Everplans Guru Guide Funerals in Downtown Manhattan NYC
Overview: Downtown Manhattan Although this area is geographically small, its diversity is immense. This location (limited to below 34th street) is comprised of a myriad of different cultures. At one point, this large melting pot area consisted of small subcultures created by the immigrants. Over time, the area became more gentrified and less culture specific, but some funeral homes have continued to cater to their original clientele. Most funeral homes appeal to the catholic clientele, but some focus on the Asian cultures, while others are more focused on Russian or Hispanic customers. Funeral Homes If you plan to have a traditional funeral service with the body present (regardless of whether you choose to bury or cremate the body afterwards) you must work with a funeral home to make your arrangements. Name Rating Price Religion(s) Location Level
Andrett Funeral Home Highly recommended High All Faiths Gramercy
Gannon Funeral Home Highly recommended Low All Faiths Gramercy
Perazzo Funeral Home Highly Recommended Medium All Faiths The Village
Peter Jarema Funeral Home Recommend Low Christian East Village
NG Fook Funeral Inc. Recommended Low Buddhist/Christian Chinatown
Redden Funeral Home Inc Recommended Medium All Faiths Meatpacking
Crematories The choices below are direct cremation companies and tend to be less expensive than working with a funeral home. Name Typical Price
Cremations And Burials Low
Direct Cremation Company Medium
Metropolitan Funeral Service Low
Cemeteries You will work directly with the cemetery to arrange for a plot and the burial, but many of the details like buying a casket and body transportation will be coordinated by the funeral home you choose. Name Rating Price Religion(s) Location Level
Woodlawn Cemetery Highly recommended High Non-Denominational Bronx
Calvary Cemetery Recommended Low Catholic. Queens
Cypress Hills Cemetery Recommended Medium Non-Denominational Brooklyn
Mount Lebanon Cemetery Recommended Medium Jewish Queens
St. Raymond’s Cemetery Recommended Low Catholic Bronx
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Everplans Guru Guide Funerals in Downtown Manhattan NYC
Funeral Homes – Complete List Recommended Highly Andrett Funeral Home 353 2nd Avenue (20th and 21st Streets) New York, NY 10010 (212) 475-2024 http://www.dignitymemorial.com/andrett-funeral-home/en-us/index.page Also Known As: Gramercy Park Funeral Home John Kuhn runs this downtown SCI location. There is a fairly large, clean and inviting chapel on the main floor. Two smaller chapels upstairs can be rearranged to accommodate any type of service. Although SCI- owned, this funeral home located on Second Avenue is inviting from the outside and has a very neighborhood feel to it.
Gannon Funeral Home 152 East 28th Street (Lexington and 3rd) NYC, NY 10016 (212) 532- 6579 http://gannonfuneralhome.com Steve Baxter, the main funeral director is welcoming, honest, helpful and knowledgeable. There is a chapel on the main floor and upstairs another chapel and a casket room that can be curtained off and made into an auxiliary room. The furniture in each room can be reorganized to accommodate the families’ requests and he also explained how he is was happy to have people bring in their own caskets and I believe he would do everything he could to please a family and not take advantage of them.
Perazzo Funeral Home 199 Bleeker Street (Macdougal and 6th Ave) New York, NY 10012 (212) 777-7108 www.perazzofuneralhome.com
This funeral home is also known by the following names: Greenwich Village Funeral Home Crestwood Cremation (212) 674-8055 (212) 431-6712 www.greenwichvillagefuneralhome.com www.crestwoodcremationfuneral.com Deluca Funeral home Beth Abraham Memorial (212) 677-9600 (212) 614-2300 www.petercdelucafuneralhome.com www.bethabrahammemorialchapel.com
This is an excellent choice for a downtown funeral and has become an institution in the area. Unlike many others, Perazzo is large and bright; the sun comes shining through the oversized stain glass windows in the entrance hall. The funeral home is beautiful, sparkling and comfortable. I believe that families are well taken care of at this location (no matter what name they choose to be served by).
For more help with funerals and other end-of-life challenges visit www.everplans.com
Everplans Guru Guide Funerals in Downtown Manhattan NYC
Recommended NG Fook Funeral Inc. 36 Mulberry Street (Just North of Worth Street) New York, NY 10036 (212) 374-1003 www.fookfuneralgroup.com This is my choice for an Asian funeral on “funeral street” of Chinatown. Not only were the facilities nice, but so were the funeral directors. I spoke with Wilson Pui Wing Mak who was exceedingly kind and took the time to show me around the facilities and explain the Chinese traditions to me. Note: Head to Fook On Sing shop next door for paper replicas.
Peter Jarema Funeral Home 129 East 7th Street (1st Avenue and Avenue A) New York NY 10009 (212) 674 – 2568 www.jaremafuneralhome.com From the first phone call, Danny Buzzetta was a pleasure to deal with. This is a small completely family owned and operated funeral home. There is a small chapel and a very cozy wood paneled larger one. Jarema is very clean and a nice choice in this price range and although it’s more expensive than Ortiz, it is seems well worth it. While most of the clients are Ukrainian, Russian, and Polish (Danny is the only funeral director who is able to give a full service in Ukrainian), they are happy to work with everyone.
Redden Funeral Home Inc. 325 West 14th Street (8th and 9th) New York, NY 10014 (212) 242-1456 www.reddenfuneralhome.net From the outside this funeral home is a bit dark and uninviting. I was greeted by a man (who was not in a suit) who was happy to find a funeral director for me. They have a large appealing, clean chapel in the back and then smaller rooms upstairs. They seem kind and able to meet their families’ needs.
For more help with funerals and other end-of-life challenges visit www.everplans.com
Everplans Guru Guide Funerals in Downtown Manhattan NYC
Cannot Recommend Yet Provenzano Lanza Funeral Home 43 Second Avenue (2nd and 3rd Streets) New York, NY 10003 (212) 473 -2220 www.provenzanolanzafuneral.com
Ortiz R G Funeral Home 22 1st Avenue (1st and 2nd Street) New York, NY 10009 (212) 673-1110
Direct Cremation Companies
Cremations and Burials Peter Dohanich Funeral Home (800) 321- 1163 www.CremationsAndBurials.com I spoke with Peter, the operator behind this company, and while this is by far the cheapest option I’ve come across, he did leave me with more questions than answers. Peter runs an all-cash business with direct cremations start at only $595 and direct burials at $895. The cremation will take between 7-10 business days unless you pay to have it expedited. His website will help you with all necessary information but he is more than happy to speak on the phone.
Direct Cremation Company 152 East 28th Street New York, NY 10016 (800) 649- 5050 www.DirectCremationCompany.com Steve Baxter has been running this this cremation company out of Gannon Funeral Home since 1964. A direct cremation will start at $1995. Although it is more expensive than some other options, some might prefer to spend more on the professionalism they receive.
Metropolitan Funeral Service 191 Avenue A (Just South of 12th street) New York NY 10009 (800) 332-1880 (212) 674-3630 www.nycdirectcremation.com Family owned since 1935, this company seems quite reputable and each representative I spoke with was friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable. They are proud to serve all families. The honest cost-efficient operation allows them to keep prices low for their customers, with direct cremations start at $1197. Cremations are done in Long Island and clients can expect to get ashes back within a day or so.
For more help with funerals and other end-of-life challenges visit www.everplans.com
Everplans Guru Guide Funerals in Downtown Manhattan NYC
Recommended Cemeteries Calvary Cemetery 49-02 Laurel Hill Boulevard Woodside, NY 11377 (718) 786-8000 www.calvarycemeteryqueens.com This Catholic cemetery has a large chapel on the grounds which celebrates the Eucharist in honor of the over 1,750,000 buried within the Calvary cemetery. There are multiple options for both in ground and crypt spaces. Cypress Hills Cemetery 833 Jamaica Avenue New York, NY 11208 (718) 277- 2900 www.cypresshillscemetery.org This well-maintained 225-acre cemetery was started as a non-profit and non-sectarian. It is connect to Mount Carmel, Salem Fields, B’nai Jeshurum, Beth El, and National Cemeteryand offers plenty of different options for interment. Kensico Cemetery 273 Lakeview Ave Valhalla, NY 10595 (888) KENSICO (536-7426) www.kensico.org
This is an absolutely gorgeous cemetery set on over 400 acres in Westchester. Many late celebrities reside here .
St. Raymond’s Cemetery 2600 Lafayette avenue Bronx NY 10465 718) 792-1133 www.straymondparish.org/cemetery Owned and operated by the Archdiocese of NY, it is the only Catholic cemetery in the Bronx. Their nearly 4000 burials each year are in their in-ground, crypt, and niche options. There is a special area for stillborn and young babies. The 180 acres are split between the old and the new sections. Woodlawn Cemetery 517 East 233rd St New York, NY 10470 (718) 920-0500 www.thewoodlawncemetery.org The 400 acres of this national historic landmark are truly stunning. There are many notable “residents” 1300 mausoleums with many by notable architects.
For more help with funerals and other end-of-life challenges visit www.everplans.com
Everplans Guru Guide Funerals in Downtown Manhattan NYC
Other Cemetery Options: Although getting buried in Downtown New York City is nearly impossible there are a number of beautiful cemeteries in close proximity. All of these cemeteries have spots that would make lovely final resting places.
QUEENS, NY: Cedar Grove Cemetery Mount Lebanon (718) 939-2041 (718) 821-0200 www.thecedargrovecemetery.com www.mountlebanoncemetery.com
Mount Hebron Cemetery Saint John Cemetery (718) 939-9405 (718) 416-8600 www.mounthebroncemetery.com www.cathcemetery-bklyn.org
Mount Zion Cemetery St. Michael’s Cemetery (718) 335-2500 (718) 278- 3240 www.mountzioncemetery.com www.stmichaelscemetery.com
BROOKLYN, NY: Green-Wood Cemetery 718 768- 7300 www.green-wood.com
WESTCHESTER, NY: Ferncliff Kensico Cemetery (914) 693 - 4700 (888) KENSICO (536- 7426) www.ferncliffcemetery.com www.kensico.org
Gate of Heaven Sleepy Hollow Cemetery (914) 769-3672 914-631-0081 www.gateofheavenny.com www.sleepyhollowcemetery.org
Greenwood Union Cemetery Westchester Hills Cemetery (914) 967 – 0095 914-478-1767 www.greenwoodunion.org www.swfs.org/cemetery
For more help with funerals and other end-of-life challenges visit www.everplans.com
Everplans Guru Guide Funerals in Downtown Manhattan NYC
Hotels: Not only do all the known chain hotels have a presence but also there are a myriad of independent hotels ranging in size, cost, location, and amenities. The follow are a few good options that are nearby some of our recommended funeral homes. $ up to 150 $$ 151 to 250 $$$ 251 to 350 $$$$ 351 and up
The Bowery House 220 Bowery New York, NY, 10012 (212) 837-2373 www.theboweryhouse.com This is a trendy hostel style accommodation in the heart of Soho. Individual “cabins” are designed with multiple different set-ups to accommodate various group sizes. $
The Cosmopolitan Hotel 95 West Broadway New York, NY 10007 (212) 566-1900 www.cosmohotel.com This is a small (122-room) budget boutique hotel in the heart of Tribeca. Travelers constantly give this hotel excellent reviews; although it is budget, it is clean and well maintained. $ -$$
Gramercy Park Hotel 2 Lexington Avenue New York, NY 10010 (212) 920-3300 www.gramercyparkhotel.com This is a luxurious, fashionable and modern hotel in a fantastic location. When staying here, guests can take advantage of the rooftop club and garden, Maialino Restaurant, The Rose Bar, and the 24-hour fitness center. $$$$
The Hotel Wolcott 4 West 31st Street New York, NY 10010 212-268-2900 www.wolcott.com Built over 100 years ago, this hotel combines the old world charm with hospitality and modern conveniences. Tea, coffee, and muffins are served every morning in the lobby. $$
For more help with funerals and other end-of-life challenges visit www.everplans.com
Everplans Guru Guide Funerals in Downtown Manhattan NYC
Restaurants Even though there are countless restaurants in New York City, be sure to contact the restaurant before showing up with a large group. Not only do you want to be certain that they can accommodate a crowd your size, but also the restaurant might have a special event private room and/or menu. These are just a few ideas for restaurants that are close to some of the funeral home that we recommended. Also, you might want to consider a favorite local restaurant or a deli such as Katz’s Delicatessen or 2nd Ave Deli to cater a Shiva or lunch at your home.
Amazing 66 66 Mott St New York, NY 10013 (212) 334-0099 www.amazing66.com This is one of the rare Chinese banquet-hall style restaurants that still exits today. Although they cater to tourists, there is a private space available downstairs for 15-60 people. This very casual restaurant is ideal for those looking for authentic Chinese food in the heart of Chinatown.
Giano Restaurant 126 East 7th Street New York, NY 10009 (212) 673-7200 www.gianonyc.com This low-key Italian restaurant not only has delicious authentic food, but also a warm Italian owner who makes it his mission to be sure each customer is satisfied. They offer a set menu for larger groups if that is what you want.
Landmarc –Tribeca 179 W Broadway New York, NY 10013 (212) 343-3883 www.lancmarc-restaurant.com The private room at this American bistro would make an ideal setting for an upscale luncheon in Tribeca. The staff will happily customize a menu and can give you anything from a “Romanian feast to a gourmet hamburger station.”
For more help with funerals and other end-of-life challenges visit www.everplans.com
Everplans Guru Guide Funerals in Downtown Manhattan NYC
Other Helpful Local Resources Goodwill 220 East 23rd Street New York NY 10010 (212) 447-7270 www.goodwill.org
Salvation Army Thrift Store 112 4th Avenue #1 New York, NY 10003 (212) 673-2741 www.salvationarmyusa.org
Vintage Thrift 286 3rd Avenue New York, NY 10010 (212) 871-0777 www.vintagethriftshop.org This is an upscale thrift store in Gramercy and is consistently praised by its customers. It’s a fun experience since the shop is set up like mini homes to show how the products can be used. The proceeds benefit The United Jewish Council of the East Side.
Buffalo Exchange 332 E. 11th St. New York, NY (212) 260-9340 www.buffaloexchange.com This is a thrift store that is focused on buying from and selling to local customers (80% of their inventory is bought by local customers). You can call and ask what they are looking for before bringing in your items. They are very friendly and happy to walk you through their process. Like others, portions of their proceeds go to charity.
The Dream Clean www.thedreamclean.com Although there are a few cleaning services that can be purchased online, this seems the most legitimate. I choose them for two reasons; they will give you a direct quote online and also they have a specific selection for deep clean “moving out.”
For more help with funerals and other end-of-life challenges visit www.everplans.com