Monday, April 21, 2008

New York City - Foodie Heaven

I don't write this blog on Sunday because I feel funny doing any kind of work on the Sabbath but also because I spend the day out. Yesterday it was New York City , specifically Greenwich Village. I love Manhattan simply because it's a foodie paradise. Where else can you get a variety of yummies from six contentents on one relatively small island?

Where to go if you're in town? To be honest stay away from any chain restaurants. There's probably one in your neck of the woods that you can visit whenever you like. Instead take a dip into the city's rich culinary present. There are some great delis scattered throughout the town, throught Manhattan. Remember food prices are the highest around the tourist spots. Try to steer clear of eating around 30 Rock or Times Square. The theater district albeit has a variety of really good restaurants but they are super pricey. One favorite is John's Pizzeria (which also has two other locations in the city). It may be pricey but the pizza is a delectable thin crust one slathered with a rich basil infused sauce.

If you want good Chinese then head down to Sammy's on Sixth Ave in Greenwich Village. This famous and popular eatery has the best veggie lo mein along with the best veggie dumplings. The cook adds the right amount of ginger, soy and sesame to create a very unique and very delicious authentic Chinese dish. If you're a big meat lover, then go for their barbecued duck or ribs. My friend , Louisa, says both are the best, crispy on the outside with buttery tender meat on the inside.

Just looking for coffee? There are dozens of good pastry shops in Manhattan. My favorites are on Bleeker Street.There are a half a dozen pasticcerias for just grabbing a few italian butter cookies and cappuccino. Also go to them at Christmas to pick up their home made panetones as well as Sicilian lemon cookies. French patisseries are also big in Manhattan. Try the amazing Le Bergamote on Ninth Ave in Chelsea. This is where to go if you want a taste of Paris with their rich, buttery crossants ans scandalous pastries. Pure foodie heaven!

New York is one heck of a foodie town. It has the most amazing places (it would take me three blogs to write about them!!!) What I've given you is just a sample. Enjoy this gourmet town with its' melange of tastes and flavors!