Quick Bite - Broadway Bites Vol. 1

Aaaaaaaaannnnndddddd GO!

What is Broadway Bites?
A food festival hosted by Urban Space where several restaurants/food vendors setup small booths in the Herald Square area and showcase a select number of items from their menu (sometimes specialty items are introduced which aren't on the standard menu).

What have you had from there so far?
- Mason Jar: BBQ bowl - mashed potatoes under BBQ pulled pork, onions n mushrooms, and BBQ sauce
 

- The Cannibal: pork belly grilled cheese sandwich and a pig's head Cuban sandwich

- Asiadog: Wangding - beef hot dog with BBQ pork belly, onoins, and cucumber. And Luke - beef hot dog with chilli and onions

- Mimi Coco: Juicy shrimp Teriyaki balls
 

How was everything?
- Mason Jar was very good. Small bowl packed with BBQ goodness. Don't let the size fool you though. It may not look like much but it's very filling! Also, don't worry about breaking you pockets because the bowl is only $7

- The Cannibal was amazing! If you're into dead flesh carnivorous meals , this is the place you want to be. Prices are a little steep at $12 a sandwich but the pork belly grilled cheese is definitely worth it!

- Asiadog was good. Just a regular beef hot dog with some toppings and Asian seasoning. Not a bad buy either at $5 per dog (2 for $9)

- Mimi Coco was really good. 6 Teriyaki balls with tons and tons and tons of flavor, not really heavy like that, and for $6 bucks!

Recommendations?
Based on the places I've been so far I'd say go to The Cannibal, Mimi Coco, Mason Jar, and then Asiadog. 

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The social on the corner...

Being from Harlem, I get extremely skeptical when new restaurants/bars just randomly pop up. I don't know why, but for some reason I went against my better judgement and decided to try out Corner Social.

So what's the problem with new restaurants in Harlem?
Technically...nothing. The issue I have with them is that there is usually sooooooo much hype that surrounds them. Then when you get around to trying the place out you find that it's overpriced, overrated, and just a waste of time. But, like I mentioned before I went against my better judgement and decided to give it a try.

OK. Was it as bad as you envisioned it?
Not really. Nice ambiance, no crowd, decent music, service was pleasant. I must say that I had a really nice lunch outing.

2 questions in and you haven't mentioned anything about the food...guess it wasn't that good huh?
Uhh...so I figured I would take the healthier approach and get the fish tacos (I mean who doesn't love a nice fish taco right?) with an Angry Orchard beer. Sad to say that the beer turned out to be the highlight of my lunch. The tacos were small, bland, and falling apart as soon as I picked them up. Thought the little salsa that they give you would have done it some justice...WRONG! Definitely, wasn't a wise decision on my behalf.

Damn. That sucks. Why didn't try something else while you were there or send the food back?
As much as they try to get you to believe that nothing is done to the food of the customer that sends his/her plate back...I'm not buying it! And I didn't buy something else because I'm not in the habit of buying multiple meals during one sitting (especially since I'm there solo). On top of that, why would I invest more money in a place that has already let me down? But yet somehow, the following day I managed to find myself there again for dinner -_-

So disappointed with your encounter and yet you go back? Why?
Aside from the food, the place is actually very nice when it comes to social atmosphere. So my hunger and lack of wanting to be in the house is what drove me back over there. Needless to say, I DID NOT get the fish tacos!

How was the second time around?
MUCH BETTER! Was with a buddy of mine and we decided to start out with the chicken nachos which were...SLAMMING! Not necessarily the healthiest choice, but they were sooooo good! As an entree I got the turkey burger and salad. Not for nothing, this may have been one of, if not the best, turkey burger I've ever had. Huge patty, great flavor, the fix'ns weren't overbearing...everything was put together very nicely. Hell, even the salad was good! Experience overall was a complete upgrade from the day before.

Glad to hear your second experience was better then your first...anything else I should know about this place?
Keep in mind that this place is a lounge/bar. Don't go into it expecting to get the best meal you ever had. Also, understand that this place is still fairly new so I'm sure they're in the process of playing with items on the menu to see what works and what doesn't.

Recommendations?
Yeah....STAY AWAY FROM THE FISH TACOS! This place is nothing worth traveling far and wide for, but if you're in the area I'd say give it a try

 

Corner Social

321 Lenox Ave

New York, NY 10027

(212) 510-8552

Nelly Spellane's

My usual instinct is to avoid going to bars for lunch. Not that there's anything wrong with it but, it's pretty much understood that when you go to a bar for lunch beer and maybe some wings will be the main options (usually it's the only things worth having). But in the case of Nelly Spellane's...I'm definitely going there for the food first.

Bar for lunch eh? What made you come here?
So I came here a while back (when I started my new job) randomly to meet one of my new coworkers. He was there eating and watching some sports, so I figured I would tag along. I think I got something basic like the wings or a burger. Nothing special, but I was definitely satisfied with my choice. As time went on I found myself coming here more frequently. One thing lead to another and I found myself going there a few times out the week for lunch.

I doubt that some wings or a burger was enough to make you go there so frequently...what turned this place from a regular bar to a top choice for lunch?
So, after work I came here with a friend strictly for beer (Guinness to be exact). 1 beer, 2 beer, 3 beers, bathroom run, 4 beers, and I got a little hungry. I wasn't starving but I definitely wanted to eat something before it got too late. Searching the menu, I chose the chilli and maaaaaaaaaaan was I not disappointed. That chilli (w/ cheese and onions) damn near change my life. It was to the point where whenever I went there I would go for the beers but I HAD TO get the chilli. After recommendations about some of the other items on the menu, I decided to start venturing around.

What are some of the items you would recommend?
FIRST AND FOREMOST...the chilli! It's what keeps me going there. Honestly, if they no longer served beer...I would still go for the chilli (no bullshit!). Coming in a very close second, the steak stir fry. Normally, stir fry is the last on my list of choices only because most have waaaaaay too much tangy ass sauce. But the stir fry at Nelly's is nothing short of perfect. Steak, peppers, onions, carrots, broccoli, sauteed in light oil, with a scoop of white rice....I'm seriously getting hungry just talking about it! After you've tried those 2, you should be sold and confident enough to try anything on their menu.

Stir fry? At a bar? That just doesn't sound right!
Agreed! And I honestly can't say what made me try it that one day, but I've been endorsing it ever since. TRUST ME! This stir fry is how it should be done! And I'm not even joking right now!

What's the ambiance like?
Typical bar. TV's, stools, table seating, sports banners, jukebox. Nothing out of the ordinary. To be honest, from the look of it you wouldn't even expect the food they make to be so good. 

Sounds good. Anything else I should know?
Good food, $10 lunch specials, AMAZING staff (super friendly and after 2-3 trips you'll feel like family), great location, perfect for all events. Definitely worth checking out if you are in the area.

Nelly Spellane's

18 E. 33rd Street

NY, NY 10016

(212) 792-9673

Whoever said I didn't eat healthy?

I know that most of you would like to believe that I eat the fattiest and greasiest of foods 24/7. If we were having this conversation 2-3 years ago you'd be right. However, these days I try to keep the high blood pressure to a minimum and let me tell you...that is no easy task when just about everything that is healthy is nasty. Well maybe not nasty but it's no contest when compared with the more fatty choices.  With all that being said I have found a place that provides me with a happy median and actually gets me to go healthy rather then fatty.

So what is this healthy place you speak of?

Nanoosh. If you go by the little phrase on the menu its, "an organic take on classic Mediterranean." Seeing as though I can't really tell what is defined as "Mediterranean" or the difference between organic and non-organic...I'll just take their word for it. But what I do know is that this place prides itself on hummus.

HUMMUS! How exactly do you incorporate hummus into ANYTHING?

Contrary to popular belief, hummus really isn't all that bad. I mean if you're not a fan of chick peas and pasty textures you're not going to like it, but it's a very versatile topping. You can pretty much mix it with anything and have a pretty satisfying meal.

Yeah whatever with that hummus foolishness...what do you get from this place?

For the most part I kept it pretty basic. My first time around I got the hummus chicken bowl (hummus, lettuce, tahini, onions, and chicken breast) and I must say that it wasn't as bad as I thought it would be. The chicken was very flavorful, the portion was decent, and I didn't feel bloated or sluggish afterwards. Next time around I got the Nanoosh bowl (ground beef, hummus, tahini, onions, mushrooms). That turned out to be just as good as the chicken bowl. Honestly, I think that the ground beef may be a little better.

So you're basically just having salads with some sort of protein?

Uh...I guess.  By the contents it could definitely be classified as a salad but according to the menu it's a "wrap/bowl."

Now that we've broken this "wrap/bowl" down to just a salad, what makes it any different from a salad at any other location?

I see someone brought out their interrogation hat today huh? Well, by definition (and by that I mean MY definition) a salad is nothing more then some greens. We (the customers) choose to add all the extra toppings which make it more...uh...hearty or enjoyable. What makes this place different from others in my eyes is the freshness of the ingredients, flavor, and portion. It's plain ingredients that all come together to compliment each other. No it's not a 5 Guys burger and fries, but my appetite is just as pleased and I don't feel like I'm going to need either a nap or a defibrillator.

Ok ok...no need to be all defensive. Any cons to this place?

As much as I enjoy Nanoosh, I do have an issue or 2 with it. First thing being the price. Call me a cheapskate, call me a penny pincher, call me whatever you want but the food at Nanoosh is is definitely over priced. Yeah it's good and yeah it's fresh, but there's no reason why I should be walking out of that place with a receipt that is close to or more then 10 bucks. They could definitely come down some or offer more for those prices. Second thing, which isn't really that big of a deal, but sometimes you can get an order that is a little on the bland side. Might be me and my over obsession with salty foods but that's just how I feel. Third, as nicely as the chicken is flavored, sometimes it can be a little bit on the dry side. Ok, I think I'm done.

Seems like you're a little on the fence with this place...would you recommend it to anyone else?

Don't get me wrong I like Nanoosh...a lot! But I think that my crave for the salty sometimes can cloud my judgement about a place that sells healthy products. Naturally, I'm craving something salty and greasy so when I get an order that is out of my normal I have to adjust. As far as a recommendation goes...I definitely advise you to try this place out. Something a little different that fills you up without the burden of being fatigued afterwards.

Things I've had:

Hummus Chicken Bowl - good

Hummus Nanoosh Bowl - very good

 

173 Madison Avenue (between 33rd and 34th Street)

 www.nanoosh.com

212-447-4345

The Pizza that is Artichoke!

Ok! So just when you thought that good ol' fashioned New York pizza just couldn't get any better...IT DOES!  *sound the trumpets* Ladies and gentlemen!  I am here to tell you that I have been to the mountain top!  I have seen the glory!  I have tasted the heavenliness that is Artichoke Pizza!

Artichoke Pizza?  What the hell is that?

Artichoke Pizza is just that...Artichoke Pizza.  If you want to be technical, it's really called Basille's Artichoke Pizza but I haven't heard one person yet refer to it as such.  Basically, it's the cheesiest, artichokiest slice of amazingness that you will ever have.  Most times when I make a reference to artichoke pizza the first thing out of someone's mouth is, "I'm good...I don't eat artichokes."  Then I follow up with this series of questions...

Me - have you ever had an artichoke?

Them - I don't know...I think so. I know I don't like em

Me - so you don't know if you have even had one before but you are positive that you don't like it...do you even know what an artichoke is?

You - it's a vegetable right?

Me - have you ever had spinach and artichoke dip from like an Applebee's or TGIF?

Them - yes!  I just love that dip

Me - imagine if it was on a pizza...

Them - oh that sounds good...wait is that what artichoke pizza is?

Me - *C'mon Son face*

Usually, that's all it take for me to convince someone to at least try the damn pizza.

So artichoke pizza is just spinach and artichoke dip on a pizza?

Not entirely but there is an extremely high chance that if you enjoy spinach artichoke dip, you'll enjoy that pizza. It's a straight up white slice (meaning there's no red sauce on it) with artichoke hearts, cheese, and I want to say a little spinach (don't quote me...it's been a while since I've had it).  I promise you it's DELICIOUS!

How did you even find out about this place?

It's funny because I would pass by this place and always see a line that went out the door.  Never really thought to look and see what the line was all about.  Long story short though...a friend put me on.  Was hanging out one night and after some drinks, there is nothing better then some grub.  It was suggested to go to artichoke pizza.  Not going to lie...I was a little skeptical at first.  Figured why the hell would I want some healthy ass artichoke slice? Little did I know that it was going to change my life and also that it was the same spot I had passed several times before.  Guess it was fate that brought us together.

Is this one of those places where they call themselves Artichoke Pizza and all they sell coincidentally is artichoke pizza?

Artichoke pizza isn't all that they sell but it's definitely their money maker.  I would say it's a traditional pizza shop with a specialty but now that I think about it the only thing that is quote un-quote traditional, would be their Sicilian.  Other then that they serve artichoke pizza, crab pizza, and margarita pizza.

Have you tried anything other then the artichoke pizza?

I've tried the Sicilian, but that was by chance.  I always say that I'm going to try the crab slice but never do because I'm so caught up on the artichoke.  I vow, one of these days I'm going to try that damn crab slice if it's the last thing I do.

You speak so highly of this place I'm almost afraid to ask if there are any cons?

To be completely honest, the cons don't and won't keep me from going there...EVER (unless they start having issues with cleanliness and all that)!  

1 - Price.  If you can muster up the strength to dig in your pocket and pull out $4.50 for 1 slice, you will find that it's the best $4.50 you will ever spend.  Sometimes you can't really put a price on tasty, over sized pizza.  

2 - This one hurts me more then anything...sometimes the pizza can be on the salty side so make sure you have some water to wash it down with.

Things I've had:

Artichoke Pizza - AMAZING

Sicilian - very good

328 E. 14th Street - 212.228.2004

114th 10th Avenue - 212.792.9200

111 MacDougal Steet - 646.278.6100

 www.artichokepizza.com

Di Di Di Di D Di Di Di..Di Di Dumpling *Nickelodeon Voice*

Don't know if you all are aware but I'm HUGE fan of dumplings! Straight up loves em! Steamed, fried, grilled, sauteed, baked, WHATEVER! With that being said I managed to find a place that sells probably some of the best fast food dumplings I have ever had.

Dumpling guy eh? So what's this place you found?

I actually use to pass by this place a lot but never got a chance to go in because it was always closed. Drifting around on my break one day I bumped into this place again and I can't tell you how happy I was that there were open :)

Enough rambling, the place is called Di Di Dumpling and it's amazing! 

What's so good about this place?

First, the price! Nothing warms my heart more then when I walk into a place to get food and walk out with a receipt that is less then 7 bucks. Not to say that the cost makes the food taste better but there is a sense of fulfillment when you don't have to pay an arm and a leg for grub. $5.95 + tax can get you 5 dumplings and a hearty serving of lo mein or soup or vegetable tempura.

Second, the dumplings are EXCELLENT! Very flavorful, not all oily and greasy, and you can actually taste the difference between the fillings. *Tangent* If you don't know what I mean by tasting the difference...you ever go to the Chinese store and order pork dumplings. Then you go back to the same place and decide that this time you're going to get the chicken dumplings. You get home and realize that your chicken dumplings taste pretty much just like the pork dumplings. So then you try the beef dumplings because you figure all of their dumplings can't taste the same...but you were clearly mistaken! I know I'm not the only one that's been through that. *Back to the story* Also, to give you a little variety, you can get your dumplings one of 2 ways and that's Juicy (which is the traditional boiled dumpling) or Pot Sticker (basically a grilled, crunchy dumpling). In addition to the dumplings they have all types of condiments that compliment them and sides and soups available as well.

Juicy or Pot Sticker...which one do you prefer?

I'm not gonna lie the catchy "Pot Sticker" labeling attracted me to try those types of dumplings and I have been stuck on them ever since. Every time I try to order the Juicy ones, my brain completely cuts off connection to my vocal cords and I end up getting the Pot Stickers. It's almost like I blackout and wake up with Pot Sticker in front of me. Unfortunately, I have yet to try them but I hear they're really good. One of these days I tell ya. But if you're looking for a recommendation...POT STICKERS HANDS DOWNS!

Any cons?

The size of this places isn't the best. It's actually pretty small and can fill up quick. So if you're looking to eat in you better time it right or you may end up having to get your order to go. Also, up until recently they stopped taking credit cards...that's wack!

Last words?

GO THERE AND TRY THE POT STICKERS WITH SOME PEPPERY SAUCE ON THE SIDE! 

---Things I've Had---

Chicken Pot Stickers: excellent

Pork Pot Stickers: good

Lo Mein: good

Hot & Sour Soup: good

Di Di Dumpling

38 Lexington Avenue (diagonal from Baruch College)

www.dididumpling.com

(718) 709 - 8132

My man Lenny!

From time to time my lunch appetite brings me to wanting a sandwich. Not just any ole plain Subway/Blimpie sandwich either. I'm talking a deli sandwich with a little kick. Something that would remind me of a sandwich I would make in my house. If you are feeling the same way, then you may wanna take yourself over to Lenny's.

What is this Lenny's place?
Lenny's is chain deli that serves some AMAZING sandwiches. They have other items on the menu such as breakfast, salads, and soups, but they are widely known for their sandwiches. And these aren't just the typical meat and cheese sandwiches either (even though you can get that if you want). Each sandwich has its own unique kick to it and if that isn't enough you can add or remove any topping and get condiments on the side.

So what sandwiches have you had?
Umm....pretty much all the sandwiches that have roast beef or chicken in them. Sounds pretty fat of me, I know. Outside of going to an Italian deli or restaurant, Lenny's has a really good roast beef beef sandwich. Not that over cooked, dry, too rare roast beef, but that moist, juicy, melt like butter roast beef. But the roast beef in addition to the fresh green peppers, mushrooms, Swiss cheese, with a side of A-1 steak sauce is pretty unmatched. The chicken sandwiches are just as good. Lean, juicy, chicken cutlets, with all the fixings. Making me hungry all over again just talking about it. Outside of the roast beef and chicken sandwiches...I've heard that the other sandwiches are pretty good as well.

Well I know good sandwiches like this aren't going to come cheap so what's the damage in wallet looking like?
To be honest, Lenny's is a bit pricey for a sandwich. It can run you anywhere from 7 to 10 bucks. Granted that for the Times Square area that's not too bad, but still a little pricey. I'm use to paying $6.50 and getting a sandwich (on hero bread), a drink, and some chips for that price. $6.50 at Lenny's will probably get you a peanut butter and jelly sandwich if you're lucky.

Is there anything else I need to know about Lenny's?
Yes. I forgot to mention that sometimes ordering can be a bit overwhelming, especially to someone who has never been before. Don't think that you're going to be able to get on the line and decide what you want while the line is moving because you will be in for a rude awakening. The menu has a TON of things on there and a ton of ways to prepare it. Then you have to decide what type of bread you want the sandwich on. Do yourself a favor...look at a menu and know what you want before you go in there, because trying to figure out what you want and how you want it while the person taking orders is rushing you and the people behind the counter screaming out orders can be a huge distraction.

Lenny's
48th b/t 5th & 6th Avenue
(212) 871 - 6677

Duke of Lunch...

So in my lunch time adventures I have found that I'm getting....uh....LAZY! When I say lazy I mean looking for cafe's rather then places that specialize in one type of cuisine. How does that make me lazy you ask? Well, rather then going to some place that I have heard about or walk past, I have been going to these all purpose cafes and just grabbing something quick for lunch. Until I finally come out of this lunch slump, I figured it would only be right for me to speak about the place that I have been getting my quick lunches from....CAFE DUKE'S

What brought you to Cafe Duke's?
One day, my co-worker and I were discussing Korean food. She was raving about how good it was and I was sitting there with my mouth watering like a crazy maniac. After all was said and done the decision was made that I had to try this Korean food that I heard so much about. She felt that Duke's had the best Korean food in the area, so on one cold afternoon we took the trip over there.

How was it when you went?
The food or the place?
Both!

Oh ok. Well, the place is very similar to Bocca (see "Simple Lunch" for details) in that there are several stations with different items to choose from. Actually, this place is like Bocca on some SERIOUS steroids! When I first walked in I didn't know if I was coming on going. There were people EVERWHERE! If you closed your eyes and couldn't smell the food you could easily mistake that place for the NY Stock Exchange. Busy like I don't know what! And the amount of items that they serve is crazy! I mean hot/cold sanwiches, different types of soups, pizzas (personal pies and slices), salads, pasta, sushi, and a buffet...how is a man suppose to choose! Thank goodness I had a guide to direct me through the madness.

Now for the food...
Since the plan was to get me to try their Korean food, we went right to the station that was serving it. As if I wasn't confused already by the chaos, the menu confused me even more! All I saw on the menu was spicy, tofu, chicken, beef, and vegetables. I had no idea what was going on. Thankfully, my guide was able to explain everything. With what there was to choose from, the popular items were the shredded beef, and tofu soups. Not being a huge fan of tofu, I decided to get the shredded beef with white rice...which also came with a small side of pickled cabbage. The food was pretty good. To be honest, there wasn't really anything overly special about my meal, but it definitely was satisfying. Satisfying enough that I decided to go back.

Well if there wasn't anything special about it why go back?
Mainly, because I felt like I had unfinished business there. My co-worker got a tofu soup and the way it looked when she got it...there was no way I wasn't going to come back and at least try it. Besides, with everything that they serve in that place, there was no way I wasn't going to come back!

Did you eventually get the tofu soup? If so, how did you like it?
Yes I did! I went back and got the spicy tofu soup with seafood and I wasn't disappointed. The soup was exactly what it said in the name. Different seafood items, with a bunch of tofu chunks, in a sea of spicy broth...just how a spicy soup should be! The only issue I have with it, is the texture of the tofu. It was extremely soft...almost like jello. I'm use to tofu being a little more solid and not so loose. But in any event, it definitely wasn't enough to stop me from eating nor ordering it again (the next time was with veggies though..mmmm mmmm).

You seem to really like the Korean food...did you ever manage to try anything else?
Yes the food from the Korean station was rather tasty, but since then I have graduated on to other stations. During one visit, I tried a few items from the buffet. Buffet food is buffet food so there really wasn't anything special about theirs. And I have made FREQUENT trips to the Udon noodle station. It's basically these spaghetti-like noodles (like spaghetti noodles, but waaaay thicker), broth (with or without spicy seasoning), your choice of shrimp or vegetable shumai (dumplings), and a whole bunch of other seasonings and fixing for you to add in there. Mucho delicious!

Recommendations?
Everything that I have had from there was good and I have had more then once. Main thing I would recommend though is the Udon noodle soups. Very tasty, large portion, and not overly expensive.

Cafe Duke's
140 W. 51st Street
(212) 445 - 0010

It's not you, it's MEE

So my co-worker comes in the other day with his lunch and when I tell you the smell was completely driving me CRAZY!...that's exactly what I mean! I thought my little homemade lunch was cool, but I was quickly put to shame as soon as he took his food out of the bag. Holding back the urge to be a savage beast and put my hands in his food, I managed to calm myself and get one question out: "WHERE THE HELL DID YOU GET THAT FROM!?" He humbly responded, "MEE Noodle." And so it was done. The decision to track down the source of that heavenly aroma was made and a few days later my adventure began.

What's MEE Noodle?

I thought it was a noodle shop where every item on the menu either came on top of noodles or noodles were on the side. Not the case at all. It's basically a Chinese restaurant with an extensive noodle selection on the menu. They have the classic items like sesame chicken, beef and broccoli, etc., if you aren't looking to take the noodle route.

Did you get the noodles or did you go the safe route?

No noodles for me, but I did try something that I don't normally get. I ordered the roast pork with Chinese vegetables, fried rice, and a hot and sour soup. All for $6.20 plus tax...can't beat that with a bat! Thank God for lunch time specials :)

Was the food as "heavenly" as you'd imagined it would be?
It certainly was! They brought the soup as a starter and it was VERY tasty. Fairly small portion though. You have to be careful when ordering hot and sour soup because it's usually one extreme or the other. MEE's hot and sour soup was just right. Not overly chunky, flavor was perfect, and top things off it had the right amount of spicy.

On to my main dish...I usually try to stay away from the Chinese dishes that have vegetables in them because you end up with a handful of meat and a boatload of veggies! You know what I'm talking about...you get your order and it looks like you ordered a vegetable meadley and they accidentally dropped a few piece of meat in there. SMH! But going against my better judgment, I decided to get the veggies with the roast pork. Surprisingly, one didn't overwhelm the other and there was the perfect amount of both. Speaking of amounts, the portions they give are huge! 2 maybe even 3 people can be satisfied off of 1 lunch special. I know half way in I was waving the white flag and that RARELY happens.

My co-worker that came with me had the General Tso's chicken (not spicy) and that was just as good too. Usually you get the General Tso's or the seasame chicken and the chicken is overly breaded, sticky and soft. Not like a mushy soft, but like fried, leftover soft (if that makes any sense). Not here! That chicken was fried HARD and you could tell as soon as you bit into it! Nice and crunchy how deep fried and sauced up chicken should be.
Just out of curiosity what was it that your co-worker had that made you go there in the first place?He had the BBQ roast pork over white rice. Slightly different from what it was that I got, but I'm sure it's just as good. That will be what I have the next time I go there.
Recommendation?
This is definitely a place that you want to go to. I have tried other Chinese places in the area and it's always something that doesn't sit to well with me. I find myself saying things such as, "too greasy, not enough meat, way too much rice, texture isn't right..." I have absolutely no complaints about this place. Now that I think about it, it's probably the best Chinese food in the area when it comes to price, portion and overall taste. Definitely try it out!

MEE
795 9th Avenue

New York, NY

(212) 765-2929

Burgerdelic Shack...that's where it's at!

Whoa! So I'm sure you all have heard about the famous Shake Shack. "Shake Shack has the best burgers..." or "Shake Shack has the best shakes..." or "I came all the way from NJ or Connecticut just to get a burger and a drink from Shake Shack..." Nothing but good praises about this place and if that isn't enough to convince you the food is good...the line down the block and around the corner should be a dead give away. Unfortunately, if you are anything like me you hate waiting in line and end up settling for something else. Since I have a bit of a reputation when it comes to burgers, I decided that I was going to have to suck it up and wait on line.

Took the plunge huh...so how long was the wait?
To be quite honest the wait wasn't as long as I had expected. I got over to Shake Shack around 1:30 and was probably 3rd or 4th in line. That's GREAT considering that this is a place where the line loops around, goes out the door, and then down the block...and that's just to place your order. I will admit that there was a good amount of people who placed orders and were just sitting there waiting for their food. That process took about 10-15 minutes. You really don't notice it though if you are on the phone or have company.

Well what did you order that took so long?
Nothing fancy. I kept it pretty simple as a matter of fact. Since everyone raves about the burgers and the shakes, that was just what I got. To be exact, I got a double cheeseburger with lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, hold the onion, and a black and white shake...or as they call it "custard."

How was it?
Nothing short of amazing! The burger (with all the fix'ns) was pretty big...kinda had to dislocate my jaw to bite it, but I definitely didn't mind. It was well cooked, tasty, juicy, fix'ns was nice and fresh, and surprisingly it wasn't all that greasy. You know how you look at some burgers and you automatically feel like you're going to need a nurse to check your blood pressure after you eat it (not that it ever stops me)?...I didn't get that from this burger at all. And the shake...I mean custard was BANGIN'! A little too thick for my taste, but after chipping away at it with a spoon it softened up and was drinkable through the straw. Definitely on my top 3 milkshake list.

Taking into consideration all the hype over the past couple of years and how long the wait was (or can be for some)...is it really worth it? Does Shake Shack really live up to all the hype?
*Thinking*...umm....*Scrunches the face while thinking some more*....eehhh.....YES! Yes it does live up to the hype. Don't know if I'd personally burn up 30-40 minutes just waiting, but I can definitely see why people do it. You won't find a burger or shake that is that good, coming out of the same place, unless you go to a well known BBQ spot or some kind of gourmet burger joint. The food was excellent and doesn't destroy your pockets either. Other then 5 Guys, I'm willing to bet that you won't find a quality burger like that at any other fast food spot.

Since you brought them up...IS IT BETTER THEN 5 GUYS?
Ever since I have had 5 Guys, I can't help but compare the burgers I have eaten afterwards to it. None have measured up or even come close to my thoughts on 5 Guys until now. Shake Shack just might be the better burger...can't believe I just said that. It's not ahead by much but ahead nonetheless. I think I may have to give the Elite Fast Food Burger title to Shake Shack.

Recommendations
If you're not a vegetarian and you eat red meat...GO HERE! You won't be disappointed at all. I wouldn't recommend eating there though, because folks have tendencies to just sit and hang out, so it may take a while for you to actually sit down. Other than that it gets 2 huge thumbs up from me.

Shake Shack

691 8th Avenue

New York, NY

(646) 435-0135

Cuban sandwich anyone?

In an area like Times Square it can be rather difficult to find good Spanish cuisine. I don't think ya'll understand...I'm from the Uptown area of NYC and when I say GOOD Spanish cuisine I mean the rice is on point, the beef in the beef stew is always tender, the beans are in abundance, the roasted chicken is seasoned so good that you wanna just ask for a side of the skin (only people who have had that type of skin would understand what I mean), and Mojito sauce is ALWAYS on standby. Unfortunately, you won't find exactly what I'm talking about in the Times Square area, but what you will find is a little, hole-in-the-wall spot called Margon's.

What can I expect going to Margon's?
Expect to be cramped up! During lunch hours...people are spilling out of this place. The people waiting to order are being bumped by the people leaving and coming in, lines kinda run into each other, it's loud...I LOVE IT! As packed as it can get I can't say that I have had one bad experience yet. Staff is very friendly and if you're a loyal customer they definitely take good care of you.

I'm not really a big fan of crowds...is it worth waiting in that?
Honestly? Yes it is worth the wait!...especially if you are grabbing and going. You have to keep in mind that the place isn't big at all so unless it's dead empty, it will always seem crowded. They do a good job of spotting folks and seeing their position in line though...and it moves pretty quick for the most part. Now if you are looking to sit there and eat...you may wanna reconsider. The tables are usually always taken. If you are lucky enough to find an empty table, know that the tables are right next to the lines. So you can expect a lot of people walking past your food and standing by/over your table. I'm not really a big fan of all that because that's how accidents happen, so I mainly get my food and go.

So I don't get sucked into the confusion, any tips to help expedite my visit?
Sandwiches and shakes are the lines closest to the door and platters are towards the middle. You can sometimes do a mixed order (like order a sandwich and a side of rice & beans all at the sandwich station), but don't try to get a platter while you're on the sandwich line. You will be instructed to the proper line and your wait time will be increased.

What's better...the sandwiches or the platters?
It doesn't really matter because the food is BANGING!

Margon's is known for their Cuban sandwich (which is EXCELLENT) so I would say for the first visit try that. But what you decide to get really depends on how hungry you are. If you're looking for a quick eat and really aren't that hungry, definitely get the sandwich. For some, the Cuban sandwich can be a bit overwhelming because of all that's in it...but they have several other sandwiches to choose from. The steak, the chicken, and the pork sandwiches are all very good.
Now if you're a hungry man such as myself, then you wanna get the platter. For 8+ bucks you get a portion like you wouldn't believe! I'm talking about one of those you can't close the tin container portions. Like...you can split it with someone else and still be satified portions. Everyday there is a different set of specials for you to choose from, but my 2 favorites are the roasted chicken with yellow rice & red beans or the pork with rice & beans. They throw the gravy on there if you want it and you get some plantains! Aside from the portions, the platters are AMAZING! Everything is well seasoned and the rice...don't even think I can put in words how I feel about their rice. I guarantee...that you will not be disappointed after trying anything from that place. Out of everyone I know, I have yet to hear a single complaint.

With all these good things to say, there has to be something wrong?
Other then the actual size of the place and the crowds, I don't think there is anything bad I can say about this place. I mean if you are one of those health buffs, then this may not be the place for you because the food is very flavorful (calories) and can be a tad bit on the greasy side (even more calories). But if you aren't a Vegan or a Vegetarian, you'll really enjoy this place!

Nice! Well the description speaks for itself so I'm sure you'd recommend it to others...
Ab-sa-freaking-lute-ly

Margon's

136 W. 46th Street

New York, NY

212-354-5013

Mother of all Burgers?

Somehow it must have gotten out that I am a burger guy. Don't know what it is but I love a good burger. With that being said, a co-worker of mine brought me a menu from Mother Burger not too long ago. He saw something on the menu that caught his eye so he suggested it to me. Now I have seen and passed Mother Burger several times before but never really thought to go in...don't really know why. After getting that menu from my co-worker I figured it was time for me to stop passing by and mosey on in.

First impression?
The place is small! I mean there is plenty of outside seating (which doesn't matter in the winter time), but inside of the place is tiny. I thought it was going to be a medium sized, burger restaurant, but it ended up being a bar and very few tables. After entering I immediately got the feeling that it was a bar with a kitchen, and the food wouldn't pass the level of "bar food." For those who don't know, "Bar Food" (outside of it being items prepared in a bar) is basically deals with the level. It's not necessarily bad food, but its not good enough to be compared to an actual restaurant. Not really anything special (wings, burgers, fries) but as good as the food you order may be...it will never leave the realm of "bar food." It's weird, but hopefully my explanation helped.

So now I already have the notion that the burger is going to be OK at best.

Was it nothing more then "bar" food?
I will say that I was wrong. I had the "Uncle Matt's Wing Burger (which is a burger with cheese, spicy buffalo wing sauce, and creamy blue cheese)," and it definitely competes with the other burger joints in the area. Bread was soft, burger was juicy, and it was very tasty. Definitely can't pigeon hole or label that burger as "bar food."

Any dislikes?
The burger I got was a little messy. Can't say that all of them will be that way, but if you plan on getting the burger above...roll the sleeves up, put napkins where you can, and do not, I repeat DO NOT wear white!

With a name like "Mother Burger" would you consider it to be the mother of all burgers?
Umm....don't think I would go that far. As good as it was, I don't see it being better then or close to 5 guys...maybe Lucky Burger (**posting coming soon**). I don't doubt that if they continue to improve, over time they will be one of the top 3 burger joints in the area.
Would you recommend it for lunch?
Certainly! Even though my burger was a little messy, it didn't take away from me enjoying it at all. Tasty burger and decently priced. Definitely worth a shot.

Mother Burger

329 w. 49th St (b/t 8th & 9th Avenue)

New York, NY 10019

212-757-8600

Simple lunch...

Ok now we all have the regular, multi-purpose delis next to our job right? You know...you go there if you want a salad, or soup, or a sandwich, or buffet style by the pound. Everything is customizable to your liking. Keep in mind that each item you add to customize is going to cost ya but you really can't put a price on unique now can you? Never mind all that, because I am here today to discuss a little place called Bocca.

Ok...well what is Bocca?
Basically an all-purpose deli. Soup, salad, sandwiches, pasta, pizza, sushi are all items that can be found on their menu. To be honest, from the look alone you wouldn't really think there was anything special about this place. Looks like a regular deli with an assortment of different food items to choose from. During prime lunch hours it can look a little chaotic and even intimidating (because of how the inside is setup) but surprising the lines move rather quick and smoothly. What will probably be the most difficult thing about the trip to Bocca will be with all items on the menu....what should ?
With there being so much to choose from how do you go about making a selection?
Very similar to other typical delis, Bocca has visual displays of the things they serve and menus all over the walls giving detailed descriptions of what they have. Coincidentally, both of the items I will be speaking about were suggested to be by co-workers so I already knew what I wanted before I walked in.
So what would you recommend?
Depending on what type of lunch you are looking to have I would recommend 1 of 2 things (not that everything else isn't good but these are my favorite items). For someone looking to take it light for lunch...the sushi station hands down! Their spicy crab is like no other. The crab with the ginger and wasabi, topped with that orange spicy sauce (orange in color NOT flavor)...mmmm mmmmm! Sushi roll fans will really enjoy this selection. In fact the only issue I have with the rolls, is the amount...and that may be because I have a fat kid living inside of me. The portions are very reasonable (8 rolls), but for me once I get down to the last roll I just want more. Granted that I'm usually satisfied after the 8 rolls, I just never wanna stop...don't judge me!

Now if you are looking for a more....hefty of a meal then without a doubt I recommend the flat crust, brick oven, personal pizzas! OH MAN! These pizzas are so freaking good it's a shame. So far I have had the buffalo chicken pie, chicken & pepperoni pie, and the prosciutto and something else pie (can't remember the other ingredient in it). To be honest, I really can't even say I have a favorite one so far because they are all so good. After your pizza is done you have the options to top it off with red pepper, garlic, oregano, ranch dressing, and a few other items. AND...if you are trying to keep it on the healthy side, there is an option for you to have whole wheat dough instead of the classic dough. SLAMMIN'! That's all I can say.
Food sounds good, but the prices have to be ridiculous...right?
Valid thought, and I would be thinking the same thing. For it being in Times Square or right next to it, the prices aren't too crazy. For the sushi I mentioned it's $4.95+ tax, and the pizza I mentioned is $7.95+ tax. Not really prices that I would want to pay on a daily basis, but I have seen waaaaaaaaay worse. Not factoring in chips and a beverage you should be able to give them a 10 and get some change back.
Recommendation?
DEFINITELY go there and check out what they have. It's quality, it's quick, and you won't go bankrupt.

135 West 50th Street
New York, NY

Philly, pHILLY, PhillY Cheesesteak...

Sometimes the whole in a hole spots produce some of the best food! In search for a Philly Cheesesteak one day I stumbled upon this whole in a wall called Philly Slim's Cheesesteaks.

First impressions of the hole in the wall?
The first few times I had their food it was from delivery, so it took a while before I physically went there. For some reason I thought it was going to be a grimey spot, but I was wrong. It was actually pretty plain. Kitchen/grill, register, and a few tables. I mean it wasn't spotless, but what would you expect from a spot that sells cheesesteaks only?

Was this hole in the wall a good find?
I think it was. Unfortunately, I have never had an original cheesesteak from Philly, so I can't compare it to the real thing, but it's definitely good enough for me. Thin grilled steak (that they are not cheap with), with grilled onions, variety of cheeses, and a soft bun. There are also, all type of toppings you can put on your cheesesteak to jazz it up, and if I'm not mistaken there is even a chicken cheesesteak for all you folks that stay away from the red meat.

Service?
Service was cool. I will say that there was this one dude that worked there that had some pretty interesting contacts on. Can't lie...I was a little scared to give him my order, but the hunger quickly removed that feeling.

Anything you forgot to mention?
As I'm sure you can imagine...the cheesesteaks are EXTREMELY greasy! Like the paper it's wrapped in is soaked, if you get it to go the grease usually seeps into the bag, the bread can be a little soggy because of it (not a problem to me), and if you think you are going to eat that thing without something covering your clothes you are definitely asking for grease stains.

Recommendations?
If you are not a health buff and calorie counter, try it. Keep in mind that after consuming a cheesesteak there is a serious decrease in energy and work productivity. Other then that...GO FOR IT!

Philly Slim's Cheesesteaks
789 9th Avenue (b/t 52nd & 53rd)
New York, NY 10019
(212) 333-3042