I don’t believe that Spitzer’s, a self proclaimed “Gastro Pub” (see The Spotted Pig), is in any way associated with our recently disgraced governor, though it would not surprise me to run into him drinking one of their forty hand crafted beers gearing up for an evening of chasing under-age women around the Lower East Side. This establishment, by the way, has a strict ID policy, so be prepared to get carded and have your hand stamped before you sit down. Once you get past that and the ridiculously wide bench seats that require a gymnastics routine to get in and out of … you are in for a treat. This is some of the best “bar food” in the city. The menu at Spitzer’s is a masterful example of taking the basics and turning them into truly special, one-of-a-kind signatures. Do not miss the short rib burger or the serrano chicken sandwich – number one on my list of New York’s best chicken sandwiches.
Our obsession with Freemans is truly an Immaculate Infatuation. The worn wooden frame, the taxidermy on the walls, and the beards and flannel employee dress code give this old New York style spot a very hip, yet very Vermont vibe. When this place first opened, it was everyone’s best kept secret, but in recent years Freemans has completely blown up. Since Freemans doesn’t take reservations for parties less than six, prepare yourself to go across the alley to Lorely and have a couple of drinks before you’re awarded your table. While the waits are usually quite long (we’re talking hours during prime-time), if you’re committed, it’s well worth it. Everything on the menu is good and priced right. As long as you’re willing to make a night of it, whether you’re taking out a significant other or just looking for a solid place to go with your friends, Freemans is a slam dunk. Thankfully, new chef Michael Citarella has left former chef Jean Adamson’s signature dishes on the menu virtually untouched. Thus, for those who are were used to the artichoke dip into steak filet dinner setup, it’s still the main attraction. Also, in addition to dinner, the brunch is legit, though a little expensive. If you happen to find yourself at Freemans on a Sunday afternoon, we suggest you check out the brisket and eggs dish, which is out of this world.
Oh Cafe Cortadito, how I love thee. You hit me right in my sweet spot with your Cuban flavored goodness. Honestly, if you like Cuban or Latin flavored food it’s pretty much impossible not to love this joint. Granted, when I went there for the first time, it was before they got their liquor license, so we went with a big group and took down like 6 bottles of wine while stuffing ourselves to the max on yuca frita, beef turnovers, skirt steak, and plantains. If we went now, we’d have to pay more for the wine obviously but that first time around left such a great taste in my mouth that I really don’t care. Plus, the wine is well priced. Make sure you get a table in the relatively small back room if you can. If you ever have a big party (like real big … twenty or so), you can rent the whole back room out and it’s a great place to have an intimate, fun dinner party. This is a great little restaurant that does Cuban food right. The price is right, the service is great and the food is very solid. I can’t wait to go back.
Welcome to the best burger in town. Hidden behind red velvet curtains inside the swank Midtown hotel Le Paker Meridien, is this staged hole in the wall, complete with fake wood paneling and vinyl booths. The menu and ordering instructions are written on cardboard, and you better be ready to roll by the time you make it to the counter (by that point you will have been in line for ten minutes, minimum). Nonetheless, this is well worth the long wait and jockeying for a seat. Sit down with a burger, fries that come in a brown paper bag, and a pitcher of beer. No talking.
Brought to you by the proprietor of Balthazaar and Pastis, Schiller’s is the cheaper, louder little brother in this family of stylish brasseries. What Schiller’s brings to the table that the others don’t is its youthful personality. This is the kind of place that you hit when you are looking to kick off a big night. The bar scene is a good one, though usually a few people deep, and the food is simple and consistently great. A perfect spot to bring a date who likes to have a little fun, or a bunch of friends before you head out in the neighborhood and wait in line outside Fat Baby (you know who you are). Schiller’s is full of energy and will make you want to suck back drinks and soak up the steak frites with a forkful of fries. Also, this place gets points in my book for my most recent visit. I had a reservation for three and rolled in with (literally) twelve people. The manager actually rearranged a few diners and happily seated our party within ten minutes. Nice.
Giveaway: Dinner On Us
