Two words: Fashion. Week. That’s right, my friends — NYFW 2017 has come and gone, leaving a trail of impeccable style for us mere mortals to obsess over. Aside from the usual Kendall and Gigi takeover, this special week gives the public an inside scoop on upcoming trends, celebrity appearances, and — wait for it — fabulous food!
Thanks to the exciting atmosphere of NYC and the top-notch investigative skills of a certain Spoon chapter, the world of fashionable-yet-affordable eats is now in the palm of your hand. Scroll down to scope out your ultimate weekend meal… all while embracing your fashionable flair.
Category: Classic New Yorker
Inspiration: Fowler & Wells, ($$$$) 5 Beekman Street, New York, NY 10038
Located in the heart of New York’s financial district, this ultra-glam hotspot serves up classic dishes such as oysters, ricotta tarts, and everything old school. The catch? It costs a pretty penny, something rare in college-land.
Cheap-and-Chic Option: Eats, ($$) 1055 Lexington Ave. (Corner of 75th and Lexington), New York, NY 10021
Did someone say stylish and inexpensive? This trendy dive is perfect for channeling your inner 1930’s starlet, complete with traditional NYC recipes and plenty of NYFW 2017 vibes. Menu options include: Ahi Tuna and Shrimp Ceviche, Cast Iron New York Strip Steak, Spaghetti Pomodoro, and countless dishes you definitely should try.
Category: Italian
Inspiration: Santina, ($$$) 820 Washington St, New York, NY 10014
This fine eatery takes its cues from the Amalfi Coast, dazzling customers with meals such as chickpea pancakes topped with Avocado Trapanese and Squash Carpaccio in honey agrodolce. If you have the extra cash to drop a visit, go nuts. If not, that’s OK — there’s a fab alternative!
Cheap-and-Chic Option: San Marzano, ($) 117 Second Ave., New York, NY 10003
Alright, where else can you get Garganelli pasta in vecchia bettola sauce for $9? The resident Mediterranean gem of East Village, this insanely hip joint will take you on a journey to the crystal clear waters of Southern Italy (in your Versace two-piece, of course.) You should try: Prosciutto & Arugula panini, Tegamino (fried eggplant, mozzarella and tomato sauce), and the Pear & Gorgonzola ravioli.
Category: French
Inspiration: Le Coucou, ($$$$) 138 Lafayette St, New York, NY 10013
If you’re looking for veal terrine and pickled girolles — or sweetbreads, crème de tomate, and tarragon — you’ve reached your destination. Luxurious French cuisine has never been more, well, French…and pricey. Chances are, your wallet won’t be too crazy for that choice.
Cheap-and-Chic Option: Champignon, ($) 1389 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10029
See, now your wallet says yes! What better place to slip into after a full day of scouring the runways than this charming, warm café that would make Anna Wintour crack a smile. Evening dishes include choices of tender grilled lemon and rosemary chicken breast, French brei, arugula and fresh herb aioli, and so many vegetarian options to choose from.
Category: Japanes
Inspiration: Sugarfish, ($$$) 33 E 20th St, New York, NY 10003
From the Organic Edamame to the Tuna Sashimi, it’s safe to say this place is legit. Founded by a celebrity chef and offering any traditional dish under the sun, the price tag is just as daunting as the reputation.
Cheap-and-Chic Option: Dojo, ($) 14 W 4th Street Mercer St, New York, NY 10012
Elegant, sophisticated, and has the perfect amount of coastal flair? That’s right, you’ve come to the place. Quell your taste buds with samplings of Nabeyaki Udon Soup, Geso-Kara Calamari, Oyako Don, and — you guessed it — dozens of vegetarian and vegan styles. What are you waiting for, put those new ankle boots to work and check it out.
Category: Mexican
Inspiration: Pampano, ($$$) 209 E 49th St, New York, NY 10017
Found in a secluded nook near Midtown East, this ritzy dive has got it all to satisfy your need of food, à la Mexicana. With choices such as Ceviche de Camaron and Pescado Veracruz, it’s easy to imagine why the fashion elite flock there…and it’s even easier to imagine how they can afford it, with their substantially larger paychecks.
Cheap-and-Chic Option: Choza Taqueria, ($) 66 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10016
Citrus-roasted chicken, buttermilk-tomatillo salsa, queso fresco — the ultimate combo after taking in some great fashion. With three locations scattered all over the island (Flatiron, Midtown, Hell’s Kitchen), there’s nothing in between you and seriously fabulous food.
Embrace your inner foodie-fashion guru. Whether your style icon is Bella Hadid or Kate Moss, no look is complete without an über-cool dining destination to strut your stuff and treat your taste buds. So, grab your shades and get going! Who knew food could be this fierce? #NYFW2017