The cosmopolitan city of New York has one of the
most diverse and internationally acclaimed restaurant scenes in the
world, with new venues opening on daily bases and offerings ranging
from the exotic to the innovative.
However, all this magic in the
kitchen comes at a price and eating out in such a huge, buzzing city
can be an expensive proposition, so here are some tips on eating on a
budget in New York!
1. New York burgers with all the works.
America
has long been famous for hamburgers (and not least McDonald's) and New
York is no exception. Try Blue 9 Burger on Third Avenue for some
authentic food, New York-style, where dinner adds up to as little as
$6. This may be a fast-food joint but they're known for the fresh,
hand-cut ingredients, as well as a trademark spicy mango sauce.
2. Deli-icious.
And
it doesn't stop with burgers: the city is renowned for its range of
great meals that can be picked up on the cheap. Think cheesecake, club
sandwiches and salt-beef bagels... and around the Lower East and Upper
West Sides, there are numerous delis serving up these specialties with
affordable prices and big portions.
3. Splurge at Happy Hour.
Although
discounts at happy hour are not unique to New York, few cities can
offer such great value. On weekdays between about 4 and 7pm (which is
far too early for those trendy New York night-owls), even the most
fashionable cocktail bars and restaurants drop their prices. Head to
the Mole Mexican Bar & Grill on Allen Street for a $5
fresh-squeezed lime margarita and some equally reasonable Mexican
cooking.
4. Go international.
New York is home to a huge
range of international eateries and, even though they do have some more
expensive restaurants, Little Italy and Chinatown, typically offer
cheaper and tastier meals than touristy neighborhoods like Times
Square. The popular Veselka in the East Village serves Ukrainian
comfort food that won't break the bank and (in typical New York-style)
stays open until dawn.
5. Eat in.
For the truly
budget-conscious visitor to New York, there's another great alternative
for cutting costs - head to one of the lovely small shops clustered in
Chelsea or the farmers' market at Union Square to pick up fresh
ingredients, and then create your own dishes! Most New York hostels
across Manhattan and Brooklyn have self-catering facilities so guests
can sample some of those New York delicacies, even on a shoestring.