This is Meal Plan, a series in which one decorated New York chef runs us through their ideal day of eating and drinking in the Big Apple.
We like to think of Dan Kluger as the Cadillac of New York chefs: he makes solid, dependable fare with just enough frills to elevate things beyond ordinary.
Most recently the founder of Loring Place, Kluger has formerly helmed ABC Cocina and ABC Kitchen, leading the latter to a James Beard Award. To boot, he’s now got a cookbook and a new Long Island restaurant in the works.
We managed to squeeze into that packed schedule to tap Kluger for his picks for seven distinct NYC dining occasions, from dinner to “late-night noodles” to a well-deserved cocktail.
Breakfast: Mah Ze Dahr
“The pastries here are some of my favorite in the city so I love stopping in here for breakfast before heading to the restaurant. The vanilla cream filled brioche doughnuts are my favorite. Du’s Doughnuts and the cookies and chocolate babka at Breads Bakery are a few other favorites.”
Breakfast/Snack: Union Square Greenmarket
“I have been going to the Greenmarket for years and it’s always great seeing all of the farmers and vendors that we work with there. I recommend going early in the morning while all of the best produce and ingredients are still available. It’s great for grabbing a late morning snack as well.”
Lunch: Chelsea Market
“Chelsea market is another home to a lot of my favorite local vendors, like Num Pang – one of my favorite places to stop during lunch for sandwiches.”
Afternoon cocktail: Gramercy Tavern
“This is such a classic New York City restaurant, and their hospitality always blows me away. It has been one of my favorite restaurants for awhile and it’s also the perfect spot for afternoon wine and cheese at the bar counter.”
Snack: Culture
“I love stopping in for frozen yogurt at Culture. They are located right across the street from Loring Place, so I also try to always support our neighbors as well.”
Dinner: Shuko
“Another favorite restaurant of mine and somewhere I love to go regularly for dinner. Sitting at the sushi counter is always a great experience, and Nick and Jimmy are making the best sushi in the city.”
Late Night: Great NY Noodletown
“This is a place I love to visit for late night noodles, always a fun environment and consistent food. The duck with flowering chives and also the steamed chicken with ginger scallion are two of my favorites.”
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