VIBE

This high-end gourmet food mecca for Manhattanites began in the early 1900s as a simple, family-run spot. These days, with outlets throughout the city and the Hamptons, it’s clearly established itself as the leader of the pack. The fish market is acclaimed as one of the best around and the meats and produce are also incredibly fresh. There’s also a vast array of international cheeses, breads, coffees, pickles, charcuterie, chocolates, pastries (we love their rugelach!), and pretty much every other ingredient your gourmet-loving little heart could desire. The prices can pack a painful punch, but for the quality, nothing less will do for the discriminatory palates of New Yorkers.

CROWD

Upscale locals, loyals, and dedicated foodies

WHAT WE WOULD WEAR

It’s a grocery store, albeit a high-end one. Anything goes, from yoga pants and a fleece to a sheath dress and heels.

GO HERE WITH

Family; a friend; yourself

WHY WE LIKE IT

Shop here to appear, and really feel, like a true local: it really is THE place for fish and meat in New York, and you will find no better outlet for tasty fresh, gourmet ingredients with which to cook and wow your friends and family. (Definitely don’t miss the upstairs cheese counter.) And their prepared foods are a MUCH better substitute for ordinary takeout–perfect for a picnic in nearby Central Park.

WHAT WE WOULD CHANGE

Granted this is New York, where real estate is at a premium, but the cramped aisles can get a bit crazy in the post-work hours or over the weekend.

GOOD TO KNOW

If you don’t know how to prepare the fish, or are looking for new recipes, the butchers and fish counter staff are really helpful. The assorted rugelach near the checkout lines are also quite delicious (and we’ve sampled quite a few around the city). Beware during the holiday seasons (Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Thanksgiving, Christmas); some of the customers can be aggressive as they stock up for holiday dinners!

OTHER LOCATIONS

Upper East Side (New York); Greenwich Village (New York); Harlem (New York); Hamptons (New York)

CLOSEST COMPS

Zabar’s (New York); Dean & Deluca (New York); Fortnum & Mason (London)

Click here for our full-form mobile travel guide, The Purple Passport to New York City.