Savory Eats
Best Bagels & Coffee
Try the Lox Bagel with the Everything Bagel. The combination of smoked salmon, scallion cream cheese, and the soft NY bagel makes a hearty and filling breakfast. Pair it with a cup of coffee or tea.
Gramercy Tavern
Gramercy Tavern by Chef Michael Anthony has one Michelin star. Gramercy Tavern provides fresh seasonally curated American cuisine and is a memorable place to celebrate with others in the dining area or to enjoy individually in the more relaxed bar area-whichever your preference. This place provides a nice range of choices for an establishment of this caliber. Go during lunch for their prix fixe meal for an even better value. Advanced reservation is recommended.
Katz Delicatessen
For a life-changing pastrami sandwich, go to this long-standing establishment where locals have been going. It may be famous for the scene in Where Hally Met Sally, but the pastrami really is worth coming out here for.
During peak hours, the line may be out the door but it goes quickly. They give you a ticket and then you find another line inside to order, and then pay for the food after you receive it.
It may feel like cattle call but I am glad that they do their best to keep the line moving so you can get your pastrami as soon as possible. Then, find a seat and enjoy!
Patzeria Perfect Pizza Kitchen
This hole in the wall pizza joint is nearby Times Square and the Theater District. It is open late and ideal for a late-night snack after watching a show. I love seeing the posters with signatures on it from nearby shows and actors that have come across this place. Choose a slice from the case and they will reheat it for you so that it is hot, cheesy, and crunchy for you when you eat it.
Shake Shack
For a juicy melt in your mouth cheesy burger, you must order their Shake Stack and nothing else will do! What makes this burger special is their crisp-fried portobello mushroom encrusted with melted muenster cheese and breading that they stick on top of their meat that is the star. So when you bite into everything, there is a flavor and texture burst of everything when you eat it immediately. Their fries with cheesy sauce is also not a bad complement to your meal. If you’re feeling something super sweet, then add a shake or frozen custard to top it off!
For the Sweet Tooth
Cha Cha Matcha
Calling all matcha lovers! Cha Cha Matcha provides matcha in various forms with their creation such as soft serve, lemonade, and energy drinks. A quick pick me up in a fun atmosphere.
ChikaLicious
This dessert restaurant whips up delicate refined dessert courses with drink pairing that is inspired by Japanese and American styles. Sit at the bar and watch how they create their food art before they present it to you.
Jacque Torres Chocolates
Come for quality chocolate and desserts in his cozy chocolate shops. I grew up watching Jacque Torres on PBS baking and creating memorable desserts. You can order drinking chocolate and other desserts or just grab a few chocolate bars that can be stashed away for some indulgence and energy later.
Levain Bakery
For the most decadent, chewy, and luxurious cookies, try Levain’s version. The line goes quickly but you should take your time to eat your cookies since it is so decadent and dense it will last you a while.