Midtown Lunch

A couple of days ago a post in the forums about a sighting of the Jamaican Dutchy cart on William St. (at Beaver) caught my eye. I didn’t have time to go investigate, but I didn’t have to because yesterday the midtown site confirmed that yes, the cart had moved downtown, but you may recognize it by the sign for “R. Retha’s” and the Jamaican flag waving above. There was a huge line when I walked by yesterday so it seems you guys didn’t need my help in sniffing this one out. As you can see, they have all of the good stuff but I’m interested in how it stacks up against old-timers Veronica’s Kitchen and the Trinidad & Tobago cart.

I really think more lunch places should open on a Friday when you maybe have a little more leeway to wait in massive lines for things like Shack Burgers or lobster rolls. Luke’s Lobster opens the doors today at 10:30 a.m. on S. William St. (btw. Hanover Sq. & Broad). It sounds like there’s plenty of indoor seating, and the genius idea of a lobster roll express window for those who don’t want to leave the balmy heat or open a door. It might be best to block out a little more time for lunch today because you know the Wall St. crowd is going to be all over this.

I knew before heading out to the new Shake Shack on Murray St. (btw. West & N. End Ave.) in Battery Park City that I would be in for a wait. As I walked up I could see the mass of people waiting from a block away and steeled myself. Although I did have to wait in line for 30 minutes, and then wait a bit longer for food, I’d have to say they were ready for the crowds. And I rewarded myself for my wait by ordering one of the downtown-themed concretes. Read more »

This was the line at the new Shake Shack in Battery Park City at about 1:30. Yes, I waited about 45 minutes before I got any food but they had a good system going and best of all, had someone handing out custard samples to those in line. I’m guessing the lines will die down eventually but for now you’re going to have to block out some time to eat here,…or send an intern. Stay tuned for a full review tomorrow!