BookExpo America can be a whirlwind of networking and meetings. So where should an intrepid traveler go post-show for dinners and drinks with newfound friends? DK Eyewitness Travel Guides shares 10 favorite eating and meeting places in New York City.
High Line
An easy walk from the Javits Center, this elevated-train-track-turned-stylish-park offers a hungry visitor ample options along its scenic pathways. As you stroll south along the High Line, you'll be tempted by Blue Bottle Coffee's single-origin drip, La Newyorkina's frozen paleta treats, empanadas from La Sonrisa, Mexican street food from The Taco Truck and more. See if you can save room for drinks at Terroir at the Porch (15th Street) or coastal Italian fare at Santina, located at the southernmost entrance to the park.
Chelsea Market
Near the High Line and several high-profile restaurants, foodies of all types flock to the mouth-watering Chelsea Market (75 9th Avenue), located in a complex that fills an entire city block. From organic soups and farm-fresh dairy products to spicy Thai curries, treats from Morocco, and freshly-caught seafood, almost anything edible and delicious can be found here.
Plunge Bar & Lounge
Enjoy superb views of the New York skyline and the Hudson River from Plunge Bar & Lounge (18 9th Avenue), a rooftop bar at the trendy Gansevoort Hotel, in the Meatpacking District. Although it's on the expensive side--expect a cocktail to set you back $15--watching the sun set in a 360-degree panorama on a warm spring night can't be beat.
The Red Cat
This much-loved restaurant in Chelsea serves first-rate American-inspired fare. The Red Cat (227 10th Avenue) offers diners, as Frank Bruni of the New York Times once opined, "that rare split-the-difference place that has sophisticated food but not a whiff of arrogance." Before dining, whip up your appetite with a stroll through the neighborhood's galleries. Check Chelsea Gallery Map for locations, hours and current openings.
Corner Bistro
Giant, juicy burgers in the heart of the West Village make Corner Bistro (331 West 4th Street) a popular destination for locals, especially during the late-night hours. Make the inevitable wait for a table or barstool feel less lengthy with a cheap pint of McSorley's Ale, pulled from the taps in the dim, tavern atmosphere just as it has been for more than 50 years.
Village Vanguard
Since 1935 this basement club has featured a "who's who" of jazz, including pianist George Cables, who performs over BEA weekend. Catch his early set (8:30 p.m.) Friday–Sunday, or make this legendary New York institution your after-dinner destination with the 10:30 performance. The Village Vanguard (178 Seventh Ave. South) enforces a "no chatting during sets" policy, perfect for unwinding after a long noisy day. Admission is $30 per set, plus a one-drink minimum.
Momofuku Ssäm Bar
Culinary wunderkind David Chang brings serious humor (and lots of pork products) to this inventive corner spot. At the always-crowded Momofuku Ssäm Bar (207 2nd Avenue), the steamed pork buns are legendary, and one can always count on some unusual seafood and market vegetables to appear. Go early to try to snag a seat, or cross 13th Street to the restaurant's sister bakery Milk Bar for a sweet snack.
Don't Tell Mama
There's no telling who will be at spot in the Theater District--singers, comics, or magicians. At Don't Tell Mama (343 W 46th Street) there are no big names, and abilities range from amateur to destined-for-stardom. Sometimes, even the waiters get into the act. The focus on fun, however, is guaranteed, and nearly everyone can find something to love here, whether at the piano bar, restaurant or in the two cabaret rooms.
Eataly
At this sprawling emporium of all things edible and Italian, there are multiple dining options, from quick takeaway counters to sit-down gourmet eateries. Each of the seven restaurants in Eataly (200 Fifth Avenue) is located in the market area, where you'll find its main ingredients: find meaty mains near the butcher, vegetarian options at the produce section, pizza near the bakery and so on. When you've had your fill of the market selections, head upstairs to Birreria NYC, a rooftop restaurant brewing its own cask ales.
Metropolitan Museum of Art Roof Garden Café and Martini Bar
Have a drink or just admire the prime views of Central Park, the city towers, and beyond at The Metropolitan Museum of Art Roof Garden Café and Martini Bar (1000 Fifth Avenue), open until 8:15 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. A small café menu of salads, sandwiches, and sweets are matched by cocktails and mocktails like Ancho-Chile Limeade, cold-brewed iced coffee, house-made sangria. Admission to the museum is suggested donation and a wander through the European Sculpture and Decorative Arts galleries will take you to the elevator for roof access.
For more ideas on things to do in New York City, check out DK Eyewitness Travel Guide: Top 10 New York City.