AGH, Christmas is tomorrow and you’re not done shopping. Don’t panic. A gift card is always the right move, and Union Square Hospitality Group, Danny Meyer’s restaurant group is the perfect idea. Since the recipient can choose the restaurant, even the pickiest eaters will be able to find something. Here’s a rundown of some of the greatest hits.
Union Square Cafe
Union Square Cafe is perhaps the most iconic of Meyers’ restaurants. He opened at his original location on 16th St., and it’s where he developed his signature customer service techniques. It’s one of the anchors that helped turn Union Square into a food destination, and though its original location has now closed (tears), it will be opening next year where City Crab was on 19th St.
Blue Smoke / Jazz Standard
Meyers’ BBQ restaurant is doing some of the best smoked meat in town and has locations both in Murray Hill and Battery Park. Jazz Standard is located downstairs at the 27th St. location and features two sets of live jazz per night plus the legendary Blue Smoke menu. And if the gift recipient can’t have fun with Jazz and Danny Meyer BBQ…seriously reconsider getting that person a gift at all. Who needs him/her?
Maialino
Perfect for dinner or brunch and located in the Gramercy Park hotel, Maialino does awesome Italian food. But, pro-tip: go after 10:30pm for the burger.
Porchlight
Porchlight is a new spot by Meyer in Chelsea, known mainly for its cocktails, but the food is solid too. It has a good atmosphere, and you definitely won’t be disappointed.
Marta
If you find yourself in the SHAPS (s**t around Penn Station) area, Marta is a solid move. It’ has awesome pizza and will almost make you forget where you are. Key word, almost.
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Located in the New Whitney, this place serves great American food, and you get to feel super cool because it’s in the super cool new art museum.
Shake Shack
Last, but for sure not least, you could use the gift card on several trips to any of the Shake Shack locations in New York…not going to lie, this could be the best choice.
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