Recent Reviews
The Observer Magazine-Playground
Anyone who has lived on the Upper West Side knows that when it comes to good old-fashioned American fare that is simple, hearty and always appetizing, there is no better place than Good Enough to Eat. Whether its for the famous omelets, fresh-baked biscuits or mouth-watering turkey and meatloaf dinner, a line is always clamoring to get into this comfort food outpost.
And with good reason. After years of cooking at the best European hotels, studying at the Pru Leith's School of Food and Wine in London and apprenticing under chef Seppi Renggli of the Four Seasons, owner Carrie Levin had a very clear idea of the kind of restaurant she wanted to open. In 1981, she realized her vision with the opening of Good Enough to Eat and publishing her cookbook, Bountiful Home Cooking (Simon & Schuster, 1987).
Not only does this Michelin-lauded restaurant serve amazing meals, it does so on a budget, allowing its customers to enjoy the taste of authentic home cooking without the headache of meal prep or the high price tag. Hannukkah menus are only $23 per person, and feature crispy sweet potato pancakes with apples and cream, chicken noodle soup and choice of a pot roast dinner or horseradish-crusted salmon with cranberry orange sauce.
The Christmas menu is no less of a deal, ringing in at $25 per person. Dishes like stuffed portobello mushrooms and sun-dried tomatoes with spinach and goat and parmesan cheese; filet mignon with chestnut brandy sauce, served with scalloped potatoes, sauteed string beans, carrots and cauliflower; and home-baked desserts will make this holiday meal not only memorable but also recession-friendly.
And when it comes to entertaining, Levin looks to her close circle for inspiration and advice. "My father said that if the kids leave sweaty, it's been a good party," she explains.
-Elina Furman
Canadians Love G.E.T.E.
Well known BNN anchor Howard Green says "G.E.T.E. is destination eating for me when I come to NYC!"
Kevin Bacon raves about favs
March 22, 2009 Sunday issue of the NY Post in the Pulse section - Kevin Bacon says about Good Enough to Eat: "It's my neighborhood joint. It's home cooking like Mac and cheese, plus they've got killer desserts - the carrot cake is the best you'll ever have."
2010 Michelin Guide Recommended
“Good Enough to Eat – Serving breakfast, lunch, dinner, and takeout, Good Enough to Eat is an affordable neighborhood gem in an area quickly pricing such Establishments out of reach. The décor is oddly endearing with its kitschy folk art and cows, cows, everywhere.
Chef/Owner Carrie Levin has been serving the likes of old-fashioned grilled cheese sandwiches and organic roast chicken with mashed potatoes to repeat audiences since opening in 1981. Other creations may include a moist and buttery fish sandwich with tangy watercress and “funky” slaw. Join the masses in bringing the whole family; this children’s menu has been taste-tested by young and picky palates.
Out front, the wide sidewalk accommodates outdoor seating, fittingly enclosed by a white picket fence.”
Zagat survey – New York City Restaurants, 2010
Good Enough to Eat; Food-21, Décor-15, Service-17, Cost-$27
“The “wholesome””home cookin’” at this “New Englandy” UWS American is “definitely good enough” for the “country-kitsch” fans “smooshed” into its “whimsical”, “farmlike” digs; it’s a “legend” for brunch, so expect “endless” waits and “bedlam” on weekends.”
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