On the Grid
A New Yorker's New York List
There’s the New York that belongs to the world and then there’s the New York where New Yorkers actually go. Sometimes they intersect (at Balthazar or the Met), but often they stay comfortably apart. I did a more opinionated list a few years ago. You undoubtedly have your celebrated favorites, but here are some great places with a lower profile that you might like.
-Houseman. The rare Manhattan neighborhood restaurant. The chef is the Ned Baldwin (also a celebrated angler) and a perfect place for lunch (which they don’t promote). Around the corner from Ear Inn, make an afternoon of it.
-Irish Repertory Theater. Good plays on a quiet side street. If you want something good that doesn’t break the bank. Go to Peter McManus for a pint after a matinee.
-Té Company. Lovely, small shop in the West Village for tea and small dishes. Great if you get a table. Still great for gifts. Across from Three Lives bookstore.
-Walker’s. A bar that’s correct in every way (except for the televisions). A wonderful space in Tribeca, day or night.
-Abingdon Square Greenmarket. Union Square is more comprehensive. But this West Village market on Saturday mornings is delightful.
-Sendo. Good sushi on the second floor of a random building near the Flower District. Reasonable price. Sometimes bad music, but you can’t have everything.