P.J.CLARKE'S - Since 1884
PJ Clarke's
NY NY
P.J. Clarke’s has been serving up delicious burgers in a cozy setting for nearly 150 years. A favorite among Hollywood stars, Frank Sinatra often sat at Table 20 and Buddy Holly famously proposed to his wife here after knowing her for just five hours. In 1958, Nat King Cole proclaimed that P.J. Clarke’s bacon cheeseburger was “the Cadillac of burgers,” and, well, the rest is history.
KEENS
"Home of The Mutton Chop"
KEENS STEAKHOUSE - Since 1885
Over 150 years ago, publishers, playwrights, and producers met and mingled at the renowned Keens Steakhouse before seeing a show. As the story goes, actors from the nearby Garrick Theatre would even come, dressed in full costume and makeup, to eat between acts. Today, the iconic steakhouse is known for being one of the last remaining establishments of the historic Herald Square Theatre District.
PETER LUGER STEAKHOUSE - 1887
Situated steps away from the East River, Peter Luger has been the go-to spot for lunch and dinner since the late 1800s. The restaurant started as a cafe and bowling alley by the Luger family and was later bought in an auction by Sol Forman when it fell into disrepair. Forman owned the manufacturing business across the street and realized he had nowhere else to bring his business clients for lunch if the restaurant were to close, so he decided to take over the spot himself. Fast forward decades later, and Peter Luger Steakhouse is still talked about for its juicy burgers and high-quality cuts of meat.
KATZ'S DELICATESSEN - 1888
Immortalized in that classic When Harry Met Sally scene (“I’ll have what she’s having!”), Katz’s has remained a quintessential New York City institution since the 1880s. Starting out as a small kosher deli on Ludlow Street, the beloved establishment has been making delicious corned beef sandwiches, knishes, latkes, matzo ball soup, and more for nearly 150 years.
RAO'S
East Harlem, NYC
RAO'S - 1896
Rao’s has been at its East Harlem location since 1896 and has a menu filled with Southern Italian classics. Known as one of the most exclusive restaurants in the city, this small 10-table red sauce joint is near impossible to get a reservation at. You may have better luck snagging a table at its Las Vegas or Los Angeles outposts.
Bourdain was also big on following the advice of locals and trying their favorite restaurants, adding that obsessing over cleanliness or safety can get in the way of having authentic experiences. He also advised travelers to avoid airplane food and arrive at their destination with an empty stomach, ready to enjoy new foods and flavors ASAP. Food can actually taste different while flying, so it's worth it to wait for a more satisfying meal.
Above all, Bourdain preached humility. He believed that being open to new experiences was the secret to living a rich and full life. According to an excerpt of his book "Medium Raw" as featured in Variety, he wrote: "Without experimentation, a willingness to ask questions and try new things, we shall surely become static, repetitive, moribund."
Anthony Bourdain's Grandma Rule
It Applies to Cookbooks Too !
