By Maryann Johnson, Licensed Real Estate Salesperson

I have called Morningside Heights home for nearly 30 years, and it's a place like no other. Nestled in the heart of upper Manhattan, this neighborhood exudes a unique charm that has kept me rooted here for nearly three decades.

One of the things that make Morningside Heights so special is its prewar architecture. The sprawling prewar apartments are unique to the neighborhood. The grandeur of these buildings adds a touch of history to our daily lives, making every walk down the block feel like a journey through time.

But it's not just the buildings that make this place special, it's the people. Morningside Heights has a small-town feel in the heart of a big city. It's a vibrant, college town, where everybody knows your name. We hold parking spots for each other on alternate  days, and our supers, doormen, and neighbors all know you and your dog. 

Lazy afternoons are best spent on the Columbia campus, where the energy of youth and knowledge fills the air. Riverside Park and the landscaped grounds of the Cathedral offer serene escapes from the urban hustle, making it easy to forget you're in the city.

And then there are the restaurants. V&T, a neighborhood haunt for locals, has long been a meeting place for me and my neighbors. We catch up over delicious pizza and martinis, forging bonds that last a lifetime. The Hungarian Pastry Shop, a neighborhood classic since 1961, is where I satisfy my sweet tooth with pastries, cappuccinos, and teas while rubbing shoulders with local artists and writers.

LeMonde, Toms, Pasticci – these are not just eateries; they're an extension of our community. And let's not forget the Westside Market, a neighborhood staple that has kept us fed and nourished through hurricanes, snowstorms, and a pandemic.

For all the odds and ends, there's University Hardware & Housewares. Bob, the owner, and his knowledgeable staff seem to have everything you never knew you needed . It's a place where you'll always find a friendly face and expert advice.

In Morningside Heights, I've found not just a neighborhood, but a community. It's a place where history meets modernity, where tradition meets innovation, and where the community's warmth embraces you like an old friend. It's a place I'm proud to call home, and I wouldn't trade it for the world.

Connect with Maryann  Johnson and see her current listings here.