Spice, 1411 2nd Ave. (btwn 73 & 74)

I love spicy food. It might not love me back, but I enjoy eating spicy food all year round. One of my standard dinner spots is Spice. They are located in just about every neighborhood in the city and provide an affordable meal in a slightly-trendy setting. While all of the locations varry in size and location, the one I frequented the most was while was living on the upper east side. Definitely able to seat a large group of people but also small enough to remain intimate. Their biggest location in just south of Union Square on 13th Street, but be forwarned there is likely going to be a wait thanks to all those NYU kids.

Spice also has some fantastic drinks. A lychee martini is around $5 and worth every penny, unless of course you don't like lychee. Spice is also good for a group where one person might not like thai but is willing to try it, as the menu is pretty expansive.


WHAT TO BITE? Crispy Calamari Salad, $6 and Drunk Man Noodle, $11

Vnyl, 102 8th Ave (@ 15th street)

Sometimes for dinner you feel like eating out without having to fuss with a restaurant. You want a home cooked feeling meal without just sitting at the counter eating a bowl of mac n' cheese at Smac. That's when I go to Vynl in Chelsea (also with a location in Hells Kitchen that is just as welcoming). They have an expansive menu ranging from Asian to traditional American, so whatever you're craving, they are likely to have it, or at least a version of it you've never thought of trying before.

I find I come here more with people who are watching their weight because it's easy to find something "light" without just eating a salad, and without compromising other diner's meals. They also always have a seasonal drink special at happy hour which can't be passed up. The ambiance is based on, you guessed it, vinyl records, and each bathroom has a theme based on a musician (the Cher bathroom on the UES location - now closed - was actually my favorite!) The Chelsea location had Glee viewing parties this year, and always has a concert playing on the wall next to the bar.

WHAT TO BITE? BBQ Buttermilk Chicken Sandwich, $15