Bar Veloce (wine bar/paninis) Bar Veloce isn’t going to win a James Beard award for the food, but the cool space more than makes up for that fact. It’s the perfect place to meet your friends before heading on to other things.
Cafe Grumpy (coffee/pastries) If you're involved enough in the espresso making process to know what a Synesso is, then Cafe Grumpy might be your place. No frills, no pretense - just great coffee.
Co. (aka Company) (pizza) - Review coming soon
Cook Shop (American) Many will tell you that Cook Shop's brunch is their claim to fame…and those people are right. Brunch here is innovative without being fussy, delicious while still filling you up.
Intermezzo (Italian) If you're gay and looking for a great Italian restaurant right on 8th Ave in the heart of all the action, Intermezzo is probably you're best bet.
Le Zie (Italian)The La Zie bar/lounge (with entrance on 20th street) is one of those delicious little finds that Time Out will surely destroy (with a good review) any day now.
Momoya (Sushi) The best sushi in Chelsea. Period. That isn't to say that the sushi is going to send shivers up your spine. It isn't. But it certainly does the trick if you're in the neighborhood.
Omai (Vietnamese)Taking Vietnamese food up a notch, Omai serves Chelsea-folk exceptional fare that captures the essence of the region's cuisine and still allows it to be approachable.
Red Cat (American)The wood-paneled walls painted in white and deep merlot work with the individually lit art and ocassional silverware hanging from the walls to create a refined, yet non-stuffy feel. You can't help but fall in love with the space.
Rin (Thai) - Review coming soon
Suenos (Mexican) - Review Coming Soon
Tia Pol (Tapas) - Review Coming Soon
Trestle on Tenth (European) The cuisine is billed as American Nouveau, but it demonstrates strong influences from Switzerland, Austria and France. They also do a great brunch, and it isn't over-crowded.
Txikito (Tapas) This place isn’t going to create a revolution in the NY restaurant industry, but if you’re in the neighborhood, it’s a perfectly great option, and the relatively inexpensive pitchers of sangria make the evening that much nicer.