Skaters, indie bands, and the models who love them – that’s the crowd here at the Niagra owners’ little bar tucked into an alley, behind a gate, and down a flight of stairs. Go early if you want to get a seat or have a conversation – it gets packed – and if the door person asks you if you’re on the list, just say “yes.”
The Cabin Down Below
no real address, just look for the red light – it’s approximately at 110 Ave. A (East Village)
From the owners of Paddy McGee’s comes another great waterfront joint, with a rowdy bar scene and the occasional live band. Perfect for your liquid or lobster dinner after the beach.
104 Waterview Road, Island Park
516-889-8009
First, you pick your meatball: pork, beef, chicken, or veggie. Then, you pick your sauce. Then, your starch. You wash it all down with a Sixpoint Sweet Action ale before ordering a custom-made ice cream sandwich. Seriously, what’s not to love here? Tip: waits usually run up to an hour, so prepare accordingly.
84 Stanton Street, Lower East Side
212-982-8895
You don’t need to be down with the great Alsatian chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten (he of Spice Market, The Mark, and Mercer Kitchen) to enjoy ABC Kitchen. So named because it’s located inside ABC Carpet & Home (one of the best, most pricey home wares stores in the city), this could be the healthiest meal you’ll have while visiting. Try the crab toast, sweet pea soup, and ricotta ravioli. Tip: the wait can be super long, but they do accept reservations. Call now. We mean it.
35 East 18th Street (btwn Broadway & Park Ave), Union Square
212-475-5829
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