A New York Weekend With Bernie Gross of Extra Butter
The OG of the New York streetwear and sneaker points the way.
Hypemaps from Hypebeast is your guide to the latest and greatest when traveling or exploring your city. Joining its ongoing curated guide series, Hypemaps recently caught up with Extra Butter Creative Director Bernie Gross to find out what a New York weekend with Bernie is really like.
An OG of the New York streetwear and sneaker scene, Bernie Gross has carved his place in the culture with his distinct outlook expressed through his personal style and Extra Butter. Beloved throughout the city, the New York native views the city and industry as one big community. Telling Hypebeast, Instead of being the old head that complains about how streetwear and sneaker culture aren’t how they used to be, I view evolution as fuel to engage with the younger audience and educate them on how the past has inspired the present, in his recent Sole Mates feature.
But aside from handling releases and dictating offerings at Extra Butter, how does Bernie Gross like to enjoy the city he calls home? In Hypemaps’ “A New York Weekend With Bernie Gross of Extra Butter” guide, the streetwear figure highlights places he frequents, offers a hot take, and places importance on honoring culture. Gross’ chosen locations are perfect for a calm weekend but could also serve as new daily locations to take in the city.
Catch Bernie Gross’ locations to visit during a weekend in New York City below, check the Hypemaps site for the full city guide on A New York Weekend With Bernie Gross of Extra Butter, and remember to save the list.
Shopsin’s General Store
Shopsin’s, a renowned and eccentric New York City establishment, captivating diners since its establishment in 1973. Known for its unique ambiance and diverse menu, Shopsin’s offers comfort food with creative flair. Noted for its limited seating and strict rules, the restaurant’s unique decor adds to its charm. The ever-changing menu showcases a wide range of dishes, Shopsin’s is an iconic fixture in the vibrant NYC food scene.
“One of my favorite brunch spots and underrated gems of the Lower East Side. Although it lost a bit of its charm when it was forced to move into the new Essex Market, the vintage Mets and wrestling decor along with the no-bullshit staff keep the spirit of the original owner, Kenny Shopsin, alive. The 900-item menu of comfort diner food on steroids is the hero so come with a hangover or an appetite. Case in point – the mac & cheese stuffed pancakes.”
Shopsin’s General Store
88 Essex Street
New York, NY 10002
Orchard Express Tailor Shop
With a focus on providing expert tailoring services, Orchard Express Tailor Shop offers custom alterations and repairs for clothing items. Their skilled tailors are experienced in working with a variety of fabrics and can handle everything from simple alterations to intricate modifications. Whether you need a hem adjusted, a dress tailored, or a suit fitted, Orchard Express Tailor Shop aims to deliver high-quality craftsmanship and personalized service to ensure garments fit perfectly.
“The LES has lowkey garnered a rep as having a handful of good tailors, but these guys are my favorite. Don’t mistake the pile of garbage in their window display, you’re not there for an experience. What they will do is take care of your hems in less than a day. Cash only though.”
Orchard Express Tailor Shop
136 Orchard Street
New York, NY 10002
Homecoming
Specialty coffee shop Homecoming focuses on providing a welcoming and cozy atmosphere, with a wide selection of high-quality coffee beverages. From expertly brewed pour-overs to rich and creamy lattes, Homecoming takes pride in sourcing its beans from sustainable and ethically responsible suppliers, ensuring a delicious and conscientious coffee experience.
“I’m sure most people want to adopt a personality based on their go-to coffee spot but I’m purely looking for consistency. Homecoming holds it down for me whenever I’m in Greenpoint. They also house a small shop-in-shop from local vendors including ceramics, planters, candles, and more.”
Homecoming
116 Franklin Street
Brooklyn, NY 11222
Ace’s Pizza
Ace’s Pizza is a popular pizzeria known for its delicious pizza and authentic atmosphere. Ace’s offers a variety of toppings and styles, whether you’re craving a classic New York slice or a specialty Detroit-style pie, Ace’s Pizza aims to deliver a satisfying and flavorful experience.
“This is controversial as a native New Yorker but I love me some Detroit-style pizza. Enjoy the very nostalgic decor with the wood paneling and vintage memorabilia. And in a world where things become overly complicated, their buffalo wings are simple, classic and not to be overlooked.”
Ace’s Pizza
637 Driggs Avenue
Brooklyn, NY 11211
Potluck Club
The Potluck Club offers a unique concept of communal dining and shared plates. The restaurant serves a diverse menu featuring a variety of dishes, allowing diners to experience a range of flavors. With a lively and social atmosphere, the Potluck Club encourages interaction and is a great place to gather with friends or meet new people while enjoying delicious food in a vibrant setting.
“This is the breath of fresh air Chinatown needed. A twist on traditional Cantonese with modern gourmet sensibilities. It’s colorful and quirky in there, with so many ABC (American Born Chinese) pop culture references to appreciate. Cool for an off-beat date or a small group of friends. Try the Salt & Pepper Fried Chicken with Scallion Biscuits, Rice Roll Noodles with Oyster Mushrooms, and Endive Salad with Dragonfruit and Cara Cara Oranges. Oh and look for the Jackie Chan easter egg near the restrooms.”
Potluck Club
133 Chrystie Street
New York, NY 10002
Museum of the Moving Image
The Museum of the Moving Image is a cultural institution dedicated to exploring the art, history, and technology of moving images. It features exhibits, screenings, and interactive displays that offer an immersive and educational experience for visitors. From iconic movie props to educational programs, the museum provides insights into the world of film, television, and digital media.
“Multimedia museum located in the former building of the historic Astoria Studios. Learn about the history of the film and movie industry, as well as the permanent Jim Henson Experience. There are also rotating exhibits and installations that tend to be interactive and immersive. Rarely are people disappointed when I send them there.”
Museum of the Moving Image
36-01 35th Avenue
Queens, NY 11106
The Infamous
A hidden gem of Long Island City, The Infamous located within Extra Butter is the place for crafted libations. The speakeasy bar helmed by talented bartenders delivers a variety of themed specialty cocktails and more. The Infamous is the perfect location for an intimate gathering.
“Our speakeasy bar hidden within Extra Butter’s Long Island City location. Specialty cocktails inspired by Queen’s hip-hop and craft beers from local breweries. Great for dates or to network with other folks in the fashion scene.”
The Infamous
22-01 Jackson Avenue
Queens, NY 11101
Gantry Plaza State Park/Hunter’s Point South
Gantry Plaza State Park and Hunter’s Point South in Long Island City offer stunning waterfront views of the Manhattan skyline. The parks feature green spaces, picnic areas, walking paths, and piers for fishing and kayaking. Head over to Gantry Plaza State Park and Hunter’s Point South for a serene getaway to enjoy the captivating cityscape.
“Beautifully renovated waterfront park and boardwalk on the East River, overlooking midtown Manhattan. One of my favorite spots to take a stroll and people-watch. Good reason to take the water taxi if you’ve never done that either.”
Gantry Plaza State Park
4-44 47th Road
Queens, NY 11101
Hunter’s Point South
Center Boulevard
Long Island City, NY 11101
Chop Suey Club
The Chop Suey Club is a unique artistic and cultural boutique that showcases contemporary Chinese design and arts. The concept store carries a selection of fashion accessories, clothing, home furnishing, and art, all sourced from young Chinese creatives worldwide. The offering comes together to create interesting paths between the past and the future.
“Contemporary Chinese design and art boutique tucked away on Orchard Street. Great spot to find unique gifts.”
Chop Suey Club
81 Hester Street
New York, NY 10002
Nitehawk Cinema
Nitehawk Cinema located in Brooklyn delivers a unique and immersive cinematic experience. Film screenings of a diverse selection of independent, classic, and cult films are accompanied by the full-service bar and restaurant. Also, look out for special events and themed screenings at the beloved destination for moviegoers in New York City.
“Independent dine-in cinema house. Good mix of indy, mainstream, and cult classic selections. Quirky menu items curated for each film. The custom-made music videos they play before each film alone are worth the visit.”
Nitehawk Cinema
136 Metropolitan Avenue
Brooklyn, NY 11249
Sugar Sweet Sunshine Bakery
For delicious homemade treats, Sugar Sweet Sunshine Bakery is the place to go for freshly baked goods. From cupcakes and cookies to pies and cakes, Sugar Sweet Sunshine Bakery has a wide selection of sweet treats to satisfy any craving. This is the spot for dessert lovers in the city.
“This little LES bakery owned by two lovely women has been a post-shopping ritual ever since I was lining up for sneaker and streetwear drops over 20 years ago. Never liked pudding until I tried theirs.”
Sugar Sweet Sunshine Bakery
136 Metropolitan Avenue
Brooklyn, NY 11249
Stillwell Vintage Goods
Stillwell Vintage Goods is for those looking to pick up something from a bygone era. Browsing through its shelves and shop space you’ll find an array of unique items. Once a prop house, Stillwell Vintage Goods is sure to have something that catches your eye.
“NYC TV and movie prop house turned into a second-hand shop. Furniture, housewares, trinkets, VHS and vinyl, the works. Need a science lab-grade beaker? They got ‘em. You can get lost in there for hours.”
Stillwell Vintage Goods
44-68 Vernon Boulevard
Queens, NY 11101
Extra Butter
A staple of streetwear, Extra Butter is a boutique known for its curated selection of footwear, apparel, and accessories. Expanded to two locations now, the boutique has made a name for itself for showcasing the latest and greatest from sought-after brands, limited-edition releases, and collaborations. For sneakerheads and those into streetwear culture Extra Butter is a must-visit in New York City.
“Shameless plug. Continue to shop local and come through to our movie nights, talk panels, and workshops.”
Extra Butter
22-03 Jackson Avenue
Queens, NY 11101