Here are my favorite restaurants in each category:
Steakhouse: I am not a huge fan of steak, but when I have it I always go to Angelo & Maxie's. They have the absolute best creamed spinach in the world (a must get if you go there) and everything else on their menu is decent or above average. It is a few blocks off of Union Square Park.
Noodles: My personal favorite decently priced noodle place is a smallish place across the street from Union Square Park called Republic. Its a "hip" little place with some very refreshing food. Not really a must go, only if in the mood.
Burger Place: STAND. Also a few blocks off of Union Square Park. They have a lot of unique burgers and menu items that are hardly ever seen at burger places. Also, you must try the marshmallow milkshake. They are amazing if you enjoy sweet drinks and were even featured on "The Best thing I ever ate" on Food Network as Iron Chef Michael Symon's choice.
Turkish: If you enjoy Turkish food, you must go to a little place in Sunnyside, Queens. it is called Turkish Grill and is home to some of the best quality traditional Turkish food in New York (the best I have ever had). Dishes to try are the Shepherd's Salad, Lebni, Shish Kebab, and either rice pudding or kunafeh. Highly recommended if you like Turkish Food and the service is fantastic!
Indian: Check out Tamarind in Chelsea. It is home to the best Indian food in NY IMO and the dishes are all full of great flavors and spices. If you like indian, you should check it out.
Italian: If you can get into Babo, you must try the pasta dinner. It is a preset dinner and consists of the most amazing series of pasta you have had. Mario Batali did a very good job here.
Sushi: Haru is the place to go if you want some good sushi, but if you want more atmosphere than good sushi check out Morimoto. Very cool bathrooms there.
You also definitely need to check out Chelsea Market. It is home to food network HQ and is just a cool food shopping experience.
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