Where to get lunch in the Financial District
Tue Apr 19 2011
Quick bite: Banh Mi Cart
You can go with the traditional cold-cut-and-pt model at this stellar cart, but you'd be wise to branch out into a few creations not easily found at other Vietnamese sandwich shops in the area, like plump shrimp, roasted eel or panfried beef. All are adorned with pickled carrots, cucumber spears, cilantro leaves and mayo, and stuffed into a chewy and crispy toasted baguette. And at $6 a sandwich no matter what filling you get, this is the best quality-to-price ratio in the 'hood. To avoid long lines, stop by before noon or after 1pm. Southeast corner of Hanover Sq and Pearl St
Business lunch: The Bailey Pub & Brasserie
A giant white bull stands sentinel over the dining room, a nod to the high trader quotient come lunchtime; but the dark-wood tables and red booths keep the vibe casual. Ditto the simple food, including fresh fish and a fantastic burger ($14), well seasoned with salt and pepper and balanced on a sturdy bun. Other standouts: orecchiette pasta with sausage, broccoli rabe, pine nuts and brussels sprouts ($18), and a chipotle-ancho--rubbed skirt-steak salad with a side of hand-cut fries ($22). 52 William St at Pine St (212-859-2200, thebaileynyc.com)
Delivery: Toloache Taqueria
When Julian Medina opened a downtown offshoot of Toloache, his upscale midtown restaurant, in late 2010, FiDi finally got an infusion of quality Mexcian food. Order a burrito ($9) or tacos (three for $9) stuffed with memorable fillings such as rich Mexican-chocolate--glazed pork and chipotle cabbage slaw, chipotle-marinated grilled chicken with a sprinkle of Chihuahua cheese, or huitlacoche with tomatillo salsa. Tortas are equally successful: Try the pork carnitas version, dressed with pickled red onion, cabbage slaw and a chipotle-tomato broth ($7). Bonus: Every Tuesday, get $2 tacos from noon to 5pm if you call for delivery. 83 Maiden Ln between Gold and William Sts (212-809-9800, toloachenyc.com)
