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It is Vivace's world and we are just living in it. I like the one on Broadway the best (sidewalk bar), but all are amazing.

I don't think many locals would score Zeek's over Pags. Pagliacci's isn't the best pizza in the country, or even in town, but I think it is probably the best delivery available city-wide. As someone said above, the key is to order the crust well-done and to get an order of the seasonal gelato for dessert.

Many, many years ago, I found myself at a table of people much more food-wise and connected than myself, and at a restaurant in Napa (La Tra Vigne). As clueless as I was about food and ordering, I had the presence of mind to be sufficiently awed and intimidated to order.

The chef (a younger Michael Chiarello, a person I had never heard of), came to our table, owing to the stature of my dining party. He and I somehow made eye contact and he somehow could tell I was a little overwhelmed and intimidated. He sat down next to me and we chatted nervously.

Finally, he said "do you know what you are going to order?" I sort of hemmed and hawed, and finally said "I have no idea. I am totally out of my element and I know I am going to order the wrong thing." After assuring me that I could do no such thing at THIS restaurant, he leaned in conspiratorially and told me the gospel:

"When in doubt, at a restaurant of good repute, always, ALWAYS, order the braised short ribs."

It was the gospel I needed to hear, and ever since, I have followed and spread the divine word.

I'm going to Delancey tonight - cannot wait.

Blue Bell vanilla is amazing, but I think it is only available in Texas.

Whole wheat shells tossed with chicken thighs braised in a shallot-garlic-parmesan sauce.

pumpkin-chocolate cheesecake