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When I first started writing for Spoon University, the first live post I ever contributed was centered around sharing places you could dine in to feel like you're on vacation—even when you had to stay in the city. Now more than ever, restaurants like these need our help, so I thought, why not make the first story on my personal blog match the same sentiment.
You can make it feel like a true vaca by grabbing it as takeout and dressing your apartment up for the occasion, but even if you eat on-location, one bite with your eyes closed can transport you; I hear food does that. So, let's all give these businesses a little boost while creating a great staycation experience of our own.
1. Italy - Arturo's
Billed as one of the last few remaining, authentic and old-fashioned Italian spots on NYC's UES, Arturos should definitely not be overlooked. The family-owned business is careful to preserve "traditions that are long forgotten by many of today's more trendy Italian eateries."
And that anchor in tradition is exactly what makes it so damn good. Yelpers rave about their family-like service—and their eggplant parmesan.
2. Mexico - La Contenta/La Contenta Oeste
I know. Chipotle is so tempting. And easy. But resist the urge in favor of exciting and authentic. Head downtown to La Contenta. Whether you go to the original or Oeste location, they've got great Mexican eats for any palate.
You can choose between favorites like nachos, tacos and quesadillas, and drinks that take your typical marg and turn it on its head.
3. Thailand - Soothr
It's not easy opening a new place in the middle of a global pandemic, but they've managed to make it look smooth. According to Eater, this newbie located in the East Village has some specialties up its sleeve, "including multiple noodle varieties from Sukhothai in Central Thailand, and soups and other culinary highlights of Udon Thani in northern Thailand, via owners Chidensee Watthanawongwat, Kittiya Mokkarat, and Supatta Banklouy."
They've also got dishes from Bangkok and offer outdoor dining on the sidewalk and in their rear garden.
4. India - Dhaba
I'm not really an Indian food fan myself, but I'm told Dhaba is a great option for those who are. Located in Kips Bay, there are over a hundred menu options, including about 15 types of Roti.
The Michelin chef and reasonable prices may seem contradictory, but that is a compelling enough reason to check them out, and they've got indoor and outdoor seating options for now.
5. France - La Sirene
With both uptown and downtown locations, this French spot is great for wherever you travel from. Their landlord uptown was generous enough to make significant concessions so they could remain a part of the neighborhood. And while they have yet to get the same news downtown, they remain optimistic.
They accept crypto-currency, have made major changes for Covid, and have an incredibly mouthwatering menu to top it off. Emily would approve!
6. Spain - Boqueria
While not as "small business" as some of the other locations—they've got spaces in Chicago and DC too—they boast some incredible flavors and had one of the best churro-centered desserts I've ever eaten (a churro s'mores), which though they unfortunately don't have on the menu anymore, are available sans s'mores elements and are still insanely good.
Also not to be missed, the tapas are great for sharing with friends and their larger dishes will fill you right up and tame any craving.
7. Brazil - Berimbau
Labeled as a Caipirinha Bar, this place boasts some seriously good food too. The deceptively spacious spot has expansive outdoor seating with plenty of space to enjoy some drinks and transport yourself to more tropical locales.
Their food involves customer-favorites like pao de quejo (Brazilian cheese bread), pastéis (empanadas), yuca fries, and more Brazilian faves.
8. China - Má Là Project
I finally made it to this spot sometime last year after hearing people rave about it, but dreading the long waiting times I'd been hearing so much about. It was about 20 minutes the night we went (compared to some days when it can be muchhhhh longer) so we lucked out, but it would have been worth a longer wait. And now, because of Covid, you have an excuse to eat it at home instead, saving you some much needed hunger time.
They have 2 locations—midtown and downtown—both serving some authentic dry pots that you can customize with ingredients to your liking and whatever spice level you think you can handle. They've got plenty of add-ins for any palate! I love me some heat and my dry pot perfectly balanced heat without sacrificing the ability to actually taste the flavorful ingredients.
9. Japan - Dr. Clark
Another newbie, Dr. Clarks has thought of everything! They've got some fun Katsu tables (low-to-the-ground tables and pillows for seats) for parties of 3-6 with adjustable heating under the seats so you can control just how warm you are—which is helpful because you do have to remove your shoes.
Billed as "NYC’s first Hokkaido restaurant and karaoke bar", Dr. Clark offers tabletop grilled options, sashimi and more. For a real "vacation" feel, I recommend the tour, which includes a dialogue with Yudai who will establish your tastes and decide the perfect course for you before dinner begins (drink pairings optional). The conversation continues with him taking you "through the flavors of his youth, growing up in Hokkaido," and sharing his story with you.
10. Israel - Miznon
By far, my favorite food experience in Israel was wandering the old-school, unpaved streets and munching on the "street food finds" we came across along the way. There was one place in Tzfat where I got an item called Lachuch (a savory cheese and za'atar-filled pastry that I still crave to this day).
While Miznon doesn't have that, it does have incredible dishes like their roasted cauliflower, and (I'm told) their rib eye pita is out-of-this-world. Trust me, you'll be glad you stopped by.
11. Russia - Tzaverna
One of NYC's most authentic Russian cuisine locals, Tzaverna features classic, well-executed, and organic Russian dishes like Khacahpurri—a delicious cheese-filled bread bowl, borscht, and potato vareniki.
They've got a pickle board, which is reason alone for me to love it, but the best part? They also have outdoor heat lamps to keep you warm while you whet your appetite.
12. Korea - Literally anything in K-town
Koreatown in NYC has a totally different feel from other streets. One step close to the area between 5th and 6th ave on 32nd street and you'll feel like you've been transported. Most restaurants there have adapted to Covid-style outdoor eating and you really can't go wrong with any depending on your taste preference.
13. Germany - Reichenbach Hall
If you want authentic German food, go to a biergarten, and Reichenbach is one of the better known options in the city. The smaller indoor dining mandate hasn't stopped them from slinging beers in classic mugs and serving up all the currywurst, schnitzel and giant pretzels you can eat.
They play football when it airs so you can watch along and they offer shotskis if you feel like getting a little crazy. It's been a long few months. You deserve it.
14. England - Tea & Sympathy
While they may not have fish and chips on their menu, this NYC mainstay has been around for years, providing memorable and authentic tea-time delights to warm up even the chilliest patron.
The small business could use our support whether it's for a brunch of traditional English breakfasts, tea for two, or bangers and mash. They've also got a great selection of boozy beverages to choose from if you'd like to imbibe. Show 'em some love!
15. Ireland - Maggie Mae's
Sometimes you just need a drink! A bit outside of Manhattan, in Sunnyside, this Irish pub still has outdoor seating for now and offers a great Irish coffee to-go or to stay. They've also got rotating drafts and specials, including a seasonal Apple Bourbon Smash cocktail.
And in case you were concerned, they're taking no chances with Covid, constantly updating their hours and procedures to make sure their customers stay safe (including offering free popcorn with drink orders).
16. Jamaica - Omar's Kitchen and Rum Bar
Omar's closed briefly when Covid first hit, but opened up again, first to cook meals for first responders and eventually for outdoor eating, serving customers the favorites they enjoyed before all this craziness.
The menu blends Caribbean flair with an NYC twist, with offerings like jerk chicken, plantain gnocchi and escovich vegan fish. They've even got some fun brunch options if you prefer to dine before dark—since it gets dark so early these days.
17. Greece - Pylos
Another East Village spot, Pylos serves traditional Greek cuisine, utilizing fresh, wholesome cooking from all regions of Greece.
Covid precautions include delivery and takeout options that are well worth a try.
18. Australia - Dudley's
A self-proclaimed people-watching hotspot, Dudley's offers Aussie-American food on the LES. Brunch on ricotta pancakes in the morning, or their Big Breakie—with eggs, bacon, mushrooms, roasted tomatoes, baked beans, hash browns and toast.
Later in the day, snag some classic diner fair or a drink and enjoy the views—people included.
19. Turkey - Leyla
Before you even look at their menu, Leyla thanks you for helping them get through these troubled times. And isn't that welcoming nature what you look for in an eatery?
Tucked away on an intimate residential street, reviewers rave about their amazing flatbreads, zucchini fritters and meat dishes alike. And they've got contact tracing, offer contactless ordering and payment, and even wrap cutlery in a plastic enclosed napkin for those concerned about Covid.
20. The Phillipines - Mama Fina's
I first discovered my love of Sisig at Maharlika, an unfortunate victim of closure even before the Covid casualties that have been overtaking New York's small business scene. Their food and atmosphere was so intoxicating that my friends and I closed out the place the night we went, staying to chat with staff while they cleaned without the slightest feeling of being unwelcome.
While most Filipino eateries seem to be located in Queens, there are some great city options, like Mama Fina's, a Sisig house where you can customize to your hearts content. Choose between pork, chicken, shrimp, squid, or tofu (for veg-lovers) and modify to your tastebuds.
It's been a rough few months and we could all use a break. Even if you're not actually getting out of the city, isn't a mildly convincing staycation dinner worth a try?
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