Chelsea Markets in New York City

Chelsea Market in New York City is located at 75 9th Avenue in Manhattan at the site of the first home of National Biscuit Company. The first building was built in the 1890s. In the mid '30s, Nabisco (formerly the National Biscuit Company) built another building across 10th Street but left that building in the 1940s. Much later, a very resourceful gentleman bought the building, and Chelsea Market was born in the multi-story building.

Chelsea Market now houses many specialty shops and restaurants. Must try restaurants include The Lobster Place, which was once a wholesale fish market. They sell over 1,000,000 pounds of lobster on New Year every year. In addition to the famous draw of the live Maine lobsters in the huge water tank, they also sell prepared foods for nearly every taste, raw or cooked. Amy's Breads has everything a dieter shouldn't have, but who's counting calories? Unique breads, cakes, cookies, muffins and other treats can be found in markets around town. Buonitalia has imported Italian products such as oils, vinegars, cheeses and pasta, not to mention Russian and Iranian food and domestic caviar and truffles. Don't forget to go to the Wine Vault for a selection of around-the-globe wine and special tastings on Friday and Saturday.

Ronnybrook Dairy provides cream and whole milk in glass bottles, butter and ice cream like one might find in a dairy in upstate New York. A another establishment at Chelsea Markets is 202, a combo clothing, home wear products and a chic all-day cafe. Parking is at W. 15th St between 8th and 9th Ave. Hours are Monday through Saturday 8a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. So put on your walking shoes and get out the credit card.