You judge a barber by his cut. A tailor by his fit. A personal trainer by his girlfriend.
So when it comes to dining out, we want to go where the chefs go.
Ergo: The Eat Index, a series in which we ask the city’s most decorated chefs where they chow down off the clock.
The catch: cheap eats only. Novel concept in this city, we know.
From navigating Chinatown’s best hole-in-the-wall to $3.75 slices you can actually trust, let’s eat!
Sujan Sarkar, Baar Baar
Miso Tonkotsu Ramen from Yokoya
“I am a huge ramen fan, and I seek it out wherever I find a spot. Yokoya on the Lower East Side is one of my favorites — you can’t miss the Miso Tonkotsu.”
Chad Richard, Sauvage
Half & Half (shrimp/oyster) Po’Boy from Cheeky Sandwiches
“They get their bread from Gendusa bakery in New Orleans, and it’s super light and crisp. Get it with a bag of Zapp’s Potato chips for a perfect cheap meal!”
David Burke, Tavern62 by David Burke
Fornino and J.G. Melon
“On Kent Avenue in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, Fornino’s sandwiches on fresh bread by Chef Michael Ayoub are both works of art and of great craftsmanship. They’re made with shaved cured meat and cheese, pickles, peppers and herbs from his garden – all great ingredients. I also go to J.G. Melon on the Upper East Side for a quick burger and cottage fries.”
Dave Pesso, The Hummus & Pita Co.
Hard Times Sundaes
“Nothing is more mouth-watering and affordable than a fresh, juicy cheeseburger from Hard Times Sundaes!”
Executive Chef Scott Campbell, Butcher & Banker
Hop Shing
“In Chinatown, it is my go-to place for delicious cheap eats. They have the best baked pork buns which are about $1, and the dim sum is also fantastic. Funky spot and it’s always a lot of fun.”
Chef Simone Falco, Rossopomodoro
Bistro Burger at Corner Bistro
“I love the Bistro Burger. It is so tasty because it is made on the griddle. It is such a satisfying meal when you need to indulge.”
Executive Chef Darren Carbone, El Vez
Pepperoni Sicilian Slices and Prosciutto Arancini from Prince Street Pizza
“On weekends Prince Street Pizza is open very late. The thick cut pepperoni is amazing and it’s only $3.75 a slice.”
This article was featured in the InsideHook NY newsletter. Sign up now for more from all five boroughs.
