Craving Great NYC Classic fare with a Twist

[Alissawv]

Hello all,
My husband and I are planning a VERY short getaway to Manhattan in mid June. We are expats and are craving all American food (not the heavy outdated fare). We have two precious days without the kids and I want every meal to be memorable, but not necessarily expensive! Looking for places that are inviting and have an upbeat vibe. We are staying in the Upper West Side and would like recommendations for the following: breakfast, a great deli, the perfect pizza with fresh and exciting toppings, a seafood place, and finally a cutting edge (but relaxed) American bistro (my husband dreams of USDA steak all year). I personally love a tasting menu. Oh, and a nice place for cocktails as well (old NY style).
Thanks!

[foodwhisperer]

You are staying on the Upper West Side, a trip to Big Nick's on Broadway is a must. That diversified menu and the many varieties of hamburgers, make it a place you should go for a taste of NYC . They have great hamburgers, and a truly NYC atmosphere

[prima]

If you're staying on the UWS, might also stop at Barney Greengrass for breakfast (for smoked salmon- can eat in or take-out) and Levain Bakery for a cookie (although their cookies would qualify as heavyweights!)

Landmarc and Telepan also offer some new takes on American fare on their menus.

[kathryn]

I think what you want would be:
Pancakes and biscuit sandwiches at Clinton St Baking Co
Pastrami on rye at Katz's (not the most inviting/upbeat though)
Any pizza at Motorino
Lobster rolls, fried oysters, etc at Pearl Oyster Bar
Dinner at Craft or maybe Minetta Tavern (which is more French)
Cocktails at Keens or Monkey Bar

[Alissawv]

Wow! Thanks Kathryn for the great recommendations! They are exactly what we were hoping for. Cheers!

[PHREDDY]

first...la flor for breakfast in woodside then to do tai for lunch...shria pa pai..in woodside...next wonton soup at wo hop in china town...then steak at Wolfgangs on 33rd street,,

[thegforceny]

Are you replying to the correct thread? These expats have provided a list of specific AMERICAN items they want during a quick trip to Manhattan. You're sending them to Queens to a Latin American bakery and Thai, then to Chinatown?

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