CHELSEA. This quaint little breakfast and lunch stop, located in the trendy Chelsea Market, is popular for its delicious homemade baked goods. Inside, you'll see Amy's latest baked offerings like "Organic Rustic Italian," "Organic Whole Wheat Baguette," or "Black Olive Fougasse" stacked in the bins around the counter. Breakfast fare includes a vast selection of scones, muffins, sticky buns, Irish soda bread and more. The neighborhood folks crowd in daily for Amy's unique take on traditional lunch fare ­ a grilled cheese and tomato seasoned with cilantro and chipolte red pepper or ham with swiss on potato onion dill bread. TRAIN: A, C, E, L to 14th St.

EAST VILLAGE. The line out the door will show you that vegans and carnivores agree ­ Angelica Kitchen is a wonderful dining experience. Anyone worried that vegetarian fare isn't filling hasn't tried the sweet potato croquettes flavored with pecans, garlic, fennel and caraway, with an onion-dill glaze. Other filling favorites are the hot, open-faced tempeh sandwich and the "dragon bowl" composed of steamed sea veggies, rice, beans and tofu. Don't forget to save room for the delectable desserts ­ the lemon-almond torte wins raves among regulars. Cash only. Casual dress.

UPPER WEST SIDE. Named in honor of the late restaurateur Artie Cutler, this topnotch joint was based on the concept of the classic, 1930s Jewish delicatessen. Simply dressed with tiled floors, a display counter and tables appointed with all your favorite condiments, the place can get loud (especially at lunch), and it always seems to be busy ... That is to say, Artie's has a look and feel that is quintessentially NYC. What sets it apart? The old school eats, of course, which range from the Famous Roumanian Pastrami to the open-faced steak sandwich served on an onion roll. Best of all, you can bring the whole fam ­ Artie's won't empty your wallet.

HELL'S KITCHEN. Small and simple, this Israeli eatery draws rave reviews from those who've been here. Tasty sandwiches and scrumptious kebabs please the palate while prices please the pocketbook. Try the great tasting falafel, hummus or salads. Top your meal off with a piece of rich baklava. When you ante up, bring the real stuff as this place has a cash only policy. Reservations not accepted. Casual attire. TRAIN: C, E to 50th St

UPPER WEST SIDE. Stripped-down décor and simple pleasures define this well-established Jewish eatery known for delicious brunch and expertly packed sandwiches. Affectionately called "The Sturgeon King," Barney Greengrass definitely knows their fish. Some of the best deli food in New York. Housed in their current location since 1929. Delivery until 4pm daily. Cash only. TRAIN: B, C, 1, 9 to 86th St