NYC Playbook

"Go for the Frenchette sandwiches and pastries Enjoy on the terrace with view of Meatpacking District and Village "

"Sausage roll and Irish penicillin ftw "

"Go for the jazz performances, izakaya-style comfort food, and Japanese whiskey An unexpected gem in Midtown East. Descend into the basement level and be transported. The word has gotten out, so lines can now be long (whereas it used to be easy to sneak in on weeknights - and sometimes still is if you’re lucky) "

"Get the Stracci - divine and complex roasted rabbit en brodo nestled between fresh sheets of pasta noodles and topped with Parmesan. Cozy elegance, across the way from Hudson Yards. Make a resy"

"The entire wine selection is >10yrs vintage. Food is stunningly good, and somehow vegan (I couldn’t tell). The talented young chef (a woman of color) served each dish herself - her star deserves to rise! Ambiance: Dimly-lit, romantic wine bar on the inside with a nondescript bodega-like exterior"

"Eric Ripert’s sommelier opened this fantastic wine bar across the courtyard from Le Berardin. Enjoy exploring the wine selections, accompanied by French small plates"

"When in the mood for sushi while near Columbus Circle, but not for Masa pricing, Blue Ribbon Sushi fits the bill. Order from the fresh daily fish selection. "

"Great spot to read by the fire with a glass of wine or cocktail. If you’re feeling peckish, get the scotch egg."

"Double cheeseburger is a must-have, ideally washed down with a classic cocktail served up or glass of burgundy"

"French-Italian fusion done right in a gorgeously appointed space with soaring ceilings, live trees, exquisite glass etchings, and gilded touches everywhere. Complimentary sourdough foccacia is all you can eat. Caramelle pasta served in a sauced squash was divine. The grapefruit sorbet is a refreshing treat, splashed with vermouth that makes it sparkle. In fact, ice cream is the pastry chef’s speciality; so worth saving room for. Excellent mixology program means a cocktail with your meal is in order. "

"Daily 5-7pm adult happy meal with burgers, fries, and cocktail for $27 Swanky wood paneled bar in the front, vaulted ceiling dining room in the back, and speakeasy upstairs "

"The W Village reincarnation of the original E Village location that shut down during Covid. Inventive cocktails with balanced savory notes are best (Smoke Gets In Your Eyes is my favorite). Pair with the Japanese small plates, notably the daily sashimi selection or the karaage chicken. "

"Spare ambiance, fabulously light cakes and delicate cookies"

"The wine list is like a wine catalog, with reasonably priced bottles. Red snapper crudo with tomato was stunning. "