This Week's New York City Grubs Under $10

22/02/10 19:45 Filed in: City Grub

Deena: Meatloaf Sandwich
Where: El*Ay*Si 47-38 Vernon., Long Island City, Queens; 718.389.8781
Cost: $9
Note: I know I've talked about this place before...and maybe I'm a little biased, but it is totally worthy of mention again, since they just opened for lunch now, too.

A blend of chuck, brisket, short ribs, and pork. Served either classically cold with mayo or open-faced with gravy and mashed. I grew up with parents who couldn't cook, but for most of you, this ain't your mama's meatloaf. But it will make you feel just as good eating it! For 9 buck-a-roos, you can't go wrong!

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David: Tacos
Where: Calexico Cart Corner of Prince and Wooster
Cost: $4.00

Started by three brothers from Southern California, Calexico has fantastic tacos, perfect for a quick lunch while sightseeing in Soho. For $4 or less, all topped with the requisite cabbage, cilantro and lime, you have your choice of four fillings: marinated and grilled asado hangar steak (incredible) or chicken, chipotle pork, or veggie black bean. Burritos are stuffed with the same for $6-$8. Grab an order of guacamole or chips and salsa, just $2 each, and you'll have a complete Mexican meal. The best and closest spot to chow down is the nearby park on the corner of Spring and Mott. You can also find a second Calexico cart at Broadway and Broome.

Jessica: Lunch Special
Where: Tai Thai - 206 Bedford Avenue (between N. 5th & N. 6th) 718.559.5556
Cost: $5.95

Seriously, there are SO few places left anywhere (forget in NYC) where you can get a freshly prepared lunch entree for under six bucks. At Tai Thai you get a li'l tasty salad with peanut dressing to start and then a few Thai favorite mains to choose from. I got the unadventurous Veggie Pad Thai, which turned out to be unusually decorated with what I like to call "luxury vegetables": Snow peas, asparagus, and zucchini--OH MY!!!! This place is definitely a grade above the usually mediocre Thai places that have sprouted up all over the city in the last few years.

taithai2

José: Pear and Gargonzola Salad
Where: Lil’ Frankie’s 19 1st Ave., East Village (212) 420.4900
Cost: $3.95

Most of you guys know I’m not a salad guy. And sure, it’s crazy this is my pick from a place that has amazing pizza, but pears served with arugula endive, walnuts and crumbled gargonzola is a perfect starter before you dive into the rest.

Lil Frankies