The outskirts of Madison Square Park is host to one of this season's pop-up markets - basically a smaller version of what Bryant Park does - a narrow lane lined with adorable 5 x 10 temporary "stores" - each with a distinct decor indicative of its unique gifty/artsy/homemade merch (jewelery, funky knitted hats, melt-in-your mouth french chocolate, and more jewelery).
But the best part is undoubtedly the food section, which is across the street in the triangular enclave formed by Broadway and Fifth Ave. The offerings include a wide range of ethnic specialties: Roberta's wood fired pizza, Suzette's sweet and savory crepes, Ilili falafel and grilled lamb, Wafels and Dinges Belgium waffle desserts; and NYC classics like Pies 'n Thighs chicken biscuits and Fatty Crab hot dogs.
I headed over there yesterday for lunch and the startling array of options left me almost helpless to make a decision. After circling the perimeter three times I settled on the vegetarian combo from Tanjore, which included saag paneer (spinach with cheese), chana masala (chickpeas), and rice for $8.50.It was SO tasty and filling and perfect for a chilly fall afternoon. It looked like this minus the chicken masala.
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| Photo from MadParkNews.com |
But this didn't satiate my curiosity, so Gus and I stopped by late this morning and had a smorgasbord of nibbles for brunch: Ilili's Zaatar & Cheese sandwich - a delicious combination of cheese and tomato with classic middle eastern spices wrapped in a delicate crunchy "bread"; a truffle cheddar hot pretzel accompanied by an incredible spicy mustard and a beet/horseradish dip; and a hot, creamy Gorgonzola, pear, and walnut crepe from Bar Suzette.
The quality and variety of the food vendors is so impressive you won't even mind paying the extra few dollars that's been tacked on to many of the prices. (Before you raise your eyebrows at the $7 chicken biscuit from Pies 'n Thighs (normally $5) - think about that subway ride you're not taking to Brooklyn to get it). Being able to stroll 15 minutes from your apartment to sample all of these delicious treats is yet another reason why living in NYC is so amazing. It's only open for one more week - so don't miss it! For those living vicariously, see below for more pics.
Madison Square Park
Sept 25 - Oct 23
11 AM - 8 PM Daily
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| Fatty Crab hot dogs |
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| Sigmund's Pretzel Shop |
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| Bar Suzette |
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| Pies 'n Thighs |
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| Roberta's mobile pizza oven! |
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| Almond |
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| Wafels and Dinges |
