As spring break rolls around, many students are starting to finalize some of their week-long plans. If you're like me, you're staying local this year, and possibly taking some day trips with friends and family to catch up on everything going on outside of the college world. While interning this past summer, I had the opportunity to get to know the in's and out's of NYC and came to know some of the most well-made food in the area. There are definitely some must-try places in the NYC area that are empirical to check out if you're in the area. Whether you're looking for a casual lunch with friends, or a formal night out with your significant other, these five stops will be sure to impress you, and your tastebuds!
1. SweetGreen
This was my go-to lunch place while interning and never failed to disappoint. I knew this place would be something tasty when the line wrapped around the outside of the building on a sweltering 90 degree July day. The food is more than worth the wait, and the line is quick to move because the customer service is extremely helpful and they know what they're doing. If you don't feel like waiting on a 15 to 20 minute line, the chain also offers online order and pick-up, which is easy enough for any working individual. I would recommend getting the Harvest Bowl, which includes a variety of grains and veggies such as kale, sweet potatoes and fresh goat cheese imported from Vermont. Some may say this place is too pricey for a quick lunch, but I was always impressed every single time I went (which was often).
2. The Park
Image: www.theparknyc.com
I was able to go to this restaurant over the summer for my birthday and it was the perfect place to celebrate with friends and family. Looking over the Highline in lower Manhattan, the restaurant has an extremely outdoorsy feel, with huge trees strung with festive lights located in the center. The Park is perfect for parties, both small and large, as they have five separate rooms with their own unique feel. I got the wood-oven Margherita pizza and the crispy calamari and both were extremely tasty. The atmosphere really made this restaurant memorable and it's close to many other popular bars and clubs to stop by either before or after you eat.
3. Dos Camino's
Image: www.doscaminos.com/gallery/
Located in SoHo this authentic Mexican restaurant reels you in with its complimentary chips and three unique and flavorful salsas. With a sprawling drink menu that includes a variety of margaritas and Mexican craft beers, anyone of age will have a lot to choose from. Sitting in between West Broadway and Houston, this spot is the perfect place to people watch in one of the busiest areas in the city. My go-to entree here would be the Baja tacos, which include steak and shrimp and a mix of vegetables wrapped in warm tortillas. The fresh guacamole is also a necessary side for anyone who likes it.
4. Enoteca On Court
Image: www.enotecaoncourt.com/gallery/
Located in downtown Brooklyn, this swanky Italian eatery is famous for its thin-crust wood oven pizza. The restaurant gives you a glimpse into Italy with its large coal-fire oven, vibrant warm colors and it's homey Italian-feel. Though the pizza is a fan favorite, the gnocci is also a popular option, as it's made with some of the freshest ingredients in the area. If you don't mind taking a quick subway ride over to Brooklyn, this place will sure to live up to its standards.
5. Georgetown Cupcake
Formally introduced on the hit TV show, "DC cupcakes," Georgetown Cupcake recently came to NYC and offers over 100 freshly made cupcakes all day long. Like SweetGreen, this place always has a line wrapped around the outside but the service is guaranteed to make up for the time lost waiting for your cupcakes. If you go on a weekday or at night, you might have the opportunity to enjoy your dessert at one of the picnic-style tables that the bakery has inside. A great option would be the coconut cupcake that has a classic coconut cake, vanilla cream cheese frosting and fresh coconut flakes on top. A perfect treat to end any meal!
