Recently, we have had several friends come into town and stay near The Galleria. They often ask for area food recommendations, and though we generally recommend heading away from the tourist traps, there are some decent options around the area. Here are five of our favorites (and for your reference, 10 of Katharine's Shilcutt's favorites from last year).
5. Arcodoro If you're looking for a chichi place to enjoy some Sardinian cuisine in a stylish setting, then Arcodoro is perfect. Located directly across from the Galleria, the restaurant is easily accessible by car or by foot. The wine selection is excellent, if not inexpensive, as are the pizzas served fresh from the wood-burning oven.
4. Sage 400 With a wide selection of both hot and cold sakes, as well as some original takes on rolls, Sage 400 is a fun place to go when you're looking to add a little glamour to your night. It's not the most authentic or best deal in the city, but it's definitely delicious and definitely cosmopolitan.
3. Kenny & Ziggy's New York Deli This New York style deli appeals to a diverse crowd. It doesn't matter if you're Jewish or Baptist -- as long as you're looking for a huge sandwich or steaming plate of latkes served with sour cream and applesauce to ease those hunger pains, you've come to the right place. The menu is just familiar enough to keep everyone happy, while still having some intriguing options for more adventurous diners.
2. 51fifteen Restaurant and Lounge You simply cannot get more old-school Galleria than this place. With its lush interior, muted tones, and floor-to-ceiling views, this place gleams with elegant luster. The staff is always friendly and helpful, without being intrusive, and you're never seated too close to anyone else. It really is a retreat from the Galleria chaos. Plus the lobster bisque and crispy spring rolls cannot be beat.
1. Ekko's Greek America Deli The farthest restaurant from the actual Galleria takes the number one spot not only because it amuses the heck out of us to get good Greek food from a gas station, but also because of the value. Take a couple of out-of-towners here for lunch, and after they overcome the horror of eating in a gas station, they too will be pleasantly surprised by the cheap and tasty gyros and baklava. The menu is extensive, the portions are big, and the kitsch factor is perfect.
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