Yesterday, I hopped on a plane to NYC in the morning with the intent trying a bunch of new food and seeing a show. I then jumped on a plane back to Raleigh late the same night.
It was a fun trip. Below, I’ll rate all of the places I ate and share a few photos.
Gray’s Papaya
Location: 2090 Broadway, New York, NY 10023
I know this probably sounds strange, but to kick the day off, I headed to Gray’s Papaya to try a hotdog. In the movie “Fools Rush In”, Matthew Perry’s character makes a big deal out of how Gray’s Papaya hotdogs are the best hotdogs in NYC.
In truth, I gave them a 3.2/10. I could see how the brand and location could become a cult classic. But unfortunately, I would not recommend this meal.
All’antico
Location: 36 E 60th St, New York, NY 10022
I heard a lot of positive reviews about this sandwich shop which originated in Florence Italy. I had actually planned to go to another location later in the day, but I happened to walk right by this location (just south of Central Park), and there was no line, so I decided to go in.
I only ate half and gave the other half away. I gave it a 5.6/10. I think I’d eat there again, but it wasn’t a stand out in my mind. There wasn’t a ton of flavor. It was all just kind of bland tasting.
Katagiri Japanese Grocery
Location: 224 E 59th St, New York, NY 10022
A couple of years ago, I took a week long trip to Tokyo. During that trip I became especially fond of the selection of foods at both 7-eleven and Lawson convenience stores. If you’re from anywhere outside Japan, and you’ve never visited Japan, this might sound really strange… 😀 But trust me. Anyways… I was craving onigiri, so I planned a stop at this Japanese grocery store.
It was worth the walk! I gave this onigiri a 8.1/10. I’d highly recommend this place if you’re ever in the area.
Tacos #1
Location: 229 W 43rd St, New York, NY 10036
I searched for the best tacos in NYC and this place pretty consistently showed up near the top of the list. Conveniently, it was directly across the street from where I was going to see a show.
I gave the food a 7.2/10. The taco was super flavorful. The salsa was just the right balance of spiciness. I’d definitely go back.
Harry Potter and the cursed child
Location: Lyric Theater
I’ve wanted to see this play since it first came out. I decided that this trip would be a good excuse to go.
I rated the show a 7.5/10. It wasn’t Les Misérables, but I’d probably see it again with my kids. I got some butterbeer (mostly for the novelty of it). I gave the drink and the popcorn a low 4.1/10. Not sure I could recommend either of them.
99 cent fresh pizza
Location: 143 W 40th St, New York, NY 10018
This place was rated one of the best dollar pizza joints in the city (according to the One Bite app). I stopped by after the show to check it out.
This place had the longest line of any place I visited. I forgot to take a pic until I was more than half way through my slice. I gave this place a 7.7/10. For the taste and size of the slice, it was a really great value. I’d go back.
Claw Daddy’s
Location: 185 Orchard St, New York, NY 10002
This was the one place on the list that I had been to before. The Automattic office is near here, so I’ve been to this restaurant a couple of times for happy hour.
They serve the best grilled oysters I’ve ever tasted. I got a couple of chicken wings on the side. I rated this meal an 8.9/10. The highest rated meal on my trip.
Soho Deli on Stanton
Location: 15 Stanton St # 2d, New York, NY 10002
Out of random happenstance, I saw this Tweet the morning of my trip:
I asked Raanan where he got it. When he mentioned that it was right down the street from Claw Daddy’s, I figured I had to try it.
I got the ham, egg, and cheese roll. I gave it a solid 6.5/10. I’d go back for breakfast when I’m in the area.
Missed Again: Katz Deli
For the second time, Katz Deli eluded me! I had planned to go to Katz Deli for a Reuben sandwich, but I just wasn’t feeling it (after eating non-stop all day). I don’t know… Maybe, there is something subconscious about paying $30 for a single sandwich that keeps me from going. I’ll keep it on the list for my next trip.
Random musings
I’m glad that NYC exists. I’m glad that so many people find joy there. I’m also glad that I don’t live there. 😛 All of my senses seem to be working on overdrive when I’m in the city. Perhaps, that’s the attraction for some folks. I find the whole experience pretty overwhelming. It’s great for a short trip, but I was glad to go home. Here are a couple of additional pictures I took along the way:
Dave Martin 
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