Located inside the Scandinavia House, this is no normal museum snack bar. It's actually overseen by the chef of high-end Aquavit. Delicious Swedish standards like gravlax, pickled herring and meatballs are all available at incredibly reasonable prices. The setting is warm and comfortable, making it a great place for an inexpensive tasty snack.
It's all about the cheese. Lots and lots of exotic, perfectly ripened cheese. And, of course, there are really fine wines to go with it. If you're looking for a French meal featuring cheese and wine or craving anything French, for that matter, definitely give it a try. There's a reason it's one of the most popular French spots in the city.
Asia De Cuba
Address: 237 Madison Avenue (between East 37th & 38th Street)
Phone: 212-726-7755
Website: www.chinagrillmgt.com
One of the first Asian fusion restaurants and still one of the best, the interior décor is slick and the food divine. Featuring both communal tables and more private settings, it's hip and cool and maybe just a tad corporate in its own sort of way. But mostly, it's really great food in a fun setting. Beware the weekend crowds.
Better Burger
Address: 561 Third Avenue (between East 37th & 38th Street)
Phone: 212-949-7528
Website: www.betterburgernyc.com
Get healthy burgers of beef, soy, ostrich or turkey. There are also versions of meatloaf and chicken with a decidedly healthy spin. With spare seating inside, this place is better for neighborhood delivery. Always good, always fresh and never expensive.
Curry Leaf
Address: 99 Lexington Avenue (at East 27th Street)
Phone: 212-725-5558
Website: www.curryleafnyc.com
This is one of the best Indian joints in the neighborhood known as "Curry Hill." A good rival for its East 6th Street siblings, they offer a fabulous selection of Indian standards along with great service and excellent prices.
Vegetarian or carnivore, this place serves up a spicy, innovative Korean cuisine. Not a place to go if you're craving Korean BBQ, but an interesting choice if you're looking for something different. Just beware that not everybody finds the smell of Kim Chi pleasing. Something about the scent of fermented cabbage can really put a date out of the mood.
Josie's
Address: 565 Third Avenue (between East 37th & 38th Street)
Phone: 212-490-1558
Website: www.josiesnyc.com
Organic vegetarian cuisine that actually tastes good. Featuring a wonderful tasting menu, there are fabulous fresh breads with seasoned dipping oils and plenty of nibbles to share; all good and good for you. A huge, loft-life space, it's a nice place to go for a healthy, quiet dinner with a friend.
The Water Club
Address: 500 East 30th Street (at FDR)
Phone: 212-683-3333
Website: www.thewaterclub.com
Great seafood with a river view: This place caters to the navy blazer set who come in droves for the four-pound lobsters, oysters and crab. And some look like they've been doing it for all 40 years. Nothing out of the ordinary, you'll get exceptionally prepared classics in a breathtaking setting. A long-time favorite for proposals and parties.