Lunch in Soho?

Any recommendations for a fun, wallet friendly lunch in Soho for a group of moms and teenage daughters, close to shopping on Broadway between Houston and Canal?

[captkenjeroo]

Keeping in mind places that are light on the wallet, a few other places come to mind.

La Esquina (the upstairs portion that took over the old diner) on Kenmare off Lafayette has tasty tacos and tortas which are very reasonable and tasty, with a lot of variety. Only thing is it's tiny, so if it's a nice day, take it outside and eat in the neighboring park.

Right across the street is Hoomoos Asli, a pretty good Israeli food joint, with hummus, falafel, and the like.

Up the street (on Lafayette right north of Kenmare) is Mexican Radio - a sit down mexican place that's pretty good and still fairly reasonable.

Next to Mexican Radio is Le Jardin Bistro, which is always consistent and reasonable for bistro fare (good croque monsieur, omelettes, steak tartare, soups and salads, great fries and more full fare. Might be a nice relaxing escape for the ladies after some shopping. Don't be mislead by all the white tablecloths and very serious, Gallic looking waiters. It's pretty casual and they have gorgeous vine covered garden in the back which is lovely on nice days and is hidden from the street.

If you decide to go further south, Dim Sum Go Go is a block south of canal on 5 e.broadway (just ask for someone to point you towards Chatham Square.) While it's not going to convince people it's authentic dim sum, it's a safe bet since it's somewhat westernized but still very tasty (they have myriad varieties of dumplings and other great veggie dishes that are good.) Also, tons of food, very light on wallet.

Kelley and Ping that another poster recommended is a good one and should fit your bill as well.

There are so many great little places down there. Hope some of those help.

Good luck and enjoy

[megaepicure]

You can't beat Mooncakes on Watts and Thompson for a delicious and inexpensive lunch. I'm almost tempted NOT to post this because they have already been more crowded lately!

[Sean Dell]

I second Jerry's. But go early, 12.00, or you'll have a wait for the big table.

- Sean

[alwm]

Aroma Espresso Bar (160 Wooster but on Houston) has terrific salads. They're huge and around $7. The bread and coffee is good and the sandwiches and all-day breakfast and bourekas look great. The place is airy, bright and modern.

I went to Le Quinze on west houston street and sullivan and it was very good. I tried the croque-monsieur and I am agree with Eric Azimov from New York Times and Adam Plat from New York Magazine that it's one of the best in town.

While the food is not spectacular or anything, Lucky Strike (Grand St, just east of W.Broadway) might be a fun place for the group you describe. The lamb&leek sandwich is tasty, as are the frites. Salad nicoise is nice too. And hearty inexpensive wine by the glass.

Jerry's (recommended by a poster below) is also a good choice.

Despite the Jane bashing that frequents this site, they have a wonderful lunch menu that will not pinch the pocket too much.

agreed.
a very good restaurant

[theannerska]

Also agreed; I think there's been one or two mentions of Jane's burger in all the frenzied "best burger" threads, but it is really quite good. Good brunch as well.

[2slices]

I know no one will read this as this post is already a month old but who in their right mind would bash Jane. INHO a fantastic neighborhood restaurant and even worth a trip if you're in the city. If you're unsure what to order absolutely without question order the double cut pork chop. Repeat it with me "Double Cut Pork Chop".

Here are 2 possibilities:

Kelley and Ping, 127 Greene, just south of Houston. Funky Asian decor, casual menu, mostly of noodle and rice dishes, all well prepared. You go up and order your food, which keeps the prices down. It's a fun, popular place.

Jerry's, 101 Prince. A Soho stalwart, kind of like an upscale diner with a good variety of food ranging from sandwiches and salads to more ambitious entrees. This used to be a huge art world hangout, but now the art world has mostly left Soho. In any case, it's still a hangout and a comfortable place for a casual lunch.

Just north of Soho is Noho Star, on Bleecker & Lafayette. Also Spring Street Natural on Spring & Lafayette. Both are pretty gently priced and have large menus.