As the weather has become more friend than foe, it’s time to join the people walking the High Line. Not quite the Champs Elysee, but the stroll has its own magical air with stops galore to soak up the local meatpacking district vibe. One of its extra special charms are the numerous places to sit and soak up the river views. Flowers and gardens are well tended, and the whole atmosphere makes for an unexpected, pleasurable NY outing! As for dining, there are a full range of options from the early neighborhood pioneers such as Pastis to the newer, more High Line-centered spots.
Try the Standard Grill–that’s a joke. Its popularity preceded its opening, and now diners and hipsters are willing to wait it out or sit in the Biergarten and enjoy being in a large space with plenty of room to party. Dinner reservations in the restaurant itself are hard to get–try 3 weeks a but there’s always the oft chance that someone didn’t show or that you’ll be just as happy at the bar. Try it. Drinks, dining, and vibe: All winners here.
If its nearby Mexican cuisine you’re after then Los Dados stands ready to make your guacamole tableside so you can truly enjoy the fresh tastes and beautiful color of a perfectly ripe avocado. Don’t forget a selection from the Margarita menu which intrigues with its cucumber or blueberry options. Rumor has it that htis restaurant’s increased popularity is directly related to its location across the street from the beginning of the High Line! Makes sense to me.
Thai more your palate pleaser, then head to Sea Thai Restaurant for first-rate Pad Thai and a long list of luscious appetizers and numerous vegetarian options.
As the burger popularity spreads into every neighborhood, this area does not want to be excluded. The latest BR Guest enterprise, Bill’s Bar & Burger is a no-nonsense operation with the real McCoy and its accompanying toppings. Start with the milk shake, and you’ll want to be a regular. Good, immediate food vibe that gets you back into the neighborhood without undue delay.
As you walk off your meal, there are a few places to hop off and see life under the High Line. One major player is Chelsea Market. OK, I know the Market has numerous food selections including excellent sushi at The Lobster Place and unbelievable chocolate choices at Jacques Torres (the fresh Squeezed Lemon is an instant winner), but it’s also a fun place to walk through and explore the various food stalls and talk with the purveyors. A great take-home purchase stop, The Nut Box, will wow you with their delicious dried fruit tastes; try the kiwi, mango, or pineapple slices. You’ll be pleased.
Time to get back on the High Line.
This is a food blog so lots of foods to digest. Enjoy the walk.
Bon appetit!
