How To Be Outside, Inside with Famed Hip-Hop Photographer, T. Eric Monroe

T. Eric Monroe is a revered photographer around these parts. We’ve profiled him before on Okayplayer to shine a light on the Collector’s Edition of his extraordinary photo book, Rare & Unseen Moments of 90’s Hip-Hop. It’s a visually-compelling, immersive journey into Golden Era hip-hop with unbelievable shots featuring rap legends like TuPac, Biggie, Nas, Lauryn Hill, Digable Planets, Terror Squad, and lots more. 

In this edition of How To Be Outside, Inside, the art and culture loving NJ native shares his favorite Lower East Side spots along with some key locations to visit in The Bronx. Check it out below.

Where do you go in NYC when you want to be outside without being outside? 

Hotel Indigo on the Lower East Side is down the street from Katz Deli and across the street from Sweet Chick. For the last four years, I had one of my fine art prints on display in the lobby.

On the 12th floor, you’ll find a cool coffee shop and work spaces. The 14th floor has Mr. Purple, a beautiful indoor/outdoor, bar/lounge with a pool and breathtaking views of Manhattan.

I also like FTC NYC skate shop. Hanging out at FTC is great for catching up with the staff and meeting people from around the world. I love hanging out here, watching videos and meeting new people. FTC also hosts community art shows and supports brands that are making an impact in skate culture. 

Next up is Producer Plug Records in Chinatown. It is more than just a “record store.” The owner Plug is a big collector of rare and hard to find music and collectible items. The staff is extremely friendly and knowledgeable. It also hosts record signings, guest DJs, and community workshops. They’ve also partnered with Snoop Dogg to open R & G Records in Inglewood, CA.

Where do you go when you want to be around people but not with people? 

Bowery Showroom is a community hub of culture for emerging talent and brands. I initially met the Bowery Showroom crew at their original location on Stanton St, and their staff and community oozed of people on the verge of becoming something “big.” The owner has great vision, drive, and an understanding of what’s next. It immediately reminded me of Marc Ecko (founder of Complex & Ecko Unltd). It’s now located at at 55 Delancey St., and there are always unique people coming in and out of the space. They also do collaborations with big brands, and are always looking to connect with the next generation of creatives. It’s definitely a place of inspiration.

LAAMS (Look At All My Shit) is another community hub that has a big selection of unique art, collectibles and new brands making a buzz. It often supports newer brands with pop-ups, art shows, and collaborations. Their unique positioning has made them an attractive partner for brands like Tommy Hilfiger, Puma, and most recently Nike.

What does your perfect NYC day look like? 

I like coming into the city and meeting with clients about upcoming projects. I’ll often take them around to my favorite locations. We’ll visit Hotel Indigo, and I’ll let them take in a birds-eye view of NYC from the outside patio area on the 14th floor, and then we’ll get a coffee on the 12th floor.

After Hotel Indigo, we’ll walk over to eat at my favorite Dominican restaurant El Castillo De Jagua Restaurant (Rivington & Essex St). I’ve been eating at this restaurant for more than 15 years and I always take clients there. It’s a family-owned restaurant, with a welcoming vibe and great food.

After that, it’s a trek to The Bronx to check out the progress on the build at The Hip-Hop Museum and hang out at The Culture Lab gift shop. It’s an awesome spot to meet people from around the world and experience the birthplace of hip-hop and its archival museum opening Fall of 2026.