NYC Restaurants

Au Cheval Diner on the edge of Chinatown isn't just any diner. The space with chandeliers, exposed brick and hardwood floors adds a touch of elegance. Those lucky enough to snag a counter seat get to see the kitchen in action flipping oversized burgers and preparing lots of sunny side up eggs that find there way into dishes like potato hash with duck heart gravy (which is amazing). Creative cocktails are offered like the Oaxacan Old Fashioned, Tequila Sour and Pink Vodka Lemonade. Hemingway Punch (a classic mix of El Dorado rum, maraschino, grapefruit and lime juice) is tasty and potent. Burgers, made famous in Chicago, are the real stars. The double cheeseburger, with a dagger down the center, is thick and juicy arriving fresh off the grill. Need more? Add thick slab bacon or egg, or both. Other menu items include roasted marrow bones with beef cheek marmalade and toast; General Jane’s honey-fried chicken with chili, sesame seeds and cilantro; and a 32-ounce pork porterhouse. Au Cheval is the kind of place that will have you coming back for more. >>

- Thomas Rafael