Thursday

06-26-2025 Vol 2003

Highlights from the Best Bites of the Week

Eater editors have been on the hunt for remarkable dishes this week, and they have certainly discovered some culinary gems worth sharing. With a variety of unforgettable meals experienced across the Northeast, here are the standout plates that caught our attention.

At Smithereens, a cool below-street-level homage to New England cuisine, the hot weather calls for a visit to this East Village gem. The standout dish is the paper-thin buckwheat pancake, priced at $24. Brushed with maple butter, it envelops a creamy layer of smoked bluefish, making it a delightful dish to share. For an extra flavor adventure, try the abalone skewers for $32, which come with crispy grilled edges and a dipping egg yolk. The wine selection is equally enticing, encouraging diners to explore the exquisite pours available at the bar.

Traveling to Astoria, Darjeeling Kitchen and Cafe serves Tibetan and Himalayan cuisine that captivates with its authentic flavors. Among their offerings, the rildok stood out with its spicy tomato-and-cheese dumpling soup, made distinctively with blue cheese instead of the more typically used yak cheese. This dish is sure to offer a satisfying heat, perfect for those warm summer nights.

No summer in New York City feels complete without a classic ice cream cone from Mister Softee. The chocolate-dipped vanilla soft serve is a nostalgic experience, especially when enjoyed on the iconic Coney Island boardwalk. This delicious indulgence epitomizes the spirit of summer in the city, making it a must-have for locals and visitors alike.

In Bushwick, Nacho Macho Taco presents a tantalizing chicken mole burrito for under $15. Wrapped in a warm, translucent tortilla, this dish boasts tender chicken enveloped in a mole sauce that perfectly balances flavors without overwhelming sweetness. Adding a hint of green Yucateco sauce enhances the flavors further, making this burrito a top choice for residents looking for delicious and affordable options nearby.

Finally, Cafe d’Alsace offers an ethereal dessert experience with its crepe souffle priced at $15. At this cozy Upper East Side establishment, the dish features an extraordinarily fluffy crêpe, filled with vanilla-laced pastry cream and encased in a delicate bruléed caramel wafer. Topped with a drizzle of passionfruit coulis for a tart contrast, this dessert is not just a meal ender but a dream-inducing delight that may have guests returning for seconds.

With a diverse range of cuisines and delectable dishes showcased this week, it’s clear that the culinary scene in the Northeast continues to thrive. Whether indulging in New England-inspired plates, savoring Himalayan delights, enjoying classic summer treats, or exploring distinct flavors at local taco shops, there’s something for every palate. Eater editors encourage you to embark on your own gourmet adventures, as there are plenty of flavors waiting to be discovered.

image source from:ny

Charlotte Hayes