City Grub Under $10
SepTue 2010
Where: Hanco’s Vietnamese Sandwich 85 Bergen St., Brooklyn
(btwn Smith & Hoyt) (718) 858-6818
Cost: $5.50
Although this is not my first banh mi reco, it is definitely my fave so far. The "Classic" is a must have, combining three forms of pork: spicy ground meat, thinly sliced ham, and a layer of patè. The heartiness of the meats is delicately balanced by the pickled carrots, fresh cukes and cilantro. Now if all these ingredients mentioned weren't ingeniously tucked into a French baguette with a smear of fiery mayonnaise, I could probably have resisted its beckoning. (Pathetically, I have returned three times already).
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City Grub Under $10
AugTue 2010
Where: Cafe Tibet 1510 Cortelyou Rd. Kensington, Brooklyn (718) 941-2725
Cost: $7.75
Went here with my vegetarian mother, thinking there would be great vegetarian options, (which there were). However, I found too many intriguing beefy options to resist. Everything on the menu is under ten bucks, which allows for low-risk experimenting while ordering. I certainly was not disappointed when my mystery food was revealed as a delicious fried patty delicately folded around brothy-fragrant ground beef. The "house salad," like Asian cole slaw, was fresh and tasty and fulfilled my veggie quota.
Bonus: You can go to the adjacent bodega (owned by the same family) and get a rare imported beer to accompany your dish and to relieve the heat in your mouth if you happen to get too crazy with the hot sauce.
City Grub Under $10
AugMon 2010
Tara: B.L.T.
Where: Perch Cafe 365 Fifth Ave., between 5th and 6th St., Park Slope, Brooklyn
Cost: $8
Double-cut bacon, tomato, mesclun greens, mayo on rosemary focaccia, what’s not to like here? This delicious sandwich is both satisfying and affordable. Perch Café is an absolutely adorable little spot that boasts a pretty sweet coffee menu and full bar. Good stuff in the heart of Park Slope. I’m going back to try the Reuben!
City Grub Under $10
JulMon 2010
Where: Atlantic ChipShop 129 Atlantic Ave., Cobble Hill, Brooklyn
Cost: $9.60
I grew up in the Pacific Northwest, where summertime meant one whole month (and the last week in July) of bare feet, rocky "beaches" and fried fish shacks. Coney Island only has frozen crap, and no one has ever invited me to the Hamptons. So I'm calling The ChipShop my summer spot. The fish is so fresh and flakey, and on a 96 degree day in NY, the air conditioning makes me feel right at home. The Happy Hour Special is 20% off all items Monday - Thursday from 4:30 to 6:30. Try one of the many ridiculous deep-fried desserts; Twix, Reese's, or the Twinkie(?!)
Bonus: Great imported draught beers, very soccer friendly. Oh, and there's deep-fried pizza (if you're into that sort of thing.)
City Grub Under $10
JunTue 2010
Where: Pizza Moto Brooklyn Flea. 137 Lafayette Ave., Fort Greene, Brooklyn
Cost: $9
I love browsing the stalls of jewelry, clothing, and furniture at the market, but really...I come to EAT! There are many fantastic food purveyors here, but I cannot pass up the beautifully made personal pies that owner/creator Dave whips up. Cooked in his own hand-built portable wood-burning oven (that's a mouthful), Moto’s pies are so thin and crisp, and then the sauce--so zesty and fresh. I am usually fairly disappointed with American pizza, as I am with most Italian food here, but Moto reminds me that there are others here who remember a time and place in Italy when their tongues were blessed and changed forever (and I'm not referring to the smooth hotties, with names like Lorenzo...that's for my other blog).
P.S. Pizza Moto will also be dealing at Central Park Summer Stage 2010.
City Grub Under $10
JunMon 2010
Where: Burrito Bar 307 Flatbush Ave., Prospect Heights, Brooklyn (718) 230-8646
Cost: $8.25
As it seems our world is steadfastly being taken over by bacon, with bits showing up in our ice cream, strips of it swaddling whole turkeys--even potato latkes are being smutted up with the swine. So I figured I may as well throw in my two cents (wrapped in bacon). If you can appreciate the simple genius of a traditional jalapeno popper, then this version will blow your mind like a bedazzled pick-up truck. Just have them already! Viva la revolucion!!!
City Grub Under $10
JunMon 2010
Where: Lechonera El Barrio 172 E 103rd St., Spanish Harlem
Cost: $9.95
In the spirit of the Puerto Rican Day Parade I thought I would let you on a little secret called Lechonera El Barrio. Here you can get anything for under $10 and walk away wanting to take a nap. You can get a flavorful yellow rice with any meat dish, like the fried pork chops or carne guisada (Latin beef stew) for $8.50. You want sweet plantains? Just add $1.50. You can’t go wrong here. Don’t expect speedy service, but do expect to have wholesome Latin American food!
City Grub Under $10
MayMon 2010
Tara: Hot Dog with Peppers and Onions and Cheese Fries
Where: Brook-vin 1310 Surf Ave., Coney Island, Brooklyn
(718) 946-2705
Cost: $7.17
I know, bathing suit season is just around the corner. But sometimes you have to say to heck with it! Especially on a beautiful, sunny day with the wind blowing a gorgeous ocean breeze on your shoulders. I don’t even like Coney Island, but I’ll go there any day just for a delicious hot dog from Nathan’s. Smothered in peppers and onions and paired with an order of crispy, cheese-covered fries, this is the perfect “Let’s be a little bad” snack. The gym will still be there for you in the morning.
City Grub Under $10 - Part 2
MayMon 2010
Where: NYC Icy 905 Church Ave., Kensington, Brooklyn (347) 789-1849
Cost: $5.50
Not only does NYC Icy have what you'll need on a hot, sweaty day, it will delight you with many unexpected flavors. I tried the traditional Strawberries and Cream and then returned the next day (85 degrees) for the refreshing Mango Basil. There's also French Tart, Apricot Ginger, Rice Pudding, just to name a few, which are all handmade with fresh, natural ingredients. After you get your fix, take your new sugar buzz to the Prospect Park loop and jog your ass off, 'cause beach days are right around the corner, bee-yatch!
City Grub Under $10
AprMon 2010
Where: Cinco De Mayo 1202 Cortelyou Rd. Kensington, Brooklyn (718)693-1022
Cost: $6
Whenever I move to a new apartment, one of the first items to check off the to do list is scoping out the hot taco spots in my new barrio. I always judge a place worthy of multiple visits by the flavor of their rice & beans, and this place is SOLID! With some interesting specials including a squash blossom quesadilla, you can venture outside "la caja" and feel confident that you won't be consumed by plate envy over your neighbors safe taco order, which are still quite yummy. Buen provecho!
City Grub Under $10
AprTue 2010
Where: Banh Mi Saigon Bakery 138 Mott St., Little Italy (212) 941-1541
Cost: $3.75
Wait! First, the runner-up for the most amazing thing about this place is...that it's actually a jewelry store with a Vietnamese bakery in the back. Aaah, Nirvana; diamonds and swine. Only in New York (and maybe Vietnam). Seriously, this place does not need more exposure despite it's "diguise" it seems to draw quite a flock of die-hard regulars. That said, you must try these sandies. They are intricately flavorful and elegantly designed -kind of like a Neil Lane engagement ring.
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City Grub Under $10
AprMon 2010
Where: Wherever you hear that Mr. Softee Jingle!
Cost: $3.00
Maybe not a conventional City Grub pick, but it’s what I was craving and it was yummy. Walking down Sixth Avenue with Tim, I heard that jingle that would make my eyes pop out with excitement when I was a kid. I couldn’t help it. Sure, maybe it’s true that those marciano cherries takes seven years to digest, but I have no regrets satisfying my child-like cravings!
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City Grub Under $10
AprMon 2010
Deena: (Small) Green Tea and Berry Frozen Yogurt (w/ 3 toppings)
Where: Berry Lover 37-11 35th Ave., Astoria, Queens (718) 786-2200
Cost: $7
I can never decide on which flavor, so I usually end up with more than one. I also ended up with rainbow jimmies, chocolate chips, AND strawberries. Yum! It was a nice, cool, refreshing treat after an hour and a half of hot yoga at The Yoga Room.
City Grub Under $10
MarMon 2010
Where: Eatery 798 Ninth Ave. at 53rd St. (212) 777-6500
Cost: $10
If you love fried calamari like I do, then jump on this for a twist. This is a tempura style calamari with Hijiki, fresh mango & white Ponzu sauce! The service is good and the atmosphere has a fun vibe.
City Grub Under $10
MarMon 2010
Where: Favela Cubana 543 La Guardia Pl., West Village (212) 777-6500
Cost: $10
If you love meat like I do, then you’ll love this Cuban sandwich. From the first bite I was immediately transported to my grandfather’s bodega when I was a kid. The meat is tender and seasoned with all the right stuff. The grilled ham and cheese wrapped around this little piggy is just enough to make your eyes roll to the back of your head. For those that love pickles it packs the perfect crunch. The best surprise for me was the bread. Normally with hot sandwiches on baguettes, you have to work hard to get to the meaty stuff. This bread was warm, soft and fresh, like it was made to order.
City Grub Under $10
MarMon 2010
Where: Pecan Café 130 Franklin St., Tribeca (646) 613-8296
Cost: $9.99
I’ve lived in this neighborhood for over a year, and I just walked into Pecan’s Cafe for the first time last week. I’ve been back three times since then. The staff is friendly, and unlike most lunch spots, you have room to breathe with their wide-open space. This time, I tried their roasted red pepper soup with gouda cheese, and a chicken salad sandwich with cranberries, lettuce and tomato. AMAZING! You also have a choice of chips or cookies, and a soft drink. Really?!
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City Grub Under $10
MarMon 2010
Where: Peace and Love Cafe 397 Greenwich St., Tribeca (212) 349-8500
Cost: $6.50
OK, you ready for this one? Roasted turkey, muenster, cranberries, walnuts, bacon, aioli AND yogurt dipping sauce. Do I even have to describe how this tastes? It’s amazing! The baguette it’s served in, is always fresh. If you can snag that chair that you see in the picture, you’re all set for a perfect lunch break.
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City Grub Under $10
MarMon 2010
Where: Alpha Asian Fusion 365 W. 34th St., Midtown (212) 279.8887
Cost: $9
Forget what you know about crab cakes and head over to Alpha. In most restaurants crab cakes tend to be overrated. They’re either dry, too mushy or bland. As soon as you get a bite from these guys, I promise you, you’ll come back for more. The crunchy sweetness of the outside is a great surprise. What’s even more surprising is how fresh and yummy they are on the inside. I’ve never had anything like it.
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City Grub Under $10
FebMon 2010
Where: Calexico Cart Corner of Prince and Wooster
Cost: $4.00
Started by three brothers from Southern California, Calexico has fantastic tacos, perfect for a quick lunch while sightseeing in Soho. For $4 or less, all topped with the requisite cabbage, cilantro and lime, you have your choice of four fillings: marinated and grilled asado hangar steak (incredible) or chicken, chipotle pork, or veggie black bean. Burritos are stuffed with the same for $6-$8. Grab an order of guacamole or chips and salsa, just $2 each, and you'll have a complete Mexican meal. The best and closest spot to chow down is the nearby park on the corner of Spring and Mott. You can also find a second Calexico cart at Broadway and Broome.
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City Grub Under $10
FebTue 2010
Where: Bark Hot Dogs - 474 Bergen St. Park Slope, Brooklyn (718)789-1939
Cost: $5.50
Nothing says "Happy Valentine's Day! I love you" more than a juicy hot dog in a soft warm bun. Add some house-cured pickles and boy, am I happy to see you! I know--some of you are saying, "it's just a dawg." But a great dawg, can be so amazingly satisfying. These puppies are made of the best ingredients, all natural, and local. So open up your heart and give an old stand-by another shot. You might just fall in love all over again.
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City Grub Under $10
FebMon 2010
Where: Serendipity3 225 East 60th Street (bet. 2nd and 3rd Ave.)
Cost: $7.95
Valentine’s date or not, this is where you need to go! It's famous, it's infamous, it's notorious. It has destroyed diets and led to love affairs. One sip of their creamy, dreamy, icy blend of chocolatey goodness, It’ll make you want to blow bubbles through your straw. It makes everyone a child again.
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City Grub Under $10
FebMon 2010
Where: Peanut Butter & Company 240 Sullivan Street
Cost: $7.50
Are you ready? A grilled peanut butter sandwich, stuffed with bananas and honey. Try with with bacon for that extra indulgence. Long live the king!!
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City Grub Under $10
JanSat 2010
Where: Red Hook Ball Fields (corner of Clinton Street and Bay Street, Brooklyn)
Cost: $1-10
The Red Hook Ballfields have in the past few years become a famous spot for scoring fresh ceviche, hot chicken tamales, cheesy quesadillas, corn on the cob, pupusas, and a variety of other tempting South American treats. Vendors sell their straight-off-the-grill street food from carts scattered around an outdoor baseball field. Sounds delicious, doesn't it? It is. Cheap, too.
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City Grub Under $10
JanMon 2010
Where: A Salt and Battery 112 Greenwich Ave., West Village (12th and 13th Streets
Cost: $9.95
This is as authentic as you’re gonna get folks! These fish-and-chips have the best ‘chips’ and I would skip the cod and go straight for the haddock. You won’t be disappointed!
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City Grub Under $10
JanMon 2010
Deena: Beer Battered Fried McClure’s Brooklyn Pickles with Smoky Sauce
Where: Sweet Afton 30-09 34th St., Astoria, Queens (718.777.2570)
Cost: $4 ($9 w/ draft beer)
Holy Toledo! I didn't think there was a better combo than pickles and whipped cream till I tasted these scrumptious bites of yumminess. You can even wash them down with a draft beer and still stay under the 10 buckaroo budget.
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City Grub Under $10
JanMon 2010
Deena: Chipwich and Shake
Where: Gus & Gabriel Gastropub, 222 West 79th St. NY, NY ( between Broadway and Amsterdam)
Cost: $5.95
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City Grub Under $10
DecMon 2009
Jessica: Brooklyn Wings
Where: The Smoke Joint 87 South Elliot Place. Fort Greene, Brooklyn
Cost: $7.50
These smoky wings are sweet and spicy, and the meat is so juicy it falls right off, though you'll still be gettin' all up on that bone like it's hiding somethin' in there. You get it, baby! No judgment!
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City Grub Under $10
DecMon 2009
Where: Spice Restaurant 199 8th Avenue (between 20th &21st) Manhattan
Cost: $8.25
With a gazillion new Thai restaurants that have opened up in the past five years, let me save you some time. I’ve been coming to this joint for years and Spice never disappoints. If you want to steer away from the traditional Pad Thai, you should dive into their Cashew Nuts medley with chicken (or any choice of meat or veggies). Here’s the kicker: you get a free appetizer! Anything from yummy shrimp fritters to an Asian Caesar salad, you can’t beat the price or the food.
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City Grub Under $10
DecMon 2009
Where: Marquet Patisserie 680 Fulton St. Fort Greene, Brooklyn
Cost: $7.50
This decadent sandwich helps me miss Paris a little less. Very authentic-tasting and straightforward, like that of a true Parisian brasserie. The only thing missing is the bustling sidewalk cafe to enjoy it. The staff here is very friendly and efficient, unlike the usual lackadaisical service in my still beloved Fort Greene.
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City Grub Under $10
DecMon 2009
Where: Viking Cuisine @ The Union Square Shops
Cost: $4.00
Move over Dunkin’ Donuts and IHOP! These traditional Danish pancakes with jam and powdered sugar are the best treats when you’re shopping for Christmas gifts! With a nice, gooey chocolate core you can’t go wrong.
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City Grub Under $10
NovMon 2009
Where: Doughnut Plant 329 Grand Ave., LES, Manhattan
Cost: $4.00
Absolutely amazing doughnuts! All natural ingredients, so you don't feel TOO guilty for indulging in this huge sticky goodness. Seriously, GO HERE and Bring all your friends, so you can taste every flavor, without committing fat-ass suicide. Coffee is tasty, too-organic and cheap.
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City Grubs Under $10
NovMon 2009
Where: Sophie’s Cuban Cuisine 369 Lexington Avenue
Cost: $6.00
Don’t want to wait to get home before having some turkey? Head over to Sophie’s Cuban Cuisine and have them make you this delicious sandwich with cranberry sauce! The meat is tender and the bread is perfectly toasted. For a little extra sweetness, have them add sweet plantain chunks. WHUT?! Yeah, I said it.
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City Grub Under $10
NovMon 2009
Where: Castro's Mexican Restaurant 511 Myrtle Ave. Fort Green, Brooklyn.
Cost: $6
Deliciously tangy tomatillo sauce with spanish rice, creamy refried beans topped with a sprinkle of queso blanco. Every bite is fantastic and worthy of the fatty food coma you'll have after finishing the whole plate.
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City Grub Under $10
NovTue 2009
Where: Barebgurger, Astoria, Queens, 31st Ave & 34 St
Cost: $5.95
When your in the mood for a burger & fries, want to keep it organic and keep it in the budget- Bareburger has complete kid meals that no one has stopped me from ordering (there is no age limit printed on the menu
). Choose 1 of 3: a burger, chicken fingers, or a chicken wrap all for the same price. I always go with the burger. Most of there regular size burgers are under 10 bucks, but why pay more when you can get what you need for less?
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City Grub Under $10
NovMon 2009
Where: Thai Green 68 East 1st Street (between 1st and 2nd Ave)
Cost: $5
You can’t go wrong with these delicious pies! Kafir lime leaves, galangal, coconut milk, thai basil and chillies.
City Grub Under $10
OctMon 2009
Where: Il Bambino, Astoria, Queens, 31st ave & 34th st
Cost: $5.75
For $4.50, this is an awesome breakfast alternative to bacon & eggs...they have so many tasty little plates, crostinis & paninis. You can spend 5 bucks and always have a quaint, casual, relaxing experience in the heart of Astoria. For an extra $1.25, their cup of coffee is worth it! Also, they just opened the garden "in the rear"!
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