Empanada Mama's red and green storefront bursts out from the dingy grays of 9th Avenue, beckoning visitors in for its huge assortment of handmade empanadas. Founder Socrates Nanas has created forty different varieties of this international favorite, stuffing shredded pork, beef or vegetables into wheat or corn husks before a light fry renders them golden and delicious. Clever variations on this staple item include the Polish (sauerkraut and kielbasa) and the Cheeseburger (ground beef and shredded cheese). If the signature dish isn't your thing, Empanada Mama offers an assortment of arepas, a South American corn patty stuffed with pork, beef, chicken or vegetables as well as a number of soups, salads and dessert items. Open all day, every day, Empanada Mama is the perfect stop for a quick bite on the go.
If Soho's La Sirene seems a bit small, it's only because Marseille-born chef Didier Pawlicki prefers to keep his cooking personal. Bringing authentic recipes from his childhood in South France to his seafaring-themed restaurant, Pawlicki serves up delicately modern interpretations of the seafood staples found on his hometown coast. Typical French fare such as escargot and pan roasted quails sits alongside modern flavors such as shaved beet salads and filet mignon topped with foie gras butter. Of course, no French meal is complete without wine, and while La Sirene does not sell any alcohol, it allows guests to bring in their beverage of choice for no additional cost or corkage. Because of size constraints (the restaurant only seats twenty five at a time), parties of six or more cannot be accommodated on Friday and Saturday nights. Also, note that the restaurant is cash only. Perfect for a romantic evening or a relaxing family outing, La Sirene is heartfelt food up close and personal.
Located in the Financial District, this little pizzeria specializes in delectable Neapolitan pizzas in all their handmade glory. Authenticity is at the heart of the restaurant in all aspects, from the pizza oven to the techniques and ingredients used, conforming to the highest Italian standards for Neapolitan pizzas. Italy-born chef and owner Roberto Caporuscio brings his extensive cooking experience and learning from the masters in Naples to the kitchen. The menu selection is fairly large and offers delights such as Burrata Roberto, Montanara, Pere & Noci, and Pizza del re. There are vegetarian and gluten-free options as well. Pair up your treats with a glass of wine from their well-chosen list.
This authentic eatery in Midtown places an emphasis on serving authentic Korean food, prepared with care and taste. For non-Koreans, it is a true adventure. While Westerners may look more for the barbecued hot beef dishes, this restaurant serves food designed specifically for the Korean palate. The décor is simple and casual, divided by wooden panels into compartments, which is perfect when you are looking for a little privacy. On the other hand, the menu includes marinated beef dishes, pickled vegetables, hot stews of seafood and pork, and many other dishes that will sure make you come back here again and again.
Located in the East Village is Upstate Craft Beer & Oyster Bar a cosy nook where one can peacefully unwind at the end of the day. The decor and ambience is friendly and warm. Their menu, though limited is scrumptious and everything served here is made from fresh, local produce. The bar also houses a fine collection of craft beers. For dessert they are very popular for their Whiskey Cake!
The original Café Habana, a busy luncheonette, still exists in downtown Mexico City. All the famous Cuban musicians would hang out there, enjoying their meals and stories. We're happy to bring the sweet smell of home cooking to you.....enjoy!!!
Cookshop
In keeping with the typical cookshop concept of all-things-fresh, co-owners of Cookshop, Chef Marc Meyer and Chef Vicki Freeman, source local ingredients and produce for their food preparation. To bring out the best taste from the natural food, traditional methods such as wood-fired ovens are used. The Virginia farmers’ cross center cut pork chop and the wilted spinach, red onion and Sarvecchio cheese pizza are favorites here. The cocktails are innovative concoctions with a twist that change with the season. Try the tea prepared using Bergamot and oranges that comes highly recommended. The ambiance is chic and trendy, with the tables closely laid out in the L-shaped dining section. The dessert list has tempting offerings that make for perfect endings.
Veselka
While the East Village has long been recognized as a trendy neighborhood, it also holds a rich history as an ethnic community. Veselka, a Ukrainian restaurant, stands as a testament to that heritage. This unique establishment combines the atmosphere of a luncheonette and a sidewalk café, exuding an Eastern European charm. The menu offers a variety of options, including breakfast muffins, bagels, potato pancakes, and egg sandwiches, among other selections, perfect for starting the day. For lunch, guests can enjoy a hearty bowl of borscht or indulge in the famous pierogies, while a satisfying dinner could consist of kielbasa or veal goulash, leaving patrons with contented smiles. Veselka provides a taste of tradition and a glimpse into the cultural fabric of the neighborhood.
