Hudson Corner Café (CLOSED)

The resemblance to Applebee’s only goes as far as the decor—brass fixtures, green-and-white checked tablecloths, copper pots and paintings of vintage cars—and the portions, which are Midwestern huge. Order the pork entrée and you’ll get a large filet, a mountain of mashed sweet potatoes and escarole. This place would be a keeper for its meat loaf alone—three slabs (baked, then grilled) are presented alongside mashed spuds and sautéed spinach, all for $11.95. Desserts are pure nostalgia: brown Betty and mud pie. Avoid the inside in good weather and camp out on one of the best people-watching patios in the West Village—see who’s looking good in the neighborhood.