The shopping capital of NYC, SoHo is for those whose bank balance impresses as much as their personal style. Stretching from Houston to Canal, the iconic cast-iron streets are a smorgasbord of high-end boutiques, global brands and the occasional locals’ spot. But not every store deserves that SoHo footfall. The area is an archetype of gentrification, which means a glut of global retailers who’ve slowly pushed out the one-offs. But nestled among the banner brands are some gems that justify the trip downtown. To help you navigate one of busiest neighbourhoods in the city, we’ve compiled a rundown of the best stores, eateries, drinking establishments and more, all worthy of a New York minute (and maybe a little longer than that).

Where to Shop

Billy Reid

The Alabama native’s New York outpost offers few East Coast nods. Decked out like a Lost Cause hunting lodge, Billy Reid is a mecca for timeless menswear pieces. The stock leans classic – the Italian-made Bond peacoat ($695) and moss stitch cardigan ($179), complete with elbow patches, are staples whether your style leans prep or Southern dandy. But there’s also on-trend grabs, like the athleisure-inspired boiled wool track pants ($149.50), which are more Empire State than good ol’ boy. 54 Bond St, (212) 598-9355; billyreid.com

A.P.C.

If simplicity is what A.P.C. does best, then its Bond Street spot (the brand’s fourth in New York) is firmly on-brand. Whereas the flagship offers close to the entire range, here the collection is more curated, with staples like the Meca camouflage sweatshirt ($220) housed in timber-and-glass cabinets that give the space the feel of a high-end, Scandinavian gym locker. Long-standing fans should decamp straight downstairs to the A.P.C. denim lounge, for a hands-on with anything from the Parisian label’s ubiquitous New Standard Raw Denim ($185) to the collection of pre-worn Butler jeans. For when you don’t feel like breaking them in yourself. 49 Bond St, (212) 966-0049; usonline.apc.fr