I am hungry! Hungry! Hungry! But I don’t know what I want, and once I zero in on the type of cuisine, I don’t know what part of the island has the best in my modest price range. Help!
The sentiment listed above is echoed throughout the city! Pretty much all day, you are witness to hungry people checking the plethora of apps trying to give that exact information, to help squash those aching hunger pains!
Since February 14th is fast racing and it’s the time for “lovers” and dates, dates, dates — I am searching for that perfect spot that might fit most pockets.
So my count down begins. In reverse.
The Little Owl — Cost: $58
It’s called “little” for a reason. It’s only 28-seats (West Village) and regulars know to “mark” the day and to call 45 days ahead.
90 Bedford St.; 212-741-4695
RedFarm—Cost: $53
There are thousands of places to get Chinese food but to find good Chinese food, that is something to share. So, if you enjoy great dim sum and “innovative” locavore cooking, this nosy place can work. Not great for a first date unless you don’t want to chit chat. Great if you just want to eat!
529 Hudson St.; 212-792-9700
Jewel Bako—Cost: $80
If your date has money, say yes to this one! Yummmy to the tummy. It’s located in the East Village. Japanese fish and very fresh.
239 E. Fifth St.; 212-979-1012
Rose Water—Cost: $47
Park Slope does not disappoint. It’s fine and cozy and consistent.
787 Union St., Brooklyn; 718-783-3800
Il Buco—Cost: $63
Pricey but a great wine selection. Pricey. It’s Med-Italian fare and it’s very good for group dinners.
47 Bond St.; 212-533-1932
Bocelli Restaurant—Cost: $50
Tuscan decor, this Grasmere Italian “definitely stands out” and it’s in Staten Island; reservations are a must on weekends.
1250 Hylan Blvd., Grasmere; 718-420-6150
Good Fork—Cost: $46
Brace yourself. It’s rough Red Hook but the food is seriously good and Asian-accented.
391 Van Brunt St., Brooklyn; 718-643-6636
Dovetail—Cost: $81
It’s expensive but the famous $52 ‘Sunday suppa’ is a “special treat.”
103 W. 77th St.; 212-362-3800
Wolfgang's Steakhouse—Cost: $79
No need to explain. It’s succulent meat.
Multiple locations
Dirt Candy—Cost: $50
Clever, tasty and complexvegetarian dishes that make you happy that you choose veggies. East Village knows how to make leafy stuff swing!
430 E. Ninth St.; 212-228-7732
Bianca — Cost: $33
Hearty. Plentiful. Bargain driven. Therefore crowded. Go early!
5 Bleecker St.; 212-260-4666
Wallsé—Cost: $78
Vienna calling. Answer. Modern Austrian fare is waiting and there is "artwork by Julian Schnabel/”
344 W. 11th St.; 212-352-2300
Scarpetta — Cost: $75
If he/she is buying and your downtown — ok — it’s gosh, darn good spaghetti and “elegantly simple” dishes.
355 W. 14th St.; 212-691-0555
Piccolo Angolo—Cost: $47
The owner, Renato Migliorini, puts “heart and soul” into his West Village joint. He cares and it shows on the plate.
Insiders know to reserve ahead—now you know too!
621 Hudson St.; 212-229-9177
Keens Steakhouse—Cost: $76
MAD MEN old school with an outstanding scotch selection and thousands of antique clay pipes adorning the ceiling.
Old school means circa-1885 and it’s known for it’s detail to service.
72 W. 36th St.; 212-947-3636
Marc Forgione—Cost: $72
The menu is crafted by Iron Chef Marc Forgione and therefore it’s crowded and people leave happy!
A “perfect date” place – just book far ahead
134 Reade St.; 212-941-9401
Taïm—Cost: $13
This is a hidden jewel in the West Village. Vegetarian Israeli draws “100-mile-long” lines.
Multiple locations
ABC Kitchen—Cost: $59
Jean-Georges Vongerichten and chef Dan Kluger’s organic sourcing and farm-to-table approach makes this a worthy trip!
35 E. 18th St.; 212-475-5829