November 21, 2008
Best restaurants: East Side
East Village
ChikaLicious Dessert Bar
203 E 10th St., 212-995-9511
You can watch the chefs as they prepare ornate, mouth-watering desserts.
La Palapa
77 St. Marks Pl., 212-777-2537
The tables are extremely close together, but who cares with Sangria and margaritas this good?
Lower East Side
Il Laboratorio del Gelato
95 Orchard St., 212-343-9922
Choose from more than 100 homemade gelatos and sorbets served to you by "scientists" outfitted in white lab coats.
Katz's Delicatessen
205 E Houston St., 212-254-2246
The oldest deli in the city, Katz's is still the best place for a corned beef sandwich or bowl of matzoh ball soup. But don't think it's in any way pretentious. You grab a ticket, wait in line to order, serve yourself water and then seat yourself.
Gramecy/Murray Hill
Azuki Sushi
239 Park Avenue South, 212-228-3611
Tasty sushi plus free wine (with a $15 per person minimum) equals happy customers.
El Rio Grande
160 E. 38th St., 212-867-0922
This often crowded, after-work spot is more tolerable than other Murray Hill staples because of its quesadillas and outdoor seating.
Midtown East
Rockefeller Center Concourse
48th to 50th streets, Fifth to Sixth avenues
Underneath the giant Christmas tree spot lies several favorite chain eateries, including Tossed, Auntie Anne's, Pret a Manger and, obviously, Starbucks.
Burger Heaven
536 Madison Ave., 212-753-4214
The burgers are fantastic, and service is fast.
Upper East Side
La Maison du Chocolate
1018 Madison Ave., 212-744-7117
Satiate your sweet tooth at this classic French chocolatier with a knowledgeable staff and divine chocolates.
Via Quadronno
25 E 73rd St., 212-650-9880
People watch at this trendy Milanese panini bar.
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