It’s a wonderful time to celebrate #NYStrong businesses, and Hudson Yards is host to some of the best, including those offering classic bites, great gear and heart-warming stories.
In 1923, George Demetrious came to the city from Greece by way of France, where he studied chocolate making. Once here, he quickly built a loyal following at Li-Lac, his artisanal West Village shop, for goodies like almond bark, butter crunch, hazelnut truffle squares and fudge. Li-Lac’s more recent owners remain true to the local heritage and old-school production. Stop by Level 4 for Thanksgiving chocolate turkeys, holiday gift boxes, and chocolate molds—including a bar with the Hudson Yards skyline!
This 26-year-old cycling store, with roots across the river in New Jersey, aims to be a hub for cyclists all around the New York region. Well, mission accomplished! Their new Hudson Yards location sells world class equipment, provides exceptional service, including repairs, and offers community rides, all with the added bonus of an in store café serving wine, beer and coffee.
Parking its vehicle on the streets of Soho before the fancy food truck craze blossomed, Van Leeuwen relied on word of mouth to talk up its specialty flavors and vegan options, all made locally from the finest globally sourced ingredients. There’s a shop on Level 3, where you can grab the Van Leeuwen Cookbook with your double scoop. Of course, there’s also a truck on the Public Square and Gardens, scooping up seasonal faves like pumpkin cheesecake and vegan bourbon vanilla apple crisp.
William Greenberg Desserts
On his way home from World War II, William Greenberg got lucky, winning enough at cards to open a bakery. New Yorkers have been enjoying the rewards ever since. The main attraction at his eponymous shops is the Black and White—a local institution in its own right—but there’s much more. For starters, check out the holiday cookies, like leaf-shaped Thanksgiving treats, blue-and-white Hanukkah dreidels and Christmas gingerbread. The kosher bakery, on Level 3, ships nationwide. Want to make your own? Pick up The William Greenberg Desserts Cookbook.