Guide to eating in Union Square

On many an occasion, I have gotten calls and texts from friends with the same question, “Where can I eat in Union Square?” Times Square may be most known by tourists, and thousands of business people may pass through Grand Central Station each day, but, it is my belief that Union Square is the main hub of New York City. It is where friends meet, where street performers gather, and where several great neighborhoods - Flatiron, East Village, West Village and Chelsea - converge. There are hundreds of restaurants in the area so it may be difficult to choose one, especially when on the go.

Here is a guide to a few of my favorite, tried-and-true places:

College budget friendly - Cafetasia: This restaurant is located a few blocks south of Union Square, next to New York University. They serve an extensive Asian-inspired menu and great cocktails in a relaxed atmosphere with communal-style tables. Everything is super affordable. Their priciest item - the Thai Bouillabaisse - comes in at $16.

Quaint European bistro - Petite Abeille: Their menu features Belgian traditional fare as well as American classics like burgers and the Caesar salad - it has something to please everyone. (I recommend the Flemish-style beef stew served with fries). Besides the food and friendly atmosphere, a great thing about this place is their ongoing specials like half-priced beer on Mondays and all-you-can-eat Mussels on Wednesdays for $27.

Fancy-pants dining - Blue Water Grill: As you may have guessed it, BWG serves an elegant, seafood-heavy menu - raw bar included - in a romantic, classy setting. The prices are what you’d expect them to be but definitely worth it for a special occasion.

Burger fix - 5 Napkin Burger: This is a relatively new burger chain that’s taken NYC by storm. They make incredible burgers of the freshest ingredients that are complimented by their house-made sauces and an impressive wine and beer list. The restaurant and prices are more on the upscale side, so even when you’re eating greasy, sinful burgers with drool dripping down your chin, you’ll actually be having an elegant dinner at the same time! I highly recommend the Original 5 Napkin Burger.

Instant gratification: Num Pang has become infamous around town for their insanely delicious Cambodian style sandwiches. Here, $8 will buy you an unforgettable flavor sensation of succulent meat, crispy baguette and spicy mayo. Seriously, the stuff is ah-mazing.

Late night bite - 99 Miles to Philly: After several drinks and perhaps some bad decisions, there is only one thing one thinks of late on Saturday night - the thing is meaty, cheesy and crispy. Don’t settle for a limp pizza slice with rubbery cheese - treat yourself to a luscious, satisfying Philly cheese steak, right here in NYC. They’re open til 4am Fridays and Saturdays.

Sophisticated cocktails - Craftbar: This is Tom Collichio’s cocktail outpost and it is located slightly north of Union Square. They feature an impressive wine list, local beers and specialty cocktails that will blow your mind. It is a great place to take someone you’d like to impress, be it a date or a colleague.

Cold beer on a hot day - Heartland Brewery: Enjoy a glass of Heartland’s NYC-brewed craft beer on their sidewalk terrace, located on the west side of Union Square. It is great for meeting with friends after work on a spring or summer day, or people watching solo.

What are your favorite Union Square eateries?