A New York Legend Is About To Return!

We take this as Good news for New Yorkers and visitors who miss the old Carnegie Deli in Midtown -- closed since 2016.

Now Carnegie is set to return, along 7th Ave between W. 53 and 54 St. Though no firm date has been announced, it's set to open sometime soon and even the famous Carnegie sign is back on the scene.

Carnegie Deli does have a location in Madison Square Garden and occasionally does pop ups, but the old style sit down deli on the street has been gone and most people are unaware of the MSG location.

Once the hangout of popular comedians and other celebrities of the 1950s thru 1980s like Henny Youngman, Milton Berle, Jackie Mason, Billy Crystal and others, it was featured in the Woody Allen movie, Broadway Danny Rose where a group of popular comedians were discussing the old days. It also played a major role in the film When Harry Met Sally.

It's absolutely a part of NYC's historical food culture, known for huge piles of corned beef, pastrami and mustard, on Jewish Rye -- also, plenty ofRussian dressing and their famous pickles.

Seen At A New Jersey Ice Cream Stand . . .

 No spoon for you. Don't forget to ask for your spoon and napkins.

Sometimes A Play On Words Is NOT Playful!

A chain of cafe/eateries in parts of Louisiana and Texas reportedly offers a "Trump Bulleit In The Head" cocktail trading on the brand name of Bulleit Bourbon. This is NOT funny! See below.

Trump Delivers Strong Economic Message To Franchisees

Yesterday, President Donald J. Trump delivered remarks at the McDonald’s Impact Summit — where he laid out the progress that has been made in undoing the economic devastation of the Biden era and charted a path forward to make sure all Americans realize prosperity and opportunity.

Here’s what you missed: “I’m honored to stand before you as the very first former McDonald’s fry cook ever to become President of the United States.” (Watch)   “My pledge to every family and every small business is that I will not rest until you are richer, stronger, more successful, happier, until you’ve gotten a piece of the American Dream... That begins with making America affordable.” (Watch)   “There’s still a lot of work to do — and we’re making tremendous progress. 1.9 million more American-born workers are employed today than when I took office... Wages for hourly workers are rising at the fastest pace in 60 years.” (Watch)   “I’m fighting every day to support small businesses like yours and the citizens that we all serve — and together, we’re fighting for an economy where everyone can win, from the cashier starting her first job, to the franchisee opening his first location, to the young family in a drive-thru line.” (Watch)   “The Biden Administration started the affordability crisis — and my Administration is ending it… In the past six months, the price of breakfast items has fallen 14%, bread prices are down, dairy prices are down; the price of eggs has declined 86% since March.” (Watch)   “While Democrats wanted to give Americans the largest tax hike in history, in July, I proudly gave you the largest tax cuts in American history and signed the One Big Beautiful Bill into law. That includes No Tax on Tips, No Tax on Overtime, and No Tax on Social Security for our great seniors. That is a big deal.” (Watch)   “We slashed more than $1 trillion worth of regulations, burdens on the U.S. economy — in particular, on businesses and people that employ people. Combining our regulatory and tax cuts, we’ve reduced the effective burden on franchisees by more than 37%.” (Watch)   “In my first term, I also stopped a mortal threat to the franchise business model by terminating Obama’s infamous ‘joint employer rule…’ As long as I’m President, I’ll always defend your right to run your own small businesses, and do it well.” (Watch)   “As you may have heard, I’m also one of your all-time most loyal customers... While other politicians fly around on campaign planes stocked with expensive catering, on Trump Force One… we serve only McDonald’s almost every time.” (Watch)

Italian American Heritage Month: Jerry Della Femina

Jerry Della Femina is a legendary American advertising executive, entrepreneur, and author, best known for his larger-than-life personality and for helping to shape the creative revolution of Madison Avenue during the 1960s and 1970s. Born on July 22, 1936, in Brooklyn, New York, Della Femina began his career in advertising humbly—as a mailroom worker—before climbing the ranks through sheer grit, wit, and an instinctive understanding of the power of storytelling.

In 1967, he co-founded Della Femina, Travisano & Partners, an ad agency that quickly became a hotbed of bold, unconventional campaigns. His firm attracted major clients like Pan Am, Beck’s Beer, and Isuzu, and helped set the tone for a more irreverent, personality-driven era in advertising. Della Femina was known for pushing boundaries and crafting memorable, often humorous ads that resonated with the public.

His 1970 memoir, "From Those Wonderful Folks Who Gave You Pearl Harbor," pulled back the curtain on the ad industry with a mix of brutal honesty, scandalous anecdotes, and sharp insight. The book became a bestseller and later served as one of the inspirations for AMC’s hit series Mad Men, although Della Femina himself was often critical of the show’s portrayal of the industry. His affectionate memoir "An Italian Grows In Brooklyn" about the formative days of being Italian American and how the culture merged and created a hybrid was also a bestseller.

Beyond advertising, Della Femina made a name for himself as a restaurateur with the launch of Della Femina in East Hampton, and as a newspaper columnist and commentator. His outspoken, sometimes controversial views and his brash charisma kept him in the public eye long after his peak advertising years.

Jerry Della Femina’s career embodies the maverick spirit of a bygone era in American advertising—equal parts showman, salesman, and strategist.

Italian American Heritage Month: Lidia Bastianich

Lidia Matticchio Bastianich is an Emmy award-winning public television host, best‐selling cookbook author, successful restaurateur, and owner of a flourishing food and entertainment business. Most importantly, she has accomplished all of this by marrying her two passions in life—her family and food—to create multiple culinary endeavors alongside her two children, Joseph and Tanya. 

Lidia’s love of food, cooking, and its ability to connect family and friends was nurtured as a child in Pola, a small city on the Istrian Peninsula of what was then Yugoslavia. Lidia and her family were forced to flee the communist regime. After a dramatic escape that involved temporary separation from her father in Italy, they registered as refugees and lived in a refugee camp in Italy before they were resettled in the United States when Lidia was eleven. It was here that Lidia's culinary journey took flight, influenced by her experiences and the diverse cultures she encountered. Her cooking style is a tribute to her grandmother Rosa's farm-to-table approach, Aunt Nina's sophisticated techniques in Trieste, and the commercial cooking skills she acquired in a refugee camp kitchen.  

After their immigration to the USA, Lidia’s family settled in Astoria, Queens, where, as a teen, she made her foray into the food industry, taking an entry-level job at Walken’s Bakery, owned by actor Christopher Walken’s parents. It was also in Queens where Lidia and her husband opened their first restaurant, Buonavia, to critical acclaim in 1971.

After opening her third restaurant, Felidia – one of the first women-owned fine dining restaurants in America – legendary chefs Julia Child and James Beard came to dine one evening with Lidia. Soon after this memorable first meeting, Julia invited Lidia to appear as a guest on her famed PBS cooking show, which catapulted Lidia into the world of television. Once she stepped in, Lidia never looked back: creating Emmy Award-winning cooking programming over the last 25 years including Lidia’s Kitchen, Lidia’s Family Table, Lidia’s Italy, and Lidia’s Italy in America, as well as the three-time James Beard Award-winning series Lidia Celebrates America. Lidia’s cooking shows air nationwide in the U.S. on public television and CREATE, internationally, and on various digital networks including Amazon Prime, Tubitv, and Xumo. Her cooking segments are also part of her TUTTOLIDIA YouTube channel. 

Along with her television series, Lidia has published numerous cookbooks, co-authored with her daughter Tanya. Her most recent book is Lidia’s From Our Family Table to Yours which was released in October 2023, a companion to her new 26-part public television series, Lidia’s Kitchen. She is also the author of the English and Italian version of her memoir: My American Dream: A Life of Love, Family, and Food. 

Lidia is a celebrated chef and restaurateur and a founder of Eataly. Together with Tanya and son-in-law Corrado, she also developed a line of all-natural sauces called LIDIA’S. In March 2023, she released a line of cookware with HSN.

Lidia is a member of Les Dames D’Escoffier and founding member of Women Chefs and Restaurateurs, two non-profit organizations of women leaders in the food and hospitality industries. She is also a champion for the United Nations Association of the United States of America’s Adopt-A-Future program, in support of refugee education. 

In June 2024, Lidia was honored with the Daytime Emmy Lifetime Achievement Award. She has also earned seven James Beard Awards (Outstanding Chef, Television Food Show, Best Chefs in America, Who’s Who of Food & Beverage in America, Specials 2016, Special 2017 and 2018) and two Emmy Awards for Outstanding Culinary Host (2013 and 2018). In 2022 Lidia received the Silver Award from APT for 25 years on Public Television.

The Lowdown On Philly's Hottest New Dining Spot

People are flocking to the newest Stephen Starr restaurant, Borromini on Rittenhouse Square in Philadelphia. 

Forget that Starr has five other restaurants on or near the fashionable square. Borromini is where diners want to be right now. Why? Because the wait for this place (more than a year in the making) has been so long and the buildup so big and the anticipation so high that now that the place is finally open, everybody wants first bragging rights.

Don't ask us how, but we managed to snag a Saturday night reservation in prime time last night. Here's what we found:

• Located on the first two floors of what was a spacious Barnes & Noble bookstore, the place is big, boisterous and boozy with large bar areas on both levels. The walls are lined with bottles of liquor lit from behind in strategic shapes and sizes and the huge crowd last night was loud and showy.
• The staff, as with all Starr restaurants is well trained and highly professional without being haughty. All staff members are helpful and do everything they can to be accommodating, and they do it with a smile.
• Though the joint boasts an Italian menu, there's nothing about the decor that is particularly Italian and you really don't get an Italian vibe from the staff either. In fact, Borromini looks more French than Italian as it's almost a carbon copy of Starr's hugely successful nearby French brasserie, Parc. A big difference is that this place doesn't have as much al fresco dining as Parc and does not seem quite as old school.
• And the food? Well, the Pane Focaccia ($9), a crispy, delicate presentation flavored with rosemary and sea salt was nothing short of heavenly. The 100 Layer Lasagna ($28) wasn't really 100 layers (far as we could tell) but it was delicate and tasty. The Tagliatelle Alla Bolognese  ($23, pictured above) with parmigiano reggiano was light and similar to the same dish we've enjoyed in Bologna. And the Chicken Milanese ($31) with arugula, tomatoes, lemon and parmigiano was basically a very large, thin chicken cutlet. We had the house gelato for dessert and it was forgettable -- sort of icy instead of creamy.
• The food was good -- not spectacular, not necessarily off the charts, but okay for now. 
• Our suggestion: give the place a bit more time. Right now it's a mob scene and appears to be somewhat overwhelmed. Plus, they haven't even started serving lunch yet. They say that's "coming". 
• Borromini is still getting its act together. We'll be back again -- but with not quite as much breathless anticipation the next time. And, we'll try to avoid it on a Saturday night and nestle ourselves into a cozy corner booth.

Oh, Wait: Seems 24 Hrs. Brought A Change!

 

As A Great Brand Implodes, A Bit Of Humor

Whoever made this fake Cracker Barrel ad should takeover SNL. Just too perfect. 😂😂😂 pic.twitter.com/vj36HfhYRY

— Robby Starbuck (@robbystarbuck) August 25, 2025

Roy Rogers Returns To South Jersey, Big Time!

It took several decades (at least) but Roy Rogers (complete with burgers, fries, roast beef, fried chicken, buttermilk biscuits and that famous Fixins Bar) is back. And here in South Jersey, Cherry Hill's got 'im!

So, yeah -- you can dress your burger just the way you like it with all the fresh lettuce, tomato, pickles, onions, etc. that you want. And you can refill your drinks as much as you want and do it all at a very economical price. And don't forget the ice cream, shakes, brownies and strawberry shortcake.  We stopped at Roy's today and the food is every bit as good as we remember it -- actually even better! 

Hey, Americans love a comeback and Roy is back Big Time. So, it's no wonder the place is packed with parents and grandparents who remember Roy's and now have their kids and grandkids in tow. Howdy, pardner! Welcome back!

This Place Really Is Legendary . . . .

Updated: Midtown Manhattan Food, Drink, Goodies!

As theatergoers we spend lot of time in midtown Manhattan. And we've been frequenting this bustling corner of the world for decades. So, it's not surprising that people are always asking us for recommendations about how to get around, where to eat, etc.

Now, in no particular order, we give you our updated observations and suggestions, including 23 of our favoite spots:

First, never ever assume that New Yorkers are to busy to help you. They are among the most helpful people in the world, provided you know what you're looking for and you get to the point. Ask directions simply and clearly of any New Yorker and you will get your answer. And if you're prompt and very polite, you're likely to get some great recommendations from a local as well. But don't tally and be especially careful not to bother someone who honestly seems to be on an urgent mission.

Uptown, downtown, east side, west side. The island of Manhattan is a perfect grid divided into four parts. Numbered streets run north and south. Avenues run east and west. Avenue blocks are long and take more time to traverse. Street blocks are short and rush by quickly. If you're headed north, that's uptown. Conversely, downtown is south. The west side is the side facing New Jersey along the Hudson River. The east side is the side facing Brooklyn and Queens along the East River. The upper east and upper west sides are divided by Central Park. The island is narrower at the bottom and comes to a point at the Battery.

If you're going north or south (uptown or downtown) you don't necessarily have to take a cab or call an Uber. You can hop on a convenient uptown bus on Fifth Avenue or an equally frequent downtown bus on Seventh Avenue and pay simply by tapping your credit card as you get on. The vehicles are clean and efficient and stops are announced by an automated voice so you can quickly and easily signal the stop you want and depart. There's honestly no better way to travel up and down Manhattan!

You can find any kind of food in Manhattan that you could possibly want and in any price range. Consider the variety of the following, from the sumptuous and sublime (SS) to the cozy and comforting (CC) and everywhere in between (IB). Our exclusive list, just for you!

Le Bernardin: (SS) Luxe French dining from chef Eric Ripert. This is top-of-the-line all the way and a place where Big Deals are brokered and special occasions are marked amidst hushed surroundings. If you want to appreciate it without spending a fortune, try it for lunch.

Astro Restaurant: (CC) An old-fashioned corner diner with a huge menu, it's tiny but mighty and very, very Noo Yawk. We count this as one of our best finds and the essence of old school, no nonsense meals served fresh, fast and delicious. Breakfast lunch, dinner, late night -- and the coffee is great, too. Wow!

Trattoria Dell'Arte: (IB) Informal, engaging, colorful and wonderfully hospitable, this spacious mostly-Italian eatery is a perennial favorite of ours. It transports you to an Italian artist's studio, adorned with oversized sculptures, captivating drawings, and a unique wall gallery featuring famous Italian noses. But none of that would matter if the food wasn't fantastic. Fortunately, it is!

Wolfgang's Steakhouse (IB): This ultimate New York steakhouse has several locations but we like the one on 41st Street that is close to Times Square but also worlds apart. Step down into surpassingly spacious, airy surroundings with crisp white tablecloths, an efficient staff and great fare and cocktails facing an indoor garden. And, it's just steps away from nearby Broadway theaters. Marvelous!

Bemelmans Bar (SS): Tucked into the legendary Carlyle Hotel, you'll discover the most divine icy martini on the cushy upper east side. And, you'll be surrounded by the whimsical murals of Ludwig Bemelmans, the creator of the classic Madeline children’s books. The soft, golden glow and the live piano music will transport you to another era. You'll probably have to wait your turn to gain entry and it will co$t you but, trust us, it's all worth it!

Nerolab Italian Food Zone (CC): You'll find delight in this cozy continental bistro on the mezzanine level of Trump Tower. Here you'll get a great view of the glistening Trump Tower lobby while enjoying cappucino, espresso, Italian pastries or what's billed as the crispiest, most authentic pinsa you’ll ever taste. Give it a try!

La Goulue (IB): The name literally means "the glutton" but we doubt that you'll find anyone who looks or acts like a glutton here. Though the food could easily tempt you to gluttony, this place is much too chic for that -- chic though nonetheless informal, we might add. Still, we sought entry one day without a reservation and the maitre'd gently slapped our wrists. Very French! But after the admonishment, he kindly showed us to a table. You'll find the best Aperol spritz in the city here and great faire as well. Plus, it's a legendary lunch haven!

Osteria al Doge (IB): We've been going to this popular Italian trattoria in the theater district for more than 30 years and we've never had a bad meal. It consistently receives high marks for its delicious food, warm atmosphere, and excellent service, and is a favorite for pre and post Broadway theater dining so you're advised to make a reservation. There's a reason for its longevity!

The Lambs Club (IB): Just off Broadway, inside the Chatwal Hotel you'll find Chef Jack Logue's elevated and fun takes on American classics amidst a gleaming art deco atmosphere. And, as if that isn't enough to make this place unique, it's the successor to the legendary social club for the world's greatest thespians. So, the walls are adorned with the faces of renowned actors and actresses, mostly from the legitimate stage. The Lambs is a natural mecca and a hub of activity before and after showtime! 

Tommy Bahama's Marlin Bar & Restaurant (IB): The website proclaims that "at the corner of 45th & Fifth, on one of the busiest shopping avenues in the world, your refuge awaits." Indeed it does! And though there are 28 Marlin bars and/or eateries throughout the country, each is tailored to a particular locale. For example, this one features a menu highlighting Hudson Valley produce and fresh Northeastern seafood. And it delivers -- along with refreshing libations, a wonderfully calming atmosphere and a super friendly staff. Be sure of this: this ain't no Margaritaville. This is (literally and figuratively) a decided step above!

Marea (SS): Featuring Italian coastal cuisine in an upscale contemporary atmosphere, this is quite simple one of the best dining experiences we've ever had. It's truly top-of-the-line without a lot of fussiness -- which means that you'll be treated regally sans the hovering. Marea garnered three stars from The New York Times, was named Best New Restaurant by Bon Appetit, Esquire, and GQ Magazines and was also named NYC’s Best Italian Restaurant by Zagat. From day one it's been a mecca for the best of the best!

Marsaille (IB/CC): If this delightfully informal French bistro in the gritty Hell's Kitchen neighborhood doesn't satisfy your taste buds, nothing will. Great uncomplicated French faire served up just as you like it. A convivial ambience is an added plus. Try the tiny table in the far corner with a great view of the entire panoplie.

Virgil's (CC): No pretenses here, folks. This is down home barbecue at its best. In fact, it's been acclaimed as one of America's top 10 BBQ restaurants. Virgil's features meats that are smoked at a low temperature over indirect heat for up to 10 hours with a unique mix of hickory, oak and fruit woods that impart maximum flavor. Virgil's big neon sign beckons you. You won't be disappointed!

Anita Gelato (CC): This fast-growing gelato behemoth (also known as La Mama Del Gelato) has arrived in Manhattan and is attracting big crowds. Don't be scared away by all the flash, fanfare and in-your-face promotion. The stuff is really good and the sidewalk lines prove it!

Ralph Lauren's Polo Bar (IB) It's become ça fait fureur for luxe fashion houses to offer bars and/or restaurants on the premises but few can measure up to Ralph's jewel box just off Fifth Avenue. You'll have to call well in advance as soon as reservations open for the date you want and then (if you're lucky) your name will be placed on a list allowing you to check in at the door. The gleaming bar awaits as you enter and downstairs, the clubby dining room, exquisite in every detail. And don't be surprised if  Ralph and Ricky show up. Play it cool . . . 

Le Pavillion (SS): This is a dazzler in the new One Vanderbilt building near Grand Central and it ranks near the top of the list of Manhattan's best. It's said to express chef Daniel Boulud's roots in New York City with a fresh and unique approach to fine dining in a dramatic setting. It promises what it delivers, and more. And though it's formidablé, it's never intimidating. You won't regret it!

5 Napkin Burger (IB): It's not quite a diner, not quite a dive, more than a mere burger joint and beyond a corner bar. And though the famous 5 napkin burger gave it its name, it also boasts all day breakfasts, slow roasted chimichurri chicken, happy hour specials, BOGO beer Monday, wine down Tuesday and more. This is a spacious, noisy, busy place in the heart of Hell's Kitchen that attracts a lively mix of out-of-towners and neighbors. It's a true original!

The Modern (SS): In the Museum of Modern Art you'll find Danny Meyer's ultimate dining experience. Sleekly contemporary, it's a perfect spot if you want to see and be seen. This place holds two Michelin stars, a Three Star review in the New York Times, four James Beard Awards, and the Grand Award from Wine Spectator. Imbibe, chill and slowly melt into the surroundings knowing this is where you were meant to be!

Myzel's Chocolates (CC): This tiny chocolate shop across from the grand City Center performing arts edifice on 55th Street is chocolate, licorice and chocolate chip cookie heaven. You'll find the owner, Kamila behind the counter. The cookie recipe here is touted as a traditional one refined by Kamila's mother over decades within a chocolate-making tradition exemplifying exceptional baking and cooking. Also, delight in more than 100 licorice flavors from Europe. PS: Jackie Kennedy Onassis bought her cookies here!

Annie Moore's (CC): A popular after work place for drinks, munchies and basic faire, this Irish pub near Madison Avenue is the sort of place where you might have found Don Draper once upon a time. But while the big ad agencies have long since abandoned Mad Ave, Annie's is still there and still serving lunch and dinner every day except Sunday. You can have bar food, salads, sandwiches, burgers, chicken pot pie, steak, salmon -- pretty much whatever you want!

Sarabeth's (IB/CC): There are four of them in Manhattan but we like the one on Central Park South. They say that this is the place for brunch and who are we to argue? Yeah, it can be crowded and touristy but so what? When they ask you to indulge in their signature eggs, fluffy pancakes, and famous French toast, they mean it because at this place it's all about indulging, in the best sense of the word!

Goodman's Bar (SS): You'll find Goodman's nestled into a second floor corner of Bergdorf Goodman's men's store on Fifth Avenue. Get there early because it's only open until 6 pm each day. Enjoy crafted cocktails while gazing at the art of the mixologist as well as wines curated by Master Sommelier Dustin Wilson and cuisine by Chef Austin Johnson. Goodman's manages to be simultaneously new and old world -- no small feat. This place is living proof that luxe can also be cozy.

Le Grande Boucherie (IB): It's exactly what it says it is and it's delightful -- well, not literally, as boucherie is a "butcher shop." But, hey, it's French so, this ain't no ordinary butcher shop. Instead, it combines artful spaciousness with intimacy as only the French can with fresh, tasty dishes served up as if you were in a Parisian arcade -- which you are, as this place stretches (under glorious arches) the entire block of Sixth-and-a-half Avenue. Yes, there really is such an address and yes, it really is worth finding! 

Because You Asked: The Best Of Manhattan Now!

As theatergoers we spend lot of time in midtown Manhattan. And we've been frequenting this bustling corner of the world for decades. So, it's not surprising that people are always asking us for recommendations about how to get around, where to eat, etc.

Now, in no particular order, we give you our observations and suggestions:

First, never ever assume that New Yorkers are to busy not to help you. They are among the most helpful people in the world, provided you know what you're looking for and you get to the point. Ask directions simply and clearly of any New Yorker and you will get your answer. And if you're prompt and very polite, you're likely to get some great recommendations from a local as well. But don't tally and be especially careful not to bother someone who honestly seems to be on an urgent mission.

Uptown, downtown, east side, west side. The island of Manhattan is a perfect grid divided into four parts. Numbered streets run north and south. Avenues run east and west. Avenue blocks are long and take more time to traverse. Street blocks are short and rush by quickly. If you're headed north, that's uptown. Conversely, downtown is south. The west side is the side facing New Jersey along the Hudson River. The east side is the side facing Brooklyn and Queens along the East River. The upper east and upper west sides are divided by Central Park. The island is narrower at the bottom and comes to a point at the Battery.

If you're going north or south (uptown or downtown) you don't necessarily have to take a cab or call an Uber. You can hop on a convenient uptown bus on Fifth Avenue or an equally frequent downtown bus on Seventh Avenue and pay simply by tapping your credit card as you get on. The vehicles are clean and efficient and stops are announced by an automated voice so you can quickly and easily signal the stop you want and depart. There's honestly no better way to travel up and down Manhattan!

You can find any kind of food in Manhattan that you could possibly want and in any price range. Consider the variety of the following, from the sumptuous and sublime (SS) to the cozy and comforting (CC) and everywhere in between (IB).

Le Bernardin: (SS) Luxe French dining from chef Eric Ripert. This is top-of-the-line all the way and a place where Big Deals are brokered and special occasions are marked amidst hushed surroundings. If you want to appreciate it without spending a fortune, try it for lunch.

Astro Restaurant: (CC) An old-fashioned corner diner with a huge menu, it's tiny but mighty and very, very Noo Yawk. We count this as one of our best finds and the essence of old school, no nonsense meals served fresh, fast and delicious. Breakfast lunch, dinner, late night -- and the coffee is great, too. Wow!

Trattoria Dell'Arte: (IB) Informal, engaging, colorful and wonderfully hospitable, this spacious mostly-Italian eatery is a perennial favorite of ours. It transports you to an Italian artist's studio, adorned with oversized sculptures, captivating drawings, and a unique wall gallery featuring famous Italian noses. But none of that would matter if the food wasn't fantastic. Fortunately, it is!

Wolfgang's Steakhouse (IB): This ultimate New York steakhouse has several locations but we like the one on 41st Street that is close to Times Square but also worlds apart. Step down into surpassingly spacious, airy surroundings with crisp white tablecloths, an efficient staff and great fare and cocktails facing an indoor garden. And, it's just steps away from nearby Broadway theaters. Marvelous!

Bemelmans Bar (SS): Tucked into the legendary Carlyle Hotel, you'll discover the most divine icy martini on the cushy upper east side. And, you'll be surrounded by the whimsical murals of Ludwig Bemelmans, the creator of the classic Madeline children’s books. The soft, golden glow and the live piano music will transport you to another era. You'll probably have to wait your turn to gain entry and it will co$t you but, trust us, it's all worth it!

Nerolab Italian Food Zone (CC): You'll find delight in this cozy continental bistro on the mezzanine level of Trump Tower. Here you'll get a great view of the glistening Trump Tower lobby while enjoying cappucino, espresso, Italian pastries or what's billed as the crispiest, most authentic pinsa you’ll ever taste. Give it a try!

La Goulue (IB): The name literally means "the glutton" but we doubt that you'll find anyone who looks or acts like a glutton here. Though the food could easily tempt you to gluttony, this place is much too chic for that -- chic though nonetheless informal, we might add. Still, we sought entry one day without a reservation and the maitre'd gently slapped our wrists. Very French! But after the admonishment, he kindly showed us to a table. You'll find the best Aperol spritz in the city here and great faire as well. Plus, it's a legendary lunch haven!

Osteria al Doge (IB): We've been going to this popular Italian trattoria in the theater district for more than 30 years and we've never had a bad meal. It consistently receives high marks for its delicious food, warm atmosphere, and excellent service, and is a favorite for pre and post Broadway theater dining so you're advised to make a reservation. There's a reason for its longevity!

The Lambs Club (IB): Just off Broadway, inside the Chatwal Hotel you'll find Chef Jack Logue's elevated and fun takes on American classics amidst a gleaming art deco atmosphere. And, as if that isn't enough to make this place unique, it's the successor to the legendary social club for the world's greatest thespians. So, the walls are adorned with the faces of renowned actors and actresses, mostly from the legitimate stage. The Lambs is a natural mecca and a hub of activity before and after showtime! 

Tommy Bahama's Marlin Bar & Restaurant (IB): The website proclaims that "at the corner of 45th & Fifth, on one of the busiest shopping avenues in the world, your refuge awaits." Indeed it does! And though there are 28 Marlin bars and/or eateries throughout the country, each is tailored to a particular locale. For example, this one features a menu highlighting Hudson Valley produce and fresh Northeastern seafood. And it delivers -- along with refreshing libations, a wonderfully calming atmosphere and a super friendly staff. Be sure of this: this ain't no Margaritaville. This is (literally and figuratively) a decided step above!

Marea (SS): Featuring Italian coastal cuisine in an upscale contemporary atmosphere, this is quite simple one of the best dining experiences we've ever had. It's truly top-of-the-line without a lot of fussiness -- which means that you'll be treated regally sans the hovering. Marea garnered three stars from The New York Times, was named Best New Restaurant by Bon Appetit, Esquire, and GQ Magazines and was also named NYC’s Best Italian Restaurant by Zagat. From day one it's been a mecca for the best of the best!

Marsaille (IB/CC): If this delightfully informal French bistro in the gritty Hell's Kitchen neighborhood doesn't satisfy your taste buds, nothing will. Great uncomplicated French faire served up just as you like it. A convivial ambience is an added plus. Try the tiny table in the far corner with a great view of the entire panoplie.

Virgil's (CC): No pretenses here, folks. This is down home barbecue at its best. In fact, it's been acclaimed as one of America's top 10 BBQ restaurants. Virgil's features meats that are smoked at a low temperature over indirect heat for up to 10 hours with a unique mix of hickory, oak and fruit woods that impart maximum flavor. Virgil's big neon sign beckons you. You won't be disappointed!

Anita Gelato (CC): This fast-growing gelato behemoth (also known as La Mama Del Gelato) has arrived in Manhattan and is attracting big crowds. Don't be scared away by all the flash, fanfare and in-your-face promotion. The stuff is really good and the sidewalk lines prove it!

Ralph Lauren's Polo Bar (IB) It's become ça fait fureur for luxe fashion houses to offer bars and/or restaurants on the premises but few can measure up to Ralph's jewel box just off Fifth Avenue. You'll have to call well in advance as soon as reservations open for the date you want and then (if you're lucky) your name will be placed on a list allowing you to check in at the door. The gleaming bar awaits as you enter and downstairs, the clubby dining room, exquisite in every detail. And don't be surprised if  Ralph and Ricky show up. Play it cool . . . 

Le Pavillion (SS): This is a dazzler in the new One Vanderbilt building near Grand Central and it ranks near the top of the list of Manhattan's best. It's said to express chef Daniel Boulud's roots in New York City with a fresh and unique approach to fine dining in a dramatic setting. It promises what it delivers, and more. And though it's formidablé, it's never intimidating. You won't regret it!

5 Napkin Burger (IB): It's not quite a diner, not quite a dive, more than a mere burger joint and beyond a corner bar. And though the famous 5 napkin burger gave it its name, it also boasts all day breakfasts, slow roasted chimichurri chicken, happy hour specials, BOGO beer Monday, wine down Tuesday and more. This is a spacious, noisy, busy place in the heart of Hell's Kitchen that attracts a lively mix of out-of-towners and neighbors. It's a true original!

The Modern (SS): In the Museum of Modern Art you'll find Danny Meyer's ultimate dining experience. Sleekly contemporary, it's a perfect spot if you want to see and be seen. This place holds two Michelin stars, a Three Star review in the New York Times, four James Beard Awards, and the Grand Award from Wine Spectator. Imbibe, chill and slowly melt into the surroundings knowing this is where you were meant to be!

Myzel's Chocolates (CC): This tiny chocolate shop across from the grand City Center performing arts edifice on 55th Street is chocolate, licorice and chocolate chip cookie heaven. You'll find the owner, Kamila behind the counter. The cookie recipe here is touted as a traditional one refined by Kamila's mother over decades within a chocolate-making tradition exemplifying exceptional baking and cooking. Also, delight in more than 100 licorice flavors from Europe. PS: Jackie Kennedy Onassis bought her cookies here!

Annie Moore's (CC): A popular after work place for drinks, munchies and basic faire, this Irish pub near Madison Avenue is the sort of place where you might have found Don Draper once upon a time. But while the big ad agencies have long since abandoned Mad Ave, Annie's is still there and still serving lunch and dinner every day except Sunday. You can have bar food, salads, sandwiches, burgers, chicken pot pie, steak, salmon -- pretty much whatever you want!

Sarabeth's (IB/CC): There are four of them in Manhattan but we like the one on Central Park South. They say that this is the place for brunch and who are we to argue? Yeah, it can be crowded and touristy but so what? When they ask you to indulge in their signature eggs, fluffy pancakes, and famous French toast, they mean it because at this place it's all about indulging, in the best sense of the word!

Goodman's Bar (SS): You'll find Goodman's nestled into a second floor corner of Bergdorf Goodman's men's store on Fifth Avenue. Get there early because it's only open until 6 pm each day. Enjoy crafted cocktails while gazing at the art of the mixologist as well as wines curated by Master Sommelier Dustin Wilson and cuisine by Chef Austin Johnson. Goodman's manages to be simultaneously new and old world -- no small feat. This place is living proof that luxe can also be cozy.

Le Grande Boucherie (IB): It's exactly what it says it is and it's delightful -- well, not literally, as boucherie is a "butcher shop." But, hey, it's French so, this ain't no ordinary butcher shop. Instead, it combines artful spaciousness with intimacy as only the French can with fresh, tasty dishes served up as if you were in a Parisian arcade -- which you are, as this place stretches (under glorious arches) the entire block of Sixth-and-a-half Avenue. Yes, there really is such an address and yes, it really is worth finding!