Secrets Secrets are SO fun!

I cannot explain why things that are "secret" are so much cooler than those out in the open. It's the same phenomenon that makes "mini food" taste better.  It just does. Why are secret things better? They just are. And since we are in agreement (I presume), I will provide you with the most secretive (and therefore hippest) spots in NYC.

But...DON'T TELL ANYONE. I'm talking pinky swears here people.

Secret Restaurants (the italics used to imply a whisper. super effective huh?)

1)The Burger Joint

*119 W 56th St (Between 6th Avenue and 7th Avenue)

Hidden behind a curtain in the fancy schmancy Le Parker Meriden. Look for the small neon burger sign. Suits, tourists, and foodies mix and mingle in this beloved hole-in-the-wall "dirty little secret" landmark. Food is as basic (and delicious) as can be -- burgers, fries, and shakes. Oh, and beer. Obviously beer.  And please...PLEASE...adhere to their motto: 

2) La Esquina Taqueria

*106 Kenmare St 

How do you hide an enormous (and gorgeous) Mexican restaurant in the middle of Nolita? Put it underground and pop a working diner taqueria over the entrance of course! But don't be fooled by the highly effective (and tasty) disguise for one of Manhattan's most secretive dining spots. Here's how to find it:

First, make a reservation. Next, find the scary lady standing in front of the door marked "Employees Only". Give scary lady your name and hope for the best. If actually on the list, you will be guided down a dark staircase, through the bowels of the kitchen and into a pretty phenomenal dining space with dripping candelabras and wrought iron gates. Truly, a feast for the eyes AND the belly.

3) Freeman's

*191 Chrystie St

Freeman's is hidden down an alley. An alley called, quite literally, Freeman's alley -- a long, narrow, dark alley that few have heard of and even fewer can find. It is smuggled inside the square made up of Stanton, Bowery, Rivington, and Chrystie (entrance off of Bowery). At the end of the shadowy alley lies a little haven of hanging lights, rustic elegance, and taxidermy. Oh, and incredibly approachable yet sophisticated comfort food. Not to mention a killer cocktail list (their resident mixologist has been ranked top ten in the country).  Their menu includes delectable dishes like baked artichoke dip and Devils on Horseback--savory blue cheese-stuffed prunes wrapped with bacon. 

Happy Hunting!!!