Master Index of Archived Threads


General Purpose Gastronomy Thread

metirish Aug 04 2010 09:22 AM Re: CHEESE 2010!

Yep, Five Guys , overrated food. Burger was good but the fires were cooked several times.

John Cougar Lunchbucket Aug 04 2010 09:27 AM Re: CHEESE 2010!

Read somewhere that a 5 Guys meal (burger & fries) had an insane amount of calories, considerably more than other crappy burger joints in fact. Not that I wanna care about that, just that it was so up there. I read lots of good things about them but wasn't all that impressed the one time I ate at one.

soupcan Aug 04 2010 09:32 AM Re: CHEESE 2010!

John Cougar Lunchbucket wrote: I read lots of good things about them but wasn't all that impressed the one time I ate at one. I think they're 'aight' but Shake Shack pretty much blows away any burger I've ever had in the Tri-State area.

metirish Aug 04 2010 09:41 AM Re: CHEESE 2010!

soupcan wrote: John Cougar Lunchbucket wrote: I read lots of good things about them but wasn't all that impressed the one time I ate at one. I think they're 'aight' but Shake Shack pretty much blows away any burger I've ever had in the Tri-State area. yes , once you have had Shake Shack it's hard to go back

metsmarathon Aug 04 2010 09:45 AM Re: CHEESE 2010!

John Cougar Lunchbucket wrote: Read somewhere that a 5 Guys meal (burger & fries) had an insane amount of calories, considerably more than other crappy burger joints in fact. Not that I wanna care about that, just that it was so up there. a bacon cheese burger with half a regular fries (one serving) nets you over 1200 calories, before you start tacking on any toppings.

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Aug 05 2010 11:23 AM Re: CHEESE 2010!

soupcan wrote: John Cougar Lunchbucket wrote: I read lots of good things about them but wasn't all that impressed the one time I ate at one. I think they're 'aight' but Shake Shack pretty much blows away any burger I've ever had in the Tri-State area. Burger Joint (tucked in the Parker Meridien) and that pub in Woodside (Connolly's, IIRC) kick seeeeerious round roast. More recently, I find myself digging Island Burger in Hell's Kitchen as well, at least as much for the selection (80ish varieties, incorporating ingredients as diverse as banana peppers, Port Wine spread, avocados, gruyere, and three different kinds of sauteed onions) as the quality.

batmagadanleadoff Aug 05 2010 11:30 AM Re: CHEESE 2010!

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr wrote: and that pub in Woodside (Connolly's, IIRC).... Do you mean "Donovan's"?

metirish Aug 05 2010 11:36 AM Re: CHEESE 2010!

batmagadanleadoff wrote: LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr wrote: and that pub in Woodside (Connolly's, IIRC).... Do you mean "Donovan's"? That's the place, still there is it? When I first came here in '94 Donovan's was a place to avoid if you were looking to chase some skirt. The Starting Gate , Side Tracks and Molly Willies served that purpose.

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Aug 05 2010 12:45 PM Re: CHEESE 2010!

How you say... ah, yes. Donovan's.

batmagadanleadoff Aug 05 2010 01:04 PM Re: CHEESE 2010!

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr wrote: How you say... ah, yes. Donovan's. Pretty good burger that isn't mangled and dried out to death by a cook that thinks it's cool to squash the living life out of the patty ten times while it's cooking. Below average everything else. Donovan's was the rage for burgers a few years ago. Google it it you're interested. Plenty of hits and comments to read.

The Second Spitter Aug 05 2010 04:16 PM Edited 1 time(s), most recently on Aug 05 2010 05:07 PM

Further to the discussion in the "Cheese Thread" what is the best burger you've had in the tri-state area (or in your hood)? Mine's BLT Burger at 12th W & 6th (thanks Gwreck!). Also, I found Shake Shack to be much better in the city than Citi.

Gwreck Aug 05 2010 04:53 PM Re: General Purpose Gastronomy Thread

1. BLT Burger 2. Shake Shack 3. Burger Joint at the Parker Meridian 4. Corner Bistro 5. Peter Luger 6. Donovan's Pub (Queens) 7. DuMont Burger (Brooklyn) 8. Brgr 9. Rare 10. Goodburger Have not yet been to: 5 Napkin Burger JG Melon Spotted Pig

The Second Spitter Aug 05 2010 05:06 PM Re: General Purpose Gastronomy Thread

You're the greatest dude! Gwreck wrote: 2. Shake Shack 3. Burger Joint at the Parker Meridian Last year you had these two the other way around.

Gwreck Aug 05 2010 05:29 PM Re: General Purpose Gastronomy Thread

Burger Joint raised their prices, and I've heard that lines have been longer. Used to be my go-to place when I was going to a show at Carnegie Hall or Terminal 5 but not recently.

DocTee Aug 05 2010 06:36 PM Re: General Purpose Gastronomy Thread

I'm sure Seo will agree that In-N-Out burger is awesome. SS, be sure to try one when you are in the Golden State! Unfortunately, they are owned by an ultra-conservative group (there are biblical verses on their drink cups, for example) who fund lots of ultra-conservative political movements. But damn, they're good!

Rockin' Doc Aug 05 2010 08:51 PM Re: General Purpose Gastronomy Thread

This small NC chain rules down here when you want a great burger and a creamy milkshake.

The Second Spitter Aug 06 2010 12:15 AM Re: General Purpose Gastronomy Thread

Rockin' Doc wrote: This small NC chain rules down here when you want a great burger and a creamy milkshake. Do they have a shop in Asheville? Hey admins -- any chance we get can get the burger posts in "Cheese" thread moved to this thread? Ta.

soupcan Aug 06 2010 11:58 AM Re: General Purpose Gastronomy Thread

Shake Shack is the best burger in the area in my opinion. And I agree - in the City it's better than at The Citi. There used to be a Jackson Hole on the east side in the 70's I think that was fantastic but that one is long gone. If you are ever in San Diego - I highly recommend these two joints: Rocky's Crown Pub Hodads Two of the BEST burgers I've ever had. Bar none.

seawolf17 Aug 06 2010 12:09 PM Re: General Purpose Gastronomy Thread

The Second Spitter wrote: Hey admins -- any chance we get can get the burger posts in "Cheese" thread moved to this thread? Ta. Done.

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Aug 06 2010 01:01 PM Re: General Purpose Gastronomy Thread

5. Peter Luger You've ordered the burger at Luger's? That seems so... subversive. Have not yet been to: 5 Napkin Burger Spotted Pig 5 Napkin's always been ridiculously crowded when I've walked past (I work not too far away), but a fairly trustworthy friend had a shrugworthy response. Spotted Pig I forgot about. Good, but not nearly as good as the other stuff on-menu... and factoring in the cost, it's an Honorable Mention at best in my book.

Gwreck Aug 06 2010 01:41 PM Re: General Purpose Gastronomy Thread

I think it was just a budget thing at Luger's. There were 5 of us, and we ordered steak for three and then also 2 burgers which we split in half (along with the usual side dishes). (I wasn't paying, so absolutely no complaints from me).

soupcan Aug 06 2010 05:29 PM Re: General Purpose Gastronomy Thread

I've been told that the burger at Luger's is exceptional and I always intend to try it, however every time I go there I just can never get myself to pass up on that wunnerful, wunnerful porterhouse.

John Cougar Lunchbucket Aug 07 2010 08:41 AM Re: General Purpose Gastronomy Thread

Had the last 2 nights off with Lunchpail at Granny's and ate twice in Lugar's neighborhood but not at Lugar's. It's amazin what that place has sparked in terms of nearby restaurants though. Rye was very nice, great drinks, succulent ribs and a delicious blue cheeze/fig salad. Damn! Traif had some very creative plates (including bacon donuts for desert) but was not quite as good. Both places just opened in the last year.

The Second Spitter Aug 08 2010 06:30 AM Re: General Purpose Gastronomy Thread

The best burger I had in Vegas was at the Palms Place. Oh and if you're looking for good burger go anywhere else but here - they love putting beets in their burgers for some perverse reason (even McD's does) and use sourdough bread. Seriously. That said I've had the best chicken burger here compared to anywhere else I've been around the world.

MFS62 Aug 08 2010 08:35 AM Re: General Purpose Gastronomy Thread

Ok, so the place doesn't have a reputation. In fact, it doesn't have tables inside. But if you happen to be motoring North on Rt 34 through the CT valley, just after you cross over the Stevenson Dam near the Monroe/ Newtown border, there's this tiny place on the right. Its called the Lake Zoar drive-in. If you're going over six MPH you might miss it. You order your food inside, then eat at picnic tables outside, overlooking the dam, the lake and a small boat dock. Order the Zoar burger. (I recommend fully loaded) Then the thick-cut onion rings. Then a shake (they have many unusual flavors). Then thank me. Then you'll be making special trips there for the breakfasts. I gaaaa-ronnn-teee. Later

RealityChuck Aug 08 2010 10:35 AM Re: General Purpose Gastronomy Thread

Bah. Five Guys have the best fries I've ever tasted. The only comparison is a french fry place in Old Orchard Beach, Maine that appears to have gone out of business. The peanut oil gets the credit; they are absolutely perfect fries. The burgers are great, too. Probably the best fast food burger around. (Though the junior burger is plenty of food.) Those who complain about the calories: news flash: they don't have appreciably more than any other burger and fries of the same size.

seawolf17 Aug 08 2010 11:15 AM Re: General Purpose Gastronomy Thread

If it were biologically, culturally, and financially possible for me to live on burgers and pizza alone, I'd be the happiest man in the world.

batmagadanleadoff Aug 08 2010 02:30 PM Re: General Purpose Gastronomy Thread

RealityChuck wrote: Bah. Five Guys have the best fries I've ever tasted. The only comparison is a french fry place in Old Orchard Beach, Maine that appears to have gone out of business. The peanut oil gets the credit; they are absolutely perfect fries. The burgers are great, too. Probably the best fast food burger around. (Though the junior burger is plenty of food.) Those who complain about the calories: news flash: they don't have appreciably more than any other burger and fries of the same size. This is the same line I have about a 5 Guys Burger. It's a decent burger once you accept that 5 Guys is more fast food than restaurant and that their burger should be compared to a McDonald's, Burger King, Wendy's offering, instead of to a Luger's burger. In that context, 5 Guys is more than OK, although somewhat pricier than its fast food competitors.

Number 6 Aug 08 2010 09:56 PM Re: General Purpose Gastronomy Thread

As far as off-the-beaten-track options go, I had a burger at a new place called Thistle Hill Tavern in Park Slope, and it was one of the best I've ever had. Should have been, given the price tag ($15), but I'm a ketchup nut, and absolutely no ketchup should be put on that burger. They make their own bland ketchup variety to discourage it, and it's a good thing. Just a completely different concept, and worth trying. On a similar, somewhat upscale note, Bare Burger in Astoria is a relatively new spot which serves a variety of different burger meats including elk, bison, and lamb. Only had the beef burger, and it's fantastic. Fries and dipping sauces are also excellent.

The Second Spitter Aug 09 2010 12:57 AM Re: General Purpose Gastronomy Thread

Are burgers in NZ more popular than Fush and Chups?

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Aug 09 2010 09:55 AM Re: General Purpose Gastronomy Thread

Number 6 wrote: ... I'm a ketchup nut, and absolutely no ketchup should be put on that burger. They make their own bland ketchup variety to discourage it, and it's a good thing. That's hilarious. (And an idea I'll have to steal when I open my burger joint.) On a similar, somewhat upscale note, Bare Burger in Astoria is a relatively new spot which serves a variety of different burger meats including elk, bison, and lamb. Only had the beef burger, and it's fantastic. Fries and dipping sauces are also excellent. Heard of this place. Haven't been, but have tried a number of the exotic-meat burgers at other places. On average, I've gotta say, I find myself liking the bison burger more than a beef burger, both for taste (it's got a hint of musty-funkiness that's intriguing) as well as health. Elk's okay, but not as tasty as bison. Lamb... well, it's lamb; if you're in the mood, have some. Ostrich is a nice chicken substitute... but unless you're in training mode-- it's higher in protein, IIRC-- what's the point, really?

Number 6 Aug 09 2010 08:29 PM Re: General Purpose Gastronomy Thread

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr wrote: On average, I've gotta say, I find myself liking the bison burger more than a beef burger, both for taste (it's got a hint of musty-funkiness that's intriguing) as well as health. Elk's okay, but not as tasty as bison. Lamb... well, it's lamb; if you're in the mood, have some. Ostrich is a nice chicken substitute... but unless you're in training mode-- it's higher in protein, IIRC-- what's the point, really? Yeah, I really oughta try some of them. Think I've had bison in the past, and it just tasted like a leaner beef, but it's been a while. The others I've only avoided because they're a few bucks more, and I'm a cheapskate.

soupcan Aug 10 2010 10:42 AM Re: General Purpose Gastronomy Thread

MFS62 wrote: Its called the Lake Zoar drive-in. Order the Zoar burger. (I recommend fully loaded) Then the thick-cut onion rings. Then a shake (they have many unusual flavors). Then thank me. Then you'll be making special trips there for the breakfasts. I gaaaa-ronnn-teee. I am taking you up on this guarantee. Ever been to The Sycamore in Bethel? Order the Dagwood Burger.

seawolf17 Aug 10 2010 10:44 AM Re: General Purpose Gastronomy Thread

Haven't been there, but it's now on my list for the fall.

Chad Ochoseis Aug 13 2010 09:18 PM Re: General Purpose Gastronomy Thread

Doc Tee wrote: I'm sure Seo will agree that In-N-Out burger is awesome. SS, be sure to try one when you are in the Golden State! Unfortunately, they are owned by an ultra-conservative group (there are biblical verses on their drink cups, for example) who fund lots of ultra-conservative political movements. I'm in the deepest, darkest, dullest Phoenix suburbs visiting my parents. Got home from a hike about an hour ago to find out that they'd already eaten dinner, so I'm headed out for my first ever In-N-Out burger. IIRC, they were one of the few fast food chains to get favorable mention in Fast Food Nation both for food quality and for the way they treat their employees. I consider myself very un-ultra-conservative, but I'll try not to be too offended by the biblical verses served with my chocolate shake. If I get religion from a quote at the bottom of a paper cup, you'll all be the first to know.

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Aug 17 2010 10:06 AM Re: General Purpose Gastronomy Thread

Chad Ochoseis wrote: Doc Tee wrote: I'm sure Seo will agree that In-N-Out burger is awesome. SS, be sure to try one when you are in the Golden State! Unfortunately, they are owned by an ultra-conservative group (there are biblical verses on their drink cups, for example) who fund lots of ultra-conservative political movements. I'm in the deepest, darkest, dullest Phoenix suburbs visiting my parents. Got home from a hike about an hour ago to find out that they'd already eaten dinner, so I'm headed out for my first ever In-N-Out burger. IIRC, they were one of the few fast food chains to get favorable mention in Fast Food Nation both for food quality and for the way they treat their employees. I consider myself very un-ultra-conservative, but I'll try not to be too offended by the biblical verses served with my chocolate shake. If I get religion from a quote at the bottom of a paper cup, you'll all be the first to know. So... are you a believer?

Chad Ochoseis Aug 20 2010 10:29 AM Re: General Purpose Gastronomy Thread

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr wrote: So... are you a believer? Meh. I'm not typically a burger person, so I might be the wrong guy to ask. It was way better than McD's or Burger King, and somewhat better than Wendy's. So, as fast food hamburgers go, it was fine. But halfway through dinner, I began looking longingly at the Chipotle on the other side of 83rd Avenue. And I decided to get water with my food rather than a drink, so I remain agnostic in my religious as well as my culinary beliefs.

The Second Spitter Sep 04 2010 04:09 PM Re: General Purpose Gastronomy Thread

What is the best pizza slice in the city? Also , can somebody recommend a good Jewish bakery.....preferably on the Upper East or West. Ta.

dgwphotography Sep 04 2010 04:25 PM Re: General Purpose Gastronomy Thread

MFS62 wrote: Ok, so the place doesn't have a reputation. In fact, it doesn't have tables inside. But if you happen to be motoring North on Rt 34 through the CT valley, just after you cross over the Stevenson Dam near the Monroe/ Newtown border, there's this tiny place on the right. Its called the Lake Zoar drive-in. If you're going over six MPH you might miss it. You order your food inside, then eat at picnic tables outside, overlooking the dam, the lake and a small boat dock. Order the Zoar burger. (I recommend fully loaded) Then the thick-cut onion rings. Then a shake (they have many unusual flavors). Then thank me. Then you'll be making special trips there for the breakfasts. I gaaaa-ronnn-teee. Later I have to second this - great, great food...

Gwreck Sep 04 2010 05:33 PM Re: General Purpose Gastronomy Thread

The Second Spitter wrote: What is the best pizza slice in the city? What I would suggest the two best places for "traditional" pizza are actually not known for slices: 1. DiFara, in the Midwood neighborhood in Brooklyn. Probably the best in NYC. All pies made by the same 70-something year old person who's run the place since the 60s. It stayed under-the-radar for a very long time but particularly in the last 5 years its popularity has exploded, and prices went up accordingly. It's probably an hour on the subway from Manhattan plus at peak times, and hour (or more) in waiting time to get your food. They will do individual slices but it's not recommended; just go with someone else and get a whole pie. It *is* that good. 2. John's, in Greenwich Village on Bleecker Street. They have a second location in the Theater District but you want to go to the original location. As policy, they do not do slices. Arguably the best thin-crust pizza around. There are plenty of other places that are highly ranked too: some might suggest Grimaldi's (in Brooklyn, near the foot of the Brooklyn Bridge) or Lombardi's in Manhattan but I would recommend the top 2 above. In the last few years, there has been a growing trend of "Artisinal" Pizza places opening up which differ from the "traditional" pizza places in that they are typically individual sized portions, with a host of different ingredients and different styles (ie. not with tomato sauce and melted mozzarella). The three best of these are probably 1. Franny's, in Prospect Heights (Brooklyn) 2. Motorino, in Willamsburg (Brooklyn) 3. Co., in Chelsea (Manhattan). One of these style places also recently opened in my 'hood as well which I am a big fan of.

themetfairy Sep 04 2010 08:55 PM Re: General Purpose Gastronomy Thread

I was always a fan of the Original Ray's pizza chain. I used to love the Royale Bakery on W. 72nd between B'way and West End Ave, but I am not sure that it still exists.

Number 6 Sep 05 2010 12:53 AM Re: General Purpose Gastronomy Thread

I will be one of those who would suggest Grimaldi's. If you're shepherding folks on a vacation to New York, a walk across the Brooklyn Bridge followed by a pie there is an iconic NY experience. The line may look long, but it moves. DUMBO is also a nice neighborhood to stroll around, if you still have the energy after gorging yourself. I love Di Fara, it's absolutely the real deal, just a little difficult to do casually since it's such a trek. But if you're a connoisseur and looking to have a day dedicated to pizza, you'll be satisfied.

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Sep 05 2010 02:08 AM Re: General Purpose Gastronomy Thread

I love DiFara's, too-- the prices seem ridiculous (and they kind of are), but a fresh DiFara's pie has complexity... almost personality. Have a snack before you go-- seriously. (Saying it's "an hour" doesn't do the wait justice-- the place itself is a dirty, crowded scramble for amazing, amazing pizza... and it can be murder for the hungry non-initiate). As 6 says, Grimaldi's is worth it at least as much for the scenery as for the pie... and during a week with weather like this, it'll be worth the wait. John's is almost a must, too. Also in Manhattan, and a little pretentious (there's a wine list and a beer list... and no reservations, IIRC), is Motorino (formerly Una Pizza Napoletana) in the East Village-- tiny, overpriced pies... that are pitch-perfect. The clam pie and white anchovy/cherry tomato are amazing. I'll also toss a bone to the most maligned borough: SI's got 2 of the top, say, 5, in my book (DeNino's and Joe and Pat's-- both trad NY-thin-crust, both beautiful, slightly charred but firm and tasty crusts with bright, tasty sauce).

batmagadanleadoff Sep 05 2010 02:39 AM Re: General Purpose Gastronomy Thread

Anyone here who takes their pizza seriously and has never been to Di Fara's ought to make it a point to get there. The place is a New York City treasure. But Dom the pizzaiola is in his seventies and slowing down. And it appears that his pizza making skills haven't been passed down. Nothing lasts forever. When everything's clicking, Di Fara's pizza is some of the best food you'll ever put in your mouth. I've been there hundreds and hundreds of times. I'm gonna pan Grimaldi's. I've had too many soggy crusted pies to take that place seriously as an elite pizza joint. Can you spell d-o-w-n-h-i-l-l?

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Sep 05 2010 05:43 AM Re: General Purpose Gastronomy Thread

batmagadanleadoff wrote: But Dom the pizzaiola is in his seventies and slowing down. And it appears that his pizza making skills haven't been passed down. Nothing lasts forever. LWBH and I often wonder aloud to each other how his kids must feel about him. They obviously work to make the joint happen, to the point where they generally look as worn down as a Soviet grandma, and yet... he's the only one who makes the pies, 6-7 days a week (presumably throughout their childhoods, too)? Has he jealously guarded the secret? Has he just never shared it? How does he put so much time and life into this and not pass it on? Have the kids each been tested as to worthiness to become his pizzaola heir... and been found wanting? Are they just really unambitious? What kind of dad could he have been to them? What kind of boss? (It's a really long wait.)

Ceetar Sep 05 2010 08:34 AM Re: General Purpose Gastronomy Thread

batmagadanleadoff wrote: Anyone here who takes their pizza seriously and has never been to Di Fara's ought to make it a point to get there. The place is a New York City treasure. But Dom the pizzaiola is in his seventies and slowing down. And it appears that his pizza making skills haven't been passed down. Nothing lasts forever. When everything's clicking, Di Fara's pizza is some of the best food you'll ever put in your mouth. I've been there hundreds and hundreds of times. I'm gonna pan Grimaldi's. I've had too many soggy crusted pies to take that place seriously as an elite pizza joint. Can you spell d-o-w-n-h-i-l-l? Grimaldi's is franchised now or whatever, but I still mark it as the best I've had, but I'm one of those that hasn't had Di Fara's. I don't get into Brooklyn much, always found it inconvenient. Its on my list though. John's is good. I've only been to the theater district one (they've apparently opened a Shake Shack next to it?), but I still like Grimaldi's better. (I've been to the original, the one on LI, and the one in Queens. haven't tried Hoboken or Las Vegas yet) Never had a soggy pie though.

Ceetar Sep 05 2010 08:39 AM Re: General Purpose Gastronomy Thread

RealityChuck wrote: Bah. Five Guys have the best fries I've ever tasted. The only comparison is a french fry place in Old Orchard Beach, Maine that appears to have gone out of business. The peanut oil gets the credit; they are absolutely perfect fries. The burgers are great, too. Probably the best fast food burger around. (Though the junior burger is plenty of food.) Those who complain about the calories: news flash: they don't have appreciably more than any other burger and fries of the same size. Their fries are good, but I prefer Chickie and Pete's better, the only good thing in Philadelphia. I don't think you can beat Pomme Frittes though. (outside of Belgium anyway)

DocTee Sep 05 2010 09:46 AM Re: General Purpose Gastronomy Thread

There's a pizza place on the UES (Lexington and 82) that is awesome. Name slips my mind-- I know they once delivered to Paul McCartney. In England. Orwasher's bakery (78th off second) makes the best bread you'll ever taste-- pumpernickel raisin is my fave-- and has been there since the late 19th century, IIRC. For more traditional sweets, try Glaser's (87th and 1st), a Yorkville institution, though not Jewish (Orwasher's is). God, I miss home.

themetfairy Sep 05 2010 01:03 PM Re: General Purpose Gastronomy Thread

As for bakeries on the Upper West Side, you could always check out Zabar's.

MFS62 Sep 06 2010 08:58 AM Re: General Purpose Gastronomy Thread

soupcan wrote: Ever been to The Sycamore in Bethel? Order the Dagwood Burger. Never tried the burgers there, but I liked their home made New England clam chowder. Later

batmagadanleadoff Sep 06 2010 01:17 PM Re: General Purpose Gastronomy Thread

DocTee wrote: There's a pizza place on the UES (Lexington and 82) that is awesome. Name slips my mind-- I know they once delivered to Paul McCartney. In England. Orwasher's bakery (78th off second) makes the best bread you'll ever taste-- pumpernickel raisin is my fave-- and has been there since the late 19th century, IIRC. For more traditional sweets, try Glaser's (87th and 1st), a Yorkville institution, though not Jewish (Orwasher's is). God, I miss home. Orwasher's is a hidden gem of a bakery, tucked away in the middle of a street that's mostly residential. But right around the block, on the corner of East 79th St. and First Avenue, Agata & Valentina boasts one of Manhattan's best collections of breads. Though technically not a bakery, A&V fills its bread section on a daily basis by cherry picking from some of the best of NYC's bakeries. It's like a Beatles greatest hits album ... or a farm system comprised of prospects personally handpicked by Whitey Herzog. Or Earl Weaver. Or Bobby V. (You get the point). Where is that pizzeria? Is the entrance on Lex? Or on E 82nd St? (I'm reserving comment until you respond).

The Second Spitter Sep 06 2010 01:57 PM Re: General Purpose Gastronomy Thread

That would be "Famous Ray Bono" and it's on Lexington.

DocTee Sep 06 2010 02:52 PM Re: General Purpose Gastronomy Thread

No, it's Mimi's Pizza. I might have the intersection wrong. A block north of Lascoff Pharmacy, I believe. It's on the Northwest corner. The entrance is on Lexington, not the side street. Small place.

The Second Spitter Sep 06 2010 09:28 PM Re: General Purpose Gastronomy Thread

Mimi's has actually expanded. I think they bought the place next door and extended their premises.

DocTee Sep 07 2010 08:52 AM Re: General Purpose Gastronomy Thread

It's been years. I hope the expansion (and passing of time) has not diminished the quality of the product.

MFS62 Sep 07 2010 09:35 AM Re: General Purpose Gastronomy Thread

DocTee wrote: No, it's Mimi's Pizza. I might have the intersection wrong. A block north of Lascoff Pharmacy, I believe. It's on the Northwest corner. The entrance is on Lexington, not the side street. Small place. When you start giving directions using a pharmacy as a landmark, you must be in Florida. Or a Doctor. Later

DocTee Sep 07 2010 09:46 AM Re: General Purpose Gastronomy Thread

Lascoff's still has a soda fountain, where one can get egg creams. It was the first "professional" pharmacy in the country that shop is like a time machine.

The Second Spitter Sep 08 2010 10:30 AM Re: General Purpose Gastronomy Thread

DocTee wrote: It's been years. I hope the expansion (and passing of time) has not diminished the quality of the product. Unfortunately it has. I last had a slice at Mimi's in 01. Then again last Sunday. It was greasy to the point of dripping oil and fresh mozzarella was tasteless.

metirish Sep 08 2010 01:24 PM Re: General Purpose Gastronomy Thread

While in the city Saturday we stopped in to Mustang Harry's for a bite and after seeing someone else get the Mustang Harry's burger I was pissed i didn't. It looked great, a big round looking thing the burger was. It was 2pm on a Saturday and the place was empty, and that's a big place to be empty.

metirish Sep 13 2010 05:26 PM Re: General Purpose Gastronomy Thread

The wife has a friend out from Puerto Rico and they asked me for some "famous" NY must eats.....these are my words but you get the meaning.....2nd Av Deli....Katz Deli.....places like that....can ye give me five places?

The Second Spitter Sep 13 2010 11:44 PM Re: General Purpose Gastronomy Thread

Carnegie Deli Magnolia Bakery Zabars (the deli, not the diner) H&H Bagels BLT Burger Veniero's

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Sep 14 2010 10:51 AM Re: General Purpose Gastronomy Thread

Would Lombardi's-- if only because of the history-- be the must-eat for pizza? If not Zabar's/H & H, perhaps Russ and Daughters (on the same swing as Katz' Deli)? Nathan's is a must, too, right? Maybe?

DocTee Sep 14 2010 12:29 PM Re: General Purpose Gastronomy Thread

Fraunces Tavern McSorley's Mickey Mantles (i just wanted to see if you were paying attention)

themetfairy Sep 14 2010 01:05 PM Re: General Purpose Gastronomy Thread

Tom's Restaurant

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Sep 14 2010 01:41 PM Re: General Purpose Gastronomy Thread

P. J. Clarke's The White Horse Tavern Junior's (Brooklyn) Chinatown Dim Sum or late night noodles/dumplings? One or more of the Batalli/Bobby Flay joints? (Along the same Food TV/foodie lines, Per Se, or WD-50, or Momofuku Noodle/Ssam?)

themetfairy Sep 14 2010 01:44 PM Re: General Purpose Gastronomy Thread

When will your guest be in town? The Feast of San Gennaro is September 16-26.

Benjamin Grimm Sep 14 2010 01:45 PM Re: General Purpose Gastronomy Thread

themetfairy wrote: If I ever open up a restaurant, I'm going to call it "RESTAURANT".

themetfairy Sep 14 2010 01:50 PM Re: General Purpose Gastronomy Thread

Benjamin Grimm wrote: themetfairy wrote: If I ever open up a restaurant, I'm going to call it "RESTAURANT". The sign on Broadway is more complete -

DocTee Sep 14 2010 02:20 PM Re: General Purpose Gastronomy Thread

Sylvia's Tavern on the Green is gone now, eh?

themetfairy Sep 14 2010 02:59 PM Re: General Purpose Gastronomy Thread

Tavern's gone. And although it was a pretty location, the food in recent years wasn't anything special.

themetfairy Sep 14 2010 03:03 PM Re: General Purpose Gastronomy Thread

What about Sardi's?

The Second Spitter Sep 14 2010 03:21 PM Re: General Purpose Gastronomy Thread

The Soup Nazi reopened in July. 55th and 8th

The Second Spitter Nov 18 2010 04:38 AM Re: General Purpose Gastronomy Thread

Here are the Top 10 things I ate in the United States: 1. Warm Dungeness Crab Roll, Nettie's, San Francisco, CA. 2. Triple Berry Pie w/ice cream, Nepenthe, Big Sur, CA. 3. Eggs Benedict done with Andy's Sage Fried Chicken w/ fresh spinach, hardwood smoked bacon, market tomato, griddled mozzarella, chipotle cream and scrambled eggs, Hash House, San Diego, CA 4. Cheeseburger, Burger Joint at the Parker Meridian, New York, NY. 5.Pumpkin Pancakes, White House Inn, Cooperstown, NY. 6. Filet Mignon, served w/ Point Reyes Blue Cheese sauce and garlic mashed potatoes, Nepenthe, Big Sur, CA. 7. BLT Burger, BLT Burger, Las Vegas, NV (better than the one in NYC). 8. Rib-eye Burger, Congregation Ale House, Long Beach, CA. 9. Strawberry Cheesecake, Carnegie Deli, New York, NY. 10. Fish Tacos, Holé Molé, Long Beach, CA.

Gwreck Nov 18 2010 08:14 PM Re: General Purpose Gastronomy Thread

All of a sudden I am really hungry. That's a hell of a list.

John Cougar Lunchbucket Nov 18 2010 08:55 PM Re: General Purpose Gastronomy Thread

Hmmmm, Wings at the Red Star Bar didn't make the list.