East 111 St, East Harlem

East Harlem has become increasingly gentrified over the years, especially on those streets adjacent to or near Central Park. Just north of the park, East 111th street is an "up and coming" neighborhood for middle class families looking for access to Upper East Side amenities - like schools, parks, restaurants, and playgrounds - at decidedly not-UES prices. Located a block from a metro stop (the 110th Street and Lexington Avenue stop, served by the 4,5, and 6-trains), this street is a couple of stops away from the heart of Manhattan, making it an excellent choice for the morning commute. The nightlife and dining scene on this street reflects the area's origins as Spanish Harlem: check out Amor Cubano on Third Avenue, or walk down the street to low-key Samana. Of course, chain options like Domino's Pizza and KFC also abound, as they do in most NYC neighborhoods. Not the most charming place to be, but overall, East 111th St. offers good value for money.