I've been in the big apple for a while now, while I'm getting used to the somewhat single lifestyle (would elaborate more on this in some other post) food has been the source of comfort. And how big is the New York dining scene can be summarized into this one crazy fact:
"There are enough restaurants in New York City for an individual to eat out every night for 54 years and never visit the same place twice."
Now with these amazing stats in place, lets get down to business. I work in Downtown Manhattan, my seat almost always looks our towards the Statue of Liberty (this has no bearing on the article, just wanted to brag), and I miss out on getting lunch more often than I would deem to be by mistake. So this means, I have to rely on eating out to satisfy my hunger pangs.
Given that I haven't been here long enough and I don't experiment as much as I would want to, this list might seem a bit short, but this is work-in-progress, I would add new places as and when I discover them. Enough said, let's get to it:
1. Ho Yip: It is obvious that I shall start with my absolute favorite! This Lunch only place does business only till 4, so be well in time or you will never know its awesomeness. Ho Yip is an authentic Chinese buffet/pre-portioned meals place, which very well pleases my Indian taste buds. This place is economical, you have a buffet which is $7 a pound, and no matter how much you stuff up your plate, you will never go beyond $10. They are considerate enough to have a few rotating items on offer, so you don't get bored of the spread. The buffet is very extensive, you have all possible meats, vegetables, both for appetizers and main course. They also have combo meals, in case you are feeling less adventurous and they have a well stocked Sushi bar. There is ample seating in this two storied establishment. I'm so in love with this place that I have already lost count of the number of times I've visited this place. One word of caution though, this place is not meant for strict vegetarians. Not because they don't offer vegetarian options (they do!), but because the place has this distinct smell of Asian spices, which might put you off if you don't wan't the smell of crispy fried basa fish on your string beans. In case you are flexible and are alright with broccoli in oyster sauce, this might just be the place for you :).
2. Devon and Blakely: This might as well have been Deven and Bala, for they have such amazing lentil soups, they will instantly make you miss your mommy! These guys have three outlets around the city, and one happens to be right in my office compound. They offer sandwiches, salads and soups, the healthy New Yorker staple. I have tried the sandwiches and the soups, I haven't turned healthy yet so I'm not that into salad. The soups are amazing, there is a huge variety to choose from. And given that I'm kind of a regular here as well, I've tried most of them. My personal favorite is Lobster and crab bisque. But don't worry you don't have to just take my word for it, you could sample the soups before you decide. These soups are also reasonably priced, you get a small cup for around $6 and a large one for $7, add in half a sandwich for $5 and you are set for the meal. I'm not that much of a fan of the sandwiches though, as they are a bit too miserly on the spreads and hence the sandwiches are dry, but they go down nice with the soup. And they have lentil soups which are just as good as the tadke wali daal, just sprinkle some coriander, bring your own roti and you are ready for a complete Indian Meal. But be careful before deciding what is vegetarian just by reading the names, as its very easy to have a vegetable in chicken stock. Also, one more reason I think this could be owned by Indians, is the staff.The other day the cashier girl asked me if I was from India looking at my shakha. Now even a regular Indian would not know what this bangle is, unless you are a Bong. See we are omnipresent :)
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3. Hudson Eats:This food court is bustling with people at right about 12 every afternoon. Even though finding a place to sit here is a great challenge, finding food that you want is not. You can find a lot of options both in terms of cuisines and depth. If you're feeling in the mood for a light and active lunch, there is chopt for salads. For those greasy juicy burgers you have the Little Muenster, for a little more suave version of it hop side-wards to Umami Burgers. Value for money Mexican burritos, bowls, and such at Dos Toros. And for that sweet something later, you can always bank on the deceptively inviting cupcakes at Sprinkles. A definite savior for the out of the usual craving.
4. Ruchi's: This blog shall be a waste if don't suggest an Indian restaurant, there are a few Indian places around Downtown, but this one is the only one which is decent. The best thing is lunch menu is half off everything, so it's light on the pocket. The dishes are bit on the sweeter side though, probably to cater to a broader audience. Everything said and done, it's a nice cosy place, which is very very busy during lunch hours. If you want to assure a place, I would suggest you reach there a little before 12 (11:50 also works). The staff is really courteous and never refuses even though you can see you wont be able to find a seat for yourself in the next two hours. This is a must visit if you're missing home. But don't expect the same taste as India. The search for the perfect Indian experience is on, would let you know as soon as I find it, till then you can make peace with this cute little retreat.
5. Elvez: The interiors of this restaurant are impressive, as you can see for yourself in the picture. Also, they have kept the menu simple and limited but made sure everything on the menu is lip-smacking. There is a wide variety of burritos available at your discretion and the sit down area has a authentic Mexican menu, which would certainly not leave you disappointed. A very good place to catch up with old friends while you grab a quick lunch.
6. Wei West: So I'm not saying this would be the best oriental you would lay your hands on in this area, but it would surely be economical. This place has a lunch menu which is very reasonably priced and they serve amazing sake, and sushi rolls. The curries are a bit too thin in consistency for my taste, but they cook the meats tastefully so I don't complain much. It's not a must go, but if you are running out of places to eat, you may want to give it a shot.
8. Wafflaki: This blog post will not be complete if I don't tell you where you get desserts. All the sweet junkies, don't fret! Just make a dash for this little hidden waffle place right behind the WTC memorial. This has the most exhaustive menu of toppings, both sweet and savory. And if you are not very imaginative and don't know what goes with what, just order up the recommendations and you shall be a happy trouper! Don't miss this one if you love waffles as much as I do (Which is a lot!!)
9.Le District: This again is right in the building I work in, and is a french supermarket/cafe/fine dine/bakery. Lot of choices to go with your coffee. A lot of options in coffee to go with you banoffie pie :) If you're getting my gist, you will surely take one stroll across this huge multi-purpose food heaven.
10. Financier: Because I always prefer even numbered lists, this makes it on to the list on pure merit of the proximity to my office and a very carefully picked menu of desserts. I'll not comment on the coffee as it is too bitter for my taste and I prefer The Laughing Man to this any day. But the desserts here are both unique and tickle your taste buds in the right way. I would definitely recommend the pistachio eclair and the raspberry cheesecake, but you are free to try the usual ones too.
And with this I conclude the first ever restaurant recommendation list. This is one is very limited in the terms of area covered, but as I expand my radius I shall expand yours too.Till then, make do with what you already know!!
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