Trot on Over to Casa di Isacco Trattoria

Walking down 9th ave between 40th & 41st you will likely notice a sudden patch of lush greenness with some appetizing lobsters, pork shank, and cheeses dangling in the window. In one of those funny hiding in plain sight ways, you still might not notice that it's a restaurant or ever think to go in. But if you do choose to step through the greenery and over the threshold where a water fountain and more plants greet you, you will quickly leave the hustle bustle of the city behind you.

Blue Fin: An Ocean in a Food Desert

I love going to the theatre, but I hate picking pre-theatre restaurants. There are such slim pickings around Times Square that I often say that I feel like it's a food dessert. Which is exactly what I was saying to my friend as we sat on the red steps of the TKTS booth, but then I looked past her and spotted Blue Fin. As if reading my mind she said "You know, there's actually a pretty good sushi place around here..."

Casing Stickys Finger Joint

Sticky's Finger Joint

We were having a pretty killer night that included drinks from Angel's Share followed by another round at Wise Men and needed something substantial in our bellies before we headed home. Although our night started out with lobster rolls from Luke's and an arepa from Caracas Arepa Bar To Go, that was many long hours ago. We always jump at the chance to take a stroll through Washington Square Park, so Sticky's Finger Joint was the perfect place to make our pit stop.

Wise Men is a Smart Bet

Wise Men: Blood and Sand & Kentucky Buck

We were having a pretty killer night that started out with lobster rolls from Luke's, an arepa from Caracas Arepa Bar To Go, and drinks from Angel's Share. But we weren't quite ready to call it a night, so we walked down to Wise Men. Despite what the name would lead you to believe, this low profile little spot is actually owned by three women.

A Heavenly Evening at Angels Share

Angel's Share

Angel's Share has been on my list of must try speakeasies since moving to the city more than 4 years ago. Tonight, I made that wish come true. When The Mr. announced that he was craving a lobster roll from Luke's, we jumped in a cab and I requested that we be dropped of at St Mark's & 3rd instead of 1st Ave. I identified Village Yokocho and confidently walked up the stairs. When I reached the top I spied an inconspicuous door to my left, so without pause I made a beeline there. Opening it I found a jam packed foyer to the bar. I squeezed through to the hostess and put my name on the 2 hour wait list.

Go To Caracas Arepa Bar To Go

Caracas Arepas Bar To Go: Inside

After grabbing a bite at Luke's Lobster, I was still a bit peckish because for some reason I only ordered half a lobster roll like a fool. So when we started walking down the street and The Mr. paused at the red door of Caracas Arepa Bar To Go, no words needed to be exchanged. In we went.

Hooked on Luke's Lobster

Luke's Lobster: Half Lobster Roll, Pickle, Chips, & Maine Root Sodas

We were lucky to discover Luke's Lobster pretty early on in our NYC adventures and we immediately declared them to be our favorite lobster rolls (see our original post on Luke's). Since then we've repeatedly traveled throughout New England and have yet to taste a lobster roll that even comes close to comparing. Yes, even in Maine itself. This is one of our absolute favorite places to grab a quick bite, especially when friends visit from out of town. Time after time you take your first bite (either ever or just of the night) and have to pause to breathlessly say "Woooow." Yes, it's that good. If you've never tried it and are wondering if it lives up to the hype/price tag, stop wondering and just go do it.