Introduction to 42BELOW
The blocks between West 30th and 42nd streets, and between Sixth and Eighth avenues, have evolved over time into a more people-friendly environment than they once were, with myriad shopping, lodging, dining and entertainment options.
The changes were brought on by the city’s surging commercial energy, and accelerated by this year’s rezoning to allow apartment conversions where they were previously forbidden.
The District of 42BELOW
The district we’ll call 42BELOW isn’t a single neighborhood but a mosaic of several intersecting, disparate neighborhoods.
It encompasses Herald Square, Koreatown, the Garment District, Sixth Avenue north of the Ladies Mile, and what Vornado calls the “Penn District” for its redeveloped Seventh Avenue office buildings.
They all have different street vibes — from corporate headquarters on Sixth and Broadway near West 40th Street to innumerable funky venues to the south. What they have in common is extraordinary transit access and proximity to Bryant Park and Times Square.
Recent Rezoning and Its Impact
The recent rezoning — known as the Midtown South Mixed-Use Plan — is expected to spawn 9,500 new apartments over the next few years. The new flexibility options helped to spur 27 building sales in 2025 totaling over $1 billion in the area, according to JLL.
Many buyers were developers eager to exploit the residential potential at underutilized locations previously restricted to apparel-making and other manufacturing uses despite the industries’ virtual disappearance.
Retail and Dining Landscape
Mighty Macy’s shares the retail landscape with the likes of Nordstrom Rack and Japanese bookstore Kinokuniya.
Large new retail leases were signed this year including for Primark’s first Manhattan store on West 34th Street. Trendy hotels such as the Moxy and Margaritaville will be joined soon by three new hotels in the pipeline.
A two-story location of Roberta’s pizzeria features an expansive rooftop dining area and is located at 1Penn.
Stephen Yang for the New York Post
The Garment District Alliance reports 28 new eating spots opened in its 20-block territory this year, more than 50% more than in 2024, while 45 existing ones renewed leases. Meanwhile, Koreatown’s 120-odd restaurants now extend north and east of their traditional West 32nd Street base and draw crowds to the area well into the wee hours.
A Balanced and Vibrant Atmosphere
Meridian Retail Leasing president James Famularo noted, “This unique area is remarkably balanced” among residential, commercial and tourism functions. “The diverse mix creates a vibrant atmosphere where people are constantly shopping and dining throughout the day.”
Ideally positioned to exploit the changed environment is 5 Times Square, the office tower on the south side of West 42nd Street and Seventh Avenue which is to be converted to mixed-use including up to 1,250 rental apartments. The project is a joint venture of development partner RXR, Apollo Global Management and SL Green.
A Surfset workout class at Margaritaville in Midtown.
Olga Ginzburg for the N.Y. Post
The Future of 42BELOW
Asked to comment on 42BELOW’s array of attractions and consumer services at its doorstep, RXR executive vice-president Whitney Arcaro said, “Midtown South rezoning has unlocked an exciting next chapter for this neighborhood, one where new housing is paired with a vibrant food-and-beverage scene and a renewed sense of place.
“This corridor is clearly evolving into a true Eat-Live-Play destination, and we’re thrilled to be contributing to that momentum.”
Conclusion
In conclusion, the prime chunk of Midtown, now known as 42BELOW, is emerging as a new “fun” destination. With its unique blend of shopping, lodging, dining, and entertainment options, this area is poised to become a vibrant and exciting place to be.
FAQs
Q: What is 42BELOW?
A: 42BELOW is a district in Midtown Manhattan that encompasses several intersecting neighborhoods, including Herald Square, Koreatown, the Garment District, and the “Penn District”.
Q: What is the Midtown South Mixed-Use Plan?
A: The Midtown South Mixed-Use Plan is a rezoning plan that allows for apartment conversions in previously restricted areas, expected to spawn 9,500 new apartments over the next few years.
Q: What kind of retail and dining options are available in 42BELOW?
A: 42BELOW offers a diverse range of retail and dining options, including Macy’s, Nordstrom Rack, Japanese bookstore Kinokuniya, and over 120 restaurants in Koreatown.
Q: What is the future of 42BELOW?
A: 42BELOW is expected to evolve into a true Eat-Live-Play destination, with new housing, a vibrant food-and-beverage scene, and a renewed sense of place.
