Life was different in Flatiron District even just a hundred years ago. Large department stores dotted the area, the tallest building in the world was The Met Life Tower, the structure easily presiding the neighborhood. Mid-20th century brought a downturn which lasted into the 1990's. Beaux-arts architecture, and cast-iron buidlings remained, infusing the area with charm. Today, Flatiron is home to new restaurants, shops and entertainment spots, and let's not forget - Eataly - possibly as frequented by tourists and visitors as the triangular building that lent its name to this vigorous New York City neighborhood.