Local NY
Here in New York City, there are plenty of places to go and things to see: some of my favorite places are listed here!
Union Square Greenmarket
www.grownyc.org/greenmarket
I love the Greenmarket at Union Square! Every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday farmers and sellers from all over New York converge on Union Square to sell everything from wine to produce to plants! The prices are less than your normal grocery store, and you can always find something unexpected. Plus, you know everything will be super-fresh, as (duh!) it just came from a farm today! And if you go to their website, you'll find there are farmers' markets all over the city--there might be one right around the corner! |
Kalustyan's
www.kalustyans.com
Since 1944, Kalustyan's has been a landmark in New York for specialty foods. You can find food and ingredients for cooking from India as well as other countries such as Armenia, Australia, Bangladesh, Belgium, Bulgaria, China, Egypt, England, France, Germany, Greece, Guatemala, Holland, Indonesia, Iran, Israel, Italy, Japan, Jordan, Lebanon, Malaysia, Morocco, Pakistan, Philippines, Romania, Spain, South-Africa, South-America, Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka, Syria, Thailand, Tunisia, Turkey, Vietnam, West Indies, Yugoslavia and many others! Chances are, if you're looking for a specific specialty ingredient, they'll have it! |
Rio Bonito
www.riobonitomarket.com
A Brazilian market in Queens, NY. You can find delicacies ranging from music and cheeses and meats and desserts! A definite must-see! |
Pinocchio Restaurant
My boyfriend and I went on a date to this restaurant in the upper East side, and I was blown away! This tiny hole in the wall is no joke--the service was impeccable, the food was amazing, and the decor perfect for a romantic evening with your beau! We had made a reservation, but our table wasn't free yet. The waiter gave us each a glass of wine (yeah, for free!) while we waited for our table no longer than seven minutes. We ordered a bottle of wine, and our food was amazing! My grandmother was Italian, and each bite made me think of her! The zabaglione dessert was light, airy and perfect after a big pasta meal. I can't wait to go back!
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Zabar's
www.zabars.com
I hope I don't have to tell you that Zabar's is a New York institution. The bagels alone could stand by themselves, but the cheeses, the in-house baked bread... not to mention the prepared foods--just make my mouth water! I try to get there at least once a month for bagels, schmear, and coffee! They roast the beans on-premises, and grind to order: so you know your coffee with be fresh and delicious. And if you're looking for something to send home to the parents, Zabar's also has gift baskets that you can send anywhere in the country! The best New York Market. By far. |
Lula's Sweet Apothecary
www.lulassweetapothecary.com
This is one of the most unique places I've ever seen. In short, Lula's takes non-dairy mediums (such as cashew nuts) and makes ice cream. This is not just any ice cream, but the most delicious and inventive flavors you'll ever find. The flavors rotate: from Maple and Waffles, to Peanut Butter and Jelly, to Chocolate Irish Stout (for St. Patrick's Day); they are all delicious! This vegan treat locale makes me want to be a more creative cook: they even use coconut cream to make their whipped cream for sundaes! I can't lie to you: I don't think I would be able to taste between "real" ice cream and this vegan treat! Delicious. |
The Little Cheese Pub
LittleCheesePub.com
I loved every minute of this lovely pub! The homey decor, the delicious cheeses, even the beer selection and the swivel stools just lend a homey air to this local. The waitress was knowledgeable and kind, and the cheese was to die for! We shared a cheese plate and some dips, and when we ran out of toast, the waitress was quick to replenish our stash. The beer and wine list is extensive, and there is sure to be something for everyone. The prices are not bad considering the quality of the food and beverages, and we all had a lovely time. I hope to be returning soon! |
Waldy's Wood-Fired Pizza
waldyspizza.com
This is the first pizzeria I frequented when I moved to NYC. They don't have the usual greasy NYC slice; they have a wonderful wood-burning fireplace, so the crust of their pizza is thinner, and it's always fired to perfection. The pizza is delicious and the toppings are inventive: from roasted eggplant, zucchini and olives to braised lamb, roasted lemon and oregano, to chicken with bacon and chipotle peppers, there's something for everyone. They even serve wine and beer, so if you're looking for a cheap place to take a date, this is it. |