In the lower level of Grand Central Station on East 42nd St. is a large eatery. It's pretty ho-hum down there, except for the Grand Central Oyster Bar. The actual bar is huge, with diner-style swivel stools. The Foodie sips on a cold brew and usually orders the Lobster Roll. Lobster Salad spills out all over the place and it's great fun. The fried oysters and fried clams are fresh out of the fryer and darkly crispy. You can get them as a platter or as a po'boy-style sandwich. You must also start with the New England Clam Chowder (sprinkled with oyster crackers and then splashed with Tabasco, if you are so inclined). A dozen raw oysters (they shuck 'em right there within splashing distance) drizzled with lemon make for a nice slurp.
Grand Central Oyster Bar also has sit-down dining with a pretty extensive menu, but I always sit at the bar. Click here for a look at their sandwich menu. 212-490-6650 (L., D., Bar) Price range: Moderate + (for Midtown…).
