Do your culinary tastes run toward the more exotic, like pita sandwiches with three cheeses and pesto or a roasted onion tart with creme fraiche? Or are they more traditional, like the Shackburger? Do you like a modern atmosphere or one steeped in history like a restaurant that is really a bank vault? “Either way, these choices are sure to be a foodie’s delight,“ said Blair Nicole of Liberty Cruise NYC.
Jack’s Stir Brew Coffee
If you need a little pick me up, head to Jack’s Stir Brew Coffee. Not only is this place brewing up some of the best coffee in the city, try the classic Stir Brew Roast, you can also grab yourself an organic treat to accompany your coffee. Then you will be good to go for the rest of your sightseeing day! 222 Front Street (at the Seaport or 138 West 10th Street)
The Paris Cafe
It has been around since 1873 and The Paris Cafe is steeped in history. It is the famous watering hole of presidents and Thomas Edison was known to frequent the restaurant. Today, you can get some stick-to-your-ribs cuisine, such as lobster mac’ and cheese or crispy skin salmon, with a pint of the finest craft beer. 119 South Street
Fresh Salt
This local watering hole is located in a 19th Century brick building. The menu features soups, salads, and signature sandwiches, like the baked pita with pesto and three cheeses. The drinks are even more unique, like the Amethyst, a drink with gin, lemon, and lavender honey (but you can also get a pint or glass of wine). Oh and there is a “Happy Hour” every night. 146 Beekman Street
Sweetgreen
If you cannot imagine your day being complete without a hearty salad, Sweetgreen is for you. Just as the name suggests, they specialize in the kind of healthy food that does not make you feel like a rabbit! You will enjoy their selection of fine teas also. Sweetgreen is totally vegetarian-friendly. 67 Wall Street (with multiple locations around the Greenwich Village-Union Square area)
Trinity Place
In 1904, this bank vault, said to be the world’s strongest, was commissioned by Andrew Carnegie. Today, it is a restaurant and bar. The menu features items like “Smokies,” a smoked haddock dish with creme fraiche, scallions, cherry tomatoes and dubliner cheddar cheese, as well Sticky Toffee Pudding.
Toro Loco
For the best Mexican food in New York, head to this Bowling Green staple. Whether you want Queso Fundido, a casserole of chorizo and melted cheese served with tortilla chips or Pulpo en Salsa Verde (octopus in green mole sauce) or a burrito or taco, there will be something for everyone. PS We hear the guacamole is a “must have.”
The restaurant is located at 15 Stone Street and this address deserves special mention. Stone Street was the first paved street in Manhattan. There is an old world charm, with the original cobblestone pavement and it is open only to pedestrians. There are rows of renovated historic buildings and, in the middle of it all, are shaded picnic tables where you can enjoy food and drinks from a choice selection of restaurants and bars all surrounded by the modern skyscrapers of the Financial District!
North End Grill
If seafood is your thing, this is your place with menu features, such as grilled whole branzino, fresh oysters, and wood-grilled clams. At the helm is celebrity-chef Danny Meyer, also known for restaurants like the Shake Shack, his gourmet take on fast food, and Blue Smoke, a barbecue joint. North End Grill is located at 104 North End Avenue in Battery Park City, with a Shake Shack (where you can get that famous Shackburger) and Blue Smoke steps away.
(Heads up: Danny Meyer says the tips are automatically entered as part of the final bill, so no need to shell out extra cash.)
Pier A
With amazing views of New York Harbor, this designated New York City landmark is a great stop after a day of sightseeing in the Big Apple. Enjoy the authentic Manhattan Clam Chowder and their signature cocktail, The Bermuda Triangle: a combination of light and dark rum, ginger beer, lime and Velvet Falernum (the alcoholic version of a sweet syrup).
La Maison du Chocolat
For almost a decade, they had a shop st 63 Wall Street and, even though it is now closed, there are locations around Rockefeller Center, so if you are uptown, you will want to stop in. Their candy makes even the finest gourmet chocolates taste like dime store candy. Did we mention the macaroons? La Maison du Chocolat is where you need to be for the finest desserts in Manhattan.
