When deciding on quick and tasty dining in the Flatiron District, we automatically look to the American food staple Shake Shack for burgers and fries. But look a little deeper into the heart of the Flatiron and you will find a variety of lesser-known yet delicious food spots that are also easy on the wallet.
Rickshaw Dumpling Bar | 61 W. 23rd St.
If you are unable to catch the Rickshaw Dumpling truck, then make your way over to the Dumpling Bar to satisfy that craving. Rickshaw is not only known for steamed dumplings, but also for steamed buns and noodles. At only $3.44 per small order, the Chicken and Thai Basil Dumplings are not to be missed. Stuffed with chicken, lemon grass, glass noodle and carrots, the dumplings are served with a spicy peanut dip that adds a flavorful kick to the crisp and refreshing dumplings. For the health-conscious, an order of six dumplings contains fewer than 300 calories, and Rickshaw also offers a number of vegan options.
Uncle Moe’s Burrito | 14 W. 19th St.
Serving California-style Mexican food with a metropolitan twist, Uncle Moe’s has all of your south-of-the-border favorites, such as quesadillas, chalupas, tacos and burritos. Almost every item on their menu is vegetarian-friendly, and the meat options, like the Chile Colorado or Turkey Mole, contain incomparably innovative flavor combinations. Uncle Moe’s popular 19th Street Taco ($3.90) is stuffed with your choice of specialty meat or vegetable combination, pico de gallo and lettuce.
Posto Pizza | 310 2nd Ave.
Known for its wafer-thin crust pizza loaded with toppings, this Italian restaurant is the perfect stop for quick personal pies, which start at only $7. You can even create your own pie: Choose a pizza base from marinara sauce and cheese, pesto and cheese or plain extra virgin olive oil and pile on toppings of your choice. You can also order one of their specialty-crafted house pies — try the crowd favorite Shroomtown, which comes complete with white truffle oil and portobello, shitake and button mushrooms ($12.50 for a personal size). Stop in between Monday and Friday to try one of their lunch specials that offer slices, Italian sandwiches, soups and salads. Lunch specials come with a complimentary soda and range from $5 to $10.
Eisenberg’s Sandwich Shop | 174 5th Ave.
“Raising New York’s cholesterol since 1929” is the motto of this classic Flatiron shop. It may not be a first choice for the health-conscious, but for those looking to grab breakfast at any time of day or for a classic New York City deli sandwich for half the price of famous competitors, Eisenberg’s is the place to be. The narrow shop offers breakfast necessities all day at reasonable prices. Egg sandwiches start at $2.50, and French toast or pancakes cost $5.00. But the famous tuna salad sandwich ($7.25) is a must for every Eisenberg’s patron. The restaurant also has all of the deli sandwich staples, such as hot pastrami and Reuben. Eisenberg’s sandwiches range in price from $3.50 to $11.
Alyssa Noud is a staff writer. Email her at [email protected].