic Peruvian Pollo a la Braza (delicious Peruvian rotisserie chicken) as well as spicy fried chicken sandwiches and more. Don’t miss the sides and sauces!
2. The Grange Bar & Eatery – Currently Closed
“The Grange Bar & Eatery is an up-tempo but casual American Eatery in a friendly farmhouse-inspired space, featuring cozy booths, white oak floors, brick-lined walls, and antique chandeliers.” “Alongside its rotating offering of beer and wine, the Bar & Eatery offers a seasonal beverage program that features specialty cocktails designed by Danielle Rutherford. Open 7days a week, The Grange stays in full swing until 11 pm every day, making it an appealing pick for the neighborhood.”
3. Fumo Harlem
“Welcome to Fumo. Our strong Italian roots and love for fresh, homemade food is evident in every dish. Enjoy.” Fumo is a neighborhood gem serving upmarket pizza, pasta, and cocktails. They are Michelin-starred and a must-visit for anyone in the neighborhood.
4. ROKC
“ROKC is a contemporary twist on restaurants that were found in traditional Japanese port towns during the Meiji Period, when Japan first became open to the rest of the world after nearly two centuries of seclusion. Not unlike these ports, ROKC is where East meets West, where the past fuses with the present. At ROKC, we specialize in ramen – noodles of Chinese origin, and cocktails – first brought to Japanese ports by western countries. We’ve since honed and perfected both in an effort to bring a taste of the past into the future.”
The Vibe
This hilly, northern Manhattan neighborhood is a quieter, more serene section of Manhattan that provides ample green space and serenity for New Yorkers who want to have easy access to amenities with a higher quality of life. There is an authentic sense of community here. That being said, the neighborhood is rapidly gentrifying, which is causing some friction between newcomers and longtime residents.
The Setting
The neighborhood is in upper Manhattan, perched up high above the Hudson River. St Nicholas Ave. defines the neighborhood’s eastern border, with the Hudson River flanking the neighborhood to the west. The neighborhood stretches from W 155th St to W 135th St
Hamilton Heights Attractions
1. Dance Theater of Harlem
This leading dance institution of global caliber maintains a world-class school that trains young people in classical ballet and the allied arts. They aim to be a company of highly diverse artists who perform the highest quality repertory. They provide arts education, community outreach programs, and positive role models for all.
2. Riverbank State Park
This unique and scenic green space is multi-leveled and rises almost seven stories above the Hudson River. The amenities and complexes offered are immense: they offer an Olympic-size swimming pool, covered skating rink, 800 seat theater, 2,500 seat athletic complex with fitness room, and a 150 seat restaurant. They also offer a lap pool, wading pool, four tennis courts, four basketball courts, a softball field, four hand/paddleball courts, and a 400-seat amphitheater. There’s truly something for everyone.
3. Convent Garden
This unique neighborhood garden has an interesting history associated with the Sugar Hill section of Hamilton Heights.
4. Sugar Hill Children’s Museum of Art & Storytelling
This museum is the cultural heart of the Sugar Hill Project. It taps into children’s curiosity and imagination, actively addressing the educational needs of the communities youngest and most vulnerable children. The museum is ideal for three to eight-year-old children.
Nightlife
- The Honey Well -Craft cocktails & bar bites are offered in a low-lit, subterranean setting with a cozy vibe.
- Uptown Bourbon – Neighborhood watering hole offering bourbon, beer & cocktails along with happy hour.
- Harlem Cigar Room – This is one of the coolest spots in the neighborhood. You can find a plethora of cigars available for purchase here. They have a BYOB policy, and welcome people from all walks of life. If you want to suit up and drink scotch people definitely do that, but the room is also welcoming to more casual crowds who are just looking to relax and have a good time.
Hamilton Heights Movers
Metropolis Moving has gained the reputation of being one of New York City’s most courteous, careful, and friendly professional moving services. Get a quote today and you’ll be on your way to living the life you envision for yourself in Hamilton Heights.
