By Alexa Evans
Only a few local residents are given keys to the exclusive Gramercy Park in
New York City, but you can stroll along the well-manicured sidewalks, next to the tall red, brick buildings that line the streets in this charmingly quaint little section of Manhattan. New York City is famous for its diverse mix of delectable food fare, so hop on the subway to Gramercy Park and prepare for a night of gastronomical delights.
Artisanal
Go for a stroll in the boutique cheese cave on a visit to Artisanal on 32nd Street. Let your nose savor the sensory smells of well-aged sharp cheddar, muenster, asiago, taleggio, among many other varieties. Accentuate your palate for fromage with a glass of perfectly matched wine from a long list of world-renowned varietals. You and your dining pals will salivate over a gooey, melting pot of cheese fondue or a bowl of fresh oysters and clams on the half shell, or you can choose from the long list of juicy grilled meat and seafood plates. Reservations are recommended at this popular Gramercy Park restaurant. Artisanal is open for lunch and dinner, and entree prices range from $19.50 to $26.50.
Artisanal
2 Park Ave.
New York, NY 10016
(212) 725-8585
www.artisanalbistro.com
Bao Noodles
Inhale the sweet and spicy scents of a bowl of Vietnamese noodles after booking a table at Bao Noodles. The atmosphere at this casual eatery can best be described as part French bistro and part pub. Patrons sit at charming old wooden booths, where hearty portions of soups and stews are served piping hot. Start off with a mouth-watering appetizer of jicama rolls or vegetable spring rolls and move on to a large bowl of pho noodles or vermicelli noodles. This restaurant also features a long list of vegetarian and traditional dishes. Bao Noodles is open for lunch and dinner and prices range from $8 to $19 per plate.
Bao Noodles
391 Second Ave.
New York, NY 10010
(212) 725-7770
www.baonoodles.com
Casa Mono
This is Spanish fare and tapas at its very best, where flavors pop out and grab hold of your taste buds with force. Located in a small, unassuming space, where simple decor is no match for the big bold flavors, Casa Mono features an extensive menu with such items as duck eggs with mojama, fideos with chorizo and clams and skirt steak with onion mermelada. For dessert, don't be shy. Have a dish of plum brandy ice cream with arrope and almonds or opt for a sorbet served with Moscatel. Casa Mono is open for lunch and dinner and prices range from $8-$19.
Casa Mono
52 Irving Pl.
New York, NY. 10003
(212) 253-2773
www.casamononyc.com
About the Author:
Alexa Evans is a freelance writer and marketing editor based in San Diego, Calif. Evans has been published in "Tango Diva," "Map Vivo" and "Trazzler." She earned a Bachelor of Arts in journalism from the University of California, Santa Cruz.
