NYC's Best Takes On 6 Classic American Foods
When it comes to classic American fare, there's a lot of tasty options. With Fourth of July around the corner, it's a great time to celebrate classic dishes like mac n' cheese, chicken wings, and that decadent brownie sundae. Here are the best places to find these (and more). By Carly Petrone.
More: NYC's 5 Best Restaurants For Seafood & Drinks
If you're in Brooklyn, definitely take advantage of the clam bake to-go option from Grand Central Oyster Bar BK. This popular All American meal comes with lobster, cherrystone clams, mussels, corn, and potatoes for just $34.95 (for two) or $59.95 (for four). If you're a seafood lover this is the perfect way to celebrate the 4th of July. Now you can host a traditional New England style clam bake without actually doing any work. Just make sure you give them 24 hour notice when placing your order. Happy eating!
More: The 8 Best Ice Cream Shops In Manhattan
Everyone loves a good ice cream sundae. But what about adding a brownie to that ice cream sundae? Step into Ralph Lauren's Polo Bar and come for dessert because they're serving up a chocolate brownie with homemade vanilla ice cream, warm chocolate sauce, and walnuts for $12. If you're in the mood for just ice cream, may we suggest Ralph's Coffee Ice Cream? It's made with Ralph's custom coffee blend and served with dark chocolate shortbread cookies. This classic American brand is dishing out some seriously delicious all American desserts.
More: The 5 Best Restaurants In Harlem
Chicken and waffles get an upgrade at Streetbird in Harlem. The new rotisserie restaurant, started by famed chef Marcus Samuelson, is serving up red velvet waffles with bourbon maple syrup, and Streetbird spiced chocolate sauce. You don't have to wait until the weekend to eat it either – it's always available on the menu. You may also notice another twist on the menu - The Hot & Messy ($12.50). This deconstructed chicken sandwich is made with toasted cornbread, pulled chicken, poached egg, avocado, peanut butter, and bacon. It certainly lives up to its name while the combination of flavors works perfectly (even though you wouldn't think so).
More: The Best Sweet Treats For Summer
Grab a seat at the counter at Eisenberg's and order the tuna melt. Trust us. There's no twist here – just sticking with the basics. Sure, this isn't the lowest calorie option but it's worth it. The tuna salad is creamy, the bread perfectly buttered and grilled, and the cheese melts effortlessly between the two. If you really want to go for it, pair it with a classic chocolate egg cream ($2) and pat yourself on the back for one awesome order choice.
More: NYC's 5 Best BBQ Lunch Spots
Arrogant Swine owner Tyson Ho is bringing his North Carolina roots to the big apple and he doesn't disappoint with Kenny G's Mac n' Cheese. Don't worry, the famous saxophonist isn't making this dish. But the classic macaroni dish is waffle pressed (yes, we said waffle pressed) and served with a cup of queso on the side. It's a mixture of crispy and creamy – something you don't find often. That's not the only waffle they're serving. Stop in for brunch and try the Banana Pudding Waffle ($7) – rum soaked waffle, banana pudding, and caramelized bananas. Yum.
More: The 3 Best Cocktail Bars In Harlem
Head uptown if you're into chicken wings. Harlem Tavern serves them two ways – chipotle honey BBQ or homemade hot sauce. The first is sweet and tangy and the second has just enough heat to warrant the blue cheese dip on the side. They're meaty, crispy, and filling enough for a meal (even though they're a starter). Pair the crispy wings with one of their beer cocktails like the refreshing Honey Harvest (Angry Orchard Crisp Apple Cider, Wild Turkey American Honey & ginger ale) and enjoy whatever is playing on the big screen.
For the latest on all of the Tri-State's events and happenings, follow us on Twitter!
Carly Petrone is a freelance writer living in New York City.
