Last spring I highlighted a New York City bar called the Blue Moon Café. The Upper East Side eatery is often frequented by Buffalo Sabres fan that turn the mexican restaurant into an Orchard Park hockey bar. In my continuing quest for interesting NYC eateries, I’ve found two more places worth mentioning.

The much-loved Pommes Frites on 2nd Avenue features America’s favorite side dish in a variety of savory and bizarre concoctions. Catering to a mostly take-out crowd, Pommes Frites is so small that people stand against the wall to maximize room. For the life of me I can’t imagine how the place functions in the summer, though an insider tells me the eatery has a take-out window to offset the heat and the large crowds. On a ho-hum Friday night at 7 p.m., Pommes Frites was packed to the hilt. And for good reason. I can’t think of a better French fry in my entire life.

When you’re finished with your fries, stop on next door to the thrift store Love Saves the Day and check out some of the coolest kitschy items in Manhattan. Then if you’re in the mood for live music, drop on in and catch some music at one of New York’s best rooms for acoustic music, the incredibly intimate Rockwood Music Hall.

Not far from Rockwood Music Hall is Rush Hour, a burger joint that has received positive remarks from a one Ben Affleck. I’ve been there a few times and have never been disappointed. As with many New York eateries, there’s little room to sit, though a courtyard in the back is open in the spring.

Only a couple blocks north and one block east of Pomme Frites is Sarita’s Mac and Cheese more commonly referred to as SMAC. With orange-and-yellow trim, the 12th Street restaurant specializes in Mac and Cheese in a variety of delectable and unbelievable flavors. Though the portions are huge, SMAC makes for great take-home food and even encourages it. Pre-made Mac and Cheese can be ordered to go and then baked at a later date. Though the eight tables are often crowded and the wait can sometimes be exhausting, SMAC is an original and exciting new spin on casual cuisine. Do check it out if you find yourself near 14th Street.

Browse Timeline

• « Promising new California singer/songwriter
• » State of the Beverage, January 2008

Comments ( 2 )

Add a Comment