Coldwater's
Address: 988 Second Avenue (between East 52nd & 53rd street)
Phone: 212-888-2122
This traditional seafood place is known for its basic, fresh fish. Nothing too daring, nothing too fancy, but that's exactly why some people love it. There were a few complaints in days gone by about inconsistent quality, but word has it that they're back on their game.
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.
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.
Nino's Positano
Address: 890 Second Avenue (between East 48th & 49th Street)
Phone: 212-355-5540
Website: ninospositano.com/
Named after a region in southern Italy, this place is a draw, not so much for the food, but for the warm and friendly atmosphere. Regis Philbin is said to be a regular. Fun, relaxed, it's a comfortable dining experience that might surprisingly leave you returning for more.
Ola
Address: 304 East 48th Street
Phone: 212-759-0590
A fresh take on Latin cuisine. Known for its ceviches, the food is fresh and the atmosphere funky. Featuring bright orange décor, great grub and good drinks, what could be better?
Just west of Second Avenue, this creative Mexican place is reportedly owned by Placido Domingo. The seafood specialties and refined setting make it a hit for those looking for upscale Mexican. Not a place for a quick taco, the less complicated items on the menu hold their own against local rivals. But, it's the creative nightly specials that truly rule the roost.
Pietro's
Address: 232 East 49th Street
Phone: 212-682-9760
Website: www.pietros.com
Some people complain that this basic Italian place is over-priced for what you get. However, it's been around since 1932, so they must be doing something right. The food is exactly what you want in down-home Italian. Nothing fancy, just hearty family-style dishes just the way grandma made it.
This is the Palm's midtown rival for best steakhouse. Great food, a warm woody interior, wonderful service and a solid wine and beer list. Hey, if only the rest of life were this simple.
Worth the stroll across Second Avenue, this is traditional Sushi done right. Nothing innovative, nothing Americanized. What you get is incredibly fresh fish prepared with exacting precision. The fact that Sushi Yasuda offers up to seven different types of Tuna should give you some clue as to just how extensive the selections are.
Thady Cons
Address: 915 Second Avenue (at East 48th Street)
Phone: 212-688-9700
A great, traditional Irish pub. A little loud when the after-work crowd filters in, but the Guinness is grand and the Shepherd's pie warm and filling. A rustic country atmosphere adds to the charm. And there's even live music on occasion. Some of the best Irish eats in all of Midtown.
The Palm Too
Address: 840 Second Avenue (between East 44th & 45th Street)
Phone: 212-697-5198
Website: www.thepalm.com
Always a contender for top steakhouse in the city, this the original post of the now wide-spread Palm restaurants. The filet mignon is possibly the best you'll ever have. You can also get Godzilla-sized lobsters or Veal Marsalla if you're not in the mood to eat half-a-cow.
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.