CHELSEA. This upscale Chelsea eatery brings together the spices of two continents - North America and Asia. Offering an interesting yet tasting hodgepodge of Tex-Mex and SE Asian cuisines, the Bright Food Shop draws a surprisingly large neighborhood crowd every day. Featured entrées include unique takes on seafood, fish and fowl dishes - think Vietnamese duck with taquitos or eggplant quesadilla. Make sure you bring plenty of green, as they don't accept credit cards or checks. TRAIN: C, E, F to 23rd St

EAST VILLAGE. This East Village eatery enjoys more than its share of local praise thanks to a superb Southwestern menu and reasonable prices. Neighborhood folks flock to Miracle Grill to sample nightly servings of tasty Yucatan fajitas, black bean and goat cheese rellenos, huevos rancheros and grilled tuna served with cilantro pesto. On the weekends, their popular brunch wows patrons with delicious pancakes, spicy eggs and grilled meats. During the warmer months, the garden tables are best. Reservations are suggested. TRAIN: F to 2nd Ave