Meet: Grace Zhao

The Lower East Side is full of impressive, talented, giving, and immensely interesting people of different backgrounds, persuasions, and styles. More For LES is delighted to showcase neighbors from 10002 who contribute to making the community richer, more welcoming, and complete. Today we meet Grace Zhao.

Grace Zhao is a partner at Yuanhe Partners, a New York-based law firm specializing in startup law for creative industries, and lives in the Lower East Side. More For LES spoke with Grace, who loves exploring local cafes and strolling along East River Park. More For LES spoke with her, and this is what she had to say:

Do you live, work, or both live and work in the neighborhood?

I live on the Lower East Side.

How long have you lived and/or worked in the neighborhood?

I’ve been here for 12 years.

Tell us a little about yourself.

I am a partner at a New York-based law firm, Yuanhe Partners, offering a full spectrum of legal services, with a strong focus on startup laws for the broader creative industries. With offices in New York, Beijing, and Shanghai, we are uniquely positioned to serve a global clientele, especially Mandarin-speaking entrepreneurs, founders, and creatives navigating cross-border business and legal challenges.

Before transitioning to private practice, I worked with the United Nations in both New York and Geneva. This global perspective continues to shape my legal approach as practical, strategic, and informed by a global perspective.

I moved to New York 13 years ago to pursue my Master of Laws (LL.M.) at NYU. Since then, I’ve come to see this city not only as the heart of innovation and creative energy but also as one of the best places in the world to live and build something meaningful.

What do you love to do in your free time?

I love to stroll in the newly-opened East River Park, explore the shops and galleries along Orchard Street, and visit my friend’s gallery near Union Square. (It’s called Fou Gallery, and it has many art healing sessions and community-bonding events.) Check it out!

What’s something you've experienced here that makes the neighborhood feel special to you?

One of the most inspiring aspects of living here is the people. Many of my friends are creatives, producers, musicians, editors, and artists. They bring a sense of authenticity and cool, grounded energy that makes me feel relaxed and truly myself when I’m around them. There’s a quiet vibrancy here, a mix of warmth and creative brilliance, that makes this neighborhood a true hub for some of the best creatives in New York, and even the world.

We also happen to have some of the most beautiful parks in Manhattan. Whether you’re looking to take a reflective walk along the river, meet friends for a picnic, or just spend some quiet time with nature, the green spaces here are both well-loved and well-maintained.

What makes this neighborhood even more special is its strong sense of community. It’s remarkably family-friendly, with a deep-rooted support system that’s made it an appealing place for retirees. Our elder residents can find wonderful care in the area, including excellent facilities that provide continuing eduction, and they can also tap into local markets and the arts scene.

Lately, I’ve noticed more and more young professionals and families choosing to settle here. It’s exciting to see this next chapter, where generations come together to shape a vibrant, nurturing, and inclusive environment.

I truly believe this neighborhood is one of the city’s hidden gems, a place where people can grow, create, raise families, and build lasting connections.

What’s something you’d like to see change or improve in the neighborhood?

I’d like to see more food options along Grand Street (east of Trader Joe’s), as well as a bar (or even a speakeasy) for a late night hang-out! (This way we don’t have to walk to Orchard Street or Dimes Square.)

Favorite local spots — where do you go, and why do you love them?

There are many great and new shops on the LES.

I love great coffee, snacks, and conversation, and here are a few spots I like to frequent:

1) Ost Cafe: I like to chat with the founder, Luke, and appreciate his in-shop plants and greenery!

2) Sugar Sweet Sunshine Bakery: I love the slogan: “I’m only here until I win the lottery.” Also, and importantly, their cookies and coffee are great.

3) Crème: They have coffee from La Colombe and the pastries are from Balthazar. In the summer, try their self-serve matcha ice cream!

4) Georgie’s Coffee: Located inside Vital Gym (near Essex Market), it’s a great place for a quiet “WFH” day. The lush plants surrounding the cafe make it feel like a jungle.

5) Manousheh: This one’s on Grand Street, and it’s my daughter’s favorite. Try the Lebanese coffee and the Chicken Musakkhan.

6) Something Soft: This is a project led by one of my clients who’s opening up a photo booth on Allen and Orchard Street. It’s starting to get noticed on social media, so check this one out, too!

Are there any buildings, parks, or street corners that you think of when the Lower East Side comes to mind?

The corner of Essex and Grand Street is a hub of daily life, small rituals, and community moments. It’s where urban energy and the familiar meet and combust.

Seward Park is nearby, and it’s a place where my daughter has played tennis and had fun. I think of those moments when I’m nearby.

We also take the M14 bus back home after school from that very corner, and if the bus is running late it’s a perfect excuse for me to grab a cookie from Sugar Sweet Bakery. I also can’t wait to see what comes into the space where Eva’s Kitchen used to be.

Anything else you’d like to share with your neighbors?

This neighborhood is not only full of history, but has a promising future. Congratulations to those of us who have already made it their home. For those still looking, I hope you, too, will discover this gem and choose to grow your lives here.