While I love to travel, and do so often for work and play, my main base is right in the heart of New York City. The great thing about the city, is that you have a ton variety and can try all sorts of cuisine. I always have a running list of new and established places that I need to try, some reserved for special occasions when I really want to splurge!

The list below is not a large one and there is a reason for that. In order to make it on the favorites list, in no particular order, every dish and component on it has to leave me mesmerized, so much so that dancing may ensue. I either dream about something in particular and have gone back for it, as in more than once or a little stop in to soothe a craving. To mix it up, I have tried other plates that are just as amazing, consistency is key, especially if your in the industry. Also service is huge for me, better served up with some humor. If your just visiting NYC, make sure to make these a priority!

Zou Zou, 385 9th Ave Suite 85

Thai Diner: Thai, 186 Mott Street

Wayan, 20 Spring St

Pure Thai Cookhouse: Thai, 766 9th Ave

Wild Air: American, 142 Orchard St

ABC Kitchen: American, 35 E 18th St

abcV: Vegetarian based, 38 E 19th St

Eleven Madison Park: American, 11 Madison Ave (for those big time splurges)

The Little Beet Table: American, 333 Park Ave S

Thai Market: Thai, 960 Amsterdam Ave

Cosme: Mexican, 35 E 21st

L’Artusi: Italian, 228 W 10th St

Dell’Anima: Italian, 38 8th Ave

Terra: Italian, 222 W Broadway

Rezdora: Italian, 27 E 20th

Le Coucou: French, 138 Lafayette St

Tartinery: French, 209 Mulberry St

The Smile: Mediterranean, 26 Bond St

Kiki’s: Greek, 130 Division St

Taverna Kyclades: Greek, 33-07 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria

Frenchette: French, 241 West Broadway

Nur: Middle Eastern, 34 E 20th

Qanoon: Middle Eastern, 180 9th Ave