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City Grub Under $10


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Jessica: Portobello and Mozzarella Panini
Where: Russo’s 363 7th Ave., Park Slope, Brooklyn
(btwn Smith & Hoyt) (718) 369-2874
Cost: $7.95

Now this one's not exactly on the menu, but sometimes I just know what I want and have to do a little tweaking (they don't call me "The Sandwich Whisperer" for nothing). The homemade fresh mozzarella is the star here, but the balsamic marinated portobellos make for an exquisite pairing. Don't forget to add fresh tomato and basil with a drizzle of olive oil to get your free can of soda.

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José: Maoz Royal Sandwich
Where: Maoz Vegetarian 38 Union Square East, New York (212) 260-1988
Cost: $8.00


Those that know me know that I’m not one for choosing a vegetarian dish. That being said, I decided to challenge myself once I saw a line spilling out of Maoz Vegetarian in Union Square. I wasn’t gonna try to get too creative, so I chose their signature Maoz Royal--which home baked pita bread filled with crispy, handmade Falafel balls which are made from chickpeas, a vitamin-rich legume packed with plenty of proteins, minerals and vitamin B. The chickpeas are blended daily with fresh spices and vegetables and then fried in zero trans-fat Canola oil.

Bonus: You can add hummus, eggplant, feta cheese, avocado, babaganoush, or a hard boiled egg to your sandwich!

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Jessica: The Classic Banh Mi Sandwich
Where: Hanco’s Vietnamese Sandwich 85 Bergen St., Brooklyn
(btwn Smith & Hoyt) (718) 858-6818
Cost: $5.50

Although this is not my first banh mi reco, it is definitely my fave so far. The "Classic" is a must have, combining three forms of pork: spicy ground meat, thinly sliced ham, and a layer of patè. The heartiness of the meats is delicately balanced by the pickled carrots, fresh cukes and cilantro. Now if all these ingredients mentioned weren't ingeniously tucked into a French baguette with a smear of fiery mayonnaise, I could probably have resisted its beckoning. (Pathetically, I have returned three times already).

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Jessica: Beef Sha-Baklap
Where: Cafe Tibet 1510 Cortelyou Rd. Kensington, Brooklyn (718) 941-2725
Cost: $7.75

Went here with my vegetarian mother, thinking there would be great vegetarian options, (which there were). However, I found too many intriguing beefy options to resist.  Everything on the menu is under ten bucks, which allows for low-risk experimenting while ordering.  I certainly was not disappointed when my mystery food was revealed as a delicious fried patty delicately folded around brothy-fragrant ground beef.  The "house salad," like Asian cole slaw, was fresh and tasty and fulfilled my veggie quota. 
 
Bonus:  You can go to the adjacent bodega (owned by the same family) and get a rare imported beer to accompany your dish and to relieve the heat in your mouth if you happen to get too crazy with the hot sauce. 

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Tara: B.L.T.
Where: Perch Cafe 365 Fifth Ave., between 5th and 6th St., Park Slope, Brooklyn
Cost: $8


Double-cut bacon, tomato, mesclun greens, mayo on rosemary focaccia, what’s not to like here?  This delicious sandwich is both satisfying and affordable.  Perch Café is an absolutely adorable little spot that boasts a pretty sweet coffee menu and full bar.  Good stuff in the heart of Park Slope.  I’m going back to try the Reuben!

 
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Jessica: Cod Fish n’ Chips
Where: Atlantic ChipShop 129 Atlantic Ave., Cobble Hill, Brooklyn
Cost: $9.60


 
I grew up in the Pacific Northwest, where summertime meant one whole month (and the last week in July) of bare feet, rocky "beaches" and fried fish shacks.  Coney Island only has frozen crap, and no one has ever invited me to the Hamptons. So I'm calling The ChipShop my summer spot.  The fish is so fresh and flakey, and on a 96 degree day in NY, the air conditioning makes me feel right at home. The Happy Hour Special is 20% off all items Monday - Thursday from 4:30 to 6:30. Try one of the many ridiculous deep-fried desserts; Twix, Reese's, or the Twinkie(?!)

Bonus: Great imported draught beers, very soccer friendly. Oh, and there's deep-fried pizza (if you're into that sort of thing.)


 
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Jessica: Margherita Pie
Where: Pizza Moto Brooklyn Flea. 137 Lafayette Ave., Fort Greene, Brooklyn
Cost: $9

I love browsing the stalls of jewelry, clothing, and furniture at the market, but really...I come to EAT!  There are many fantastic food purveyors here, but I cannot pass up the beautifully made personal pies that owner/creator Dave whips up. Cooked in his own hand-built portable wood-burning oven (that's a mouthful),  Moto’s pies are so thin and crisp, and then the sauce--so zesty and fresh. I am usually fairly disappointed with American pizza, as I am with most Italian food here, but Moto reminds me that there are others here who remember a time and place in Italy when their tongues were blessed and changed forever (and I'm not referring to the smooth hotties, with names like Lorenzo...that's for my other blog).

P.S. Pizza Moto will also be dealing at Central Park Summer Stage 2010.


 
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Jessica: Fire (bacon-wrapped jalapeños stuffed with shrimp and cheese)
Where: Burrito Bar 307 Flatbush Ave., Prospect Heights, Brooklyn (718) 230-8646
Cost: $8.25

 
As it seems our world is steadfastly being taken over by bacon, with bits showing up in our ice cream, strips of it swaddling whole turkeys--even potato latkes are being smutted up with the swine. So I figured I may as well throw in my two cents (wrapped in bacon).  If you can appreciate the simple genius of a traditional jalapeno popper, then this version will blow your mind like a bedazzled pick-up truck.  Just have them already! Viva la revolucion!!!

 
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José: Rooster Runs Wild Wrap
Where: Lechonera El Barrio 172 E 103rd St., Spanish Harlem
Cost: $9.95

 
In the spirit of the Puerto Rican Day Parade I thought I would let you on a little secret called Lechonera El Barrio. Here you can get anything for under $10 and walk away wanting to take a nap. You can get a flavorful yellow rice with any meat dish, like the fried pork chops or carne guisada (Latin beef stew) for $8.50. You want sweet plantains? Just add $1.50. You can’t go wrong here. Don’t expect speedy service, but do expect to have wholesome Latin American food!


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City Grub Under $10 - Part 2


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Jessica: Mango Basil (pint)
Where: NYC Icy 905 Church Ave., Kensington, Brooklyn (347) 789-1849
Cost: $5.50

 
Not only does NYC Icy have what you'll need on a hot, sweaty day, it will delight you with many unexpected flavors.  I tried the traditional Strawberries and Cream and then returned the next day (85 degrees) for the refreshing Mango Basil.  There's also French Tart, Apricot Ginger, Rice Pudding, just to name a few, which are all handmade with fresh, natural ingredients. After you get your fix, take your new sugar buzz to the Prospect Park loop and jog your ass off, 'cause beach days are right around the corner, bee-yatch!


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Tara: Hot Dog with Peppers and Onions and Cheese Fries
Where: Brook-vin 1310 Surf Ave., Coney Island, Brooklyn
(718) 946-2705

Cost: $7.17

I know, bathing suit season is just around the corner.  But sometimes you have to say to heck with it!  Especially on a beautiful, sunny day with the wind blowing a gorgeous ocean breeze on your shoulders.  I don’t even like Coney Island, but I’ll go there any day just for a delicious hot dog from Nathan’s.  Smothered in peppers and onions and paired with an order of crispy, cheese-covered fries, this is the perfect “Let’s be a little bad” snack.  The gym will still be there for you in the morning.

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Jessica: Squash Blossom Quesadilla
Where: Cinco De Mayo 1202 Cortelyou Rd. Kensington, Brooklyn (718)693-1022
Cost: $6

 

Whenever I move to a new apartment, one of the first items to check off the to do list is scoping out the hot taco spots in my new barrio.  I always judge a place worthy of multiple visits by the flavor of their rice & beans, and this place is SOLID!  With some interesting specials including a squash blossom quesadilla, you can venture outside "la caja" and feel confident that you won't be consumed by plate envy over your neighbors safe taco order, which are still quite yummy. Buen provecho!


Cinco de Mayo
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Jessica: Banh Mi Saigon
Where: Banh Mi Saigon Bakery 138 Mott St., Little Italy (212) 941-1541
Cost: $3.75

 
Wait! First, the runner-up for the most amazing thing about this place is...that it's actually a jewelry store with a Vietnamese bakery in the back.  Aaah, Nirvana; diamonds and swine. Only in New York (and maybe Vietnam). Seriously, this place does not need more exposure despite it's "diguise" it seems to draw quite a flock of die-hard regulars.  That said, you must try these sandies. They are intricately flavorful and elegantly designed -kind of like a Neil Lane engagement ring.

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José: Mister Softee Hot Fudge Sunday
Where: Wherever you hear that Mr. Softee Jingle!
Cost: $3.00


Maybe not a conventional City Grub pick, but it’s what I was craving and it was yummy. Walking down Sixth Avenue with Tim, I heard that jingle that would make my eyes pop out with excitement when I was a kid. I couldn’t help it. Sure, maybe it’s true that those marciano cherries takes seven years to digest, but I have no regrets satisfying my child-like cravings!

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Deena: (Small) Green Tea and Berry Frozen Yogurt (w/ 3 toppings)
Where: Berry Lover 37-11 35th Ave., Astoria, Queens (718) 786-2200
Cost: $7

I can never decide on which flavor, so I usually end up with more than one.  I also ended up with rainbow jimmies, chocolate chips, AND strawberries.  Yum!  It was a nice, cool, refreshing treat after an hour and a half of hot yoga at The Yoga Room.

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José: Tempura Calamari
Where: Eatery 798 Ninth Ave. at 53rd St. (212) 777-6500
Cost: $10


If you love fried calamari like I do, then jump on this for a twist. This is a tempura style calamari with Hijiki, fresh mango & white Ponzu sauce! The service is good and the atmosphere has a fun vibe.

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José: Cuban Sandwich
Where: Favela Cubana 543 La Guardia Pl., West Village (212) 777-6500
Cost: $10


If you love meat like I do, then you’ll love this Cuban sandwich. From the first bite I was immediately transported to my grandfather’s bodega when I was a kid. The meat is tender and seasoned with all the right stuff. The grilled ham and cheese wrapped around this little piggy is just enough to make your eyes roll to the back of your head. For those that love pickles it packs the perfect crunch. The best surprise for me was the bread. Normally with hot sandwiches on baguettes, you have to work hard to get to the meaty stuff. This bread was warm, soft and fresh, like it was made to order.

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José: 1/2 Sandwich, Small Soup w/ Drink & Snack
Where: Pecan Café 130 Franklin St., Tribeca (646) 613-8296
Cost: $9.99


I’ve lived in this neighborhood for over a year, and I just walked into Pecan’s Cafe for the first time last week. I’ve been back three times since then. The staff is friendly, and unlike most lunch spots, you have room to breathe with their wide-open space. This time, I tried their roasted red pepper soup with gouda cheese, and a chicken salad sandwich with cranberries, lettuce and tomato. AMAZING! You also have a choice of chips or cookies, and a soft drink. Really?!


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José: Krabi - Roasted Turkey, Walnut and Tomato Sandwich
Where: Peace and Love Cafe 397 Greenwich St., Tribeca (212) 349-8500
Cost: $6.50


OK, you ready for this one? Roasted turkey, muenster, cranberries, walnuts, bacon, aioli AND yogurt dipping sauce. Do I even have to describe how this tastes? It’s amazing! The baguette it’s served in, is always fresh. If you can snag that chair that you see in the picture, you’re all set for a perfect lunch break.



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José: Thai Crispy Crab Cakes
Where: Alpha Asian Fusion 365 W. 34th St., Midtown (212) 279.8887
Cost: $9


Forget what you know about crab cakes and head over to Alpha. In most restaurants crab cakes tend to be overrated. They’re either dry, too mushy or bland. As soon as you get a bite from these guys, I promise you, you’ll come back for more. The crunchy sweetness of the outside is a great surprise. What’s even more surprising is how fresh and yummy they are on the inside. I’ve never had anything like it.

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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.

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Jessica: The Pickle Dog
Where: Bark Hot Dogs - 474 Bergen St. Park Slope, Brooklyn (718)789-1939
Cost: $5.50


Nothing says "Happy Valentine's Day! I love you" more than a juicy hot dog in a soft warm bun. Add some house-cured pickles and boy, am I happy to see you!  I know--some of you are saying, "it's just a dawg." But a great dawg, can be so amazingly satisfying. These puppies are made of the best ingredients, all natural, and local.  So open up your heart and give an old stand-by another shot. You might just fall in love all over again.  

Pickle Dog Two

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José: Frozen Hot Chocolate
Where: Serendipity3 225 East 60th Street (bet. 2nd and 3rd Ave.)
Cost: $7.95


Valentine’s date or not, this is where you need to go! It's famous, it's infamous, it's notorious. It has destroyed diets and led to love affairs. One sip of their creamy, dreamy, icy blend of chocolatey goodness, It’ll make you want to blow bubbles through your straw. It makes everyone a child again.

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José: The Elvis
Where: Peanut Butter & Company 240 Sullivan Street
Cost: $7.50


Are you ready? A grilled peanut butter sandwich, stuffed with bananas and honey. Try with with bacon for that extra indulgence. Long live the king!!

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David: South American Treats
Where: Red Hook Ball Fields (corner of Clinton Street and Bay Street, Brooklyn)
Cost: $1-10

The Red Hook Ballfields have in the past few years become a famous spot for scoring fresh ceviche, hot chicken tamales, cheesy quesadillas, corn on the cob, pupusas, and a variety of other tempting South American treats. Vendors sell their straight-off-the-grill street food from carts scattered around an outdoor baseball field. Sounds delicious, doesn't it? It is. Cheap, too.


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José: Fish and Chips (Haddock)
Where: A Salt and Battery 112 Greenwich Ave., West Village (12th and 13th Streets
Cost:
$9.95
This is as authentic as you’re gonna get folks! These fish-and-chips have the best ‘chips’ and I would skip the cod and go straight for the haddock. You won’t be disappointed!

fasaltandbattery

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Deena: Beer Battered Fried McClure’s Brooklyn Pickles with Smoky Sauce
Where: Sweet Afton 30-09 34th St., Astoria, Queens (718.777.2570)
Cost: $4 ($9 w/ draft beer)

Holy Toledo!  I didn't think there was a better combo than pickles and whipped cream till I tasted these scrumptious bites of yumminess.  You can even wash them down with a draft beer and still stay under the 10 buckaroo budget.  


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Deena: Chipwich and Shake
Where: Gus & Gabriel Gastropub, 222 West 79th St. NY, NY ( between Broadway and Amsterdam)
Cost:
$5.95

chipwich
Triple chocolate cookie, caramel ice cream, chocolate crunches AND Jim Beam-spiked vanilla shake.  It doesn't get better than that!  Good old-fashioned comfort food from scratch that makes you feel like a kid again but still allows the adult in you to enjoy the booze.  So many more selections under ten bucks, but this one was def the most economical!  A place where you can "have your cake and eat it, too"!  Or your burger, or your chili and cheese dogs, or your fried mozz balls, or your spicy pork sloppy joe!!! 




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Jessica: Brooklyn Wings
Where: The Smoke Joint 87 South Elliot Place. Fort Greene, Brooklyn
Cost: $7.50
These smoky wings are sweet and spicy, and the meat is so juicy it falls right off, though you'll still be gettin' all up on that bone like it's hiding somethin' in there.  You get it, baby!   No judgment! 
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Jessica: Croque Madame
Where: Marquet Patisserie 680 Fulton St. Fort Greene, Brooklyn
Cost:
$7.50

This decadent sandwich helps me miss Paris a little less.  Very authentic-tasting and straightforward, like that of a true Parisian brasserie. The only thing missing is the bustling sidewalk cafe to enjoy it.  The staff here is very friendly and efficient, unlike the usual lackadaisical service in my still beloved Fort Greene.

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