Union Square Subway, 1966

Oct. 29 is the date for the park’s signature fall celebration to raise vital funds for the district’s cherished Union Square Park. Highlighting the district’s best restaurants and the vibrant Greenmarket, enjoy tastings from renowned local chefs paired with classic and innovative drinks.

Details here.

This is the north side of West 14th St. looking west from 5th Ave. in 1909. The 6th Avenue elevated train station crosses the street in the distance.

As of May 23, it’s illegal to smoke in Union Sq. Park. Smokers will be fined $50. Additionally, going forward only 18 art vendors per day will be allowed to set up shop. Both these rules seem utterly unenforceable, so we shall see.

Walk down East 18th St. east of Park Ave. and you’ll see a new Zen Palate on your left. Welcome back!

After over six years of delays, Union Square Pavilion is finally open to the public. The main draw of Simon Oren’s sprawling restaurant is the outdoor patio, which overlooks the park (and, on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, the beautiful Greenmarket). Chef Mario Urgiles, formerly of Maison, will cook simple dishes like pappardelle al pesto, wild-mushroom bruschetta, and branzino with vegetable ratatouille. Think of this as Tavern on the Green for the downtown set.