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Roula Khalaf, Editor of the FT, selects her favourite stories in this weekly newsletter.
Le Bernardin
New York is all about change. The places that can withstand it feel life-affirming. Le Bernardin is one of them. It’s got three Michelin stars and is elegant but ungaudy. It’s a power-lunch type of place, but, for me, it’s a special occasion restaurant. And there’s a synergy with Russ & Daughters in that it’s fish-forward.
Fraunces Tavern
As a city, we don’t have a lot of historical places that are preserved, so Fraunces Tavern, which dates back to 1762, is special. George Washington has one of his last meetings there. It’s cosy in the winter, with all these different dark rooms. They make great cocktails and the food is what I’d call “tasteful Americana” — a good burger, salads.
Al Di La Trattoria
I live in Park slope, the Brooklyn neighbourhood where I grew up. Al Di La, which just celebrated 25 years, is the platonic form of my favourite spot. Delicious Italian food from husband and wife owners, served in a homey way — that sweet spot of comfort and excellence.
Katz’s Deli
Katz, famous for its pastrami, is just a block from Russ & Daughters and feels like out sister establishment. There’s a grit and hustle there — it’s crowded and you have to figure out its ordering system . . . but it’s fun. And you can go at 3am if you need a place to recover.
Veniero’s
It’s a cheap-and-cheerful 130-year-old Italian pastry shop and café in the East Village. My go-to is their cannoli. Growing up, that was the treat when I went there with my parents. We need to cherish these places, they offer so much richness.
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