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Federal Cafe
Financial District
51 Nassau St.
New York, NY 10038 212-227-3007
Price range: $$$ ($16-$25)
If it just takes a good finance pun to draw in Wall Street diners, then the Federal Cafe—located in the Hotel Reserve—should have no problem filling seats. If wordplay doesn't do the trick, perhaps the $9.99 daily lunch special (11 a.m. to 3pm, full menu) might do the trick in this bear market. Federal's lunch menu runs the gamut from burgers to spring rolls to Greek salad, but the diner menu sticks closer to an Italian American theme. Owner Thomas Sima and his dad, the guys behind the Prime Cafe in the 26th Street Holiday Inn, have put together a greatest hits menu featuring veal parmigiana, chicken Milanese and prime aged steaks, all served in an understated dining room that would make any Midwestern business traveler feel at ease.
*****"I Stayed at the Reserve Hotel for a few days last week and experienced such a wonderful and refreshing time at the Federal cafe. Lana and Megan the two bar maids at the cafe were wonderful and overly accommodating , not to mention they make great drinks.The menu was primarily an Italian American theme so if your a pasta lover like myself this place will captivate your senses...."
Showing posts with label Food and Dinning. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Food and Dinning. Show all posts
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Sunday, August 16, 2009
America’s Best Restaurants / Peter Luger Steak House
America’s Best Restaurants – Peter Luger Steak HouseThursday 30 July, 2009 8:15 am | Boutique Hotels, New York Hotels, Restaurants | Steven
Went out for steak last night to celebrate my dad’s birthday, and I guess I’ve still got beef on the brain. If only today’s feature would come to Texas (don’t really care where. I’d drive it.)
If you take your steaks seriously at all, you’ve probably heard of Peter Luger Steak House, a Brooklyn landmark voted by the Zagat Survey as the #1 steakhouse in New York City for an incredible 24 years running. Opened in 1887, the place is almost whimsically old-fashioned, boasting a Zen-simple menu, bizarre payment options, uber-manly décor and, oh yeah, some righteous steaks.
Before we get to some of the more unusual features of Peter Luger, let’s start with what everyone can agree they get just right: the steaks. Most high-end steakhouses tout USDA Prime beef, but according to Peter Luger’s buyer, Jody Storch, that’s really just the beginning. Meat is purchased daily after Jody’s discerning examination. Not even most Prime beef meets her exacting standards. You could say she only buys the prime of the Prime. (See her in action)
The highest quality beef on-hand, Peter Luger dry ages every steak in-house. Dry aging allows moisture to evaporate from the meat cuts slowly, intensifying the rich beef flavor without over-dehydrating the steaks. After several days (I’ve seen places take it to 48, though I’m not sure about Peter Luger), the meat is finally ready and sent upstairs to the restaurant.
Don’t expect a full page of different cuts to choose from. Peter Luger specializes in the Porterhouse steak, offered by number of diners rather than weight. You can order a single for yourself, or make it monster serving up to four people, served to the table on a 400-degree plate and already cut up for your convenience.
Appetizer offerings are just as straight-forward: a plate of sliced tomatoes with sauce, tomatoes and onion with sauce, a nice Caesar salad, or the heart-threateningly delicious extra thick bacon by the slice. There’s nothing fancy about any of it, but when you use top-quality ingredients and prepare them just right, there’s really no need to be.
Oh, for dessert, it’s got to be the pecan pie. They have other options, but this is the one you want.
Another standout feature of Peter Luger Steak House is that they do not accept credit cards. Either you pay cash or you order a Peter Luger Card, essentially an in-house dining card. They also have a store, selling everything from memorabilia to their signature Peter Luger Sauce to the steaks themselves, butcher shop-style. You can even have uncooked steaks mailed to you.
Though it seems old-fashioned at times (and hey, maybe that’s part of the charm), what really counts is the meat, and these steaks just can’t be beat. Beef-lovers the world over owe themselves a visit to Peter Luger Steak House in Brooklyn. Learn more about this restaurant here.
I’ve got a couple options I want to mention in New York City today, both of them in Manhattan but still pretty close to the steakhouse:
•Hotel Reserve - an awesome boutique Manhattan hotel located right across from the Federal Reserve Bank near Wall Street. It’s an awesome location for corporate travelers and really anyone who wants to experience the Big Apple.
•Hilton Garden Inn New York / Tribeca - Thanks to the Tribeca film festival, this area of south Manhattan is getting a lot more attention of late, and this fresh, welcoming Hilton offers a nice stay at a good price.
Went out for steak last night to celebrate my dad’s birthday, and I guess I’ve still got beef on the brain. If only today’s feature would come to Texas (don’t really care where. I’d drive it.)
If you take your steaks seriously at all, you’ve probably heard of Peter Luger Steak House, a Brooklyn landmark voted by the Zagat Survey as the #1 steakhouse in New York City for an incredible 24 years running. Opened in 1887, the place is almost whimsically old-fashioned, boasting a Zen-simple menu, bizarre payment options, uber-manly décor and, oh yeah, some righteous steaks.
Before we get to some of the more unusual features of Peter Luger, let’s start with what everyone can agree they get just right: the steaks. Most high-end steakhouses tout USDA Prime beef, but according to Peter Luger’s buyer, Jody Storch, that’s really just the beginning. Meat is purchased daily after Jody’s discerning examination. Not even most Prime beef meets her exacting standards. You could say she only buys the prime of the Prime. (See her in action)
The highest quality beef on-hand, Peter Luger dry ages every steak in-house. Dry aging allows moisture to evaporate from the meat cuts slowly, intensifying the rich beef flavor without over-dehydrating the steaks. After several days (I’ve seen places take it to 48, though I’m not sure about Peter Luger), the meat is finally ready and sent upstairs to the restaurant.
Don’t expect a full page of different cuts to choose from. Peter Luger specializes in the Porterhouse steak, offered by number of diners rather than weight. You can order a single for yourself, or make it monster serving up to four people, served to the table on a 400-degree plate and already cut up for your convenience.
Appetizer offerings are just as straight-forward: a plate of sliced tomatoes with sauce, tomatoes and onion with sauce, a nice Caesar salad, or the heart-threateningly delicious extra thick bacon by the slice. There’s nothing fancy about any of it, but when you use top-quality ingredients and prepare them just right, there’s really no need to be.
Oh, for dessert, it’s got to be the pecan pie. They have other options, but this is the one you want.
Another standout feature of Peter Luger Steak House is that they do not accept credit cards. Either you pay cash or you order a Peter Luger Card, essentially an in-house dining card. They also have a store, selling everything from memorabilia to their signature Peter Luger Sauce to the steaks themselves, butcher shop-style. You can even have uncooked steaks mailed to you.
Though it seems old-fashioned at times (and hey, maybe that’s part of the charm), what really counts is the meat, and these steaks just can’t be beat. Beef-lovers the world over owe themselves a visit to Peter Luger Steak House in Brooklyn. Learn more about this restaurant here.
I’ve got a couple options I want to mention in New York City today, both of them in Manhattan but still pretty close to the steakhouse:
•Hotel Reserve - an awesome boutique Manhattan hotel located right across from the Federal Reserve Bank near Wall Street. It’s an awesome location for corporate travelers and really anyone who wants to experience the Big Apple.
•Hilton Garden Inn New York / Tribeca - Thanks to the Tribeca film festival, this area of south Manhattan is getting a lot more attention of late, and this fresh, welcoming Hilton offers a nice stay at a good price.
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Les Halles "Hotel Staff Pick of the Week"
Brasserie Les Halles is a typical Parisian brasserie, bustling and lively, serving the fresh and simple dishes of France's everyday cuisine. "Les Halles" is the old market district of Paris where for centuries, all kind of food stalls, restaurants, brasseries, bistros and cafes fed people from all walks of life, around the clock. Brasseries differ from the other establishments by being larger, serving nonstop for extended hours and having many offerings of small or large dishes of fish, meats, poultry and vegetable prepared simply or with century-old elaborate recipes.
Monday, June 1, 2009
Dine Around Downtown
Savor some of the best food in town at Dine Around Downtown: an annual tradition showcasing the finest restaurants in Lower Manhattan.
Sample signature menu items for $3 to $6 while enjoying live entertainment throughout the day.
CHASE MANHATTAN PLAZA
BETWEEN LIBERTY & PINE AND NASSAU & WILLIAM
TUESDAY JUNE 2, 2009
11am - 3pm
RAIN DATE WEDNESDAY JUNE 3
Visit DowntownNY.com/dinearound for details.
Sample signature menu items for $3 to $6 while enjoying live entertainment throughout the day.
CHASE MANHATTAN PLAZA
BETWEEN LIBERTY & PINE AND NASSAU & WILLIAM
TUESDAY JUNE 2, 2009
11am - 3pm
RAIN DATE WEDNESDAY JUNE 3
Visit DowntownNY.com/dinearound for details.
Saturday, May 16, 2009
Federal Cafe Breakfast is served.......
Federal Cafe
20 Maiden Lane
New York, NY 10038
Btwn Broadway & Nassau St
212 227-3007
A Wholesome Start
touch of brown sugar 4.95
Cereal a selection from your favorite
cereals 4.95
Fresh Fruit a large bowl of the
seasons best fruit with a scoop
of cottage cheese 7.95
The Just Right Egg an egg
cooked to order, english muffin
or toast and fresh fruit 10.95
Dannon Yogurt your choice of
assorted yogurts 4.95
Granola Yogurt Parfait your
choice of blueberries, strawberries
layered with dannon
yogurt and granola 9.95
Eggery
Served With Your Choice Of
Bacon, Sausage Or Ham Add
$4.50.
All Selections Served
With Skillet Browned Potatoes
And A Choice Of Breakfast
Bread. Substitute Better 'n Eggs
At No Additional Charge. Add An
8 Oz. Juice To Any Eggery Dish
Only $3.25
Besr-4-Value Breakfast two
grade a eggs two strips of bacon
and a choice of breakfast
bread served with skillet
browned potatoes 12.95
sweeten the deal with one
slice of our luscious cinnamon
supreme french toast for an
additional 2.95
Steak And Eggs a 5 oz. top sirloin,
cooked to order, with two
eggs prepared any style 21.95
Smoked Pork Chop And Eggs
two thin sliced smoked pork
chops with two eggs any style
and skillet browned
potatoes 19.95
Traditional Eggs Benedict two
poached eggs set atop a
toasted english muffin with canadian
bacon, and topped with
hollandaise sauce 15.95
The New Yorker five silver dollar
pancakes, two eggs any
style, two strips of bacon, two
sausage links and a slice of
ham 19.95
Potatoes And Eggs On A Roll
two eggs cooked to order and
seasoned skillet browns served
on a fresh from the oven
roll 9.95
Full American Breakfast designed
to satisfy a hearty appetite.
three eggs cooked to order
with your choice of breakfast
meat. includes an 8 oz.
juice 15.95
20 Maiden Lane
New York, NY 10038
Btwn Broadway & Nassau St
212 227-3007
A Wholesome Start
touch of brown sugar 4.95
Cereal a selection from your favorite
cereals 4.95
Fresh Fruit a large bowl of the
seasons best fruit with a scoop
of cottage cheese 7.95
The Just Right Egg an egg
cooked to order, english muffin
or toast and fresh fruit 10.95
Dannon Yogurt your choice of
assorted yogurts 4.95
Granola Yogurt Parfait your
choice of blueberries, strawberries
layered with dannon
yogurt and granola 9.95
Eggery
Served With Your Choice Of
Bacon, Sausage Or Ham Add
$4.50.
All Selections Served
With Skillet Browned Potatoes
And A Choice Of Breakfast
Bread. Substitute Better 'n Eggs
At No Additional Charge. Add An
8 Oz. Juice To Any Eggery Dish
Only $3.25
Besr-4-Value Breakfast two
grade a eggs two strips of bacon
and a choice of breakfast
bread served with skillet
browned potatoes 12.95
sweeten the deal with one
slice of our luscious cinnamon
supreme french toast for an
additional 2.95
Steak And Eggs a 5 oz. top sirloin,
cooked to order, with two
eggs prepared any style 21.95
Smoked Pork Chop And Eggs
two thin sliced smoked pork
chops with two eggs any style
and skillet browned
potatoes 19.95
Traditional Eggs Benedict two
poached eggs set atop a
toasted english muffin with canadian
bacon, and topped with
hollandaise sauce 15.95
The New Yorker five silver dollar
pancakes, two eggs any
style, two strips of bacon, two
sausage links and a slice of
ham 19.95
Potatoes And Eggs On A Roll
two eggs cooked to order and
seasoned skillet browns served
on a fresh from the oven
roll 9.95
Full American Breakfast designed
to satisfy a hearty appetite.
three eggs cooked to order
with your choice of breakfast
meat. includes an 8 oz.
juice 15.95
Saturday, March 21, 2009
Happy Hour in the City
A $2 brew? Now we're talking.
How low can you go?:
great happy hours
Acme Bar & Grill
Chic NoHo scene? Try Rehab across the street. Cheap, daily-rotating happy hour? Acme's Monday to Friday happy hour runs from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesdays feature $2 "Acme Brew;" Wednesdays ladies get two for one; and Thursdays are all about $4 Hurricanes.
• 9 Great Jones St., between Lafayette St. and Broadway, 212-420-1934
Blind Tiger Ale House
It's not so much the discounted prices ($1 off all drafts and well drinks), as it is the sheer length of Blind Tiger's happy hour, which runs from noon to 8 p.m., Monday through Friday. That means you can practically get started on your cheap cocktail immediately upon downing your morning coffee.
• 518 Hudson St., at 10th St, 212-675-3848; blindtigeralehouse.com
Boxcar Lounge
This tiny bar specializes in creative cocktails made with champagne and sake — along with well drinks and draft beers these house specialties are just $5 each until 10 p.m. (until 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday).
• 168 Avenue B, between 10th and 11th Sts., 212-473-2830
Fiddlesticks
Fiddlesticks has numerous nooks where you can grab a table and read a book without being interrupted — except when one of the great-looking bartenders pulls you a pint. Happy Hour lasts until 10 p.m. on Monday through Friday, and $3 will get you any drink you desire (expect martinis and shots).
• 56 Greenwich Ave., between Sixth and Seventh Aves., 212-436-0516
Landmark Tavern
With three-for-two buybacks, "Single-Malt Mondays" offer the best opportunity for cash-strapped connoisseurs to sample the Tavern's 70 fine scotches. Regular happy hour runs Monday through Friday from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. and features 10 cent buffalo wings and buy-one-get-one on all drinks.
• 626 Eleventh Ave., at 46th St., 212-757-8595
La Linea
Soulful, dive-y lounge for the romantically sleazy, with $2 discounts on all drinks 3 p.m. till 9 p.m., seven days a week. The currently running summer special includes $3 margaritas and $4 apple martinis during those same hours.
• 15 First Ave., between 1st and 2nd Sts., 212-777-1571
Magnetic Field
At this welcome addition to the Brooklyn Heights/Cobble Hill bar scene, tap beers and well drinks are $3 for several hours, Mondays through Wednesdays. Tuesday is happy hour all day —all day —and on Sundays the bar gives a BK shout-out with all Brooklyn beers $1 off.
• 97 Atlantic Ave., Brooklyn, 718-834-0069; magneticbrooklyn.com
Mars 2112
Once you get over the sight of mute aliens in rubber-and-spandex costumes, the fake red-rock terrain of Mars 2112 can be silly fun. And gimmicky theme bars are much more appealing when they offer drinks and appetizers for half off from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. seven days a week, with a DJ adding to the vibe several nights as well.
• 1633 Broadway, at 51st St., 212-582-2112; mars2112.com
Parkside Lounge
This once-sordid dive has gotten a second wind, with raucous parties and $3 beer and well drinks daily from 1 p.m. until 8 p.m.
• 317 E. Houston St., at Attorney St., 212-673-6270; parksidelounge.com
The Slide
This gay bar next to Marion's Continental (same owners) takes happy hour to the next level with 60 minutes of open bar nightly. Happy hour officially runs from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., during which time beers are $2 and well drinks $3. But from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m., the cash register shuts down entirely and patrons drink for free.
• 356 Bowery, at 4th St., 212-475-7621
Thirsty Scholar,
Sometimes you do wanna go where everybody knows your name. Or if not everyone, at least the bartender. And if not your name, at least your drink. Happy Hour runs from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. seven days a week — beers are $3-$4, martinis are $5, and cosmos and frozen drinks are a mere $4.
• 155 Second Ave., between 9th and 10th Sts., 212-777-6514
Welcome to the Johnsons
Seventies throwback with recession-ready drink deals: On Mondays through Thursdays from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. and on Friday and Saturday from 1 till 9 p.m. pay only $2 for Buds and well drinks. Free snacks, too — of the Doritos variety.
• 123 Rivington St., between Essex and Nrofolk Sts., 212-420-9911
always cheap
Rudy's Bar
All drinks here are cheap, but the best deal — if you've got strong tastebuds — is Rudy's Red, the house's own somewhat swill-ish brew served in plastic "buckets" for $7.75. Bonus: Free hot dogs!
• 627 Ninth Ave., at 44th St., 212-974-9169; rudysbarandgrill.com
Corner Bistro
$2 mugs of McSorley's and some of the best burgers in town ensure that there's always a line at this West Village classic.
• 331 W. 4th St., at Jane St., 212-242-9502
Holiday Cocktail Lounge
W. H. Auden once lived next door, and Trotsky across the street. Both knew a little something about the low life, and so does the clientele of this East Village landmark. All drinks run from $2.75 to a mere $4. In fact, we voted it New York's best bar if you're unemployed!
• 75 St. Marks Pl., between First and Second Aves., 212-777-9637
International Bar
Whether you're drinking whiskey on the rocks or beer in a can, you'll get change back from a $5 at this friendly dive known for its great jukebox.
• 120 1/2 First Ave., between 7th and 8th Sts., 212-777-9244
Jeremy's Ale House
Starting at 8am, an unlikely mix of construction workers, fishmongers coming off their shifts, and Wall Street suits down 32-ounce Styrofoam cups of Bud ($1.75) at this one-of-a-kind waterfront dive.
• 254 Front St., between Peck Slip and Dover St., 212-964-3537
O'Connor's
The biggest change this place has seen in the past twenty years came in 2000, when drink prices went up by 50 cents (leaving most still under $3).
• 39 Fifth Ave., Brooklyn, 718-783-9721
Mug's Ale House
Archetypal old-school tavern with $2-pint specials for both waterfront workers and starving artists.
• 125 Bedford Ave., Brooklyn, 718-486-8232
Gowanus Yacht Club
Most Smith Street hangouts charge Manhattan prices. Not so this outdoor-only glorified hot dog stand, where the Carroll Gardens hipoisie enjoys $2 PBRs.
• 323 Smith St., Brooklyn, 718-249-1321
The Village Idiot
Long before Coyote Ugly was a bar or a movie, there were girls dancing on the the bar at the Village Idiot, and owner Tom arm-wrestled besotted customers for drinks. Beers are $1.25-$3, beer pitchers are $5.50, mixed drinks are $3.25, and shots are $3. Good luck!
• 355 West 14th St., at Ninth Ave., 212-989-7334
How low can you go?:
great happy hours
Acme Bar & Grill
Chic NoHo scene? Try Rehab across the street. Cheap, daily-rotating happy hour? Acme's Monday to Friday happy hour runs from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesdays feature $2 "Acme Brew;" Wednesdays ladies get two for one; and Thursdays are all about $4 Hurricanes.
• 9 Great Jones St., between Lafayette St. and Broadway, 212-420-1934
Blind Tiger Ale House
It's not so much the discounted prices ($1 off all drafts and well drinks), as it is the sheer length of Blind Tiger's happy hour, which runs from noon to 8 p.m., Monday through Friday. That means you can practically get started on your cheap cocktail immediately upon downing your morning coffee.
• 518 Hudson St., at 10th St, 212-675-3848; blindtigeralehouse.com
Boxcar Lounge
This tiny bar specializes in creative cocktails made with champagne and sake — along with well drinks and draft beers these house specialties are just $5 each until 10 p.m. (until 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday).
• 168 Avenue B, between 10th and 11th Sts., 212-473-2830
Fiddlesticks
Fiddlesticks has numerous nooks where you can grab a table and read a book without being interrupted — except when one of the great-looking bartenders pulls you a pint. Happy Hour lasts until 10 p.m. on Monday through Friday, and $3 will get you any drink you desire (expect martinis and shots).
• 56 Greenwich Ave., between Sixth and Seventh Aves., 212-436-0516
Landmark Tavern
With three-for-two buybacks, "Single-Malt Mondays" offer the best opportunity for cash-strapped connoisseurs to sample the Tavern's 70 fine scotches. Regular happy hour runs Monday through Friday from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. and features 10 cent buffalo wings and buy-one-get-one on all drinks.
• 626 Eleventh Ave., at 46th St., 212-757-8595
La Linea
Soulful, dive-y lounge for the romantically sleazy, with $2 discounts on all drinks 3 p.m. till 9 p.m., seven days a week. The currently running summer special includes $3 margaritas and $4 apple martinis during those same hours.
• 15 First Ave., between 1st and 2nd Sts., 212-777-1571
Magnetic Field
At this welcome addition to the Brooklyn Heights/Cobble Hill bar scene, tap beers and well drinks are $3 for several hours, Mondays through Wednesdays. Tuesday is happy hour all day —all day —and on Sundays the bar gives a BK shout-out with all Brooklyn beers $1 off.
• 97 Atlantic Ave., Brooklyn, 718-834-0069; magneticbrooklyn.com
Mars 2112
Once you get over the sight of mute aliens in rubber-and-spandex costumes, the fake red-rock terrain of Mars 2112 can be silly fun. And gimmicky theme bars are much more appealing when they offer drinks and appetizers for half off from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. seven days a week, with a DJ adding to the vibe several nights as well.
• 1633 Broadway, at 51st St., 212-582-2112; mars2112.com
Parkside Lounge
This once-sordid dive has gotten a second wind, with raucous parties and $3 beer and well drinks daily from 1 p.m. until 8 p.m.
• 317 E. Houston St., at Attorney St., 212-673-6270; parksidelounge.com
The Slide
This gay bar next to Marion's Continental (same owners) takes happy hour to the next level with 60 minutes of open bar nightly. Happy hour officially runs from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., during which time beers are $2 and well drinks $3. But from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m., the cash register shuts down entirely and patrons drink for free.
• 356 Bowery, at 4th St., 212-475-7621
Thirsty Scholar,
Sometimes you do wanna go where everybody knows your name. Or if not everyone, at least the bartender. And if not your name, at least your drink. Happy Hour runs from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. seven days a week — beers are $3-$4, martinis are $5, and cosmos and frozen drinks are a mere $4.
• 155 Second Ave., between 9th and 10th Sts., 212-777-6514
Welcome to the Johnsons
Seventies throwback with recession-ready drink deals: On Mondays through Thursdays from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. and on Friday and Saturday from 1 till 9 p.m. pay only $2 for Buds and well drinks. Free snacks, too — of the Doritos variety.
• 123 Rivington St., between Essex and Nrofolk Sts., 212-420-9911
always cheap
Rudy's Bar
All drinks here are cheap, but the best deal — if you've got strong tastebuds — is Rudy's Red, the house's own somewhat swill-ish brew served in plastic "buckets" for $7.75. Bonus: Free hot dogs!
• 627 Ninth Ave., at 44th St., 212-974-9169; rudysbarandgrill.com
Corner Bistro
$2 mugs of McSorley's and some of the best burgers in town ensure that there's always a line at this West Village classic.
• 331 W. 4th St., at Jane St., 212-242-9502
Holiday Cocktail Lounge
W. H. Auden once lived next door, and Trotsky across the street. Both knew a little something about the low life, and so does the clientele of this East Village landmark. All drinks run from $2.75 to a mere $4. In fact, we voted it New York's best bar if you're unemployed!
• 75 St. Marks Pl., between First and Second Aves., 212-777-9637
International Bar
Whether you're drinking whiskey on the rocks or beer in a can, you'll get change back from a $5 at this friendly dive known for its great jukebox.
• 120 1/2 First Ave., between 7th and 8th Sts., 212-777-9244
Jeremy's Ale House
Starting at 8am, an unlikely mix of construction workers, fishmongers coming off their shifts, and Wall Street suits down 32-ounce Styrofoam cups of Bud ($1.75) at this one-of-a-kind waterfront dive.
• 254 Front St., between Peck Slip and Dover St., 212-964-3537
O'Connor's
The biggest change this place has seen in the past twenty years came in 2000, when drink prices went up by 50 cents (leaving most still under $3).
• 39 Fifth Ave., Brooklyn, 718-783-9721
Mug's Ale House
Archetypal old-school tavern with $2-pint specials for both waterfront workers and starving artists.
• 125 Bedford Ave., Brooklyn, 718-486-8232
Gowanus Yacht Club
Most Smith Street hangouts charge Manhattan prices. Not so this outdoor-only glorified hot dog stand, where the Carroll Gardens hipoisie enjoys $2 PBRs.
• 323 Smith St., Brooklyn, 718-249-1321
The Village Idiot
Long before Coyote Ugly was a bar or a movie, there were girls dancing on the the bar at the Village Idiot, and owner Tom arm-wrestled besotted customers for drinks. Beers are $1.25-$3, beer pitchers are $5.50, mixed drinks are $3.25, and shots are $3. Good luck!
• 355 West 14th St., at Ninth Ave., 212-989-7334
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Curtis's Pick-Bobby Van's
Bobby Van’s Steakhouse & Grill
25 Broad St., New York, NY 10004 at Exchange Pl. See Map Subway Directions
212-344-8463
Bobby Van's serves some of the city's best steaks and lobsters to a loyal, local, and low-key clientele. While there are several other Manhattan steakhouses in the same quality range few provide an overall experience as satisfying as Van's, thanks to the combination of choice cuts of meat and attentive service. If you're looking to upgrade from the endemic inconsistency of the Palm or Smith & Wollensky without giving up any masculinity points, this is the place
25 Broad St., New York, NY 10004 at Exchange Pl. See Map Subway Directions
212-344-8463
Bobby Van's serves some of the city's best steaks and lobsters to a loyal, local, and low-key clientele. While there are several other Manhattan steakhouses in the same quality range few provide an overall experience as satisfying as Van's, thanks to the combination of choice cuts of meat and attentive service. If you're looking to upgrade from the endemic inconsistency of the Palm or Smith & Wollensky without giving up any masculinity points, this is the place
Monday, January 19, 2009
Restaurant Week is Here
New York City Restaurant Week is a great opportunity to sample some of the great offerings of New York City's many restaurants for a fraction of the price, making it a great chance to try something new or an old favorite that might be tough on the wallet.
1. Reserve EarlyPopular Restaurant Week choices will be booked up quickly, so the sooner you get on the phone (or Opentable.com) to make your reservations, the better. Reservations for lunch and dinner early in the week (Monday - Wednesday) tend to be easier to get than Thursday and Friday.
zSB(3,3)
Sponsored Links
2. Be SelectiveCheck out Recommended Restaurant Week Restaurants, read websites like www.chowhound.com and ask your friends and family for suggestions or to share their experiences at various restaurants during New York Restaurant Week. Some restaurants are outstanding the rest of the year, but abysmal during Restaurant Week, so keep that in mind.
3. Check Out The Restaurant's WebsiteNearly all the restaurants participating in Restaurant Week have websites. Check them out to see if they offer the Restaurant Week deal year-round (particularly with lunch, this is more common than you might think) and also look to see whether the normal menu seems to offer a good value for Restaurant Week (would you ordinarily be able to have lunch for less than $24?). The restaurant may also be able to fax you the menu for Restaurant Week.
4. Understand the PriceThe $24.07 lunch prix-fixe ($35 at dinner) doesn't include beverages, tip or tax. Beverages can be a pricey upsell, so if you're concerned about your budget, ask about prices before you order. Bottled water is also a common upsell -- there's nothing wrong with asking for tap water.
5. Tip Your Server WellJust because you're getting a discount on your lunch (or dinner) doesn't mean that the waiter or waitress is getting a break on their rent this month, so tip generously if you get good service. This also goes a long way toward dispelling the myth that Restaurant Week diners are cheap and don't understand proper restaurant tipping etiquette.
6. Dress for SuccessIt's unfortunate, but the truth is that at some restaurants if you're dressed like a slob, you'll be treated like one, but if you're dressed like a business person, you'll be treated like one too.
7. Be Open MindedMost restaurants offer fairly limited choices on the Restaurant Week menu, so if you're a very picky eater, it might not be the best option for you. Even the best Restaurant Week restaurants tend to offer 5 or fewer choices for each course.
8. Want to Dine Quickly or Slowly?If you want to be able to squeeze your lunch in to a single hour, try booking near noon, if you want to linger, book a later lunch closer to 2 p.m.
9. Last Minute Cancellations HappenIf you have your heart set on a particular restaurant but the restaurant was fully booked when you tried to reserve, try calling the morning you'd like to go and see if they have any availability -- folks do cancel reservations or fail to confirm reservations if their schedule gets busy.
10. Manage Your ExpectationsIt is Restaurant Week, so keep in mind that you're probably going to be offered some of the less expensive options on the menu (chicken, salmon, skate, and ribs are fairly common). Frequently, the Restaurant Week menu won't include a restaurant's "signature" dishes, but you can often order them a la carte if you'd really like to give them a try. Restaurants frequently squeeze in a few more tables to make up the difference in the lower per-head cost, so seating can be more cozy than usual
1. Reserve EarlyPopular Restaurant Week choices will be booked up quickly, so the sooner you get on the phone (or Opentable.com) to make your reservations, the better. Reservations for lunch and dinner early in the week (Monday - Wednesday) tend to be easier to get than Thursday and Friday.
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2. Be SelectiveCheck out Recommended Restaurant Week Restaurants, read websites like www.chowhound.com and ask your friends and family for suggestions or to share their experiences at various restaurants during New York Restaurant Week. Some restaurants are outstanding the rest of the year, but abysmal during Restaurant Week, so keep that in mind.
3. Check Out The Restaurant's WebsiteNearly all the restaurants participating in Restaurant Week have websites. Check them out to see if they offer the Restaurant Week deal year-round (particularly with lunch, this is more common than you might think) and also look to see whether the normal menu seems to offer a good value for Restaurant Week (would you ordinarily be able to have lunch for less than $24?). The restaurant may also be able to fax you the menu for Restaurant Week.
4. Understand the PriceThe $24.07 lunch prix-fixe ($35 at dinner) doesn't include beverages, tip or tax. Beverages can be a pricey upsell, so if you're concerned about your budget, ask about prices before you order. Bottled water is also a common upsell -- there's nothing wrong with asking for tap water.
5. Tip Your Server WellJust because you're getting a discount on your lunch (or dinner) doesn't mean that the waiter or waitress is getting a break on their rent this month, so tip generously if you get good service. This also goes a long way toward dispelling the myth that Restaurant Week diners are cheap and don't understand proper restaurant tipping etiquette.
6. Dress for SuccessIt's unfortunate, but the truth is that at some restaurants if you're dressed like a slob, you'll be treated like one, but if you're dressed like a business person, you'll be treated like one too.
7. Be Open MindedMost restaurants offer fairly limited choices on the Restaurant Week menu, so if you're a very picky eater, it might not be the best option for you. Even the best Restaurant Week restaurants tend to offer 5 or fewer choices for each course.
8. Want to Dine Quickly or Slowly?If you want to be able to squeeze your lunch in to a single hour, try booking near noon, if you want to linger, book a later lunch closer to 2 p.m.
9. Last Minute Cancellations HappenIf you have your heart set on a particular restaurant but the restaurant was fully booked when you tried to reserve, try calling the morning you'd like to go and see if they have any availability -- folks do cancel reservations or fail to confirm reservations if their schedule gets busy.
10. Manage Your ExpectationsIt is Restaurant Week, so keep in mind that you're probably going to be offered some of the less expensive options on the menu (chicken, salmon, skate, and ribs are fairly common). Frequently, the Restaurant Week menu won't include a restaurant's "signature" dishes, but you can often order them a la carte if you'd really like to give them a try. Restaurants frequently squeeze in a few more tables to make up the difference in the lower per-head cost, so seating can be more cozy than usual
148 Chambers StreetNew York, NY 10007Phone: 212-227-1434Fax: 212-227-7978Mon.—Sat. 10 am—9 pm, Sun. 12 pm—7 pm
UpcomingTastings & Events
Friday, January 23
AUSTRALIAN WINES FROM PAXTON5:00pm to 7:00pmWe are very happy to have Paula from Paxton join us to pour Shiraz and Grenache from the McClaren Vale, Australia. What better time than January to warm up with some Southern Hemisphere wines!
Saturday, January 24
SPANISH & PORTUGUESE REDS4:00pm to 7:00pmJoin us as we'll be pouring some wonderful reds from both Spain and Portugal.
Saturday, February 07
ITALY BY SELECTED ESTATES4:00pm to 7:00pmNo, it's not a spaghetti western, it's the enthusiastic, charming and incredibly knowledgeable Mike Duffy from Selected Estates of Europe pouring the wonderful reds from Piedmonte, Tuscany, many more...
Saturday, February 14
CHAMPAGNE 4:00PM TO 7:00 PMA unique opportunity to show your Valentine some of the finest grower Champagnes produced. Don't miss this extraordinary event!
Saturday, February 21
TASTING, BOOK SIGNING, (AND DINNER) WITH ROBERT CAMUTO AND NICOLAS JOLY4:00PM to 7:00PMPlease join us for a special tasting celebrating the publication of "Corkscrewed" by Robert Camuto. "Corkscrewed is a lively and amusing chronicle of Camuto's exploration of French wine and terriors. Accompanying Robert will be his friend Nicolas Joly, pioneer and maestro of biodynamic wine production; we will taste Joly's wines, along with other great terrior-driven wines.At 8pm we move the party to Ici Restaurant in Fort Greene, where $80 will buy you a seat, three courses of delicious natural/organic food, wine, tax, and tip. Based on their reputations for passionate oration we are counting on Mssrs Camuto and Joly to regale us with some good anecdotes from the front lines of truly advanced winemaking. Please call 212-227-1434 to reserve a place for dinner - seating is very limited!
Saturday, February 28
GERMAN & AUSTRIAN WINTER WHITES 4:00pm to 7:00pmIt's freezing cold in February in New York and you wonder why we're having an all white tasting. First, it is just as cold in Austria and Germany and they consume more white wine year-round than anyone else. Second, there are some whites that are actually better suited with certain winter dishes. Classic winter pork stews and root vegetable salads sometimes yearn for the perfect Riesling or Gruner Veltiner. Come Siehe for yourself.
Friday, January 23
AUSTRALIAN WINES FROM PAXTON5:00pm to 7:00pmWe are very happy to have Paula from Paxton join us to pour Shiraz and Grenache from the McClaren Vale, Australia. What better time than January to warm up with some Southern Hemisphere wines!
Saturday, January 24
SPANISH & PORTUGUESE REDS4:00pm to 7:00pmJoin us as we'll be pouring some wonderful reds from both Spain and Portugal.
Saturday, February 07
ITALY BY SELECTED ESTATES4:00pm to 7:00pmNo, it's not a spaghetti western, it's the enthusiastic, charming and incredibly knowledgeable Mike Duffy from Selected Estates of Europe pouring the wonderful reds from Piedmonte, Tuscany, many more...
Saturday, February 14
CHAMPAGNE 4:00PM TO 7:00 PMA unique opportunity to show your Valentine some of the finest grower Champagnes produced. Don't miss this extraordinary event!
Saturday, February 21
TASTING, BOOK SIGNING, (AND DINNER) WITH ROBERT CAMUTO AND NICOLAS JOLY4:00PM to 7:00PMPlease join us for a special tasting celebrating the publication of "Corkscrewed" by Robert Camuto. "Corkscrewed is a lively and amusing chronicle of Camuto's exploration of French wine and terriors. Accompanying Robert will be his friend Nicolas Joly, pioneer and maestro of biodynamic wine production; we will taste Joly's wines, along with other great terrior-driven wines.At 8pm we move the party to Ici Restaurant in Fort Greene, where $80 will buy you a seat, three courses of delicious natural/organic food, wine, tax, and tip. Based on their reputations for passionate oration we are counting on Mssrs Camuto and Joly to regale us with some good anecdotes from the front lines of truly advanced winemaking. Please call 212-227-1434 to reserve a place for dinner - seating is very limited!
Saturday, February 28
GERMAN & AUSTRIAN WINTER WHITES 4:00pm to 7:00pmIt's freezing cold in February in New York and you wonder why we're having an all white tasting. First, it is just as cold in Austria and Germany and they consume more white wine year-round than anyone else. Second, there are some whites that are actually better suited with certain winter dishes. Classic winter pork stews and root vegetable salads sometimes yearn for the perfect Riesling or Gruner Veltiner. Come Siehe for yourself.
Melania's Pick
Melania Fodor, Front Desk Supervisor of the Hotel Reserve say's Pound and Pence is a great place to socialise, eat & drink. The service is prompt and the staff is great.
Pound & Pence Pub and Restaurant, an authentic English Pub is marrying the best of traditional pub decor with contemporary American-influenced cuisine.
Pound & Pence
English, Bar Food
55 Liberty St, New York 10005
(Btwn Nassau St & Bway)
Phone: (212) 716-1141
Fax:(212) 716-1144
Pound & Pence Pub and Restaurant, an authentic English Pub is marrying the best of traditional pub decor with contemporary American-influenced cuisine.
Pound & Pence
English, Bar Food
55 Liberty St, New York 10005
(Btwn Nassau St & Bway)
Phone: (212) 716-1141
Fax:(212) 716-1144
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