Popular with all types of patrons, Benjamin's is another notch on New York's steakhouse bedpost. The steak is USDA approved and you can enjoy your ethically sourced beef in muted, Gothic style surroundings, the ceiling soaring high above you. The steaks are all dry-aged and carefully selected by the chef - for non-steak lovers, there is a reasonable selection of salads and seafood to choose from. The sides are good and there is a selection of desserts. Be sure to make reservations.
Situated on tree-lined 31st Avenue in Astoria, Il Bambino offers some of the best panini anywhere in the city. Upon entering, visitors will see their pig logo which highlights the restaurant's favorite animal, however the kitchen still serves chicken and vegetarian options along with some hearty homemade soups. To begin, the charcuterie plate is a nice touch, the crostini are perfect for sharing and the after dinner baked goods make this establishment delightful. If you can't visit this location, there is another one in the West Village.
Il Posto Accanto is a quaint trattoria that is owned by Chef Beatrice, who also owns the larger Il Bagatto located next door. The highlight of Il Posto is its extensive wine list that features a wide assortment of Italian wines which can be had by the bottle or carafe. At Il Posto, Chef Beatrice has created a menu which features various traditional Italian dishes like Calamari Alla Griglia, Bruschetta, and pastas like Penne Alla Vodka and Tortellini Con Rag. There is also a selection of meat and fish dishes, though if you find this excessive, you could always choose to make a meal out of a variety of small plates as you savor your wine.
This tiny East Village steakhouse, whose décor features exposed brick walls adorned with framed images of old-world Buenos Aires, is immensely popular with steak enthusiasts who thoroughly enjoy its Argentine-style grilled meat preparations. The menu at Buenos Aires offers an assortment of appetizers like empanadas Argentinas and melon con jamon, alongside several red meat-based entrees like the bife de costilla (bone rib-eye steak) and the entrana (grilled skirt steak). For those patrons who don't enjoy red meat or are vegetarian, Buenos Aires also offers dishes like the pollo a las crasas, ravioles de langosta and canelones de espinaca. Additionally, the restaurant offers a fine selection of Argentinean Malbecs on its adequate wine list.
This tiny Israeli restaurant serves some of the best falafel to be found in the city. Limited seating in the restaurant can be an issue, so when the weather is nice, take your food outside to the benches out front. The falafel platter is a favorite, and the sauces are sure to please. Wash it all down with some refreshing iced tea, fresh lemonade or a smoothie.
This brick-and-mortar establishment is home to Maria Piedad Cano’s Columbian corn cakes and other delectable creations. What began with the arepa lady plying her home-cooked meals on the streets, soon took the form of a thriving Columbian eatery at Queens. Here diners must savor the soft and sweet arepa de queso and the corn-flavored arepa de choclo. In addition to the flavorful, authentic meals, this pleasant restaurant offers a cozy space for families, groups and couples alike. When in Queens, near 37th Avenue, do head to Arepa Lady for a delightful Columbian meal.