MEET THE TEAM : ERIC

Eric is a native New Yorker, who has spent most of his childhood in the Upper East Side, and has been with the Salisbury for 17 years. He now does primarily accounting (accounts receivable), working closely with our travel partners such as Expedia/Hotels.com, Gulliver's Travel, Virgin Holidays and Swanson's Travel.

He is an avid model train hobbyist and frequents on the best model train stores in New York: The Gotham Model Trains at 35th St. The Red Caboose is another great place to find model trains and it's located near Times Square at 45th St. New York City also has a not-to-miss Holiday Train Show from November through January at the beautiful New York Botanical Garden that features  extensive model train layouts in festive winter wonderland surroundings. 

image source

What do you think is the best thing about NYC?

"Central Park. It reminds me of Westchester suburbs where I was born. I like taking long bike rides there or just walking around, admiring nature. Central Park Zoo is also a fun place to visit. The 6.5 acre zoo features polar bears, sea lions, monkeys, a petting zoo and much more."

If you had just one day to explore the city, what would you do?

"I'd visit the Empire State Building's 102nd floor. It was not open when I was a kid and I never got to go there. Another thing I'd do would be to walk the Highline Park." The last stretch of High Line officially opened last Saturday. This final half-mile section finishes the 22-block walkway of abandoned stretch of elevated rails that's been turned into a beautiful park filled with flowers, grasses and trees. Worth the visit!

VEGGING OUT IN NYC

New York City truly is the world’s melting pot, and its diverse community has made sure that our city is among the Top 5 most vegetarian/vegan friendly places in the USA. It is a plant-based eaters paradise offering many options ranging from vegetarian friendly to raw vegan restaurants, bakeries, ice cream parlors and food trucks. We at the front desk have noticed the increased number of people asking for restaurant recommendations for vegetarians instead of the ever so popular steakhouses. Although almost every restaurant, even the steakhouses, offer good vegetarian options, you might want to pay a visit to some of the delicious vegan restaurants and be prepared to be blown away by the flavors. 

We have quite a few vegetarians on our staff, one of them being Katariina, a long-time vegetarian and a holistic Health Coaching student. She shared her top 3 favorite restaurants even a carnivore would love.

Candle Cafe West

2427 Broadway (between 89th-90th St.)

Serving fresh, local, organic farm to table fare and wide selection of organic wines, this restaurant is famous for its friendly and swift service and beautiful interiors. Whether you just wanted to have a glass of green juice or a 4-course gourmet dinner this place will satisfy your needs. Souvenir tip: buy Candle Cafe's colorful cooking books here.

Blossom

Multiple locations

Pairing specialty cocktails with gourmet dishes made from fresh, local, organic produce, Blossom epitomizes ethical eating. Order multiple dishes and share them with your table to get the best experience. Same goes with desserts. Blossom has three locations in Chelsea, West Village and Upper East Side with fourth location coming soon. 

Pure Food and Wine

54 Irving Place (between 17th-18th St.)

This upscale raw vegan restaurant is located on Irving Place, just one block from Union Square. Their menu is entirely plant based and does not include any processed ingredients. Nothing is heated above approximately 118 degrees in order to preserve vitamins, minerals, and enzymes. During the summer months request a table in their gorgeous garden. Make sure to leave room for their delicious desserts. Souvenir tip: just around the corner from Pure Food and Wine is their take-out location One Lucky Duck that sells healthy house-made snacks, cookies, chocolates, superfoods, t-shirts, tote bags and cooking books written by the restaurant owner Sarma Melngailis.

MEET THE STAFF : PAUL FROM THE BRONX

Paul has worked at the Salisbury Hotel as a bellman for five years. He hails from the Bronx and besides providing his friendly service to the hotel customers he also has deep passion for real estate development and construction. He has worked on renovating real estate mainly in the Queens and the Bronx, familiar neighborhoods for him. 

Paul takes great pride on the quality of work done in his properties just as he takes pride in working at the Salisbury Hotel and providing guests with the most courteous service. He really enjoys meeting people from all over the world.

If you're planning on taking the trip to the Bronx during your visit in NYC, here are few of its most popular attractions:

THE BRONX ZOO

The Bronx Zoo is one of New York's most popular attractions, with more than 4,000 animals housed on its 265 acres. There's an extensive daily schedule of feedings and demonstrations, world class exhibits like the Jungle World, Tiger Mountain, the Sea Lion Pool and latest attraction Madagascar!. Bronx Zoo, 2300 Southern Boulevard, Bronx.

THE YANKEE STADIUM

The Yankees are one of the most famous sports teams in the world. On a guided tour you'll be able to admire the enormity of the most expensive baseball stadium ever built, and admire the ballpark from Monument Park - an open-air museum where the retired numbers and plaques honoring Yankee greats like Babe Ruth, Joe DiMaggio, Mickey Mantle and Lou Gehrig are displayed.  Yankee Stadium, 161st St. and River Avenue, Bronx.

NEW YORK BOTANICAL GARDEN

It's one of the most famous attractions in the Bronx, and there's hardly a better time to visit the New York Botanical Garden than right now in spring. Azaleas, crabapples, lilacs and flowering dogwoods are all in full bloom, the seasonal three-acre Rock Garden has just re-opened and is bursting with alpine flowers and woodland plants, and the 250-acre old-growth Native Forest is teeming with a broad range of resident and migratory birds, including nesting great horned owls and red-tailed hawks. NYBG, 2900 Southern Boulevard, Bronx.

ARTHUR AVENUE

Arthur Avenue - The Bronx's own Little Italy Just south of the Botanical Gardens, Arthur Avenue runs north to south through the Belmont neighborhood of the Bronx. The area is known for the high quality and great value of its fantastic assortment of Italian-American restaurants, delis, grocers, pasta-makers, butchers, fish markets, bakeries, gourmet coffeehouses and other shops and services. Visit BronxLittleItaly.com for more information or watch this informative video about Arthur Avenue.

OUR PICKS FOR BEST PIZZA

The first pizzeria in America was founded in 1905 by Gennaro Lombardi in Little Italy, Manhattan.The price for a pizza was five cents, but, since many people could not afford the cost of a whole pie, they would instead say how much they could pay, and they were given a slice corresponding to the amount offered. Pizza is a very popular food in New York City. In the year 2010, over 400 pizza restaurants were listed as existent in the city. Here's our picks for best pizza in NYC.

Angelo's Pizza

Our neighbor since 1998, Angelo's Pizza serves delicious, thin-crust, coal-oven pizza pies, excellent pasta dishes and salads. Many of our staff members would unanimously agree that this is the best pizza in town. You can also order room service from Angelo's and charge it to your room account at the Salisbury. 

117 W 57th St. Phone: 212-333-4333

Bella Vita

We love Bella Vita for their tasty yet affordable dishes and the fact that they are located right behind us at 58th St. between 6th and 7th Avenues. Besides the vast selection of mouthwatering pizzas by slice or pie, try their pastas, salads, paninis and parmigianas. Seating is limited, but you can order delivery or take-out and eat in your room. 

158 W 58th St. Tel: 212-664-7670

PizzArte 

PizzArte captures the spirit of Naples with a restaurant that is truly Neapolitan in spirit—from the ingredients to the traditional preparations, to the presentation and the service, from the flavors to the feeling of the dining room—it is all Neapolitan. Everyone from the waitstaff to the general manager to the pizzaiolo and the executive chef is from Naples. What makes their pizza special? First of all, allowing the dough to rise for at least twelve hours, using no additives, eggs or sugar. It is then topped with fine, fresh ingredients and cooked at temperatures exceeding 900° Fahrenheit in a wood burning pizza oven.

69 W. 55th St. Tel: 212-247-3936

John's Pizzeria in Times Square

John's Pizzeria originally opened its doors in the late Twenties. Since then, it has become world-renowned and a legendary institution in New York City. In their Times Square location patrons dine under a five-story stained glass cupola that was once the Gospel Tabernacle Church.  With over 400 seats, four pizza ovens, and two kitchens, this is the largest pizzeria in the country and can accommodate both small and large parties. John's Pizza is a New York classic with thin, crisp and chewy crust, complimented by the slightly sweet sauce, mozzarella cheese and fresh toppings. The pies are baked on the bricks of their famously coal-fired oven, which char the crust, and add to it's mouth watering flavor.

260 W. 44th St. Tel: 212-391-7560

Grimaldi's at Limelight Shops

Grimaldi's history of coal-fired brick oven pizza cooking can be traced to the first pizzeria in America back in 1905. Just a few years ago you still had to wait in a long line in Brooklyn to get the taste of this famous pizza, but luckily Grimaldi's opened another location in Manhattan's Flatiron District in an old church turned into fine shopping center. 

656 6th Avenue Tel: 646-484-5665

MEET THE TEAM : MICHAEL G.

 Michael G. not only works at the Salisbury Hotel as a Guest Service Representative, but you can also catch him on his skates swirling away at the Rink at Rockefeller Center. This is Michael’s 19^th season at The Rink. He enjoys the international atmosphere, beautiful surroundings, central location and the hundreds marriage proposals he has witnessed throughout the years. You can even book an "Engagement-on-ice" package if you are planning on proposing someone!

The Rink at Rockefeller Center is the most famous ice-skating rink in the world and has been featured in many movies. With room for only 150 skaters at a time, it is an intimate experience. If you want to skip the long lines, book VIP Skate experience. It gives you an access to a heated igloo and directly to the ice, skate concierge who'll assist you with skates and give you skating tips, hot beverages and fresh cookies as well as complimentary ice-skate rental.

Rockefeller Center has over 40 restaurants for after-skating eats. Try Bill's Bar and Burger, Rock Center Cafe, Bouchon Bakery, Harry's Italian Pizza Parlor,  Manchu Wok, Potbelly Sandwich Shop or Sushiden. There's something for every taste.

The Rink is located just 10 minute walk from the Salisbury Hotel and is open through April 20, 2014. See the session hours here. Skate lessons are available daily from 9am-6pm. 

600 Fifth Avenue (50th St.). Tel: 212 332 7654

OUR PICKS FOR THE BEST BROADWAY SHOWS

New York City is known for it's many theaters and wonderful Broadway and off-Broadway shows. The Theater District sits between the 41st and 53rd Street and between the Sixth and Ninth Avenues, within walking distance from the Salisbury Hotel. The district comprises more than 40 theaters and numerous other venues beyond the actual street of Broadway. To buy tickets to any of the shows you can head out to TKTS Discount Booth, go online (Telecharge, Broadway.com, Ticketmaster, etc.), directly to the theater box office or ask one of our front desk agents to contact a ticket broker.

AVENUE Q

Picture a grown-up episode of Sesame Street, with satirical songs and jokes replacing preschool-style banter. The actors remain visible at all times and mimic the action of their puppets, adding yet another level of humor. Avenue Q is fast-moving and laugh-packed, particularly for audiences willing to embrace its rebellious, politically incorrect spirit.

In spite of the presence of puppets, Avenue Q is not a children’s musical. Older teenagers will enjoy the show because it tackles issues of growing up and leaving home, but parents should use discretion in deciding whether their kids are mature enough for Avenue Q.

New World Stages - Stage Three 340 West 50th Street New York, NY

CINDERELLA

Cinderella is surprisingly contemporary take on the classic tale. This lush production features an incredible orchestra, jaw-dropping transformations and all the moments you love—the pumpkin, the glass slipper, the masked ball and more. 

Cinderella is perfect for kids: Colorful costumes, on-stage magic and comic performances make this musical a great early Broadway outing for young theatergoers.

Broadway Theatre 1681 Broadway New York, NY

LION KING

The Serengeti comes to life as never before through the extraordinary vision that is The Lion King. It tells the classic journey of young royal heir Simba. Giraffes strut, birds swoop and gazelles leap in a dazzling panorama that overwhelms the sense and inspires you with the wonder of life.

Lion King is a great show for kids. Just bare in mind that Simba’s creepy journey into an elephant graveyard and the death of his father can be unsettling to young viewers.

Minskoff Theatre 200 West 45th Street New York, NY

AFTER MIDNIGHT

After Midnight comes highly recommended by our Head Concierge Pedro who recently saw the show and couldn't stop talking about it. This new Broadway phenomenon catapults the music of Duke Ellington and Harlem’s Golden Age into the 21st century.

Appropriate for ages six and up. If your school-age child enjoys performances with no story but plenty of singing and dancing, After Midnight is a good choice for the family.

Brooks Atkinson Theatre 256 West 47th Street New York, NY

ROCK OF AGES

We've heard so many good things about Rock of Ages from our guests that it needed to get on this list. Set in L.A.'s infamous Sunset Strip in 1987, Rock of Ages tells the story of Drew, a boy from South Detroit and Sherrie, a small-town girl, both in L.A. to chase their dreams of making it big and falling in love. 

Rock of Ages celebrates the 80's music and style, but might not be appropriate for kids under the age of 14. Teenagers will love it.

Helen Hayes Theatre 240 West 44th Street New York, NY

NEWSIES

Based on the real-life Newsboy Strike of 1899, this new Disney musical tells the story of Jack Kelly, a rebellious newsboy who dreams of a life as an artist away from the big city. After publishing giant Joseph Pulitzer raises newspaper prices at the newsboys’ expense, Kelly and his fellow newsies take action. With help from the beautiful female reporter Katherine Plumber, all of New York City soon recognizes the power of “the little man.”

Newsies is definitely a musical for the whole family.

Nederlander Theatre 208 W. 41st Street New York, NY

THE BOOK OF MORMON

The Book of Mormon follows two young missionaries who are sent to Uganda to try to convert citizens to the Mormon religion. One missionary, Elder Price, is an enthusiastic go-getter with a strong dedication to his faith, while his partner, Elder Cunningham, is a socially awkward but well meaning nerd whose tendency to embroider the truth soon lands him in trouble.

The Book of Mormon is suitable for audiences aged 18 and upwards. Contains explicit language and sensitive themes throughout.

Eugene O'Neill Theatre 230 West 49th Street New York, NY

LIVE MUSIC VENUES IN MIDTOWN MANHATTAN

SWING 46

349 West 46th St. (between 8-9th Avenues)

Tel: (212) 262-9554

SWING46 is New York's only swing dance club and offers dining, dancing and cocktails, dance lessons and live bands seven nights a week. They open at 5pm and serve a full dinner menu and bar snack menu till midnight. See their performance schedule here. From the Salisbury Hotel take downtown N, Q or R subway to 49th St.

OPIA RESTAURANT 

130 East 57th St. (at Lexington Avenue)

Tel: (212) 688-3939

Opia Restaurant, Bar & Lounge is a modern French bistro with classic cuisine and a vibrant atmosphere. Opia has live international jazz every Tuesday and Saturday evenings at 9:30pm in the lounge. For performance calendar click here. From the Salisbury Hotel walk 3,5 blocks east or take the crosstown bus.

IRIDIUM

1650 Broadway (51st). 

Tel: (212) 582-2121

The Iridium Jazz Club has been thrilling International jazz fans since 1994 and is located on Broadway at the corner of 51st, in a historic jazz neighborhood.  Enjoy tasty food, excellent sightlines and top notch acoustics. The late Les Paul used to headline Monday nights here. Now they honor his legacy with a weekly tribute, Les Paul Mondays, featuring his former backing band and special guests. See performance schedule by clicking here. From the Salisbury Hotel take the downtown subway N, Q or R to 49th St.

DIZZY'S CLUB COCA-COLA

Broadway at 60th St.

Tel: (212) 258-9800

The classic jazz club reinvented, Dizzy’s Club Coca-Cola brings the music out of the basement with views of Central Park and the Manhattan skyline, great soul food and some of the best music to be found anywhere in the city, every night. 

The club hosts a variety of established acts and introduces young up-and-comers five nights a week in after-hours Late Night Sessions. An intimate setting designed to showcase this uniquely American art form, Dizzy’s is the latest addition to the historic list of New York’s great jazz venues. Within walking distance from the Salisbury Hotel.

THE CARNEGIE CLUB

156 W. 56th St. (near 7th Avenue)

Tel: (212) 957-9676

The low-lit Carnegie Club is classy and quiet. A bartender in pinstripes expertly mixes classic cocktails, such as the My Way manhattan. On Saturdays, a singer backed by an 11-piece orchestra does Sinatra covers. Located just one block south from the Salisbury Hotel.

RED'S LOUNGE AT REDEYE GRILL
890 Seventh Avenue (at 56th St.)
(212) 541-9000

The warm tones, polished nickel and leather, along with original Red Grooms artwork creates a sophisticated, timeless and comfortable atmosphere. Not only does Redeye Grill have amazing food, they also feature live music nightly in their lounge area; Sundays and Mondays from 6pm to 10pm and Tuesday-Saturday from 6pm-11pm. Located within 5 minute walk from the Salisbury Hotel. Our staff favorite.

FAMILY FUN IN MIDTOWN MANHATTAN

Manhattan is like a big playground for kids. There's many exciting museums, playgrounds, parks, theaters, sightseeing rides and cruises, toy stores like Toys"R"Us and FAO Schwartz, candy stores like M&M World and many fun theme restaurants to suit families with children of all ages. Below we've highlighted few options for a fun family day out right here in Midtown Manhattan, all within walking distance from the Salisbury Hotel.

FAO Schwartz

767 5th Avenue at 58th St.

FAO Schwarz, founded in 1862, is the oldest toy store in the US. Their flagship store is just a couple of blocks away from the Salisbury Hotel and is a must-see destination for all families. At the door you'll be warmly greeted by the store’s real-life Toy Soldiers, an integral part of the iconic brand. Once you enter the store you're surrounded by gigantic fluffy animals and at the end of the store you'll see the inviting FAO Schweetz, a nearly 6,000 square feet candy land. 

Once you get upstairs, kick off your shoes and play some tunes at the iconic Big Piano or head to the "Muppet What-Not Workshop" where you can create your very own Muppet. There's also an entire department dedicated to dolls, including the "Newborn Nursery" where little mommies can experience the thrill of adopting a newborn with life-like dolls.

Ellen's Stardust Diner

1650 Broadway at 51st Street

Its combination of typical diner food and fun retro theme without a ridiculous price tag makes this spot a memorable stop for families with kids of all ages. The outside of the diner looks like an old railroad car and the retro diner theme continues inside. Every now and then the waiters will break out into song, singing old 50s rock tunes and dancing around the room. Their menu is quite expansive and includes a separate section for kids 6 years old and under.

Jekyll & Hyde

216 W 44th St. (between 7th & 8th Avenues)

Located in Times Square, Jekyll & Hyde gets close to an amusement park atmosphere. From the moment you walk in the suspense never lets up. You'll experience live entertainment, funny characters and spooky special effects such as portraits with moving eyes, bathrooms hidden behind bookcases, and talking skulls. 

On the separate kids menu you'll find many favorites such as burgers, spaghetti, mac & cheese, chicken fingers and many delicious desserts. 

Jekyll & Hyde Club. Photo source.

La Bonne Soupe

8 West 55th Street (Between 5th & 6th Avenues)

This family-friendly French bistro serves a reasonably priced, "American classics with French twist" that adults and children will enjoy. Try their Parisian crêpes, specialty soups, omelettes, burgers and delicious salads. There's also a special "Junior Menu" for the little ones that features an entree and dessert for $12.50.

Central Park Zoo and Tisch Children's Zoo

5th Avenue & 65th St.

Central Park Zoo is a great place to visit with children. The Central Park Zoo is home to a variety of animals, including seals, sea lions, penguins, snakes, bugs, monkeys and birds. From a steamy rain forest environment to an icy Antarctic penguin habitat, the zoo offers visitors a chance to see animals from a variety of climates. 

The Tisch Children's Zoo is located a short walk from the Central Park Zoo and offers visitors a variety of interactive activities for children, including a petting zoo, climbing activities and performances. Here you can also see the daily feedings of the sea lions, harbor seals and penguins throughout the day.

Central Park Zoo. Photo source.

MEET THE TEAM : KELI

Keli is an experienced guest service professional hailing from Connecticut. She loves the city, especially downtown Brooklyn, fine dining and wining, live music events, and you can even spot her on off-broadway theater stage every now and then since she's also an aspiring actress.

What do you like best about living in NYC?

The convenience of having everything no more than a subway ride away.

Red 58

What places do you frequent for lunch/dinner?

Red 58 is a sleek restaurant, bar and lounge right behind the Salisbury Hotel on 58th St. between 6th and 7th Avenues. I often go there for their $11.98 lunch special. It's usually nice and quiet and they have the friendliest staff. 

Another place I visit frequently for lunch is Fresh & Co. located on 57th Street between 6th and 5th Avenues. They serve fresh, healthy, locally sourced foods that are free from synthetic fertilizers, pesticides and other additives.

Other places worth mentioning are Angelo's just few doors down from the Salisbury (117 W 57th St.) that serves amazing thin crust coal-oven pizza, excellent pastas and salads. Well Green Market just around the corner (6th Avenue between 57th and 58th Street) has great buffet lunch I often go for. Well Green Market is open 24 hours a day and has large selection of groceries, hot food bar, salad bar, soup section and a frozen yogurt and smoothie bar.

Where do you shop?

I like the Herald Square area (intersection of Broadway, Sixth Avenue and 34th Street) for "one stop shop" shopping. There you'll find Macy's, H&M, Forever 21, Zara, Steve Madden and DSW all within steps from one another.

Deli counter at Well Green Market

Itinerary for a day in Brooklyn?

Hop on the subway to Brooklyn Heights (from the Salisbury you can take the F train to York St.), take a stroll through the neighborhood and admire the gorgeous brownstones. Continue north towards the Brooklyn promenade to sit down and take in the beautiful view of city skyline and the Brooklyn Bridge. If you get hungry try Superfine for lunch, brunch or dinner. It's a bar/restaurant in the DUMBO section of Brooklyn, just a few blocks away from the waterfront. They feature organic and local fare as well as art and live music.

THERE'S ALWAYS ROOM FOR DESSERT

We get lots of questions about dessert places near the hotel, usually late at night when people have enjoyed their dinner, taken a little walk around the neighborhood and by the time they are back at the hotel the sweet cravings start. Luckily there are plenty of places within couple of blocks where you can satisfy your sweet tooth. 

For example, right across the street you'll find Morton Williams Supermarket that stays open 24 hours a day and features quite nice dessert counter. Also, Dali Market just couple of doors down from the Salisbury has selection of ice creams, gelato and other desserts. Dali Market stays open 24 hrs a day as well, so whatever time you need something sweet, you don't have to walk too far. Below are couple of more our favorites in the area.

Grom Gelateria

1796 Broadway at 58th St.

High quality ingredients and once monthly changing flavors are what keep people craving for gelato from Grom. Their mission is to make gelato the old-fashioned way, without artificial coloring and preservatives and using only first-rate (mostly Italian) ingredients: Italian licorice, almonds from Avola, and lemons from Sicily. Besides gelato, you can also enjoy granita, seasonal fruit sorbets and frappe here. 

During summer hours they're open until 11.30pm on weekdays and 12.30am on weekends.

Brooklyn Diner

212 W 57th St. (between 7th & Broadway)

Here every part of Brooklyn is represented by Jewish, Italian, Irish & other ethnic favorites. The enormous desserts, all baked fresh on the premises daily, are big enough for an entire family to share.

Mon: 7am – 11pm Tues – Fri: 7am – midnight 

Sat: 8am – 12am, Sun: 8am – 11pm

Junior's Cheesecake

West 45th St. (between Broadway & 8th Ave.)

Junior's is said to make the best cheesecake in New York. It’s so good that when the original Brooklyn establishment caught on fire in 1981 people on the street shouted “Save the cheesecake!”

Mon–Thu: 6:30am–12am Fri & Sat: 6:30am–1am Sun: 6:30am-11pm

Serendipity 3

225 E 60th St. (between 2nd & 3rd Avenues)

This famous eatery is known from many classic movies and their most popular dessert is the divine Frozen Hot Chocolate. Choose from crepes, pies, cakes, amazing selection of sundaes and special frozen dessert drinks.

Sun-Thu 11:30am to midnight Fri-Sat 11:30am to 1:00am. 

Alice's Teacup

156 E 64th St. (at Lexington Avenue)

Come in for a whimsical tea party and delicious food. Their offerings include waffles, pancakes, crepes, cupcakes, tarts, ice cream sandwiches, cakes, cookies and much more.

11am - Close Everyday (call 212-734-4832 for closing hours)

Spot Dessert Bar

13 St Marks Place (between 2nd & 3rd Avenue)

 This place is a subway ride away from the Salisbury hotel, but oh, so worth it. Spot Dessert Bar specializes in serving up desserts and beverages with all natural ingredients while adding exotic, Asian flavors to classic American desserts. Choose from wide variety of dessert tapas, ice creams, sorbet, cupcakes, macarons, bubble teas, homemade sodas, ice cream floats etc.

Open Sun-Wed 12pm-12am, Thu-Sat 12pm-1am. 

From the Salisbury hotel walk to 7th Avenue & 57th St. subway station and take downtown N or R to 8th St.