The ‘Ludlow Flea’ Takes up Banksy’s Former LES Lot
Exit through the gift shop takes on greater meaning down on Ludlow Street.
Indeed, the appearance of food trucks in the vacant lot made famous by Banksy (eight years ago) was a harbinger of what followed. Namely, the Ludlow Flea.
Ludlow Flea is a grassroots outdoor market that appeared at 159 Ludlow in late August. It’s a weekly presence from 11am to 7pm, Fridays through Sundays. Vendors sell vintage, “Y2K” (yes, you’re old), and home goods. They hope to stay on board through winter.
(Their model is in stark contrast to the Ludlow Free Store run by resident Vicki Rovere within the vicinity.)
Including the Ludlow Flea on-site is likely a real estate play by the landowner, who is still pitching the dormant spot for $2.49 million. By installing a store situation, foot traffic and eyeballs on the property increase.
Owner of record is Hesky Haim of Continental Worsteds, who originally purchased the property in 2007 for $1.5 million.
B6 Real Estate Partners is the exclusive broker for 159 Ludlow, advertising it as a “stellar opportunity to develop a boutique townhouse or mixed-use” building in “one of Manhattan’s most sought after neighborhoods surrounded by excellent retail, dining and social options.”
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