Every corner of New York City pulsates with energy, culture, and history, offering many memorable experiences for locals and visitors. And what better way to carry a piece of the city that never sleeps home than with a souvenir? I know, I know, souvenirs can be tacky and boring. I personally love original souvenirs, the “non-touristy” ones, with personality and originality. So here’s a curated selection of the best non-obvious souvenirs from New York City – which also happen to be the perfect gift NYC lovers everywhere. I bet this selection is gonna even please the locals as well.
- As a reminder: this post contains affiliate links – it costs you nothing extra to buy through them, and you support my work.
Totes from New Yorker at Heart
The first suggestion happens to be my brand – New Yorker at Heart! I created this brand with my friend Ayelen, from Argentina. We both have nurtured an unbreakable bond with this city that we now call our home. But, as fellow New Yorkers, we get that the relationship with NYC can be a bit of a wild ride, don’t you think? And that’s why we choose not to over-romanticize it, instead, we express our love with a genuine human heart. Our connection with the city is passionate, yet down-to-earth. Let’s be real: we could make it anywhere, but we wanna make it here.
- Our collection features two totes, one patch and two printables (perfect for those who are not located in the US).
- Check our Etsy store – and support local businesses!
ABC’s of NYC Art Print by Kenny’s Illustrations
This is such an original and funny print – an ABC of New York City with classic references – from the Apple to the rats, from yellow cabs to pizza. Shop here.
New York Music Box from Wrappbox
I have this music box in my home office and I’m obsessed with it! It features the iconic Empire State Building, One World Observatory, Brooklyn Bridge, Wall Street, and Federal Reserve Bank, all set against a beautiful backdrop of the city skyline. As you wind up the music box, a yellow taxi drives around the scene to the tune of “Stars and Stripes Forever.” Such a special gift!
NYC Restaurants cookbooks
If you are looking to gift someone who loves cooking – and also NYC – a cookbook from a NYC restaurant brings the best of both worlds! There are so many cookbooks from famous and iconic eateries in the city – it’s gonna be hard to choose! Check the selection above.
Book – Your Table Is Ready: Tales of a New York City Maître D’
Speaking of NYC restaurants, I highly recommend this book by Michael Cecchi-Azzolina. This book is described as “a front-of-the-house Kitchen Confidential from a career maître d’hotel who manned the front of the room in New York City’s hottest and most in-demand restaurants.” I had such a great time reading Michael’s stories about the restaurant industry – he has worked at iconic places such as The River Cafe.
NYC Skyline necklace from Brooklyn Charm
Such a special souvenir – for the ones who love to carry around – and show – their love to the city. Available in raw brass, gold plated, rhodium plated, rose gold plated, antiqued brass, gunmetal plated, antiqued silver plated, antiqued gold plated, and antiqued copper
Ceramic Cup “We are happy to serve you”
The iconic “We Are Happy To Serve You” paper coffee cup was introduced in 1963 by Leslie Buck and more than 180 million of the these Grecian-style cups are used in the Big Apple every year. And it’s available in a ceramic version. So original!
New York or Nowhere T-shirt
I love this brand – and that’s probably because their products have this “not a souvenir” vibe, which is perfect for locals that are obsessed with their cities (and for the outsiders as well, of course!). The black and white t-shirt is my favorite – but it’s available in two other colors as well.
Candles from Literie NYC
This candle brand started with a collection inspired by the scents of New York City. The names and scents are very creative and unique – you will find options like Brunch in the West Village and Afternoon in Central Park.
Cards, magnets and stickers from natchie
View this post on Instagram
The Australian singer/songwriter Nadia Ackerman is the name and the artistic force behind natchie. She offers different products and her creations are so delicate, unique and original. Such a special gift or souvenir. You can find her brand in some markets in NYC or online.
Hope you liked this selection and please feel free to leave other suggestions on the comments below!
Content creator and journalist in New York City. Here, I share lifestyle, beauty, NYC tips, thoughts, and the struggles about living in the most amazing city in the world! I’m not gonna pretend to be another person: I’m a Brazilian immigrant and I think this is my soul, it is part of who I am. I hope you enjoy my content! Follow me on Instagram!
No Comments