Researching places to eat in New York, the options are endless, but the same places tend to show up in list after list. The trendy, instagrammable spots – the newly opened brunch locales – the old school diner or steak house classics. But there’s always another place just down the block with shorter lines, more palatable prices, and often equally excellent food.
In an attempt to applaud some of the more underrated restaurants in this city, here is a list of 6 to start with:
1. Dhaba
In the midst of the neighborhood popularly known as “Curry Hill”, good Indian food is hardly in short supply, but Dhaba stands out above the rest. Indian grocery and clothing stores line Lexington Ave in this part of midtown, interspersed with affordable and low-key restaurants, but while many are quite simple both inside and out, Dhaba provides a thoughtfully designed setting for some fantastic food. The Paneer Pakora is an absolutely delicious way to start your meal.
2. Taboonette
Casual but inviting spot for Mediterranean/ Middle Eastern food. Amazing fresh pita bread, and the sweet potato falafels are delicious. Perfect spot for a quick and fulfilling meal.
At the very top of Manhattan, just above Inwood Hill Park, Indian Road Cafe is a casual and artistic space that feels, refreshingly, a world away from the city. A fairly rustic setting with changing selections of local art, the food is also from nearby farms. Breakfast is hearty and delicious, and the coffee is very good.
Quick and simple counter service dumpling house, with some low-key seating. This traditional Chinatown location offers a straightforward menu of dumplings (the pork are delicious), and freshly baked sesame pancakes. Shockingly affordable for NYC and well worth a visit.
5. Pisticci
In a less populated part of the city, Pisticci is always busy nonetheless. This lively Italian restaurant is deceptively large and a great place to go with a group of friends. The fettuccine al funghi is delicious, and the cocktail and dessert menus are fantastic as well. The produce served even comes from their very own farm. Life music adds to the already charming atmosphere every Sunday night.
6. Max Cafe
Charming Italian cafe with miss-matched furniture, this is a great place to sit and read or write for a couple hours without feeling rushed. Very relaxed and comfortable, with a warm vintage feel. Popular student spot on the UWS.
Roseberry Rambles 