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• November 22, 2005
• Neighborhood Watch

Neighborhood Watch:
Shelly Steffee

The meat-packing district has been a hotbed of retail growth for a few years now, but designer Shelly Steffee was one of the first style pioneers to set up shop here, well before the Stellas and Scoops of the world took up residence. Her clothing, a spirited yet ultra sophisticated collection of beautifully tailored, modern womenswear, has become a favorite among locals of the nabe as well as some bigger-name folk, celebs included. Here, the designer takes us around to her five favorite pit-stops nearby her shop for everything from the perfect cocktail to the most unusual piece of one-of-a-kind jewelry.

1. 5 Ninth—5 Ninth Avenue, 212-929-9460
"I love this space's rare combination of raw elements mixed with polished," Shelly says. "The creative American menu has Malaysian influences, but my favorite dishes are the short ribs appetizer and the spaghetti with tiny scallops. The restaurant has a beautiful back patio and several fireplaces to cozy up to—great with the winter months drawing near. I really love the top floor for drinks—the house cocktail, the White Star Pearl Daisy, is a must.

2. Macelleria—48 Gansevoort Street, 212-741-2555
"In short, this Italian restaurant is perfection—order the porterhouse for two and any one of their exquisite pasta dishes, like the tagliatelle with fresh peas and ham. Soooo satisfying!"

3. Brass Monkey—55 Little West 12th Street, 212-675-6686
"I love this Irish Pub with a really broad selection of beers, my favorite being the Hoegaarden. It's a roomy space, reflective of the former warehousey feel of the meat-packing district, plus it draws a pretty interesting crowd any night of the week. The bar food is good, too."

4. Karkula—68 Gansevoort Street, 212-645-2216
"This shop specializes in modern furnishings and housewares like pieces from designer Paolo Lenti, plus Turkish glassware and cool, textural rugs, but I really love the smaller objects. I adore the unusually sculptural jewelry by Monica Castiglioni in bronze and silver, as they are all limited-editions and are incredibly special."

5. Auto—805 Washington Street, 212-229-2292
"An absolute must for luxe bedding, textiles, and other home goods, even for babies. It's my go-to spot for unique gifts, and I always find something cool when I'm there."

Shelly Steffee is located at 34 Gansevoort Street; www.shellysteffee.com

The meat-packing district has been a hotbed of retail growth for a few years now, but designer Shelly Steffee was one of the first style pioneers to set up shop here, well before the Stellas and Scoops of the world took up residence.