Sushi at Tomoe Sushi in the West Village, NYC

Tomoe is a pretty popular neighborhood sushi spot on Thompson Street and it’s easy to see why. An intimate setting with a pleasant wait staff (especially the waitress who can’t not smile), affordable pricing and fresh ingredients will keep you coming back. 

Pictured is a spicy tuna roll that’s not just a bunch of tuna scraps drenched in sauce and a soft shell crab roll that’s sure to please. Order up a few pints of sake to bring it home. 

Tomoe only accepts cash or Amex because it’s where hitters dine. 

Fettuccine Porcini Mushroom at Pepe Verde in the West Village, NYC

If you’re looking for a delicious Italian meal on the cheap, look no further than the quaint Pepe Verde on Hudson. This tiny establishment has an extensive menu that trumps most of its higher priced competition.

When you know what you want, go up to the counter and order it. And don’t hesitate to order a few bottles of Pepe Verde’s $17 wine that will be served in plastic cups. Don’t get all uppity just drink the damn wine. 

Poached Eggs at Elephant & Castle in the West Village, NYC

Hands down the cleanest brunch dish that I’ve ever had. Elephant & Castle’s pictured canyonland poached eggs with baby tomatoes, basil, tarragon, balsamic, wild mushrooms and avocado is a thing of beauty. And it tastes better than it looks. After you’ve punctured the eggs use your english muffin to soak up the delicious yolky mixture.

Bloody Mary and French Toast at Perilla in the West Village, NYC

Perilla’s bloody mary will put hair on your chest, which is why I wear a deep V whenever brunching here. 

The pictured french toast topped with apricot and vanilla-bourbon maple syrup is a pleaser. Don’t feel guilty about carbing up with this dish. The portion is just right and will leave you with enough room to be the one to suggest post brunch Sunday drinking. 

Perilla is a great spot for a larger brunch group. Just give them a call beforehand to reserve a table.

Cavatelli @FranksSpuntino in the #WestVillage, #NYC

Frankie’s Spuntino is a solid Italian spot in the West Village (and Brooklyn). With plenty of seating and fresh food, you won’t be waiting for three hours to be seated. Grab several bottles of house wine and some cured meats to start off the night. 

Pictured is Frankie’s house made cavatelli pasta with hot sausage in a browned sage butter sauce. It’s surprisingly filling so count on sharing it with your neighbor or stick a few bites in your pocket in case you get hungry at the club. 

Roasted Brussel Sprouts and Fish at Joseph Leonard in the #WestVillage, #NYC

Joseph Leonard is just about as flawless as you can get. Studying the menu beforehand is probably a good idea otherwise you can bet on endless indecision while munching on complimentary gherkins.

Dine in absolute comfort in this dimly lit, intimate establishment. The wait staff is calm and never gives off a hint of impatience as you get lost in conversation over some red. Not pictured is the caramel pudding dessert. A light pudding that doesn’t leave you with post meal fatigue. 

Come here on an off night to avoid a long wait. Come here like we did, during a torrential downpour on an off night to avoid any wait at all. 

Joseph Leonard is the sister to Jeffrey’s Grocery, Fedora and Perla. 

Dim Sum from RedFarm in the #WestVillage, #NYC

RedFarm has it together. The restaurant is a modern touch on Chinese food by people who appreciate the clean lifestyle. The prices are super fair and the integrity of each dish is unmatched. 

The interior is honest and, once you’re seated, will arouse a feeling of comfort and quality. It’s like dining in a farm house except the cook delivers ultra fresh shrimp and snow pea leaf dumplings like it’s his job, which in this case, it is. 

Come here with a group on an off night or expect a three hour wait, though it’s justified. Order every item off the dim sum menu and a couple of entrees to share. I just drooled on my keyboard thinking about my next RedFarm experience. 

Fettuccine at Dell’Anima in the #WestVillage, #NYC

Dell’Anima is a solid Italian spot with perfect portions in an intimate setting.

The Italian wine selection is very strong.

Carne Asada taco at Tortilla Flats in the #WestVillage, #NYC

Ideal weather, margaritas and delicious Mexican food before taking the night deep is a must.