Before arriving in the Big Apple I had done a lot of research into the best places to eat and drink coffee. Alas, these plans normally disappear and I quickly found myself simply taking other people’s suggestions or aimlessly choosing as I walked the streets. During my time here so far, I have tried the cuisine TexMex which exceeded expectations and grown a coffee addiction that does not seem to be disappearing anytime soon.
Javelina (Union Square location) – For a friend’s birthday, I was introduced to the wonders of TexMex (think Mexican food crossed with the goods that comes from The South). Here, I was introduced to the wonders of queso, unaged fresh cheese made out of pure cow’s milk which you can put on practically everything. I had fajitas filled with black beans, chicken, salsa, sour cream and everything else which were incredible and I only needed two to fill me up! This restaurant is a must for people like me who were ignorant to the wonders of TexMex and everything is authentically served on a grill.
Tartine (Greenwich Village) — I was introduced to the Tartine by a friend of the neighbourhood who told me we had to go. I am so glad that she said this. Tartine is a beautiful little cafe/restaurant tucked on the corner of a street in Greenwich Village and you can sit outside if you’re brave enough in this weather. I treated myself to eggs benedict with fried potatoes and scallions (look at me using American language) and this did not disappoint. Followed by a Tarte Tatin made this particular brunch a highlight and their unlimited drip coffee (again, look at me) completed this lovely set up. – cash only!
Brooklyn Bagel and Coffee Company (Chelsea location) — Ah, the reason I came to New York was for the bagels. I discovered this place thanks to the book ‘Eat like a local, New York’ and I was definitely not disappointed. I have since been twice but my order has not changed: everything bagel with cream cheese and smoked salmon. The ratio of fillings is ideal and I opted to have my bagel toasted which really completed the combination. These perhaps are on the expensive side but I think I would pay anything for a infamous NYC bagel. I highly recommend this place for a late breakfast run or lunch as the portion will be sure to fill you up.
Matto (Harlem location) — After a morning in the sunshine, my colleague introduced this wonder to me – a cafe that charges $2 for anything inside. I treated myself to an oat milk cappuccino and a spinach borek (filo pastry goodness). And yes, this meant I only paid a small $4. I have since found out that there are several locations all over the city (very dangerous but not too worrying when an average spend will be $4).
Trader Joe’s (Chelsea location) — Strictly speaking this is a supermarket but something that has delivered great eats. Sadly this is only a chain in the USA but Trader Joe’s supplies everything one could possibly need and at decent prices. My favourite work snacks are the packets of dried mango and their peanut granola bars. For my sweet tooth, a friend introduced me to their invention called a ‘Brookie; which is a wondrous collision of a cookie and a brownie which tastes as amazing as it sounds. Despite there being daunting queues, the management inside has always been speedy and the employees have been useful with any questions I might have. I will miss Trader Joe’s when I go home.
Cressie’s adventures 