Budget
Big Nick's
One of the best burger joints in perhaps all of Manhattan, Big Nick's is something of a diner cramped, wood-paneled, smelling of grease, similar prices, but with far superior food. Their menu is massive, brought to you in the form of a 15-page book with virtually everything imaginable, including an excellent burger menu. Big Nick's also has a second location in the neighborhood at 70 W 71st St at Columbus Avenue.
Le Monde
Faux French food but a great international beer selection and good burgers.
Midrange
Top end
Per Se
The New York outpost of Chef Thomas Keller of the French Laundry in Yountville, which is in the Napa Valley of California. Chef Keller is one of the most famous and highly praised chefs in the United States. It used to be necessary to call months in advance for reservations, but due to the recession, same-day reservations may be worth attempting.
Markets
Fairway
Probably the best-known supermarket in New York, Fairway sells a wide variety of specialty and prepared items, in addition to usual supermarket fare, and has large produce sections. Lots of good values to be had, but watch out for elbows and aggressive shopping cart drivers at peak times.
Zabar's
A very well-known store in New York, with an enormous selection of delicious and expensive foods. Foodstuffs cheeses, olives, prepared foods, etc. are sold on the first floor. The second floor is where you will find all sorts of devices related to cooking and food processing at price points ranging from inexpensive bargains to very expensive luxury items. As with Fairway, do not go the day before Thanksgiving, and think carefully before going on a busy weekend.
Morningside Heights Farmers Market
This outdoor market is year round but is best enjoyed in summer and fall. Delicious New York strawberries and blueberries in mid and late summer, fresh apples including varieties that never make it to the supermarkets in Fall. Pumpkins, fresh local tomatoes, melons, watermelons, lots of apple cider, and a stand that sells preserves of local fruits all make this a worthwhile place for browsing if you have your own kitchen.