I love it when food is as delicious as it is beautiful to glance at on the plate.

I love it when food is as delicious as it is beautiful to glance at on the plate.

Where to Eat in the East Village I love to eat. This is part of an ongoing series I have going where I’m sharing my favorite eats in different neighborhoods and cities. So far I’ve covered the LES, West Village, Soho & Nolita and Chelsea & the Flatiron District. This week I’m tackling my East Village favs. Next week is TriBeCa. Cheap Eats: Artichoke Pizza: Get the namesake slice (or 2) and pop a squat on the curb. Delicious is an understatement. Caracas Arepa Bar: Have you ever eaten an arepa? So yummy. I can’t leave without eating at least 2. I recommend giving this place a shot.  It’s much better than any cornbread you’ve ever had. Dok Suni’s: My favorite Korean pork ribs not in Koreatown. Yummy! Nicky’s Vietnamese: I’m sure I put this in the LES listing too, but it deserves to be listed twice. Get the signature sandwich or the double pork chop. The best dang $8 you’ll spend that week. Guaranteed. Mudspot: The Mudtruck serves up some yummy bites and some of the best coffee in the city (second in my opinion to Stumptown) Porchetta: Yummy porchetta sandwiches at an affordable price. Bonus points for delivery. S’mac: Mac n’ Cheese. Nuff said. Black Iron Burger Shop: Hands down my favorite place for a late night eat in the city. Burgers + wings + beers. Yummy. Crif Dogs: Get a couple of chang dogs and take them over to the park for a delicious (and super filling) meal. I recommend pairing them with vino from home in a sippy cup. Liquiteria: Yummy fresh veggie juice. Perfect for a healthy liquid lunch. Pomme Frites: So many sauces….a dream for a french fry addict. Ippudo: Ramen HEAVEN. And buy 1 get 1 beers at the bar while you wait for happy hour (and you will wait…) Snack Dragon: Yummy tacos that are a great on-the-go snack. Solid Bets: DBGB: Daniel Boulud’s burger joint with handmade sausages and killer burgers including the Piggie which is $19 and includes jalapenos and pulled pork. Delicious.   Pulino’s: McNally’s new pizza joint that sits diagonal across from DGBG. A bit of an Otto knock off, but still delicious. Mercadito: Go on Monday or Tuesday for all you can eat tacos and strong (but overpriced $10!!) margaritas. The Mermaid Inn: One of my favorite restaurants in the city. So damn good. Lobster sandwich + Bluepoint lager + Old Bay Fries = orgasmic. Bonus points for a cheap wine list and a fantastic raw selection. Jewel Bako: Definitely some of the best sushi downtown. Yummy. Tiny. Packed. Go early or late. Jack’s Luxury Oyster Bar: Same owners as Jewel Bako, same tiny environment. Yummy oysters and seafood, horrible wine list. Definitely BYOB and pay the corking fee here. Momofuku Noodle & Ssam: Momofuku is basically synonymous with East Village at this point. All of Chang’s places are delicious. You simply can’t live or eat in the EV without visiting one or all of them. Love the Bakery too. The Redhead: An awesome place if you’re a fan of southern food. Love the buttermilk fried chicken and the shrimp n’ grits. Counter & Caravan of Dreams: veggie lover heaven. I prefer the former to the latter, although I know plenty of people who disagree. Butter: OMFG. XOXO. This place is so played out but still manages to garner a celeb crowd. This is where you take your friend who thinks NYC really is like Sex and the City. Double Crown: Love the global inspired menu here. Really random, but pretty tasty. Best Brunch: Paprika: $11ish gets you a drink, a coffee, and this amazing egg and tomato and basil pile of deliciousness (or another awesome dish). Gemma: Go for brunch and eat outside. Or go for a drink and then make your way into the Bowery Hotel bar. Dinner is disorganized, there’s always a wait and the crowd is more douchey than not. Sunburnt Cow: One of the booziest brunches in the city with hot aussies running around. In a single word? Awesome. Back Forty: love the slow food style of this restaurant. I can’t point to one thing on the menu I die over (maybe the grass-fed burger?) but everything is delicious. Make sure you order the sugared donuts for dessert. Esperanto: A bit nuts at night (although sometimes they have live music that’s amazing) but a great place for a delicious somewhat traditional brazillian meal. I like to go for brunch & sit outside. Permanent Brunch: A bit hokey…but when you have that pancake and bacon craving… Cafe Pick Me Up: Not exactly a brunch place but love the pastries and coffee and teas at this place. It’s a great place to curl up with a book or a friend. The Smith: I love everything on their menu. EVERYTHING. 7a: Cheap + delicious + this great side salad with the most amazing carrot dressing.. Westville East: There’s a reason why there’s that line around the block… Vino y Mas: Bar Veloce:  a cozy little panini and winebar joint. Great for a quick drink or a late night glass of vino and snack. Degustation: Get the tasting menu and some vino with a group of friends (or a double date) and this will be one of your favorite group meals ever. Desnuda: Wine + ceviche in a cozy, teeny tiny romantic den. A great second date place. In Vino: tapas and wine in a warm, cozy cave like environment. Italian Overload: Luzzo’s: My favorite Naples style pizza in NYC. Simply fantastic (with a hot Italian crowd as an added plus!) Cacio e Pepe: Affordable yummy pasta from a neighborhood Italian staple. Lil Frankie’s Pizza: On a fantastic 1st avenue stretch, a great place to share a pie outside in the summer. Annoyingly cash only. Supper: Some of the best pasta in the EV in a cozy, warm atmosphere. Love the pasta specials and lasagna night. Frank and Max: Neighborhood favorites. Pretty good italian in unassuming environments. Cash only like Supper their other restaurant. Honestly, besides specials and subtleties, isn’t much of a difference between any of their restaurants. Pricey but Yummy: BONDST: Some of my favorite posh sceney sushi in the city. This is borderline EV but we’ll include it because it is pretty tasty. Bonus points for the Seabass skewers, available only downstairs. Mary’s favorite dish, ever. Hearth: Seasonal food (always have delicious lamb) in a warm, cozy environment with a strong and highly sustainable wine list. One of those places you should go at least once with a date. Momofuku Ko: The most expensive Momo but arguably the best. The reservations system is like a game of roulette but keep trying because eating here is worth the effort. Pylos: Overpriced for Greek but really love the atmosphere and the food ain’t too bad. As always would love to know your changes, additions, etc so feel free to leave a comment or response to this post. Cheers! 

Where to Eat in the East Village

I love to eat. This is part of an ongoing series I have going where I’m sharing my favorite eats in different neighborhoods and cities. So far I’ve covered the LES, West Village, Soho & Nolita and Chelsea & the Flatiron District. This week I’m tackling my East Village favs. Next week is TriBeCa.

Cheap Eats:

  • Artichoke Pizza: Get the namesake slice (or 2) and pop a squat on the curb. Delicious is an understatement.
  • Caracas Arepa Bar: Have you ever eaten an arepa? So yummy. I can’t leave without eating at least 2. I recommend giving this place a shot.  It’s much better than any cornbread you’ve ever had.
  • Dok Suni’s: My favorite Korean pork ribs not in Koreatown. Yummy!
  • Nicky’s Vietnamese: I’m sure I put this in the LES listing too, but it deserves to be listed twice. Get the signature sandwich or the double pork chop. The best dang $8 you’ll spend that week. Guaranteed.
  • Mudspot: The Mudtruck serves up some yummy bites and some of the best coffee in the city (second in my opinion to Stumptown)
  • Porchetta: Yummy porchetta sandwiches at an affordable price. Bonus points for delivery.
  • S’mac: Mac n’ Cheese. Nuff said.
  • Black Iron Burger Shop: Hands down my favorite place for a late night eat in the city. Burgers + wings + beers. Yummy.
  • Crif Dogs: Get a couple of chang dogs and take them over to the park for a delicious (and super filling) meal. I recommend pairing them with vino from home in a sippy cup.
  • Liquiteria: Yummy fresh veggie juice. Perfect for a healthy liquid lunch.
  • Pomme Frites: So many sauces….a dream for a french fry addict.
  • Ippudo: Ramen HEAVEN. And buy 1 get 1 beers at the bar while you wait for happy hour (and you will wait…)
  • Snack Dragon: Yummy tacos that are a great on-the-go snack.

Solid Bets:

  • DBGB: Daniel Boulud’s burger joint with handmade sausages and killer burgers including the Piggie which is $19 and includes jalapenos and pulled pork. Delicious.  
  • Pulino’s: McNally’s new pizza joint that sits diagonal across from DGBG. A bit of an Otto knock off, but still delicious.
  • Mercadito: Go on Monday or Tuesday for all you can eat tacos and strong (but overpriced $10!!) margaritas.
  • The Mermaid Inn: One of my favorite restaurants in the city. So damn good. Lobster sandwich + Bluepoint lager + Old Bay Fries = orgasmic. Bonus points for a cheap wine list and a fantastic raw selection.
  • Jewel Bako: Definitely some of the best sushi downtown. Yummy. Tiny. Packed. Go early or late.
  • Jack’s Luxury Oyster Bar: Same owners as Jewel Bako, same tiny environment. Yummy oysters and seafood, horrible wine list. Definitely BYOB and pay the corking fee here.
  • Momofuku Noodle & Ssam: Momofuku is basically synonymous with East Village at this point. All of Chang’s places are delicious. You simply can’t live or eat in the EV without visiting one or all of them. Love the Bakery too.
  • The Redhead: An awesome place if you’re a fan of southern food. Love the buttermilk fried chicken and the shrimp n’ grits.
  • Counter & Caravan of Dreams: veggie lover heaven. I prefer the former to the latter, although I know plenty of people who disagree.
  • Butter: OMFG. XOXO. This place is so played out but still manages to garner a celeb crowd. This is where you take your friend who thinks NYC really is like Sex and the City.
  • Double Crown: Love the global inspired menu here. Really random, but pretty tasty.

Best Brunch:

  • Paprika: $11ish gets you a drink, a coffee, and this amazing egg and tomato and basil pile of deliciousness (or another awesome dish).
  • Gemma: Go for brunch and eat outside. Or go for a drink and then make your way into the Bowery Hotel bar. Dinner is disorganized, there’s always a wait and the crowd is more douchey than not.
  • Sunburnt Cow: One of the booziest brunches in the city with hot aussies running around. In a single word? Awesome.
  • Back Forty: love the slow food style of this restaurant. I can’t point to one thing on the menu I die over (maybe the grass-fed burger?) but everything is delicious. Make sure you order the sugared donuts for dessert.
  • Esperanto: A bit nuts at night (although sometimes they have live music that’s amazing) but a great place for a delicious somewhat traditional brazillian meal. I like to go for brunch & sit outside.
  • Permanent Brunch: A bit hokey…but when you have that pancake and bacon craving…
  • Cafe Pick Me Up: Not exactly a brunch place but love the pastries and coffee and teas at this place. It’s a great place to curl up with a book or a friend.
  • The Smith: I love everything on their menu. EVERYTHING.
  • 7a: Cheap + delicious + this great side salad with the most amazing carrot dressing..
  • Westville East: There’s a reason why there’s that line around the block…

Vino y Mas:

  • Bar Veloce:  a cozy little panini and winebar joint. Great for a quick drink or a late night glass of vino and snack.
  • Degustation: Get the tasting menu and some vino with a group of friends (or a double date) and this will be one of your favorite group meals ever.
  • Desnuda: Wine + ceviche in a cozy, teeny tiny romantic den. A great second date place.
  • In Vino: tapas and wine in a warm, cozy cave like environment.

Italian Overload:

  • Luzzo’s: My favorite Naples style pizza in NYC. Simply fantastic (with a hot Italian crowd as an added plus!)
  • Cacio e Pepe: Affordable yummy pasta from a neighborhood Italian staple.
  • Lil Frankie’s Pizza: On a fantastic 1st avenue stretch, a great place to share a pie outside in the summer. Annoyingly cash only.
  • Supper: Some of the best pasta in the EV in a cozy, warm atmosphere. Love the pasta specials and lasagna night.
  • Frank and Max: Neighborhood favorites. Pretty good italian in unassuming environments. Cash only like Supper their other restaurant. Honestly, besides specials and subtleties, isn’t much of a difference between any of their restaurants.

Pricey but Yummy:

  • BONDST: Some of my favorite posh sceney sushi in the city. This is borderline EV but we’ll include it because it is pretty tasty. Bonus points for the Seabass skewers, available only downstairs. Mary’s favorite dish, ever.
  • Hearth: Seasonal food (always have delicious lamb) in a warm, cozy environment with a strong and highly sustainable wine list. One of those places you should go at least once with a date.
  • Momofuku Ko: The most expensive Momo but arguably the best. The reservations system is like a game of roulette but keep trying because eating here is worth the effort.
  • Pylos: Overpriced for Greek but really love the atmosphere and the food ain’t too bad.

As always would love to know your changes, additions, etc so feel free to leave a comment or response to this post. Cheers!
 

 Joey C cooks up “The Chicken” on Martha.

Where to Eat in Soho & Nolita I’ve been called a “walking Zagat guide” by more than a few of my friends and although I’m far from that, I am most definitely a lover of food. I’ve started sharing my top picks, hood by hood. If you’re new to my lists, here’s West Village, Chelsea & Flatiron and LES. Next Tuesday? East Village. Now…without further ado.. Best: Savoy: So. Fresh. So. Good. Nothing innovative but totally tasty. This place is a little gem. One of my favorites in the neighborhood. Balthazar: Home of the downtown power brunch, the secret reservation line…and an amazing shellfish/oyster platter that will blow your mind. This is the most copied restaurant in the world and rightly so. It’s just one of those places… Lure Fish Bar: LOVE this place. Amazing burger, fabulous oysters, fresh sushi and my favorite shrimp appetizer in the world. Advice: post up at the bar and skip the more pretentious dining room. This place is a bit of a scene but somehow it works… Blue Ribbon Sushi: Delicious. Fresh. Yummy. Café Habana: CORN. ON. THE. COB. And everything else is pretty good too (on top of that the waitresses are almost always HOT). Good: Raoul’s: An old school institution that is a fun place to unwind with your friends and people watch generations of locals gathering for pate and wine. Probably the most uptown place in Soho but it gets a free pass because there’s something about it that is just really cool. Boqueria: One of my favorite tapas joints in the city with a mean sangria. The original is in the flatiron district but this new, second outpost is a bit more spacious and equally delicious. Ed’s Lobster Bar: A direct Pearl Oyster knock-off but still packs a solid lobster roll. La Esquina: A legendary location with a solid menu. A bit pricey and not very authentic but overall it is just a dang good time. Lombardi’s: Lines around the block and no reservations at this famous pizza joint. Come with your family on a Monday and be prepared to wait. Café Gitane: Best dang couscous ever! Aquagrill: Falafel crusted fish that will blow your mind and a shellfish plateau that rivals Balthazar’s. I love this place for a fresh, delicious seafood night out. (Note: A bit on the pricey side…) Mercer Kitchen: Jean. Georges. Pricey and a major scene but solid food, all around. Great place to take your model-izer friend. Kenmare: Go now while my friend Joey is at the helm. Order the chicken, gnocchi, meatball sliders, chocolate cake. Peasant: Solid italian in a cozy environment. A bit pricey but overall delish Cheap: Calexico: a taco cart with guys who get it right. It’s new Texan taco, but it’s a great cheap quick lunch. Chipotle pork = king. Hampton Chutney Co: I’m not sure how authentic these dosas are but delicious they most definitely are. One of my favorite on-the-go lunches in Soho. I like to take them around the corner to the open space on Lafayette, pop a squat a dig in. Delish. Hoomoos Asli: Delicious shawarma at a pretty affordable ($8.75) price… Lucky Strike: One of my fav late night and random bar eats in this part of town. A little frat-tastic at times but during the week it scores a solid crowd (bonus: for ladies – lots of good rugged eye candy) Café Select: Cheap, good wine with affordable, solid eats. Famous Ben’s Pizza: yummy, cheap and open late night. Love their square slices. Kelley & Ping: Grab a lunch box (Dim Sum, Rice/chicken or pad thai) or a noodle dish from this yummy Asian grocery and noodle shop. Café al Portal: One of my favorite burritos in the city and if you live in the area- they deliver! Pinche Taqueria: Grab a few to go. Won’t blow your mind but they are quite solid. Favs include: rolled tacos, carnitas, carne asada and al pastor. Ruby’s: I love this Aussie café and their fun, somewhat authentic food. The aussie burger is divine. Brunch: Nolita House: Absolutely LOVE their Bluegrass Brunch – mac & cheese and live music and Coors Light = awesome. Hundred Acres: From the Cookshop & Five Points guys so you know this joint is local, fresh ingredient driven and very good. Downside? Super long waits and staff who are rude more often than not. Felix: Annoyingly cash only but the pitchers of caipirinhas and mojitos are fabulous, ditto on the fries. And some of the hottest male waiters I’ve ever seen… Café Colonial: I’m not sure if anything here is mind blowing but it is a solid, delicious brunch. Public: One of my favorite brunches in the city and way too long of a wait. Lovely Day Café: Irish Sausage & Fried Egg sandwich. Orgasmic. Random: L’Orange Bleue: Not the best food in the world but a really fun place to go with a group. They have an awesome belly dancer show that happens every half hour or so and a super fun staff. Café Noir: Sometimes obnoxious, sometimes a perfect place to eat some late night fries and a delicious baked brie (so FREAKING good). 8 Mile Creek: Has to be on the list somewhere because it’s packed to the brim with hot aussies more often than not. Emporio: An awesome happy hour at the bar with super cheap wine and solid pizzas. Rice to Riches: Tons of different types of rice pudding. Not the best you’ll ever have but still worth an occasional visit. Skip: Downtown Cipriani: In a word? BLAH. Elizabeth: There’s just nothing good about this space besides the garden in the back and the fact that it’s on Elizabeth St. Overpriced and just not worth it. Snack: Is there a good Greek restaurant in this city? Because I can’t find one in Manhattan that I love. Astoria or bust? Shorty’s 32: Some of the worst service in the city and mediocre food. I’m sure I’m missing some places so tell me…what do you think?

Where to Eat in Soho & Nolita

I’ve been called a “walking Zagat guide” by more than a few of my friends and although I’m far from that, I am most definitely a lover of food. I’ve started sharing my top picks, hood by hood. If you’re new to my lists, here’s West Village, Chelsea & Flatiron and LES. Next Tuesday? East Village. Now…without further ado..

Best:

  • Savoy: So. Fresh. So. Good. Nothing innovative but totally tasty. This place is a little gem. One of my favorites in the neighborhood.
  • Balthazar: Home of the downtown power brunch, the secret reservation line…and an amazing shellfish/oyster platter that will blow your mind. This is the most copied restaurant in the world and rightly so. It’s just one of those places…
  • Lure Fish Bar: LOVE this place. Amazing burger, fabulous oysters, fresh sushi and my favorite shrimp appetizer in the world. Advice: post up at the bar and skip the more pretentious dining room. This place is a bit of a scene but somehow it works…
  • Blue Ribbon Sushi: Delicious. Fresh. Yummy.
  • Café Habana: CORN. ON. THE. COB. And everything else is pretty good too (on top of that the waitresses are almost always HOT).

Good:

  • Raoul’s: An old school institution that is a fun place to unwind with your friends and people watch generations of locals gathering for pate and wine. Probably the most uptown place in Soho but it gets a free pass because there’s something about it that is just really cool.
  • Boqueria: One of my favorite tapas joints in the city with a mean sangria. The original is in the flatiron district but this new, second outpost is a bit more spacious and equally delicious.
  • Ed’s Lobster Bar: A direct Pearl Oyster knock-off but still packs a solid lobster roll.
  • La Esquina: A legendary location with a solid menu. A bit pricey and not very authentic but overall it is just a dang good time.
  • Lombardi’s: Lines around the block and no reservations at this famous pizza joint. Come with your family on a Monday and be prepared to wait.
  • Café Gitane: Best dang couscous ever!
  • Aquagrill: Falafel crusted fish that will blow your mind and a shellfish plateau that rivals Balthazar’s. I love this place for a fresh, delicious seafood night out. (Note: A bit on the pricey side…)
  • Mercer Kitchen: Jean. Georges. Pricey and a major scene but solid food, all around. Great place to take your model-izer friend.
  • Kenmare: Go now while my friend Joey is at the helm. Order the chicken, gnocchi, meatball sliders, chocolate cake.
  • Peasant: Solid italian in a cozy environment. A bit pricey but overall delish

Cheap:

  • Calexico: a taco cart with guys who get it right. It’s new Texan taco, but it’s a great cheap quick lunch. Chipotle pork = king.
  • Hampton Chutney Co: I’m not sure how authentic these dosas are but delicious they most definitely are. One of my favorite on-the-go lunches in Soho. I like to take them around the corner to the open space on Lafayette, pop a squat a dig in. Delish.
  • Hoomoos Asli: Delicious shawarma at a pretty affordable ($8.75) price…
  • Lucky Strike: One of my fav late night and random bar eats in this part of town. A little frat-tastic at times but during the week it scores a solid crowd (bonus: for ladies – lots of good rugged eye candy)
  • Café Select: Cheap, good wine with affordable, solid eats.
  • Famous Ben’s Pizza: yummy, cheap and open late night. Love their square slices.
  • Kelley & Ping: Grab a lunch box (Dim Sum, Rice/chicken or pad thai) or a noodle dish from this yummy Asian grocery and noodle shop.
  • Café al Portal: One of my favorite burritos in the city and if you live in the area- they deliver!
  • Pinche Taqueria: Grab a few to go. Won’t blow your mind but they are quite solid. Favs include: rolled tacos, carnitas, carne asada and al pastor.
  • Ruby’s: I love this Aussie café and their fun, somewhat authentic food. The aussie burger is divine.


Brunch:

  • Nolita House: Absolutely LOVE their Bluegrass Brunch – mac & cheese and live music and Coors Light = awesome.
  • Hundred Acres: From the Cookshop & Five Points guys so you know this joint is local, fresh ingredient driven and very good. Downside? Super long waits and staff who are rude more often than not.
  • Felix: Annoyingly cash only but the pitchers of caipirinhas and mojitos are fabulous, ditto on the fries. And some of the hottest male waiters I’ve ever seen…
  • Café Colonial: I’m not sure if anything here is mind blowing but it is a solid, delicious brunch.
  • Public: One of my favorite brunches in the city and way too long of a wait.
  • Lovely Day Café: Irish Sausage & Fried Egg sandwich. Orgasmic.

Random:

  • L’Orange Bleue: Not the best food in the world but a really fun place to go with a group. They have an awesome belly dancer show that happens every half hour or so and a super fun staff.
  • Café Noir: Sometimes obnoxious, sometimes a perfect place to eat some late night fries and a delicious baked brie (so FREAKING good).
  • 8 Mile Creek: Has to be on the list somewhere because it’s packed to the brim with hot aussies more often than not.
  • Emporio: An awesome happy hour at the bar with super cheap wine and solid pizzas.
  • Rice to Riches: Tons of different types of rice pudding. Not the best you’ll ever have but still worth an occasional visit.

Skip:

  • Downtown Cipriani: In a word? BLAH.
  • Elizabeth: There’s just nothing good about this space besides the garden in the back and the fact that it’s on Elizabeth St. Overpriced and just not worth it.
  • Snack: Is there a good Greek restaurant in this city? Because I can’t find one in Manhattan that I love. Astoria or bust?
  • Shorty’s 32: Some of the worst service in the city and mediocre food.

I’m sure I’m missing some places so tell me…what do you think?

Where I like to eat in Chelsea & Flatiron Restaurants (with a little dash of Meatpacking) Here are my top eating picks for Chelsea and Flatiron neighborhood. I lumped them together because honestly I have no idea where the hoods stop and end. Is it the Flatiron building? If so, which side? So confusing. Hopefully you don’t mind I put them together. If you’re new to my food lists, here’s my picks for the Lower East Side and the West Village. Next Tuesday I’ll cover Soho & Nolita (another pair that seems to make more sense as a duo). As always, I’d love your feedback. As a side note: I couldn’t bring myself to do an entire write-up on the Meatpacking District. The food doesn’t warrant it and the idea of thinking back to nights when I used to think stumbling around there was cool made me a bit nauseous. It is having a slight comeback thanks to some places I list below (as well as the old faithful Pastis) but overall it’s a little too….well, you know. Best Red Cat: I love Jimmy Bradley and all his restaurants. The Red Cat’s chicken is as delicious as The Harrison’s and the location/atmosphere/service is all spot on, in typical Bradley fashion. I highly recommend this place for a yummy, unpretentious rustic meal. Craft: Although Craft has changed a lot since Colicchio originally imagined it (and he is certainly rarely there) the food is still a solid bet. One of those places I think everyone should go to at least once. It’s on the pricey side, but quite yummy, even with him miles away from the kitchen. Hill Country BBQ: I’m probably the only foodie I know who would put this under best. But I moved here from Austin so BBQ, especially Tejas style is close to my heart. They’ve lost their original pitmaster but the brisket (get moist and lean combo) and the sides do not disappoint (don’t skip the Longhorn Mac & Cheese). Bonus: can get all you can eat on Mondays for $25. Beyond worth it. Additional bonus: THEY HAVE LONESTAR. You Texans know what I mean. Gramercy Tavern: One of my favorite quintessential NY spots. Solid food, nice, bright atmosphere. Not too loud, not too sceney, not too pricey. Super hard to get a reservation, so plan in advance. Boqueria: One of my favorite tapas joints in the city and not just because chef Seamus Mullen is hot and rides a motorcycle. The food is fantastic. This place is small and tends to get crowded, so if you can’t get in head down to his second location on Spring in Soho. Brunch Cookshop: This is probably my favorite from this Five Points crew. Come here for brunch when it’s warm and sit outside. You will be full and in love. Aftewards, stroll down the Westside Hwy and eat ice cream. Truly a perfect summer afternoon. Gascogne: Charming French off the radar bistro that serves up a 3 course prix-fixe brunch for $16.50. For the price, it’s awesome. City Bakery: They have an entire month dedicated to hot chocolate and one of the best grilled cheeses I’ve ever head. Great for a brunch or lunch on the go or to take with you to the park.Trailer Park Lounge & Grill: Want a totally wacky, greasy kitschy brunch experience? Come here. It is hilarious and the food isn’t totally horrendous. Le Grainne Café: Introduced to me by the lovely Erin, a good unassuming relaxed brunch choice filled with locals so you know it’s solid. All egg dishes are a go. Rocking Horse: Pretty good Mexican (American style, not authentic) food (name is deceiving) with amazingly strong margaritas. I recommend it for day drinking and gorging on chips & guac. Klee Brasserie: This place has grown on me through the years. I hated it the first time, liked it the second time, and most recently really enjoyed it. Standouts include, their blue plate specials (change daily), yummy pastries and a good spatzel mac & cheese. Cafeteria: Quite the scene with obnoxious music, but damn their mac & cheese 3 ways is good. I love to scoot over here for brunch/lunch/late night when I have the cheese craving. Pastis: Yes, this is in the heart of Meatpacking (see above) but close enough to Chelsea to be included. Although the brunch at Pastis isn’t phenomenal by any stretch of the imagination it is a great place to people watch, perhaps be seated next to a wasted Lindsay Lohan and indulge in big cone of yummy fries. I’d recommend going once and sitting outside in warm weather. Café Gitane: The original in Nolita still has my heart, but this second outpost in the Jane Hotel is charming and still totally delicious. Known for their avocado + toast + couscous which is orgasmic. Good Scarpetta: I have friends who think this place reigns supreme. The chef came from Alto and his Italian take is clearly an homage to Michael White. Not nearly as good as Alto, but a close second (and a really great interior design/warm inviting atmosphere): Morimoto: I’d recommend coming here just to dine next to the huge wall constructed of water bottles. The Iron Chef’s restaurant isn’t super imaginative. The menu is almost a regurgitation (in excess) of the original Nobu menu. But it is solid, fresh sushi. A great place to take out of town guests who loved Sex and the City. See Stephen Starr’s Buddakan if you want the same experience but Chinese instead (although in my opinion, Japanese > Chinese in this situation). Tia Pol: I like the unpretentious allure of this place. Solid Spanish small plates (why aren’t there more of these restaurants in the city?) I’m a fan. Also love their Spanish inspired brunch (perhaps even more than their dinner). Trestle on Tenth: I come here for the cozy atmosphere and the adorable garden in the back. French food is common in this city, and so is good French food. This place isn’t even in my top 10 but it still is a good meal in a damn cute atmosphere (great date spot with a relatively easy to get/walk in odds if you aren’t a big planner) Also has a notably solid brunch. Colicchio & Sons: So, Craftsteak recently got a makeover and became this joint. I love the bar and the scene was quite good as well. I wasn’t blown away by the food (and he was actually cooking the night I visited) but it was good, seasonal farm to table style food. I hope this place gets better as time goes on. Old Homestead: Home of one of my favorites (HUGE!) burgers in the city .A bit pricey for a burger, but really yummy. I’d recommend going for burgers over steaks because the steaks are pricey and much better at 100s of other places in the city. A Voce: Delicious Italian in a super modern environment. One of those I think you should experience once, although I don’t quite know why. Pipa: I went on the worst blind date of my life to this restaurant and I still recommend it as a great place to get a bucket of sangria and gather with your pals for happy hour. The million chandeliers from ABC Carpet & Home on the ceiling make for a cozy and beautiful sangria & tapas post-work adventure. Tamarind: I’ve never had an Indian friend LOVE this place, but most seem to agree its “good.” Why is great Indian food so hard to find in Manhattan? Anyone have any recommendations of more casual Indian eats? For solid Indian in a more swanky environment, this place is the best I’ve found in the city. Open to suggestions though… Cheap & Delish Eisenberg’s Sandwich Shop: Is this place legendary? If not, it should be. Grab a sandwich and head over to the tables outside the Flatiron Building or Madison Square Park. Yummy, cheap, delicious. Rub: I’m a sucker for BBQ and this isn’t my favorite, but there is something about it’s approachable southern vibe that makes me consider going back again. Also, cheaper than Hill Country. Company: I wasn’t sold on this pizza place on my first visit, but the second time I found it to be super yummy. I love the owner’s Sullivan St Bakery and the dough that this pizza is made from is delish. I’d recommend it with the knowledge that it isn’t gonna win Best Pizza in NYC any year. Brgr: Yummy, grass-fed beef and sweet potato fries make for a perfect casual lunch. I like to pick it up and walk over 3 blocks to Madison Square Park and laugh at everyone in the Shake Shack line. Pop Burger: It’s 2 a.m. and your friends dragged you out to Tenjune? Commiserate at Pop Burger where they serve up greasy and solid burgers. After hanging there, you deserve a burger. You won’t be writing a Yelp review after this one, but it is good late night eats. Bonus points for the hot Euro-trash crowd who hang here late night. If you’re into that kind of thing… Waldy’s: My go to in this neighborhood for pizza to take to Madison Square Park with my dog. It is yummy, had the perfect amount of crunch and only $8 bucks for a small size that will stuff your belly. My favorites are chicken w/chipotle peppers or wild mushroom/arugula. Yumm. Shake Shack: It’s probably a crime not to mention this when talking food in this neighborhood. The burgers are good but it is clearly the park that makes this place. To me, it just doesn’t have the same charm on the UWS or in Mets stadium. Favorites on the menu: Double Stack, chocolate shake & fries. Portabello mushroom stuffed to the brim with cheese ain’t bad either for all you veggies. Bills Bar & Burger: Another meatpacking infiltrator on the list. RIP to the Hog Pit and in it’s place we have this burger joint from Steve Hansen (responsible for many NY chains). I would eat at all the other burger places on this list before Bill’s but if you want a beer too in a former dive bar that still smells a bit like the Pit days, here is your place. Rickshaw Dumpling Bar: I love this place’s cheap dumplings/noodles (get them steamed not fried, fried can get a bit gummy) for a good winter lunch on the go. Pricey but Yummy Del Posto: Mario Batali in a huge, stuffy atmosphere. This place ain’t got shit on Babbo, but the food delivers. And let’s face it, you probably can’t get into Babbo anyways. Might as well give it a whirl. Standard Grill: I think this place is WAY overpriced and the crowd is beyond obnoxious but I can’t deny that all 3 of my meals there have been yummy. Nothing innovative about it, but solid people watching and good $$$ eats. Fun place to take your friends from the Midwest hungry for a NY “scene.” Eleven Madison Park: A refined culinary dream. Definitely my favorite in his empire. Yummy, yummy, yummy. Really, you can’t go wrong on this menu. Great place for an anniversary, birthday or celebration because it’s pretty pricey $$ and not much of a fun scene just a delicious one.  Better with a group or someone special as the crowd will bore you. Other Places of Note Café Grumpy: A cute, tiny coffee place hidden under a smug face on an unassuming Chelsea block. One of those NY gems. Love. La Bottega: The Maritime is so 2004, but you can’t argue that this place in warm weather is a great place to grab a glass of wine and a salad or snack with your friends. It is one of the best outdoor spaces in the city .Just hope you aren’t sitting next to douchebags hanging out before they rock it out at Hiro. L’Arte del Gelato: love this place and their super yummy (tons of flavors) Gelato. Billy’s Bakery: Some of the best dang cupcakes in the city. Avoid Tabla: I’m on team Danny Meyer but I’ve never had a good meal at Tabla, this refined Indian joint he owns… although many claim to have. Have you? Beppe: Tuscan inspired food in a cute place that just doesn’t deliver for me. This might be a totally biased diss… once I had food poisoning from here. Abe & Arthur’s: This is really Meatpacking, but NY Mag says it’s Chelsea so we’ll include it. This place is like an investment bank (I saw at least 5 Tag watches paired with popped collars on my visit) and a slew of underage gals from Jersey moved in. The food is actually okay, but it is so cheesy and overpriced, it is ridiculous. RIP Lotus. I could list more here in the Meatpacking (STK, Spice Market, Sea, Los Dados), but I think it would get redundant. In my opinion, for the most part, eating a few blocks north in Chelsea or Flatiron or south in West Village is just a better option. So there’s my list. What did I miss? Agree? Disagree? What do you think?

Where I like to eat in Chelsea & Flatiron Restaurants (with a little dash of Meatpacking)

Here are my top eating picks for Chelsea and Flatiron neighborhood. I lumped them together because honestly I have no idea where the hoods stop and end. Is it the Flatiron building? If so, which side? So confusing. Hopefully you don’t mind I put them together. If you’re new to my food lists, here’s my picks for the Lower East Side and the West Village. Next Tuesday I’ll cover Soho & Nolita (another pair that seems to make more sense as a duo). As always, I’d love your feedback.


As a side note: I couldn’t bring myself to do an entire write-up on the Meatpacking District. The food doesn’t warrant it and the idea of thinking back to nights when I used to think stumbling around there was cool made me a bit nauseous. It is having a slight comeback thanks to some places I list below (as well as the old faithful Pastis) but overall it’s a little too….well, you know.

Best

  • Red Cat: I love Jimmy Bradley and all his restaurants. The Red Cat’s chicken is as delicious as The Harrison’s and the location/atmosphere/service is all spot on, in typical Bradley fashion. I highly recommend this place for a yummy, unpretentious rustic meal.
  • Craft: Although Craft has changed a lot since Colicchio originally imagined it (and he is certainly rarely there) the food is still a solid bet. One of those places I think everyone should go to at least once. It’s on the pricey side, but quite yummy, even with him miles away from the kitchen.
  • Hill Country BBQ: I’m probably the only foodie I know who would put this under best. But I moved here from Austin so BBQ, especially Tejas style is close to my heart. They’ve lost their original pitmaster but the brisket (get moist and lean combo) and the sides do not disappoint (don’t skip the Longhorn Mac & Cheese). Bonus: can get all you can eat on Mondays for $25. Beyond worth it. Additional bonus: THEY HAVE LONESTAR. You Texans know what I mean.
  • Gramercy Tavern: One of my favorite quintessential NY spots. Solid food, nice, bright atmosphere. Not too loud, not too sceney, not too pricey. Super hard to get a reservation, so plan in advance.
  • Boqueria: One of my favorite tapas joints in the city and not just because chef Seamus Mullen is hot and rides a motorcycle. The food is fantastic. This place is small and tends to get crowded, so if you can’t get in head down to his second location on Spring in Soho.


Brunch

  • Cookshop: This is probably my favorite from this Five Points crew. Come here for brunch when it’s warm and sit outside. You will be full and in love. Aftewards, stroll down the Westside Hwy and eat ice cream. Truly a perfect summer afternoon.
  • Gascogne: Charming French off the radar bistro that serves up a 3 course prix-fixe brunch for $16.50. For the price, it’s awesome.
  • City Bakery: They have an entire month dedicated to hot chocolate and one of the best grilled cheeses I’ve ever head. Great for a brunch or lunch on the go or to take with you to the park.Trailer Park Lounge & Grill: Want a totally wacky, greasy kitschy brunch experience? Come here. It is hilarious and the food isn’t totally horrendous.
  • Le Grainne Café: Introduced to me by the lovely Erin, a good unassuming relaxed brunch choice filled with locals so you know it’s solid. All egg dishes are a go.
  • Rocking Horse: Pretty good Mexican (American style, not authentic) food (name is deceiving) with amazingly strong margaritas. I recommend it for day drinking and gorging on chips & guac.
  • Klee Brasserie: This place has grown on me through the years. I hated it the first time, liked it the second time, and most recently really enjoyed it. Standouts include, their blue plate specials (change daily), yummy pastries and a good spatzel mac & cheese.
  • Cafeteria: Quite the scene with obnoxious music, but damn their mac & cheese 3 ways is good. I love to scoot over here for brunch/lunch/late night when I have the cheese craving.
  • Pastis: Yes, this is in the heart of Meatpacking (see above) but close enough to Chelsea to be included. Although the brunch at Pastis isn’t phenomenal by any stretch of the imagination it is a great place to people watch, perhaps be seated next to a wasted Lindsay Lohan and indulge in big cone of yummy fries. I’d recommend going once and sitting outside in warm weather.
  • Café Gitane: The original in Nolita still has my heart, but this second outpost in the Jane Hotel is charming and still totally delicious. Known for their avocado + toast + couscous which is orgasmic.

Good

  • Scarpetta: I have friends who think this place reigns supreme. The chef came from Alto and his Italian take is clearly an homage to Michael White. Not nearly as good as Alto, but a close second (and a really great interior design/warm inviting atmosphere):
  • Morimoto: I’d recommend coming here just to dine next to the huge wall constructed of water bottles. The Iron Chef’s restaurant isn’t super imaginative. The menu is almost a regurgitation (in excess) of the original Nobu menu. But it is solid, fresh sushi. A great place to take out of town guests who loved Sex and the City. See Stephen Starr’s Buddakan if you want the same experience but Chinese instead (although in my opinion, Japanese > Chinese in this situation).
  • Tia Pol: I like the unpretentious allure of this place. Solid Spanish small plates (why aren’t there more of these restaurants in the city?) I’m a fan. Also love their Spanish inspired brunch (perhaps even more than their dinner).
  • Trestle on Tenth: I come here for the cozy atmosphere and the adorable garden in the back. French food is common in this city, and so is good French food. This place isn’t even in my top 10 but it still is a good meal in a damn cute atmosphere (great date spot with a relatively easy to get/walk in odds if you aren’t a big planner) Also has a notably solid brunch.
  • Colicchio & Sons: So, Craftsteak recently got a makeover and became this joint. I love the bar and the scene was quite good as well. I wasn’t blown away by the food (and he was actually cooking the night I visited) but it was good, seasonal farm to table style food. I hope this place gets better as time goes on.
  • Old Homestead: Home of one of my favorites (HUGE!) burgers in the city .A bit pricey for a burger, but really yummy. I’d recommend going for burgers over steaks because the steaks are pricey and much better at 100s of other places in the city.
  • A Voce: Delicious Italian in a super modern environment. One of those I think you should experience once, although I don’t quite know why.
  • Pipa: I went on the worst blind date of my life to this restaurant and I still recommend it as a great place to get a bucket of sangria and gather with your pals for happy hour. The million chandeliers from ABC Carpet & Home on the ceiling make for a cozy and beautiful sangria & tapas post-work adventure.
  • Tamarind: I’ve never had an Indian friend LOVE this place, but most seem to agree its “good.” Why is great Indian food so hard to find in Manhattan? Anyone have any recommendations of more casual Indian eats? For solid Indian in a more swanky environment, this place is the best I’ve found in the city. Open to suggestions though…

Cheap & Delish

  • Eisenberg’s Sandwich Shop: Is this place legendary? If not, it should be. Grab a sandwich and head over to the tables outside the Flatiron Building or Madison Square Park. Yummy, cheap, delicious.
  • Rub: I’m a sucker for BBQ and this isn’t my favorite, but there is something about it’s approachable southern vibe that makes me consider going back again. Also, cheaper than Hill Country.
  • Company: I wasn’t sold on this pizza place on my first visit, but the second time I found it to be super yummy. I love the owner’s Sullivan St Bakery and the dough that this pizza is made from is delish. I’d recommend it with the knowledge that it isn’t gonna win Best Pizza in NYC any year.
  • Brgr: Yummy, grass-fed beef and sweet potato fries make for a perfect casual lunch. I like to pick it up and walk over 3 blocks to Madison Square Park and laugh at everyone in the Shake Shack line.
  • Pop Burger: It’s 2 a.m. and your friends dragged you out to Tenjune? Commiserate at Pop Burger where they serve up greasy and solid burgers. After hanging there, you deserve a burger. You won’t be writing a Yelp review after this one, but it is good late night eats. Bonus points for the hot Euro-trash crowd who hang here late night. If you’re into that kind of thing…
  • Waldy’s: My go to in this neighborhood for pizza to take to Madison Square Park with my dog. It is yummy, had the perfect amount of crunch and only $8 bucks for a small size that will stuff your belly. My favorites are chicken w/chipotle peppers or wild mushroom/arugula. Yumm.
  • Shake Shack: It’s probably a crime not to mention this when talking food in this neighborhood. The burgers are good but it is clearly the park that makes this place. To me, it just doesn’t have the same charm on the UWS or in Mets stadium. Favorites on the menu: Double Stack, chocolate shake & fries. Portabello mushroom stuffed to the brim with cheese ain’t bad either for all you veggies.
  • Bills Bar & Burger: Another meatpacking infiltrator on the list. RIP to the Hog Pit and in it’s place we have this burger joint from Steve Hansen (responsible for many NY chains). I would eat at all the other burger places on this list before Bill’s but if you want a beer too in a former dive bar that still smells a bit like the Pit days, here is your place.
  • Rickshaw Dumpling Bar: I love this place’s cheap dumplings/noodles (get them steamed not fried, fried can get a bit gummy) for a good winter lunch on the go.

Pricey but Yummy

  • Del Posto: Mario Batali in a huge, stuffy atmosphere. This place ain’t got shit on Babbo, but the food delivers. And let’s face it, you probably can’t get into Babbo anyways. Might as well give it a whirl.
  • Standard Grill: I think this place is WAY overpriced and the crowd is beyond obnoxious but I can’t deny that all 3 of my meals there have been yummy. Nothing innovative about it, but solid people watching and good $$$ eats. Fun place to take your friends from the Midwest hungry for a NY “scene.”
  • Eleven Madison Park: A refined culinary dream. Definitely my favorite in his empire. Yummy, yummy, yummy. Really, you can’t go wrong on this menu. Great place for an anniversary, birthday or celebration because it’s pretty pricey $$ and not much of a fun scene just a delicious one.  Better with a group or someone special as the crowd will bore you.

Other Places of Note

  • Café Grumpy: A cute, tiny coffee place hidden under a smug face on an unassuming Chelsea block. One of those NY gems. Love.
  • La Bottega: The Maritime is so 2004, but you can’t argue that this place in warm weather is a great place to grab a glass of wine and a salad or snack with your friends. It is one of the best outdoor spaces in the city .Just hope you aren’t sitting next to douchebags hanging out before they rock it out at Hiro.
  • L’Arte del Gelato: love this place and their super yummy (tons of flavors) Gelato.
  • Billy’s Bakery: Some of the best dang cupcakes in the city.

Avoid

  • Tabla: I’m on team Danny Meyer but I’ve never had a good meal at Tabla, this refined Indian joint he owns… although many claim to have. Have you?
  • Beppe: Tuscan inspired food in a cute place that just doesn’t deliver for me. This might be a totally biased diss… once I had food poisoning from here.
  • Abe & Arthur’s: This is really Meatpacking, but NY Mag says it’s Chelsea so we’ll include it. This place is like an investment bank (I saw at least 5 Tag watches paired with popped collars on my visit) and a slew of underage gals from Jersey moved in. The food is actually okay, but it is so cheesy and overpriced, it is ridiculous. RIP Lotus.

I could list more here in the Meatpacking (STK, Spice Market, Sea, Los Dados), but I think it would get redundant. In my opinion, for the most part, eating a few blocks north in Chelsea or Flatiron or south in West Village is just a better option.

So there’s my list. What did I miss? Agree? Disagree? What do you think?

Where to Eat the West Village Where to begin! By far my favorite neighborhood to dine in here in the city. So many of you have asked me for my favorites in NYC and I almost always send a list that is exclusively in WV. So without further ado, here’s Part II in my Where to Eat in NYC series. You can read my thoughts about LES from last week here. Cheap Eats Taim: One of the best falafels in the city with perfectly salted fries. Bonus: they deliver if you’re local and on warm summer days you can sit out front on the side walk and drink one of their fresh teas or lemonades. Perfection. Corner Bistro: You can eat a burger served on a coffee filter with the biggest pile of bacon you’ve ever seen + get drunk for $20. Guaranteed. A Salt & Battery: Fish & Chips! Delivery! Hot brits working there! In England these chips might be an abomination but in the US they’re a solid bet. John’s Pizza on Bleecker: Basic margherita - all the way. Chumleys: If this place ever re-opens, go. Food is good and the history of the place is even better. White Horse: So much history here (Dylan Thomas et all), and good bar eats to boot. Bonus points for the outside tables in the summer. ‘ino: Paninis and wine in a cozy nook of a restaurant. Perfect for a late night random bite. Five Guys: One of my favorite burgers in the city, so cheap. Get it with jalapenos and hot sauce. YUMM. You’ll forget it’s a chain. Diablo Royale: Solid tacos, hot bartenders, strong margaritas. BLT Burger: I wouldn’t say this place is “cheap” but the shakes are tasty and if you are Five Guys’d out, this is a good second bet for a solid burger. Grey Dog Cafe: Hands down my fav place to order delivery. Love all their sandwiches, soups & salads. Mexicana Mama: Chicken burrito side of orange spicy salsa. Moustache: Middle Eastern delivery yumminess (although extremely slowwww). Brunch Tartine: Great little place to eat brunch outdoors in the summertime. Bring cash, no cards and go early/late. Westville: Yumm, yummy y yumm. Be prepared to wait. August: Don’t love this joint for dinner but I DO love their baked eggs for brunch paritcularly in the summer in the back garden. Market Table: Sister restaurant to Little Owl, great brunch spot and solid second choice if you can’t go to TLO for dinner. Morandi: I don’t love Morandi for italian but their brunch (great baked goods, baked eggs, crepes) is a Balthazar knock-off fantastic meal. Cafe Cluny: Part of the former McNally empire, a major Odeon knock off but a standard brunch with an awesome BLT. All Time Favorites Little Owl: Love! This place is my #1 all time favorite. You really can’t go wrong on their menu, their staff is amazing, the space is cozy (and famous) without an ounce of pretense. Perfection, one meatball slider at a time. Blue Hill: This place doesn’t come close to the Stone Barns location but the food is still solid, fresh and totally delish. Blue Ribbon: A solid restaurant with a diverse and inspired menu. Don’t like the service, love the private dining areas downstairs. Fatty Crab: I love these guys and their awesome pork buns & watermelon/pork salad and stellar big bowl of crab. Malaysian street food yumm. Babbo: Definitely the best Batali joint and probably one of the best meals in the city. Super hard to get a res, but worth the walk in wait. If you can’t eat here, Lupa is a distant (very distant) second. Mary’s Fish Camp: Lobster Roll madness with a solid menu if you aren’t a lobster fan. Love to go here on Saturday’s for brunch and eat a trout BLT. Mas Farmhouse: One of my first meals in NYC was here and it will always be a favorite. It’s quaint, inviting, romantic and the food is fresh, inspired and totally yummy. Majorly $$$$ though. Perry Street: It’s Jean Georges on the best street in this city. I wish I could move in. Ditto on the $$$. Minetta Tavern: There’s a reason the only reservation you can get is at 5 or 10 p.m. The burger and meats are to die for in a super cool divey (with a little sceney) vibe. McNally might be just showing off with this one. Spotted Pig: You can’t really list food in WV and not list this place. Love the burger, love the atmosphere, prefer to go during brunch or cozying up on a stool super late night. Other Solid Bets Annisa: Great cozy little neighborhood gem. Perfect for that fourth date. You know what I mean. Barbuto: Waxman is a legend and his garage door open atmosphere can’t be beat for a lazy summer afternoon filled with day drinking and pasta. Yumm. Da Silvano: You can’t mention WV and not mention Da Silvano. Same for Il Mulino. These places have an air of mafia along with a celeb clientele out the yang. Solid food, not my favorite..but pretty tasty (prefer Mulino to Silvano, food wise, vice versa for atmosphere). Silvano can be a fab celeb / people watching scene come warmer weather days. On that note, see Waverly Inn if you’re into that kinda thing (and yes, I do go there still, sometimes…) Pearl Oyster: Some swear by this place and the lobster roll. I think it’s good but would choose Mary’s over it any day. What do you think? Perilla: Harold’s awesome and his restaurant is solid. Always love his duck dishes and the chef’s tasting (reasonable & delish). Wallse: I really love Austrian food and enjoy Wallse. Pretty authentic and warm cozy atmosphere. A bit off the beaten path (although still busy). Strip House: A good steak (at a pretty steep price) if you’re craving one of those Ruth Chris style steak-y experiences (much better than R-C). L’Artrusi (and their sister restaurant dell’anima): Not my go to places, but great wine lists, good food, and cozy environment x 2. Avoid Bobo: Italian that lacks authenticity and flavor with a crowd that is filled with too many ibankers and bad service. Blah all around. The Place: Worst service I’ve ever had in the city with an uninspired menu. No reason to ever go here. Choptank: This place isn’t bad but when you’re this close to Mary’s Fish Camp it seems criminal to eat here. Extra Virgin: This place’s food is okay…but just so wannabe scene-ster it’s obnoxious. Commerce: One one of the best blocks in the city ,this place should be a gem…but it isn’t. It’s like an investment bank threw up in it and the food doesn’t warrant the price, I’d take the Waverly Inn (2 years post its prime) any day over it. Centro Vinoteca: Not a fan. Plus the chef gives me the creeps. 10 Downing: I want to love this place so much but the $$ for the quality just aren’t there. Let me know what you think! Update: By Adam’s request, Chelsea is next up on Tuesday, April 6th. Have a favorite Chelsea eatery? Let me know.

Where to Eat the West Village

Where to begin! By far my favorite neighborhood to dine in here in the city. So many of you have asked me for my favorites in NYC and I almost always send a list that is exclusively in WV. So without further ado, here’s Part II in my Where to Eat in NYC series. You can read my thoughts about LES from last week here.

Cheap Eats

  • Taim: One of the best falafels in the city with perfectly salted fries. Bonus: they deliver if you’re local and on warm summer days you can sit out front on the side walk and drink one of their fresh teas or lemonades. Perfection.
  • Corner Bistro: You can eat a burger served on a coffee filter with the biggest pile of bacon you’ve ever seen + get drunk for $20. Guaranteed.
  • A Salt & Battery: Fish & Chips! Delivery! Hot brits working there! In England these chips might be an abomination but in the US they’re a solid bet.
  • John’s Pizza on Bleecker: Basic margherita - all the way.
  • Chumleys: If this place ever re-opens, go. Food is good and the history of the place is even better.
  • White Horse: So much history here (Dylan Thomas et all), and good bar eats to boot. Bonus points for the outside tables in the summer.
  • ‘ino: Paninis and wine in a cozy nook of a restaurant. Perfect for a late night random bite.
  • Five Guys: One of my favorite burgers in the city, so cheap. Get it with jalapenos and hot sauce. YUMM. You’ll forget it’s a chain.
  • Diablo Royale: Solid tacos, hot bartenders, strong margaritas.
  • BLT Burger: I wouldn’t say this place is “cheap” but the shakes are tasty and if you are Five Guys’d out, this is a good second bet for a solid burger.
  • Grey Dog Cafe: Hands down my fav place to order delivery. Love all their sandwiches, soups & salads.
  • Mexicana Mama: Chicken burrito side of orange spicy salsa.
  • Moustache: Middle Eastern delivery yumminess (although extremely slowwww).

Brunch

  • Tartine: Great little place to eat brunch outdoors in the summertime. Bring cash, no cards and go early/late.
  • Westville: Yumm, yummy y yumm. Be prepared to wait.
  • August: Don’t love this joint for dinner but I DO love their baked eggs for brunch paritcularly in the summer in the back garden.
  • Market Table: Sister restaurant to Little Owl, great brunch spot and solid second choice if you can’t go to TLO for dinner.
  • Morandi: I don’t love Morandi for italian but their brunch (great baked goods, baked eggs, crepes) is a Balthazar knock-off fantastic meal.
  • Cafe Cluny: Part of the former McNally empire, a major Odeon knock off but a standard brunch with an awesome BLT.

All Time Favorites

  • Little Owl: Love! This place is my #1 all time favorite. You really can’t go wrong on their menu, their staff is amazing, the space is cozy (and famous) without an ounce of pretense. Perfection, one meatball slider at a time.
  • Blue Hill: This place doesn’t come close to the Stone Barns location but the food is still solid, fresh and totally delish.
  • Blue Ribbon: A solid restaurant with a diverse and inspired menu. Don’t like the service, love the private dining areas downstairs.
  • Fatty Crab: I love these guys and their awesome pork buns & watermelon/pork salad and stellar big bowl of crab. Malaysian street food yumm.
  • Babbo: Definitely the best Batali joint and probably one of the best meals in the city. Super hard to get a res, but worth the walk in wait. If you can’t eat here, Lupa is a distant (very distant) second.
  • Mary’s Fish Camp: Lobster Roll madness with a solid menu if you aren’t a lobster fan. Love to go here on Saturday’s for brunch and eat a trout BLT.
  • Mas Farmhouse: One of my first meals in NYC was here and it will always be a favorite. It’s quaint, inviting, romantic and the food is fresh, inspired and totally yummy. Majorly $$$$ though.
  • Perry Street: It’s Jean Georges on the best street in this city. I wish I could move in. Ditto on the $$$.
  • Minetta Tavern: There’s a reason the only reservation you can get is at 5 or 10 p.m. The burger and meats are to die for in a super cool divey (with a little sceney) vibe. McNally might be just showing off with this one.
  • Spotted Pig: You can’t really list food in WV and not list this place. Love the burger, love the atmosphere, prefer to go during brunch or cozying up on a stool super late night.

Other Solid Bets

  • Annisa: Great cozy little neighborhood gem. Perfect for that fourth date. You know what I mean.
  • Barbuto: Waxman is a legend and his garage door open atmosphere can’t be beat for a lazy summer afternoon filled with day drinking and pasta. Yumm.
  • Da Silvano: You can’t mention WV and not mention Da Silvano. Same for Il Mulino. These places have an air of mafia along with a celeb clientele out the yang. Solid food, not my favorite..but pretty tasty (prefer Mulino to Silvano, food wise, vice versa for atmosphere). Silvano can be a fab celeb / people watching scene come warmer weather days. On that note, see Waverly Inn if you’re into that kinda thing (and yes, I do go there still, sometimes…)
  • Pearl Oyster: Some swear by this place and the lobster roll. I think it’s good but would choose Mary’s over it any day. What do you think?
  • Perilla: Harold’s awesome and his restaurant is solid. Always love his duck dishes and the chef’s tasting (reasonable & delish).
  • Wallse: I really love Austrian food and enjoy Wallse. Pretty authentic and warm cozy atmosphere. A bit off the beaten path (although still busy).
  • Strip House: A good steak (at a pretty steep price) if you’re craving one of those Ruth Chris style steak-y experiences (much better than R-C).
  • L’Artrusi (and their sister restaurant dell’anima): Not my go to places, but great wine lists, good food, and cozy environment x 2.

Avoid

  • Bobo: Italian that lacks authenticity and flavor with a crowd that is filled with too many ibankers and bad service. Blah all around.
  • The Place: Worst service I’ve ever had in the city with an uninspired menu. No reason to ever go here.
  • Choptank: This place isn’t bad but when you’re this close to Mary’s Fish Camp it seems criminal to eat here.
  • Extra Virgin: This place’s food is okay…but just so wannabe scene-ster it’s obnoxious.
  • Commerce: One one of the best blocks in the city ,this place should be a gem…but it isn’t. It’s like an investment bank threw up in it and the food doesn’t warrant the price, I’d take the Waverly Inn (2 years post its prime) any day over it.
  • Centro Vinoteca: Not a fan. Plus the chef gives me the creeps.
  • 10 Downing: I want to love this place so much but the $$ for the quality just aren’t there.

Let me know what you think!

Update: By Adam’s request, Chelsea is next up on Tuesday, April 6th. Have a favorite Chelsea eatery? Let me know.

After more than a couple reader emails, I’ve decided to take on NYC food neighborhood by neighborhood and share my favorites. Starting with my current stomping grounds, the Lower East Side. Fancy Schmancy: Wd50: gastro-insanity at this place. Not cheap but a place I think everyone should experience at least once. The science behind the food is quite mind blowing. Allen & Delancey: not quite the same as it was when it opened but still a cozy (and super romantic) spot with solid food. A great date or celebration spot. About as scene-y in vibe as the LES gets. Stanton Social: I wasn’t sure about including this. It is so played out (thanks Sex and the City!) but remains a solid spot for posh drinks and decent eats with friends. Skip downstairs and eat upstairs. I like having a stiff drink and an order of French Onion Soup Dumplings (the best!) at the bar. A great nightcap. Awesome + won’t break the piggy bank: Frankie’s Sputino: solid little cozy joint, be prepared to wait Thurs-Sat, but overall a great little neighborhood gem. Fav items: pastas, crostinis, and meatball sandwich (to die for!) Bonus – they deliver! Little Giant: Part of that whole organic/sustainable slow food world. Delicious, reasonably priced, well edited wine list. Cash only and the 3 closest ATMs are always broken, so be prepared. Also one of my favorite brunch spots on one of the best blocks in the LES. Café Katja: In that same awesome Orchard LES area as Little Giant, a fantastic authentic Austrian restaurant that turns into a bit of a bar at night with a lot of rowdy, loud excited (and often hot!) Austrian guys. Favs – Austrian Mac & Cheese (it’s divine) and of course, schnitzel.  ‘inoteca: On everyone’s LES list this place is a solid standby. Stand outs include all paninis and tea sandwiches, the octopus appetizer, seasonal fish entree, solid wine list (with reasonable margins). I prefer this joint Sunday-Tuesday. The weekend waits are ridiculous and not worth it. Bonus: can sit outside in warmer weather and marvel at the interesting LES characters (they are characters). Apizz: casual Italian in a warm, romantic environment. My favorite date place in the LES. Affordable food, outstanding (and infamous) meatballs. Schiller’s: Part of the McNally empire and by far one of the best interior designed (you’ll recognize it from like 52 million movies and tv shows). Has garage door style open air in the warmer weather which makes it even better. Stand outs include: Croque Madame, Burger, Mac & Cheese & their wine which is categorized by price (go cheap!) and super affordable. Downside: crowd can get a bit lame on weekends, with an ungodly amount of Euro-hipsters. Bonus: great late night eats. 1492:  Hidden little tapas place on Clinton St (the best st for food in the LES) that serves up delicious Spanish tapas and wine at super affordable prices. Rarely crowded, completely unpretentious and very cozy. One of my favorite random date places. Bacaro: great Italian-inspired small plates (and some larger dishes) at a super cool and well designed location that is a bit more Chinatown than LES, but we’ll include it. There’s almost always a wait, but the wait is definitely worth it. Azul: little Argentinean spot that has an amazing two-for steak deal ($36) that includes fries Provencal and a salad. Super affordable and yummy. One of my favorite places to grab a meaty dinner with friends.  Zucco: Le French Diner: Best dang lamb for the price in the area. Cozy, solid French food at affordable prices. Popular with the local French crowd so be prepared for that vibe. Best Brunch: Alias: From the outside this place just looks bizarre, but that is part of it’s charm. Solid southern-inspired food including a fab chicken & waffles, cheesy grits, breakfast burrito, and county style breakfast of your favorite pork/egg combos. One of my favorite brunches in the city. Never too crowded, not an ounce of pretense, solid, affordable food. Brown café: This place can have lines a mile long but if you can make it on an off day or early, it delivers on the price. Fabulous breakfast and lunch sandwiches, great presentation, super fresh and organic offerings. Yummy! Bonus: a bit off the beaten path and deep into Chinatown, nice to be away from all the loud LES mayhem.  Clinton St Baking Company: what can I tell you that hundreds haven’t already written on Yelp? Come for the French toast, pancakes, or eggs with awesome tomato sauce and delicious biscuits. On the weekends this place is a joke with crowds literally filling the sidewalk. Better to do their (slightly more limited) breakfast menu during the week unless you don’t mind waiting for 1 hour plus. Spitzer’s Corner: For a bar, Spitzer’s has the best brunch in the LES by far. Favorites include: lamb sandwich, their take on egg’s benedict. Clean bar (no left over beer smell from last night), nice communal tables, great for a brunch with your friends. Rarely have to wait and take all forms of payment (a rarity in the LES). Bonus: Steps from Dolce Vita for post eat shoe shopping. Freeman’s: I go back and forth between loving and disliking Freeman’s food, but no one can argue that the space (garnished with taxidermy and a warm cottage feel) is amazing. Stand outs include: spin/artichoke dip, mac & cheese, pork sandwich, and the traditional stuff like Devils on a Horseback. Nice staff, fun crowd (quite a mix, a lot of people aren’t local LES-ers), and one of those places everyone should experience at least once. Bondi Road and Essex House: Tied for the booziest brunch in the LES. Not my favorite food-wise, either of them…but both are guaranteed to give you affordable food and get you hammered on a random, lazy weekend afternoon (or morning, I’m not judging!) Cheapo-Yumm Yumm:  Nicky’s Vietnamese Sandwiches: Cheap, slightly greasy, amazing. Favorites include: Double pork chop and signature sandwich (get it spicy). A go to STAPLE for eats to pick up on your way home if you are in /live in the area. Also great for a cheap eat to take to Thompkin’s Square Park on a sunny afternoon. Shopsin’s: greasiest institution of a sandwich (and solid bfast) joint in the neighborhood. Great for counter takeaway. Fat Hippo: This place doesn’t offer one thing that is OUTSTANDING but all their food is solid and super cheap. A weird mix of food ranging from meatloaf to beer can chicken to hamburger sliders to tacos, Fat Hippo seems to have an on-going identity crisis but  it is super cheap (everything is under $15 and most thing are under $10) and the portions are sizable. If you’re ever with a group in the LES and can’t get in anywhere, come here. You’ll get in. San Marzano: This place used to be BYOB and isn’t anymore, but does have $2 PBR more often than not and GREAT pizzas at $10-$15 a pop that can feed 2 people. A great cheap date place that also delivers locally a solid pizza. My favorite: the traditional margherita or the buffalo chicken. Also of note: calzones are freaking HUGE and delicious.  Los Feliz: Solid tacos, overpriced margaritas, cool coke-denish dark vibe. Super hip interior (to the point of trying too hard almost…) but some of the most solid tacos in the neighborhood. Much better than Paladar.  Cheapest tacos (and best bang for the buck) however, goes to San Loco – my go to for delivery, drunken eats, and random Guacoloco adventures (try one, delicious!) Cube 63: BYOB + Sushi ($6 avg price for rolls) = dangerous but delicious combo. No need to say more. Georgia’s Eastside BBQ: Southern-style bbq with amazing chicken, ribs, sauces and prices. One of my favorite neighborhood guilty places. You really can’t go wrong. (It’s not like actually being in the south but it’s a distant second and definitely hits the spot). Katz’s Deli: I wouldn’t say the sandwiches (for a sandwich) are cheap, but they are HUGE and the place is iconic. Eat: hand cut meats (my fav is corned beef), avoid: burgers. Bonus: open late and you can watch annoying tourists reenact the Meg Ryan orgasm scene and oogle at the Sopranos, Mayors, and C list celeb photos adorning the walls. Other notable neighborhood joints of mention: Café Pedlar and Cocoa Bar: both amazing coffee joints.  Barrio Chino: a super fun (and always packed) standby - guaranteed to make for a good (although not outstanding in any way food/drink wise) night Dessert truck turned resident on Clinton St: Solid, affordable dessert offerings. Sugar Sweet Sunshine: Best damn cupcakes in the city. Pink Pony: I think their staff are all a-holes but a solid place to grab a random bite. il laboratorio: heavenly gelato Organic Avenue: the best fresh juice smoothie (home of the Gwyneth Platrow-famed LOVE cleanse). What do you think? What did I miss? I welcome all feedback in the comments and will write a follow up post to include them later on. Next up on my list? The West Village…next Tuesday.

After more than a couple reader emails, I’ve decided to take on NYC food neighborhood by neighborhood and share my favorites. Starting with my current stomping grounds, the Lower East Side.

Fancy Schmancy:

  • Wd50: gastro-insanity at this place. Not cheap but a place I think everyone should experience at least once. The science behind the food is quite mind blowing.
  • Allen & Delancey: not quite the same as it was when it opened but still a cozy (and super romantic) spot with solid food. A great date or celebration spot. About as scene-y in vibe as the LES gets.
  • Stanton Social: I wasn’t sure about including this. It is so played out (thanks Sex and the City!) but remains a solid spot for posh drinks and decent eats with friends. Skip downstairs and eat upstairs. I like having a stiff drink and an order of French Onion Soup Dumplings (the best!) at the bar. A great nightcap.

Awesome + won’t break the piggy bank:

  • Frankie’s Sputino: solid little cozy joint, be prepared to wait Thurs-Sat, but overall a great little neighborhood gem. Fav items: pastas, crostinis, and meatball sandwich (to die for!) Bonus – they deliver!
  • Little Giant: Part of that whole organic/sustainable slow food world. Delicious, reasonably priced, well edited wine list. Cash only and the 3 closest ATMs are always broken, so be prepared. Also one of my favorite brunch spots on one of the best blocks in the LES.
  • Café Katja: In that same awesome Orchard LES area as Little Giant, a fantastic authentic Austrian restaurant that turns into a bit of a bar at night with a lot of rowdy, loud excited (and often hot!) Austrian guys. Favs – Austrian Mac & Cheese (it’s divine) and of course, schnitzel.
  •  ‘inoteca: On everyone’s LES list this place is a solid standby. Stand outs include all paninis and tea sandwiches, the octopus appetizer, seasonal fish entree, solid wine list (with reasonable margins). I prefer this joint Sunday-Tuesday. The weekend waits are ridiculous and not worth it. Bonus: can sit outside in warmer weather and marvel at the interesting LES characters (they are characters).
  • Apizz: casual Italian in a warm, romantic environment. My favorite date place in the LES. Affordable food, outstanding (and infamous) meatballs.
  • Schiller’s: Part of the McNally empire and by far one of the best interior designed (you’ll recognize it from like 52 million movies and tv shows). Has garage door style open air in the warmer weather which makes it even better. Stand outs include: Croque Madame, Burger, Mac & Cheese & their wine which is categorized by price (go cheap!) and super affordable. Downside: crowd can get a bit lame on weekends, with an ungodly amount of Euro-hipsters. Bonus: great late night eats.
  • 1492:  Hidden little tapas place on Clinton St (the best st for food in the LES) that serves up delicious Spanish tapas and wine at super affordable prices. Rarely crowded, completely unpretentious and very cozy. One of my favorite random date places.
  • Bacaro: great Italian-inspired small plates (and some larger dishes) at a super cool and well designed location that is a bit more Chinatown than LES, but we’ll include it. There’s almost always a wait, but the wait is definitely worth it.
  • Azul: little Argentinean spot that has an amazing two-for steak deal ($36) that includes fries Provencal and a salad. Super affordable and yummy. One of my favorite places to grab a meaty dinner with friends.
  •  Zucco: Le French Diner: Best dang lamb for the price in the area. Cozy, solid French food at affordable prices. Popular with the local French crowd so be prepared for that vibe.

Best Brunch:

  • Alias: From the outside this place just looks bizarre, but that is part of it’s charm. Solid southern-inspired food including a fab chicken & waffles, cheesy grits, breakfast burrito, and county style breakfast of your favorite pork/egg combos. One of my favorite brunches in the city. Never too crowded, not an ounce of pretense, solid, affordable food.
  • Brown café: This place can have lines a mile long but if you can make it on an off day or early, it delivers on the price. Fabulous breakfast and lunch sandwiches, great presentation, super fresh and organic offerings. Yummy! Bonus: a bit off the beaten path and deep into Chinatown, nice to be away from all the loud LES mayhem.
  •  Clinton St Baking Company: what can I tell you that hundreds haven’t already written on Yelp? Come for the French toast, pancakes, or eggs with awesome tomato sauce and delicious biscuits. On the weekends this place is a joke with crowds literally filling the sidewalk. Better to do their (slightly more limited) breakfast menu during the week unless you don’t mind waiting for 1 hour plus.
  • Spitzer’s Corner: For a bar, Spitzer’s has the best brunch in the LES by far. Favorites include: lamb sandwich, their take on egg’s benedict. Clean bar (no left over beer smell from last night), nice communal tables, great for a brunch with your friends. Rarely have to wait and take all forms of payment (a rarity in the LES). Bonus: Steps from Dolce Vita for post eat shoe shopping.
  • Freeman’s: I go back and forth between loving and disliking Freeman’s food, but no one can argue that the space (garnished with taxidermy and a warm cottage feel) is amazing. Stand outs include: spin/artichoke dip, mac & cheese, pork sandwich, and the traditional stuff like Devils on a Horseback. Nice staff, fun crowd (quite a mix, a lot of people aren’t local LES-ers), and one of those places everyone should experience at least once.
  • Bondi Road and Essex House: Tied for the booziest brunch in the LES. Not my favorite food-wise, either of them…but both are guaranteed to give you affordable food and get you hammered on a random, lazy weekend afternoon (or morning, I’m not judging!)


Cheapo-Yumm Yumm:

  •  Nicky’s Vietnamese Sandwiches: Cheap, slightly greasy, amazing. Favorites include: Double pork chop and signature sandwich (get it spicy). A go to STAPLE for eats to pick up on your way home if you are in /live in the area. Also great for a cheap eat to take to Thompkin’s Square Park on a sunny afternoon.
  • Shopsin’s: greasiest institution of a sandwich (and solid bfast) joint in the neighborhood. Great for counter takeaway.
  • Fat Hippo: This place doesn’t offer one thing that is OUTSTANDING but all their food is solid and super cheap. A weird mix of food ranging from meatloaf to beer can chicken to hamburger sliders to tacos, Fat Hippo seems to have an on-going identity crisis but  it is super cheap (everything is under $15 and most thing are under $10) and the portions are sizable. If you’re ever with a group in the LES and can’t get in anywhere, come here. You’ll get in.
  • San Marzano: This place used to be BYOB and isn’t anymore, but does have $2 PBR more often than not and GREAT pizzas at $10-$15 a pop that can feed 2 people. A great cheap date place that also delivers locally a solid pizza. My favorite: the traditional margherita or the buffalo chicken. Also of note: calzones are freaking HUGE and delicious.
  •  Los Feliz: Solid tacos, overpriced margaritas, cool coke-denish dark vibe. Super hip interior (to the point of trying too hard almost…) but some of the most solid tacos in the neighborhood. Much better than Paladar.  Cheapest tacos (and best bang for the buck) however, goes to San Loco – my go to for delivery, drunken eats, and random Guacoloco adventures (try one, delicious!)
  • Cube 63: BYOB + Sushi ($6 avg price for rolls) = dangerous but delicious combo. No need to say more.
  • Georgia’s Eastside BBQ: Southern-style bbq with amazing chicken, ribs, sauces and prices. One of my favorite neighborhood guilty places. You really can’t go wrong. (It’s not like actually being in the south but it’s a distant second and definitely hits the spot).
  • Katz’s Deli: I wouldn’t say the sandwiches (for a sandwich) are cheap, but they are HUGE and the place is iconic. Eat: hand cut meats (my fav is corned beef), avoid: burgers. Bonus: open late and you can watch annoying tourists reenact the Meg Ryan orgasm scene and oogle at the Sopranos, Mayors, and C list celeb photos adorning the walls.


Other notable neighborhood joints of mention:

What do you think? What did I miss? I welcome all feedback in the comments and will write a follow up post to include them later on. Next up on my list? The West Village…next Tuesday.

Little Giant. A classic old faithful standby. Delish.

Little Giant.

A classic old faithful standby. Delish.

If not dessert, maybe just live on croissants?

If not dessert, maybe just live on croissants?

The only 2 words that come to mind are: Hells. Yes.

The only 2 words that come to mind are: Hells. Yes.

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Themed by: Hunson