Balthazar

80 Spring St, between Broadway and Crosby St, New York, NY 10012 212-965-1414

Description: SOHO. This fashionable little spot is straight off a Paris movie set: smartly clad waiters, tile-work, ceiling fans, elegant furnishings and leather banquettes. The well-heeled crowd enjoys the brasserie-style fare ­ not to mention the oyster and shellfish bar. Balthazar also offers a great morning menu with everything from sour cream-hazelnut waffles to a full English breakfast. The weekend brunch, meanwhile, draws a who's who of industry folks for dandies like brioche French toast and grilled brook trout. Terrific Bloody Marys, too! TRAIN: 6 to Spring St
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Bereket

187 E Houston St, at Orchard St, New York, NY 10002 212-475-7700

Description: LOWER EAST SIDE. Most thank the stars that this Little Italy dive is open 24 hours a day! Serving a variety of Turkish dishes, Bereket is a favorite of everybody from cabbies to East Village hipsters. First-timers will probably want to try the lamb or chicken kebabs and falafels. Seasoned veterans, though, will opt for the patlican kizartma (fried eggplant and peppers), Turkish pizza or leek stew. Make sure you check out the daily specials. You wouldn't want to miss something like Wednesday's moussaka, now, would you? Reservations are not accepted. Save room for the baklava or rice pudding ­ they're always fresh. TRAIN: F to 2nd Ave
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Bubby's Pie Co.

120 Hudson St, New York, NY 10013-3217 212-219-0666

Description: TRIBECA. One of the most popular brunch spots in the city, this eatery routinely pleases crowds with such tasty options as pecan waffles and freshly squeezed orange juice. The décor hearkens back to a 1940s era train depot with a brass bar and wooden seats. Outside seating available during summer months. There's usually a wait for a table at brunch time. TRAIN: 1, 9 to Franklin St
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Caffe Falai

265 Lafayette St, New York, NY 10012 212-274-8615

Description: This cozy spot feels larger than its is thanks to its sleek, white interior and the wall-mounted mirrors. Palates are treated to bold, savory flavors, thanks to a brunch menu that includes fare such as baked eggs with tomato sauce and smoked salmon, mozzarella and prosciutto panini, and poached figs with fresh ricotta and crunchy almonds. A selection of decadent pastries and desserts is also available for something on the go.
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Ceci-Cela Patisserie

55 Spring St, New York, NY 10012 212-274-9179

Description: The name means "this and that," and it adequately portrays this little French café located between Lafayette and Mulberry. You'll find an interesting and varied dessert menu that includes lighter than air pastries and croissants that are truly heavenly. TRAIN: 6 to Spring St
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City Hall

131 Duane St, Between Church and W Broadway, New York, NY 10013 212-227-7777

Description: TRIBECA. Traditional American eats and well-presented dishes characterize this TriBeCa dining room, which tends to draw a cool mix of families, fashion-ites and folks from the neighborhood. The space boasts all the classy, "big city" style you could ask for, from bustling, energetic servers to the old school elements of its 19th century digs. As for the food, there are few better ways to start a morning than with a stiff cup of joe and one of City Hall's signature blintzes. For dinner, one of their NYC-themed "seafood towers" is a must-try. TRAIN: A, C, 1, 2, 3 to Chambers St
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Clinton St. Baking Company & Restaurant

4 Clinton St, New York, NY 646-602-6263

Description: LOWER EAST SIDE. A wise bet for brunch in the LES, this charmer most assuredly benefits from having a bakery attached to it ... Actually, it's the customers who are the true beneficiaries, thanks to dandies like old-fashioned buttermilk biscuits, blueberry pancakes and brioche French toast. If you're counting carbs, don't sweat it ­ they also serve up a wicked Spanish scramble, huevos rancheros and a build-it-yourself omelet. Despite the place's popularity and upscale digs (it's a diner, sure, but a very contemporary one), its "mom-n-pop bakery" attitude is refreshingly constant. TRAIN: F to Delancey St; J, M, Z to Essex St
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Famous Joe's Pizza

7 Carmine St, New York, NY 10014 212-366-1182

Description: WEST VILLAGE. Endorsed by none other than Ben Affleck, Joe's is famous for a good reason: Their thin, crisp pies are nothing short of divine. Plain pizzas are $17, and each topping you add ­ choices include sausage, mushrooms, broccoli, peppers, onions, anchovies, meatball, spinach and olives ­ runs a well-worth-it $3. The space is snug, and there are but a few tables. But then, nobody in his right mind would pay Famous Joe's a visit just to take in the decor! If you're strapped for cash, don't fret: For a couple of bucks, you can enjoy pizza by the slice! TRAIN: A, C, E; B, D, F, V at W 4th St
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Frank

88 2nd Ave, between 4th & 5th St, New York, NY 10003 212-420-0202

Description: EAST VILLAGE. Frank, a popular place with the neighborhood folks for years, serves up excellent homemade pasta dishes for very reasonable prices. Make sure you show up early for a meal at this cozy storefront restaurant, located between Fifth and Sixth Streets. Expect to see everybody here, from suit-wearing business-types to local artists and musicians ­ all of them crowded around the oak tables enjoying the likes of Uncle Tony's tasty gnocchi. TRAIN: F to 2nd Ave; 6 to Astor Pl
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Grandaisy Bakery

73 Sullivan St, New York, NY 10012 212-334-9435

Description: SOHO. Runners might not be carbo-loading at Grandaisy Bakery, but the pizza and the artisan breads are certainly good enough to make anyone else consider it. The sunny bakery's display cases are chock full of filone, ciabatta and olive loaves, but surprisingly enough, the pizza is the main attraction for most regs. The bianca con pecornio features 13-month old Sardinian pecorino folded into the dough, while the pizza cavolfiore has layers of cauliflower and gruyere on top of a thin, crisp crust.
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Great NY Noodletown

28 Bowery, New York, NY 10013-5100 212-349-0923

Description: CHINATOWN. One of the finest Chinese restaurants in the area, New York Noodle Town has built its reputation based on two things: great food and excellent prices. Located on the corner of Bowery and Bayard, the restaurant attracts more than its share of business -types, neighborhood folks and knowing sightseers. The place's décor (circa 1985) may not be your cup of tea, but their fish and seafood-heavy menu will be. Rumor has it that the sea bass is king, but other items like their wonton soup, Cantonese noodles, soft shell crabs and lo mein are also popular, especially with the late-night crowd. Noodle Town accepts cash only. TRAIN: J, M, Z, N, R, 6 to Canal St
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Grey Dog Coffee

33 Carmine St, New York, NY 10014 212-462-0041

Description: WEST VILLAGE. Weathered, worn-out signage on Carmine Street points folks in the direction of some of the Village's best percolated beans. Named in honor of two Labrador retrievers, one white and the other black, this small coffeehouse offers up no false pretense ... it simply is what it is: a mom and pop business that has become as much a part of the community as, say, the family dog. Come early in the day for an order of eggs prepared any style, challah French toast, or a bagel with lox. Stop in any time you want for a large cafe au lait, spiced chai or machiato. TRAIN: A, C, E, F, V to W 4th; 1, 9 to Houston
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Hiroko's Place

75 Thompson St, New York, NY 10012 212-625-1303

Description: SOHO. Despite what your instincts might tell you upon reading the name of this cafe, you will most definitely not be able to order Japanese food here. Instead, what you'll find is youshoku, or Japanese-style Western food. You'll find unique down-home creations that mix unexpected flavors with great success. The omurice (omelet stuffed with fried rice and drizzled with ketchup) in particular is a satisfying and intriguing choice, and while you're waiting on your food, you can even read the Japanese manga arranged on shelves in the restaurant.
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'ino

21 Bedford St, between 6th Ave and Downing St, New York, NY 10014 212-989-5769

Description: WEST VILLAGE. Don't let the diminutive size of Ino fool you ­ this Italian wine bar serves up munchies that are huge on taste! Lone lunchers or small groups are most common here, and you will see many worker-bees who have dashed out for a quick noontime bite. Favorites are the creative sandwiches and the classic bruschetta. Light appetites should try the Panini, which comes in variations such as prosciutto with soft Italian cheese and sweet onion or roasted vegetables and goat cheese.
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Katz's Deli

205 E Houston St, New York, NY 10002 212-254-2246

Description: LOWER EAST SIDE. This East Houston gem enjoys a fine reputation as one of the Lower East Side's best delis ­ perhaps this is because it's so close to Little Italy! Remember the famous "Yes, yes, yes!" scene from "When Harry Met Sally?" If so, you'll recognize Katz's Deli, a Manhattan mainstay since before World War II. This is one of the very few delis that still carves corned beef and pastrami by hand. Overlook the décor, ignore the brash waitstaff, and concentrate on the best deli sandwich you've ever eaten. $20 minimum on credit card purchases. TRAIN: F to 2nd Ave
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Odeon

145 W Broadway, New York, NY 10013-3373 212-233-0507

Description: TRIBECA. Opened in 1980, this place is still going strong as one of the most popular places for a casual weekend brunch. Try some of the delicious buttermilk pancakes slathered in cranberry (winter) or strawberry (summer) butter, or munch on an exceptionally tasty seared tuna sandwich. Actually, any item from the New American/French menu is sure to please. While brunching, you may catch a glimpse of some celebs as many are known to frequent this exciting bistro. Jacket and tie not required. Reservations recommended. TRAIN: A, C, 1, 2, 3, 9 to Chambers St
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Once Upon a Tart

135 Sullivan St, between Prince & Houston St, New York, NY 10012 212-387-8869

Description: SOHO. This bakery/café brings you delectable desserts as well as great lunch and dinner items. On entering the doors of this eatery, you get the feeling of a hometown bakery. Although this establishment is located in a neighborhood that still feels a little homey, it is close enough to the shopping and dynamic energy offered by SoHo ­ the best of both worlds. $10 minimum for credit cards. TRAIN: C, E to Spring St; N,R to Prince St; 1,9 to Houston
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The Mercer Kitchen

99 Prince St, Mercer Hotel, New York, NY 10012 212-966-5454

Description: SOHO. Don't be misled by the name; this is one fabulous restaurant. The décor is breathtaking with heavy wooden tables, brick walls and beautiful table top appointments. Feast on innovative and mouth watering food like black sea bass drizzled in lime juice and coriander, codfish wrapped in fig leaf surrounded by figs and eggplant or the rich custard topped with caramelized pineapple. Prix fixe lunch is $24. TRAIN: N, R at Prince St
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Veniero's

342 E 11th St, New York, NY 10009 212-674-7070

Description: EAST VILLAGE. A popular place to stop in for a good cup of cappuccino or espresso and a delicious homemade dessert, this neat little coffee shop is located between First and Second Avenues. Founded in 1894, Veniero's serves up everything from cheesecake to chocolate mousse. However, it's the Italian pastries that have developed quite a reputation over the years, and it's easy to see why once you take a delectable bite out of their cannoli, torrone or biscotti. On warmer days, gelato is the way to go. If you really want to make a lasting impression on somebody, order one of Veniero's sinful cakes. TRAIN: L to 1st Ave
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XO Kitchen

148 Hester St, between Bowery & Elizabeth St, New York, NY 10013 212-965-8645

Description: CHINATOWN. Just a short walk north of Canal Street, you'll find this excellent little eatery, which is also, perhaps, one of the best deals outside of Chinatown. Bowery's XO Kitchen, while not the most ornate restaurant, will nevertheless impress you with its authentic Cantonese fair. Menu favorites include everything from fried calamari and oysters to jellyfish and several types of tong shuis. If you really want to be surprised, check out what they are cooking up at 8am! TRAIN: B, D, Q to Grand St
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