Best in NYC Lunch: Flatiron District

When 12 o’clock rolls around and you feel your stomach starting to growl, you know what it means. It’s time for you to ditch your desk and escape your office to take on lunch-hour, but New York City can be dizzyingly full of options. That’s why, from hidden gems to the most popular NYC eats, we’re breaking down the best places for you to grab lunch neighborhood by neighborhood.

Eisenberg’s Sandwich Shop

“Raising New York’s Cholesterol Since 1929.”

That’s the tagline of this Flatiron district gem. Sitting along the counter you’ll find customers who have been regulars for decades. Eisenberg’s has a traditional diner feel with hearty servings of comforting food. Grab some breakfast at any time of the day, or go with the standout sandwiches and wash it down with an egg-cream. While Eisenberg’s does offer take-out, we highly recommend taking 15 minutes out of your day to sit down at the counter and enjoy the feel-good vibes.

Location: 174 5th Ave. 

Essen

Essen is the best option around for your grab-and-go lunch, especially for those who can never decide what exactly it is that they want to eat. With options that range from deli sandwiches, to sushi, to a standout salad bar, you’ll be hard-pressed to not find something to satiate even your weirdest combination-cravings. Want pesto-pasta and a California roll? Essen has you covered. Grab a few of their pre-packed options, or stroll the Whole-Foods-Inspired buffet area to fill a box with whatever your heart desires.

Location: 699 Avenue of the Americas

Eataly

A trip to Eataly is a must for anyone, but if your office is in the Flatiron District then you have the luxury of having this food haven as a go-to lunch option. The massive 50,000 square foot space is an Italian food market and restaurant collection. Stroll through the numerous shops to find a meal that will make you question whether or not you’ve actually been transported to Italy. Pizza, and pasta, and cheese, oh my!

Location: 200 5th Ave. 

Shake Shack

We’d be remiss if we failed to include Shake Shack as a Flatiron favorite for lunch. The original location of this uber-popular burger chain is located in the heart of Madison Square Park. You can’t go wrong with the traditional Shack Burger, but Shake Shack has also scored major points with their crinkle fries, chicken sandwich, and frozen-custard concretes. Beyond the delicious food, Shake Shack’s location in Madison Square Park will give you the perfect backdrop to get some fresh air and clear your head.

Location: Madison Ave & E. 23rd St (In Madison Square Park)