The idea of a beloved independent bookstore being threatened by a large chain is a familiar storyline, and the Upper West Side of New York City has been a real-life backdrop for this kind of narrative. I’ve been looking into some of the iconic filming locations from the movie “You’ve Got Mail” to see what they are like today, and it’s fascinating to see how the neighborhood has evolved.
The Shop Around the Corner
The charming fictional “Shop Around the Corner” was filmed at 106 West 69th Street. At the time, it was a real cheese and antique shop that had a cozy, neighborly feel, much like the movie depicted. Sadly, this kind of small business often faces challenges in New York City. The original shop had to close its doors because the rent became too high, making it impossible to afford the $11,000 a month cost.
After the cheese shop closed, the location briefly became a cafe called Cafe Sonatina. Today, if you visit 106 West 69th Street, you’ll find it’s now a laundromat named La Mode Cleaners. It’s a reminder that even though the movie captured a specific moment, places change over time.
Fox Books Headquarters
The imposing “Fox Books” store in the movie was filmed in a former Barney’s building that had become vacant. This was a stand-in for the Barnes & Noble that had indeed arrived on the Upper West Side in 1995, bringing the conflict between big business and small shops to life on screen. Barnes & Noble, a real giant in bookselling, has faced its own struggles, closing many locations nationwide over the years.
Interestingly, the very Barnes & Noble store that inspired “Fox Books” and was filmed on Broadway between 66th and 67th Streets actually closed in 2011. It was then replaced by another large commercial store, Century 21. This specific Century 21 location later closed down in 2020, but the brand has made a comeback with a new store in Lower Manhattan that opened in the spring of 2023.
Cafe Lalo
Cafe Lalo, located at 83rd Street and Amsterdam Avenue, is a place that truly stands out in the film. Stepping inside, visitors are often met with an impressive array of pies, cakes, and tarts, creating a visually delightful experience. This European-style patisserie opened its doors in 1988.
When Cafe Lalo first opened, it was seen by some as a sign of the changing landscape of the Upper West Side, a process often referred to as gentrification. However, over the years, it became a well-loved and established spot for the neighborhood. Like many restaurants and cafes in New York City, Cafe Lalo was significantly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. It has been closed since 2020, with a sign indicating it is undergoing renovations.
There is currently a legal dispute involving the landlords and the cafe owners concerning rent payments and building repairs. This situation highlights the ongoing challenges that businesses face, especially after difficult periods like the pandemic.
H&H Bagels
The scene where Joe Fox visits his “neighborhood bagel place” was filmed at the iconic H&H Bagels. This spot was once considered by many to have the best bagels in New York City and also made appearances in popular TV shows like “Seinfeld” and “Friends.” The original H&H opened in 1972 on West 80th Street and Broadway.
After filing for bankruptcy in 2011, the last H&H Bagels location closed in early 2012. However, the brand has since made a comeback under new ownership. Today, there are several H&H locations across New York City, with plans for more, including a new one at Penn Station set to open in 2024. There are even ambitions to expand the franchise to 25 locations nationwide.
I looked up the specific storefront used in the movie, and as of March 2023, it was listed as empty on Google Maps. It previously housed a Verizon Wireless store, showing how retail spaces in the city are constantly adapting.
Zabar’s
Zabar’s is a true Upper West Side institution and a place I always make a note to visit when I’m exploring the area. It’s also a familiar sight from television, having been featured in shows like “Will & Grace,” “The West Wing,” “How I Met Your Mother,” “30 Rock,” and “Castle.”
This well-known delicatessen has been a neighborhood fixture since 1934. It started as a simple market counter run by Louis and Lillian Zabar. Their family has continued to run the business, maintaining its legacy. Zabar’s is especially popular for its bagels, smoked fish, and a wide selection of cheeses. It’s always a good idea to be prepared for crowds, particularly on weekends, as it’s a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike.
Riverside Park
The movie’s heartwarming ending takes place in a beautiful section of Riverside Park. Specifically, the scene is set in the 91st Street Garden, which is a part of the park that is privately maintained. A dedicated volunteer group called The Garden People works hard to tend to the garden.
They care for a variety of plants, including Sharon trees and hibiscus flowers, which bloom throughout the spring and fall. This particular garden has been a peaceful oasis on the Upper West Side since 1984, offering a lovely spot for relaxation and enjoying nature within the city. It’s a great example of how community involvement can enhance public spaces.
Gray’s Papaya
Gray’s Papaya, located at Broadway and 72nd Street, is another memorable spot featured in the film where Joe and Kathleen stop. This particular Gray’s Papaya is the flagship location of the well-known late-night hot dog stand and first opened its doors in 1973. While there used to be other branches in areas like Greenwich Village and Hell’s Kitchen, this is currently the only one still operating.
Barney Greengrass
Barney Greengrass is one of the oldest delis on the Upper West Side, and it was the setting for a scene where Kathleen’s character grapples with the arrival of the large bookstore. The deli has been a fixture on Amsterdam Avenue, between W 86th and W 87th streets, since 1929. The Greengrass family’s story in the food business began even earlier, with the first store opening in Harlem in 1908.
The restaurant continues to be family-run and is particularly famous for its smoked sturgeon. You might also recognize this historic deli from appearances in other films and television series, such as “30 Rock,” “Revolutionary Road,” and “Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close.”
Apartment Buildings on Riverside Drive
Both Kathleen and Joe live in apartments that are situated near Riverside Drive in the film. Kathleen’s apartment is depicted as being in a brick townhouse at 328 West 89th Street. For Joe’s apartment, the building used for filming the entrance was at 210 Riverside Drive, near West 93rd Street.
This apartment building itself has a bit of architectural history, having been built in 1909 and designed by the notable firm of Schwartz & Gross. Interestingly, another building designed by the same architects, 55 Central Park West, is famously known as the “Ghostbusters Building.” The building where Joe lived in “You’ve Got Mail” also served as a filming location for the movie “Baby Mama,” starring Tina Fey and Amy Poehler.
Verdi Square
Verdi Square is a public space located at 72nd Street and Broadway, named after the famous 19th-century Italian composer Giuseppe Verdi. In “You’ve Got Mail,” this square appears a few times as Kathleen and Joe are shown navigating their neighborhood, and it’s also where they eventually meet. It serves as a charming backdrop to their everyday lives on the Upper West Side.
What are some family-friendly dining options?
When I think about planning a family trip, finding places to eat that are welcoming to children is always a priority. While specific restaurants are mentioned in relation to the movie, I’ve been looking into general options that would suit families. For instance, places known for a casual atmosphere and simple menus can be a lifesaver when traveling with kids.
Many cafes and delis in areas like the Upper West Side offer a range of sandwiches, pastries, and light meals that are usually a hit with both younger and older children. I find that checking reviews for family-friendly features, like high chairs or kids’ menus, is a helpful step in the planning process.
Are there opportunities for outdoor activities?
I’m always on the lookout for places where my children, Emma and Sofia, can enjoy some fresh air and space to move around. Riverside Park, as featured in the movie, seems like a wonderful option for this. It offers green spaces and gardens that are lovely for a stroll or a picnic.
Exploring parks is a fantastic way to break up a busy sightseeing schedule and allow kids to simply be kids. I make sure to pack comfortable walking shoes for everyone when we plan for days involving parks and outdoor exploration, as it makes the experience much more enjoyable.
What’s the general atmosphere of the area?
The Upper West Side, as depicted in the movie and as I’ve learned more about it, has a distinct character. It’s often described as a more residential and family-oriented neighborhood compared to some other parts of Manhattan. This can translate into a slightly more relaxed pace, though it’s still New York City, so there’s always energy.
I’ve found that areas with a good mix of shops, cafes, and parks tend to be the most pleasant for family visits. This provides variety and options throughout the day, ensuring that everyone can find something they enjoy. It’s about finding that balance that works for your family’s travel style.
This exploration of film locations offers a unique way to connect with a city, seeing how familiar places from the screen have evolved over time. It’s a reminder that while stories capture a moment, the places themselves continue to live and change, always offering something new to discover.
