They call it “The City That Never Sleeps.” But you, you do need sleep. And now you’re down to your last full day in NYC. You came here to see a few sites, maybe take in a Broadway production and enjoy the culinary offerings the city is famous for. NYC is a gastronomical delight for any foodie, with no shortage of restaurants to tease and tantalize the palette. With 24 hours remaining in your whirlwind tour, where to go? Here are my picks for a truly indulgent New York City foodie fest with one day left in the Big Apple:
Breakfast — Oscar’s American Brasserie
Oscar’s American Brasserie is located in the historical Waldorf Astoria Hotel. It’s named after famed maître d’ Oscar Tschirky, the man credited with creating the Waldorf salad, eggs Benedict and Oscar Veal, among other dishes. Oscar’s is a buffet-style restaurant offering two options: continental buffet, featuring a wide selection of baked goods, smoked salmon, cream cheese and fresh fruits or the American buffet which includes everything in the continental, plus a selection of hot items like waffles, pancakes and eggs.
Morning Break — McNally and Jackson Café
This may not be the most “upscale” joint for a morning break, but after a few hours of getting lost within the shelves of this Manhattan bookstore, a break in their cozy café is the perfect treat. Sit at one of the communal tables and chat up a local. It’s the best way to get to know a new place.
Lunch — Southgate Bar and Restaurant
Southgate Bar and Restaurant is a modern and trendy restaurant located inside the Marriott Essex House, directly across the street from Central Park. The menu features American comfort food, prepared with style and based on classic French techniques. Go for a Reuben sandwich accompanied with a pickled-fennel and mandarin-orange salsa. The sandwich is presented as three sliders in soft, sweet buns that are perfect little pillows for the thinly sliced, incredibly juicy meat. Complete your meal with an Illy coffee and a slice of New York cheesecake. When in New York…
Afternoon Break — Algonquin Hotel Lounge
Located just inside the lobby of the Algonquin Hotel, this is a classy and elegant locale for a mid-afternoon break. The restored Algonquin Lobby, with writing desks and Edwardian furniture, retains the charm and ambiance forever associated with this New York City landmark hotel. Unwind and plan ahead for your evening as you enjoy an afternoon cocktail in one of the most elegant hotels in the city.
Dinner — Smith and Wollensky
Smith and Wollensky was once referred to by Ruth Reichl, then-restaurant reviewer for the New York Times, as “a steakhouse to end all arguments.” She wasn’t kidding. If you are not carnivorous, this is not the place for you. If on the other hand, you dream of the perfect prime rib served with buttery vegetables and warm petit-buns on a silver dish, then this is your place. The servers are attentive and friendly, taking time to joke with you, as they hustle through the dining room with trays weighed down by copious amounts of food. At least once, make it to this NYC institution. Don't forget to take home a bottle of their own steak sauce.
