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NYC's Meatpacking District: Where To Eat, See And Play

Fort Ganesvoort
(Credit: Courtesy Photo/Fort Ganesvoort)

Once a gritty area of Manhattan, the Meatpacking District has flourished into a vibrant and trendy neighborhood that draws the attention of millennials and fashionistas. From the West Side Highway to Eighth Avenue between West 17 Street and Horatio Street, here are some of the best places in the neighborhood. By John Friia

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(Credit: Courtesy Photo/Kola House)

Kola House

408 West 15th Street
New York, NY 10011
646-869-8873
www.kolahouse.com

TO EAT: As people walk into Kola House, they will be embraced by an industrial, yet sophisticated atmosphere -- from the concrete, blackened steel and vintage red brick, to the paneled walnut walls, wood floors and a collection of contemporary art. Executive Chef Jon Feshan creates shareable dishes with global influences, and mixologist Alex Ott creates innovative cocktails to complement each dish.

Whitney Museum Of American Art  Previews Its New Downtown Location
The new building housing the relocated Whitney Museum of American Art stands in Manhattan's meatpacking district on April 23, 2015 in New York City. (Photo by Spencer Platt/Getty Images)

Whitney Museum of American Art

99 Gansevoort Street
New York, NY 10014
212-570-3600
www.whitney.org

TO EXPLORE: Located right next to the Highline is the Whitney Museum of American Art. Relocated from Midtown, the museum is one of the preeminent institutions that collects, preserve and showcase contemporary American art. Visitors can explore rotating and permanent exhibits, including "Biennial," the country's leading survey on recent developments in American art.

Reinstein Ross Goldsmiths
(Credit: Courtesy Photo/Reinstein Ross Goldsmiths)

Reinstein Ross Goldsmiths

30 Gansevoort Street
New York, NY 10014
212-226-4513
www.reinsteinross.com

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TO SHOP: Reinstein Ross Goldsmiths combines precious gems and high-karat gold in their vast collections, which ranges from hoop earrings to necklaces, bracelets and cufflinks. With two locations in Manhattan, all of their products are locally-made, with exquisite craftsmanship and attention to detail. For over 30 years, Reinstein Ross Goldsmiths create contemporary jewelry with a timeless appeal.

Fort Ganesvoort
(Credit: Courtesy Photo/Fort Ganesvoort)

Fort Gansevoort

5 Ninth Avenue
New York, NY 10014
917-639-3113
www.fortgansevoort.com

TO DISCOVER: Nestled in the heart of the Meatpacking District, Fort Gansevoort is a cultural epicenter for the trendiest of residents. The gallery is a platform for experimental art and emerging artists that bridge the past to the present. Embracing the history of the neighborhood, Fort Gansevoort works with the remaining local meatpackers for their culinary offerings.

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(Credit: The Standard/Facebook)

The Top of the Standard

848 Washington Street
New York. NY 10014
212-645-7600
www.standardhotels.com

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TO DRINK: Boasting breathtaking views of Manhattan, The Top of the Standard is an opulent restaurant and lounge above The Standard Hotel. During the sunny afternoons, people can enjoy tea and drinks while gazing out over the city. As the sun sets, the lounge transforms into a sophisticated supper lounge offering small plates and specialty cocktails.

STK Downtown
(Credit: Courtesy Photo/Stk Downtown)

STK Downtown

26 Little West 12th Street
New York, NY 10014
646-624-2444
www.togrp.com

TO PARTY: The traditional steakhouse is transformed into a modern and innovative concept at STK Downtown, which offers a memorable meal with endless fun. The restaurant has become known for their bite-sized Lil' BRGs, made with Wagyu beef, Lobster Mac & Cheese, and juicy steaks. From the DJ to the tasty cocktails, this steakhouse is quintessential place to experience the neighborhood's nightlife and dining scene.

John Friia is a freelance journalist and native New Yorker writing about food, drinks and lifestyle. You can follow his adventures on Instagram.

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