A Very Short Guide to Soho's Perfume Stores

it's very smol but smells great, we promise.

Oct 30, 2024

In the heart of Soho, a place famous for its creative soul and indie spirit, perfume enthusiasts can find unique boutiques, niche brands, and artisanal selections perfect for exploring the world of fragrance in a truly unforgettable way. Here’s a curated list of must-visit spots for scent lovers:

1. Alchemist’s Kitchen/Elixir Bar (117 Crosby St)

Vibe: A wellness haven that merges herbalism with fragrance, The Alchemist’s Kitchen offers perfumes from brands like Heretic, Soma Ayurvedic, and a curated selection of underground, artisanal scents. They also focus on plant medicine, offering micro-dosing consultations and herbal elixirs for those interested in holistic well-being alongside fragrance. This is a perfect spot for those drawn to natural, botanical-inspired scents and alternative wellness practices.

2. Santa Maria Novella (285 Lafayette St)

Vibe: Established in Florence in 1612, Santa Maria Novella is one of the world’s oldest apothecaries. The Lafayette outpost feels like stepping into a historic Italian pharmacy, with beautiful bottles and classic, old-world scents. Their bestsellers include Rosa Gardenia and Melograno, and they also carry bath and body products infused with the same heritage.

3. Diptyque (31 Prince St, New York, NY 10012)

Vibe: A French fragrance icon, Diptyque brings Parisian elegance to NYC with its boutique on Prince Street. Known for both its perfumes and luxury candles, this shop offers a serene, artful experience with classics like Eau Rose and Tam Dao. The boutique is beautifully designed, creating the perfect ambiance to explore their extensive line of both fragrances and home scents.

4. Le Labo (Nolita - 233 Elizabeth St)

Vibe: While technically in Nolita, this Le Labo outpost is worth the short journey. Known for its hand-blended approach, Le Labo creates each bottle fresh for you on the spot. Signature scents like Santal 33 and Bergamote 22 have a loyal following, and the shop’s minimalist, industrial setting makes it a staple for any fragrance lover.

5. D.S. & Durga (255 Mulberry St)

Vibe: True NYC cool—DS & Durga offers fragrances inspired by everything from cowboy leather to Brooklyn jazz clubs. This indie brand, with an edge, celebrates the storytelling power of scent. Standout picks include Bowmakers and Radio Bombay, perfect for the adventurous.

6. Scent Bar NYC (244 Elizabeth St)

Vibe: With roots in LA, this boutique brings a unique selection of indie and hard-to-find fragrances to NYC. It’s an intimate, friendly place where enthusiasts can explore unique scents in an unhurried, welcoming environment. Try their sample station to discover something unexpected.