Get the Pastrami!

You’ve seen New York City in your living room or on the big screen. Now, you’re getting ready to do it in person! You’ve scored your cheap tickets to New York, and it’s time to start thinking about where you’re going to eat. Fortunately, your inspiration for visiting the Big Apple can give you a few ideas about where to dine. Let’s take a look at five New York culinary institutions, as seen on TV:

1. Pomodoro Rosso: If you’re from the Upper West Side, you know Pomodoro Rosso as a local institution … and they probably know you as a frequent visitor! To the television-viewing world, though, it gained notoriety as the “breakup” restaurant on Seinfeld. Rest assured, your relationships will remain as healthy after the meal as they were before. Still, don’t use this as an excuse for complacency! By the way, go on Mondays – meatball night – you won’t want to miss it.

2. Gray’s Papaya: The famous “hot-doggery” has appeared on several television shows based in New York. While there is a location on the Upper West Side (around the corner from Pomodoro), the hot dog shop in the village seems to get the most attention. You can eat for around $5, and the hot dogs are pretty good. Also, if you want a hot dog for breakfast, this is the place to go. Bonus: the Gray’s Papaya in the Village now sells pizza for $1 a slice (not available on the Upper West Side).

3. Magnolia Bakery: Known across the country thanks to Sex and the City, the notoriety Magnolia Bakery received has led to the opening of several new locations. The original is down in the Village, but new shops have opened at Rockefeller Center and on the Upper West Side. To participate in TV fame, order a cupcake or two.

4. Katz’s Deli: You know the scene from When Harry Met Sally … yes, that scene. Well, it was set in Katz’s Deli, a Lower East Side institution. Make the trek down for a pastrami sandwich, and try out your best Meg Ryan impersonation!

5. 21 Club: Several television shows and movies have had scenes set at 21 Club, but perhaps the most iconic is Wall Street – this is where Bud Fox (Charlie Sheen) went after having picked up Gordon Gekko (Michael Douglas) as a client. Want to feel like part of the one percent? This is the place to do it.

Don't forget to 'Like us' on Facebook for exclusive travel deals!

photo: aturkus