Citybuzz – A Vidicom and Christy Ferer Guide to Travel

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New York

Eat/Drink

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  • Eat/Drink
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HEARTLAND BREWERY

When Heartland Brewery opened New York's first American-style brewpub on Union Square in 1995, our city was not the hotbed of brewpubs, beer bars, and evolved beer drinking it is today. Heartland quickly established itself as a pioneer of the craft beer movement in New York City. Since then, Heartland has consistently brewed New York's freshest craft beers, including six classic brews and a wide range of seasonal ones.

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Guy’s American Kitchen and Bar

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Lexington Candy Shop

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Hometown BBQ

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Ivan Ramen Slurp Shop

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Shelter

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OddFellows Ice Cream: the best ice cream in NYC!

OddFellows Ice Cream Co., located in Brooklyn, is rated the best ice cream in New York City. We make homemade small batch premium ice cream from scratch.

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Hometown Bar-B-Que: authentic pit style BBQ at home in Brooklyn

Hometown Bar-B-Que specializes in classic American barbecue steeped in tradition and history yet done with a little Brooklyn flair.

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Modern Mexican food comes to the East Village at The Black Ant

Black Ant, a modern Mexican restaurant, is slated to open in the East Village next month at 60 Second Ave. between Third and Fourth avenues. The 2,800-square-foot location will have four different dining areas — a small lounge that seats 15 with an additional 15 seats at the bar, two dining rooms seating a total of 60 plus an open garden that will seat 40. Black Ant also will feature a private dining room with 25 seats. Owners Jorge Guzman and Mario Hernandez, the general manager and executive chief, respectively, are in talks to launch a Mexican restaurant in the West Village called Bacanora, which is named after a plant that grows in Mexico’s Sonora province. The duo also own Ofrenda in the West Village.

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Shelter: Argentine & Italian food with a rustic winter feel

Williamsburg: not a place for asking questions. It’s a place for sitting at a slab of oak tree beneath a stuffed goat, and digging on some scrumptious meat pastries... At least it is at Shelter, a spacious Williamsburg lair of whiskey and Argentine-Italian edibles, now open. El Almacen and Rosarito Fish Shack. Same folks behind those created this—a kind of hunting lodge of pizza and empanadas. Which... is a strange combination, yes. But after running the following equation—Pizza + Empanadas + Moose Horns + Whiskey = A Damn Good Time—mathematicians have determined the whole thing works just fine.

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The Ivan Ramen Slurp Shop brings ramen expertise to NYC

The Ivan Ramen Slurp Shop is located in the Gotham West Market at 600 11th Avenue, between 44th and 45th Street. Since majoring in Japanese in college, Ivan Orkin has lived in Japan, studied at the Culinary Institute of America, and opened two ramen shops in Tokyo. An unheard of feat for a foreigner, one of his Tokyo shops is a leading ramen destination in Japan. This is Ivan Orkin's first ramen shop in the United States. The menu consists of an authentic, yet creative blend of ramen, combining Japanese tradition with Ivan's personal tastes. His flagship location will be opening soon in Manhattan's lower east side.

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Eclectic music, food and drinks join forces at Baby’s All Right

Baby's All Right, a bar, eatery, and music venue in the historic neighborhood of Williamsburg, Brooklyn New York.

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Amazing drinks and unmatched views at the rooftop bar Jimmy in Soho

Soho’s James Hotel has unveiled its rooftop cocktail lounge, though the outdoor area is only open when the weather's nice. Run by David Rabin, Larry Poston, and Johnny Swet of Hotel Griffou, the space holds 80 people, and will no doubt be filled once folks get wind of the amazing view. Drink prices average out at $17, with standouts including the Blair Witch Cocktail, a moonshine concoction complete with birch beer and fresh bay leaf. After 9pm, customers should use the entrance at 15 Thompson St.

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Rustic meets refined at Betony, a modern American Restaurant

Betony is a Modern American restaurant overseen by Executive Chef Bryce Shuman (Eleven Madison Park) and General Manager Eamon Rockey (Eleven Madison Park, Atera, and Aska). The restaurant features soaring ceilings, contemporary photos of New York City street scenes, a bar, lounge and dining room.

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Omar’s La Ranita Restaurant

Omar’s La Ranita is a neighborhood eatery in Greenwich Village, NY, tucked away in a historic brownstone on West 9th Street. This legendary downtown Manhattan address was host to some of the most memorable nightlife landmarks of the last 50 years. La Ranita serves seasonal American cuisine inspired by superb produce found in local green markets.

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Obao Restaurant

OBAO bridges the gap from the streets of South East Asia to the Streets of NYC, bringing you combinations of various Thai and Vietnamese foods with a twist. This Citybuzz pick takes traditional dishes from Thailand and Vietnam like Pad Thai and Pho Noodles and adds a touch of luxury and elegance without ever compromising on authenticity.

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The Park 112

The Park 112 is located on Harlem's 'Restaurant Row'. The décor fosters a relaxed social approach to the dining experience with its grand tufted leather banquettes, light bulb chandeliers as well as an illuminated communal table and private dining area. This Citybuzz pick also offers a self serve wine machine.

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Flatiron Hall

Take a step back in time and visit the Flatiron Hall! Indulge in their delicious, beer hall cuisine, including pastrami spring rolls and their signature giant pretzels with cheddar ale dip.

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Lucy’s Whey

If you are a cheese lover, then Lucy's Whey is the place for you! With a vast selection of cheeses to choose from, Lucy's Whey provides options to the consumer like you've never seen before.

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Eat Breakfast Any Time Of Day At Buvette

Buvette is an exquisite French-Italian breakfast cafe where you can meet for food and drink anytime of day. Located in the West Village, this unique restaurant serves a wide variety of food. You can either go in the morning and eat a fluffy brandade with fresh squeeze orange juice or sit down for dinner with steak tartare and a glass of champagne. Another satisfying feature includes a French and Italian list of wines that makes Buvette a place where breakfast and wine can coincide.

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Check Out Penthouse 808 For Great Views Of Manhattan And Great Food!

Penthouse 808 Penthouse 808 is an Asian Bistro/Lounge that opened in 2009 with a heavy focus on fresh food, sushi and a raw bar. They wanted to be one of the first “in” places in the growing neighborhood of Long Island City. People come over from midtown Manhattan and enjoy the amazing view of Manhattan from the rooftop. Penthouse 808 brought in some of the best sushi chefs for the discriminating tastes of New Yorkers. It rivals some of the best sushi restaurants in Manhattan. There is a more relaxed feeling at Penthouse 808. It sits atop the 63 room, luxury boutique Hotel Ravel – almost a vacation a minute or two away from midtown Manhattan. Visit penthouse808rooftop.com for more information.

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Wine and Roses

Wine and Roses When you walk into Wine and Roses on the Upper West Side (Columbus between 73rd & 74th streets to be exact), you immediately understand where the cozy wine bar got it's name. Model, Cindy Guyer, decided to turn her passion for the finer things, specifically wine and roses, into a new career as restauranteur. She's successfully created a "Cheers" like environment where strangers become friends and neighbors often just pop in to say hello. Offering over 200 different bottles of wine, along with delicious dishes like Prosciutto Pizza, Wine And Roses offers an unforgettable dining experience. Citybuzz host Seth Levine takes a closer look.

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Harlow

Harlow New York City is home to some of the hottest restaurants, hotels and nightlife in the world and no one knows that better than Richie Notar. The Queens native started his career in the hospitality industry as a busboy at Ian Schrager and Steve Rubell‘s Studio 54. After working as a chef in some of the city’s top restaurants, he served as the General Manager of the original Nobu — and only two years later, became the company’s Managing Partner for the past 17 years. Notar recently partnered with Jim Pallotta, Jon Krasner and Michael Barrett to create Harlow, a full-service restaurant, parlor and café in midtown Manhattan. Located at 56th and Park, the European-inspired restaurant features a grand oyster bar, an interior wall of ivy in a conservatory that is flooded with natural light and contemporary art installations. The main dining room retains the original stained glass windows and chandeliers from the 1930’s, when actress Marion Davies used the space for personal entertaining. Visit harlownyc.com for more information

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City Lobster

City Lobster Given City Lobster and Steak’s convenient location between Times Square and Rockefeller, we are the perfect stop before or after Broadway shows for the freshest seafood and highest quality steak! At City Lobster and Steak, we specialize in delicacies such as Live North Atlantic Lobsters, fresh Alaskan King Crab Legs, and authentic Maryland Lump Crab Cakes. We also feature a full raw bar with an assortment of oysters from the East and West coasts. In addition, our a la carte menu offers the finest contemporary New England seafood and Prime Angus Steaks! Come early enough to enjoy happy hour with ½ dozen oysters and a pint of beer for only $12! Or our ongoing 99¢ Oysters special at our 45 foot bar and lounge! The 4700 square foot space is vibrant with live lobsters welcoming you at the entrance, a raw oyster bar beckoning your taste buds, and the lively wait staff ready to make your City Lobster & Steak experience an enjoyable one. Visit citylobster.com for more information.

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Lucky Chengs For A “Unexpected” Evening

Lucky Chengs Lucky Cheng’s is the Drag Queen Capital of the Universe! Outrageous drag queens serve up dinner and a show featuring interactive cabaret, comedy, and karaoke at the infamous Lucky Cheng’s Restaurant. The drag staff turns up the fun as your bartenders, waitresses and performers. After a 19 year run at its downtown location, the dinner show moved on up to its new Times Square Theater District location in the fall of 2012. See the one hour show during a delicious 3-course Asian Fusion dinner packed with flavors, textures and aromas from all of Asia. The show is included in the dinner price, but menu surcharges, drinks, tax, and gratuity are not. Expect to see several talented performers and don’t be afraid to participate in the show. Tips for the show performers are optional, but greatly appreciated. This additional gratuity can be paid in cash or by credit card when paying your check. Plan your evening so that you can stay for our notorious drag hosted karaoke after last show. And don’t forget, the more you drink, the better you sing. Visit luckychengsnyc.com for more information.

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Bold, beer hall fun found all night long at Houston Hall!

Houston Hall Come on down to Houston Hall to hang out with friends and have a beer or two. The huge room, formerly a FDNY storage facility, has rows of tables and benches, and a very lengthy bar, which on a busy night can be five people deep. The hall resembles a downtown version of a German Beer Hall. It’s self-serve seating. The bar has a strong menu of unusual brews made by Greenpoint Beer Works in Brooklyn. Visit houstonhallny.com for more information.

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Arlington Club

The Arlington Club has hit the streets of the Upper East Side and is taking diners by storm! With celebrated chef, Laurent Tourandel, at the helm and in the kitchen, The Arlington Club is THE hotspot for locales and travelers alike. It's no wonder because the restaurant is offering up everything from succulent steak to savory sushi, pleasing the most particular of taste buds. Signature items include the 28-day, dry-aged Cote de Boeuf for two. Just divine! Classic favorites we love are clam’s casino and filet mignon carpaccio...short ribs and pickled jalapeño crispy kobe beef & truffle and spicy tuna osaka style. CityBuzz host, Raina Seitel, got a chance to try the cuisine as she dined with none other than her friend and uber chef, Laurent Tourondel.

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Make Every Day Even Sweeter with Tache Chocolate

A great activity for any special occasion is taking a chocolate making class. It is a perfect opportunity to make custom chocolate gifts for all your friends & family or purchase a class as a gift! Whatever the case maybe, Tache's got plenty of chocolate to go around. Custom gift packaging and gift certificates are available upon request, too! Spend your hour and a half lesson in Tache's chocolate factory learning everything from cultivating, tempering, tasting, coating to decorating your own delicious chocolate delicacies. Make popular treats like chocolate mustache lollipops, caramel kisses, chocolate bars, mendients, grignotines (french chocolate clusters of dried fruit & nuts), or even invent your own! Principle teacher, chocolatier and owner, Aditi Malhotra, is a graduate of Switzerland’s Glion Institute, the French Culinary Institute and named by Zagat as one of their top “30 Under 30” chefs.

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Sons of Essex

The Sons of Essex menu is a reflection of the diverse melting pot of cultures that has gentrified the Lower East Side. The old school 'Bowery Boys' atmosphere and 'Gangs of New York' vibe pays homage to the history of the Lower East Side, fusing a traditional American comfort food menu with the spices of Lower East Side immigrants past with the use of local ingredients and Essex Street Market fruits & vegetables. Yupp, that's how we roll.

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Bobby Van’s Steakhouse

Bobby Van opened his first restaurant in Bridgehampton, New York, in the summer of 1969, where he tended bar and played piano. The restaurant quickly became famous with local musicians, writers, poets, and artists. Bobby Van's legacy of quality food, service, and atmosphere quickly grew into a thriving year round restaurant in the Hamptons. Eventually after 20 years, Bobby would lose interest in running a restaurant and he sold his business to four Manhattan restaurateurs; Joseph Smith, Joe Phair, Rick Passarelli, and Joe Hickey. The new operators soon opened a second location in the Helmsley building on Park Avenue. Considered by many the “Original” because it was the first official steakhouse of the Bobby Van’s group, the Park Avenue Bobby Van’s is unmatched for location, food, and service among steakhouses in New York.

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Lexington Candy Shop

Once in the luncheonette, notice the 1940 vintage Hamilton Beach milk shake mixer next to the 1948 vintage coffee urns. They date from a time when sodas and ice cream drinks were and are still made by hand with the skillful touch of the "Soda Jerk". When seated, take a moment to enjoy the decor's authenticity painstakingly maintained. An original menu, original photos of the store in 1925, and pictures of our founders are on display. The staff will answer any questions you have about the menu or their long history. Picture taking is, of course, welcome. Sit back (unless you're on a stool) and enjoy our timeless food and beverages. As you enjoy your meal and beverage, you will understand why their industry trade paper; The Restaurant News, calls us "A David among Goliaths in Gotham City, the LCS is like a page in food service history bringing to life the energy and attentiveness of a bygone era".

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Ben and Jack’s

Ben and Jack, long-time waiters of Peter Luger's Steakhouse, have opened a beautiful restaurant in the heart of Manhattan. They offer prime, dry aged porterhouse steaks and a dazzling assortment of steakhouse favorites. This is the brainchild of a group of former Peter Luger waiters who decided to try to recreate the magic of the legendary Brooklyn restaurant in Manhattan. They have succeeded and offer some of the most delicious steaks and seafood in town. Everything is mouthwateringly good, and here you can use your credit card!

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Guy’s American Kitchen and Bar

Located right in the heart of Times Square, Guy Fiere introduces big flavors and good times. They're-the-hook scratch-made food, hand crafted signature beers, killer cocktails and rockin' tunes are all on tap here.

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Murray’s Cheese Bar

Murray’s flagship store on Bleecker Street features a rotating selection of 300 cheeses from all over the world. Take a peak into the subterranean cheese caves where we age and ripen our growing collection. Bleecker Street is also home to Murray’s Melts, our grilled cheese counter.

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Ereka Vetrini on Parm NYC: The ONLY place to get chicken parm.

No need to travel to Italy for the perfect Parm, just head down to 248 Mulberry Street and taste the goods! Classic chicken parm sandwiches with a little downtown new york twist. All of the ingredients they use are locally grown which is part of their Italian motto. Each piece of chicken parm comes with a side of lasagna which is hands down the best lasagna in all of the city. Their secret for making awesome lasagna? Easy: they toast each side of the lasagna so that every bite provides the necessary crunch.

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Thomas Farley on Top Hops Beer Shop

Lower east side NYC. Just a few blocks from NY food and beer institutions, New Beer, Whole Foods Bowery, and Katz's Deli. This is a new place that has it all...multiple growler fill taps, 100's of bottles (kept in growler units without lights to preserve the integrity of the beer), artisanal foods available while you enjoy a tasty draft at the bar...1/2 bar, 1/2 growler fill station..is the this the new model for craft beer distribution spots? Not sure but this is a well worth checking out location...Craft is appreciated and celebrated, mid sized spot, with a sleek and comfortable arching bar, friendly, gracious and knowledgeable owner adds to the experience...go check it out..places like this are the future and deserve to be supported.

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Billie’s Black

Besides being known for their amazing food (and let’s be clear: Billie’s Black serves food that is not just good; it is delicious), Billie’s also has gained respect from the city’s independent music scene. If an artist wants to do a show in Harlem, Billie’s is either first on their list or close to the top. And so, suddenly, Adriane finds herself owning the exact business she expected. Part restaurant, part lounge, part family reunion, Billie’s Black has grown from a dream into a reality.

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Seven’s Turkish Grill

Seven's Turkish Grill uses the freshest Ingredients. They do not use processed or frozen food. Everything here is made fresh.The food was outstanding, probably the best Turkish food I've had in the last few months, and the service was very efficient as well. You can get a mixed kebab platter with any 2 kebabs you want for about $18 and it comes with salad, roasted vegetables, rice, and bread. It's really a huge meal. We decided to get 2 of them to sample 4 kinds of kebab (Doner, Adana, Shish, and Beyti) and we also got the Ezme salad (much like a Turkish salsa) to boot. The flavors were spot on. Everything had that 'right off the grill' flavor, was succulent, and extremely juicy. We also got a knafe for dessert which was hot, fresh, and delicious.

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Ninja NY

At Ninja NY’s Japanese-French-American fusion fare, guests are whisked into the subterranean space by elevator, led to the dining area via a secret path (peopled by live “ninjas” poised to scare the living daylights out of you), then brought to the recesses of a feudal castle where each dungeonlike chamber houses a single table. Chopped conch in garlic-butter sauce explodes in flames after its fuse is lit; and the meteorite pot—a clam-and-soy-milk soup over greens and pork loin sliced tableside—is cooked to blandness by 800-degree rocks. After some too-beautiful-to-eat dessert, like a tiramisu bonsai tree made of green-tea leaves, puff-pastry wood, and cookie-crumb dirt, the meal concludes with a lengthy magic show from yet another ninja, this time armed with a deck of cards.

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Thomas Farley on Rare View

One of New York City’s best kept secrets, the Rare View Rooftop Garden is a seasonal destination for drinks and amazing city views. It is also an ideal spot for intimate private gatherings and receptions. Please don’t hesitate to call for details and dates.

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Ereka Vetrini on Tortaria

Tortaria is a Mexican-style sandwich shop and tequila bar that specializes in tortas, taquitos, and tequila. We offer the widest selection of tortas in all of New York City and prepare them from scratch each morning with authentic Mexican ingredients. And we don't stop there. We are also proud to offer made-to-order guacamole, hand-pressed corn Masa tortillas, and fresh fruit-squeezed margaritas.

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Sugar Bar

The Sugar Bar Restaurant & Lounge is owned by the legendary singer/songwriting team Ashford & Simpson. Open from Tuesday thru Saturday for dinner and nightly entertainment. For great food and a good time, theres no place like it. Dont forget about "Open Mic" Every Thursday, where all the stars come out to play. Open for nine years now, the Sugar Bar is known for both its delectable menu and its spectacular live performances.

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Miss Lily’s

Miss Lily’s, a laid-back eatery on an unassuming corner of SoHo, claims to be New York City’s most authentic Jamaican experience. It's also an instant scene, given the folks behind it are experts in luring culture vultures: Binn and Genc Jakupi of 1Oak and The Box, Serge Becker of La Esquina and Café Select, and Paul Salmon of the Rock house Hotel in Jamaica.

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Mooncake Foods

Mooncake Foods is home-cooked Asian comfort food, as interpreted by a food lover who grew up influenced by the yummy foods of his Spanish Brooklyn neighborhood and the addictive cooking of his Chinese Mom. They try to create a new kind of Asian restaurant. Mooncake Foods breaks all traditions - no woks, no unhealthy fryers, no processed meat entrees, and no heavy heart-clogging sauces. What you’ll find on their menu is innovatively grilled, steamed, or roasted plates, salads, and sandwiches.

They use premium quality natural ingredients, organic when possible, and always fresh every day. They work hard and make their dishes from scratch to ensure our quality. For example, they juice their own limes for the base of our sauces, roast their own bell peppers for our sandwiches, make their own chicken stock for the soups, and hand mix and roll every wonton and dumpling.

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Danny Meyer’s Untitled at the Whitney Museum of American Art

Danny Meyer's newest venture, a cafe for the Whitney called Untitled, takes the coffee shop of the '60s as its inspiration but manages to incorporate what's best about most of Meyer's operations: locally sourced, seasonally fresh fare, prepared by talented hands (Executive Chef Chris Bradley, formerly of Gramercy Tavern) and offered at reasonable prices. The cafe is open for breakfast and lunch during the week (with both menus offered all day), and for dinner on weekends; we stopped in for a late breakfast on a quiet Tuesday, when the kitchen is open despite the galleries being closed to the public, and started our day with a chocolate egg cream ($5)--chocolate syrup, seltzer, and milk. However, a more traditional start is also available, with coffee from (who else?) Stumptown roasters, or a selection of housemade juices. The restaurant's suppliers are proudly listed on a chalkboard over the bar: Milk from Battenkill Creamery in Salem, Oats & Grains from Cayuga Pure Organics in Ithaca, and Apple Pie from Four & Twenty Blackbirds in Brooklyn--just to name a few. The inspiration may be coffee-shop classics, but the quality results seem anything but. Untitled Whitney Museum of American Art 945 Madison Avenue, New York NY 10021 (map)

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Ladurée

These small, round cakes, crisp on the outside, smooth and soft in the middle, are made every morning in Ladurée’s “laboratory”. The pastry chefs measure out very precisely the required amounts of almonds, eggs and sugar, before adding one final ingredient, a pinch of unique “know-how”, essential to the making of such a delicacy. Once cooked and filled, the macaroons are put to one side for 2 days before going on sale, the time it takes to achieve a perfect balance between texture and flavour. With each new season, Ladurée pays tribute to its most famous creation by creating a new flavour. The existing range of macarons is always the starting point when a new one is created, as the variety of colours is as important as the range of flavours and a vital part of their appeal.

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WestWay – a fun ‘den of sin’

If you take out the professional go-go dancers, and bring in New York’s downtown crowd you get the new West Way. Formerly a gentleman’s club and located just off the West Side Highway, West Way still feels like a little ‘den of sin’. It was strange, but definitely fun to see such a hipster, young and fashionable crowd in this venue with glittery walls, windowless rooms, and 80s remixed music. The place is spacious, with various rooms, disco lights, a huge D.J. boot, gteat beats, and a fantastic energy. Even though it is in the West Village, there is nothing conservative about this place: everyone is there to have fun, and they certainly know how to. 75 Clarkson Street | New York City (212) 620-0101

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Beecher’s – The Cellar

The Cellar – what a discovery! I passed by the Beecher's Handmade Cheese store in Flatiron District many times, however it took me long time to discover the true gem they were hiding: the little wine bar/ restaurant. In the store, visitors can witness the old art of making cheese and buy the products. However, they also have the opportunity to enjoy a glass of wine with the delicious cheeses in their very romantic cellar downstairs. The Cellar serves a wide variety of wines, cheeses, meats and charcuterie in a quite unique environment. The candles, the small wooden tables, and the lack of windows make this little venue the perfect place for a date. Beecher’s – The Cellar 900 Broadway N 212.466.3340ew York, NY 10003

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Frankies Spuntino

The Frankies Spution restaurants – one in Brooklyn and the other one on 17 Clinton Street, no longer need an introduction. They are already well known by many of the Italian cuisine lovers. Fortunately for New Yorkers, Frankies opened a new location in the West Village on 570 Hudson Street. Just like the other two locations, the new venue looks beautiful and welcoming, with a comfortable dinning space, a spacious bar area, and Italian food at its best. Most of their dishes are seasonally-inspired, prepare with simple ingredients but great attention. Nothing looks too pretentious; however, everything is absolutely delicious. Simple but heavenly – that’s how I would describe their food in two words. Any day of the week expect this place to be packed, because who doesn’t love Italian food in such a pleasant environment? 570 Hudson Street. New York, NY. 10014 212.924.0818

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The Famous Waverly Inn

The Waverly Inn is a classic. If you manage to play your best cards, and get a table, you will feel part of an exclusive dinning club. No matter when you go, you will most likely be sited next to a celebrity, best-selling author or top-model. The décor is beautiful, cozy, with a lot of wood, chandeliers, fireplace, and paintings which create the atmosphere of a townhouse inhabited by English aristocrats. The food is outstanding, and the service is great. They also promise to use “local and organic” ingredients, whenever it is possible. Many consider The Waverly Inn pricey; however, for such a selective dining experience, it is certainly worth it.



16 Bank St

New York, 10014

(917) 828-1154

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Veselka – great food anytime!

Veselka offers probably the best and most authentic Easter European food in New York, anytime of the day. Given their long operating hours, Veselka is great for breakfast, brunch, and late night snacks. Everybody loves Veselka for some obvious reasons: it is cheap, it is fast, it is non-pretentious, and it is absolutely delicious. I believe every New Yorker ends one day at Veselka. It can be for a very early omelet or for some pierogies at 3am. The vibe is great, and the crowd always surprising. So, do not be surprised if you get sited at breakfast next to a group of hip kids dressed as if they just stepped out of the club - because they did.



144 2nd Ave

New York, NY 10003


(212) 228-9682

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The Bourgeois Pig – one sexy pig!

What a creative, sexy, and fabulous bar! The Bourgeois Pig brings a little bit of the Parisian chic in the heart of East Village. The décor is absolutely fantastic. The vintage furniture, the drapery, the dimmed light, and the red lamps, will make you feel as you step in the boudoir of a Parisian courtesan in the 1920s. And the French atmosphere is completed by a large selection of French wines on their menu. You will also not fail to notice a large red neon sign, which adds to the sexiness of this place. Therefore, I highly recommend this The Bourgeois Pig for a date, but a group will have just as much fun. The Bourgeois Pig is the intersection of sexiness, and mystery, with fun, and modernity. 111 E 7th St New York, NY 10009 (212) 475-2246

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The Mulberry Project

The Mulberry Project is one of Little Italy’s best kept secrets. The entrance is almost impossible to locate in Little Italy’s craziness, so it is known only by the real connoisseurs. The inside is small, cozy, dark, with a beautiful bar, and a back garden. Despite not being in the heart of Meatpacking, The Mulberry Project attracts the same people as the most popular downtown places in New York: a gorgeous, fun crowd. No matter when you go, the venue is always packed, and the vibe is perfect. One of my favorite things about The Mulberry Project is their ‘costumed’ cocktail. They can mix you a drink based on your favorite flavors, and everything is delivered with great care, and a smile. 149 Mulberry Street New York, NY 10013 (646) 448-4536

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Extra Virgin – Extra Good Food and Charm

Extra Virgin is no longer a secret for the residents of the West Village. In fact, it is one of the most popular brunch places in Manhattan. Extra Virgin feels very low key, with its exposed brick walls, wooden tables, and friendly staff, however the food is just as good as in any up-scale restaurant. They change their menu frequently, and they always offer

inventive Mediterranean dishes. I simply love their roasted chicken and the delicious artichokes Provençal. The place is always crowded, but if you are lucky to get a table outside, you will get a good feeling of the life in the popular West Village. The restaurant is on the corner of West 4th street and Perry street, one of the most charming blocks in New York City.



259 W 4th St

New York, NY 10014

(212) 691-9359

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Flute – Sophistication and Fun

The French décor, the dimmed lights, and the delicious champagne make Flute one of the most romantic bars in New York City. Despite its charm, Flute is a hidden gem in Gramercy, known only by real New Yorkers. The place can be defined as upscale, but cozy and very comfy. Their staff is friendly, and they will help you decide on the wide variety of one hundred and fifty champagnes, plus the wines, of course. Some nights you can listen to beautiful jazz played by a live, talented band. Therefore, Flute brings together class, sophistication, culture and fun – truly a NYC place, which you should not miss. 40 E 20th St New York, NY 10003 (212) 529-7870

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Taboon – Middle Eastern cuisine meets Mediterranean cuisine in Hell’s Kitchen

If you ask real New Yorkers where to go for the best Mediterranean food, they will probably send you to Taboon restaurant in Hell’s Kitchen. If you ask them where to go for the best Middle Eastern cuisine they will most likely send you to Taboon also. They prepare most of their exotic specialties in a wood fired oven by blending in Mediterranean flavors with the Middle Eastern cuisine. In fact, “Taboon” in the Arabic word for oven. Every dish is splendid, and comes in a beautiful presentation, staring with an appetizer of falafel. Their lamb kebabs are huge, and they taste just as good as those I had on the streets of Israel. But let’s not forget to mention the décor of Taboon: authentic, authentic, authentic. Therefore, Taboon offers a complete, unforgettable Middle Easter experience in the heart of Manhattan. Taboon: 773 10th Ave · New York; (212) 713-0271

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5 and Diamond Restaurant with Ereka Vetrini

This Harlem Restaurant is upscale casual with large windows, sexy lighting, vibrant floral arrangements and soft jazzy music in the background. Dine alone at the intimate bar, or enjoy a drink or meal while watching your favorite sports event. Come with friends and family to celebrate, or have a romantic dinner for two. Just remember to leave enough room for the decadent desserts, all made in-house.

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Bocca di Bacco

This charming Italian venue, called Bocca di Bacco, manages to stand even in the competitive restaurant scene of Hell’s Kitchen. Even though they call themselves a wine bar, explained by the generous selection of 40 wines by the glass and around 500 by the bottle, I personally consider Bocca di Bocca a fabulous restaurant, with an amazing Northern Italian cuisine. The space is stunning.  Mostly made of wood, with brick walls, and dimmed light, this is one of Hell’s Kitchen's most romantic spots. If you pass by Eights avenue and 54th street, you are probably not going to miss it. Their majestic wooden door made me walk in Bocca di Bacco for the first time.

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The Dutch

I would like to introduce you all to this new Soho gem: The Dutch restaurant. Located in the old Cub Room space on Sullivan and Prince, Dutch is charming, welcoming, and their dishes are fabulous. The fairly large restaurant is decorated with giant globe lights, vintage mirrors, wood, and an unique eight-stool oyster bar. The best part is the back room with a working fireplace, and a private dinning room in the basement (reservation are required). On the Dutch’s generous menu you will find seasonal green market salads, good steaks, delicious sandwiches, a great fried chicken, seafood, and amazing pies. The Dutch is great for dinner, but lunch and late nights also.

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Capital Grille is the Capital Steakhouse of NYC!


The Capital Grille. Known for delicious dry aged steaks, chops and fresh seafood. An award-winning wine list. A relaxed, elegant atmosphere. And, to top it all off, it’s in the Trylon Towers of the exquisite Chrysler Center. Rich African mahogany paneling and warm lighting from one-of-a-kind art deco chandeliers set the tone for a comfortably elegant evening (unless it’s a lively, social atmosphere you seek, in which case our sophisticated bar might be your destination). Their impressive menu of nationally renowned dry aged steaks and the freshest of seafood will ignite your culinary imagination as our award-winning wine list of more than 5,000 bottles awakens your inner sommelier.

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Cafe Gitane

Every time I meet my girlfriends for dinner or brunch, I no longer have to give them the name of the restaurant, they simply show up at Cafe Gitane in the Jane Hotel, because it is not easy to find another spot just as good. We used to go to their location in Soho, however due to high popularity, there is always a long wait, so the Gitane in the Jane Hotel solved our problem: same delicious menu, but much bigger space and a lot more character. The space is very large, and it has the vibe of an old French restaurant, forgotten by time in the Jane Hotel. The stunning bar, the comfy old sofas, the wooden tables, and the big windows give a very unique feeling to the place. Try their famous avocado on toast, the eggs, or a French croissant with coffee. Delicious!

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Put you best dress on, and try L’Artusi!

L'Artusi delivers an Italian food experience at its best, in a chic environment. What more can you ask for? Quite larger than an average West Village restaurant, L'Artusi looks spacious and glamourous. It is the kind of place where you can put on a pair of high heels, and your favorite cocktail dress and have dinner downtown, without feeling overdressed. The deco is chic, with dark walls, high ceilings, and a lot of marble.They have two floors, both just as crowded, but the place still feels cozy and intimate.
Their small dishes are heavenly, and the cheese bar is famous among cheese lovers. I love their scallops, the big selection of wines, and not to mention the desserts. L'Artusi can satisfy the taste of even the most critical New Yorkers.

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Jimmy – views with style

Located on top of the James hotel in Soho, the first thing is going to strike you when you enter this upscale bar is the view of the city. With an almost 360 degrees view of downtown Manhattan, and Hudson river, The Jimmy will make you feel like you are on top of world. And for a even better experience of the view, you can go on their gorgeous terrace, which will certainly make this place even more popular, once the summer days are here. If you are planning to try it out, make sure you are dress to impress, and have your credit card ready, given that cocktails are not less than $18. But the views, the service, the music, and the crowd are not going to deceive you by any means.

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Rubirosa – for a memorable slice of pizza

Unless you are in Italy, it is not easy to find a venue where you can have a perfect slice of pizza, in an welcoming environment. Fortunately for New Yorkers, there is Rubirosa , located on Mulberry between Prince and Spring Street. This little Italian restaurant is one of the coziest venues I know, and their pizza is one of the best I ate in New York so far. But don't get distracted by the pizza only, because most of their dishes are simply delicious. And caution - no matter what you order from their menu, it is going to come in a large quantity. Being lunch or dinner time, Rubirosa is always crowded, and their staff always friendly. The gorgeous wooden bar, the wooden floors, and dimmed lights make the place look rustic and warm, reminding of a nineteen century farm in Italy's countryside. But what makes Rubirosa truly memorable is certainly the food.

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Grom with Ereka Vetrini

Grom is a high quality gelateria The idea is to apply to the artisanal gelato production, a principle common to all the best restaurants in the world: the purchase of absolute top quality raw materials. With this purpose in mind, at the end of 2002, Guido Martinetti and Federico Grom set out to search the best that agriculture has to offer, from the Langhe to Sicily and Central America. The standards are strict: only fresh seasonal fruit, coming from the best consortia in Italy and from our farm Mura Mura no colorings or artificial additives, Lurisia mountain water for the sorbets and high-quality whole milk for the creams, organic eggs and a selection of the best cocoas and coffees from central America. In 2007, Grom opens its first shop abroad, in New York City, with lines of over 30 meters forming immediately. In the same year, we finally realize one of our most ambitious projects: the purchase of 8 hectares of land in Costigliole d'Asti to start our farm Mura Mura, where old cultivar varieties of peaches, apricots, pears, figs, strawberries and melons are planted. The goal is once again to obtain the best fruit possible, cultivated organically and in compliance with the times dictated by nature and the environment. In 2008, we open in Paris (with great reviews by Le Monde) and in 2009 we open the first store in Tokyo, Japan; at the same time, we start an important green project "Grom Loves World" Grom loves World motivated by the respect of the environment and the eco-sustainability…all plastic (spoons, retail and garbage bags) is therefore replaced by Materbi, an extraordinary material derived from corn starch and vegetable oils that is completely biodegradable, and all paper is replaced by Fsc certified paper, a prominent international entity caring for responsible forest management and the life conditions of the indigenous populations; all this complemented by eco-friendly waste management and the acquisitions of new low emission trucks for the logistic.

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Beauty comes at a price at Provocateur

If you want to meet New York's most attractive crowd, Provocateur in Meatpacking District is the perfect place to go. And if nature isn't selective enough, then the bouncers at Provocateur certainly are. This upscale venue might have the toughest door in the entire city, making it exclusive, glamourous, and desirable. On a Thursday night, there are more fashion models at Provocateur, than in Lincoln Center during Fashion Week. But as we all know, beauty comes with a cost, and in this case, a very high one. Their prices are extremely high, but the service, the music, and the crowd - outstanding. Provocateur is divided into two part - a lounge and a night club. So, whenever you need to take a break from dancing, you can indulge yourself with a $20 cocktail in the lounge area. provocateur

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Where New York’s artists are socializing

thejaneThis gorgeous bar is surprisingly located in the lobby of a boutique hostel. The interior of the Jane Hotel Ballroom, looks like a smaller version of an old European chateau, with a gigantic fireplace, high ceilings, chandeliers, paintings, and antique furniture. Despite the majestic look of the place, the staff is very laid back, and the crowd young, diverse, and artsy. In a regular night at The Jane, you might meet a struggling artist from Brooklyn, sitting next to a best-selling author, or a famous actor. Located in the beautiful Greenwich Village, The Jane is known for being a good place to meet new, interesting people, in a marvelous, and unique environment

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I have high standards, and I take them to Nobu for dinner

nobuweb-imagesdining-roomGiven that I lived in Japan for a long time, I have high standards when it comes to my sushi dinners. However, Nobu probably rises above everyone's standards. Smaller than the gigantic, and glamourous location midtown, Nobu Next Door can be considered an up-scale neighborhood venue, mostly populated by Tribeca's residents. The chef delivers authentic Japanese cuisine, with a touch of modernity. Try the black cod, rock shrimp with spicy mayonnaise, tuna tartare, and any of the sushi rolls. Decorated with natural textures, such as trees, wood, and river stones, the space looks cozy, organic, but modern and sophisticated in the same time.

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Embark on a tasty experience at Lure Fishbar

img_2674If you love fish, I encourage you to go on board of Lure Fishbar. The inside of this spacious Soho restaurant, looks like a huge yacht, with classy passengers, and a very friendly staff. The fish is outstanding, and the deserts are 'dangerously' good. In fact, anything you order in Lure is simply delicious. And if you are not ready to leave Lure after dinner, try a glass of wine at their magnificent bar. Therefore, Lure seems to have it all. The location, the atmosphere, the great food, and the large space, make this restaurant a perfect spot to bring your group of friends, your family, or a date on a Friday night.

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Mel’s Burger Bar

At Mel's Burger Bar they do exactly what their name suggests, they offer a solid selection of massive burgers, frosty shakes, comfort food classics and a killer bar experience. They "meat" and exceed your expectations by offering high quality fun and food options matched with a lively, laid back atmosphere. The 140 seat restaurant features three-dimensional exposed brick, black and white checkered tile floors, custom wood ceiling beams and six flat screen televisions for your viewing pleasure. If you forget where you are, an illuminated six-foot Mel's sign will remind that you that this vintage burger shack has everything you need.

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Death and Company: Speak Easy and Drink Well

The story goes that during American prohibition bartenders were considered the walking dead - hence the name "Death and Company" of this prohibition style bar in Manhattan's present day East Village. Here you will find old fashioned stirred and shaken drinks such as the Straw Dog - that's Compass Box Asyla Scotch, Dolin Blanc Vermouth, fresh squeezed lemon juice, Bitterman's Grapefruit Bitters, and muddled strawberry - and the Bella Luna which is Plymouth Gin, St. Germain Elderflower, fresh squeezed lemon juice, and Creme Yvette. There's an abbreviated wine and beer selection but an intriguing list of Champagne cocktails and punches to make up for it. There's also a "Bites" menu with a lobster roll and crispy pork belly. The scene is all marble and mahogany, quiet but lively. They don't let more people in than there are seats for so it's never too crowded but you may have to wait outside - though it's no problem, the doorman is quite friendly. deathandco

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Urban Elegance & Very Happy Hours at Del Frisco’s Steakhouse

One of  NYC's premiere steakhouses, Del Frisco's stands out in a city filled with suits and their discerning steak tastes. Listed as one of the country's top grossing restaurants, Del Frisco's is located in the McGraw Hill building on 6th Avenue in, what NYMag claims, "is without question the most ubanely elegant steakhouse." The sophisticated, three-floor eatery is home to one of midtown's most popular Happy Hours, filled with the beautiful and successful people in Midtown's financial area. The wine list is one of the best in the city; the wine cellar and private party room is actually an old bank vault. For those martini lovers out there (this is NYC after all), Del Frisco's offers an array of signature cocktails, including the popular "V.I.P," which contains pineapple pieces soaked in Smirnoff Orange Vodka. Now Del Frisco's would not be a steakhouse without the steak, and the chefs here serve up some of the most mouth watering sirloins and filets. Regular customers almost instantly order the infamous crab cakes and freshly baked bread before biting into a juicy Double Eagle Strip Steak. Prices are reasonable for the large Manhattan portions. Reservations are not required, but recommended to be seated quickly.

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Ted’s Montana Grill’s Bison Burgers Can’t Be Beat

If you're looking for a new taste on the traditional burger, there's no better place to satisfy a juicy burger craving than at Ted's Montana Grill. Founded by media guru Ted Turner and famed restaurateur George McKerrow, Jr.,  Ted's Montana Grill found a niche in the American grill market and it stuck: Bison Burgers. Repeatedly acclaimed as one of the best burgers in cities across the US, New York's urbanites love Ted's home range twist on American classics as a pre-theater must or relaxed dinner.

Ted's Montana Grill hasn't become a restaurant empire just for its most popular item, it also does all the American classics with style. Try freshly cut french fries, hand-dipped salt and pepper onion rings, pecan crusted salmon and steaks. Located right in Rockefeller Center, Ted's Montana Grill proves hearty American food shines in the heart of Manhattan.

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Keste is Neapolitan for “This Is It”

San Marzano tomatoes, buffalo mozzarella flash-frozen in Campagna, Italy before shipping to New York, sea salt, volcanic stone heated to one thousand degrees: these are just some of the necessary ingredients for a true Italian pie at Keste Pizza & Vino. And this attention to authentic detail is working, as the newest contender for the best slice in New York, it has already ranked #1 on NY Mag's list of NYC's Top Pie.

Keste Pizza & Vino offers over twenty pizza pies ranging in price from $9 to $19 with striking toppings such as imported cooked ham, butternut squash cream and truffle spread. Once the order is placed and the toppings are spread over the dough, pizzas cook in just one minute thanks to the thousand degree oven.

Chef-owner Roberto Caporuscio is a traditionalist when it comes to making his twelve-inch Neapolitan pies. With an oven that was made by artisans flown in from Naples, Keste Pizza & Vino is the newest contender for the legendary New York slice status, even if it is through and through Italian. The name sake pie has tomatoes, buffalo mozzarella, prosciutto di parma, arugola, gran cru and extra virgin olive oil. And for the purist there is always the simple elegance and perfection that is the equally popular Margherita.

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Perry St: Inventive French Fare From Jean Georges

diners_perry_streetFrom the chef that brought us the acclaimed Spice Market, Jean Georges delivers yet another inventive menu and beautiful restaurant to go with it, Perry St. Here you will find Asian-inspired modern French fare and a minimalist dining room full of white leather sofas. As is the present crowd, patrons of haute cuisine have come to expect culinary extras like the amuse bouche, and on this order Perry St delivers (with a strawberry and basil gazpacho no less!). Entree items range from the predictable but proven - slowly baked arctic char with white asparagus and basil vinaigrette - to the surprising - you can have fried chicken with spicy pea puree and pickled onions for dinner if you like. And as is the case with many concept restaurants, the creativity really shines through in the selection of appetizers. For starters you might enjoy a crispy poached egg with caviar and vodka cream. Because, why not?

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Italian Culinary Heavyweights Deliver at Del Posto

For an authentic yet modern, inventive Italian meal, not many restaurants in NYC deliver in style like Del Posto. With both Mario Batali and Lidia Bastianich at the helm- er kitchen- from the first steps guests are greeted to a grand experience:del posto classical pianists set the mood in the ballroom of a dining room with balcony seating, three sets of marble staircases, wrought iron railings, and wooden beams in the high ceilings. Start your meal with the Abalone Carpaccio with Grilled Asparagus and Young Ramps or with Lidia's Lobster Salad alla Catalana with Tomato and Celery. For your primi course, the hand made Orecchiette with Lamb Shoulder Sausage, Crispy Morels, and Minted Soybeans is worth it for the minted soybeans alone. For your secondi course, there's no way to go wrong, but if you are feeling adventurous try the Roasted Turbot – from the Mediterranean – with Caponatina, Crunchy Fregola and Moorish Spices. To finish, the Chocolate Ricotta Tortino with Toasted Sicilian Pistachios and EVOO Gelato is a masterpiece of a dessert and the perfect ending to a beautiful Italian meal. At Del Posto, the atmosphere and the service are impeccable, but in the end, it is all about the food – as it should be.

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Le Bernardin for Award-Winning Seafood Perfection

A 4 star restaurant that has been named the #1 restaurant in New York by New York Magazine, New York Times and Zagat’s Guide; has won more James Beard Awards than any other restaurant; and has been awarded the highest number of Michelin stars: 3, Le Bernardin is the premier French restaurants in New York City – and arguably the world – and certainly one of the most elegant dining rooms in the country. Picture 67The philosophy of Le Bernardin is, very simply put, the fish is the star of the plate. With the focus on seafood, Chef Eric Ripert (whose name and restaurant may sound familiar from multiple Top Chef appearances) has created an ambitious yet uncomplicated dinner menu that is broken into three courses: almost raw, barely touched and lightly cooked. Chef Eric Ripert’s favorite dishes are the Tuna made of Layers of Thinly Pounded Yellowfin with Foie Gras and Toasted Baguette; the Crab with Stuffed Zucchini Flower with Peektoe, King Crab and “Fine Herbs – Lemon” Mousseline Sauce; and the Surf and Turf of Escolar and Seared Kobe Beef with Sea Bean Salad and Eggplant Fries. Le Bernardin is one of those restaurants that is the special occasion as it will probably be the most memorable dining experience of your entire life. Insider's Tip: As Le Bernardin's reputation precedes itself throughout the globe, make sure to make a reservation well in advance and bring a heavy wallet; such perfection is priced accordingly.

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Bottle Service Then Brunch At Libation

New York City is full of hot nightclubs, but not many can brag about a great brunch as well.  Libation, however, is one that can.  It’s a stylish restaurant and lounge in the evening, an out of control three floor playground set to hip-hop and DJ mash-ups at night, and the next see-and-be-seen brunch spot on Sunday afternoons. But to do it all and to do it well is the impressive part.Picture 48 With three bars and two DJ booths on three floors, Libation is a veritable nightclub.  The dancing gets pumping at around eleven and bottle service is available all night on the balcony.  DJs fly in from Las Vegas and California to spin the latest tracks and bartenders mix specialty drinks such as the Libation Lemonade: fresh blueberries and blackberries muddled with fresh squeezed lemon juice, sugar and Stoli Bluberi Vodka. After a long night of dancing and drinking, come back to nurse your hangover away with the Texas French Toast.  It comes with bananas, walnuts, and your choice of bacon, sausage, or ham, and-most importantly-unlimited Mimosas and Bloody Marys.  Brunch reservations are a must for Sunday, but planning ahead for a Libation double-header is worth it, because haven’t you always wondered what a nightclub would be like in the day?

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Rosa Mexicano Gives Mexican a Stylish Makeover

A New York institution since 1984, Rosa Mexicano turns wimpy tacos into bold, flavorful Flautas de Pollo, making South of the Border food upscale and gourmet cuisine. Starting the tableside guacamole service trend that has exploded across America, Rosa Mexicano is the end all, be all to authentic, modern Mexican cuisine that only New York can make seriously trendy and stylish. Rosa Mexicano is best known for its signature pomegranate margaritas, but seasoned diners (and drinkers!) know to go for a fresh cocktail made from Picture 33any of the 100 tequilas stocked behind the bar. One such favorite is the Paloma: a tequila and grapefruit soda cocktail. The impressive interiors of New York’s two newest Rosa Mexicano outposts (Lincoln Center and Union Square) were designed by David Rockwell and feature electric-blue tiled water walls. But for that old-school Mexicana, all three of its NYC restaurants feature the award-winning tableside prepared guacamole that is not to be missed. In fact, it should be ordered before even cracking open the menu. It is made in the traditional lava-rock mortar and is well worth the $14 price tag. The rest of the menu is a journey into new territory of elevated, elegant Mexican dining from the Filete con Hongos (Filet Mignon with Wild Mushrooms) to the Jaiba Enchiladas (Jumbo Lump Crab Enchiladas). Insider's Tip: Make reservations early for a prime-time table. All three Manhattan locations get crowded and waiting for a table at the bar is not really an option due to the popular reputation of those pomegranate margaritas.

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Barbounia’s Where the Mediterranean Meets NYC

If you're looking for an authentic Mediterranean restaurant with marvelous prices and a fantastic atmosphere, you're only a cab ride away. Nestled in Gramercy, Barbounia allows its customers a glimpse into a Mediterranean dream. The restaurant is dimly lit and is decorated with towering pillars, ornate arches, and lavish floral arrangements.

The menu boasts many flavorful dishes from the region, specifically the countries of  Greece, Morocco, southern France and southern Italy. Such dishes include the Lamb Terracotta, which is Lamb Kebabs served with pepper chutney, pistachios, and tahini wrapped in an oven baked flat bread, and their pan-seared Yellow Fin Tuna served with creamed potatoes and vegetables. While enjoying their meal, customers can also sip on some of the many cocktails offered, including the Barbounia-tini made with fresh aloe-vera juice and foam. But that's not all, Barbounia also offers a champagne brunch on Sunday where you can get a never ending flow of champagne cocktails for only $12!

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The Latest Momofuku is Ma Peche in Midtown

Ma Peche, David Chang’s newest Asian fusion restaurant and the first to venture outside of the East Village, is now open for business.  The restaurant is in Midtown’s Chambers Hotel, but don’t let the new neighborhood or the high ceilings in the hotel lobby fool you.  ma pecheMa Peche stays true to the Momofuku brand of exclusivity that is brought about by dim lighting, community seating and chefs working within an arms reach.  Oh, and they don’t take reservations. The menu at Ma Peche changes daily depending on what local farmers have on the chopping block.  That’s code for: this restaurant serves a lot of meat, and has no vegetarian options.  Mainstay entrees include spicy pork two ways, ribs with carrots and spaetzle, and mussels with crab paste and beer. After the meal is over and the reasonable tab is settled, stop by the Milk Bar at the front of the house.  Offerings include Cereal Milk soft serve and Crack Pie.  They call it that because, well, it’s really addictive.

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1 OAK is One of a Kind

1OAK, which stands for One Of A Kind, is the true Manhattanite hotspot. Hidden at the crossroads of the Meatpacking and Chelsea party districts, it brings together the best of both of these worlds: a strict door policy (read: better, hotter clientele) and music that keeps people dancing until daylight. 1OAK has all the elements that makePicture 15 for a hot NYC nightclub. It's small and elegant, so the doormen are super choosy at the tight door. Celebrities come here like no other club in Manhattan: it's the place where Lindsay Lohan infamously tweeted about Justin Timberlake's supposed "indiscretions." 1OAK hosts some of the most VIP parties in Manhattan, from Fashion Week after-parties to Robin Thicke's birthday party, with guests like Jay-Z and Beyonce, to name but a few. The DJs are some of the best around, the cocktail waitresses are some of the hottest around, and the prices are, well, astronomical. So what makes it one of a kind? 1OAK is the place for after hours clubbing. When true parties get sick of the first club at, let's say, 2am or 3am, they head over to 1OAK where the party is just getting hot. The door technically closes at 4am, but that's only when they stop serving alcohol, as this party goes much later and gets much crazier. For those staying late with a table, 1OAK is rumored to bolt the door and serve its patrons breakfast. Now that's 1 Of a Kind.

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Spice Market Spices Up the Meatpacking

Few places command the same opening buzz and packed seats six years down the road, but Spice Market has become a mainstay destination in the ever-evolving Meatpacking district. A mega-restaurant - two floors of carved wood canopies and Southeast Asian inspired decor with a perfect people-watching patio- delivers food that's as delicious and consistent as one would expect from celebrity chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten.Picture 19 Spice Market is technically inspired from the street food of Southeast Asia, but the cuisine, which taps the flavors of Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam and India, is delivered with luxurious style. For a perfect meal, start off with the Chicken Samosas- a perfect blend of crispy outer shell and moist meat inside; favorite entrees include Steamed Red Snapper with Shitake Mushrooms, Ginger, Scallions and Tarragon or the Red Curried Duck, where a side of the sweet Coconut Sticky Rice Steamed in Banana Leaf takes the spicy curry to another level; finish off the meal with the Thai Jewels and Fruits with Crushed Coconut Ice for a cool dessert. Meals are meant to be shared, so don't be afraid to order plenty for the table. Reservations are highly recommended as Spice Market is one of the hottest dining options in its trendy downtown neighborhood, but if all else fails, make sure to grab a seat at the bar where mixologists whip up unique spins on cocktail favorites like the Saigon Cosmo, Ginger Margarita and Pineapple Mojito.

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Brass Monkey: A Real Bar in the Middle of Meatpacking

There are many bars and clubs in Meatpacking, but finding one that's "normal" very hard. Meet Brass Monkey, a classic watch-the-game-on-big-screens-beer-and-shots type of place. Picture Brass Monkey Since opening in the trendy district in 2004 (a lifetime in Meatpacking years), the bar has become a neighborhood favorite. Its open brick walls and rich wood interior creates a friendly and warm atmosphere to watch sports or just hang out. It has one of the most extensive beer lists in the city, with more than fifteen draught beers on tap and over 75 imported beers, ranging from Chimay to Stella Artois to Hoegaarden. Despite its laid back vibe, that doesn't mean Brass Monkey falls through the cracks. It has received rave reviews from the likes of the New York Times and celebrity appearances from A-listers Glenn Close to MTV's The City cameos. In the summer, make sure to check out the killer rooftop deck with incredible views of the Hudson and the Highline.

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Tuxedo Wearin’, Soprano’s Stylin’ at Acappella

Picture 11Ever wonder where those classic Italian restaurants that are always in gangster films exist? Look no further than Acappella. Featured in the first-ever Soprano’s episode, the food, service and ambiance make you feel like you are in a scene from The Godfather. The menu is filled with authentic and traditional Northern Italian cuisine, from veal to lobster to pasta. Be sure to try the Bandiera Italiana, consisting of fettuccine with wild mushrooms, cavatelli with pesto, and green and white “hay and straw” pasta with fresh plum tomatoes and herbs. Everything is fresh, and the pastas and desserts are homemade. There are also seasonal specialties, such as wild rabbit, wild boar and buffalo meat in the fall or winter. The wine list is impressive as well, with plenty of domestic and imported wines, including specialty Italian wines. With sixteen foot high beamed ceilings, oversized columns, brick walls, Italian tapestries, and tuxedo wearing waiters, the experience is unique and very Italian. Like the motto says, “We will make you a dish you can’t refuse!”

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New Museum’s Lisa Phillips Dines at Gemma

As the director of the New Museum of Contemporary Art, Lisa Phillips knows a thing or two about the "renaissance," as she calls it, of Bowery Street. The New Museum, is after all, at the center of that explosion of art on Bowery with its Guggenheim-esque new building that opened on December 1, 2007. Picture 6When Lisa isn't at the forefront of all things innovative, she heads up a few blocks on Bowery to the New Museum's antithesis, Gemma. "This is where I spend most of my time and eat most of my meals," Lisa told citybuzz of the East Village area. Gemma's an Italian restaurant that's as rustic as you can get in ultra-modern New York City. There's the classic thatched red wine bottles, wooden table tops and copper covered bar that evoke a feeling that Dorothy is no longer in the East Village anymore. The menu is filled with tried and true favorites like delicious wood-fired pizzas and soft gnocchi with a hearty Bolognese sauce. The easy setting and reliable food leaves diners like Lisa Phillips with the impression that, as the New York Times stated,"Gemma has an unlabored panache that makes an evening go down very easy." *** Lisa Phillips has been the Director of the New Museum of Contemporary Art since 1999.

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Jean Georges Always Gold for Restaurant Critic Frank Bruni

There's only one restaurant in New York City where you'll never hear a bad word from former New York Times Restaurant Critic Frank Bruni; it's Jean Georges. This celebrity chef has made a name for himself with star-studded favorites Spice Market and Mercer Kitchen, but his self-titled Jean Georges is the creme de la creme of his culinary empire. "In my job I get a lot of calls and emails saying, 'Well you know I had heard that X restaurant was great' or 'you had said that Y restaurant was great,'" Frank Bruni said to citybuzz of his tenure at the New York Times. "So I get a lot of complaints, and a lot of feedback that’s positive as well, and that’s a restaurant, Jean Georges, that I almost never, ever field a complaint about." Picture 13 These are words that every chef would like to hear, especially since it's a commentary from not only one of the most respected food critics in the business, but also of the overwhelmingly happy clientele at Jean Georges. What makes this place so great? The four star restaurant prepares every meal to perfection, and that is not a cliche here. Every dish steals the show from perfectly seasoned scallops to signature dishes like the checkerboard hamachi and yellowfin tun and roasted squab with a corn pancake and an elegant splash of foie gras. The Trump Hotel restaurant (Hey, if it passed The Donald's seal of approval, you know it must be incredible) has cleaned up nearly every award in the book: 4 Stars from the Times, 3 Michelen Stars (one of only four NYC restaurants with that Michelen rating), and chef Jean Georges Vongerichten has won 2 James Beard awards for this restaurant alone. Or, as Frank Bruni simply put it, "Among food lovers who go to the city's four star restaurants, I think Jean-Georges in the Trump Hotel in Columbus Circle is a restaurant that almost never disappoints." *** Frank Bruni is the former restaurant critic for The New York Times and is now working for the Times Magazine. Bruni is also a best-selling author, with works including the politically themed Ambling Into History and his recent memoir Born Round: The Secret History of a Full-Time Eater.

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Rooftop Romance at the Gramercy Park Hotel Roof Club

Rooftop real estate is the hottest commodity in New York during the summer, but few places keep the same prestige and popularity in the winter. The Gramercy Park Hotel's Private Roof Club is the exception to the rule. By closing the retractable rooftop and turning the air conditioners to heaters, the ivy laced and dimly lit trendy summer hotspot becomes a cozy winter, well, hotspot. Picture 20The Sophia Room epitomizes the warm romance that makes this rooftop so unique from other penthouse locations. The ceiling is actually an art piece, with 17,000 lightbulbs hanging on the wall, and the rest of the room includes two real (and very pricey) Damien Hirsts, two large, chocolate leather couches and one crackling fireplace. The "outdoor" terrace is lit with candles and beautifully placed hanging lights with overgrown trees and flowers separating each couch, making it feel private and quiet for each party. And the view, no matter what the season, is always exceptional with Empire, Chrysler and Union Square skyline views. A favorite for the A-list guests who stay at the hotel, and New York elite, famous clientele include Eva Mendes, Sienna Miller, Ashely Olsen, Helena Christensen and socialite Olivia Palermo- before she was on The City. The signature martinis are made with the freshest ingredients and are seriously tasty. The rooftop also has a perfect lounge menu, prepared by the chefs from Danny Meyer's prestigious Union Square Hospitality Group. The Private Roof Club lives up to its name, because technically it is private to all non-hotel guests. But, by calling ahead, the key-only entrance can be opened to you.

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America’s Top Chef Exemplifies Perfection at Craft

Tom Colicchio, the head judge of Bravo's emmy award-winning Top Chef, usually has harsh criticism for the up and coming contestants. But taking one bite of his mouth watering creations at thPicture 7e flagship Craft Restaurant, you'll understand why he is so harsh. Every single dish at this upscale New American restaurant is absolutely served to perfection. Deemed as the pioneer of mix-and-match mains and sides, Craft's menu is an a la carte dream with every dish as tasty as the next. From the famous rustic Hen-of-the-Woods mushrooms to the succulent sirloin steak main and even the minor side of gnocchi would make most (Italian) chefs cry. The back-to-basics cooking style Colicchio employs lets the ingredients shine and for the diner, it elevates the experience of the simplest and most unglamorous dishes, like corn, into a shining yellow pot of gold. The decor of Craft reflects the clean yet rustic menu. The tables, floors, and bar are made of an oak wood, but the design has clean lines as if it were a modern fusion restaurant. The tables are abnormally large, a trend, like the upscale family-style menu, that has followed to most high-end Manhattan restaurants, to accommodate all the tasty dishes. With culinary and restaurateur imitators galore, it's no wonder Colicchio and Craft have swept up three stars from the New York Times and numerous prestigious James Beard Awards. Oh, and don't forget, the title of the real "Top Chef."

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Maialino is Danny Meyer’s New Crown Jewel

Picture 22Restaurateur Danny Meyer is known as the "King of Union Square" owning landmark restaurants like Gramercy Tavern and Union Square Cafe. With the very recent opening of his high-end restaurant, Maialino, in the chic Gramercy Park Hotel, it seems he has the new crown jewel to his empire. Meyer has professed that it's been his dream to open an authentic Italian restaurant and Maialino is the culmination of his hard work and vision. The name is actually Meyer's nickname, meaning "roast suckling pig," from when he lived in Rome in his early twenties. Of course, the signature dish at Maialino is the suckling pig. One part wine bar, one part trattoria, the Roman-style restaurant serves dishes in true Italian style with primi, secondi and antipasti courses written in Italian. The dishes are simple, elegant, and fresh, using the local Greenmarket as its supplier. Just like the food, the restaurant reflects the juxtaposition between rustic Roma and modern NYC. The restaurant is outfitted in shades of brown and blue checkered tablecloths, but keeps its clean and modern lines. In true Meyer fashion, Maialino serves consistently delicious food inside an elegantly designed restaurant. Yet this one has the added bonus of generous views of the private Gramercy Park inside one of the coolest hotels in Manhattan.

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The Met’s Thomas Campbell Eats at Balthazar

Balthazar is owned by the same Keith McNally of the trendy, meatpacking hotspot Pastis, so it's no wonder it's always packed with a cool crowd. One of the Picture 9elite New Yorkers that frequents the French bistro in artsy SoHo is the Director of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Thomas P. Campbell. Often quoted as a "masterpiece," Balthazar is known for its fresh baked breads, delicious brasserie cuisine, and rustic Parisian-inspired decor. Favorite dishes include the short braised ribs, Portbello mushroom sandwich (for lunch), and the proudly named Balthazar salad. No matter what time of day or night you head downtown, this brasserie is always buzzing with social New Yorkers like Campbell. Make sure to call ahead for a reservation. But if you just want to drop by, you can go to the Balthazar Bakery and grab some of their famous grains to enjoy in the privacy of your home. Thomas Campbell has incredible taste in haute art and tasty cuisine. ***Thomas P. Campbell is the Director of the prestigious Metropolitan Museum of Art. Before his role at the Director and CEO in January 2009, Campbell excelled as the Curator in the Department of European Sculpture and Decorative Arts and was the organizer of many groundbreaking and highly acclaimed exhibits at the Met.

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Butter: Fine Cuisine To See and Be Seen

When Butter first opened it was the hot, new restaurant, and six years later it's still frequented by Hollywood A-listers and sophisticated New Yorkers on a nightly basis.  With three rooms, each serving a different purpose, there's something for everyone at this restaurant and lounge.

In The Great Room, indulge in the French-inspired, American-executed food while sipping on their Wine Spectator award-winning wine list.  After dinner head downstairs to The Birch Room where you will more than likely run into an Olsen Twin or two. If downstairs gets too crazy, at Butter you have a third option. The Gallery Room, located at the entrance to Butter, is equipped with red leather seats located in a series of nooks so you can cozy up to your date and drink in privacy.

Whether you're in the mood for fine American cuisine or to see and be seen, Butter has it all.

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Definition for Fine Dining at Four Seasons Restaurant

Other restaurants have incredible statues, but the Four Seasons has a bubbling pool as its centerpiece, one example of how this fine dining landmark establishment stands out above the rest. Complete with stand-by jackets for those who come unprepared for the formal dress code, the Four Seasons is home to celebrity clientele and the who's who of power New Yorkers.

Known as the go-to "Power Lunch" hotspot in Manhattan, at night the elegant crowd dines on award-winning American cuisine that - true to its name- is prepared from the freshest seasonal ingredients. The Four Seasons is the ultimate upscale New York experience, and so beloved by its regular patrons, that it was awarded the "Favorite Restaurant in the World" by Town & Country Magazine.

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Eric Fischl & The New Gen of Odeon Artists

It makes perfect sense that artist Eric Fischl’s favorite restaurant is The Odeon Restaurant. The Odeon is the grandfather of the hot culinary scene that is TriBeCa today. It was the first to arrive on the scene, before TriBeCa got its moniker for being the Triangle-Below-Canal, and attractedPicture 8 the who’s who of the art world, including Andy Warhol and Jean-Michel Basquiat. The Odeon is known for its brasserie fare including the country frisee salad, trouffled poached eggs and sautéed cod. At night, especially on warm summer evenings, the restaurant’s terrace sports the beautiful and fabulous of New York sipping martinis and cocktails.  And Eric Fischl’s keeps the Odeon’s artist attraction alive today with his frequent visits to this American brasserie pioneer. ** Eric Fischl is an artist and sculptor and native New Yorker. Fischl’s works have been featured at The Whitney Museum and sculptures in Rockefeller Center.

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Guilty Pleasures at Momofuku Milk Bar

Momofuku Milk Bar is restaurateur extraordinaire Chef David Chang’s sweet tooth answer to his hugely successful group of savory eateries in the East Village (and now Midtown as well). With the help of Pastry Chef Christina Tosi, the Milk Bar serves up wild delights like Peach Tea Soft Serve, the classic Cereal Milk Soft Serve, Corn Cookies, and Compost Cookies - which unlike the simple but tasty Corn Cookie has a lot of ingredients in it including pretzels, potato chips, coffee, oats, butterscotch, and chocolate chips. You can also get a bizarre variety of yummy and sometimes savory pies, cakes, breads, and buns here. And then there is the Crack Pie, which, as the menu informs, is made up of two components only: toasted oat crust and gooey butter filling. Seems a little vague, no? Though anyone that has tasted this confectionary delight knows that the title of the treat speaks volumes compared to the description. Coffee lovers will also be happy to hear that the only beans in house here - brewing and in the Compost Cookie - are Stumptown coffee beans.

Insider tip: visit the Milk Bar on a weekday if you don't like to wait for your treats. Otherwise, come on a Friday or a Saturday night and wait in line with all the other Crack Pie addicts. The people watching is good and a couple of celebrities have been known to stop by for their fix too.

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Michael’s Pre-Theater and Power Lunches

A midtown must, Michael’s is the talk of the town when it comes to power lunches and pre-theater dinner. Financiers, CEOs, suits, and celebs rub elbows while filling up on award-winning wines and expertly executed entrees ranging from lobster to duck and scallops to steak. Contemporary art by the likes of Jasper Johns and Frank Stella deck the walls of the airy Garden Room, not that guests need to notice anything other than the famed food.

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DJs, Bands & Art at Lit Lounge

One part H.R. Geiger-esque gallery (the Alien designer’s art graced the walls at the opening), one part understated DJ bar and one part hype, Lit is smoking hot. Offering local artists a place to play, the lounge goes against mainstream ideals and is definitely not your average nightspot. The main attraction is the alternative glam crowd with the occasional B artists, actors and indie film stars. The gallery, frequently baring grim, nightmarish images, has limited hours, but can be seen anytime through its locked glass doors. Downstairs, in the dungeon, notable-named DJs do their thing. Created as an experimental punk music venue, this lounge is perfect for those who are tired of the typical chic bars.

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Sophisticated Jazz Club at Classy Cafe Carlyle

Picture 6Cafe Carlyle offers an oh-so-elegant change of pace from all the downtown jazz joints. This upper east side venue was made famous by Bobby Short and his decades of Cole Porter and Duke Ellington interpretations. On any given night the coolest of the cool slip into the ritzy Carlyle Hotel to hear the tunes in the subtle light of table lamps. Woody Allen and the Eddy Davis New Orleans Jazz Band play Monday nights 'til June. Come here dressed to impress, jackets are required and so is the pocketbook- prices can start at $100 a person. But the performances and luxurious setting are well worth the price tag.

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Dovetail Restaurant

Dining out is delicious at this lovely little oasis nestled on the Upper West Side. Muslin-covered walls and exposed brick set an elegant ambiance for patrons with a passion for extraordinary eats. There’s a sherry cellar downstairs that dually serves as a private dining room, and the main dining area seats 75. Come for brunch, lunch, or dinner and prepare to be dazzled!

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High Tea or a Night Cap at Alice’s Tea Cup

At Alice's Tea Cup the air seems to be filled with ferry dust and sweet dreams. It's actually just glitter and the scent of freshly baked cupcakes but when you are here in one of the exquisite tea rooms, the magic of Alice In Wonderland takes over and even the grumpiest adults can become kids again over the famous Pumpkin Scones and a pot of Birthday Tea. Or if you are more adventurous try the Chocolate Mint Tea, that's Indian black tea with mini chocolate chips and peppermint leaves, and Alice's Hamburger, it comes with Lapsang and Rooibos tea infused sauteed onions and mushrooms - yum! For the grown-ups in the group there is also the inventive menu of "Mar-tea-nis and Such" serving up creative libations like the Admiral's Mar-tea-ni which is Rooibos tea, Kahlua, and Kettle One. You can't go wrong with the restorative powers of tea and the ancient effects of liquor all in one! Now with three uptown locations serving a huge selection of teas and beverages, tea sandwiches and soups, treats and cakes, and other delights you should have no problem fitting a little afternoon tea into your afternoon.

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Cookshop for Farmer Comfort

Cookshop is an eco-fabulous gem by the same owners as NYC East and West Village favorites Five Points and Hundred Acres. Located on 10th Avenue in Chelsea’s Historic District, Cookshop is surrounded by quaint New York brownstones and The Highline Park…perfect for walking off dessert. This elegantly comfortable eatery boasts all sustainable, farm fresh food. Cookshop masters down-home cooking with a complexity of flavor not out of just any kitchen.

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Strip House

Who knew a steak house could be so chic? Understated lighting, a seductive décor, and scrumptious cuisine to match – Strip House knows how to serve. Your every need will be met by a wait staff that is both attentive and personable. We don’t know what’s more alluring, the sleek ambiance or the mouth-watering Rib eye!

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Armani Ristorante

We love the Big Apple not only for the fabulous fashion finds, but also for its fantastic food.  And now, visitors to NYC can have both when they visit Giorgio Armani’s latest venture, Armani Ristorante.  The fashion heavyweight may cause you to expand your waistline;  his restaurant features tempting cuisine and is set atop his flagship store, with spectacular views of the city.  A day of shopping topped off with an indulgent meal while gazing out at the New York scene below? Sounds like the perfect NYC afternoon to us.

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Grotta Azzurra

Complete with a wine cellar and private dining room, this Little Italy café stays true to traditional cuisine. With a menu spanning from Caprese salad to pan-seared lobster to chicken scarpiello, it has something for everyone. The wooden moldings and granite floors give the restaurant a feel of Rome and reasonable prices round out its appeal.

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The Russian Tea Room

For over eighty years, New York’s defining cultural moments have taken place at Russian Tea Room. Ever since members of the Russian Imperial Ballet founded the restaurant in 1927, it has been a second home for boldface names and the intellectual elite—an exclusive enclave where actors, writers, politicians, and businessmen planned their next deals and feted their friends’ latest Carnegie Hall performances. The lively tradition and legacy of the Russian Tea Room is alive and well!

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Indulge at Dylan’s Candy Bar

With over 5,000 types of candy on three sweet floors, the New York Candy Cafe and multiple private party rooms, Dylan's Candy Bar is not only the largest candy store in New York, but the largest in the world. As featured in Vogue and the New York Times, Dylan's Candy Bar in New York is the ultimate sweet-tooth attraction for the candy lover in you. Peruse the award winning displays of candy - there's a life-size tree made of over-sized lollipops - or challenge yourself and your belly to an I Bet You Can't Sundae - that's ten scoops of ice cream and ten toppings for twenty bucks! Make sure to go in on this one with a friend or two if you hope to get up out of your seat when the spoons have hit the bottom of the dish. Or if you prefer to save your figure, just buy a few of your favorite childhood candies, they are sure to have whatever you are looking for here in this spectacular world of lollipops, gummy bears, jelly beans and chocolate. Looking for gourmet sea-salt caramels? They've got that. Kosher Marshmallow twists? You'll find them here. Yummy edible bikinis? Yeah, they've even got those.
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