Where the Most Fashionable New Yorkers Love to Eat

The beginning of September means so many things to so many people. The pumpkin-spiced everything returns to menus everywhere, new sky-high boots purchases start racking up the AMEX bill, the crisp fall air begins to fill the city, and the subway begins to smell a little less disgusting. For many New Yorkers, the beginning of September only means one thing - FASHION WEEK. Yes, Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week is already in high gear, ending Wednesday in Lincoln Center. Even though you might soon be covering up with a huge infinity scarf and some driving gloves, designers will be debuting their warm-weather show stoppers like this little number.

You have to wonder between the shows and the fittings and pop-up everything, where are the most fashionable New Yorkers dining on the regular? We asked a few of our favorites where they love to eat and why these haunts are always in fashion. by Joleen Zanuzoski

Brendan Monaghan, Associate Publisher: GQ
To live one of the most glamorous lives surrounded by the most glamourous friends comes effortlessly to Monaghan who can be seen strutting around town in showstopping outfits, bow ties and a monogrammed accessory or two. He has been going to Il Cantinori for 18 years "usually two to four times a week" and due to his larger than life persona and the fact he is the definition of a regular, the restaurant has christened a dish after him - the Pollo alla Brendan. He's also a huge fan of the whole wheat spaghetti with crumbled sausage and peas. "I love Il Cantinori for so many reasons: Domenico is the best waiter and I will only sit at his table. There is always a diverse crowd - anyone from Anna Wintour to Jennifer Aniston - but you don't need to be a celebrity to be treated like one." Besides the ambiance, Monaghan raves about the food, noting "they will make you anything you want, [even] if it's not on the menu [and] they will never rush you." What Monaghan can be found sipping on between bites of his namesake chicken? "They make a mean margarita - made with Splenda, not sugar, if you ask." Why do we have a feeling if we ask for anything we want and we're not Brendan Monaghan, it might not go over so successfully? Il Cantinori 32 East 10th Street nr. University Pl. 

Mia Moretti, DJ
Not only is she one of the most sought-after DJs around, she recently made her design debut with an amazing jazz-inspired collection in collaboration with Pencey. When she isn't being super hawt in videos like this, she can be found sipping on sake at Izakaya 10 in Chelsea, usually in a party dress as she's always stopping in after DJing an event. What is her favorite item on the menu after a hard night's work at the turntable? "I love the Yamaimo Wrap - it's a thin slice of mountain potato served over a piece of dried seaweed with a ume (plum) and shiso (mint)." Who doesn't love a good mountain potato? We'll have whatever Mia's having - not only are her beats perfection, so is her choice of late-night eats. Rhyming! Izakaya 10, 207 Tenth Avenue nr. 23rd St. 

Andrew Mukamal, Fashion Stylist & Host of Today's Look
It's pretty much a given that Andrew Mukamal will be spotted by Bill Cunningham and end up in the NYT's Sunday Styles in something neon, with animals on it, all black, or studded. It's really a toss-up, but he never fails to be donning the latest in fashion. Mukamal can be found at Brooklyn Diner wearing Today's Look, whatever that may be, and says he "sits in the booth I see Jerry Seinfeld sit in several mornings every week. He's a GOD." His dish du jour? "The chicken club is UNREAL, but so is the mac n' cheese, chicken parm, chinese chicken salad, and the chicken noodle soup. Oh, and always start with the pigs n' a blanket or fried mozzarella - they'll blow you away!" Brooklyn Diner 212 West 57th Street nr. Seventh Ave. 

Katrina Szish, TV personality
Szish has one of the most exciting jobs on TV. As a regular TV host and correspondent, appearing on shows like The Wendy Williams Show, Good Afternoon America, Inside Edition & Showbiz Tonight and a regular on the approaching award's season red carpet, Szish makes dressing up and talking to celebs about what they're wearing seem effortless. Based in New York, she loves to stop into the West Village's Corner Bistro, usually clad in boyfriend jeans, a plaid shirt, military jacket and YSL platform wedge booties. Why she loves Corner Bistro so much? "They have the best bartender in NYC - Red - who automatically plays [Neil Young's] Cinnamon Girl on the jukebox when I walk in. Plus, I met my husband there." Her go-to burger order? "Cheeseburger, rare, no onions." She even makes a cheeseburger look chic! Corner Bistro 331 West 4th Street nr. Jane St.  

Chantal Chadwick, Co-Owner: End of Century
The Lower East Side is known for some of the best restaurants in Manhattan but it's also becoming a great neighborhood for amazing shopping. Chadwick's End of Century not only houses amazing accessories and downtown chic fashion, it doubles as a gallery, showcasing local artists. If you don't recognize Chadwick from your recent visit to EOC, you might on Bravo's Gallery Girls, where Chadwick can be seen dining out, doing downward dog and on the arm of her cutie pie boyfriend, Spencer. Where she grabs a bite between filming and sourcing amazing baubles for EOC?" Right next door at Zoe. "The food and cocktails are some of the most inventive in NYC and consistently executed with attention to detail. I love the whole grilled wild Dorade with lemon and mustard seed grapes." Chadwick can be seen sipping on an Alaska cocktail while wearing something amazing from EOC - "most likely a dress by Samantha Pleet and a Martine Ali stone cuff." Zoë  Restaurant 245 Eldridge Street nr. Stanton St. 

Paul Johnson Calderon, Director of Social Media: MyDROBE.com, Owner/Designer: Mauvais Garçons Calderon is so much more than a white-haired socialite or a hot boy in a bow-tie. Recently, he's part of a team that launched MyDrobe, an interactive website and app that "seamlessly brings a user's existing wardrobe online to act as a virtual personal shopper and stylist." When not virtually creating wardrobe options, he is designing his signature a-mazing bow-ties under his label, Mauvais Garçon. When not designing, socializing and styling, he can be seen sipping on the Mykonos Mule and savoring a lobster roll at The Grey Lady. "There's truly nothing like it in the city. A taste of New England in the heart of the LES. I couldn't possibly ask for anything more reminiscent of home - I love it!" Usually clad in a preppy-punk ensemble, he can be seen dining in a Ralph Lauren Oxford with one of his Mauvais Garçons bow ties, a needle point belt (J. McLaughlin), Nantucket reds, and black deerskin Minnetonka moccasins or Doc Martens. Luckily, he has MyDROBE to organize his yin and yang style. The Grey Lady 77 Delancey Street nr. Allen St.

Leandra Medine, Founder of The Man Repeller
If you are known to rock harem pants or sleeves of bangles and chains aka "an arm party," most likely you are following the amazing stylings of The Man Repeller - Leandra Medine. This recently married fashionista managed to do just the opposite of repel one lucky fella and in between authoring her blog, starring in Uniqlo's new campaign and styling window displays for Maje in SoHo, she loves to stop into Jack's Wife Freda and Cafe Cluny for sustenance. "I love the tuna burger at Cluny and the tuna salad at Freda - I'm very into Mercury," says Medine. She also speaks highly of the friendly waitstaff and abundance of good wine. What she's most likely sporting while savoring her Mecury-fueld meal? "Ripped jeans and sneakers." Jack's Wife Freda 224 Lafayette Street nr. Spring St; Cafe Cluny 284 West 12th Street nr. West 4th St. 

Kristian Laliberte, Senior Editor: Refinery 29
This New England native has made a name for himself around the streets of NYC as a serious fashion-forward man about town. Not only does Laliberte's reporting uncover the best Instagram accounts to follow, the best fashion week invitations, and what Sean Avery's apartment looks like, he's also known to shop eBay from time to time and is a huge fan of ABC's Revenge (who isn't?! We need to know who died on that plane!) His favorite dining haunt? Indochine in NoHo, always sticking to his usual order of the spicy chicken and the Lychee martini. "[Indochine's] wallpaper is just instantaneously glamorous. The whole vibe is very old school sexy. You can have an intimate conversation in one of the booths, but there's always someone there you haven't seen in five years to catch up with. Also, it's a great date place because the lighting makes you look two points hotter." Everyone - take note of that hot tip! What Laliberte is usually sporting in one of Indochine's dimly lit booth? "Nudie jeans, a slim-fit white button down shirt, blazers and boots." Indochine 430 Lafayette Street nr. Astor Pl. 

Hitha Palepu, Founder of Portavi Company and Hitha On The Go
Basically, Hitha does it all. She travels internationally half of the year for work and when not traveling she is helping other people travel in the most stylish way possible. Palepu's Portavi Company will help you pack your carry-on with the bare essentials, but will not compromise fashion in the process. Where has she been all my life?! No more oversize baggage fees because I need to fit in just one more pair of boots - she has solved the overpacking problem that most fashionistas on the go are known for. When she has a spare moment to stay grounded in NYC, she loves 44 and X in Hell's Kitchen. "I love the seasonal menu, the superb service, and the fact that it's a mere 4 blocks from my apartment. While my husband is sick of the restaurant being my go-to request, my father always wants to go whenever he's in town.  The first time I ever went there, we were celebrating the start of my husband's new job. I had the pistachio-crusted lemon sole, an evening special that I ask if it's available every time I go." If the lemon sole isn't available, she loves the Mediterranean chopped salad with a fish - "the salmon and halibut are standing favorites." For dessert, she highly recommends the peanut butter mouse tart. The perfect outfit to wear to 44 and X? "I fall back on a standby casual-chic outfit - a flowy dress and strappy sandals in the summer, or tailored slacks and a loose (or peplum!) blouse. The blouse must always accomadate the inevitable food baby. And flats, always."  44 and X 622 Tenth Avenue nr. 44th St. 

Top 10: Indulgent Brunch Dishes in NYC

Top 10 Indulgent Brunch Dishes

It just happens to be National Waffle Day this Friday (August 24th) but why only celebrate one day a year? wEE love waffles every day. Who are we kidding? wEE love anything brunch related. So here we are to give you our top 10 awesomely indulgent brunch dishes in NYC. by Sarah Mintz, Contributing Writer

Norma's Chocolate Decadence French Toast

1.       Norma's - Chocolate Decadence French Toast Le Parker Meridien - 119 W 56th Street nr. 6th Ave. Simply stated, Norma's is ridiculous. For the ultimate sweet tooth like me, Norma's is a brunch mecca. For everyone else, Norma's is still a brunch mecca. Every menu item is more absurd than the next.  The dining room is modern and chic and the atmosphere is relaxing and calm. With all of that, you definitely don't expect the kitchen to whip up such extreme dishes as foie gras brioche French toast ($34), cheesecake-stuffed and coconut-rolled French toast with vanilla ice cream ($23), artichoke eggs benedict with a truffle porcini sauce ($25), or a zillion dollar lobster frittata with caviar ($100!). 

Whatever you do, you cannot leave Norma's without ordering the Chocolate Decadence French Toast ($25). Featured by Alex Guarnaschelli on The Best Thing I Ever Ate, the chocolate cake French toast mountain comes in at about 6 inches tall and with sliced sweet strawberries between each layer and whole pistachios and valrhona chocolate sauce drizzled on top, you've got yourself the most indulgent brunch dish in New York City. You may be taking care of your caloric intake for the week with this one dish, but each warm, rich, and decadent bite is worth it. wEE consider Norma's a good spot for a frou frou power brunch on an expense account or special occasion brunch, as not much on the menu is under $20. You'll definitely spend a pretty penny to indulge.

Public's Black Pudding Waffle

2.      Public - Black Pudding Waffle, 210 Elizabeth Street nr. Prince St. Indulge in more than just the trendy and sultry atmosphere at this Nolita charmer. You can always come back for Kangaroo at dinner, but for brunch the waffle is where it's at. The savory black pudding waffles come served with a decadent red wine glaze, poached pears and a rich whipped foie gras butter. For $13, you can't beat it.

3.      Maharlika -  Chicken 'N' Ube Waffle 111 First Avenue nr. 7th St. wEE recently recommended Maharlika for a casual, fun dinner in the East Village with friends, but who are we kidding? Maharlika's brunch is just as awesome as dinner, especially when you indulge in their Filipino take on chicken n' waffles. Let's work from the bottom up. The purple yam ube waffle has a natural fluffiness, hint of sweetness, and unique dark blue coloring. Next, the chicken. Huge leg and thigh pieces are seasoned and fried, making the skin crispy and meat juicy. Top it all off with a sweet macapuno (coconut) caramel syrup and anchovy garlic chive butter and you've got yourself a perfectly sweet, savory, and indulgent brunch for $17.

PS450's The Elvis

4.      PS450 - The Elvis 450 Park Avenue South nr. 31st St. Located on the "Over the Top" French toast section of the menu, the Elvis blows away its competition. Homemade French toast with chocolate, peanut butter, whipped cream, fluffernutter, bananas, honey and bacon for $12. You can also get an indulgent kick with the more savory Lumberjack French toast with sausage gravy and melted Swiss cheese topped with a poached egg for $13.  With my sweet tooth, I clearly favor the Elvis but either way you can't beat the price. For $25, you'll also get unlimited bloody mary's, bellinis, and mimosas, and homefries or a salad. This is a great spot to go with friends.

The Breslin's Fried PB & Banana Sandwich
Photo: Sarah Mintz, Eatery Expert

5.      The Breslin - Fried PB & Banana Sandwich 16 West 29th Street nr. Broadway April Bloomfield doesn't mess around. Just picture this. You've got a fresh out-of-the-oven brioche bun. Remove the innards and soak them all overnight in Maker's Mark (I know, this already sounds like a recipe for success). In the morning, stuff the brioche with the bourbon-soaked breadcrumbs, sliced bananas, and crunchy Skippy peanut butter (yes the light blue jar - nothing compares). Seal the brioche, dip it in egg and flour, and pop it in the deep fryer. Crunchy, gooey, creamy, smooth, sweet, salty, alcohol-laden. The perfect hangover cure can be yours for only $11.

Elephant & Castle's Eggs N' Apple Benedict French Toast

6.   ABC Kitchen - French Toast with Apples 35 East 18th Street nr. Broadway Who thought ABC Kitchen could get anymore incredible? Their brunch is one to add to any foodie's "must try" list especially with a french toast like this. Thick Texas-style French toast is soaked in batter for over 10 hours then fried to perfection. Finish it off with fresh apples, a blizzard-esque amount of powdered sugar and maple syrup. It is important to note that the syrup is served on the side - why every restaurant doesn't let you pour the syrup yourself I'll never know but that's another story.

7.    Elephant and Castle - Eggs 'N' Apple Benedict French Toast 68 Greenwich Street Avenue nr. 7th Ave. Can't decide whether you are in the mood for a savory or sweet dish? Elephant and Castle in the West Village is here to solve your burning brunch dilemma with gusto. The $13.50 eggs benedict is served over French toast with apples, bacon, hollandaise, and maple syrup. The crisp apples, salty bacon, buttery hollandaise, and sweet syrup make for a concoction satisfying all brunch-goer cravings. wEE highly urge you to splurge for the bacon ($14.50). That extra dollar will be the best dollar you ever spent.

Resto's Belgian Hangover Pasta

8.    Resto - Belgian Hangover Pasta 111 East 29th Street nr. Park Ave. Too much Belgian beer might have sparked the creation of this buttery and creamy brunch dish. Whatever the reason, the Belgian Hangover Pasta ($16) at Resto will absolutely soak up any leftover alcohol in your system and is one not to be missed. The cheesy pasta is mixed with Vermont smoked and cured ham, 18-month aged Gruyere cheese, black pepper and topped with a sunny side up farm egg. While it may sound like a simple Carbonara pasta, the chunks of ham and oozing egg yolk atop the pasta makes all the difference.

Shopsin's Mac n' Cheese Pancakes

9.   Shopsin's - Sluttycakes 120 Essex Street nr. Delancey St. Pancakes might not quite fit the bill for National Waffle Day, but these little guys at Shopsin's are so indulgent and fun, who really cares? But do you want pancakes? Or do you want Sluttycakes? That's right, you can choose from many options including the Yama Sluttycakes made with butterscotch, sweet potatoes, and peach BBQ pork, and the Melba Sluttycakes made with raspberry, peach, and bacon cream cheese. Not to fret, you can always go with more traditional pancakes including variations such as mac & cheese, red velvet poppy and brown sugar banana pecan. 

Gramercy Terrace's Cereal Bar
Photo: Serious Eats

10.   Gramercy Terrace - All You Can Eat Cereal Bar 2 Lexington Avenue nr. 21st St. When's the last time you had a big bowl of Cinnamon Toast Crunch? Fruit Loops? Cap'n Crunch? Just hearing those names brings back nostalgic memories from my childhood. Eating cereal in my PJs while watching Inspector Gadget at the kitchen table? Okay, maybe that's just me. But anyway, who says we can't relive the glory days? Enter the unlimited cereal bar at Gramercy Terrace. Yes, something besides Maialino really does exist at the Gramercy Park Hotel. Head up to the 18th floor and while you will feel like you've transported onto your neighbors charming back patio, you've really just hit jackpot for an awesome all-you-can-eat continental breakfast buffet at the Gramercy Terrace. Take full advantage of the $19 buffet, which will offer you hard-boiled eggs, cheeses, pastries and most importantly the beautifully stocked cereal bar with a wide selection of cereals, milks, and toppings. There are 20 cereals, including Apple Jacks, Cookie Crisp, Golden Grahams, and Raisin Bran presented in rectangular glass jars. You may want to choose your cereals wisely since your selection between whole, skim, chocolate, strawberry, and peanut butter milk can be a game changer. Top it off with marshmallows, caramelized bananas, or a selection of fruit and you've got yourself quite an indulgent, memorable bowl of cereal.
                         ___________________________________________________

Sarah Mintz is a freelance food writer in Manhattan. When not working at her corporate desk job in Midtown or travelling across South America, Europe, and Southeast Asia indulging in exotic culinary adventures, she's out to discover the perfect dining experience in NYC. If you can't find her dining at the bar at Casa Mono or wandering through Chelsea Market, head to Bloomingdales, the West Side Highway running path, or Professor Thom's where she will be cheering equally for Michigan and the pizza-tray sized tower of nachos. Go blue!

Top 10: The Best Burgers in Manhattan

May is many things, but to the food-obsessed world that enjoys any munch-centered occasion, May is NATIONAL BURGER MONTH. Oh yes, an entire month to revel in the juiciest meal between two buns. Here are 10 to keep you noshing all month long. Sarah Mintz, Contributing Writer  

1. JG Melon (no website) 1291 Third Avenue nr. 74th St.

The best burger in the Big Apple, period. Old school, classic and consistent. Everything from the homey pub atmosphere to the cheap prices to the literally mouthwatering (read:drool-inducing) burger is spot on at this Upper East Side spot. There is something about the simple griddle-cooked beef, American cheese, sliced red onions, dill pickles, and toasted white bun with cottage fries that is unrivaled by all the fancy burgers around town. I'm not the only one who knows what deliciousness JG is serving up - expect a wait.

Black Label Burger at Minetta Tavern
Photo: Yelp

2. Minetta Tavern  113 MacDougal Street nr. Bleecker St. I love sitting at the bar at Minetta Tavern chatting it up with tourists, regulars and Mark, the coolest bartender in town. More than anything, though I love sitting at the bar with Minetta's infamous Black Label burger placed right in front of me. The price is steep, given its $26 price tag, but the first bite alone will justify the cost. This burger is all about the quality - prime dry-aged beef patty drizzled in clarified butter and topped with caramelized onions. Combine these ingredients inside a sesame seed brioche bun and you've got yourself a burger that is otherworldly.

The Spotted Pig
Photo: Flickr 

3. The Spotted Pig 314 W. 11th Street nr. Greenwich St.

The Spotted Pig started off as a neighborhood place but it's short-lived under-the-radar status has long diminished, and the burger is partially to blame.  For $20, sink your teeth into this super juicy burger topped with creamy Roquefort cheese. I hope you like French fries too because you'll have to search underneath all the shoestrings to find your burger. I promise it's worth the occasional 2+ hour wait.

4. The Toucan and the Lion 342 East 6th Street nr. 1st Ave. Go ahead and be skeptical at the list of ingredients in this burger- I admit I was too, but that's what got me to try the amazingness between two bao buns in the first place. Just think; a patty smothered in creamy cashew nut butter and topped with applewood smoked bacon with fried pickles to boot. Yes there's a lot going on there, but somehow the sweet and salty combo works. And it works in the most delicious way possible. 

El Doble Burger at Txikito
Photo: Yelp

5. Txikito 240 9th Avenue nr. 25th St. Don't get fooled by the minimalistic and simple décor at Txikito because the "El Doble" burger is bursting with flavor. Come in hungry because this burger gives you not just one but two meaty patties, topped with a smokey Basque sheep's milk cheese and "salsa especial." For $11, you get the most untraditional yet successful burger in town. It's only available for brunch and lunch, so plan this into your afternoon schedule and plan for a siesta immediately after. 

Shopsin's Sliders
Photo: Roboppy.net 

6. Shopsins Stall 16, Essex Street Market, 120 Essex Stret nr. Delancey St.  Sure, you might get yelled at or even kicked out, but Shopsin's sliders are worth the risk. Order three incredible sliders oozing with cheese and caramelized onions for a measly $10. I recommend eating them as is, but if you wish to add toppings, you can chose from chipotle, jalapeno and bacon for $3 or pixie stix, fried onions, and mac & cheese for $4. Don't want the soft and sweet potato roll bun? You must be nuts. But don’t fret, you can get your sliders served on mini mac n' cheese pancakes or cinnamon donuts for an additional $5.  

wEE Recommendations at Shopsins: Check out the menu before you go because you'll need to order fast, don't bring more than four people, and whatever you do, don't use your cell phone. You have been warned.

Lamb burger & fries at The Breslin
Photo: Eatery Expert

7. The Breslin 16 West 29th Street nr. Broadway

I'm a sucker for presentation, but this burger could be served on a paper napkin and I'd still crave it just as much. The $21 chargrilled lamb burger at the Breslin comes standing tall on a wood plank, with a round tin full of "thrice cooked" chips aka awesomely fried but not greasy French fries, and a housemade cumin mayo for dipping or spreading. The gamey burger is exceptionally juicy which is perfect given the thick bun ideal for soaking up the drippings. A slice of feta tops the lamb burger and is a surprisingly pleasant alternative to other cheese options, giving the burger the perfect amount of salty creaminess.  

The Juicy Lucy at Whitmans
Photo: Yelp

8. Whitmans 406 East 9th Street nr. Ave. A

Have you met my best friend Lucy yet? If not, it's about time! I introduce you to the Juicy Lucy, hailing from Minneapolis. This burger concept is as delicious as it is fun - the pimento cheese is cooked inside rather than on top of the beef-short rib blended patty.  Expect oozing deliciousness with every single bite. Beyond oozing cheese, you also get carmalized onions, spicy pickles, lettuce, tomato and a special, signature sauce all inside a bun from Blue Ribbon (another EE favorite!) for $10. Think lava cake, but in burger form.

Bacon Cheeseburger at Little Owl
Photo: Yelp

9. The Little Owl 90 Bedford Street nr. Bedford St.

Available only at lunch, the maple-cured bacon cheeseburger at The Little Owl is a homerun. The succulent patty is a unique blend of short-rib and brisket spiced up with cayenne and curry powder. It pairs perfectly with the sweet bacon and cheddar cheese all served in a buttery housemade bun. Oh how I wish this burger was on the dinner menu!

10. Lyon 118 Greenwich Avenue nr. 13th St.

It's possible if you don't frequent the streets of the West Village you haven't seen or heard of this casual french bistro, but the succulent and salty burger at Lyon is a true gem and in time, will put it on many a burger lover's radar. The bouchon cheeseburger comes topped with caramelized onions, chipotle mayo and your choice of cheese (cheddar, fontina, gruyere). wEE recommend gruyere!

Top Ten: Dishes for Two

What is better than sharing a delicious, hearty meal when dishes are meant for sharing? Dishes for two tend to bring you closer together with the ones you love. The "mmmms" and "yummsss" will be hummed in unison as you try these ten delectable dishes all around Manhattan.
by Sarah Mintz, Contributing Writer


10. Calle Ocho 45 W 81st Street  nr. Columbus Avenue

Dinner: Traditional Costa Rican Soft Tacos with Grilled Beef, Salsa Verde Shrimp & Chipotle Chicken $26 -OR-

Breakfast: Traditional Costa Rican Soft Tacos with Scrambled Eggs, Guacamole, Salsa, Sour Cream, Chorizo and Home Fries $28

Dishes for two at breakfast and dinner - how can you go wrong?

9. Ciano 45 East 22nd Street nr. Park Avenue
Giannone Chicken for Two Baked in a Clay Pot with Castelluccio Lentils and a Mushroom Ragu $55

Extremely moist, tender, and juicy chicken encased with its accompaniments and enclosed by a dough topping makes for one of the season's most comforting dishes.

8. Maialino  2 Lexington Avenue nr. 21st Street

Spigola Salt Baked Sea Bass for Two & Mushrooms $72

Sure, the description sounds simple but the taste is far from it. We can't deny that pork and pasta are crowd favorites here, but the Spigola is hands down Maialino's unsung hero.

7. The Breslin  16 W. 29th Street nr. Broadway

Pig Foot for Two with Winter Vegetables and Shallow Crème Fraiche $48

Stuffed with sausage, deep fried, and underneath a creamy sauce - this dish adds up to the most well-worth it heart attack you'll ever have.

6. Craft 43 East 19th Street nr. Park Avenue

30-Day Dry-Aged Rib Eye Bone Marrow & Bordelaise $125

The rib eye is cooked to perfection but the bordelaise reduction alone is worth the trip to Craft.

5. Commerce 50 Commerce Street nr. Bedford Street

Whole Roasted Chicken for Two with Winter Vegetables and Truffled Potato Puree $58

Foie gras stuffing? Enough said!

4.   The Modern 9 West 53rd Street nr. 5th Avenue

Squab and Foie Gras Croustillant for Two with Caramelized Ginger Jus and Farm Vegetables (included in price of $98 prix fixe dinner)

The buttery and flaky crust of the croustillant encaptures the most decadently smooth foie gras and perfectly tender squab, keeping all flavors tightly sealed until each bite hits your mouth. Oh and don't forget the truffle sauce hiding underneath it all!

3. Babbo 110 Waverly Place nr. Washington Square West

Deconstructed Osso Buco for Two with Saffron Orzo, Cavolo Nero and Chestnut Gremolata $75

Come hungry as the Osso Bucco for two can easily feed a family of four. Regardless, it will be hard for you to put your fork and knife (potentially a butter knife this meat is so tender!) down- the dish packs in so many dynamic flavors, you might forget it comes with a fantastic side of saffron-laced orzo.

2. Nuela 43 West 24th Street nr. 6th Avenue

Arroz con Pato with Roasted Duck Breast, Confit Thighs under Crispy Skin & Gizzards Seared Foie Gras, Verde Rice, and a Soft Duck Egg $64

Although "duck with rice" doesn’t sound pretty, this Arroz con Pato sure is! This is Nuela's signature dish and was named one of the New York Times best dishes in 2010. Think paella, but expect five parts of duck and delicious combinations of savory and sweet mixed among the crispy rice. Hands down a crowd pleaser! 

1. Locanda Verde 377 Greenwich Street nr. North Moore Street

Fire-Roasted Garlic Chicken for Two Served with Garlic and Rosemary Roasted Vegetables  $48

I know. I hate ordering the ubiquitous chicken when I'm out to dinner too, but trust me when I tell you that Andrew Carmellini has perfected this dish. Moist and simple, but this chicken is just so perfect.

Top 10: Gluten-free Options in NYC

by Sarah Mintz, Contributing Writer

January 13, 2012

There seems to be a misconception that being gluten-free also means being banned from eating many foods and in general, eating out. No more bread, soup, pasta, sauce, beer, cake, or cookies. Wrong! Gluten-free options and full gluten-free menus are becoming quite commonplace around NYC. From what we've found, gluten-free alternatives often taste better than regular menu items. Here's our top 10 restaurants for all of our gluten-free friends:

Lilli and Loo's Gluten Free Crunchy Sesame Chicken
Photo credit: Foodspotting

10. Lilli and Loo 792 Lexington Avenue nr. 62nd Street

Navigating Asian cuisine with a gluten allergy may be near impossible. Wontons and dumplings? Wrapped in wheat. Lo-mein noodles? Made from wheat. Fried dishes? Battered in wheat. Savory sauces? Almost all contain some wheat derivative. Not at Lilli and Loo! Along with a great regular menu for your non-celiac pals, Lilli and Loo offers a gluten-free menu with over 50 items to choose from, such as dumplings with gluten-free soy sauce, rock shrimp tempura, Kung pao chicken, and even pad thai.

Sambuca's Brownie sundae
Photo credit: Just Desserts NYC 

9. Sambuca 20 West. 72^nd Street nr. Central Park West

Head to the Upper West Side for family-style Italian at this neighborhood gem. Sambuca has offered a separate gluten-free menu in addition to its regular menu for over seven years - quite ahead of the trend! Don’t expect pasta with red sauce here; instead, you'll find almost 40 gluten-free dishes including chicken scarpiello, spinach ravioli, and pesto pasta. You can also expect gluten-free beer, dinner rolls, chocolate truffle cake, and warm brownies!

Risoterria's Risotti
Photo credit: Une Vie Saine

8. Risotteria 270 Bleecker Street nr. 6th Avenue

Everyone gets a taste of a gluten-free lifestyle at this West Village risotto haven. Every meal starts with light and airy gluten-free breadsticks, whether or not you are gluten-free. Don’t worry, refills of these tasty sticks are on the house so let your non-celiac  friends indulge! The menu is extensive and clearly indicates with a "g" every dish that is gluten-free. Choose from options such as meatballs with bolognese sauce, risotti (creamy Italian rice without the cream) with calamari, roasted garlic, and Italian parsley, as well as paninis and pizzas. Definitely save room for the gluten-free éclair! Risotteria doesn't take reservations and with only 20 seats (re: this place is really tiny), I recommend arriving early to avoid a wait. For a restaurant that calls itself “gluten-free heaven”, you almost have to check it out!

S'MAC's Mac n' Cheese
Photo credit: S'MAC

7. S'Mac 345 E. 12th Street nr. 1st Avenue

Lip smackin' mac n' cheese comes out piping hot and fresh at this East Village eatery that's been around since 2006 - essentially a lifetime in the NYC dining scene. The best news is that a gluten-free lifestyle can fully indulge here. After extensive testing and overhauling ingredients in 2009, S'Mac successfully found ways to make every regular menu-item without gluten. Béchamel can now be made without wheat flower, and breadcrumbs are made from gluten-free cornflakes. I recommend the classic 4-Cheese skillet (cheddar, Muenster, gruyere, and Pecorino) and the Parisienne, which combines creamy brie, roasted figs, roasted shiitake mushrooms & fresh rosemary. This Parisienne is definitely unorthodox in the mac' world but is an amazing balance of savory and sweet. Eat-in (limited seating), take-out, or for a truly indulgent meal, get it delivered!

Meatballs & delish sauce!
Photo credit: At the Sign of the Pink Pig

6. The Meatball Factory 231 Second Avenue nr. 14th Street

Not to be confused with the Meatball Shop, the Meatball Factory and its chef, Top Chef alum Dave Martin, offer three gluten-free meatballs and six gluten-free sauces among the plethora of menu options. Braised and ground pork shoulder, bacon fat, mascarpone and a dash of red chili paste? Yes please. Fire roasted marinara sauce with fire roasted tomatoes, garlic, & sweet onion, fresh basil and sherry? Yes please. Sauces are made from scratch, atmosphere is casual and prices are more than reasonable. And for your friends who don't mind a little gluten in their diet, there are plenty of salads, pizzas, and additional meatball options to choose from. Don't let them leave without trying the Black Truffle Mac ‘n’ Cheese. And as of 2012, The Meatball Factory delivers!

Taim's classic falafel
Photo credit: Eatery Expert

5. Taim (222 Waverly Pl.)

No question, Taim makes the best falafel in city. Taim offers three types of falafel daily, all of which are gluten-free and fried to order in 0% trans-fat oil. Taim also makes the freshest gluten-free hummus that is always a perfectly smooth yet creamy consistency. I'm partial to the green falafel, a traditional flavor combination with parsley, cilantro, and mint - it's basically perfection in a pita. Others prefer the falafel platter, which provides a sampling of all three falafel flavors, hummus, tabouli, and Israeli salad. Keep your eye out for Taim Mobile driving around town if you don't want to head to the West Village!  

Bistango's Shrimp, Calamari, Scallops & Mussels in a spicy tomato sauce
Photo credit: Bistango

4. Bistango 415 Third Avenue nr. 29th Street

Get lost in the charming ambience and limitless gluten-free options at this family-owned Italian trattoria in Murray Hill. Bistango used to have a separate gluten-free menu, but the owner Anthony has since decided to make everything on the entire menu adaptable to be gluten-free.Tell your server you're gluten-free when you sit down and you will be served complimentary bruschetta on a piece of fresh radicchio rather than the typical bruschetta. Menu items include wild mushrooms & ricotta ravioli, spinach & ricotta ravioli, and cheese tortellini. For an extra $2 dollars, Bistango is more than happy to make any pasta item on the menu gluten-free, including gnocchi with slow-cooked short-rib ragu. Don’t forget to order one of the two gluten-free beers and top off the meal with one of eight gluten-free desserts including carrot cake with buttermilk frosting.

Cupcake heaven, minus the gluten!
Photo credit: Tu-Lu's 

3. Tu-Lu’s 338 E. 11^th Street nr. First Avenue

When owner's Tully and Jen were diagnosed with gluten intolerance, they became determined to eat the things they had always loved in the past. The hardest replacements for Tully to find were high-quality baked goods, so she took it upon herself to make her own and share them with others. This is how Tu-Lu’s was born. This 100% gluten-free bakery features cupcakes, cakes, muffins, cookies and even paninis. With dense and moist brownies (with chocolate chips!), chewy oatmeal, cranberry and white chocolate chip cookies, and fluffy cupcakes with rich creamy frosting, it is essentially impossible to tell that the treats are gluten-free. 

Blue Smoke's Gluten-Free Rib Sampler
Photo credit: Blue Smoke 

2. Blue Smoke 116 E. 27^th Street nr. Park Avenue South

BBQ lovers rejoice - Danny Meyer to the rescue! Blue Smoke in Flatiron and its Executive Chef Kenny Callaghan offer a separate gluten-free menu in addition to its full-fledged stick-to-your-ribs barbeque menu. The gluten-free menu includes appetizers such as iced oyster, deviled eggs, and baked chipotle wings. Main courses range from citrus-crusted tuna and shrimp & grits, to filet mignon and NY strip steak. With additional gluten-free BBQ options like Kansas City spareribs, Memphis baby back ribs, and Texas salt & pepper beef ribs, there is no reason to feel “left out” at dinner! 

Rubirosa's Vodka Pizza
Photo credit: Rubirosa

1. Rubirosa 235 Mulberry Street nr. Prince Street

Ranked “Best Slice” by NY Mag in 2011, #5 on Eater’s January 2012 “38 Essential New York Restaurants” and #1 on its “15 New York Restaurants with the Hottest Servers”, and #1 on our Gluten-Free Top 10, Rubirosa has taken the NY pizza community by storm since it opened in 2010. This classic pizzeria with chic Nolita flair serves super thin-crust yet supple pizza (the family recipe is over 50 years old!) along with a host of other Italian classics including fresh pasta made in-house and chicken parmigiano. The gluten-free menu includes pure deliciousness such as risotto balls with marscapone and prosciutto, calamari fritti, penne pasta, and six pizzas. Do not, I repeat, do not leave Rubirosa without trying the vodka pizza. Creamy, alcohol-spiked tomato sauce with fresh mozzarella? What more could you ask for? Gluten-free items are cooked in separate pots, pans and fryers as to not cross-contaminate any food items.