Interesting. I’ve had spectacular uni there, the tacos are some of the best I’ve ever had, the pizza is great, and the halva store always has us pick up at least a few chunks each time we’re there. The American cheese monger has some incredible domestic cheeses, too. And I’ve only scratched the surface…
I think Eataly is far worse in terms of “tourist trap” feel in that you could not pay me to go back.
I had their cheetos soft serve. Not nearly cheeto-y enough for me.
im not up on the other ice cream in NY these days but the weather demands it!
Absolutely! Homemade, gelato, ice cream, soft serve, frozen custard – tis the season 
I’ve bought the same brand of halva at the Whole Foods located near Bryant Park. It’s a great product.
I don’t Iike the Eataly in Manhattan that much. It’s decent for a breakfast sandwich or a coffee. I’ve used it as a pit stop rather than a destination. I like the Eataly in TO a lot. I live 3 blocks away and it’s one of my go-tos for a hostess gift, foccaccia, a quick slice or a panini.
another reason to hit up Barney Greengrass
I’ve heard of this- thank you for jogging my memory!
have a fun trip. i love ny!
Is TO Toronto?
Yes. Sorry. TO is short for Toronto.
I second Ippudo. Totto is not the same since the original location closed.
For sushi try Uogashi for a bit higher end or Sushi by Bou for $50 omakase or Sugarfish for something far better than anything in its price range.
For seafood there is Le Bernardin if the budget allows. I absolutely love Marea for Italian.
All’antici Vinaio for Italian sandwiches from Florence.
Personally I find Katz not worth the bother for the crowds and the stupid ticket thing. Far prefer Pastrami Queen and 2nd Ave. Bens is close by your hotel. Agree Russ is not a deli, but an appetizing shop.
I like Benoit for French. Los Tacos No 1 for what else.
Stay away from the immediate Times Square area if you are looking for good food.
Ippudo for ramen.
Los Tacos No.1 has to be one of the best tacos I have had EVER. Not because they are fancy…but just because it is so plain jane street tacos they get just perfect.
Grand Central Oyster Bar…always included on our trip.
Ootoya Japanese comfort food…nothing fancy, but always good.
I concur. We get surprisingly good tacos where I live, but these were next level. Another reason I love Chelsea Market 
Sharing that Le Bernardin used to (pre pandemic) have a small unreserved bar (4 rather perched) seats in the back. If they are still doing that, it is pretty easy for a person to slide in on late notice.
A friend is heading to Manhattan this weekend.
Which hole-in-the-wall, down-to-earth, greasy spoon, somewhat off the radar and/or low key- type places would you recommend for a Saturday and Sunday brunch or lunch?
Any of the recommendations here or on the other thread would fit imo.
Yep, I had sent my friend this thread and the thread you’ve linked.
Miznon’s pita sandwiches and Los Tacos 1 at Chelsea Market are both excellent. Los Tacos only has about three taco choices, but they are the best NYC has to offer. If you come from the west coast, though, skip the tacos. Miznon has interesting and diverse mix of pitas: think “folded cheeseburger” as well as a whole menu of vegetarian options. Sides like whole roasted cauliflower also delish. My favorite pita is the “roasted broken chicken.” If you have to be at Chelsea Market (or in the area), you won’t starve.
Benoit used to offer a cinq à sept / happy hour specials for small bites and cocktails. I remember having bite-sized croque monsieur, which I thought was a nice idea. Not sure if they still do this.
