Didn’t plan on ending up a stone’s throw from Times Square? (No one does.) Retreat from the touristy madness, knock back a pint, trail global cuisine fiends, and steal some freshly baked snacks for the morning after.
763 9th Ave 212-698-9008
The Benetton of empanadas (there are more than 40 kinds). We like the Hawaiian and Cuban versions, though the Polish, Greek, and dessert varieties are enticing. You can try them all, seeing as they will set you back only $2.50 a pop.
Photo: Courtesy of Sassy40’s
354 W 45th St 212-563-6269
Quirky nonprofit theater space for low-brow comedy, experimental musical theater, dance labs, and film screenings. It’s a little rough around the edges, but at least the beer is cheap.
Photo: Courtesy of The Tank
511 W 54th St 212-489-9800
This little black box in Hell’s Kitchen may look unassuming, but it plays host to some of the city’s funniest and most provocative theatrical works (at affordable prices).
Photo: Courtesy of Ars Nova
705 9th Ave 212-974-6012
Super inventive dessert bar and bakery plays with Japanese flavors to make incredibly delicate sweets (award-winning cupcakes, tofu soft serve).
Photo: Courtesy of Rebecca Bent
347 W 46th St 212-957-0046
With two other locations on the Upper East and West Sides, the unpretentious joint presents the eats of a mad sushi scientist.
Photo: Courtesy of Sushi of Gari