Gotta Eat Here

New York City, NY

All the restaurants with an asterisk (*) after the name and the text "Looking forward to eating here." at the end of the note are places I would like to visit that friends, blog posts, articles, TV shows, etc. recommend I eat.

Note: All restaurant addresses link to Google maps.

• 12 Chairs Cafe *

  56 MacDougal St
  New York, NY 10012

  (212) 254-8640

  They serve Middle Eastern dishes (including standout hummus) featured in a laid-back, rustic setting. From their website, '12 Chairs is an approachable neighborhood restaurant that transports the restaurant clientele to Tel Aviv without leaving New York. We started out as a small cafe (hence the name) in artistic Soho and have since become a popular coffee shop/restaurant with a second location in Williamsburg. Despite the many changes over the years, the one thing that remains the same is that all of the dishes are homemade and prepared to order. It has been a pillar of the community for more than 20 years through its warm and welcoming atmosphere and hospitality, to its electric vibes and delicious food! Committed to serving the freshest and highest-quality ingredients, the restaurant sources from both local markets and abroad to offer the perfect array of dishes that represents the melting pot that is Israel.'

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Here Be Barr (YouTube)

• 2nd Ave Deli *

  162 E 33rd St
  New York, NY 10016

  (212) 689-9000

  2nd Ave Deli is an old-school restaurant serving blintzes, knishes, and other Jewish fare, plus a variety of sandwiches. You need to order their pastrami sandwich, which is enormous. From their website, ‘The 2nd Ave Deli has been an internationally renowned Gotham landmark for more than half a century. Over the years, its founder, Abe Lebewohl, provided the best Jewish fare in town, transforming his tiny ten-seat Village eatery into a New York institution.’

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee

• 7th Street Burger East Village *

  91 E 7th St
  New York, NY 10009

  (646) 490-6797

  From the New York City Eater website, ‘When 7th Street Burger opened in 2021 in the former Caracas Arepa Bar space in the East Village, it caused a sensation. The idea is extreme simplicity: It sells only three cheeseburgers (a single, a double, and a vegetarian version made with Impossible Meat) that are seared and smashed flat with a slice of American cheese and a squirt of sauce. It’s smash burger heaven, and the chain has held up as it expands across the city. There are now around a dozen branches.’ NOTE: They have multiple locations.

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Inga Lam on Jolly (YouTube)

• 886 *

  26 St Marks Pl
  New York, NY 10003

  (646) 882-0231

  886 is a neon-lit, compact East Village space known for its modern Taiwanese specialties and on-tap sake. From their website, '886 is Taiwan’s international calling code. A concept by Eric Sze and Andy Chuang aiming to fuse their Taiwanese upbringing with American modernization.’ From the NYC Eater website, ‘Eric Sze and Andy Chung’s East Village haunt is where to go for after-hours Taiwanese. Among the specialties are classics like danzai mian (shrimp and pork noodle soup), tomato and egg stir-fry, three cup chicken, and beef noodle soup.’

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Bon Appétit magazine

• A Salt and Battery *

  112 Greenwich Ave
  New York, NY 10011

  (212) 691-2713

  A Salt and Battery serves fish ’n’ chips, deep-fried candy bars, and other British staples lie in-store at this no-frills shop. From their website, 'A Salt and Battery began as a desire to bring the best of Britain's traditional fish and chip culture of fresh lightly-battered, deep-fried fish and thick-cut chips with salt and malt vinegar to New York. Our goal has been to recreate that unique flavour using traditional British fryers and cooking techniques and, wherever possible, locally harvested, sustainable produce.' From the NYC Eater website, 'Forget the standard one or two fish options — this dependable British takeout spot in the West Village, from the same owners as Tea and Sympathy next door, serves some of the city’s best fish and chips. There are four different choices (cod, haddock, sole, or whiting), served in two different sizes, and portions are pretty generous. The large size is big enough for two. Order chips separately, or mix it up with another quintessential English side, mushy peas or battered beets.'

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Pro Home Cooks (YouTube)

• ATLA *

  372 Lafayette St
  New York, NY 10012

  (347) 662-3522

  ATLA is an all-day eatery for contemporary Mexican bites with local ingredients, plus coffee, wines, and mezcals. From their website, 'All-day eatery for contemporary Mexican bites by Enrique Olvera and Daniela Soto-Innes, served alongside an approachable, yet sophisticated beverage program by Yana Volfson. We are celebrating life, eating, cooking, and coexisting in a surreal, shamanic atmosphere.'

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Here Magazine

• ATOMIX *

  104 E 30th St
  New York, NY 10016

  Upscale Korean restaurant offering a chef’s tasting menu with beverage pairings in chic environs. From the New York City Eater website, ‘Ato, stemming from the ancient Korean word for ‘gift,’ is the innovative cuisine that husband and wife team - Chef Junghyun and manager Ellia Park, hope to deliver to the world using New York City as their stage. Atomix, a follow-up to their well-loved firstborn Atoboy, is a place where guests can really dive deep into Chef Park’s cuisine through a tasting menu that is inspired by Korean traditions and techniques. The Chef’s Counter is an intimate and personable experience featuring a U-shaped counter and an up-close look at our open kitchen. There are two seatings, at 5:30 PM and 8:45 PM. Reservations are required. Please note, we are not able to accommodate vegan, vegetarian, and celiac diets as well as any allergies or aversions to fish, shellfish, seafood, dairy, gluten, or allium.’

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Closed Monday

  Recommended by Snook

• B and H Dairy *

  127 2nd Ave
  New York, NY 10003

  (212) 505-8065

  B and H Dairy is one of the oldest kosher dairy lunch counters remaining in New York City. It was opened in 1938 by Abie Bergson and Sol Hausman (B and H), and the interior and menu have changed little since. In 1970, Bergson and Hausman sold the restaurant. B and H Dairy serves borscht, blintzes, and matzo ball soup on the menu of this old-school, circa-1940 kosher diner.

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Closed Monday

  Recommended by Parts Unknown

• Bang Bar *

  10 Columbus Cir
  The Shops at Columbus Circle #301
  New York, NY 10019

  Bang Bar is a cashless Momofuku eatery that serves Korean-inspired wraps during the day only with limited seating. From Eater New York website, 'The menu here zeros in on two things: Korean flatbread wraps and vertical spits of roasted meat, such as spicy gochujang-marinated pork shoulder, mortadella layered with lardo, and yakitori-glazed chicken. (“Bāng,” commonly spelled as ppang or bbang, means bread in Korean.). The restaurant is counter-service, and a couple of high tables were added out front for diners to eat on. Breakfast is served from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m., and lunch runs until 3 p.m. or until it’s sold out.'

  Looking forward to eating here.

• Barbuto *

  113 Horatio St
  New York, NY 10014

  (212) 924-9700

  From their website, ‘The West Village restaurant Barbuto has been a neighborhood gathering spot welcoming locals and visitors alike for over 15 years. Barbuto first opened its doors in February 2004 in its original location at Washington & Jane Streets, where it was truly a staple. After reopening in October 2021, the restaurant is well on its way to earning that status again in its new home at 113 Horatio Street at West Street, a mere three hundred steps from the original. The name means “bearded” in Italian. When developing the concept, Jonathan and his business partner at the time, Fabrizio Ferri, both sported beards; so did Fabrizio’s Irish Wolfhound Gideon, who is immortalized in the logo. It just made sense. At its heart, Barbuto is a casual restaurant offering Chef Jonathan Waxman’s celebrated Californian-Italian cuisine that is simple and seasonal.’

  Looking forward to eating here.

• The Bean

  824 Broadway
  New York, NY 10003

  (212) 510-7714

  The Bean is a neighborhood cafe for fresh-roasted coffee, teas, sandwiches, and vegan eats, plus free WiFi. It's a great little place to get out of the cold of winter or heat of the summer and relax a bit. It's across the street from Strand Bookstore. So you can regroup before heading there or use it as a place to look over all that you bought. NOTE: They have multiple locations.

• The Beatrice Inn *

  285 W 12th St
  New York, NY 10014

  (212) 675-2808

  The Beatrice Inn is a lively and upscale meat-forward restaurant with food from chef Angie Mar. From their website, 'The Beatrice Inn is a traditional New York chophouse, redefined and reimagined by Chef Angie Mar. Owned by Mar and her business partner Melissa Merrill Keary, the Beatrice Inn is where New Yorkers go for innovative takes on the preparation and presentation of meat that still manage to feel timeless. Mar seamlessly balances big, bold cuts of meat with delicate, fragrant herbs and fruit; insists on dry aging all her meat; serves whole birds and dramatic seafood towers with epic table-side presentations and large format dining, and dishes up her award-winning burgers alongside the specialty curated wine list and iconic cocktail bar. Chef Mar’s unapologetic and over-the-top approach to food is revolutionizing the way New Yorkers experience meat, ensuring every dish evokes primal and decadent flavors, balanced with approachable elegance.'

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Closed Sunday

  Recommended by David Chang's Netflix show Ugly Delicious

• Bel-Fries *

  132 Ludlow St
  New York, NY 10002

  (646) 370-3668

  From their website,’ Born in Belgium. Sauced locally. Don’t call them French Fries. Call them Bel-Fries. American soldiers stationed in Belgium were introduced to French Fries during World War I. Since the language of the Belgian army was French, American soldiers nicknamed the delicious fried potatoes “French Fries.” The name stuck, and decades later, Americans are still giving credit to the wrong country. It is time to give Belgium credit and reinvent the name to Bel-Fries. We’re the opposite of places like McDonald’s, where the fries are always the same. Like all real foods, Bel-Fries change with the seasons. Depending on the time of year, we might be using Norwis, Kennebec, Gold, or premium Idaho potatoes. We buy our fresh ingredients—yuzu juice, black truffle, Indian mango—from the same farms and suppliers that serve chefs like David Chang and Jean-Georges, so our customers can experience fine-dining flavors at street-food prices.’ Here Be Barr recommends the Truffle fries and the animal-style fries.

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Here Be Barr (YouTube)

• Best Sicily Bottega *

  85 Beaver St
  New York, NY 10005

  (646) 908-9720

  From their website, 'Best Sicily, came to be a few years ago when two people who were passionate about health and organic products realized a need for a marketplace to offer the best 100% organic non-GMO products sourced from Sicily. We are here to make your life easier! Despite being a relatively new platform, our roots go way back. One hundred years ago, Mr. Asaro left Sicily and moved to America, where he began importing his extra virgin olive oil to the United States. Here at Best Sicily, we take our values very seriously. We are 100% made in Italy, 100% organic, rooted in Tradition, and passionate about excellence and the quality of our products. Our Asaro farms grow the highest quality olives in the world, and we are committed to providing our customers with the best quality products that boast a distinctly authentic flavor.'

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Danny Bowen (Gozney YouTube)

• Bibble and Sip *

  253 W 51st St
  New York, NY 10019

  (646) 649-5116

  Bibble and Sip is a bakery and coffeehouse serving upscale coffees, teas, and a selection of housemade baked goods and syrups. From their website, 'Our passionate team here at Bibble and Sip strives to serve the finest gourmet coffee, espresso, and pastries. Trained in French Confectionery and inspired by Asian flavors, our savory treats hope to bring you the best of both worlds. All our baked goods are freshly house-made, including even the smallest components, such as the granola on the yogurt and marshmallow on the hot chocolates. Aside from top-quality coffees and espresso, we also offer specialty lattes with flavors such as Matcha Jasmine and Lavender, in which all syrups are made in-house and infused with real tea.'

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Eric Wright

• Big Gay Ice Cream Shop

  516 Columbus Ave
  New York, NY 10024

  (212) 533-9333

  With a playful attitude, Big Gay Ice Cream spins a new take on old-school soft-serve by creating fun and unique ice creams, toppings, and frozen treats that appeal to a diverse mix of clientele. The item to get is the 'Salty Pimp' which is vanilla soft serve ice cream in a cone injected with caramel, sprinkled with sea salt and then dipped in chocolate to form a hard outer coating. NOTE: They have multiple locations.

  Recommended by Anthony Bourdain

• Big Wong *

  67 Mott St
  New York, NY 10013

  (212) 964-0540

  From the New York City Eater website, ‘Peking ducks don’t steal all the attention in Chinatown. At the decades-old Big Wong, whole chickens with deep-brown, crackling skin hang in the window. Get half soy sauce chicken, just briny enough, and half roast duck, a double-fowl flavor explosion. The ambiance is beside the point, with reliably great food at such mind-bogglingly low prices. Cash only.’

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Casey Neistat

• Billy's Bakery *

  75 Franklin St
  New York, NY 10013

  (212) 647-9958

  Popular bakery in a quaint space whipping up cakes, cupcakes, plus pies and cheesecakes. From their website, ‘It all began in 2003 with two friends from business school who shared a sweet tooth and a dream of baking. Fifteen years later, we bake all of our products on-site, filling our 1940s-style stores with the delicious smells of fresh cakes and pies to bring back that delightful, warm feeling of Grandma’s kitchen. Each day at Billy’s, everything is still made from scratch. From our (pretty well-known) Icebox Cake to our (pretty darn well-known) Red Velvet Cupcakes—it’s as real as our grandmothers used to make. For us, that smell when you walk into a real local bakery is almost as important as the taste. And we’re never going to lose that. For Billy’s, it’s all about real ingredients, authentic recipes, and real people making it happen.’ NOTE : They have multiple locations.

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Casey Neistat

• Bird and Branch *

  359 W 45th St
  New York, NY 10036

  (917) 265-8444

  Bird and Branch is a specialty coffee shop with a mission to restore the city. They are a husband and wife team with hopes of opening a coffee shop that gives back to the community they serve by supporting the people within it. From their website, ‘A specialty coffee shop with a mission to restore the city. Opening a business changes your life, but it’s also an opportunity to change the lives of others. That’s what Bird & Branch is to us. We’re a husband and wife team with hopes of opening a coffee shop that gives back to the community we serve by supporting the people within it. We strive to be intentional with our actions and how they affect our earth and the people in it. We don’t have all the answers, but come join us for a good cup of coffee as we figure things out together.’

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Eric Wright

• Blue Sky Deli (Hajji’s) *

  2135 1st Ave.
  New York, NY 10029

  Phone: (646) 682-7488

  From the Montreal Eater website, ‘Chopped cheese’s origins are hazy, though the late Carlos Soto from East Harlem deli Blue Sky (locally known as Hajji’s) has been widely credited as a possible inventor.’ From the Thrillist website, ‘Locally known as Hajji’s, Harlem’s Blue Sky Deli is a bodega unlike any other thanks to one particular sandwich: the chopped cheese. Hajji’s is said to be the birthplace of the historic sandwich, which has since made its way into hip-hop lyrics, Anthony Bourdain’s Parts Unknown, Whole Foods, and April Bloomfield’s upscale Upper West Side butcher shop, White Gold. Essentially the New York version of a Philly cheesesteak, the pressed hero sandwich is stacked with chopped and griddled ground beef, melted American cheese, peppers, onions, lettuce, tomato, ketchup, and mayonnaise. Though many Harlem bodegas serve their own iteration of the chopped cheese, the one from Hajji’s started it all.’

  Looking forward to eating here.

  24 hours

  Recommended by Here Be Barr (YouTube)

• Boucherie West Village *

  99 7th Ave S
  New York, NY 10014

  (212) 837-1616

  Boucherie West Village is a two-floor bistro for dry-aged steaks, and other French fare, with a bar that's strong on absinthe. Walking around the city on Labor Day weekend and noticed the wonderful patio with a lot of plants and a bunch of people while waiting for a light to change across the street. From their website, 'Boucherie is a traditional French brasserie and steakhouse, celebrating Joie de Vivre in the heart of New York. Executive Chef Jerome DihuiI, former Chef de Cuisine of Pastis, prepares a menu of French classics and timeless bistro favorites, in addition to the dry-aged steaks.'

  Looking forward to eating here.

• Bubby's *

  120 Hudson St
  New York, NY 10013

  (212) 219-0666

  Bubby's is a weekend brunch hot spot serving homestyle American eats with many locally sourced ingredients. From their website, 'Renowned for its simple and fresh comfort food, Bubby’s is dedicated to defending the American table and its traditions with thoughtful ingredient sourcing and an “off the commercial food grid” philosophy. The mission has remained the same from that first day– to welcome each and every person as though they are guests in our home, to raise the awareness of the beauty of American food - its ethnic contributions and regional and geographic abundance, and to celebrate the patchwork of American culture. Bubby’s wants people to know where their food came from, who grew it and what is good about it. American cuisine is much more than burgers and pie; it's Chinese, Mexican, Southern, an elaborate and flavorful foodscape created by the generations of people who built America. For 30 years, Bubby’s has been cooking and baking in a way that is thoughtful, healthy, and, most importantly, delicious!' NOTE: They have multiple locations.

  Looking forward to eating here.

• burger joint

  119 W 56th St
  Le Parker Meridien
  New York, NY 10019

  (212) 708-7414

  burger joint is a no-frills, cash-only burger counter hidden inside an upscale hotel. The best burger in New York City, hidden behind the curtain in the atrium lobby of Le Parker Meridien Hotel. It's a great little burger joint in the middle of an expensive hotel in New York City. You should order their cheese burger with lettuce, tomato, and mustard along with an order of fries and your beverage of choice.

  Recommended by Anthony Bourdain

  

• Carbone *

  181 Thompson St
  New York, NY 10012

  (212) 254-3000

  Carbone serves high-end takes on red-sauce fare await at this A-lister Italian restaurant in a retro-glam space. From their website, ‘Carbone is an Italian-American restaurant created by Mario Carbone, Rich Torrisi, and Jeff Zalaznick. The restaurant pays homage to the essence of the great Italian-American restaurants of the mid-20th century in New York, where delicious, exceptionally well-prepared food was served in settings that were simultaneously elegant, comfortable, and unpretentious. The food nods to that same history but takes its culinary cues from the great talents and techniques of the present and of the future. Familiar dishes like Seafood Salad, Linguini Vongole, Lobster Fra Diavola, Chicken Scarpariello, and Veal Parmesan elevated to a new level.’

  Looking forward to eating here.

• Carol's Cafe *

  217 E 51st St
  New York, NY 10022

  (917) 775-0535

  Carol's Cafe is a tucked in on the inside of a private park (Greenacre Park) next to the Synagogue which is open from 8:00 AM until 7:30 PM each day. It's a hidden oasis in the middle of the city. Even if you don't get anything at the cafe, it's a great place to relax and sit in the shade listening to a waterfall. They even have small tables and chairs that you can sit at to eat, read, even get a laptop top out at the upper seating area.

  Looking forward to eating here.

• Chama Mama *

  149 W 14th St
  New York, NY 10011

  (646) 438-9007

  From their website, ‘Chama Mama, a place where the magic of gastronomy happens! One of the most celebrated restaurants in the United States, Chama Mama is an intimate and vertiginous place filled with culture and traditions of ancient Georgia. Full of flavors, colors, and history, classic Georgian cuisine is presented here with a modern spin. Situated at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Georgia has fallen within the Silk Road orbit of many cultural influences where the foreign ingredients and styles were incorporated into their own. That is why the Georgian cuisine is unique with its rich, extensive interplay of a wide array of tastes.’

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Ando

• Charles' Country Pan Fried Chicken *

  340 W 145th St
  New York, NY 10039

  (212) 281-1800

  Charles' Country Pan Fried Chicken is a Harlem soul-food standard for old-school skillet-fried chicken served all-you-can-eat or with sides. From the Eater New York City website, ‘The chef Charles Gabriel is back behind the burners at this uptown fried chicken spot, the final stop on a string of storefronts of varying names over the years: Charles’ Mobile Soul Food Truck, Charles Country Pan-Fried Chicken, and Charles Southern Style Kitchen. The through line of these businesses — and the two locations of Charles Pan-Fried Chicken now open in Manhattan — is the chef’s pan-fried chicken. It’s deposited in massive cast iron skillets of oil, then turned over constantly until it achieves a crisp brown crust and moist interior. The Harlem restaurant, which will have been open a year in March, also sells ribs, pulled pork, and other meats; barbecue isn’t in the name of the shop, but these are worth ordering, too.’

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Somebody Feed Phil and High on the Hog (Netflix)

• Chelsea Market

  75 9th Avenue
  New York, NY 10011

  (212) 243-6005

  Chelsea Market is a food hall, shopping mall, office building and television production facility located in the Chelsea neighborhood of the borough of Manhattan, in New York City. From their website, ‘Iconic culinary destination Chelsea Market has become an internationally-renowned brand and is considered one of the greatest indoor food and retail marketplaces in the world today. Located in the heart of New York City’s Meatpacking District, the market’s collection of distinctive and diverse merchants adds up to more than just your average food hall, rather a lively marketplace where one can shop the region’s finest fishmonger, take home prime cuts of meat from one of the area’s best whole-animal butchers, load up on artisanal cheeses, fresh produce, and imported Italian dry goods. It’s the savory meals enjoyed at Chelsea Market, just as much as the fresh ingredients purchased there that make it a beloved destination for locals and travelers alike.’

• Cho Dang Gol *

  55 W 35th St
  New York, NY 10001

  This easygoing Korean venue offers soups and stews showcasing homemade tofu, plus other comfort food. From their website, ‘Cho Dang Gol is known as “Tofu House” for its various homemade tofu-based menus, which they make fresh every morning. All meals begin with a complimentary tofu starter. Some of the popular menus include Dumpling Jeongol (spicy hot pot with kimchi, homemade dumplings and tofu, squid, pork, and assorted vegetables), Dubu Duruchigi (spicy stir-fried pork with homemade tofu), and Soybean Paste Stew (traditional stew with assorted vegetables). Jeon or Korean-style pancakes are also popular for their variety of toppings, such as seafood, kabocha, teriyaki chicken, codfish, assorted mushrooms, and more. CDG not only offers traditional Korean dishes but also new homemade recipes that are inspired by the classics. For those who are looking for more variety within Korean cuisine, keep a look out for the weekly and seasonal specials.’

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Danny Bowen (Gozney YouTube)

• Cocoron *

  16 Delancey St
  New York, NY 10002

  (212) 477-1212

  Cocorun is a small, unpretentious Japanese noodle shop offering a variety of classic and vegan soba dishes. They are a broth-based soba and sake highlight the menu of this small, unpretentious Japanese noodle shop. From the Eater New York City website, ‘Husband-and-wife duo Mika Ohie and Yoshihito Kida preside over several Japanese restaurants in New York, including Shabushabu Macoron. Cocoron opened in 2011, remains a jewel in their small Manhattan empire. The earthy, ethereal soba noodles here are rolled out in-house daily and make for extremely enjoyable slurping at one of the communal tables. Served in a sesame broth with minced chicken, the signature mera mera soba is next-level comfort food.’

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Closed Wednesday

• Cosme *

  35 E 21st St
  New York, NY 10010

  (212) 913-9659

  Cosme is a sleek Mexican spot with a big bar for locally sourced share plates, plus tequila and mezcal cocktails. From their website, 'Cosme is a restaurant in New York City’s Flatiron District serving contemporary Mexican-inspired cuisine from Chefs Enrique Olvera and Daniela Soto-Innes, along with business partner Santiago Perez. Dishes are rooted in Mexican flavors and traditions, while also celebrating local and seasonal ingredients from the Hudson Valley and the surrounding region. Cosme’s beverage program focuses on artisanal spirits and mirrors its cuisine, letting the high-quality ingredients shine.' Cosme was ranked number 25 on the 2018 top 50 restaurants in the world, according to 'The World's 50 Best' website.

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Here Magazine

• Cote *

  16 W 22nd St
  New York, NY 10010

  (212) 401-7986

  From the Eater website about Cote, 'The American steakhouse, as a class of restaurant, is always morphing to stay relevant — sometimes fresh models may resemble a nightclub or brasserie, or a chef will butcher steaks in-house to steer customers toward lesser-known but equally righteous cuts. In Cote, the chophouse evolves with a quantum nudge from owner Simon Kim, who grafts its fundamental qualities with the tabletop-grill format of Korean barbecue restaurants. Be sure to wander downstairs to the literal red-light district of prime steaks hung in dry-aging lockers, bathed in crimson designer lighting. Compare a range of steaks and different aging times via one of two prix fixe options: the “butcher’s feast” of four cuts for $48 or the $125-per-person, 10-course “omakase.” Both end with galbi, traditional Korean marinated short ribs, and both cleverly lighten and balance typical steakhouse gluttony by including banchan (an array of vegetable-based sides), lettuce wraps with condiments, and, to sidestep classic gut-bomb desserts, a final paper cup filled with vanilla soft serve drizzled with soy caramel.

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Eater's 18 Best New Restaurants in America - 2018

• Cozy Soup and Burger *

  739 Broadway
  New York, NY 10003

  (212) 477-5566

  Huge burgers, homemade soups, and endless coffee refills have fueled regulars here for nearly 50 years. Brad recommends the split pea soup with homemade croutons.

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Closed Sunday

  Recommended by Brad Leone (YouTube)

• Crif Dogs

  113 St Marks Place
  New York, NY 10009

  (212) 614-2728

  Crif Dogs serves hot dogs with creative toppings and late-night hours make this spot a natural for post-bar munchies. You need to pick two hot dogs that catch your eye and order them with a side of French fries. If you can manage it attempt to get into PDT (Please Don't Tell) for a drink by going to use the telephone booth. There is a no standing rule, so they only allow enough people in to fill all the seats. NOTE: They have multiple locations.

  Recommended by Anthony Bourdain and David Chang

• Desi Galli *

  101 Lexington Ave
  New York, NY 10016

  (212) 375-3900

  Desi Galli is a counter-serve eatery offering Indian wraps in a tight space with a downstairs seating area. From the Desi Galli website, 'We specialize in Kathi Rolls or Kati Rolls (Vegetarian and Non-Vegetarian) (like Indian burritos’), Vada Pav, Chaats (Bhel Puri, Pani Puri, Somasa Chaat, Biryani (Chicken/Lamb/Veg) and our newest edition our Galli Salad with a choice of Chicken Tikka, Seekh Kebab and Paneer for the health-conscious! You can wash our delicious food with Thumsup/Limca/Lassi’s and end it sweetly with Galli Kulfi, Rasmali, and Gulab Jamun! For Vegans not to worry, we have you covered.' NOTE: They have multiple locations.

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Pro Home Cook (YouTube)

• Dhamaka *

  119 Delancey St
  New York, NY 10002

  (212) 204-8616

  From their website, ‘Chef and Partner Chintan Pandya and restaurateur Roni Mazumdar of the critically acclaimed Adda Indian Canteen are bringing Dhamaka, a new “Unapologetic Indian” restaurant serving provincial Indian cuisine to the new Essex Market. From the Eater website, ‘Restaurateur Roni Mazumdar and chef Chintan Pandya are building an empire without a playbook, let alone precedent. Devoted champions of homestyle Indian cooking under the moniker Unapologetic Foods, they cemented their status as hitmakers with their third restaurant, Dhamaka. Diners who fell for the street food and canteen-style cooking at Adda (the duo’s 2019 Best New Restaurant) clamored to get a taste of Dhamaka’s homage to rural and provincial fare. When it opened mid-pandemic, it instantly became one of the most sought-after reservations in New York City. Dhamaka brings crowds, but it doesn’t pander to them. Instead, Pandya is uncompromising in his dedication to the bold and complex range of flavors in Indian cuisine. He drapes a velvety cashew cream over from-scratch paneer. It’s equally appealing to diners most comfortable ordering saag paneer as it is to those looking to try the fiery gurda kapoora, chile-laced goat kidney, and testicles, the kind of dish rarely seen in a trendy Manhattan restaurant. From a star anise-infused scotch cocktail garnished with a coconut water ice cube to the $190 bacchanalian rabbit feast, Dhamaka proves that a bucket-list dinner doesn’t have to involve unwieldy Eurocentric tasting menus — and shows Mazumdar and Pandya together are not finished redefining Indian restaurants in America.’

  Looking forward to eating here.

• Di Palo's Fine Foods *

  200 Grand St
  New York, NY 10013

  (212) 226-1033

  Di Palo's Fine Foods is a family-owned Italian shop offering artisanal cheeses, and cured meats along with pasta, sauce, and pantry items. Molly Baz from Bon Appetit's YouTube channel says the thing to order is the fresh ricotta and mortadella. From the New York City Eater website, 'This fifth-generation, family-owned Italian deli opened in 1910 on Mott Street as a dairy shop selling housemade mozzarella and ricotta. Grab a number and brace for a wait, but there’s great people-watching during and generous samples after. Those creamy cheeses are still signatures; also, order a sandwich to devour in a nearby park. Next door, there’s a wine shop, Enoteca Di Palo, plus a newer sit-down osteria concept.'

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Molly Baz from Bon Appettit (YouTube)

• Dirt Candy *

  86 Allen St
  New York, NY 10002

  (212) 228-7732

  Dirt Candy serves inventive vegetarian dishes and classic cocktails presented in stylish, airy surrounds. From their website 'New York City has hundreds of steak restaurants, seafood restaurants, barbecue restaurants, and tapas restaurants, but Dirt Candy is the city’s only vegetable restaurant. We serve nothing but vegetables, and our goal is to make them taste better than anything you’ve ever had before. Our kitchen is essentially a laboratory for our award-winning chef, Amanda Cohen, and every day she pushes vegetables further than anyone else in the world.'

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Closed Sunday and Monday

• Dominique Ansel Bakery *

  189 Spring St
  New York, NY 10012

  (212) 219-2773

  From the New York City Eater website, ‘Yes, people still line up early in the morning to get a Cronut in one of Soho’s great spectacles, but there are plenty of other pastries of an unusual sort. And there are sandwiches, too, made on predictably great bread from a shifting roster that includes a toasted cheese and a Dijon chicken salad dotted with pistachios. Croissants with a variety of stuffings also available. The Cronut has become quintessentially New York since its 2013 invention by French pastry chef Dominique Ansel in his Soho bakery. Soon after its birth, the croissant-doughnut hybrid became a viral sensation, spawned countless knockoffs, and attracted long lines. The flaky, layered dough comes filled with cream, and the bakery prepares a new flavor every month. Those in the know will order ahead to cut the line. Ever heard of a little pastry called the Cronut? Suckers line up at 6 a.m. for the croissant-doughnut hybrid that took the world by storm — but locals know to go later in the day for pastry chef Dominique Ansel’s stellar kouign amann, frozen s’mores, or any of the other pastries in the case, really.’

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Here Be Barr (YouTube)

• Don Angie *

  103 Greenwich Ave
  New York, NY 10014

  (212) 889-8884

  Don Angie serves updated Italian-American classics with wine and cocktails in a marble-accented space. Molly from Bon Appetit (YouTube) says you need to order their fresh pasta. From the NYC Eater website, 'The point of a red sauce joint is not to surprise, but to sate, which is what makes Don Angie in the West Village such a curious outlier. It does both. Chefs Angie Rito and Scott Tacinelli make their own amari, not out of obscure bitter herbs but rather out of sarsaparilla (it tastes like boozy root beer). They crust chicken scarpariello with a layer of fennel sausage and serve it sliced, giving it the appearance of an elegant French terrine. And they make garlic bread by stuffing sesame-seeded flatbread with stracchino and Parmesan. The nutty, stretchy affair is closer to a Ligurian focaccia di recco or an Indian cheese paratha than the toasty, mozzarella-topped product with which most suburbanites are familiar.'

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Andrew Zimmern and Molly from Bon Appetit (YouTube)

• Double Chicken Please *

  115 Allen St
  New York, NY 10002

  From their website, ‘Double Chicken Please is a Lower East Side restaurant and cocktail bar inspired by the exploration and experimentation of traditional drinks and dishes in the spirit of hacking design. The Coop at Double Chicken Please offers inventive craft cocktails that deconstruct, redefine, and rebuild iconic dishes into liquid form, such as the Japanese Cold Noodle, Cold Pizza, Key Lime Pie, NY Beet Salad, Mango Sticky Rice, and others. Five years in the making, Double Chicken Please opened its doors at the height of the pandemic in November 2020. Following their nomadic, mobile cocktail pop-up program in a 1977 VW minibus hosting unique drinking and dining experiences across the country, the two cocktail champions GN Chan and Faye Chen are finally at home on the Lower East Side.’

  Looking forward to eating here.

• Dough Doughnuts

  14 W 19th St
  New York, NY 10011

  (212) 243-6844

  Dough Doughnuts is a spin-off of a Brooklyn shop for yeast donuts with creative seasonal glazes, and French-press coffee. I’m not a big yeast doughnut fan, but the Salted Chocolate Caramel is a sticky, delicious, messy dark chocolate glaze made with dark caramel sprinkled with a bit of grey sea salt.

• Doughnut Plant

  379 Grand St
  New York, NY 10002

  (212) 505-3700

  Doughnut Plant is making doughnuts by hand with the highest quality all natural ingredients since 1994. They have a thing called donut seeds which are larger than donut holes but smaller than a regular donut. I ordered a bunch of different ones which were the rose water, Crème brûlée, peanut butter filled, orange glaze, some type of chocolate, and one more doughnut along with a cup of hot chocolate for close to $20. From their website, ‘Known to many as the pioneer of the artisanal doughnut, Doughnut Plant is an independent New York City-based bakery created by Mark Isreal in 1994. From our humble beginnings in Mark’s Lower East Side apartment to our more recent locations, Doughnut Plant handcrafts original and innovative doughnuts built upon Mark’s grandfather’s recipe. We pride ourselves on originality, using the highest quality all-natural ingredients and making everything in-house from scratch — glazes, fillings, jams, and toppings — even our sourdough starter. We are proud to say: We invented the world’s first Crème Brûlée doughnut. We were the first to use seasonal fresh fruit and nuts in doughnut glazes. We created a square-shaped filled doughnut, so you get jam (or cream) with every bite.’ NOTE: They have multiple locations.

• Dual Specialty Store *

  91 1st Avenue
  New York, NY 10003

  (212) 979-6045

  Dual Specialty Store is a mom-and-pop store specializing in a wide variety of bulk Indian spices, herbs, and groceries. From their website, 'Dual Specialty Store offers delicious dining and takeout to New York City. Dual Specialty Store is a cornerstone in the New York community and has been recognized for its outstanding Indian cuisine, excellent service, and friendly staff. Our Indian restaurant is known for its modern interpretation of classic dishes and its insistence on only using high quality fresh ingredients.'

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Pro Home Cooks (YouTube)

• E.A.T. *

  1064 Madison Ave
  New York, NY 10028

  (212) 772-0022

  From their website, ‘In 1973 Eli went into business on his own opening E.A.T. on Madison Avenue. His original grab-and-go neighborhood café still serves as a showcase for his original ideas, attention to detail, and careful thinking about how to refine a recipe. The ideas generated over 50 years at E.A.T. have become hallmarks of all of Eli’s shops and restaurants. After nearly 50 years, E.A.T. remains a quintessential New York eatery. Beloved for its overstuffed sandwiches on Eli’s bread; the iconic “Tower of Bagel” small batch salads, carefully made several times a day; freshly roasted coffee, and flaky breakfast pastries. Expect a polyglot mix of locals and tourists enjoying their E.A.T. favorites, whether it’s matzo ball soup or a caviar omelet.’

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Here Be Barr (YouTube)

• East Village Meat Market *

  139 2nd Ave
  #1
  New York, NY 10003

  (212) 228-5590

  East Village Meat Market is an enduring neighborhood butcher shop offering premium meat and cold cuts, along with house-smoked kielbasa. Alton Brown recommends the kielbasa. From their website, 'Our store had a humble beginning back in 1970 when Julian Baczynsky opened his little Ukrainian butcher store in the East Village. It was his life-long dream to own a business and have a slice of the American Dream. Our mission from the start has been to bring old-world comfort food to the bustling streets of NYC. We do this by providing fresh cold cuts, premium cuts of meat, succulent smoked hams, and the best Eastern European products in the city. Our specialty is our smoked sausage (kielbasa), which is prepared fresh every day and then smoked in our kitchen. We have a passion for serving food and serving the community. Our store is cut from a different cloth; we put our heart and soul into our work. This passion stems from Mr. Baczynsky’s story of hard work, perseverance, and love.'

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Alton Brown

• Eataly

  200 5th Avenue
  New York, NY 10010

  (212) 229-2560

  Eataly loves high-quality food and drink. They love the stories about it, the people who produce it, and the places it comes from. I ate at the fish restaurant within Eataly but could have eaten at any one of the other places too. They also have a beer garden/bar on the top floor that I saw had upscale bar food when I stopped up to look around. It was a beautiful day outside, so it was packed. NOTE: They have multiple locations.

• Egg Shop *

  151 Elizabeth St
  New York, NY 10012

  (646) 666-0810

  Egg Shop is a sunny little cafe focusing on everything egg, including creative sandwiches, fancy Benedicts, and more. From their website, 'With a shared love for the universally coveted egg sandwich, husband/wife team Sarah Schneider and Demetri Makoulis alongside chef Nick Korbee opened the first Egg Shop outpost in 2014, in the Soho neighborhood of New York City. Inspired by the incredible versatility of the egg, the team went on to develop infinite egg-centric dishes that are both familiar and nuanced. Today, Korbee executes a seasonal menu of organic, locally sourced dishes for breakfast, lunch and dinner at both their cozy SoHo location and a more spacious outpost in Williamsburg, Brooklyn (opened in 2017) – paired with fresh juices, creative & refreshing cocktails, and a selection of organic and biodynamic wines.'

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Doug March

• EJ's Luncheonette *

  1271 3rd Ave
  New York, NY 10021

  (212) 472-0600

  EJ's Luncheonette serves pancakes, omelets, along with burgers, shakes, and salads, with lines for weekend brunch. From their website, 'EJ’s is known to have the best breakfast on the upper east side of New York. Crowds have been flocking to EJ’s Luncheonette since 1990 when EJ’s opened its first location on Amsterdam Avenue. Recognized since the nineties as New York City’s best brunch spot, EJ’s has grown to be a New York City Upper East Side Landmark that is visited by both locals and tourists from all over the world.' NOTE: Cash only.

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Austin Kleon

• El Castillo de Jagua *

  113 Rivington St
  New York, NY 10002

  (212) 982-6412

  El Castillo de Jagua is a Dominican-Caribbean diner serving breakfasts and sandwiches plus entree plates and shakes. From their website, ‘Our mission is to transport our guests to the island of hospitality and share the culinary richness of the Dominican Republic. We take pride in offering authentic dishes prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients. We are committed to providing friendly and welcoming service in a vibrant and energetic atmosphere. We strive to exceed our customers’ expectations on every visit by offering an authentic and memorable experience of Dominican cuisine and culture. Our restaurant is a place where the joy of life, food, and friendship is celebrated.’ NOTE: They have more than one location.

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Parts Unknown.

• Emilio's Ballato *

  55 E Houston St
  New York, NY 10012

  (212) 274-8881

  Emilio's Ballato is an old-school waiter's set the tone at this longtime Italian restaurant and celebrity hangout. You need to order the spaghetti and meatballs. From the Eater New York City website, ‘From the doorbell where you’re greeted, to the interior sign allegedly painted by Andy Warhol, to the front right table where Emilio sits feeds friends, to the back room that’s bound to seat someone famous, several nights of the week, from Lenny Kravitz to Denzel Washington: Emilio’s is a scene — and we haven’t even gotten to the food. Start with a glass of house red or white. Make sure you try that focaccia (Emilio started as a baker). Order a plate of red peppers. Consider the tripe. Move on to linguine with white clam sauce. Share a plate of fennel sausage and broccoli rabe. The veal Milanese is pretty great, too.’

  Looking forward to eating here.

• Empellon Taqueria *

  230 West 4th Street
  New York, NY 10014

  (212) 367-0999

  Empellon Taqueria is a trendy Mexican hot spot serving up innovative tacos and creative drinks in an upscale setting. Helen Rosner recommends getting their cheeseburger taco. From their website, ‘Empellón Taqueria is located in the heart of the West Village on the corner of West 4th Street and 10th Street. The menu focuses on tacos, guacamole, queso fundido, and seasonal vegetable dishes, all served in a comfy neighborhood setting. Empellón Taqueria’s drink menu features margaritas and cocktails crafted from artisanal Mexican spirits, along with a selection of beer and wine.’ From the New York Magazine website, ‘The first restaurant in pastry chef turned restauranteur Alex Stupak’s empire, which managed to redefine tacos as we know them upon opening in 2011. Diners will find the usual suspects, like lamb barbacoa, chicken, and fish-tempura tacos, but don’t miss out on the restaurant’s more experimental samplings, like Stupak’s pastrami tacos with sauerkraut and mustard-seed salsa or the pricey lobster tacos dusted with epazote, a Mexican tea.’ NOTE: They have multiple locations.

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Helen Rosner, Iron Chef (Netflix), and Michael Rulhman

• Ess-a-Bagel *

  831 Third Ave
  New York, NY 10022

  (212) 980-1010

  Ess-a-Bagel is a bustling cafe serving up bagels (with a very comprehensive toppings selection), and made-to-order sandwiches. Every time I attempted to go there over the Labor Day weekend, there were from 10 to 30+ people outside waiting to get in, which was another 30 or 40 people. From the Eater New York City website, ‘This classic New York bagel shop, which first opened in 1976 near Stuyvesant Town, now has four locations — three in Manhattan and one in Dumbo — all of which still sling big, chewy, crusty bagels. In fact, some blame the original shop for originating the modern-gigantic bagel. It can take a while to pick up an order for sandwiches or a bagel with lox, but people looking to grab bagels and cream cheese can sneak to a separate counter.’

  Looking forward to eating here.

• Faicco's

  260 Bleecker St
  New York, NY 10014

  (212) 243-1974

  Faicco's is an enduring Italian market offering housemade sausages and sauces plus meats, cheeses, oils, and more. You need to order one of their giant sandwiches, and I suggest the Italian Special which has four kinds of meats (Proscuitto, ham, capicola, soppressata), fresh mozzarella, lettuce, tomato, roasted red peppers, salt, pepper, olive oil, red wine vinegar, etc. Or the Chicken Cutlet with Pesto Hero with a fried chicken cutlet, fresh mozzarella, Faicco's homemade pesto along with a chocolate egg cream.

  Closed Monday

  Recommended by Somebody Feed Phil

• Filé Gumbo Bar *

  275 Church St
  New York, NY 10013

  (646) 851-0810

  From their website, ‘Filé Gumbo Bar is inspired by the iconic ingredient used to thicken and flavor our gumbo. File, pronounced fee-lay, means thread or string in French and refers to the dried and ground leaves of the North American sassafras tree. This essential ingredient was introduced to the Cajuns by the Choctaw Indians in the 18th century. The centerpiece of our menu is Tiny’s Gumbo™, inspired by the owner’s grandfather, Aubrey “Tiny” Gaines (who was anything but). Tiny had a larger-than-life presence and believed there was nothing better than shellfish and spice. While Gumbo is our establishment’s signature dish, dining at File is an educational feast of the culinary subtleties of Cajun and Creole food — which are as independent as they are intertwined within a complex and rich culinary history. Filé Gumbo Bar combines slow-cooked and flavor-rich bases with quality proteins, simmered in steam kettles in front of our guests. This approach allows each guest to customize their dish and the Kettle Chefs to interact with patrons in a way that few other restaurants achieve.’

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by CBS's The Dish (YouTube)

• Fong On *

  81 Division St
  New York, NY 10002

  (917) 261-7222

  From their website, ‘Ask any Yeye and Yenyen in Manhattan’s Chinatown where they used to get dou fu fa and rice cakes, and chances are, they would tell you Fong Inn Too. Since 1933, the Eng family has been providing the neighborhood and beyond with Toisanese staples, including tofu, soy milk, noodles, and rice cake. For three generations, Fong Inn Too was the pinnacle of Old Chinatown. However, with an influx of tourism, newer immigrants, and contemporary food trends, the store on Mott Street struggled and, like many of the neighboring traditional businesses, closed its doors in 2017. Like a phoenix rising from the ashes, the youngest grandson of Bing Sun Eng, Paul Eng, opened the doors at nearby 81 Division Street, and Fong On was reborn. With a new and fresh vision, Fong On brings the classics that have become synonymous with the Eng family name to a wider audience spanning generations, neighborhoods, races, and cultures.’ Calvin and Caroline recommend the rice cakes’ savory tofu pudding.

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Closed Monday

  Recommended by Calvin and Caroline (YouTube)

• Franchia Vegan Cafe

  12 Park Ave
  New York, NY 10016

  (212) 213-1001

  Franchia Vegan Cafe is a creative, vegan Asian fusion dishes presented in a serene, tea-house-inspired setting. You need to order the Spicy Kimchi Pancakes and Spicy Vegan ‘Crab’ Cakes which tasted like crab. For your main meal you can't go wrong with the Spicy Vegan ‘Meat Balls’ and Soy ‘Chicken’ in Garlic Sauce with a variety of vegetables. From their website, ‘Franchia Vegan Cafe is a multi-level space with a mix of modern simplicity and traditional Korean decor set off by heavy dark wood grating. The highlight of the space is a spectacular mural ceiling reminiscent of a Korean Palace. It is a beautiful and unique space for a relaxing dining experience. Franchia is proud to be located in the thriving neighborhood of Murray Hill. From its eclectic dining options to its multinational cultural centers, Franchia believes that Murray Hill truly has something for everyone.’

• French Roast *

  2340 Broadway
  #85
  New York, NY 10024

  (212) 799-1533

  From their website, 'French Roast has been fulfilling the appetites and quenching the thirsts of Upper West Side residents at every hour of the day for over 20 years. From the essential French Onion Soup and traditional Croque Monsieur and Madame to the slightly less conventional fare like Moroccan Salad with Eggplant Caviar, the classic Parisian bistro offers a take on French cuisine that compels locals to return and new-comers to stop in.'

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee

• Frenchette *

  241 W Broadway
  New York, NY 10013

  (212) 334-3883

  From the Eater website about Frenchette. 'At this history-repeats-itself moment, when French restaurants have come roaring back into vogue, chef-owners Riad Nasr and Lee Hanson differentiate their Tribeca hit in strategic ways. Nasr and Hanson have spent their careers interpreting Gallic cooking; their resumes include Balthazar and Daniel. Here, the menu actually meanders in and out of the French lexicon. Soupe de Poisson, Provencal-style lamb stew, and cote de boeuf hobnob alongside Spanish tortilla with trout roe (a must-try) and spaghetti with bottarga. The crux, though, is that Nasr and Hanson excel at cooking that lulls you into a bistro state of mind — at once animated and at ease. Also? The front-of-house staff is downright enchanting. While power summits transpire in the dim rear dining room, where prime-time reservations are all but impossible to secure, most of us gather in the sunny, swank front bar hoping for an unreserved seat. Hosts and servers make everyone feel genuinely welcome; they’re happy to grab would-be diners a cocktail or glass of rosé (from Jorge Riera’s impeccable list of natural wines) to ease the wait. The acts of small kindness at Frenchette feel disarmingly radical. Shouldn’t customers always be treated this graciously?'

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Eater's 18 Best New Restaurants in America - 2018

• Fuku

  20 Hudson Yards
  Unit RU# 203A
  New York, NY 10001

  (917) 201-7082

  Fuku (Hudson Yards) is a tiny takeout place beside a few seats and too small standing tables. From their website, 'Fuku is a fried chicken spot by Momofuku. Fuku started with a fried chicken sandwich and has since grown to serve a variety of fried chicken offerings, sides, slushies, and more. Above all, Fuku stands for simple, delicious, and thoughtful food. Guided by many of the same principles that Momofuku was founded on, Fuku is focused on offering guests approachable, tasty food that draws from both Asian and American influences.'

• Gray's Papaya *

  2090 Broadway
  New York, NY 10023

  (212) 799-0243

  Gray's Papaya is a chain of bargain all-night hot dog stands serving tropical juices in a no-frills setting. The thing to order is hot dogs. From the Cozymeal website of Anthony Bourdain’s ten ultimate places to eat in NYC. 'Follow in Tony’s footsteps and order a sauerkraut-topped hot dog and a refreshing papaya drink.' From the New York City Eater website, 'Gray’s Papaya remains a wonderfully affordable and accessible staple in a city where just about everything feels increasingly exorbitant. The “recession special” remains a heck of a deal: two snappy griddled franks — preferably with onions, kraut, and mustard — and a tropical drink for $6.95, including tax. Those seeking a lighter pre-theater snack can order a single dog plus a drink (papaya, coconut, piña colada, banana) for $4.50.'

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Anthony Bourdain

• Great NY Noodletown *

  28 Bowery
  New York, NY 10013

  (212) 349-0923

  Great NY Noodletown serves salt-baked seafood, handmade noodles, soups, and roast meat are served in a spartan setting. From their website, ‘Welcome to Great New York Noodletown! A beloved Chinese restaurant located at the corner of Bayard Street and Bowery in Manhattan Chinatown, where the noodles are long, the dumplings are delicious, and the flavors are authentically Cantonese. Our menu is filled with classic dishes like roast meats over rice, chow fun noodles, shrimp wonton soup, and other delicious options. We also serve seasonal specials, like our famous soft-shelled crabs and roasted suckling pigs. A favorite pit stop for hungry locals, tourists, and world-renowned chefs!

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Chef David Chang’s Netflix series “Ugly Delicious” and Alton Brown.

• Ground Central Coffee Company

  155 East 52nd Street
  New York, NY 10022

  (646) 609-3982

  Ground Central Coffee Company is a loungey joint providing coffee and tea beverages, sandwiches, pastries, and light fare in stylish digs. There is one communal table and high-level stool in the front, but if you want to sit and relax head to the back comfy chairs and the like with some tiny tables. I wonder if all the stacks of records on the wall in the front are what they are playing or it's coming from the receiver above the back counter. From their website, ‘Ground Central is not your typical coffee shop. At GC we energize, inspire & bring people together. We are a community of dreamers, students, artists, book lovers, musicians — all aspiring towards life beyond the mainstream.’ NOTE: They have multiple locations.

• H & H Bagels *

  1551 2nd Ave
  New York, NY 10028

  (212) 734-7441

  H & H Bagels is a landmark joint with a few small tables for classic bagels, spreads, smoked fish, and desserts. From their website, 'H & H Bagels was founded in New York City in 1972. For over 45 years, we have used our original recipe and the same artisanal water bagel method to make our bagels — the same today as our very first day. Our bagels start with the highest quality, all-natural ingredients sourced from around the world. Then they are proofed, kettle-boiled, bathed in cold water, and baked on burlap covered wood boards in our vintage revolving tray ovens. Our traditional process isn’t easy, but it’s what makes our bagels &dlqou;Like No Other Bagel in the World&drqou;.'

  Looking forward to eating here.

• Haandi

  113 Lexington Ave
  New York, NY 10016

  (212) 685-5200

  Haandi is a bare-bones cafeteria serving Indian and Pakistani eats that claim a loyal taxi-driver following. People recommend ordering the goat head. The lamb spicy sauce special was excellent along with the stewed okra, chickpeas, and lentils over rice. From their website, 'Fragrant Indian fare and five-star ratings are the name of the game at Haandi Restaurant in Kips Bay. Delectable dishes for any diet seems to be the motto at Haandi Restaurant. Both the young and the young-at-heart will dig the family-oriented menu and ambiance at this restaurant. Reserve your own room at Haandi Restaurant so that you can create your own private party. No need to put on airs for a trip to Haandi Restaurant — the dress code and ambiance at this restaurant are totally laid-back. Getting your food to go is also an option. Catering is also available if you'd like to serve Haandi Restaurant's tasty dishes at your next party.

• The Halal Guys

  1300-1318 Avenue of the Americas
  Manhattan, NY 10019

  (347) 527-1505

  Once you have had a taste, you will understand why New Yorkers and tourists alike have stood in the city’s longest food cart line (sometimes for hours) to get a hot, steaming platter of chicken or lamb gyro over rice, covered in The Halal Guys famous, proprietary White Sauce. You can't go wrong with the chicken or the lamb over rice with their white sauce. I went with the lamb because I don't get a chance all the time to order lamb. There was enough food for two full meals. NOTE: They have multiple locations.

• Han Dynasty *

  90 3rd Ave
  New York, NY 10003

  (212) 390-8685

  Han Dynasty serves Sichuan fare ranging from mild to fiery in a straightforward setup. From the New York City website, 'This Philly import serves up spicy and numbing Sichuan fare that’s especially affordable for a group. The round table in the back seats eight to 12 people for set tasting menus starting at just $25 per person, and the offerings make up a veritable feast that can be accommodated for a variety of restrictions, including spice level. Don’t skip the dan dan noodles and chicken wings.' NOTE: They have multiple locations.

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Sohla El-Waylly

• Happy Veggie *

  76 Mott St
  New York, NY 10013

  (646) 838-5118

  From their website, ‘My family have been vegetarian for a decade! We wanted to share our culture through our food but remaking them all vegetarian. Vegetarian food doesn’t have to be difficult! We’re here to make it easy for you. Every plate achieves that elusive, cuisine-defining balance of sweet, salty, and sour – dessert. All made in the kitchen by our amazing team of chefs with a combination of 40 years of experience. We aim to use the freshest of all ingredients that we use. We won’t compromise the quality on anything! Our food is from many different Asian cultures. However, it’s fused with other cultures as well.’ Calvin and Caroline recommend the vegan chicken fried wanton and the spinach dumplings.’

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Closed Wednesday

  Recommended by Calvin and Caroline (YouTube)

• Harlem Seafood Soul *

  125th Street and Adam Clayton Powell Jr Blvd
  New York, NY 10027

  (646) 533-8518

  From their website, ‘Harlem Seafood Soul was launched by Chef Tami in late Spring of 2016. Located in front of the Harlem State Office Building on Adam Clayton Powell Blvd and West 125th Street directly in front of the statue. Based in Harlem, New York, ​Harlem Seafood Soul’s eco-friendly mobile kitchen has been turning heads and delighting the taste buds of New Yorkers and many visitors from around the world since April 2016. Over the past 6 years, Harlem Seafood Soul has developed a steadily growing and loyal following. Well known for its delicious menu items and Chef Tami‘s charismatic charm, this mobile kitchen is like no other!’ Street Food USA recommends ordering the shrimp and grits, fried whiting, and Mac and cheese bites.

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Street Food USA (Netflix)

• Harlem Shake *

  100 W 124th St
  New York, NY 10027

  (212) 222-8300

  Harlem Shake is a casual spot for burgers, shakes, and more in a modern, diner-like setting with retro Harlem photos. Their old-school interior reflects Harlem’s culture and community. The 'Wall of Fame' is crowded with over 200 autographed headshots of celebrities. From their website, 'With a hint of nostalgia and a clear vision for the future, Harlem Shake is proud to serve as your go-to community hangout for retro-style, food-filled fun… with a huge side of peace, love, and respect. Here at Harlem Shake, your favorite memories of our vibrant, uniquely historical corner of NYC are re-created and preserved with the help of crave-worthy Burgers and Shakes, crafted using only high-quality ingredients.'

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by J. Kenji Lopez-Alt

• Hector’s Cafe and Diner

  44 Little W 12th St
  New York, NY 10014

  (212) 206-7592

  Hector’s Cafe and Diner is an old school diner in the Meat Packing District that is open most days 24 hours a day but closed on Sunday. You know you've found a decent place when you walk in, and there are six to eight New York police officers finishing up breakfast. It's also located under the start of the High Line walking trail which starts a block away. From the Eater New York City website, ‘Opened in 1949, Hector’s is one of the last remaining vestiges of the Meatpacking District, a place where meat cutters and haulers would hang out after deliveries or before work at 4 a.m. or 5 a.m. It is in many ways a conventional diner, though the menu is built out with Latin Caribbean and Mexican dishes — and for a diner, the food is above average. It’s a fun and inexpensive place to eat after a walk on the High Line overhead or a visit to the nearby Whitney Museum.’

  Closed Sunday and open 24-hours Wednesday through Saturday

• Heidelberg Restaurant *

  1648 2nd Ave
  10013, NY 10028

  (212) 628-2332

  This circa-1936 Yorkville eatery boasts rib-sticking German grub & plenty of beer to wash it down. From their website, ‘The Heidelberg is one of the oldest family-run German restaurants in the United States, dating back over one hundred years to a time when Yorkville was a bustling German neighborhood. Back then, customers left happy and returned frequently, just like they still do. Today, Heidelberg retains the same recipes and atmosphere as it had in the past. The bar and interior remain frozen in time, capturing the magic of the golden age of Germantown, and the menu offers treasured old-world favorites along with savory new dishes. On any given day for lunch or dinner, couples, old-timers, and newcomers can be found enjoying the unparalleled cuisine and joyful atmosphere, where customers come as strangers and leave as friends.’

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Anthony Bourdain

• Hop Kee Restaurant *

  21 Mott St
  10013, NY 10013

  (212) 964-8365

  From the New York Eater website, ‘Plunge into the oldest part of Chinatown on lower Mott Street to discover Hop Kee, an old guard Cantonese place that showcases the historic Chinese-American menu in a big way. That means chow mein, chop suey, wonton and egg drop soups, fried rice, and egg rolls that paradoxically contain no egg but are delicious nonetheless. Restaurant is downstairs, which may explain its longevity.’

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Anthony Bourdain

• The Hot Dog King *

  5th Ave and E 82nd St,
  New York, NY 10028

  (917) 524-9330

  From the Hot Dog King website, ‘Dan Rossi is The New York Hot Dog King. He has been building pushcarts for the last 40+ years and has been selling hot dogs in front of The Met for the last 16 years. Dan is a disabled veteran: he served two tours in The Vietnam War as a United States Marine. Dan prides himself on the cleanliness of his cart and the quality food that he provides to his customers.’ From the New York City Eater website, ‘While you might not have tried this one, you must know of it or have walked by it. You’ll recognize The Hot Dog King by its red and white umbrellas, but mostly, you’ll recognize it by the fact that it’s right by the steps of the famous Metropolitan Museum of Art. Chances are you’ll also spot it by the line in front. While the classic American hot dogs served up by Dan Rossi are definitely good, you’ll want to stop by The Hot Dog King for Dan himself.’

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Street Food USA (Netflix)

• The Hugh *

  157 E 53rd St
  New York, NY 10022

  From their website, ‘culinary collective featuring 15 restaurants, including a wine bar and a craft beer taproom, enriched with a collection of art, murals, and greenery. The Hugh is a hub for exploration, where each visit will bring a new opportunity to experience the diversity of New York’s culinary and cultural community.’ From the Los Angeles Eater website, ‘One of Midtown’s newest food halls, the Hugh, boasts over 15 vendors. For some establishments, it’s the debut of their second location in the city, including Mah Ze Dahr, which sells some of the city’s best pastries; Kazunori, for sushi hand rolls; and Teranga, with West African lunch bowls.’

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Closed Saturday and Sunday

• Ichiran *

  132 W 31st St
  New York, NY 10001

  (212) 465-0701

  From their website, ‘Ichiran’s story began in Hakata, the epicenter of the tonkotsu ramen movement. We are on a mission to provide our guests with the best tonkotsu ramen, using only the finest ingredients and the most advanced techniques developed by our master artisans. Ichiran created the “Five Originals,” five revolutionary elements of tonkotsu ramen. 1. Original Spicy Red Sauce, 2. Aromatic Tonkotsu Broth, 3. Solo Dining Booth, 4. Order Form, and 5. Kae-Dama ordering system.’

  Looking forward to eating here.

• Ippudo Ramen

  65 4th Avenue
  New York, NY 10003

  (212) 388-0088

  Ippudo East Village is the first international to introduce the World to authentic Hakata tonkotsu pork soup. The best way to go is with two people and be willing to sit at the bar and watch the staff prepare the food in the process. If you go with two people, you should order the pork belly steamed buns and their sticky sweat and hot pork ribs along with whatever Ramen suits your fancy. From their website, ‘Ramen’s boundaries are limitless. With thousands of possible flavors and varieties, ramen is unique in that each dish is born from a chef’s individual and free, unconstrained idea and concept. Known as the Japanese “soul food,” a bowl of ramen contains that special something—the trifecta of soup, noodles, and toppings—that brings forth the cosmos and transcends all culinary ethnicities and nationalities. The basic ramen broth is derived from the essence of pork, chicken, beef, or seafood and is seasoned with soy sauce, salt, miso, and other various ingredients, depending on the chef’s personal preference. The noodles are made with flour, eggs, kansui (an alkaline water that provides a chewy texture), among other ingredients, and can vary greatly in thickness, length, form, and texture. Toppings such as chashu (simmered pork) and tamago (flavored boiled egg) are also commonly used, as well as a number of vegetables like sweet corn, bean sprouts, or dried seaweed.’ NOTE: They have multiple locations.

• Ivan Ramen *

  25 Clinton St
  New York, NY 10002

  (646) 678-3859

  Ivan Ramen serves creative homemade noodle soups and izakaya-style small plates served in a colorful space with a patio. From the Eater New York City website, ‘A big bowl of Ivan Ramen’s famous chicken paitan ramen might surprise: It comes with a vibrant yellow raw heritage egg yolk. Mix that in, squeeze in some drops of lime, and turn the broth into a golden eggy, chicken-y broth cut by fresh citrus. Scoop up perfect tangles of firm, thin noodles tangled with peppery ground chicken and crunchy bits of salty fried skin.’

  Looking forward to eating here.

• Jerrell's BETR BRGR - SOHO *

  117 6th Ave
  New York, NY 10013

  (914) 893-5528

  From their website, ‘BETR is not about being perfect but rather, the pursuit of making more mindful choices every day that help to support our community and our world. To all the potential haters out there, we hear you chirpin’. We accept the challenge and ask that you allow us explore this journey into plant-based eating at our own pace because, if we’re honest… We love burgers - like real ones. But we also love this planet and know that we won’t be eating burgers for much longer if things keep going the way they’re going. Turns out that replacing just a few meals a week with plant-based alternatives does worlds for the world… hence the birth of something BETR.’ Calvin and Caroline recommend their vegan burger(s) the BTER BRGR and the SUPR BETR BRGR.

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Calvin and Caroline (YouTube)

• Jin Ramen Upper West Side *

  462 Amsterdam Ave
  New York, NY 10024

  (646) 657-0755

  Jin Ramen Upper West Side serves a variety of Ramens, including vegetarian broths, plus rice bowls, pork buns, beer, and sake. J. Kenji López-Alt recommends the Spicy Tonkotsu or Volcano Shoyu for more heat or the Shoyu Ramen. From the NewYork City Eater website, 'Via chef Shuichi Kotani, this unexpectedly great mainstay offers reasonably priced bowls of ramen with a choice of six broths: shio, shoyu, tonkotsu, spicy tonkotsu, miso, and vegetarian. Novelty bowls incorporate Thai green curry paste and Korean kimchi, along with a choice of thin or thick noodles, firmer than usual. Starters include several salads in addition to the usual fried chicken and edamame.'

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by J. Kenji López-Alt

• John's on 12th Street

  302 E 12th St
  New York, NY 10003

  (212) 475-9531

  John's on 12th Street has classic red-sauce specialties, and vegan versions are served at this vintage-1908 Italian eatery. You need to order the meatballs in some fashion or other or order the fresh Pappardelle pasta and meat ragu. From their website, 'We've been serving traditional gravy and red-sauce Italian food made with the best ingredients since 1908, and we love what we do. And we are proud to offer a full VEGAN menu crafted with care by our chef and brilliant kitchen staff. Rich in history, savory food, a place to enjoy good friends and good times.'

• Johny's Luncheonette

  124 W 25th St
  New York, NY 10001

  (212) 243-6230

  Johny's Luncheonette is an old-school favorite that serves lunch counter classics (including breakfast) all day. They're right this place is small it seats nine at the counter on stools and four to six more at two tiny hightop tables in the back. I ordered the cheese omelette with hash browns, wheat toast, and a side of sausage. From their website, ‘We’ve been serving home-style tasty eats in the heart of New York City’s flower/flatiron district for over 20 years. Stop in and try one of our specialty sandwiches, delicious breakfast options or just order online by clicking the order button for quick take-out and delivery.’

• The Jolly Goat Coffee Bar *

  515 W 47th St
  New York, NY 10036

  The Jolly Goat Coffee Bar is a cozy coffee shop serving espresso and tea along with ice cream and locally sourced baked goods.

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Eric Wright

• Junzi Kitchen *

  2896 Broadway
  New York, NY 10025

  (917) 261-2497

  Fast-casual spot for Chinese chun bing (savory pancakes) and noodles, with a late-night weekend menu. From their website, ‘Chinese food with purpose. At junzi, we are dedicated to making healthy and authentic Chinese food for the many. Explore our seasonal menu of hearty rice bowls, saucy noodles, and tasty salads! Stock up with convenient and wholesome junzi Family Meals. Consider it an open-source menu, a collaboration of our own. We bring the ingredients; your recipes take it home. At junzi, we believe in the Chinese home cooking adage that eating well means eating with the seasons. That’s why you’ll find seasonal ingredients in our vegetable-forward menu all year round.’ From the New York City Eater website, ‘junzi serves the same northern Chinese bing wraps, noodle bowls, and salads, as well as a few sweets made with seasonal ingredients. The wraps, made of thin flour-pressed dough, have a build-your-own option with a selection of braised meats, pickled and stir-fried vegetables, sauces, and different spice levels. There are also two types of noodles to choose from wide, wavy, rippled knife noodles (which have a variety of textures and thickness) and thin, chewy spring noodles.’

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Bon Appétit magazine

• Kalustyan's *

  123 Lexington Ave
  New York, NY 10016

  (212) 685-3451

  Kalustyan's is a specialty market known for Indian and Mideastern spices, teas, and other global food items, along with having a cafe. From New York City Eater website, 'At Kalustyan’s, NYC chefs browse spices and stay for lunch. Inside the international food market with more than 10,000 products on offer. Opened in 1944 by K. Kalustyan, an Armenian immigrant, Kalustyan’s is tucked away in chef April Bloomfield’s neighborhood, Murray Hill, which New Yorkers have nicknamed “Curry Hill” because of its Indian influence. Originally the store catered to the Armenian community, but after the migration of Indians to New York in the 1960s, the shop concentrated on importing Indian spices. Today the shop has expanded into neighboring spaces and boasts that it carries more than 10,000 food products from over 80 countries.

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Pro Home Cooks (YouTube)

• Katz’s Delicatessen *

  205 East Houston Street
  New York, NY 10002

  (212) 254-2246

  Katz’s Delicatessen is a no-frills deli with theatrically cranky service serving mile-high sandwiches since 1888. Katz's legendary pastrami sandwich is amazing. They have corned beef and other Jewish deli classics. The portions are generous; the meat is succulent and piled high on rye slathered with mustard. A sandwich will set you back over 20 bucks, but it's huge. From their website, ‘Our corned beef and pastrami is cured using a slower method, which best flavors the meat, without injecting chemicals, water, or other additives to speed the process. Our finished product can take up to a full 30 days to cure, while commercially prepared corned beef is often pressure-injected (or “pumped”) to cure in 36 hours. Yep, you read that right. 30 days vs. 36 hours.’ From the New York City Eater website, ‘Katz’s has stood on the corner of East Houston and Ludlow streets since 1888, and the pastrami alone is a New York icon. The expansive, cafeteria-style dining room is almost always bustling, and diners have to know how to navigate the system. Get in line, remember to tip the slicer (they might give you an extra piece to snack on), and no matter what, don’t lose that ticket.’

  Looking forward to eating here.

• Keens Steakhouse *

  72 W 36th St
  New York, NY 10018

  (212) 947-3636

  Keens Steakhouse serves enormous steaks, and signature mutton chops served in a maze of clubby, wood-paneled rooms. From the New York City Eater website, 'Keens Steakhouse is known as the last bastion of the mutton chop, a dish that has fallen entirely out of favor in the rest of the city's chophouses. According to executive chef William Rodgers, who has helmed the kitchen at Keen's for the last decade, it continues to be amongst the most popular menu items. However, the mutton chop served today is not your father's mutton chop. It might not even be mutton at all, but lamb. This Midtown steakhouse that opened in 1885 used to be home to a famous theatre and literary group, and after that, a pipe club. Dozens of pipes still line the restaurant, giving it a warm, unique vibe, not like any other restaurant in the city. The signature order here is the mutton chop. The restaurant also sells a smaller portion as a $29 as special. This classic midtown steakhouse has a fireplace in the pub room adjacent to the bar, where diners can choose between the regular menu and a more casual pub menu available throughout the dining room. Though you can ask for a reservation near the fireplace, it’s not guaranteed.’

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by David Chang's Netflix show Ugly Delicious and Anthony Bourdain

• Kettl Tea *

  348 Bowery
  The Bowery Market
  New York, NY 10012

  (646) 590-0479

  From their website, 'What makes Kettl unique? All of our teas are sourced directly from growers and producers who we know - and visit several times a year. They are more than suppliers - they are our teachers, our partners, and our friends. How is Kettl Tea so fresh? All of our teas are purchased weekly from the growers and shipped to our Fukuoka, Japan-based packaging facility, where they are repacked into our own date-stamped oxygen-free packaging, cold-stored until dispatch, and then air-shipped to our customers directly from Japan. Buying direct and fulfilling from origin allows us to keep our prices lower - supplying pinnacle-grade tea at reasonable prices direct to our customers. Our company is built on transparency, honesty, and an obsession with quality.' From the New York City Eater website, 'From leaves to matcha stone grinder, Kettl brings the rarest of Japanese teas to a spacious and sunny Greenpoint shop. After a stint at Ito En, owner Zach Mangan cultivated years-long relationships with rural farmers to develop a menu that includes about 30 sencha and matcha varietals as well as ten kinds of labor-intensive gyokuro (sheets are manually hung and adjusted to maximize sweetness), two pan-fried kamairichas sans bitterness, and a Yumewakaba black tea that releases a floral scent and sweet flavor. Each tea here is served in a pot or as part of a must-try tea tasting.'

  Looking forward to eating here.

• King Restaurant

  18 King St
  New York, NY 10014

  (917) 825-1618

  King Restaurant is a snug, bright restaurant featuring a seasonal Southern Italian menu and unique cocktails. The owners spend there morning figuring out the menu for the day from what they got or could get that day. The menu changes daily depending on what fresh ingredients they get each day. When we were there, we ordered the following: Carta di musica with chili, butter, and anchovy, an heirloom tomato salad with basil, Spanish olive oil, and fresh Burrata Buffalo Mozzarella (fresh mozzarella with soft string cheese and a milky consistency in the middle), the Lombatello chargrilled with polenta and greens. From their website, ‘King is relaxed, simple and elegant. From the dining room’s muted tones and white tablecloths to the ever-changing offerings steeped in traditional flavor pairings and techniques — it is both a neighborhood restaurant as well as a celebratory destination. Our menu changes daily, featuring seasonal, simple food with influences from Southern France and Italy.’

  Recommended by New York Times

• Kobrick Coffee Co.

  24 9th Ave
  New York, NY 10014

  (212) 255-5588

  Kobrick Coffee Co. has a relaxed atmosphere and is a tiny vintage-style spot with a patio for choice coffee, gourmet light bites, and craft cocktails. From their website, ‘Embracing our legacy, we roast, blend and create with a never-ending passion for exploration. Step inside the roasting plant and experience the incredible smell of fresh roasted coffee, the peaceful vibe while sitting down to a coffee cupping, the passion and attention to detail that has passed on from generation to generation. We continue to flow, creating blends, espresso, and single-origin roasts while focused on service and sustainability with a passionate enthusiasm that can be tasted in a sip. Every morning we wake to keep the tradition of craft-style roasting alive so that every night as the big city lights go on and excitement begins to stir in the city that never sleeps, we hope to carry that feeling wherever one may be sipping on a delicious cup of Kobrick Coffee Co..’

• Kopitiam *

  151 E Broadway
  New York, NY 10002

  (646) 609-3785

  Kopitiam is a small counter spot for sweet and savory Malaysian dishes, plus breakfast items, coffees, and teas. From the Kopitiam website, 'Located in the Lower East Side of New York City, Kopitiam is a fast-casual eatery home to Nyonya cuisine. At Kopitiam, the coffee shop in Hokkien, we serve as a daily gathering space introducing visitors to Nyonya cuisine, primarily a hybrid of Chinese and Malay flavors drawing ingredients and techniques from both cultures along with sprinkles of influences from the Portuguese, Dutch, and the British. The goal of chef/co-owner and James Beard Semifinalist Kyo Pang, a third-generation Nyonya, and co-owner/operator, restauranteur Moonlynn Tsai is to continually carry forward Pang’s family's recipes in New York City and preserve the fading tradition in cooking dishes the way her ancestors did.'

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Closed Wednesday

  Recommended by Bon Appetit

• Kossar's Bagels and Bialys *

  367 Grand St
  New York, NY 10002

  (212) 473-4810

  Kossar's Bagels and Bialys is a refurbished institution (since 1936) preparing kosher bialys, bagels, sandwiches, and babka. From their website, 'At Kossar’s, we have been baking our legendary bialys since 1936. In the late 19th and early 20th century, thousands of Jewish immigrants arrived from Poland and settled on the Lower East Side of New York City. Like most ethnic groups, they brought with them their local traditions and foods from their homeland. The Jews from Bialystok, Poland, brought their local bread, called (not surprisingly) a “bialy” that they ate with every meal. The word “bialy” is actually a shortened version of “Bialystoker Kuchen” which in Yiddish means “little bread from Bialystok.”'

  Looking forward to eating here.

• Kunjip *

  32W 32nd Street
  New York, NY 10001

  (212) 564-8238

  Kunjip is a bustling, 24 hours a day 7 days a week staple doling out seafood pancakes, bibimbop and other Korean items in a basic setting. From their website, ‘Traditionally, the ‘Kunjip’ (or ‘big house’ in English) is where Koreans visit for family celebrations and special feasts. Kunjip Grill, one of the oldest Korean BBQ restaurant in New York City’s Koreatown, offers that same celebratory experience every time you enter our doors! As a family-run business, we put our heart and soul into offering diners an authentic, delicious Korean BBQ experience. Our menu features something for everyone, with a diverse mix of flavors and traditional Korean favorites. We believe that using the freshest ingredients—many of which are grown right on our own family farm—is what turns any meal at Kunjip Grill into a special celebration! And what’s a special celebration without a toast to good times and great food? We offer an extensive selection of beer, soju, and traditional Korean wine and sake to accompany your meal.’

  Looking forward to eating here.

  24 hours

• Le Bernardin *

  155 W 51st St
  New York, NY 10019

  (212) 554-1515

  Elite French restaurant offers chef Eric Ripert’s refined seafood, expert service, and luxurious decor. From the New York City Eater website, ‘Eric Ripert’s three-Michelin-starred temple to French seafood remains one of the top places to dine in New York, which makes Le Bernardin a tough reservation. But the bar and lounge, where the full menu is served, is open to walk-ins. The four-course menu is $195, while the chef’s tasting runs $295. A vegetarian menu is $230, while lunch is $120. Real cost: Over $300 per person after wine, tax, and tip. In an era of exorbitant sushi, Maguy Le Coze and Eric Ripert’s gilded temple to fancy French fish remains one of the city’s more fairly priced haute seafood joints — but it will still cost more than in years past. During the time of my last review in late 2019, Le Bernardin asked $168 for its four-course menu, $198 for a seven-course tasting, and $228 for an eight-course menu, with a three-course lunch running $93. Now, following a series of small increases over the past two years — sometimes as little as $5 at a time — the shortest menu is $195, while the tasting is $295. Lunch is $120. The seven-course tasting is no longer offered.’

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Closed Sunday

  Recommended by Anthony Bourdain

• La Newyorkina *

  240 Sullivan St
  New York, NY 10012

  (646) 861-0727

  La Newyorkina is a place for handmade Mexican ice cream, paletas (ice pops), chamoyadas, and other treats. From their website, 'Everything we make is handmade from scratch in small batches, using the best ingredients we can get our hands-on. We never use artificial flavorings or colorings. We carefully source our ingredients, working closely with farmers in New York and the surrounding area to get delicious organic dairy, seasonal fruits, and herbs. We import high-quality ingredients that don’t grow around New York, including Mexican vanilla beans, Oaxacan chocolate, tamarind, dried chiles, passion fruit, and hibiscus. We spend a lot of time making sure we get the best ingredients available and working with small producers in Mexico, as we believe it is very important to support them. From the beginning, we have been committed to social and environmental responsibility. We continuously strive to become a waste-free company. We compost our scraps, use recycled containers and napkins, and source much of our packaging locally.'

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Closed Sunday

  Recommended by David Chang's Netflix show Ugly Delicious

• Left Bank *

  117 Perry St
  New York, NY 10014

  (212) 727-1170

  At Left Bank, ingredients from farmer's markets appear in refined New American preparations at this airy eatery. From their website, 'Left Bank’s passion and purpose is the simple act of tending to a neighborhood. By all accounts, we could have seen this coming. We never aspired to break the culinary sound barrier, and the design of the place has been slowly materializing into understated metropolitan. Why we showed up at all was to cook homemade pappardelle with a long braised meat sauce and to roast chickens to the ultimate salted crispness. We showed up to pour the wine and serve the soup, to stir vermouth and rye. We built a dining room, and a bar, and a kitchen that people would want to return to after any type of day. We built something simple, comfortable, and natural. We showed up to make regulars out of people, by doing it right, with consistency, and mostly, by being ourselves.'

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Micheal Rulhman

• Levain Bakery *

  167 W 74th St
  New York, NY 10023

  (212) 874-6080

  Levain Bakery is a cozy neighborhood bakery where locals are greeted by name. A steady stream of loyal regulars stand side by side with tourists, eager to sample the legendary baked goods. From their website, ‘The story behind the cookie that became a New York institution. Baking hobbyists Pam Weekes and Connie McDonald started Levain to sell fresh-baked breads. In 1995, they whipped up a batch of big chocolate chip walnut cookies, and their neighborhood shop became so much more. “The cookie” earned a spot in the hearts of locals and visitors alike, taking on a life of its own as a New York City icon. Nearly 30 years later, not much has changed — we’re still baking beloved cookies with simple ingredients and a lot of love.’ NOTE: They have multiple locations.

  Looking forward to eating here.

• Liberty Bagels - Midtown *

  260 W 35th St
  New York, NY 10001

  (212) 279-1124

  From their website, ‘Liberty Bagels is home to the best bagels in New York. Our old-fashioned, hand-rolled, and kettle-boiled bagels are a NY staple and are a stop you cannot skip during a trip to NYC. Home of the “Rainbow Bagel” and Home of the “Liberty Bagel “. Liberty Bagels is a beloved bagel shop located in the heart of New York City. With a commitment to quality, it has become a go-to destination for bagel enthusiasts and locals alike. Liberty Bagels quickly gained a reputation for its authentic old-fashioned hand-rolled kettled boiled New York-style bagels made on premises. The shop’s dedication to using high-quality ingredients and traditional techniques sets them apart from the competition. What sets Liberty Bagels apart is their diverse selection of bagel flavors and toppings. From classic plain and everything bagels to unique creations like cheddar jalapeno everything bagel and rainbow bagel, there is a bagel to suit every palate. Their extensive spread of cream cheese flavors, including tofu and a variety of sandwich options, further enhance the bagel experience. NOTE: They have multiple locations.

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Here's Good (YouTube)

• Little Collins *

  667 Lexington Ave
  New York, NY 10022

  (212) 308-1969

  Little Collins is a counter-serve cafe prepping coffee, espresso, and Australian breakfast and lunch fare in a sleek environment. From their website, 'Every aspect of the café has been designed with the customer experience in mind. From the chic, industrial interior to the delicious, no-nonsense menu to the music that fills the space, Little Collins hits all the senses and makes people feel transported and completely at home, all at once.'

  Looking forward to eating here.

• Los Mariscos *

  409 W 15th St
  Chelsea Market
  New York, NY 10011

  Los Mariscos is a casual, bustling counter-serve offering Mexican seafood, a raw bar, beer, and cocktails. Sohla El-Waylly recommends getting a round of ceviche and fish tacos when you are there. From their website, 'Los Mariscos was created after three close friends from Tijuana, Mexico, and Brawley, California, decided to bring the authentic Mexican taco to the east coast. The authentic taste comes from family recipes and fresh, simple, and tasteful ingredients straight from home. In every taco from LOS Mariscos, there is a bit of true Mexican culture and flavor.'

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Sohla El-Waylly (YouTube)

• Los Tacos No.1

  75 9th Ave
  Chelsea Market
  New York, NY 10011

  (212) 256-0343

  Los Tacos No.1 is a bustling taqueria serving tacos, quesadillas, and Aguas Frescas in a street-style set-up (no seating). They had a long line every time I walked by, and the tacos looked great. From their website, ‘Los Tacos No.1 was created after three close friends from Tijuana, Mexico, and Brawley, California, decided to bring the authentic Mexican taco to the east coast. The authentic taste comes from family recipes and from fresh, simple, and tasteful ingredients straight from home. In every taco from Los Tacos No. 1, there is a bit of true Mexican culture and flavor.’ NOTE: They have multiple locations.

• Lysée *

  44 E 21st St
  New York, NY 10010

  Choice Korean- and French-inspired dessert shop serving viennoiserie, patisserie, and gâteaux de voyage. The shop shows the pastries like a museum, which you go to gift shop to buy them. Eater NYC recommends the corn pastry, chocolate cake, and croissant muffin. From their website, ‘LYSÉE (lee-zay) is a new pastry boutique by chef Eunji Lee in the Flatiron District. Inspired by her love of pastry as edible art, Lysée is named for Chef Lee’s sweet museum, derived from the French word Musée. Lysée’s menu, like Chef Lee, is influenced by three cultures - French, Korean, and New York City. The logo is inspired from Giwa, Korean traditional roof tiles – it always looks beautiful to me, but also it makes me think of a dessert. I wanted to reinterpret this idea in a modern way in New York, with the slices of cake making one shape reminiscent of the diversity of NYC as well. Throughout the dessert gallery, there is a harmony of traditional Korean culture and modern NYC design using vintage wooden beams from Korea, nacre (‘Jagae’) Korean material to blend both cultures in a landmark area of the city.’

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Closed Monday and Tuesday

• Madame Vo *

  212 E 10th St
  New York, NY 10003

  (917) 261-2115

  Madame Vo is a narrow, casual spot for long-simmered pho, rice and noodle dishes, along with veggie options. From the New York City Eater website, ‘When Madame Vo popped up in 2017, it paid homage to homestyle Vietnamese dishes. Diners would pass a Vietnamese cyclo (pedicab) from the front window, and the menu seemed more devoted to Saigon than the currently faddish Hanoi-style dishes that keep appearing on menus. That meant pho in several permutations, with heaping plates of herbs and sprouts, as well as fish sauce-glazed chicken, salted crab, and a particularly lush rendition of Vietnamese fried rice.’

  Looking forward to eating here.

• Magnolia Bakery

  401 Bleecker St
  New York, NY 10014

  (212) 462-2572

  Magnolia Bakery is a chain of bakeries founded in New York City. The first location opened in 1996 at 401 Bleecker Street, on the corner of West 11th Street in the West Village neighborhood of Manhattan. The bakery is known for its desserts, especially its cupcakes. While I there I ordered the chocolate cupcake with a delicious chocolate buttermilk frosting and next time I'm going to try one of their cheesecakes or puddings. From their website, ‘The story of the world’s most famous bakery begins in 1996 on a quaint, cobblestone corner in the West Village where Magnolia Bakery opened its doors for the first time. The sweet smell of cakes and cookies and pies and pudding tumbled out, wafting down the streets, beckoning all in. Our red velvet cupcakes became iconic, and people lined up around the block for our banana pudding. There was even talk of New York pretzel guys becoming cupcake guys. Magnolia Bakery was a destination for locals and tourists alike.’ NOTE: They have multiple locations.

• Mala Project *

  122 1st Avenue
  New York, NY 10009

  (212) 353-8880

  Mala Project is a cozy, hip spot featuring Chinese dry pot with a choice of spice level, along with appetizers and dim sum. From their website, 'MáLà Project is a Michelin Bib Gourmand Recommended Chinese restaurant. The mission is to bring unaltered, most original Chinese dishes to New York in a 90s China inspired ambiance, and provide an outstanding overall dining experience. MáLà Project wants to be the fun Chinese restaurant that can be enjoyed by everyone. Our specialty, MáLà Dry Pot, has been a merry ritual and festive dish enjoyed by millions of Chinese. It’s a communal dish that features a collection of ingredients of guests’ choice, wok-fried over high heat along with twenty-four spices and Chinese medicines, elevated with an abundance of chili pepper, results in a complex and exciting flavor profile. Offered in four spicy levels from non-spicy to super-spicy, the dish is comforting, customizable, loved by everyone. Along with Dry Pot, a variety of satisfying Chinese home-cooking dishes are offered to solve nostalgia for the homesick, as well as to create an authentic experience for diners with and without Chinese roots.'

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Andy from Bon Appetit (YouTube)

• Mama's TOO! *

  2750 Broadway
  New York, NY 10025

  (212) 510-7256

  Mama's TOO! is serving unique pizza that highlights the simple and finest ingredients with artisanal toppings. The pizza on their menu is delicately made, starting with housemade dough that is fermented to ensure an airy yet crispy texture. They also serve handmade pasta's, salads, and panini featuring their housemade bread. From the New York City Eater website, ‘Mama’s Too! caused a sensation when it opened on Broadway on the far-north Upper West Side in late 2017, even attracting the attention of New York Times critic Pete Wells. In an impossibly small space, the luscious square slices are on full display, each of them thicker, greasier, and more lushly topped than the one before. The crusts are crunchy, too, and the tomato sauce is slightly sweet. Note the stylish cupping pepperoni.’

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by J. Kenji López-Alt

• Mamoun's Falafel - Greenwich Village *

  119 MacDougal St
  New York, NY 10012

  Mamoun's Falafel - Greenwich Village is a longtime local Middle Eastern chain serving falafel, shawarma, kebabs, and more in a traditional space. From their website, 'Situated in the heart of Greenwich Village in New York City, Mamoun’s Falafel has been serving high quality, authentic Middle Eastern food since 1971. It is the oldest falafel restaurant in New York and one of the first Middle Eastern establishments in the United States. Family-owned and operated since its inception, Mamoun’s is now part of the history and culture of the Village. Our tradition extends to serving the likes of many famous musicians, actors, and other celebrities. For over 50 years, our philosophy has been simple: To serve fresh, authentic Middle Eastern cuisine in a fast-casual environment. Everything we serve is made from scratch using only the freshest natural ingredients, the finest imported spices, and our signature recipes.' NOTE: They have multiple locations.

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Alton Brown

• Mary's Fish Camp *

  64 Charles St
  #2626
  New York, NY 10014

  (646) 486-2185

  Mary's Fish Camp is a small place serving classic New England fish shack-style grub like lobster rolls. Noticed this place walking around NYC over the Labor Day weekend and they had a nice size crowd sitting both inside and outside. From their website, 'Mary Redding opened Mary’s Fish Camp in January of 2001 to give the West Village a taste of the atmosphere and fresh flavors of her Florida youth. Treating her ingredients with restraint and respect, Mary allows the natural flavors of the seafood to shine. Combining a casual atmosphere with sophisticated food, Mary’s Fish Camp gives you the vacation you need to take, if only for a few hours.'

  Looking forward to eating here.

• McSorley's Old Ale House

  15 E 7th St
  New York, NY 10003

  (212) 473-9148

  McSorley's Old Ale House is an old-time bar with Irish bartenders, two kinds of ale (light or dark) and sawdust on the floor. From their website, ‘From its humble origins as an Irish working man’s saloon — cheese and crackers on the house-beer for pennies to its rediscovery by the mainstream in a 1940’s NEW YORKER magazine profile. McSorley’s is steeped in a cultural cacophony of Americana. Presidents, residents, authors, and thieves — the lot of humanity have sat and shared, all abiding by McSorley’s golden rule, “Be Good or Be Gone.”’

• The Meatball Shop

  84 Stanton Street
  New York, NY 10002

  (212) 982-8895

  The Meatball Shop is a fast casual service restaurant specializing in meatballs with multiple locations in New York City. I couldn't decide what to get and had planned to go somewhere else for a second dinner, so I got their three slider sampler which was the classic beef with tomato sauce, the spicy pork with whatever sauce they recommended, along with another slider that was on special which I think was lamb. From their website, ‘The Meatball Shop is incredibly proud of the dishes we serve and the ingredients we make them with. From day one, we’ve worked to make sure we’re sourcing the best local and all-natural ingredients we’re able to get our hands on. The Meatball Shop serves the best meatballs in the world with a mix-and-match menu utilizing sustainable and natural ingredients whenever possible. Menu highlights include seasonal veggies, market-driven salads, sandwiches, handmade ice cream sandwiches, craft cocktails, and an approachable wine program. Each restaurant’s distinct vibe reflects the vibrancy of its specific neighborhood and offers a fun and supportive environment for its staff, which was Michael and Daniel’s original vision; create an environment where people would want to work.’ NOTE: They have multiple locations.

• Mercado Little Spain

  10 Hudson Yards
  New York, NY 10001

  (646) 495-1242

  Mercado Little Spain is a sprawling Spanish food market from José Andrés and Adrià brothers with restaurants and kiosks. I recommend getting there early for a meal because when I went over the Labor Day long weekend close to 1:00 PM it was hectic. They were having a tomato special while I was there, so I got a half order of tomato bread along with a small gazpacho soup. There were so many choices with long lines that having a few people would allow you to gather more items along with being able to taste more dishes. From their website, 'Mercado Little Spain is a veritable love letter to Spain – featuring the delicious diversity of foods and drinks from all corners of one of the richest culinary countries in the world. Whether you have five minutes or five hours, there is something for every taste – from a quick bite to a lively tapas crawl to a leisurely Spanish dinner.'

• Minetta Tavern *

  113 MacDougal St
  New York, NY 10012

  (212) 475-3850

  Celeb-magnet hot-ticket tavern with upper-end French bistro fare and re-imagined vintage decor. From their website, ‘Minetta Tavern originally opened in 1937. Named after the Minetta Brook — which ran southwest from 23rd Street to the Hudson River — the Tavern was frequented by various layabouts and hangers-on, including Ernest Hemingway, Ezra Pound, Eugene O’Neill, E. E. Cummings, Dylan Thomas, and Joe Gould, as well as by various writers, poets, and pugilists. Since its renovation, Minetta Tavern has best been described as a “Parisian steakhouse meets classic New York City tavern.” We hope — and believe — that’s a somewhat accurate description of the place.’ From the New York City Eater website, ‘The prized black-label burger is a whopping $38, but your date (and this burger with caramelized onions) are worth it. This old-school haunt, from restaurateur Keith McNally, is one of the more consistently romantic spots. Minetta Tavern’s luxurious Black Label burger — one of the most-hyped burgers in the city — is available for pickup and delivery from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Sunday to Thursday and until 10:00 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.’

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Anthony Bourdain

• Miznon *

  435 W 15th St
  New York, NY 10011

  (646) 490-5871

  Chelsea Market is a branch of a global chain for Mediterranean stuffed pitas with a local twist. The Burger Show recommends you order their burger. From their website, ‘In 2011, the first Miznon opened in Tel Aviv and has since expanded to Paris, Vienna, Melbourne, Singapore, Boston, Las Vegas, London and in 2018, the first US Miznon opened in Chelsea Market, NYC. We use fresh and seasonally inspired ingredients to create a new kind of Mediterranean street food. Our vision is to take the flavor of each city and translate it into pita. We take the energy, the groove, the desires, the limitations, the beauty, and the food and express it all in one pita.’ From the New York City Eater website, ‘The latest branch of this Israeli chain is found at the Hugh, a food court in Midtown East. On a menu with lamb kebabs and ratatouille, there’s also an unexpectedly good burger. It features a skinny beef patty that’s seared into oblivion on one side, folded over white cheddar, slathered with garlic aioli, and garnished with tomato and pickles. It’s served in a fluffy pita.’

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Burger Show (YouTube)

• mokbar

  75 9th Ave
  Chelsea Market
  New York, NY 10011

  (646) 775-1169

  mokbar is a noodle bar known for their Korean ramen, small plates (with vegan options), and infused soju located in the Chelsea Market. I ordered the beef and pork dumplings along with the Ho' Cake which is a crispy bun with heavenly pork belly filling and it's served with kimchi pear puree. From the NewYork City Eater website, ‘With three locations — one in Brooklyn and two in Manhattan — Mokbar offers eight bowls of ramen from a Korean perspective, which means heartier, more jam-packed bowls. A perfect example is army budae, said to have descended from surplus foods from U.S. soldiers. To a kimchi-laden broth, it adds multiple forms of meat, akin to what you might find on a meat-lovers pizza: Spam, pork belly, bacon, and little sausages, finished off with grated cheddar cheese.’ NOTE: They have muliple locations.

• Molly's Cupcakes *

  228 Bleecker St
  New York, NY 10014

  (212) 414-2253

  From their website, ‘Miss Molly: Molly was my third-grade teacher. Whenever one of us had a birthday, she would bake us cupcakes. I still remember how good they were. She had her own special recipe for chocolate and vanilla. Just about everyone who tries them thinks they’re the best cupcakes ever. Our Mission: In honor of Molly and as a way to help our children, a portion of our profits is donated directly to schools in our community. Every time you eat a cupcake or sip a latte, you help our kids. So eat up!’

  Looking forward to eating here.

• Morgenstern’s Finest Ice Cream *

  88 W Houston St
  New York, NY 10012

  (212) 209-7684

  From their website, Morgenstern’s Finest Ice Cream is a new American ice cream parlor, focused on serving texture-driven small-batch ice creams with a renewed attention to flavor and palate. Owner and founder Nicholas Morgenstern develops each recipe specifically for each individual flavor. The integrity of his ingredients are never compromised with additives or processed stabilizing. “Each ice cream is made with the flavor profile in mind first.” With this hands-on approach, Morgenstern’s looks to change the way people eat and think about this nostalgic treat, by giving ice cream lovers an entirely original and contemporary ice cream experience.’ From the New York City Eater website, ‘Morgenstern’s is a destination-worthy ice cream shop, with straight-ahead as well as novel flavors such as chocolate with Sichuan peppercorn, burnt honey vanilla, and durian banana. If you’re interested in burgers and fries beforehand, you won’t be disappointed by those, either. Should you crave something more unusual than scoops, you can take the road less traveled with an ice cream “burger,” a Neapolitan scoop on a burger bun.’

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Phil Rosenthal World (YouTube)

• Morning Star Cafe

  949 2nd Ave
  New York, NY 10022

  (212) 588-1050

  Morning Star Cafe is a 24-hour diner serving a large variety of omelettes, along with a full American menu. While I was there, I order the cheese omelette with rye toast and home fries with a side or pork sausage links that were an inch around. When the bill came, I realized only brought $20 because I had originally planned on bagels. So After-tax and everything I only had enough for a fifty-cent tip. At which point, I explained the manager and the waiter what had happened and would be back in 20 minutes with his tip. Went back the block or so to the hotel grabbed $5 and walked back. The waiter looked at me and was I think a bit stunned, I came back with a tip.

  24 hours Friday and Saturday nights

• Mountain House Manhattan *

  23 St Marks Pl
  New York, NY 10003

  (917) 388-3866

  From their website, ‘The Szechuan Mountain House mission is to provide a harmonious space where guests can enjoy authentic, delicious Szechuan food. We carefully design our space to offer a sense of tranquility through the expression of Tao culture. We’re proud to introduce our dining traditions to those who are new to Szechuan food, and we love providing a taste of home to those who already know and cherish it. At Mountain House, every customer who walks through our doors can experience the genuine Chinese culinary culture. Dishes from home warm us and comfort us. We comprehend the significance of that heartfelt taste and strive to bring the most authentic Szechuan cuisine to the world. All the honored traditional ingredients, such as peppercorn and chili, are imported from China and crafted by our diligent chefs, who have decades of professional experience.’

  Looking forward to eating here.

• Murray's Cheese

  254 Bleecker St
  New York, NY 10014

  (212) 243-3289

  Murray's Cheese is a foodie mecca offering an array of fine cheeses, plus breads, cured meats, olives, and other deli items. From their website, 'Founded in 1940 by Murray Greenberg, Murray’s Cheese is proud to be a Greenwich Village tradition and part of the neighborhood’s rich food history, along with neighboring destinations like Faicco's, Ottomanelli's and Rocco's. It’s a pretty safe bet to say that we’re cheese obsessed: our goal is to find the most delicious cheese and specialty grocery items from across the globe, teach you a bit about them and then make sure you enjoy them.' If you can, you should order a piece of their award-winning from the 2019 American Cheese Society 'Murray’s Cavemaster Reserve Stockinghall Cheddar.'

  Recommended by Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee

• Myers of Keswick *

  634 Hudson St R13
  New York, NY 10014

  (212) 691-4194

  Traditional British grocery store for HP sauce, bangers, meat pies, and other imported items. From the New York City Eater website, ‘This British country grocery store is also a bakery that concentrates on savory pies, the most famous of which is steak-and-kidney pie. The pie shell is perfect in its rich flakiness, the filling is flavored with black pepper and brown gravy. The cubes of steak and pork kidney are the same size, with the organ being a little more rubbery than the meat. As a gateway to enjoying kidneys, this pie is unsurpassed.’

  Looking forward to eating here.

• New Wonjo

  23 West 32nd Street
  New York, NY 10001

  (212) 695-5815

  New Wonjo is an always-open Korean BBQ mainstay distinguishing itself with using charcoal-fueled grills. Open 24 hours a day. My order was the Ox tail and ox blood soup along with an order of spicy pork and a bunch of other veggie condiments and steamed eggs. From their website, 'Welcome to the oldest Korean BBQ restaurant in NYC. Since 1993, Wonjo keeps authentic Korean BBQ tradition, and it totally makes a difference.' From the New York City Eater website, 'The charcoal grill is the distinguishing feature of New Wonjo (a slight 2010 renovation and ownership change of the longstanding Wonjo). While there are a la carte options, the four combo platters include a good mix of meats like marinated galbi, sliced brisket, and spicy sliced pork — that get kissed with the signature smokiness of charcoal — along with lettuce wraps and a stew.'

  

• Nom Wah Nolita *

  10 Kenmare St
  New York, NY 10012

  (646) 478-8242

  Nom Wah Nolita is an offshoot of a Chinatown favorite serving dim sum, noodles, and beer in a simple, fast-casual setting. From their website, 'Situated in New York’s Nolita neighborhood (“North of Little Italy”), Nom Wah Nolita is a fast-casual restaurant. Opened in September 2016, this location features self-service ordering systems, traditional steamed dumplings, and a new take on Chinese food. Blending Chinese flavors and American ideas, dishes take a forward-thinking approach. Rotating dishes, collaborations, and specials compose the menu. The laid-back restaurant features artwork—anthropomorphic dumplings—by artists Sheryo and Yok.' From the New York City Eater website, 'In addition to dim sum favorites from the original restaurant, like scallion pancakes and shrimp and pork sui mai, the new Nom Wah Nolita also has rice bowls, noodle soups, fried rice with seasonal vegetables, and the kohlrabi salad from Tang’s other restaurant, Fung Tu. Guests order and pick up their food at the counter, for dine-in or carry-out.'

  Looking forward to eating here.

• Nom Wah Tea Parlor

  13 Doyers St
  New York, NY 10013

  (212) 962-6047

  Nom Wah Tea Parlor is a vintage dim sum parlor dating back to 1920 with a drink menu that includes tea, beer, and wine. You need to order the Shrimp and snow pea leaf dumplings, Shrimp Siu Mai, Chicken Siu Mai, Shrimp dumplings, Original “OG” egg roll, Stuffed Eggplant, and the Fried shrimp with bean curd skin. Yes, that's a lot for one person, but you can have them as leftovers or share with others. From their website, 'Nom Wah Tea Parlor first opened at 13–15 Doyers Street in 1920 as a bakery and tea parlor. For most of the 20th century, Nom Wah served as a neighborhood staple, offering fresh Chinese pastries, steamed buns, dim sum, and tea. After it lost its lease at 15 Doyers in 1968, the restaurant moved into a brand new kitchen next door, occupying 11-13 Doyers Street ever since. Eventually, the restaurant became most famous for its almond cookie, lotus paste, and red bean filling, which is used for moon cake during the Chinese autumn festival.' NOTE: They have multiple locations.

  Closed Wednesday

• NR *

  339 E 75th St
  New York, NY 10021

  (646) 226-4874

  From their website, 'NR is a contemporary twist on restaurants that were found in traditional Japanese port towns during the Meiji Period when Japan first became open to the rest of the world after nearly two centuries of seclusion. Not unlike these ports, NR is where East meets West, where the past fuses with the present. At NR, we specialize in ramen - noodles of Chinese origin and cocktails - first brought to Japanese ports by Western countries. We’ve since honed and perfected both in an effort to bring a taste of the past into the future.' Bar inspired by the Meiji era, serving craft cocktails in antique drinking vessels and Japanese fare.

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Here Be Barr (YouTube)

• NY Dosas *

  50 Washington Square S
  New York University
  New York, NY 10012

  (917) 710-2092

  NY Dosas is a famed food cart specializing in an array of dosas and Indian snacks with long queues for takeout only. From the Serious Eats website, 'In food cart terms, N.Y. Dosas is practically a relic. Thiru Kumar, the owner, and “Dosa Man,” has been running this all-vegan cart for eight years now. “I wanted to do something different,” he told me, “and since I'm vegan, I thought I would make vegan food.” Perhaps the secret behind N.Y. Dosa's long-standing success is all the hype, aided and abetted by Thiru himself. An incredibly animated Sri Lanka native with a 'stache to rival Tom Selleck's, Thiru hardly needs to be prompted when it comes to talking up his cart. The Special Pondicherry Dosa, also dubbed “mild,” was again satisfactory: a southern Indian style crepe filled with masala potatoes and more veggies. The masala potatoes were what you would expect, but the dosa itself was definitely the highlight: delicate, flavorful, with a nice snap to it.'

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Closed Sunday

  Recommended by Giridhar

• The Original Buddha Bodai Kosher Vegetarian Restaurant *

  5 Mott St
  New York, NY 10013

  (212) 566-8388

  Kosher vegetarian mock-meat dim sum and other Chinese dishes in a casual environment. From their website, ‘Situated in the heart of Chinatown, Buddha Bodai has been serving magnificent vegetarian meals since its inception in 2004. Buddha Bodai is committed to achieving and maintaining the delicate flavors of China’s deep culinary history. Chef Dong has been delighting his patrons with exquisite vegetarian meals for over 45 years. He and his staff have created dishes and ensured that it reached the highest standards of quality and freshness. His passion and desire to share the delicate flavors that he creates is a driving force that has kept his customers, old and new, coming back time and again.’ Calvin and Caroline recommend the pan-fried dumplings, vegan shrimp dumplings “Ha GAO,” streamed dumplings, and the Cantonese dumplings.

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Calvin and Caroline (YouTube)

• Orwashers Bakery *

  440 Amsterdam Ave
  New York, NY 10024

  (646) 461-7929

  Orwashers Bakery is an established artisan bakeshop crafting bread's, pastries, cookies, and sandwiches in a cozy space. From their website, 'Orwashers is a New York City institution. Founded in 1916 by a Hungarian immigrant family, the bakery began as a small storefront in the Upper East Side. It was borne out of a desire to serve local immigrant community members and focused on the high-quality rye, black and grain breads that reflected the traditions of their homeland.' From the New York City Eater website, ‘Orwashers, a bakery and wholesaler that started in 1916, remains a great all-around Jewish bakery. Standouts include Orwashers’ crisp, chocolate-dipped rugelach, breakfast-or-dessert sticky bun babka, cabernet-leavened sourdough, and Orwasheire, their namesake sweet olive oil brioche bun with candied orange. As with many Jewish bakeries, Orwashers also offers a holiday menu worth a serious look. Bonus tip: Get a jelly donut filled to order while you wait for your coffee.’

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by J. Kenji López-Alt

• Pasticceria Rocco

  243 Bleecker St
  New York, NY 10014

  (212) 242-6031

  Pasticceria Rocco serves Italian pastries, custom cakes, and espresso are found at this comfy bakeshop with seating. From their Facebook about page, 'Authentic and traditional Italian pastry shop and cafe located in the historic West Village of New York City. Italian Pastry shop and Cafe, family-owned since 1974. Featuring all the traditional pastries made using only the finest ingredients with age-old recipes right here on-premise. We are world-famous for our cannoli, a traditional tube-shaped pastry filled only when ordered with our one of a kind cannoli cream. We also have some of the best cakes and biscotti in town.' If you want a small dessert or a quick sweet, it's a great place. I ordered the mini filled cannoli with mini chocolate chips and chocolate-covered cannoli filled and topped with crushed pistachio's.

  Recommended by Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee

• Pastrami Queen *

  1125 Lexington Ave
  # 2
  New York, NY 10075

  (212) 734-1500

  Pastrami Queen is a Kosher deli preparing overstuffed sandwiches of pastrami, smoked turkey, and along with soups and sides. From their website, ‘Originally Pastrami King in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, this quintessential New York deli eventually relocated to Kew Gardens, Queens (hence the name change), then to Manhattan’s Upper East Side. Wherever they’ve resided, Pastrami Queen still serves the same quality pastrami they’ve been crafting since 1956. Tender, juicy, and full of smoke and spice, it’s no wonder Anthony Bourdain called our hand-carved pastrami sandwiches “the real deal.” Served on fresh rye from Orwasher’s Bakery up the street, with a side of garlicky pickles (sours and half-sours) and deli mustard, this iconic New York classic is waiting to be cradled in both your hands and attacked. Don’t forget to try some of our other big flavors like jumbo knishes, fries showered with garlic chips and our sweet and vinegary health salad!’

  Looking forward to eating here.

• Patsy's Pizzeria *

  2287 1st Avenue
  New York, NY 10035

  (212) 534-9783

  Patsy's Pizzeria is a historic parlor offers coal-fired pizzas and other Italian mains in a comfortable setting. From their website, ‘Patsy’s Pizzeria is the undisputed premier pizza dynasty in New York and arguably in all of The United States. Started by the legendary Pasquale, Lancieri, Patsy’s Pizzeria traces its origin by over a century to Manhattan’s Lower East Side. Opening his first modest shop in Harlem in 1933, the Patsy’s Pizzeria name has become synonymous with authentic, Sicilian coal oven pizza. Lancieri and his Patsy’s Pizzeria creation were so forward thinking he is widely credited by inventing selling pizza by the slice and popularizing traditional New York-style thin-crust pizza. Love by celebrities and people from all walks of life, Patsy’s Pizzeria keeps the tradition alive as the beloved pizza family recently welcomed the 4th generation of pizza makers. Inspiring scores of imitators after over 80 years of pizza magic-making, Patsy’s Pizzeria continues to deliver old-world pizza to thousands every day.’ NOTE: They have multiple locations.

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by J. Kenji López-Alt

• Penny Lick Ice Cream *

  580 Warburton Ave
  Hastings-On-Hudson, NY 10706

  (914) 525-1580

  From the Penny Lick Ice Cream website, 'We at Penny Lick believe that the best ice cream is the simplest. That means dairy from local cows treated ethically, sustainable whole food ingredients, and no artificial flavors or colors. And we never use nuts! We offer short ingredients lists that you can actually pronounce. We're ice cream with a clear conscience. We take the name from a style of ice cream vending in the 19th century. Before ice cream cones were invented, ice cream was sold in petite glasses. They were shaped a bit like a cone, and were heavy cut glass with a shallow depression. The glasses really only held a lick or so of ice cream, and the going rate was one penny. NOTE: Inspired by our friends and family, we adopted a policy of no nuts or products with any nut contamination. Tree nuts and peanuts are two of the “big 8” allergens, and the US population of children suffering from these allergies has risen 50% in the last 12 years. At Penny Lick, anyone with a nut allergy can eat safely!'

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Closed Monday

  Recommended by Helen Rosner

• Pino's Prime Meat Market *

  149 Sullivan St
  New York, NY 10012

  (212) 475-8134

  From the Pino's Prime Meat Market website, 'Providing our neighborhood with family-run butchery specialties since 1904. The best quality from all-natural,grass-fed, organic, prime and game meats.' From the New York City Eater website, 'Pino’s occupies a space that has been a butcher shop for nearly a century, and in the same family for 70 years. The shop is small, the floor covered with sawdust, and a meat case dominates the room, filled with luscious steaks like porterhouses and New York strips.'

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Closed Sunday

• Poulet Sans Tete *

  117 Perry St
  New York, NY 10014

  (212) 727-1170

  From the Poulet Sans Tete (PST) website, 'PST is our rotisserie chicken delivery from Left Bank restaurant in the west village. Everything is made from scratch in-house. Responsible sourcing is a big part of our culture. We support local, family-owned farms and only buy only happy and healthy chickens. A whole chicken can feed up to five people with five or six sides. The spiced rotisserie cauliflower is rubbed with vadouvan (Frenchified curry) and turned on the spit until dark and flavorful. We serve it with some decently spicy Calabrian chili salsa, Maldon salt, and fresh lemon juice. The potatoes are roasted in the drippings from the chickens and topped with Maldon salt. The chicken and vegetable soup is a simple and clean “mom style” soup with big chunks of meat and vegetables and some dill. The baguette sandwich is toasted garlic bread and pulled chicken with provolone, broccoli rabe, and a side of rich chicken jus for dipping. The Israeli quinoa salad is a clean prep of quinoa, cucumber, piqual olives, tomato, red onion, parsley, radicchio, olive oil, and lemon juice. You can't go wrong with any of the sauces, they are all pretty special.'

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Micheal Rulhman

• P.S. Kitchen *

  246 W 48th St
  New York, NY 10036

  (212) 651-7247

  P.S. Kitchen is a place for vegan plates and bar snacks with style, donating all of its profits to charity. Jeffery Zeldman points out they serve a vegan brunch on the weekends. Kevin Smith recommends the P.S. Burger with Beyond Burger, queso, thousand island, lettuce, tomato, and onions on the pretzel bun with fries. From their website, 'Our mission is to leverage the power of good food and an open heart to lovingly serve our clients, employees, society and the earth. That's why we commit our energy, passion, and time to giving others a “hand up” rather than a “hand out.” The work of P.S. hopes to break the cycle of poverty by connecting resources to vulnerable communities, providing tools necessary for self-sustainability, and building meaningful relationships with our neighbors, near and far. That makes a social business. That makes P.S.'

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Jeffery Zeldman along with actor and director Kevin Smith

• Punjabi Grocery and Deli

  114 E 1st St
  New York, NY 10009

  (212) 533-3356

  Punjabi Grocery and Deli is a no-frills counter-service spot for Indian take-out food, snacks, and Bollywood videos. They are an all vegetarian restaurant. You can order samosas, anywhere from one to three veggies with or without rice to eat in or take with you. If eating in it's very narrow and your place your food on foot wide board that runs most of the length of one wall. From the New York City Eater website, 'Fill up a styrofoam plate of all-vegetarian Indian dishes at this no-frills buffet-deli hybrid in the East Village. Combos include rice or roti with a couple of stews and salads of choice, as well as samosas and aloo tikki. A generous meal will ring in well under $10.'

• Raffetto's *

  144 W Houston St
  New York, NY 10012

  (212) 777-1261

  Raffetto's serves pasta that is cut to order, along with sauces, prepared meals, and more, at their old-school institution since 1906. Molly Baz from the Bon Appetit YouTube channel says you should order yourself some fresh pasta. From their website, 'Today, Raffetto’s produces about 50 different kinds of pasta. When the patriarch of our family, Marcello Raffetto, opened M. Raffetto & Bros. in the heart of Greenwich Village in 1906, it’s hard to imagine he would have expected his little pasta shop to last into the next century. And have it be thriving now more than ever. Throughout these 110 years, many dedicated family members and relatives have kept the business going and growing through all the changes that time brings – from two World Wars and the Great Depression to Vietnam and into the web revolution.'

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Closed Sunday and Monday

  Recommended by Molly Baz from Bon Appetit (YouTube)

• Russ and Daughters *

  179 East Houston Street
  New York, NY 10002

  (212) 475-4880

  Russ and Daughters specialize in caviar, smoked fish, herring, bagels and elegant food gifts. They also offer catering services. From the New York City Eater website, 'For the better part of the last 100 years, the only way to get a bagel at Russ and Daughters was to wait in line — out the door and around the corner. Today, this New York institution has two additional locations, each with a slightly different focus, at the Brooklyn Navy Yard and on Orchard Street. Their bagels and bialys are soft and chewy but sturdy enough to hold their own against toppings like cream cheese, smoked fish, or pastrami-cured salmon.' NOTE: They have multiple locations.

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Andrew Zimmern and Anthony Bourdain

• Russ and Daughters Cafe *

  127 Orchard St
  New York, NY 10002

  (212) 475-4880 ext. 2

  Russ and Daughters Cafe comes from the legendary shop comes this retro, full-service outpost serving Jewish comfort food. It's a sit-down branch of the century-old Russ and Daughters appetizing business. From the New York City Eater website, 'For the better part of the last 100 years, the only way to get a bagel at Russ and Daughters was to wait in line — out the door and around the corner. Today, this New York institution has two additional locations, each with a slightly different focus, at the Brooklyn Navy Yard and on Orchard Street. Their bagels and bialys are soft and chewy but sturdy enough to hold their own against toppings like cream cheese, smoked fish, or pastrami-cured salmon.'

  Looking forward to eating here.

• Sadelle's *

  463 W Broadway
  New York, NY 10012

  (212) 776-4926

  Sadelle’s is a New York brunch institution located in the heart of Soho. Serving the best bagels in New York City, Sadelle’s offers quintessential classics like sliced-to-order salmon and sturgeon, chopped salads, and other New York classics in an updated, fun yet refined fashion. The young lady at the table next to me at Jonathan Waxman’s Barbuto said to order the French Toast. From the New York City Eater website, ‘Bagels, lox, and a schmear get theatrically updated at Major Food Group’s very expensive take on a (very un-kosher) Jewish appetizing joint. Seed-crusted bagels are stacked tall on wooden dowels for the dramatically plated spreads of salmon, sable, sturgeon, and whitefish salad. There’s an entire caviar section, available with scrambled eggs, latkes, lobster benedict, or as a supplement to any dish. Other options include sticky buns or egg scrambles and sandwiches incorporating smoked salmon and salami.’

  Looking forward to eating here.

• Sakagura *

  211 E 43rd St
  B1
  New York, NY 10017

  (212) 953-7253

  Japanese small plates and a deep sake list in a blond-wood izakaya hidden beneath an office building. From their website, ‘Established in 1996, Sakagura has been a pioneer in introducing New Yorkers to the world of sake. We continue to be one of the top sake bars in the United States, attracting countless sake lovers from around the world. Our one-of-a-kind menu consists of over 260 kinds of carefully selected sakes, authentic tapas-style Japanese dishes, and homemade desserts. We are known for being a “hidden jewel” of Manhattan also because of our unique and hidden location. Come find us and transport yourself to Tokyo.’ From the New York City Eater website, ‘The arrival of Sakagura East Village in 2018 is a boon for those unwilling to make the trek to the basement of an office building in Midtown for the original location. Like Sake Bar Decibel — also opened by restaurateur Bon Yagi — this izakaya features an extensive, well-chosen sake selection. The food here is noticeably more refined, with highlights including a wobbly, snow crab-studded chawanmushi custard and the vinegar-marinated eel with cucumbers.’

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Closed Sunday

  Recommended by Anthony Bourdain

• Sake Bar Hagi *

  245 W 51st Street
  New York, NY 10019

  (212) 956-2429

  Sake Bar Hagi has a vibrant, open-late downstairs den offering a large menu of Japanese bites plus beer and sake. From their website, ‘Loved by locals since 1985. Sake Bar Hagi is New York’s first authentic izakaya: a cozy Japanese tapas bar that serves everything from yakitori to sushi. Founded and owned by Japanese foodies, our mission is simple—to bring a heartwarming taste of Tokyo to Manhattan. Inspired by Showa Era under-the-bridge izakayas, our interior features old records and trinkets reminiscent of an earlier time.

  Looking forward to eating here.

• Salt and Pepper

  139 West 33rd Street
  New York, NY 10001

  (212) 268-1919

  Salt and Pepper is a casual eatery displaying ample hot American, Spanish, Indian, and Pakistani dishes. I have found the Indian and Pakistani food to be the best such as the curry lamb or goat with chickpeas over rice.

  

• Shopsin's *

  88 Essex St
  New York, NY 10002

  Pocket-sized eatery inside Essex Street Market doling out a lengthy, eclectic menu of diner fare. Amit Gupta recommends ordering the Mac and Cheese pancakes. From the New York City Eater website, ‘To experience the classic dish in a creative format, head to Shopsin’s, the eccentric luncheonette-type spot with a dizzyingly massive menu of quirky creations. Originally in the West Village for years before it relocated to a tinier space in Essex Street Market on the Lowe East Side, the menu’s beloved oddities remain, like mac and cheese pancakes. Fans of a particularly crispy, crunchy crust to balance out gooey elbow noodles will dig the large expanse of these pancakes’s griddled, crunchy bottoms.’

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Closed Monday and Tuesday

  Recommended by Amit Gupta and Sohla El-Waylly (Mastercass)

• Smør *

  441 E 12th St,
  New York, NY 10009

  (646) 478-8391

  From the New York Eater website, 'Sebastian Perez and Sebastian Bangsgaard opened Smør, a very small and sunny Scandinavian sandwich shop on East 12th Street in the East Village. The furnishings are very Danish modern, comfortable and spare and hard-edged, and the menu concentrates on smørrebrod, those open-face assemblages the foundation of which is a slice of rich, crumbly rye. It almost doesn’t seem like bread. Naturally, some feature smoked and pickled fish, of which herring is queen. The chicken salad with bacon is a classic, heaped high enough ($8) with mayo-laced poultry, and stacked with enough bacon accented with shredded beets and a frond or two of purslane, that it’s more of a small lunch than the kind of canape passed around at parties. Like all the smørrebrod here, much attention is paid to artistic presentations. Figuring out how to eat them is half the fun.' More from their website, 'Smør was founded in 2019 by two Danes named Sebastian. Both were born and partially raised in Denmark before moving aboard. The two Sebastion's felt there was a need for good Nordic food in the city, so they decided to bring their vision to life. Hence the existence of Smør.'

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Closed Monday

  Recommended by Pro Home Cooks (YouTube)

• Somtum Der (East Village) *

  85 Avenue A
  New York, NY 10009

  (212) 260-8570

  Somtum Der (East Village) is a smartly decorated Thai restaurant presenting regional Isan cuisine via shareable plates. From their website, 'Somtum Der has now ventured into the United States and curious palates of New York City, presenting a unique opportunity for New Yorkers to encounter and enjoy authentic Isan food. Starting as a collaboration of friends Thanaruek (Eh) Laoraowirodge and Kornthanut Thongnum who have close ties to the Isan region, Somtum Der incorporates Chef Korn's thoughtfully conceived recipes to showcase the best of Northeastern Thai cuisine, with sharp contrasts in flavors, abundant use of Thai chilis, lime juice, palm sugar, and fermented fish sauce. They have partnered with long time family friend, Supanee Kitmahawong, a Bangkok transplant who has been actively involved in restaurant management and ownership in New York City for more than a decade. The team has turned their focus to New York’s Somtum Der, with the objective of offering New Yorkers the opportunity to taste the food and culture of Isan. The restaurant’s genuine spirit of Isan is reflected in every bite. Starting from the name of the restaurant with somtum (papaya salad), the most famous Isan food and the word der, a common suffix widely used in Isan region to indicate a warm invitation.' NOTE: They have multiple locations.

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Andy from Bon Appetit (YouTube)

• Spicy Village *

  68 Forsyth Street
  New York, NY 10002

  (212) 625-8299

  Spicy Village is a Chinese cafe serving Henan fare (hand-pulled noodles, pork pancakes, and spicy chicken) in simple digs. Mike from Pro home Cooks (YouTube) recommends ordering the Rou Jia Mo. From New York City Eater website, 'Wendy Lian and Ren Fu Li’s gem of a Forsyth Street restaurant is a temple to a spectacular dish: big tray spicy chicken (dà pán jī). The preparation involves dousing thick, hand-pulled noodles in a stew of chicken, garlic, potatoes, cumin, chiles, and star anise. With the capacity to feed at least two, the $16 feast ranks as one of the city’s best large-format deals. Also, go for a pork pancake, where stewed pork comes in sandwich form as a must-get appetizer.'

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Closed Sunday

  Recommended by Pro Home Cooks (YouTube)

• Spring Cafe *

  153d Centre St
  New York, NY 10013

  (212) 226-9669

  From their website, ‘Spring Cafe is committed to serving delicious and healthy plant-based cuisine for vegans and non-vegans alike. The lack of inspiring vegan options in our community was the driving force for the creation of our restaurant. We wanted to create a place where everyone could enjoy flavorful and comforting food that’s not only good for you but also for the planet. At our restaurant, we believe that healthy eating shouldn’t mean sacrificing flavor or variety. We use the freshest ingredients in all our dishes so that we can provide our customers with the best experience. Designed to appeal to all tastes and preferences, our menu features a range of options from classic comfort food to globally-inspired fusion dishes. Whether you’re a lifelong vegan or just curious about plant-based eating, we welcome you to come and experience the delicious and wholesome foods we have to offer.’ Calvin and Caroline recommend the Hawaiian Vegan Burger which is a vegan chicken sandwich with a pineapple slice along with an order of the Salt and Pepper Fried Mushrooms.

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Calvin and Caroline (YouTube)

• Square Diner *

  33 Leonard St
  New York, NY 10013

  (212) 925-7188

  From the New York City Eater website, ‘The Square — a beloved fixture of the obscure Finn Square in Soho — is probably the city’s oldest diner, and it retains its railroad dining car elements, somewhat obscured by an absurdist shingled roof tacked on at some point. The current proprietors take pride in the menu, with the burgers and pancakes here at a very high level. This is very much a place for in-the-know regulars. The charming, classic, century-old train car diner in Tribeca lined with wood paneling is actually shaped like a triangle, not a square. Husband-and-wife team Ted and Anna Karounos currently run the restaurant, but Square Diner has been in their family for more than 40 years.’

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Andrew Woods

• Stone Street Coffee *

  134 9th Ave
  New York, NY 10011

  (917) 455-3815

  From their website, ‘Stone Street is artisanal quality coffee for every New Yorker. With an unparalleled approach to freshness, every bean we offer was roasted right over the bridge in Brooklyn. Freshness is paramount in Stone Street coffee, and our business is built on it. From the best sourcing and quality assurance to our commitment to small batch roasting, we ensure that ours are the best coffee beans around.’ NOTE: They have multiple locations.

  Looking forward to eating here.

• Sullivan Street Bakery *

  533 W 47th St
  New York, NY 10036

  (212) 265-5580

  Sullivan Street Bakery is a prominent baker sells fresh and crusty breads, thin pizzas, pastries, and more from a modest storefront. In 2015, owner Jim Lahey was the first recipient of the Outstanding Baker James Beard Award. From their website, 'Sullivan Street Bakery started with the belief that good bread should be available and affordable for everyone. Italian bread bakeries serve everyone in society, and our mission is to do the same – making the best possible bread. We opened in 1994 with the mission to raise the standard for handcrafted, small-batch bread, and we work continually to better our methods, techniques, and craft. We source excellent ingredients, avoid every kind of additives and enhancer, and shape every piece of bread by hand. We work closely with our suppliers to find exceptional products and strive to make every part of our business sustainable, fun, and delicious—we want to continually set the bar for what great bread can be.'

  Looking forward to eating here.

• Superiority Burger *

  119 Avenue A
  New York, NY 10009

  (212) 256-1192

  Superiority Burger is a compact, all-vegetarian fast-food spot serving up popular burgers in white-tiled surroundings. I read ex-Del Posto pastry chef Brooks Headley makes vegetarian and vegan fast food even carnivores love. Also, everything on the menu from the veggie burger or the faux Sloppy Joe or the burnt-broccoli salad is satisfying and as good as you’ve heard, except the Superiority Wrap (a.k.a. the Hippie Wrap), which is better than you’ve heard.

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Closed Tuesday and Wednesday

• Sushi on Jones

  210 W 10th St
  New York, NY 10014

  (646) 357-0453

  Sushi on Jones is a compact omakase-only sushi bar offering a 12-piece set menu that lasts a half hour. NOTE: They have multiple locations and the original is on Bowery. From their website, ‘Sushi on Jones is New York’s first al fresco omakase bar, offering traditional 12-piece tastings in 45 minutes for $68. With a new location in the Lower East Side, including a full bar on Eldridge Street and our staple West Village location on West 10th Street, Sushi on Jones brings the best of the traditional Japanese experience for the New York market. From uni to toro to botan shrimp to wagyu and beyond, we serve only the best cuts from the best fish and wagyu available.’

  Recommended by Eric Wright

• Sushi Yasuda *

  204 E 43rd St
  New York, NY 10017

  (212) 972-1001

  Sushi Yasuda serves traditional sushi, often using fish flown in from Japan served in a minimalist, bamboo setting. From the New York Eater website, 'Sushi Yasuda is an ideal gateway into higher-stakes sushi consumption. The old reliable, a gem in Midtown that transports diners straight to Tokyo, serves a sushi combo that at $48.50 is one of the best deals in the city. Ten pieces of chef’s choice nigiri and a hand roll are almost enough; finish up by asking the chef to recommend some of the rarer pieces to round out the meal. Try to score seats at the end of the bar.

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Closed Sunday

  Recommended by Snook

• Taiyaki NYC

  119 Baxter St
  New York, NY 10013

  (212) 966-2882

  Taiyaki NYC is a Japanese ice cream shop serving inventive flavors in a fish-shaped waffle cone. If you want to try an interesting flavor of ice cream you need to go with the green tea. From their website, ‘At Taiyaki NYC, we work hard as a family to focus on quality and consistency in the products we provide to our community. Our ice cream and taiyaki waffles are made from the highest quality ingredients from socially responsible vendors and distributors. Our taiyaki waffles are made fresh on-site, and our soft serve ice cream is produced and churned in small batches to preserve the true integrity of how a real soft serve should taste. We strive to keep our customers happy and satisfied while leaving a minimal footprint on our planet.’ NOTE: They have multiple locations.

• Takahachi Bakery *

  25 Murray Street
  New York, NY 10007

  Takahachi Bakery is a cozy eatery offering a large variety of Japanese baked goods, from buns, breads, cakes, and crepes. You need to order the milk bread to make sandwiches, which is like a Pullman or Hawaiian loaf of bread, and was recommended by Chris from Bon Appetit. From the Serious Eats website, 'Tribeca's Takahachi Bakery officially opened to the public yesterday (over ten years ago now) after a soft opening last week and minor elevator issues. Does the name sound familiar? It should. The owner is Hiroyuki Takahashi, the owner of Takahachi restaurant in the East Village. This Japanese patisserie/bakery/sandwich shop/gelateria is a welcome sight for those of us still weeping over the loss of Bouley Bakery and deprived from the likes of Cafe Zaiya in Midtown. Takahachi is like a fancier version of Cafe Zaiya, with prices slightly higher—but also with sweets and savories that are much more creative, as well as a rather large selection of housemade macarons.

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Closed Sunday

  Recommended by Chris from Bon Appetit (YouTube)

• Tartine *

  253 W 11th St
  New York, NY 10014

  (212) 229-2611

  Tartine serves French bistro basics, and a Parisian vibe enlivens this tiny BYO restaurant with sidewalk seating. Walking by mid-afternoon on Labor Day weekend they had a nice crowd of people sitting outside eating. From the New York City Eater website, ‘Tartine Has Ridden the ’90s Mania for French Bistros All the Way to 2020. The West Village was once home to many similar spots, but Tartine’s mussels mariniere and spicy chicken proved to be unusually sustaining. Tartine is the kind of restaurant you feel lucky to stumble upon. It’s not pushing any culinary boundaries or drawing in any sort of scene, but the straightforward French bistro on a quiet street in a tony part of the West Village is consistent and charming. The menu has classics like escargot and steak au poivre, and then there’s the spicy chicken. The restaurant’s most popular entree, it does not seem remotely French: chicken in a spicy, tart sauce — it’s made with garlic, butter, chile spices, vodka, and lemon juice — served with guacamole and fries.’

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Closed Monday

• Tea and Sympathy *

  108 Greenwich Ave
  New York, NY 10011

  (212) 989-9735

  Tea and Sympathy is next-door annex is a carry-out shop stocked with eclectic U.K. food and accessories. You need to order the Welshman rare Bit sandwich that looks like an open face grilled cheese on steroids. From their website, 'Tea and Sympathy is a British restaurant serving traditional British comfort food. Our shop next door sells popular British groceries, sweets, tea, tea-pots, cups and saucers, and lots more.' From the NYC Eater website, 'Some call it cozy, others call it cramped, but it’s always busy at Tea and Sympathy. This isn’t a delicate, quiet spot to linger, but one to feast on generously portioned finger sandwiches and chubby scones accompanied by ramekins of clotted cream and jam. Sweets include a golden wedge of Victorian sponge cake, split and sandwiched with cream and jam. Wash it down with a cup of brisk black tea, milk, and sugar. It’s relatively affordable to enjoy afternoon tea here, and at a slight discount for more than one person, priced at $38 for solo tea-goers or $68 for two people.'

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Pro Home Cooks (YouTube)

• Teranga *

  1280 5th Ave
  New York, NY 10029

  Teranga is a spacious counter-serve highlighting African cuisine in customizable market plates, and bowls. From their website, 'Here, ancient customs and future trends coexist, and the intricacies of African culture blend seamlessly together over an Ethiopian-brewed coffee, or a bowl of Senegalese black-eyed pea stew and a side of spicy Ghanaian plantains. Inspired by our Co-Founder and Executive Chef Pierre Thiam’s mission to share African culture through food, Teranga reflects the depth, richness, and vibrancy of Africa’s diverse culinary traditions in a modern, fast-casual setting. Our menu is rooted in African culinary traditions and inspired by traditional African home cooking, our menu highlights ancient, nutrient-dense crops that have been cultivated in Africa for centuries. We thoughtfully source our ingredients in collaboration with smallholder farmers in Africa and local producers in America.

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Closed Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday

  Recommended by Andy from Bon Appetit (YouTube)

• Totto Ramen *

  464 W 51st St
  New York, NY 10019

  (646) 596-9056

  Totto Ramen is a buzzy nook with counter and table seating known for Japanese noodle soups along with pork buns in Hell's Kitchen area of New York City. From the New York City Eater website, ‘Totto Ramen, quite simply, is one of the city’s best joints for paitan ramen, more or less the chicken broth analog to fatty, creamy, porky tonkatsu. Vegetarian ramen is also available. Hell’s Kitchen is still reeling from the loss of Ivan Ramen Slurp shop, but an outpost of the estimable Totto chain (along with other shops) helps pick up the slack. This is where you’ll find some of New York’s best tori paitan ramen, bowls of chicken soup so rich and schmaltz-y the broth is fully opaque. Spicy and miso versions are also available, as is a vegetarian ramen.’ NOTE: They have multiple locations.

  Looking forward to eating here.

• Uncle Boons Sister *

  186 Mott St
  New York, NY 10012

  (646) 850-9480

  Uncle Boons Sister is the tiny sibling to Uncle Boons with a counter-serve menu of creative Thai food to eat in or take out. From the New York City website, 'Husband-wife chefs Ann Redding and Matt Danzer debuted this casual counter-service operation following the success of their Nolita Thai hotspot Uncle Boons. Nothing goes for over $15, and with just a handful of indoor seats, takeout is a smart option. While most of the dishes work as main courses, savvier diners can bring a buddy to enjoy a variety of plates tapas-style. On the snackier end of things is the $9 sai oua bun, served in hot-dog format with Thai herbal sausage in place of the typical frankfurter. And don’t miss the kab muu nam prik noom — crispy pork rinds with a green chile relish dip, for seven bucks. The shop remains open during lockdown, serving such favorites as tangy Isaan-style sausage, khao soi curry noodle soup, and a chicken-banana blossom salad.'

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Sohla El-Waylly

• Union Square Cafe *

  101 E 19th St
  New York, NY 10003

  (212) 243-4020

  Union Square Cafe is Danny Meyer's first restaurant that serves seasonal New American fare in a casually refined setting. From their website, ‘Founded in 1985, Union Square Cafe pioneered a new way of dining, drawing inspiration from the Union Square Greenmarket and showcasing the best local ingredients in a casual and contemporary dining room characterized by warmth and hospitality. Having trained and mentored scores of restaurant professionals for over three decades, Union Square Cafe is the birthplace of a generation of renowned restaurants, chefs, and restaurateurs. The restaurant has won five James Beard Awards and ranked in first place on Zagat Survey’s Most Popular Restaurant list an unprecedented nine times.’

  Looking forward to eating here.

• Van Leeuwen Ice Cream *

  224 Front St
  New York, NY 10038

  (917) 261-6376

  From their website, ‘Mission and Values - To make good ice cream that makes you feel good. Because a life without anything good is bad. It’s probably no coincidence that we started out as a scoop truck in NYC because we didn’t stay put. We kept going then, and we keep going now: innovating, creating, and never settling. If you can’t pronounce it you probably can’t digest it. That’s why we are obsessed with exactly what goes into our ice cream and what stays out. This is true whether it’s classic ice cream. Or vegan. Or whatever we churn up next. We don’t just want to be the best ice cream there is. We want to create the best ice cream for all. Good means being good to our customers, our partners, and to each other. And it’s why we’re always willing to go the extra mile.’ NOTE: They have many locations in New York City.

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Chelsea Callahan (YouTube)

• Vanessa's Dumpling House *

  118 Eldridge St
  New York, NY 10002

  (212) 625-8008

  Vanessa's Dumpling House is a bustling; no-frills counter-serve dishing up fried or steamed dumplings, noodles, and soup. Mike from Pro home Cooks (YouTube) recommends getting the Sesame Pancake with duck. From their website, ‘At Vanessa’s, we continually challenge ourselves, and we remain our toughest critics. We want our Beijing-influenced foods and casual settings to be enjoyed by friends and families. That’s how our tagline “Meet Me at Vanessa’s” came about! Vanessa makes all her dumplings, fillings, noodles, buns, wontons, soups, salads, sauces, pancake doughs, and meats with the freshest ingredients. All of which are received and prepared daily. While the traditional Chive and Pork Dumpling is a best bestseller, to have the full experience, you have to try our other dumplings, including Chicken and Basil, Shrimp, as well as Vegetarian options. Keep an eye out for seasonal special dumplings such as pumpkin and zucchini, lamb and squash, spicy beef, and even spicy vegan beef dumplings reflecting Vanessa’s creativity and our customer’s palette.’ Calvin and Caroline recommend the vegetable/vegan fried dumplings with spicy sauce and wontons with spicy sauce (vegan). NOTE: They have multiple locations.

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Pro Home Cooks (YouTube) and Calvin and Caroline (YouTube)

• Veselka *

  144 2nd Ave
  New York, NY 10003

  (212) 228-9682

  Veselka serves Borscht and pierogi, which are menu highlights at this cheap, no-frills Ukrainian eatery that is open late. From their website, ‘Since 1954, Veselka has been serving up Ukrainian food from the same location in the heart of the East Village. For sixty-six years, customers have crowded into Veselka, a cozy Ukrainian coffee shop in New York City’s East Village, to enjoy pierogi, borscht, goulash, and many other unpretentious favorites. Veselka (rainbow in Ukrainian) has grown up from a simple newsstand serving soup and sandwiches into a twenty-four-hour gathering place without ever leaving its original location on the corner of East Ninth Street and Second Avenue. Veselka is, quite simply, an institution.’From the New York City Eater website, ‘Ukrainian soul food from the heart of NYC’s East Village. Established in 1954 by Ukrainian immigrants, Veselka is a three-generation family-owned business that continues to uphold the legacy of its founders. The restaurant remains a testament to our heritage and proudly carries on the tradition of providing exceptional Ukrainian soul food and service to its patrons. Beyond the acclaim and popularity amongst its customers, Veselka continues to be a pillar in the local Ukrainian community. Ukrainians mostly comprise its staff, and the ownership remains very active in the local community, supporting the Ukrainian National Institute, Razom for Ukraine, and local St. George’s Church via food and monetary donations on a regular basis.’

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Casey Neistat classmate

• Via Carota *

  51 Grove St
  New York, NY 10014

  (212) 255-1962

  Via Carota is an Italian trattoria serving traditional plates and apéritifs in a rustic, cozy space. Helen Rosner recommends their platter of unbelievably tender Vitello tonnato. From their website, 'Their Village gastroteca is thoughtfully renovated: wooden floors reclaimed from an old gymnasium, vintage chapel chairs from England and rustic wooden cabinets filled with heirloom china. Servers wear crisp white shirts and long linen aprons, there are communal tables, and even a private room tucked away amongst the wine bottles. Baskets of crusty bread and bowls of oranges are scattered throughout the sun-drenched space. For bel tempo pleasure, there are eight outdoor tables on the tree-lined sidewalk.'

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Helen Rosner

• Wu's Wonton King *

  165 E Broadway
  New York, NY 10002

  (212) 477-1111

  Wu's Wonton King is a relaxed, modest eatery serving an extensive menu of classic Chinese noodles, BBQ, and casseroles. Helen Rosner recommends their perfect dumplings and roast duck. From Eater NYC website, 'Though a relatively new addition to the Cantonese restaurants in New York — it opened in 2016 — Wu’s is an old-school counterpoint to the restaurants that surround it on the Lower East Side. The crispy garlic chicken is famous here; get it plus a couple of barbecue buns, Dungeness crab, and golden fried rice. Like Peking Duck House, Wu’s has garnered a wine crowd following for its welcoming BYOB policy.'

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Helen Rosner

• Xi'an Famous Foods *

  45 Bayard St
  New York, NY 10013

  (212) 786-2068

  Xi'an Famous Foods is a local counter-serve chain offering Xi'an-style Chinese food, including noodles, soups, and sandwiches. Andrew Zimmern and others recommend the Spicy cumin lamb hand-ripped noodles. The Thrillist recommends any of the other spicy cumin lamb dishes too. From their website, 'Xi’an Famous Foods began as a 200 square foot basement stall in the Golden Shopping Mall in Flushing, N.Y. The original location, established in late 2005, was the first restaurant to bring the little-known cuisine of Xi’an to the United States, with signature hand-ripped noodles, secret spice mixes, and Xi’an &lrquo;burgers” with housemade flatbread. The city of Xi’an, situated in the northwestern region of China, has long been known as the first capital of China and the resting place of the famous terra cotta soldiers. As the starting point of the Silk Road, however, the city also boasts a unique cuisine that combines Chinese and Middle Eastern flavors. Heavy in cumin, chili, Sichuan peppercorns, and other spices, local specialties range from famous hand-ripped “biang biang” noodles, seared in hot oil, to lamb “burgers” with a jalapeño kick. Not for the faint of heart, but famous for a reason.' NOTE: They have multiple locations in Manhattan, Queens, and Brooklyn, where the original is in Flushing Queens.

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Andrew Zimmern

• Yakitori Totto

  251 West 55th Street
  New York, NY 10019

  (212) 245-4555

  Yakitori Totto is a Japanese yakitori spot located upstairs that's transporting diners to Tokyo via grilled skewers and a bustling scene.One of the best things I ate the last time I was in New York City was the grilled Eel over rice (Unagi Don) along with the chicken livers, chicken gizzards, and chicken thigh. From the New York City Eater website, ‘Owner Ryuichi “Bobby” Munekata has built up a small empire of Japanese restaurants throughout New York, and this second-floor, yakitori-slinging sibling restaurant is good enough that the late Anthony Bourdain once took Anderson Cooper here for dinner. At Yakitori Totto, which opened in 2003, skewers of hearts, gizzards, and shishito-stuffed meatballs made from upstate New York chickens have just the right amount of char. Munekata also owns Totto Ramen, which remains a serious contender in the city’s ever-expanding ramen scene with its creamy, paitan-brothed bowls.’

  Recommended by Anthony Bourdain

• Yonah Schimmel's Knish *

  137 E Houston St
  New York, NY 10002

  (212) 477-2858

  Yonah Schimmel's Knish is a venerable NYC bakery/deli dispensing knishes, kugel, and other Jewish comfort-food classics since 1910. From their website, 'Yonah Schimmel has been serving knishes, kugel, latke as well as classic New York drinks like Egg Creams and Lime Rickeys since 1910. Located in the historic Lower East Side (LES), Yonah Schimmel Knish Bakery is a slice of historic New York that’s becoming more and more rare.' From New York City Eater website, 'This LES throwback favorite, located on East Houston Street and established in 1910, soon after Katz’s opened and pre-Russ and Daughters. It’s known for its knishes and is believed to be the birthplace of the savory baked good. The hefty, generously-stuffed Eastern European nosh is comprised of a thin dough layer wrapped around classic fillings like mashed potato, or potato mixed with kasha, spinach, or cabbage, as well as newer-fangled options like broccoli and jalapenos with mozzarella. Other bubbe-vetted comfort food options include deep-fried latkes, borscht, matzah ball soup, noodle kugel, and kasha varnishkes (a buckwheat, noodle, and onion side dish).

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Sandor Katz book Wild Fermentation and Pro Home Cooks (YouTube)

• Zabars *

  2245 Broadway
  New York, NY 10024

  (212) 787-2000

  Zabars is an iconic store known for smoked fish, plus a huge variety of gourmet goods, prepared foods, and cookware. It's a gourmet emporium specializing in smoked fish, caviar, coffee, cheese, kitchen goods, and housewares. From the New York City Eater website, ‘The excellent smoked fish selection at this UWS institution, founded by Louis Zabar in 1934 and now co-owned by his sons Saul and Stanley Zabar, is mainly sourced from Greenpoint’s Acme Smoked Fish factory in Greenpoint. Saul, now 89, has been known to make regular visits to Greenpoint to select the finest fish. Head into the grocery store and first stop by the fish counter to grab a number before going to the bakery to pick a bagel. With that in hand, return to the fish counter so the guys slicing the melt-in-your-mouth fish can make a sandwich.’

  Looking forward to eating here.

• Zaragoza Mexican Deli and Grocery *

  215 Avenue A
  New York, NY 10009

  (212) 780-9204

  Zaragoza Mexican Deli and Grocery is a pint-sized market with basic Mexican staples and a counter serving classic take-out eats like tacos. Everyone says to order whatever is on special and you can't go wrong. From the New York City Eater website, ‘Zaragoza sets itself apart as one of the few remaining Mexican-owned delis in lower Manhattan, serving a short menu of enchiladas, burritos, and tamales assembled right at the front counter. Order tacos with whatever meats are available that day (the selection rotates); keep an eye out for the chorizo with potato strewn over two blue corn tortillas. Enjoy them in the narrow back dining room, where an extroverted orange-and-black bodega cat holds court, or haul them to nearby Tompkins Square Park.’

  Looking forward to eating here.

  Recommended by Andrew Zimmern

• Zucker's Bagels and Smoked Fish *

  146 Chambers St
  New York, NY 10007

  (212) 608-5844

  Zucker's Bagels and Smoked Fish serves bagels (plus a wide selection of toppings), smoked fish, sandwiches and more in a bustling space. From their website, ‘Zucker’s Bagels and Smoked Fish is New York City’s quintessential neighborhood bagel shop, founded in TriBeCa in 2006. We make bagels the old-fashioned way: hand-rolled and kettle-boiled, using only unbromated and unbleached flours and a touch of malt syrup. Our New York bagels have a golden brown exterior, a dense, chewy interior and are generously seeded on both sides (no skimping!). By partnering with the country’s most respected makers, including Acme Smoked Fish, La Colombe Coffee, Guss’ Pickles, and others, we create the city’s most delicious bagel sandwiches. We cater and deliver throughout Manhattan and ship our bagels and brunch kits nationwide via Goldbelly.’ NOTE: They have multiple locations.

  Looking forward to eating here.

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