Falafels are a Middle Eastern fare. They are generally composed of deep-fried,
mashed chickpea, a white sauce, lettuce, tomatoes all in a soft pita
shell. Don’t be deterred by this
seemingly ultra-healthy, vegetarian sandwich, it’s very filling and very tasty.
For only two dollars a sandwich, it is definitely something worth trying at
least once. Greenwich Village’s
MacDougal Street (right by historic
Washington Square
Park) has several tiny falafel
places that are all excellent eats. Keep an eye out for tiny Middle Eastern
eateries all over New York City’s burrows Some places may have more accolades
in their window than others, trendy décor, and a line out the door, but don’t
be fooled, any falafel joint in this area serves up the same great falafel. Wrapped
up in handy tin-foil, they are ideal for walking around and munching, or just
plopping down on a bench to scarf down before catching a movie. Kebabs, stuffed grape leaves, mango juice,
and baklava are also commonly served at falafel places. If you have a few extra
bucks, try those too! Caution though,
the hot sauce they’ll ask you if you want on your falafel is HOT (but
scrumptious too). Olives are not usually
put on falafels because of their pits, but pickles are free additions that are worthwhile
to try.
It’s Crepe, not "Crape"! (And certainly not "crap")
Crepes are originally a French style snack. Many Americans may be familiar with this
papery thin pastry from breakfast menus and that pinnacle of French cuisine
art, IHOP. Crepes make great snacks and
even light meals. Generally priced
around four dollars (more for extra toppings) they can be dessert-like, with
berries, chocolate, and nuts or they can be made with sandwich materials like
meat or hummus. Try walking around Washington
Square Park,
especially the corner by Waverly, for crepe places. Many crepe shops offer creative creations such
as s’mores or apple pie crepes that are practically better than the real
thing. Plus there is nothing more
mesmerizing than watching batter being woven into a delicate, delicious wrap on
top of the crepe skillet.