So, you’re visiting New York City and have a list of things to see, but where are you going to eat? While you won’t be able to chew your way through the entire city, here are a few suggestions when you only have one day in the culinary capital of the world.
Brunch
Your feet are going to get a lot of use during your time in the concrete jungle, so you’ll need to start your day with a healthy brunch. At Essex, located in the Lower East Side neighborhood, you can enjoy flavorful dishes including Lobster Benedict and challa bread french toast. They also have an ever-tempting offer of bottomless mimosas, Bloody Mary’s, or screwdrivers. Don’t go too crazy though, since you still have the whole day ahead of you! Keep in mind that Essex is a popular spot, so be sure to book a reservation in advance if you can.
Lunch
During your visit, you simply must order some pizza. Period. The debate on New York’s best pizza spot is hotly contested. Traditionalists declare the city’s O.G. Lombardi’s as king. Die-hards sing praises to Joe’s, John’s, and Patsy’s. The list goes on, but I’m going to throw caution to the wind and put something a little unexpected on the table: &pizza.
&pizza is known for its outside-the-box pies in a signature oblong shape. Making it’s debut in NYC in 2016, the D.C. transplant has been largely considered one of the best new pizza spots in the city. You can choose one of their funky creations or have total control and create your own. Seriously. You have the choice of everything from toppings and finishes such as Italian sausage and hot honey, down to your choice of dough and sauces.
Dinner
After a long day on the go, slow down with a nice dinner. At Eataly NYC Flatiron, kill two birds with one stone by crossing a must-visit off your list and enjoy a delicious meal while you’re there. Inside its flagship Flatiron District location, Manzo Ristorante has one of the best steaks I’ve ever eaten on its menu (the Bistecca alla Fiorentina) and a wide wine and cocktail selection for every palate. It’s worth an author’s note that I used to work here. Still, I’m always sure to recommend it to any friend coming to town.
Dessert
Before you end your journey through the city that never sleeps, indulge in a slice of authentic New York-style cheesecake. There’s no better place to go than Junior’s, a restaurant and bakery that’s best known for its “World’s Most Fabulous Cheesecake.” The cheesecake lives up to its name, as this dessert is hands down one of my favorites for its cake-like crust and its just right texture balance between creamy and firm. They also have a large selection of other desserts, from decadent red velvet cake to ginormous smoothies. There are a few locations including one in Midtown. You can head over after your Broadway show for a sweet end to your night!
