This isn't from New York, but from L'Insalata Ricca in Rome, Italy. Had a wonderful blue cheese and pair salad with arugula leaves and vinaigrette. I love looking for scrumptious dishes when traveling!

I’m heading off to New York first thing in the morning. Funny thing is, I go to the U.S. fairly frequently and have lived in Germany for a few months, but I’ve never ever been to New York. Now, I’m all excited, especially since people are constantly telling me about how much I’ll love it there.

While I’m looking forward to watching some plays on Broadway and going around the city, what gets me going is the thought of the food: steak from Peter Luger, desserts from Serendipity, Magnolia Bakery cupcakes, etc. Of course, the only ones I know are the usual suspects, widely publicized in the media. Any recommendations on NY restos, bistros, dessert places, etc that I should be trying? Let me know! I’d like to go off the beaten track and would love to hear your New York stories.