Avoid the Hype: Gabrielle Narcisse's Guide to Lowkey NYC

 Gabrielle Narcisse

Avoid the Hype: Gabrielle Narcisse's Guide to Lowkey NYC

Gabrielle Narcisse
Gabrielle Narcisse

Multi-disciplinary artist Gabrielle Narcisse moved from New Jersey to New York in 2020, and is aware of how hard it is to explore the city as a newcomer, "New York gets overwhelming," she says, "There are too many expensive, overhyped and gate kept options, and too many of the same things in a different font."

Narcisse is the founder of Black Girls Fight Club organisation, which strives to empower Black women, femmes and enbys across industries through hangouts, exhibitions, workshops and parties. She now curates and hosts events across the city, which has helped her find the spots that are authentic and welcoming.

For her guide to the Big Apple, Narcisse insists on keeping it simple: "The best things in life are free. And there’s something for everyone here if you look for it."

Nene's Taqueria

    Nene's

    Birria tacos, horchata popsicles, all the good things. Go here for all your Mexican food needs.

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    Winnie's NYC

      Winnie's

      Yes, some of the bartenders are rude. Yes, they charge for tap water. Yes, questionable characters are lingering about. Yes, they’ll skip the songs you paid for. But I still go back time and time again. Because it’s Winnie’s.

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      Ailey

        Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre

        A tradition of mine for over ten years now is seeing an Alvin Ailey performance with my family. Everyone should experience the magic of Alvin Ailey. You won’t regret it.

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        BOOKOFF

          BOOKOFF New York

          If you are looking for tech, manga, books, CDs, movies, etc. take a trip!

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          Dashwood Books

            Dashwood Books

            Beautiful selection of art and photo books at Dashwood. The owner, Miwa is truly a gem. She can recommend anything and is incredibly charismatic and smart in my few interactions with her.

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            Studio 151

              Studio 151

              You should dance here. Nublu downstairs too.

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              Backroom

                Backroom

                It just has a charm I love. You’re greeted with lovely furniture, tea cups and red lighting. All the prohibition-era fun you could desire at the end of a dark LES alleyway.

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                Happyfun Hideaway

                  HappyFun Hideaway

                  Atrocious and wonderful memories alike at this establishment. Gay juice or one too many frozen margs will always fuck you up, proceed with caution...

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