Chelsea Market NYC

I took the subway to Chelsea Market like a big girl.

At first, the most confusing part was figuring out which entrance I was supposed to use. But after a few times hopping on and off—and realizing I probably came in on the wrong side more than once—I still made it to the right place. I think the GPS just tries to give you the easiest route. So maybe I took some extra steps coming in from the north side instead of the south, but oh well. It’s New York. I got there.

Subway tip: I pull up directions on my phone and screenshot them so I don’t have to drain my battery or worry about losing reception. Then I throw in my headphones, play some music, and mentally repeat the directions while I ride. Makes me feel like a local, even if I’m just a tourist in disguise. Also—it’s only $2.90. That beats taking an Uber any day.

Where I Walked + Wandered: It was a record-breaking heat day in NYC. Like actual heat advisory warning kind of day. My Chelsea Market tour started around 11 AM and by the time I arrived, I was already sweating. Thank God for indoor AC.

I walked the market, tried bites from different spots, wandered through little shops, and soaked in the charm. You could easily spend 2–3 hours here between the food, the shopping, and the vibes. There are plenty of places to sit and chill while you decide where to go next.

Where I Ate + Drank:

• Joey Bats Café – The star of the show. Think: warm crème brûlée wrapped in a flaky croissant. It’s subtle, soft, warm, and honestly gone in 3 bites. One is enough and it's everything.

• Corkbuzz – After sweating through half my tour, I left early and retreated back to Corkbuzz. Ordered a flight, chatted with the bartender, and instantly felt better. I loved it so much I went back the very next day. It’s intimate, cozy, and they have an amazing wine selection. My second flight was all whites from Spain, and I was pleasantly surprised.

• Takumi Taco – I had a taco with Asian fusion flavors that was interesting in a good way. Definitely worth a try if you want something fun and unexpected.

• Doughnuttery – We stopped here during the tour, but I wasn’t impressed. Couldn’t tell you what made it special.

• Filaga Pizzeria – Nothing fancy, just a slice. Sometimes that’s exactly what hits.

What Caught My Eye:

• The variety. You can go from wine flights to tacos to pastries to vintage jewelry in minutes.

• The lighting inside—soft and moody but bright enough to people-watch.

• Joey Bats Café. It’s small, easy to miss, and so worth stopping for.

• Corkbuzz felt like a hidden little wine bar cocoon inside all the movement.

Personal Tips:

• Go earlier in the day if you’re visiting in the summer. By noon, that heat will knock the cute out of you.

• Screenshot your subway directions—makes life easier and saves your battery.

• Don’t feel pressured to try everything. Pick a few things and enjoy them slowly.

• If you need a recharge, Corkbuzz is your spot.

What Not to Miss:

• Joey Bats Café for the pastel de nata. That pastry had me in a full moment of gratitude.

Soft Close: Chelsea Market is one of those places that just gives. Even in the middle of a heatwave, I left full, buzzed, and smiling. It’s the kind of place you can wander and find something new every time. And for me, that’s what travel is really about.

💫 Simplie Golden Vibes

Want the visuals? I saved all the highlights from this trip on my Instagram. Head over to @simpliegolden to see it all.