Neighborhood Intel

Tips from a Chelsea doorman: Seventh Avenue is best for parking and Philly cheesesteaks

By Leonora Desar  | April 2, 2012 - 3:15PM
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Our latest anonymous interviewee is a 35-year-old Chelsea doorman who’s only two months into the profession after a stint in the arts.  

But don’t let his short tenure fool you--this guy is the go-to on the area, from the tastiest Philly cheesesteak to the best time and place (and time) to find a parking spot. 

Best and worst things about the neighborhood: You’re in Chelsea--it’s a happening spot. But Friday and Saturday nights you can’t drive around; it’s too busy. 

Best place to find parking: Anywhere on Seventh Avenue on the East side of the street from 21st Street to about 12th Street after 7 p.m., since the meters expire then. 

Best dry cleaner:Little J’s--on Seventh Avenue between 13th and 14th Sreets. Their service is great--when something goes in it comes out in a timely fashion.

Best hardware store: Arties, on 14th street between Sixth and Seventh Avenues. It’s a mom and pop, which I like.  They’re also a locksmith--they do it all.

Best bite to eat: If you want Chinese, you have Legend on Seventh Avenue between 15th and 16th Streets.
If you want Italian, there's La Carbonara on 14th Street between Seventh and Eighth Avenues – they’re excellent.  If you want something quick and easy there’s The Dirty Bird which has great rotisserie chicken. They’re right on 14th street between Seventh and Eighth Avenues.  

Best deli: L&M on Seventh Avenue between 15th and 16th--they have a great Philly cheesesteak.

Who do you see mostly during your shift?:My shift is 4 p.m.-12 a.m. so I see them all, from toddlers to 97-year olds. I can’t figure them out-- the guy in jeans and sneakers is a judge. I’ve learned not to judge a book by its cover.  


Tips from a Doorman features interviews with assorted New York City doormen, in an effort to get the inside scoop on the best (sometimes hidden) gems in their work neighborhoods. 'Cuz who knows a neighborhood better than its doormen(women)?

See all Tips from a Doorman.

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