Sat, 13 Jun 2026 16:41:20 +0000

BACK TO 1987 — Lost In Golden Memories // Retro Synthwave • Chillwave • Warm Memory Mix

A fleeting moment in time, beautifully frozen by photographer Tom Riggle, perfectly captures the grit and glamour of New York City’s Lower East Side. Looking down Delancey Street, the eye is immediately drawn to the majestic steel silhouette of the Williamsburg Bridge rising against a soft sky.

On the vibrant pavement below, the city pulses with everyday drama: men in sharp suits and fedoras converse near a classic black telephone booth, while vintage sedans navigate the sun-drenched avenue. Bold neon signs and local storefronts, from London Shoes to the iconic Sol Moscot, frame this bustling sidewalk theater. It is a stunning visual melody that echoes the unique character, fashion, and raw energy of an unforgettable eighties New York.

Today, this vibrant corner of Delancey and Orchard Streets on the Lower East Side has transformed dramatically from its nostalgic past. The iconic MOSCOT optical shop at 118 Orchard Street (marked by the giant eyeglasses sign on the left) was forced to move across the street to 108 Orchard Street due to rising rents and neighborhood redevelopment. Traditional storefronts like London Shoes have vanished, making way for trendy cafes, art galleries, and upscale boutiques.

The low-rise, historic tenement buildings have largely been replaced or flanked by luxury high-rise condos and modern hotels. While the surrounding neighborhood has shifted toward luxury and modern living, the majestic Williamsburg Bridge still stands proudly in the background, serving as a timeless anchor connecting past and present.

Google maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/UpJSMbMaC4VYHzDr7