“The BEST pastrami in the world!! Drawback: it's pricey. Katz’s has stood on Houston Street since 1888, and the pastrami alone is a New York icon. The expansive, cafeteria-style dining room is almost always bustling, and diners have to know how to navigate the system. Get in line, remember to tip the slicer (they might give you an extra piece to snack on), and no matter what, don’t lose that ticket.”

“They do much more than sweets, but it's the sweets that you'll get in line for. There's wild Maine blueberry pancakes and caramelized banana French toast for breakfast, plus loads of pie, cake, and milkshakes. But, if you insist on eating real protein (as fans of the bakery did years ago, pushing the owners to expand to other meals), then you won't be disappointed. Go for the fried chicken!”

“SEE ALL SLIDES 9 OF 55 Slide 9 Beauty & Essex Located in a secret door behind a fake pawn shop, with two stories of tables in a windowless setting, serving items like grilled cheese dumplings and $26 chicken shawarma, Beauty & Essex would almost be too much — if it wasn't so delicious. ”

“Just below your stay! Amazing treats and bagels with all the goods customized! ”

“Essentially started and lit up the dumpling scene in New York and is still worthy! Also excellent kimchee ”

“Great for breakfast or lunch, known for their Cubano sandwich (justifiably so!).”

“The cafe where Russ & Daughters serves all their famous dishes and amazing food! ”

“Famous Pizza place - Landmark NoLita restaurant serving coal-fired, thin-crust Neapolitan pizza since 1905.”

“Cozy Mexican eatery with hip, Asian-accented decor serving rustic fare & a long list of tequilas.”

“Great Greek restaurant with very reasonable prices only a five minute walk.”

“Making doughnuts by hand with the highest quality all natural ingredients since 1994.”

“A San Fran original that's set up shop in NYC, Mission Chinese dishes out quirky and elevated Sichuan eats. Stop by for their green tea noodles or pork riblets with pickled beets and a hibiscus glaze. Reservations are limited and the spot is hot, so be sure to plan your visit ahead. ”

“healthy unique menu items, very close by, great for breakfast or light lunch ”

“"A restaurant on the Lower East Side operating with the sole purpose of turning out ridiculously good meatballs and presenting you a few options in which to consume them."”

“SEE ALL SLIDES 3 OF 55 Dudleys This Australian hotspot owned by Steve Aioki serves up all-day breakfast, already making it one of our favorite LES spots. Yes, there's the requisite avocado toast and burgers, but also Brussels sprouts that might convert even the biggest veggie hater. Plus, it's filled with Instagram-worthy neon signs you can snap even if you're swinging by the new take-out counter. ”

“You don't have to fight about where to eat: The Fat Radish is great for the vegetarians but placates the carnivores with a killer bacon cheeseburger and pork chop. Your group will also agree on the gorgeously bright, all-white space, which perfectly complements the delicious food.”