Norwalk has many reasons to celebrate its City. As a lifelong resident, I know what Norwalk has to offer. One of the most successful and popular spots in town is in South Norwalk also known as SoNo. From it’s heyday in the early 1900’s to its depressed state in the 70’s. SoNo has now been resurrected to a new grandeur.
SoNo represents the vibrancy of Norwalk. It’s a wonderful place to live, visit and relax. From its night life, boutique shops and art galleries to its waterfront activities there is so much to do here. It is definitely a destination for all.
SoNo has some great options for real estate. There are charming vintage buildings that have been renovated into luxury condominiums, to newly constructed modern buildings with all types of amenities. The exposed brick, large full view windows and water views are the reason why people love the architecture. These homes come in all sorts of price points starting in the lower two hundred thousand dollar range up to one million plus for penthouse suite overlooking the water. Buyers are flocking to this area as they know the value of these properties and what they have to offer. SoNo also has a mix of commercial and multifamily dwellings as well.
You can rent properties in SoNo too! At this time there is a real demand for apartments in this area. There are lovely rentals starting at $1500 and up depending on your space and budget requirements. The rental market is bringing in many young professionals who are working in the area. Ironworks is one of the newest rental complexes in the neighborhood and the Pearl is coming soon. They all want to live in SoNo as it is the place to be and it gives them a SoHo like experience without being in New York City. All within walking distance to the South Norwalk train station, you can be in Manhattan in 45 minutes.
The website www.visitsono.com is a fabulous website which gives regular updates on all the latest news and happenings in the area.
One of the biggest tourist destinations in town is the Maritime Aquarium and IMAX Theater. You can see the local marine life, exhibits, and learn about local marine history too. It’s very popular and a great place to take the family. If you want to dine at some of the best and trendiest restaurants in town then this is the place to be. There is a food style for every budget and taste. Some of my favorites are The Spread, Match, Barcelona, Strada 18, Quartino Trattoria and Local Kitchen. Crave a cocktail and want to sit outside? Then head over to Harlan Publick or Washington Prime two recent additions to the area. Kazu and Oishi offer some of the best Sushi around. One of the oldest dining spots is Donovans, where you can grab a quick bite. If you need a chocolate fix then head on over to Chocopologie café & Bistro, which is now located on Washington Street. My favorite chocolate treat is the caramel with sea salt. Yum!
There are some new business’s coming to the area. Mecha Noodle Bar, Bizzy Bean coffee shop and El Segundo (a global street food restaurant) are opening soon. I am looking forward to trying all of them.
A fun thing to do on a summer day is to take a boat ride out to the Historical Sheffield Island Lighthouse. You can pick up the boat at the Seaport Dock right before the bridge in SoNo. The Norwalk Seaport Association has a new 49 passenger ferry boat just waiting to be chartered. For more information please check out their website www.seaport.org.
Don’t forget to stop by Simple and say hi to the wonderful people who can help you find the perfect new outfit. Then head over to MeTime skin care for the most relaxing facial you ever had. Saraswati Yoga joint is the perfect spot to help you feel your best and the Stand juice bar can mix up a delicious healthy drink to start your day.
As SoNo continues to grow with residential and commercial space it will only make our City more attractive and increase real estate values in the future. A beautiful new mall is coming soon with Bloomingdales and Nordstrom as the anchor stores.
Density is a good thing. More people, more success in local economy and business. Walkability is necessary and oh so wanted at this time in our growing City. I grew up in Norwalk and still live here. I am a small business owner who wants to see our City grow properly so it can prosper. We are at a point in time where the decisions made will either make or break this City. Watching the improvements that are happening now is definitely a step in the right direction. Walk down Washington Street, meet your neighbors out dining and experience the positive vibe in SoNo.
Betty Bondi
Bondi Realty Group LLC
203-899-9990