Right splat in the middle of the hustle and bustle of Macdougal Street lays Monte’s — a hardcore, old school Italian restaurant with no frills. Chef Pietro Mosconi has two restaurants, both of which are within the same couples of blocks — Monte’s and Villa Mosconi. I’ve been to both of these restaurants, and I…
Scarlatto – Midtown
Right around the corner from tons of Broadway theaters is an Italian restaurant draped in red called Scarlatto. The restaurant has a classic Italian family restaurant feel with the walls and decor in a rich red color. Many places were packed Sunday evening, but this restaurant was able to sit us rather quickly. They had…
The Cotillion – Jericho
The Cotillion is a catering hall located off of Jericho Turnpike that commonly caters to large and extravagant Indian parties and weddings. Although the place is generally widely used for parties, there is a small restaurant area on the side upon entry. Although the restaurant is relatively modest and not the main focus of the…
Rustic Table – Midtown West
Rustic Table is evidently a very popular restaurant. Upon arrival, the place was packed and there was a wait of about 30-35 minutes. They don’t take reservations, and it seems that people are genuinely willing to wait. If it wasn’t for the good weather, I perhaps would’ve split, but I decided to duke it out….
Bar Bacon – Midtown West
I stumbled upon Bar Bacon as a local joint near Terminal 5, a common concert venue in Midtown. The name was interesting and the menu was even more interesting. The place is a bar with plenty of tables available to have a full meal as well. Upon arrival, there is a huge, thick brown door…
Master Chef – Syosset
Master Chef is a new restaurant that has taken the place of various previous Chinese restaurants at the same location. In the past, this location was Empire Szechuan for a long time, and it was a very popular restaurant with great food, despite its very modest atmosphere. Then, the location shut down and restarted up…
Le Monde – Morningside Heights
Right across from Columbia University is a gem of a restaurant — Le Monde. I am amazed that I never noticed this restaurant considering I am constantly around Columbia, but that is because I usually opt to go to the restaurant next door (Community Restaurant). Nonetheless, I decided to try Le Monde, and I was…
Nhà Minh – Brooklyn
Near the concert venue Brooklyn Steel lies a small restaurant called Nhà Minh, a Vietnamese joint that — at first — seems rather questionable. The place seems to be more of a small shack than any formal dining experience. It fits the hipster Brooklyn vibe very well. Upon entry, I wasn’t sure what to expect,…
Brasserie Cassis – Plainview
Brasserie Cassis is a French restaurant located in the Plainview Shopping Center plaza. It seems relatively small from the outside, but the restaurant has tremendous depth inside, and features a large bar and plenty of booths. The atmosphere is extremely pleasant — dim lighting, Parisian decor, and generally has a very comfortably classy vibe. There…
Heirloom Tavern – Glen Head
Tucked away in the depths of Glen Head is Heirloom Tavern — a restaurant that is so off the main path that I’m amazed people find it. Nonetheless, the place is clearly popular, as the restaurant was packed around 7pm. Heirloom Tavern is not the largest restaurant, but large enough to not feel cramped. Upon…
Sweetgreen – Morningside Heights
Sweetgreen is a favorite amongst health fanatics and college students alike. Located right by Columbia University, this spot is frequented by passing joggers and hungry students. It is similar in nature to ‘Chopt’ — A Chipotle of salads, if you will. The decor is very modern and simple, with no smoke or mirrors. There is…
Rare650 – Syosset
I have passed Rare650 a billion times, and I may have been there once long, long ago. However, I stumbled in this past weekend, and had quite a time. The decor and atmosphere is definitely noteworthy. The interior is very nice — classy, tasteful, spacious. There is a nice bar and a small sushi bar….
Gabby's Choice 